Sports

BURDEKIN CLAY TARGET CLUB TO HOST NOVICE DAY THIS SATURDAY

BURDEKIN CLAY TARGET CLUB TO HOST NOVICE DAY THIS SATURDAY

The Burdekin Clay Target Club is opening its doors to beginners this Saturday, May 30, for an action-packed Novice Day designed specifically for first-timers. Starting at 9:00 AM, the community event offers a safe, welcoming introduction to the sport of clay target shooting, with absolutely no firearm licence required to participate. Attendees can assemble a team of five for some friendly competition, or show up solo to be placed into a group on the day. Every participant will get the chance to shoot 35 targets across the event, and trophies will be awarded to the top seven teams. The club provides all necessary supervision and guidance, making it an ideal opportunity for local residents curious about the sport to safely test their aim. Existing firearm licence holders are requested to bring their licences along. The event will take place at the Burdekin Clay Target Club Grounds, located at 1528 Ayr Dalbeg Road, Mount Kelly. Gates open at 9:00 AM, and all community members looking for a unique weekend activity are encouraged to attend.

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Burdekin Touch Football Junior Girls Shine

Burdekin Touch Football Junior Girls Shine

The U12 school girls recently represented the Burdekin at the NQ Touch Football trials carnival in Airlie Beach. Playing five games over two days the girls competed against Whitsunday, Herbert River, Charters Towers and Townsville with a mixed bag of a win, a draw and some very narrow losses. Drawing on their experience from the Junior State Cup, the girls' skills were on show with strong sliding defence, excellent rucking and some creative line attack. Following the round games two Burdekin players, Taylor Chapman and Bethana Rattler were named in the possibles and probables resulting in Taylor's selection in the NQ U12 team. Taylor was also awarded the Heather Desbois medal for the Burdekin's Best and Fairest. "All 12 girls should feel proud of the way they represented the Burdekin. They are a team on the rise, showing huge improvements," said team Manager Petrina Wellington. CAPTION: Taylor Chapman was awarded the Heather Desbois medal for the Burdekin's Best and Fairest. Photo supplied

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MEMBERS GATHER TO SAY FAREWELL TO RESIDENT CARETAKER

MEMBERS GATHER TO SAY FAREWELL TO RESIDENT CARETAKER

On Saturday 16 May 2026, around 50 Home Hill Bowls Club members and visitors gathered to farewell resident caretaker Warren Bunn, known as “Yougi”. Yougi has been caretaker for approximately 30 months, commencing 15 November 2023. At that time, he had played only one game of bowls in the Burdekin, but living alongside the green quickly saw him develop into a capable player. By 2024, he was selected to represent the club in NQ Pennants. Now approaching 83, Yougi is relocating to Brisbane to be closer to family and will live with his youngest daughter. The club extends its best wishes and hopes he finds a new bowling club to join. On the day, five rinks of triples were played. The overall winners on margins were Alex Bojack, Jo Roser and Bob Young. Wednesday night featured a mix of social lawn bowls and the Home Hill Hot Shots darts club. The evening remains popular for its relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Hot Shots advise that Darts of Origin begins 27 May 2026, followed by the first of three Origin raffles at Friday night 8 Ball. All community members are welcome. Bowls names in by 5.30pm for a 6.00pm start (Ph 0468 313 115). Darts start 6.00pm (Ph Scott 0480 208 335). Thursday afternoon club bowls hosted four games of triples and two pairs matches, marking the start of the club pairs championships. Visiting bowlers were welcomed from Jarvis Bay (NSW), Bathurst, and Elliott Heads. Pairs results: Rink 2 saw Bruce McCallum and Janet Arthur defeated by Scott Taylor and Paul Vass in a close match. Rink 4 went to Mick McClusker and Alex Bojack over Phil Marsden and Bob Pickard. Rink 3 saw Trevor Elton’s team defeat Geoff Taylor’s side by a solid margin. Rink 5 went to Joe Linton, Des Chapman and Warren Bunn. Rink 6 was won by Gary Nosworthy’s team. Rink 7 saw Hugh Montgomery’s team defeat Keith Roser and John Hobson’s side. The club congratulates all winners and participants. Raffle results: John Hobson won the breakfast tray, and Maureen Marsden won the bottle of wine. Weekly activities: Monday 9am Gentle Exercise, Tuesday 9am Trimmers, Wednesday 9am Craft Group, Thursday 9am Bingo (Eyes Down 9.30am). Contributed with thanks to Bob Pickard CAPTION: around 50 Home Hill Bowls Club members and visitors gathered to farewell resident caretaker Warren Bunn, known as “Yougi”. Supplied

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ROOSTERS GRIT IT OUT ON THE ROAD DESPITE INJURY CRISIS AND CLOSE FINISHES

ROOSTERS GRIT IT OUT ON THE ROAD DESPITE INJURY CRISIS AND CLOSE FINISHES

The Burdekin Roosters were on the road again last weekend, travelling to Charters Towers on Saturday with A Grade and Reserve Grade, and then to Bushland Beach on Sunday for the Under 19s. In their wisdom, the BLTD has created a separate draw for Under 19s, meaning clubs are being split up, as was the case with the Roosters last weekend. Charters Towers are always hard to beat on their home ground, and it was no exception, with the Roosters getting up in the dying stages to beat the Miners. A Grade coach Steve Lansley was a happy man after the match, saying his players showed plenty of character in coming from behind to beat the Miners in front of a huge crowd during Ladies Day. Lansley said the Burdekin Roosters produced another gritty come-from-behind performance to defeat the Towers Miners 28–20, overcoming a frustrating night of errors and missed opportunities. Dropped balls at crucial stages repeatedly handed the Miners valuable field position and piled pressure on the Roosters’ defence, making the task tougher than it needed to be. Despite the setbacks, the Roosters refused to panic and worked their way back through tough carries and relentless middle-third effort. The forwards laid the platform in the second half, dominating the physical battle and swinging momentum back in Burdekin’s favour. Best for the Roosters were Jye Olsen, Nemia Nawave and Lachlan Shepherd, all playing key roles in the hard-fought win. Jye was awarded Players’ Player. For the Roosters, Malik Ogameni, Terry Connors, Nash Beck, Lach Bachbach and Nemia Nawave scored tries, with Jye Olsen kicking four goals. In other A Grade results, Brothers beat Centrals 28–12, Souths beat Norths 42–18, and Western Lions upset Herbert River 30–18. Lack of numbers did not help the Roosters Reserve Grade, going down 20–12 to a full-strength Miners side. Coach Peter Horan said he travelled with only three on the bench, compared to the home side’s six, and “that makes a difference”. He estimated around 12 players were unavailable through injury. Harvey Horan was again a standout, with Jahi Starr, Luca Lago and Bokeem Moore Reid also strong performers. Ron Geia and Dylan Doak also contributed well. For the Roosters, Jahi Starr and Ron Geia scored tries, with Dylan Doak kicking two goals. In other Reserve Grade matches, Centrals beat Brothers 18–10, Souths defeated Norths 38–12, and Western Lions beat Herbert River 19–16. On Sunday, the Under 19s had a tough match against Norths at Bushy Beach, going down 18–14 in a topsy-turvy contest. Roosters coach Alf Cantarella said it was a difficult game, with only two on the bench and no bench left after injuries. The Roosters dug in but were overrun in the final 30 seconds. Jacob Drain captained the side well, with Chad Fraser named Man of the Match. “We were really down on players and didn’t get the two points,” Cantarella said. The Roosters also spent time down to 12 men after a send-off, with Norths scoring twice during that period. Jack Power, Callum Taiters and Romeo scored tries, with Chad Fraser adding a goal. In other Under 19 results, Brothers beat Centrals 24–4 and Herbert River defeated Western Lions 58–0. In the women’s competition, Western Lions defeated Charters Towers 62–0, Centrals beat Brothers 20–8, and Souths defeated Norths 56–4. This week, the RLTD has a rest round for all teams except Burdekin and Herbert River Under 19, who meet at Bendigo Park in Ayr on Friday night from 6.30pm in a delayed fixture. Fixtures resume Saturday 6 June in Ingham across three grades. Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Baywatch Teams Shine in U14 Touch Football

December 5, 2024

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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Ayr Bowling Club Wraps Up a Fantastic Season

December 5, 2024

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.

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

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Successful Ham Day at Brandon Bowls Club

December 5, 2024

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.

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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Home Hill Bowls Club Weekly Wrap

December 5, 2024

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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Burdekin Roosters Announce 2025 Club Committee

December 5, 2024

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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Exciting News for Burdekin Catholic High School's Rugby League Program!

December 5, 2024

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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2024 Primary Schools Inter-School Swimming Carnival – Webber Shield

December 5, 2024

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.

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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Scouts Gain Life-Saving Skills At Ayr Ambulance Complex Visit

November 28, 2024

Continuing on with this month’s focus on emergency education and training, members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group were treated to the amazing opportunity of visiting the Ayr Ambulance Complex on Thursday 14 November.

The Scouts were guided through the role of first responders, with Victor of the Queensland Ambulance Service, sharing a few stories to provide the Scouts with a further insight into what its like to be an ambulance officer. Victor then guided the Scouts through lifesaving First Aid training including how to treat snake bites, the use of defibrillators, CPR, DRSABCD, the application of pads and bandages, as well as 000 first response skills. Along with each of these highly valuable practical demonstrations and activities, many Scouts found practicing CPR on the dummies themselves as well as looking inside of an ambulance the most rewarding and exciting components of the afternoon.

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group greatly thanks Victor for hosting the extraordinary interesting and educational afternoon, and thanks all officers for the amazing job they do in and around the Burdekin community each day.

Contributed with thanks to Chris Berkery.

The Scouts were treated to a tour inside an ambulance last week.
Victor guiding the Scouts through how to treat snake bites, treating Corey as a demonstration.

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Ayr Golf Club Honors Rusty Reguson with Heartfelt Event

November 28, 2024

On Tuesday, 19 November, the Ayr Golf Club came together to celebrate the life and legacy of one of its most cherished members, Rusty Reguson, at the annual Honour Board event. As the year draws to a close, the golfing community took a moment to remember Rusty, a man whose contributions and presence left an indelible mark on the club.

Rusty's Day was not just about golf; it was about honouring a life well-lived. The day featured three exciting competitions: a male winner, a female winner, and a group winner, each bringing their own unique energy to the course. The event blended competitive spirit with camaraderie, creating a memorable atmosphere where old friends and new gathered in tribute to a man who was deeply loved by all.

The female competition saw Loretta Mauro take home the top honours, with Janet Trezise claiming the runner-up spot. Their strong performances added to the excitement of the day.

In the male competition, the race for first place was close, with Darrell Shlieff emerging as the winner, followed by Johnno Lewis as the runner-up. The contest was a thrilling display of skill, with both golfers pushing each other to perform at their best.

The group competition was another highlight of the day, with a remarkable team of Cecily and John, Lena, Janet Trezise, and Loretta Mauro claiming the victory. Their coordinated teamwork outshone their competitors and earned them the top prize. The runners-up, Karen and Kelvin McIntosh, Robert Pitt, and Robert Potter, also displayed impressive teamwork and sportsmanship, making for a well-fought contest.

One of the most special moments of the day came when Rusty’s children - Liam, David, Adam, and Kerry - took to the stage to present the winners’ trophies. Their presence added a deeply personal and emotional touch to the event, reminding everyone of the lasting impact Rusty had on the lives of his family, friends, and fellow golfers.

the event concluded, all those in attendance were filled with gratitude for the time they had shared with Rusty and for the memories that would continue to inspire and unite the golfing community. The success of the day serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Rusty Reguson, whose contributions to the Ayr Golf Club will not be forgotten. His memory will continue to live on through the people he touched and the countless lives he made better through his presence.

The Ayr Golf Club extends its heartfelt thanks to all who participated, donated, and helped make Rusty’s Day a true success.

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

Many came together at the Ayr Golf Club for the Rusty Reguson's Honour Board Event last Tuesday 19 November.

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Burdekin Wildcats U12 Boys Basketball Team Secures 8th Place at State Championships

November 28, 2024

The Burdekin Wildcats U12 Boys Representative basketball campaign kicked off in June, with the team travelling to Cairns, Mackay, and Townsville to compete in the North Queensland Junior Basketball Carnival (NQJBC). The boys played 12 games across three carnivals, securing an impressive 10 wins out of 12. Their only losses were narrowly by just 2 and 4 points, earning them the gold medal and setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead.

Next, the team travelled to Toowoomba for the State Basketball Championships, where they competed in Division 2 over four days and seven games. In their pool, they won 3 out of 5 games, which led to a crossover match against the Southern Districts Spartans - a powerhouse team with over 150 boys at their representative trials. Despite putting up a strong fight and leaving everything on the court, the Wildcats were narrowly defeated by just 2 points in the final moments of the game.

This loss sent the Wildcats into the final game of the tournament, where they competed for 7th or 8th place. The team, consisting of just eight players, proudly finished in 8th place in Division 2, placing 20th overall out of 76 teams from across the state. Head coach Amy Chandler and assistant coach Lauren Roncato expressed immense pride in the boys’ performance, highlighting their dedication, hard work, and the true Burdekin spirit they displayed on the court. Both Amy and Lauren noted achieving 8th place in Division 2 at State Championships level is a remarkable accomplishment that the boys should all be incredibly proud of. 

The Wildcats were fortunate to receive unwavering support from their families and generous sponsors, including D&C Pennisi, Industry Fire Services, DG & M O'Shea Painting Contractors, ROSHEA Industrial, and Sgroi Farming. Additionally, the team received overwhelming support from local Burdekin businesses during their fundraising efforts to help get the team to the State Championships.

This season’s campaign was a testament to the talent, perseverance, and community spirit of the Burdekin Wildcats U12 Boys, who have certainly made their mark on the state basketball scene.

Contributed with thanks to Danny & Marisa O'Shea.

Coach Amy Chandler and assistant coach Lauren Roncato with the U12 Burdekin Wildcats team!

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Laser Electrical Golf Classic, A Hole In One!

November 28, 2024

The 2024 Laser Electrical Golf Classic saw an outstanding turnout of 82 players, all of whom gathered at the Ayr Golf Club for an exciting Greensomes paired event. This year, the event was proudly sponsored by Bonato Laser Electrical, marking a significant partnership for the tournament.

Laser Electrical Golf Classic 2024 a Resounding Success

The success of the Laser Electrical Golf Classic 2024 was largely due to the efforts of Janet, whose meticulous planning ensured everything ran smoothly. Janet selflessly gave up her place in the field to manage the logistics, making sure the burgers were ready when players finished their rounds and that the results were quickly collated. Special thanks were also extended to John Nash and Garry Spelta, who took on the responsibility of organising the competition.

The event was further elevated by the attendance of Richie, who was on hand to present the prizes to the winners. His involvement helped add to the excitement of the day, and his presence is something the organisers hope to see again in the future as the event continues to grow.

In terms of prizes, a number of standout performances were rewarded. On Hole 3, the NTP (nearest to pin) winners were Amaya Mahoney and Nat Smith in the Ladies' category, Rob Pitt and Rob Potter in Division 1, and Liam Reguson and Ken O’Shea in Division 2. On Hole 5, Michelle Stockdale and Pat Lawson took the prize for the Ladies, while Adam Eathorne and Craig O’Keefe triumphed in Division 1, and Len Phillips and Raul Guglielmana claimed Division 2. Hole 9 saw Sandra Wight and Vicki Adcock take the Ladies' prize, while Mike Casey and Robert Webb won Division 2.

The NTP on Hole 17 was claimed by Nat Smith and Amaya Mahoney in the Ladies' category, Dennis Lawson and Stew Christie in Division 1, and Gerald Henaway and Aicey Zaro in Division 2.

The Straightest Drive prizes were awarded to Bev Power and Kim Manty in the Ladies' category, Dave Harding and Dennis Mondin in Division 1, and Raul Guglielmana and Len Phillips in Division 2.

When it came to the division winners, Division 1 was taken by Peter Heron and Denzel Heron, who triumphed in a playoff. Division 2 saw Liam Reguson and Ken O’Shea win after a thrilling playoff. In the Ladies’ category, Ann Phelan and Evelyn Webb emerged victorious, while Dennis Lawson and Stew Christie, Matt and Chris Trenow, and Robert Pitt and Robert Potter rounded out the top finishers. The last-place prize went to Vicki Adcock and Sandra Wight.

The overall winners of the 2024 Laser Electrical Golf Classic were Raul Guglielmana and Lenny Phillips, who claimed the top spot, cementing their place as the stars of the day.

Looking ahead to 2025, the organisers are already excited about making the event bigger and better, promising even more thrilling moments and opportunities for local golf enthusiasts.

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

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Plantation parkrun #305 Results

December 11, 2024

The Plantation parkrun #305 took place on Saturday, 23 November 2024, with a fantastic turnout of participants. The top finishers were Robert Tama, who crossed the line first in a time of 21:40, followed by Viven Govender with a time of 26:08. Drew Bursey secured third place in 27:26, just ahead of Kimberly Backman, who finished in 27:29. John Byers rounded out the top five with a time of 30:43.

Plantation parkrun is a free, fun, and friendly weekly 5km community event that takes place every Saturday at 7am at Plantation Park. It’s a great opportunity for participants to walk, jog, run, volunteer, or simply spectate.

To join in the fun, register online at parkrun Australia and be part of the action next Saturday!

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Burdekin Canetoads Players Earn Spot in TRDU Men’s Team of the Year

November 28, 2024

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads shared a huge congratulations to their very own Nathan Steel, Andrew Symth, Leonard Heron, Joshua Davies, and Robert Cantarella for their well-deserved selection in the TRDU Men’s Team of the Year! The outstanding achievement reflects their hard work, skill, and dedication to the sport, and the Burdekin Canetoads are proud to see these players recognised at this prestigious level.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

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Bowls, Bites, and Big Wins at The Ayr Bowling Club

November 28, 2024

The recent rainfall may have dampened plans for Fun Friday Night, but the Ayr Bowling Club are pleased to announce that the event has been postponed to this Friday, 29 November, starting at 6pm. The club invites community members to come out and enjoy a fun evening of bowling - whether you're an experienced bowler or trying it for the first time, this event is perfect for players of all levels. It’s a fantastic opportunity to bring friends or join in solo and meet new people.

The evening kicks off with a sausage sizzle at 6pm, followed by bowling starting at 7pm and a light supper afterward. The entry fee is just $10 per game, which includes both the meal and the bowling. For more information or to reserve your spot, please contact Maurie Power at 0412 551 816 or Pam Power at 0458 330 019. The Ayr Bowling Club looks forward to welcoming both new faces and regular members for a night of community and fun.

On Monday, 18 Novebmer, the semi-final of the 3 Bowl Pairs was played, with Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeating Tricia Achille and Irene Wilson. Thursday saw the final match of the 3 Bowl Pairs, with Beryl Cornford and Pam Power coming out on top, beating Deslie Olsen and Mary Poli to claim the title of 3 Bowl Pairs champions.

Tuesday’s Social Bowls was a lively affair, with Merle Nixon, Dot Cutting, and Mary Poli defeating Karen Shepherd, Ron Smythe, and Heather Jorgensen. In another game, Isabel Cislowski, Katharina Stuckler, Karen Page, and Sandra Stidston won against Meryl Smith, Raylene Hervey, Beryl Cornford, and Pam Power.

Wednesday's social bowls featured a series of exciting triples matches. In the day's first match, Happy Horan, Chris Berkery, Dino Poli, and Anthony Bull triumphed over Ron Smythe, John Pirrone, and Lew Stidson. Wednesday night also featured some spirited competition in both triples and pairs. In the triples match, Katharina Stuckler, John Cesconetto, and Heather Jorgensen emerged victorious, while in the pairs, Bertilla Piazetta and Joe Grabbi claimed the win.

In the weekend's championship matches, Lyn Storrie and Gary Pearce defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Anthony Bull in the mixed pairs event on Saturday morning. It was a great game of bowls, showcasing top-level play.

On Sunday, in the Mixed Fours Championship, Margaret Chapman, Henry Hazle, Lyn Storrie, and Gary Pearce triumphed over Lorraine Wolffe, John Perrone, Sandra Stidson, and Anthony Bull.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

The community is invited to attend the Ayr Bowling Club’s Fun Friday Event this Friday 29 November.

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Football Matters with Cyclops

December 5, 2024

Local

Pre-season training has begun. We have had twenty-four players the last two weeks, a mixture of seasoned senior players and Under16 and Under14 players. 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 left on the local Calendar. The Group rounds continue until the 3rd December followed by the Semi-finals on 10 December and Grand Finals on Friday 13 December.


Night Soccer

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s Week 12 and getting very close to the semi-finals. Top scorers on the night were short Staffed who defeated a depleted Orange Goal Diggers 8-1 with Jo Butler scoring seven times.

Nutrien Ag Solutions are back on top of Group A1 after defeating FJV 2-0 and UDS still lead in Group A2 after drawing  with Show Me Da Mane. In Men’s B Grade, Oary’s Levellers beat Pacific Thunder 2-1 to take over the lead and 7 Stooges drop to second place after forfeiting  to Mountain View Fresh.

In Men’s Social, all five of the top teams were involved in 0-0 draws. Wires Down lead the Group followed by Old Grumpies and Jamie’s Boys.

In the Women’s competition UDS Ladies still top the A Grade table after a 3-0 forfeit win  and Smiling Assassins beat Rocky Pond Wonders. In Social A Grade, Shin Kickers lost to DILLIGAF and Young Guns beat Blue Goal Diggers.


Juniors

Week 6 of Junior Social Soccer had some great team and individual performances.
There is now just two weeks to go, the season will end on Tuesday 3 December.

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