Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A field of 21 eager young golfers braved a chilly morning on Sunday, June 7, to contest the highly anticipated Ayr Juniors Closed Championships for 2026. Despite the cool start, the local talent turned up the heat on the pristine Ayr golf course, delivering exceptional performances across all divisions. Taking out the major honors for the year, Harvey Mauro was crowned the 2026 3-Hole Champion, while Nash Christie secured the 6-Hole Championship title. In the 9-hole division, Oscar Mahoney proved too strong for the competition, claiming the 2026 9-Hole Championship. In the sub-categories, the 3-hole division saw Royce Cohen take home the Nett winner title, with Micah Kemp sinking the longest putt and Zach Marchesini recording the least putts. The 6-hole division was dominated by Nash Fuller, who claimed both the Nett winner title and the least putts accolade. Tyler Smith also found form, winning the nearest the pin prize. In the 9-hole field, Dayne Weston was named the Nett winner. Weston shared the least putts honor with 9-hole champion Oscar Mahoney, who also picked up the nearest the pin award. Organizers deemed the day a massive success, extending their congratulations to all competitors for their sportsmanship and fun-first attitude. The event was proudly supported by local businesses, with the club extending its sincere thanks to Oar and Horan Dentists, alongside Sushi Rocks, for their generous sponsorship of the championship day.
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Kate Casswell’s Home Hill team, with a bit of help from Michelle Jones of Townsville and Joyce Morris from Bowen, played out some tough rounds to come up with the Tier One Intermediate win. Photo credit: Jacob Casha The 2026 Cane Country Cup pickleball team event did not disappoint. The event named after Heather Hewit’s edition of Home Hill’s Back Roads started the day with the courts covered in black snow. How appropriate! 28 teams participated in 4 different divisions with Home Hill connections in every section. Teams travelled from Cape Gloucester to Tully with some staying overnight and enjoying some social play and a meal afterwards. Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell Black Snow and Big Smashes at 2026 Cane Country Cup In the Advanced Competitive section, Hannah Casswell’s team was pipped at the post by Darren Hutchenson’s team from Townsville picking up second place. In Tier one Intermediate Kate Casswell’s Home Hill team with a bit of help from Michelle Jones of Townsville and Joyce Morris from Bowen played some tough and close rounds to come up with the win. In the Social section, Merv Mohr and Tracey Groom’s teams picked up first and second place respectively. It was refreshing to see and hear the enthusiasm for the sport, with lots of laughs coming from the competitors. Home Hill members put on a fantastic spread of food which will no doubt be remembered long after all the bad shots are forgotten. Thanks go to all the sponsors, donors and especially the volunteers who helped make this event happen. Organiser Kate Casswell said that Pickleball was the real winner with everyone agreeing that it was a great day. Results Advanced Competitive 1st 297 points Pickle me dink Darren Hutchenson Townsville 2nd 253 points Pickle d’Lulu Hannah Casswell Townsville 3rd 231 points Leyton’s Larrikans Townsville Tier 1 Intermediate 1st 235 points In a pickle Kate Casswell Home Hill 2nd 208 points Let’s Get Pickled Rob Dunn Bowen 3rd Tie 207 points Michael Northwood Dink and Dive Home Hill and Faramade Fours dinks and a point Townsville Tier 2 Intermediate 1st 239 points Trish Harley Holey Dinkballs Townsville 2nd 228 points Fantastic Forehand Trish Harley Townsville 3rd 223 points Extra Pickles Susan Kalemba Townsville Social 1st 292 points Green and Pickled Merv Mohr Home Hill 2nd 283 points Sandy Slammers Tracey Groom Home Hill 3rd 275 points Social Dinkers Lori Morris Bowen Fair Play Trophy Social Dinkers Bowen Gloucester Gherkins Cape Gloucester Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell
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Seniors Not a good weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had all five senior teams in action winning just two matches. The Premiers and Reserves were at home to League Leaders Brothers with the Premiers losing 0-2 and the Reserves losing 1-2. The Division 1 and Division 2 teams were at away to Wulguru with the Division 1 losing 0-6 however, the Division 2 won 5-0. The Colts away to Saints Eagles South also won 5-0. This week just four teams are in action. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are away to Estates at 8.30.and 6.30. On Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Riverway JCU at 7.00 and 5.00 with the Mooney Cup kicking off at 4.00. The Colts have the Bye this week. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club After their previous meeting with Brothers, there was a strong desire within the team to make amends and produce a better performance. The Panthers started the game brightly, controlling possession and dictating much of the play. Despite their dominance, it was Brothers who struck first, scoring against the run of play to take a 1–0 lead. While the Panthers continued to move the ball well and spend long periods in possession, they were unable to convert their control into clear-cut opportunities. The second half followed a similar pattern. The Panthers continued to dominate possession and created a handful of promising chances but couldn’t find the finishing touch. Brothers then doubled their lead from a set piece, making it 2–0 and giving themselves a significant advantage. To the Panthers credit, they continued to press, work hard, and try to force their way back into the contest. However, despite their efforts and control of the ball for large portions of the game, they were unable to find a breakthrough, with the match finishing 2–0 in Brothers’ favour. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service Against Brothers it was a case of what should have been for this match. Burdekin was dominant in possession and position for most of the match but could not manage the win. Brothers had three shots on goal for the match and scored twice. Burdekin had sixteen shots and only found the net once. The fact that the Panthers outplayed the top of the table team is pleasing, but they let themselves down by not finishing off our chances and scoring goals. Division 1 – Austral Masonry Two goals down at half time to Wulguru, the Panthers were arguably still in with a chance. However, a third goal shortly after the restart put the Panthers out of the game and Wulguru scored three goals in fifteen minutes towards the end of the half and at the final whistle the Panthers had lost 0-6. Division 2 - RG Customs The Funkies won 5-0 against bottom placed Wulguru in a game Burdekin dominated from start to finish. Jared Giardina and Simon Scuderi scored early goals before Burdekin’s weekly struggles in front of goal continued. After the break Chris Achille netted a double, before Riley Granshaw finished off the rout with a goal of the year contender. Granshaw looks primed for a big season ahead. The Funkies move up into 4th position at the halfway mark of the season. Colts – Astute Against Saints Eagles Souths the Colts started slowly and ,went into half time just 1-0 up with a late goal from Cooper Kross. After half time the Colts woke up and took control of the game, with goals coming from Jhett Jones, Brayden Card and another two goals from Cooper Kross. The game finished with a 5-0 win, and they have a bye this weekend. Masters The Masters were down on numbers but in good conditions featured a re-play of the recent Australia v Mexico friendly. Mexico won again, 4-3 after being 0-3 down! Best players on the night were Gary Roser and Nataniel Ek. The Magic Moment was Riley Granshaw’s header straight at the Red goalkeeper from one meter, saved. The Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick Off. Juniors Junior soccer was greeted by a chilly start on Saturday morning, but that didn’t stop the action on the field. Burdekin FC hosted home games across all age groups, with teams from Townsville travelling down to take part in a fantastic day of football for our U8–U12 players. Despite the cool conditions, players showed great enthusiasm, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the day. It was wonderful to see so many families supporting from the sidelines and helping create a great atmosphere. We look forward to another exciting week of training and games ahead. The Under15’s were at home to MA Olympic. It was a scoreless match during the first half but the second half saw the Panthers take the lead with a goal by one of their newest players, Levi Cremona with an assist from Cecil Badza Gwarada. Cecil also scored later in the half. MAO got one goal past Connor Griggs, but he had been fantastic throughout the match saving many. The Under 15s won the match 2-1 taking them now to outright leaders on the ladder. National The Matildas had two friendlies against Mexico lined up. In the first on 6th June in Newcastle, they lost 0-1 and they play the second 9th June in Sydney. International In the World Cup department, the Socceroos played another friendly match, against Switzerland, drawing 1-1 in a final warm up game before the World Cup begins. Australia’s first Group D match is against Turkey in Vancouver on the 14th of June. They then play the USA in Seattle on 20th June and Paraguay in San Francisco on 26th June. Quote the of the Week is from film star Raquel Welch after a visit to a Chelsea match. “What they say about footballers being ignorant is rubbish. I spoke to a couple yesterday and they were quite intelligent.”
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The NQ Touch Association will host a North Queensland Touch Football Carnival in Townsville on September 12–13, marking the return of the event after a seven-year break. Divisions will include Men’s and Women’s Open, Mixed Open, Men’s Over 30 and Over 45, Women’s Over 27 and Over 40, and Mixed Over 30. Players wishing to nominate should place their names on the registration sheets located on the Touch canteen noticeboard. Teams will be formed and coaches appointed once sufficient numbers are confirmed. Coutts Commercial Tavern Round 13 results Seniors – Men[Text Wrapping Break] Alliance Pharmacy 11 (C Power 3, S Power 3, J Power 2, J Olsen 2) def Baywatch 5 (T Marshall 2, E Henaway 2).[Text Wrapping Break] Nrgize 2 def His Haas 0.[Text Wrapping Break] Way To Go 8 (B Palmer 5, L Williams 2) def Wires Down 2.[Text Wrapping Break] Burdekin PCYC 8 (G Dau 3) def Touch N Go 3.[Text Wrapping Break] Slush Puppies 8 (D LeBlowitz 4, A Shield 2) def Royal Touch 5 (A Miller 2).[Text Wrapping Break] Renegades 7 (R Petersen 4) def Petrol Heads 2.[Text Wrapping Break] Creampuffs 6 (O Cavanagh 2, L Lampton 2) def Ball Grabbers 3 (B DiBella 2).[Text Wrapping Break] Feelers 6 (D Butler 3) def Blue Murder 4 (R Smith 3). Women[Text Wrapping Break] Lasers 8 (B Lennox 3) def Silly Soft Serves 1.[Text Wrapping Break] First in Physio 10 (S Monday 5, L Trindle 3, M Nauqe 2) def Chick Flicks 4 (A Brown 2).[Text Wrapping Break] Eathorne’s Princesses 3 def Salty Sirens 0. Under 14s[Text Wrapping Break] Rockies 5 (L Leavitt 2) def Broncos 1.[Text Wrapping Break] Baywatch 9 (Julie 3) def Red Dogs 2 2.[Text Wrapping Break] Red Dogs 1 4 (A Sgroi 2) drew Silly Soft Serves 4 (T Chapman 2).[Text Wrapping Break] Chicken Burgers 10 def Cowboys 1. Contributed by Peter Knapton
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A very successful Burdekin FC Presentation Night was held last Saturday at Populin’s Hall. This completes the 2025 season, and it will not be long before the 2026 season approaches.
Night Soccer
The sixth week of competition and in a high scoring night, the twenty games produced ninety one goals and there were no Sin Bins! Top scorers were Ladies team Body Tune with fifteen goals, Mottin Earthmoving and Young Guns both netted six and Clare Cutters, UDS and Plumb Dingers all rattled in five goals.
In Men’s Competitive Group, UDS top the table with sixteen points one point ahead of Clare Cutters and Mountain View Fresh stay in third place. In Mens Social 1, DL Lager with thirteen points are two points clear of Willy Wackers with Oary’s Levellers in third place. In Mens Social 2, Jaime’s Boys now lead with twelve points from Always Fits on goal difference, five points ahead of Delta Physio and Bennetts Old Grumpies.
In Ladies Group 1, Scoregasms with sixteen points lead Young Guns by one point with Body Tune in third place and in Group 2, 6 TO UR 7 with twelve points lead Rocky Pond Wonders by two points with DILLIGAF in third spot on goal difference.
Juniors
Social soccer on Tuesday afternoons continues, with some good team performances and lots of enjoyment for the kids.
On Sunday, Ken Mitchell from Football Queensland conducted a Foundation of Football Coaches training course for twelve of our junior coaches. This was a highly informative all day session both theoretically and practically. Thanks to our junior FQ academy players for coming down to help our coaches in the afternoon with the practical aspect of the course (a welcome relief for themselves having completed the practical in the morning session!)
National and International
After the third round of the A League, Auckland top the table after defeating Adelaide 2-2. Sydney FC are one point behind after thumping Newcastle 4-1 and Brisbane Roar is in sixth spot with a 0-0 draw at home to Melbourne City.
The Women’s A league kicked off on the weekend with wins for Central Coast, Perth Glory, Brisbane Roar and Newcastle Jets. Melbourne City and Sydney could only manage a draw.
The Matildas have played two friendlies beating Wales 2-1, in Cardiff on 25 October, before losing 0-3 to England last Saturday.
The Socceroos have two friendlies coming up in November. They play Venezuela in Houston on 15 November and then meet Colombia in New York four days later.
The 2026 World Cup starts on 11 June with the Final on 19 July. Forty eight teams will compete in twelve groups of four team in the US, Canada, and Mexico. The top two teams from the groups plus the best eight third placed teams qualifying for the Round of 32. So far twenty eight countries have qualified with Qatar and Saudi Arabis the last teams to make it.
In the EPL, after ten rounds, Arsenal lead Manchester City by six points with Liverpool and Bournemouth a further point behind. At the foot of the table, it is still looking dire for Wolves who have just two points, but West Ham won, and Nottingham Forest managed a draw against ManU.
In Germany’s Bundesliga, the old order has not changed. After nine rounds Bayern still have maximum points and are five points clear of Leipzig. Dortmund is in third place a further two points adrift and Stuttgart drops to fourth spot. At the bottom of the league three points separate eight teams with Heidenheim and Mainz struggling with just five points.
In Spain, after eleven rounds, Real Madrid leads Barcelona by five points and is still unbeaten. Real has thirty points and Barca twenty five. Villarreal is third two points behind, and Atletico is in fourth spot. Girona and Oviedo continue to hold up the league with seven points each.
In Italy’s Serie A four of the top teams won but leaders Napoli could only draw. They lead Inter, AC Milan and Roma by a point. Juventus beat Cremonese and move up to sixth place. At the foot of the table five of the bottom teams lost and Genoa props up the league.
In France’s Ligue 1 all four top teams won and after eleven rounds PSG leads Marseille and Lens by two points with Lille, Monaco and Lyon a further two points behind. At the bottom of the league Metz have won their last two games and has moved off the bottom one point ahead of Auxerre.
Quote of the Week
Is from Roy Keane, Irish and Manchester Utd star and ex-manager of Nottingham Forest. “If you're fully prepared you've got nothing to worry about - it's just a game of football. Aggression is what I do. I go to war. You don't contest football matches in a reasonable state of mind”.
Saturday 8/11 1-5pm Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry, Lisa Vivian
Sunday 9/11 AM 9am-1pm Group B - Terry Lund PC, Kristy Wassmuth PC, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Briella Wassmuth, Emilee Wassmuth
Sunday 9/11 PM 1-5pm Group A - Richard Dale PC, Chris Wicks PC, Jane Olsen, Zachary Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner, Wil Holt
Last weekend, two Burdekin Roosters A-grade league players were in action in matches at both the north and south of the state.
Front-rower Tate Brombal was in Cairns representing the Queensland Italian team, while utility forward Kali Nauque was in Logan, Brisbane, representing Fiji.
Two years ago, Tate was selected in the Queensland Italian team to play the Cook Islands in Tully, and he says it was a tough match. This year, the team faced the Cardwell Axemen at the Southern Suburbs grounds in Gordonvale on Saturday.
Tate said the Italian team was coached by Johnno Zangrande from Cairns and included players from Cairns and Brisbane, with Tate the only player from the Townsville area. “The Axemen were made up of players from Cairns, Townsville and Brisbane and were a pretty fast team,” he said. In a high-scoring encounter, the Queensland Italian team won 36 to 20.
Meanwhile, Kali Nauque, a dual Fijian international and World Cup player, represented Fiji in a mini Pacific Islands carnival featuring teams from Fiji, Tonga, Samoa and the Cook Islands. Kali said the carnival was grassroots level, with no players involved from the NRL, Queensland Cup or NSW Cup. Games were held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, though no results were available at the time of writing.
The Roosters have a couple of big events scheduled in the coming weeks. First, the AGM will be held at the Queens Hotel at 4.30pm on Sunday, where the new executive will be decided and coaches for A-grade, Reserve, Under-19 and Women’s teams are expected to be announced.
On Saturday, November 29, the popular Club of Origin games will take place. Players tied to the Burdekin’s four latest clubs – Colts, Hornets, Brothers and Home Hill – will compete for the Bendigo Bank Shield, while unaffiliated players will be drawn by ballot. There will also be plenty of activities for spectators, including a Ladies match featuring Ayr versus Home Hill. More information will be published as the games approach.
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes
Third Grade CNQ – Home Hill vs Wanderers
In a tightly contested Third Grade CNQ clash at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex, Home Hill fell just short, posting 110 runs before Wanderers chased the target with four wickets in hand.
Home Hill’s innings began shakily, losing two early wickets in the second over. Despite a composed 31 runs from Alexander Romeo, 19 from Salvatore Cardillo, and a late contribution of 13 runs from Tomey Mathew, momentum proved difficult to recover. Home Hill finished on 110 from 26.2 overs.
The Home Hill bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, keeping Wanderers to 4-114 and pushing the chase deep into the innings. William McLees was the standout, producing three maidens in his six-over spell, taking two wickets for just nine runs. Steven Zabala impressed in the field with a caught-and-bowled wicket and an additional catch.
Second Grade CNQ – Home Hill vs Suburban Parks
Home Hill’s Second Grade team faced a dominant Suburban Parks side, falling short by 127 runs after Suburban Parks posted 9-242 and restricted Home Hill to 9-115.
Guy Stevenson led the Home Hill bowling attack with 3 wickets for 13 runs in 4 overs, breaking the opening partnership and taking two more wickets in quick succession to leave Suburban Parks at 3-75. Thomas Cardillo contributed 2 economical wickets in 2 overs, and JD Wilkins also took 2 wickets, but the Home Hill attack was ultimately unable to stop the flow of runs.
In reply, Adam Camer top-scored with a brisk 34 off 38 balls, hitting six boundaries. JD Wilkins anchored the innings with an unbeaten 24 from 35 deliveries. However, the remainder of the lineup struggled against disciplined bowling, with five batters dismissed for single digits, as Home Hill finished at 9-115.
Twenty players enjoyed a very warm spring afternoon at Home Hill Bowls Club last Thursday, with a welcome breeze arriving around 2pm.
On Rink 3, Bob Pickard and Alex Bojack (pictured) proved too strong for Yogi Bunn and Hugh Montgomery. Rink 4 saw Margaret Chapman, Mark Swaine and Trevor Elton on song, defeating Nev Webb, Sandra Darwin and Steve Doig. Rink 5 featured a win for Des Chapman, Dino Poli and Joe Linton over Judy Elton, Bruce McCallum and Mick McClosky. Meanwhile, on Rink 6, in another pairs game, Paul Vass and Michael Young accounted for Betty Webb and Bones Berryman.
The raffle was won by Des Chapman, while Laura Bojack took home a bottle of wine. The club is currently seeking someone to run the kitchen next year, with thanks extended to Judy for all her efforts. The AGM will be held at 10am on 13 December 2025.
Regular club activities continue to thrive. Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday remain popular. Wednesday features the Kraft Group and evening barefoot bowls with a sausage sizzle. Thursday includes morning BINGO, social bowls in the afternoon, and $5 social bowls sessions.
Till next week, happy bowling!
Photo and report by Stephen Doig
Bob Pickard and Alex Bojack were too good for Yogi Bunn and Hugh Montgomery.
Over the weekend, 21 Ayr competitors made the trip south to Mackay, taking on the region’s best at the North Australian Championships. This event draws clubs from as far north as Port Douglas and as far south as the Wide Bay region, with a few Sunshine Coast competitors also in attendance. The championships are a three-day sporting extravaganza, starting with the Pool Rescue Championships on Friday, followed by two action-packed days of surf and beach events over the weekend.
At the pool rescue events, competitors tested their lifesaving skills in challenges including manikin tows and carries, obstacle swims, and patient tows. The Ayr team gave 100% in every race, achieving fantastic individual and team results in tough competition and bringing home several medals across multiple disciplines and age groups.
The team then hit the beach for two days of challenging racing in very hot conditions. Competitors took on a range of individual events, including surf race, board, ironperson, tube, flags, sprints, and 1–2km beach runs, as well as team events such as surf teams, Cameron relay, Taplin relay, board rescue, board relay, beach relay, and two-person R&R. Despite the high calibre of competition, the Ayr members held their own and secured multiple individual and team podium finishes.
For the first time in four years, Ayr brought home gold in the All Age Relay. It was fantastic to see the camaraderie and team spirit, with members young and old cheering the team to victory.
The weekend concluded with presentations for overall club champion, handicap, age champions, and the announcement of the Queensland Country Team. A massive congratulations to Milla Chapman and Warne McShane, both selected for the Queensland Country team and set to compete at the Queensland Interbranch Championships at the end of November. Special congratulations also to Warne McShane, who was named Under-14 Male Age Champion for the weekend.
Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry
Warne McShane & Milla Chapman, selected in the Queensland Country Team.
All Age Relay Champions – Ben Lawry, Ross Rickards, Audrey Rickards, Alyssa Irvine, Ryley Sartori, Zachary Dale, Warne McShane & Taylor Chapman.
Alyssa Irvine competing in the 100m patient tow at the Pool Rescue Championships.
Emma Jones & Milla Chapman catching a wave in the Under 14 female board rescue
Taylor Chapman - 2nd in Under 12 female flags
Ryley Sartori - 3rd in Under 17 female flags
One day, nine holes, and a four-person Ambrose all in support of one amazing organisation… you guessed it… the infamous End of Harvest Golf Classic will return to the community on Friday, the 12th of December!
The time has come to nominate your teams for one of the most celebrated social sporting extravaganzas on the shire’s calendar with all funds raised going directly to CORES, supporting mental health and suicide prevention.
Just 12 short months ago, 274 players divided across 68 teams took to the Ayr Golf Course to try their luck, swing for success, and fundraise an outstanding $32,140 for CORES. All of the funds raised were donated to CORES to facilitate programs, and work within the Burdekin Shire, workplaces, and schools supporting those in need and spreading awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.
Spearheaded by Kelsey Shand and Ben Smith, the annual event continues to bring the community together in many more ways than one, with many attendees often taking the microphone during the afternoon’s presentations to speak on the importance of seeking mental health support and looking out for your mates.
In 2024, Cool Me AC took out the top spot in the competition, earning themselves both the celebrated Fire Pits Trophy and a year’s worth of bragging rights, leaving everyone questioning… who will champion the 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic?
Registrations can be made online now at https://form.jotform.com/241538497359875, with fees at $30 per player or $120 per team which includes a good old steak burger lunch. As always, spots are predicted to fill up fast, so jump online and register your teams now! To volunteer for the event and for any event enquiries, email endofharvestgolf@gmail.com, or call Kelsey on 0437 863 448 or Ben on 0448 948 661.
What: End of Harvest Golf Classic
When: Friday, the 12th of December
Where: Ayr Golf Course
The 2024 End of Harvest Golf Classic was one for the history books! Photo Credit: Chelsea Ravizza
The Home Hill Third Grade side delivered a commanding all-round performance to claim victory over Brothers Resilient Projects, posting a strong 7/178 before bowling out the opposition for 126 at John McCulloch Oval.
Simon Vickers set the tone early with a blistering 33 off 21 balls, hitting two fours and two sixes before being caught in the deep. The innings was steadied by Luke Mottin’s composed 59 from 76 balls, featuring five boundaries, while Travis Butler added a valuable 35. Lower-order runs pushed Home Hill to 7/178 from 30 overs.
The bowlers backed it up superbly, with Tomey Mathew ripping through the Brothers middle order to take 5 for 30 from 6 overs, including a maiden. Leo and Dan Olditch took two wickets each, sealing a 52-run win.
In Second Grade, Home Hill bowled first against Northern Beaches. JD Wilkins impressed with 4 for 30 from 8 overs, while Ayden Marano claimed 3 for 28 to dismiss the opposition for 184. Marano then led the batting with a brisk 51 from 46 balls, hitting 10 boundaries, while Zakk Myles added 33 from 60. Despite their efforts, Home Hill fell short in the chase, bowled out for 162 in 37.5 overs — just 22 runs shy of victory.
Contributed with thanks to Tiffany Olditch
Tomey Mathew - 5 wickets
Luke Mottin - 59 runs
Runs were hard to come by at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex last week. In the Blue Group, Jake Cullen top-scored with 9 not out, while Kyle Wilkie was next best with 5 not out. Three run outs didn’t help batters settle in for bigger totals, but Jake contributed with one of those run outs and bowled well, finishing with figures of 1 for 2. Other wicket-takers were Kip Nicholas (1 for 4), Henry Cohen (1 for 7), and Corbett Cross (1 for 8). The McDonald’s Sports Awards for this group went to Henry and Kip.
It was a similar story in the Gold Group, where no batter reached double figures. Oscar Mahoney struck two fours in his short innings of nine before being clean bowled by Rylan Nicolaides. Ben Watkins also scored nine with one four and remained not out. Xavier Cross looked promising on eight before running out of partners. The standout bowler was Oliver Calligaro, taking 2 for 11 and effecting two run outs. Billy Muilwyk took 1 for 4, and Rylan Nicolaides 1 for 18. Mark Wilkie and Rylan Nicolaides claimed the McDonald’s Sports Awards for their all-round performances.
Scores weren’t available for the Challengers game at the time of writing, though Jack impressed with great technique, line, and length, while Nicholas bowled well and nearly clinched victory for his side by smashing a four off the final ball. The game ended 76 to 75. For their efforts, Jack and Nicholas received the McDonald’s Sports Awards.
Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke
The Ayr Golf Club ladies’ competition saw some thrilling performances on Selections Day 2025, with players showing off their skills on the greens.
A special thank-you went out to Marissa and the team at Selections, long-term sponsors of the club’s Wednesday ladies’ competition. Their continued support is greatly appreciated by all members.
On the day, it was Tuk Williams who stole the show, posting an impressive 40 points to decisively win the competition. Wendy Baker finished strong in second place with 36 points, followed closely by Bev Power in third with 35 points. Pat Lawson rounded out the top four with 33 points.
Congratulations to all the competitors for a fantastic day of golf!
It was a big week at Brandon Bowls Club, with thrilling finals and tight finishes across all divisions. Jason Farry and Glenn Woodford claimed the 2025 Pairs Finals title after a hard-fought victory over Kenny Ferguson and Gary Nosworthy, drawing cheers from the crowd for their sharp teamwork and calm under pressure.
In Wednesday’s A Grade Ladies Final, Lyn Storrie triumphed over Margaret Chapman in a close, high-quality match that had spectators glued to the green.
The Ladies’ Triples saw Vanda Ballao, Sandra Darwen, and Helen Collins edge out Lyn Farr, Bev Garioch, and Darelle Pearce in another nail-biter. Sunday’s mixed triples action wrapped up the week, with impressive wins from teams led by Margaret Chapman, Neville Dickinson, and Ken Ferguson — capping off a standout week of bowls.
Finals Pairs winners: Glenn Woodford [L] and Jason Farry [R]
A Grade Ladies Finals winner: Lyn Storrie [L], runner-up Margaret Chapman [R]
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 coming to an end competition has been fierce but friendly, highlighting the impressive skill and sportsmanship of our bowlers. Social games have also been well-attended, creating a welcoming and lively atmosphere that continues to strengthen the club’s sense of community.
Tuesday Ladies Social bowls was played, Winners on the day were Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeating Katharina Stuckler and Mary Poli. Karen Shepherd, Karen Page and Dot Cutting defeating Donna Soper, Betty Schultz and Heather Jorgensen
The Ladies Handicap Pairs Competition was played with Lorraine Wolffe and Irene Wilson defeating Katharina Stuckler and Heather Jorgensen winners progress to the next round.
Men’s Social bowls on Wednesday saw two games of triples and one game of pairs. Well done to all these players turning up in the high humidity. Winners on the day were Richard Aplin, Joe Papale and Chris Olditch.
Wednesday night social bowls two games of triples were played. The winners of the first game were Bertilla Piazetta, David Burt and Sam Caltabiano. Winners in the second game were Sonya Richards, Ken O'Shea and Gary Pearce.
On Thursday, the Mixed Singles Championship game was held between Beryl Cornford and Anthony Bull. Early in the game it was close, with Beryl Cornford taking a commanding lead halfway through the game to win 26 - 12. Bery now proceeds to the semi-final against Ron Soper.
Saturday’s Social bowls there were two games of triples. Winners on the day were Donna Soper, Deslie Olsen – Lachlan Grantz and Dot Cutting defeating Arthur Gauvin, Betty Schultz and Barry Shepherd.
If you are interested in trying lawn bowls, Ayr Bowling club is a hub for lawn bowls enthusiasts, offering a friendly and social environment for players of all skill levels. Here are some details about the Ayr Bowling Club:
· Location: 101 Young Street, Ayr, Queensland 4807
· Phone Number: (07) 4783 1336 · Facebook Page:Ayr Bowling Club | Ayr QLD | Facebook
Social bowls are played on Wednesday or Wednesday evening or Saturday afternoon – we would love to see you! We have plenty of sets of bowls for you to try with. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a beginner looking to try your hand at lawn bowls, the Ayr Bowling Club is a great place to connect with fellow enthusiasts and enjoy the sport.
Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull
Home Hill Bowls Club report Thursday 23rd October. Twenty-three players turned out for a windy afternoon. Rink 2 saw a singles match between Alex Bojack and Michael Young, which was eventually won by Alex. He will now play Wayne Newton in the final. Rink 2 was also the lucky rink drawn, so Alex and Michael are the daily winners, shown in the photo.
On Rink 4, Judy Elton, Janet Arthur, and Steve Doig went down to Bob Young, Michael Young, Ron Smith, and Gary Nosworthy/Trevor Elton after not being able to score a point following the tea break. Rink 5 saw Paul Vass, Nev Webb, and Mick McClosky prove too strong for Henry Hazel, Elaine Young, and Joe Linton. Bob Pickard and Joclyn DeFranciscus won handsomely over Betty Webb and Bruce McCallum on Rink 6, while Margaret Linton and Glen Bones Berryman were big winners over Warren Yogi Bunn and Margaret Chapman on Rink 7.
The breakfast tray raffle was won by Bones Berryman and Yogi Bunn, who took home the wine. This year’s Christmas party will be held on 29th November, beginning at 1pm. Janet Arthur and Gary Nosworthy both had birthdays during the week. As usual, Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, Wednesday morning Kraft group and Wednesday evening barefoot bowls and sausage sizzle all continued. Thursday morning Bingo, social bowls, and the $5 day on Saturdays are all going well.
Until next week, good bowling. Story and photos by Stephen Doig.
Last Saturday, Burdekin Football Club celebrated another standout season at Populin Hall, honouring players, volunteers, and teams who went above and beyond. The night was a mix of camaraderie, recognition, and celebration, highlighting the dedication that fuels the club year after year.
Standout moments included the presentation of the Ramon Oar Memorial Spirit Award to Wayne Kolb, the Presidents Medal to Garry and Kiera Durrant, and the Taylah Pearson Memorial Award to Sian Reardon. Young talent like Zack Durrant and Cooper Kross also received top accolades, while Joshua Valle and Charley Ruskin were named Men’s and Ladies Player of the Year.
Major Award Winners:
Ramon Oar Memorial Spirit Award- Wayne Kolb
Alan Chatfield Junior Club Person- Kristen Power
Taylah Pearson Memorial Award- Sian Reardon
Presidents Medal- Garry & Kiera Durrant
Young Club Person of the Year- Zack Durrant
Men’s Player of the Year- Joshua Valle
Ladies Player of the Year- Charley Ruskin
Colts Player of the Year- Cooper Kross
Fillies Player of the Year- Tahlia Lawson
Grand Final Winners- Ladies Team
Team Awards:
Division 2
Players of the Match: Jacob Rossato, Simon Scuderi, Chris Achille
Player of Finals: Jake Lacey
Most Improved: Jack Castrejana
Most Consistent: James Dwyer
Best and Fairest: Heath Swindley
Division 1
Players of the Match: Zack Durrant, Max Kelly, Angus Innes
Most Improved: Casey Calligaro
Most Consistent: Cody Scalia
Best and Fairest: Seaton Ivory
FQPL U23
Players of the Match: Brayden Card, Oscar Licciardello, Leighton Gallagher
Most Improved: Max Kelly
Most Consistent: Cooper Kross
Best and Fairest: Jalen Pedro
Ladies
Players of the Match: Sian Reardon, Ava Heatley, Rhia Nielsen
Player of the Finals: Karina Guglielmi
Most Improved: Dayna Linton
Most Consistent: Zandi Bonnano
Best and Fairest: Sienna Lago
FQPL Men:
Players of the Match: Oscar Licciardello, Jay Leckenby, Cooper Kross
Impact Player: Matthew Kolb
Most Consistent: Oliver Gabiola
Best and Fairest: Ryan Scodellaro
It was Ayr who had the last laugh on Sunday, 19 October, after defeating cross-town rivals Home Hill in a three-sport series as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival's esteemed Town of Origin series.
The well-attended event drew hundreds of locals to Home Hill State High School grounds for the 11th instalment of the series, with Ayr's 2-1 victory across junior cricket, netball and rugby giving it a 6-5 historical lead and temporary bragging rights over its local counterpart.
Beyond the on-court and on-pitch action, Harvest Festival president Mark Vass said the event was a win for the entire Burdekin community.
"There's always a lot of banter out there, a lot of banter on the sidelines and it's just a good atmosphere," said Vass. "People are very passionate about it, and as long as people continue to support it, we'll keep it going."
Ayr hit the ground running in the early afternoon, claiming a narrow, hard-fought 60-59 victory in the junior cricket showdown, with Kip Nicholas named Man of the match for his dominant performance. Home Hill bounced back with a commanding 40-17 win in netball, with Krystel Kerr named player of the game for her outstanding exploits. But it was Ayr that finished strongest, sealing the series with a comprehensive 32-4 rugby league victory to clinch the 2-1 series win.
With Ayr fans celebrating and Home Hill supporters already plotting next year’s comeback, the Town of Origin once again proved it’s as much about community as it is about sport.
Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories & Photography
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