Sports

HOME HILL TENNIS CLUB SECURES $70k GRANT FOR COURT LIGHTING

HOME HILL TENNIS CLUB SECURES $70k GRANT FOR COURT LIGHTING

The Home Hill Tennis Association has secured $70,802 in Queensland Government funding to upgrade lighting across three of its courts. The funding, awarded through the Games On! Grassroots Infrastructure Program, will allow the club to replace ageing metal halide lights on courts seven, eight and nine with energy-efficient LED lighting. Club secretary Kate Casswell said the upgrade had been identified as a priority several years ago, but the association waited until completing its amenities upgrade and saving enough to meet its required contribution. The club will contribute $17,701 towards the project, representing 20 per cent of the total cost. Casswell said the project was included in both the club's Strategic Plan and Burdekin Shire Council's Sport and Recreation Plan. The association began its grant application in February and was among just five per cent of applicants to progress to the program's second stage in July. The process required several approvals and certified lighting designs before the application could be finalised. The latest funding will complete the club's broader lighting upgrade, following the installation of LED lights across its other nine courts through three separate grants in 2018, 2019 and 2021. Casswell said the club was excited to finally complete the project, although construction was still some way off. The funding agreement must first be finalised, with funds received and project managers and contractors appointed before work can begin. The club hopes to switch on the upgraded lights for the first time at next year's Sugar Bowl. CAPTION: The new lights will be installed on courts seven, eight and nine (foreground). Photo supplied

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Football Matters with Cyclops

Football Matters with Cyclops

It is now the close season for Burdekin FC, but football hardly stops here. Night Soccer continues until the middle of December, while Masters Soccer starts again at the end of January next year, as does training for the 2027 North Queensland season. The Escriva Cup, based on Night Soccer, took place at International Park last Friday, with a good crowd turning out to watch 15 Men’s teams and four Women’s teams compete in knockout competitions. In the Men’s Cup semi-finals, FDS beat FJV 3-0 and Good Boys defeated RG Customs 2-0. In the grand final, FDS proved too good for Good Boys, winning 3-1. Ryan Taylor, Jess Thomasson and Jeremy Dal Santo scored for FDS. In the Women’s Cup semi-finals, Bodytune Bombers won 5-0 against Pitch Please, while Kicken Goals beat Goal Diggers 5-2. In the grand final, the Bombers proved too good, defeating Kicken Goals 4-1 with goals from Sian Reardon (2), Sharni Lennox and Zara Frost. Night Soccer – Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s sixth week of competition was played in good conditions, with just one forfeit. The 19 games produced 68 goals and one sin bin. There were four draws, while just four games were decided by a single goal. This year, the Men’s competition is initially split into three tables of eight teams, and after six rounds, UDS is now the only team with maximum points. The Ladies have two tables of eight teams, with Bodytune Bombers the only team to have won all their games. Top scorers in the Men’s competition were Mountain View Fresh 2 with six goals, while two teams, Rocky Pond Warriors and Mountain View Fresh 1, managed to score five. In the Ladies’ competition, Chicks & Chooks, Scoregasms and Rocky Pond Wonders all scored four goals. Ben Hisatake from Austen Tay Shus scored the night’s only sin bin. Sian Reardon scored all three goals for Bodytune Bombers. Quote of the Week is from playwright Oscar Wilde: “Football is all very well as a game for rough girls but is hardly suitable for delicate boys.” CAPTION: FDS were too good for Good Boys in the Grand Final, winning 3-1. Photo supplied

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JYE OLSEN NAMED ROOSTERS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

JYE OLSEN NAMED ROOSTERS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

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AYR LIFESAVERS TRIUMPH IN MACKAY

AYR LIFESAVERS TRIUMPH IN MACKAY

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NEWCOMER MAKES MARK ON THE HOME HILL GREENS

November 5, 2026

Contributed with thanks by Stephen Doig

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Eighteen players turned out on a very warm spring afternoon that felt more like summer.

Three games of triples were played.

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Rink 3: Bob Young, Roslyn DeFranciscus and Trevor Elton defeated Maureen Marsden, Sandra Darwin and Bruce McCallum.

Rink 4: Paul Vass, Judy Elton and Tony Eadie accounted for Janet Arthur, Les Hoey and Gary Nosworthy.

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Rink 5: Des Chapman, Ron Smith and Glen Bones Berryman had a big win over Belinda McConville, Steve Doig and Phil Marsden.

It was noted that Belinda, a newcomer to bowls, had a toucher and held three shots over Des, a seasoned bowler, on the penultimate end. Good one, Belinda!

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The meat tray raffle was won by Judy Elton, with Mick Olsen taking home a bottle of wine.

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What's on at the club:

Monday morning fitness; Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday; Wednesday Kraft group, evening barefoot bowls and Wednesday night darts.

Thursday morning bingo, followed by social bowls at 1.30pm. Names in by 1pm.

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Friday night is pool club night, starting at 6pm.

Saturday afternoon social bowls starts at 1.30pm, with names in by 1pm.

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Until next week, good bowling.

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RUN OUTS GALORE AS JUNIOR CRICKETERS IMPRESS

November 5, 2026

Smash Series standouts Lincoln McDowell and Nicholas Marrinan. Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Troy Patti

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Junior cricket fixtures were on again at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Home Hill Cricket Complex last Friday with good numbers across all age groups.

The Smash Series Cricketers were split into two teams with the “Chicken Nuggets” taking on the “Brisbane Heat”.

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The Nuggets batted first with Nicholas Marrinan top scoring with 17, Reuben Armstrong scoring 10 and Lincoln McDowell and Dylan Bryant scoring 8 runs a-piece.

Cooper Amos struck with an early wicket while Allegra Parker and Kirby Brett were lightning in the field, each effecting a run out.

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The Heat’s innings started solidly with Aria Bryant and Everly Nicholas scoring 7 and 9 runs respectively.

Lincoln took a superb catch while he, Harvey, Dylan and Reuben also caught the batters short of their ground.

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Blue Group Player of the Match, Stirling Williams. Photos supplied

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Arthur Cohen and Cooper anchored the innings with a 22-run partnership but the Chicken Nuggets were the victors 79 – 66.

In the Blue Group, the fielders were on fire with 7 runouts shared between Georgia Vasta, Doug Cohen, Nate Ryder and Will Searle as well as a catch a-piece to Royce Cohen and Georgia.

Doug was a standout with the bat, scoring 13 runs, while Corbett Cross (12) and Nate (9) swung the willow well.

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Notable bowling performances included Logan who took 1/10, Jai (1/7), Royce (3/12), Doug (1/13) and Hugh Armstrong who bowled a wicket maiden.

The stage was set for an epic battle and fierce rivalries in the Gold Group.

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Marshall Parker opened the batting before being caught and bowled by Ben Watkins for 8, a favour Marshall later returned when he caught and bowled Ben for 4 runs.

Xavier Cross, compiled runs quickly on his way to the top score of 11.

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After Henry Cohen’s powerful 8 runs, the bowlers took control.

Ben, Flynn Levitt, Mazlyn Smith, Jude Shannon and Jake Cullen each claimed one wicket.

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Billy Muilwyk finished a devastating spell with 2 wickets for no runs and Xavier continued his dominance with an impressive 3/7.

Til next week, “that’s stumps”

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Home Hill Enjoys Strong Weekend on the Cricket Field

November 5, 2026

Home Hill Cricket Club celebrated a successful weekend of senior cricket, with impressive victories in both Second and Third Grade. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Home Hill Cricket Club

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Home Hill Cricket Club celebrated a successful weekend of senior cricket, with impressive victories in both Second and Third Grade, while wet weather unfortunately put a stop to Fourth Grade action.

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Second Grade: Pengelly Cabinets Dominate Charters Towers

Home Hill Pengelly Cabinets produced a complete team performance to record a crushing 191-run victory over Charters Towers at Mosman Park.

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After being sent into bat, Home Hill faced early challenges, slipping to 4/81 as the Charters Towers bowlers applied pressure. Valuable contributions from Darren O’Keeffe (25), Sameer Korgaonkar (17) and Tristan Richards (31) helped steady the innings and rebuild the scoreboard.

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The highlight of the day came from Alex Stillhard, whose explosive unbeaten 68 from just 29 balls transformed the contest. Stillhard launched seven sixes and two fours in a breathtaking display of power hitting, propelling Home Hill to an imposing 9/219 from their 40 overs.

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Home Hill’s bowlers then took complete control. Al Wilkins delivered a sensational spell, claiming 4/5 from six overs, including three maidens, while Mark Nosworthy provided excellent support with 3/12 from six overs. Leo Olditch (2/5) and Tristan Richards (1/6) finished the job as Charters Towers were bundled out for just 28.

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Third Grade: Evergreen Sheds Hold Their Nerve

Home Hill Evergreen Sheds edged out Wests in a thrilling low-scoring encounter at Cutheringa Park, securing a hard-fought three-run win.

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After electing to bat, Wests struggled against a disciplined Home Hill bowling attack and were dismissed for 95 in 32.1 overs.

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John Licciardello was the chief destroyer, producing outstanding figures of 5/16 from seven overs. Guy Stevenson also impressed with the ball, taking 2/3 from four overs, including three maidens. Bala Bandlamudi, Mitchell Price-Wilson and Sameer Korgaonkar each chipped in with a wicket as Home Hill maintained constant pressure.

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In reply, Home Hill's chase got off to a shaky start as they slumped to 3/21. Guy Stevenson then played a crucial innings, anchoring the chase with a patient 38 from 62 deliveries. Bala Bandlamudi added a valuable 22, while Sameer Korgaonkarcontributed 15 as the visitors gradually worked their way towards the target.

Despite a determined effort from the Wests bowlers, Home Hill managed to reach 98 and secure victory in a tense finish.

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Fourth Grade Washed Out

Unfortunately, the Fourth Grade fixture between Home Hill ML Partners and Northern Beaches was abandoned without a ball being bowled after wet weather left the grounds unplayable.

While the washout was disappointing for players and supporters, Home Hill still enjoyed a highly successful weekend, with two strong victories helping maintain momentum across the club.

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INTERNATIONAL DEBUT YIELDS GOLD MEDAL FOR BURDEKIN TOUCH FOOTBALLER

November 5, 2026

After rehabbing with team physio Rob, Tramayne was back to a full sprint and fit to compete within days. Photos supplied

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A Burdekin touch footballer has helped bring the Australian Emus Women’s 40s side to Asia Pacific glory, overcoming an injury which threatened to end her tournament before it began.

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Tramayne Horan made her international debut at the Asia Pacific Seniors Touch Cup in Japan last month, appearing in two group-stage clashes before contributing to a 3-1 grand final victory over trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand.

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Representing the nation marked the realisation of a decades-long dream for the touch footy veteran, who called the experience “amazing.”

“My heart was racing,” she said, recalling the moments before her debut.

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“My adrenaline was skyrocketing, and I knew if I wanted to perform at my best, I had to definitely bring it down.

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“We had exceptional ladies … who were so supportive. They trusted me and my skills, and that made me trust my skills and know that I was more than capable to step out onto the field and wear the jersey.”

A training injury sustained before the tournament opener kept Tramayne out of the side’s first two days of competition.

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Confirmed as a grade one ligament tear in her ankle, she feared she might not see the pitch at all.

“I was completely devastated. I've never rolled my ankle inward like that in my life,” Tramayne said.

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Tramayne Horan appeared in two group-stage clashes before contributing to a 3-1 grand final victory over trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand. Photos supplied

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“The physio told me to just stay positive. In my head, I had to reinforce that as well because I hadn't even made it on the field yet.

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“I just kept telling myself, ‘I'm going to come back from this. I'm going to come back from this.’”

After extensive rehabbing with team physios, Tramayne was back to a full sprint and fit to compete within days.

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She said the injury scare made her debut all the more emotional.

“As soon as I got my got my ankle strapped and did my warm-up, I basically cried. I was just shaking,” she said.

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“I turned and looked at my coach, and I think I scared him—he didn't know if it was good crying or bad crying. I just ran up and gave him a hug.

“Everything came to fruition. I was finally getting on the paddock with my teammates and finally represent Australia.”

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Tramayne's maiden Australian call-up is the latest chapter of a 33-year touch football career. The Brothers A Grade player began playing at just 13 years old, representing Queensland a number of times since.

She hopes to don maroon again for next year’s State of Origin series, where she expects to face some of her New South Wales-based national team peers.

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Her attention will then turn to the 2028 World Cup in New Zealand, where she aims for back-to-back national team selections.

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RECORD FIELD MARKS GOLF LEGEND’S RETURN TO AYR

October 29, 2026

Karrie Webb sits with competitors at the Karrie Webb Junior Masters at Ayr Golf Course, which attracted a record 120 young golfers over the weekend. Photo: Rhonda Martin

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The Karrie Webb Junior Masters hit a new high over the weekend, drawing a record 120 young golfers to Ayr as the tournament nearly doubled in size since 2023. The Australian golf great returned to see rising talent from across Queensland compete for the titles, with Burdekin golfers among the placegetters.

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Read more here: www.burdekinlife.com/article/karrie-webb-junior-masters-draws-record-field-as-familiar-face-claims-title

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A DAY OF RACQUETS AND RIVALRIES

October 29, 2026

Fun Teams event winners (L - R): 2nd place: Mark’s Minions—Tilly, Holly and Joel Hanson, Sophie (absent) and Mark Barbagallo. First Place: The Pivottos—Toni and Michele. Third Place: Tennis Townsville—Lachie Hutcherson and Rachael. Photos supplied

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Players of all ages tried their hand at a range of racquet sports during the Home Hill Tennis Association’s Fun Teams event, with competitors taking on everything from beach tennis to pickleball.

The afternoon brought together tennis and pickleball players for a series of activities, including jumbo tennis, mini tennis, table tennis and real tennis.

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Toni Pivotto won the pickleball division of the One Point Slam, while Daniel Walsh took out the tennis division Photos supplied

Four players also travelled from Townsville to take part.

The event featured an Australian Open One Point Slam competition, where players rolled the dice and competed in single-point matches.

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The format kept the competition light-hearted, with one participant pointing out that even tennis great Roger Federer won only 51 per cent of the points he played.

Toni Pivotto won the pickleball division of the One Point Slam, while Daniel Walsh took out the tennis division.

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Even the youngest club members got to join in the fun Photos supplied

The Fun Teams competition saw The Pivottos, comprising Toni and Michele, finish first, ahead of Mark’s Minions in second place. The team included Tilly, Holly and Joel Hanson, Sophie, and Mark Barbagallo.

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Lachie Hutcherson and Rachael, from Tennis Townsville, finished third.

Home Hill Tennis Association secretary Kate Casswell thanked participants and local businesses for supporting the event.

The afternoon brought together tennis and pickleball players for a series of activities, including jumbo tennis, mini tennis, table tennis and real tennis Photos supplied

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“It was great to see both the pickleball and tennis players and people of all ages come down to enjoy the afternoon,” she said.

“Thanks also to the businesses who donated prizes ensuring the afternoon was a great success.”

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BURDEKIN FC CELEBRATES STRONG SEASON

October 29, 2026

Husband-and-wife duo Laurence and Carla Dal Santo were awarded Life Membership. Photos supplied

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Burdekin FC celebrated the end of the 2026 season with a well-attended Presentation Night last Saturday, recognising the achievements of its teams and players.

The club fielded five men’s teams this season, although its women’s team was forced to withdraw early in the campaign.

Ryan Scodellaro was named the Premiers Player of the Year Photos supplied

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The standout performers were the Astute Finance Colts, who went undefeated to claim the premiership, Grand Final and Crad Evans Trophy.

Cooper Kross was named Colts Player of the Year, while Jhett Jones took home the Best and Fairest award.

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The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers finished third before falling to Brothers in the Grand Final. Ryan Scodellaro was named Player of the Year, with Jarrod Camer receiving the Best and Fairest award.

The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves also lost their Grand Final to Brothers after finishing second during the season. Jonte Grazioli was named the team’s Best and Fairest.

Cooper Kross was named Colts Player of the Year Photos supplied

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In the lower divisions, Cody Scalia won Best and Fairest for the Austral Masonry Division 1 side, while Jared Giardina claimed the award for the RG Customs Division 2 team.

With an undefeated Colts campaign and several strong team and individual performances across the club, Burdekin FC had plenty to celebrate as it brought its 2026 season to a close.

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KARRIE WEBB JUNIOR MASTERS DRAWS RECORD FIELD AS FAMILIAR FACE CLAIMS TITLE

October 29, 2026

18-hole boys winner Rico Avolio, Karrie Webb, and 18-hole girls winner Lily McGuinness Photos: Rhonda Martin

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Yeppoon golfer Lily McGuinness claimed her third Karrie Webb Junior Masters title last weekend as the tournament attracted a record field, with Burdekin competitors also among winners.

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Roughly 120 young golfers contested the tournament at Ayr Golf Course on Saturday, 24th October and Sunday, 25th October. The tournament was the final Greg Norman Junior Masters qualifier of this year’s junior calendar.

McGuinness reclaimed the 18-hole girls gross title after finishing second last year, winning the event for the third time in four years. Her score of 139 was the lowest among all 18-hole competitors.

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Rowes Bay golfer Rico Avolio took out the boys division with a gross score of 151.

Meanwhile, Ayr golfers ran rampant in both six-hole competitions, with Adelle Morello and Austin Mann winning the girls and boys divisions respectively.

Roughly 120 young golfers contested the tournament at Ayr Golf Course over the weekend Photos: Rhonda Martin

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Burdekin locals Ara Oakes, Tyler Smith, Royce Cohen, River Oar, Andi Perry and Reid Statham also finished in the top three of their divisions.

Karrie Webb, who was in attendance across the weekend, said she was impressed by the talent of this year’s field, which almost doubled in participation since 2023.

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“It's great to see so many young kids playing. I played in all these junior tournaments when I was younger, so it just reminds me all about it,” she said.

“The competition was great—we had kids from Brisbane, Caloundra, all the way up to Atherton and Cairns. It just shows this region that it's an important event for the kids who aspire to continue going from three holes, to six holes all the way up to 18 holes."

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The weekend also included the Golf North Queensland (GNQ) Junior Golfer of the Year presentation on Saturday night, which recognised the best-performing junior golfers in GNQ over the season Photos: Rhonda Martin

The weekend also included the Golf North Queensland (GNQ) Junior Golfer of the Year presentation on Saturday night, which recognised the best-performing junior golfers in GNQ over the season.

Another presentation on Sunday capped off the weekend’s competition, with winners across the two days taking home impressive prizes courtesy of Mizuno Australia.

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“When you have such great prizes, I think it excites the kids. At a lot of the junior golf tournaments around the district don't usually see prizes like that,” Webb said.

She added that the tournament attracted business to the town.

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Karrie Webb said she was impressed by the talent of this year’s field, which almost doubled in participation since 2023. Photos: Rhonda Martin

"A lot of people travelled a long way, spending a lot of money in the community—hotel rooms, caravan parks. I was out on Friday night, and there was a lot of people out having dinner. A lot of money was spent in town, which is great,” she said.

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Webb thanked sponsors Raine & Horne and Mizuno Australia, as well as her mother, Evelyn, and the volunteers who contributed to tournament preparations.

“They've worked really hard to build this event up to be bigger and better every year. I think our goal is to continue to make it bigger and for more and more people to come and play,” she said.

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Full results available online

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JUNIOR CRICKETERS BRAVE THE SHOWERS

October 29, 2026

Cooper received the Smash Group’s "McDonalds Sports Award" for his batting efforts. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Home Hill Junior Cricket

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The showers on Friday weren't enough to stop play going ahead at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex.

The "Smash Group" was again a wicket drought for the bowlers with Kirby the only one to take a wicket, he also was involved in a runout.

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Other runouts were made by Reuben, Jai, Nicholas, Kash and two from Lincoln.

Hugh top scored with the bat, smashing 19 runs not out.  Next was Jaxon, 18 and Cooper on 17 both also not out. Cooper received the "McDonalds Sports Award" for his great batting.

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No Stats were available for the "Blue Group" this week, but Lane took home the McDonalds Sports Award" by getting 2 wickets in his bowling spell and making 8 runs when batting.

Alex hit 3 fours in his innings of 22 runs in his first week back this season, he also had a great game with the gloves behind the stumps which earned him the "McDonalds Sports Award”.

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There was a big gap back to the next best on nine runs by Jude and Ben. Mazlyn clean bowled two batters and Xavier also took two wickets, Kip chimed in with a wicket and Jardii got a caught and bowled.

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Wins And A Washout For Home Hill Cricketers

October 29, 2026

In a rain affected match reduced to 25 overs, the Home Hill ML Partners Fourth Grade side took on Suburban Parks at Riverway Oval on Sunday morning. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Home Hill Cricket Association

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The weather played a disruptive hand in the weekends CNQ Townsville cricket matches. The Home Hill Pengelly Cabinets Second Grade match against Suburban Parks was abandoned on Saturday due to wet conditions.

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In a rain affected match reduced to 25 overs, the Home Hill ML Partners Fourth Grade side took on Suburban Parks at Riverway Oval on Sunday morning.  

Mitchell Price-Wilson starred with the bat making 67 runs, including 3 fours and 4 sixes. Salvatore Cardillo provided valuable support with 22, while Yaveen Fernando finished unbeaten on 54 as Home Hill posted an impressive total of 5/162.

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In reply, Redbacks were restricted to 4/122 thanks to a disciplined bowling effort. Mitchell Price-Wilson capped off an excellent all-round performanc, taking 2/19 from five overs, while Roopesh Krishnan claimed 1/16.

A solid team effort with bat, ball and in the field secured another strong win for the Home Hill ML Partners.

Sunday afternoon saw the Home Hill Evergreen Sheds Third Grade side produce a disciplined bowling performance to dismiss Brothers for 112 in 33.5 overs.

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Captain Brad Parravicini starred with the ball, claiming 3/8 from five overs, while Alex Stillhard took 2/28. Mark Nosworthy, Keagan Carter, Leo Olditch and Greg Flanagan all chipped in with a wicket apiece.

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In reply, Home Hill successfully chased down the target, finishing on 9/138 from 35 overs. Ryan Rickards top-scored with a patient 32, while Greg Flanagan played a crucial unbeaten knock of 27 to help steer the side home.

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It was a complete team performance from Home Hill, with strong contributions in the field and a composed batting effort securing a comfortable victory.

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Fast Four Touch Football Carnival Set To Bring Excitement To Ayr

October 29, 2026

Contributed with thanks by Burdekin Touch Association

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The Burdekin Touch Association is gearing up for an exciting day of fast-paced action, with the upcoming Fast Four Touch Football Carnival set to take place at Ayr Touch Fields on Saturday, 14th November.

The carnival will bring together boys, girls and open-age players for a day of competitive touch football, offering an opportunity for local players and visiting teams to get involved, display their skills and enjoy the sport.

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Teams will compete in six divisions: Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s, Open Men and Open Women.

With teams made up of six players, the Fast Four format promises plenty of action, with speed, teamwork and skill expected throughout the day.

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Team nominations are $20 per team, with an additional player nomination fee of $20 per player. Cash prizes will also be up for grabs.

Teams interested in taking part can register by emailing burdekintouch4807@gmail.com.

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For further information, contact the association by texting 0437 710 500.

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With junior and senior divisions on offer and cash prizes up for grabs, the Fast Four Touch Football Carnival is shaping up to be a great day of touch football in Ayr.

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Celebrating '100 Summers'

October 29, 2026

Robyn Perry, Lisa Furnell, Suzette Wallace List & Mark Rossato. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Ayr Surf Life Saving Club

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club and wider community came together last Saturday to celebrate the culmination of their 100 Years festivities with the official book launch of their '100 Summers' - The Story of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club.

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The book, written by Martin Grandelis, has been a labour of love for the last 2 years working with the 100 Year & Executive Committees to collate a visual and written history of the club's extensive involvement in the Burdekin and wider SLSQ and SLSA communities.

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The evening was a wonderful success with members of the club, life members, family, friends and community members coming together to reminisce and celebrate such an integral part of the Burdekin.

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This event, culminating a series of functions including a Meet and Greet, The Gala Ball and a Community Day which were all held in May, was hosted to celebrate the official 100 years anniversary on Monday 26th October, 2026.

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For anybody wishing to purchase a copy, the book '100 Summers' is still available for purchase an can be found in store at Home Hill News and Glen Dell Boutique or by contacting the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club.

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Roosters Prepare For Presentation Night

October 29, 2026

Contributed with thanks by Brian Carnes

The Burdekin Roosters will wind down their season this Friday night with the Annual Presentation of Trophies and Dinner.

The function, beginning at 6pm, will be held in the forecourt of the Burdekin Theatre.

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Apart from the players receiving awards, the club will be honouring all its sponsors, including gold, silver and bronze sponsors.

On the thank-you list will be the various volunteers who have made the year a success with Ladies Day, the Home Hill reunion, Colts reunion, Sponsors Day and Old Boys Day.

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Without those volunteers, along with the work done by the Old Boys Club, the club would not be as healthy as it is.

The club had two teams in the semi-finals, with A Grade going down in its semi-final and the under-19s going all the way to the grand final.

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That is the best the club has done for a few years, and things are looking very positive for the coming season.

The club had three players recognised at the annual RLTD awards night: Chad Fraser in under-19s, Dylan Doak in reserve grade and Jake O'Brien in A Grade.

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Chad Fraser would be favourite for the Jim Eatiorne Memorial Shield as the best local player in under-19s, but he could have some problems with the likes of Jack Power, Kirk Viero, Kaddy Zaro and Leylan Lampton.

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Dylan Doak gets better with age, and he should be a shoo-in for the Mike Horan Reserve Grade Player of the Year.

Doak could have some opposition from Kane Dyne, Adam Prior, Keon Noah, Luca Lago and Kurtis Cox.

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The A Grade Player of the Year will be an interesting choice, with several players having days when they stood out.

Jake O'Brien was judged the best back in the RLTD, but he would have some opposition locally from Jones Munro and Jye Olsen, who both had outstanding days.

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In the forwards, Lachlan Shepherd was a standout all season, but Nemia Nawave had some good games at hooker. Cooper Fletcher was also a standout on the wing, and at only 18 years of age, he has a bright future.

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Nick Brown came into the team late after recovering from injury and took out four of five best-player awards, so he could be a possibility.

Two awards honouring former life members are the Norm Dee Memorial and the Norm Bohl Memorial.

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The Norm Dee award is for a player showing all aspects of club spirit on and off the field, while the Norm Bohl award is for the Club Person of the Year.

The club this year resurrected the Club of Origin concept, and it was a great success, with Colts the day's winners.

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This year, that day will again be held, and it is expected to be bigger and better than last year, with a real carnival atmosphere.

The Clash of the Clubs between Colts, Hornets, Brothers and Home Hill Devils will be held on Saturday, 6th December.

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Social Bowls Continues In Home Hill

October 29, 2026

Contributed with thanks by Stephen Doig

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There were 24 players at social bowls on Thursday afternoon, with four games of triples played.

Rink 3 saw Terry Feakes, Les Hoey and Phil Marsden narrowly beat Maureen Marsden, Judy Elton and Trevor Elton.

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On Rink 4, Glenys Jones, Margaret Linton and Hugh Montgomery won another close game against Dino Poli, Ron Smith and Gary Nosworthy.

On Rink 5, Chris Holden, Robb Darr and Woody defeated Janet Arthur, Meryl Smith and Bruce McCallum.

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Rink 6 saw Paul Vass, Katerina and Mick McClosky record a big win over Betty Webb, Steve Doig and Joe Linton.

Gary Nosworthy is celebrating his 79th birthday on Saturday, so it was fitting that he won the raffle, taking home a bottle of Dimple Scotch whisky. Second prize, a bottle of wine, went to Chris Holden.

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Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Tuesday Funday, the Wednesday Kraft group and Wednesday evening barefoot bowls with the Darts Club starting at 6pm are all on weekly.

Thursday morning is Bingo, followed by social bowls in the afternoon, with names in by 1pm.

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Friday night is pool competition, with limited spots available. Get in early and see Scotty Taylor.

Saturday afternoon social bowls starts at 1.30pm, with names in from 1pm.

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Until next week, good bowling.

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Burdekin Academy Diamonds Bring Home International Cheer Medal

October 29, 2026

Ivy Land, Lyla Land, Ella Croatto, Harper Trembath, Aaliyah Trembath, Kailey Rowe, Quinn Burrows, Lexi Colls with coach Amy Cranitch. Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by The Burdekin Academy

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The Burdekin Academy Competition Team, the Diamonds, have returned home from an incredible experience at the Pan Pacific International Cheerleading Competition on the Gold Coast, proudly representing the Burdekin community on an international stage.

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Competing from the 20nd to 23rd of August, the team took on competitors from across Australia and internationally, including teams from New Zealand and Japan. The girls competed in the Cheer Youth Junior Novice division, as well as a Poms routine.

For the eight local girls, the competition was about much more than simply taking to the floor. It was an opportunity to experience what it is like to compete at an international level, meet athletes from other countries, watch some of the best cheerleaders compete and create lifelong memories together.

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The girls also had the opportunity to watch the best of the best battle it out for top honours and places in the competition's international pathway to Japan.

After months of training, the Diamonds' preparation came together when they stepped onto the competition floor, proudly taking home an international fifth-place medal for their Poms routine.

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It was a fantastic result and a very proud moment for the team, showcasing the effort the girls had put into their routines throughout the season.

Coach Amy Cranitch said she was extremely proud of the team's performance.

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The Diamonds' preparation came together when they took home an international fifth-place medal for their Poms routine. Photos supplied

Amy was supported by fellow coaches Libby Eggins, who helped coach and prepare the girls' cheer routine, and Rory Jorgensen, who worked with the team on their Poms routine. Their guidance and expertise played an important role in preparing the Diamonds for the international competition.

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Away from the competition floor, the Gold Coast trip was also about friendship, fun and making memories. For the girls, it was an experience they will look back on for years to come, having had the opportunity to represent their hometown and compete alongside teams from around the world.

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The Burdekin Academy is already looking ahead, with the Diamonds now setting their sights on AASCF and Nationals next year.

To help make these opportunities possible, the Diamonds are currently seeking community sponsorship from local businesses and supporters to assist with the costs associated with travelling to and competing at next year's events.

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The team hopes local businesses will get behind the Diamonds as they work towards their next season and continue to make their community proud. Local businesses interested in sponsoring the team are encouraged to contact the Burdekin Academy to discuss how they can support the girls.

Coach Amy will also be holding competition team try-outs for next year's season, giving aspiring cheerleaders the opportunity to become part of the next Diamonds team.

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Anyone interested in joining the Burdekin Academy, whether through the recreational program or the competitive pathway, or a local business interested in supporting the Diamonds, can contact Amy Cranitch through the Burdekin Academy's email or social media pages.

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