Nineteen-year-old Hayde Munro has etched his name into Burdekin Roosters history by becoming the youngest ever winner of the coveted A Grade Player of the Year award.

Munro, who began playing rugby league at the age of five, was presented with the honour at the club’s annual presentation night at the Queens Hotel in Ayr on Friday. The gifted lock forward also enjoyed a strong season with the Townsville Blackhawks under-19 side, playing alongside fellow Roosters Jye Olsen and Terrence Mosby.

Having started the A Grade season in the halves, Munro was shifted to lock by coach Steve Lansley and flourished in the role, going from strength to strength. He was also recognised by his teammates, who voted him Players’ Player.

In other A Grade awards, captain Joel Mason was named Best Back, while young hooker Colby Thompson claimed Best Forward. The Most Improved player was forward Tate Brombal, who progressed from starting the season on the bench to becoming a regular selection. Terrence Mosby earned Most Consistent for his reliability in both attack and defence. Lachlan Shepherd, who played 80 minutes every week without complaint, received the Coaches Award, while Jye Olsen was presented with the Vic Eathorne Memorial Trophy as the most diligent A Grader. Winger Nemia Nawaf, who crossed for 13 tries, collected the John and Diane Calder Trophy for most tries in a season.

In Reserve Grade, five-eighth and goal-kicker Dylan Doak capped off an excellent year by winning both the Mike Horan Reserve Grade Player of the Year award and the Players’ Player. Johnny Zaro was named Best Back, giant forward Llama Ghee took Best Forward, and Matty Lee claimed Most Improved after establishing himself as a regular centre. Archie Swindley was recognised as Most Consistent, Pryce Gesah received the Coaches Award, and Jack Rushton was presented with the Crocket Heron Most Diligent Award, with coach Peter Horan declaring him an A Grade player in the making.

Club spirit was also recognised on the night, with versatile utility Caleb Noah, who played almost every position across grades and stepped up for A Grade when needed, receiving the Eric Taiters Memorial Shield.

Special honours went to a number of players. Rising junior Adam Camer was named Outstanding Junior, winning the David Gilmore Memorial Award. Terrence Mosby was presented with the Des and Betty Weaver Rookie of the Year, beating a strong field of nominees including Camer, Jye Olsen, Terrence Connors, Luca Lago and Jones Munro. The Norm Dee Award for club spirit on and off the field went to A Grade forward Ethan Hagarty, who not only gave his all on the paddock but also organised a major fundraiser for a seriously ill child. A new accolade, the Norm Bohl Award, was introduced this year and presented to Alex Lennox for his efforts in organising fundraising activities for the club.

The Burdekin River Ladies team, formed this season in partnership with Herbert River, also received recognition after an impressive campaign. The side defeated Brothers in the semi-final, having already overcome Norths, Charters Towers and Bowen, before bowing out to Western Lions in controversial circumstances in the preliminary final. The effort of the squad was remarkable, with players travelling more than 60,000 kilometres during the season to train and play, gathering weekly in Townsville under coach Anita Hagarty despite members commuting from Ingham and the Burdekin. Their dedication was underlined by the entire team attending both the Burdekin and Herbert River presentation nights on consecutive evenings.

Queensland Country winger Toni Daisy was rewarded for her outstanding all-round performances by being named Best and Fairest, and was also recently crowned the Triple S Lady Player of the Year. The flying Martina Monday claimed Best Back, while tireless goal-kicker Rebecca Pace was recognised as Best Forward. Lisa Stokes, who showed enormous development across the season, was named Most Improved, with pint-sized Jo Morgan – who plays well above her size – awarded Most Consistent. The Coaches Award went to forward Tanley Rowe for her relentless work in the tough areas, while the Crystal Herion Most Diligent Award was presented to co-captain Paige Horvat, who praised the team’s organisation in giving the women the chance to play the game they love.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

Photos:
Men's player of the year, Hayde Munro.
Women's player of the year, Toni Daisy.
Long time major sponsor, Jason Guy.

It’s been another big week at the Ayr Bowling Club with a highlight being the Wilmar Club Challenge played on Sunday 21st September. Home Hill Bowls Club hosted the event, and it was a great day of bowling with Giru, Home Hill, Brandon and Ayr competing for the Wilmar Shield. This was the first year this event was played with Brandon taking home the Shield, congratulations to Brandon. Ayr finished third which was a fantastic effort against some quality bowlers in the Burdekin region.

Let’s now look back on the week past. On Wednesday Men’s Social Bowls two games of pairs and one triples were played. Out on the green competition was close and taking out the honours on the day were John Pirrone and Lachlan Grantz, defeating Wayne Coonan and Chris Berkery. It was a great afternoon of camaraderie and quality bowls enjoyed by all.

Wednesday night social bowls the winners were Evelyn Wiltshere, John Cesconetto and Lachlan Grantz. In the pairs game Tricia Achille and Heather Jorgensen were the winners.

What a fantastic Super Saturday Jackpot Bowls! We saw 24 bowlers on the green. Four games of triples were played, and the winners were, Arthur Gauvin, Lorraine Wolffe and Joe Grabbi defeating Shane Stanford, Ron Smythe and Barry Shepherd. In the second triples game John Pirrone, Joe Papale, Ray wall and Dot Cutting defeated John McDonald, Barry Hewson and Beryl Cornford. Congratulations to Pam Power on taking out the $150 Jackpot. An excellent turnout, great bowls, and plenty of fun all round. A special shoutout to everyone who joined in to celebrate Mario’s birthday – the perfect way to cap off a brilliant afternoon!

In Championship action this week, Mixed Singles Competition Irene Wilson defeated Cisco. Mixed triples saw one game played this week and the winners were, Lorraine Wolffe, Macca and Anthony Bull defeating Henry Hazel, Lyn Storrie and Sam Caltabiano 17 – 16 in a close contest. The winners now progress to the next round.

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

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

Photo: Saturday's winners: Arthur, Lorraine and Joe

Ayr Motorcycle Club is proud to announce that it will host Founders’ Day on Saturday, 27th September 2025; a special event dedicated to honouring the club’s founding members as well as recognising past and present members who have helped shape the club’s legacy.

Alongside the club’s regular classes, Founders’ Day will feature four thrilling special night races. The Bill Smith Memorial Race will see the top 12 senior riders after three afternoon rounds battle it out under lights. The Hyne/Taylor Shield (Junior 125cc/250cc, 13–16 years) will feature the 12 highest-placed juniors competing in an exciting 8-lap final. The May Steel Memorial Race is another senior showdown featuring the top 12 riders, while the Shirley Chard Trophy will be awarded to the top female competitor, decided by total point scores across the day.

Racing action will kick off at 2:00pm, leading into the special night races under the floodlights. Spectators can look forward to an electric atmosphere, with both a licensed bar and canteen open throughout the event.

“Founders’ Day is about celebrating where we’ve come from, honouring the people who built this club, and showcasing the incredible talent we have today,” said Karl Vass, President of the Ayr Motorcycle Club. “It promises to be a day of great racing and community spirit.”

Ayr Motorcycle Club invites all members, supporters, and the wider community to come along and be part of this special day in the club’s history.

What: Founders’ Day
When: 27th September 2025 Racing from 2:00pm
Where:Ayr Motorcycle Club Saturday

Contributed with thanks to Lyn McLaughlin

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Just the two Finals series games last weekend. On Thursday night the Division 2 Funkies lost 1-3 to Saints Eagles Souths and their season is now over. However, the Ladies beat Rebels 2-0 and will now meet Brothers in the Grand Final.

Night Soccer

Kicked off its 46th year on Tuesday. In the first of two Trial Weeks, there were nineteen games with sixty-one goals scored. Clare Cutters, Rocky Pond Warriors, and Mountain View Fresh all scored five goals. So far there are twenty-seven Men’s and fifteen Women’s teams. Teams must be finalised by next Tuesday.

Division 2 Men

The C.A. Contracting Funkies played their preliminary final against Saints for a place in the Grand Final. Saints started the better of the two teams taking the lead after ten minutes. The Funkies worked their way into the game and started to look dangerous up front through Fengil and Nick Cathcart. However, it was Jake Lacey who scored the equaliser for Burdekin with an incredible strike from 30 yards out. Burdekin suffered injuries to Jarrod Dal Santo and Luke Cathcart just before half time with scores locked at 1-1.

Second half saw Saints start well and could have regained the lead numerous times, but some great saves from keeper Dave Bryen kept denying them. The Funkies were finishing strongly as full time approached through Brad Wright and Jack Castrejana, until Castrejana dislocated his kneecap just before full time. An ambulance was called and after a short delay the game was moved to another field.

Extra time again for the Funkies, was not something the team was looking forward to. Unfortunately, Saints took an early lead in extra time before getting another goal late in the game to win 3-1.The end of the season for the Funkies with a game that could have had a quite different result on another night. Player of match was Jake Lacey with Brad Wright and Heath Swindley both having strong games also. A season definitely to be proud of and already looking forward to next year.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies came in to this match determined to secure their spot in the grand final, but Rebels did not make it easy, holding them out of their half early on. Burdekin knew they were in for a tough battle. But after several unsuccessful through balls, the breakthrough finally came in the 30th minute when Zandi Bonanno drew the defence out before slotting home a brilliant finish.

In the second half, Burdekin piled on the pressure and despite Rebels’ strong defensive effort, the ladies managed to extend their lead in the 66th minute thanks to a superb goal from outside the box from Karina Guglielmi. The game ended in a 2-0 win to the Burdekin in a hard-fought performance. The Ladies now look to carry this momentum into the grand final showdown against Brothers!

Juniors

On Saturday, the Juniors had their final games for the season, along with the club’s breakup. The kids had a lot of fun after their games, continuing to kick the ball around,

along with a jumping castle, sausage sizzle and lolly drop. Thank you to everyone involved for such a successful season, and we will see you all in 2026!

Masters

That’s it for Masters Soccer in 2025. Night Soccer kicked off last week and Masters Soccer will return in February 2026.

National and International

The major European Leagues were back in action this week. And after three or four weeks, the old order hardly changeth. In the EPL, Liverpool with maximum points from four games, lead Arsenal, Spurs and Bournemouth and at the foot of the table, Wolverhampton has lost all four games.

In Germany, after three games, Bayern with three wins lead Dortmund and Cologne whilst in Italy’s Serie A, Napoli and Juventus have maximum points from three games with Udinese in third place. In Spain, Real Madrid and Barcelona, both with four wins, lead Atletico and Getafe and in France, PSG is the only team with maximum points leading Lille by two points, Monaco and Lyon.

The Matildas next match is against Wales, in Cardiff on 25 October. Matilda’s captain Sam Kerr is back! She scored a goal in Chelsea’s 3-1 win at Aston Villa.

The Socceroos played New Zealand last Friday in Canberra and were a bit lucky to win 1-0 with a goal in the 86th minute. In the return match in Auckland, the Socceroos won 3-1. They now have friendlies away to Canada and the USA in October.

Quote of the Week is from then Charlton manager Lenny Lawrence. “The last time we got a penalty at home, Christ was a carpenter.”

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Home Hill Bowls

A total of 29 players took to the greens today, joined by a few special visitors: Peter and Sue Dingle from Mooloolabah, in town to celebrate Iris Dingle’s 100th birthday, as well as Alan Gairoch from Brandon, and Steve Muto and Jeff Taylor from Giru.

On Rink 2, Margaret Chapman and Gary Nosworthy defeated Judy Elton and Alan Gairoch. Rink 3 saw Bob Pickard and Trevor Elton overcome Margaret Linton and Joe Linton. On Rink 4, Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Glen Bones Berryman triumphed over Paul Vass, Des Chapman, and Wayne Newton.

Today's standout performers on Rink 5 were Sue Dingle, Dino Poli, and Steve Doig, who accounted for Norm Bethell, Ron Smith, and Jeff Taylor (pictured). Rink 6 produced a close contest, with Steve Muto, Bruce McCallum, and Hugh Montgomery edging out Michael Young, Peter Dingle, and Mick McClosky 10 ends to 8 on a countback.

Raffle winners included Steve Muto, who took home a 2 kg fillet of mackerel, while Margaret Linton claimed the bottle of wine.

Looking ahead, don’t miss next Sunday’s Wilmar Challenge—come along, support your club, and enjoy the food and bar facilities. Regular weekly activities continue: Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, Wednesday morning Kraft group with barefoot bowls and a sausage sizzle in the evening, Thursday morning BINGO and social bowls in the afternoon, and the popular $5 Saturday afternoon social bowls.

Till next week, good bowling!

Report and photo by Steve Doig.

The day's winners: Steve Doig, Dino Poli and Sue Dingle.

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It’s been another big week at the Ayr Bowling Club. Let’s start with getting ready for next Saturday with Mario Milan’s 91st birthday celebration on Saturday 20th September joining with our Jackpot Saturday. Mario is sponsoring the day which is much appreciated. So, save the date in your calendar as the Jackpot will go off.

Let’s now look back on the week past. On Wednesday Men’s Social Bowls two games of triples were played. Out on the green competition was close and taking out the honours on the day were Dino Poli, George Nixon and Maurie Power defeating John Pirrone, Barry Hewson and Col Essex. It was a great afternoon of camaraderie and quality bowls enjoyed by all.

Wednesday night social bowls the winners were Bertilla Piazetta, John Cesconetto and Sam Caltabiano. In the second game the winners were John Fletcher, John Pirrone, David Burt and Joe Grabbi

Saturday Social bowls two games of triples and a two pairs game was played, winners were, Karen Shepherd, Joe Papale and John McDonald defeating Cisco, Al Hardcastle and Dot Cutting. In the second triples game Arthur Gauvin, J McDonald and Betty Schultz defeated

Merle Nixon, Donna Soper and Beryl Cornford. In the two pairs games George Nixon and Barry Shepherd defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Ron Soper. Ron Smythe and Anthony Bull defeated Barry Hewson and Lachlan Grantz.

In Championship action this week, Ladies Competition Two Bowl Pairs was played on Sunday. Karen Shepherd and Irene Wilson defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Sandra Stidston. Men’s triples saw one game played this week winners were, Shane Stanford, Macca and Anthony Bull defeating Al Hardcastle, Col Essex and Lew Stidston 24 – 15. The winners now progress to the next round.

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

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

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Saturdays winners; Macca, Joe and Karen. Photo supplied

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Home Hill’s cricket season heats up this weekend with the club hosting its first home fixtures at the Nutrien AgSolutions Cricket Complex. The Third Grade side takes the field against Brothers from 8am, before the Second Grade outfit squares off with Saints at 12:30pm.

Both teams will be looking to build momentum after strong early-season performances, highlighted by the Second Grade side’s seven-wicket victory over Wests on Sunday. With solid batting form from Zakk Myles and a sharp fielding display led by JD Wilkins, Home Hill is shaping up as a serious contender in this year’s competition.

Cricket Report

Round 2 of the CNQ Townsville Second Grade cricket competition saw Home Hill record a convincing seven-wicket victory over Wests Absolutely Dental at Mick Downey Oval on Sunday.

Wests, who won the toss and elected to bat, started steadily before Salvatore Cardillo made the first breakthrough, dismissing Beau McCarron for 23. Another wicket fell quickly, but Wests regrouped to reach 3/76 by the 17th over. From there the momentum shifted—five wickets fell for just 23 runs, with the tail adding only a small contribution. Wests were bowled out for 133 in the 32nd over. Thomas Cardillo and TJ Richards each finished with two wickets, while JD Wilkins impressed in the field with three catches.

Chasing 134, Home Hill’s opening pair of Zakk Myles and Adam Camer set a strong platform with a 61-run stand. Camer departed for 25, while Myles top-scored with 45 from 60 balls before being bowled with the score at 97. Lee Watts added 12, before Ayden Marano (21 not out) and Brad Parravicini (4 not out) guided Home Hill home. The side finished at 3/134 after 28 overs to claim a comfortable win.

Attention now turns to next Sunday, 21 September, when Home Hill will host their first games of the season at the Nutrien AgSolutions Cricket Complex. The Third Grade side faces Brothers from 8am, followed by the Second Grade clash against Saints at 12:30pm.

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The sound of celebration carried further in Ayr over the weekend, with Burdekin Shire Council’s upgraded Queen Street speaker system put to the test during the Burdekin Water Festival.

Originally installed to broadcast Sweet FM programs through the CBD, the stand-alone speakers have long been a feature of Queen Street, helping keep the community informed while supporting local businesses.

The recent upgrade introduced a public address function, giving the system new flexibility to deliver announcements, music, and commentary during major community events.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the investment ensures the speakers are equipped to serve a wider purpose.

“Queen Street is the hub of many community events, and this system now has the flexibility to support both our local businesses and our celebrations,” Cr Dalle Cort said.

“By adding a dedicated PA function, we can create a safer, more vibrant atmosphere for the many parades and festivals hosted in our CBD each year.”

The enhanced system was used for the first time during the Water Festival, where it supported commentary and music along Queen Street as thousands joined the celebrations.

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The Burdekin Netball Association held its fundraising evening “Wigs and Wine” on Friday, 29th August, drawing strong community support for a cause that blended entertainment, awareness, and local pride.

160 guests embraced the theme by arriving with wigs already on, filling the venue with colour and character. A glass of champagne on arrival and a hearty dinner set the stage for the evening, which combined light-hearted fun with a meaningful purpose.

The main focus of the event was the Ponytail Project, run in association with the Cancer Council. This initiative encourages participants to cut and donate their ponytails so they can be used to create wigs for people experiencing hair loss during cancer treatment. On the night, nine women volunteered to “get the chop:” Aimee Gibson, Kristine Patti, Jade Bolam, Brittany Bohl, Dominique Gorey, Cailin Gosling, Ella Zabel, Tayla McKaig and Tayah Gibson. Volunteers managed to raise $13,000, drawing a strong applause from supporters and provided a moving reminder of the impact small acts can have for those facing difficult health challenges.

The Burdekin Netball Association was pleased to welcome Cancer Council representative Teagan Marsden, who travelled from Townsville to support the initiative and acknowledge the community’s contribution. Her presence reinforced the broader significance of the Ponytail Project and the value of local fundraising efforts in supporting those living with cancer.

The practical side of the ponytail donations was made possible thanks to Amber Kelly of Lace Creative, who generously donated her hairdressing expertise and equipment on the night. Her contribution ensured the process ran smoothly and added a professional touch that made the evening more memorable for both the participants and the audience.

In addition to the ponytail donations, guests were kept busy with a cent sale raffle and a money board, which generated plenty of excitement while adding to the funds raised. Every dollar from the evening’s activities went directly toward supporting the Burdekin Netball Association’s 2025 Harvest Festival Queen entrant, Aaliyah Gibson.

The Harvest Festival Queen competition has long been a highlight of the Burdekin calendar, with entrants representing local clubs, businesses, and community organisations. Each entrant is tasked with running fundraising activities in the lead-up to the annual festival, with funds going back into their sponsoring organisation and into the festival itself. For the Burdekin Netball Association, supporting Gibson’s campaign not only raises the profile of the sport locally but also strengthens their role in the wider community.

Organisers were quick to acknowledge the efforts behind the scenes that made the night possible. The Burdekin Netball committee, together with Sheree McKaig and Shalon Gibson, were all recognised for their combined contribution in ensuring the smooth running and overall success of the event.

Events such as “Wigs and Wine” showcase the ability of local clubs to unite the community while contributing to larger causes. The combination of support for the Ponytail Project and fundraising for the Harvest Festival reflects the Burdekin’s tradition of giving back, where social gatherings double as opportunities to make a lasting difference.

Photos by Madison Mainwaring-Samwell and Carlene Muilwyk

Article by Carlene Muilwyk

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Tracey Young, Carlene Muilwyk, Lynnie McLaughlin, Gloria Vass
Zara Frost, Katerina Samios, Ella Logan, Aoife O'Dwyer
Danielle Kaminski, Sheryn Woods, Susan Catanzaro
Tayla McKaig having her hair cut by friends Lily Arrate and Sarah Kirke
Back L-R - Aimee Gibson, Kristine Patti, Jade Bolam, Aaliyah Gibson, Brittany Bohl, Dominique Gorey Front L-R - Cailin Gosling, Ella Zabel, Tayla McKaig, Tayah Gibson

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Last Saturday, a talented group of Burdekin riders travelled south to Proserpine to compete at the Whitsunday Motorcycle Club Day, joining a field of around 70 competitors. Across five races for most classes, riders collected points toward their overall placings — and Burdekin competitors made their presence felt.

One of the standout performers of the meet was Ky Mitchell, who completely dominated both the 125cc and 250cc (13–16 years) classes. Mitchell’s speed, consistency, and control saw him stamp his authority over the fields, collecting maximum points and proving he is in excellent form. With the speedway season just around the corner, all eyes will be on Ky to see how he carries this momentum onto the 250cc Solo, where he is expected to be a serious contender.

The 85cc (9–13 years) group was the only class not run on points but instead decided by a final. It proved to be one of the most thrilling races of the day, with lightning-fast pace and a nail-biting duel at the front. Townsville’s George Holmkvist, who only a few weeks ago placed 2nd at the Australian Titles, went head-to-head with Burdekin’s Ryder Vass in a gripping contest. The pair swapped positions back and forth, going from first to second and back again, keeping the crowd on edge until the chequered flag.

There were plenty of other notable achievements from the Burdekin juniors. Both Noah Ready (50cc) and Carter Macelroy (65cc 7–9 years) celebrated their first-ever overall victories, a huge milestone in their young dirt track careers. Ryder Vass also impressed in the 65cc (10–13 years) class, where he dominated the field and won all but one race across the day, adding to his strong performance in the 85cc final. Meanwhile, Isahia Forbes-Young secured a podium of his own with a solid third place in the highly competitive 85cc (13–16 years) class.

Burdekin podium results included:

50cc: 1st Noah Ready, 2nd Ruben Vass
65cc (7–9 years): 1st Carter Macelroy, 2nd River Vass
65cc (10–13 years): 1st Ryder Vass
85cc (9–13 years): 2nd Ryder Vass
85cc (13–16 years): 3rd Isahia Forbes-Young
125cc (13–16 years): 1st Ky Mitchell
250cc (13–16 years): 1st Ky Mitchell

The results showcase the depth of junior dirt track talent in the Burdekin, with riders showing skill, determination, and sportsmanship across all classes.

The club congratulates all competitors on their efforts and looks forward to more exciting results at upcoming events.

Contributed with thanks to Lyn McLaughlin

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Back Row (L-R): Carter Macelroy, River Vass, Ky Mitchell, Ryder Vass, Isaiah Forbes-Young
Front Row (L-R): Adalyn Forbes-Young, Noah Ready, Ruben Vass

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For the first time in more than a decade, Home Hill Cricket Association senior teams are returning to compete in the Cricket North Queensland (Townsville) competition.

On Sunday 7 September, Home Hill took to the field against Brothers Kenny’s Automotive for the first round of the Second Grade - CNQ comp at John McCulloch Oval, Kirwan.

Brothers won the toss and elected to bat first. The Brothers opening partnership amassed 44 runs before Greg Flanagan made the breakthrough with the ball to take the first wicket. Wickets continued to fall regularly with Guy Stevenson, JD Wilkins and Mark Coventry leading the bowling attack, taking 2 wickets each. The safe hands of TJ Richards contributed 2 catches in the field to have Brothers all out for 139 runs.

The Home Hill run chase was lead by Brendan Williams (29 runs) and Mark Coventry (11 runs), however a flurry of wickets in the middle order left Home Hill short of the total - all out for 68.

Despite the loss, the Home Hill players are excited for the season ahead.  The Second Grade side will take on Wests in Townsville next Sunday.

The Third Grade side will commence their season on September 21, with both the Second and Third Grade sides playing home games at the Nutrien AgSolutions Cricket Complex. Keep an eye on the Home Hill Cricket Association facebook page for all the details.

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HHCA Second Grade. Photo supplied

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Last weekend featured just two Finals games. Thursday night, Division 2 Funkies beat Brothers 4-0, while on Saturday the Ladies lost 1-3 to Brothers. For the Preliminary Finals: the Ladies must beat Rebels Friday 6.30pm, and the Funkies must beat Saints Eagles Souths Thursday 6.30pm to reach their Grand Finals.

Division 2 Men
The C.A. Contracting Funkies faced Brothers in the elimination final. Brothers started strong, but Burdekin scored first through Chris Achille, before Brothers equalised. In the second half, Jack Castrejana gave the Funkies the lead, only for Brothers to level again. Extra time saw Fengil score twice to seal a 4-2 win. Standout performers: Jarrod Dal Santo, Jake Lacey, Fengil, Nicholas Cathcart, Jack Castrejana.

Ladies
Ayr Anzac Club Ladies fell 1-3 to Brothers in the semi-finals. Brothers led 2-0 at halftime, Tegan Johnson pulled one back, but Brothers scored again to win. The Ladies face Rebels Friday night, aiming to bounce back.

Juniors
Townsville teams played the last Saturday fixtures of 2025. Thanks to Saints Eagles Souths FC and all visiting clubs. This Saturday is the final matches and end-of-season breakup.

Masters
Masters Soccer concludes for 2025. Night Soccer has started; Masters returns in 2026.

National & International
European leagues paused for 2026 World Cup qualifiers; resumes this weekend. Matildas next face Wales on 25 October in Cardiff; Sam Kerr is back in training. Socceroos beat New Zealand 1-0 in Canberra Friday, and play again Tuesday in Auckland, with friendlies vs Canada and USA in October.

Quote of the Week is from Terry Venables, then manager of Barcelona. “When I arrived in the summer, one of my predecessors told the Spanish media that I would be gone by Christmas. He forgot to mention which year.”

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer
Night Soccer kicked off its 46th year on Tuesday.

Night Soccer started in 1979 as a means of keeping soccer players fit during the off season. In that first season there were eight teams, and the matches were played in Home Hill. From those inauspicious beginnings the competition has grown to be the number one sporting competition in the Burdekin.

Delta Cleaners have been the competitions sponsor since the very first season – and that must be some sort of record. The younger generation of Nucifora’s weren’t even born when Night Soccer started.

The winners of the competition back in 1979 were Bonato’s Club Hotel and the Ladies joined the competition in 1982. Night Soccer moved to the Brothers Rugby League Club in Ayr in 1980 and to its present base at International Park in 1981. In the 1998 season Night Soccer attracted 84 Senior teams and 36 Junior teams which meant that upwards of a thousand players were taking part in the competition every Tuesday.

In the 2024 season Night Soccer had 28 Men’s and 15 Women’s teams and that included seven teams of Solomon islanders. Hopefully the 2025 season will be at least as good.

Visitors to International Park often comment that the facilities are the best in North Queensland and Night Soccer has paid for a lot of them.

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“We made too many mistakes,” said Burdekin River ladies coach Anita Hagarty after her team went down 24-14 to Western Lions at Brothers on Sunday in the R.L.T.D. Ladies preliminary final in Townsville.

Last week, the team beat Brothers by letting the ball do the work, and the strategy delivered a solid win. This week, they tried the same approach. Toni Daisy crossed for a strong opening try, and with Rebecca Pace’s conversion, Burdekin led 6-0.

However, the experienced and bigger Lions soon pressured the team, exploiting mistakes and using their size to move ahead. Western Lions scored three tries before halftime, taking a 10-6 lead, but Martina Monday’s pace and swerve brought Burdekin back to 14-10 at the break. Ball control remained the key to turning the match around.

In the second half, Lions extended their lead to 18-10. Martina Monday crossed again to make it 18-14. A potential chance to level the scores went unnoticed when a player was lifted and dumped near the tryline without a penalty. The Lions sealed the result with a converted try, finishing 24-14 and booking a Grand Final clash with Centrals.

Despite the loss, Anita praised her team, noting that five players are under 18. Paige Horvat was named best back, winning the Old Boys voucher despite taking several heavy hits. Lily Mills made some strong runs, while Martina Monday continued to shine despite tight marking.

In the forwards, Taleisha Bulgarelli’s tireless effort earned her the Old Boys award, while Rebecca Pace and Sarah Castles put in heavy work in the middle. Overall, the experiment of combining the two clubs has been successful and looks promising for the future.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Thirty players were on hand for a fantastic spring afternoon. Today’s winners were Margaret Chapman, Lloyd Shepherd, and Des Chapman. Unfortunately, Lloyd had to leave at the end of the game, so only Margaret and Des appear in our winners’ photo. The field consisted of four games of triples and a game of pairs.

On Rink 3, Judy Elton, Sandra Darwin, and Hugh Montgomery proved too good for Paul Vass, Neville Webb, and Phil Marsden. Rink 4 saw Betty Webb, Bruce McCallum, and Wayne Newton account for Bob Pickard, new member Rob Darr (welcome!), and Joe Linton. Rink 5 was a close contest, with Bob Young, Mark Swaine, and Trevor Elton narrowly defeating Henry Hazel, Terry Feakes, Ron Smith, and Mick McClosky. Margaret Chapman, Lloyd Shepherd, and Des Chapman defeated Warren “Yogi” Bunn, Dino Poli, and Steve Doig on Rink 6, while Maureen Marsden and Glen Bones Berryman recorded a good win against Michael Young and Alex Bojack on Rink 7.

A few dates to remember: The Wilmar Challenge is on 21st September, the Giru Open Fours on Saturday 27th September with 8:30am for a 9am start, Brandon Bowls Club celebrates its 70th anniversary on 5th October, and the Bowen Bowls Club Peter Bruce Memorial Open Fours takes place Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th October 2025. Check the notice board for more details.

Thursday’s raffle saw a 2kg piece of mackerel won by Yogi Bunn, while a bottle of wine went to Margaret Chapman, who had a pretty good day on the greens. Weekly activities continue, including Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, Wednesday Kraft group and night barefoot bowls, Thursday morning BINGO and social bowls, and Saturday $5 social bowls.

The other photo shows some of the young players enjoying a drink at the end of play. Till next week, good bowling.

Photo and report by Stephen Doig

Winners of the day, Margaret and Des.
Participants enjoying a drink at the end of play.

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The Ayr Bowling Club has enjoyed a fantastic week, with members coming together for a series of competitive and social matches. The energy on the greens has been great, as the club continues to foster a strong sense of enthusiasm towards the great game of lawn bowls. With the momentum showing no signs of slowing, members are eagerly anticipating another month of great matches and good times ahead.

Wednesday’s Men’s Bowls saw great participation, with two games of pairs and a triples game. The successful team on the day was Barry Shepherd and Col Essex who delivered a strong performance to claim the win over Chris Berkery and Barry Hewson. George Nixon and Anthony Bull defeated Dino Poli and Lew Stidston. In the triples game Arthur Gauvin, Ray Wall and Happy Horon defeated Ron Smythe, John Pirrone and Ron Soper.

Wednesday night bowls saw two games of pairs played. The winners of the first game were Margaret McLaughlin and Ross McLaughlin. In the other game the winners were Bertilla Piazetta and Heather Jorgensen.

The Ayr Bowling Club hosted it’s Fun Friday Night Bowls Sponsored by Lawrence & Hanson on Friday. What a great night! So good to see lots of regular and new bowlers coming every time for a fun night. Taking home the prizes on Friday night were Bertilla Piazetta, Tricia Achille and David Burt (1st) Lorraine Wolffe, John Pirrone and Anthony Bull (2nd) Kyle Grabbi, Johnny Grabbi and Joe Grabbi (Sportsman). Big shout out to Lawrence & Hanson for their sponsorship of the night.

Saturday saw our men travel to Bowen bowls club for country pennants while we didn’t come away with the shield our club put up a great performance. We had 3 new bowlers playing their first pennant games for the club. And they performed well for the first time playing pennants well done, Cisco, Al Hardcastle and Shane Stanford. You did yourselves and our club proud in your first pennant games.

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

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