Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A field of 21 eager young golfers braved a chilly morning on Sunday, June 7, to contest the highly anticipated Ayr Juniors Closed Championships for 2026. Despite the cool start, the local talent turned up the heat on the pristine Ayr golf course, delivering exceptional performances across all divisions. Taking out the major honors for the year, Harvey Mauro was crowned the 2026 3-Hole Champion, while Nash Christie secured the 6-Hole Championship title. In the 9-hole division, Oscar Mahoney proved too strong for the competition, claiming the 2026 9-Hole Championship. In the sub-categories, the 3-hole division saw Royce Cohen take home the Nett winner title, with Micah Kemp sinking the longest putt and Zach Marchesini recording the least putts. The 6-hole division was dominated by Nash Fuller, who claimed both the Nett winner title and the least putts accolade. Tyler Smith also found form, winning the nearest the pin prize. In the 9-hole field, Dayne Weston was named the Nett winner. Weston shared the least putts honor with 9-hole champion Oscar Mahoney, who also picked up the nearest the pin award. Organizers deemed the day a massive success, extending their congratulations to all competitors for their sportsmanship and fun-first attitude. The event was proudly supported by local businesses, with the club extending its sincere thanks to Oar and Horan Dentists, alongside Sushi Rocks, for their generous sponsorship of the championship day.
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Kate Casswell’s Home Hill team, with a bit of help from Michelle Jones of Townsville and Joyce Morris from Bowen, played out some tough rounds to come up with the Tier One Intermediate win. Photo credit: Jacob Casha The 2026 Cane Country Cup pickleball team event did not disappoint. The event named after Heather Hewit’s edition of Home Hill’s Back Roads started the day with the courts covered in black snow. How appropriate! 28 teams participated in 4 different divisions with Home Hill connections in every section. Teams travelled from Cape Gloucester to Tully with some staying overnight and enjoying some social play and a meal afterwards. Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell Black Snow and Big Smashes at 2026 Cane Country Cup In the Advanced Competitive section, Hannah Casswell’s team was pipped at the post by Darren Hutchenson’s team from Townsville picking up second place. In Tier one Intermediate Kate Casswell’s Home Hill team with a bit of help from Michelle Jones of Townsville and Joyce Morris from Bowen played some tough and close rounds to come up with the win. In the Social section, Merv Mohr and Tracey Groom’s teams picked up first and second place respectively. It was refreshing to see and hear the enthusiasm for the sport, with lots of laughs coming from the competitors. Home Hill members put on a fantastic spread of food which will no doubt be remembered long after all the bad shots are forgotten. Thanks go to all the sponsors, donors and especially the volunteers who helped make this event happen. Organiser Kate Casswell said that Pickleball was the real winner with everyone agreeing that it was a great day. Results Advanced Competitive 1st 297 points Pickle me dink Darren Hutchenson Townsville 2nd 253 points Pickle d’Lulu Hannah Casswell Townsville 3rd 231 points Leyton’s Larrikans Townsville Tier 1 Intermediate 1st 235 points In a pickle Kate Casswell Home Hill 2nd 208 points Let’s Get Pickled Rob Dunn Bowen 3rd Tie 207 points Michael Northwood Dink and Dive Home Hill and Faramade Fours dinks and a point Townsville Tier 2 Intermediate 1st 239 points Trish Harley Holey Dinkballs Townsville 2nd 228 points Fantastic Forehand Trish Harley Townsville 3rd 223 points Extra Pickles Susan Kalemba Townsville Social 1st 292 points Green and Pickled Merv Mohr Home Hill 2nd 283 points Sandy Slammers Tracey Groom Home Hill 3rd 275 points Social Dinkers Lori Morris Bowen Fair Play Trophy Social Dinkers Bowen Gloucester Gherkins Cape Gloucester Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell
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Seniors Not a good weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had all five senior teams in action winning just two matches. The Premiers and Reserves were at home to League Leaders Brothers with the Premiers losing 0-2 and the Reserves losing 1-2. The Division 1 and Division 2 teams were at away to Wulguru with the Division 1 losing 0-6 however, the Division 2 won 5-0. The Colts away to Saints Eagles South also won 5-0. This week just four teams are in action. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are away to Estates at 8.30.and 6.30. On Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Riverway JCU at 7.00 and 5.00 with the Mooney Cup kicking off at 4.00. The Colts have the Bye this week. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club After their previous meeting with Brothers, there was a strong desire within the team to make amends and produce a better performance. The Panthers started the game brightly, controlling possession and dictating much of the play. Despite their dominance, it was Brothers who struck first, scoring against the run of play to take a 1–0 lead. While the Panthers continued to move the ball well and spend long periods in possession, they were unable to convert their control into clear-cut opportunities. The second half followed a similar pattern. The Panthers continued to dominate possession and created a handful of promising chances but couldn’t find the finishing touch. Brothers then doubled their lead from a set piece, making it 2–0 and giving themselves a significant advantage. To the Panthers credit, they continued to press, work hard, and try to force their way back into the contest. However, despite their efforts and control of the ball for large portions of the game, they were unable to find a breakthrough, with the match finishing 2–0 in Brothers’ favour. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service Against Brothers it was a case of what should have been for this match. Burdekin was dominant in possession and position for most of the match but could not manage the win. Brothers had three shots on goal for the match and scored twice. Burdekin had sixteen shots and only found the net once. The fact that the Panthers outplayed the top of the table team is pleasing, but they let themselves down by not finishing off our chances and scoring goals. Division 1 – Austral Masonry Two goals down at half time to Wulguru, the Panthers were arguably still in with a chance. However, a third goal shortly after the restart put the Panthers out of the game and Wulguru scored three goals in fifteen minutes towards the end of the half and at the final whistle the Panthers had lost 0-6. Division 2 - RG Customs The Funkies won 5-0 against bottom placed Wulguru in a game Burdekin dominated from start to finish. Jared Giardina and Simon Scuderi scored early goals before Burdekin’s weekly struggles in front of goal continued. After the break Chris Achille netted a double, before Riley Granshaw finished off the rout with a goal of the year contender. Granshaw looks primed for a big season ahead. The Funkies move up into 4th position at the halfway mark of the season. Colts – Astute Against Saints Eagles Souths the Colts started slowly and ,went into half time just 1-0 up with a late goal from Cooper Kross. After half time the Colts woke up and took control of the game, with goals coming from Jhett Jones, Brayden Card and another two goals from Cooper Kross. The game finished with a 5-0 win, and they have a bye this weekend. Masters The Masters were down on numbers but in good conditions featured a re-play of the recent Australia v Mexico friendly. Mexico won again, 4-3 after being 0-3 down! Best players on the night were Gary Roser and Nataniel Ek. The Magic Moment was Riley Granshaw’s header straight at the Red goalkeeper from one meter, saved. The Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick Off. Juniors Junior soccer was greeted by a chilly start on Saturday morning, but that didn’t stop the action on the field. Burdekin FC hosted home games across all age groups, with teams from Townsville travelling down to take part in a fantastic day of football for our U8–U12 players. Despite the cool conditions, players showed great enthusiasm, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the day. It was wonderful to see so many families supporting from the sidelines and helping create a great atmosphere. We look forward to another exciting week of training and games ahead. The Under15’s were at home to MA Olympic. It was a scoreless match during the first half but the second half saw the Panthers take the lead with a goal by one of their newest players, Levi Cremona with an assist from Cecil Badza Gwarada. Cecil also scored later in the half. MAO got one goal past Connor Griggs, but he had been fantastic throughout the match saving many. The Under 15s won the match 2-1 taking them now to outright leaders on the ladder. National The Matildas had two friendlies against Mexico lined up. In the first on 6th June in Newcastle, they lost 0-1 and they play the second 9th June in Sydney. International In the World Cup department, the Socceroos played another friendly match, against Switzerland, drawing 1-1 in a final warm up game before the World Cup begins. Australia’s first Group D match is against Turkey in Vancouver on the 14th of June. They then play the USA in Seattle on 20th June and Paraguay in San Francisco on 26th June. Quote the of the Week is from film star Raquel Welch after a visit to a Chelsea match. “What they say about footballers being ignorant is rubbish. I spoke to a couple yesterday and they were quite intelligent.”
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The NQ Touch Association will host a North Queensland Touch Football Carnival in Townsville on September 12–13, marking the return of the event after a seven-year break. Divisions will include Men’s and Women’s Open, Mixed Open, Men’s Over 30 and Over 45, Women’s Over 27 and Over 40, and Mixed Over 30. Players wishing to nominate should place their names on the registration sheets located on the Touch canteen noticeboard. Teams will be formed and coaches appointed once sufficient numbers are confirmed. Coutts Commercial Tavern Round 13 results Seniors – Men[Text Wrapping Break] Alliance Pharmacy 11 (C Power 3, S Power 3, J Power 2, J Olsen 2) def Baywatch 5 (T Marshall 2, E Henaway 2).[Text Wrapping Break] Nrgize 2 def His Haas 0.[Text Wrapping Break] Way To Go 8 (B Palmer 5, L Williams 2) def Wires Down 2.[Text Wrapping Break] Burdekin PCYC 8 (G Dau 3) def Touch N Go 3.[Text Wrapping Break] Slush Puppies 8 (D LeBlowitz 4, A Shield 2) def Royal Touch 5 (A Miller 2).[Text Wrapping Break] Renegades 7 (R Petersen 4) def Petrol Heads 2.[Text Wrapping Break] Creampuffs 6 (O Cavanagh 2, L Lampton 2) def Ball Grabbers 3 (B DiBella 2).[Text Wrapping Break] Feelers 6 (D Butler 3) def Blue Murder 4 (R Smith 3). Women[Text Wrapping Break] Lasers 8 (B Lennox 3) def Silly Soft Serves 1.[Text Wrapping Break] First in Physio 10 (S Monday 5, L Trindle 3, M Nauqe 2) def Chick Flicks 4 (A Brown 2).[Text Wrapping Break] Eathorne’s Princesses 3 def Salty Sirens 0. Under 14s[Text Wrapping Break] Rockies 5 (L Leavitt 2) def Broncos 1.[Text Wrapping Break] Baywatch 9 (Julie 3) def Red Dogs 2 2.[Text Wrapping Break] Red Dogs 1 4 (A Sgroi 2) drew Silly Soft Serves 4 (T Chapman 2).[Text Wrapping Break] Chicken Burgers 10 def Cowboys 1. Contributed by Peter Knapton
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Stormin’ Norm Bethell, a long-time lawn bowler, is involved with the Home Hill Community Sports Club, which has a near 90 year history. The club hosts various community events, including bingo on Thursdays, arts & crafts on Wednesdays, and private functions like birthday parties and even wakes – they’ve had five since the start of this year alone.
“I've taken a new venture and stepped back from competitive bowls after 30 years to work with the Home Hill Community Sports Club, which is a fantastic little club. It’s a pleasure to see this club has survived and not try to be something else. That being said, you also need other outlets as well. We had a rebirth and rebooted ourselves about three years ago after the club took a misstep but that's all behind us. We're now a full member of the North Queensland Bowls Association,” he says.
Membership at Home Hill is rising, with around 70-80 members thanks to them offering different days and times, from Wednesday nights, Thursdays, and Saturday bowls, “the convenient hour bowls” as Norm calls it.
But not only does the club host successful bowl nights, they also run community events.
“We host bingo, arts & crafts, a group called ‘Trimmers’ (a Weight Watchers club). Then we have a lot of 21st, 50th, and 60th birthday parties. We also hold wakes – we’ve had five this year already. It's all been word of mouth,” Norm states.
“It's an ideal venue because it's not a huge cost to hire the clubhouse and bar prices are probably the cheapest in town by a long way. Plus they can go and play bowls, so it becomes a good package.”
The club is seeking sponsorship for a bowling green cover, due to heat issues for their older players as Norm explains.
“The reason we’re looking for sponsorship is because the sun in North Queensland can get quite hot for some age groups. That’s something we’re aiming to get as a lot of older guys won't play because of the heat. That’s why we need to have a roof.”
“We’re looking for major sponsors to help share the cost, unless you got a million and a half in your back pocket,” Norm jokes with me.
“The biggest advantage for potential sponsors is advertising. We place an ad in the community paper, which is The Burdekin Life and it’s worth tenfold as that’s the most read paper in the area by a long way. You also get all the club benefits, plus all the people who read the bowls section and see your ad. We offer you the ability to come with us, while we will help expose your business.”
The club, known for its friendly atmosphere and strong community ties is available for sponsorship and event bookings. Simply call (07) 4782-1185 for more information.
“The Home Hill Community Sports Club is an absolute grand asset for the Burdekin area. It's a good club. People agree it's got a great atmosphere with good camaraderie and friendships that continue to shine.”
Home Hill Community Sports Club President, Trevor Elton, and Communications Officer, “Storming” Norm Bethell, ready to host events, increase membership, and find sponsorship.
Like many other outdoor sports clubs in the north, Home Hill Tennis has felt the impact of the persistent monsoons.
Apart from a few dedicated pickleball players sneaking in a quick game one afternoon, the courts have remained quiet.
Now, with clearer skies ahead, the club is eager to get back into action! Tennis fixtures kick off next Monday night, February 17, at 7 PM.
The first season is designed to align with the crushing season, making it convenient for local cane workers and farmers. It will also feature a few weeks of Sugar Bowl training—perfect for players to bring their teammates and friends along for some practice during the school holidays—plus the Club’s Closed Championship.
Membership is just $60 for the year, covering insurance and plenty of perks. That includes 12 weeks of tennis for only $60 or $10 per week—a fantastic deal! More importantly, it helps keep this great club and venue available for families in the Burdekin.
Excitingly, Next Gen Building is nearly finished upgrading the amenities building. Once the rain clears, the final touches will be added, but the new facilities—featuring six toilets, a baby change area, and a wheelchair-accessible room—are already a huge improvement.
New and returning players are all welcome! To secure your spot for the season, call or message Kate at 0447 384 441.
Introducing PickleKids!
The club is thrilled to launch PickleKids, a fun coaching and play program for kids aged 10+. Sessions run on Tuesday nights from 6:00 to 6:45 PM. Bring the kids down to try this easy-to-learn sport—and while they’re at it, parents can jump in for a game too!
In other news, Adam Walton played recently played in the Brisbane QTC Internationals held in the last fortnight. In the first event, he made it to the semi-final where he was defeated by Tristan Schoolkate and in the second event Adam defeated Jason Kubler in the final to win the event 76 76. Well done, Adam.
Volunteers lifted everything in the clubhouse in preparation for major flooding! Hopefully they didn't need to!
Ace Ace Baby Sugar Bowl team from 2024
Wet entrance to upgraded amenities
Night Tennis players keen to get back into fixtures
The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads are currently recruiting women who are interested in playing Rugby Union or are thinking about giving it a try. Whether someone is a complete beginner or has previous experience, the Canetoads welcome women of all skill levels to join the team.
Rugby Union provides an excellent opportunity to stay fit, make new friends, and try something new and exciting. It's a fun and fast-paced sport that challenges players physically, while also offering a strong sense of camaraderie within a supportive team environment. It’s the perfect way to get active, learn new skills, and enjoy being part of a positive community.
The Canetoads are seeking women who are ready to take on the challenge and experience the excitement of the game. For those who have never played before, the team offers a welcoming and supportive environment with coaches dedicated to helping players improve and develop their skills.
For more information on how to join either the Men’s or Women’s team, or to learn more about Rugby Union, individuals can send a message to the Canetoads Facebook page.
Canetoads are recruiting female players. Photo sourced: Facebook
Saturday 8th Of February: 1pm to 5pm (Patrol Group F) Lisa Furnell, Jenny Morgan, John Furnell, Jo Morgan, Lauren Chapman, Isla Chapman, Ryley Sartori, Jake Sartori, Kat Sartori, Dave Sartori.
Sunday 9th Of February: 9am to 5pm (All Day Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kelli Lawry, Zac dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, Briella Wassmuth.
Last Friday was supposed to mark the start of the second half of the Home Hill Cricket Association's Junior Cricket season, but the North Queensland wet season had other plans.
When the season does get underway, the programs cater to children as young as 5 years old and up. The youngest age group, Rookies, meet at East Ayr State School on Tuesday afternoons from 3:30 pm. These sessions are for 5-7 years of age and aim to teach the basics of cricket in a fun, engaging way using soft balls.
Next in line are the Challengers, for 7-10 years of age, who play at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex in Home Hill on Fridays at 5pm. These games still use soft balls, but the activities focus more on game-based learning.
In Home Hill, there are also two groups for "hardball" cricket (Blue and Gold), which take place on Fridays starting at 4pm. The Blue Group is for players who have just moved up from Challengers, and the rules are modified to make the game more enjoyable and accessible for them.
The Gold Group plays with essentially normal cricket rules, as the players in this group typically have higher skill levels. Training for both groups takes place on Mondays, where the focus is on developing more technical skills under the guidance of accredited coaches.
Older juniors compete in the senior Home Hill competition on Saturdays, and there is also the opportunity for players to trial for North Queensland and beyond, as some of the juniors have done in previous years.
It’s not too late to register for the Junior Cricket season. Simply visit www.playhq.com and search for Home Hill Cricket Association to join in the fun!
Contributed by Home Hill Junior Cricket.
Across Australia in 2024, the number of registered players doubled, and the same trend is happening right here in Home Hill, where the club now regularly hosts 24 players each week.
Recently, four more permanent pickleball courts were added, making it even easier for more people to join in. This fun, social sport is perfect for all ages. With a smaller court and a focus on reflexes instead of speed, it’s a low-impact and enjoyable activity for anyone looking to get active.
Pickleball is played with a light paddle and a whiffle ball on a court that’s much smaller than a tennis court, so there’s plenty of opportunity for conversation while you play. The serve is underarm, and you don’t need to cover a lot of ground to enjoy the game. Matches go up to 11 points and usually last between 10 to 20 minutes.
The club has paddles to borrow, and this week pickleball is free, so it’s a great time to try it out at Home Hill Tennis Club and join the fastest-growing sport in the country.
Pickleball is regularly played on Tuesday nights from 6:45 pm and Saturday mornings at 7 am. New players are welcome.
Starting on the 11th Feb, Home Hill Tennis is launching a “Pickle Kids” program for kids aged 10 and older. It will be a combination of teaching skills through games and playing matches. It’s an awesome, affordable option at just $25 for five weeks. Sessions will take place on Tuesdays from 6-6:45 pm when it is cooler.
Be sure to register your child by emailing homehilltennis@gmail.com.au as spaces are limited! We are thankful to the Queensland Government for supporting this program to enable Queenslanders to participate in sport and recreation activities.
Any one of any age and skill, can easily pick up and play pickleball. Photo: Supplied.
(L-R) Heather, Hannah, Kris and Kate love pickleball. Photo: Supplied.
Contributed with thanks by Home Hill Tennis
Golf enthusiasts, get ready to hit the greens! Ayr Anzac Social Golf will officially begin its 2025 season on Sunday the 23rd of February at the Ayr Golf Club.
The 2024 season was concluded on a high note, with 85 players enjoying a game on the Ayr Golf Club green, while the highly anticipated social competition will continue throughout 2025, with games scheduled across both the Ayr and Home Hill Golf Clubs.
Mark your calendars for the following dates:
• Sunday the 9th of March, Ayr Golf Club
• Sunday the 27th of April, Ayr Golf Club
• Sunday the 25th of May, Home Hill Golf Club
• Sunday the 22nd of June, Ayr Golf Club
• Sunday the 20th of July, Home Hill Golf Club
• Sunday the 17th of August, Ayr Golf Club
• Sunday the 14th of September, Home Hill Golf Club
• Sunday the 19th of October, Ayr Golf Club
• Sunday the 9th of November, Ayr Golf Club
Whether you're a seasoned player or a social golfer, everyone is welcome to join the fun. Get ready for a fantastic season of golf!
Bowen Polocrosse Club is celebrating its 36th year and is always excited to welcome new players of all ages. Whether you’re a first-time rider, an experienced equestrian, or someone returning to the sport, they’re here to help you have a great time on the field at their Fun Day on March 1st.
Polocrosse – the thrilling Aussie sport that combines the best of polo, lacrosse, and netball. Played on horseback by both men and women, this outdoor team sport is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure that brings together skill, speed, and strategy.
In polocrosse, each player uses a unique cane stick, designed with a net head to catch, carry, and pass a thick, rubber ball. The ball itself is around the size of a softball and can be bounced, picked up off the ground, and tossed towards the goal.
What makes polocrosse stand out even more is how it’s a family-oriented sport. The game’s inclusive nature means families can play together, in fact, it’s not uncommon to see players in their 60’s and 70’s out on the field versing their grandchildren, making polocrosse a lifelong passion for all ages.
Want to give it a go? Join the Bowen Polocrosse Club for Fun Day on 1st March! Whatever your horse-riding skill level, or just curious about this thrilling sport, this is your chance to come and try polocrosse. Expect fun games and prizes, sausage sizzle lunch, free camping and amenities, barrels, bending, and more – with a Polo-X Twist!
Remember to bring your own horse, helmets and appropriate riding gear. For more information, email bowenpolox@outlook.com or call Jess Russell at 0429 181 002.
WHAT: Bowen Polocrosse Club Fun Day
WHEN: March 1st, from 9am
WHERE: Bowen Polocrosse Grounds, Woodlands Road
Come try out polocrosse this March 1st! Photos Supplied: Ellisa Hunter
The 2025 preseason for the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads is officially kicking off on Tuesday, the 4th of February at Ayr’s Casalegno Fields!
New and returning male and female players are invited to join the Canetoads for an exciting season ahead. Lace up and meet at 6:30pm - bring a friend along for the fun!
What: 2025 Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads Preseason
When: Tuesday the 4th of February, 6:30pm
Where: Casalengo Fields, Ayr
More Information: email brucsecretary@outlook.com
2025 Canetoads preseason kicks off on Tuesday evening!
The Home Hill Tennis Association is gearing up to host the 2025 Home Hill Sugar Bowl, one of North Queensland’s most iconic tennis team events, from Saturday, the 3rd of May to Monday, the 5th of May. Held annually since 1981, this three-day competition takes place over the May Day long weekend and attracts over 40 teams from across the state.
Known for its unique scoring system, the Sugar Bowl champions are determined by the highest number of games played across the weekend. Teams will compete in three divisions, blending fierce competition with outstanding sportsmanship to claim the prestigious title.
A highlight of the local sporting calendar, the Sugar Bowl is more than just a tennis tournament – it's a chance for players, supporters, and tennis families to reunite and celebrate the spirit of the game. Don’t miss the excitement at this much-loved Home Hill tradition!
What: Home Hill Sugar Bowl
When: from Saturday, the 3rd of May to Monday, the 5th of May
Where: Home Hill Tennis Association & Ayr Tennis Association
More Information: email homehilltennis@gmail.com
The 43rd Annual Sugar Bowl was a smashing success!
The Burdekin Netball Association has excitingly set the date for 2025’s highly anticipated Burdekin Junior Netball Carnival for the weekend beginning Saturday the 24th of May.
The 2024 Burdekin Junior Netball Carnival was hailed as the most successful in its history, with a record 60 teams competing in the two-day event.
The carnival annually brings young netballers from across the region together for a fierce weekend of competition, camaraderie, and community spirit, cementing its place as one of the Burdekin’s premier sporting events. The hard work and dedication of the Burdekin Netball Association’s committee, along with the tireless support of parents, grandparents, and volunteers, continues to ensure the annual event is a resounding success.
This May, the Burdekin Junior Carnival is set to make history once again and will be the final event held on the Home Hill courts before the completion of a $3.5 million facility upgrade.
The Burdekin Netball Association is eager to welcome returning and new participants to the region for this landmark event, which will showcase the incredible talent and community spirit that makes the carnival a highlight of the Burdekin sporting calendar.
Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more updates as the countdown begins to what is shaping up to be another record-breaking Burdekin Junior Netball Carnival!
What: 2025 Burdekin Junior Netball Carnival
When: Saturday the 24th and Sunday the 25th of May
Where: Burdekin Netball Association
More Information: email burdekinnetball@gmail.com
Burdekin Netball Association’s Amaya Mahoney, Lisa Keryk, Taliyah Lammon, Amaya Caspanello, Ruby Prescott, Jemma Kiehne, Clodagh Liessmann, Emma Wilkie, Shila Horan and Lilly Mitchell, at 2024’s carnival
The highly anticipated Canefield Ashes cricket carnival is set to return to the Home Hill Cricket Club the weekend of Saturday the 26th of April. Held annually in memory of Eugene Pagotto, this two-day invitational T20 event promises an action-packed weekend for cricket enthusiasts and the wider community.
With 40 teams competing across A, B, C, and social grades, the carnival offers something for everyone, from seasoned players to those just keen for a bit of fun. Beyond the boundary ropes, the Canefield Ashes is a celebration of mateship and community spirit, raising much-needed funds for a local cancer charity.
Don’t miss this exciting weekend of cricket and camaraderie – it’s a Home Hill tradition not to be missed!
What: 2025 Canefield Ashes
When: Saturday the 26th & Sunday the 27th of April
Where: Home Hill Cricket Club
More Information: email homehillca@gmail.com
2024 A Grade Canefield Ashes winners Ben Dovers
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Unfortunately, on Sunday the Ayr Bowling Club’s highly anticipated Australia Day Bowls event was cancelled due to inclement weather conditions. While members are disappointed that they did not celebrate Australia Day together on the green, the safety of its members remains their top priority. Please rest assured, a new date will be selected soon, and the Ayr Bowling Club will keep everyone informed.
In the meantime, the Club is excited to announce that Wednesday Night Social Mixed Bowls started this week! Whether you are a seasoned bowler or new to the sport, this is a fantastic opportunity to get involved in lawn bowls. Wednesday nights at the Ayr Bowling Club are known for their friendly atmosphere and social spirit. It’s the perfect mid-week activity to unwind, meet new people, and enjoy the camaraderie that the club is famous for. Sign on by 6pm at the Clubhouse with games to start at 6:30pm.
So, come along and bring your friends and family to experience the joy of bowling under the stars. The Club looks forward to seeing you on the green!
This past Wednesday’s games featured some fiercely competitive matches, with two pairs games and one triples game. Cisco and Anthony Bull out bowled Bob Young and Bob Pickard. Ron S. and Col Essex narrowly outperformed Wayne Coonan and Mick in another hotly contested game. In the triples match, Arthur Galvin, T. Eadie, and Pam Power emerged victorious over John Pirrone, Ron Smythe, and Ray Wall in a nail-biting encounter.
The Men’s Club Championships Fours, A Grade Singles and B Grade Singles are now open for nomination. Nominations will close on Sunday the 2nd of February, so get your names down quick at the Clubhouse.
Contributed with thanks to Ayr Bowling Club President, Anthony Bull.
Although the weather dampened Sunday’s event, A. Gauvin, Chris Berkery, John Pirrone, Anthony Bull (President), and Pam and Maurie Power assure a new date will be set!
Home Hill Tennis is set to host its Annual Club Open Day on Sunday 2nd February from 5.30–7.30pm, to coincide with the success of this year’s Australian Open. There was much to cheer about with local tennis star, Adam Walton, playing in the main draw of the singles and doubles. Adam is ranked inside the top 100 in the World.
His family and friends were there to cheer him on and couldn’t have been prouder. Adam had a win in the first round of the doubles 6-2, 7-6 but was defeated by a very experienced pair Krajicek and Ram. Adam was defeated in a 5-set singles marathon 4-6, 4-6, 6-4, 7-6, 7-5.
Tennis, pickleball, Hot Shots coaching with Coach Kayla, and a BBQ dinner will all be free. Pickleball is a racquet sport played on a small court with a light whiffle ball.
“It is a fun and easy game to play that has an underarm serve. Possibly the hardest thing is keeping track of the score,” said pickleball organiser, Kate Casswell.
Pickleball is played on Tuesday nights at 7pm and Saturday mornings at 7am. Contact Kate on 0447-384-441 or just turn up. The first night you play is always free!
Free hit ups for night tennis begins on Monday 3 Feb at 7pm, with fixtures commencing on the 10 Feb. Be sure to register your name for a team with co-ordinator Sheryn on 0417-617-622 or email the club at: homehilltennis@gmail.com. Fill in players are always needed.
Home Hill Junior Tennis coaching will recommence in Term 2. In Term one Junior pickleball is set to take off for a 5-week block commencing on Tuesdays starting on the 11 February from 6–6.45pm. It will be a combination of match play and coaching. Aimed at ages 10+ and at only $5 per session, this is a great opportunity for your kids to try out this easy to play and fun sport. There are limited spaces, so make sure you email the club to register your child’s interest.
This is a great opportunity for all tennis players to get back on the court in preparation for the Annual Sugar Bowl event in May which is always a highlight on the northern calendar.
Local Burdekin tennis star, Adam Walton, at the recent Australian Open. Photo: Supplied
Any one of any age can play. Come join Home Hill Tennis’s open day.
Get ready for an exciting year of track and field action across North Queensland in 2025! From February to October, athletes of all ages and abilities will have the chance to compete in a variety of exciting meets.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the upcoming events:
February:
• North Star Summer Series Meet 1 – 1 February, Townsville (State Permit Meet)
March:
• North Star Summer Series Meet 2 – 1 March, Townsville (State Permit Meet)
May:
• Mackay Track & Field Carnival – 3 – 4 May, Mackay
• Mulgrave Relay Day – 18 May, Gordonvale
• Great Barrier Reef Masters Games – 30 May to 1 June, Cairns
• Cairns Twilight Carnival – 30 May, Cairns
June:
• Outback Pentathlon – 14 June, Normanton
• Central Queensland Track & Field Carnival – 28 – 29 June, Rockhampton
July:
• Festival of Athletics – 5 – 6 July, Townsville (National Permit Meet)
• The Challenge Games – 23 – 24 July, Townsville
• Coral Coast Carnival – 26 – 27 July, Cairns
August:
• Tablelands Pentathlon – 10 August, Tolga
• Outback Sunset Carnival – 23 – 24 August, Longreach
• Bowen Track & Field Carnival – 30 – 31 August, Bowen
September:
• Douglas Rainforest Rush – 7 September, Mossman
• North Queensland Championships – 26 – 28 September, Townsville (National Permit Meet)
October:
• QRSS Track & Field Championships – 13 – 19 October, Townsville
These events provide excellent opportunities for athletes to qualify for state and national competitions, including national permit meets such as the Festival of Athletics and North Queensland Championships. Make sure to mark your calendars and get ready to compete in 2025!
Young NQ athletes are gearing up for the busy year ahead!
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