Sports

Bendigo Bank Park - How Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is Powering Local Sport

Bendigo Bank Park - How Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is Powering Local Sport

Sport plays a vital role with families in the Burdekin community and providing the appropriate facilities and resources is a constant challenge for local clubs. For generations, rugby league has been the beating heart of the Burdekin sporting community. At the centre of this proud tradition stands the Burdekin Roosters – a club forged in 1994, but whose roots go back over a century in local league. Over the years, the Roosters have grown from strength to strength, evolving into a vital part of

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Mahjong Mondays at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Mahjong Mondays at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Looking for a fun way to keep your mind sharp and enjoy good company? The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre hosts a friendly Mahjong group every Monday from 1pm–5pm, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels. Mahjong, a traditional Chinese game believed to have originated in the Qing Dynasty, has been enjoyed for centuries for its perfect mix of strategy, memory, and a little bit of luck. Played with 144 beautifully decorated tiles, the game is often compared to rummy, as players draw and disc

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Football Matters with Cyclops

Football Matters with Cyclops

A good weekend, for a change. for the Panthers, winning three, drawing one and losing one of the five matches. On Saturday, at home against Rebels, the Premiers won 5-0 as did the Reserves. On Friday, in Townsville the Ladies drew with Warriors 1-1, the Division 1 Men lost 0-1 to JCU Riverway but the Division 2 Men defeated Olympic 4-3. In the Mooney Cup Charity Match, Rainbows defeated Blue Balls 3-0 after leading 2-0 at half time. Jake Lacey scored twice after Mick Lejarraga had opened the sc

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Roosters Push Brothers to the Wire on Ladies Day

Roosters Push Brothers to the Wire on Ladies Day

The Burdekin Roosters’ A-grade side delivered a performance that could only be described as “chalk and cheese” compared to last week’s 64–10 loss to Souths. On Saturday, before a large crowd that included many attending the annual Ladies Day, the Roosters turned on the style against strong contenders Brothers, only to go down by two points in the dying seconds. With captain Joel Mason sent off for dissent 16 minutes from full-time, the locals were forced to hang on “like grim death” against an

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Scouts Gain Life-Saving Skills At Ayr Ambulance Complex Visit

November 28, 2024

Continuing on with this month’s focus on emergency education and training, members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group were treated to the amazing opportunity of visiting the Ayr Ambulance Complex on Thursday 14 November.

The Scouts were guided through the role of first responders, with Victor of the Queensland Ambulance Service, sharing a few stories to provide the Scouts with a further insight into what its like to be an ambulance officer. Victor then guided the Scouts through lifesaving First Aid training including how to treat snake bites, the use of defibrillators, CPR, DRSABCD, the application of pads and bandages, as well as 000 first response skills. Along with each of these highly valuable practical demonstrations and activities, many Scouts found practicing CPR on the dummies themselves as well as looking inside of an ambulance the most rewarding and exciting components of the afternoon.

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group greatly thanks Victor for hosting the extraordinary interesting and educational afternoon, and thanks all officers for the amazing job they do in and around the Burdekin community each day.

Contributed with thanks to Chris Berkery.

The Scouts were treated to a tour inside an ambulance last week.
Victor guiding the Scouts through how to treat snake bites, treating Corey as a demonstration.

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Ayr Golf Club Honors Rusty Reguson with Heartfelt Event

November 28, 2024

On Tuesday, 19 November, the Ayr Golf Club came together to celebrate the life and legacy of one of its most cherished members, Rusty Reguson, at the annual Honour Board event. As the year draws to a close, the golfing community took a moment to remember Rusty, a man whose contributions and presence left an indelible mark on the club.

Rusty's Day was not just about golf; it was about honouring a life well-lived. The day featured three exciting competitions: a male winner, a female winner, and a group winner, each bringing their own unique energy to the course. The event blended competitive spirit with camaraderie, creating a memorable atmosphere where old friends and new gathered in tribute to a man who was deeply loved by all.

The female competition saw Loretta Mauro take home the top honours, with Janet Trezise claiming the runner-up spot. Their strong performances added to the excitement of the day.

In the male competition, the race for first place was close, with Darrell Shlieff emerging as the winner, followed by Johnno Lewis as the runner-up. The contest was a thrilling display of skill, with both golfers pushing each other to perform at their best.

The group competition was another highlight of the day, with a remarkable team of Cecily and John, Lena, Janet Trezise, and Loretta Mauro claiming the victory. Their coordinated teamwork outshone their competitors and earned them the top prize. The runners-up, Karen and Kelvin McIntosh, Robert Pitt, and Robert Potter, also displayed impressive teamwork and sportsmanship, making for a well-fought contest.

One of the most special moments of the day came when Rusty’s children - Liam, David, Adam, and Kerry - took to the stage to present the winners’ trophies. Their presence added a deeply personal and emotional touch to the event, reminding everyone of the lasting impact Rusty had on the lives of his family, friends, and fellow golfers.

the event concluded, all those in attendance were filled with gratitude for the time they had shared with Rusty and for the memories that would continue to inspire and unite the golfing community. The success of the day serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Rusty Reguson, whose contributions to the Ayr Golf Club will not be forgotten. His memory will continue to live on through the people he touched and the countless lives he made better through his presence.

The Ayr Golf Club extends its heartfelt thanks to all who participated, donated, and helped make Rusty’s Day a true success.

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

Many came together at the Ayr Golf Club for the Rusty Reguson's Honour Board Event last Tuesday 19 November.

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Burdekin Wildcats U12 Boys Basketball Team Secures 8th Place at State Championships

November 28, 2024

The Burdekin Wildcats U12 Boys Representative basketball campaign kicked off in June, with the team travelling to Cairns, Mackay, and Townsville to compete in the North Queensland Junior Basketball Carnival (NQJBC). The boys played 12 games across three carnivals, securing an impressive 10 wins out of 12. Their only losses were narrowly by just 2 and 4 points, earning them the gold medal and setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead.

Next, the team travelled to Toowoomba for the State Basketball Championships, where they competed in Division 2 over four days and seven games. In their pool, they won 3 out of 5 games, which led to a crossover match against the Southern Districts Spartans - a powerhouse team with over 150 boys at their representative trials. Despite putting up a strong fight and leaving everything on the court, the Wildcats were narrowly defeated by just 2 points in the final moments of the game.

This loss sent the Wildcats into the final game of the tournament, where they competed for 7th or 8th place. The team, consisting of just eight players, proudly finished in 8th place in Division 2, placing 20th overall out of 76 teams from across the state. Head coach Amy Chandler and assistant coach Lauren Roncato expressed immense pride in the boys’ performance, highlighting their dedication, hard work, and the true Burdekin spirit they displayed on the court. Both Amy and Lauren noted achieving 8th place in Division 2 at State Championships level is a remarkable accomplishment that the boys should all be incredibly proud of. 

The Wildcats were fortunate to receive unwavering support from their families and generous sponsors, including D&C Pennisi, Industry Fire Services, DG & M O'Shea Painting Contractors, ROSHEA Industrial, and Sgroi Farming. Additionally, the team received overwhelming support from local Burdekin businesses during their fundraising efforts to help get the team to the State Championships.

This season’s campaign was a testament to the talent, perseverance, and community spirit of the Burdekin Wildcats U12 Boys, who have certainly made their mark on the state basketball scene.

Contributed with thanks to Danny & Marisa O'Shea.

Coach Amy Chandler and assistant coach Lauren Roncato with the U12 Burdekin Wildcats team!

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Laser Electrical Golf Classic, A Hole In One!

November 28, 2024

The 2024 Laser Electrical Golf Classic saw an outstanding turnout of 82 players, all of whom gathered at the Ayr Golf Club for an exciting Greensomes paired event. This year, the event was proudly sponsored by Bonato Laser Electrical, marking a significant partnership for the tournament.

Laser Electrical Golf Classic 2024 a Resounding Success

The success of the Laser Electrical Golf Classic 2024 was largely due to the efforts of Janet, whose meticulous planning ensured everything ran smoothly. Janet selflessly gave up her place in the field to manage the logistics, making sure the burgers were ready when players finished their rounds and that the results were quickly collated. Special thanks were also extended to John Nash and Garry Spelta, who took on the responsibility of organising the competition.

The event was further elevated by the attendance of Richie, who was on hand to present the prizes to the winners. His involvement helped add to the excitement of the day, and his presence is something the organisers hope to see again in the future as the event continues to grow.

In terms of prizes, a number of standout performances were rewarded. On Hole 3, the NTP (nearest to pin) winners were Amaya Mahoney and Nat Smith in the Ladies' category, Rob Pitt and Rob Potter in Division 1, and Liam Reguson and Ken O’Shea in Division 2. On Hole 5, Michelle Stockdale and Pat Lawson took the prize for the Ladies, while Adam Eathorne and Craig O’Keefe triumphed in Division 1, and Len Phillips and Raul Guglielmana claimed Division 2. Hole 9 saw Sandra Wight and Vicki Adcock take the Ladies' prize, while Mike Casey and Robert Webb won Division 2.

The NTP on Hole 17 was claimed by Nat Smith and Amaya Mahoney in the Ladies' category, Dennis Lawson and Stew Christie in Division 1, and Gerald Henaway and Aicey Zaro in Division 2.

The Straightest Drive prizes were awarded to Bev Power and Kim Manty in the Ladies' category, Dave Harding and Dennis Mondin in Division 1, and Raul Guglielmana and Len Phillips in Division 2.

When it came to the division winners, Division 1 was taken by Peter Heron and Denzel Heron, who triumphed in a playoff. Division 2 saw Liam Reguson and Ken O’Shea win after a thrilling playoff. In the Ladies’ category, Ann Phelan and Evelyn Webb emerged victorious, while Dennis Lawson and Stew Christie, Matt and Chris Trenow, and Robert Pitt and Robert Potter rounded out the top finishers. The last-place prize went to Vicki Adcock and Sandra Wight.

The overall winners of the 2024 Laser Electrical Golf Classic were Raul Guglielmana and Lenny Phillips, who claimed the top spot, cementing their place as the stars of the day.

Looking ahead to 2025, the organisers are already excited about making the event bigger and better, promising even more thrilling moments and opportunities for local golf enthusiasts.

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

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Plantation parkrun #305 Results

December 11, 2024

The Plantation parkrun #305 took place on Saturday, 23 November 2024, with a fantastic turnout of participants. The top finishers were Robert Tama, who crossed the line first in a time of 21:40, followed by Viven Govender with a time of 26:08. Drew Bursey secured third place in 27:26, just ahead of Kimberly Backman, who finished in 27:29. John Byers rounded out the top five with a time of 30:43.

Plantation parkrun is a free, fun, and friendly weekly 5km community event that takes place every Saturday at 7am at Plantation Park. It’s a great opportunity for participants to walk, jog, run, volunteer, or simply spectate.

To join in the fun, register online at parkrun Australia and be part of the action next Saturday!

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Burdekin Canetoads Players Earn Spot in TRDU Men’s Team of the Year

November 28, 2024

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads shared a huge congratulations to their very own Nathan Steel, Andrew Symth, Leonard Heron, Joshua Davies, and Robert Cantarella for their well-deserved selection in the TRDU Men’s Team of the Year! The outstanding achievement reflects their hard work, skill, and dedication to the sport, and the Burdekin Canetoads are proud to see these players recognised at this prestigious level.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

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Bowls, Bites, and Big Wins at The Ayr Bowling Club

November 28, 2024

The recent rainfall may have dampened plans for Fun Friday Night, but the Ayr Bowling Club are pleased to announce that the event has been postponed to this Friday, 29 November, starting at 6pm. The club invites community members to come out and enjoy a fun evening of bowling - whether you're an experienced bowler or trying it for the first time, this event is perfect for players of all levels. It’s a fantastic opportunity to bring friends or join in solo and meet new people.

The evening kicks off with a sausage sizzle at 6pm, followed by bowling starting at 7pm and a light supper afterward. The entry fee is just $10 per game, which includes both the meal and the bowling. For more information or to reserve your spot, please contact Maurie Power at 0412 551 816 or Pam Power at 0458 330 019. The Ayr Bowling Club looks forward to welcoming both new faces and regular members for a night of community and fun.

On Monday, 18 Novebmer, the semi-final of the 3 Bowl Pairs was played, with Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeating Tricia Achille and Irene Wilson. Thursday saw the final match of the 3 Bowl Pairs, with Beryl Cornford and Pam Power coming out on top, beating Deslie Olsen and Mary Poli to claim the title of 3 Bowl Pairs champions.

Tuesday’s Social Bowls was a lively affair, with Merle Nixon, Dot Cutting, and Mary Poli defeating Karen Shepherd, Ron Smythe, and Heather Jorgensen. In another game, Isabel Cislowski, Katharina Stuckler, Karen Page, and Sandra Stidston won against Meryl Smith, Raylene Hervey, Beryl Cornford, and Pam Power.

Wednesday's social bowls featured a series of exciting triples matches. In the day's first match, Happy Horan, Chris Berkery, Dino Poli, and Anthony Bull triumphed over Ron Smythe, John Pirrone, and Lew Stidson. Wednesday night also featured some spirited competition in both triples and pairs. In the triples match, Katharina Stuckler, John Cesconetto, and Heather Jorgensen emerged victorious, while in the pairs, Bertilla Piazetta and Joe Grabbi claimed the win.

In the weekend's championship matches, Lyn Storrie and Gary Pearce defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Anthony Bull in the mixed pairs event on Saturday morning. It was a great game of bowls, showcasing top-level play.

On Sunday, in the Mixed Fours Championship, Margaret Chapman, Henry Hazle, Lyn Storrie, and Gary Pearce triumphed over Lorraine Wolffe, John Perrone, Sandra Stidson, and Anthony Bull.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

The community is invited to attend the Ayr Bowling Club’s Fun Friday Event this Friday 29 November.

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Football Matters with Cyclops

December 5, 2024

Local

Pre-season training has begun. We have had twenty-four players the last two weeks, a mixture of seasoned senior players and Under16 and Under14 players. Training will continue up until 19 December then start again on 2 January. Thursday nights at International Park from 6pm. All new and returning players are welcome. 

Only Night Soccer left on the local Calendar. The Group rounds continue until the 3rd December followed by the Semi-finals on 10 December and Grand Finals on Friday 13 December.


Night Soccer

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s Week 12 and getting very close to the semi-finals. Top scorers on the night were short Staffed who defeated a depleted Orange Goal Diggers 8-1 with Jo Butler scoring seven times.

Nutrien Ag Solutions are back on top of Group A1 after defeating FJV 2-0 and UDS still lead in Group A2 after drawing  with Show Me Da Mane. In Men’s B Grade, Oary’s Levellers beat Pacific Thunder 2-1 to take over the lead and 7 Stooges drop to second place after forfeiting  to Mountain View Fresh.

In Men’s Social, all five of the top teams were involved in 0-0 draws. Wires Down lead the Group followed by Old Grumpies and Jamie’s Boys.

In the Women’s competition UDS Ladies still top the A Grade table after a 3-0 forfeit win  and Smiling Assassins beat Rocky Pond Wonders. In Social A Grade, Shin Kickers lost to DILLIGAF and Young Guns beat Blue Goal Diggers.


Juniors

Week 6 of Junior Social Soccer had some great team and individual performances.
There is now just two weeks to go, the season will end on Tuesday 3 December.

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Home Hill Juniors Battle It Out in Bowen

November 28, 2024

Despite a rainy start to the weekend, the Home Hill Cricket Association juniors made their way to Bowen on Sunday for two intertown matches in the Blue and Gold Groups. While the weather initially put a halt to Friday’s play at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex, Sunday saw the teams giving it their all on the field.

In the Blue Group, Jude Shannon led the way with an impressive 17 not out, hitting some clean boundaries along the way. Kip Nicholas also showcased his batting skills, remaining unbeaten on 12 runs. The bowlers delivered a solid performance, with Mazlyn Smith, Billy Muilwyk, and Kyle Wilkie each claiming a wicket and bowling a maiden over. Several players, including Jude Shannon, Chaz Moschella, Kip Nicholas, Tyler Smith, Mitchell Patti, Tait Parker, and Kye Quinlan, added to the team’s disciplined bowling by delivering maiden overs. Tyler Smith was named “Player of the Match” for his all-around effort and awarded the game ball.

The McDonald’s Sports Awards went to Kyle Wilkie for his enthusiasm and to Billy Muilwyk for his outstanding batting technique. Despite the team’s strong efforts, Bowen managed to secure the win by capitalizing on Home Hill’s lost wickets.

In the Gold Group, Bowen elected to bat first after winning the toss. With Bowen short on players, Home Hill’s Marshall Parker and Xavier Cross showed great sportsmanship by stepping in to play for the opposition. The Home Hill bowlers toiled for 30 overs, restricting Bowen to 161 runs, with a run-out by Oliver Calligaro in the 17th over being the sole wicket. Kaisen Petersen stood out as the most economical bowler, conceding just nine runs. Interestingly, Marshall Parker, batting for Bowen, top-scored with 25 runs, while Xavier Cross contributed 14.

Home Hill’s chase began on a positive note, with their top three batters retiring not out. By the midway point, the team was in a strong position with nearly 80 runs and only three wickets down. Tyler Schultz anchored the innings with a composed 29 not out, including four boundaries, and Ben Watkins supported with an unbeaten 18. Despite their determined partnership, Home Hill fell short by just eight runs.

Marshall Parker also shone with the ball for Bowen, claiming 2 for 18. Tyler Schultz and Ben Watkins were awarded the McDonald’s Sports Awards for their composed batting displays.

The Home Hill juniors are already looking forward to hosting Bowen early next year, aiming to reverse the results and continue their spirited rivalry.

Contributed with thanks to HHCA Junior Co-Ordinator Scott Heidke.

Tyler Smith received the Player of the Match award on the weekend.
Kyle and Billy Muilwyk were celebrated for claiming a wicket each.
Tyler Schultz and Ben Watkins were commended for their standout performances.
The Gold Group put on a great show for spectators on Bowen fields.
Taking to the field, the Gold Group were commended for their sportsmanship.
Gold Group played for 30 overs on the weekend against Bowen.

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Canetoads Hit the Ground Running for Men's Mental Health Fundraiser

November 28, 2024

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads came together on Sunday 24 November in support of an incredible fundraiser aimed at supporting men’s mental health, reflecting their strong commitment to both community and well-being.

The event saw fantastic participation, filled with laughter and meaningful conversations. While the day was all about raising awareness, some of the players may have ended up feeling more "mentally tough" than physically tough, with sore muscles reminding them it might be time to start training for next season. A huge congratulations Austin, Brayden, Campbell and all involved for organising such a successful and impactful event!

Donations to Austin, Brayden and Campbell’s Three Blokes Running fundraising page can be made online at https://movember.com/t/three-blokes-running?mc=1.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

The Burdekin Canetoads rallied together on Sunday for a fantastic Men's Mental Health Fundraiser.

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Home Hill Cricket Association Secures Victory Against Bowen

November 28, 2024

On Sunday, 24 November, the senior representative team from the Home Hill Cricket Association travelled to Bowen for an exciting 40-over inter-town match. Bowen won the toss and chose to bat first, setting the stage for an engaging contest.

Bowen’s opening batsman, Jamarley Daley, provided a strong start, making the highest score of the innings with 61 runs before being dismissed by Alex Stillhard. Lee Watts (51 runs) and Ricky Parslow (26 runs) contributed valuable runs, helping Bowen reach a total of 8/213. Home Hill's bowling attack was led by Salavatore Cardillo, who claimed 3 wickets for 29 runs off 4 overs, and Joel Hansen, who took 2 wickets for 28 runs in 7 overs.

In response, Home Hill's run chase was anchored by Brad Parravicini and Alexander Romeo. Parravicini played a crucial role, scoring 54 runs off 64 balls before being caught and bowled. Hugh Smith stepped in next and remained unbeaten, contributing a solid 64 runs to the total. Other key contributions came from Ayden Marano (34 runs) and Alex Stillhard (26 runs), with Home Hill reaching 3/215 to claim victory with 7 overs to spare.

The Home Hill Cricket Association would like to extend its thanks to Bowen Cricket Inc. for hosting this thrilling match. Looking ahead, both teams are already gearing up for the second match in the inter-town series, which will be held at Home Hill’s cricket fields in the New Year.

Contributed with thanks to HHCA Secretary, Tiffany Olditch.

(Back L-R) Hugh Smith, Brad Parravicini, Joe Marano, Leon Franklin, Alexander Romeo, Alex Stillhard, Salvatore Cardillo, (Front L-R) Ayden Marano, Joel Hansen, Leo Olditch, and Thomas Cardillo.

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Ayr Surf Club Weekend Beach Patrol Roster

December 5, 2024

Saturday 23 November 
1.00pm to 5.00pm Patrol Group D: Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, and Briella Wassmuth.

Sunday 24 November
9.00am to 1.00pm Patrol Group B: Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, and Danny Wilson.

Sunday 24 November
1.00pm to 5.00pm Patrol Group E: John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isa Bella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, and Danni Coughlin.

Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.

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North Barrier Branch Surf Rescue Championships

November 21, 2024

On Saturday 16 November, lifesavers from across the North Barrier Branch attended the Annual Surf Rescue Championships at the Ayr Surf Club.  Surf Rescue Champs is a specialised carnival that focuses on events that test your 'life saving' skills. Competitors in the Champion Lifesaver event will compete in a Rescue Tube race, board, surf swim and beach sprint, as well as completing a theory test paper, a live patient assessment and a Resuscitation component. The day also hosts a First Aid competition where teams of two assist in the management and treatment of simulated first aid scenarios. For most of the competitors this is an introduction to a different aspect of lifesaving competition and allows them to broaden their knowledge and experience.

The Ayr Team brought home some fantastic results to win the carnival overall. Some individual results include: 
   • U12 Female Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Alyssa Irvine, 2nd - Eva Rickards
   • U13 Male Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Cole Pontifex
   • U13 Female Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Milla Chapman, 2nd - Emma Jones, 3rd - Charlotte Lawry
   • U14 Male Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Zachary Dale
   • U15 Female Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Bella Lawry, 2nd - Isla Chapman
   • U17 Female Champion Lifesaver: 3rd - Ryley Sartori
   • Masters Male Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Ben Lawry
   • Masters Female Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Kristy Wassmuth
   • U15 First Aid Competition: 1st - Bella Lawry & Briella Wassmuth

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry.

Zachary Dale completing his CPR component in Under 14 Champion Lifesaver
Bella Lawry & Briella Wassmuth competing in U15 First Aid Competition
Start of U17 Rescue Tube Race - Ryley Sartori (far left)
Isla Chapman in the Under 15 Female Board Race
Charlotte Lawry performing Live Patient Assessment in Under 13 Champion Lifesaver

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Ayr Bowling Club’s Week of Wins and Welcoming Fun

November 21, 2024

The Ayr Bowling Club kept the competition lively throughout the week despite the warmer weather. On Tuesday, the ladies’ social games enjoyed a refreshing breeze. Ruth Moore, Sandra Stidston, and Pam Power triumphed over Karen Shepherd, Karen Page, and Mary Poli, while Ron Soper and Heather Jorgensen secured a win against Donna Soper and Irene Wilson.

Thursday, 14 November, saw no competition games for the ladies, but only three more games remain in their season, which wraps up at the end of the month.

Wednesday night brought cooler conditions, perfect for two games of triples. The first match saw Tricia Achille, John Cesconetto, and Heather Jorgensen claim victory. The second game ended with a win for Tegan Cesconetto, Rob Jorgensen, and Sam Caltabiano. With warmer days ahead, Wednesday evenings offer an excellent chance to enjoy a friendly game of bowls.

Saturday featured three fiercely contested triples games. The standout team of Katrianne Stuckler, George Nixon, and Pam Power came out on top, defeating Cisco, Merle Nixon, and Rob Garner.

On Sunday, the club’s championships continued with a Mixed Pairs match. Gary Pearce and Lyn Storie overcame Sandra Darwen and Michael Parravinci to claim the win. The board is up with this week’s scheduled championship games.

The Ayr Bowling Club is excited to host its final Fun Friday Night Bowls event of the year on 22 November. Sponsored by Chiropractic Care and Sparkle Carwash, this event invites the community to join in for an enjoyable evening of bowls, whether as seasoned players or first-timers. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring friends or come solo and meet new people.

Festivities kick off with a sausage sizzle at 6pm, followed by bowling at 7pm and a light supper. Entry is just $10 per person, covering both the meal and game.

For more details or to reserve your spot, contact Maurie Power at 0412 551 816 or Pam Power at 0458 330 019. The Ayr Bowling Club looks forward to welcoming everyone for an evening full of fun, camaraderie, and community spirit.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

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Brandon Bowls Club's Week of Triumph and Togetherness

November 21, 2024

The Brandon Bowls Club had an eventful week filled with excitement and community spirit. The festivities began on Friday, 15 November, with the club’s final Trophy Bowls evening for 2025, sponsored by Bennett Mechanical Exhaust & 4x4. A special thanks goes out to Josh Samuel for his generous support.

The event saw an impressive turnout of 62 bowlers who enjoyed a warm evening of competitive play. The standout winners of the night were Sandra Darwin, Henry Hazel, Margaret Chapman, and Gary Pearce with the Mio Farming team taking out second place. The Bradman Trophy for the evening went to Damien Morello, Raymond Tortorica, Lloyd Shepherd and Jayson Farry. The club extends its gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed, including the ladies in the kitchen, Len Feeney for expertly handling the BBQ, and Leo Kenny for his work behind the bar. Special recognition also goes to Gary Pearce and Rob Jorgensen for their dedication in organising sponsors and coordinating teams throughout the year.

Trophy Bowls will return in February 2025, and more details will be shared as the date approaches.

Sunday, 17 November, was a more relaxed affair with Social Bowls, featuring 14 bowlers who enjoyed mixed games of triples and pairs after the previous day’s celebrations. In the pairs matches, Rob Jorgensen and Richi Mau claimed victory over Mick McCloskey and Kev Collins, while Gary Nosworthy and Jamie Woods defeated Peter Lejarraga and Allan Gairoch. The triples game saw Henry Hazel, Joe Yipnazar, and Jeff Taylor triumph over Ben Mills, Leo Kenny, and Doug Robins with an impressive count.

Saturday, 16 November, was another highlight as Brandon Bowls Club welcomed the Gold City Bowls Club from Charters Towers for their return visit to compete for the Dalgety Shield - a tradition dating back to 1996. This time, Brandon emerged victorious, reclaiming the coveted trophy in a memorable win. The day was marked by camaraderie, with two matches played and breaks for a delicious lunch and afternoon tea, culminating in celebrations that lasted well into the evening.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

Sponsor, Josh Samuel with Friday Trophy Bowls winners Gary “Mr Bowls” Pearce, Margaret Chapman, Henry Hazel and Sandra Darwen.
Sponsor, Josh Samuel with Runners Up Joe, Glen, Peter, and Anthony.
Sponsor, Josh Samuel with Bradman Trophy winners Lloyd Shepherd Raymond Tortorica and Jayson Farry (absent Damion Morrello).
Brandon Bowls Club VS Gold City Bowls Club competing for the Dalgety Shield.

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