Torah Brock in action. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Touch Juniors Last Friday’s Junior Touch saw 45 boys and girls aged 4 to 12 nominate.

Skills, drills and games will begin this Friday from 5.30pm to 6.15pm for six weeks. Further nominations will still be accepted.

‍

Annual General Meeting The Annual General Meeting of the Burdekin Touch Association will be held next Tuesday, 12 May, in the Touch Clubhouse at 6pm. Everyone is welcome.

‍

Results – Coutt’s Commercial Hotel Open Men’s and Women’s (Round 8)

Men Way To Go 5 (B Palmer 2) def Nrgize 4 (L Torkington 2)[Text Wrapping Break]Wires Down 6 (K Parravicini 2, G Flannagan 2) drew One Touch IT 6 (J Ballin 2, J Leckenby 2, R Taylor 2) Alliance Pharmacy 13 (J Furnell 4, K Hesp 3, A Watson 2) def Baywatch 1 Burdekin PCYC 12 (G Dau 6, S Doolah 2, T Heron 2) def Blue Murder 7 (N Spina 2, R Smith 2) Royal Touch 7 (A Miller 3, C Formilan 2) def Touch n Go 5 (R Piva 2, K Vitty 2) Creampuffs 9 (P Le Feuvre 3, L Chatfield 2, L Lampton 2) def Petrol Heads 4 Teamo Supremo 9 (J Moustakas 3, H Horan 2, R Heuir 2) def Feelers 5 Renegades 12 (B Frau 4, D McKeough 2, B Johnson 2, S Andreatta 2) def Ball Grabbers 2 Crocs won on forfeit

‍

Women Lasers 12 (B Robertson 6, T Horan 3, M Robertson 2) def Can’t Catch 1 Eathorne’s Princesses 6 (A Cornford 4) def Salty Sirens 1 First in Physio 11 (L Trindle 5, M Nauqe 3, T Monday 2) def Chick Flicks 1

‍

Under 14 Red Dogs 2 3 (Logan, Jamie, Emmet) def Broncos 2 (Jake, Kasey) Red Dogs 1 6 (Connor Linton 3, Luca Lawry, Archie) def Rockies 2

‍

Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton

‍

No club rugby league was played in the Townsville area last weekend, with the Foley Shield staged in Cairns across both men’s and women’s grades.

At time of writing, only two days had been played in the men’s competition. Mackay beat Cairns 24–16, and Mt Isa defeated Southern Cape 46–14. In the women’s match, Mackay defeated Cairns 24–4.

‍

Former Burdekin ladies player Kaitlin Daley was in the Mackay side.

‍

On Sunday, defending Foley Shield holders Townsville played their first game, going down to a strong Mackay outfit 32–16 after leading at half-time.

No Burdekin player was in the Townsville squad.

‍

The Townsville women recorded a strong 20–10 win over Mackay.

With Burdekin not fielding a women’s team this season, locals Martina and Stephanie are now playing for Western Lions, and are also part of the Townsville Foley Shield squad, with Martina scoring a try.

‍

Townsville were due to play Cairns on Monday in both men’s and women’s fixtures, with Mackay already the men’s Shield winner after two wins.

Club football returns this weekend in Townsville, with the Roosters playing Western Lions at Western Lions Park on Saturday, and Centrals meeting Souths at the Sports Reserve.

‍

On Sunday, Herbert River visit Jack Manski Oval to play Brothers, while Charters Towers host Norths.

The Roosters face Western Lions across under 19s, reserves and A grade.

‍

Coach Steve Lansley faces selection challenges in A grade, with forwards Hayde Munro and Tate Brombal likely sidelined long-term with knee injuries.

Blackhawks back Dudley Dotoi was recalled to Hostplus Cup duty last week after featuring in recent Roosters games, scoring a try in a win.

‍

With the Cowboys under 21 side not playing, forward Lachlan Brubach could again line up for the Roosters.

Western Lions could also benefit from up to five Cowboys under 21 players.

‍

Utility Nemia Nawave returns after Fijian duties in Mt Isa, and Kali Nauque is also back.

“When we held the ball we were all over Norths, even though they were bigger. If we respect possession this time we can come home with a win, even though it will be tough,” Lansley said.

‍

Reserves coach Peter Horan is looking for a stronger attitude against the top-placed Lions after an inconsistent performance against Norths.

‍

“We were short of a couple of key players last time and they should be back. Even though we’ve lost Caleb Noah, we should give a good account,” Horan said.

‍

The under 19s were also undermanned against Norths but battled through, after a narrow loss to Brothers.

Captain Harrison Lammon is a big loss, but the side still has attacking talent in Chad Fraser, KJ Zaro and Callen Taitners, supported by forwards Leylan Lampton, Romeo Waem, Jack Power, Mason Kiehne and Ken Southwell.

‍

No official kick-off times were confirmed at time of writing, but matches are expected at 1.30, 3.00 and 4.30.

‍

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

‍

Eight Ayr Golf Club women have returned from Yeppoon after competing in the 2026 Queensland Women’s Country Week Championships, describing the event as a mix of challenging golf, strong camaraderie, and memorable coastal conditions.

‍

The group took on both the Yeppoon and Rockhampton courses over several days of play, contesting practice rounds, foursomes and singles formats in what players described as “character-building” conditions.

‍

‍

Despite difficult scoring conditions, Ayr’s Kerry Heuir and Sandra Wight claimed victory in the Division 2 Foursomes, posting a winning gross score of 95. The result marked a standout performance for the pair against a strong field from across Queensland.

There was also success for former Ayr member Amanda Gees, who partnered with Kate Law to win the Division 1 Foursomes with a gross score of 89.

‍

‍

Beyond the competition, players highlighted the social and community side of the tournament, which brought together women golfers from across the state. The group enjoyed shared meals, a gala dinner, and time together off the course, alongside coastal views, sunsets and changing weather conditions including rainbows during the week.

‍

‍

Ayr participants also acknowledged the support of Kerry, Heather and Sonya, who provided transport throughout the event, as well as organisers Aaron and Ryan from Golf Australia for managing the competition across both venues.

‍

‍

“As always, Country Week is about more than just the golf. It’s a wonderful opportunity to catch up with women from all over the state, swap stories, and enjoy the camaraderie that makes these events so special,” a club spokesperson said.

‍

The Ayr team has since returned to local competition following the conclusion of the championships.

‍

‍

1st place:  Sponsor, representative Hugh Montgomery,  Jamie Woods,  Mick McCloskey and Sandra Darwen.

‍

‍

Brandon Bowls Club hosted a well-supported RLA Triples event on Sunday, April 26, with 50 bowlers taking part in a competitive afternoon sponsored by Ralf Lawson & Associates.

The day opened with a minute’s silence before the formal call of cards, setting a respectful tone ahead of play in ideal sunny conditions. Bowlers from Ayr, Giru and Home Hill joined the Brandon contingent, contributing to a strong regional field.

‍

Club organisers said the event continues to be a popular fixture on the calendar, drawing consistent support from across the district.

“Thanks to everyone who supported the day,” a club spokesperson said.

‍

‍

Organisers also acknowledged Hugh Montgomery for his role in arranging sponsorship and player participation.

On the green, competition was tight across the afternoon. First place was awarded to the team of Hugh Montgomery (sponsor representative), Jamie Woods, Mick McCloskey and Sandra Darwen.

‍

Second place went to Richie Mau, Con Sexton, Les Hoey, Hugh Montgomery (sponsor representative) and Jamie Woods.

Third place was secured by Hugh Montgomery (sponsor representative), Jamie Woods, Lyn Storrie, Judy Elton and Kevin Collins.

‍

‍

The club also thanked the kitchen volunteers for providing smoko and acknowledged “Dodgy” for running the bar throughout the event.

Brandon Bowls Club said the successful turnout reflected strong community support and appreciation for local sponsorship and volunteer effort.

‍

‍

‍

The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

‍

‍

The Burdekin’s premier running event saw a record-breaking turnout on Sunday, 26 April, as nearly 400 athletes laced up in Ayr for what was a Sugar Rush for the books.

The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part.

Club president Patrick Shannon hailed the event as a success for both the organisation and the wider North Queensland running community.

“We’re chuffed with the turnout,” Mr Shannon said.

“It was a bit unfortunate—we actually had to cut off entries a little bit early simply because we ran out of bibs. It just means we have to plan bigger and better next year.”

‍

Massive Field Powers Sugar Rush To New Record In Ayr

The event attracted competitors from as far north as Cairns and south as Mackay, alongside families and first-time runners in shorter distance fun runs.

Jeff Rubach of the Townsville Road Runners won the men’s half marathon in 1:15:08, while Vanessa Kennedy of Hungry Runners took out the women’s title in 1:27:15.

Matt Hutchinson led the men’s 10km field in 35:51, with Brittany Hutchinson winning the women’s race in 40:26.

Miles Kerr claimed the men’s 5km title in 20:18, while Mia Brunker of the PACE Project won the women’s event in 20:46.

‍

‍

Each runner received a complimentary barbecue breakfast courtesy of the Ayr Rotary Club, while MC John Furnell entertained supporters at the finish line at the Ayr War Memorial.

Mr Shannon said the memorial backdrop capped off the morning, the culmination of months of preparation.

‍

“There was a lot of work put in over the last three to five months… But to see the community coming out, the amazing weather, and the day after Anzac Day, having the monument behind us, was a really good feeling.”

‍

‍

FULL RESULTS

Half Marathon—Men

1. Jeff Rubach (Townsville Road Runners) — 1:15:08

2. Grant Breadsell

3. Aaron Bathis

Half Marathon—Women

1. Vanessa Kennedy (Hungry Runners) — 1:27:15

2. Liv Compton (Whitsunday Running Club)

3. Elizabeth Maguire (Hungry Runners)

10km—Men

1. Matt Hutchinson — 35:51

2. Sonny O’Rourke

3. Brendan Maltby

10km—Women

1. Brittany Hutchinson — 40:26

2. Anwen Mackay

3. Isla Chapman

5km—Men

1. Miles Kerr — 20:18

2. Nathan Barrett

3. Brad Patti

5km—Women

1. Mia Brunker (PACE Project) — 20:46

2. Bec Stedman

3. Skye Claussen

‍

‍

Seniors

A better weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had only four senior games winning three and losing one. The Premiers and Reserve, away to Riverway JCU, won 2-1 and the Reserves, also away to JCU also won 2-1, The Division 1, at home to rebels lost 3-6 but the Division 2, also at home to Rebels won 3-0. The Colts and Ladies both had byes.  

This week only four teams are in action as both Ladies and Colts have byes. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 are away to Olympic, at 8.30 and 6.30 and on Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Warriors at 7.00 and 3.00. The Colts and Ladies do not have games this week.

‍

Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club

An away trip to JCU is never easy, and after dropping points the previous week, there was added motivation to respond. JCU started strongly, limiting the Panthers time on the ball and making it difficult to find any rhythm early. The first half produced few clear chances, with JCU capitalising late to take a 1–0 lead into the break. The second half saw a renewed energy from the Panthers, while JCU looked to sit deeper and protect their advantage. This shift allowed Burdekin to dominate possession and build pressure in dangerous areas. The Panthers came close on many occasions, including a strike off the crossbar, before Elliott Dal Santo found the breakthrough with a well-taken finish following strong defensive work in the lead-up. Pushing for a winner, Kyle Taylor earned a penalty in the 87th minute, and Jake Siandri stepped up to calmly convert and give the Panthers a 2–1 lead which they held onto in the closing stages to secure a hard-fought result. That’s three wins from their opening four rounds.

Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service

Another week and another changed side saw the Reserves debut opportunity for young players Charlie Predebon & Nyasha Gwarada. It was a very warm afternoon game and developed into a good contest with both teams working hard but neither finding any dominance in possession or field position. It took until the last five minutes of the first half for a goal to come from a longer range freekick and JCU went into the break one up. The second half for the Panthers was much better with senior players able to influence the game and keep better possession of the ball. With improved possession and control Burdekin were able to score two goals from Jonte Grazioli and Dom Arrate. It was a gritty game that in previous seasons the Panthers may have let slip, so very pleasing to turn it around and notch up another win.

‍

Division 1 – Austral Masonry

Against Rebel, both teams and goals started fast, with two goals from Julen Arrate being answered by two from Rebels in the first eighteen minutes. At half time it was 2-2. After that Burdekin got stuck into the grind with tackles flying everywhere. Then a penalty to Rebels and second yellow card for Brad Wright tipped the balance, with Rebels side scoring two goals in quick succession. Cody Scalia headed in a beautiful Charlie Shears corner to give the Burdekin a chance, but with only ten men, it was too much of a struggle The game ended 6-3 to Rebels.

‍

Division 2 – RG Customs

RG Customs 2nd division defeated Rebels 3-0 in a match they dominated from start to finish. Chris Achille gave Burdekin the lead early in the first half, but despite lots of possession and repeatedly attacking Rebels goal, the Funkies were unable to extend their lead in the first half. Burdekin added further goals through Simon Scuderi after 68 minutes and Fengil after 84 minutes in the second half to see the Funkies rewarded for their efforts and deserving winners in a match they controlled very much from start to finish. Next up is MA Olympic this Friday night away in Townsville. 

‍

Masters

The Masters had another good turnout and, augmented by the Ladies Squad had a replay of the World Cup Qualifier, Italy v Bosnia Herzegovina. A tight match ended in a 2-2 draw with a replay next Monday. Best players on the night were Charley Ruskin and Riley Granshaw. 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.  

‍

Juniors

Junior soccer returned in great spirit over the Anzac Day weekend, marking the first round of games following the school holiday break. Our youngest players in the U5–U7 age groups took to the field on Saturday afternoon, enjoying local matches filled with enthusiasm, teamwork and plenty of smiles. It was fantastic to see so many familiar faces back and eager to play.

‍

Sunday saw an exciting milestone for the U8–U12 teams, who travelled to Townsville for their first games of the season. The step up in competition didn’t deter our players, with all teams showing determination and great sportsmanship throughout the day. It was a wonderful way to kick off the return to soccer, with strong participation across all age groups and a positive start to the term ahead.

‍

The U15's had their first game at the weekend against Wulguru. A new coach, a few new players and whole lot of enthusiasm. A bit of nervous energy to start with the first goal being scored by the opposition, but the team went in at half time with a 2-1 lead. Goals for the Panthers scored by Annan Power and Nathan Casella. The team lost Linc Innes due to a nasty clash with their keeper which depleted the bench with only one sub. The second half saw the team digging deep to secure three more goals. One of the new Panthers, Cecil Badza Gwarda scoring two and Emmanuel Mio banging in the final goal for the Panthers to secure a convincing win 5-2. Unfortunately, there is a bit of a break before their next round on the 16 May.

‍

An excited U13 Burdekin Panthers team took the field for the first time this season again MA Olympic.  The Panthers came away with a very good 3-0 win with two goals from. 2 Caelan Farrell and one from Jazz Chung. All players played outstanding football!! 

‍

National

The A League Men’s season has reached the final stages. Newcastle have won the Premiership; five points clear of Adelaide with Auckland third and Melbourne Victory fourth. The Elimination Finals start on Saturday with Auckland playing Melbourne City and Victory playing Sydney FC.  The A League Women are at the Semi-finals stage. At the end of regular fixtures Melbourne City were Premiers six points clear of Wellington, with Canberra third and Brisbane fourth. In the semi-finals this Saturday, Melbourne City face Victory and Brisbane play Wellington.

‍

Mazlyn Smith in action. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Round 7 of the Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Burdekin Touch open competition produced a string of competitive results across all divisions.

In the men’s draw, Way To Go defeated BAYWatch 8–4, while His Haas and Slush Puppies played out a 5–all draw. Alliance Pharmacy proved too strong for Wires Down 9–3, and Petrol Heads accounted for Touch n Go 8–5. Blue Murder continued their good form with an 8–4 win over Ball Grabbers, while Burdekin PCYC and Feelers finished locked at 4–all. Renegades edged a tight contest against Royal Touch 7–6, and Teamo Supremo claimed a narrow 3–2 victory over Creampuffs.

‍

In the women’s competition, Eathorne’s Princesses defeated Lasers 5–2, while First in Physio delivered the most dominant performance of the round, overpowering Salty Sirens 12–1. Chick Flicks also secured a solid 6–4 win over Can’t Catch.

Junior action in the under-14 division saw Chicken Burgers and Cowboys share the points in a 6–all draw. Rockies defeated Broncos 8–3, BAYWatch A accounted for Red Dogs A 8–2, and Silly Soft Serves rounded out the round with a 10–5 win over Red Dogs B.

‍

Meanwhile, junior touch football sign-on will be held on Friday, May 1 at 5.30pm at the Burdekin Touch Football clubhouse. The program is open to boys and girls aged 4 to 12, with six weeks of skills, drills and games to follow. Returning Term 1 players can register for free, while new sign-ons cost $20. For more information, contact Rebecca on 0400 705 205 or Peter on 0437 710 500.

‍

‍

As this is the final patrol weekend for the season, the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club would would like to thank all our patrolling members for the countless volunteer hours that were undertaken on the beach for our community, your time is appreciated and we thank you for keeping Alva Beach safe. Beach patrols will resume again in the September School Holidays.

‍

Beach patrols will resume again in the September school holidays.

‍

Saturday, 2/5/26 (1pm–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group I – Sage Hisatake (PC), Ben Hisatake, Luke Hisatake, Austin Dewar

Sunday, 3/5/26 (9am–1pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group G – Carl List (PC), James Kennedy (PC), Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards, Ross Blakey, Jedd Giddy, Nate Giddy

Sunday, 3/5/26 (1pm–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group E – John Moloney (PC), Anne Moloney (PC), Sophia Moloney, Tony Felisina, Tramayne Horan, Jarrod Rossato

Monday, 4/5/26 (9am–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group A – Chris Wicks (PC), Richard Dale (PC), Jane Olsen, Zackary Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner, Wil Holt

‍

Colten Lyne, Kashdyn Nash, Tahj Nash, Jax Lammon & Mason Pavone sporting the new jerseys. Photo supplied

‍

‍

The Burdekin Roosters Junior Rugby League Club has unveiled its 2026 training shirts and carnival jerseys, featuring a unique design created by one of its youngest players, seven-year-old Tahj Nash.

‍

Each season the club looks to refresh its playing gear, but this year’s edition carries a deeper connection to its community through Tahj’s artwork. A proud local Indigenous junior with a passion for drawing, Tahj was invited to design a jersey that would represent the club both on and off the field.

‍

The finished design features a series of flowing lines and carefully structured patterns, all hand-drawn by Tahj. The lines are said to represent the mighty Burdekin River, while the surrounding shapes and sections symbolise the townships, families and broader community that make up the Roosters club.

Club officials say the jerseys go beyond a simple uniform, instead telling a story of connection, culture and belonging. The design reflects the values of junior rugby league in the Burdekin—bringing people together through sport while celebrating local identity.

‍

The Roosters have praised Tahj’s contribution, saying it is a proud moment for the club to showcase the creativity of one of its own juniors. His artwork will now be worn by Roosters teams throughout the 2026 season, forming a lasting part of the club’s identity for the year ahead.

‍

‍

The Burdekin Roosters endured a tough outing at Peggy Banfield Park, Bushland Beach, on Sunday, losing two of three matches against Norths Thuringowa.

The lone success came in the under-19s, who edged out Norths 28–26 in a tight contest. However, the reserve grade side, coming off a win over Souths in Ayr, fell heavily 46–18, while A grade were beaten 32–24.

‍

After three rounds, Burdekin remain winless alongside Western Lions and Charters Towers. Brothers, Souths and Centrals are undefeated, Herbert River have two wins and Norths one.

‍

As in previous seasons, Cowboys under-21 players were not allocated evenly across clubs, with Norths receiving three and Burdekin one. Those players later dropped back to reserve grade, strengthening Norths.

In A grade, Burdekin paid for a poor first half riddled with handling errors, allowing Norths to build scoreboard pressure. The Roosters improved after the break, winning the second half 18–10, but the early deficit proved decisive.

‍

Coach Steve Lansley said the side’s slow start cost them despite a strong finish.

Cooper Fletcher and Lachlan Buchbach were standouts, while tries came from Adam Camer, Jones Munro, Mitch Brown and Dudley Dotoi, with Jye Olsen kicking four goals.

‍

Other A grade results: Brothers def Charters Towers 34–14; Souths def Western Lions 30–22; Centrals def Herbert River 44–16.

Reserve grade coach Peter Horam criticised his side’s attitude after the 46–18 loss, with Norths leading 24–12 at halftime. A sin-bin and send-off further hurt Burdekin’s second-half effort.

‍

Hooker Ron Geia scored two tries, with support from Bokeem Reid and goal-kicker Dylan Doak (three). Harvey Horan and Joey Southwell also impressed.

Other reserve results: Centrals def Herbert River 28–10; Brothers def Charters Towers 26–18; Souths def Western Lions 22–12.

‍

In the under-19s, coach Alf Cantarella said his side showed resilience despite limited bench depth. Chad Fraser led the way, supported by Joey Southwell and Romeo Kaem. Tries came from Titus (2), Tyce Cursio, KJ Zaro, Leylan Lampton and Shakayne Taiters, with Fraser kicking two goals.

‍

Other under-19 results: Centrals def Herbert River 32–6; Brothers def Western Lions 98–4.

In women’s matches: Brothers def Charters Towers 24–16; Western Lions def Souths 26–16; Centrals def Norths 56–0. Former Burdekin Hens Martina and Stephanie Monday (Western Lions) and Taleisha Bukgarelli (Souths) featured, with Martina and Bukgarelli scoring tries.

‍

There is no club football this weekend due to the Foley Shield in Cairns between Mackay, Townsville and Cairns. No Burdekin or Norths players were selected in the 24-man squad, which includes one player each from Charters Towers, Herbert River and Western Lions, four from Centrals, seven from Brothers and 10 from Souths.

‍

The Burdekin’s next generation of ‘ballers had a taste of elite-level coaching earlier this month, with Townsville Fire coach Shannon Seebohm running a one-day S3 Basketball Academy camp in the region. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

‍

‍

The Burdekin’s next generation of ‘ballers had a taste of elite-level coaching earlier this month, with Townsville Fire coach Shannon Seebohm running a one-day S3 Basketball Academy camp in the region.

Led by Seebohm—a multiple-time WNBL Coach of the Year and championship-winning coach with the Fire—S3 Basketball Academy is a Townsville-based development program focused on building strong fundamentals, decision-making and game habits in junior players through high-performance training environments.

‍

The visit to The Den in Ayr formed part of the academy’s broader push to provide regional athletes with access to structured, high-level coaching that mirrors the standards of elite pathways.

Seebohm said the Burdekin camp was designed to bridge skills work with real-game application.

‍

“We tried to put the kids into a lot of skill development work, but also linking that into direct gameplay so they start to see where they can use those skills in-game,” he said.

‍

“I thought they did a really good job. The work rate was really high, the intensity was really good, and they got a tonne of reps of different skills that they can now go home and work on and, hopefully, use to keep building their games.”

‍

He praised the standard of local talent, noting a “high level of enthusiasm” for Basketball in the region.

‍

“I think there’s a great level of talent in the Burdekin. You can tell that the kids have been really well coached at a young age, and they’ve got really good fundamentals. There’s a true love for the game which is really nice to see,” Seebohm said.

‍

Seebohm said S3 was established to broaden access to high-level coaching in regional areas and support the growing appetite for basketball across North Queensland.

“We started this to give families in this area affordable access to professional-level coaching… and anything we can do to help build that base and promote the game is a real positive,” he said.

‍

‍

Winners, Thuringowa Bowls Club: Allan Hay, Kerry Martin,  Sponsor Jamie Woods,  Peter Martin, Jimmy Seymour.

‍

‍

The Brandon Burdekin Skip 4s has wrapped up for another year, with a full green of 16 teams competing in a successful weekend of bowls.

‍

Clubs travelled from across North Queensland to take part, including Emerald, Bowen, Wangaratta, Ayr, Brandon, Alligator Creek, Jubilee, Collinsville, South Townsville, Thuringowa, Macknade, Ingham and Noorla, highlighting the event’s strong reach and reputation.

‍

Thuringowa Bowls Club emerged as overall winners, with Brandon Bowls Club finishing second. Third place went to the rink of Jacob Chivers, David Cahill, Ben Cribben and Gary Hocking, while South Townsville placed fourth. Another Brandon Bowls Club side rounded out the top five.

‍

Organisers extended thanks to major naming sponsor Burdekin Skips, along with supporting sponsors Ayr Electrical Services, Bennetts 4x4 and Mechanical, Blinds 2 U, Brown and Hurley, Burdekin Tyres, Cignall, Ferguson Plumbing, Nutrients, Trackpower and Wilmar.

‍

‍

The event’s success was also credited to the efforts of club volunteers. Brandon members who attended working bees in the lead-up ensured the venue and greens were in top condition, while kitchen staff, contributors to afternoon teas and the barbecue crew were all praised for their work across the weekend. Bar staff were also acknowledged for keeping patrons refreshed.

‍

‍

Jason Wright (Bowen Bowls Club) handled scoring duties, assisted by Gary Pearce, both earning commendation for their efforts.

Special recognition was given to club president and major sponsor Burdekin Skips for the significant time and work invested in securing sponsorship and coordinating the event, helping cement the tournament as one of the district’s premier competitions.

‍

Contributed with thanks to the Brandon Bowls Club

‍

Photos supplied

‍

Students of Shim Jang Taekwondo took part in the latest triannual grading, with all participants passing as examiners assessed technique, attitude and overall readiness for promotion across all levels. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Students from Shim Jang Taekwondo took to the Marcellin Centre in Ayr on Monday, 30 March, taking part in one of the club’s three annual gradings aimed at assessing their readiness to progress to the next belt level.

Examiners—Deputy Grand Master Rob, Assistant Grand Master Craig, and Assistant Master Instructor Matt—assessed students across a range of criteria including skill, spirit, attitude and overall competency in techniques appropriate to their level.

All students, aged between five and 60, passed on the night, rounding out a successful few months of training.

‍

‍

All Students Pass In Strong Showing At Latest Taekwondo Assessment

Students of Shim Jang Taekwondo took part in the latest triannual grading, with all participants passing as examiners assessed technique, attitude and overall readiness for promotion across all levels.

Participants were required to demonstrate line work, step sparring, free sparring and grading patterns, while higher-level students were also challenged with “destruction techniques” such as breaking wooden boards, along with self-defence scenarios including take-downs and grab breakouts.

Regional Advisor and Branch Instructor Cliff Mann said the grading reflected both individual effort and the strength of the club as a whole.

‍

‍

“Our recent grading was a fantastic display of dedication, discipline, and spirit across all levels,” Mr Mann said.

“From the very first patterns to the final techniques, every student stepped onto the floor with focus and confidence, showcasing the hard work they’ve put in over the past months.”

‍

He added that the grading was not just an individual assessment, but a reflection of how instructors are guiding students and building consistency in training.

“The grading wasn’t just about individual performance—it was a reminder of how far we’ve come together as a team,” he said.

‍

“If this grading is anything to go by, the future of Burdekin Shim Jang Taekwondo is incredibly bright,” he said.

‍

‍

Bendigo Bank Park was the centre of junior rugby league over the weekend, with 28 teams converging on the Burdekin for the annual Shane Muspratt Cup. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Bendigo Bank Park was the centre of junior rugby league over the weekend, with 28 teams converging on the Burdekin for the annual Shane Muspratt Cup.

Clubs from across Queensland took part in the two-day carnival, with matches played across three fields from Friday morning through to Saturday afternoon. The event delivered a strong standard of competition and highlighted the depth of emerging talent in the game.

The Shane Muspratt Cup continues to honour the legacy of Shane Muspratt, recognising his long-standing commitment to junior rugby league and grassroots development.

‍

Muspratt was present at the grounds across both days, spending time with players and families, with many young participants taking the opportunity for photos and a brief chat.

A club spokesperson said Muspratt's involvement added to the atmosphere of the weekend.

‍

“It was great to have Shane at the grounds across both days, taking the time to chat with players and spend time around the fields,” the spokesperson said.

“Many of the kids enjoyed meeting him and having a quick photo, adding an extra touch to an already memorable weekend.”

The club also acknowledged the significant contribution of volunteers, who assisted across set-up, match operations and cleanup to ensure the carnival ran smoothly from start to finish.

‍

Thanks were also extended to local businesses and sponsors for their continued support, which organisers said is essential to delivering the event each year.

President Jarrod Smith acknowledged the wider community for its support of visiting teams and families.

‍

He said events such as the Shane Muspratt Cup provide a boost for the region, with accommodation providers, businesses and local venues all benefiting from the influx of visitors.

Smith said the carnival continues to showcase the Burdekin as a welcoming host, while reinforcing the importance of community-driven sport in the region.

‍

Thursday's winning team (left to right): Margaret Chapman, Judy Elton. Mick McCloskey. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Another busy week on the green was had at Home Hill Community Sports Club with the commencement of Club Competition triples and the final of the fours, as well as Thursday and Saturday club social bowls.

The highlight of the week was the fours final played between Trevor Elton, Mick McCloskey, Judy Elton and Margaret Chapman against Tony Eddie, Scott Taylor, Jeff Phillips and Wayne Newton, resulting in Trevor Elton’s team taking out the win after a very closeencounter. Congratulations extended to the winning team.

‍

On Thursday afternoon, the first of the triples competition was played between Mick McCloskey, Trevor Elton and Judy Elton against Phil Marsden, Bob Pickard and Maureen Marsden, with the win going to Mick McCloskey’s team.

Saturday afternoon saw the second game of triples competition, with Hugh Mongomery, Dino Poli and Gary Nosworthy competing against Jeff Taylor, Scott Taylor and Amy Bailey, resulting in Jeff Taylor’s team winning on a forfeit due to health concerns. Our thoughts are extended to Hugh and his team.

‍

Thursday club social bowls saw four games of triples played. On rink three, Hugh Mongomery, Scott Taylor and Nev Ward played Joe Linton, Cisco and Margaret Chapman, with the win going to Hugh’s team.

On rink four, Jeff Phillip, Des Chapman and Paul Vass played against Gary Nosworthy, Joslyn Defranciscis and Warren Bunn, resulting in a draw, with the win going to Gary’s team on ends.  

‍

On rink six, Glenn Berriman, Sandra Darwin and Margaret Linton played Ron Smith, Mick Olsen and Robert Piva, with the win going to Glenn’s team.

On rink seven, Con, Les Hoey and Rob Darr played Alex Bojack, Steve Mutu and Betty Ward, with the win going to Rob Darr’s team. Congratulations to all winning teams and all members who participated.

‍

The random rink winning team for the day went to Con, Les Hoey and Rob Darr. Raffle wins went to Laura Webber (first prize) and Steve Mutu (second prize).

‍

Contributed with thanks to Bob Pickard

‍