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REPRESENTATIVE TEAMS RISE TO THE CHALLENGE Continued from cover Burdekin Netball Association’s junior representative teams have returned from the Queensland Junior State Age Championships with plenty to celebrate, producing strong performances against some of the state’s leading clubs. The Under 13 team finished an impressive 11th out of 21 teams, while the Under 14 side also secured 11th place from a field of 18 teams. These highly respectable results reflect not only the dedication of the players but also the depth of talent continuing to emerge through the Burdekin Netball Association pathways. The Association was also proud to see club player Luca Lawry selected to compete with QC Netball's boys team at the championships. Luca earned his invitation following a standout performance at the North Queensland School Sports netball championships in May. Luca's journey is a testament to the strength of grassroots sporting organisations and the important role community clubs play in developing young athletes. Netball runs deep in the Lawry family, with Luca's grandparents, uncle, aunties and siblings all having represented the Burdekin Netball Association over the years. Despite being one of the youngest members of the QC Netball team, Luca performed exceptionally well throughout the tournament and demonstrated enormous potential for the future. With his sights now firmly set on representing Australia at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, his future in the sport looks incredibly promising. The Burdekin Netball Association is proud to provide opportunities for aspiring netballers to represent the Burdekin region, challenge themselves against the state's best players and create lifelong memories and experiences through sport. Supplied by Burdekin Netball Association Under 14 Team Photo Back row (left to right) Indy Broadhead, Ivy Martin, Chloe Bowen, Eden Godfrey, Charlotte Lawry Front row (left to right) Charmaine Reid (coach), Lily Ahern, Miley Gesah, Makenna Trail, Popi Loizou, Kasey Dobe, Jacki Samwell (manager). Photos supplied
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Burdekin’s next generation of touch footballers will soon have their chance to hit the field, with the Under 14 competition kicking off next Wednesday, July 22. Sign-on will take place from 5pm, with both full teams and individual players encouraged to get involved. Those who nominate individually will be placed into teams to ensure everyone has the opportunity to take part. Games will run each Wednesday from 5pm to 5.45pm, with the season continuing through until November 18. The cost is $60 per player. For more information, contact Bruce on 0408 060 476. CAPTION: Mazlin Smith in action. Supplied.
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Seniors A good weekend for the Panthers. They played four games against Rebels, winning three, losing one and scoring twenty three goals! The Premiers and Reserves were away on Saturday with the Premiers winning 10-0 and the Reserves winning 7-0. The Division 1 and Division 2 teams were away on Friday night with the Division 1 losing 2-5 and the Division 2 winning 4-2. This week, all five teams are in action. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are at home to MA Olympic kicking off at 8.30 and 6.30. The Colts are away to Brothers with a 6.30 kick off. On Sunday, the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Estates kicking off at 5.00 and 3.00. Ladies Day tickets went on sale last Friday and sold out within ours. Did not get a ticket? You can still join in on all the fun at International Park on Saturday 22nd August!’ Calling all Life Members, Sponsors & Old Boys. It’s time to celebrate you! On Sunday August 9th, join us for an afternoon of football, free drinks, and food! Let’s reminisce on all the good, bad, and ugly! Please confirm attendance with Sian Reardon. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club The Panthers produced a ruthless attacking display against Rebels, running out convincing 10–0 winners after dominating from the opening whistle. Jake Siandri made an immediate impact on his return from injury, opening the scoring inside the first three minutes. Elliott Dal Santo doubled the advantage after ten minutes before Jay Leckenby added a third in the 22nd minute. The goals continued to flow, with Matthew Kolb finding the net three minutes later, followed by Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro in the thirtieth minute. Dal Santo then grabbed his second of the afternoon in the 34th minute to send the Panthers into the break with a commanding 6–0 lead. The second half began in much the same fashion, with Cooper Kross scoring just two minutes after the restart. Burdekin continued to create chances throughout the half and were rewarded late in the match. Ryan Scodellaro added the eighth goal in the 79th minute before Matthew Kolb claimed his second three minutes later. Jonte Grazioli completed the scoring in the 85th minute, capping off an impressive team performance. It was a clinical display across the park, with the Panthers showing their attacking quality while also keeping a clean sheet to round out a dominant 10–0 victory. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service The Panthers Reserves also produced an outstanding attacking performance against Rebels, recording a comprehensive 7–0 victory with goals spread across both halves. Cooper Kross got the scoring underway in just the fourth minute before Jhett Jones struck twice in quick succession, finding the net in the 12th and 13th minutes to put the Panthers firmly in control. Kross added his second of the afternoon just two minutes later, giving Burdekin a commanding 4–0 lead heading into half time. The Panthers picked up where they left off after the break. Jonte Grazioli extended the advantage in the 48th minute before Cooper Kross completed a well-deserved hat-trick with his third goal in the 53rd minute. Grazioli then rounded out the scoring in the 59th minute, grabbing his second of the match to seal an emphatic 7–0 victory. It was a dominant team performance from start to finish, with the Panthers controlling the contest throughout and showing plenty of quality in front of goal while keeping another clean sheet. Division 1 – Austral Masonry The Division 1 Panthers took on Rebels also but unfortunately suffered a 2-5 loss. Burdekin started well but could not convert their chances in front of goal, hitting the crossbar and hitting shots wide. Rebels made the most of their chances and jumped out to a 3-0 lead after just twenty minutes which remained the score at half time. The Panthers were much better in the second half with goals to Krishneel Singh and Jack Shears but a penalty and a late goal to Rebels gave them the 5-2 win. A score that did not reflect the amount of possession or chances on goal that Burdekin had. Despite the loss a good performance from a relatively young Burdekin Division 1 side. Jack Shears and Jack Gimson had strong games. Division 2 – RG Customs The Funkies got their season back on track after a couple of tough games recently with a 4-2 win against Rebels. Jared Giardina opened the scoring before Chris Achille made it 2-0 after only five minutes of play. Rebels pulled a goal back soon afterwards and the score remained 2-1 to Burdekin at half time. The Funkies were quite dominant and in control of the game in the second half. Goals to Krishneel Singh and then James Dwyer from the penalty spot gave the Funkies a 4-1 lead approaching full time. Rebels scored a late goal, but the Funkies won 4-2 quite comfortably and move into 4th place on the table. Masters The Masters numbers were higher despite the cool conditions and featured a pre-play of the England v Norway World Cup Quarter Final. The game ended with Norway winning 4-2. after drawing 2-2 at half time. Best players on the night were Felipe Brazil and Shane Feeney. The Magic Moments were very rare! Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick Off. Juniors Junior Saturday games are still on a break for the school holidays, but we’re looking forward to seeing everyone back on the field next weekend! While regular games were on pause, four Burdekin teams travelled to Townsville to compete in the Filippo Mele Memorial Competition from 7–9 July. It was a busy three days of soccer, with plenty of great games and valuable experience for our players. Well done to all players, coaches and families involved for representing the club throughout the competition. International The World Cup Is now at the semi-final stage. France plays Spain on Wednesday in Dallas and England meet Argentina in Atlanta on Thursday. The Final will be played on Monday in New York Quote the of the Week is from ex-Manchester Utd and Scotland manager Tommy Docherty “I’ve always said there’s a place for the press, but they haven’t dug it yet.”
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Burdekin Roosters utility Nemia Nawave had a standout game against Western Lions at Bendigo Bank Park on Saturday night, but it wasn’t enough to get the locals over the line, going down 30-24. Both sides played open, fast football in the first half to have the scores 30-18 to the visiting Lions at the break. While the first half was fast and exciting, with eight tries scored, the second half was a dour affair with a lot of dropped ball as both teams tried to get the ascendancy. The Roosters looked the better team in attack in the second session, but dropped ball robbed them of tries at vital stages. Nothing could be taken away from the defence from both teams in the second session, as both fought valiantly to get on top. The loss by the locals sees them now in fifth place on the ladder, and with Centrals giving the premiers from the last two years, Souths, a hiding on Sunday, Western Lions are now equal third with Brothers behind Souths and Centrals. Coach Steve Lansley said the Roosters produced a spirited second-half fightback but were left to rue a costly opening 40 minutes as they went down to the Western Lions in an entertaining rugby league contest. The first half was an attacking spectacle, with an incredible scoreline as the Lions raced to 30 points while the Roosters kept themselves in the contest with three tries of their own. Defensive improvements after the break saw just one try scored in the entire second half, highlighting the commitment and resilience shown by the Roosters. Unfortunately, the damage had already been done, with the 30 points conceded before half-time proving too much to overcome. Despite the defeat, Burdekin never stopped competing and pushed the Lions all the way to the final siren. Mitch Brown was outstanding throughout, while Nemia once again provided plenty of spark in attack and Jake O’Brien impressed with his tireless work across the park. On to Ladies Day and the return of the Home Hill Devils reunion. For Burdekin, tries came from Lachlan Shepherd, Jake O’Brien, Nemia Nawave and Lach Bachbach. Jake O’Brien kicked four goals. In other A Grade games, Centrals caused the upset of the season so far, beating two-time premiers and undefeated this year Souths 50-10, while Brothers and Herbert River played out a 30-all draw and Norths beat Charters Towers 26-14. It was not a good day for the Roosters, with Western Lions easily winning the reserve grade 40-6 over a disappointing Burdekin team. The Lions led 24-0 at the break, and it wasn’t until near the end that the locals showed any glimpse of what they are capable of. Then Pryce Gesah finished off his match with a good try. Coach Peter Horan said he was thoroughly disappointed with the efforts of a number of players. Braiden Di Bella was the players’ player for a good effort, with Lincoln Boccolatte, Luca Lago, Bryce Caltiabano and Calem Saxby giving of their best. Pryce Gesah scored the try, converted by Dylan Doak. In other reserve grade matches, Norths beat Charters Towers 46-8, Brothers beat Herbert River 40-6 and Souths beat Centrals 34-6. The Roosters Under 19s had a bye for the weekend. Only one Ladies game was played, with Charters Towers beating Norths 24-12. Supplied by Brian Carnes CAPTIONS: 1—A grade Player of the match - joint winners are Nemia Nawave (left) & Jake O'Brien (right) presented by old boy Thomas Lammon (middle) 2—Reserve grade Player of the match - Braedyn Di Bella (accepted by Jahi Starr (right)) presented by old boy Sam Russo (left) Photos supplied
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The Brandon Bowls Club had another fantastic week of bowls, with great turnouts and competitive matches across Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
On Wednesday afternoon, the triples match saw Henry Hazel, Vanda Ballao, and Margaret Chapman come out on top, defeating Ann Newton, Bev Garioch, and Helen Collins. In the pairs game, Joy Woods and Darelle Pearce teamed up with Lyn Storrie to beat Sandra Darwen and Lyn Farr.
Friday night’s bowls were full of fun and camaraderie with nine bowlers taking part. The triples game saw a victory for Ben Mills, Rob Jorgensen, and Lyn Storrie, who triumphed over Ben Mills, David Bycroft, and Joe Ypinazar. In the doubles, Margaret and Ross McLaughlan outplayed Norm Storrie and Bruce McCallum for the win.
Sunday’s turnout was smaller, as some members were away attending out-of-town events, but the competition was still fierce. Mick McCloskey, Helen Collins, and Kev Collins defeated Kenny Ferguson, Joe Ypinazar, and Alan Garioch. Meanwhile, Gary Nosworthy, Glenn Woodford, and Doug Robins secured a win over Ben Mills, Vince Beitia, and Richard Mau. The highlight of the day was the Jackpot being claimed by Kenny Ferguson, Joe Ypinazar, and Alan Garioch.
A reminder to all members that the highly anticipated Trophy Bowls Night, sponsored by Bennett Exhaust, is coming up on 15 November. As the final event of the year, it promises to be a popular evening, so make sure to get your names in soon!
Contributed with thanks to Lyn Storrie.
Home Hill Junior Cricket saw an impressive turnout last Friday, with dozens of eager young players showcasing their skills at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex. The Challengers continue to make strides in their game, highlighted by standout performances from Henry Cohan, who remained unbeaten on 15, and Corey Pensini, who delivered an exceptional bowling spell, taking 2 wickets for no runs. Levi Trail and Harvey Shannon were recognised for their outstanding contributions and received the prestigious "McDonald’s Sports Awards."
In the "Blue Group" match, Kip Nicholas and Kye Quinlan led the scoring, both finishing their innings unbeaten. Chaz Moschella recorded the best bowling figures with 3 wickets for 11 runs, followed by Billy Muilwyk, who impressed with 2 wickets for just 4 runs, including a wicket maiden. Tyler Smith also delivered a solid performance, taking 2 wickets for 9 runs. Kip Nicholas and Chaz Moschella were named the weekly award winners for the Blue Group, while Kye Quinlan was honoured with a special "McDonald’s Sports Award" for his remarkable hat-trick and figures of 3 for 2 runs from the previous week, which had been missed in the original scoresheet.
Monday training sessions are starting to pay dividends, especially for the hardball cricketers in the "Gold Group," who are showing significant improvement in their batting, bowling, and fielding. Marshall Parker and Xavier Cross demonstrated excellent technique, each scoring 17 runs before being dismissed. Alex Cullen remained unbeaten, retiring with 12 runs after reaching his allocated balls. Kyle Wilkie stood out as the leading bowler with figures of 2/7, closely followed by Marshall Parker with 2/8 and Kaisen Petersen with 2/14. Other wicket-takers included Nathaniel Backo, Xavier Cross, and Jacques Gardner, each claiming a wicket. Alex Cullen and Marshall Parker were named this week’s "McDonald’s Sports Award" recipients for their impressive performances.
Contributed with thanks to HHCA Junior Co-Ordinator Scott Heidke.
Stand outs Kaisen Petersen and Alex Cullen were celebrated for their skills!
Challengers players Levi Trail and Harvey Shannon were awarded a McDonald’s Sports Award!
Kip Nicholas and Kye Quinlan were awarded a McDonald’s Sports Award for their impressive scores on Friday!
Marshall Parker was awarded for his excellent technical skills.
Weekly Award recipient Chaz Moschella was commended for his bowling skills.
The Gold Group impressed coaches on Monday.
The Blue Group continues to improve each week, with many players soaring!
The Challengers were celebrated for their improvements last Friday!
The Home Hill Golf Club is celebrating a successful year, with standout achievements in the Whitsunday Vets competition. A special congratulations goes to Gary Pappalardo, who earned the title of Golfer of the Year, showcasing skill and consistency throughout the season.
Home Hill’s efforts were further highlighted by securing second place in the Club of the Year standings, a testament to the dedication and performance of all players representing the club. Additionally, Home Hill tied for having the most players participating over the two-game-per-club format, emphasizing the strong community spirit and enthusiasm among its members.
Looking forward, the club is eager to continue its participation in the Whitsunday Vets competition next year. Club representatives encourage those interested in joining to reach out. Players must be 55 years or older to compete for prizes in the Whitsunday Vets comps. For updates, members will receive information via text, so if you know someone keen to join, be sure to spread the word.
The Sheahan Shootout added to the club’s highlights, with Carol Betteridge claiming victory and Beth Prescott finishing as runner-up. Ross Wilkie achieved the highest stableford score of the day with 41 points, winning in a countback against James Johnson.
Looking ahead, the Home Hill Golf Club looks forward to another year of camaraderie and competition, building on this year’s successes.
Contributed with thanks to Carol Betteridge and Judi Sheahan.
The Home Hill Golf Club enjoyed wonderful weather for the Sheahan Shootout on Sunday.
The Burdekin Netball Association is calling for expressions of interest for coaches, managers, and umpires for the upcoming 2025 Senior State Age Championships. The event will be held from 12 to 15 April at the Ipswich Netball Association and will cover teams for the 15, 16, and 17/18-year-old age groups.
This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals passionate about netball and looking to contribute their skills and leadership to support the development of young athletes. Interested candidates are encouraged to complete the nomination form available on the Burdekin Netball Association Facebook page and return it to burdekinnetball@gmail.com.
Get involved and help shape the future of netball in the Burdekin region!
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The Burdekin Roosters, a proud rugby league club in Queensland, are on the lookout for new talent as they prepare for the 2025 season. The club, known for its strong community focus and competitive spirit, invites players of all skill levels who share a passion for rugby league to join their ranks.
Committed to nurturing talent and fostering a supportive environment, the Roosters offer an excellent platform for players to develop their skills and enjoy the camaraderie of a dedicated team. Beyond the field, the club is also highlighting local work opportunities in the Burdekin region to help new players integrate smoothly into the community and build a life that balances work and sport.
For those eager to be part of a team that values both competition and community, now is the time to get involved. Prospective players are encouraged to reach out to the Burdekin Roosters to learn more and take the first step toward joining their promising 2025 lineup.
For further information, contact Steve Lansley at slansley2@sctvs.catholic.edu.au or call 0400 744 153.
The Burdekin Swimming Club has enjoyed an action-packed few weeks, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of its swimmers. Recently, a team of 11 swimmers represented the club at the Charters Towers Swimming Meet, delivering exceptional performances over the two-day event. The meet saw many of the swimmers achieving personal bests, with standout efforts from Aiden Butler, who recorded personal bests in 8 out of 9 races, including an impressive 11.53-second improvement in his 100m Breaststroke. Brax Wight also stunned with a massive 31.13-second reduction in his 200m Breaststroke.
Despite being a smaller club, the Burdekin team proved formidable, as seen in the following results: Lewis Bonato (10yo Boys): 2nd in 50m Freestyle, 1st in 100m Backstroke, 2nd in 50m Breaststroke, 1st in 100m Freestyle, 2nd in 50m Backstroke, 1st in 100m Breaststroke. Parker Bonato (13yo Boys): 1st in 100m Freestyle, 3rd in 50m Backstroke, 3rd in 100m Breaststroke. Millie Lyne (14yo Girls): 3rd in 50m Freestyle, 3rd in 200m IM, 1st in 50m Breaststroke. Gabriella Mottin (13yo Girls): 1st in 100m Backstroke, 3rd in 50m Breaststroke, 3rd in 100m Freestyle, 3rd in 50m Backstroke. Makayla Pirrone (15yo Girls): 2nd in 50m Breaststroke. Maddison Searle (10yo Girls): 1st in 50m Freestyle, 1st in 100m Backstroke, 2nd in 50m Breaststroke, 2nd in 100m Freestyle, 1st in 50m Backstroke, 1st in 50m Butterfly.
The following week, six of the Club’s swimmers participated in the annual Gardens Long Course Preparation meet in Townsville, competing against over 350 swimmers from across the region, including teams as far as Cairns. The event recognised State and National-level competitors, with Burdekin represented by Gabriella Mottin and Nate Giddy (State) and Millie Lyne (National). The club’s swimmers delivered outstanding results: Lewis Bonato (10yo Boys): 3rd in 100m Backstroke, improving by 4.65 seconds. Millie Lyne (14yo Girls): 1st in 50m Breaststroke, 3rd in 100m Backstroke, 3rd in 50m Backstroke, 2nd in 50m Butterfly, 1st in 100m Breaststroke with a 2.56-second improvement, securing a national qualifying time for 2025. John McKaig (15 and over): 2nd in 50m Freestyle, 1st in 50m Butterfly with a 0.07-second improvement. Maddison Searle (10yo Girls): 3rd in 50m Freestyle.
The club extends a heartfelt thank you to coaches Kim and Mick McConnachie for their guidance and dedication in helping the team achieve these fantastic results.
The busy fortnight concluded with a successful "Come and Try" night at the Burdekin Aquatic Centre, where 62 participants aged between 5 and 80 years joined in the fun. The evening was filled with smiles and laughter, thanks to the efforts of volunteers and supportive families. The club looks forward to welcoming more new faces at its weekly club nights every Wednesday. Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and details.
Contributed with thanks to Kate Lyne.
11 Burdekin Swimming Club swimmers attended the Charters Towers Swimming Meet recently.
6 Burdekin swimmers attended the annual Gardens Long Course Preparation Meet.
62 locals came along to the Burdekin Aquatic Centre for a fun come and try night!
Maddison Searle took third place in the 50m freestyle at the Gardens Long Course Preparation Meet.
Lewis Bonato took home three 1st place awards and three 2nd place awards from the Charters Towers Swimming Meet.
The Ayr Golf Club’s annual Searle Family Day Golf event was met with resounding success this year, thanks to the generous sponsorship of club member Debbie Searle and her family. The event featured an exciting Stableford format, which saw participants competing in high spirits under perfect conditions.
Securing third place was Shannon Peckham, who achieved her personal best score to date with an impressive 36 points. Wendy Baker claimed second place with a solid 37 points, while Angie Baxter emerged victorious with a mammoth 38 points, taking home the top honours.
Pretty in pink! Ayr Golf Club ladies celebrated a successful Searle Family Day Golf event!
Adding a unique twist to the Ayr Golf Club's Searle Family Day, Debbie Searle introduced an additional challenge involving three randomly selected holes, kept secret until after the round. The ladies with the highest scores on these hidden holes were also recognised and awarded prizes. Shannon Peckham added to her accolades by winning this special challenge, while Donna Boccolatte was named the runner-up.
The day was further enhanced by a show of solidarity for breast cancer awareness, with participants dressed in their best pink attire. This vibrant display added to the event’s uplifting atmosphere and emphasized the community’s support for an important cause. Donations were collected to contribute to breast cancer research, underscoring the club’s commitment to making a difference beyond the game.
The Ayr Golf Club extends its gratitude to Debbie Searle and her family for their generous sponsorship and creativity, which made the day a memorable one. Congratulations to all participants for their achievements and enthusiasm in supporting a wonderful event.
Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.
Debbie Searle, with placeholders Shannon Peckham, Wendy Baker, and Angie Baxter.
Saturday 9 November 1.00pm to 5.00pm and Sunday 10 November 9.00am to 5.00pm (Full Weekend Patrol Group E) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isabella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, and Danni Coughlin.
Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.
Burdekin's own Jennifer Fotinos has earned a prestigious spot on Australia’s Youth Women’s Futsal Team, set to compete in the UK this November. Jennifer’s journey to the international stage began earlier this year at the 2024 National Futsal Championships in Sydney, where she represented North Queensland in the Open Women’s division and reached the quarterfinals with an impressive display of skill.
Jennifer’s futsal achievements didn’t stop there - she also competed in Football Queensland’s National Futsal Championships on the Gold Coast, representing Queensland in her age group. With four years of futsal experience complemented by fourteen years in soccer, Jennifer has honed a versatile skill set that has paved the way for her success.
Her athletic talent stretches beyond futsal; Jennifer was also selected for the Queensland boxing team. However, due to scheduling conflicts with the futsal competition, she will miss the chance to compete at the Australian Titles.
In 2022, Jennifer was selected for AFA’s Australian U19 Women’s Futsal Team, though COVID restrictions prevented her from traveling for the competition. This year’s opportunity to compete internationally is especially meaningful, and Jennifer is thrilled to represent Australia in the UK.
Jennifer’s dedication and skill have earned her a place among Australia’s top youth athletes, and she is eager to make the most of this incredible opportunity.
Contributed with thanks to Marietta Fotinos.
A highly skilled athlete, Jennifer has four years of futsal experience under her belt.
Jennifer will compete in the Australia’s Youth Women’s Futsal Team this November.
Night Soccer
Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s Week 9 was played in good conditions and with only one forfeit. The 21games produced 57 goals and, surprisingly, no Sin Bins. Top scorers for the Men were Rocky Pond Warriors with six goals and for the Women, DILLIGAF scored four goals.
FJV stay top of Group A1 despite only managing a 0-0 draw with lowly Karls Mowing Service and Mottin Earthmoving drop to third place after losing 0-1 to second place Plumb Dingers. UDS still lead in Group A2 after beating Show Me Da Mane 2-1. FUFC drop to third place. Wires Down are still at the top of Group B with Jaime’s Boys and Old Grumpies still in hot pursuit.
In the Women’s competition UDS Ladies still top the A Grade table despite losing 1-2 to Sanco Produce who are now just four points behind in second place. Shin Kickers are the leaders in B Grade but only on goal difference from Blue Goal Diggers after they played out a 1-1 draw.
Juniors
Week 3 of Junior Social Soccer went well with great conditions and some good competitive games being played. All kids are having a ball. Boom boom…
The Home Hill Cricket Association was fortunate to welcome Antony Stewart from QLD Cricket for two visits over the past week. Antony first joined Guy at East Ayr State School last Tuesday to assist with the Rookies, and then returned on Friday afternoon to work with the Challengers at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex. He was highly impressed with the players’ progress, particularly their skilful, straight-arm bowling. This week, Challengers Corey Pensini and Nicholas Marrinan top-scored with a strong 27-run partnership. All-round performances from Harvey Shannon and Corey earned them the MacDonald’s Sports Awards for the week.
The "Blue" game on the astro pitch saw a flurry of wickets, with a total of 19 falling throughout the match. Successful wicket-takers included Steve Wallwork, Kip Nicholas, Jude Shannon, Tyler Smith, Chaz Moschella, and Kye Quinlan, with Tait Parker achieving the best figures of the week with four wickets. However, the batting side struggled, with only two players reaching double figures. Unfortunately, no scores or photos were available from the "Gold" group at the time of this report.
Contributed with thanks to HHCA Junior Co-Ordinator Scott Heidke.
Many young cricketers enjoyed the company of Antony Stewart on Tuesday afternoon.
The Blue Group were celebrated for their performance last week.
Stave, Kip, Jude, Tyler, Chaz, Kye and Tait were commended for their contributions to the Blue Group’s success.
Mazlyn Smith received a Sports Award last week for her skilled performance.
Proud Sports Award recipients Harvey Shannon and Corey Pensini.
The Escriva Cup was held on Friday 1 November at International Park. The Cup, played for annually, was won for the second time by Class of 13 who defeated FJV 2-1 in a very close game. The Men’s Cup attracted eighteen teams in six groups of three so that every team played at least two matches.
The competition was run on a Night Soccer basis and each match lasted thirty minutes. Winners of each Group and the two best runners up went into the quarter finals. This meant that the finalists played five games.
The six group winners were Wantocks, Mullumbimby Moonshooters, FJV, Class of 13, FDS and Young DD and they were joined by second placed Delta Physio and Locked In. After the Quarter finals had been played the semi-finalists had been decided with Class of 13 to meet Mullumbimby Moonshooters and FJV to play FDS.
The semi-finals were both very close games with Class of 13 winning 1-0 and FJV winning 3-2. Scorer for Class of 13 was Jake perry and for FJV, Jack Moustoukas netted twice and Logan Guglielmana Once.
In the Grand Final Class of 13 beat FJV 2-1 to retain the trophy. Taryn Bradford and Chris Achille scored the goals for Class of thirteen and Jhett Jones replied for FJV.
The Ladies competition only attracted two teams so Goalden Girls and Fat and Furious played off for the trophy with Fat and Furious winning 2-1. Goals for Fat and Furious were scored by Sienna Lago, Sian Reardon, and Kya Quagliata.
A big Thank You for all the teams who took part and helped to raise money for a very good cause.
Contributed with thanks to Cyclops.
Escriva Cup Ladies Winners Fat and Furious
Escriva Cup Male Winners Class of 13
The Ayr Bowling Club has enjoyed another week filled with competitive matches and social events, showcasing the talent and camaraderie of its members.
Tuesday Ladies’ Social Bowls kicked off the week with 14 players taking to the green. Notable matches included a win for the team of Karen Shepherd, Linda Guimelli, Beryl Cornford, and Mary Poli, who defeated Meryl Smith, Merle Nixon, Joy Comollatti, and Heather Jorgensen. In another match, Ruth Moore, Karen Page, and Irene Wilson triumphed over Isabel Cislowski, Sandra Stidston, and Dot Cutting.
On Wednesday 30 October, Pam Power represented the club in the Champions of Champions tournament at Bargara Bowls Club. Pam Power performed admirably against some of Queensland’s best bowlers, narrowly missing out on a spot in the Championship playoff. Her impressive showing capped off a fantastic year, earning her recognition and respect from her peers.
The Wednesday Mixed Social Bowls featured three exciting games of triples, bringing both competition and laughter. The winning team comprised Sandra Darwen, George Nixon, and Chris Olditch, who defeated Margret Chapman, Dino Poli, and Wayne Coonan. Later that evening, a single game of rinks saw Evelyn Wiltshere, Tricia Achille, Cisco, and Ross McLaughlin emerge victorious.
Fun Friday Night Bowls saw a turnout of 32 participants enjoying an evening of friendly competition. Spirits were high as four games of rinks were played. The winning team of Mika Strano, Melissa Northward, Matt Strano, and Michael Northward bested Lyn Copas, Toni Colburn, Deb Calligaro, and Tracey Redgwell. Second place went to Karen Shepherd, Ron Smythe, Deslie Olsen, and Barry Shepherd, while the Sportsman’s Prize was awarded to the team of Rebekah Oakes, Johnny Casella, Holly Giarusso, Ross Cambino, and Andrew Curro. The club extends its gratitude to all participants and looks forward to the final Fun Night of the year on 29 November.
On Saturday, the club hosted two games of triples and one game of fours, with intense competition evident throughout the matches. The winning team included John Pirrone, Rob Garner, and Anthony Bull, who defeated Cisco, Ron Smythe, and Barry Shepherd.
Sunday marked a continuation of the club championships, featuring Mixed Triples. Lorraine Wolffe, Sandra Stidston and Anthony Bull claimed victory against Donna Soper, Barry Shepherd, and Ron Soper, while earlier in the week the Mixed Singles was held with Michael Paravicini defeating Gary Pearce.
The Ayr Bowling Club invites everyone to its final Fun Friday Night Bowls event of the year on 29 November, starting at 6 PM. This evening promises fun for bowlers of all levels, encouraging participants to bring friends or join solo to meet new people. The entry fee is $10 per game, which includes a sausage sizzle at 6 PM and a light supper after bowling begins at 7 PM. For more information or to sign up, please contact Maurie Power at 0412 551 816 or Pam Power at 0458 330 019.
The club looks forward to seeing both new and returning faces for an enjoyable evening of bowling and community spirit.
Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.
Friday Fun Night 1st Place winners!
Friday Fun Night 2nd Place victors!
Friday Fun Night Sportsman's Prize winners!
Wednesday afternoon saw another excellent turnout for bowls. Bev Garioch, Lyn Farr, and Lyn Storrie triumphed over Ann Newton, Vanda Ballao, and Joy Woods. Members are encouraged to join the fun each Wednesday - please have your names in by 1pm for a 1:30pm start.
Friday night’s social bowls drew a fantastic crowd. In the pairs match, Bruce McCallum and Ray Panecassio claimed victory over Margaret McLaughlin and Joe Ypinazar. The triples game went to Ben Mills, Ross McLaughlin, and Jamie Woods, who defeated David Bycroft, Joy Woods, and Gary Pearce.
With some members competing in out-of-town events, numbers were slightly down on Sunday. Nonetheless, Ben Mills, Doug Kiehne, and Joe Ypinazar secured a win against Norm Storrie, Neville Dickenson, and Leo Kenny. In the pairs, Kenny Ferguson and Richard Mau defeated Rob Jorgensen and Alan Garioch, while Lyn Storrie and Peter Jorgensen bested Henry Hazel and Kevin Collins.
A reminder that Trophy Bowls Night, sponsored by Bennett Exhaust, is coming up on Friday, 15 November. As this will be our last event of the year, it promises to be a popular evening - get your names in as soon as possible!
On Saturday, 16 November, Charters Towers will be visiting for a return match. Please check the notice board for additional information.
Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.
The Brandon Bowls Club hosted another awesome week of action
Home Hill Bowls Club invites the Burdekin to their Come and Try Day, particularly children and teenagers to find out about a new sport to play injury free. It’s a 9am start and will run until lunchtime. Drinks will be available, bring your hat and flat soled shoes. If not, you can go barefoot. For enquiries, please phone 0428183054.
What’s On At The Club
Mondays: 10am Coffee Chats. Come along and join.
Wednesdays: 10am Trimmers
5:30pm Barefoot Bowls and a sausage sizzle
Thursdays: 9am Bingo
1pm Social Bowls
Saturdays: 1pm Saturday Bowls Open Mixed
Completion of Competition Bowls to be advised.
Contributed with thanks to Stormin’ Norman.
WHAT: Come & Try Day
WHEN: This Sunday from 9am
WHERE: Home Hill Bowls Club
You too can play like this!
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