The Ayr Bowling Club has been a hub of activity over the past few weeks, and warmly thanks their dedicated weekly working bee team for buzzing around the club each Tuesday. The team arrives to the club early to ensure the grounds and greenkeeping are up to standard and paired with the hard work of the roster goers, the green is ready for players to give it their best during the crushing season.

On Wednesday 26 June, the spirit of friendship filled the afternoon’s competition, despite the slight State of Origin halt to Wednesday Night Mixed Social Bowls. Two games of Triples graced the green, with John Pirrone, Peter Sauer and Rob Garner victorious.

Saturday saw two games of triples and two games of rinks, with M. Nixon, B. Cornford, P. Sauer and W. Coonan crowed as the winners. Runners Up were B. Conus, D. Soper and S. Keeta, and the club welcomed travelling visitors to join in on the friendly competition.

The club extends congratulations to their Dunn Cup representatives, S. Calltabiano, C. Essex, A. Bull and M. Power. The group faced tough competition from many of the regional bowling clubs and were able to hold their heads high throughout.  

On Sunday 7 July from 8:30am, the Semi Final Championship Pairs and B Grade Single games will ignite the Ayr Bowling Club. Further details are published on the club board.

Contributed with thank to Anthony Bull.

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On the last weekend of June, four Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads players put it on the field for the Queensland Country Championships in Rockhampton.

Andy Smyth, Caitlin Holmes, Kelsey Hesp and Nathan Steel brought their all for a jampacked weekend from 28 June to 30 June.

“The Country Championships are a celebration of the talents, passion, and dedication of the Queensland Country Rugby community,” said Queensland Country Rugby Union President Mr. Rod Hohn.

The event was one of the biggest in the championship’s history, with over 1,000 players, staff and volunteers in attendance from all areas of Country Queensland.

Spirits were high, and game faces were on for what was an excellent display of skill and dedication for the 2024 Queensland Country Championships.

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The four Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoad players who participated in the Queensland Country Championships in Rockhampton. Photo supplied

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The Ayr Golf Club made a splash at the Drummond Golf 4BBB Day last weekend, producing outstanding results across the board.

Prizes were donated with thanks to Kev from Drummond Townsville, and both men and women participated in the event, with fantastic numbers in attendance for a shotgun start to what was a beautiful day on the course.

The slight tilt in weather conditions did not dampen the players spirit or the course, with everyone eying off incredible scores to bag some of the amazing prizes.

Making his debut, Matt Kemp was one of the celebrated winners in the men’s section, along with Robert Pitt. The pair scored 47 points over Phil Johnston, and Emanual Coribitarte with 46 points.

In the ladies section, the winners were Angie Baxter and Sandra Wight with 41 points over Evelyn Webb and Ronda O’Brien with 40 points - determining the winner between the ladies came down to a nail-biting last hole.

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

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Local

The Burdekin Panthers had no matches last week. This week they have four games, and the Women Premiers are in action twice.

On Friday the Austral Masonry Funkies are at home to Riverway JCU and on Saturday the ANZ Anzac Club Premiers, the Burdekin Tyre Service Under 23s and the Ayr Anzac Club Women Premiers are all away to Olympic. Then on the following Wednesday the Ladies are away, in Townsville again, to Saints Eagles Souths.

Masters

A better turn out on Monday night with some new players, using the word loosely. In a re-play of the Euro 2024 match, Switzerland beat Italy 4-2 after a 1-1 score at half time. Player of the Week this week was Switzerland’s George Koukouris

Juniors

Preparations for the Burdekin annual carnival on Sunday 14th July are well and truly underway. The Carnival draw will be out next week. Parents and carers are asked to help out where they can and should refer to Facebook posts and check e-mails for assistance when required, to ensure the carnival is successful.

There are no Saturday fixtures for all grades on Saturday 13th July.

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On Thursday 27 June, Richard and Jeff were victorious at the Home Hill Bowls Club, with Jimmy Murray luckily walking away with a raffle win, and Keith, visiting from Jervis Bay crowned the lucky ball winner.

The club celebrated their new sponsor, Oar and Horan, with 21 players turning up for a roll on a cool damp winters afternoon on the weekend.

Rink 3: Helena and Joe outlasted Margaret C. and Gary 20 to 16.

Rink 4: Richard and Jeff were too strong for Yogi and Henry defeating them 18 to 8.

Rink 5: Tony, Peter and Stephen hung on in a close one from Ray M/Jimmy, Bob and Keith (visitor Jervis Bay) 13 to 9.

Rink 6: Margaret L., Mick M. and Glen defeated Ron, Rosa (visitor Jervis Bay) and Ray 18 to 7.

The Monday morning fitness group, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft group, the Wednesday night barefoot bowls, and the Thursday morning BINGO are all going “strong” as are social bowls on Thursday afternoons.

Contributed with thanks to Stephen Doig.

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The Burdekin Roosters are down to face Western Lions for the second time in three weeks with all the players gearing up for what will be an intense weekend with the Roosters still reflecting on their 26 nil defeat held three weeks ago at Rugby Park against Western Lions.

The Roosters were contending with a heavy penalty count against them, and had two players receive suspensions, Kali Nauque, and Epi Kikau. Since defeating the Roosters, the Western Lions have remined on top, going on to beat Centrals by 6 points, with Roosters going down again, this time against premiership leaders, Souths. Despite the loss, the Roosters’ defence against Souths was heavily praised by all who witnesses the event.

Coach, Steve Lansley will be concentrating on finishing off promising attacking moves to combat weaknesses to deliver better outcomes in future games. Lansley is yet to be informed on Cowboy or Blackhawk allocations; however, he’s expecting to have front rower, Christian Gale from the Hawks.

There are speculations Dudley Dotoi could keep his spot having played on the team last Saturday, and kudos has been earned by Henry Teuteu, however Jeremiah Matuate could come back into play from a knee injury. Both Hayde Munro and Hayden Lammon were out with injuries in the game against the Souths, but after resting up for the week, are expected to make a return along with winger Nemia Nawave, and centre Tomasi. Also against the Souths, Iowhani Cavuilati made an impressive debut, receiving praise.

The Reserves will have a bye with Bowen playing the Lions in reserves, and Under 20s at the Junior Rugby League grounds in Townsville.

In other games this weekend, Charters Towers will host Norths on Saturday with Brothers playing Herbert River and Souths meeting Centrals on Sunday.

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The Hens are set to play the undefeated Western Lions who have taken out wins in both games of the season, 44 – 12 and 28 – 16.

The Western Lions are sitting on 18 points from 6 wins, and 3 byes to the Hens 16 points from 4 wins and 4 byes.

The Hens abandoned their game plan when faced against the Western Lions last in Ayr, giving the ball air, which did not please coach, Anita Hagarty. Toni Daisy and Margie Orourkev were injured in the game, however, should be back on the field along with Talisha Bulgarelliu. Abby King is expected to be fully fit to play and she, like Logan Roncato, Martina and Stephanie Monday are dangerous in possession.
 
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Brandon Bowls Club was represented by skip Gary Pearce, Chris Pearce, Doug Robins and Lloyd Shepherd at the Dunn Cup at Jubilee Bowls Club Townsville where the players went up against the best bowlers in the district.

17 teams from the district congregated at Jubilee to fight for bragging rights for 2024 playing 7 rounds of rinks / 4s bowls over 4 days. 

The team played against South Townsville, Bowen, Wangaratta, Giru, Alligator Creek, Magnetic Island and Ingham, and after 4 gruelling days Brandon finished with 3 wins and 4 losses.

On Sunday 30 June, the club hosted Competition Bowls. In the B Grade singles quarter final, Ross McLaughlin played Glen Woodford with Ross shooting out to an early lead. Ross will play Lloyd Shepherd in the final in 2 weeks time.

Sunday’s social bowls saw 20 bowlers entertained on the green producing the following winning rinks results:

Peter Lejarraga, Bob Jorgensen, Allan Garioch and Keith Roser.

Gary Nosworthy, Joanne Roser,  Jeff Taylor, and Rich May.

Neville Dickinson and Len Feeney.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

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Doug Robins, Chris Pearce, Gary Pearce and Lloyd Shepherd.

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Homehill bowls club Thursday winners were Jocyln,Peter, Keith and Jeff. 2 of our Lady members travelled to Townsville too combine with the Magnetic Island bowls club in the NQ PURPLE PENNANTS.  The combined team ran 2nd in the competition.  Well done Judy Elton and Margaret Linton. 33 players turned out to play on another perfect winters afternoon. RINK 2.Con, Yogi and Glen defeated Sandra, Tony and Bob 28 to 5. RINK 3. Nev W, Joe and Hugh  too good for Ross M, Bob P and Henry 23 to 11. RINK 4.Helena, Joanne and Jeff won over Barry, Richard and Dino 16 to 13. RINK 5. This rink was used as a practice for our DUNN CUP TEAM OF Alex,  Mick Mc ,Trevor and Wayne who unfortunately were not good enough against today's winners Joclyn, Peter, Keith and Jeff.25 to 16. RINK 5. Karl/Jimmy, Skeeta from Yarrawonga and Mick M outlasted Paul(visitor), John and Stephen 23 to 16. Today's raffle winner was Karen McClosky 2nd was Trevor Elton.  No winner in the mystery ball jackpot next week.  Once again a huge thanks to our sponsor Ferguson plumbing. Don't forget Monday fitness group,  Tuesday Trimmers,  Wednesday Kraft group and Wednesday night barefoot bowls,  Thursday morning BINGO and Thursday afternoon social bowls. A working bee on Monday morning before morning tea. Until next week good bowling.

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On Saturday 22 June, and Sunday 23 June, the Ayr Bowling Club held a jampacked weekend for the Canefire Fours.

The event saw plenty of friendly banter and great results across the board, despite kicking off with a chilled, rainy start on Saturday. Many players found the weekend to be the perfect opportunity to catch up with old friends and form new friendships both on and off the green.

The weekend celebrated the following victorious winners; Gus Munro, Crowy, Michell Wright and Jason Wright.

Bruce Maggs, Tom Corling, Ash Clinnick, and Simon Griggs took out second place, with third place going to Wixi, Donna Ware, Tiarna Winter and Kaos.

The Round Winners were as follows;
Round 1 - Hendo, Leggs, Woodsy and Doug Robins
Round 2 - Michelle Sumpton, Wanda Goodwin, Lorraine McClintock and Lynette Riches
Round 3 - Geoff Taylor, Guy Heron, Brad Garner and Glen Hamilton
Round 4 - Jodie Giessmann, Kirsty Greig, Kevin Giessmann and Brian Greig
Round 5 - Beryl Cornford, Pam Power, Maurie Power and Steve Mottin

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Friday 21 June saw the Brandon Bowls Club celebrate their players at their Trophy Bowls Evening proudly sponsored by Cignall.

60 bowlers took to the green, once again, having lots of laughs.

The winners of the evening were June Zanella, John Hall, and Pancho.

The Runners Up were Dave Bycroft, Norm Storrie, Lyn Storrie, and Joe Ypinazar.

Third place winners were Steve, Amy, Simon and Jacob.

On Sunday 23 June, the Brandon Bowls Club hosted a day filled with competitiveness and sportsmanship, producing plenty of great wins across the board.

The Competition A Grade Singles match saw Mich McClosky and Glen Woodford go head-to-head with Glen coming out on top.

Social Bowls numbers took a hit due to the Canefire Fours held in Ayr, however 20 bowlers ventured onto the green to have a laugh and a bowl.

The Rink winners of the day are as follows:
   • Ken Ferguson, Dough Kiehne, and Hugh Montgomery
   • Neville Dickinson, Trevor Elton, and Richi Mau
   • Norm Storrie, Vince Beitia, and Joe Ypinazar

This week, the Brandon Bowls Club will play in the prestigious Dunn Cup, a competition beginning on Thursday 27 June, and concluding on Sunday 30 June. Held at the Jubilee Bowls Club in Townsville, the club’s representatives, Lloyd Shepherd, Dough Robins, Chris Pearce and skip Gary Pearce will play in the four-day competition, with the finals scheduled for Sunday.

The Brandon Bowls Club wishes its representatives the best of luck!

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

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On Saturday 22 June, Rugby Park was buzzing with a fantastic evening of football.

Roosters A Grade were unfortunately beaten 34 – 16 with A Grade Coach Steve Lansley, believing despite the loss the team held the Souths pretty will considering they are the only undefeated team in the A Grade competition.

“Our defence is effectively good, but what we have to learn to do now, is finish off movements resulting in tries,” explained Lansley.

Roosters A Grade experienced a range of disruptions in the lead up to Saturday’s showdown. Firstly, the team were not allocated Cowboys’ Jeremian Manuatu and Henry Teuteu, and secondly lost both Kali Nauque and Ratu Kikau to suspension. Lastly, winger Nemia Nawave withdrew due to a knee complaint ahead of the game on Saturday morning. Lansley explained he took his hat off to the young team he had to field, congratulating them on doing a great job.

However, the boys were not out of the woods yet as more trouble followed with half, and playmaker, Hayde Munro forced off with a leg complaint, like what was experienced by forward, Hayden Lammon. Hayden’s performance has been outstanding in all areas, and he was sorely missed.

Under 18 Captain, Jye Olsen made his debut and was positioned on the wing. For his first game, he handled himself exceptionally, and elevated his performance when moved in close, replacing Haye.

Second-rower, Michael Kennedy was one of the best on the ground, tackling himself to a stand-still, as did hooker Colby Thomson who scored a great try.

Lansley was also impressed with the efforts of young five eight, Rhett Williams.  

In consideration of Souths make up encompassing stars like former NRL player Shaun Nona, and Foley Shield representative Jordan Renfrey, Michael Carroll, Marcus Nona, Curtis Dempsey, Braither Knox and Declan Dowson, the young Roosters team performed well.

Tries were scored by Dudley Dotoi, Iowani Cavuilati and Colby Thompson, and two goals were kicked by Joel Mason.

In other A grade matches Western Lions beat Centrals 22 – 16, Charters Towers beat Herbert River 10 nil and Brothers beat Norths 44 – 12

Reserves coach Chris Perry believes his team should have put up a better effort despite being down on players following a 40 – 6 loss.

Perry said although Souths are the top team, Roosters have beaten them this season and expected a better result.

“We needed that loss I think as our training has not been as intense, and the bots have been getting a little lack in their attitude,” said Perry.

“Hopefully that will wake us up.”

Perry drew on a couple of Under 18 players who performed well, in particular, Llama Ghee who made some good runs.

Brody Ferguson was celebrated as Players Player for a full-time effort coming off the bench. Dylan Doak was also commended for scoring the try, and converting giving him seven from seven in two games.

In other reserve matches Centrals defeated Western Lions  26 – 18, Bowen defea5ed Norths 16 – 6 and Charters Towers beat Herbert River 20 – 14 with Brothers on a bye.

The Hens did not play as they had a bye. Herbert River beat Charters Towers 30 – 8 and Brothers beat Norths 36 nil with the Western Lions versus Centrals game not played.

All R L T D  clubs have a bye this week in a contingency round with games to recommence on Saturday 6 July with the Roosters meeting Western Lions at Rugby Park. The Ladies, A grade and the Reserves however, have a bye.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.
 
 

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On 21 June, three members of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club were lucky enough to attend Bonnie Hancock’s Women in Lifesaving Roadshow.

Record breaking athlete, Bonnie Hancock circumnavigated Australia in a 2022 surf ski over a period of 254 days. Now a celebrated speaker and author, Bonnie embarked on a Women in Lifesaving Roadshow, travelling the coast of Queensland running practical training sessions encompassing 1.5hrs of professional Ironwoman coaching. In her motivational speaking session, Bonnie spoke on her paddle around Australia, and her move into leadership roles.

Kellie, Bella, and Charlotte Lawry received a personally signed copy of Bonnie’s new book, “The Girl Who Touched the Stars” to conclude what was an extremely inspiring experience.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry.

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Michael Littlefield will set off to England this July for the 2024 Touch World Cup where he will referee the world’s best touch football players.

Michael will stand as one of 200 referees from 20 nations at Nottingham’s week-long tournament with 39 nations set to compete in the World Cup.

Engineering Superintendent at Inkerman Mill, Michael has played touch football in the Burdekin since he was a kid and decided to become a referee in Year 12.

“I was playing with Burdekin Touch Football, and they needed more referees, so I thought I’d give it a try,” said Michael.

Michael progressed to Level 1 in the refereeing sector, and continued to play regularly, however it was under the guidance of Level 6 referee Tanya Findlay where he began his professional career.

“She said I could either be a good referee or an average player,” explained Michael.

Michael eventually gained the highest accreditation level under Touch Football Australia and became a Level 6 referee, where he has since taken his career to new heights. Michael has refereed at Touch Football State of Origin, Indigenous All Stars, National Touch Championships, and is currently a member of the National Referee Squad (NRS), a team of the top 20 referees in the country.

“I still enjoy playing touch football at home, but I love refereeing the game at a national or international level – the pace of the game is so fast, and you get a much better view on the field.”

Michael explained he finds some difficulty in refereeing games involving language barriers, however, finds the players are always respectful, and are understanding of basic terminology, overall making the game flow nicely.

“It’s always hard to referee teams whose players don’t speak English – you have to ref it the same as you would any game, and it’s on the players to work out what’s going on.”

With training underway in preparation for next month’s adventure aboard, Michael’s routine over the past six months was developed in observance of his usual referring statistics of running approximately 5km distance per game.

At the upcoming 2024 Touch World Cup, its expected that Australia will field majority of both players and referees, with Australia and New Zealand holding the top players and referees world-wide.

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Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads Sunday Sum Up
On Sunday 23 June, the Burdekin Rugby Union held an eventful few games at Casalegno Fields.

The females took to the field first, sporting their new jerseys in solidarity with the Support the Girls Australia Charity. Although the results did not go in the Pink Toads favor with 31 – 0 showing on the scoreboard at full time, the girls had an enjoyable game for a great cause.

Second Grade faced off against North Ward in honor of the Joe Acton Memorial Shield. The Canetoads dominated the match, swiftly executing precise passes, and scoring tries down the sideline. The Canetoads maintained a strong defense, preventing North Ward from scoring, ultimately securing an outstanding 80 – 0 victory.

First Grade displayed exceptional skill and teamworking, leading to a well-deserved win over North Ward. During the game, the lads kept the energy levels high, and their heads cool while showcasing top-notch rugby to spectator’s delight. The Canetoads secured another bonus point for the season, defeating North Ward 55 – 0.

Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

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1. Where were you born?
Home Hill Hospital

   2. Main Occupation?
General Farmer

   3. QLD or NSW?
I bleed maroon

   4. Who is the one person you would like to meet?
Kevin Cosher

   5. Do you make your bed in the morning or get up and go?
Get up and go!!

   6. Do you play other sports?
Gym fitness

   7. How many grandkids do you have?
Seven

   8. What is your pet hate?
Playing a bad bowl

   9. Favorite car?
Isuzu!

   10. If you were stranded on a deserted island, what would you bring?
A beautiful blonde

Image caption: Dino Poli

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