The 2024 grand final for the Lower Burdekin Table Bowls Association took place at the National Hotel last week, with the Crushers going head-to-head against the Falcons. In an exciting showdown, the Crushers emerged victorious, claiming the trophy. Congratulations to the Crushers on their well-deserved win!

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Davison.

The Crushers celebrating their victorious grand final win!
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Both the Falcons and Crushers went head-to-head last week for the Lower Burdekin Table Bowls Association 2024 Grand Final.

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The Ayr Surf Club travelled to the beautiful Alma Bay on Magnetic Island over the weekend to undertake the first carnival of the competition season hosted by Arcadian SLSC.

The club had a small but mighty contingent of only 32 competitors, who all put in some incredible individual and team efforts throughout the two days of competition.

The Ayr crew ended up bringing home second overall out of the seven clubs in the North Barrier Branch, behind a much larger Arcadian team.

Club president Ben Lawry advised that he was extremely proud of all our members and enjoyed watching the comradery and good sportsmanship displayed by all competitors.

He reported that it was a big two days with tough conditions, and it was rewarding to see our members tackling the difficult surf conditions with skill and determination. The club will head off Forrest Beach in a few weeks for the next carnival of the season.

The 2024/2025 Patrol Season was also launched with the historic 'Raising of the Flags' Ceremony Honouring Volunteer Lifesavers and First Nations Custodians.

This year, the inclusion of the Australia, Aboriginal, and Torres Strait Islander flags, along with the Red and Yellow flags, represents a symbolic gesture, highlighting SLSQ's commitment to First Nations acknowledgement, inclusion, and reconciliation.

It also serves to recognise our shared histories and collective responsibility in caring for Queensland's beaches and all who visit them.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry.

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Ayr Surf Club competed in their first carnival of the competition on Magnetic Island over the weekend. Photos supplied

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The Patrol Season was launched with the historic 'Raising of the Flags' Ceremony Honouring Volunteer Lifesavers and First Nations Custodians

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Alexandra Moloney catching a wave in Under 11 board Race
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Charlotte Lawry in Under 13 Ironwoman
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Ryley Sartori in Under 15 Ironwoman
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Isla Chapman in Under 15 Ironwoman
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Jude Lawry and Quinn Pontifex attending their first carnival as Under 8s
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Milla Chapman & Ivy Ryan (Arcadian) in Under 13 Female Flags Final
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Toby Hatherell diving in Under 9 Male Flags
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Start of Under 13 Female Board Race

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This coming weekend, Burdekin Surf Lifesaving will have three patrols scheduled to keep our beaches safe.

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Saturday, 21st September (1:00 pm to 5:00 pm)
Patrol Group B:
   • Terry Lund
   • Tramayne Horan
   • Dylan Carew
   • Heather Scott
   • Anita Giddy
   • Jan Hatherell
   • Gabriel Hatherell
   • Toby Wilson
   • Danny Wilson
Sunday, 22nd September (9:00 am to 1:00 pm)
Patrol Group G:
   • Carl List
   • Jimmy Hayllor
   • James Kennedy
   • Shane Morgan
   • Ross Blakey
   • Ross Rickards
   • Jedd Giddy
Sunday, 22nd September (1:00 pm to 5:00 pm)
Patrol Group F:
   • Lisa Furnell
   • Jen Morgan
   • John Furnell
   • Jo Morgan
   • Lauren Chapman
   • Isla Chapman
   • Ryley Satori
   • Jake Satori
   • Kat Satori
   • Dave Satori

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Thank you to all our dedicated patrollers for keeping the beach safe for the community!
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Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.

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On Saturday 7 September, the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads First Grade team took to the field to play in their first Grand Final game since 2016.

After an eight year Grand Final hiatus, the First Grade team comprising of Tom Kastner, Nathan Steel, Mick Hall, JJ Gallego, Casey Kempson, Robbie Cantarella, Andy Smyth, Tubby Heron, Bradey Vasta, Andrew Kennedy, Darcey Horan, Josh Davies, Kelsey Hesp, Luke Torkington, Josh Furnell, Lochlan Winston, Jai Blakey, Damon Hesp, Liam Cannavan, Joel Horan, Ruben Stanton, Aron Peters, and Bryce Horan put on an exceptional performance, having spectators on the edge of their seats.

Many members of the community journeyed to Townsville in support of the mighty Toads, and to witness a historic and memorable game against Brothers at Mike Carney Toyota Park. With pom poms at the ready, the Burdekin supporters painted the fields red, white and blue to cheer on the boys.

With a strong start, the Canetoads were ahead of Brothers 12 – 7, however lost their lead just before halftime, trailing with a score of 17 – 12. Unable to make a comeback the Toads sadly lost to Brothers with the final score being 27 – 17.

“Battles are lost in the same spirit in which they are won – heads high men, you’ve done us proud,” shared the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads shared a warm congratulations to Brothers on their Grand Final win, expressing that although they’re heartbroken with the result, they’re “damn proud to be a Canetoad”.

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Mike Carney Toyota Park was crawling with Toads of all ages in support of First Grade’s Grand Final game.

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In position, Tubby Heron, put it all on the field for the Grand Final game.

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Many locals traveled to Townsville to paint the field white, red and blue. Photos supplied

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William Chandler's journey in tennis reached a new peak at the recent JDS Regional Finals, where he showcased remarkable resilience and skill, ultimately securing the runner-up position.

The intense competition saw William lose three match points before claiming his final standing, a moment of profound pride and joy for his family.

"We were proud of his achievement and celebrated his willingness to give this sport a go," his parents, Janai and John Chandler, expressed.

The sport, being individual in nature, highlighted William's personal growth and sportsmanship, qualities that have been central to his development.

From his early days swinging racquets to competing across the region, including in Townsville and Charters Towers, tennis has been more than just physical activity for William; it has been a means of building social relationships and integrating into the community. His local club, coached by Patrea Bojack at Delta Tennis, has become a second home, fostering not just William's talent but also his sense of belonging.

The Chandlers actively support William's tennis pursuits, travelling for matches and engaging in the club's community activities, such as working bees.

"It’s teaching him to be resilient and a good sport, focusing on the next point and to have fun," shared the Chandlers.

Despite the challenges, such as late-night trainings and overnight commitments, the family does not view these efforts as sacrifices but as enriching experiences that benefit everyone involved.

For other parents navigating the world of competitive sports with their children, the Chandlers advise patience, kindness, and support. They emphasise the importance of off-the-court experiences where children can play and interact casually, such as playing handball or simply running around.

"We’re grateful for the other families along the journey, and that the kids just get to have fun," they add.

This approach has not only helped William thrive in a sport he loves but has also enriched the Chandler family's life, making every serve and volley count both on and off the court.

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William Chandler (right) and Townsville player Taj York are all smiles after their game. Photo supplied

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The weekend saw plenty of action at Brandon Bowls Club, kicking off with the Trophy Bowls Night on Friday 13th, proudly sponsored by Gurgoes Inspiration Paints Ayr. Despite a lower-than-usual turnout, eight teams enjoyed a cool evening of friendly competition on the green. Team Mio Farming, regulars of the event, took home the honours for the night. Special thanks to all who contributed, especially Ken Feeney on the BBQ, Leo Kenny behind the bar, and the members who brought food. The next round is scheduled for 18th October, sponsored by Nutrients AG Solutions.

Winning Team: Peter Jorgensen, Phillip Cadillo, Peter Glen, Alf

Saturday 14th September saw twelve bowlers head to Bowen for the Country Pennants second round at Wangaratta Bowls Club. Teams from Ayr, Brandon, Bowen, and Wangaratta faced off in a round-robin format. Conditions were ideal, with a gentle sea breeze providing a challenge at times. After three games, Bowen and Brandon tied with one draw and two wins each, but Bowen clinched the overall victory by 6 shots, retaining the trophy they won earlier this year at Brandon.

Team Pearce claimed three wins, while Team Robins managed two wins and a loss. Team Wood ended with three losses. Players included Allan Garioch, Ken Ferguson, Ben Mills, Mick McCloskey, Doug Robins, Jayson Farry, Glenn Woodford, Jamie Woods, Leo Kenny, Lloyd Shepherd, Ray Paneccasio, and Gary Pearce.

The weekend wrapped up on Sunday 15th September with the A Grade Pairs Championship, where Neville Dickinson and Len Feeney faced the dynamic pairing of Danny O’Shea and Tony Bayliss. O'Shea's crafty play helped secure the win, advancing them to the next round.
In the Championship Triples, Vince Beitia, Ray Paneccasio, and Leo Kenny narrowly defeated Peter Lejarraga, Kevin Collins, and Doug Robins. Social bowls also provided exciting matchups, with the following results:

   • Damion Morello and Allan Garioch def. Terry Feakes and Joe Yipnazar
   • Mick McCloskey and Helen Collin def. Ken Ferguson and Jamie Woods
   • Gary Nosworthy, Glenn Woodford, and Gary Pearce def. Norm Storrie, Henry Hazel, and Hugh Montgomery
It was a great weekend of bowls with spirited competition and camaraderie all around!

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Peter Jorgensen, Phillip Cadillo, Peter Glen and Alf
V Dal Bello, Morgan Sopen, E Sopen, Rob Jorgensen and Ray
Lots of Fun!

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd

Local Football Report

The Burdekin Panthers Premier team travelled to Townsville on Saturday night to face Brothers in the Grand Final.

Backed by a large crowd of supporters, the Panthers were narrowly defeated 3-4 in a thrilling, back-and-forth match.

Although the result didn’t go their way, the Panthers played an outstanding game, and the outcome could easily have been different.

The Ayr Anzac Club team entered the match with a mix of nerves and anticipation for their biggest game of the season.

Having split results against Brothers during the regular season, the Panthers knew it would be a close contest.

However, the game didn’t start well for Burdekin, as Brothers scored within the first few minutes. But just a minute later, after another brilliant run down the wing by Elliott Dal Santo and a perfect cross into the box, Matthew Kolb was left unmarked at the back post, calmly slotting the ball into the net to equalise.

The game continued at a high pace, with Brothers regaining the lead to make it 2-1 after 15 minutes.

Ten minutes later, Matthew Walker delivered a great pass behind the defence to Kolb, who controlled the ball beautifully and struck it sweetly into the back of the net, levelling the score again.

At the 35-minute mark, Burdekin won a free kick just outside the Brothers’ penalty area. Luke Maguire stepped up and expertly curled the ball over the wall, leaving the goalkeeper no chance, putting Burdekin ahead 3-2.

However, Brothers managed to equalise with the final kick of the half, sending the teams into the break tied at 3-3.

The Panthers dominated the opening 20 minutes of the second half but couldn’t capitalise on their chances.

In the 65th minute, Brothers were awarded a free kick just outside Burdekin's penalty area, and from the set piece, they scored with a well-placed header to take a 4-3 lead.

Despite upping the intensity and creating several half-chances, the Panthers couldn’t find a way back, and the game ended 4-3 in Brothers’ favour.

While the young Panthers side would have preferred a different outcome, it was still a highly successful season. With a youthful squad, the Burdekin team is aiming to make Grand Final appearances a regular occurrence in the coming years – and to win a few along the way.

Night Soccer
Week 2 of the Delta Cleaners Night Soccer competition saw an impressive 85 goals scored across 20 games.

Rocky Pond Warriors led the scoring in the Men’s Division, while UDS Ladies topped the Women’s league.

This week marked the end of the trial games, with the competition proper starting on Tuesday.

Juniors
Although the Junior season has come to a close, the Junior Social Soccer season is set to kick off next term, starting on Tuesday, 15th October.

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Contributed with thanks to Cyclops.

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Burdekin FC’s Premier League side have qualified for Saturday’s Grand Final after winning 1-0 against MA Olympic in the Preliminary Final, played at Paradise Park in Townsville last Saturday night. 
 
The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers had a sense of confidence going into this game, having beaten MA Olympic twice with the most recent win coming just two weeks ago. However, the Panthers also knew that it wasn't going to be an easy task coming up against the minor premiers. The game started slowly for the Burdekin as their nerves showed. Olympic had the Panthers pinned in their defensive half for the first ten minutes with a couple of nervy moments from set pieces. Once the Panthers got through this, they started to play their game with the front three causing havoc for the Olympic defence. 
 
After some intense pressing, Matthew Kolb won the ball, found himself behind the Olympic defence but put his shot wide. Then, in the 24th minute, Elliott Dal Santo worked his way into the penalty area and fired a ball across the goal which found Jay Leckenby unmarked at the back post. The league’s leading scorer calmly slotted the ball home to give the Burdekin a 1-0 lead. 
 
A few minutes later, Leckenby looked to turn provider as he whipped a ball across the goal and found Dal Santo’s head, but unfortunately, he couldn't keep his effort down. The rest of the half went in a similar fashion with the Panthers dominating the proceedings, but no further goals were scored before the half-time break.  
 
The Panthers knew that Olympic would come out firing in the second half, but Burdekin’s defence continued to keep them at bay quite comfortably. Olympic’s set pieces continued to cause some problems, but the Panthers continued to keep them out. The Burdekin’s opportunities in front of goal dried up in the second half, other than an Oliver Gabiola long-range shot that was agonisingly close. Olympic continued to attack but the Panthers all dug deep to help secure the club’s first grand final appearance in eleven years.  
 
Grand Final versus Brothers at Paradise Park in Townsville, next Saturday at 8.00 pm. Be There! 
 
Contributed with thanks to Cyclops

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Go The Panthers!

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The Burdekin Roosters Reggies suffered a tough defeat in the Grand Final last Sunday, falling 42-24 to minor premiers Souths at the Sports Reserve in Townsville. Early mistakes from the Roosters allowed Souths to gain momentum, and by halftime, the Redmen led 24-0. Despite a spirited second-half comeback, where the Roosters outscored Souths 24-18, the early deficit proved insurmountable.

Terry Connors crossed twice for the Roosters, with Nemia Nawave and Braedyn Cotter also scoring, but Souths were too strong overall, with tries from Jayke Raikaki (2), Kirani Levi (2), George Reuben, Jason Mosby, and Raymond Oborne. Reuben converted all seven attempts.
In the A-grade final, Western Lions appeared set for victory with a 24-4 halftime lead over Souths. However, Souths stormed back in the second half, scoring 30 unanswered points to win 34-24. Michael Carroll scored two tries, with Shaun Nona kicking five from six conversions.

Centrals redeemed their season in the Women's Grand Final, beating defending champions Western Lions 22-10. Captain Jordi Mahendranajah scored twice for the Tigers, while Mateeka Nielson and Tamika Little also crossed the line.
In the under-20s, Brothers claimed a 20-6 win over Centrals, with Mitch Brown named man of the match. Richard Price scored two tries, supported by Rayzarlin Pearson and Mitch Doyle.

Despite strong efforts across all divisions, early mistakes and second-half rallies defined the Grand Final day outcomes.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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The Burdekin Netball Association has awarded Wilma Wright a prestigious Life Membership in recognition of her 15 years of dedicated service. This honour is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the association, and Wilma’s tireless commitment over the years has made her a standout recipient.

Wilma became involved with the association in 1996 when her daughter Sarah joined the local netball scene, shortly after the family moved to the Burdekin.

Despite being new to the area, Wilma quickly immersed herself in the community, starting with a simple task—mending team bibs. Her contributions soon grew to include managing uniforms, scoring games, and helping with fundraising events, such as cake stalls.

Known for her reliability, Wilma was a regular presence at the Thursday competitions, where her organisational skills earned her the affectionate title of "Mrs Afternoon Office Lady." She ensured the office was always well-prepared and ready by 4 pm, a vital role that supported the smooth running of the association's busy afternoons.

Beyond the weekly games, Wilma also spent 13 years managing representative teams at State Age Championships and other carnivals. From preparing spreadsheets to cooking meals for players, her attention to detail and dedication were critical to the success of these events.

Her homemade muffins became a beloved treat during these busy weekends.

This Life Membership not only recognises Wilma’s incredible service but also highlights the lasting impact she has had on the Burdekin Netball Association.

Her commitment and hard work have left an enduring mark on the community and set an inspiring example for others to follow.

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Burdekin Netball Association awarded Wilma Wright Life Membership in recognition of her 15 years of dedicated service. Photo supplied

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club will be back on duty this coming weekend with the start of the September school holidays.

The red and yellow flags will be raised again at Alva Beach on Saturday afternoons, all day Sunday, as well as public holidays from now until May.

There is still time to 'Join the Club' and become part of a family friendly organisation and give back to your community with a wide variety of roles available and a new Bronze and SRC course commencing shortly.

For more information, please contact admin on ayrslsc@gmail.com.

The club also announced their new Junior Club Captains for the 2024-25 Season last weekend at the Water Festival Parade. 

Congratulations to Briella Wassmuth and Zachary Dale have taken on this role for the season.

Patrols:

Saturday 14th Sept (1-5pm)
Group F: Lisa Furnell, Jen Morgan, Jo Morgan, Lauren Chapman, Isla Chapman, Ryley Sartori

Sunday 15th September (9am-1pm)
Super Subs: Josh Furnell, Brooke Cross, Barry Cross

Sunday 15th September (1-5pm)
Group G: Jimmy Hayllor, Carl List, James Kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Rickards, Jedd Giddy

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The two new Junior Club Captains Briella Wassmuth and Zachary Dale

Under 12 Burdekin Wildcats Girls Representative Team were announced 1st Place Gold Medallist in Division 2, winning all 15 games at the Burdekin at Basketball Queensland’s North Queensland Junior Basketball Championships (NQJBC).

Back Row: (L to R) Manager – Hayley Colls, Darci Colls, Allie Boland, Bella Galbraith, Addison Reid, Dakota Oliver, Head Coach – Larni Vasta
Front Row: (L to R) Assistant Coach – Kate Gaze, Tilly Chandler, Gracie Giardina, Radha Haller, Hallie Friend and Scarlett Sinclair.

GOLD MEDALISTS NOW HEADING TO STATE CHAMPS

Local girls represented the Burdekin at Basketball Queensland’s North Queensland Junior Basketball Championships (NQJBC) recently.

The championships run from June to August annually and consist of three tournaments which are held in Cairns, Mackay and Townsville respectively with elite junior players representing their local associations. 
 
The u12 Burdekin Wildcats Girls Representative Team, consisting of 10 junior athletes competed in 15 games across these three tournaments winning all 15 games - undefeated and were announced 1st Place Gold Medallist in Division 2 on Sunday 25th August 2024.

Head Coach Larni said she was absolutely thrilled with the results.

“As a first time coach at the representative level, it has been an absolute honour and privilege to work with such a remarkable and talented team,” she expressed.

“Witnessing their personal and team growth throughout the season has been truly inspiring.  I am hopeful and really looking forward to a great outcome at State Championships in September!”
 
The u12 team is now preparing to compete in the premier competition combining athletes across South, Central and North Queensland at Basketball Queensland’s Queensland State Championship being held from 19th to 22 September 2024 in Zilmere at the Northside Basketball Sports Centre.

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Team with Medals
Back Row: (L to R) Head Coach – Larni Vasta, Allie Boland, Hallie Friend, Darci Colls, Scarlett Sinclair, Bella Galbraith, Gracie Giardina, Manager – Hayley Colls
Front Row: (L to R) Assistant Coach – Kate Gaze, Radha Haller, Tilly Chandler, Addison Reid, Dakota Oliver

Team mates Darci and Scarlett
 
Dakota dribbling up the court
Photos supplied
 

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Local

Burdekin Panthers had just the Premiers playing at the weekend. They had finished third on the League ladder and were playing in the Elimination Final against Estates at Paradise Park in Townsville. The Premiers won 2-1 and now face Olympic, who lost 0-2 to Brothers, next Saturday at 7.00 pm, for a Place in the Grand Final against Brothers.

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers were very nervous as they played their first Premier League finals series in ten years. The Panthers knew Estates would come out firing and they did. They were all over the Panthers for the first fifteen minutes and had a goal disallowed for offside in that period. This seemed to spark some life into the Burdekin as they started to find their feet and started to play their game.  The Panthers began to get better field position and won a few free kicks in prime positions. If not for great goalkeeping from Estates, Matthew Kolb could have scored two “goal of the season” contenders. Right before half time, Oliver Gabiola expertly got on the end of a well taken Ryan Scodellaro set piece to head the ball into the back of the net taking the Panthers into the break with a 1-0 lead.

The Panthers knew that Estates would come out firing again to start the second half but this time the Burdekin had no answer and Estates equalised within two minutes of the restart. This buoyed the Townsville team as they continued to dominate as they had in the early parts of the first half. Again, the Panthers started to wrestle back control and started to find space down the wings. A delicate little ball from Jay Leckenby found Luke Maguire inside the box and with his left foot he curled the ball into the back of the net to make it 2-1 with about thirty minutes to play. The Panthers continued to create more chances as Estates chased an equaliser. A couple of crosses from the right found their way across the Burdekin goal mouth but no one could get a final touch on it to put it in the back of the net, setting up a nervy finish. With a last-ditch effort Estates found their way into the penalty area, but Jarrod Camer and Joshua Valle bundled the ball out for a corner. From this corner, Estates had a free header at the back post and could have equalised but fortunately put it wide. From the ensuing goal kick the referee blew the full time whistle and the Panthers were through to the semi-final. 

Masters

Monday Night Masters has finished for the year and will recommence in January 2025.

Night Soccer

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer kicked off its 46th Season on Tuesday with twenty nine Men’s teams and fourteen Women’s Teams. Nomination Forms are at Delta Cleaners, Intersport and Sportfirst. Late entries will be considered

Juniors

Saturday was the last weekend of the year of Townsville teams travelling down to the Burdekin and what a successful year it has been!  Our kids have benefited so much from playing against different opposition.  This Saturday is Junior Breakup day with games, jumping castle, sausage sizzle and a lolly drop!  See you all there for a fun day!

National and International

The A League 2024-5 season kicks off on the weekend of 18 - 20 October. The Premiers, Central Coast Mariners are at home to Melbourne Victory and new team Auckland meet Brisbane Roar.

The Socceroos will be back in action when they begin their AFC World Cup Qualification matches. They start, at home, on the Gold Coast, this Thursday when they play Bahrein. They are then away to Indonesia on 10th September.

In the EPL after three rounds only two teams have maximum points, Manchester City, and Liverpool. Manchester City has scored nine goals and Erling Haaland has netted seven of them. At the foot of the table Southampton and Everton are yet to register a point.

In Serie A Juventus could only manage a 0-0 draw at home to Roma and now four top teams, Inter, Juve, Torino and Udinese all have seven points, Como and Venezia are holding up the table with one point each. In Spain’s La Liga, after four rounds, Barcelona top the table with maximum points after marmelising Valladolid 7-0, four points clear of Real Madrid, Atletico and Villareal. Valencia, with a single point, prop up the table.

Ligue 1 in France, and after three rounds it is much the same as usual PSG, are top with nine points and Marseille, Nantes, Lens and Monaco are all two points behind. At the foot of the table Angers and St Etienne look to be in deep trouble. Germany’s Bundesliga has only played two rounds and Heidenheim, Bayern and Leipzig are the only teams with maximum points.  Leverkusen lost for the first time in a very long time.

This week’s quote is from Argentine star Diego Maradona “My mother thinks I am the best. And I was raised to always believe what my mother tells me” 

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The Burdekin Panthers Premier team have qualified for the semi-final against Olympic this week. Photo Credit: Sharon Woodward.

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The Burdekin Roosters will have three teams competing in the RLT Grand Finals this weekend, with the Under-13s and Under-18s playing on Saturday, and the Reserve grade squad taking the field on Sunday.

The Under-13s are set to face Charters Towers at 8:30am on Saturday, following a commanding 60-0 victory over the Western Lions last weekend. The Miners edged out the Roosters in the major semi-final by just four points, but with a couple of key players returning from illness, the Little Roosters are raring to go.

In the Under-18s, the Roosters will meet Brothers in what promises to be a thrilling clash at 2:00pm, also at the RLT grounds. The young Roosters boast a talented lineup, with many of them earmarked for future senior selection.

One standout is Jye Olsen, who has already made a name for himself in A-grade, winning player awards. Olsen will be a key player at halfback for the Under-18s. Another player to watch is Luca Lago, whose sharp ball skills and blazing speed have also earned him A-grade appearances this year. Speedy centre Jahi Starr and fan-favourite front-rower Llama Ghee, who has played in both A-grade and Reserve grade, will bring their experience to the team.

Ghee is also part of the extended bench for the Reserve grade Grand Final on Sunday. The Under-18 squad is rounded out by standout players like reliable fullback Adam Camer, with wingers Amadeus Bulgarelli and Kane Batchelor ready to finish off scoring opportunities. In the centres, Lincoln Boccolatte and Starr will provide strong attacking play, while the forward pack, led by Joey Southwell and Jacob Horan, will be looking to dominate with solid service from hooker Harrison Lammon.

Back-rowers Leylan Lampton and Johnathon Hunter bring height and versatility, with Jett Castello locking down the pack as a tough ball player.  

The Reserve grade bench will feature an exciting mix of players, including Brody Scrivener, Levi Ludwick, and the lightning-fast winger Maliq Ogomeni. Should the front rowers tire, Archer Swindley will step in to provide big minutes.

With such depth and talent across the teams, the Burdekin Roosters are set for an exciting weekend of rugby league action.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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The Burdekin Roosters U18s are expected to field a talented lineup in this weekend’s Grand Final.

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The return of five-eighth and goal kicker Dylan Doak from suspension proved to be the decisive factor in the Burdekin Roosters' Preliminary Final victory over Bowen last Sunday.

Doak slotted three crucial goals, while Bowen’s kicker missed two vital conversions, allowing Chris Perry's Burdekin team to advance to the Grand Final.

Looking ahead, Coach Chris Perry is hopeful that the return of another key player, Kali Nauque, from suspension will have a similar impact. The Burdekin side faces off against Souths in the RLT Grand Final at the Sports Reserve this Sunday at 1:30pm.

“Kali says very little, but he is a leader with his actions and high work rate,” Perry said.

Known for his fierce defensive tackles, Nauque’s performance is sure to inspire his teammates.

In another boost for the Roosters, defender Alex Lennox is set to return from injury and is expected to provide further inspiration. The coaching staff will also assess the fitness of French International hooker Paul Merlo, who missed last week’s match due to injury.

Reflecting on their previous game, Perry said, “The team had to defend grimly given the lopsided penalty count, and they did so with very few blemishes.”

Souths earned their spot in the Grand Final after defeating Bowen in the semi-final. They’ve only lost one game this season, coincidentally to Burdekin, so they’ll be on high alert. Souths finished the season with an impressive 532 points for and 216 against, compared to the Roosters’ fourth-place finish with 418 points for and 350 against.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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