The Burdekin Roosters will have three teams competing in the RLT Grand Finals this weekend, with the Under-13s and Under-18s playing on Saturday, and the Reserve grade squad taking the field on Sunday.

The Under-13s are set to face Charters Towers at 8:30am on Saturday, following a commanding 60-0 victory over the Western Lions last weekend. The Miners edged out the Roosters in the major semi-final by just four points, but with a couple of key players returning from illness, the Little Roosters are raring to go.

In the Under-18s, the Roosters will meet Brothers in what promises to be a thrilling clash at 2:00pm, also at the RLT grounds. The young Roosters boast a talented lineup, with many of them earmarked for future senior selection.

One standout is Jye Olsen, who has already made a name for himself in A-grade, winning player awards. Olsen will be a key player at halfback for the Under-18s. Another player to watch is Luca Lago, whose sharp ball skills and blazing speed have also earned him A-grade appearances this year. Speedy centre Jahi Starr and fan-favourite front-rower Llama Ghee, who has played in both A-grade and Reserve grade, will bring their experience to the team.

Ghee is also part of the extended bench for the Reserve grade Grand Final on Sunday. The Under-18 squad is rounded out by standout players like reliable fullback Adam Camer, with wingers Amadeus Bulgarelli and Kane Batchelor ready to finish off scoring opportunities. In the centres, Lincoln Boccolatte and Starr will provide strong attacking play, while the forward pack, led by Joey Southwell and Jacob Horan, will be looking to dominate with solid service from hooker Harrison Lammon.

Back-rowers Leylan Lampton and Johnathon Hunter bring height and versatility, with Jett Castello locking down the pack as a tough ball player.  

The Reserve grade bench will feature an exciting mix of players, including Brody Scrivener, Levi Ludwick, and the lightning-fast winger Maliq Ogomeni. Should the front rowers tire, Archer Swindley will step in to provide big minutes.

With such depth and talent across the teams, the Burdekin Roosters are set for an exciting weekend of rugby league action.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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The Burdekin Roosters U18s are expected to field a talented lineup in this weekend’s Grand Final.

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The return of five-eighth and goal kicker Dylan Doak from suspension proved to be the decisive factor in the Burdekin Roosters' Preliminary Final victory over Bowen last Sunday.

Doak slotted three crucial goals, while Bowen’s kicker missed two vital conversions, allowing Chris Perry's Burdekin team to advance to the Grand Final.

Looking ahead, Coach Chris Perry is hopeful that the return of another key player, Kali Nauque, from suspension will have a similar impact. The Burdekin side faces off against Souths in the RLT Grand Final at the Sports Reserve this Sunday at 1:30pm.

“Kali says very little, but he is a leader with his actions and high work rate,” Perry said.

Known for his fierce defensive tackles, Nauque’s performance is sure to inspire his teammates.

In another boost for the Roosters, defender Alex Lennox is set to return from injury and is expected to provide further inspiration. The coaching staff will also assess the fitness of French International hooker Paul Merlo, who missed last week’s match due to injury.

Reflecting on their previous game, Perry said, “The team had to defend grimly given the lopsided penalty count, and they did so with very few blemishes.”

Souths earned their spot in the Grand Final after defeating Bowen in the semi-final. They’ve only lost one game this season, coincidentally to Burdekin, so they’ll be on high alert. Souths finished the season with an impressive 532 points for and 216 against, compared to the Roosters’ fourth-place finish with 418 points for and 350 against.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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In the same week three Aussie men made it to the last 16 at the US Open, the Ayr Tennis Association was overflowing with local juniors playing in the annual Delta Cup tennis tournament. Ayr tennis coach Patrea Bojack said the weekend was an enormous success with some exciting youngsters heading for higher honours after surviving some close calls on the way to finals.  

Alex Swinney and Michael Lindley led the way in the yellow ball top division while Keegan Carter and Nash Christie fought out the green ball final. Additionally, Tom Chandler and Adison Robertson secured victories in the red ball and orange ball divisions.  

Still in its infancy, the Delta Cup is designed for local kids that are coached by Patrea and her team at Delta Tennis to put the skills they’ve learnt since the start of the year into action in a full tournament.  

“Having this for them you really see the improvement and the main aim is getting them into match mode,” Patrea said.  

“I love to see the kids actually playing a match as tennis is not an easy sport to pick up - it takes time to learn and build skills and I know their parents love seeing them in action”  

Patrea also added Alex Swinney has really started to improve in 2024 and is has been competing in the regional JDS circuit this year. On the back of that Michael Lindley has played consistently to secure a spot in the JDS final this weekend, with the Ayr Tennis Association wishing him all the best for the tournament.

Patrea explained that you are never too young or too old to start playing tennis, and the sport has changed to embrace juniors of all talent levels.  

“We have 5-year-olds, we have 17-year-olds and different coloured levels in tennis now with blue as a pre rally then Red, Orange, Green & Yellow Ball for the juniors to progress to.  

They continue to handle the ball and court better as they progress with the smaller court for the youngest players with lower compression balls and bigger courts and harder balls as they get older,” Patrea said.  
Ayr Tennis Association was fortunate to receive a grant from the Rural Sustainability programme at Tennis Queensland.  This made the weekend a free event and the juniors received a free Delta Cup shirt that represents the colours of their talent levels.  

Patrea Bojack was very thankfull for the support of the club and its volunteers for making the weekend a huge success with great weather as well.  

Friday the Red ballers got the competition underway and after that the club had a social tennis family night where all the courts were full.   

Red Ball results:  
Div 1 winner -Tom Chandler  
Runner up - Lincoln Harvey  
Div 2 winner- Sebastian Belke  
Runner up- Harper Beltrame 
Div 3 winner – Koa Wight 
Runner up – Brydie Mc Shane 
Div 4 winner- Eloise Frau 
Runner up- Mila Bunyan 

The older players took part in the tournament on Sunday and excelled in fantastic conditions.  

Orange ball results: 
Div 1 winner Adison Robertson  
Runner up – Archie Sgori 
Div 2 – winner- leytonn Vidler 
Runner up- Cooper Cordie 
Div 3 – winner -Ebony Cordie 
Runner up- David Holm 
 
Green ball 
Div 1 winner- Keegan Carter 
Runner up- Nash Christie 
 
Yellow ball 
Winner- Alex Swinney 
Runner up – Michael Lindley 

Anyone who would like to take tennis lessons or be part of the next Delta Cup can consult the Delta Tennis or Ayr Tennis Association Facebook sites or come down to watch the JDS finals this weekend at Ayr courts or on Tuesday & Wednesday afternoons.  

Contributed with thanks to Patrea Bojack.

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Delta Cup Red Ballers brought plenty of skill and action to the courts last weekend!
Orange, Green and Yellow Ballers enjoyed the fantastic morning.

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On Wednesday, 28 August, the Brandon Bowls Club celebrated President Joy Woods Day, welcoming 64 ladies from various clubs, both near and far, to join in the festivities. The day unfolded under perfect weather, adding a touch of magic to the friendly games and lively atmosphere filled with laughter.

A special mention goes to the sponsor of the day, DG & M O'Shea Painting Contractors. Their valuable support ensures that days like this are possible, and the club shared sincere thanks to Danny and Marissa O’Shea.

Another beautiful evening unfolded at the Brandon Bowls Club on Friday 30 August as 12 bowlers participated in a close contest over 16 ends of 3-bowl triples.

On rink 5, the team of Ben Mills, Rob Jorgensen, and Jamie Woods faced off against Steve Cockfield, Ross McLaughlin, and Ray Paneccasio. What started as a tight match eventually saw the powerhouse trio of Mills, Jorgensen, and Woods pull ahead to claim victory.

Meanwhile, rink 6 featured a tense game between Margaret McLaughlin, Lloyd Shepherd, and Gary "Mr. Bowls" Pearce, who played against Raymond Tortorica, Jayson Farry, and Joe Yipnazar. After scoring a 5 on the first end, Pearce thought it would be a smooth night, but the dynamic duo of Tortorica and Farry turned the game around, leaving little for skipper Yipnazar to do. As the game approached the 15th end, Gary Pearce used his experience to guide his team to a hard-earned win.

Team Wood took home the scratchies, though there was no Jackpot winner.

In near-perfect conditions, the pair of Jayson Farry and Jamie Woods played a controlling game, ultimately securing a decisive win against Allan Gairoch on Saturday 31 August at the A & B Pairs Championship.

The defending champions, Chris Pearce, Jamie Woods, Len Feeny, and Gary Pearce faced Ben Mills, Glenn Woodford, Vince Beitia, and Leo Kenny on Sunday 1 September for the Men’s as Championship. Although Gary Pearce's experienced team dominated the game, they were met with strong efforts from the inexperienced side led by Leo Kenny. In the end, Pearce’s experience led his team to a comfortable win.

Despite numbers being slightly down due to Father’s Day, 12 dedicated bowlers played triples across two rinks. In the first game, Henry Hazel, Joe Yipnazar, and Peter Henderson were outplayed by T. Ferres, Neville Dickinson, and Hugh Montgomery.

Looking ahead, Trophy Bowls Night, sponsored by Gurgos Paint, will take place on 13 September. Players are encouraged to submit their names through the usual process.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

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Plenty of laughter, and friendly competition was had at the Brandon Bowls Club last week.
Celebrating their first place victory were Marion Nicholson, and Jodie Geissmann, as pictured with Sponsor Marissa O'Shea, Lyn Farr, and President Joy.
Second place went to Pam Power, Colleen Olsen, and Ruth Moore, as pictured with Sponsor Marissa O'Shea and President Joy.
Third place went to June Paynting, Bev Marsden, and Leslie Bates, as pictured with Sponsor Marissa O'Shea and President Joy.

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Burdekin Clay Target Club held their Monthly Shoot on Saturday 31 August. With beautiful weather conditions, the Club’s members performed exceptionally, with celebratory scores across the board. The Club warmly thanks its sponsors,  Joe Caruso Construction and DnS Quality Meats, and Lui Populin for donating the meat tray for the raffle. Burdekin Clay Target Club will hold its next shoot on Sunday 13 October.

Saturday’s Overall High Gun Winners were Joe Caruso, Domingo Diaz, Daniel Scott, and Brian Bonanno. The day’s additional results are as follows:

Event 1-20 Target Double Barrel Continental 15m
AA Grade 1st Joe Caruso, Wayne Cislowski & Ron Gouch 20/20
A Grade 1st Sylvia Rossato, Ron Clive, Annette Vassalini & Domingo Diaz 20/20
B Grade 1st Peter Wade 19/20, 2nd Daniel Scott & John Kinnimonth 18/20
C Grade 1st David Russell 19/20, John Calligaro 17/20, 3rd Rob Ness 16/20

Event 2-20 Target Single Barrel 15m
AA Grade 1st Joe Caruso 20/20
A Grade 1st Ian Kriesel 20/20
B Grade 1st John Kinnimonth 17/20
C Grade 1st Peter Scott 19/20

Event 3-20 Target Pointscore-Sponsored By Joe Caruso Construction
AA Grade 1st Lindsay Groat 60/60
A Grade 1st Ron Clive 60/60
B Grade 1st Daniel Scott 55/60
C Grade 1st Brian Bonanno 53/60

Event 4-30 Target Medley 18m
AA Grade 1st Tony Caruso 50/50, 2nd Joe Caruso 48/50, 3rd Glen Rea 47/50
A Grade 1st Domingo Diaz 48/50, 2nd Annette Vassalini 46/50
B Grade 1st Daniel Scott 44/50, 2nd John Kinnimonth 43/50, 3rd Peter Wade 42/50
C Grade 1st David Russell 40/50, 2nd Toni Scott 40/50, 3rd Peter Scott 36/50

Event 5-25 Target Double Barell Handicap-Sponsored By DnS Quality Meats
1st Daniel Scott 42/43
2nd Tony Caruso 41/43
3rd Lindsay Groat 39/41

Overall High Gun Winners
AA Grade 1st Joe Caruso 169/175
A Grade 1st Domingo Diaz 165/175
B Grade 1st Daniel Scott 156/175
C Grade 1st Brian Bonanno 146/185

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato.

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Competing in Event 2-20 Target Single Barrel 15m were Peter Scott, John Kinnimonth, Ian Kriesel, and Joe Caruso.

Event 3-20 Target Pointscore-Sponsored By Joe Caruso Construction saw Lindsay Groat, Ron Clive, Daniel Scott, Brian Bonanno, and Sylvia Rossato compete.

Event 5-25 Target Handicap-sponsored by DnS Quality Meats hosted competitors Tony Caruso, Daniel Scott, and Lindsay Groat.

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Wednesday 28 August marked another fantastic Spearritts Jewellers Day at the Ayr Golf Club, with longtime sponsors Jim and Pat Nuttall generously providing three exceptional prizes for the top golfers. The course was in pristine condition, and the weather remained pleasantly ideal for play.

A field of 21 ladies competed in what was a closely fought contest, with standout performances by the winners. Bev Andrews rolled back the years with an impressive 41 points, claiming the top spot and the coveted Gold Voucher. In second place, Donna Reid finished with 35 points, closely followed by Shirley Jones, also on 35 points, who took third place.

Congratulations to all the ladies on a great day of golf!

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

Celebrating victory, Donna Reid, Bev Andrews, and Shirley Jones were Wednesday’s champions at the Ayr Golf Club’s Spearritts Jewellers Day.

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Father’s Day saw an early start for some, as NQ Green Solutions proudly sponsored the Ayr Closed Junior Championships on Sunday 1 September. Fourteen junior golfers hit the green, showcasing their talent and love for the game to kick off the first day of Spring.

In the 3-hole division, Hudson Suficiencia claimed the gross winner title, while Opie McKeough secured the nett winner spot. In the 6-hole competition, Jett James impressed with a solid round, taking home the nett winner award. Sam Heatley, a newcomer to the competition, was the gross winner and is expected to step up to the 9-hole format by year’s end after a standout performance.

For the 9-hole division, Amaya Mahoney triumphed as the gross winner with a score of 45, while Oscar Mahoney edged out Kyle Wilkie on a countback to claim the nett winner title. Kyle, playing his first round of 9 holes, also delivered a commendable effort. Well done to all the juniors!

Contributed with thanks to Laura Mahoney.

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Hudson, Celine and Opie showcased their talents in the 3-hole division.
In the 6-hole division were Jett, Evelyn, Logan, Heath and Sam.
Taking to the green in the 9-hole division were Amaya, Gabby, Oscar and Kyle.

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23 players turned out on another perfect winter’s afternoon. Incidentally, the last Thursday of this winter next week will be spring. Today's winners were Rink 3. Bob Y and Glen [Bones] over Paul and Cy. Rink 4. Jimmy, Tony and Johnno defeated Terry, Bob and Joe.  Rink 5. Margaret, Stephen and Hugh accounted for Yogi, Gary and Mick Mc.  Rink 6. Des, Ray H and Jeff beat Judy, Dino and Henry. 1st touches of the day winning a $5 voucher went to lead Yogi. 2nd Joe and eventually Skip got one, good one Cy. The winning team pictured Bob and Glen. 2nd place Des, Ray and Jeff. 3rd place - Margaret, Stephen and Hugh. The meat tray raffle was won by Ray Hollis a visitor from Groper Creek. The mystery ball was drawn by Henry.  No winner. Jackpot next week $300. Thanks again to our sponsor Molongle Creek. Other events at the club include Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft group and Wednesday night barefoot bowls, Thursday morning BINGO and the very popular Thursday afternoon social bowls and now also Saturday afternoon bowls start at 1.30 pm, names to be in by 1 pm. The club is still taking donations of food, stuff, etc for the monster hamper to be drawn at the Harvest Ball. Tickets are still on sale for the raffle made and donated by Yogi a beautiful table with matching side tables.

Until next week, good bowling, Stephen Doig.

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The stage was set for the Preliminary Finals on Sunday 1 September, with the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads fighting for their place in both grades. The Reggies delivered a strong performance, but the Brothers capitalized on their chances, demonstrating a polished game. Both sides engaged in a physical and fast-paced contest that kept the spectators captivated. Unfortunately, luck was not on our side, as the Brothers overcame the Toads, knocking them out of Grand Final contention with the final score being 32 – 12.

The second game was a nail-biter! Locked in a tense deadlock with just five minutes remaining in the first half, North Ward broke through to take the lead. But the Canetoads rallied, executing some brilliant tries and pulling ahead to 17-12 with only 20 minutes left on the clock. The Old Boys responded, sending the score to 24-19 and raising everyone’s pulse. In a tense finish, the Toads managed to keep possession in the closing minutes, controlling the game and securing the win we needed to advance to the Grand Final next weekend!

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads also shared a special shout-out to all their Rugby Dads, past and present, Sunday to celebrate Father’s Day!

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

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The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads put on a nail-biting game for Sunday’s Preliminary Finals Showdown.

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The Home Hill Golf Club welcomed 26 players to the green on Friday 30 August, despite many regulars being away. The club shared a special welcome to newcomer Dan, and a warm welcome back to Dave Cannavan!

Kieren Dawes and Robert Marshall claimed the pin shots, while the ladies unfortunately missed out on apparently “finding the green”. Doug McCubben had the least putts of the day, finishing with an impressive 11!

Gary Pappalardo emerged as the overall winner of the day, and Kevan Chatfield walked away with the lucky ticket, though no win this time, with the jackpot rolling over to $700 next week!

Looking for a fun, social, and active way to spend your afternoon? The Home Hill Golf Club invites all ladies to a FREE "Come and Try" golf day next Saturday 14 September, where you can learn the basics of golf with PGA professional Tara Jenkins. Whether you’re new to the game or just looking to sharpen your skills, this event offers a relaxed and enjoyable environment to try something new.

It’s the perfect opportunity to mix fun, socialising, and a bit of exercise! So, come along, make some new friends, and give golf a go - whether you're a complete beginner or just looking for a social round with like-minded women.

What: Home Hill Golf Club’s FREE Sip ‘n Putt
When: Saturday 14 September 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Where: Home Hill Golf Club
More Information: Contacting Megan Barbagallo or the Home Hill Golf Club

Contributed with thanks to the Home Hill Golf Club.

Calling all ladies! The Home Hill Golf Club invites you to come along for a FREE Sip ‘n Putt event next Saturday 14 September.

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The Ayr Surf Club is extending an invitation to the public - both new and returning members  - to become part of this fantastic club. Now is the perfect time to get involved with Surf Life Saving Queensland, the largest volunteer organisation in the world, and help build a safer, stronger community. Whether you're a strong swimmer, skilled in first aid, or simply want to lend a hand, there's a role for everyone at the Ayr Surf Club. Enjoy the sunshine, forge new friendships, and make a positive impact by saving lives. Wear the iconic red and yellow with pride!

Be a Lifesaver - Your Way!
Lifesaving can fit into your life however you choose. Whether you can offer a few hours a week, one day a month, or every other weekend, you can bring your passion to the local surf club. For the love of your beach community, your enthusiasm for safety, or your craving for excitement, surf lifesaving offers the chance to learn new skills and meet great people. Join today and be a part of something meaningful.

There’s a Role for Everyone!
Surf lifesaving is open to all, regardless of age or background. Whether you’re recently retired or seeking a purposeful way to give back, the Ayr Surf Club welcomes you. You could be grilling sausages at the nippers’ Sunday BBQ, helping with patrols, or supporting fundraising efforts—there’s a role for everyone. Find your place in our lifesaving family!

The club understands life is busy, and they only ask for the time you can give. Whether it’s 5, 10, or 50 hours, your contribution will be valued. It's a fulfilling experience that fits into even the most packed schedules.

With the new patrolling season starting next Saturday, 14 September, now is the perfect time to get involved. Nippers activities are already underway, but there’s still time to join in the fun!

For more information, contact the club administrator at ayrslsc@gmail.com to connect with a club representative and learn more about getting involved.

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The Ayr Surf Club is calling on the community to join in and make a difference!

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Fun in the Sun
The boys bowling their best
Determining who has won
Who won this time?
Reset and ready for a new game
A close game
Yogi the man building a table for an upcoming raffle

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1. Where were you born?
Home Hill.
2. What is your occupation?
Sugar Cane Farmer.
3. What is your dream car?
1969/1970 XW Falcon with all the gear.
4. Do you make your bed or get up and go?
Get up and Go.
5. Who is a person you would like to meet?
Jimmy Barnes.
6. What is your favourite sport to follow?
Running, I like to watch Usain Bolt.
7. You’re broken down on an outback road with no service. Do you kip the night and wait or walk and hope?
Kip the night and wait.
8. What has been your favourite game of bowls?
Being on TV for the Dunne Cup.
9. What do you like about bowls?
The camaraderie and the fact that it’s a place to make friends
10. You’re stranded on a deserted island. What is it that you want most?
A fishing line.

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Alex Bojack poses for his picture

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Mondays 10am – Exercise Group
Tuesdays 9am – Tuesday Trimmers
Wednesdays 9am – Friends and Neighbours Craft Group
12:30pm – Bowls
5:30pm – Social Barefoot Bowls
Starting Soon: Saturday, Open Pairs
Phone number: 0468 313 115
Home Hill Community Bowls Club wishes to thank all club sponsors

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Round 1 finals 15/08/24
Crushers won against Cougars at the Anzac
Falcons won against Nat I at the Ayr
Nat II won against Ants at the National
National II and Crushers automatically go into round 3

Round 2 finals  22/08/24
Falcons won against Ants at the Queens
Nat I won against Cougars at the National

This week’s games 29/08/24
Falcons v Nat II at the Ayr
Crushers v Nat I at the Anzac
Winner of these two games go into the grand final to be played at the National.

On Sunday we had the Tom Barrett Trophy with some great games being played, congrats to all that made it to the final rounds. The grand final was played between Mick Parison & Dennis Mondin v Sean Farrell & Mark Schofield with Mick and Dennis taking out the trophy for 2024.

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Davison.

2024 Trophy winners Mick Parison and Dennis Mondin!

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