In just a week’s time, nine members of the Burdekin Netball Association (BNA) will rock the chop as part of a wonderful fundraising initiative in support of both the Cancer Council Australia and the Ponytail Project!

Aimee Gibson, Kristine Patti, Brittany Bohl, Cailin Gosling, Dominique Gorey, Ella Zabel, Jade Bolam, Tayah Gibson and Tayla McKaig have all committed to cut their hair at the Burdekin Netball Association’s Wigs and Wine fundraising event in aid of Home Hill Harvest Festival Entrant, Aaliyah Gibson next Friday the 29th of August.

The event will see both members of the BNA and the wider community come together for one final “shindig” at the Home Hill courts before the BNA’s clubhouse undergoes an extensive renovation process over the end of season break and tickets to the evening are already on sale!

Priced at just $45, attendees can enjoy a glass of bubbles and a delicious high supper, and all tickets can be purchased from the BNA clubhouse or from NQIB located in Ayr’s Young Street.

With still plenty of time and the event itself to go, the girls have completely smashed their fundraising goals and have raised an outstanding total just shy of $10,000!

The Ponytail Project raises vital funds and awareness to directly support the important work of the Cancer Council Australia whilst developing wigs for those diagnosed with cancer. The BNA understands how a wig can make all the difference in a person’s journey through cancer, and asks anyone who can to donate to the girls’ fundraising links listed on the Burdekin Netball Association’s Facebook page.

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Twenty-four players turned out on another perfect Burdekin winter afternoon, with plenty of exciting action across multiple games.

In the club singles played earlier, Norm Bethell claimed victory over Yogi Bunn on rink 3. One of the closest games of the day took place on rink 3, where Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Steve Doig edged out Judy Elton, Yogi Bunn, and Mick McClosky on countback after scores and ends were tied—a thrilling finish for all involved.

Rink 4 saw Bob Pickard, Ron Smythe, and Trevor Elton secure a solid win against Paul Vass, Des Chapman, and Glen “Bones” Berryman. Meanwhile, rink 5 featured a tight contest with Michael Young, Dino Poli, and Gary Nosworthy prevailing over Margaret Chapman, Sandra Darwin, and Terry Feakes.

In a pairs match on rink 6, Bruce McCallum and Joe Linton were convincing winners against Maureen and Phil Marsden.

The club is currently seeking players for upcoming mixed 4s at Alligator Creek Bowls Club—entry is $100 per player—and the Bowen Club triples competition, both scheduled for the same weekend in August around the 24th. Interested players are encouraged to check the notice board for more details.

Members are also reminded to keep Saturday, 29th November free for the club’s Christmas party and presentation night, to be held after bowls.

Regular activities continue strong, with Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft group, Wednesday night barefoot bowls and sausage sizzle, Thursday morning Bingo, and well-attended social bowls on Thursday afternoons and Saturdays (only $5 entry).

Until next week, good bowling!

Photo and story by Steve Doig.

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Winners Gary Nosworthy,  Michael Young and Dino Poli. Photo supplied by Steve Doig

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This week at the Ayr Bowling Club was filled with friendship and healthy competition. Tuesday 8th August saw Ladies Social Bowls with 6 Ladies giving us 1 triples game.

Ladies’ competition on Thursday 10th crooked kitty was played in a great match Heather Jorgensen defeated Beryl Cornford. In consistency singles Katharina Stuckler defeated Karen Shepherd.

On Wednesday, we saw a great afternoon’s social bowling competition. There were three games of Triples and one game of pairs. Winners were Paul Workman, Ray Wall, and Chris Berkery. On Wednesday evening, social bowls, in the triples game, the winners were Lyn Cecil, John Cesconetto and Heather Jorgensen. Evelyn Wiltshere Jorgensen and Martin Ireland won the second triples game.

Fun Friday Night sponsored by Chiropractic Care Ayr saw 48 bowlers take to the green lots of fun and laughter were had and the weather was fantastic. Winners on the night were Mosayeb, Ali and John. Second place went to Charmaine, Leighann and Nathan. Sportsman’s Prize winners were, Andrew, Rebekah and John. Lucky number board winner was Charmaine and Beryl Cornford won the meat tray raffle. Thanks to our sponsors Chiropractic Care Ayr for their support on our Friday Fun Nights. Our next Friday Fun Night is on Friday 5th September contact the club for information.

Saturday Social Bowls a lively afternoon of competition and camaraderie with 18 bowlers, featuring three engaging games of triples. Emerging victorious on the day were the talented trio of Donna Soper, Mark Pearse, and Sam Caltibiano, who played with skill and sportsmanship.

Competition Mixed singles were played this week with two close games. Irene Wilson defeated Pam Power 25 – 24 in a nail-biting finish. Lew Stidston defeated Joe Grabbi 25 – 23 in a close fought game. Winners now proceed to the next round.

The club also extended a warm welcome to several travelling visitors, whose presence added to the vibrant atmosphere and spirit of friendly play.

Saturday afternoons at the club continue to be a fantastic opportunity for locals and newcomers alike to meet new people, enjoy the fresh air, and discover the joys of bowls. Whether you're a seasoned player or picking up a bowl for the first time, you're invited to come down, give it a go, and join the fun!

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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Twenty-four players turned out on another perfect Burdekin winter afternoon, with plenty of exciting action across multiple games.

In the club singles played earlier, Norm Bethell claimed victory over Yogi Bunn on rink 3. One of the closest games of the day took place on rink 3, where Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Steve Doig edged out Judy Elton, Yogi Bunn, and Mick McClosky on countback after scores and ends were tied—a thrilling finish for all involved.

Rink 4 saw Bob Pickard, Ron Smythe, and Trevor Elton secure a solid win against Paul Vass, Des Chapman, and Glen “Bones” Berryman. Meanwhile, rink 5 featured a tight contest with Michael Young, Dino Poli, and Gary Nosworthy prevailing over Margaret Chapman, Sandra Darwin, and Terry Feakes.

In a pairs match on rink 6, Bruce McCallum and Joe Linton were convincing winners against Maureen and Phil Marsden.

The club is currently seeking players for upcoming mixed 4s at Alligator Creek Bowls Club—entry is $100 per player—and the Bowen Club triples competition, both scheduled for the same weekend in August around the 24th. Interested players are encouraged to check the notice board for more details.

Members are also reminded to keep Saturday, 29th November free for the club’s Christmas party and presentation night, to be held after bowls.

Regular activities continue strong, with Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft group, Wednesday night barefoot bowls and sausage sizzle, Thursday morning Bingo, and well-attended social bowls on Thursday afternoons and Saturdays (only $5 entry).

Until next week, good bowling!

Photo and story by Steve Doig.

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Winners Gary Nosworthy,  Michael Young and Dino Poli. Photo supplied by Steve Doig

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A good weekend for the Panthers, winning three and losing two of the five matches played. On Saturday, at home to Estates the Premiers won 3-1 but the Reserves lost 0-1. On Friday, in Townsville the Ladies beat Saints Eagles Souths 8-0, the Division 1 Men lost 1-3 to Olympic but the Division 2 Men beat Warriors 3-1.

This week the Premiers and Reserves are at away to Brothers, the Premiers at 7.30 and the Reserves at 5.30. On Wednesday night the Ladies, are at home to Wulguru at 7.00 and on Friday are away to Brothers at 6.30. Also, on Friday the Division 1 Men and Division 2 Men are in Townsville. The Division 1 take on Brothers at 8.30 and the Division 2 are up against Saints Eagles Souths at 6.30.

Night Soccer kicks off its 46th year on Tuesday 9th September.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers had a must-win clash against competition leaders Estates to keep their top-four hopes alive. The Panthers delivered when it mattered most, overcoming Estates 3-1 in a determined display. Burdekin started brightly, creating a couple of early half chances, but as the half wore on, Estates began to make life more difficult. The best chance of the opening period fell to Matthew Kolb, who found himself one-on-one with the keeper but couldn’t convert. Moments later, Jack Gimson broke in behind the defence and whipped in a perfect cross, for Kolb to rocket home his header to give Burdekin a 1-0 lead at the break.

Burdekin came out firing in the second half, and in the 55th minute, Jay Leckenby doubled the advantage with a composed finish after latching onto another well-weighted ball over the top. The pressure continued, but despite several good efforts, the elusive third goal didn’t come. Estates pulled a goal back with just two minutes to play, setting up a tense finish. But after relentless pressure from Oscar Licciardello, Elliott Dal Santo pounced to fire home and seal a vital 3-1 win for the Panthers, keeping their finals dream well and truly alive.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves were out to avenge a heavy defeat from the last time they played Estates. Also on the line was the chance to stay in the race for a finals berth. A very committed effort from the start showed that Burdekin were a force to be reckoned with and created some good opportunities that did not yield a goal. The standard of play was very much improved from the home team and confidence was high going into halftime even though the match was still scoreless.

The second half was the same as the first, the Panthers dominated possession and played good football but could not convert one of several good chances into goals. As the clock wound down the pressure to score and get a win meant playing with more attack and in the last few minutes Estates scored a cheap goal on the counterattack. The Panthers played well with plenty of heart but the inability to put the ball in the net was the difference. The win that was desperately needed, and would have been deserved, did not result.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Division 1 men lost 1-3 to MA Olympic in Townsville on Friday night.

Division 2 Men

The C.A. Contracting Funkies had a 3-1 win against Warriors on Friday night. Missing over two hundred years of experience with a few players missing, a very young Funkies team suited up knowing a win would move them into 4th place. Burdekin started very well, Nicholas Cathcart opening the scoring after only a few minutes. Warriors replied soon after to show they were up for the fight. However, the Funkies were the better team on the night and two goals to Fengil either side of half time gave Burdekin a very good win.

Missing several key players, it was an opportunity for others to step up and have an impact on this game. In a strong team performance Heath Swindley and Jarrod Dal Santo in the middle along with the finishing ability of Fengil ensured the Funkies got the three points on the night. Burdekin are now 4th and have their finals hopes in their own hands with only three games remaining.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies scrambled together before their annual ladies day event, sacrificing wet tan, fresh hair and fake nails to secure another victory. The ladies come up against tough opposition in Saints who were very quick to press and defend, However, speed and experience worked to the advantage of the Burdekin who won 8-0. There was some very impressive shooting and runs made by many players in a well-deserved win. Goal scorers were Sienna Lago, Zandi Bonanno, Brielle Astorquia, Charley Ruskin, Karina Guglielmi and Ellyana Mugica. This was a strong effort from the ladies going into a tough must win game this Friday!!

Juniors

Another perfect day for Saturday juniors, with Townsville teams travelling down for some good matches against our local teams. Not too many weeks to go now, enjoy the rest of the season!

Masters

Another good turnout on a winter’s evening, perfect for Soccer. Italy hung on to beat England 5-3 after leading 4-0 at half time. Helped somewhat by the England goalkeeper caught on the phone. Monday Nights at 6.30. Be There!

National and International

The Matildas are playing in the ASEAN Women’s Championship in Vietnam. In their first Group game, last Thursday against Myanmar they lost 1-2 but last Sunday they beat the Philippines 1-0. They next play Timor-Leste on Wednesday. The Socceroos next games are not until September when they play New Zealand in two friendlies home and away, on 5th and 9th of September.

The Quote of the Week is from Jose Mourinho, ex Chelsea, ManU and Real Madrid manager, “Pressure? What pressure? Pressure is poor people in the world trying to feed their families. There is no pressure in football.”

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Last Saturday, the Burdekin Roosters pulled off a stunning turnaround, avenging their 40-point thrashing by Charters Towers with a spirited 28–24 win. Down 18–4 at halftime, they showed remarkable fortitude to storm home, even with tough utility Kali Nauque spending 10 minutes in the bin.

Standout performances from Nevia Nawave, Isaia Vuda, and Kelevi Ralulu proved decisive. Nawave’s powerful running and tackle-breaking set the attacking platform, while Vuda and Ralulu’s explosive carries repeatedly split the Towers’ defensive line. Their relentless work laid the foundation, with the forwards dominating the middle third.

Halfback Dylan Doak came off the bench to steer the side with smart kicking and composure, landing four goals to seal the win. Tries came from Nawave, Terry Connors, Isiah Kuda, and Hayde Munro. The victory keeps Burdekin fifth, equal on points with fourth-placed Western Lions—whom they face away this Sunday—before hosting third-placed Herbert River next week. Captain Joel Mason is sidelined with a knee injury.

The reserves edged Bowen 14–4 in a scrappy match shortened by 18 minutes due to a serious Bowen injury. Down 4–0 at halftime, Burdekin hit back with tries to Sakilisa Dreunimolea, Keon Noah, and Morgan Noah. Llama Ghee was again dangerous, with strong forward efforts from Jack Rushton and Riley Easton.

The Burdekin River Ladies dominated Bowen 80–8, running in 14 tries and 12 goals. 2024 Queensland Country back Toni Daisy scored three, while Tanley Rowe crossed four times. Tiana Krutzfeldt added two tries and a goal, giving her 22 points in two weeks. Forwards Lily Chappell, Taleisha Bulgarelli, Rebecca Pace (12 goals), and Sarah Castles impressed.

Elsewhere, A grade: Souths beat Brothers 34–10, Centrals beat Norths 30–20, Western Lions beat Herbert River 44–14. Reserve grade: Brothers beat Souths 28–12, Centrals beat Norths 32–22, Herbert River beat Western Lions 26–12, Charters Towers bye. Ladies: Centrals beat Norths 38–6.

This week, Burdekin must beat Western Lions in both A and Reserves to stay in finals contention. Tate Brombal and Joel Mason are out; Ethan Hagarty returns, and Doak will play five-eighth. Caleb Noah’s return lifts the reserves.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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On the 19th of July the Ayr Surf Club hosted the Annual North Barrier Branch Presentation Night to wrap up the 2024-25 Season.  The night is a celebration to recognise members from the seven clubs across the Branch - Forrest Beach, Arcadian, Townsville-Picnic Bay, Ayr, Eimeo, Mackay and Sarina - for their dedication, commitment and love of lifesaving in a variety of facets.  Surf sports athletes, teams, coaches and officials were recognised as well as volunteers in their respective areas.  Four of our local lifesavers were acknowledged for their involvement in surf lifesaving for the season and all progress onto the Surf Life Saving Queensland Awards of Excellence as nominees later this month.  A massive congratulations to Stephanie Dale - Official of the Year, Kristy Wassmuth - Master Athlete of the Year, Briella Wassmuth - U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year and Kellie Lawry - Surf Lifesaver of the Year.

2025-26 Season Commences

The 2025-26 Season of lifesaving has also commenced. The Ayr Surf Club held a Come and Try Day and their nipper program has commenced, however if you are keen to join the club for a fantastic family friendly activity, please reach out to ayrslsc@gmail.com or Junior Activities Co-ordinator Kellie Lawry for further details. The patrolling season at Alva Beach will commence on Saturday 20th September, and the club is always looking for more dedicated volunteers to join our patrolling ranks, so please contact club admin for further information.

Over the weekend, the club had 17 keen competitors head to the first carnival of the season at Townsville-Picnic Bay on the Strand to go head-to-head in a water carnival for the day on Saturday 9th. The kids braved the chilly water a little earlier in the season than normal and all had a fantastic day bringing home some great individual and team results. The nipper program will continue over the coming months, with competitors also looking forward to a regular schedule of carnivals leading up to Christmas.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry

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North Barrier Branch Award winners - Stephanie Dale (Official of the Year), Kristy Wassmuth (Masters Athlete of the Year), Briella Wassmuth (U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year) & Kellie Lawry (Surf Lifesaver of the Year)
Ayr Team representing at Townsville-Picnic Bay Carnival
Zachary Dale winning U15 Male Ironperson

Quinn Pontifex and Mackenzie Sartori before their U9 Surf Race

Hoyt Pontifex starting U11 Ironperson

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Three young Burdekin bowlers will put their skills to the test at the 2025 ANC Sunshine Coast Ultimate Tenpin Cup and Ultimate Teams Clash Junior Competitions over the week extending from Thursday the 14th of August until Wednesday the 20th of August.

14-year-old Aidan Butler, 14-year-old Chase Nucifora, and 16-year-old Xavier Jepsen will travel to the Sunshine Coast to compete in the CLS Townsville Jigsaw Team, and the trio could not be more excited to catch up with old friends and make new ones across the six-day tournament.

Having attended the competition in the Gold Coast in 2024, Aiden developed a strong love for the sport six years ago and has played in a few local tournaments where he’s continued to reach new levels of success, breaking free from the bumper league and scoring a personal best game count of 257.

Xavier was first introduced to the bumper league by a family friend seven years ago and has since scored a personal best game count of 279.

With nine years of bowling experience and a personal best game count of 244, Chase jumped into the sport to follow in his family’s footsteps and never looked back.

Annually organised by Corner Pin Standings, the competition attracts players from across Australia and New Zealand to have a bowl with 10 male and 10 female teams set to impress judges for another year.

Weekly, the boys play in a number of bowling leagues, competing alongside both junior and adult players to improve their skills within the supportive Burdekin Bowl community. Although the boys continually look forward to the socialising aspect of tournaments such as the 2025 ANC Sunshine Coast Competition, the opportunity to beat their own top scores and grow their skillsets proves to be the most exciting challenge each year!

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Touch footy fans across the region are gearing up for an exciting day of action as the third annual Burdekin Mixed Touch Football Carnival returns to the Ayr touch fields on Saturday, the 23rd of August.

A growing highlight on the local sporting calendar, the carnival will welcome teams from Townsville, Bowen, Airlie Beach, and the Burdekin, with three divisions on offer: Mixed Under 16, Mixed Open, and Mixed Seniors (over 39 years).

The event promises friendly competition, community spirit, and a fun-filled atmosphere for players and spectators alike with cash prizes set to be awarded to the winners of each division.

Beyond the main competition, the carnival will also feature a range of entertaining sideline events including division sprints and the ever-popular Touch Shoot-Out competition. Spectators and players can also enjoy plenty of food and drinks available throughout the day.

To get involved, teams can nominate by emailing peter.knapton@bigpond.com or calling 0437 710 500.

Teams are able to nominate for just $20 per player, and players can pay on the day of the carnival.

Team nominations and fee payments close on the 15th of August, so don’t miss out on your chance to take the field!

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The Burdekin Mixed Touch Football Carnival will return for the third year this August (Photos Supplied)

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The Wilmar Club Challenge is set to unite all four Burdekin bowls clubs for a special community event this September. Marking the first time in decades that the clubs will compete side-by-side, the Challenge celebrates the spirit of bowls and the strong sense of community in the Burdekin region. Each club will field three teams of four players in a round-robin format, with points awarded for wins, losses, and draws. Supported by club leaders, this promises to be a memorable occasion for players and spectators alike.

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 community life. Today, with a new generation of players stepping up across both the men's and women's teams, the club continues to uphold its strong values on and off the field.

That sense of pride has been amplified with the recent naming of Bendigo Bank Park – a testament to the enduring support from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr. “The sponsorship has had a great impact on the Roosters community,” says club spokesperson Alex Lennox. “It’s brought a sense of professionalism and awareness to just how much the bank gives back to the region each year.”

This five-year partnership isn’t just about naming rights – it’s helping secure the club’s future. As a not-for-profit organisation, the Roosters rely heavily on local sponsorship to survive and thrive. Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr’s backing provides critical stability, funding maintenance and operational costs for new amenities and lighting infrastructure – investments that benefit both senior and junior leagues.

“This partnership reflects a shared vision for the future,” says Alex. “It’s helping us modernise outdated infrastructure and ensure we can offer a strong development pathway for players of all ages.”

And there’s room for everyone to get involved. Whether you're interested in playing, volunteering, sponsoring, or simply cheering from the sidelines, the Roosters welcome all.
Senior Branch Manager for Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, Chantel Michielin, says their board felt that sporting fields and clubrooms become a second home for many families and the sponsorship of Bendigo Bank Park is a reinforcement of their commitment to recognise the value of sport.

“Sport plays a pivotal role in our community. A place where friendships are formed, skills are developed, and a love for the game is fostered”, says Chantel. “Our Community Bank values this connection and will continue to invest part of our profits back into sport in our region”

Catch the action at the final two home games of Burdekin Roosters this year at Bendigo Bank Park on August 9 and August 23. Come for the footy, stay for the community spirit.

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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 discard tiles to build winning hands. Beyond the rules, Mahjong has long been valued as a social pastime, bringing people together for conversation and connection.

Whether you’re an experienced player or completely new to the game, the group offers a relaxed and supportive environment to learn, play, and have fun.

So, if you’re free on Monday afternoons, why not give it a go? For more information or to express your interest, contact Dawn through the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on (07) 4783 4243.

What: Mahjong
When: Mondays, 1-5pm
Where: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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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 scoring.

This Saturday is another Big Day. The Premiers and Reserves are at home to JCU Riverway, the Premiers at 7.00 and the Reserves at 5.00. Saturday is also Sponsors and Old Boys Day! On Friday night the Ladies, are at home to Rebels at 6.30 but the Division 1 Men and Division 2 Men are both away in Townsville. The Division 1 take on Wulguru at 8.30 and the Division 2 are up against Estates at 6.30.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion, cruising to a 5-0 victory over the Rebels in a dominant performance from start to finish. From the opening whistle, the Panthers created a flurry of chances but struggled to make them count. It took a moment of individual brilliance from Ryan Scodellaro, who scored with a long-range strike, to break the deadlock and give Burdekin a 1-0 lead heading into the break.

Despite controlling possession and territory, poor finishing kept the scoreline tighter than it should have been in the first half. But that changed quickly after the restart. The Panthers came out firing, finally finding their shooting boots and piling on four more unanswered goals, through Kai Goodman, Jay Leckenby, Jaidyn Lambie Fabbro and a second goal from Ryan Scodellaro to put the result beyond doubt. The backline remained largely untested and secured a well-earned clean sheet in a complete team performance. The 5-0 win is a welcome boost and a statement of intent, but with a much tougher test against JCU looming this week, the Panthers will need to carry this momentum into what promises to be a far more challenging encounter.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves were back at home to take on Rebels. The side was focussed and from the outset was able to create chances and dominate possession. The Panthers showed early patience to maintain composure and the first goal came at the twenty minute mark Jhett Jones finishing a good passing move. The Panthers game stayed positive, and their effort was rewarded just minutes before half-time when Elliott Dal Santo punished a defensive error. The second half was a comfortable game, with more goals coming from Cooper Kross, Leighton Gallagher and Brayden Card. The result was a boost for team confidence and a chance at finals is possible if the Panthers can maintain that momentum and good attitude.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Panthers played on Friday night against Riverway JCU. This was a very good fight by the Division 1 team. All players took their game to the next level and fought hard. The result did not reflect the way they played but the Panthers just couldn't score in a very good performance. JCU were ahead at half time, courtesy of an

own goal. Notable performances came from Adam Mottin, Oliver Mio and Brayden Card. Zack Durrant was again solid in goal.

Division 2 Men

The C.A Contracting Funkies played MA Olympic in a very entertaining game on Friday night. The Funkies dominated the first half and were rewarded with goals to Jake Lacey and Simon Scuderi. Chris Achille made it 3-0 with a great finish just after half time. In a strange turn of events, the Funkies got a red card during the goal celebration and down to ten men, allowed Olympic to score three goals in twenty minutes to level the score. In a very gritty and tense finish to the game, both teams had good chances, and it was Chris Achille who scored from close range in the last few minutes to give the Funkies at 4-3 a very deserving win. Burdekin finally achieved a win after a few weeks of draws and losses.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies faced off against Warriors in a tough contest that ended in a 1–1 draw. Sienna Lago opened the scoring in the first half with a well-placed shot, giving Burdekin an early lead. Despite a strong first-half performance, the Burdekin ladies were unable to maintain their advantage, with Warriors equalising in the second half. Burdekin continued to create multiple scoring opportunities but could not find the net to secure the win. The Ladies will be looking to bounce back stronger in their next match.

Juniors

A beautiful sunny day for juniors on Saturday both in Ayr and for teams traveling to Townsville. A lot of good football was played with a few sore and tired bodies by the end of the school term break! It is a big weekend this weekend, with regular fixtures on Saturday morning with Townsville teams traveling down, and then, on Sunday it is the club’s annual junior carnival, which is a great day for all. A big thanks to everyone involved to make this day possible.

Masters

A very good turnout meant a twelve a side game on a full-sized pitch. Coventry City and Wrexham played out a 3-3 draw. Monday Nights at 6.30. Be There!

National and International

The Matildas will be playing in the ASEAN Women’s Championship in Vietnam in August. Their Group games are against Myanmar, Philippines and Timo-Leste.

The Socceroos next games are not until September when they play New Zealand in two friendlies home and away, on 5th and 9th of September.

The Quote of the Week is from ex Socceroos Manager Frank Arok before a World Cup qualifying match against Scotland. “They’re not so different. They have two arms and two legs and some of them even have heads.

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Man of the match Ryan Scodellaro. Photo supplied

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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 experienced Brothers outfit boasting four former NRL players. Burdekin had started brilliantly, racing to an 18–0 lead before Brothers used their superior size and experience to close the gap to 18–12 at halftime.

On the wrong end of the penalty count, the Roosters endured relentless pressure in the second half. They led 28–18 late in the match but, with a man down, couldn’t hold out defensively. Brothers leveled with a penalty goal attempt after the siren, but the kick sailed wide, giving the visitors a 30–28 victory over the youthful Roosters side, whose average age is just over 21.

Coach Steve Lansley said the match was fiercely contested, with a few contentious refereeing decisions going against his team. “Despite the defeat, the Roosters showed tremendous grit — every player left nothing in the tank,” he said. Goal-kicking proved the difference as Brothers edged ahead through crucial conversions while Burdekin fought bravely to stay in the contest.

Terrence Mosby was outstanding, making powerful runs and big defensive plays. Jesse Yallop’s speed and creativity troubled the opposition, Hayde Munro controlled the middle with hard carries and strong tackles, and Ethan Hagarty worked tirelessly at both ends. “We had our chances to win, but a few unlucky calls and missed opportunities cost us,” Lansley added. “With this sort of determination, we’ll be a force in the coming weeks.”
Tries: Jesse Yallop, Kali Nauque, Lachlan Shepherd, Terry Connors, Luca Lago; Goals: Joel Mason (4).

Reserves
Reserves coach Peter Horan praised his side’s effort in a 38–20 loss to Brothers. Missing key players Caleb Noah (suspended), John Zaro, Keon Noah, and Riley Easton (injuries), the Roosters dug deep and at one stage trailed by just six against an experienced Brothers outfit.

Horan highlighted strong performances from 17-year-old Leylan Lampton and veteran Jerome Lacco, who returned to help the side. “Lack of experience cost us a couple of tries — we had about ten boys under 20 out there,” he said. Joey Southwell earned players’ player honours for a standout showing, while Matt Lee, Lincoln Boccoalatte, Jaiden Cassela, and Dylan Doak also impressed. Llama Ghee caused problems every time he had the ball. Horan criticised the referee for not penalising a dangerous diving tackle that took out Ghee’s legs.
Tries: Llama Ghee (2), Matt Lee, Bokeem Reid; Goals: Dylan Doak (2).

Ladies
The Burdekin River ladies had a bye this weekend.

Other results
A-grade: Souths 34 def Charters Towers 18; Herbert River 28 def Centrals 8; Western Lions and Norths had byes.
Reserve grade: Charters Towers 34 def Herbert River 12; Herbert River 40 def Centrals 10; Bowen drew 18–18 with Norths; Western Lions had a bye.
Ladies: Norths 34 def Bowen 10; Charters Towers, Western Lions, Burdekin River, Brothers, and Centrals had byes.

Looking Ahead
The Roosters travel to Ingham this weekend for a big clash with Herbert River. The River won when the teams met a fortnight ago, and Burdekin will be out for revenge. Aiden Arisa and Colby Thompson are expected to return, though Joel Mason is in doubt. The Reserves and Ladies both have byes.

In other A-grade matches, Charters Towers host Norths for Country Week in the QRL, Western Lions are at home to Souths, and Centrals face Brothers.

Contributed with thanks Brian Carnes.

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Alex and Gary played a singles match on Rink 4 that Alex won on the 26th end.

Twenty-eight players turned out for another North Queensland winter afternoon. Today's winners were Steve Doig and Bruce McCallum, who unfortunately had to leave before the photo, so visitor Gary Bibby from Augusta Bowls Club in Perth, WA, was thrilled to step into the winners’ photo. People come from far and wide to play on our hallowed green (pictured).

The singles match between Alex Bojack and Gary Nosworthy on Rink 4 was an extremely close game that went to 26 ends, with Alex finally edging Gary out.

Rink 2: Paul Vass, Judy Elton and Phil Marsden won in a narrow one over Margaret Linton, Elaine Young and Yogi Bunn, 24–11.
Rink 6: Norm Bethell, Des Chapman and Hugh Montgomery had a big win over Bob Young, Gary Bibby (visitor) and Tony Eadie, 28–11.
Rink 7: Bruce McCallum and Stephen Doig were on song, accounting for Betty Webb and Jo Roser, 26–11.
One classic example of not reading the instruction manual was Norm Bethell with his brand-new bowling arm, using it facing the wrong way.

Today's raffle was won by Mick Olsen, and a nice bottle of red went to Terry Feakes for the second-place draw.

Monday fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and the Wednesday Kraft group continue to attract locals. Wednesday night barefoot bowls with the usual sausage sizzle (names in by 5:30–6 p.m.) remains popular. Thursday morning BINGO and Thursday afternoon social bowls both draw good crowds. Saturday afternoon $5 bowls is also gaining traction.

Check the notice boards in the bar for upcoming events. Until next week, good bowling.

Photos and story by Steve Doig.

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