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45 teams from across Queensland met in Home Hill last weekend, duelling for glory in what was the 45th edition of the region’s esteemed Sugar Bowl tennis tournament. Men’s and women’s teams travelled from as far as Brisbane, competing in a traditional round-robin format across A Grade, A2 Grade and B Grade divisions from Saturday, 2 May to Monday, 4 May. Emerald Tennis Club’s Keg Slayers took out the A Grade men’s competition, with M&M’s claiming the women’s A Grade title for a fourth time. A2 Grade men’s champions TTT dominated the division, while the Lady Bugs pipped their A2 women’s rivals to glory. The Shoeys edged the Wackers to claim men’s B Grade glory, and the Hot Shots proved too strong for the women’s B division after a comfortable victory. Both Col’s Crew and the Sugar Hits were recognised with Team Spirit awards to tie off the eventful three days. Home Hill Tennis Association secretary Kate Casswell said the event was another feather in the cap of the club, continuing the tournament’s 45-year history with another successful edition. “It was such a successful year with a really strong field. The quality we saw from the A men’s in particular this year was next level,” Ms Casswell said. She said the event garnered significant interest from the tennis community. “Tennis really picks up locally—even in Townsville—because this is a big thing on the calendar for them. They want to come to play, compete and have fun,” she said. Ms Casswell said the influx of visitors also boosted local business, with around 1,000 players and spectators filling local accommodation and supporting businesses throughout the long weekend. She thanked the committee, team captains and the Ayr-Home Hill Lions Club for their efforts in facilitating the event that was just as much social as it was competitive. “The highlight for me is just seeing all the teams come and have a great time together—the positivity and the energy that comes from it,” she said.
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Ayr’s finest golfers have returned triumphant from the 2026 Queensland Women’s Country Week. Battling "character-building" coastal winds across Yeppoon and Rockhampton, the eight-strong squad proved their mettle on the greens. The highlight belonged to Kerry Heuir and Sandra Wight, who secured the Division 2 Foursomes title with a gritty 95. Former local Amanda Gees also tasted glory in Division 1. Between rainbows and gala dinners, the week celebrated the unbreakable spirit and camaraderie of regional golf. Read on page 29 CAPTION: Battling "character-building" coastal winds across Yeppoon and Rockhampton, the eight-strong squad proved their mettle on the greens. Photo source: Ayr Golf Club/Facebook
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Seniors A disappointing weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had only three senior games drawing two and losing one. The Premiers and Reserves were away to Warriors with the Premiers drawing 1-1 and the Reserves losing 0-1. The Division 1 team forfeited but the Division 2, drew 1-1 away to MA Olympic. The Colts also had a bye, and the Ladies have withdrawn from the competition. This week four teams are in action as the Colts have a bye. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are at home to Olympic, at 8.30 and 6.30 and on Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are away to MA Olympic at 7.00 and 5.00. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club With several players unavailable, the Panthers were forced into their fifth different backline combination in as many games, heading into a tough away trip to Warriors at Melrose Park, a venue where points are always hard to come by. The first half was a stalemate, with neither side able to gain control despite the Panthers enjoying a large share of possession. Clear chances were limited, and both teams remained disciplined defensively. The second half followed a similar pattern, although Warriors began to create more threatening opportunities. Jarrod Camer stood tall in goal, producing key saves to keep the scores level. With ten minutes remaining, the breakthrough finally came, with Jay Leckenby finishing off a well-worked move to give the Panthers a 1–0 lead. However, the advantage was short-lived, with Warriors equalising five minutes later. The match finished 1–1, a result that reflected a hard-fought contest in difficult conditions. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service The Panthers started the game well with plenty of effort and pressure creating multiple chances which the Burdekin were guilty of not taking. On the back of the Panthers failing to score, Warriors took one of their very few chances and scored right before half time. The Panthers applied a lot of pressure after the break but were again guilty of not taking their opportunities. Luke Torkington received a red card, for letting his frustration at some questionable tactics get to him. Even with ten men, Burdekin still had Warriors camped in their half so despite the 1-0 loss there is potential for a better result next round. Division 1 – Austral Masonry Faced with a shortage of players, weddings etcetera, the Division 1 had to forfeit their match against Olympic. Division 2 – RG Customs The RG Customs Funkies drew 1-1 with MA Olympic on Friday night. It was a very competitive contest and free flowing game. Burdekin created numerous attacking chances but continued to be denied by Olympic keeper who was very good all night. It took until the 77th minute for Jared Giardina to give Burdekin the lead with a neat finish. The game was quite frantic until the end and Olympic managed to equalise in the 89th minute to share the points. An unfortunate goal after an incorrect decision to award Olympic a corner that resulted with the goal. Despite the draw the Funkies can be proud of the effort and intensity on the night, for the entire game. A focus, however, must be on finishing off attacking chances and dominating the scoreboard as well as the game. Great performances by Jared Giardina, Jesse Thomasson and also Chris Achille running out the full 90 minutes of play. Ladies Female Football is taking over Monday nights! A strictly social hour of football. All are welcome to attend. Small-sided game, no skills, or experience required! Grab your friends and come down and have good time. 6:30pm, Senior Fields! Welcome to Female Football Week! An exciting two weeks to celebrate the outstanding contribution and the growth of the female game! We are proudly hosting events across the two weeks! Keep an eye out on Facebook for more details. Thank you to all the amazing females and girls that shape the face of what Female Football means in the Burdekin! Masters The Masters had another good turnout and a replay of last week’s World Cup Qualifier, Italy v Bosnia Herzegovina. In a close game Bosnia won 3-2 and for Italy it’s Goodnight Luigi! Fengil scored twice for Bosnia. Best players on the night were George Karagkiozis and Jonty Davis. 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 After a quiet week with no games over the long weekend, our junior soccer teams are eager to get back into the swing of things. Training resumes this week, giving players a great chance to sharpen their skills, reconnect with teammates, and prepare for the return to matches this Saturday. We are looking forward to seeing everyone back on the field, refreshed and ready for another exciting round of junior soccer. National The A League Men’s season has reached the final stages. In the Elimination Finals Auckland defeated Melbourne City on penalties after a 1-1 tie and Sydney beat Melbourne Victory 1-0. On Saturday, Sydney now plays Newcastle and Auckland plays Adelaide in the 1st Leg of the semi-finals. The A League Women are at the Semi-finals stage, and in the 1st Leg, Melbourne City beat Victory 1-0 and Brisbane defeated Wellington 2-1. The second leg will be played this weekend. International In the World Cup department, the Socceroos travel to the USA to play Mexico on 31 May at the Rosebowl in Pasadena and now have another ‘friendly’ organised. They play Switzerland in San Diego on 6th June. Australia’s first Group D match is against Turkey in Vancouver on the 14th June. They then play the USA in Seattle on 20th June and Paraguay in San Francisco on 26th June. In Europe, the various leagues are very close to the end of season. In England with three rounds left, Arsenal leads Manchester City by six points, but City has two games in hand. ManU will probably finish in third place with Liverpool or Aston Villa finishing fourth. Wolves and Burnley are already relegated with either Spurs or West Ham joining them. Oh yes, Coventry City won the Championship by eleven points. What a team! In Germany with two rounds to go Bayern are already champions and Dortmund need one more point to finish second. Leipzig should finish in third spot with either Leverkusen, Stuttgart or Hoffenheim finishing fourth. Relegation faces Heidenheim, St Pauli and Wolfsburg. In Spain, with four rounds to go, Barcelona are champions with Real Madrid second and, probably Villarreal third and Atletico fourth. It is very tight at the foot of the table with Oviedo in deep trouble with Levante, Seville and Alaves struggling. In Italy, with three rounds left, Inter are already champions with Napol likely to finish in second place. AC Milan, Juventus, Como or Roma could fill the third and fourth places. Pisa and Verona are already relegated and either Cremonese or Lecce could join them. In France with two rounds to play PSG are already champions and Lens and Lyon are likely to finish in second and third spots. Lille or Rennes will finish fourth. Metz and Nantes are already relegated, and Auxerre will probably accompany them.
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Touch Juniors[Text Wrapping Break]Last Friday’s Junior Touch saw 45 boys and girls aged 4 to 12 nominate. Skills, drills and games will begin this Friday from 5.30pm to 6.15pm for six weeks. Further nominations will still be accepted. Annual General Meeting[Text Wrapping Break]The Annual General Meeting of the Burdekin Touch Association will be held next Tuesday, 12 May, in the Touch Clubhouse at 6pm. Everyone is welcome. Results – Coutt’s Commercial Hotel Open Men’s and Women’s (Round 8) Men[Text Wrapping Break]Way To Go 5 (B Palmer 2) def Nrgize 4 (L Torkington 2)[Text Wrapping Break]Wires Down 6 (K Parravicini 2, G Flannagan 2) drew One Touch IT 6 (J Ballin 2, J Leckenby 2, R Taylor 2)[Text Wrapping Break]Alliance Pharmacy 13 (J Furnell 4, K Hesp 3, A Watson 2) def Baywatch 1[Text Wrapping Break]Burdekin PCYC 12 (G Dau 6, S Doolah 2, T Heron 2) def Blue Murder 7 (N Spina 2, R Smith 2)[Text Wrapping Break]Royal Touch 7 (A Miller 3, C Formilan 2) def Touch n Go 5 (R Piva 2, K Vitty 2)[Text Wrapping Break]Creampuffs 9 (P Le Feuvre 3, L Chatfield 2, L Lampton 2) def Petrol Heads 4[Text Wrapping Break]Teamo Supremo 9 (J Moustakas 3, H Horan 2, R Heuir 2) def Feelers 5[Text Wrapping Break]Renegades 12 (B Frau 4, D McKeough 2, B Johnson 2, S Andreatta 2) def Ball Grabbers 2[Text Wrapping Break]Crocs won on forfeit Women[Text Wrapping Break]Lasers 12 (B Robertson 6, T Horan 3, M Robertson 2) def Can’t Catch 1[Text Wrapping Break]Eathorne’s Princesses 6 (A Cornford 4) def Salty Sirens 1[Text Wrapping Break]First in Physio 11 (L Trindle 5, M Nauqe 3, T Monday 2) def Chick Flicks 1 Under 14[Text Wrapping Break]Red Dogs 2 3 (Logan, Jamie, Emmet) def Broncos 2 (Jake, Kasey)[Text Wrapping Break]Red Dogs 1 6 (Connor Linton 3, Luca Lawry, Archie) def Rockies 2 Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton CAPTION: Torah Brock in action. Photo supplied
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A good crowd of Rugby League supporters last Sunday witnessed a good standard of Rugby League played at the annual Home Hill Harvest Festival Town of Origin!
The first Town of Origin in this format was played in 2013 and since then Ayr has won five times to Home Hills four with no games played in 2018 and 2020.
As is customary in these games the type of play was tough and hard with the town heritage at stake. Two former A grade coaches of the roosters, Chris Perry and Kieran Dawes took control of the two teams, and both had simple instructions - do your best and think of the town you are playing for.
Play seesawed for the entire match with one team scoring and then the other. In the end it came down to an attempted conversion from the sideline with the ball heading towards the uprights only to be blown away. That gave the win this year to Home Hill by 24 – 22 now levelling up the annual scoreline.
Coach Kieran Dawes said he thought Jayden Sgarbossa was his best player and judges agreed with Sgarbossa receiving the man of the match. Dawes did say he thought Liam Cannavan, Joel Pennisi and Robert Canteralla also had good games. Dawes said he thought all had a crack and they used a lot of effort and energy. He said he told them to make their tackles and mean it.
Ayr coach Chris Perry said he thought Lachlan Shepherd was his best player by a long shit although John Zaro and Llama Ghee never stopped especially Llama with his defence.
“It was not our best effort but regardless it was a good game and congratulations to Home Hill,” said Perry.
For Home Hill Dom Arrate, Lachlan Kerr, Jayden Sgarbossa and Liam Cannavan scored tries with Don Arrate kicking 4 from 4. For Ayr Jones Munro, Kane Batchelor, Luca Lago and Llama Ghee scored tries with Joel Mason kicking 3 goals.
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.
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The only senior match of the round in Home Hill Cricket took place on Saturday afternoon, with Peto's Marine winning the toss and sending the Crowned Mongrels in to bat.
The Mongrels made the most of their time at the crease, with Andrew Wallwork top-scoring with 46 runs from 41 balls. Handy contributions from Luke Mottin (29 runs) and Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro (23 runs) helped set a competitive total of 6/153 from 25 overs.
In response, Peto's Marine started strong with quick runs from Cal Boland (34 runs) and Jack Gimson (25 runs). They needed just 11 runs from the last two overs, but strong bowling performances from Dan Olditch and Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro saw the Mongrels claim the last three wickets, leaving Peto's all out for 146, just short of the target.
In other news, Alliance Pharmacy forfeited their game against the Rookies.
Next weekend, Peto’s Marine will face off against the Rookies, while the Crowned Mongrels take on Alliance Pharmacy.
Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Cricket Association Secretary, Tiffany.
Tuesday Ladies’ Social bowls kicked the week off and had 14 bowlers competing. Winners were Karen Shepherd, Isabel Cislowski, Merle Nixon and Dot Cutting def Donna Soper, Katharina Stuckler, Joy Comollatti and Sandra Stidston. Ruth Moore, Rayleen Harvey and Irene Wilson def Linda Guimelli, Karen Page and Mary Poli.
Wednesday Mixed Social bowls there were 3 games of triples with lots of fantastic bowls played over the 3 games. Winners on the day were J Pirrone, Col Essex and Chris Berkery def Ray Wall, Dino Poli and M Power.
On a windy Wednesday night, two pairs’ games were played. The winners of the night were, Michael Parravacini and John Cesconetto in the first pairs game. Rob Jorgensen and Bertilla Piazetta won the second game.
Competition Thursday morning the mixed singles were played and saw some very good bowling in a close fought game Irene Wilson def Anthony Bull. Thursday afternoon the Handicap Pairs were played. Deslie Olsen (sub) and Irene Wilson def Ruth Moore and Dot Cutting with great bowls being played all round.
Saturday Social Bowls sponsored by the mahjong ladies saw three games of triples and one game of pairs. Winners were Merle Nixon Joe Papale, and Ron Soper def Lorraine Wolffe, Barry Hewson and John MacDonald. Second place winners were Donna Soper and Joe Grabbi def Linda Guimelli and David Kroll.
Club championships continued Sunday. Mixed Triples saw Margaret Chapman, Henry Hazle and Gary Pearce def Lorraine Wolffe, Sandra Stidston and Anthony Bull. Mixed singles saw Michael Parravacini def Irene Wilson. Please see the club board for further championship club games for the 13th of October.
If you are interested in trying lawn bowls, Ayr Bowling club is a hub for lawn bowls enthusiasts, offering a friendly and social environment for players of all skill levels. Here are some details about the Ayr Bowling Club:
• Location: 101 Young Street, Ayr, Queensland 4807
• Phone Number: (07) 4783 1336
• Facebook Page:Ayr Bowling Club | Ayr QLD | Facebook
Social bowls are played on Wednesday or Wednesday evening or Saturday afternoon – we would love to see you! We have plenty of sets of bowls for you to try with. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a beginner looking to try your hand at lawn bowls, the Ayr Bowling Club is a great place to connect with fellow enthusiasts and enjoy the sport.
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This week our Home Hill junior cricketers, big and small, returned to the fields for the start of the 2024/25 cricket season.
Junior cricket sessions are available for children ages 5 and up. The “Rookies” (5-7 yr olds) play Tuesday afternoons from 3:30pm at East Ayr State School. Friday afternoons see the “Challengers” (8-10yr olds) and Juniors (U11’s +) play at the Home Hill Cricket fields from 4pm. All boys and girls are welcome to join in the fun, even if you’re new to cricket.
Last week saw the start of the 24/25 Home Hill Cricket Association's Junior Cricket season. Rookies were at East Ayr State School on Tuesday afternoon from 3.30pm. The sessions are for 5 to 7 year olds and aim to teach the children the basics of cricket in a fun way with soft balls. Challengers are the next level up for 7 to 10 year olds and their sessions are at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex in Home Hill on Fridays at 5pm. These are still played with soft balls but the activities are more game based.
They have two groups of "hardball" cricket on Fridays at Home Hill as well, starting at 4pm. In the "Blue Group" Alex Cullen and Kyle Wilkie scored some good runs and were both not out at the end of their batting. Tait Parker took the best figures of 2/3, Kip Nicholas and Tyler Smith also bowled well with 1/1 and 1/2 respectively. This group is for the players who have just moved up from Challengers and has modified rules to make it more enjoyable for them.
The "Gold Group" is the other game and this is played with essentially normal cricket rules as their skill levels are generally higher. Marshall Parker starred with the bat this week with 46 not out off 30 balls which included 6 fours. Ben Watkins had fun with the ball taking 3 wickets for 10 runs, Jacques Gardner took 2 and Aanav Desai and Oscar Mahoney 1 each.
It is not too late to register for the 24/25 Junior Cricket season, just go to www.playhq.com and search for Home Hill Cricket Association to join in the fun.
Senior Cricket
It was a family affair as 4 teams took the field for the start of the 2024/25 Senior cricket season at Home Hill Cricket on Saturday. The Rookies, Alliance Pharmacy and Crowned Mongrels all had fathers and sons playing together.
A tight contest ensued on Barry Richards field as the Rookies took on Crowned Mongrels. The top score of the match by the Rookies Dan Olditch (45 runs from 48 balls) wasn’t enough to secure the win as the Mongrels took the glory in the final over. Crowned Mongrels finished the match 6/137 over the Rookies 6/131.
On field 2, Alliance Pharmacy made a competitive total of 5/130, anchored by opener Lee Watts who retired not out on 50 runs from 58 balls. Peto’s Marine worked hard in reply and helped by an unbeaten 50 not out off 36 balls by Andy Ballin, took the win with a total of 6/151.
Next Saturday will see the two Round 1 winners, Peto’s Marine and Crowned Mongrels, face off on Barry Richards field from 1pm. Alliance Pharmacy will take on the Rookies on field 2.
To register and join a team, visit www.PlayHQ.com and search “Home Hill”.
Crowned Mongrels father and son - Aiden and Joe Marano. Photo Supplied
Three generations playing for the Rookies - Leo, Chris and Dan Olditch. Photo Supplied
Alliance Pharmacy family - JD, Alf and Travis Wilkins. Photo supplied
A great day on the field. Photo supplied
A monumental milestone occasion, this Saturday, 19 October, will see the 300th Plantation Parkrun event take place from 7am at Plantation Park.
A beloved Burdekin tradition, the very first Plantation Parkrun event made its debut on Friday 17 February 2018, which saw almost 100 local runners take to the 5k track. Making history, the first runner to cross the Plantation Parkrun finish line was Adrian Royce with a time of 18:45, who was soon followed by Justin Knight-Gray (20:22), and Josh Schultz (20:45).
Over the past 299 events, almost 6000 runners have crossed the Plantation Park finish line, with an average time of 39:35. A number to be celebrated, more than 900 personal bests have been achieved, and almost 200 volunteers are to be commended for their efforts in making the past 299 events possible.
To those with a competitive streak, these are the 5k times to beat to make it into the Plantation Parkrun history books! In the female division, the time to beat is 21:10 which was set by Shannen McDonald in the 27th Plantation Parkrun held on 1 September 2018. 16:05 stands as the time to beat in the male division; a record set by 116 time return Parkrun champion, Tony Gordon on 2 October 2021.
Plantation Parkrun operates as a free, fun and friendly weekly five-kilometer community event where locals are invited to come along for a walk, jog or run, with many also encouraged to volunteer, or spectate. Each Saturday at 7am, runners prepare to ready, set, go close to the Plantation Park Information Centre and complete two equal laps of the park, South into the Juru Walk.
Operated on a voluntary basis, there are plenty of opportunities for members of the community to try new roles and become part of the Parkrun event. If you would like to become a volunteer, please email plantation@parkrun.com or pop down to the park on a Saturday from 7am to speak with team.
The entire Burdekin community is invited to bring their pups, prams and running shoes to Plantation Park this Saturday to be part of this extraordinary 300th milestone event! Competitors interested in walking, running or jogging the trail along with members of the community wanting to cheer on their friends as they cross the finish line are invited to meet near the Plantation Park Information Centre before the 7am start.
To register to compete in this Saturday’s event, please visit www.parkrun.com.au/plantation.
What: The 300th Plantation Parkrun Event
When: Saturday 19 October at 7am
Where: Near the Plantation Park Information Centre
More Information: Visit www.parkrun.com.au/plantation
A wonderful milestone, the community is invited to come along to Plantation Parkrun’s 300th event this Saturday!
The Ayr Bowling Club had a busy week of competitions, kicking off with Tuesday Ladies' Social Bowls, which saw 14 bowlers take to the green. The winners were Karen Shepherd, Isabel Cislowski, Merle Nixon, and Dot Cutting, who defeated Donna Soper, Katharina Stuckler, Joy Comollatti, and Sandra Stidston. In another match, Ruth Moore, Rayleen Harvey, and Irene Wilson triumphed over Linda Guimelli, Karen Page, and Mary Poli.
Wednesday’s Mixed Social Bowls featured three exciting games of triples, with plenty of top-notch bowls on display. The winning team of the day, J Pirrone, Col Essex, and Chris Berkery, overcame Ray Wall, Dino Poli, and M Power.
Later that night, despite windy conditions, two pairs’ games were held. Michael Parravacini and John Cesconetto secured victory in the first match, while Rob Jorgensen and Bertilla Piazetta took out the second game.
Thursday’s competition continued with the Mixed Singles in the morning, where Irene Wilson edged out Anthony Bull in a closely fought match. In the afternoon, the Handicap Pairs saw Deslie Olsen (subbing in) and Irene Wilson defeat Ruth Moore and Dot Cutting in a round of exceptional play.
Saturday’s Social Bowls, sponsored by the Mahjong ladies, included three games of triples and one pairs match. The winners were Merle Nixon, Joe Papale, and Ron Soper, who triumphed over Lorraine Wolffe, Barry Hewson, and John MacDonald. Second place went to Donna Soper and Joe Grabbi, who bested Linda Guimelli and David Kroll.
The weekend wrapped up with Sunday’s Club Championships. In the Mixed Triples, Margaret Chapman, Henry Hazle, and Gary Pearce secured victory over Lorraine Wolffe, Sandra Stidston, and Anthony Bull. Meanwhile, in the Mixed Singles, Michael Parravacini came out on top against Irene Wilson.
For upcoming club championship games on 20 October, be sure to check the club board.
The Ayr Bowling Club is always welcoming new players! Whether you’re an experienced bowler or looking to try lawn bowls for the first time, the club provides a friendly and social environment. Social bowls are held on Wednesday, Wednesday evening, and Saturday afternoons.
Come join in the fun - there’s plenty of bowls to go around!
Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.
Following their undefeated run at the North Queensland Junior Basketball Championships (NQJBC), the Burdekin Wildcats u12 Girls have now claimed the title of Division 2 State Champions, securing a Gold Medal at the Queensland State Championships. This remarkable achievement continues to showcase the talent and determination of these young athletes.
After dominating the NQJBC in August 2024 with 15 consecutive victories, the Wildcats traveled to Zillmere in September to compete in Basketball Queensland’s premier competition, which brought together athletes from across South, Central, and North Queensland. Held at the Northside Basketball Sports Centre from September 19 to 22, the tournament saw the Wildcats continue their undefeated streak.
The team, consisting of nine dedicated junior athletes, worked tirelessly to win all five of their pool games, earning them first place in their pool and a spot in the semi-finals. In a commanding semi-final performance, the Wildcats defeated Northside Wizards 1 with a score of 71-43, securing their place in the gold medal match.
On Sunday, 22 September, the Wildcats faced off against the North Gold Coast Seahawks 2 in the Championship game. In a hard-fought contest, the Wildcats emerged victorious, winning 54-42 to claim the Queensland State Champions title for Division 2.
Head Coach Larni Vasta expressed her joy at the team’s accomplishment, stating, "What an incredible season it has been for our team - winning 22 consecutive games, along with dominating three carnivals and becoming State Champions, is a remarkable achievement!
I am immensely proud of each and every one of them.
Their hard work, dedication, and teamwork have truly paid off.
This success reflects not just their skills on the court, but also the effort they put in during training and the support they give each other."
Coach Larni, in her first season at the helm, also acknowledged the support she received throughout the journey.
"As a first-time coach, this season has been an incredible journey - I’m grateful for the unwavering support I’ve received, which has been crucial to our success.
The girls’ hard work and determination made it a joy to lead this talented team.
I, personally, would like to extend a big thank you to our community for your generous support and donations that helped us reach state championships - this made a significant difference in our journey, providing the resources and encouragement that fuelled our success - we couldn’t have achieved this without you!"
The Wildcats would like to extend their gratitude to the Burdekin community and local businesses for their support throughout the season, as well as the family and friends who cheered them on from the sidelines and back home. Special thanks go to Assistant Coaches Kate Gaze and Jodie Miller, Manager Hayley Colls, and, of course, Head Coach Larni Vasta for their dedication and leadership throughout this unforgettable season.
GO WILDCATS!
Contributed with thanks to Hayley Colls.
BACK ROW (L to R) Manager – Hayley Colls, Head Coach – Larni Vasta, Darci Colls, Allie Boland, Dakota Oliver, Bella Galbraith, Gracie Giardina, Assistant Coach – Jodie Miller. FRONT ROW (L to R) Scarlett Sinclair, Radha Haller, Hallie Friend and Addison Reid.
BACK ROW (L to R) Gracie Giardina, Manager – Hayley Colls, Allie Boland, Head Coach – Larni Vasta, Scarlett Sinclair, Darci Colls, Bella Galbraith, Assistant Coach – Jodie Miller. FRONT ROW (L to R) Addison Reid, Hallie Friend, Radha Haller and Dakota Oliver.
Allie sinking a free throw.
Coach Larni giving team instructions.
Time-out team huddle.
Scarlett getting the pass off.
Darci navigating the centre court.
It was another competitive week at Brandon Bowls Club, starting on Wednesday, 9 October, with Darelle Pearce securing victory in an A-grade singles match against Margaret Chapman, furthering the Pearce family’s bowling legacy. In the social pairs, Ann Newton and Vanda Ballao triumphed over Bev Garioch and Lyn Farr.
Friday evening saw two competitive games played under the lights. In the pairs match, Lloyd Shepherd and the formidable Ray Paneccasio faced off against Peter Lejarraga and "Mr. Bowls" himself, Gary Pearce. Despite the high-quality bowlers on both sides, Shepherd and Paneccasio delivered a masterclass, securing a decisive win.
The triples game saw Joy Woods, Jayson Farry, and Jamie Woods take on Margaret McLaughlan, Bob Jorgensen, and Ross McLaughlin. The Woods team led throughout the night, but McLaughlin's team staged a dramatic comeback on the final end to snatch the victory.
Scratchy ticket winners for the week were Lloyd Shepherd and Ray Paneccasio, while the jackpot went to Joy Woods, Jayson Farry, and Jamie Woods.
Sunday featured an exciting A-grade pairs match where Leo Kenny and Richie Mau battled Chris and Gary Pearce in a 21-end thriller. It was a close contest, but Chris and Gary Pearce edged out their opponents to secure a place in the final, where they will face Peter Henderson and Jamie Woods.
In the social bowls, two triples games and one pairs game were played. In the pairs, Neville Dickinson and Kevin Collins narrowly lost to Peter Lejarraga and Vince Beitia. In the triples, Ross McLaughlin, Rob Jorgensen, and Peter Jorgensen took down Henry Hazel, Joe Yipnazar, and Ray Paneccasio, while in the final triples game, Kenny Ferguson, Doug Kiehne, and Doug Robins were bested by the in-form Jamie Woods, Glenn Woodford, and Ben Mills.
The Brandon Bowls Club invites the community to come along for Trophy Bowls on Friday, 18 October, at 6:30pm, sponsored by Nutrien AG. If you haven’t put your name down, please do so as soon as possible. The cost is $12 per player, which includes a sausage sizzle before the game and the best smoko in Brandon afterwards.
Be sure not to miss out on another fantastic night of bowls at Brandon!
Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.
Jackpot Winners, Jamie Wood and Jayson Farry (Joy Woods absent).
Gary and Chris Pearce were victorious on Sunday, securing a place in the final!
Local
The Burdekin Panthers Presentation Night was held last Saturday at Populin’s Hall, and a good crowd turned up to celebrate a good year for the Burdekin Football Club. Major Awards were Men’s Player of the Year – Ryan Scodellaro and the Women’s Player of the Year was Sian Reardon. The President’s Medal this year went to Wayne Kolb and Josh Valle and Maddison Taylor took out the Taylah Pearson Memorial Trophy.
The Senior Club Person of the ear went to Sian Reardon and Casey Calligaro and Oscar Licciardello were the Junior Club Persons of the Year.
Angelo Licciardello was made a Life Member, deservedly, after a good thirty plus years associated with the Club from playing as a fifteen-year-old to coaching and everything in between.
The Escriva Cup is due to be played on Friday evening, 1st November and is a fundraiser held by The SLoBs (Soccer Legends of the Burdekin) to help out ex-players with health problems. Last year fourteen Men’s teams and two Ladies teams took part. Hopefully, we will have more teams involved this year.
Night Soccer
Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s Week 6 produced 67 goals from the twenty two games. Top scorers for the Men were UDS and Rapos Utd with five goals and in the Women’s competition DILLIGAF led the way with four goals. Sin Bins were earned by Gareth Ferguson from Plumb Dingers and Ryley Siandri from Jaime’s Boys.
Juniors
Junior Social Soccer kicked off Tuesday afternoon with 40 teams taking part this year! It was a very successful afternoon, with a lot of returning players and teams from last year and also a lot of new kids and new teams formed.
It was good to see the kids having fun with their friends! Thank you to the managers of each team, and especially those who took on teams that were formed in just the few days. Also, a big thank you to the youths who have put their hands up to referee again. You make the afternoons run smoothly and it is hoped that you will gain further experience and confidence from this.
Sian Reardon was celebrated as the Club Person of the Year.
Casey Calligaro and Oscar Licciardello were congratulated as the Junior Club Persons of the Year.
Maddison Taylor was the recipient of the Taylah Pearson Memorial Trophy.
Celebrated as the Women’s Player of the Year was Sian Reardon.
The Men’s Player of the Year was Ryan Scodellaro.
Wayne Kolb and Joshua Valle were presented with the Presidents Medal.
Saturday 19th of October 1.00pm to 5.00pm ( Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wasmuth, Briella Wassmuth.
Sunday 20th of October 9.00am to 5.00pm ( All Day Patrol Group E ) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Bella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, Danni Coughlin.
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Over the weekend, the Ayr Surf Club headed north to Forrest Beach, near Ingham, to undertake the second carnival of the North Barrier Branch competition season.
Despite a smaller than usual cohort of competitors, there were some absolutely brilliant individual and team efforts throughout the two days of competition, and it was fantastic to see some of the club's newer members pushing themselves to take on the challenging Ironperson event.
Club Junior Activities Co-ordinator Kellie Lawry reported that she was extremely proud of all members and enjoyed watching such good sportsmanship and comradery displayed by all competitors over the weekend.
Seeing the nippers forming friendships and engaging positively with members from the other clubs, is so great to see, and where members make friendships for life.
She reported that it was a big two days with some challenging conditions, and it was very rewarding to see members tackling the tricky conditions with skill and determination and never giving up.
Next up on the competition carnival is the North Australian Championships to be held in Mackay in a couple of weeks, which will see competitors converge from the majority of the northern half of the State and will be a real test for our local competitors.
Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry.
Quinn Pontifex in Under 8 Female wade race
Alyssa Irvine catching a wave in U12 Female Ironperson
Alexandra Moloney, Taylor Chapman & Charlotte Dale following U11 Female Board Race
Ross Rickards & Chris Wicks in Masters Male Flags
U13 Board Relay Team - Emilee Wassmuth, Cole Pontifex, Charlotte Lawry
Zachary Dale in All Age Relay
Photos supplied
The 2024 Country Swimming Championships took place in Darwin from 27 to 30 September, with the Burdekin Swimming Club proudly represented by Millie Lyne, accompanied by her dedicated coaches, Kim and Mick McConnachie. The event brought together 51 clubs from across regional Australia, with 334 swimmers competing for medals and striving for personal bests.
Millie’s hard work over the winter months paid off, as she achieved three personal best times and earned a place on the podium in three events. She placed second in both the 100m Breaststroke and 50m Butterfly for 14-year-old girls. However, her standout moment was winning the 50m Breaststroke with a personal best time of 34.72 seconds, the fastest female time across all age groups at the event.
Millie expressed her gratitude to the Burdekin Swimming Club for their support and to her coaches for their commitment and effort, including traveling to Darwin for the competition.
The Burdekin Swimming Club is now back in action at the Ayr pool, with Club nights held every Wednesday. For more information, visit their Facebook page and enjoy a fun family night out.
Contributed with thanks to Kate Lyne.
Millie Lyne racing to the finish at the 2024 Country Swimming Championships.
Hard work pays off! Millie celebrating her well earned place on the podium.
Millie diving into one of her many races at last month's Championships.
Millie alongside her dedicated coaches, Kim and Mick McConnachie.
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The 2024/25 Senior Cricket season at Home Hill Cricket kicked off in style on Saturday 12 October with four teams taking the field. It was a family affair, with fathers and sons playing together for the Rookies, Alliance Pharmacy, and Crowned Mongrels.
On Barry Richards Field, the Rookies faced off against Crowned Mongrels in a tightly contested match. Despite a standout performance by Dan Olditch, who scored 45 runs from 48 balls, the Rookies fell just short as Crowned Mongrels clinched victory in the final over. The Mongrels finished 6/137, narrowly edging out the Rookies' 6/131.
Meanwhile, on Field 2, Alliance Pharmacy posted a competitive 5/130, thanks to opener Lee Watts, who retired not out after scoring 50 runs from 58 balls. Peto's Marine put up a strong reply, led by Andy Ballin’s unbeaten 50 from 36 balls, and secured the win with a total of 6/151.
Next Saturday, 19 October, the Round 1 winners, Peto's Marine and Crowned Mongrels, will battle it out on Barry Richards Field from 1p.m., while Alliance Pharmacy takes on the Rookies on Field 2.
To register and join a team, visit www.PlayHQ.com and search for "Home Hill."
Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Cricket Association Secretary, Tiffany.
Crowned Mongrels were father and son duo Aiden and Joe Marano.
Three generations playing for the Rookies; Leo, Chris and Dan Olditch.
Alliance Pharmacy Family, JD, Alf and Travis Wilkins.
Father and son teams kicked off the Home Hill Cricket Association’s senior season last weekend.
This week saw the return of junior cricketers to the fields as the Home Hill Cricket Association launched the 2024/25 season. Players of all ages took to the pitch, from the smallest rookies to the more experienced juniors.
Junior cricket sessions are open to children aged 5 and up. The "Rookies" (5-7-year-olds) meet on Tuesday afternoons from 3:30p.m. at East Ayr State School, while the "Challengers" (8-10-year-olds) and Juniors (Under 11s and older) play on Friday afternoons at the Home Hill Cricket fields from 4:00p.m. Boys and girls of all experience levels are welcome to join the fun, even if they are new to the sport.
To register and join a team, visit www.PlayHQ.com and search for "Home Hill."
Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Cricket Association Secretary, Tiffany.
An awesome turn out, plenty of junior cricketers took the field last week.
Juniors are invited to come along and join the cricketing fun by registering at www.PlayHQ.com.
The Home Hill Cricket Association hosted a week of action, cane fires, and talented young cricketers!
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Junior golf at the Ayr Golf Club made an exciting return this term, kicking off with the September Monthly Medal event. It was fantastic to see a great number of new kids take the course with the Club sharing a warm welcome to all their new members!
In the 3-hole competition, Opie McKeough claimed the Monthly Medal, while newcomer Tyler Smith had an outstanding performance, securing the Gross Winner title, Least Putts, and Longest Putt with a remarkable gross score of 18.
For the 6-hole event, Sam Heatly emerged as the Monthly Medal winner with a -1 Nett score and also took out Least Putts. Evelyn Mahoney was named Gross Winner, while Celine Bain earned Nearest to Pin honors. Congratulations to Celine for her impressive move up to 6 holes this week!
Kyle Wilkie claimed victory in the 9-hole Monthly Medal, while Amaya Mahoney won Gross. Amaya also took Nearest to Pin and tied with Gabby Cahill for Least Putts.
A reminder that the Karrie Webb Junior Championships are set for the 26 and 27 October. If you’d like to nominate your child, please email juniorcaptain@ayrgc.com.au before nominations close on the 21 October.
Contributed with thanks to Kristina Patane Land.
The victorious winners of September Monthly Medal with presenters Rheanna Bain and Amaya Mahoney.
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