Brandon Bowls Club rounded out its official events for the year on Sunday, December 7, hosting its Sunday Social Bowls President, Treasurer and Secretary Day Triples in ideal playing conditions.

A total of 42 bowlers took part in the event, with players travelling from Home Hill, Giru and South Townsville to join Brandon members for the end-of-year fixture. The strong turnout capped off a successful season for the club.

After an afternoon of competitive but friendly bowling, refreshments were enjoyed before players were treated to afternoon smoko, prepared by Sharon Kenny, Patrice Ferguson and Lorraine Henderson.

The triples title was claimed by Meryl Smith, Joe Linton and Jamie Woods, with Neville Dickinson, Sandra Darwen and Gary Pearce finishing second. Third place went to Mick McCloskey, Glenn Woodford and Ross McLaughlin.

The raffle prize was won by Jeff Taylor, while the club also acknowledged the efforts of Dave “Dodgy” Shehan for his work behind the bar.

Club officials thanked all visiting players for their support as Brandon Bowls Club brought its competitive calendar for the year to a close.

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Next year marks a major milestone for the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, as it proudly celebrates its 100th anniversary. To honour a century of surf, service, and community, the club has planned a weekend of commemorative events in May 2026, bringing together past and present members, friends, family, and supporters.

The celebrations kick off on Friday, the 29th of May, with a relaxed Meet and Greet and Book Launch. Attendees will have the chance to reconnect with old friends, meet current members, and celebrate the launch of the club’s commemorative book, 100 Years of Ayr Surf Life Saving, authored by Martin Grandelis. The evening promises an opportunity to share stories, reflect on the club’s history, and raise a glass to the countless volunteers who have shaped its legacy.

The main event, the Gala Dinner, will take place on Saturday, the 30th of May, at the Memorial Hall, 77-79 Ninth Avenue, Home Hill, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This elegant evening will bring everyone together to celebrate the club’s remarkable 100-year journey, honouring the people, stories, and dedication that have built the legacy of Ayr Surf Life Saving. Tickets will go on sale in early 2026, and the club has been offering glimpses into its history on social media with 100 Years of Ayr Surf Life Saving – A Look Back Through the Decades.

The centenary celebrations conclude on Sunday, the 31st May, with a family-friendly gathering at the Ayr Clubhouse. This final event promises a relaxed day of good company, memories, and community spirit, providing an opportunity for everyone to celebrate the club’s enduring presence and contribution to the region.

From its early days at Alva Beach to a century of service, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club invites all to join in recognising 100 years of dedication, volunteering, and connection. More details about the weekend events will be released closer to the date.

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What: 100 Years of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Gala
When: Saturday, the 30th of May
Where: Memorial Hall, Home Hill

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club has been sharing photos from the decades gone by online in celebration of a century of surf, service and community. Photo source: Ayr Surf Life Saving Club

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Six local under-9 footballers have claimed tournament honours after forming a team to compete in the Jeremy Brockie World Cup in Townsville.

The end-of-season tournament, organised by former New Zealand international Jeremy Brockie, assigns teams a nation to represent, with the local side drawing Spain.

The team progressed through the pool stages undefeated, recording wins against New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, Norway, Portugal and Finland to book a place in the World Cup final.

Spain faced Brazil in the final and claimed a convincing 7–2 victory to secure the tournament title.

The squad was made up of Hunter Ferguson, Daley Rasmussen, Thomas LeFeuvre, Reni Brock, and brothers Arlo and Jobe Oar. Oar delivered a standout performance across the tournament, finishing as the leading goal scorer to claim the Golden Boot. He was also named in the World Cup All-Star Five and awarded Player of the Tournament.

The result capped off a strong year for the players, with local junior coaches Chris Wicks and Angelo Licciardello acknowledged for their work in developing the group and continuing to strengthen grassroots football in the Burdekin.

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Six local under-9 footballers have claimed tournament honours after forming a team to compete in the Jeremy Brockie World Cup in Townsville. Photo supplied

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The final games before the Christmas break were played at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex last Friday. After a couple of weeks away Mazlyn Smith smashed 3 fours in her innings of 15 runs not out and bowled very tight with figures of 0 for 2 runs, this earning her one of the "McDonalds Sports Award for the "Blue Group". Kip Nicholas was also unbeaten and next highest on 13 runs with 2 fours. The other award winner was Jake Cullen who scored 7 runs, took 2 for 9 when bowling and got a runout and a catch in the field.

An earlier finish for the breakup BBQ meant less balls faced before retirement in the "Gold Group" this week. Lower batting totals were scored but some fine shots were played in this game. Rylan Nicholaides and Alex Cullen were both unbeaten and top scored on 12 runs each. Oliver Calligaro and Tyler Schultz were next on 10 runs apiece, Tyler also took the only wicket in this game when he was bowling. Rylan and Tyler were given the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their efforts with bat and ball.

The youngest group, the "Rookies" were invited over to Home Hill to join in with the "Challengers" for this final week of games and breakup. No stats were recorded in these games as it was just a fun session for all to finish off the first half of the season. When the games were finished the players and their siblings all enjoyed a free sausage sizzle to end the day. Thank you to Woolworths Ayr for kindly donating the sausages and bread for the sausage sizzle.

Contributed with thanks to Junior Co-Ordinator of the Home Hill Cricket Club, Scott Heidke

Rylan and Tyler were given the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their efforts with bat and ball. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin was strongly represented at the Townsville Fire School Gala Day this week, with St Francis and East Ayr showcasing standout performances in the Year 5/6 basketball tournament.

St Francis fielded one boys’ team in Division 1, while East Ayr competed with both a girls’ and boys’ side, also in Division 1. The East Ayr girls impressed throughout the morning, advancing all the way to the finals before narrowly falling short of the title.

The day, however, ultimately belonged to St Francis. The boys claimed the trophy in emphatic fashion, winning by 30 points in the grand final to become back-to-back and the only ever winners of the championship. The dominant run continued their remarkable record of going undefeated two years in a row.

Across the day, St Francis played four games, securing victories in each by comfortable margins of 10–20 points. The team’s winning lineup consisted of seven Grade 6 students and two Grade 5 players, adding to the achievement’s significance and building confidence heading into their final weeks of primary school.

The competition featured strong Townsville and regional representation in Division 1.

Adding to the experience, players were treated to a special visit from Townsville Fire squad members, who spent time courtside signing autographs, posing for photos and sharing advice with young athletes.

Both schools returned home proud, representing the Burdekin with skill and sportsmanship on the regional stage.

The day ultimately belonged to St Francis, with the boys claiming the trophy in emphatic fashion, winning by 30 points in the grand final to become back-to-back and the only ever winners of the championship. Photo supplied

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Local

Training for Men and Colts for the 2026 season has started. Thursday nights at 6.15.

Small sided games for the next three weeks. Be There!

Night Soccer

The tenth week of competition and another low scoring night. There were four forfeits, and the sixteen games produced fifty nine goals. And there were two Sin Bins. Top scorers were Jaime’s Boys, UDS, Short Staffed and Body Tune all with five goals. There were just three dawn games and four games won by the odd goal.

In Men’s Competitive Group, UDS beat Plum Dingers 5-0 to finish top of the table. Clare Cutters defeated RG Customs 3-0 to finish second, Mottin Earthmoving won 4-0 against iComply to secure third place and fourth place went to Nutrien Ag who won 1-0 against Mountain view Fresh.

Men’s Social and Ladies matches were all friendlies and next Tuesday 9 December, all teams will be involved in semi-finals. Grand Final Night is next Friday 12th December.

Juniors

The 2025 Junior Social Soccer season concluded last Tuesday. What an amazing eight weeks it has been for the 43 teams! The biggest season yet since it was reintroduced in 2023, and no rain interruptions! A big thank you to all organisers, volunteers, refs, parents and carers, and most importantly the kids! There were so many happy and excited faces each week!

Here are some season highlights! Goal of the season - Ava Guistelli (Zoomies 5-7) - a solo run from near halfway after just coming straight after being a goalkeeper, she sprinted up to halfway, received the ball and with fast dribbling and a strong finish put it in the back of the net!

Goalkeeper - save of the season - Seth McIntyre (Raging Rhinos 8-9) - full length dive to his left to save a shot that looked certain for the top corner of net. Team of the season -The Underdogs (U10-12). School mates having fun together displaying great sportsmanship towards all teams. Age group of the season - U13-16’s. Was great to watch these teams of mates who currently play in youth teams, ex-players, new players, school mates and an U12 superteam go against each other.

Look out for upcoming social soccer news for term 1 of 2026 before the season proper commences!

International and National

The World Cup 2026 Draw has now been made and the Socceroos know who they are up against. On Saturday 13th June, in Vancouver, they will play the winner of a European play off. That could be Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo. Their second game will be against the USA in Seattle on 20th June and their final group match will be against Paraguay, in Santa Clara, against Paraguay on 26th June.

The current FIFA World Rankings are Australia 26, USA 14, Paraguay 39 and Türkiye 25.

In the A League Men, after seven rounds Sydney FC is still top after winning 2-1 away to Central Coast. Brisbane has moved up to second place, one point behind, with a 1-0 win away to Adelaide. Auckland is third on goal difference and Melbourne City is a further point behind in fourth place. Melbourne Victory is holding up the League.

In the A League Women, only three of the top teams won. Melbourne Victory, Brisbane and Sydney FC are locked together at the top with nine points each. Victory beat Perth 3-0, Brisbane won 3-1 away to Adelaide and Sydney FC could only manage a 0-0 draw away to Western Sydney. Perth is presently at the foot of the table.

The Matildas play in the AFC Asian Cup in March. In their group games their first match is against Philippines, they then play Iran and then Korea.

In England, in the EPL, Arsenal was the only one of the top six teams to lose. They went down 1-2 against Aston Villa and are now just two points clear of Manchester City with Aston Villa in third place one point behind. Chelsea is now fifth, Liverpool ninth and ManU 12th. At the foot of the table none of the bottom five teams’ won and Wolves and Burnley are in deep trouble.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, after thirteen rounds the top three teams all won and the still unbeaten Bayern has an eight point lead over Leipzig with Dortmund another point behind. Leverkusen in fourth place lost again and is now a further five points adrift. At the foot of the table Heidenheim won again and Mainz and St Pauli are in big trouble.

In Italy’s Serie A, the three top teams all won, and Napoli leads Inter by a point. AC Milan is third, with a game in hand and Roma who lost again is fourth. Juventus who lost 1-2 to Napoli is now seventh. At the bottom of the table Verona was the only of the bottom four teams to win. Fiorentina with just six points look doomed.

In Spain’s La Liga, Real Madrid, who have only won one of their last five matches, somehow lost 0-2 at home to Celta Vigo. Barcelona won again and is now four points clear of Real with Villarreal in third place and Atletico fourth. At the bottom of the league, none of the bottom nine teams won.

In France’s Ligue 1, after fifteen rounds. Lens leads PSG by one point with Marseilles, who lost but is still in third place a further four points adrift. Fourth placed Lille is now on the same points. At the foot of the table, although Auxerre won it is not looking good for them, Metz, and Nantes.

Quote of the Week Is from Aston Villa Manager Unai Emery "Our demands are very high, very great, but I want to ask every player every day to give us more”

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It’s been a bustling and memorable week at the Ayr Bowling Club, highlighted by vibrant social bowls, well-earned award presentations, and the club’s Annual General Meeting.

With the Ladies concluding their 2025 bowling season with a wonderful Xmas Lunch on Tuesday, there was no Ladies Bowling.

Wednesday Bowling saw two games of triples. Game 1 Stano, Lachlan Grantz and Anthony Bull defeated Sheila, Joe Grabbi and Ron Soper. In Game 2, John Pirrone, Lloyd Shepherd and Maurice Power.

Wednesday Night Social Bowls saw two lively games of triples take to the green, with plenty of friendly competition on display. The first match was claimed by the team of Kate Stringer, David Burt and Sam Caltabiano, while the second game was won by the trio of Evelyn Wiltshere, Margaret McLaughlin and Ross McLaughlin. A great night of bowls and camaraderie was enjoyed by all. This is a great night to come down and bowl during summer.

Saturday brought a great afternoon of bowling, with an impressive roll-up of 24 players taking to the green ahead of the Awards Presentation. Four competitive games of triples were played, with the day’s winners being Ron Smythe, Wayne Mietzell and Gary Pearce, while runners-up honours went to the team of Wayne Coonan, Betty Schultz and Col Essex.

After the social bowls, the Club celebrated its annual Awards Presentation on Saturday. Members and guests gathered at the clubhouse to recognise outstanding performances, enjoy camaraderie, and reflect on the achievements of the season. Congratulations to Pam Power – Ladies Bowler of the Year and John Cesconetto – Male Bowler of the Year.

The 2025 Championship season was marked by competitive spirit and a strong sense of community among bowlers. The club bowlers showcased their skills, with several members going on to represent the club at inter-district events. It was also a great year to see the development of our new bowlers to the club. A full list of all the Club Awards can be found on the Ayr Bowling Club Facebook Page.

On Sunday, the annual general meeting was held where the club returned Anthony Bull to the role of the Club President.

Secretary – Ron Smythe; Treasurer - Maurice Power; Men’s Senior Vice President – Maurice Power; Ladies’ Vice President – Karen Shepherd; Greens Director – Ron Soper; Provedore – Sam Caltibiano; Men’s Games Director – Allan Hardcastle; Ladies’ Games Director – Heather Jorgenson; Ladies’ Committee Member – Pam Power and Beryl Cornford; Men’s Committee Members – John Pirrone and Chris Berkery; Grant’s Co-ordinator – Lorraine Wolffe.

A special welcome again to Ray Wall as the continuing Patron of the Club.

Social bowls information over the Christmas break includes 14th, 17th, 20th December, with 20th December the special Xmas Ham Bowls Day. No bowls on 24th or 27th December.

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club hosted the annual North Barrier Branch Surf Rescue Championships on Saturday 6th December with a small but strong turn out. At Surf Rescue Champs competitors test their true lifesaving knowledge in Champion Lifesaver event, performing patient assessment and CPR, completing a theory paper and physical skills including a tube race, surf and board race and sprint. Members also competed in the First Aid Competition where they work in a pair to assess and treat a simulated scenario.

Ayr Surf Life Savers See Success at Champion Lifesaver Event

Ayr had 12 keen members take on Champion Lifesaver this season with some fantastic results and scores. Under 12 Male - Luca Lawry 1st; Under 12 Female - Charlotte Dale 1st; Under 13 Female - Alyssa Irvine 1st; U14 Male - Cole Pontifex 1st; Under 14 Female - Charlotte Lawry 1st & Emilee Wassmuth 2nd; Under 15 Male - Jake Sartori 2nd & Zachary Dale 3rd; Under 15 Female - Briella Wassmuth 3rd; Under 17 Female - Ryley Sartori 2nd & Bella Lawry 3rd; Masters Female - Kristy Wassmuth 1st. Ayr also had 2 first aid teams take on a very challenging scenario, with both teams - Under 15s - Briella Wassmuth & Charlotte Lawry & Under 17s - Ryley Sartori & Bella Lawry - bringing home second. The Ayr team ended up taking home the overall championship team accolades.

The junior club then backed up on Sunday 7th December to complete their Junior Club Championships to wrap up the season. They had a tough morning of competition vying for individual age championship honours as well as Junior and senior champions, with all official recognition happening at their presentation ceremony next year. The club then had a visit from Santa with some presents and fun before enjoying a relaxing afternoon with family and friends celebrating another successful season of surf.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry

Under 11 Female Surf Race - Lola Gibson, Audrey Rickards & Mahli McShane. Photo supplied
Briella Wassmuth & Charlotte Lawry in Under 15 First Aid Competition. Photo supplied
Santa with our 3 Junior Club Captain helpers - Cole Pontifex, Emilee Wassmuth & Charlotte Lawry. Photo supplied

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Monday 1st December marked a milestone event for the Burdekin district, as primary school swimmers from across the region gathered to compete in the 60th Annual Webber Shield Swimming Carnival. One of the longest-running inter-school sporting traditions in the district, the carnival showcased outstanding talent, sportsmanship and school pride.

Nine schools took to the pool this year: St Francis, East Ayr State School, Home Hill State School, Giru State School, Brandon State School, St Colman’s, Kalamia State School, Osborne State School, and Burdekin Christian College.

In an exciting and tightly contested finish, East Ayr State School claimed victory with 54 points, edging out St Francis by a single point, with 53 points. Although long-standing supporter Allison Robinson was unable to attend and present the shield, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort proudly stepped in to complete the honours.

The Max Tavasci Trophy, awarded to the school with the highest average points, was won convincingly by St Colman’s, demonstrating the depth of talent across their small but mighty team.

Age champions included Thomas Lefeuvre (Giru SS, 9 Years), Oliver Cavanaugh (EASS, 10 Years), Lewis Bonato (EASS, 11 Years), Ben Watkins (St Colman’s, 12 Years), and for the girls, a three-way tie for 9 Years went to Amaya Raielli (EASS), Sahra Towler (St Francis), and Adele Mial (St Francis). Other girls’ age champions were Mahli McShane (10 Years, St Francis), Taylor Chapman (11 Years, St Colman’s) and Arden Mitchell (12 Years, St Francis).

Two swimmers broke longstanding carnival records this year: Taylor Chapman (St Colman’s) in the Girls 11 Years 50m Breaststroke, 43.02 seconds, and Lewis Bonato (EASS) in the Boys 11 Years 50m Breaststroke, 42.91 seconds.

The 2025 Webber Shield proved once again why this event remains a highlight of the Burdekin school sporting calendar. Congratulations to all swimmers, staff, volunteers, and supporters who helped make the 60th anniversary carnival a true celebration of teamwork, determination, and community spirit.

Contributed with thanks to St Colman's Catholic School principal Karen Keys

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Ben & Kelsey to host their final End of Harvest Golf Classic, celebrating years of community & charity support

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The End of Harvest Golf Classic is teeing off this Friday, the 12th of December, at the Ayr Golf Club, promising a day of golf, fun, and community spirit. Annually, the event proudly supports CORES Qld, with all proceeds helping make a real difference for the local community.

Organisers Ben and Kelsey have announced that 2025 will be their final year running the event after many successful years.

“This has been an extremely tough decision, as this event has meant so much to us — not just for the golf, but for the way it’s brought our community together and made a lasting impact,” they said.

“Over the years, thanks to your incredible support, we’ve raised over $100,000 for local charities. That’s something we can all be proud of.”

The day will feature rolling tee times starting from 6am, with the final team wrapping up by 1:30pm. Highlights include the Longest Drive Competition from 2pm and a charity auction, featuring signed 2025 North Queensland Cowboys jerseys. Presentations will follow the auction to celebrate the winners and wrap up the event.

Platinum sponsor Bray will operate a Slushy Bar from 11am, offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, with proceeds going to CORES. Participants can also purchase drink and raffle tickets, with EFTPOS available throughout the course.

With limited tee times still available, organisers are encouraging teams to finalise their registrations via the team nomination form, https://form.jotform.com/241538497359875.

“This year’s tournament will be the best one yet — a true celebration of everything this event has stood for,” Ben and Kelsey said.

“Let’s finish strong — and with your help, keep the tradition alive for years to come.”

What: End of Harvest Golf Classic.
When: Friday, 12th of December from 6am.
Where: Ayr Golf Club.
More Information: End of Harvest Golf Classic’s Facebook page.

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The 2024 End of Harvest Golf Classic was one for the history books! (Photo Credit: Chelsea Ravizza)

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Sunday was a day of mixed results for Home Hill in the Townsville Cricket competition.

Home Hill’s Third Grade side secured a decisive 38-run victory over Brothers, posting 9/128 from their 30 overs. Dan Olditch delivered a captain’s knock of 29 from 39 balls to anchor the innings. Along with steady contributions from Luke Mottin (14 runs) and Mick Richards (12*), a defendable total was set.

It was Home Hill’s bowlers however who delivered a collective masterclass, dismantling Brothers for just 90 runs. Leo Olditch led the charge with a superb spell of 6 overs including 1 maiden, 10 runs, 3 wickets, and a hat-trick opportunity. Jay Leckenby was equally effective, claiming 2 wickets for 16 runs off 6 overs, maintaining pressure with two maidens.

In the Second Grade match, Home Hill took on Wanderers. JD Wilkins (3/44) and Ayden Marano (2/45) took the majority of the wickets despite being taken to task by the Wanderers batters. Alex Stillhard proved the most economical with ball in hand (0/12 from 6 overs), but was unable to break through with a wicket. Wanderers batted out their 40 overs to finish 7/185.

In reply, Ayden Marano led the way with the bat, posting 44 runs from 40 balls. Josiah Ballin (23) and Zakk Myles (18) provided notable contributions, but Home Hill were unable to match the required run rate, finishing all out for 116 after 32.5 overs.

Contributed with thanks to Tiffany Olditch

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The Burdekin Roosters will enter the coming season with a completely new-look executive following the club’s AGM held last Sunday at the Queens Hotel.

Twenty-one members attended the meeting, which confirmed that this year’s executive—Mick Brombal, Paul Horan, Zac Campbell and Courtney Weaver—did not seek re-election.

Alex Lennox, who organised the successful Club of Origin last weekend, will replace Brombal as President, with John Nash appointed Vice President and Mel Lammon taking on the role of Secretary.

Brombal stepped down after seven years in the top job, with a new Treasurer expected to be announced shortly.

Lammon will remain as Registrar, with Sara Smith continuing as Grants Officer. Jason Guy will stay on as Patron of the Club, a position he has held for more than 25 years.

The club has reappointed Steve Lansley as A Grade coach for the third straight season. Lansley will guide a young squad with some welcome experience mixed in.

Coaching announcements for the women’s, reserve and under-19 teams are expected soon, with the under-19s replacing this season’s under-20s in the RLTD. Club training across all grades will commence in the new year.

Outgoing President Mick Brombal delivered his annual report, saying:

"This year has been another strong one for our league, built on the commitment and passion of everyone involved. Our players have once again showcased not only their talent on the field but also the sportsmanship and spirit that represent the Burdekin with pride."

"To our volunteers, the heart and backbone of the competition ... thank you. From canteen workers to ground staff, committee members to timekeepers, your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed.
Without your efforts, our game days and community events would not be possible.

"Thank you to Burdekin Life for publishing our results. We are also deeply grateful to our sponsors, whose ongoing support enables us to provide opportunities for our players at all levels. Your contributions help sustain the future of Rugby League in our region."

"A special mention must go to our referees and officials. Their role is not an easy one, but it is vital to the success of our game. We thank you for your professionalism and commitment.

"While this year has not been without its challenges, our league has continued to grow stronger through team work and resilience. We have seen great crowds, exciting football, and a strong sense of community across all our teams.

"Looking ahead, our focus will remain on strengthening pathways for juniors, supporting our senior competitions and ensuring Burdekin Rugby League remains a family - friendly and community - driven organisation. With continued support from our members, volunteers, and sponsors, I am confident we are building a sustainable and exciting future.

"On behalf of the Burdekin Rugby League committee, I thank you all for being part of this year and look forward to another successful season ahead."

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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The Country Girl Who Became a Golf Legend

By Jacob Casha

Alberta, Canada, 1999. Five strokes off the lead at the du Maurier Classic, a 24-year-old Karrie Webb looked every bit the underdog—but she was used to that.

Hole by hole, she clawed her way back, sinking four birdies in her last five holes, each one a rebellion against the script.

A declaration that a country girl could not only stand among the world’s best, but best them.

And by the end of the 18th, after a deft chip and a clinical putt, Karrie had rewritten the whole story—standing there, clutching her first career LPGA major as the Webb surname, long synonymous with a modest North Queensland community, was now on lips around the globe.

Though beneath the cheek-to-cheek grin, beer-soaked jubilation, and the six other majors she would tack onto her illustrious resume beyond that point, she remained exactly what she’d always been—a country girl, who forged a way to the top by doing different, being different, and being...

Burdekin.

From Small-Town Swings to Worldwide Wins

Born in Australia’s Sugarcane Capital to locals Robert and Evelyn Webb in 1974, Karrie experienced the Burdekin like many of us.

Her upbringing was a rich mixture of family barbecues, the occasional Tavern dinner, fishing trips, and sport—typical for the region, most would say. Yet, this young local was anything but typical, and the signs of an anomaly began to reveal themselves quite early.

“Around grade one, one of my teachers was worried about me because I was always playing with the boys,” said Karrie. “The boys played sport, while all the girls were playing with their dolls and stuff. That didn't interest me.”

Karrie dabbled in most sports on the Ayr State School grounds, most notably cricket. But it was back in 1979, at just four years old, that she first stepped onto the golf course alongside her grandfather, clattering balls down the Ayr Golf Club fairways with her flimsy little plastic clubs.

The family, including young Karrie, were club regulars. “My parents were really active members when I was little. My parents would be up [in the clubhouse] after they played and all the kids would be downstairs, running around, playing in the bunkers and all sorts of things. It was just a great, great time,” she said.

By eight, she had received her first real set of clubs for Saturday morning junior competitions, and over the years that followed, golf would battle it out with cricket for Karrie's full attention. Come age 11, it delivered the knock-out blow.

It was 1986. Queensland Open. A then-dominant Greg Norman was looking to secure his second home-state open victory in just three years—and that, he did. But watching on as Norman strutted to a six-shot victory was an inspired Karrie, who was left mesmerised… hooked.

“I just couldn't believe how many people were there to watch people play golf. I was like, ‘you can do this for a job? How amazing!’ And when I returned home, I told my parents: ’I want to be a professional golfer.’”

That’s where, in a town more known for its cane farms than its courses, her unlikely rise to the top would begin.

A rise that would give way to nothing, and no one, despite prevailing doubts among the community.

"My parents had so many adults that were saying, 'you need to tamper her dream... A little girl from Ayr is never going to be a professional golfer,’” she said.

“In my Deb Ball video, I came down the aisle and they introduced me: ‘Karrie is the daughter of so and so… she goes to Ayr State High School, and in the future, she’d like a career in the golf industry... working at a golf resort or something.’"

"I was watching it thinking, 'when did I ever think I wanted to do that?' But back when I was in school, I always felt like I had to come up with something to avoid saying I wanted to be a professional golfer, because that’s not what people wanted to hear.”

After all, global success didn’t often come out of Ayr, and it wasn’t just the distance that made it difficult. Karrie remembers the hurdles she faced at every Queensland junior golf camp, and the unspoken assumptions, made quite unequivocally apparent, that country golfers didn’t belong on the state team.

“There was a real country stigma back then,” she said. “I wasn’t considered as polished as kids that go to private schools down South. I was just this country kid… that didn't fit the mould.”

Golf Queensland state team selectors kept her at arm’s length, refusing to pay for her flights down to Brisbane camps in what Karrie saw as attempts eliminate her from the state team equation. They soon learned it would take much more than that.

From the age of 14, she would embark on nearly two days of Greyhound bus travel for each camp. No mobile phones. No TikTok. Just the drone of an endless highway, cheek pressed to fist and eyes fixed on each passing sign. Thursday night to Brisbane, collected by her great-aunt for weekend training, Sunday night the long ride back, and reaching Townsville only on Monday evening, missing school along the way.

“I did that for three, four years, and I can still smell the inside of buses,” she laughed.

“I think it was [Golf Queensland’s] way of breaking me. But I never really questioned it. It was like, I just have to do it. If I want to make the state team, I have to do that.”

With the courage to turn a blind eye to the obstacles and a deaf ear to the doubters, she revealed a degree of maturity well beyond her years. Yet, she says the real secret behind her dogged perseverance was quite the opposite.

“I was just naive," she said.

"I thought, 'if I just practice harder, I’ll be better.' Putting in the work made my mind believe that the reward would come, no matter what."

It was off the back of this mindset that, every day after school, while most kids waited for their parents in kiss-and-drop, Karrie would trudge down Edwards Street to the golf club, where she spent hours perfecting her craft.

That close proximity was a dream for her; she didn't need a bigger city, nor did she want one. In fact, to her, living in Ayr was her superpower.

“I had way more access to a golf course than my friends in the cities, and I always took that as my advantage," she said. "I was able to improve my game way easier than they were, because they had restricted access to their golf courses [due to membership popularity]."

“I kept improving to the point where I became the best amateur in the country. So I thought, ‘why do I need to go to Brisbane?’"

"I probably would’ve had to change coach as well, which I didn't want to do.”

Enter, Kelvin Haller—Burdekin local, and an accomplished, self-taught regional golfer in his own right. A friend of Karrie’s mother, he became her coach when she was just 12, and from the very first day, everything clicked. From refining her swing to regularly caddying for her, Karrie very much credits Haller for shaping the foundations that facilitated her greatness.

“Everything I knew about golf was from him. He was my first hero in golf,” she said.

When Haller suffered a life-altering accident in 1990 that left him a quadriplegic, he didn’t step back. He remained Karrie’s guiding force despite his physical limitations, and it was under his tutelage that she embarked on one of the swiftest, most remarkable ascents the sport had ever witnessed.

In 1995, she became the youngest ever Women’s British Open champion at just 20. Within a year she had secured her LPGA Tour card and in 1996, in only her second start on America’s top women’s tour, she won the HealthSouth Inaugural in a sudden‑death playoff. She captured four titles that rookie season, becoming the first woman ever to earn over US $1 million in a single LPGA season, walking away with Rookie of the Year honours.

Despite this rapid global success far, far from home, the Burdekin parts of her still shone through. The same girl who was pipping some of the world's best golfers to trophies was walking barefoot into Subway’s in Orlando, copping stares as she pointed her ingredients out through the display glass. She had also retained her sharp country wit—wit that she admitted didn’t always translate across the Pacific.

“I played most of my golf with boys here in Ayr, and they loved banter and sarcasm… Here, proper sarcasm’s delivered with a straight face. They didn't get that [in the US]. They didn’t get sarcasm unless you said it smiling or with a smirk of some sort on your face, so I think they took that as me being bratty.”

Karrie was used to being misunderstood. Except, this time, all the quirks of this quiet little Burdekin girl were now on show for the world—which, she recalls, didn’t always serve her well.

“At that stage I had no media training,” she said with a smirk. “People were like, ‘you need to have media training,’ but I wasn’t gonna go and be fake just because they didn’t like who I was.”

“The LPGA actually didn't really help me very much there either. They were looking for someone different to lead the next generation… someone outgoing and boisterous, and that wasn't me.”

This media-shy notoriety stuck with Karrie all the way through her career—which was fine by her. She preferred to let her golf do the talking, a notion to which her eventual 41 LPGA Tour trophies and World Golf Hall of Fame induction would attest.

After decades of conquering the world, she has dialled back her tour commitments to reconnect with her roots back in North Queensland.

"It's always been the place where I could just take a deep breath and be the Karrie Webb that grew up here."

Her namesake tournament, the Karrie Webb Junior Masters, happens every October in Ayr, with participation increasing each year. This year saw its largest field yet: 105 participants, and some of whom, ironically, made the trip up from Brisbane.

Karrie admits she can’t help but see herself in some of the kids. For her, the tournament is a chance to pass her experience on to the next generation of ambitious young golfers who stand where she once stood.

“I never had anyone that had that level of experience when I was a kid. So, to be able to give that experience and advice to them… is fun to do," she said.

“There are a couple of kids up here that I know want to make it, and they talk about how it's hard from up here. And I say, ‘well, I did it. Don’t make that your excuse.'”

“If you dream big enough and work hard enough, you can achieve whatever you want.”

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Saturday PM 6/12 (1-5pm) Group H - Dave Satori PC, Katherine Satori PC, Riley Satori, Jake Satori, Cole Pontifex

Sunday AM 7/12 (9am-1pm) Group G - Carl List PC, James Kennedy PC, Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards, Ross Blakey

Sunday PM 7/12 (1-5pm) - Group F - Lisa Furnell PC, Jen Morgan PC, John furnell, Josh Furnell, Jo Morgan, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell

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Burdekin Roosters 2025 Best and Fairest A Grade lock Hayde Munro capped off his season by being named the best player in the Grand Final of the Club of Origin, played last Saturday at Bendigo Bank Park in Ayr.

Munro scored two tries for his Colts side as the Red Horses beat Brothers in the final 20-6. Coached by Ignatius Park coach Will Jack and Roosters A Grade captain Joel Mason, the Colts played entertaining football, with the backs finishing off the hard work of their forwards.

In the forwards, Caleb Noah, Nemia Nawave, Tame Reupena, and Cooper Fletcher paved the way, led by hooker Dyland Doak, who also had a strong day with the boot. Hayde played at half, setting up plays for Terey Connors, his brother Jones, and fullback Josh Furnell, who went close to the award.

Colts won the outstanding Bendigo Bank trophy, with Hayde taking home the medallion and $250 cash from Haywards Hydraulics. Brothers coaches Steve Sheppard and Paul Horan lifted their young charges to reach the final, ultimately falling to the more experienced Colts.

Declan Marchioni was outstanding, scoring several tries during the carnival and proving dangerous whenever in possession, narrowly missing out on the best player award for the final. Lachlan Shepherd, Jacob Poletti, and Joe Miehle also had strong performances for Brothers.

Mens’ Carnival Results:
Brothers and Colts drew 12-all
Home Hill def Hornets 12-10
Hornets and Brothers drew 12-all
Colts def Home Hill 22-0
Brothers def Home Hill 14-6
Colts def Hornets 10-0

Home Hill, coached by Kieran Dawes, fielded a young side led by experienced players Tate Brombal, Kali Nauque, and Ethan Hagarty. Adam Camer, Tyce Cursio, and Dom Arrate also had strong performances. The Hornets, coached by Ross and Kurt Olsen, tried hard but were hampered by a few breakdowns at crucial moments. Jye Olsen stood out, converting a sideline try, with Darian Lampton and Rhett Williams also impressing.

One of the biggest highlights of the day was the Ladies’ match between Ayr and Home Hill, believed to be the first ever. Led by the Monday twins, Martina and Stephanie, the Ayr team, coached by Jayson Okeefe, proved too strong, winning 16-4. Martina scored two tries and was named player of the match, winning $250 donated by Haywards Hydraulics. She was closely followed by her twin sister Stephanie, who booted two goals, and hooker Logan Roncato, who scored a try. Taleisha Bulgarelli also played well.

The Home Hill ladies, coached by Ryan Davenport, tried hard and never gave in, with Tanley Rowe and Lily Chappell performing strongly in the halves, and Lily scoring a try. Several Ayr players went home nursing sore ribs, including Theo Mosby, who made some big defensive hits. One of the biggest tackles of the day came from Charley Ruskin, who stopped a certain try with a full-ball tackle.

Two unsung heroes of the day were referees Andrew Ballin and Kevin Isaacs, who controlled all games admirably. At the conclusion of the games and trophy presentations, three jerseys from each club, plus a signed Cowboys jersey from Steve Sheppard, were auctioned off.
The day, organised mainly by Alex Lennox, attracted a huge crowd who partied well into the night. Alex thanked all who helped, including the Old Boys Club, all club sponsors, and especially Bendigo Bank, and Ricky and Leanne of the Burdekin Race Club.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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