Last year’s Home Hill representatives pose in front of the freshly unveiled Home Hill Tennis Association amenities block. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Sugar Bowl’s little sister, the Cane Country Cup pickleball team event, will get underway this Sunday 7 June from 8am to approximately 3.30pm.

A strong field of 29 teams will battle it out in Home Hill, making for one of the biggest editions of the event to date.

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The competition will be split into four divisions from Advanced through to Social as a result of an increase in numbers.

Teams will compete across Men’s doubles, Ladies doubles and two Mixed doubles matches, taking on every team within their division.

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Competitors are travelling from as far as Cardwell to Cape Gloucester and everywhere in between. The Advanced division features players who have medalled at Queensland Pickleball tournaments this year, promising high-quality match-ups.

Spectators should keep an eye out for Townsville’s Darren Hutchinson and his team “Pickle Me Dink”, while last year’s winners “Pickle d’Lulu”, led by Hannah Casswell, return to defend their title. Local interest will also be strong, with Home Hill’s Laurel Blucher, a multiple Home Hill Tennis Open winner in the 1980s, featuring in Leyton’s Larrikans.

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Home Hill is represented by six mixed teams, with a strong focus on camaraderie and enjoyment.

Prizes will be awarded for best team spirit, recognising sportsmanship, teamwork and camaraderie on and off the court. Creative team names such as the Crafty Cassowaries, Cardwell Crocs, Gloucester Gherkins and Pickled Mangoes will add to the atmosphere.

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Visitors are welcome to attend and support the Home Hill Tennis event and discover the sport of pickleball.

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Contributed with thanks to HHTA Secretary Kate Casswell

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A great break by Tyce Cursio and off-load to K J Zaro led to the smart five-eighth scoring the first of seven tries by the Burdekin Roosters as they overwhelmed the Herbert River Crushers at Bendigo Bank Park last Friday night 36 to 18 in Under 19s.

The match was played as a catch-up to the round two match when the game was shifted to last Friday.

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The local boys, under the coaching of Alf Cantarella, turned it on especially in the first half in front of a big crowd to move into second place on the ladder behind Brothers but ahead of Centrals and Herbert River.

Led by their forwards with Kenny Southwell, Mason Kiehne, Leylan Lampton and Jack Power standing out, the team was just too fast for the opposition River boys.

Jack Power was just too quick and slippery for Ingham, cutting through for two great tries.

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Another who did not cross for a try but set up a couple with his elusiveness was lock Tyce Cursio, who caused the Ingham defence plenty of trouble.

While the forwards paved the way, the backs made good use of the room, with half Chad Fraser one of the best on ground.

Chad was well supported by K J Zaro, Kirk Viero, Riley Smith and Tyreece Trindle, with young fullback Logan Guglielmania chiming in.

Coach Alf Cantarella said his team started the game well, putting points on the board.

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Alf said they did fall away a bit in the second half after leading 22–0 at the break, actually losing the second session 18 to 14.

Herbert River received a few extra penalties in the second half and, with the extra ball, made good use of it.

The local boys though did not panic and actually scored the last try.

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Alf said they used the game as a platform for other games coming up, with Herbert River winning their share against other recent clubs.

Jack Power was awarded players’ player for his standout effort, but he would have been just ahead of Tyce Cursio and Joey Southwell.

The coach also praised the effort of his fullback Logan, who was safe and dangerous in attack.

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BURDEKIN: tries by Jack Power (2), K J Zaro, Kirk Viero, Logan Guglielmania, Chad Fraser, Tyreece Trindle … Chad Fraser 4 goals.

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No other games were played in the R L T D last weekend due to the round being classed as a contingency round.

Club football will return this weekend with the Roosters in Ingham on Saturday afternoon playing Herbert River in three grades: Under 19 at 3, reserves at 4.30 and A grade at 6.

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There should be a good crowd in Ingham as it is their Ladies Day, the same as it was at Western Lions and then Charters Towers.

In other matches Charters Towers will host Centrals in the western city, Norths will be visited by Western Lions and Souths will play Brothers, with those teams sitting one and two in A grade.

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The Roosters will have their first home game after several weeks on the road when they play Brothers in three grades on Saturday June 13 at Bendigo Bank Park.

That day is also a Super Saturday with some 20-odd junior league games being played.

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It is also Old Boys Day, with several Old Boys on ground for the games after a function at the Ayr Anzac Club.

The club has also arranged for a huge jersey auction, with proceeds going to the Davenport Appeal.

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Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Home Hill’s finest tennis export, Adam Walton, has continued his professional tennis ascent after beating sixth-seed Daniil Medvedev to claim his first career Grand Slam win over a top-10 opponent. Photo source: ATP Tour

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Home Hill tennis star Adam Walton has produced the biggest win of his career, defeating sixth seed Daniil Medvedev in a gripping five-set first-round clash at the French Open, 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 1-6, 6-4.

The Australian wildcard, ranked outside the world’s top 90, started strongly, taking the opening set 6-2 as Medvedev struggled to settle on the clay.

The Russian responded emphatically with a 6-1 second set, before Walton again wrestled back momentum with a dominant third set of his own.

Medvedev levelled once more at two sets all, but Walton held firm in the decider, breaking at a crucial stage before serving out the match 6-4 to secure his first career Grand Slam win over a top-10 opponent.

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HOME HILL TENNIS STAR DEFEATS FORMER WORLD NO.1 AT FRENCH OPEN

Home Hill’s finest tennis export, Adam Walton, has continued his professional tennis ascent after beating sixth-seed Daniil Medvedev to claim his first career Grand Slam win over a top-10 opponent.

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Both players traded heavy blows across the French Open first round contest. Walton finished with 34 winners to Medvedev’s 54, but crucially kept enough control of the key moments to convert pressure into breaks when it mattered most.

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The pair had met twice previously, with the head-to-head level at one win apiece.

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Walton said his victory over Medvedev in Cincinnati last year gave him confidence heading into the fixture.

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“Anyone can beat anyone on a given day,” he said.

“I had the belief that I could definitely go out there and beat him… and to get a first top-10 win at a slam is pretty epic.”

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He cited the heat as a potential advantage, given his upbringing in North Queensland’s dry tropical climate.

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“I grew up in the heat… I’d say I last better than the field in the heat,” he said.

“I’m not the most talented player out there, so to be able to last in hot conditions is an important factor.”

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When asked about how he thought his victory would be received in Home Hill, Walton responded:

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“I haven’t been back there in a while, but I have so many connections with the local club there and I think it’s a pretty cool story to have been brought up in Home Hill, then move to Brisbane, then America and now playing pro—it’s pretty special.”  

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Home Hill Tennis Association Secretary Kate Casswell called Walton’s victory a proud moment for the Burdekin community and beyond.

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“The Home Hill Tennis Club, the whole district and all of the northern tennis community are incredibly proud of Adam’s achievement,” she said.

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“The win shows us that anyone with the determination and effort, no matter where you come from, can achieve great things.”

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She said that his exploits on the main stage brought increased traffic to the club’s Facebook page, with a post on his win garnering over 70,000 views. She called it a testament to the huge amount of support out there for him.

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Walton has since bowed out of the French Open after suffering a 3-1 sets defeat to American Zachary Svajda. He now has his sights set on the Challenger Tyler tournament in the USA, where he’ll face Wu Tung-Lin in the first round.

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The Burdekin Clay Target Club is opening its doors to beginners this Saturday, May 30, for an action-packed Novice Day designed specifically for first-timers.

Starting at 9:00 AM, the community event offers a safe, welcoming introduction to the sport of clay target shooting, with absolutely no firearm licence required to participate.

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Attendees can assemble a team of five for some friendly competition, or show up solo to be placed into a group on the day.

Every participant will get the chance to shoot 35 targets across the event, and trophies will be awarded to the top seven teams. The club provides all necessary supervision and guidance, making it an ideal opportunity for local residents curious about the sport to safely test their aim.

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Existing firearm licence holders are requested to bring their licences along. The event will take place at the Burdekin Clay Target Club Grounds, located at 1528 Ayr Dalbeg Road, Mount Kelly. Gates open at 9:00 AM, and all community members looking for a unique weekend activity are encouraged to attend.

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Taylor Chapman was awarded the Heather Desbois medal for the Burdekin's Best and Fairest. Photo supplied

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The U12 school girls recently represented the Burdekin at the NQ Touch Football trials carnival in Airlie Beach.  

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Playing five games over two days the girls competed against Whitsunday, Herbert River, Charters Towers and Townsville with a mixed bag of a win, a draw and some very narrow losses. 

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Drawing on their experience from the Junior State Cup, the girls' skills were on show with strong sliding defence, excellent rucking and some creative line attack.

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Following the round games two Burdekin players, Taylor Chapman and Bethana Rattler were named in the possibles and probables resulting in Taylor's selection in the NQ U12 team.

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Taylor was also awarded the Heather Desbois medal for the Burdekin's Best and Fairest.

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"All 12 girls should feel proud of the way they represented the Burdekin. They are a team on the rise, showing huge improvements," said team Manager Petrina Wellington.

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around 50 Home Hill Bowls Club members and visitors gathered to farewell resident caretaker Warren Bunn, known as “Yougi”. Supplied

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On Saturday 16 May 2026, around 50 Home Hill Bowls Club members and visitors gathered to farewell resident caretaker Warren Bunn, known as “Yougi”.

Yougi has been caretaker for approximately 30 months, commencing 15 November 2023. At that time, he had played only one game of bowls in the Burdekin, but living alongside the green quickly saw him develop into a capable player. By 2024, he was selected to represent the club in NQ Pennants.

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Now approaching 83, Yougi is relocating to Brisbane to be closer to family and will live with his youngest daughter. The club extends its best wishes and hopes he finds a new bowling club to join.

On the day, five rinks of triples were played. The overall winners on margins were Alex Bojack, Jo Roser and Bob Young.

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Wednesday night featured a mix of social lawn bowls and the Home Hill Hot Shots darts club. The evening remains popular for its relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Hot Shots advise that Darts of Origin begins 27 May 2026, followed by the first of three Origin raffles at Friday night 8 Ball. All community members are welcome. Bowls names in by 5.30pm for a 6.00pm start (Ph 0468 313 115). Darts start 6.00pm (Ph Scott 0480 208 335).

Thursday afternoon club bowls hosted four games of triples and two pairs matches, marking the start of the club pairs championships. Visiting bowlers were welcomed from Jarvis Bay (NSW), Bathurst, and Elliott Heads.

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Pairs results: Rink 2 saw Bruce McCallum and Janet Arthur defeated by Scott Taylor and Paul Vass in a close match. Rink 4 went to Mick McClusker and Alex Bojack over Phil Marsden and Bob Pickard. Rink 3 saw Trevor Elton’s team defeat Geoff Taylor’s side by a solid margin. Rink 5 went to Joe Linton, Des Chapman and Warren Bunn. Rink 6 was won by Gary Nosworthy’s team. Rink 7 saw Hugh Montgomery’s team defeat Keith Roser and John Hobson’s side.

The club congratulates all winners and participants.

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Raffle results: John Hobson won the breakfast tray, and Maureen Marsden won the bottle of wine.

Weekly activities: Monday 9am Gentle Exercise, Tuesday 9am Trimmers, Wednesday 9am Craft Group, Thursday 9am Bingo (Eyes Down 9.30am).

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Contributed with thanks to Bob Pickard

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The Burdekin Roosters were on the road again last weekend, travelling to Charters Towers on Saturday with A Grade and Reserve Grade, and then to Bushland Beach on Sunday for the Under 19s.

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In their wisdom, the BLTD has created a separate draw for Under 19s, meaning clubs are being split up, as was the case with the Roosters last weekend.

Charters Towers are always hard to beat on their home ground, and it was no exception, with the Roosters getting up in the dying stages to beat the Miners.

A Grade coach Steve Lansley was a happy man after the match, saying his players showed plenty of character in coming from behind to beat the Miners in front of a huge crowd during Ladies Day.

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Lansley said the Burdekin Roosters produced another gritty come-from-behind performance to defeat the Towers Miners 28–20, overcoming a frustrating night of errors and missed opportunities. Dropped balls at crucial stages repeatedly handed the Miners valuable field position and piled pressure on the Roosters’ defence, making the task tougher than it needed to be.

Despite the setbacks, the Roosters refused to panic and worked their way back through tough carries and relentless middle-third effort. The forwards laid the platform in the second half, dominating the physical battle and swinging momentum back in Burdekin’s favour.

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Best for the Roosters were Jye Olsen, Nemia Nawave and Lachlan Shepherd, all playing key roles in the hard-fought win. Jye was awarded Players’ Player.

For the Roosters, Malik Ogameni, Terry Connors, Nash Beck, Lach Bachbach and Nemia Nawave scored tries, with Jye Olsen kicking four goals.

In other A Grade results, Brothers beat Centrals 28–12, Souths beat Norths 42–18, and Western Lions upset Herbert River 30–18.

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Lack of numbers did not help the Roosters Reserve Grade, going down 20–12 to a full-strength Miners side. Coach Peter Horan said he travelled with only three on the bench, compared to the home side’s six, and “that makes a difference”. He estimated around 12 players were unavailable through injury.

Harvey Horan was again a standout, with Jahi Starr, Luca Lago and Bokeem Moore Reid also strong performers. Ron Geia and Dylan Doak also contributed well. For the Roosters, Jahi Starr and Ron Geia scored tries, with Dylan Doak kicking two goals.

In other Reserve Grade matches, Centrals beat Brothers 18–10, Souths defeated Norths 38–12, and Western Lions beat Herbert River 19–16.

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On Sunday, the Under 19s had a tough match against Norths at Bushy Beach, going down 18–14 in a topsy-turvy contest. Roosters coach Alf Cantarella said it was a difficult game, with only two on the bench and no bench left after injuries.

The Roosters dug in but were overrun in the final 30 seconds. Jacob Drain captained the side well, with Chad Fraser named Man of the Match. “We were really down on players and didn’t get the two points,” Cantarella said.

The Roosters also spent time down to 12 men after a send-off, with Norths scoring twice during that period. Jack Power, Callum Taiters and Romeo scored tries, with Chad Fraser adding a goal.

In other Under 19 results, Brothers beat Centrals 24–4 and Herbert River defeated Western Lions 58–0.

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In the women’s competition, Western Lions defeated Charters Towers 62–0, Centrals beat Brothers 20–8, and Souths defeated Norths 56–4.

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This week, the RLTD has a rest round for all teams except Burdekin and Herbert River Under 19, who meet at Bendigo Park in Ayr on Friday night from 6.30pm in a delayed fixture. Fixtures resume Saturday 6 June in Ingham across three grades.

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Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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U16 Volunteers KJ Zaro, Caleb Noah & John Zaro. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin Junior Rugby League Club proudly celebrated National Volunteer Week during Saturday’s home games, taking the opportunity to recognise the incredible people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the club running each season.

With 12 Roosters teams taking the field across a huge day of rugby league, the club acknowledged that game days simply wouldn’t happen without the dedication of its volunteers.

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From preparing the grounds and setting up fields to running the canteen, working the gate, cleaning facilities, team managing and helping with weekly organisation, dozens of volunteers give up countless hours to support local junior sport.

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BJRL President Jarrod Smith said National Volunteer Week was an important reminder of how much community sport relies on volunteers.

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“Our volunteers are the backbone of this club” he said.

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“There’s so much work that goes into every training session and game day and it’s all made possible by people willing to step up and help for the kids.”

The club thanked all parents, grandparents, family members and supporters who continue to contribute throughout the season.

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“Without volunteers, clubs like ours simply doesn’t exist. Every job, big or small, helps create opportunities for our kids to play the game they love.”

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Contributed with thanks to BJRL

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Seniors

A much better weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had only three senior games but won all of them. The Premiers and Reserves were at home to Rebels with the Premiers winning 4-1 and the Reserves winning 4-0. The Colts at home to MA Olympic won 4-1. The Division 1 and Division 2 teams both had Byes.  

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This week all five teams are in action. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are at home to Saints Eagles Souths at 8.30 and 6.30 and the Colts are away to Brothers at 6.30. On Sunday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Estates at 5.00 and 3.00.  

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Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club

The Premiers were up against a Rebels team they had beaten 9-2 away, in the first game of the season. The match was fairly even for the first twenty minutes or so when Matthew Kolb scored to out the Panthers ahead. Jay Leckenby made it 2-0 at the half hour mark and the Panthers went in at half time leading 2-0. Rebels, who were playing well for a bottom of the table team, and it wasn’t until the sixty fifth minute that Leckenby scored again to make the game safe. Ten minutes later Leckenby made it a hat trick, his second in two games, and at 4-0 the Panthers were home and dry. However, Rebels scored with four minutes to go and the result was a 4-1 win to the Burdekin.

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Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service

For this week the Reserves had quite a few changes with some players unavailable and others returning. A strong lineup with an expectation of a win against bottom of the table Rebels. Burdekin started the game well and dominated the first half with good possession and the use of short, sharp and accurate passing to create a lot of chances for goals. Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro opened the scoring after 14 minutes with a quality long range strike. Five minutes later Kyle Taylor beat several defenders on a long run into the penalty area to finish well. That two-goal lead could have been more with several other chances being missed. The second half was a little slow to start but did get back to the level of control again providing many chances. Jhett Jones finished off a good move midway through the half and then in the last 5 minutes a calm and collected Zack Durrant scored his first goal of the season after good work from Max Kelly to win the ball and play it into the path of Zack giving him an open goal. Coach Tarryn Smith was very happy with the style of play and getting a solid win to stay in the top four contention for the start of the second round.

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Division 1 – Austral Masonry and Division 2 - RG Customs both had byes

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Colts – Astute

The Colts took on MA Olympic at home. Burdekin started strongly, moving the ball well. However, Olympic took the lead from a penalty early in the first half. The boys worked hard and created a few chances but could not find the back of the net and the first half finished with Olympic leading 1-0. The second half kicked off with the Colts hungry to get back into this game, and a well-timed pass broke the line for Jhett Jones finding the back of the net to equalise. Soon afterwards, Jones found himself in behind the defence again and scored in the bottom corner taking the score to 2-1. The Colts were not done yet and started to find their groove as Nyasha Gwarada dribbled his way through the defence to score and put the Colts ahead 3-1. Finally, to finish off the game Ryley Siandri rounded the keeper to score and take the score to 4-1. Overall, a dominant display from the Colts, whose next match is at High Vista Park next Friday to take on Brothers.

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Masters

The Masters had a good turnout in perfect conditions and in a re-play of the FA Cup Final Chelsea and Manchester City drew 4-4. Best players on the night were Daniel Ziliotto and George Karagkiosis. The Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick Off.  

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Juniors

Burdekin FC U13 FQPL Panthers played an outstanding game and come away with a convincing 3-0 win against Estates FC.  All players dug deep to achieve a convincing win. The Under 13s have a make-up match this week against Warriors at Paradise Park on Thursday night.  The Under 12/13s Div1 drew 2-2 with Rebels and the Under 15s defeated Rebels 1-0

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The Under15’s began the afternoon of fixtures of Burdekin v Rebels at International Park. The young Panthers had only played them six days prior and won convincingly. Unfortunately, the Panthers were down their captain due to a fractured wrist. Rebels had players back who were out the previous game. It was a hard-fought contest by both teams but in the 60min, Emmanuel Mio scored to put the Panthers ahead 1-0. The Panthers then held on to win.  

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National

The A League Men’s season concluded on Saturday in New Zealand! Auckland defeated Sydney FC 1-0 in the Grand Final with a goal from Cameron Howieson in the second half.

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International

The various European Finals are now underway and in the Europa League Final, Aston Villa beat Freiburg 3-0. The Conference League Final between Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano is on Thursday and the Big One, the Champions League Final, Arsenal v PSG is on Sunday.

In the World Cup department, the Socceroos travel to the USA to play Mexico on Sunday in a friendly. Then on 6^th June they have another ‘friendly’ against Switzerland, in San Diego, in a final warm up game before the World Cup begins. Australia’s first Group D match is against Turkey in Vancouver on the 14^{th of} June. They then play the USA in Seattle on 20^th June and Paraguay in San Francisco on 26^th June.

In Europe, the various leagues are now finished for the season. In England, Arsenal are champions seven points ahead of Manchester City with ManU third. West Ham, Burnley and Wolves are all relegated to the Championship and will be replaced by Coventry, Ipswichand Hull, who won the play off against Middlesboro.  

In Germany Bayern are champions sixteen points clear of Dortmund with Leipzig in third place. Wolfsburg, Heidenheim and St Pauli have all been relegated. And in Spain, Barcelona are champions, eight points ahead of Real Madrid with Villarreal third. Mallorca, Girona and Oviedo have all been relegated.

In Italy’s Serie A, Inter are champions, eleven points clear of Napoli with Roma in third spot. Serie B will be welcoming Cremonese, Verona and Pisa next season. Oh yes, Juventus finished in sixth place. Finally in France, PSG are champions with Lens second six points behind and Lille finish third.

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Quote the of the Week is from ex-Sheffield Utd manager Neil Warnock about Gary Neville “So Gary’s going to be writing a book. That’s good news for insomniacs everywhere.”

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Members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group have spent a Saturday morning connecting with residents at the Ozcare facility in Home Hill. Photo supplied

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Members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group have spent a Saturday morning connecting with residents at the Ozcare facility in Home Hill, sharing conversation, memories and a cuppa.

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Chris and Edith from the group visited the facility, speaking with residents for around an hour and giving them an insight into the modern scouting program. Discussion centred on the Scouts’ active outdoor focus, particularly camping and community involvement, which sparked plenty of interest among residents.

Many also reflected on their own experiences with scouting and guiding in earlier years, drawing comparisons between past programs and the activities undertaken by today’s Lower Burdekin Scouts.

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The visit forms part of the group’s ongoing commitment to community engagement across the region.

Looking ahead, the Scouts are preparing for one of their biggest annual fundraising efforts at the Ayr Show next month, where they will once again take on management of the show carpark.

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The Lower Burdekin Scout Group meets every Thursday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at 57–59 Twelfth Avenue, Home Hill (behind the swimming pool). New members and volunteers are welcome to drop in or contact Rikki on 0419 104 035. A four-week free trial is available for those wanting to try scouting.

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The Ayr junior golfers proudly represented the club at the GNQ Junior Open held at Mystic Sands. Photo suppled

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Five Ayr juniors had a very successful and fun-filled golfing weekend at Mystic Sands.

Evelyn Mahoney was the 9-hole girls champion, taking the gross win on day one with a score of 59, and remaining consistent with another 59 on day two to claim the gross win again. Competing against much older players, it was a very strong performance from Evelyn.

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Fletcher Sgroi played two days of 6 holes, recording impressive scores on both days. He also thoroughly enjoyed the social aspect of playing away and making new friends.

Kyle Wilkie and Oscar Mahoney played 18 holes, with Kyle having a great first day, shooting close to a personal best with 108, followed by a similar score on day two. Playing alongside two older teenagers was a great experience all round for Kyle. Oscar also played consistently, shooting 97 and 98.

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Amaya Mahoney was the girls 18-hole gross runner-up, scoring 90 on day one and improving to 86 on day two.

Well done to our Ayr juniors for representing the club so proudly.

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Contributed with thanks to Laura Mahoney.

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Jay Leckenby scored a hat trick in the first twenty-five minutes of the Premier’s clash with Saints Eagles Souths. Photo supplied

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The Premiers clash against Saints Eagles Souths had everything. Goals galore, yellow cards, red cards, a mini riot, and twelve minutes of added time.

The Panthers started well with Jay Leckenby scoring a hat trick in the first twenty-five minutes. Antoine added a fourth from the penalty spot and the Panthers went in at half time leading 4-0.

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Matthew Kolb made it 5-0 midway through the second half and then, a few minutes later, it all went pear shaped. A spate of yellow and the red cards saw the Panthers reduced to eight men as Saints scored three times, whilst having two men sent off.

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The mini riot meant twelve minutes of time added on and the Panthers were relieved to hear the final whistle.

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Football Matters with Cyclops

Seniors

A better weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had five senior games, winning two drawing one and losing two. The Premiers and Reserves were at home to Saints Eagles Souths with the Premiers winning 5-3 and the Reserves also winning 5-3. The Division 1 team lost 0-3 to Brothers and the Division 2, lost 0-4 to Brothers. The Colts drew 1-1 away to Warriors. This week only three teams are in action. On Friday, the Colts are at home to MA Olympic at 6.30 and on Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Rebels at 7.30 and 5.00.

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Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service

In a recurring theme the Reserves team took the field with another changed side due to absence, injury, and suspensions. This week saw a young midfield shored up by an experienced backline and the Panthers got off to a good start with a goal to Jack Gimson after 11 minutes. Whilst Burdekin had begun playing well, they slumped for about 15 minutes losing possession and making poor choices for passing. Saints were invited back into the game and scored an equaliser. That galvanised the Panthers and they dominated the rest of the half scoring four goals in 20 minutes. Jhett Jones, Cooper Kross, Oscar Licciardello and even Leighton Gallagher provided the finishes. The second half should have been more of the same, but it was a poor showing littered with mistakes. Burdekin conceded two goals within ten minutes but steadied to hang on for a 5 - 3 win. A win is a win!

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Division 1 – Austral Masonry

The Division 1 boys, away to Brothers, were down on numbers with fortunately a few Funkies thankfully helping out. The Panthers dug deep with some incredible goalkeeping from Seaton Ivory to keep them in the game. It was not until the 70th minute that Brothers managed to break the deadlock. A few chances to either side after that, and the final score ended up as a 3-0 loss for the Burdekin side.

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Division 2 – RG Customs

The Funkies had their toughest game of the season so far against Brothers on Friday night. Burdekin were ready for a fight and started the game well, but Brothers got goals at regular intervals to win 4-0, a scoreline that doesn’t truly reflect the Funkies’ performance. Burdekin’s effort and fight was there for 90 minutes. The team created several chances early on, but could not convert. Brothers finished off a good move to open the scoring in the first half before a penalty just before halftime really stopped the momentum the Funkies were building. Two more goals in the second half resulted in the 4-0 scoreline. Nicholas Cathcart was very dangerous for the Funkies, flying past his defender numerous times and creating chances. Jake Lacey and Jarrod Dal Santo also had very strong games. Bryce Davies made a couple of very good saves whilst filling in as goalkeeper.

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Colts – Astute

The first away game for the Colts this year, on a cool windy night in Kelso. The Burdekin team started strongly, dominating possession and creating chances in a cagey first half, and somehow clearing the ball off the line to keep the score level. Coming out after half time Warriors started strongly and went up 1-0, but that only made the Colts lift. After going a goal down, they dominated the rest of the game, with a nice finish from Cooper Kross bringing the score back to 1-1. The Colts pushed hard, hitting the woodwork and forcing the Warriors goalkeeper into some good saves; however, they could not get that winning goal, ending the game 1-1 against the reigning premiers.

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Masters

The Masters had a good turnout in perfect conditions and in a pre-play of the coming up friendly against Mexico, Australia lost 6-7 after a 2-2 tie at half time. Best players on the night were Bryce Davis and Jack Moustoukas. The night’s Magic Moment was Riley Granshaw, failing to beat the Red goalkeeper from one metre. The Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick Off.

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Juniors

The Junior soccer season continued over the weekend with the U8–U12 teams travelling to Townsville for another exciting round of games on Saturday. Players showed great enthusiasm, teamwork, and sportsmanship across the day, continuing to build their skills and confidence each week.

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After a two-week break, the U15's played Round 3 against MAO. The first half was dominated by the Panthers with a goal in the 11min by Lincoln Innes. Unfortunately, MAO fought back in the second half to win 2-1. The team played good football despite the loss.

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The Round 1 match against Rebels, which had been postponed, was played on Sunday at International Park. Emmaneul Mio dominated on the field with three goals in the first half. The second half saw him put two more in the back of the net. With a great assist from Annan Power, Emmaneul got his 6th goal. Cecil Badza Gwarada also found the net giving the Panthers a 7-1 win. These young Panthers are all fired up now for the season.

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Back at home, our U5–U7 players enjoyed local games, with plenty of smiles, energy and fun on display. It’s fantastic to see our youngest players developing their love for the game while supporting one another on the field.

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National

The A League Men’s season has reached the final stages. In the semi-finals, second leg, Auckland beat Adelaide 3-1 in Adelaide and advance to the Final where they will play Sydney FC who drew 1-1 at Newcastle. The Final will be played in Auckland on Saturday 23rd May. In the A League Women’s Final, Melbourne City defeated Wellington Phoenix 3-1.

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International

Various European Finals start this week with the Europa League Final, Freiburg v Aston Villa on 21 May, followed by the Conference League Final, Crystal Palace v Rayo Vallecano on 28 May. The Big One, Champions league Final, Arsenal v PSG is on31 May.

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Coutts Commercial Tavern Day was played at the Ayr Golf Club on Wednesday, 13 May, with a lively field of 22 ladies taking to the course.

Players enjoyed improving weather conditions and a social twist to the format, with partners and markers randomly drawn to mix up pairings and add an extra layer of challenge to the day’s play.

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Competition was tight across the leaderboard, with several pairings finishing on strong scores. In fourth place with 44 points were Cecily Lena and Shirley Jones, while Sharon Bozzetto and Heather Desbois also finished on 44 points to claim third.

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Second place went to Janet Trezise and Rhonda Martin with an impressive 45 points, narrowly edging the field in a close contest.

The standout performance of the day came from Ann Phelan and Kathy Cortabitarte, who combined superbly to finish as overall winners with a dominant 47 points.

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Ayr Golf Club officials congratulated all players for their efforts and extended a big thank you to Coutts Commercial Tavern for its continued support of the ladies’ competition and local golf community.

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With injured players expected to return in coming weeks, numbers are tipped to climb beyond 25 on course as the season continues.

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Back: (L - R) Michael, Karen, Brendan and Merv; Front: Jacob

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Home Hill pickleball players have taken to the court for their very first competitive club competition, with 18 players signing up across three divisions.

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The competition was designed to give players some valuable match practice ahead of the upcoming Cane Country Cup pickleball team event in just a couple of weeks’ time.

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Matches were closely contested throughout the competition, with several teams bouncing back after heavy first-set losses to level the scores in the second set before going on to comfortably win the third.

In A Grade, the competition could not have been any tighter. Toni and Amelia finished tied with Jacob and Michael, with both teams recording 1 rubber, 4 sets and 62 games for the competition. Ben and Michele also got one win, 2 sets and 48 games.

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B Grade was just as competitive, with rubbers and games also ending in a tie. Merv and Tracey narrowly edged out Carol and Mark by a single set, with both teams finishing on 1 rubber and 52 games. Merv and Tracey claimed 3¾ sets, while Carol and Mark finished with 3 sets. Kate and Debbie were close behind in third place with 1 rubber, 2 sets and 44 games.

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C Grade was dominated by Karen and Mara, who finished with 2 rubbers, 5 sets and 66 games. Their only set loss for the competition came against Cliff and Linda. Adam and Brendan also had a strong showing, finishing with 1 rubber, 2 sets and 44 games.

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The next Home Hill pickleball competition begins on 21 May and will run for three weeks.

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Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell

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Two points stopped the Burdekin Roosters from recording three from three wins in the matches with Centrals last Sunday afternoon at the Townsville Sports Reserve.

First the Under 19 had a comprehensive 28 to 14 victory, with the reserve grade going down 22 to 20, before the A grade recorded their first win of the season 34 to 26.

Coach Steve Lansley said the Roosters finally broke through for their first win of the season with a determined performance against Centrals, showing plenty of grit and resilience from start to finish.

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In a tough and physical contest, the Roosters stood strong under pressure and refused to back down, with their defence proving the difference in key moments of the match.

Burdekin worked hard for every metre and showed great composure when it mattered most, turning persistence into reward as they secured a well deserved victory.

The side’s energy and commitment lifted throughout the game, with players stepping up when the pressure was on.

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Leading the way were Tama Reupena and Eneliko Savelio, who were outstanding across the park.

Both players made strong carries, defended tirelessly and provided the spark Burdekin needed in crucial stages, helping guide the Roosters to an important and confidence boosting first win of the year.

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Winger Jake O’Brien showed his true form crossing for three tries, with centre Dudley Dotoi very deadly in general play.

Hooker Nash Beck was dangerous at any loose moment, making good ground from dummy half, backed up by second rower Nemia Nawave who was rewarded with a well deserved try.

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While one centre Dotoi carved the opposition on one side, it was the other centre Jones Munro who did the same scoring two good tries.

Jake O’Brien scored three tries and kicked a goal, Jones Munro scored two, and one each by Nemia Nawave, Dudley Dotoi and Eneliko Savelio.

In other A grade matches, Western Lions beat Charters Towers 20 to 14, Souths beat Herbert River 24 to 16 and Brothers beat Norths 42 to 16.

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“My team plays like Jekyll and Hyde” were the words from reserves coach Peter Horan as his Roosters reserves went down to Centrals 22 to 20.

Horan said they dropped too much ball and let scoring opportunities go begging.

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Both teams traded tries throughout the match, with the scores locked at 10 all at the break.

Horan praised the efforts of Callen Taiters and K J Zaro, who backed up from Under 19.

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The coach thought Ron Geia and Aiden Prior were his better players, but he praised the efforts of Llama Ghee for his consistent hard running, causing problems to the opposition.

Llama Ghee, Adam Prior, Malik Ogameni and Luca Lago scored tries, with Dylan Doak 2 goals.

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In other reserve matches, Western Lions beat Charters Towers 48 to 16, Souths beat Herbert River 28 to 18 and Norths beat Brothers 32 to 10.

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Roosters Under 19 coach Alf Cantarella said they viewed the Under 19 match as a test as that team had been travelling well so far.

The young Roosters stood up and handled the challenge to score 5 tries to 3 to take the match 28 to 14.

The coach said his squad played as a team, with defence a key issue.

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We went into tackles like we meant them and then in attack the ball carrier had support, the coach added.

Tyce Cursio was judged to have an outstanding game, but again it was half Chad Fraser who led the way and was the players player, although Jack Power at hooker was a slippery customer in all aspects.

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Tries came from Kirk Viero, Jack Power, Callen Taiters, Chad Fraser, with 4 goals.

In other matches Brothers beat Norths 44 to 4.

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Next week Burdekin will travel to Charters Towers on Saturday in both A and reserve grade and in a strange one the Under 19 will go to Townsville on Sunday to play Norths.

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Both A and reserve grade Roosters teams should be strong in Charters Towers even though Dudley Dotoi could be out.

The Towers Miners will have plenty of support, Saturday being Ladies Day for the Club.

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In other games, Centrals will meet Brothers, Norths host Souths and Western Lions go to Ingham to play Herbert River.

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Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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