Two enthusiastic Lower Burdekin Cub Scouts took part in the Regional Cub Sailing Day at the Townsville Sailing Club on Saturday, 10 August. Being the first to arrive, they kicked off their adventure with an up-close look at the yachts.

A total of 17 Cubs enjoyed a morning packed with activities, including sailing instruction, games on the foreshore, and a thrilling ride in the rescue boat. The weather couldn't have been better, with sunshine and a gentle breeze making for a perfect day on the water.

After sharing their experience with the rest of their Scout group, the Cubs will be able to earn a boating badge, marking their accomplishment in this exciting water activity.

A big thank you to Dianne and the team at the Townsville Sailing Centre for providing a fantastic day out for the Cubs!

Contributed with thanks to Chris Berkley.

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The Handicap Pennant competition in North Queensland was a showcase of skill and sportsmanship, with golfers from across the region coming together to compete over the last weekend of July.

The women's events were particularly thrilling, with Mackay #1 clinching the Division 1 title after a tense countback from Proserpine #1, while Sarina dominated in Division 2.

The Ayr #1 team's narrow victory in their match was a testament to the close competition, and the excitement was palpable as Mackay's #4 team triumphed in Division 4.

Ayr #3's win in Division 5 at the Ayr Golf Club added to the weekend's highlights.

A historic moment was marked at Magnetic Island, hosting the Women Pennant for the first time, with the Magnetic Island #1 team emerging victorious. In the men's category, the competition was equally fierce, with Collinsville taking the top spot in Pool A and Ayr winning Pool B. The event was a celebration of golf, bringing together a community of players who share a passion for the game.

Contributed with thanks to Karen Hindle.

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2024 Women’s Pennant Div 5 Ayr.
2024 Women’s Pennant Div 1 Mackay.
2024 Women’s Pennant Div 6 Magnetic Island.
2024 Women’s Pennant Div 2 Sarina.
2024 Men’s Pennant Pool A Collinsville.
2024 Women’s Pennant Div 3 Ayr.
2024 Men’s Pennant Pool B Ayr.
2024 Women’s Pennant Div 4 Mackay.

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On Saturday 10 August, the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads will host their eagerly awaited annual Old Boys Day at Casalegno Fields. This event, a cornerstone of the club's calendar, brings together former players, coaches, and volunteers who eagerly anticipate the opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the camaraderie of the past.

Old Boys Day is a time for celebrating anniversaries of past premiership wins, with many former members traveling from across the country to return to the Burdekin region. It's an opportunity not only to visit family but also to catch up with old rugby mates.

The Old Boys Group, established about fifteen years ago, provides a way for past players to stay involved with the club. They contribute in various ways, from manning the bar on Ladies Day to operating the gate at home games and offering support wherever needed. Over the years, the funds raised by the Old Boys have supported the club's juniors, providing over $25,000 in financial assistance to those who have made representative teams. The group has also hosted old boys boot camps, promoting both physical and mental well-being through continued connections within the group.

“‘Be there or stay fat’ was our motto for the old boy’s boot camps - I’m not sure if we achieved much of an improvement to our physical health but the connections you maintain from groups like this certainly help with mental wellbeing,” shared Murray Cannavan.

This year's Old Boys Day will feature a "Father's Day" theme, inviting all fathers of current men's and women's team players to join the festivities in the Old Boys area. The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads extend a warm invitation to all dads to be part of this special day.

“Our club and rugby in general has always been a very inclusive community and we’d love to see all of the dads there,” invited Murray.

What: Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads’ 2024 Old Boys Day.
When: Saturday 10 August.
Where: Casalegno Fields.
More Information: Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads Facebook Page.

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Come on down to Casalegno Fields on Saturday 10 August to celebrate what it is to be a toad for the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads’ 2024 Old Boys Day.

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The Burdekin Roosters A Grade team showcased their true potential with a commanding 62-22 win over Centrals at the Sports Reserve in Townsville on the afternoon of Saturday 3 August.

The Roosters surged ahead early, leading 16-0 before the Tigers clawed back to make it 26-12 at halftime. In the second half, Burdekin dominated, scoring 36 points to 10, with six of the Tigers' points coming in the final minute.

The Roosters exhibited excellent speed and support play, with multiple tries scored through well-coordinated team efforts. The forwards, led by Henry Teuteu, Paul Merlo, and Lachlan Shepherd, controlled the game, with Tate Brombal making his presence felt in the tough conditions.

The backs were the stars of the match, with Terry Connors earning Player of the Match Honors for his speed and elusive play. Joel Mason, in top form at fullback, scored 18 points with a try and seven goals, aided by Epi Kikau and Ethan Hagarty, who returned from an ankle injury.

Coach Steve Lansley praised the performance of his team, highlighting the exceptional play of Henry Teuteu. Lansley also integrated three players from the high-flying under-18 side - Jye Olsen, Luca Lago, and Llama Ghee - who all performed admirably, with Lago scoring a try.

"We have one game left next week against Herbert River and if we can reproduce that form we will give them a shake too,’ explained Lansley.

Tries: Terry Connors (3), Henry Teuteu (2), Paul Merlo, Kali Nauque, Lachlan Shepherd, Epi Kikau, Ethan Hagarty, Joel Mason, Luca Lago. Goals: Joel Mason (7).

In other A-grade matches, Norths upset Brothers 22-20, Souths defeated Charters Towers 36-18, and Herbert River beat Western Lions 32-12.

In the Reserve Grade, Roosters' Reserves coach Chris Perry expressed disappointment after his team fell 30-22. Despite leading 16-0, mistakes and contentious decisions, including disallowed tries and penalties, turned the tide.

"We seemed to be going well leading 16 nil, but then we suddenly started making mistakes which appeared very doubtful - we are throwing silly passes instead of taking the tackle,” said Perry.

Caleb Noah was named Player of the Match, with Brody Ferguson also receiving praise. Dylan Doak scored two tries and kicked three goals for 14 points, with additional tries from Suli Korisau and Paul Banigan.

In other reserve grade results, Bowen beat Herbert River 16-12, Brothers defeated Norths 28-10, and Souths beat Charters Towers 38-10.

The Burdekin Hens were outclassed by a well-drilled Centrals team, losing 60-6. The undefeated Lady Tigers have scored 464 points this season, conceding only 48.

Hens coach Anita Hagarty commended her team's effort despite the defeat. Recently selected Queensland Country winger Toni Daisy scored the Hens' only try, with Stephanie Monday converting.

Young centre Tiana Krutzfeldt was named best on field for the Hens.

In other ladies' matches, Brothers beat Norths 46-4, and Western Lions defeated Herbert River 36-6.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Burdekin Hens coach, Anita Hagarty praised the girls’ efforts last weekend despite their unfortunate loss to Centrals.

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The Home Hill Golf Club’s Ladies’ Sip ‘n Putt sessions were the brainchild of Club Secretary Megan Barbagallo. After securing funding from the Queensland Government’s “Active Women and Girls Program,” the club aimed to increase female participation in golf, and developed a ladies’ only series of events which began on Saturday 20 July. The Sip ‘n Putt concept encourages women to try the sport for the first time by highlighting the fun, social, and exercise aspects, plus the bonus of a free beverage!

The inaugural Ladies’ Sip ‘n Putt on Saturday 20 July was a great success, with nine women joining PGA Professional Tara Jenkins for basic golf drills, socialising, and a fun gathering afterward. The positive feedback has all the attendees eager to return to the green at the Home Hill Golf Club, and many are planning to bring a friend along to the next session.

The upcoming session on 17 August will cover grip and swing basics, ensuring new participants can catch up quickly, with the second half set to focus on chipping and putting around the green, followed by another spectacular social session.

Ladies interested in trying golf are invited to join the fun at Home Hill Golf Club on Saturday, 17 August at 3:30 pm… and remember, golfers live longer!

Contributed with thanks to Megan Barbagallo.

What: FREE Ladies’ Sip ‘n Putt.
When: Saturday 17 August at 3:30pm – 4:30pm (future dates: 14 September & 12 October).
Where: Home Hill Golf Club.
More Information: Home Hill Golf Club’s Facebook Page or by contacting Megan Barbagallo.

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A social success! The Home Hill Golf Club invites any ladies interested in having a go at the sport to pop down to the green next Saturday 17 August!

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On Sunday 28 July, numerous teams of talented, young Burdekin Football Club athletes traveled to Townsville to put it on the field at the Wulguru Carnival yielding fantastic results across the highly enjoyable day! The results are as follows:

JDS Under 8
Finished 3rd
Pool games - two wins, one loss
Won 3rd v 4th playoff 8-0 defeating Wulguru

JDS Under 9
Finished 5th
Pool games - two wins, one draw, one loss
Won 5th v 6th playoff

JDS Crusaders Under 10
Finished 3rd
Pool games - three wins, one loss.
Won 3rd v 4th playoff in shootouts

JDS East’s Under 10
Finished 6th
Pool games - one win, three losses
Lost 5th v 6th playoff

JDS Under 10 Girls
Finished Runners Up in Girls 10/11 Comp
Pool games - won all three
Lost 1st v 2nd playoff 1-0 to MAO

JDS Under 12
Finished 4th
Pool games - one win, one draw, one loss
Lost 3rd v 4th playoff in shootouts 3-5

Photo credits to Melanie Louise Profke.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Football Club.

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Local

Last weekend was a much better weekend for the Burdekin Panthers as they won three and drew one out of the four games played. The Division One Funkies drew 3-3 away to Estates Navy on Friday night in Townsville. The other three teams were all at home to Saints Eagles Souths on Saturday. The Premiers won 4-0, the Under 23s won 1-0 and the Ladies won 2-1.

This week the Panthers have five games with the Division 1 Funkies playing twice.  On Tuesday night they are at home to Brothers and then on Friday night they are playing Ingham in Townsville. On Saturday, the Premiers, Under 23s and Ladies are all away to JCU Riverway.

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers having lost to Saints last time out were keen to make amends. It started very well for the Panthers with the first chance coming in the opening minutes. In the twelfth minute, after a superbly taken free kick was tapped onto the bar, Antoine found himself unmarked on the goal line to calmly tap home for the opening goal. Six minutes later, Jay Leckenby scored with a left foot volley which left the keeper no chance. Just after the half hour mark, Luke Maguire finally got his goal after having a few shots saved by the goalkeeper. The half ended 3-0. The second half started as the first finished, with the Panthers camped in the Saints half, and the Saints keeper having plenty to do. It wasn't until the 76th minute that Maguire found himself with another goal after a mazy run. The match ended in a 4-0 win for the Panthers. If not for a top performance from the Saints goalkeeper, it could have been a much worse scoreline. 

Burdekin FC Reserves were a little bit light on for troops this week due to injuries in both grades, but the coach was confident that the squad taking the field could do the job of getting a win on Sponsors Day. Burdekin started well dominating possession creating several clear chances during the first half hour but couldn’t convert to goals. The subs bench provided some extra energy and at the 30 minute mark an excellent corner from Jhett Jones was headed in by Connor Brown. The rest of the half was the same story with goalkeeper Luke Mottin only called on for one good save to deny a Saints counterattack. It was a different game in the second half playing into the wind, good field position was much harder to get as the amount of possession swung back in Saints favour. The Panthers defence was resolute and absorbed a lot of pressure. Midfield worked hard and gave the forwards opportunities to make counter attacks but there was no change to the score and the Panthers had a well deserved 1-0 win.

The Austral Masonry Funkies played out a six goal thriller against Estates on Friday night at Burt Street Football Park. Burdekin were on top early moving the ball around well and getting in behind the Estates defence with a number of through balls. Unfortunately, none of these breaks resulted in a goal. Estates had a couple of chances that were shut down by some scrambling defence and the teams went to the half time tied at 0-0. Burdekin went behind early in the second half after a ball was not cleared  from a corner. This rattled the Funkies, and they conceded a second goal two minutes later from almost the same spot. Burdekin then lifted and were rewarded when a shot from Jack Shears took a deflection from a defender and went in after 61 minutes. Estates restored their two goal lead in the 68th minute and then tried to see out the game by slowing it down. The Funkies struck again in the 74th minute with a goal from Alec Contzonis and Jack Shears then equalised in the last minute. A good draw for the Funkies after twice being two goals down. Burdekin have a catch up game at home on Tuesday night against Brothers.

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies were fired up and ready to go as they held the main game time slot on Saturday. In front of a huge crowd, the ladies showed great enthusiasm and promise as they attacked hard and fast. Sienna Lago set the pace following a ball in the back of the net opening the scoring for the ladies in the 12th minute. Burdekin continued pushing forward and were rewarded with a goal from Ellyana Mugica in the 21st minute. Charley Ruskin put on a brilliant performance in goal for the first half, keeping the girls in the game and saving many crucial shots. In the second half, the Ladies continued to push forward but couldn’t manage another goal. In the 67th minute, a freekick just outside the Burdekin penalty area allowed Saints to score. The Burdekin showed determination in defence and in attack were unfortunate to not add another goal but came away with a 2-1 win in their last home game for the year!

The Under13 & Under15 Panthers did not have matches last weekend.

Masters

Had another good turn out and in a pre-play of the Olympics semi-final Spain thumped Morocco 4-0. Just two more weeks of Monday Night Masters before 2024 season winds up. Delta Cleaners Night Soccer begins its 46th Season on Tuesday 3rd September.

Juniors

Juniors had local matches on Saturday.  Townsville teams recommence coming down this weekend for the next four weeks.  Our breakup and final local games will be on Saturday 7th September.  Enjoy what is left of the rest of this successful season!

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The highly anticipated Delta Cleaners Night Soccer is set to kick off on Tuesday, 3 September, at International Park. This Six-a-Side competition is open to both Men's and Women's teams, with all players required to be over the age of fifteen. Nomination forms are available at Delta Cleaners, InterSport, and Sportfirst, and must be returned by Friday, 23 August.

Celebrating its 46th season, Night Soccer began in Home Hill in 1979 with the goal of helping the Burdekin Football Club, then known as Ayr Parkside, maintain fitness during the off-season. Initially, the competition featured eight Men's teams. The following year, the event moved to Ayr and has been held at International Park since 1981.

A highlight of the Night Soccer competition is the "Sin Bin," where misbehaving players are publicly named and shamed. These players are benched for three minutes, forcing their team to play with only five members during that time.

Last year, the Night Soccer competition saw a record participation of forty-eight teams, with thirty-two Men's teams and sixteen Women's teams. The season will commence with two trial weeks, followed by group games, and will conclude with the Grand Final on Friday, 13 December.

Contributed with thanks to Cyclops.

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The infamous Sin Bin continues to serve as one of the many highlights of Night Soccer at International Park.

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The Burdekin Roosters' A grade and ladies’ teams are on a bye this week, but the Reserve team is gearing up for an important match in Bowen on Friday night.

The Reserve grade competition is heating up, with Souths clinching the minor premiership. The race for second, third, and fourth place is wide open. Currently, Souths lead with 28 points, followed by Bowen and Centrals with 22 points each, and Burdekin close behind with 21 points.

This Friday night's clash between Bowen and Burdekin is pivotal. Bowen will earn two points from a bye in the final round, while Centrals are set to play Norths and Charters Towers. The Roosters will travel to Bowen on Friday and then host Herbert River in a "Super Saturday" event next week.

The Roosters previously secured a solid win over Bowen in Ayr on a Friday night a couple of months ago. However, coach Chris Perry faces challenges with player availability due to injuries. Forward leader Jerome Lacco will miss the game due to work commitments, but the team will see the return of hard-working Alex Lennox.

French hooker Paul Merlo was injured last Saturday, but Tate Brombal and Hayden Lammon are fit to play. There is uncertainty regarding Dylan Doak's availability after his dismissal in the controversial loss to Centrals.

The statistics show a tight competition between the two clubs: Bowen has 22 points from 10 wins and a bye, while Burdekin has 21 points from 8 wins, a draw, and two byes. Bowen has scored 361 points with 272 against, while the Roosters have 390 points with 302 against.

The much-anticipated match at Denison Park in Bowen is set to kick off at 7:30PM on Friday 9 August.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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The Burdekin Roosters Reserve team will travel to Bowen this Friday night with Tate Brombal and other skilled players expected to take to the field.

The Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club proudly acknowledged the outstanding performance of its 10 members who competed at the Secondary School Surf League in Townsville. These young athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the competition, showcasing the club's dedication to excellence.

Special congratulations go to Milla and Parker, who were named age champions for the day.

The Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club looks forward to more such accomplishments in the future and continues to encourage young members to participate and excel in surf lifesaving activities. Well done to all the competitors!

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club.

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The Ayr Bowling Club extends a huge congratulations to the Ladies’ Premier Cup Team - Beryl Cornford, Heather Jorgenson, Desley Olsen, Irene Willson, and Pam Power. The team performed sensationally, securing fourth place in a field of 12 teams from around the district, with Ayr achieving 7 wins, +23, and 116 ends!

In social bowls on Wednesday 31 July, three games of triples and one game of pairs were played, with J. Papale and B. Shepherd celebrated as the victorious winners.

Another highlight at the Ayr Bowling Club over the past week was the Ayr Ladies Classic Triples with teams from Townsville and Bowen competing achieving the following results:
Winners: Robyn Stitt, Tracey Roach, and Wendy Coles from Bowen.
2nd Place: Terri Crozier, Denise Wallace, and Penny Warren from Wangaratta.
3rd Place: Deslie Olsen, Joy Comollatti, and Irene Wilson from Ayr.

Round winners included:
Round 1: Ruth Moore, Rayleen Hervey, and Heather Jorgensen.
Round 2: Katharina Stuckler, Beryl Cornford, and Pam Power.
Round 3: Robyn Engert, Lorraine McClintock, and Lynette Riches.

The club extends sincere thanks to sponsors Wilmar, Kalamia Hotel, Wrights Funerals, and the family of Matilda Tapiolas.

On Saturday 3 August, the club hosted an afternoon of enjoyable social bowls, celebrating winners J. Grabbi, A. Gauvin, and S. Caltabiano. The Ayr Bowling Club shared it was wonderful to see more visitors joining for a roll.

Over the weekend, four members - Lorraine Wolffe, Pam Power, Anthony Bull, and Maurie Power - competed in the Kirwan Sports Club Open/Mixed 4s in Townsville. While they did not secure the top prize, their participation represented the club well in a high-standard competition.

This weekend, the Ayr Bowling Club extends best wishes go to Joe Grabbi and Maurie Power as they head to Jubilee Bowls Club to compete in the North Queensland Singles Championships - B Grade and A Grade, respectively. Good luck, gentlemen!

Please refer to the club board for further championship club games scheduled for 11 August. Mixed competition closing dates are also posted on the club board, and the club asks players enter your teams as per the closing dates.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

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The Premier Cup Team has been celebrated and congratulated for securing fourth place out of twelve teams!
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Hosting Classic Triples, Ayr Bowling Club secured third place against teams from Bowen and Townsville.

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Sunday afternoon at the Brandon Bowls Club saw players battling challenging wind conditions. Despite the difficulties, Norm Storrie, Geoff Taylor, and Peter Henderson triumphed, defeating Henry Hazel, Gary Nosworthy, and Ray Panacassio!

In second place, Ben Mills, Doug Kiehne, and Doug Robins outplayed Jim Murray, Vince Beitia, and Alan Garioch. Ken Ferguson, Helen Collins, and Kevin Collins secured third place by overcoming Mick McClosky, Hugh Montgomery, and Leo Kenny.

Friday night's celebrated winners were Ben Mills, Ross McLaughlin, Joe Ypinazar, and Gary Pearce.

Regular games are held every week on Wednesday afternoon, Friday night, and Sunday afternoon at the Brandon Bowls Club, and the community is invited to call 0476 302 889 for more information.

Contributed with thanks to Lyn Storrie.

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32 players participated on another perfect winter afternoon. Thursday's winners were Steve (Giru), Sandra, and Mick McClosky. The day was sponsored by Oar and Horan.
Rink Results:
   • Rink 2: Judy & Gordon narrowly defeated Ron and Henry 20-18.
   • Rink 3: Kim, Tony & John, in another close game, won over Mick, Terry, and Trevor 20-19.
   • Rink 4: Ron, Bruce, and Gary accounted for Des, Bob, and Joe 19-10.
   • Rink 5: Steve, Sandra, and Mick McClosky won another close game over Tony C, John Mc, and Henry 18-17.
   • Rink 6: Mark and Wayne defeated Yogi and Glen (Bones) 18-12.
   • Rink 7: Alex, Mick, and Jeff beat Margaret, Dino, and Cy 19-14.
Additional Information:
   • Raffle Winner: Steve Muty from Giru
   • 2nd Prize: Bob Pickard
   • Mystery Ball: Drawn by Glen "Bones" Berrymen, no winner; next week's jackpot is $200.
Upcoming Events:
   • Monday Morning: Fitness
   • Tuesday: Trimmers
   • Wednesday Morning: Kraft Group
   • Wednesday Night: Barefoot Bowls
   • Thursday Morning: BINGO
   • Thursday Afternoon: Social Bowls (please ring your names in by 1 pm, earlier if possible)
   • Saturday Afternoon: Bowls
Till next week, good bowling.
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Contributed by: Stephen Doig
Photos by: Trevor Elton

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Crushers v Bombers at the Queens  7-3
Cougars v Nat I at the Ayr  10-0
Nat II v Falcons at the National  6-4
Ants had the bye 10 points

Points:
Nat II - 155, Crushers – 143, Falcons - 131, Nat I -118, Cougars - 104, Ants - 101, and Bombers 48
Games for Thursday 08/08/24:
Nat I v  Ants at National, Falcons v Bombers  at Anzac, Crushers v Nat II at Ayr and Cougars have the bye
This week is our last games before the final rounds begin, good luck.

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Davison.

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On Wednesday, 17 July, the Ayr Golf Club celebrated Queensland Country Bank Day, coinciding with the State of Origin Game 3. While the Maroons couldn't clinch the victory, the day was still a success, with the ladies donning their maroon gear and enjoying a fantastic day on the course.

Debbie Szendrey from Queensland Country Bank joined in the festivities and enjoyed the beautiful weather, with her sister, Janet Trezise, stepping in to present the awards.

Congratulations to the top performers: Ingrid Vaes, who secured third place with 36 points, Kim Manty, who took second place with 37 points and Angie Baxter, who claimed the top spot with an impressive 39 points.

The Ayr Golf Club expresses a big thank you to Debbie and Queensland Country Bank for their continued sponsorship and support, and congratulates all their participants!

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

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