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The Sugar Bowl’s little sister, the Cane Country Cup pickleball team event, will get underway this Sunday 7 June from 8am to approximately 3.30pm. A strong field of 29 teams will battle it out in Home Hill, making for one of the biggest editions of the event to date. The competition will be split into four divisions from Advanced through to Social as a result of an increase in numbers. Teams will compete across Men’s doubles, Ladies doubles and two Mixed doubles matches, taking on every team within their division. Competitors are travelling from as far as Cardwell to Cape Gloucester and everywhere in between. The Advanced division features players who have medalled at Queensland Pickleball tournaments this year, promising high-quality match-ups. Spectators should keep an eye out for Townsville’s Darren Hutchinson and his team “Pickle Me Dink”, while last year’s winners “Pickle d’Lulu”, led by Hannah Casswell, return to defend their title. Local interest will also be strong, with Home Hill’s Laurel Blucher, a multiple Home Hill Tennis Open winner in the 1980s, featuring in Leyton’s Larrikans. Home Hill is represented by six mixed teams, with a strong focus on camaraderie and enjoyment. Prizes will be awarded for best team spirit, recognising sportsmanship, teamwork and camaraderie on and off the court. Creative team names such as the Crafty Cassowaries, Cardwell Crocs, Gloucester Gherkins and Pickled Mangoes will add to the atmosphere. Visitors are welcome to attend and support the Home Hill Tennis event and discover the sport of pickleball. Contributed with thanks to HHTA Secretary Kate Casswell CAPTIONS: 1—Last year’s Home Hill representatives pose in front of the freshly unveiled Home Hill Tennis Association amenities block. Photo credit: Jacob Casha 2—A strong field of 29 teams will battle it out in Home Hill, making for one of the biggest editions of the event to date. Photo supplied
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A great break by Tyce Cursio and off-load to K J Zaro led to the smart five-eighth scoring the first of seven tries by the Burdekin Roosters as they overwhelmed the Herbert River Crushers at Bendigo Bank Park last Friday night 36 to 18 in Under 19s. The match was played as a catch-up to the round two match when the game was shifted to last Friday. The local boys, under the coaching of Alf Cantarella, turned it on especially in the first half in front of a big crowd to move into second place on the ladder behind Brothers but ahead of Centrals and Herbert River. Led by their forwards with Kenny Southwell, Mason Kiehne, Leylan Lampton and Jack Power standing out, the team was just too fast for the opposition River boys. Jack Power was just too quick and slippery for Ingham, cutting through for two great tries. Another who did not cross for a try but set up a couple with his elusiveness was lock Tyce Cursio, who caused the Ingham defence plenty of trouble. While the forwards paved the way, the backs made good use of the room, with half Chad Fraser one of the best on ground. Chad was well supported by K J Zaro, Kirk Viero, Riley Smith and Tyreece Trindle, with young fullback Logan Guglielmania chiming in. Coach Alf Cantarella said his team started the game well, putting points on the board. Alf said they did fall away a bit in the second half after leading 22–0 at the break, actually losing the second session 18 to 14. Herbert River received a few extra penalties in the second half and, with the extra ball, made good use of it. The local boys though did not panic and actually scored the last try. Alf said they used the game as a platform for other games coming up, with Herbert River winning their share against other recent clubs. Jack Power was awarded players’ player for his standout effort, but he would have been just ahead of Tyce Cursio and Joey Southwell. The coach also praised the effort of his fullback Logan, who was safe and dangerous in attack. BURDEKIN: tries by Jack Power (2), K J Zaro, Kirk Viero, Logan Guglielmania, Chad Fraser, Tyreece Trindle … Chad Fraser 4 goals. ................................................... No other games were played in the R L T D last weekend due to the round being classed as a contingency round. Club football will return this weekend with the Roosters in Ingham on Saturday afternoon playing Herbert River in three grades: Under 19 at 3, reserves at 4.30 and A grade at 6. There should be a good crowd in Ingham as it is their Ladies Day, the same as it was at Western Lions and then Charters Towers. In other matches Charters Towers will host Centrals in the western city, Norths will be visited by Western Lions and Souths will play Brothers, with those teams sitting one and two in A grade. .................................................. The Roosters will have their first home game after several weeks on the road when they play Brothers in three grades on Saturday June 13 at Bendigo Bank Park. That day is also a Super Saturday with some 20-odd junior league games being played. It is also Old Boys Day, with several Old Boys on ground for the games after a function at the Ayr Anzac Club. The club has also arranged for a huge jersey auction, with proceeds going to the Davenport Appeal. Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes
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Home Hill tennis star Adam Walton has produced the biggest win of his career, defeating sixth seed Daniil Medvedev in a gripping five-set first-round clash at the French Open, 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 1-6, 6-4. The Australian wildcard, ranked outside the world’s top 90, started strongly, taking the opening set 6-2 as Medvedev struggled to settle on the clay. The Russian responded emphatically with a 6-1 second set, before Walton again wrestled back momentum with a dominant third set of his own. Medvedev levelled once more at two sets all, but Walton held firm in the decider, breaking at a crucial stage before serving out the match 6-4 to secure his first career Grand Slam win over a top-10 opponent. Read on page 30 CAPTION: Home Hill’s finest tennis export, Adam Walton, has continued his professional tennis ascent after beating sixth-seed Daniil Medvedev to claim his first career Grand Slam win over a top-10 opponent. Photo source: ATP Tour HOME HILL TENNIS STAR DEFEATS FORMER WORLD NO.1 AT FRENCH OPEN Continued from back cover Home Hill’s finest tennis export, Adam Walton, has continued his professional tennis ascent after beating sixth-seed Daniil Medvedev to claim his first career Grand Slam win over a top-10 opponent. Both players traded heavy blows across the French Open first round contest. Walton finished with 34 winners to Medvedev’s 54, but crucially kept enough control of the key moments to convert pressure into breaks when it mattered most. The pair had met twice previously, with the head-to-head level at one win apiece. Walton said his victory over Medvedev in Cincinnati last year gave him confidence heading into the fixture. “Anyone can beat anyone on a given day,” he said. “I had the belief that I could definitely go out there and beat him… and to get a first top-10 win at a slam is pretty epic.” He cited the heat as a potential advantage, given his upbringing in North Queensland’s dry tropical climate. “I grew up in the heat… I’d say I last better than the field in the heat,” he said. “I’m not the most talented player out there, so to be able to last in hot conditions is an important factor.” When asked about how he thought his victory would be received in Home Hill, Walton responded: “I haven’t been back there in a while, but I have so many connections with the local club there and I think it’s a pretty cool story to have been brought up in Home Hill, then move to Brisbane, then America and now playing pro—it’s pretty special.” Home Hill Tennis Association Secretary Kate Casswell called Walton’s victory a proud moment for the Burdekin community and beyond. “The Home Hill Tennis Club, the whole district and all of the northern tennis community are incredibly proud of Adam’s achievement,” she said. “The win shows us that anyone with the determination and effort, no matter where you come from, can achieve great things.” She said that his exploits on the main stage brought increased traffic to the club’s Facebook page, with a post on his win garnering over 70,000 views. She called it a testament to the huge amount of support out there for him. Walton has since bowed out of the French Open after suffering a 3-1 sets defeat to American Zachary Svajda. He now has his sights set on the Challenger Tyler tournament in the USA, where he’ll face Wu Tung-Lin in the first round. CAPTION: Adam Walton won his first ATP Challenger Tour title in 2023. Photo supplied: ATP Tour
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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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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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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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