By Chelsea Ravizza

The Burdekin Netball Association has been on a celebratory high since bringing home an amazing win from the Queensland Netball’s Senior State Age Netball Championship.

The championship was held at the Western Districts Netball Association in Brisbane on the weekend of April 6-9, where the U15 girls were awarded first place in Championship Challenge Division 4. Extending over four days, the girls played 15 games competing alongside 16 other teams from around the state including Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Downey Park, Cairns, Mooloolaba, Innisfail, and Tully.

After three days of yielding exceptional results, the girls put on a nail-biting show for spectators as they went up against their biggest competitors, Rockhampton and Downey Park, on the fourth and final day.

Spurred on by their first and only loss, falling short by one point against Cairns on the third day of the competition, the fourth day became more important than ever. The team’s coach, Alix Ballin along with the team’s manager, Christy Pensini, knew going into the fourth day of the tournament the girls would be challenged with the toughest games yet to polish off the championship.

“On that final day, I was sick to my stomach with nerves,” expressed Alix.

“The second game of the day was against Rocky, and the girls were down 5 nil at the start, but they came back playing super strong and we won 13 to 10!”

“The girls knew they had to step up, and they had a good sense of confidence that they could do it, and when it came to game time, they really did, they put it on the court,” explained Christy.

“That game against Rockhampton to get back on top of the ladder was amazing because they all really showed up and it just gave me goosebumps, it was awesome to watch.”

The final game of the day was against Downey Park where the girls either had to come out on top or with a tie score to win the championship due to the high goal average they had accumulated over the tournament.

“Going into that final game, Christy and I knew we either had to win or draw but we didn’t tell the girls because they didn’t need that added pressure and we really had faith in them that they were going to play hard and work hard, which they definitely did,” exclaimed Alix.

The girls walked away from the final day with four wins out of four games, drawing against Downey Park, 9 all, and both Alix and Christy could not have been prouder.

“The girls all worked so well together, the transitions down the court looked really slick, everyone had hands over in defense, everybody pulled their weight, and it was a great team effort,” exclaimed Christy.

Alix and Christy gathered the girls back at the tent and got them settled to share the victorious news which garnered plenty of yelling, crying, screaming, TikToks, photos and an emotional team group hug.

“There were lots of group hugs, screaming and jumping up and down,” explained Christy.

“They were so excited, so ecstatic, all the parents were excited, even the other teams were excited, and Christy and I were just bawling our eyes out, we’re so proud of them,” expressed Alix.

The win was more than well-deserved for the dedicated team as they had been hard at work training since team selections in late October to early November. Once selected, the girls underwent six weeks of Sunday sessions with coaching coordinator and association secretary, Kayla Betteridge, in the lead up to Christmas.

After the Christmas break, Alix coordinated two training sessions per week on Sunday afternoons, and Tuesday mornings before school where the girls focused on footwork techniques, coming forward towards the ball, creating space, drives, center passes, and crafting backline throw-in plays. After 12 weeks of double sessions, Alix and Christy oversaw three weeks of Prep for Rep sessions, and with additional Thursday night netball games thrown into the mix, the girls were putting in the work which certainly showed on game day.

“We made this play called the Zebra, and whenever a play like that went to plan, it was just amazing because you could see the consistency and fluency down the court,” explained Alix.

At a preparation weekend, four weeks out from the championship, the team created a motto; positivity, resilience, and teamwork.

“That was our motto every game, and Christy had shoe locks made so the girls could wear the acronym on the court, and then when we got that win, in our celebrations, we were chanting out our motto the whole time,” exclaimed Alix.

Christy and Alix could not be prouder of their girls, and the community has celebrated this win alongside everyone in the Burdekin Netball Association.

“Every player was a standout, across the defense, the mid court, and the attack, they all gelled together, played well and did what they had to do, and that’s what made us winners,” expressed Alix.

“We kept getting compliments from the other teams on hour well our girls gel together, and I love the word family because I feel like we are a family; we all supported each other on and off the court with how we spoke, the positivity, and the encouragement and I think that’s what made a big difference.

“There were times when the girls had to fight back from being down, and they kept fighting to then win by margins, and I think we definitely have some junior Silverlinks in the making.”

Indi MacDonald, Lola Carmichael, Ryley Sartori, Idoya Aguirre, Jayel Gibson, Jorja Bapty, Pascale Crooks, Sophie Michielin and Isla Chapman

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Last Sunday week Burdekin Roosters A Grade coach Steve Lansley watched his team play one half of decent football before going down to Western Lions 24 - 22.
This Sunday, the coach watched on as they improved that switch-on period to 60 minutes before turning off and allowing premiership favourites Souths to take the win 40 - 22.
The Roosters looked really good for the first thirty minutes actually leading by 10 nil with two tries before the Redmen came alive to score 10 points themselves through sloppy play from the visitors.
The second try by Souths showed their determination and the Roosters switch off period.
It was soon 16 all after the break but then the floodgates opened as the Roosters played virtually without the ball for close on twenty minutes.
During that time, the Bulls, led by former NRL Star Shaun Nona, scored four converted tries with excellent handling, defence and backing up to blow the game away.
The Burdekin boys did come back but the horse had bolted, and the game was gone.
“We have to get the little things right as we are making too many mistakes,” a dejected coach said after the game.
“I really thought we could win that game but to do that you have to be focused for the whole game and not three quarters of it.
“You can't switch off like we did and hope to win footy matches.”
Lansley thought centre and captain Ethan Hagarty had a top game and was one of the better players on the ground backed up by forward Lachlan Shepherd who tackled anything that moved as well as scoring a good try.
Tate Brombal and Kali Nauque first half were players who did not deserve to be on a losing side.
The coach said the squad would now regroup and get ready for Brothers at home this Saturday.
Tries were scored by Lachlan Shepherd, Kali Nauque, Ethan Hagarty and Tate Brombal with Dylan Doak kicking 3 goals.
In other A grade games Herbert River defeated Charters Towers 18 - 10 and  Western Lions were too good for Centrals 32 - 8 with both Brothers and Norths on byes.
After coming home with a wet sail last week to just go down to Western Lions, the Roosters reserves started off in great fashion to race out to 20 nil against Souths in Townsville last Sunday.
They then snoozed and let Souths in for two triers for a 20 - 12 lead at the break.
Souths continued to throw everything at a tiring Burdekin outfit without much ball, but the defence held to see the Roosters post their first win of the season 26 - 24.
Coach Chris Perry said failing to complete sets nearly cost his team who had to dig deep against a team coming off a big win over Herbert River last week.
Perry praised the efforts of French import Paul Meryl who scored a great 60 metre try to win the game when it looked all was lost.
“Paul is a hooker but I have him playing in the centres and he has gone well there scoring a try last week and again this week in hot conditions he and fellow Frenchman Wassine Mauhili are not used to,” the coach added.
Perry said three players tied for players player in Kyle Ferguson, Aiden Stevens and Paul Meryl.
The award went to Ferguson for his great defence and outstanding attack with the other two close by.
Stevens with his great speed and swerve cut the defence to score whilst handing on another.
The coach added that his team has to be with it for the entire game and cannot afford to sit back when in front.
Taluh Pepa scored two tries with one each to Aiden Stevens, Terry Connors, Paul Meryl with John Zaro kicking thee goals.
In other reserves matches Charters Towers beat Herbert River 22 - 10 with Bowen over Norths 32 - 14 and Centrals too good for Western Lions 36 - 10.
In the Ladies, Herbert River defeated Charters Towers 22 - 6 and Centrals defeated Western Lions 16 - 8 while Burdekin, Brothers and Norths had byes.
Burdekin do not have under 20 but Centrals defeated Western Lions 34 - 10, Herbert River defeated Charters Towers 66 - 4 and Bowen defeated Norths 42 - 12 .
This Saturday the Roosters are to play Brothers at Rugby Park in the Ladies, Reserves and A grade with the games starting at 3:30pm.
The A grade will have a couple of players missing attending a wedding but depending on allocation of Cowboys and Blackhawks should put together a side to test last year’s premiers.
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Contributed by Brian Carnes

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William wasn’t short of any white meat for Good Friday after he caught this 115cm barra. Photo supplied: William Smith
Ted’s barra. Photo supplied: Ted Shields
Trout and parrot fish were among Kyle’s haul after a weekend at Cape Gloucester. Photo supplied: Kyle Stuart Mclennan
Laurinda’s biggest flathead of the day at 63cm caught off the beach at Alva. Photo supplied: Laurinda George
A 100cm plus queen fish. Photo supplied: Kristopher Stockham
John’s barra. Photo supplied: John Chandler

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Saturday, April 13 to Sunday, April 14
Home Hill Cricket Association

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Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, the Eugene Pagotto Memorial Canefield Ashes cricket carnival in Home Hill has become a beloved annual event, drawing participants and spectators from far and wide. Originally conceived in 2005 by Doug McCubben who was inspired by the similar concept of Bowen’s Watts Shield, the tournament has evolved into a vibrant celebration of camaraderie, cricket, and community spirit.
What began with just 14 teams has now swelled to an impressive 40, testament to the enduring popularity and significance of the event. Supported by the enthusiasm of families, friends, community and cricket enthusiasts alike, the tournament has transcended its humble origins to become a major fixture North Queensland’s sporting calendar.
“Six years ago, we got to 40 teams, and that had every field covered for every session, so we capped it at that,” said Doug. “For the very first time this year, all 40 are coming back, and that’s never happened before.”
Eight months prior to the inaugural carnival, the Burdekin cricket community lost a cherished member, Eugene Pagotto, who lost his battle with cancer. Amidst the sometimes fierce, sometimes not so fierce, competition on the cricket field, the Canefield Ashes remains rooted in its core values of giving back to the community. Originally donating a percentage of profits to the Cancer Council, the tournament has recently directed its contributions to the Icon Cancer Centre in Townsville, where Eugene and many others from the Burdekin region have received treatment. The funds raised over the years have facilitated essential improvements and equipment purchases, enhancing the quality of care and support available to cancer patients.
“From word go, there was always a donation because that was one thing we felt strongly about,” said Coordinator Alexander Romeo. “Having the carnival in Eugene’s name, it was important to give back and help out in some way.”
For many, the Canefield Ashes is more than just a cricket tournament—it's a social reunion, a chance to reconnect with friends and family, and a weekend filled with fond memories. Players from Townsville, Ingham, Innisfail, and even as far as southeast Queensland converge on Home Hill, forming bonds that endure across generations. Indeed, nine teams participating in the tournament this year have been loyal contenders since its inaugural year, passing on the baton from player to player, generation to generation.
“I just can’t get over how people love coming to the carnival to catch up with mates,” Doug said. “That’s a real big thing and I think that’s why it’s so popular. Of course, you’re having a beer and there’s a band and the cricket too, but I think the thing I get out of it is the camaraderie and catching up with mates.”

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Continued on page 32

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Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth running of the tournament, from maintaining the grounds to organising sponsorship and hospitality—a true testament to the community's collective effort and dedication.
“If we didn’t have the backing of the Home Hill Cricket Association and their volunteers, it would never happen,” Doug said.
“The club has done a good job of running it over the years, so I think people enjoy coming because they feel welcome, and they want to come back,” added Alexander.
Even cricketing legends such as Geoff Thompson, Doug Walters, and Colin "Funky" Miller have graced the tournament with their presence in the past, adding an extra layer of excitement and prestige. Plans are underway for an invitational match against the Bulls Masters in the coming year, promising a thrilling spectacle for cricket enthusiasts.
The format of the tournament reflects its inclusive ethos, with teams competing across various grades including A, B, C and Social, ensuring that players of all abilities can participate and enjoy the experience. Each team plays three T20 matches over the weekend, with results tallied to determine the top contenders for the finals on Sunday afternoon—a highlight eagerly anticipated by players, volunteers and spectators alike. Matches are played across the eight fields at Home Hill Cricket Association and fields at Home Hill State High School and Home Hill State School. Moreover, the weekend even features an invitational match between the Home Hill Cricket Association and Flexi Queensland participants, a local not-for profit disability service, which is looked forward to for all involved.
Away from the pitch, the festivities continue with live music, delicious food, and a convivial atmosphere that encapsulates the spirit of the event. All games, presentations and entertainment are free for the public to attend and enjoy.
As the Canefield Ashes enters its third decade, the sense of pride and gratitude is palpable among those who have been part of its journey. Doug McCubben, one of the tournament's pioneers, reflects fondly on its origins and evolution, acknowledging the unwavering support of the community and the tireless efforts of organisers past and present. Meanwhile, Alexander Romeo, a stalwart of the tournament scene for 14 years and a key organiser for the past decade, reflects on the remarkable growth of the Canefield Ashes.
From its humble beginnings to its status as a cornerstone of the local sporting calendar, the Canefield Ashes embodies the enduring spirit of community, friendship, and solidarity. As participants and spectators gather once again to celebrate this milestone anniversary, they do so not only in honour of Eugene Pagotto's memory but also as a testament to the power of sport to unite and uplift.

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Canefield Ashes Foundation Teams
Still Playing 20 Years On
   • Horny Bulls
   • Evolution
   • Bendovers
   • Bumbo’s XI
   • Nomads
   • Wackers
   • Shaggers XI
   • Lager Louts
   • Thirsty Rhinos

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FRIDAY APRIL 12
3:00pm
FIXTURE
FIELD
Shouldawornabox v Average Joes
4

SATURDAY APRIL 13
SESSION 1 (7:45AM – 10:15AM)
FIXTURE
FIELD
Bumbo's XI v Sugar Daddies
1
Bowen Bears v Wackers
2
Thirsty Rhinos v Bowen Chargers
3
WWW v Nomads
4
Honeycombes J.D. v Malpass Mongrels
5
Ball Burners v Cane Blisters
6
Shouldawornabox v Dirty Diggers
7
Home Hill Bandits v Average Joes
8
Castlemaine Kings v Clout and Out  
9
Lager Louts v Buldgers XI
10

SESSION 2 (10:15AM – 12:45PM)
FIXTURE
FIELD
Bendovers v The Boys
1
Evolution v Victorious Secret
2
Norths Fathers & Sons v Worm Burners
3
Desert Wackers v Horny Bulls
4
Zookickers v Sledgers XI
5
Falcons v Canefield Slashers
6
On The Pull v Politically Incorrect
7
Moore's Marauders v Border's XI
8
Kelsey Creek Dump Chooks v MVM
9
Enforcers v Shaggers XI
10

SESSION 3 (12:45AM – 3:15PM)
FIXTURE
FIELD
Castlemaine Kings v Malpass Mongrels
1
WWW v Lager Louts
2
Bumbo's XI v Bowen Bears
3
Flexi-Queensland v Invitational XI
4
Bowen Chargers v Clout and Out
5
Nomads v Buldgers XI
6
Ball Burners v Home Hill Bandits  
7
Cane Blisters v Dirty Diggers
8
Sugar Daddies v Wackers
9
Thirsty Rhinos v Honeycombes J.D.
10

SESSION 4 (3:15PM – 5:45PM)
FIXTURE
FIELD
Evolution v MVM
1
Bendovers v Kelsey Creek Dump Chooks
2
Canefield Slashers v Shaggers XI
3
On The Pull v Moore's Marauders
4
Worm Burners v Horny Bulls
5
Politically Incorrect v Border's XI
6
Sledgers XI v Enforcers
7
Zookickers v Falcons
8
The Boys v Victorious Secret  
9
Norths Fathers & Sons v Desert Wackers
10

SUNDAY APRIL 14
SESSION 5 (9:00AM – 11:30AM)
FIXTURE
FIELD
Bowen Bears v Victorious Secret
1
Bumbo's XI v The Boys
2
Clout And Out v Honeycombes J.D.
3
Zookickers v Enforcers
4
Thirsty Rhinos v Norths Fathers & Sons
5
Lager Louts v Shaggers XI
6
Cane Blisters v Moore's Marauders
7
Ball Burners v On the Pull
8
(8:30AM – 11:00AM At The Schools Only)
Malpass Mongrels v Worm Burners
9
WWW v Canefield Slashers
10

SESSION 6 (11:30AM – 2:00PM)
FIXTURE
FIELD
Wackers v Kelsey Creek Dump Chooks  
1
Sugar Daddies v MVM
2
Bendovers v Evolution
3
Buldgers XI v Falcons
4
Castlemaine Kings v Desert Wackers
5
Dirty Diggers v Home Hill Bandits
6
Average Joes v Border's XI
7
Shouldawornabox v Politically Incorrect
8
(11:00am – 1:30pm At The Schools Only)
Bowen Chargers v Horny Bulls
9
Nomads v Sledgers XI
10

SESSION 7 – FINALS (2:00PM – 4:30PM)
FIXTURE
FIELD
A Grade Final
1
B Grade Final
2
C Grade Final
3
Social Grade Final
4

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Year
A
B
C
Social
Juniors
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2005
Horny Bulls
Violaters
 
 
 
2006
Honeycombes Auto
Bendovers
Firies
 
2007
Honeycombes Auto
Horny Bulls
 Fellowship
High Voltage
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2008
Sibby's Slashers
Castlemain Kings
Wackers
Clare
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2009
A Fish called Wanda
Fellowship 
Wackers
High Voltage
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2010
A Fish called Wanda
Shaggers 11
 Enforcers
War Machine
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2011
A Fish called Wanda
Home Hill Rhinos
Nomads
Honeycombes J.D.
Bulls
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2012
A Fish called Wanda
Sibby's Slashers
Castlemain Kings
Malpass Mongrels
Bulls
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2013
Horny Bulls
Wackers
Malpass Mongrels
What Women Want
Kalamia
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2014
Horny Bulls
Bloody Huge
Honeycombes J.D.
Thirsty Rhinos
Gun&Moore
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2015
Horny Bulls
Home Hill Rhinos
Clout and Out
What Women Want
Fiat
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2016
Bumbo's XI
Sugar Daddies
Scared Shotless
MMM
Massey Ferguson
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2017
Bumbo's XI
Sons of Pitches
MMM
Cane Blisters
Kookaburra
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2018
Norths Cricket Club
Victorious Secret
Norths Fathers & Sons
Canefield Slashers
Bats on Fire
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2019
Norths Cricket Club
Evolution
Castlemain Kings
Sledgers
Middle Stumpers
2020

2021
Evolution
MMM
Falcons
Zookickers
Harvesters
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2022
Bendovers
Bowen Bears
Desert Wackers
Moore's Marauders
 
2023
The Boys
Sugar Daddies
Thristy Rhinos
Enforcers
 

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The annual U12s Junior Rugby League Carnival, the Shane Muspratt Cup, returned to Rugby Park in Ayr on Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6.
Hosted by Burdekin Roosters Junior Rugby League Club, the carnival celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024, bringing together over 500 players across 28 teams to play over the two days.
Teams from as far as Cairns, Atherton, Townsville, Mackay and Charters Towers travelled to the Burdekin for the tournament, attracting hundreds of families to the region for a two day festival of junior footy.

The Burdekin Roosters U12 players with North Queensland Cowboys Robert Derby (left) and Ray Thompson (right). Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Shane Muspratt Cup

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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The Home Hill Golf Club hosted its annual NQIB Home Hill Open on Sunday, April 7 with a field of 80 players participating in the Men’s Open and 78 in the Women’s.
The winner of the Men’s Open was Elio Di Bella while Townsville Golf Club’s Chloe Armstrong took out the Women’s title.

Men’s Results
A Grade Gross winner Elio Di Bella. R/up Josh Searle.
A Grade Nett winner Brendan Walsh. R/up Marcus Yasso
A1 Gross winner Dave Harding. R/up Greg Fuller
A1 Nett winner Tim Branch. R/up Murray Cannavan
B Grade Gross winner Grahame Jones. R/up Doug McCubben
B Grade Nett winner Carlo Manno. R/up Leny Heron
C Grade Gross winner Kieren Dawes. R/up Kiel Hearn
C Grade Nett winner Zachary Bourke. R/up Gary Spelta

Women’s Results
A Grade Gross winner Chloe Armstrong. R/up Hayley Jenkins.
A Grade Nett winner Sue Allsop. R/up Renata Armstrong
B1 Gross winner Cassandra Mathews. R/up Jenny Wilson
B1 Nett winner Carol Rosenberg. R/up Theresa Spence
B2 Gross winner Evelyn Alderman. R/up Geraldine Cockburn.
B2 Nett winner Angie Baxter. R/up Jane Flynn.
C Grade Stableford. 1st Judy Hughes, 2nd Christine Chapman, 3rd Katrina Hearn, 4th Julie Devery.

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NQIB Home Hill Open Women’s winners
Men’s winner Elio Di Bella (left)
Photos supplied

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Wednesday April 24 was a mixed bowls day with 12 bowlers attending with the winners being Bev Garioch, Vanda Ballao and Darelle Pearce and Bev Garioch, Colleen Olsen and Alan Garioch.
Ladies Sunday bowls is mixed day for you all to join in.
Friday April 5 saw the last night final of B grade pairs played out between Peter Lejarraga and Lloyd Shepherd v Glen Woodford and Tony Battaglia. Peter and Lloyd held lead from start to finish however on the start of last end scores were almost even, but the combination of Shepherd and Lejarraga was too strong in the finish.
Social Bowls April 5 had 18 players playing in very humid conditions with the green in tip top condition. The winners on the night were James Thomason, Norm Storrie and Gary Pearce.
Jackpot didn’t go off.
Sunday April 7 Championship events:
A Grade Singles: Doug Robins def Rob Garner; Tony Bayliss def Doug Kiehne; Glen Woodford def Kev Collins.
B Grade Singles: Lloyd Shepherd def Gary Nosworthy; Peter Lejarraga def Damien Morello
Thanks to all the markers who helped out during the morning and afternoon. For those players playing championship events, please communicate with Kev Collins with your intentions.
Jackpot was won by Glen Woodford.
No results given for Social however we had good roll up of 16 players all struggling in the hot conditions.
On Friday April 12, it’s on again with Trophy night proudly sponsored by North Queensland Green Solutions. $12 per player inclusive of sausage sizzle beforehand and smoko at the end of the evening. Get your names in with Gary Pearce ASAP.
Thursday April 25 Anzac RLA Finance Mixed Triples - get your names in ASAP or on the day by 12:30 for 1:30pm start.
Bowls approved attire required and affiliated members only.
Members please bring plate for smoko afterwards please.
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Contributed by Lloyd Shepherd

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Tony Bayliss, Peter Lejarraga, Glen Woodford, Lloyd Shepherd and Doug Robins

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Local

Senior and Youth fixtures recommence this weekend. On Friday, Burdekin Panthers Division 1 team is away to Estates at 6:30. On Saturday, Youth Home Games will take place at Honeycombes Park field 1 and International Park field 2. The Under 14/15 vs Warriors at 9:30am and the Under 13s vs Saints at 10:00am.

On Sunday at International Park, the Panthers have three games against Saints Eagles Souths, starting with the Under 23s at 2:00 pm followed by the Women at 4:00 and finally the Premiers at 6:00pm.

Save the Date! The Clash of Clubs returns this year on October 5 and 6, and the Panthers Ladies Day Date and theme will be announced shortly. Burdekin FC are celebrating Female Football Week, between May 6 and 11. And Sponsors Day will take place on August 3. Finally, the one you have all been waiting for, Night Soccer will kick off on Tuesday September 3.

Last Saturday, Burdekin Panthers played Brothers in the fourth round of the Kappa Cup in Townsville. Against probably the top Townsville team the Panthers played well but lost 1-2.

Burdekin started the game well with Jay Leckenby contentiously being denied a penalty in the first 10 minutes. Both teams were playing a possession-based style of football, with neither team wanting to press too hard. After a lengthy period of sustained possession Brothers scored after a goal mouth scramble to make it 1-0 at half time. The Panthers came out for the second looking to be the better side and Matthew Kolb equalised from an Elliott Dal Santo through ball.  However, Brothers soon regained the lead and although Burdekin pushed forward until the end, creating a few chances to equalise, they couldn’t put the ball in the back of the net. Panthers’ goalkeeper Jarrod Camer had a very good game.

Training at International Park is on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30 pm for men and Wednesdays at 6:00 pm for women. New to town? Come down to training and have a run.

Masters

Monday Night Masters had a good turn out and featured a ManU and Liverpool duel. ManU ran out winners 4-2 after leading 2-1 at half time. Player of the Match was Fengil Kanjoothara.  Old and New players welcome, usual time, usual place, 6:30pm at International Park. Treat it as an escape…

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Read Football Matters with Cyclops on the Burdekin FC Facebook page

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Thursday afternoon saw 26 players turn up for the weekly social game.
The teams are drawn at random from the hat.
RINK 2: Yogi, Stephen and Bones were too strong for Clinton,  Dino/Bob and Henry winning 22 to 9.
RINK 3: Terry, Des and Mick P won quite easily over Ray, David and Wayne 26 to 11.
RINK 6: Jeff, Lloyd and Mick M in a close game over Karl/Jimmy, Paul and Gary 19 to 18.
RINK 7: Rino, Mick O and Hugh outlasted Judy, John and Trevor 15 to 13.
Tuesday Trimmers is still going well as is Wednesday morning Kraft group and Wednesday night barefoot bowls and Thursday morning BINGO still getting a good crowd.
Thursday afternoon bowls with the cooler weather seems to be getting a good turn up and with the travelling season arriving shortly we should see good numbers.  
Good bowling till next week.

Contributed by Stephen Doig

Thursday afternoon bowls winners were Stephen Doig, Warren (Yogi) Bunn and Glen (Bones) Berriman. Photo supplied

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Lower Burdekin Table Bowls held a great day thanks to sponsors Dowson Family and the Ayr Hotel.  Grand Final was played between Mick Parison and Darren Oats v Jesse Williams and Ryan Cranitch with Mick and Darren winning the final.
Round 1 week 1:
Nat 11 v Nat 1  7-3, Falcons v Ants 8-2,  Crushers v Cougars 8-2 and Bombers bye
Round 1 week 2:
Nat I v Falcons 7-3, Ants v Bombers 10-0, Nat II v Cougars 8-2 and Crushers bye
Round 1 week 3:
Falcons v Cougars 6-4, Crushers v Ants 9-1, Nat II v Bombers 8-2 and Nat I bye
Points: 
Crushers - 27, Nat II - 23, Nat I - 20, Falcons - 17, Ants - 13, Bombers - 12 and Cougars – 8
This week games: Nat I v Bombers at Queens, Cougars v Ants at Anzac, Falcons v Crushers at Ayr Hotel and Nat II have the bye.
Contributed by Kerry Davison

Tisti Tavasci pot luck doubles were held at the Ayr Hotel with 34 players

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Local

With it being Easter and the school holidays, nothing much has happened on the local football scene. Back in the day, the seniors would be involved in the Greaves-Munroe Cup, a knockout competition played over the Easter weekend. Ah, yes.

Apparently, there are no fixtures next weekend either. However, the following week all teams are back on the park. On Friday 12th April the Panthers Division 1 side are away to Estates and on the Sunday, the Premiers, Under 23s and Ladies are all at home to Saints Eagles Souths.

Training, at International Park is on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30 pm for men and Wednesdays at 6.00 pm for women. New to town? Come down to training and have a run.

Juniors

Nothing is happening this week as it is the school holidays.

Masters

Monday Night Masters has been in hibernation but will be on again next Monday. Old and New players welcome, usual time, usual place, 6.30 at International Park. Treat it as an escape…

National and International

The Matildas kick off in the Paris Olympics with a game against Germany on 26th July. Prior to that they have a series of “friendlies”. On 10th April they travel to Mexico and following that they have two matches against China. The first is at home on 31 May in Adelaide and the second, in Sydney on 3rd June.
The Socceroos having beaten Lebanon twice in the AFC Asian Qualifiers now have two more games left in their Group. They are away to Bangladesh on 6th June and then play Palestine, at home, on 11 June.
In the A League, only three of the top five teams won. Wellington beat Brisbane to go six points clear of Central Coast who lost to Sydney FC. However, the Coast has a game in hand. Victory stays in third place after winning against Perth. Macarthur, three points behind Victory stay in fourth place, one point clear of Sydney despite losing to Western Sydney Wanderers. Brisbane remains in eighth place and Western Utd stay bottom of the league.
In the A League Women, in the final round, Melbourne City beat Perth and with Sydney losing at home to Melbourne Victory, City are champions by two points from Sydney with Western Utd in third place. Victory finish fourth place and Central Coast fifth. Brisbane lost to Central Coast and finish in eighth place. The Finals series starts this weekend with Western Utd v Newcastle Jets and Melbourne Victory hosting Central Coast.

In the EPL with nine Rounds left it is still very tight at the top of the table with Liverpool two points ahead of Arsenal with Manchester City a further point behind. Liverpool beat Brighton 2-1 and Arsenal drew 0-0 at Manchester City. Aston Villa stay fourth and Spurs fifth. At the foot of the table, it is not looking good for Sheffield Utd and Burnley with either Luton, Notts Forest or Everton likely to join them.

In Germany, with Bayern losing and Leverkusen winning it looks to be all over with seven rounds left to play. Leverkusen is now thirteen points ahead of Bayern who now only lead Stuttgart by three points. Dortmund stays in fourth place with Leipzig safely in fifth spot. In the bottom half of the league, only Wolfsburg won, and Darmstadt, Mainz and Cologne look due for the drop.

In Italy’s Serie A, with eight rounds left to play, the city of Milan has it all sewn up. Inter leads AC Milan by fourteen points and AC are six points clear of third placed Juventus. Who, after losing again, is only two points ahead of Bologna with Roma in fifth place. At the foot of the table, it is goodnight to Salernitana and any two of the seven clubs above them.

In Spain’s, La Liga all four of the leading teams won. With eight rounds left Real Madrid leads Barcelona by eight points and Girona by eight. Atletico stays in fourth place seven points away and Atletico drops to fifth spot. At the foot of the table Almeria has won a game at last, but along with Granada looks doomed to the drop.

Finally, in Ligue1 in France, all four top teams won, and PSG stays twelve points clear of Brest. Third placed Monaco is a further point behind, and Lille stays in fourth place. At the foot of the table all four bottom teams lost and Clermont and possibly Metz look doomed.

The 1st Leg of the Europe Champions League Quarter finals starts next week, with Arsenal at home to Bayern, and Real Madrid hosting Manchester City. Barcelona is away to PSG and Dortmund travels to Atletico.

This week’s quote is from star Notts Forest and England star "I can see the carrot at the end of the tunnel."

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A small field of 12 players took to the green on Monday, April 1 for a club trophy.
Today's winner was Ross Wilkie with 38, handicapper is going to catch you.
Second went to Carol Betteridge with 37. Close behind was Peter Dale on 35.
Friday arvo club played on Thursday because of Good Friday. 21 players. NTP.
A Grade: Gysie. C Grade: John Ross Dale. Ladies: Carol. Least putts: Ross Wilkie. The day’s winner: Johnno. Lucky Number: Pete Mackaway.
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Contributed by Stephen Doig

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