Burdekin Basketball Pushes For More Girls In The Game From competitive fixtures to community programs, the courts are always buzzing at Burdekin Basketball. But now, the association is making a play for change—and it starts with getting more girls on the court. “We’re a community facility, and we want to make sure everyone feels included,” said club president Shane James. “This current push is about getting girls back into sport—giving them opportunities to be active, to build friendships, and
Read the full storyThe Brandon/Home Hill Purple Pennants team travelled to Bowen and Wangaratta over the weekend to compete in the Pennants competition, facing off against five opposing teams. The team came away with a solid performance, recording two rink wins, one draw, and one match win. Beyond the results, the weekend was highlighted by friendly competition, reunions with familiar faces, and the formation of new friendships across clubs. Friday Night Bowls Draws Strong Turnout There was a great atmosphere a
Read the full storyLocal Another mixed weekend for the Panthers, winning one, drawing one, and losing three of five matches. On Friday night in Townsville, the Division 2 Funkies drew 0–0 with Brothers, and also in Townsville the Division 1 Men lost 1–4 to Ingham, but the Ladies defeated Saints Eagles South 5–0. On Saturday, in Townsville against Brothers, the Premiers lost 0–2 and the Reserves lost 2–3. This Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves are away to Warriors, the Premiers at 3.30pm and the Reserves at 1
Read the full storyThrills on the Green: Canefire Fours Brings Regional Rivals Together ** The Ayr Bowling Club came alive over the weekend as it played host to the highly anticipated Canefire Fours—a two-day carnival that drew 56 passionate lawn bowlers from across the North Queensland region. Teams journeyed from as far afield as Collinsville, Bowen, Wangaratta, and Townsville, and were proudly joined by local contenders from Ayr, Brandon, and Home Hill, creating a vibrant blend of regional talent. The format s
Read the full storyOn 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.
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.
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.
Doug Robins, Chris Pearce, Gary Pearce and Lloyd Shepherd.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Mondays
10am – Exercise Group
A morning of low impact exercise for all
ages and abilities.
Tuesdays
9am - Tuesday Trimmers
This weekly ‘weight watchers’ group meets
at the clubhouse every Tuesday.
Wednesdays
9am - Friends and Neighbours Craft
Group
Arts and crafts are just the beginning on
Wednesday mornings, when the Friends
and Neighbours Craft Group gathers to
work on their current craft projects while
catching up with friends over morning tea.
5:30pm – Social Bowls
Celebrate hump day with an evening of Bare
foot social lawn bowls. Come down and
enjoy a fresh beverage at the Bar and BBQ.
12:30pm – Bowls
The Rummeny Green is a setting for Thursday
afternoon bowls action with smoko
provided and bar available.
Home Hill Community Sports Club
Phone number: 0468 313 115
Home Hill Community Bowls club wishes
to thank all club sponsors.
In a remarkable milestone for the Home Hill Bowls Club, Carl Rummeny, the club's first-ever centenarian bowler, continues to compete actively and inspire many within the community.
Carl has been participating in competitive bowls for many years, competing with and against his extended family and other players from the district. His dedication to the sport is evident as he consistently demonstrates skill and sportsmanship on the green.
Known for his enduring passion and energy, Carl has become an inspirational figure to many. His presence on the field serves as a testament to the longevity and enjoyment that sports can bring, regardless of age. Members of the community often describe meeting and talking to Carl as an absolute privilege. His experiences and stories resonate with many, offering insights and motivation to both young and old.
The Home Hill Bowls Club encourages travellers and new players to join in social club bowls meets, where they have the unique opportunity to compete against Carl on the newly laid 'Rummeny Green'. This invitation is part of the club's efforts to promote the sport and celebrate Carl's remarkable journey.
Carl's athletic prowess is not limited to lawn bowls. Since his youth, he has engaged in multiple sports, including tennis and wood chopping. His talent and dedication have earned him numerous medals and trophies in both tennis and wood chopping tournaments, showcasing his versatility and commitment to sportsmanship.
Carl’s ongoing participation in lawn bowls at the age of 100 is a source of pride for the Home Hill Bowls Club and an inspiration to all who know him. His story is a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of sports and the joy it can bring throughout one's life.
Contributed with thanks to Amy Newton.
Carl is 100 years young and still playing bowls
On Friday 21 June, the Burdekin Touch Association held the 2024 season Grand Final, with nail-biting games, close calls, and celebratory results scored across the board.
Both the A Grade Men’s and Women’s games were the ones to watch, with high intensity and energy carried throughout.
The Burdekin Touch Association thanks the community for their loud cheers of support and encouragement throughout the Grand Final, and for taking part in the rivalry for what was a fantastic Friday night of touch football.
The A Grade Men’s Competition was taken out by Antiskeptics scoring 12 tries overall by Jesse Ballin (5), D. Doak (2), Josiah Ballin (2), J. McLvor (2), Jack Gimson (1). Runners Up were Nrgize scoring 4 tries by KJ Zaro (2), J. Sgarbossa (1), and M. Littlefield (1). Dylan Doak was crowned the Player of the Final.
Murries dominated the B Grade Men’s Compeition scoring 11 tries overall by T. Trindle (4), T. Brombal (3), M. Ogameni (2), M. Billy (1), and T. Connors (1). Runners Up were Torres scoring 7 tries by D. Bero (2), B. Heron (2), T. Doolah (1), T. Bero (1), and L. Ghee Snr (1). Tyrece Trindle was announced Player of the Final.
The C Grade Men’s Competition saw His Haas defeat Teamo Supremo with His Hass scoring 4 tries overall by J. Pennisi (1), R. Haller (1), L. Carrett (1), and R. Horan (1). Teamo Supremo scored 2 tries overall by H. Horan (1), and J. Thomassen (1). Joel Pennisi was announced Player of the Final.
The C Grade Plane Men’s Competition was won by Wires Down scoring 7 tries by A. Washbourne (3), C. Kross (2), D. Walters (1), K. Parravicini (1). The Runners Up, Creampuffs, scored 6 tries overall by B. Cavanagh (2), P. Knapton (1), I. Kerr (1), J. Lacey (1), and B. Clerke (1). The Player of the Final was Andrew Washbourne.
The D Grade Men’s Competition was taken out by Feelers scoring 7 tries by D. Arrate, N. Prior, H. Munro, and K. Drain defeating Relics who scored 5 tries by A. Mottin (2), E. Dal Santo (1), J. Goodman (1), and R. Taylor (1). Hayde Munro was announced Player of the Final.
Blue Murder won the E Grade Men’s Competition scoring 7 tries overall by Dom (3), R. Siandri (2), C. McGrath (1), and D. Walsh (1). Runners Up were Osborne CBD scoring 6 tries by D. Schneider (3), L. Dobe (1), T. Shields (1), and D. Augostis (1). Cooper McGrath was crowned Player of the Final.
The F Grade Men’s Competition was won by Renegades scoring 3 tries by B. Johnson (2), and B. Ford, defeating Ayr PCYC 3 – 0. Brad Johnson was announced Player of the Final.
The E / F Plate Men’s Competition saw Grad23 dominate The Predators with Grad23 scoring 5 tries by R. Peaterson (2), A. Innes (1), B. Ellwood (1), and C. Formilan. The Predators scored 4 tries overall by D. Post, A. Prior, and D. Pacey. The Player of the Final was Rowen Petersen.
The A Grade Women’s Competition saw Princesses come out on top against First in Physio 5 – 2. Princesses scored 5 tries by A. Becke (1), K. Neal (1), A Cornford (1), L. Trindle (1), and K. Lennox (1). First in Physio scored 2 tries both by M. Monday. The Player of the Final was Kate Neal.
The Season’s Best and Fairest were also celebrated on Friday with Tremayne Horan commended for scoring 15 tries, Ala Naque congratulated for scoring 13 tries, and Steph Monday for scoring 10 tries for the women’s season. In the Men’s season, Dominic Arrate was congratulated for scoring 23 tries, Ben Cavanagh for scoring 19 tries, and Logan Guglielmana for scoring 17 tries.
Contributed with thanks to Amity Cornford.
In about May 1932, Home Hill decided that they wanted a Golf Club instead of visiting the Ayr Golf Club. In September 22 1932, a public meeting was convened in the Central Theatre (8th Avenue where Tudge Haller once had a material and clothing store) in conjunction to forming a Golf Club. Messrs. F Murphy was patron, T A Villiers was President, Vice Presidents were E Peapell and G F Jones, L Lister was Secretary, W F Franberg was Treasurer, and Mr. Rowe was Auditor. A committee was formed with the officers, including 6 other members, Messrs. C Beames, G Chappell, C Gander, J Fielding, C Bapty, and B McPherson. Mr. C Beames appointed captain of the Club. Messrs. G F Jones, E Peapell, and C Beams as Handicappers. Mr. S McConnel was appointed honorary Solicitor. The subscriptions were set for associates to be one guinea (£1.1 shilling) and members at £2 guineas. A letter was read where George Mills of Townsville, offering to lay out the course for £5 and return fare to Townsville. Mr. Henry Swanborough had made available a piece of land for £20 and the committee was to consider a lease (more about this later HHO 22/9/1932).
Come June 1933 and the Home Hill Golf Club held a Jazz night at Watsons Theatre with Frank Leach’s Orchestra, bridge and jig-saw competitions to raise finance for the Club. The Home Hill Golf Links were officially opened Sunday 2 July, by Chairman of Ayr Shire Mr. Fred J Woods. There was a fair proportion of ladies present when President Mr. T A Villiers welcomed all visitors. In his opening speech, Mr. F J Woods believed it to be a game in which the golfers walked all day and talked all night. Mr. Villiers expressed the club’s appreciation to Messrs. M. Cannavan, J Hurney, F Evans, J Ferguson, H V Hanson and F J Woods for providing implements to put the ground in order. Without their assistance the club would have found it extremely difficult to carry out the work. Throughout the rest of 1930s, members came and went and there were the stalwarts who remained. The committee alternated their positions. In 1935, a Caretaker had been appointed and T A Villier was elected as a life member of the club for his hard work in getting the Home Hill Golf Club established (TB Friday 8 March 1935p 3)
In 1938, W Heydon was re-elected as president, R O’Kane was secretary, Treasure was G F Jones, and John Ferguson became Patron. The Golf Links were like a huge park playground, once Swanborough’s Cow paddock. All this had been achieved by grubbing and mowing the nine fairways in two days. The Club had recently bought a tractor and 3 gang mowers to reduce labour. Couch grass was taking place of the rougher grasses on the fairways. In 1941 the Golf Club elected President G Tomlins, Secretary T Austin, D Watt, and A S Dunn, and treasurer W H Graham, and Captain N S Schurbert. War was now on and the Club was virtually in recess.
In February 1946, there was a meeting held at Malpass Hotel to reform the Home Hill Golf Club. By 1947 the Golf Club officially re-opened after the war recess. Mr. T A Villiers was President once again. In 1948 T A Villiers during his report stated that the membership comprised of 33 members and 21 associates. Early in 1948, the opportunity arose for the club to purchase the property on which the Golf Links was situated. The property comprised 160 acres of freehold and 10 acres of leasehold land and it is the committee’s intention to subdivide the property to retain approximately 100 acres of freehold land and sell the remainder on which a wooden dwelling and outbuildings are erected. Mr. Villier was re-elected has President, Patron D Watt, Secretary L J Thomas, Treasurer J O O’Brian, Captain T C Austin, Vice-Captain C J Deller and auditor Mr. W J Blackburn. The Associates-Captain Mrs. D Watt, Vice-Captain Mrs. W Whittaker, secretary- Mrs. L L Lee, and committee Mesdames L Bell, W Klaka, T L Walton, A S Dunn and F Ferguson.
In October 1950 Mr. T A Villiers was farewelled as he was leaving the district. He was a foundation member when the Golf Club first opened in 1932. Opportunity was also taken to say farewell to Mrs. Whittaker, the Associate Captain.
In 1965, Home Hill Golf Club opened a new Club House 63 feet wide by 40 feet deep, mainly of concrete brick, sealed with asbestolux, section of parquetry floor 20 feet square. The builder was Alan Harris, and Vince Sorbello was the President (HHO 14/5/1965). By 1971 after a barren stretch for over 40 years was transformed by recent installation of modern watering system which would automatically water the fairways. It was installed by Southern Cross Machinery of Townsville for $9,000. This area in the 1920 was Swanborough’s Cow Paddock (HHO 16/7/1971).
In 1972, Home Hill Golf Club conferred Life Membership to President Jack Trace, Bill Malpass and Bill Cannavan. It was Bill Cannavan’s horse and mower used to mow the course. He was also Patron.
I have deliberately left out many names for the list is too long to print and also many names would most probably be left out.
Now about the land that became the Golf Links. Mr. Henry Herbert Swanborough came to live in Brandon in 1901. His trade was a butcher working for A A Paine who had butcher shops in Ayr and Brandon. In 1914 H H Swanborough acquired land in Parish of Inkerman County Salisbury Lots 199 consisting of 160 acres and Lot 203 consisting of 185 Acres. This land was not suitable for farming sugar cane and H H Swanborough took up his old trade of Butchering for John Ferguson who arrived in Home Hill in the early 1920’s. Lot 199 was Swanborough’s Cow Paddock and the Slaughter yards were Lot 203. He worked for John Ferguson for 40 years, and I suspect he was the slaughterman for John. Ferguson and Son had the butcher shop on the Corner of 9th Avenue and 10th Street Home Hill. This butcher shop was eventually owned by S W Gibson. Somewhere along the way Swanborough’s Cow Paddock became S W Gibson’s Paddock. There was Cattle Dip on the land. Anyone with cattle also used the dip. Swanborough’s left the district and retired to Aitkenvale Townsville where he died in October 1951. He and his wife had four daughters – Ada, Bertha, Doris and Ethel and One son Victor who predeceased him.
Contributed by Glenis Cislowski
Home Hill Golf Club