Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Burdekin’s premier running event saw a record-breaking turnout on Sunday, 26 April, as nearly 400 athletes laced up in Ayr for what was a Sugar Rush for the books. The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part. Club president Patrick Shannon hailed the event as a success for both the organisation and the wider North Queensland running community. “We’re chuffed with the turnout,” Mr Shannon said. “It was a bit unfortunate—we actually had to cut off entries a little bit early simply because we ran out of bibs. It just means we have to plan bigger and better next year.” Continued on page 28 Massive Field Powers Sugar Rush To New Record In Ayr Continued from cover The event attracted competitors from as far north as Cairns and south as Mackay, alongside families and first-time runners in shorter distance fun runs. Jeff Rubach of the Townsville Road Runners won the men’s half marathon in 1:15:08, while Vanessa Kennedy of Hungry Runners took out the women’s title in 1:27:15. Matt Hutchinson led the men’s 10km field in 35:51, with Brittany Hutchinson winning the women’s race in 40:26. Miles Kerr claimed the men’s 5km title in 20:18, while Mia Brunker of the PACE Project won the women’s event in 20:46. Each runner received a complimentary barbecue breakfast courtesy of the Ayr Rotary Club, while MC John Furnell entertained supporters at the finish line at the Ayr War Memorial. Mr Shannon said the memorial backdrop capped off the morning, the culmination of months of preparation. “There was a lot of work put in over the last three to five months… But to see the community coming out, the amazing weather, and the day after Anzac Day, having the monument behind us, was a really good feeling.” FULL RESULTS Half Marathon—Men Jeff Rubach (Townsville Road Runners) — 1:15:08 Grant Breadsell Aaron Bathis Half Marathon—Women Vanessa Kennedy (Hungry Runners) — 1:27:15 Liv Compton (Whitsunday Running Club) Elizabeth Maguire (Hungry Runners) 10km—Men Matt Hutchinson — 35:51 Sonny O’Rourke Brendan Maltby 10km—Women Brittany Hutchinson — 40:26 Anwen Mackay Isla Chapman 5km—Men Miles Kerr — 20:18 Nathan Barrett Brad Patti 5km—Women Mia Brunker (PACE Project) — 20:46 Bec Stedman Skye Claussen CAPTIONS: Back—The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part. 2—Jeff Rubach of the Townsville Road Runners won the men’s half marathon in 1:15:08. 3—Vanessa Kennedy of Hungry Runners took out the women’s title in 1:27:15. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Seniors A better weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had only four senior games winning three and losing one. The Premiers and Reserve, away to Riverway JCU, won 2-1 and the Reserves, also away to JCU also won 2-1, The Division 1, at home to rebels lost 3-6 but the Division 2, also at home to Rebels won 3-0. The Colts and Ladies both had byes. This week only four teams are in action as both Ladies and Colts have byes. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 are away to Olympic, at 8.30 and 6.30 and on Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Warriors at 7.00 and 3.00. The Colts and Ladies do not have games this week. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club An away trip to JCU is never easy, and after dropping points the previous week, there was added motivation to respond. JCU started strongly, limiting the Panthers time on the ball and making it difficult to find any rhythm early. The first half produced few clear chances, with JCU capitalising late to take a 1–0 lead into the break. The second half saw a renewed energy from the Panthers, while JCU looked to sit deeper and protect their advantage. This shift allowed Burdekin to dominate possession and build pressure in dangerous areas. The Panthers came close on many occasions, including a strike off the crossbar, before Elliott Dal Santo found the breakthrough with a well-taken finish following strong defensive work in the lead-up. Pushing for a winner, Kyle Taylor earned a penalty in the 87th minute, and Jake Siandri stepped up to calmly convert and give the Panthers a 2–1 lead which they held onto in the closing stages to secure a hard-fought result. That’s three wins from their opening four rounds. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service Another week and another changed side saw the Reserves debut opportunity for young players Charlie Predebon & Nyasha Gwarada. It was a very warm afternoon game and developed into a good contest with both teams working hard but neither finding any dominance in possession or field position. It took until the last five minutes of the first half for a goal to come from a longer range freekick and JCU went into the break one up. The second half for the Panthers was much better with senior players able to influence the game and keep better possession of the ball. With improved possession and control Burdekin were able to score two goals from Jonte Grazioli and Dom Arrate. It was a gritty game that in previous seasons the Panthers may have let slip, so very pleasing to turn it around and notch up another win. Division 1 – Austral Masonry Against Rebel, both teams and goals started fast, with two goals from Julen Arrate being answered by two from Rebels in the first eighteen minutes. At half time it was 2-2. After that Burdekin got stuck into the grind with tackles flying everywhere. Then a penalty to Rebels and second yellow card for Brad Wright tipped the balance, with Rebels side scoring two goals in quick succession. Cody Scalia headed in a beautiful Charlie Shears corner to give the Burdekin a chance, but with only ten men, it was too much of a struggle The game ended 6-3 to Rebels. Division 2 – RG Customs RG Customs 2nd division defeated Rebels 3-0 in a match they dominated from start to finish. Chris Achille gave Burdekin the lead early in the first half, but despite lots of possession and repeatedly attacking Rebels goal, the Funkies were unable to extend their lead in the first half. Burdekin added further goals through Simon Scuderi after 68 minutes and Fengil after 84 minutes in the second half to see the Funkies rewarded for their efforts and deserving winners in a match they controlled very much from start to finish. Next up is MA Olympic this Friday night away in Townsville. Masters The Masters had another good turnout and, augmented by the Ladies Squad had a replay of the World Cup Qualifier, Italy v Bosnia Herzegovina. A tight match ended in a 2-2 draw with a replay next Monday. Best players on the night were Charley Ruskin and Riley Granshaw. 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 Junior soccer returned in great spirit over the Anzac Day weekend, marking the first round of games following the school holiday break. Our youngest players in the U5–U7 age groups took to the field on Saturday afternoon, enjoying local matches filled with enthusiasm, teamwork and plenty of smiles. It was fantastic to see so many familiar faces back and eager to play. Sunday saw an exciting milestone for the U8–U12 teams, who travelled to Townsville for their first games of the season. The step up in competition didn’t deter our players, with all teams showing determination and great sportsmanship throughout the day. It was a wonderful way to kick off the return to soccer, with strong participation across all age groups and a positive start to the term ahead. The U15's had their first game at the weekend against Wulguru. A new coach, a few new players and whole lot of enthusiasm. A bit of nervous energy to start with the first goal being scored by the opposition, but the team went in at half time with a 2-1 lead. Goals for the Panthers scored by Annan Power and Nathan Casella. The team lost Linc Innes due to a nasty clash with their keeper which depleted the bench with only one sub. The second half saw the team digging deep to secure three more goals. One of the new Panthers, Cecil Badza Gwarda scoring two and Emmanuel Mio banging in the final goal for the Panthers to secure a convincing win 5-2. Unfortunately, there is a bit of a break before their next round on the 16 May. An excited U13 Burdekin Panthers team took the field for the first time this season again MA Olympic. The Panthers came away with a very good 3-0 win with two goals from. 2 Caelan Farrell and one from Jazz Chung. All players played outstanding football!! National The A League Men’s season has reached the final stages. Newcastle have won the Premiership; five points clear of Adelaide with Auckland third and Melbourne Victory fourth. The Elimination Finals start on Saturday with Auckland playing Melbourne City and Victory playing Sydney FC. The A League Women are at the Semi-finals stage. At the end of regular fixtures Melbourne City were Premiers six points clear of Wellington, with Canberra third and Brisbane fourth. In the semi-finals this Saturday, Melbourne City face Victory and Brisbane play Wellington.
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Round 7 of the Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Burdekin Touch open competition produced a string of competitive results across all divisions. In the men’s draw, Way To Go defeated BAYWatch 8–4, while His Haas and Slush Puppies played out a 5–all draw. Alliance Pharmacy proved too strong for Wires Down 9–3, and Petrol Heads accounted for Touch n Go 8–5. Blue Murder continued their good form with an 8–4 win over Ball Grabbers, while Burdekin PCYC and Feelers finished locked at 4–all. Renegades edged a tight contest against Royal Touch 7–6, and Teamo Supremo claimed a narrow 3–2 victory over Creampuffs. In the women’s competition, Eathorne’s Princesses defeated Lasers 5–2, while First in Physio delivered the most dominant performance of the round, overpowering Salty Sirens 12–1. Chick Flicks also secured a solid 6–4 win over Can’t Catch. Junior action in the under-14 division saw Chicken Burgers and Cowboys share the points in a 6–all draw. Rockies defeated Broncos 8–3, BAYWatch A accounted for Red Dogs A 8–2, and Silly Soft Serves rounded out the round with a 10–5 win over Red Dogs B. Meanwhile, junior touch football sign-on will be held on Friday, May 1 at 5.30pm at the Burdekin Touch Football clubhouse. The program is open to boys and girls aged 4 to 12, with six weeks of skills, drills and games to follow. Returning Term 1 players can register for free, while new sign-ons cost $20. For more information, contact Rebecca on 0400 705 205 or Peter on 0437 710 500.
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As this is the final patrol weekend for the season, the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club would would like to thank all our patrolling members for the countless volunteer hours that were undertaken on the beach for our community, your time is appreciated and we thank you for keeping Alva Beach safe. Beach patrols will resume again in the September School Holidays. Beach patrols will resume again in the September school holidays. Saturday, 2/5/26 (1pm–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group I – Sage Hisatake (PC), Ben Hisatake, Luke Hisatake, Austin Dewar Sunday, 3/5/26 (9am–1pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group G – Carl List (PC), James Kennedy (PC), Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards, Ross Blakey, Jedd Giddy, Nate Giddy Sunday, 3/5/26 (1pm–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group E – John Moloney (PC), Anne Moloney (PC), Sophia Moloney, Tony Felisina, Tramayne Horan, Jarrod Rossato Monday, 4/5/26 (9am–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group A – Chris Wicks (PC), Richard Dale (PC), Jane Olsen, Zackary Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner, Wil Holt
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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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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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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
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
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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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.
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.
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.
The Burdekin Clay Target Club hosted its monthly shoot on Saturday and Sunday. The weekend kicked off with a nostalgic twist, featuring the rarely-used Side by Side shotguns. Sixteen shooters competed in these old-school events, bringing a touch of tradition to the range. Later in the day, the action shifted to the Night Shoot, where 23 shooters took on the unique challenge of hitting targets in low light. Despite the difficulty, the shooters showed impressive accuracy.
Sunday’s weather was far less cooperative, starting overcast and quickly turning into a downpour during the final two events. Nevertheless, the competition continued, and the shooters remained unfazed by the conditions. A special thanks goes out to the Club’s sponsors: Wayne Cislowski, Sitefix Solutions, and Butches on Queen, for their generous support. Mark your calendars for the next shoot, set for Saturday, 31 August, at 9:00am.
Saturday 10 August Results:
Event 1-15 Target Double Barrel Side by Side
AA Grade1st Wayne Cislowski & Glen Rea 15/15
A Grade 1st Jay Murray 14/15
B Grade 1st Phil Russell 13/15
C Grade 1st Michelle Russell 13/15
Event 2-25 Target Mixed Side by Side
AA Grade 1st Wayne Cislowski & Glen Rea 32/35
A Grade 1st John Cerqui 28/35
B Grade 1st Phil Russell 28/35
C Grade 1st Paul Coleman 24/35
Overall Winners of the Side by Side events-Sponsored by Wayne Cislowski
AA Grade 1st Glen Rea 59/64
A Grade 1st Jay Murray 41/50
B Grade 1st Phil Russell 41/50
C Grade 1st Paul Coleman 45/50
Event 3-20 Target Night Double Barrel
AA Grade 1st Michael Zabala, Tony Caruso & Glen Rea 20/20
A Grade 1st David Stitt, Vito Patane, Colin Ferguson, Alan Lord & Brad Farry 20/20
C Grade 1st Michael Becke 19/20, 2nd Adam Patane 17/20
Event 4-25 Target Night Single Barrel Championship-Sponsored by Sitefix Solutions
OPEN 1st Joe Scalia 25/25
AA Grade 1st Wayne Cislowski 24/25
A Grade 1st Joe Scalia 25/25
C Grade 1st 22/27
Sunday 11 August Results:
Event 1-15 Target Pointscore Continental
AA Grade 1st Glen Rea 45/45, 2nd Wayne Cislowski 42/45
A Grade 1st Ron Clive 45/45, 2nd Alan Lord & David Stitt 44/45
B Grade 1st Ian Kriesel 39/45, 2nd Rob Mikkelsen 33/45
C Grade 1st Brian Bonnano 42/45, 2nd Paul Coleman 41/45
Event 2- 30 Target Burdekin Double Barrel Continental Championship- Sponsored by Butches on Queen
OPEN 1st Glen Rea 72/72
AA Grade 1st Glen Rea 72/72
A Grade 1st Joe Scalia 71/72
B Grade 1st Ian Kriesel 36/37
C Grade 1st Alf Gangemi 26/30
Event 3-20 Target Pointscore 15m Cash Trophy
AA Grade 1st Glen Rea 60/60
A Grade 1st Davis Stitt 56/60
B Grade 1st Ian Kriesel 52/60
C Grade 1st Brian Bonnano 57/60
Event 4-25 Target Handicap
OPEN 1st Ron Clive 24/25
2nd John Cerqui & David Stitt 23/25
Despite the weather challenges and tough conditions, the shooters showed great skill and resilience throughout the weekend.
Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato.
Sponsor Wayne Cislowski with overall winners Glen Rea, Jay Murray, and Pual Coleman.
Event 2-30 Target Burdekin Double Barrel Continental Championship winners Glen Rea, Joe Scalia, Ian Kriesel and Alf Gangemi.
Pickleball is continuing to surge in popularity at Home Hill Tennis, with solid attendance each Tuesday night. The fast-paced sport is drawing both new and seasoned players, including recent additions Noah, Chloe, and Bec, who have quickly adapted and are already making their presence felt on the court.
This week saw 22 players take part in a lively King and Queen of the Court competition. After a series of games with multiple partners, Daniel Walsh emerged as the King, while Amelia Pivotto claimed the title of Queen, showcasing their consistency and skill throughout the night.
Looking ahead, several Home Hill pickleball players are gearing up to compete in the "Double Trouble" tournament in Townsville on 7 September. Best of luck to those representing the club - your efforts are sure to make the community proud!
For anyone looking to join in, pickleball is played every Tuesday at 7pm with a $10 entry fee, and your first session is free. Additionally, you can catch the action on Saturday mornings from 7:30 - 8:30am, followed by a social coffee meet-up at Home Hill News and Coffee. Sunday afternoon games are also held on occasion, so be sure to keep an eye on the Home Hill Tennis Facebook page for updates.
New players are always welcome to jump in and experience the fun!
Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell.
Pickleball ignites the Home Hill Tennis Association’s courts every Tuesday and Saturday!
Burdekin Rugby Union Club’s Canetoads are gearing up for a do-or-die clash this weekend after experiencing mixed results in last weekend’s semi-finals. With the pressure mounting, the Cantoads’ Coach reflected on the team's performance during a recent radio appearance on Sweet FM, offering insights into what went right, what went wrong, and how they plan to move forward.
In the First Grade match, the Canetoads struggled to find their rhythm against Brothers, who quickly capitalised on Burdekin’s slow start. The Coach acknowledged that Brothers came well-prepared, as they often do in finals, catching the Canetoads off guard with their unpredictable style of play.
“We started off slowly, and Brothers took advantage of that,” the Coach explained.
“They put too many on us early, and we couldn’t come back.”
The final score stood at 26-15 in favour of Brothers, leaving the Canetoads to regroup ahead of their next encounter with North Ward. Looking ahead to that critical game, the Cantoads’ Coach emphasised the importance of preparation, focus, and controlling the game from the outset.
“We need to be prepared, travel well, and maintain a good mindset - It’s do or die this weekend.
The boys need to be ready and control the game early, and if we can handle their big forward pack, the outcome will be in our favour.”
In contrast, the Reserve Grade team delivered a solid performance, starting strong and keeping the pressure on North Ward. Their Coach was impressed with their energy and execution, though he gave credit to the opposition for keeping the game close. The final score was 14-12 in favour of the Canetoads.
“They came out of the blocks firing and played really well, but credit to North Ward for keeping the scoreline as close as they did.”
Looking ahead to their rematch against Brothers, the Toads’ Coach identified a few areas that need improvement. The focus, he said, would be on minimising errors, staying composed, and maintaining possession.
“They need to rectify small errors and not force it.
Fault-free footy and aggression will enable the boys to play in the Grand Final the following week.”
There was also cause for celebration within the club, as Tubby Heron was named TDRU A Grade Player of the Year for 2024. Heron’s stellar performance throughout the season earned him this prestigious honour, and the Canetoads couldn’t be prouder of their star player.
With both teams now preparing for what could be their final games of the season, the Canetoads are determined to give it their all. First Grade will face North Ward in a must-win match, while Reserve Grade seeks to secure their Grand Final berth against Brothers. If they can maintain focus, discipline, and composure, both teams could be on the cusp of something special.
Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.
The results from last weekend’s semi-final clash will fuel the Canetoads’ fire for this weekend’s games.
Congratulations to Tubby Heron for taking out TDRUs A Grade Player of The Year.
The Burdekin Roosters A Grade team put together a complete performance, much to the delight of coach Steve Lansley. Reflecting on his team’s 14-12 victory over Herbert River at Rugby Park last Saturday night.
"We have been trying for some time to put things together for eighty minutes, and it was nice for the boys to see it finally happen,” said Lansley.
The tightly contested match featured strong defence and smart attacking play from both sides. The Roosters and Herbert River each scored two tries, with all conversions successful. It was a penalty kick with three minutes remaining, courtesy of captain Joel Mason, that secured the Roosters' win.
The defensive effort from both teams was notable, with big hits and crucial ankle tackles throughout the game. Lansley credited his forwards for laying the foundation, allowing the smaller players to capitalize on opportunities.
He praised Herbert River for their typical style of hard running, strong support play, and minimal mistakes.
"I told the boys they make few errors, and when they do, we had to capitalize... to their credit, they did," Lansley added.
Although it was difficult for the coach to single out standout players, he highlighted the performances of Henry Teuteu and Chris Gale in the forward pack, along with Lachlan Shepherd, who had a stellar game. Lansley also commended Roto Ravisore as one of the better backs and noted Joel Mason's vocal leadership from fullback. James Munro, returning from injury, was outstanding despite being denied a try that Lansley believed should have counted.
Burdekin Roosters A Grade:
- Tries: Tate Brombal, Ratu Kikau
- Goals: Joel Mason (3/3)
Other A-Grade Results:
- Souths defeated Brothers 30-14
- Charters Towers defeated Centrals 38-4
- Western Lions defeated Norths 64-10
Roosters Reserve Grade coach Chris Perry expressed frustration after his team let a strong start slip away.
"We led 12-0 and looked like going away with it before the calls started going the way of the River," Perry said.
Experienced Herbert River halfback Mitch Seri led his team with two tries, and Perry expressed disbelief at the officiating.
"How one team can get six 'six again' calls go against them, and the other team gets none, is beyond belief,” said Perry.
He noted that the lopsided penalty count caused frustration, leading to mistakes that Herbert River capitalized on.
Despite leading 12-6 at halftime, the Roosters ultimately fell 34-22. Perry praised Caleb Noah for scoring two tries and Brody Ferguson for his efforts in the forwards. The team is now focused on preparing for their knockout semi-final against Centrals this Sunday.
Burdekin Reserves:
- Tries: Caleb Noah (2), Sem Tom, Dominic Arrate
- Goals: Dominic Arrate (3)
**Other Reserve Grade Results:**
- Souths defeated Brothers 30-14
- Centrals defeated Charters Towers 58-22
- Norths defeated Western Lions 34-14
- Bowen had a bye
The Burdekin Hens received a forfeit from Herbert River and will face Brothers in the knockout semi-final this Sunday. In other ladies’ news, the club has announced Tegan Johnson will represent the Roosters in the upcoming annual Harvest Festival.
Other Ladies' Results:
- Centrals defeated Charters Towers 34-4
- Western Lions defeated Norths 72-0
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.
Caleb Noah was praised for scoring two tries on Saturday in the Reserves’ clash against Herbert River.
The Home Hill Cricket Association had an action-packed couple of days on as they hosted the NQ Schoolboys 10–12 years cricket trials on Sunday and Monday. The event brought together teams from across the region, including Townsville, Ingham, Charters Towers, and Bowen / Whitsundays, with the Burdekin schoolboys team enjoying a fantastic experience.
A special mention goes to one of Home Hill's own junior players, Marshall Parker, who made it to the Possibles and Probables cut. Although he didn't make the final team, it was a remarkable achievement that deserves recognition. The club is proud of Marshall and looks forward to seeing his continued progress on the cricket field!
Contributed with thanks to the Home Hill Cricket Association.
The Home Hill Cricket Association was busting with young cricketers last Sunday and Monday.
The NQ Schoolboys 10 – 12 years cricket trials brought teams from across Northern Queensland to the Home Hill fields.
Local
The Burdekin Panthers had a successful Ladies Day, winning all three home games. The Division One Funkies beat Saints Eagles South 2-0, the Premiers won 5-0 against the Rebels, and the Under 23s also triumphed 5-0. The Ladies had a bye.
This week’s final round before the Finals features the Premiers, Under 23s, and Women Premiers playing away at MA Olympic on Saturday, while the Division One Funkies host Wulguru on Friday night.
The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers secured a 5-0 win over the Rebels, with goals from Elliott Dal Santo, Matthew Kolb, Mason Matthews, and Damien Casella.
The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves, led by Matt Walker and Oliver Gabiola, won 5-0 on Ladies Day, with goals from Gabiola, Connor Brown (two), Cooper Kross, and Adam Mottin.
The Austral Masonry Funkies defeated Burdekin 2-0 with two goals from Chris Achille. They’ll play their final home game against Wulguru on Friday night.
The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies had the bye and put on a fantastic Ladies Day!
The Under14/15 Panthers finished their fixtures in 4th place and will now play 3rd placed Brothers in the semi-final at 1.00pm on Saturday at Paradise Park in Townsville
Masters
Monday Night Masters has been extended for one more week after, in a pre-play of next season’s A League Opener. Melbourne Victory thumped Central Coast 6-2, and the Mariners will be seeking their revenge next Monday.
Delta Cleaners Night Soccer begins its 46th Season on Tuesday 3rd September. Nomination Forms are at Delta Cleaners, Intersport and Sportfirst.
Juniors
Another sunny day for Saturday Juniors, with a few different Townsville clubs travelling down to take on the Burdekin juniors. Keep an eye out for details of Junior Social Soccer (formerly Night Soccer) coming up on Tuesday afternoons in term 4!
This week’s quote is from English manager Sam Allardyce: “Managers stay in a job when they win football matches.”
Sunday’s junior carnival in Ingham saw Burdekin FC celebrate taking home the overall winning club trophy!
The Home Hill Bowls Club had a busy and successful week, with 30 players turning out for Thursday afternoon social bowls. Sponsored by Oar and Horan, five games of triples were contested on the green.
- Rink 3: Tony, Tracy, and Andy triumphed over Paul, Gary, and Mick.
- Rink 4: Yogi, Bob, and Wayne secured a win against Ron, Joe, and Stephen.
- Rink 5: Judy, Tony, and Ross outplayed Bob Y., Des, and Cy.
- Rink 6: John, Reno, and Hugh defeated Ray M., Ray H., and Bruce.
- Rink 7: Jim, Dino, and Trevor bested Robert, Alex, and Henry.
Karen McClosky was the lucky winner of the raffle. However, the mystery ball $300 jackpot remained unclaimed, rolling over to next week.
In other club activities, Monday fitness sessions, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday Kraft group, and Wednesday night barefoot bowls were all well-attended. Thursday morning BINGO and Thursday afternoon social bowls continue to draw participants, as does the Saturday afternoon bowls.
Looking ahead, next Thursday marks the start of sponsorship by Molongle Creek.
Until next week, good bowling to all!
Contributed with thanks to Stephen Doig.
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