Two celebrated members of the Ayr Rifle Club, David Huckett and Jason Kupke, have etched their names in history as part of the North Queensland team, claiming the title of Australian Champions at the National F-Class Long Range Rifle Teams Competition. Held in Canberra during November of 2024, the event brought together elite shooters from across the nation.
The North Queensland team, comprising six shooters, a reserve, Coach Jordan Drew, and Manager and Captain Betta Gianassi, spent the past year training at ranges in Mackay, Townsville, and the Atherton Tablelands. These sessions helped the team refine their skills and adapt to varying conditions in preparation for the intense competition.
The championship, held over two days, tested competitors with distances of 700, 800, and 900 metres. The bullseye at these ranges measured just 25.5cm in diameter, demanding exceptional precision.
Challenging weather conditions at the Canberra range, including shifting wind directions and speeds, added to the difficulty. Despite this, the North Queensland team excelled, finishing the first day of competition in the lead and maintaining their dominance on day two. Their combined scores secured a decisive victory, marking the first time an FTR rifle team from North Queensland has won a national title.
A historic achievement, both Dave and Jason’s highly skilled talents and attention to precision combined with the dedication of their fellow teammates were essential to North Queensland’s success.

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Back: Michael Keelan, Karl Voderwinkler, Jim Roughan, Jason Kupke, Paul Little, and David Huckett. Front: Betta Gianassi, Jordan Drew, and Robert Engwirda. Photo supplied.
Back: Paul Little, Karl Voderwinkler, Jason Kupke, Robert Engwirda, David Huckett, and Michael Keelan. Front: Jordan Drew, Jim Roughan, and Betta Gianassi. Photo supplied.
David Huckett and Jason Kupke. Photo supplied.

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As the Christmas and New Year period nears its conclusion at Alva Beach, the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club reminds everyone to enjoy the school holidays and festivities safely. With increased traffic from bikes and 4-wheelers, the Club urges beachgoers to be mindful and considerate of others.

The dedicated patrols have been on duty throughout the holiday season to ensure everyone enjoys a safe time by the water, with members asking the community to work together to keep Alva Beach a fun and safe environment for all. Stay aware, be sensible, and have a wonderful holiday season!

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With almost seven years of experience under her belt, Caitlin Holmes continues to reach new levels of success within her rugby union career, with 2024 hosting a world of opportunities for both personal and professional growth with the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

“The 2024 season has definitely been a very social one for myself, and I’m sure a few of the ladies from our rugby team as the friendships gained through not only this year, but my past years of playing rugby, will always be part of my highlights when I recap on a season,” shared Caitlin.

“Throughout the year I have been fortunate to be a part of the representative pathway, playing for the Townsville Brolgas as well as for North Queensland, it is always an honour to be a part of these teams, not only to be playing for a serious competition but also to be representing my team.”

Caitlin’s passion for the sport extends beyond the field and she holds her father, Rowland Holmes to a high regard, noting his significant contributions to her overall success.

“There are many coaches, however I’d have to pay the most dedication to my current coach, and dad, Rowland Holmes,” Caitlin said.

“He is and has always been a key driver in my interest in rugby and it has always been a part of my life since I can remember and a lot of that is owed to him.”

Following her father’s selection to coach the U14 girls’ representative teams for Townsville, North Queensland and Queensland Country, Caitlin began to explore the other side of the coin and assumed a mentoring role over the course of the 2024 season.

“My dad invited me to be part of trainings, and this opportunity has allowed me to see and learn about the outstanding talent that is coming through in young female athletes, and I truly believe it is a demographic worth investing time and effort into.”

Motivation certainly underpins Caitlin’s success, and in holding the position of Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads’ Women’s Captain, she has great plans in store for the new year ahead to further both her personal career and the abilities of her teammates.

“Each year I’m always looking to achieve more with representative selections and improving my own skills however my hope is to get more ladies from the Burdekin team into these roles as well as we have a lot of potential here that I hope will be seen playing for Townsville and beyond,” Caitlin added.

“I’m also hoping to expand our player numbers not only for the women’s team but also to include some teenage girls’ teams in the junior competition and I’m eager to pass on the knowledge and love of the game that has kept me playing for the past years and will keep me playing into the future.”

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Caitlin Holmes’ impressive rugby union career continues to reach new levels of success!

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As the Christmas season draws near, activity at the Ayr Bowling Club has eased, with many members heading off for holiday festivities. However, the spirit of social bowls remains alive, ensuring skills stay sharp and friendships flourish.

Men’s social bowls on Wednesday saw two engaging games of triples. The winning team of Ron Smythe, Happy Horan/Ray Wall, and Col Essex triumphed over their opponents John Pirrone, Margaret Chapman, and Lew Stidston.

Wednesday night social bowls brought a lively evening of play, with Tricia Achille, Rob Jorgensen, and Ross McLaughlin winning the first game, while Evelyn Wiltshire and David Burt claimed victory in the second. Congratulations to all the winners!

On Saturday afternoon, the warm weather didn’t deter members from enjoying a great session of mixed social bowls. Three games of triples were played, with the team of Paul Vass, Lorraine Wolffe, and Joe Grabbi securing the Christmas goodies as the afternoon’s top performers. Additional festive prizes added to the cheerful atmosphere.

Looking ahead, the club has announced its social bowls schedule over the holiday period: Mixed social bowls will take place on Saturday, 21st December and there will be no bowls on 25th, 28th December, or 1st January. Instead, mixed social bowls will be held on Tuesday, 31st December, with names to be submitted by 12:30pm for a 1pm start.

The Ayr Bowling Club extends warm Christmas wishes to all residents of the Burdekin region. May your holiday season be filled with love, laughter, and joy. The club looks forward to sharing more updates and highlights in the new year.

Contributed with thanks to Ayr Bowling Club President, Anthony Bull.

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Saturday 21st of December, 1pm to 5pm: Patrol Group F - Lisa and John Furnell, Jen and Jo Morgan, Lauren and Isla Chapman, and Ryley, Jake, Kat and Dave Satori.

Sunday 22nd of December, 9am to 5pm: Patrol Group D – Ben, Bella, and Kellie Lawry, Parker Bonato, Richard and Zac Dale, William Holt, Sharli and Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, and Kristy and Briella Wassmuth.

Wednesday 25th of December, 9am to 1pm: Christmas Day Patrol Members - Jimmy Hayllor, and John, Anne, Sophia and Isabella Moloney.

Wednesday 25th of December, 1pm to 5pm: Christmas Day Patrol  Members – Lisa, John and Joshua Furnell.

Thursday 26th of December, 9am to 5pm: Boxing Day All Day Patrol Group D – Ben, Bella and Kellie Lawry, Zac and Richard Dale, Parker Bonato, William Holt, Sharlli and Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, and Kristy and Briella Wassmuth.

Saturday 28th of December, 1am to 5pm: Patrol Group E – John, Isabella, Sophia and Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Jane and Gavin Jones, Alissia and Billy Gibson, and Danni Coughlin.

Sunday 29th of December, 9am to 5pm: All Day Patrol Group B - Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan and Gabriel Hatherell, and Toby and Danny Wilson.

Wednesday 1st of January, 9am to 5pm: New Year Day All Day Patrol Group D – Ben, Kellie, and Bella Lawry, Zac and Richard Dale, Parker Bonato, William Holt, Sharli and Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, and Kristy and Briella Wassmuth.

Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.

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The countdown is on for the 2025 NQIB Burdekin Sprint, which is being held 18 January 2025, at the Ayr Pool. The event draws some 250–300 competitors annually, with families visiting the Burdekin from Ingham to Mackay, out through to Collinsville, Richmond and Charters Towers.

Beyond the club, the benefits extend to the local businesses and community, with visitors often staying over the weekend during the carnival.

With the Burdekin Swimming Club being such a small club, this type of important swim meet is only made possible with the support of local businesses, who offer sponsorship towards the event.

“Without the generosity of those local businesses, a club like ours simply would not exist. The clubs aim is to get more kids (and adults) in the water to reap the benefits swimming has to offer,” says Ned Bonato, Club President.

“This is the number one main fundraising source for our club, which literally keeps us going each year,” she added.

The sprint is a key event in the Swimming North Queensland calendar, as it’s the last meet before the Queensland State Championships, offering swimmers a final attempt to record entry times. 

“The main income for the event is through our sponsorship support. As a club we are trying to keep the interest alive for local business to bolster our event, and are hoping the business and local community can assist us to ensure the Burdekin Swimming Club stays afloat,” Ned says.

Get along and show your support at the sprint come 18 January, to help them achieve their aim.

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Swimmers diving into the pool for last year’s Burdekin Swim Sprint. Photo: Supplied.
Swimmers in action during last year’s Burdekin Swim Sprint. Photo: Supplied.

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As the cricket season wraps up for most of the Home Hill Cricket Association juniors, two talented players, Marshall Parker and Thomas Cardillo, are set to continue their cricketing journeys on the representative stage this December.

Marshall Parker has been selected for the North Queensland Under-12B team and will head to Townsville from 16 to 20 December for a week-long Northern Hub Championship. His team will compete in 40-over matches against squads from Central Queensland, Mackay, and Far North Queensland. Adding to the achievement, Marshall has earned the honour of being named Vice-Captain of his team - a testament to his leadership and skill.

Meanwhile, Thomas Cardillo will travel to Cairns to take part in the prestigious "Bulls Masters" championship during the same week. This statewide competition features the best Under-16 players from across Queensland, including regions such as Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Mackay, and the Sunshine Coast. Representing the "NQ Monsoons," Thomas will compete in 50-over games, with the ultimate goal of securing the championship title.

The Home Hill Cricket Association wishes both boys the best of luck in their respective tournaments. Their selection is a remarkable opportunity to showcase their talent and represents a proud moment for the local cricketing community.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke.

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Marshall Parker will soon travel to Townsville to play in NQ’s Under-12B team.
Thomas Cardillo has been selected to play in Cairns’ Bulls Maters championship!

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The Lower Burdekin Ski Club was buzzing with talented athletes on the weekend, with families travelling from across the northern end of the state to participate in the Club’s annual Christmas Classic Competition!

33 competitors showcased their skills on the water across three events, trick, jump and slalom with Lower Burdekin Ski Club President, Jay Wiseman thankful the sunshine pulled through for the competition.

“We’ve really turned the weather on today,” said Jay.

The Lower Burdekin Ski Club stands as the only three event side Club in North Queensland, with many talented athletes travelling to enjoy the Club’s facilities located at Hutchings Lagoon. 2024 has seen the Club hold both regular come and try sessions as well as a ladies’ and girls’ day to welcome newcomers to the sport, with both Kristy and Jay noticing more beginners on the water.

“We’ve got the largest Division 6 we’ve seen which means there’s more newcomers than experienced skiers competing this year - we’re the only club in North Queensland who offers this type of competition,” added Jay.

At just six years old, Addison Hurley was the weekend’s youngest competitor, with the oldest skier on the water aged over 70, proving water skiing stands as a sport accessible for all ages to enjoy. Kristy and Jay invite those interested in the sport to reach out to the Club via their website www.lowerburdekinski.com.au.

Maddie Knox, and Addison and Claire Hurley
Reese Fusco, Kristy Wiseman, Emma and Hannah Pollick, Julie Neilberding, and Karly Chaillon
Garry Pollock (Townsville Water Ski Club President), Craig Rankin (Barron River President), Jay Wiseman (Lower Burdekin Ski Club President), Ryan Alloway (Lower Burdekin Ski Club Treasurer, and BBQ Grill King), and Brett Barsby (Townsville Water Ski Club Committee Member)
Division 1 water skier, Sam Neilberding

Photo Credit: Chelsea Ravizza

The Delta Cleaners Night Soccer Grand Finals lit up International Park last Friday, drawing a large crowd to witness the thrilling conclusion of the 46th season of this iconic competition. With 13 games on the schedule, the event showcased the region's top teams battling it out for glory, with UDS and UDS Ladies emerging as the Men’s and Women’s A Grade champions.

In the Men’s A Grade Final, UDS claimed the title after a nail-biting 2-1 victory over Show Me Da Mane. The match was deadlocked at 1-1 at full time, with Elliott Dal Santo scoring for UDS and Brendan Mio equalising for the Mane. The game went into Drop Offs and then Shoot Outs, where Jay Leckenby secured the winning goal, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The Ladies A Grade Final saw UDS Ladies dominate Smiling Assassins 6-0 to claim their first-ever championship title, redeeming their loss in the 2023 final. Sian Reardon delivered a stunning performance with a hat trick, supported by goals from Sally Friend, Ciara McDonnell, and Charley Ruskin.

A fan-favourite event of the evening was the Ferg Holden Drinkers Trophy, which Fair Call won decisively, defeating Free Ballers 4-0. The finals night featured plenty of tight contests, with four games requiring extra time and Drop Offs, and two culminating in Shoot Outs.

Other Finals Results:
Ladies Social B: Short Staffed 1 def. Havn’t a Kahlua 0
Ladies Social A Plate: The Hangovers 4 def. Blue Goal Diggers 0
Ladies Social A: Shin Kickers 1 def. Let’s Get Messi 0
Ladies A Plate: Rocky Pond Wonders 3 def. Kicken Goals 2
Men A Plate: Nutrien Ag Solutions 3 def. Plumb Dingers 2
Men A Bowl: Rapos Utd 3 def. FJV 0
Men B Grade: Oary’s Levellers 2 def. 7 Stooges 1
Men B Plate: Karl’s Mowing Service 3 def. iComply Utd 0
Men Social A Grade: BA 2 def. Old Grumpies 0
Men Social A Plate: DL Lager 4 def. Delta Physio 1
Men Social A Bowl: Borin n Scorin 2 def. Hardly Athletic 1

Night Soccer began in 1979 to stay fit during the off-season, starting with just eight teams in Home Hill. Over the years, the competition moved to Ayr, with floodlit games at International Park beginning in 1981. At its peak, the league hosted 86 teams. Delta Cleaners, the inaugural sponsors, have proudly supported the competition since its inception, marking a remarkable partnership of 46 years.

Congratulations to all teams, and a special mention to the winner of the SLoBs Christmas Raffle: Yellow ticket Z 22. See you all next season!

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Edith, Addison, Eva, Asha and Audrey 
Riley Christensen, Jack Gimson, Mason Matthews, Sebastian Mio, Matthew Kolb and Matthew Walker 
Megan Durrant, Laylah and Zane 
Dan and Tiffany Olditch 
Shane Pensini, Jamie Levitt, Flynn and Lucas 
Sophie, Olivia, Jayden, Claire, Mitchell and Emily 
Rhia Nielsen, Cassie Towlen, Logan Guglielmana, and Jett Jones
David, Corryn, Angus and Lincoln Inness 
Scott and Adele Andreatta 
Caleb Totorica, Riley Catanzaro, Ryan Totorica and Adam Patane 
Father and son duo, Rick and Max Kelly 
Riley Christensen and Taylah Koutsonis 
Goal Diggers’ Kellie Rains, Rhianna White, Shay Kratzmann and Brytni Pearson 
Kicking Goals’ Lauren Raitelli and Eliza Worlein 
 
Photo Credit: Chelsea Ravizza. 

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Over the weekend, 42 competitors from the Ayr Surf Club travelled to Sarina to battle the best of the North Barrier in the annual Branch Championships. It was lovely to see the nippers being joined by a strong cohort of masters to give it their all over 2 very big days of strong competition.

The club had some brilliant individual results, incredible team efforts and genuinely showed some amazing never give up attitude in all events giving them one of their highest overall points scores at a carnival in years. 

The carnival concluded with the announcement of the 2024-25 North Barrier Branch Youth State Team who will travel to the Queensland State Titles at Tugun in March next year.

A massive congratulations to 13 Ayr Nippers who made the team - Charlotte Dale, Taylor Chapman, Luca Lawry, Mia Wicks, Milla Chapman, Emma Jones, Emilee Wassmuth, Charlotte Lawry, Cole Pontifex, Briella Wassmuth, Zachary Dale, Isla Chapman and Bella Lawry. 

Just a reminder that volunteer patrols will continue over weekends and public holidays during the Christmas school holidays. So please if visiting the beach, see the lifesavers if you have any questions and always stay safe by following displayed safety warning signs. 

In other lifesaving news, on Saturday 30th November, Milla and Isla Chapman also represented the Queensland Country Team on the Sunshine Coast at the Interbranch Championships. Both girls performed exceptionally well in individual and team events with Milla coming home with a Gold medal in U13 female flags, a Bronze medal in U13 Female beach sprint & a Silver medal in U13 Beach relay.

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All Age Relay Team - Audrey Rickards, Ryley Sartori, Toby Hatherell, Isla Chapman, Mackenzie Sartori, Milla Chapman, Taylor Chapman, Ross Rickards, Mia Wicks, Chris Wicks and Zachary Dale. Photo supplied
Milla Chapman in U13 Board Race. Photo supplied.
U14 Surf Team - Parker Bonato, Zachary Dale, Briella Wassmuth and Jake Sartori - 2nd. Photo supplied
Isla Chapman celebrating her 2km beach run win. Photo supplied
Ryan Irvine in U10 Wade Relay. Photo supplied
U13 Board Relay Champions - Milla Chapman, Emma Jones and Cole Pontifex. Photo supplied
U14/15 2 Person R&R Champions - Bella Lawry and Briella Wassmuth. Photo supplied
U9 Cameron Relay - 3rd - Quinn Pontifex, Jude Lawry, Toby Hatherell and Mackenzie Sartori - presented by Chief Judge, Mark Rossato. Photo supplied
Angus Wicks wading in the U10 Cameron Relay. Photo supplied
U11 Boys - Lachlan Jones, Harrison Sartori, Luca Lawry and Lewis Bonato with Age Manager Ned Bonato. Photo supplied
Audrey Rickards (2nd) and Lola Gibson (3rd) in U10 Female Flags. Photo supplied
Milla and Isla Chapman representing Qld Country Team. Photo supplied

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The Ayr Pony & Hack Club brought their year to a thrilling close with an unforgettable ride and camp at Virginia Park Station in November. Members and their families immersed themselves in the beauty and adventure of the great outdoors, making lasting memories in a picturesque setting.

The weekend was filled with excitement as riders explored bush trails, galloped across river sands, splashed through refreshing waters, and tackled every jumpable log in sight. The scenic station provided a perfect backdrop for riders of all ages to showcase their skills and enjoy the camaraderie of their fellow club members.

After a day of riding, participants returned to the welcoming homestead for more fun and relaxation. Activities included swimming in the pool, playing tennis, and gathering around the campfire for storytelling and laughter, all while enjoying delicious food.

The Virginia Park Station camp marked a fantastic conclusion to a year of shared passion for horses and the outdoors, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the adventures ahead in the new year.

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Pony & Hack Club.

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It has been a bustling week at the Ayr Bowling Club, with social bowls, awards presentations, and the Annual General Meeting bringing members together to celebrate a successful year of bowling.

On Wednesday 4 December, the club hosted three games of triples with Ron Smythe, Joe Papale, and Anthony Bull emerging victorious over Cisco, Col Essex, and Ron Soper in a close match. The club's covered greens provided respite from the summer heat, ensuring an enjoyable afternoon for all participants.

Saturday’s social bowls saw a fantastic turnout of 29 players before the annual awards presentation. Four games of triples and one game of pairs were played, with Val Edwards, Thelma Klopper, Joe Papale, and Anthony Bull taking home gift vouchers donated by the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club for their win. Runners-up Lorraine Wolffe, Col Essex, and Lew Stidston earned Christmas hams, while Dot Cotting won the major raffle prize, which included a bag and prawns from Home Hill Prawn Shop.

The annual awards presentation on Saturday evening recognised the club’s top performers. Vice Men’s President Maurie Power and Vice Ladies’ President Sandra Stidston officiated the ceremony, expressing gratitude to players, committee members, and volunteers. Special thanks were extended to Honeycombes for sponsoring the Mixed Singles award, which was won by Michael Parravicini.

The prestigious Bowler of the Year titles went to Joe Grabbi for the men and Pam Power for the women, acknowledging their dedication and exceptional performances both at the club and in inter-district competitions.

Sunday’s Annual General Meeting marked the end of an era as Anthony Bull stepped into the role of Club President, succeeding Ron Soper.

The incoming committee includes:
   • Secretary: Pam Power
   • Treasurer: Maurice Power
   • Men’s Senior Vice President: Maurice Power
   • Ladies’ Vice President: Beryl Cornford
   • Greens Director: Ron Soper
   • Provedore: Sam Caltibiano
   • Men’s Games Director: Anthony Bull
   • Ladies’ Games Director: Irene Wilson
   • Ladies’ Committee Member: Joy Comollatti
   • Men’s Committee Members: Chris Berkery and John Perone
   • Grants Coordinator: Lorraine Wolffe

Ray Wall will continue in his role as Patron of the club.

Social bowls will continue over the Christmas break, with games scheduled for 11, 14, 18 and 21 December. There will be no bowls on 25 or 28 December. Instead, mixed social bowls will take place on Tuesday, 31 December.

Members and newcomers alike are encouraged to join the club's social bowls events, which continue on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons, with evening games on Wednesdays during summer. Names are to be submitted by 6:30pm, with games starting at 7pm.

The Ayr Bowling Club looks forward to an exciting year ahead, with activities resuming in January 2025, weather permitting, and social bowls likely to begin on 14 January.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

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Saturday Winners received RSL Vouchers for their stellar performances.
Bowlers of the Year were Pam Power and Joe Grabbi.
Michael Parravicini was the Mixed Singles campion as sponsored by Honeycombes.

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The final junior cricket games for 2024 before the Christmas break were played last Friday evening at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex, bringing together players, families, and the wider community for a fantastic celebration of the season.

The Tuesday Rookies joined forces with the Challengers for the occasion, creating an exciting atmosphere where all players showcased their skills before enjoying a well-earned sausage sizzle, generously sponsored by Woolworths.

In the Challengers' match, Henry Cohen and Cooper Gardner impressed with a strong partnership of 16 runs, both remaining not out. Corey Pensini and Doug Cohen followed suit with their 11-run partnership, also unbeaten. Among the bowlers, Amaya Goggi and Royce Cohen each claimed two wickets, while Hunter O'Shea, Mica Kemp, and Henry Cohen picked up one each.

The "McDonald’s Sports Awards" were presented to Mica Kemp, Nicholas Marrinan, and Doug and Royce Cohen for their outstanding performances.

Kaisen Petersen returned to the "Blue Group" after several weeks in the "Gold Group," showcasing his refined skills by top-scoring with 12 not out and taking a wicket. He also earned a "McDonald’s Sports Award" for his all-round effort.

Tait Parker and Kye Quinlan shone with the bat, scoring 11 and 10 runs respectively, with Kye hitting two boundaries. Tait delivered with the ball as well, taking three wickets for just four runs, while Kip Nicholas narrowly missed a hat-trick, claiming three wickets in four balls to earn another "McDonald’s Sports Award."

Other wicket-takers included Jacob Adcock, Jude Shannon, Kye Quinlan, and Mitchell Patti, with Mitchell also contributing two runouts.

The "Gold Group" played a shortened game to join in the festivities. Marshall Parker dazzled with 19 runs off 15 balls, including a six and a four, while Xavier Cross added an unbeaten 12 runs with two boundaries.

The standout bowler of the game, Mark Wilkie, took two wickets for just eight runs off three overs, earning him a "McDonald’s Sports Award." Tyler Schultz, Ben Watkins, and Logan Pickup each claimed a wicket, while Alex Cullen added a sharp catch to his name.

The evening wrapped up with a lively sausage sizzle, bringing families and players together to celebrate the season’s efforts and achievements. The Home Hill Cricket Association extends its gratitude to Woolworths for donating sausages, onions, and bread, making the half-season break-up a resounding success.

The association wishes all its players and supporters a safe and happy festive season and looks forward to seeing everyone back on the field in 2024!

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke.

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Mark Wilkie was celebrated as the game’s standout bowler!
Kaisen Petersen and Kip Nicholas both received McDonalds Sports Awards on Friday.
The Rookies and Challengers joined forces last week.
The Rookies and Challengers game created an awesome atmosphere.
The Blue Group putting on a lively show.
The Gold Group performed exceptionally well.

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The rain stayed away long enough last Friday for the penultimate week of Junior Cricket before the Christmas break, giving the young cricketers a chance to showcase their skills. Thanks to Dan and the grounds team, the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex fields were in top condition, despite the recent wet weather.

In the Challengers group, Noah Tanner and Corey Pensini stood out with a superb partnership of 19 runs, with Corey remaining not out. Batting wasn’t easy, but the bowlers made their mark, with Hadley, Anna, Royce, Lincoln, Noah, and Corey all taking wickets. For their excellent performances with both bat and ball, Corey and Noah received the "McDonald's Sports Awards" for the week.

Over on field 4, the "Blue Group" delivered an exciting match. Tait Parker and Kip Nicholas were impressive with the bat, scoring 16 and 15 runs respectively, both remaining unbeaten. Tait smashed three boundaries during his innings and also shone with the ball, taking 2 wickets for just 6 runs. Mazlyn Smith matched his bowling prowess, claiming two wickets herself, while Kyle Wilkie and Kayleah McCarthy took one wicket each. Kip Nicholas and Jake Cullen added to the action with a runout each. Tait’s all-round brilliance earned him a "McDonald's Sports Award," while Mazlyn’s spirited bowling and encouragement in the field saw her claim the other award.

In the "Gold Group," Marshall Parker delivered a standout performance, smashing five boundaries and one six in a blistering 24-ball innings of 35 runs, retiring not out. He also impressed with the ball, taking 2/9, earning him the "McDonald's Sports Award" for his efforts. Other noteworthy contributions came from Oscar Mahoney, who remained unbeaten with 16 runs, while Xavier Cross, Tyler Schultz, and Ben Watkins all took wickets. Ben also added a runout to his tally, and Oliver Calligaro made a great catch.

As the Christmas break approaches, the juniors continue to deliver fantastic performances each week, showcasing the depth of talent and enthusiasm within the Home Hill Cricket Association.

Contributed with thanks to HHCA Junior Co-Ordinator Scott Heidke.

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Tait Parker and Mazlyn Smith were Blue Group standouts!
Marshall Parker shone in the Gold Group.
Challenger’s Noah Tanner and Corey Pensini made a perfect pair.

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Saturday 14 December, 1pm to 5pm: Patrol Group A - Chris Wicks, Damien Rickets, Emma Rickets, and Jane Wicks.

Sunday 15 December, 9am to 5pm: All Day Patrol Group D - Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac Dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, and Briella Wassmuth.

Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.

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