The countdown has finally ticked over and the bats are ready! The 2026 Canefield Ashes are set to take over Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex this weekend, promising three days of high-energy cricket, community spirit and unforgettable moments.

Final preparations wrapped up on Sunday, with volunteers turning out in force for a working bee to get the grounds match-ready; mowing, whipper snipping and carrying out last-minute maintenance ahead of the region’s biggest cricket event.

Hosted by the Home Hill Cricket Club, the annual invitational T20 carnival runs from Friday 27 March to Sunday 29 March, bringing together 40 teams from across the Burdekin, Townsville, Bowen, Proserpine and Charters Towers.

Held in memory of Eugene Pagotto, the Canefield Ashes has quickly built a reputation as more than just a cricket tournament, it’s a celebration of mateship, competition and community, all while raising funds for a local cancer charity.

Across the weekend, a massive 65 matches will be played, with teams competing across A, B, C and Social grades. Action kicks off from 2:30pm on Friday and rolls right through to finals on Sunday afternoon.

There’s already a buzz building across the region, with batting practice spotted everywhere and teams gearing up for a shot at Ashes glory.

Off the field, the carnival delivers a lively social atmosphere, with food, drinks and entertainment keeping crowds entertained well into the evening. Saturday night is expected to be a highlight, bringing players and spectators together for a relaxed night of celebrations.

Organisers are also calling for extra hands, with volunteers needed in the canteen across both Saturday and Sunday to help keep the event running smoothly.

Whether you’re playing, supporting or just soaking up the atmosphere, the Canefield Ashes is shaping up to be one of the Burdekin’s biggest and best weekends of the year!

Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex will be a hive of activity this weekend as the 2026 Canefield Ashes returns to the region! Photo source: Home Hill Cricket Association

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Last Friday marked the final week of the season for Rookies, Challengers and junior cricket at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex in Home Hill. Players enjoyed some fun games before a free sausage sizzle, generously donated by Woolworths Ayr, followed by the 2025/2026 season presentations in the clubhouse.

There were no individual awards for the Rookies and Challengers Blasters, who are just starting out and learning the basics. Each child received a ball from the club to continue practising in the off-season, with great progress seen across the group. Some players advanced into the “Blue Group,” which plays on an artificial turf pitch using a hard ball. Thanks go to Guy Stevenson and Troy Patti for coordinating the Rookies and Challengers.

“Blue Group” players were presented medals by coordinator Ross Parker. Jake Cullen (101 runs) claimed the batting award, while Corbett Cross (10 wickets) took the bowling honours. Royce Cohen was named most improved, with coaches noting the award was closely contested. Thanks to Ross Parker and Troy Patti for coaching, and to Ross for umpiring and scoring.

The “Gold Group” also received medals, presented by coaches Matt Watkins and Dan Schultz. Ben Watkins (126 runs) won the batting award, while Xavier Cross (8 wickets) claimed the bowling award. Alex Cullen was named most improved.

The major honour of the night, the Andreas George Loizou Memorial Trophy for junior cricketer of the season, was awarded to Marshall Parker after a tight count, with just 3.6 points separating the top contenders.

Thanks were extended to Antony Stewart, Lachlan Ford and Mady Mawkes from Queensland Cricket, along with all who supported junior cricket in the Burdekin this season.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke

1—Batting Award winner for the Gold group, Ben Watkins

2—Most Improved Player for the Blue group, Royce Cohen

3—The Challengers

Photos supplied

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Seniors

The 2026 season kicked off last weekend with four matches. There should have been five, but the Ladies match was postponed because the pitch was too wet. On Sunday, the Premiers and Reserves were away to Rebels with the Premiers winning 9-2 and the Reserves winning 4-0. The Division 1 and Division 2 teams played Estates at home on Friday night with the Division 1 team drawing 1-1 but the Division 2 team lost 0-1.

The Premiers and Reserves first home games of the season are against Estates this Saturday 28 March. The Premiers kick off at 7.00 and the Reserves at 5.00. On Friday night the Ladies are away to Brothers at 8.30 and the Division 1 and Division 2 teams both have byes.

Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club

Round 1 finally arrived, and after a heavy loss in the Kappa Cup match, it was important for the Panthers to bounce back and make a statement. With new players still being integrated across the squad, the game started slowly with plenty of errors. At the 15th minute mark, Jack Gimson, an unlikely source, popped up with a well-taken goal to open the scoring. Shortly afterwards, some nice play between Elliott Dal Santo and Jay Leckenby resulted in a penalty, which Jake Siandri converted to make it 2–0. Following a scramble in the box, Dal Santo got a foot to the ball to extend the lead to 3–0, before Siandri doubled his tally just before half time with a composed finish.

Five minutes into the second half, the lead had blown out to 7–0, with goals to Sean Young and two to Jay Leckenby. Rebels responded with a goal, and after a nasty head clash that required an ambulance, added another once play resumed. Siandri then completed his hat-trick after a well-worked build-up, before Antoine Moncoudiol capped things off with another goal on full time to seal a 9–2 win, an excellent start to the season.

Reserves - Burdekin Tyre Service

A new season with renewed enthusiasm and some new players adding depth to the squads. The first game of the season carried an expectation of a good showing, and it did not disappoint. The match seemed under Burdekin’s control although the first real chance came from Rebels, a long range shot and header that tested new keeper Haydn Grazioli. But from the 35th minute mark the Panthers dominance showed and Jalan Pedro scored from his second touch after winning a ball at the top of the box. The rest of the half remained scoreless, but chances were being created.

After halftime the Panthers showed renewed energy and from a corner at the 55th minute mark Braelyn Cole's excellent cross found the head of Jonte Grazioli to get him his first Burdekin goal. Two minutes later Antoine scored to finish a good move and the result was secure. Jalan Pedro capped a good performance with a nice shot from distance to score in the 90th minute. Coach Tarryn Smith was very pleased with the contribution of all the players and looking forward to the potential for this side to continue to play well.

Division 1 – Austral Masonry

This was a tough first match at home against Estates, the reigning Minor Premiers. The Panthers were slow to get going, with a period of poor passing leading to an early, fifteenth minute, goal to Estates. After conceding this goal the Burdekin grew into the game, starting to create good chances of their own. Not long into the second half the breakthrough came from a Dom Arrate penalty. With the scores tied up the Panthers kept pushing, hitting the post on a few occasions. The game finished at 1-1, a good result to start the season off.

Division 2 – RG Customs NQ

Burdekin 2nd division kicked off a new season for 2026 with a home game vs Estates on Friday night. A large part of the playing group has returned for another season along with several new faces adding great energy and depth for this season. The Funkies were very competitive against Estates, a side they were convincingly beaten by on both occasions last year. After a goalless first half, it took until the 73rd minute for Estates to take the lead through a very well taken free kick from distance. The Funkies pushed hard for an equaliser towards full time and were definitely the better team in the second half but unfortunately couldn’t find a goal .A lot of players had really good games and overall, a very positive start to the season for the team.

Junior

Training for both Boys and Girls is back on this week. Girls from Under 5 to Under 11 play on Tuesdays at 5.00 and Boys aged 6-9 play on Wednesdays. Boys Under 7 and Under 12 years will train on Thursdays.

Pre-season games kicked off last Saturday and will be on again this Saturday. Fixtures with Townsville Clubs will begin after Easter.

Masters

The Masters had to be cancelled again last Monday as the pitches were too wet. The season should now start next Monday Night. The Magic (or Mayhem) should now kick off on 23rd March. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.

National and International

The Socceroos are warming up for the 2026 World Cup with three friendlies, the first of them is on Friday when they play Cameroon. Then on 31 March they meet Curacao. The Socceroos travel to the USA to play Mexico on 31 May at the Rosebowl in Pasadena.

In the A League with four rounds left Newcastle now leads Auckland by four points. Newcastle beat Sydney 2-1 and Auckland lost to Macarthur by the same score. Victory move up to third place after beating Central Coast, ahead of Adelaide on goal difference. Brisbane lost at home to Wellington drops to tenth place. Perth and Western Sydney continue to hold up the league.

In the A League Women, Melbourne City beat Western Sydney to stay top of the table five points clear of Wellington who beat Sydney 3-1. Canberra moves up to third place with a 3-2 defeat of Adelaide who drop to fourth spot on goal difference. Brisbane defeated Newcastle 4-2 and move up to sixth place. Sydney FC and Western Sydney are still holding up the table.

The Quote of the Week is from ex- Liverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp "It's not so important what people think when you come in. It's much more important what people feel when you leave".

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The spirit of friendly rivalry was alive and well on Saturday as the four bowling clubs of the Burdekin—Ayr, Brandon, Giru and Home Hill—came together for the annual Wilmar Challenge, hosted this year at the Brandon Bowling Club.

Bowlers from across the region put on an impressive display of skill and sportsmanship, with each club fielding strong teams determined to claim regional bragging rights. Spectators were treated to a full day of quality bowls, close contests and good-natured camaraderie that showcased the best of the sport.

Ayr Claims Bragging Rights in Burdekin Bowls Showdown

Event hosts, Brandon Bowling club, praised both players and volunteers for contributing to a smooth-running and enjoyable day.

“A big congratulations to all players who took part—there was some truly great bowls played right throughout the day,” Jamie Woods said.

“And a huge thank you to our dedicated club members who helped behind the scenes. From the BBQ and bar to the kitchen and ground crew, everyone pitched in to make the event a success.”

Special acknowledgement was also given to Gary Pearce, Brandon Bowling club, who once again took on the task of arranging the day’s matches and compiling scores. His efforts ensured the competition ran efficiently from start to finish.

After a hard-fought series of games, it was Ayr Bowling Club who emerged victorious, securing the Wilmar Challenge trophy and the coveted bragging rights for the next 12 months. Their consistent performance across the board earned them the title of 2026 Wilmar Challenge Champions.

“It was fantastic to see three of our teams performing so well throughout the day,” Club President, Anthony Bull said.

“Congratulations to Brandon, Home Hill and Giru for creating such a friendly yet competitive atmosphere. It was a terrific day all round.”

Next year’s Wilmar Challenge will be hosted by Ayr Bowling Club, where the region’s bowlers will once again come together to battle for the title.

With another successful event now wrapped up, the Burdekin bowls community can reflect on a day that celebrated teamwork, regional pride and the love of the game.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull of the Ayr Bowling Club

BACK— Bowlers from across the region put on an impressive display of skill and sportsmanship, with each club fielding strong teams determined to claim regional bragging rights. Photo supplied

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Western Suburbs Townsville vs Home Hill & Ayr

The Great Aussie Athlete BBQ is a celebration of sport, summer and mateship, while raising vital funds for the Aussie Athlete Fund. This initiative is powered by everyday Australians, schools, clubs and businesses working together to support young athletes across the country.

Funds raised help cover training, travel, coaching, wellbeing and access to sport, giving emerging athletes the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Did you know that 46% of athletes who represent Australia live below the poverty line, earning less than $23,000 per year? In 2025, the Aussie Athlete Fund supported over 100 emerging athletes across 20 different sports, with a particular focus on athletes from regional areas who face higher travel costs.

The fund was founded by Natalie Cook, Olympic gold medallist in beach volleyball at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. Natalie has strong ties to North Queensland, with her mother born and raised in Ayr, and Cape Upstart being one of her favourite holiday destinations.

This year, Western Suburbs Tennis Club in Townsville and Home Hill and Ayr Tennis players are joining the movement as part of their annual Interclub Tennis Challenge on Friday, March 20.

The Great Aussie BBQ will begin at 6:00 pm, with all funds raised going directly to the Aussie Athlete Fund. Spectators and supporters are warmly invited to come along and enjoy the evening.

Home Hill and Wests have built a strong rivalry over the years. Home Hill claimed victory in the first three ties, but in recent matchups Western Suburbs have come out on top, setting the stage for another exciting contest.

It promises to be a fun, social and competitive night of tennis, all while supporting the next generation of Australian athletes.

Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Tennis Association Secretary, Kate Caswell

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Last week Home Hill Bowls Club had the pleasure of welcoming visitors from Giru President Ian O’Connell and Vicki O’Connell.

On the green, despite difficult times, members continue to show their commitment and support to the club, with playing numbers remaining solid in spite of the hot and humid conditions.

Wednesday night social bowls, including a sausage sizzle prior to play, saw 24 players turn up to enjoy a night of social interaction. New players are always welcome to come along and enjoy the experience.

Thursday afternoon club bowls attracted 24 players plus two reserves competing in four games of triples. In rink four, Phill Marsden, Mick Olsen and Les Hoey came up trumps over Geoff Taylor, Robert Darr and Vicki O’Connell. Mick Olsen has definitely not lost his touch on the green after a long playing absence.

Rink five saw Glenn Berriman, Cisco and Sandra Darwin take the honours in what turned out to be anyone’s game. In rink six, Trevor Elton, Ron Smith and Scott Taylor had a convincing win over Ian O’Connell, Bob Pickard and Maureen Marsden. Overall it was a good team effort.

Rink seven saw Hugh Montgomery, Bruce McCallum and Warren Bunn record a convincing win over Wayne Newton, Gary Norsworthy and Janet Arthur. Janet continues to display her commitment and dedication to the sport, along with a strong competitive attitude.

Rink winners on the day were Hugh Montgomery, Bruce McCallum and Warren Bunn. The lucky raffle draw went to Des Chapman, with the second prize of a bottle of wine going to Phil and Maureen Marsden.

Saturday social bowls saw three games of triples enjoyed by members who were able to participate, with a good time had by all.

Home Hill will also be represented by three teams at the Wilmar Challenge at Brandon on March 21, with young guns Scott Taylor and Austin Davenport set to compete in their first competitive tournament.

CAPTION: Left to right Hugh Montgomery, Warren Yougi Bunn, Bruce McCallum. Photo supplied

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Ayr Bowling Club has enjoyed another vibrant week on the greens, with a great mix of social and championship games bringing members together. With the championship season now in full swing, competition has been fierce but friendly, highlighting the skill and sportsmanship of our bowlers, while well-attended social games continue to strengthen the club’s sense of community.

Tuesday Open Social bowls was played in overcast conditions with intermittent showers. Winners were Donna Soper, Al Hardcastle and Beryl Cornford defeating Bruce McCallum, Shelia Hardcastle and Col Essex; Meryl Smith and Barry Shepherd defeating Cisco and Chris Berkery; Merle Nixon, Happy Horan and Ross McLaughlin defeating Vince Smock, Barry Hewson and Heather Jorgensen; and Karen Shepherd, Lloyd Shepherd and Ron Soper defeating John Pirrone, Raelene Hervey and Anthony Bull.

Wednesday night Open Social bowls saw 16 bowlers on the green, with Bertilla Piazetta, Bill Walker and Sam Caltabiano winning their triples game, Jackson Towers, Margaret McLaughlin and Ron Smythe winning the second triples game, and Ruth Moore and Tricia Achille winning their pairs game.

Saturday’s Open Social bowls saw 24 bowlers play three rinks games, with the club buzzing as open pennant teams took to the greens for a friendly yet competitive practice match ahead of the season. Winners were John Pirrone, Bruce McCallum, Shelia Hardcastle and Allen Bartlett defeating Cisco, Joe Grabbi, Sam Caltabiano and Chris Olditch; Al Hardcastle, Beryl Cornford, Ron Soper and Pam Power defeating Lorraine Wolffe, Barry Shepherd, Kaz and Anthony Bull on a countback after a draw; and Betty Schultz, Merle Nixon, Barry Hewson and Dot Cutting defeating Donna Soper, Karen Shepherd, Maria Spano and Wayne Meitzel. Congratulations to Wayne Meitzel on winning the meat tray.

Thursday Round 2 of the A Grade Championship Singles saw Anthony Bull defeat Barry Shepherd 26–19 in a great game, progressing to the next round.

If you are interested in trying lawn bowls, Ayr Bowling Club, located at 101 Young Street, Ayr, can be contacted on (07) 4783 1336 or via its Facebook page. Open Social bowls are played Tuesday, Wednesday evening or Saturday afternoon, and all skill levels are welcome with bowls available to use.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

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The wet weather held off just long enough for the Junior Cricket games to go ahead last Friday at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex. The "Barras" took on the "Bulls" in a close game in the "Challengers", with the "Bulls" winning by two when Hugh Armstrong hit three runs off the last ball of the match. The margin could have been bigger but for some accurate bowling by Oliver Richter and Doug Cohen, who showed great energy in the field by chasing down everything that went near them.

The highest batting partnerships of 35 runs were scored by a hard-hitting Jai Baxter and Noah Tanner for the "Barras", and Hugh Armstrong and Nate Ryder for the "Bulls". Hugh received a "McDonald's Sports Award" for his great batting technique and the other was awarded to Dylan for taking a hat-trick. Aria Briant and Everly Nicholas contributed to their team's win with excellent running between the wickets, and Everly also took two scalps when bowling.

Runs were harder to score in the "hardball" games, with Jardii Russell the only batter to hit any boundaries on his way to 17 runs in the "Blue" group. Royce Cohen had to run all of his 11 runs to finish second-highest scorer.

Corbett Cross and Jardii both took two wickets each, with Stirling Williams, Tait Parker, Nahjiyah Johnston, Royce Cohen and Henry Cohen snaring one each. Mitchell Patti and Jardii got a run-out each and Royce took two, while Henry also took a catch. Nahjiyah and Corbett took away the "McDonald's Sports Awards" in this game.

In the last "proper" game of the season before the final week and presentations next Friday, the individual "Gold" batting, bowling and overall trophies were still up for grabs because of the close statistics. Mark Wilkie top-scored with 14 not out, followed by Ben Watkins on 12, who was also unbeaten.

Xavier Cross bowled well and took 2 for 14, while others to take a wicket each were Kyle and Mark Wilkie, Rylan Nicholaides and Kip Nicholas. Kip also took a catch along with Tyler Schultz, and Kyle combined with Marshall Parker to perform a run-out. Xavier and Mark earned a "McDonald's Sports Award" each for the "Gold Group”.

CAPTION: Xavier and Mark earned a "McDonald's Sports Award" each for the "Gold Group”. Photo supplied.

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Local

Seniors

The 2026 season kicks off this weekend. The Division 1 and Division 2 Funkies teams play Estates at home on the Friday night at 6.30 and 8.30 and the Ladies are away to MA Olympic at 6.30. On the Sunday, the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels at 5.00 and 3.00 pm. The Premiers first home game of the season is against Estates on Saturday 28 March. Senior Registrations are open and players should register now. Men’s training is on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 .15 and the Ladies are in action on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6.00.

Junior

Training for both Boys and Girls starts this week Girls from Under 5 to Under 11 play on Tuesdays at 5.00 and Boys aged 6-9 play on Wednesdays. Boys Under 7 and  Under 12 years will train on Thursdays. Pre-season games will Kick Off on Saturday 21^st March.

Masters

The Masters had to be cancelled again last Monday as the pitches were too wet. The season should now start next Monday Night. The  Magic (or Mayhem) should now kick off on 23rd March. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.

National and International

The Matildas played their second match in the  AFC Women’s Asian Cup and defeated Iran 4-0, they then played South Korea and in the last minute managed an equaliser to draw 3-3. The Matildas finished runners up, on goal difference and qualified for the Quarter Finals where they played North Korea on Friday in Perth and won 2-1 with goals from Alanna Kennedy and Sam Kerr. Having qualified for the semi-finals the Matildas now play China on Tuesday in Perth. In the other semi-final Japan will play South Korea on Wednesday.

The Socceroos are warming up for the 2026 World Cup with three friendlies, the first of them next Friday when they play Cameroon. Then on 31 March they meet Curacao. The Socceroos then travel to the USA to play against Mexico on 31 May at the Rosebowl in Pasadena. In the FIFA World Cup, the Socceroos will know their first opponents in Group D by 1^st April after the Play Offs between  Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia and  Kosovo. The play offs start on 27 March and finish four days later.

In the  A League, after twenty one rounds  Newcastle are still the League leaders despite losing 1-2 at home to Auckland. They are now just one point clear of the NZers. Adelaide could only draw at Central Coast and Melbourne Victory move up to fourth place with a 4-1 defeat of Macarthur. Brisbane is still in eighth place after drawing 2-2 with Western Sydney and Perth and Western Sydney now hold up the league.

The A League Women resumed this week, and Melbourne City is  top of the ladder  by three points with a 1-0 win against second placed Canberra. Adelaide stay in third place with a win against Perth and Wellington is fourth a further point behind after a 3-0 defeat of Brisbane. The Roar is now in eighth place. Sydney FC and Western Sydney are still holding up the table.

Europe

In the EPL with eight Rounds left Arsenal is now eleven points clear of Manchester City. The Gunners beat Everton 2-0 and City could only draw 1-1 away to West Ham. ManU beat Aston Villa 3-1 to stay in third place seven points clear of fourth placed Villa who are two points clear of Liverpool. With nine rounds left Wolves and Burnley look Championship bound but only four points now separate West Ham, Notts Forest, Spurs and Leeds for the other Championship spot.

In Germany’s Bundesliga only two of the top six teams won. Bayern drew 1-1 away to Leverkusen but is still nine points clear of Dortmund who beat Augsburg. Hoffenheim and Stuttgart are a further eight points behind with Hoffenheim third on goal difference.

At the bottom of the league Heidenheim and Wolfsburg are definitely in trouble, and  St Pauli and Werder Bremen and Cologne are all struggling.

In Italy’s Serie A, three of the top six teams won and Inter who could only draw is now eight points clear of AC Milan who lost 1-0 away to Lazio. Napoli stays in third place one point behind AC and Como moves up to fourth place another five points adrift. Juventus won at Udinese and moves up to fifth place. Only Pisa, of the bottom six teams, won, and it still looks all up with Pisa and Verona.

In Spain’s, La Liga with ten Rounds left to play, the three top teams all won. Barcelona  leads Real Madrid by four points and Atletico stays in third place a further nine points away. Villarreal drew but holds on to fourth place two points adrift. At the bottom of the league, only Oviedo won but together with Levante are still in deep trouble.

In France’s Ligue 1, both  PSG and Lens lost and PSG is now only one point ahead of second placed Lens. Marseille won but is still seven points behind, two points clear of fourth placed Lyon. Nice was the  only one of the bottom seven teams to win, and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes all look bound for Ligue Deux.

The Soccer Quote of the Week

is from ex- Liverpool Manager Bob Paisley “Mind you, I've been here during the bad times too - one year we came second.”

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Players and supporters gathered on Saturday evening to celebrate the achievements of Home Hill Cricket Association’s Second and Third Grade teams in the 2025/26 CNQ Townsville Cricket competition.

The Third Grade side finished sixth on the ladder with six wins for the season, while the Second Grade team placed seventh with five wins.

Awards were presented across both grades to recognise outstanding individual performances throughout the season. Third Grade’s Leo Olditch stole the spotlight, taking the most wickets and earning both Player’s Player and Champion Player honours, while Andrew Wallwork led the batting with 212 runs at an average of 70.67. In Second Grade, Jd Wilkins claimed Player’s Player and Champion Player, with Adam Camer topping the batting charts with 309 runs for the season.

See full list of winners on page 26

Wallwork, Olditch and Wilkins among major award winners

Continued from cover

Third Grade award winners
Batting Aggregate – Andrew Wallwork (212 runs)
Batting Average – Andrew Wallwork (70.67)
Most Wickets – Leo Olditch (19)
Bowling Average – Laurence Zappa (7.67)
Most Catches – Travis Butler (6 catches, 3 stumpings)
Player’s Player – Leo Olditch
Champion Player – Leo Olditch

Second Grade award winners
Batting Aggregate – Adam Camer (309 runs)
Batting Average – Adam Camer (44.14)
Most Wickets – Jd Wilkins (24)
Bowling Average – Josiah Ballin (14.75)
Most Catches – Zakk Myles (7 catches, 1 stumping)
Player’s Player – Jd Wilkins
Champion Player – Jd Wilkins

Club officials thanked players, supporters and volunteers for their contribution to the 2025/26 senior cricket season.

CAPTIONS:

BACK—Champion Players - Jd Wilkins (Second Grade) and Leo Olditch (Third Grade)

2—Richard’s Family “Club Person of the Year” awarded to Alex Stillhard (photo Alex Stillhard with Heather Richards)

3—HHCA President Dan Olditch with Adam Camer (Second Grade Batting Average and Batting Aggregate)

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The Burdekin Touch Football Association was proudly represented at the National Touch Championships in Coffs Harbour last weekend.

Bruce Johnson and Peter Knapton competed as part of the North Queensland Over-65 men’s team, while Michael Littlefield attended as a referee.

The NQ 65s team faced a challenging start, with injuries including a broken collarbone and broken finger in their first two games. Despite this, strong performances against eventual grand finalists Brisbane and the Southern Suns (Western Sydney) highlighted the fighting spirit of North Queensland. Both Burdekin representatives completed all six games exhausted but injury-free.

Michael Littlefield spent much of his time officiating on Field One, culminating in his selection to referee the men’s Over-30 grand final—a well-deserved recognition of his efforts. He also ranked third among all seventy referees for total distance covered during the carnival.

Back home, local players are reminded that registration for the Burdekin competition must be completed before Round 4. Players who are not registered will be ineligible to take the field.

CAPTION: Bruce Johnson and Peter Knapton competed as part of the North Queensland Over-65 men’s team at the National Touch Championships in Coffs Harbour last weekend. Photo supplied

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With the bowls season in full swing, activity at Ayr Bowling Club has ramped up with good numbers taking to the green on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Open social bowls on Tuesday featured 4 games of triples. Winners on the day were. Donna Soper, Lloyd Shepherd, and Sandra Stidston defeated Arthur Gauvin, Chris Berkery / Happy Horan and Beryl Cornford. In game 2 Meryl Smith, Barry Shepherd, and Al Hardcastle defeated Deslie Olsen, Cisco and Maurie Power. Game 3 Merle Nixon, Ross Mclaughlin and Pam Power defeated Karen Shepherd, Ron Smythe and Ron Soper. Game 4 Betty Schultz, Shelia Hardcastle and Anthony Bull defeated John Pirrone, Barry Hewson and Lew Stidston.

Wednesday Night social bowls 12 bowlers took to the green with 2 games of triples played. Winners on the night were Evelyn Wiltshire, Lorraine Wolffe and Gary Pearce taking the first game. Winners in game 2 were Margaret Mclaughlin, John Cesconetto and Heather Jorgensen.

Sunday 8^th March Men’s A Grade Championship singles round 1 were played winners were. Anthony Bull defeated Joe Grabbi. Allen Bartlett defeated John Pirrone. Lew Stidston defeated Al Hardcastle. Barry Shepherd defeated Ron Smythe and Maurie Power won on forfeit.  The quality of the bowls was very impressive! Congratulations to our winners progressing to the next round.  

Tuesday 14^th April is President Karen’s ladies day sponsored by Queensland Country Bank.  Great prizes to be won on the day. Call of the cards 9.45am play starts 10am finishing at 12.30pm come along for a wonderful day of bowling. Light lunch provided $15 per player. Email nominations preferred indicating playing position to ayrlbc@gmail.com or contact Pam Power 0458 330 019.  RSVP by Friday 10^th April.

Wilmar Challenge is at Brandon Saturday 21^st March the pennant teams have been selected and on the board in the clubhouse. Get along on the day and support this local event.

Ayr bowls club for 2026 is now an open bowls format Tuesdays, Wednesday night and Saturdays.  Wednesday Night Social Bowls is in full swing, sign up by 6.30pm. See our Facebook page for upcoming events.

If you are interested in trying Bowls, Friday Roll Ups are a good place to start. They are held every Friday afternoon from 3:00 - 5:30pm. Whether you are looking to hone your skills, enjoy some friendly training tips, or simply unwind with a drink, these casual roll-ups are the perfect way to kick off the weekend. We have a table bowls table so drop in for roll up on our new table. Come down for some training, enjoy a few drinks, and join in the fun with fellow club members.

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Young golfers have teed off the year in style, with a strong turnout for the first junior golf morning at the Ayr Golf Club.

A recent “Come Try Day” proved a hit with the community, attracting 29 juniors eager to learn the fundamentals of the sport. The budding golfers spent the morning on the fairway under the guidance of instructor Tara, who introduced them to the basics of the golf swing and demonstrated how to use the different clubs in their bags.

Each participant had the chance to practise hitting balls on the range, while also enjoying the social side of the game. New friendships were formed throughout the morning, and some keen juniors even had time to head out and play a few holes together.

While wet weather prevented play this week, it did not dampen the excitement surrounding the club’s junior scholarship program. Scholarship recipients received their welcome packs for the year ahead, marking the start of another promising season.

The scholarships are made possible thanks to the support of the Australian Golf Foundation, which helps young players begin or continue their journey in the sport while building confidence, developing new skills and fostering a lifelong love of golf.

Organisers also extended their thanks to Kristina Patane Land for the significant work she has put into making this year’s junior program at Ayr Golf Club a success.

Scholarship recipients who were unable to attend the welcome session have been advised that their golf bags are available for collection from the club during the week or next Saturday, when juniors will return to the course for another fun morning on the greens.

With enthusiasm high and plenty of young players keen to learn, the club is looking forward to watching its junior golfers grow and develop throughout the year.

Contributed with thanks to Laura Mahoney.

Local

Despite the wet weather the 3rd Round of the Kappa Cup was played last Saturday night in Townsville. However, it was not a good night for the Burdekin who went down 1-7 to Brothers.

Seniors

In the Kappa Cup the game started off poorly with Brothers scoring in the first five minutes from a set piece. Five minutes later they were in again with a similar goal. Due to going two goals down early, the Panthers started to rush and make mistakes. This compounded when Brothers scored a third goal. By half time it was 4-0, with the Premier league keeper being substituted due to injury and Zack Durrant making his Premier league debut in goal. The Panthers set about creating a plan for the second half and executed it quite well.

With an increased intensity it saw Burdekin  create more chances but also left gaps in behind as they chased goals. Brothers capitalised on this scoring another three goals, which could have been more if not for some outstanding saves from Zack Durrant. Jay Leckenby managed to score for the Panthers  after some good build up play from the team. The final result was a 7-1 win to Brothers with the loss being magnified after an injury to captain Joshua Valle which looks to keep him out for an extended period of time.

Only one week now before the season kicks off. Fixtures start on the weekend of 20 - 22 March. The Division 1 and Division 2 Funkies teams play Estates at home on the Friday, and the Ladies are away to MA Olympic. On the Sunday, the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels. The Premiers first home game of the season is against Estates on Saturday 28 March. Senior Registrations are open and players should register now. Men’s training is on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 .15 and the Ladies are in action on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6.00.

Junior

A pre-season Training Clinic for both Boys and Girls aged 6-9 years has started. Tuesdays at 5.15 at International Park. A terrific way to get back into soccer before the season begins. Teams will be hopefully getting sorted out in the next few weeks. Pre-season games will Kick Off on Saturday 21^st March.  

Masters

The Masters had to be cancelled again last Monday as the pitches were too wet. The season should now start next Monday Night. The  Magic (or Mayhem) should now kick off on 16th March. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.

National and International

The Matildas played their second match in the  AFC Women’s Asian Cup and defeated Iran 4-0 on Thursday. The Matilda’s then played South Korea on Sunday and in the last minute managed an equaliser to draw 3-3. The Matildas finished runners up, on goal difference and qualify for the Quarter Finals where they will play either China or North Korea.

The Socceroos are warming up for the 2026 World Cup with three friendlies the first of them in two weeks’ time. They play Cameroon on Friday 27^th March and Curacao on 31 March in Australia and have now arranged a friendly against Mexico on 31 May at the Rosebowl in Pasadena. The Socceroos will know their first opponents in Group D by 1^st April after the Play Offs between  Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo. The play offs start on 27 March and finish four days later.

In the  A League, after twenty rounds  Newcastle are still the League leaders, and were the only one of the top five teams to win. They beat Western Sydney 2-1 and are now four points clear of Auckland with just six games left. Sydney drew  with Melbourne Victory and is a further three  points behind and  Adelaide stays in fourth spot. Brisbane is still in eighth place. Wellington and Western Sydney now hold up the league but only four points separates the bottom five clubs.

With the Asian Pacific Cup being played, there were no A League Women Fixture this week.

Europe

In England it is FA Cup time and after the 5th Round Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea,  Liverpool, Leeds, Southampton, and Port Vale  are all through to the Quarter final. In the EPL Arsenal is now seven points clear of Manchester City who have a game in hand. ManU has moved up to third place a further nine points behind, and Aston Vill has dropped to fourth place on goal difference. With nine rounds left Wolves and Burnley look Championship bound but West Ham and Notts Forest are fighting hard and Spurs, who have lost their last five games  could be Championship bound.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, with nine rounds left, the top three teams won, and Bayern stays eleven points clear of Dortmund. Hoffenheim is a further six points behind and Stuttgart who could only draw is another two points adrift. At the bottom of the league Heidenheim are definitely in trouble, but St Pauli and Werder Bremen both won and might escape relegation.

In Italy’s Serie A, five of the top six teams won and Inter is still ten points clear of AC Milan. Napoli stays in third place one point behind AC and Roma stays in fourth spot another five points adrift, despite only managing a draw. Juventus stays in sixth place. The bottom six teams all lost, and it looks all up with Pisa and Verona.

In Spain’s La Liga with eleven Rounds left only three of the top teams won. Barcelona  leads Real Madrid by four points and Atletico move up to third place a further nine points away. Villarreal lost but holds on to fourth place. At the bottom of the league, only one of the last six teams won and it looks like Goodnight Oviedo.

In France’s Ligue 1,  PSG lost and is now just four points ahead of Lens. Marseille won but is still seven points adrift in third place, one point clear of Lyon. Paris FC was the  only one of the bottom seven teams to win, and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes are in severe trouble.

The Soccer Quote of the Week

is from ex-Chelsea Manager (amongst others) Jose Mourinho "Please don't call me arrogant, but I'm European champion and I think I'm a special one."

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The Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Men’s and Women’s Touch Football Grand Finals were held last week, marking the first time the pre-season competition featured finals.

In the women’s decider, Eathorne’s Princesses faced First in Physio. The Princesses’ defence proved impenetrable, keeping their opponents scoreless while putting four touchdowns on the board. Ryley Sartori scored twice and was named player of the final for her standout performance.

The men’s final between One Touch IT and BAYWatch delivered end-to-end action, with both sides showing strong attack and defence. The match finished five-all. Jayden Lambie-Fabbro earned player of the final honours. Both captains agreed to forego extra time, opting to share the prize money.

Results of Round 1 played 25 February, 2026

Under 14

BAYWatch1 5 def Silly Soft Serves 1,

Red Dogs 11 (F Levitt 5, L Pickup 3) def Rockies 1,

Cowboys 11 (Adea 6, S Williams 4) def Broncos 3 (Zaviar 2).

OPEN WOMEN

Pre-season Final:

Eathorne’s Princesses 4 (R Sartori 2) def First in Physio 0,

Salty Sirens 8 (A Dobe 2, L Groth 2) def Can’t Catch 2,      

Lasers 9 (T Horan 5, B Robertson 3) def Chick Flicks 1.    

OPEN MEN

Pre-season Final:

One Touch IT 5 (J Valle 2, J Leckenby 2) drew BAYWatch 5,                    

Alliance Pharmacy 9 (A Watson 2, J Olsen 2, B Vasta 2, K Hesp 2) def Slush Puppies 3 (J Levitt 2),

Way To Go 4 def Tha Murries 3 (C Taiters 2),

Crocs 9 (J McIvor 3, KJ Zaro 2, J Naque 2) def His Haas 1,

Nrgize 7 (H Munro 3, L Lampton 2) def Wires Down 1,

Burdekin PCYC 8 (G Dau 6) def Touch n Go 2,                        

Teamo Supremo 10 (B Horan 4, R Heuir 2) def Renegades 1,                                      

Creampuffs 4 def Royal Touch 3,                    

Feelers 4 (L Dobe 2) def Blue Murder 1,                                    

Ball Grabbers 6 (C White 2) def Petrol Heads 1.

Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton

CAPTIONS:

1—Eathorne's Princesses

2—First in Physio

Photos supplied

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