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Training for Men and Colts for the 2026 season starts on this Thursday night at 6.15.

Small sided games for the next three weeks. Be There!

Night Soccer

The tenth week of competition and another low scoring night. There were four forfeits (Schoolies?) and the sixteen games produced just fifty one goals. And there were three Sin Bins. Top scorers were Mottin Earthmoving and Ladies team Goal Diggers with five goals and UDS and DL Lager each with four. There were three drawn games and just nine teams failed to score!

In Men’s Competitive Group, UDS now top the table with twenty four points one point ahead of Clare Cutters with Mottin Earthmoving a further point behind in third place and Nutrien Ag drop to fourth place. In Mens A Grade Social 1, DL Lager is still in first place followed by Borin n Scorin with Willy Wackers in third place. In Mens, A Grade Social 2, Oary’s Levellers lead Wires Down on goal difference with Always Fits dropping to third place. In Mens B Grade Social 1, the unbeaten Bennetts Old Grumpies top the Group with nine points and are five points clear of Fair Call and Hardly Normal and in Mens B Grade Social 2, His Haas, Real Steel Fab and BA all have three points.

In Ladies A Grade 1, Scoregasms lead Rocky Pond Warriors by three points with Young Guns in third place and in Ladies A Grade 2, Body Tune leads DILLIGAF by three points with 6 TO UR 7 in third place. In Ladies B Grade 1, Kicken Goals are three points clear of Goal Diggers with Short Staffed in third place and in Ladies B Grade 2, Chicks and Chooks are three points clear of We’ve got the Runs.

Juniors

The played their last games of Junior social soccer on Tuesday afternoon and had a great time. That is it for the season and year.

National and International

In the A League Men, after six rounds, Brisbane were the only club in the top five to win. They beat Melbourne Victory and are in second place, one point behind Sydney FC who lost to Western Sydney. Auckland lost to Newcastle and is in third place on goal difference.

In the A League Women, only one game was played over the weekend with Melbourne Victory beating Perth 3-0. The table is somewhat confusing at the moment. Some teams have played five rounds, Melbourne Victory, others three or four and Melbourne City has only played two games!

Victory is now top of the table after their win against Perth and Sydney FC is one point behind. Brisbane did not play and is now in fourth place, with two games in hand. Western Sydney, Central Coast and Perth are holding up the league with three points from four matches.

The Socceroos do not seem to have any more games planned but doubtless, with the World Cup starting in June, arrangements are being made. In the FIFA Rankings Australia is 26th.

The Matildas have two friendlies against New Zealand coming up. Last Friday in Gosford they won 5-0 and then they played again on Tuesday 2nd December in Adelaide. In the FIFA World Rankings, the Matildas are currently 15th and New Zealand 33rd.

In England, in the EPL, six of the top eight teams won and Arsenal and Chelsea drew 1-1. After thirteen rounds Arsenal leads Manchester City by five points and Chelsea and Aston Villa by six points. In a return to form both Liverpool and ManU won. At the foot of the table the bottom five teams all lost and so far, Wolves have two points.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, after twelve rounds the still unbeaten Bayern now has an eight point lead over Leipzig with Dortmund another point behind. Leverkusen drops to fourth place a further two points adrift. At the foot of the table Heidenheim was the only one of the six bottom clubs to win and Mainz and St Pauli are in big trouble.

In Italy’s Serie A, one point separates the top five teams. After thirteen rounds AC Milan leads Napoli on goal difference and Inter and Roma are just one point behind. At the bottom of the foot of the table the bottom four teams all lost and Verona and Fiorentina with six points each, already look doomed.

In Spain’s La Liga, Real Madrid drew their third match in a row and Barcelona has taken over at the top, one point clear of Real. Villarreal is a further point behind and one point ahead of Atletico. At the bottom of the league, it is not looking good for Oviedo and Levante with just nine points each from fourteen rounds.

In France’s Ligue 1 Lens now leads PSG by one point with Marseilles in third place a further point adrift. Fourth placed Lille is another three points behind. At the foot of the table Lorient was the only one of the bottom seven teams to win. And it is not looking good for Auxerre, Metz, and Nantes.

And incidentally, in the English Championship, Coventry City is ten points clear of Middlesbrough at the top!

Forty two countries so far have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, and this includes the three host countries, USA, Canada, and Mexico. The Group Draw will take place on Friday, and the Socceroos will then know at least two of the other countries in their group. The final six places will be sorted out in March next year. The competition starts on 11 June, and the Final is on 19 July. Forty eight teams will compete in twelve groups of four teams 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 thirty-two.

Quote of the Week

Is from Manchester United and Northern Ireland’s George Best "I used to go missing a lot... Miss Canada, Miss United Kingdom, Miss World."

He died on 25 November 2005 at the age of 59.

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Another warm spring afternoon, even starting at 2.30 pm, saw 28 players in attendance.

Rink 3: The final of the club triples was played, with the team of Des Chapman, Joe Linton, and Alex Bojack winning on the last two ends for victory over Margaret Linton, Joclyn DeFranciscus, and Jeff Taylor (all six finalists pictured). Congratulations to Des, Joe, and Alex!

Rink 4: Bob Pickard, Sandra Darwin, and Hugh Montgomery defeated Janet Arthur, Bruce McCallum, and Steve Doig.

Rink 5: Margaret Chapman, Michael Young, and Trevor Elton were just too good for Elaine Young, Judy Elton, and Wayne Newton.

Rink 6: Paul Vass, Nev Webb, and Gary Nosworthy came away with the win—and were the lucky rink for the day—against Bob Young, Ron Smith, and Glen Bones Berryman.

Rink 7: A pairs game saw Warren “Yogi” Bunn and Mick McClosky outlast Betty Webb and Phil Marsden.
The seafood tray raffle was won by Paul Vass, and the bottle of wine was taken home by Mick McClosky.

As we are now in December, all daily groups should check with their own members regarding the Christmas break. The AGM is on 13 December 2025, commencing at 10 am. Nomination forms are available on the bar.

The presentation day and Christmas party was a bit of a blast. Once again, thanks to the organisers—the bowls-for-prizes was very well received, especially by many non-bowlers. Check out the Facebook page for all award recipients.

So, until next week, good bowling!

Photos and report by Stephen Doig.

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Paul Vass, Nev Webb, and Gary Nosworthy came away with the win—and were the lucky rink for the day—against Bob Young, Ron Smith, and Glen Bones Berryman.

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The Ayr Bowling Club has celebrated an exceptional week on the greens, with members coming together for a mix of spirited club Championship games and engaging social matches. The vibrant atmosphere and camaraderie continue to strengthen, showcasing the club's dedication to fostering connections through the sport of lawn bowls. It is very heartening to see that despite the increase in warmer conditions our members keep coming down for a roll up under our shaded cover.

Wednesday men’s social bowls saw two games of pairs played. Winners were Wayne Coonan and Al Hardcastle defeating Happy Horan and Ron Soper. In the second game Dino Poli and Chris Berkery defeated Shane and Chris Olditch.

Wednesday night social bowls featured two lively games of triples, creating a fantastic atmosphere for players of all skill levels. These evening sessions are a great way to learn and improve in a relaxed setting, especially during the warmer months when the cooler night air makes bowling even more enjoyable. It’s the perfect opportunity to practice, socialise, and experience the fun side of the sport.

The Ayr Bowling Club wrapped up the Fun Friday Nights with the last one for the year las Friday. Drawing a strong crowd and plenty of community spirit, guests enjoyed an evening of friendly competition, socialising, and special prizes, creating a festive atmosphere to close out the season. A big Thank You to club members, Shane & Ange for sponsoring the night. There were a few extra prizes including Best Dressed which was won by Johnny. Lucky Liv won the meat tray. Winners for the night were Katharina & John; 2nd place was Brad, Ben, Chris & Gary; Sportsman’s Prize was won by Mary, Evelyn & Sam. The club extended heartfelt thanks to its sponsors throughout the year for their ongoing support, which makes these popular events possible.

Saturday was a highlight of the November calendar with Love on the Green, celebrating the wedding anniversaries of long-term club members Ron and Donna Soper and also Chris and Callie Olditch. With 22 players coming along to celebrate with an afternoon of great bowls, first place went to John Pirrone, Sam Caltabiano and Pam Power. Second place went to Barry Hewson, Chris Berkery and Col Essex. Third place went to Donna Soper, Shane Stanford and Danny O’Shea. The sportsman’s prize went to Beryl Cornford and Ron Soper. The Saturday Jackpot also went off with Donna Soper, Shane Stanford and Danny O’Shea claiming the prize.

Sunday saw the Mixed Championships rinks final with K Stuckler, R Smythe, B Cornford and Col Essex defeating M Chapman, H Hazel, H Jorgenson and S Caltabiano 25-10. The game was much closer that the score indicated. This Championship game was the finale to the season’s club competitions.

Some important upcoming events: Saturday 6th December is the Presentation Afternoon after Saturday Bowls with members bringing a plate. Then on Sunday 7th December, 9am is the Annual General Meeting at the Clubhouse.

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Friday Fun Night on the Green. Photo supplied
Friday Fun Night Winners

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The fields at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex are looking nice and green after the recent showers.

Blue Group: Only two bowlers took wickets in their game. Tait Parker claimed 2 for 9, while Mitchell Patti took 1 for 3 and also ran out a batter. Jake Cullen also contributed with a run out while fielding. The top scorer this week was Royce Cohen, followed by Jake Cullen and Corbett Cross, who continues to improve each week. Stirling Williams and Henry Cohen earned the "McDonald Sports Awards" for their performances in this game.

Continued on page 28

Highlights from Gold and Challengers Matches

Gold Group: Batting proved difficult, as wickets fell at regular intervals and no one could get settled. Ben Watkins scored 15 runs and was the only batter to retire not out. Tyler Schultz and Rylan Nicolaides both scored 16 runs to claim the top scores. Rylan also bowled well, taking 2 wickets for 9 runs, as did Marshall Parker with 2 for 12. Others to take a wicket each were Ben, Tyler, Xavier Cross, Oliver Calligaro, Alex Cullen, Oscar Mahoney, and Logan Pickup. In the field, Tyler took two catches, while Oscar, Xavier, and Alex each took one. The "McDonald Sports Awards" were awarded to Rylan and Alex for their all-round performances.

Challengers Game: An unbeaten 36-run partnership between Jack Gorey and Claire Cross was the highlight. Flynn Levitt and Nicholas Marrinan were not far behind with 34 runs but lost a wicket in their innings. Jack Gorey was also active with the ball, taking two wickets. Arthur Cohen and Aria Bryant each took two wickets, while Flynn, Jaxon, Hadley, and Nahjiyah snared one each. Jack received the "McDonald Sports Award" for his power hitting, while Dylan earned the other for his great bowling and field awareness.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke

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The "McDonald Sports Awards" were awarded to Rylan and Alex for their all-round performances in the Gold Group. Photo supplied
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In the Challengers Game, Jack received the "McDonald Sports Award" for his power hitting, while Dylan earned the other for his great bowling and field awareness. Photo supplied

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Memories of Johnno Cole’s match-winning try in the 1963 Foley Shield clash at Rugby Park may be long gone, but this Saturday, the spirit of Burdekin rugby league returns with the Clubs of Origin at Bendigo Bank Park.

Supporters of the region’s four historic clubs have resurrected the colours, appointed coaches, and created a day of action and celebration, uniting players from different codes for one unforgettable event.

The Colts will wear the familiar red and white, coached by Ignatius Park’s Will Jack and Roosters A-grade captain Joel Mason. Standout players include former North Queensland Marlin Kurt Perry and Roosters A-grade best and fairest Hayde Munro, alongside Jones Munro, Luca Lago, Terry Connors, Dylan Doak, John Zaro, Caleb Noah, and Llama Ghee.

Brothers—historically the most successful club in Burdekin rugby league—will sport their iconic butcher stripes, coached by former Roosters mentor Steve Sheppard with Paul Horan. Key players include forwards Lachlan Shepherd and Braedeyn Cotter, hooker Declan Martchioni, half Kelsey Hesp, try scorer Jared Giardina, and four members of the Horan family.

The Hornets will field a fast, all-round side led by Ross and Kurt Olsen, with pace in the centres from Gordon Daisy and support from the Lampton family. Rhett Williams at hooker, along with Jake Henaway in the halves, will ensure clean ball distribution.

Rivalries continue with the Home Hill Devils, coached by Kieran Dawes and Ryan Davenport. Young stars Adam Caner, Jya Cursio, Malik Ogameni, Lachlan Kerr, and Luke Torkington will feature, supported by a strong forward pack.

Games begin at 2pm with a round-robin format leading into semi-finals and the Bendigo Bank Cup Grand Final. At 5.40pm, a first-of-its-kind ladies’ match between the Ayr Bears and Home Hill Devils will showcase rising female talent, led by the Monday sisters, Kirra Hodder, Jo Morgan, Charlee Ruskin, and others.

Food and drinks will be available, and celebrations will continue after the final whistle, promising a day of rugby league, community, and memories to last a lifetime.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Over the weekend, a small contingent from Ayr Surf Club headed to Eimeo to compete at the North Barrier Branch Championships. The carnival is the culmination of the region’s main surf sports season, with the announcement of the NBB Youth State Team, who will go on to compete at Surf Life Saving Queensland Youth States in February 2026 on the Sunshine Coast.

The weekend saw some changes to the original program due to unexpected marine creatures; however, the majority of individual and team events were still completed, making for a very successful carnival overall, with some fantastic individual and team results.

A massive congratulations to the 14 nippers from the club who were all announced in the State Team at the conclusion of the weekend. Under 11s: Mahli McShane and Audrey Rickards; Under 12s: Luca Lawry, Taylor Chapman, and Charlotte Dale; Under 13s: Alyssa Irvine; Under 14s: Warne McShane, Cole Pontifex, Milla Chapman, Emma Jones, Emilee Wassmuth, and Charlotte Lawry; and Under 15s: Zachary Dale and Briella Wassmuth.

This coming weekend, Milla Chapman and Warne McShane will head to the Gold Coast as part of the Queensland Country Team for the Inter-Branch Championships. We wish them all the best. Patrols will continue at Alva each weekend as the club prepares to host the North Barrier Branch Surf Rescue Championships and their Junior Club Championships in early December.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry

Ryley Sartori taking out the Open Female flags
Jake Sartori starting the Under 15 board race
Charlotte Dale taking out the Under 12 Female Ironperson

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Saturday PM 29/11 1-5pm - Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry and Lisa Vivian

Sunday AM 30/11 9am-1pm - Group C - Jane Jones PC, Lauren Chapman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman and Shaize Christie

Sunday PM 1-5pm - Group A - Chris Wicks PC, Richard Dale PC, Jane Olsen, Stephanie Dale, Zachary Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner and William Holt

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The Grand Finals for the Burdekin Touch Association were the exciting culmination of a fantastic season. Baywatch A reigned supreme in Division 1 with an outstanding display of attacking Touch. The players’ athleticism, speed and agility ensured that they continued their domination of the competition.

All the hard work and training paid off for Silly Soft Serves as they were successful in Division 2. Laurence Lampton (Coach) and Allyce Becke (Manager) should be very proud of the team’s progress this year. All players have improved significantly and are playing excellent Touch.

Red Rippers were successful in Division 3, capping off a very promising season. A very young Baywatch C team will be a force for next season.

Competition Coordinator, Bob Clerke, thanked all the players, referees and especially parents and congratulated everyone on a very successful season.

U14 player awards-

Baywatch A Best Player Dakkies Daniel and Most Improved Adea Geas

Baywatch B Best Player Shaitay Tahana and Most Improved Xavier Campbell,

Baywatch C Best Player Josephine Twaddle and Most Improved Abby Rattler

Mustangs Best Player Bhree Robertson and Most Improved Abby Becke

Red Rippers Best Player Reni Brock and Most Improved Hoyt Pontifex

Silly Soft Serves Best Player Tayla Chapman and Most Improved Addison Reid

Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton

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Best and Most Improved players recognised for their growth and outstanding performance. Photo supplied

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Another warm afternoon greeted players at Homehill Bowls Club, and it’s still only spring! Twenty-five players took to the greens, including two very important competitors, Wayne Newton and Alex Bojack, finalists in the club singles. Alas for Alex, Wayne prevailed on the day and is our 2025 Singles Champion (pictured: Alex congratulating Wayne). The final was played on Rink 3.

On Rink 4, Michael Young, Elaine Young, and Hugh Montgomery narrowly defeated Judy Elton, Nev Webb, and Mick McClosky. Rink 5 saw Paul Vass, Dino Poli, and Steve Doig record a big win over Bob Young, Ron Smith, and new Skip Margaret Linton – don’t despair, Margaret, it doesn’t get easier! Rink 6 produced another very close match, with Bruce McCallum, Rob Garner, and Jeff Taylor edging out Yogi Bunn, Margaret Chapman, and Joe Linton. The winning rink of the day was Rink 7, where Betty Webb and Glen Bones Berryman (pictured) accounted for Bob Pickard and Mary Poli.

Members are reminded to mark Saturday 29 November at 3 pm in their calendars for the Presentation and Christmas Party. Regular weekly activities continue, with Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, and Wednesday Kraft group alongside Wednesday night barefoot bowls with a sausage sizzle. Thursday mornings feature BINGO, followed by social bowls at 2.30 pm, which is particularly popular during these warmer months. Saturday afternoon social bowls also starts at 2.30 pm, with names in by 2 pm at the latest.

The AGM is fast approaching and nomination forms are available at the bar. During these hotter days, players are reminded to stay hydrated and, if feeling wobbly or unwell, to rest in the cool, air-conditioned bar area.

Until next week, good bowling!

Photos and story by Stephen Doig

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As part of Tennis Australia’s 1 Point Slam community events, Home Hill Tennis is set to host it’s very own 1 Point Slam on Sunday 30th November at 5 pm.

The organizers hope to see a large number of local players take part, hoping to claim victory and a spot in the State Championships draw to be held on Saturday 20 December 2025. We need a minimum of 8 entries online.

Winners of the eight State Championships events around the country will move through to the AO 1 Point Slam Main Draw, where 48 pros, amateurs and wildcards will compete on Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday 14 January 2026 for $1 million.

To represent the club in Brisbane, players must nominate by the 27th of November by 11 pm online at tournaments.tennis.com.au or contact club representative Kate Casswell. If our eventual winner does not wish to travel to Brisbane, then our club will go in the draw to be represented by one of the Pro players in Melbourne at the AO.

The club will be celebrating the end of the year by running a One Point Slam for pickleball and tennis where members can sign on up to the time of the event. The cost to sign on is free and there is a chance for the draw winners to win $125 cash each. Any players who enters will receive a sausage sizzle for free and the best dressed Christmas themed player will receive free drinks. The cost for social tennis and pickleball for the afternoon is $5 each or $10 for the whole family, so come on down to Home Hill Tennis on Sunday afternoon for some fun.

For more information and to register your interest in playing in the 1-point slam phone Kate on 0447384441

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The Burdekin Mixed Touch Football season wrapped up in style last Friday, with finals across seven grades delivering thrills, skill, and plenty of nail-biting moments for the large crowd in attendance.

The A grade final saw Nrgize edge out Alliance Pharmacy 4–3 in a tense contest that swung from end to end, with desperate defence repeatedly halting sweeping attacks. Darian Lampton and Tremayne Horan were named players of the final for Nrgize.

Results Across The Grounds

In B grade, One Touch IT overcame First in Physio 5–4, with Ryan Taylor setting up the decisive try in the closing seconds for Dan Horan. Cooper Cross and Kristy Smith earned players of the final honours.

The C grade clash between Baywatch A and Touch Potatoes went into extra-time after a thrilling 8–8 full-time draw. Baywatch A ultimately scored in the corner, with Angus Watson and Wassie Ghee taking out player awards.

Other highlights included Slush Puppies defeating Renegades 6–3 in D grade, Baywatch B narrowly beating Petrol Heads 8–7 in E grade, and Pink Piggies overcoming Blue Murder 10–7 in F grade, with injured Blue Murder player Dan Walsh impressively scoring four tries.

Season awards recognised top performers, including Caleb Formilan (male best and fairest), Wassie Ghee (female best and fairest), Bruce Johnson as Club Person of the Year, and outstanding referees Riley Dobe, Damian Lampton, and Danny Wilson.

Burdekin Touch President Peter Knapton thanked players, referees, and volunteers for making the season a success, noting, “The Burdekin Touch fields remain the best in North Queensland thanks to the tireless efforts of John and Jono Lewis.” He encouraged players to start organising teams for the 2026 Commercial Tavern Open Touch competition.

The 2025 season finished with a bang, leaving fans and players excited for another year of top-class touch football in the Burdekin.

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Home Hill produced a composed and confident display at Barry Richards Field, securing a 47-run victory over Wests Absolutely Dental in their Second Grade CNQ One Day fixture.

Home Hill posted a competitive 6-160, built on patient partnerships and a late-innings surge. Alexander Romeo anchored the innings with a gritty 43 off 77 balls, absorbing pressure and rotating the strike before falling lbw to Shawn Hague. JD Wilkins starred at the finish, remaining unbeaten on 44 from 52 balls.

In defense, Home Hill’s bowlers executed a disciplined plan to dismiss Wests for 113. JD Wilkins led the attack with 3 wickets from 8 overs, maintaining an economical 4.25. Thomas Cardillo struck early with 2 wickets, followed by another 2 from Al Wilkins in quick succession. Jack Gimson wrapped up the tail with 2 scalps, including a sharp caught-and-bowled to end the innings.

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Home Hill claimed a convincing victory over Northern Beaches in their Third Grade fixture on the weekend, winning by 5 wickets and 96 runs.

After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Home Hill’s attack was relentless from the outset, restricting Northern Beaches to 6/110 from 30 overs. William McLees set the tone with a fiery opening spell, striking twice in quick succession—one LBW and one clean bowled—to leave the visitors struggling at 2/11. Travis Butler and Laurence Zappa maintained the pressure with a wicket each, while captain Brad Parravicini closed out the innings with two crucial breakthroughs.

Home Hill approached the chase with confidence and control. Despite the early loss of Jaiden Rice, skipper Parravicini steadied the innings with a composed 53 off 53 balls, featuring eight boundaries. He combined superbly with Andrew Wallwork, whose explosive 76 off 54 balls—including 10 fours and 2 sixes—kept the scoring rate comfortably ahead. Daniel Olditch added a brisk 32 off 21 balls* to seal the result, with Home Hill posting 5/206 to complete a dominant performance.

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Top scorers of the day, Andrew Wallwork and Brad Parravicini. Photo supplied

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The batters came out on top this week at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex in Home Hill, with only five wickets falling across both the "Blue" and "Gold" groups.

In the Blue Group, Kyle Wilkie remained not out on 10 runs, leading the way and earning the McDonalds Sports Award for his composed batting. Tait Parker and Corbett Cross each bowled a maiden over and were the most economical bowlers, while Mazlyn Smith effected a run out.

In the Gold Group, only three bowlers claimed wickets: Rylan Nicholaides (1/11), Ben Watkins (1/15) and Xavier Cross (1/23). Rylan’s dismissal of Oscar Mahoney on 13 runs was a spectacular caught-and-bowled. Oliver Calligaro made a fast 17 not out and contributed to two run outs, assisted by Tyler Schultz on one occasion. Mark Wilkie top-scored with an unbeaten 19 runs, earning the McDonalds Sports Award for the Gold Group.

The “Challengers” game kept spectators entertained, with 117 runs scored and 13 wickets falling. Partnerships included Nicholas Marrinan and Nate Ryder (23 runs), Flynn Sullivan and Jaxon Watkins (20 runs), and Mitchell Young and Noah Tanner (19 runs). Wickets were shared among Hunter, Nahjiyah, Claire, Jack, Doug, Mitchell, Noah, Nicholas, Aria, and Nate. Olivia Patti took home the McDonalds Sports Award for her outstanding bowling and fielding.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke

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Mark and Kyle Wilkie with their McDonald's Sports Awards after exceptional individual batting displays.
Olivia Patti took home the McDonalds Sports Award for her outstanding bowling and fielding.

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The Bendigo Bank Club of Origin returns to Bendigo Bank Park on Saturday, November 29, with former local teams battling for bragging rights, pride and the enduring spirit of the community.

The event promises a day of big hits, hometown heroes, high-energy action, family fun and plenty of unforgettable moments. The four resurrected local clubs are Colts, Hornets, Brothers and Home Hill.

As an added attraction, a ladies match will be played during the afternoon between Ayr and Home Hill.

Play will get underway at 2pm, with a round robin contested between the clubs in games consisting of two fifteen-minute halves.

The Burdekin Rugby League commenced under that name in 1963, with the last club matches played in 1986. The towns of Ayr and Home Hill then entered teams in A grade, reserve, under 19 and under 17 in the Townsville competition. Home Hill, under coach Billy Heron, won the Townsville reserve grade Grand Final in 19—(year incomplete in original text).

Burdekin later competed in the Burdekin Whitsunday competition until 1994, when they entered the Townsville League again as a club team playing in four grades, achieving immediate success with a premiership in under 19.

Between 1963 and 1986, twenty-four A-grade premierships were decided. Brothers claimed the most with eight, followed by Hornets with seven, Home Hill with five, and Colts with four.

The second-grade competition—run variously as reserve grade or juniors depending on the year, with some years not played—was dominated by Colts, who won six premierships. Brothers and Hornets claimed five each, while Home Hill won three.

In the third division, the under 18/17 competition, Colts won eight, Home Hill seven, Hornets four and Brothers two.

Overall, Colts were the most successful club of the era, accumulating 18 premierships, followed by Hornets with 16, and Brothers and Home Hill with 15 each.

Next week’s edition will feature a list of some of the players taking part in this year’s Origin event, including several well-known older names certain to stir up memories for long-time supporters.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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