Burdekin Christian College’s open boys’ basketball team made history by winning the inaugural Calvary Cup, held at Townsville Basketball Stadium on November 28. Competing against schools like Annandale, Whitsunday, and hosts Calvary Christian College, BCC’s boys remained undefeated, securing the boys' basketball title.
Coach Rachel Cornelius praised the team’s effort, while BCC also celebrated standout performances from Peter Heron, Linked Darr, and Lataiah Trindle, who were awarded Best & Fairest honors. Despite limited facilities, BCC’s success reflects determination and teamwork, with the school eager to defend its title in next year’s event.

Basketball Team Wins Calvary Cup

Burdekin Christian College’s open boys’ basketball team has won the inaugural ‘Calvary Cup’, a new inter-school sporting competition. The highly anticipated new event took place on Thursday, 28th November, and was held at the Townsville basketball stadium.

The competitive and tight competition included other Christian schools within the Far North Queensland region, such as Annandale Christian College, Whitsunday Christian College, and Calvary Christian College, who hosted the event.

“Burdekin Christian College (BCC) was invited to compete in the very first Calvary Cup by Calvary Christian College in Townsville, which we were very excited by” says Rachel Cornelius, who coached the boys’ team to victory.

BCC had several teams represented, which included grade 7-9 students in both the boys’ and girls’ basketball and netball.

The open boys’ team won the boys' basketball Calvary Cup, with David Nourdine coaching the girls’ basketball team, who fought well despite not being the most experienced team and facing a few injuries.

“The girls fought really well. They had a very strong game. Although they were not the most experienced team out there, they had a good fight. They played really well as a team, and even though there were a few injuries, they just persevered through the competition. I’m really proud of them,” David, BCC girls’ basketball coach says.

The boys’ second team, coached by Jerri Cakau, though less experienced, demonstrated good sportsmanship throughout despite not winning any games.

“They weren't an overly experienced team, but they played really hard. Unfortunately, they didn't win any games but showed good sportsmanship and really enjoyed being part of the competition,” Jerri says.

However, it was the open boy’s team, coached by Rachel Cornelius, which was undefeated and won the Calvary Cup for the boys’ basketball division, in what was an exciting and well organised event.

“We made history in the fact that, it's the first time that we have been invited, first time they’ve run the competition, and then to win one of the cups, was beyond our wildest expectations,” says Rachel.

There were three Calvary cups: one for netball, one for girls' basketball, and one for boys' basketball. The netball team, coached by a year 12 student, did not qualify for the finals, while the boys' netball competition was canceled due to lack of participation.

Other notable achievements on the day for BCC, included three of their students, Peter Heron (Open Boys Basketball); Linked Darr (Boys Basketball); and Lataiah Trindle (Girls Basketball), who were all awarded the Best & Fairest players for their respective divisions, in the cross-Christian school rivalry.

Despite being small and having limited facilities, the school is extremely proud of its achievements. While the event was praised for fostering inter-school Christian competition and good camaraderie.

“The competition was a really good initiative for bringing Christian schools together and we look forward to it becoming an annual event. Overall, we had a very successful competition and we can’t wait to defend the boy’s title,” says David with a smile.

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Burdekin Christian College’s open boy’s basketball team hoisting their winning Calvary Cup aloft. Photo: Supplied by BCC
BCC’s open boy’s basketball and their coach, Rachel Cornelius. Photo: Supplied by BCC
The BCC girl’s basketball team and their coach, David Nourdine. Photo: Supplied by BCC
Lataiah Trindle, who won the Best & Fairest players for the best girls' basketball player. Photo: Supplied by BCC

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Plantation Parkrun #307 saw local runners and walkers gather for a morning of fitness and fun on Saturday 7 December. The weekly event showcased the talents of participants across various age groups, with Skye Claussen taking the top spot overall. Claussen crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 24:26.

Hot on her heels was Drew Bursey, who secured second place in 26:22, followed closely by Robert Tama at 26:25. The fourth and fifth positions were claimed by Karin Thorburn in 26:31 and Chris Cohen in 26:33, respectively.

The Plantation Parkrun continues to provide a fantastic opportunity for community members of all ages to stay active and achieve personal bests. New participants are always welcome to join in the fun and register for free at www.parkrun.com.au/plantation.

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The Burdekin Clay Target Club wrapped up its year in style with a highly successful Christmas shoot on Sunday, December 8. With 58 competitors braving the steamy heat, the event showcased impressive scores across the board.

The day featured six exciting events, and participants from various grades delivered outstanding performances.

Event 1 – 15 Target Medley (15m)
   • AA Grade: 1st Aaron Lemphers (50/50), 2nd Wayne Cislowski (49/50), 3rd Jarrod Coleman (48/50)
   • A Grade: 1st Tony Robinson (49/50), 2nd Col Edgerton (47/50), 3rd Gian Vassalini (46/50)
   • B Grade: 1st John Kinnimonth (25/25), 2nd Daniel Scott (47/50), 3rd Andrew Bergin (46/50)
   • C Grade: 1st Brian Bonanno (47/50), 2nd Michelle Russell (43/50), 3rd Pedro Le Blowitz (24/25)

Event 2 – 10 Target Pointscore Handicap
Top performers included Gian Vassalini, Glenn McHenry, Phil Russell, and Wayne Cislowski, each scoring a perfect 30/30.

Event 3 – 10 Target Single Barrel Handicap
Jy Yarrow, Chantal Morelli, and Tony Caruso excelled with 10/10 scores, while Daniel Scott achieved 14/16.

The day also included the Double Barrel Handicap, Consolation Rounds, and the 5 Pair Double Rise, where Lindsay Groat, Joe Caruso, and Joe Scalia led in their respective grades.

A big thank you goes to sponsors including Peto Marine, Burdekin Tyres, and Hall's Firearms, whose support ensured the day’s success.

The club looks forward to its next event on Sunday, 12 January, 2025. Stay safe, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato.

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Local

Pre-season training has begun. and a mixture of seasoned senior players and Under16 and Under14 players have turned up. Training will continue up until 19 December then start again on 2 January. Thursday nights at International Park from 6pm. All new and returning players are welcome. 

Only Night Soccer is left on the local Calendar.  Next Tuesday, 10 December is Semi-finals night, and the Grand Finals are on Friday 13 December.

Night Soccer

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s Week 13 and only one more round before the semi-finals. Top scorers on the night were  UDS Ladies who defeated a depleted Kicken Goals 9-0 and DL Lager who somehow marmelised Coral Coast Electrical 8-0.

Mottin Earthmoving is back on top of Group A1 after defeating Rocky Pond Warriors 3-2 and UDS still lead in Group A2 after defeating Plumb Dingers 2-1 in a very close match. In Men’s B Grade, 7 Stooges are top on goals from Oary’s Levellers after beating Karls Mowing Service 3-0 the Levellers beat Mountain View Fresh 1-0.

In Men’s Social, Wires Down still lead the Group after a 1-0 win against Boarin n Scorin followed by Old Grumpies who defeated Jaime’s Boys 3-1.

In the Women’s competition UDS Ladies still top the A Grade table Sanco produce is in second place, but the team has now gone home! In Social A Grade, Shin Kickers beat Let’s Get Messi and Havn’t a Kahlua thumped Orange Goal Diggers 4-1.

Week 14’s games on Tuesday were called off because of the wet weather but will, hopefully, be played tonight Thursday 5 December.

Juniors

Junior Social Soccer wound up for the season last Tuesday.

National and International

The Socceroos are now ‘resting’ after their match against Bahrain. Their next match, another “Must Win”, is at home against Indonesia  on 20 March. The Socceroos are in second place on the table one point ahead of the next four teams. Japan seems to have already qualified with five wins and a draw from their six games. Each team plays ten games. The top two teams in the Group qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup. Third placed teams have to go to Play offs!

The Matildas have played two friendlies against Brazil and lost both of them. Last Thursday in Melbourne they lost 1-3  and then on Sunday, on the Gold Coast they lost 1-2. The Matildas then play Chinese Taipei on 4 and 7 December, also in Australia.

In the A League, Auckland continue their outstanding run and is the only club with a one hundred per cent record. They beat Newcastle jets 2-1to stay at the top of the table two points clear of Melbourne Victory who beat Western Utd 3-1. Adelaide is in third place after a 2-2 draw with Perth and at the foot of the table Brisbane gained their first point in 4-4 draw away to Macarthur.

The A League Women only had two matches because of the Matildas games. Melbourne City beat Western Sydney 2-1 to go top of the league and Central Coast won 2-1 against Canberra. The Roar stay in second place level on points with the Mainers but having played a game less.

In England and the EPL, Manchester City lost their fourth match in a row, 2-0 away to Liverpool who have now opened a nine point lead over second placed Arsenal who won 5-2 at West Ham. Chelsea moves up to equal second with a 3-0 home win against Aston Villa and ManU with their new manager move up to ninth spot with a 4-0 home win against Everton.

In Germany, only three of the top six teams won. Bayern still tops the Bundesliga four points clear of Frankfurt despite only drawing away to fifth placed Dortmund. Leverkusen moves up to third place with a 2-1 away win at Union Berlin and is a further three points off the pace. Leipzig lost and drops to fourth spot. At the foot of the table Bochum and Holstein Kiel both lost again and look doomed.

In Italy’s Serie A, the top four teams all won again and so Napoli, who won 1-0  at Torino still top the table three points clear of Inter and Fiorentina. Atalanta is in fourth spot a further point behind but has a game in hand. Juventus could only manage a draw away and drops to sixth place. At the foot of the table none of the bottom six teams won and Venezia continues to hold up the league.

In Spain, Barcelona was the only one of the top nine teams to lose. Somehow, they managed to lose at home to eighteenth placed Las Palmas. Oh Dear! Real Madrid in second place is just one point behind Barca and Atletico in third place is another point adrift. Atletico Bilbao won 2-1 away to Rayo Vallecano and moves up to fourth place.
At the foot of the table Espanyol were the only one of the bottom six teams to win. with just six points separating the bottom six clubs.

Finally in France, Marseille and Lyon were the only teams out of the top six to win. PSG could only draw 1-1 at home to seventeenth placed Nantes but is still seven points ahead of Marseille and Monaco. Lille is in fourth place another three points away. Montpellier managed a draw but continues to hold up the league and looks to be in danger of the drop.

The Quote of the Week is from new Coventry City Coach Frank Lampard “When you take a lot of stick you want to ram it down people's throats.”

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The End of Harvest Golf Classic is shaping up to be a spectacular event, with plenty of activities and excitement planned for next Friday, 13 December. Organisers are urging teams to finalise their registrations quickly, as only three spots remain. Due to the popularity of the event, nominations cannot be accepted on the day. The finalised draw will be released next week and shared via the End of Harvest Golf Classic’s Facebook page.

Bray Slushy Bar
Platinum sponsor Bray will feature a Slushy Bar, opening at 11am, serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, with all proceeds donated to CORES, supporting a great cause.

Longest Drive Competition
This year’s Longest Drive Competition kicks off at 1:30pm near the Slushy Bar. For $5, participants get three balls to try their luck. Entries are unlimited, and the competition includes men’s and women’s categories. Proceeds from this contest will also go to CORES.

Drinks and Raffle Tickets
Drink tickets will be available for purchase from the Ayr Golf Club and can be used on the course or at the main bar. Raffle tickets are also on sale, and attendees can buy them on the day or pre-order via email. EFTPOS facilities will be available at the main bar, kitchen, slushy bar, and registration table.

With an action-packed schedule and plenty of prizes, this year’s End of Harvest Golf Classic promises to be a fantastic celebration. Mark your calendars for 13 December and get ready for a day of fun on the greens!

What: End of Harvest Golf Classic.
When: Friday 13 December.
Where: Ayr Golf Club.
More Information: End of Harvest Golf Classic’s Facebook page.

Contributed with thanks to Kelsey and Ben.

Another fantastic End of Harvest Golf Classic is on the horizon with organisers gearing up for one of their biggest events yet!

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Saturday 7 December 1pm to 5pm (Super Sub Patrol) Joshua Furnell, Barry Cross, and Brooke Cross.

Sunday 8 December 9am to 1pm (Patrol Group B) Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, and Danny Wilson.

Sunday 8 December 1pm to 5pm (Patrol Group G) Carl List, Jimmy Hayllor, James Kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Richards, and Jedd Giddy.

Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.

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A morning of fitness and fun unfolded at Plantation parkrun on Saturday for event #306.

Leading the pack was Terry Brennan, crossing the finish line in a time of 26:25. Close behind was Precious Rush, completing the course in 27:11 with an impressive performance.

John Byers secured the third spot, finishing his run in 30:28. Further down the field, Keith Crichton completed the course in 48:39, demonstrating great determination. Finally, Travis Crichton wrapped up the event with a time of 59:54, rounding out another successful parkrun morning.

Plantation parkrun continues to provide a welcoming space for participants of all abilities to stay active and enjoy the community spirit. Congratulations to all finishers!

If you're interested in joining, Plantation parkrun takes place every Saturday morning at 7am, with all abilities welcome. Whether you're chasing a personal best or just looking to enjoy a morning walk or jog, parkrun has something for everyone.

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The Burdekin Canetoads are celebrating another remarkable achievement, with Caitlin Holmes earning a well-deserved spot in the TRDU Women’s Team of the Year.

Caitlin's exceptional talent and dedication has shone throughout the season, from competing in July’s Queensland Country Rugby Union Championships to being selected for the Women’s Brolgas Team in April. Congratulations, Caitlin!

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On Friday 29 November, the Burdekin Touch Football Association celebrated the conclusion of the 2024 U14 Mixed Competition! The competition hosted plenty of action, with Baywatch teams showcasing their skills in both A and B grade clashes.

In the A grade match, Baywatch dominated with an impressive 8-2 victory over the Gold Diggers. Vern Pope and Gordon Malayta led the charge, each scoring two tries, while Harvey Sgroi secured both tries for the Gold Diggers.

The B grade game was a closer contest, with Baywatch Babes edging out Mustangs/Red Robins in a thrilling 6-5 win. Jerry dazzled with three tries, supported by Webber’s two, while Brianna’s hat-trick for the Mustangs/Red Robins kept the game competitive.

Contributed with thanks to Amity Cornford.

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The Ayr Bowling Club celebrated its final Fun Friday Night for 2024 with a lively evening of camaraderie and competition. The weather cooperated, allowing a full green of bowlers to enjoy the last event of the year. The club extends its gratitude to the evening’s sponsors, Chiropractic Care (Northwood’s) and Sparkle Town Carwash (Strano’s), for their generous support.

The event was a resounding success, filled with laughter and spirited play. Winners on the night were Jared Poletti, Ella Northwood, Mika Strano, and Noah Arboit, while RM Care staff - Sophie, Karen, and Di - secured second place. The Sportsman’s Prize was awarded to Fraser, Holly, Rebekah, and Johnny.

A special thanks goes out to all the volunteers who made the Fun Friday Nights possible throughout the year. Their dedication has been vital to the event's success, and the club eagerly anticipates welcoming everyone back in 2025. Those interested in sponsoring a Friday Fun Night are encouraged to contact Pam Power (0458 330 019) or Maurie Power (0412 551 816).

The midweek social bowls saw some fantastic competition. Winners for Wednesday’s triples were Ron Smythe, Joe Papale, and Anthony Bull, who defeated Cisco, Col Essex, and Ron Soper.
Although the ladies’ bowling season has concluded, the men’s and social bowls continue every Wednesday and Saturday afternoon. With excellent overhead cover, the club ensures a cooler and more enjoyable environment for afternoon games.

On Wednesday night, two thrilling triples games took place: Tricia Achille, Tegan Cesconetto, and Sam Caltabiano claimed victory in one, while Katharina Stuckler, John Cesconetto, and Heather Jorgensen triumphed in the other. This weekly event is an excellent opportunity for both seasoned players and newcomers to enjoy summer bowling. Names should be in by 6:30pm, with games starting at 7pm.

The club looks forward to its Presentation Day on Saturday, 7 December, a chance to celebrate the year’s bowling achievements and award winners. The festivities will follow the afternoon social bowls, with a BBQ planned to cap off the day.

Additionally, the Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place on Sunday, 8 December. All members are encouraged to attend this crucial event to help shape the club’s future.

Despite the rain cutting short the Saturday competition last weekend, the Ayr Bowling Club concludes the season on a high note. The club is excited to carry this momentum into the new year, with Fun Friday Nights set to return in 2025.

Whether you’re a bowler or a supporter, the club welcomes you to join the fun and be part of its thriving community spirit.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

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Friday Fun Night Winners.
Friday Fun Night Runners Up.
Friday Fun Night Sportspersons' Prize.

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The Brandon Bowls Club hosted a fantastic President, Secretary, and Treasurer Ham Day on Sunday, 1 December, with 44 bowlers competing in triples and pairs. Players from Giru, Ayr, Home Hill, South Townsville, and even Holbrook, NSW, came together to support the event, making it a memorable occasion despite a brief delay due to storms.

The winners of the day were Meryl Smith (Home Hill Bowls Club) and Anthony Bull (Ayr Bowls Club), joined by President Jamie Woods for a celebratory photo. Second place went to Lloyd Shepherd, Judy Elton, and Joe Yipnazar, while third place was secured by Kevin Collins, Vince Beitia, and Mick McCloskey.

A big thank you goes to all who contributed, from the bar staff to the kitchen team, who prepared a delicious smoko. The camaraderie and sportsmanship on display ensured everyone had an enjoyable afternoon on the green.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

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The Brandon Bowls Club hosted a wonderful Ham Day on the weekend.
President, Jamie Woods presented the winners of the day - Meryl Smith (HHBC) and Anthony Bull (Ayr BC).
Second place getters were Lloyd Shepherd, Judy Elton, and Joe Yipnazar pictured with President Jamie Woods
Third place getters were Kevin Collins, Vince Beitia and Mick McCloskey, pictured with President Jamie Woods.

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It was a lively week at the Home Hill Bowls Club, with members braving warm spring days to enjoy friendly competition on the greens.

On Thursday, 28 November, eighteen players gathered for three closely contested games of triples, played over 18 ends. The warm conditions were eased by a welcome breeze later in the day, creating a pleasant atmosphere for play. On Rink 4, Bob Young, Mick Olsen, and Mick McClosky delivered a dominant performance, defeating Alex Bojack, Joclyn DeFranciscus, and Bruce. Over on Rink 5, Margaret Linton, Dino Poli, and Trevor Elton secured a narrow victory over Judy Elton, Stephen Doig, and Joe Linton in a nail-biting match that was only decided on the final end. Meanwhile, Rink 6 saw Paul Vass, Gary Nosworthy, and Bones Berryman claim a convincing win against Bob Pickard, Terry Freakes, and Henry Hazel.

The daily winners were the Rink 4 team of Bob Young, Mick Olsen, and Mick McClosky, while the raffle prizes went to Gary Nosworthy and Trevor Elton.

On Saturday, 30 November, twelve players turned out for more action on the greens, marking the final day of spring with enthusiasm. On Rink 5, Phoebe (junior), Bruce, and Joe triumphed over Margaret (Nana), Stephen, and Henry. The day’s standout performance came on Rink 6, where Judy, Alex, and Mick McClosky defeated Paul, Ron, and Trevor to be crowned the day's winners.

There were also some exciting milestones and upcoming events announced. Club patron Karl Rummeny will celebrate an extraordinary achievement, turning 101 years old on Monday, 2 December. The club extended its congratulations to Karl on this remarkable milestone.

Regular club activities are ongoing, with Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft Group, Thursday morning Bingo, and Thursday afternoon bowls continuing to attract participants. Players are reminded to have their names in by 1pm on Thursdays to join the action. The club is also preparing to host the Home Hill Golf Club for an evening game of bowls on 11 December, and members are encouraged to come along and enjoy the camaraderie.

Despite the heat, Saturday afternoon bowls was well attended, demonstrating the enduring enthusiasm and spirit of the Home Hill Bowls Club. Until next week, good bowling to all!

Contributed with thanks to Stephen Doig.

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With 2024 coming to a close and the new year on the horizon, the Burdekin Roosters have proudly announced the 2025 club committee!

Mick Brombal has been announced as the 2025 Burdekin Roosters President, with Paul Horan joining him as Vice President, Zac Trace-Campbell as Secretary and Courtney Weaver as Treasurer.

“Thank you to those who have stepped up and filled positions, we’re definitely in safe hands,” shared the Burdekin Roosters.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Roosters.

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On Wednesday 27 November, Burdekin Catholic High School proudly announced the school has been accepted into the Blackhawk Schoolboy Trophy Competition which will be held in Term 2, 2025. The announcement comes after BCHS was accepted into the QISSRL “Confro” in July, furthermore, strengthening the school's Rugby League program, offering students exceptional opportunities to develop their skills and compete at a high level.

BCHS students Jett Castello, Leylan Lampton, and Harrison Lammon competed in July’s Confraternity Rugby League Carnival.

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The 2024 Primary School Webber Shield Swimming Carnival, held on 19 November, brought together talented swimmers from across the Burdekin district. With fierce competition from schools like East Ayr State School, St Colman’s, and Home Hill State School, the event was a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship.

East Ayr State School claimed the coveted Webber Shield, while St Colman’s won the Max Tavasci Trophy for the highest average points. Several new records were set, including in the 50m Breaststroke and Butterfly events. The carnival’s success was thanks to the hard work of volunteers, the Burdekin Swimming Club, and local supporters.

On Tuesday, 19 November, primary school swimmers from across the Burdekin district gathered for the highly anticipated Webber Shield Swimming Carnival. The event saw strong competition from students representing schools such as St Francis, East Ayr State School, Home Hill State School, Giru, Brandon, St Colman’s, Maidavale, Osborne, Kalamia, and Burdekin Christian College.

The overall winner of the Webber Shield was East Ayr State School, who proudly took home the coveted shield, presented by Alyson Robinson.

The Max Tavasci Trophy for the highest average points was awarded to St Colman’s, presented by Mayor Perina Della Court. This award recognises the school's impressive consistent performances across all age groups.

The following students were crowned Age Champions for their outstanding individual performances:
   • 9yrs Boys: Oliver Cavanagh (6pts), East Ayr State School
   • 10yrs Boys: Lewis Bonato (12pts), East Ayr State School
   • 11yrs Boys: Lincoln Bonanno (6pts), St Colman’s
   • 12yrs Boys: Reeve Scuderi (12pts), St Francis
   • 9yrs Girls: Ellanah Searle (10pts), East Ayr SS
   • 10yrs Girls: Taylor Chapman (10pts), East Ayr SS / Maddison Searle (10pts), St Colman’s
   • 11yrs Girls: Darci Colls (9pts), East Ayr SS / Mia Wicks (9pts), East Ayr SS
   • 12yrs Girls: Arabella Sangiuliano (12pts), Home Hill State School

This year’s carnival saw several impressive records being broken:
   • Girls 10yrs 50m Breaststroke: Taylor Chapman (St Colman’s) set a new record of 46.90, surpassing the previous time of 47.52 set by Makayla Pirrone (St Francis).
   • Boys 10yrs 50m Breaststroke: Lewis Bonato (East Ayr State School) broke the record with a time of 47.36, replacing the previous record of 48.31 set by his brother, Parker Bonato (EASS).
   • Girls 10yrs 50m Butterfly: Taylor Chapman (St Colman’s) also set a new 22-year-old record of 40.20, breaking Ellie List’s (St Francis) previous time of 42.46 from 2002.

A big thank you was expressed towards the Burdekin Swimming Club for their invaluable assistance in the running and setup of the carnival, as well as to Sage and Vicki from the Ayr Swimming Pool for their support throughout the event.

The success of the carnival would not have been possible without the teamwork of everyone involved, from the volunteers to the parents and teachers who supported the swimmers throughout the day.

With another successful year in the books, the Webber Shield has once again showcased the incredible talent and sportsmanship of our local primary school students. Congratulations to all the competitors, record breakers, and especially the winners!

Contributed with thanks to Lisa Bello.

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East Ayr State School were proudly awarded the Webber Shield!
Mayor Perina Della Court presented St Coleman’s Catholic School with the Max Tavasci Trophy. – BACK PAGE

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