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.

‍

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.

‍

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.

‍

The Premier Cup Team has been celebrated and congratulated for securing fourth place out of twelve teams!
‍

Hosting Classic Triples, Ayr Bowling Club secured third place against teams from Bowen and Townsville.

‍

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.

‍

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.
‍

Contributed by: Stephen Doig
Photos by: Trevor Elton

‍

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.

‍

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.

‍

On Wednesday, 31 July, the Ayr Golf Club hosted the annual Jan Pilcher Day, attracting a strong field of 23 ladies despite some having played four solid days of golf prior at the outstanding 2024 Handicap Pennant competition. The weather was pleasant with a bit of wind, but it didn't deter the golfers from achieving impressive scores.

This year, Jan Pilcher's daughter, Celeste, along with her children Radley and Jazlyn, travelled from Townsville to present the winners. Celeste reminisced about her childhood spent on the golf course, adding a personal touch to the event.

Katrina Hearn emerged as the winner with a remarkable score of 42 points. Runner-up Lorraine Henderson scored 36 points, continuing her excellent form after being the overall winner of the two-day Drummond Golf Vets Classic. Betty Durrant secured third place with 35 points.

Additionally, a special prize was awarded to Wendy Baker for traveling the greatest distance to participate, and Cecily Lena won the raffle.

The event was a wonderful tribute to Jan Pilcher, with participants and organisers alike feeling her presence throughout the day. Congratulations to all the winners and participants for making it a memorable occasion.

‍

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

‍

The Ayr Golf Club hosted their July monthly medal competition on the morning of Saturday 3 August, with 13 juniors participating in either a 3, 6, or 9 holes competition. The Nett winner of each competition was celebrated and awarded the July Monthly Medal.

River Vass emerged as the 3-hole monthly medal winner with an impressive Nett score of 4, indicating a move up to six holes is imminent. Logan McKeough secured the 6-hole medal with a Nett score of 23. Lyla Land, in her first 9-hole competition, won the monthly medal with a Nett score of 30. Congratulations to these outstanding juniors!

The gross winners were Jacob Munro for 3 holes, Kyle Wilkie for 6 holes, and Oscar Mahoney for 9 holes.

The Ayr Golf Club expresses a big thank you to all the juniors for participating and to the parents and grandparents for bringing them out early on a Saturday morning!

Contributed with thanks to Laura Mahoney.

‍

River Vass, Lyla Land, and Logan McKeough celebrated a successful morning on the Ayr Golf Course last Saturday.

‍

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads had a fantastic weekend, securing victories across first, second, and third grades. The excitement was palpable as the teams clinched their wins in some nail-biting matches. Congratulations to all the players for their outstanding performance!

Scores:
First Grade: 38 - 31 against North Ward
Second Grade: 28 - 7 against North Ward
Third Grade: 27 - 7 against Brothers

Unfortunately, the Pink Toads had to forfeit due to injuries and illnesses, however, they are gearing up for a strong comeback against Brothers in this week’s home game at Casalegno Fields on Saturday 10 August.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

‍

The Ayr Bowling Club was filled with exciting games and great company for another week, with many locals and travellers giving it their all on the green. On Wednesday, 24 July, social bowls featured three games of triples and one game of pairs, with J. Pirrone, G. Nixon, and W. Coonan the celebrated winners.

On Saturday 27 July, the social bowls winners were Jimmy, Chris, Happy, and Blake, and the day saw the club welcome visiting players to the green who shared their travel stories and enjoyed a bowl or two.

Sunday 28 July, was a proud day for the Ayr Bowling Club’s Ladies Premier Cup players in Townsville. Congratulations to B. Cornford, D. Olsen, H. Jorgenson, and Pam Power, who secured three wins: a +14 victory against Jubilee in round seven, another +14 win against Bowen in round eight, and a +9 triumph against Alligator Creek in round nine. The team showcased fantastic skills throughout the day.

Sunday also featured two Club semi-final championship triples games. The results were:
- J. Pirrone, R. Young, and C. Essex defeated D. Poli, J. McDonald, and M. Milan.
- J. Murray, J. Hall, and M. Parravicini defeated H. Horan (sub), S. Caltabiano, and B. Shepherd.

In the Championship Pairs final, C. Pearce and G. Pearce emerged victorious against J. Grabbi and L. Stidston.

For details on upcoming championship games scheduled for 4 August, please check the club board, and don't forget to register your teams for the mixed competitions by the closing dates posted.

If you're interested in lawn bowls, the Ayr Bowling Club is a welcoming community for players of all levels. Located at 101 Young Street, Ayr, the club offers a friendly and social atmosphere. For more information, contact the club at (07) 4783 1336 or visit their Facebook page at Ayr Bowling Club.

Whether you're an experienced bowler or a beginner, the Ayr Bowling Club is the perfect place to enjoy the sport and meet fellow enthusiasts.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

‍

Always buzzing with local and travelling bowlers, the Ayr Bowling Club invites those interested in giving the sport a try to attend their Social Bowls on Wednesdays.

‍

Brandon Bowls Club’s 2024 Premier Cup team consisted of five exceptional and celebrated players: Helen Collins, Colleen Olsen, Lyn Storrie, Darrell Pearce, and Joy Woods. The event, hosted by the Suburban Bowls Club in Townsville, spans over four challenging days, with 11 other teams competing for the prestigious title and the opportunity to host the event in 2025.

After three days of intense competition, the Brandon ladies faced tough opposition, securing 4 wins and 5 losses. In conclusion of the competition, the ladies were determined to finish strong in their last two games and make their mark in this highly competitive tournament.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

‍

Representing the Brandon Bowls Club, Helen Collins, Colleen Olsen, Lyn Storrie, Darrell Pearce, and Joy Woods give it their all at the 2024 Premier Cup.

‍

The Roosters A grade team faced a tough battle last Sunday 28 July at Bushland Beach, narrowly losing to the Norths Devils with a score of 32–28. Coach Steve Lansley noted the team's struggle to capitalise on promising opportunities, often rushing to score rather than building up plays.

“Once again we failed to finish off promising moves by being too anxious to score - we are trying to score with every attacking move instead of building up,” said Lansley.

The Norths Devils started strong, quickly taking a 16-0 lead. However, the Roosters fought back, closing the gap to 16-12 by halftime. Unfortunately, poor execution and handling errors in the second half cost them the game. The defence also faltered at times, allowing Norths to make significant gains.

Despite the loss, Coach Lansley praised Lachlan Shepherd for his strong running and defence, and noted that Jye Olsen and Chris Gale made valuable contributions to the team. The Roosters' tries were scored by Nemia Nawave, Hayden Lammon, Kali Nauque, Lachlan Shepherd, and Epi Kikau, with Joel Mason converting four goals.

In other A grade matches, Herbert River defeated Centrals 42–18, Western Lions edged out Brothers 16–14, and Charters Towers and Souths both had byes.

The Roosters Reserves moved up to second place on the ladder after a 40–20 victory over Norths on Sunday. Coach Chris Perry acknowledged the win, though he described it as "sloppy but effective." He emphasised the need for greater dedication and commitment as the team approaches the finals.

Perry highlighted Tubby Hereon and Bradyn Cotter, playing their first games, as standout players, with Tubby earning the players' player award. The team scored tries through Suli (2), Nemia Nawave (2), Jayden Sgarbossa, Braedyn Cotter, and Dylan Doak, who also kicked six goals for a total of 16 points.

In other reserve grade matches, Herbert River defeated Centrals 42–8, Brothers beat Western Lions 36–6, and Souths overcame Bowen 24–8.

The Burdekin Hens did not play last weekend but were awarded two points after Norths forfeited their match. The previous Sunday, Centrals defeated Norths 28-0, with the Norths team suffering several injuries that left them short of players. The Hens are set to return to action this coming weekend against Centrals.

‍

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

The Hens will return to the field this weekend for an action-packed game against Centrals.

Round 3 week 4 – 18/07
Nat I v Bombers at the Queens  8-2
Cougars v Ants at the Anzac 6-4
Crushers v Falcons at the Ayr  8-2
Nat II had the bye 10 points
Round 3 week 5 – 25/07
Crushers v Nat I at the National 6-4
Nat II v Ants at the Anzac 9-1
Cougars v Bombers at the Ayr 8-2
Falcons had the bye 10 points

Points:
Nat II - 149, Crushers - 136, Falcons - 127, Nat I -118, Cougars - 94, Ants - 91, and Bombers 45
Games for Thursday 01/08/24:
Nat II v  Falcons at National, Bombers v Crushers at Queens, Cougars v Nat I at Ayr and Ants have the bye

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Davison.

‍

The Burdekin Panthers experienced a weekend of intense football action. Initially scheduled for four games, the Panthers saw the Division One Funkies secure a straightforward win by forfeit against Olympic, while the other three teams faced Estates in away games. They emerged victorious in two matches and narrowly lost one. On Sunday, the Premiers dominated with a 4-0 victory, the Under 23s clinched a 4-3 win, and the Ladies lost 2-3.

Looking ahead, the Panthers have four more games this week. On Friday night, the Division One Funkies will face Estates Navy away, and on Saturday, Sponsors Day, the Premiers, Under 23s, and Ladies will host Saints Eagles Souths at home.
The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers overcame a strong Estates side with a 4-0 victory. Luke Maguire opened the scoring with a penalty, followed by goals from Mason Matthews and Matthew Kolb. Jay Leckenby sealed the win after Estates’ goalkeeper was red-carded.

The Burdekin Tyre Service Under 23s Reserves faced a tough Sunday game in Townsville against ladder leaders Estates. Jhett Jones and Jack Shears scored in the first half, with Cooper Kross adding another after the break. Despite Estates’ fightback, Jones’ second goal clinched a crucial 4-3 victory to keep their finals hopes alive.

The Austral Masonry Funkies secured a win by forfeit from Olympic.

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies started strong against Estates, with Brielle Astorquia scoring from a Kate Castelanelli cross. Estates quickly equalized and took the lead. Sienna Lago scored to make it 2-2 at halftime, but Estates regained the lead in the second half. Despite numerous chances, the Burdekin Ladies couldn't find the net again, ending in a narrow 2-3 loss.

The Under 13s Panthers faced Warriors 5 on Saturday at Paradise Park, losing 0-4. William Shears stood out with his high work rate. On Sunday, the Panthers faced Saints at home, losing 3-5. Despite the defeat, they displayed good ball movement, with goals from Rohan Kelly, Lincoln Innes, and William Shears. Parker Lawson received special recognition for his goalkeeping efforts.

In the juniors' section, Saturday saw another good week of football with great weather. Teams from Brothers and Northern Beaches travelled from Townsville to play, and some of Burdekin's older teams travelled to Townsville, ensuring a weekend filled with exciting matches and enthusiastic participation from young footballers.

‍