Sports

45 Teams Mark 45 Years of the Burdekin’s premier tennis tournament

45 Teams Mark 45 Years of the Burdekin’s premier tennis tournament

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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BURDEKIN BELLES BRAVE THE BREEZE

BURDEKIN BELLES BRAVE THE BREEZE

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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Football Matters with Cyclops - 7th May

Football Matters with Cyclops - 7th May

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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Burdekin Touch Wrap – Junior Numbers Surge, AGM Set, Round 8 Results In

Burdekin Touch Wrap – Junior Numbers Surge, AGM Set, Round 8 Results In

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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President’s Day Celebrations, and Championship Triumphs at Brandon Bowls Club

September 5, 2024

On Wednesday, 28 August, the Brandon Bowls Club celebrated President Joy Woods Day, welcoming 64 ladies from various clubs, both near and far, to join in the festivities. The day unfolded under perfect weather, adding a touch of magic to the friendly games and lively atmosphere filled with laughter.

A special mention goes to the sponsor of the day, DG & M O'Shea Painting Contractors. Their valuable support ensures that days like this are possible, and the club shared sincere thanks to Danny and Marissa O’Shea.

Another beautiful evening unfolded at the Brandon Bowls Club on Friday 30 August as 12 bowlers participated in a close contest over 16 ends of 3-bowl triples.

On rink 5, the team of Ben Mills, Rob Jorgensen, and Jamie Woods faced off against Steve Cockfield, Ross McLaughlin, and Ray Paneccasio. What started as a tight match eventually saw the powerhouse trio of Mills, Jorgensen, and Woods pull ahead to claim victory.

Meanwhile, rink 6 featured a tense game between Margaret McLaughlin, Lloyd Shepherd, and Gary "Mr. Bowls" Pearce, who played against Raymond Tortorica, Jayson Farry, and Joe Yipnazar. After scoring a 5 on the first end, Pearce thought it would be a smooth night, but the dynamic duo of Tortorica and Farry turned the game around, leaving little for skipper Yipnazar to do. As the game approached the 15th end, Gary Pearce used his experience to guide his team to a hard-earned win.

Team Wood took home the scratchies, though there was no Jackpot winner.

In near-perfect conditions, the pair of Jayson Farry and Jamie Woods played a controlling game, ultimately securing a decisive win against Allan Gairoch on Saturday 31 August at the A & B Pairs Championship.

The defending champions, Chris Pearce, Jamie Woods, Len Feeny, and Gary Pearce faced Ben Mills, Glenn Woodford, Vince Beitia, and Leo Kenny on Sunday 1 September for the Men’s as Championship. Although Gary Pearce's experienced team dominated the game, they were met with strong efforts from the inexperienced side led by Leo Kenny. In the end, Pearce’s experience led his team to a comfortable win.

Despite numbers being slightly down due to Father’s Day, 12 dedicated bowlers played triples across two rinks. In the first game, Henry Hazel, Joe Yipnazar, and Peter Henderson were outplayed by T. Ferres, Neville Dickinson, and Hugh Montgomery.

Looking ahead, Trophy Bowls Night, sponsored by Gurgos Paint, will take place on 13 September. Players are encouraged to submit their names through the usual process.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

Plenty of laughter, and friendly competition was had at the Brandon Bowls Club last week.
Celebrating their first place victory were Marion Nicholson, and Jodie Geissmann, as pictured with Sponsor Marissa O'Shea, Lyn Farr, and President Joy.
Second place went to Pam Power, Colleen Olsen, and Ruth Moore, as pictured with Sponsor Marissa O'Shea and President Joy.
Third place went to June Paynting, Bev Marsden, and Leslie Bates, as pictured with Sponsor Marissa O'Shea and President Joy.

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Burdekin Clay Target Club’s Exceptional Monthly Shoot Results

September 5, 2024

Burdekin Clay Target Club held their Monthly Shoot on Saturday 31 August. With beautiful weather conditions, the Club’s members performed exceptionally, with celebratory scores across the board. The Club warmly thanks its sponsors,  Joe Caruso Construction and DnS Quality Meats, and Lui Populin for donating the meat tray for the raffle. Burdekin Clay Target Club will hold its next shoot on Sunday 13 October.

Saturday’s Overall High Gun Winners were Joe Caruso, Domingo Diaz, Daniel Scott, and Brian Bonanno. The day’s additional results are as follows:

Event 1-20 Target Double Barrel Continental 15m
AA Grade 1st Joe Caruso, Wayne Cislowski & Ron Gouch 20/20
A Grade 1st Sylvia Rossato, Ron Clive, Annette Vassalini & Domingo Diaz 20/20
B Grade 1st Peter Wade 19/20, 2nd Daniel Scott & John Kinnimonth 18/20
C Grade 1st David Russell 19/20, John Calligaro 17/20, 3rd Rob Ness 16/20

Event 2-20 Target Single Barrel 15m
AA Grade 1st Joe Caruso 20/20
A Grade 1st Ian Kriesel 20/20
B Grade 1st John Kinnimonth 17/20
C Grade 1st Peter Scott 19/20

Event 3-20 Target Pointscore-Sponsored By Joe Caruso Construction
AA Grade 1st Lindsay Groat 60/60
A Grade 1st Ron Clive 60/60
B Grade 1st Daniel Scott 55/60
C Grade 1st Brian Bonanno 53/60

Event 4-30 Target Medley 18m
AA Grade 1st Tony Caruso 50/50, 2nd Joe Caruso 48/50, 3rd Glen Rea 47/50
A Grade 1st Domingo Diaz 48/50, 2nd Annette Vassalini 46/50
B Grade 1st Daniel Scott 44/50, 2nd John Kinnimonth 43/50, 3rd Peter Wade 42/50
C Grade 1st David Russell 40/50, 2nd Toni Scott 40/50, 3rd Peter Scott 36/50

Event 5-25 Target Double Barell Handicap-Sponsored By DnS Quality Meats
1st Daniel Scott 42/43
2nd Tony Caruso 41/43
3rd Lindsay Groat 39/41

Overall High Gun Winners
AA Grade 1st Joe Caruso 169/175
A Grade 1st Domingo Diaz 165/175
B Grade 1st Daniel Scott 156/175
C Grade 1st Brian Bonanno 146/185

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato.

Competing in Event 2-20 Target Single Barrel 15m were Peter Scott, John Kinnimonth, Ian Kriesel, and Joe Caruso.

Event 3-20 Target Pointscore-Sponsored By Joe Caruso Construction saw Lindsay Groat, Ron Clive, Daniel Scott, Brian Bonanno, and Sylvia Rossato compete.

Event 5-25 Target Handicap-sponsored by DnS Quality Meats hosted competitors Tony Caruso, Daniel Scott, and Lindsay Groat.

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Spearritts Jewellers Day Shines at Ayr Golf Club

September 5, 2024

Wednesday 28 August marked another fantastic Spearritts Jewellers Day at the Ayr Golf Club, with longtime sponsors Jim and Pat Nuttall generously providing three exceptional prizes for the top golfers. The course was in pristine condition, and the weather remained pleasantly ideal for play.

A field of 21 ladies competed in what was a closely fought contest, with standout performances by the winners. Bev Andrews rolled back the years with an impressive 41 points, claiming the top spot and the coveted Gold Voucher. In second place, Donna Reid finished with 35 points, closely followed by Shirley Jones, also on 35 points, who took third place.

Congratulations to all the ladies on a great day of golf!

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

Celebrating victory, Donna Reid, Bev Andrews, and Shirley Jones were Wednesday’s champions at the Ayr Golf Club’s Spearritts Jewellers Day.

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Spring Swings into Action at Ayr Closed Junior Championships

September 5, 2024

Father’s Day saw an early start for some, as NQ Green Solutions proudly sponsored the Ayr Closed Junior Championships on Sunday 1 September. Fourteen junior golfers hit the green, showcasing their talent and love for the game to kick off the first day of Spring.

In the 3-hole division, Hudson Suficiencia claimed the gross winner title, while Opie McKeough secured the nett winner spot. In the 6-hole competition, Jett James impressed with a solid round, taking home the nett winner award. Sam Heatley, a newcomer to the competition, was the gross winner and is expected to step up to the 9-hole format by year’s end after a standout performance.

For the 9-hole division, Amaya Mahoney triumphed as the gross winner with a score of 45, while Oscar Mahoney edged out Kyle Wilkie on a countback to claim the nett winner title. Kyle, playing his first round of 9 holes, also delivered a commendable effort. Well done to all the juniors!

Contributed with thanks to Laura Mahoney.

Hudson, Celine and Opie showcased their talents in the 3-hole division.
In the 6-hole division were Jett, Evelyn, Logan, Heath and Sam.
Taking to the green in the 9-hole division were Amaya, Gabby, Oscar and Kyle.

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Burdekin Bowls

September 26, 2024

23 players turned out on another perfect winter’s afternoon. Incidentally, the last Thursday of this winter next week will be spring. Today's winners were Rink 3. Bob Y and Glen [Bones] over Paul and Cy. Rink 4. Jimmy, Tony and Johnno defeated Terry, Bob and Joe.  Rink 5. Margaret, Stephen and Hugh accounted for Yogi, Gary and Mick Mc.  Rink 6. Des, Ray H and Jeff beat Judy, Dino and Henry. 1st touches of the day winning a $5 voucher went to lead Yogi. 2nd Joe and eventually Skip got one, good one Cy. The winning team pictured Bob and Glen. 2nd place Des, Ray and Jeff. 3rd place - Margaret, Stephen and Hugh. The meat tray raffle was won by Ray Hollis a visitor from Groper Creek. The mystery ball was drawn by Henry.  No winner. Jackpot next week $300. Thanks again to our sponsor Molongle Creek. Other events at the club include Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft group and Wednesday night barefoot bowls, Thursday morning BINGO and the very popular Thursday afternoon social bowls and now also Saturday afternoon bowls start at 1.30 pm, names to be in by 1 pm. The club is still taking donations of food, stuff, etc for the monster hamper to be drawn at the Harvest Ball. Tickets are still on sale for the raffle made and donated by Yogi a beautiful table with matching side tables.

Until next week, good bowling, Stephen Doig.

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Canetoads Clash in Preliminary Finals Showdown

September 5, 2024

The stage was set for the Preliminary Finals on Sunday 1 September, with the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads fighting for their place in both grades. The Reggies delivered a strong performance, but the Brothers capitalized on their chances, demonstrating a polished game. Both sides engaged in a physical and fast-paced contest that kept the spectators captivated. Unfortunately, luck was not on our side, as the Brothers overcame the Toads, knocking them out of Grand Final contention with the final score being 32 – 12.

The second game was a nail-biter! Locked in a tense deadlock with just five minutes remaining in the first half, North Ward broke through to take the lead. But the Canetoads rallied, executing some brilliant tries and pulling ahead to 17-12 with only 20 minutes left on the clock. The Old Boys responded, sending the score to 24-19 and raising everyone’s pulse. In a tense finish, the Toads managed to keep possession in the closing minutes, controlling the game and securing the win we needed to advance to the Grand Final next weekend!

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads also shared a special shout-out to all their Rugby Dads, past and present, Sunday to celebrate Father’s Day!

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads put on a nail-biting game for Sunday’s Preliminary Finals Showdown.

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Tee Up the Fun at The Home Hill Golf Club

September 5, 2024

The Home Hill Golf Club welcomed 26 players to the green on Friday 30 August, despite many regulars being away. The club shared a special welcome to newcomer Dan, and a warm welcome back to Dave Cannavan!

Kieren Dawes and Robert Marshall claimed the pin shots, while the ladies unfortunately missed out on apparently “finding the green”. Doug McCubben had the least putts of the day, finishing with an impressive 11!

Gary Pappalardo emerged as the overall winner of the day, and Kevan Chatfield walked away with the lucky ticket, though no win this time, with the jackpot rolling over to $700 next week!

Looking for a fun, social, and active way to spend your afternoon? The Home Hill Golf Club invites all ladies to a FREE "Come and Try" golf day next Saturday 14 September, where you can learn the basics of golf with PGA professional Tara Jenkins. Whether you’re new to the game or just looking to sharpen your skills, this event offers a relaxed and enjoyable environment to try something new.

It’s the perfect opportunity to mix fun, socialising, and a bit of exercise! So, come along, make some new friends, and give golf a go - whether you're a complete beginner or just looking for a social round with like-minded women.

What: Home Hill Golf Club’s FREE Sip ‘n Putt
When: Saturday 14 September 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Where: Home Hill Golf Club
More Information: Contacting Megan Barbagallo or the Home Hill Golf Club

Contributed with thanks to the Home Hill Golf Club.

Calling all ladies! The Home Hill Golf Club invites you to come along for a FREE Sip ‘n Putt event next Saturday 14 September.

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Join the Ayr Surf Club and Make a Difference!

September 5, 2024

The Ayr Surf Club is extending an invitation to the public - both new and returning members  - to become part of this fantastic club. Now is the perfect time to get involved with Surf Life Saving Queensland, the largest volunteer organisation in the world, and help build a safer, stronger community. Whether you're a strong swimmer, skilled in first aid, or simply want to lend a hand, there's a role for everyone at the Ayr Surf Club. Enjoy the sunshine, forge new friendships, and make a positive impact by saving lives. Wear the iconic red and yellow with pride!

Be a Lifesaver - Your Way!
Lifesaving can fit into your life however you choose. Whether you can offer a few hours a week, one day a month, or every other weekend, you can bring your passion to the local surf club. For the love of your beach community, your enthusiasm for safety, or your craving for excitement, surf lifesaving offers the chance to learn new skills and meet great people. Join today and be a part of something meaningful.

There’s a Role for Everyone!
Surf lifesaving is open to all, regardless of age or background. Whether you’re recently retired or seeking a purposeful way to give back, the Ayr Surf Club welcomes you. You could be grilling sausages at the nippers’ Sunday BBQ, helping with patrols, or supporting fundraising efforts—there’s a role for everyone. Find your place in our lifesaving family!

The club understands life is busy, and they only ask for the time you can give. Whether it’s 5, 10, or 50 hours, your contribution will be valued. It's a fulfilling experience that fits into even the most packed schedules.

With the new patrolling season starting next Saturday, 14 September, now is the perfect time to get involved. Nippers activities are already underway, but there’s still time to join in the fun!

For more information, contact the club administrator at ayrslsc@gmail.com to connect with a club representative and learn more about getting involved.

The Ayr Surf Club is calling on the community to join in and make a difference!

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Exceptional Bowls Players At Home Hill

August 29, 2024

Fun in the Sun
The boys bowling their best
Determining who has won
Who won this time?
Reset and ready for a new game
A close game
Yogi the man building a table for an upcoming raffle

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Member Profile Meet Alex Bojack, Greenkeeper Extraordinaire

August 29, 2024

1. Where were you born?
Home Hill.
2. What is your occupation?
Sugar Cane Farmer.
3. What is your dream car?
1969/1970 XW Falcon with all the gear.
4. Do you make your bed or get up and go?
Get up and Go.
5. Who is a person you would like to meet?
Jimmy Barnes.
6. What is your favourite sport to follow?
Running, I like to watch Usain Bolt.
7. You’re broken down on an outback road with no service. Do you kip the night and wait or walk and hope?
Kip the night and wait.
8. What has been your favourite game of bowls?
Being on TV for the Dunne Cup.
9. What do you like about bowls?
The camaraderie and the fact that it’s a place to make friends
10. You’re stranded on a deserted island. What is it that you want most?
A fishing line.

Alex Bojack poses for his picture

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What’s On At Home Hill Community Sports Club

August 29, 2024

Mondays 10am – Exercise Group
Tuesdays 9am – Tuesday Trimmers
Wednesdays 9am – Friends and Neighbours Craft Group
12:30pm – Bowls
5:30pm – Social Barefoot Bowls
Starting Soon: Saturday, Open Pairs
Phone number: 0468 313 115
Home Hill Community Bowls Club wishes to thank all club sponsors

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Table Bowl Notes

August 29, 2024

Round 1 finals 15/08/24
Crushers won against Cougars at the Anzac
Falcons won against Nat I at the Ayr
Nat II won against Ants at the National
National II and Crushers automatically go into round 3

Round 2 finals  22/08/24
Falcons won against Ants at the Queens
Nat I won against Cougars at the National

This week’s games 29/08/24
Falcons v Nat II at the Ayr
Crushers v Nat I at the Anzac
Winner of these two games go into the grand final to be played at the National.

On Sunday we had the Tom Barrett Trophy with some great games being played, congrats to all that made it to the final rounds. The grand final was played between Mick Parison & Dennis Mondin v Sean Farrell & Mark Schofield with Mick and Dennis taking out the trophy for 2024.

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Davison.

2024 Trophy winners Mick Parison and Dennis Mondin!

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Serve Up Some Fun with Free Social Tennis Family Night

August 29, 2024

On Friday 30 August, the Ayr Tennis Association will host a fabulous FREE Social Tennis Family Night for the community to enjoy! Beginning at 6:30pm, the Burdekin community has been warmly invited to come down to the courts for an evening of socialization, laughs, and friendly tennis competition! A BBQ will also be held on the night, with drinks and food available for purchase. Those interested are encouraged to message the Ayr Tennis Association’s Facebook page for more information.

What: FREE Social Tennis Family Night.
When: Friday 30 August from 6:30pm.
Where: Ayr Tennis Association.
More Information: Message the Ayr Tennis Association’s Facebook page.

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Bowls, Banter, & Big Wins at Ayr Bowling Club

August 29, 2024

Wednesday, 21 August, kicked off with Mixed Social Bowls at the Ayr Bowling Club, featuring three exciting games of triples. The standard of play was high across the board. The winning team of the day was B. Hewson, J. Papale, and M. Power, who defeated R. Smythe, H. Hazel, and R. Lazarin in a well-fought match.

The weekend began with Fun Friday Night, where laughter, music, and good bowls brought everyone together for a memorable evening. A delicious supper was served at the end of the night, thanks to the generous contributions from members, making the event all the more enjoyable. The top teams were:

1st Place: John Casella, Holly Giarusso, Fraser Mitchelson, and Michelle James.
2nd Place: John Grabbi, Joe Zanella, Joe Grabbi, and June Zanella.
Sportsman’s Prize: John McDonald, John Pirrone, Lorraine Wolffe, and Anthony Bull.  

All prizes were presented by sponsor representative, Deslie Olsen, with a big thank you to Tinus Engineering for their sponsorship. Anyone interested in sponsoring a Fun Friday Night can reach out to Maurie Power (0412551816) or Pam Power (0458330019) for details.

Saturday Social Bowls saw four closely contested games of triples played across four rinks. The winning team consisted of R. Aplin, S. Darwen, and M. Power, who defeated R. Smythe, J. McDonald, and B. Schultz.

On Sunday, 25 August, a thrilling game of mixed pairs was held, with the result coming down to the final end. The winners were S. Darwen and M. Paravicini, who triumphed over L. Wolffe and A. Bull in a nail-biter.

For upcoming championship club games on 1 September, check the club board for details. Remember to enter your teams by the competition closing dates as indicated.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

First place winners, John Casella, Holly Giarusso, Fraser Mitchelson & Michelle James with sponsor representative, Deslie Olsen.
Second placeholders, John Grabbi, Joe Zanella, Joe Grabbi & June Zanella with sponsor representative, Deslie Olsen.
Sponsor representative, Deslie Olsen, presented John McDonald, John Pirrone, Lorraine Wolffe, and Anthony Bull with the Sportsman Prize.

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Teeing Off with Style @ The Ayr Golf Club

August 29, 2024

Last Wednesday, 21 August, marked an exciting partner event at the Ayr Golf Club, featuring the Club’s newest Wednesday sponsor, "Hair on Hillier." The Club extended their heartfelt thanks to Shannon Benato, who generously provided two vouchers for our winners to enjoy some well-deserved pampering at her salon.

The highlight of the day was the 4BBB format competition, where Nora Anderson and Evelyn Webb emerged as the winners with an impressive 45 points. Vicki Adcock and Ingrid Vaes followed closely as runners-up with 44 points, while Pat Lawson and Heather Desbois took third place with 41 points. Congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding performance!

Last week the Ayr Golf Club also celebrated Country Connection Day and were thrilled to have another fantastic local business supporting the event. The vouchers for this day went to Ingrid Vaes, who secured a respectable 36 points, and Shirley Jones, who was the top scorer with 37 points. Tuk Williams, Bev Power, and Janet Trezise also made it to the rundown. Well done to all the participants!

Another memorable celebration was held on the green on Saturday 24 August with a Happy Gilmore Bucks Party! The Ayr Golf Club wished the best of luck to all the players, sharing “hit ‘em well boys”!

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

Ayr Golf Club ladies were ready for a fantastic day on the green last Wednesday!
Last week’s Country Connection Day at the Ayr Golf Club was enjoyed by many local ladies.
Dressed to impress, the Ayr Golf Club hosted a Happy Gilmore Bucks Party on Saturday.

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