The Burdekin Roosters will be in action this Sunday, with both the Reserves and Hens competing in their respective minor semi-finals. For both teams, it's do-or-die as losing means the end of their season.

In A Grade, minor premiers Souths will face Western Lions for a spot in the Grand Final. Souths have been dominant this season, remaining undefeated, with Western Lions being the only team to come close, managing a draw. In the A Grade knockout semi-final, Brothers will take on Charters Towers. Brothers owe their second chance to the Roosters, who secured a win against Herbert River last Saturday, eliminating Herbert River from the finals.

In Reserve Grade, Souths will meet Bowen in the major semi-final, while Chris Perry's Roosters will face Centrals in the knockout semi-final at 1pm on Sunday. Perry has named a strong lineup to avenge their recent controversial loss to Centrals, where the Roosters led 22-6 before a series of penalties turned the tide, resulting in a 30-22 defeat. Playmaker Dylan Doak was sent off in that match, but should the Roosters win this week, he'll return for the preliminary final.

Perry is still awaiting decisions on players placed on report last week. If the selected squad takes the field without issues, they stand a good chance of progressing. Key players like Nemia Nawave, Terry Connors, Hayden Lammon, Kali Nauque, Tate Brombal, and Paul Merlo are all expected to play, provided they clear the judiciary and injury concerns. Caleb Noah, Brody Ferguson, Dom Arrate, and Dominic Augostis are also in top form and ready to lead the charge.

In the Under 20s, the Townsville-based clubs will dominate the finals, with Souths facing Brothers in the major semi-final and Centrals taking on Western Lions in the minor semi-final.

The Burdekin Hens will meet Brothers at 11:45am on Field 2 in the knockout ladies' semi-final, while Western Lions will play Centrals in the major semi-final. Both the Hens and Brothers have had mixed seasons, with the Hens securing 8 wins and Brothers 7 wins and a draw. The teams have met twice this season, with the Hens winning convincingly in Ayr and Brothers returning the favour in Townsville.

The Hens may lack size, but they have plenty of speed, with Queensland Country backline players capable of scoring tries. The Monday twins, Martina and Stephanie, add more pace to the squad, with their older sister Teah Lee orchestrating play. A potential game-changer is former Brisbane Natives fullback Kezziah Lammon, who has the ability to turn a match around. Jo Morgan, returning from injury, is another player who can score tries, while Tiarna Krutzfelt, Lily Chappell, and Tegan Johnson will give their all.

In the forwards, Taleisha Bulgarelli, Margie O'Rourke, Abby King, Akeilah Thomasson, and new signing Alana Dobe, who has a knack for scoring, will carry the load.

All finals will be played at Jack Manski Oval, the home ground of Brothers.
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Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Set to clash with Brothers the Hens are ready to put it on the field this weekend for the semi-final showdown!

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The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads had a busy weekend as they hosted their final home games of the season, setting the stage for the upcoming semi-finals.

The action kicked off on Friday night with the U11s taking on Teachers West. The young Canetoads played an outstanding game, pushing their opponents to the limit but narrowly missing victory by just one try. Despite the close loss, the team celebrated with high spirits in the sheds afterward. U11s Final Score: 45 – 40.

Unfortunately, the third-grade team missed out on their game as Teachers West were unable to field a team, resulting in a forfeit. Third-Grade Final Score: Forfeit.

On Saturday, the Pink Toads (Ladies) faced a tough challenge against North Ward. Battling injuries and held together by strapping tape, the ladies gave it their all but were unable to break through North Ward's defence. It was a tough day for the Pink Toads, who were held scoreless. Ladies Final Score:  45 – 0.

The Reggies took on Brothers in a match that displayed skill and determination. However, they were outmatched by the top-seeded Brothers, who seemed ready for the finals, securing a solid victory. Reggies Final Score: 26 – 0.

The main event of the weekend featured the Canetoads in a thrilling clash against a strong opponent. Both teams were clearly eyeing the semi-finals, and the game reflected their intensity. In a match characterized by excellent defense from both sides, neither team could pull ahead, resulting in a hard-fought draw. Canetoads Final Score: 12 – 12.

With the regular season now behind them, the Canetoads are gearing up for the semi-finals, where they’ll be looking to capitalize on their strong performances this season.

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Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

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Despite last weekend’s loss, the Pink Toads are gearing up for a memorable clash ahead of this weekend’s decider games.

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Members of the Home Hill Pickleball group travelled to Tennis Townsville on Saturday 17 August for a social match, undeterred by bridge closures, fog, and heat. The players enjoyed a nearly perfect day, participating in a "King and Queen of the Court" format that allowed them to mix and compete with Tennis Townsville's highly skilled players, gaining valuable pickleball experience in the process.

Hannah Casswell, Ryan Schwab, and Toni and Michele Pivotto shone as the standout players for Home Hill during the match.

The day also included a delightful morning tea and provided a great opportunity for everyone to connect with other social and like-minded individuals.

“We were treated to a great morning tea and made the most of the opportunity to meet a bunch of social, and like-minded people,” shared Kate Casswell.

The Home Hill Pickleball members extend their thanks to Michelle and the Tennis Townsville crew for their hospitality.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell.

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Home Hill Pickleball players brought the heat to the court on Saturday
Friendly competition and plenty of celebratory wins were had on the Tennis Townsville courts
A social and sporting success! Home Hill Pickleball players enjoyed an awesome day of “King and Queen of the Court” with Tennis Townsville

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The week at the Ayr Bowling Club kicked off on Tuesday 13 August with two games of triples, showcasing some impressive bowling!

Last week, Pam Power and Irene Wilson represented the Ayr Bowling Club in Townsville at the NQDLBA Open Singles Championship. Pam made it to the quarterfinals - well done, Pam! A big congratulations to Irene Wilson, who won the championship by defeating Sue Brady (Pine Rivers) in the final. This win highlights the exceptional talent of the Ayr Bowling Club ladies, who have had a fantastic season.

Thursday’s Ladies Open Triples saw a tightly contested match, with the last few ends determining the outcome. The winners were Lyn Storrie, Beryl Cornford, and Irene Wilson, who defeated Ruth Moore, Heather Jorgensen, and Pam Power.

Another awesome day of bowls was had on Sunday 18 August for the Championship Finals at the Ayr Bowling Club. In the final of the Championship Triples, J. Murray, H. Hazel (sub), and M. Paravicini emerged victorious over J. Pirrone, R. Young, and C. Essex. The semi-final of the A and B pairs saw J. Grabbi and L. Stidston defeat V. Beitia and W. Coonan. In the Mixed Fours, K. Shepherd, B. Shepherd, D. Soper, and R. Soper triumphed over L. Wolffe, J. Pirrone, B. Schultze, and A. Bull.

Please check the club board for further championship club games scheduled for the 25 August. Competition closing dates are also posted and the Club reminds players to make sure to enter teams by the deadlines.

The Ayr Bowling Club invites everyone to join them for Fun Friday Night Bowls on the 23 August, starting at 6pm. Sponsored by Tinus Engineering, this event is perfect for all levels of bowlers. Bring some friends or come solo and make new ones! For just $10 per game, you'll enjoy a sausage sizzle at 6pm, with bowling starting at 7pm, followed by a light supper.

To enter or for more information, contact Maurie Power on 0412 551 816 or Pam Power on 0458 330 019.

The Ayr Bowling Club looks forward to seeing you on the green!

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

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Congratulations to Irene Wilson on winning the NQ Open Championship Singles!

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On Wednesday 14 August, the Ayr Golf Club held another Monthly Medal competition, proudly sponsored by Eathorne's Intersport. The course was in excellent condition, and 25 ladies competed for a spot in the End-of-Year Monthly Medal Final.

In A Grade, Pat Lawson emerged as the winner, with Janet Trezise as the runner-up. B Grade saw Vicki Adcock take the top spot, followed by Kerry Mann as runner-up. In C Grade, Angie Baxter claimed victory, with Katrina Hearn finishing as runner-up.

Congratulations to all the winners, and the Club expressed a big thank you to Nev and Intersport for their generous sponsorship!

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

A winning day on the green was had by 25 ladies for last Wednesday’s Monthly Medal competition.

Ayr Golf Club was pleased to have Sanco, a local family-run Burdekin tomato grower, sponsor the junior day on Saturday 17 August. The morning was a success, with Drummond Golf vouchers as the highly coveted prizes.

In the 3-hole competition, Heath Suficiencia took the gross winner title with a score of 27, while Opie McKeough emerged as the Nett winner. Congratulations to both boys!

In the 6-hole competition, Evelyn Mahoney claimed the gross winner spot with a score of 52, and Jett James secured the Nett winner title.

In the 9-hole competition, Tegan Saxby made a move from the 6-hole group to join the 9-hole competition. Lyla Land achieved a personal best with a gross score of 58, earning the gross winner title, while Rheanna Bain was the Nett winner for the 9 holes.

Coach Darryll traveled from Townsville on Monday afternoon to teach the juniors some short game skills. These sessions have proven successful, with many juniors achieving personal bests during competitions.

This Saturday, B&M Drilling will sponsor the morning competition, followed by a group of juniors traveling to Bowen on Sunday to compete in the Bowen Junior Open. Good luck to all participants!

Contributed with thanks to Laura Mahoney.

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Granddaughter of Sanco’s owners, Ivy Land proudly presenting the Sanco sign who generously sponsored Saturday’s Junior Golfers!
Saturday saw plenty of celebrated winners and an overall great day on the green. 

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The Brandon Bowls Club held a fantastic afternoon on Wednesday for mixed bowls, with the highlight being an A-grade singles match where Lyn Storrie triumphed over Vanda Ballao! In the triples game, Kev Collins, Sandra Darwen, and Helen Collins secured a win against Ann Newton, Lyn Farr, and Darelle Pearce.

On Friday 16 August, the Club’s monthly Trophy Bowls Night, sponsored by Findex, saw a great turnout with 76 bowlers. The Club and its members expressed a big thank you to Findex and their representative, Amanda-Jane Bonanno, for the generous support.

The winners of the night were the team on Rink 7, led by the powerhouse Ray Pancho Paneccasio, along with Ben Mill, Joe Zanella, and June Zanella. Second place went to the team on Rink 3: Paddy visiting from Ireland, Jamie Woods, Peter Lejarraga, and Allyson Williams.

The Findex team, comprising of Lauren Roncatto, Tanya Elton, Melissa Piotto, Leah Poli, and Amanda-Jane Bonanno, added to the night's success.

Sunday’s ideal conditions saw Richie Mau carry Leo Kenny after a big night out at the Cowboys, where they managed to claim victory over Mick McClosky and Hugh Montgomery.

A reminder to all members with pending championship games to please arrange to complete your matches soon with the Club.

Sunday’s Social Bowls on 18 August hosted 24 bowlers showing off their skills on the green, delivering high-quality performances. The day's winners were:

-Jimmy Murray, Vince Beitta, and Jamie Woods
- Mick O’Shea, Ray Paneccasio, and Wayne Newton
- Gary Nosworthy, Kevin Ferguson, and Peter Henderson

Unfortunately, the jackpot didn’t go off.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

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Rink 3 second placers were Ray Pancho Paneccasio, Ben Mill, Sponsor Amanda -Jane Bonanno, and Joe and June Zanella.
Paddy (visiting from Ireland), Jamie Woods, Peter Lejarraga, Sponsor Amanda-Jane Bonanno, and Allyson Williams.
Findex Team’s Lauren Roncatto, Tanya Elton, Melissa Piotto, Leah Poli and Amanda-Jane Bonnano.

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The Ayr Surf Club is calling on members of the public, both new and past, to join the amazing club.
 
Now is the time to be a part of Surf Life Saving Queensland, the largest volunteer organisation in the world, and contribute to a safer, stronger community. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer, passionate about first aid, or eager to help out, there’s a place for you with the Ayr Surf Club. Enjoy the sun, make new friends, and help save lives. Wear the red and yellow with pride!

Be a Lifesaver, Your Way! Being a lifesaver is all about what you want it to be. Whether you give one day a month, a few hours a week, or every other weekend, it’s about bringing your passion to your local lifesaving club. For your coastal community, your love of the beach, or your passion for adrenaline, it’s about learning new things and meeting new people. Join us today and make a difference.

There is a role for everyone! Surf lifesaving is for everyone, regardless of age or background. Whether you are recently retired or simply looking for a meaningful way to spend your time, there’s a place for you here. Whether it be cooking the BBQ for nippers on a Sunday, manning a radio and assisting on patrols, or a dedicated person who assists with fundraising, there is a role for you. Join us and find your perfect role in our lifesaving family!
 
At lifesaving, the Club knows people have lives off the beach, so they only ask for the time you can give. It’s a rewarding experience that fits easily into even the busiest of schedules, whether it be 5, 10 or 50 hours.
 
“At our club, you’ll find a warm, welcoming environment where friendships flourish and mutual support is a cornerstone of our ethos,” shared Kellie Lawry.

“Every role in lifesaving is crucial, and your involvement will make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Embrace new challenges, join us, and be part of something extraordinary!”
 
The Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club is about to enter their new patrolling season on 14 September.  The nippers are currently already underway, and you still have the opportunity to join in on the fun!
 
Feel free to contact the club administrator on ayrslsc@gmail.com to be directed to one of the club advocacies to chat further.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry.

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The Ayr Surf Club is calling for members of the community to join the fun, and make a difference!

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Casalegno Fields were bustling with activity on Saturday 10 August, as the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads welcomed back some long-lost familiar faces for Old Boys Day. A highlight of the season calendar, Old Boys Day brought together past players and supporters, and the club hopes everyone enjoyed the festivities.

“What a great night - A big thanks to all our Old Boys and the people that helped make yesterday such an awesome day,” shared the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads Old Boys.

The Under-11s put up a strong fight against Brothers Blue but ultimately fell short. The Pink Toads also faced tough competition and were unable to secure a win. However, the First to Third Grade teams celebrated victories for the second consecutive weekend. Despite Charters Towers forfeiting in Third Grade, the team still enjoyed a good game, with the Canetoads showcasing impressive try-scoring skills.

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Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

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Many travelled to attend the annual Old Boys Day on Saturday 10 August as hosted by the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

The Burdekin Panthers faced a tough weekend on the field, managing just one win out of four matches. The weekend kicked off on a sour note with the Division One Funkies suffering a heavy 0-8 defeat to Ingham in Townsville on Friday night. The following day, the Panthers’ other three teams travelled to face Riverway JCU, where they experienced mixed results. The Premiers fell short with a 1-4 loss, while the Under 23s emerged victorious with a 4-1 win, and the Ladies secured a 1-1 draw.
This Saturday promises to be an exciting day for the Panthers, as they host three home games in celebration of Ladies Day. The Division 1 Funkies are set to face Saints Eagles Souths, while the Premiers and Under 23s will take on the Rebels.
The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers were well aware of the importance of their upcoming matches, needing to secure victories to lock in a top 2 finish. Their opponents, JCU, were equally determined, as they required a win to keep their finals hopes alive. JCU came out strong, scoring twice in the first 20 minutes, the second goal being a long-range strike. Despite the early setbacks, the Panthers regrouped, with Elliott Dal Santo creating several chances down the right wing. However, JCU managed to extend their lead with a third goal against the run of play. Burdekin had numerous opportunities, including five solid chances, but struggled to convert. The second half saw the Panthers dominating possession, but they couldn’t break through JCU’s solid defence. A red card for JCU allowed Luke Maguire to pull one back for the Panthers, making it 3-1. However, JCU quickly responded with another goal, and despite further attacking efforts from Burdekin, including two strikes against the woodwork, they couldn’t close the gap. JCU’s early intensity proved decisive, but with finals secured, the Panthers remain focused on securing a top 2 finish.
Burdekin FC Reserves travelled to JCU with confidence, aiming to keep their slim finals hopes alive. The Panthers started the game strongly, dominating both possession and control. Adam Mottin opened the scoring in the 8th minute after several early chances. The game, played on a challenging pitch, remained scrappy, but Burdekin maintained their lead, entering halftime 1-0. After the break, Damian Casella scored within the first two minutes, and Mottin added a second goal in the 65th minute. A brief lapse in concentration allowed JCU to score, but the Panthers sealed the game with a last-minute goal from Oscar Licciardello, ending with a 4-1 victory. This win marks Burdekin’s 7th in their last 8 games, though their finals destiny still hinges on other results. The team remains determined to win their remaining two matches to keep their hopes alive.
The Austral Masonry Funkies endured a challenging match against Ingham at Paradise Park, suffering their worst start of the season by conceding a goal in the first minute. Ingham’s relentless attack saw them net four more goals by halftime. Burdekin improved their performance in the second half, showing greater determination and competing for every ball. Despite their efforts to hold possession and move the ball upfield, Ingham’s pressure eventually wore them down, leading to three more goals in the final 15 minutes. The game ended in a disappointing 0-8 defeat, but the Funkies’ second-half improvement provides a foundation to build on for their next match against SES at home on Saturday.
The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies put in a valiant effort against JCU, despite facing late withdrawals from the squad. The Ladies fought hard, pushing through injuries and fatigue to keep JCU at bay for 80 minutes. Charley Ruskin gave the Panthers the lead with a goal after a scramble in the box, but JCU quickly responded with a stunning long-range strike to equalize. Despite creating several attacking opportunities, the Panthers couldn’t find the winning goal, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw.
The Under 13 Panthers had a mixed week, starting with a 1-0 victory against the top-placed Warriors on Wednesday night in Townsville. Rohan Kelly scored the decisive goal after a quality corner from Brady Wilshere. However, in their final game of the season on Saturday, they fell 0-2 to Brothers White. Brothers dominated early on, scoring their first goal from a goalmouth scramble and adding a second with a long-range strike just before full-time. Despite the loss, the Panthers showed great spirit and determination, finishing the season with their heads held high.
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Masters and Juniors Update

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Monday Night Masters was rained off, but the final week of the 2024 season is set for next Monday. Be sure to attend! Delta Cleaners Night Soccer will kick off its 46th season on Tuesday, September 3rd. Nomination forms are available at Delta Cleaners, Intersport, and Sportfirst.
On the juniors' front, Saturday’s sunny weather allowed for a great morning of football, with teams from various Townsville clubs joining in before the rain arrived on Sunday.

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This week, the Brandon Bowls Club saw a closely contested match during Wednesday afternoon's social bowls, ending in a tie. Kaye Garner, Vanda Ballao, Lyn Storrie, and Helen Collins matched up against Ann Newton, Sandra Darwen, Colleen Olsen, and Lyn Farr, with neither side able to claim victory.

Friday night brought lively competition and plenty of laughter to the greens, with Norm Storrie, Lyn Storrie, and Gary Pearce emerging as the winning trio. They defeated Ben Mills, Rob Jorgensen, and Ray Panacassio in a friendly yet fierce battle. In another match, Margaret McLaughlin, Jason Farry, Peter Lejarraga, and Jamie Woods bested David Bycroft, Lloyd Shepherd, and Ross McLaughlin.

Over the weekend, the Champion of Champions was held in Townsville, and it was a proud moment for Brandon Bowls Club to have two of its players in the competition. Gary Pearce competed in the A Grade Singles, winning his first two games before being narrowly defeated in the third. Congratulations to Gary on a strong showing. Lloyd Shepherd represented the club in the B Grade Singles, winning his first game but falling in the second. Well done, Lloyd!

Unfortunately, Sunday afternoon bowls had to be cancelled due to inclement weather.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

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Gary Pearce and Lloyd Shepherd did the Brandon Bowls Club proud at the Champion of Champions competition over the weekend.

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The Home Hill Bowls Club saw a great turnout with 27 players enjoying another beautiful winter afternoon on the greens. The winning team of the day consisted of Terry, Wayne, and Henry. In the seafood tray raffle, Yogi emerged as the lucky winner, while Steve Mutu took home the second prize, a bottle of wine. The lucky draw, conducted by Bob Pickard, unfortunately, had no winner this week, leaving the jackpot to roll over to next week at $225.

On the rinks:
Rink 2: The team of Karl, Jimmy, Dino, Steve M, and Mick Mc defeated Yogi, Terry, Judy, and Hugh with a score of 16 to 11.
Rink 3: Paul, Joe, and Cy outplayed Des, Ray, and Andy, finishing 19 to 11.
Rink 4: Wayne, Terry, and Henry bested Bob P, Stephen, and Glen with a final score of 22 to 17.
Rink 5: Ron, Jeff, and Gary held on to a narrow victory against Ron, Trevor, and Brian, winning 20 to 18.

The Harvest Festival raffle prize has been announced, and tickets are available for $2 each, with the draw to take place at the Harvest Ball.

The club also offers various activities throughout the week, including: Monday Fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday Morning KRAFT Group, Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls and Sausage Sizzle, Thursday Morning Bingo, Thursday Afternoon Social Bowls, and Saturday Afternoon Bowls.

Everyone is welcome to join in for a game. Until next week, the club wishes all members good bowling, and expresses a special thanks goes to their sponsor, Oar and Horan.

Contributed with thanks to Stephen Doig.

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The Home Hill Bowls Club hosted plenty of action on the green over the past week!

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Last Monday night, the Home Hill Tennis Association hosted a thrilling showdown between Pacific Blue and Wilmar. The competition was fierce, with each round being decided by just a game or two. Wilmar edged out wins in the first and third rounds, each by a single game, while Pacific Blue took the second round by two games. By the end of the night, both teams were tied at 28-all. A special mention goes to Sarah Shepherd, who was the only player to win all three of her sets.

Pickleball Gaining Momentum
Pickleball continues to grow in popularity on Tuesday nights, drawing more participants each week. Last week, four new players joined the 22 participants for a free "Come and Try" session. A few weeks ago, the association introduced pickleball to two young French tourists who were stranded in Home Hill due to car troubles. Though they were skilled tennis players, they had never heard of pickleball. Since then, they've fallen in love with the sport, purchased their own paddles, and even competed in their first tournament.

Our regular players are also showing great enthusiasm, with many buying their own paddles and participating in Saturday morning sessions at 8am, followed by coffee at Home Hill News and Coffee. This Saturday, the association will be heading to Townsville for a social match against the Townsville Pickleball team. Sunday afternoon games will be held, weather permitting. For more information, please contact Kate at 0447 384 441.

Friday Social Tennis
Last Friday's social tennis session included a special Cancer Morning Tea fundraiser, organised by Del and the Friday crew. It was heartwarming to see retired tennis players return for the event. Junior coaching continues to thrive on Fridays, with strong participation from the younger age groups. For more information, contact Coach Kayla at 0408 014 066.

Facility Upgrades at The Home Hill Tennis Association
Thanks to the generous support of Pacific Blue, our new solar system has been successfully installed, with special thanks to Ian Gould for handling the installation. Additionally, our new on-court shades have arrived and are ready to be assembled, courtesy of funding from the Home Hill and Ayr Bendigo Bank. In the coming weeks, we’re excited to start the much-anticipated upgrade to our amenities block, with the contract now ready to be signed.

Busy Times Ahead for Home Hill Sports
This Friday, over 100 primary school children will gather at Home Hill for the first of several sports’ carnival days scheduled for this term. The town will be buzzing with activity as the children participate in various sports, including cricket and netball!

Interested community members of all skill levels are encouraged to email homehilltennis@gmail.com for more information on upcoming events!

Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell.

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The Home Hill Tennis Association invites players of all experience levels to come along for Friday Social Tennis commencing from 3:30pm under the guidance of coach Kayla.
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Always a social success! Friday Social Tennis at the Home Hill Tennis Association hosts plenty of laughs and friendly competition each week.

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This weekend marks the final round of the RLTD fixtures for the Burdekin Roosters, with crucial A and Reserve grade matches that could determine the final standings heading into the playoffs.

In the A Grade, while the Roosters are out of finals contention, four clubs are battling for the remaining three spots in the top four. Souths have already secured the minor premiership with 31 points, but Brothers, Western Lions, and Charters Towers, all tied on 22 points, along with Herbert River, close behind with 21 points, are vying for the remaining positions.

Friday night will see Brothers host Souths, while on Saturday, Centrals face off against Charters Towers, Norths take on Western Lions, and Burdekin hosts Herbert River.

Herbert River may have jeopardised their finals chances last weekend. After a solid 32-12 win over Western Lions in Ingham, they faltered on Sunday in Townsville, losing 28-12 to the same team. To make the finals, Herbert River now needs to defeat the Roosters in Ayr on Saturday night and hope for a Centrals win over Charters Towers or a Norths victory against Western Lions.

Saturday night's A Grade game in Ayr will be the Roosters' final match of the season. Coach Steve Lansley faces uncertainty regarding player availability, as he won't know until later in the week whether he’ll have three Cowboys and three Blackhawks players at his disposal. Henry Teuteu and Epi Kikau are expected from the Cowboys, with Jeremiah Matuatu likely returning to the Cutters. Chris Gale may be the only Blackhawk to start, with Dudley Dotoi and possibly Ratu Ravisore expected to be called up by the Hawks.

Coach Lansley experimented with Terry Connors on the wing against Centrals, which proved successful, earning Connors the Players’ Player award. He’s likely to start there again. However, Paul Merlo may be sidelined with an ankle injury, a disappointment for the Frenchman who was eager to face off against Herbert River’s French players.

Colby is expected to return as hooker, with Kali at lock, supported by Tate, Lachlan, Henry, and Chris. Ethan might take a spot on the bench. The coach must also decide whether to include a few under-18 players, who will have already played earlier in the day and are bound for the finals. If selected, Jye Olsen could slot in at halfback, with Hayde Munto and Luca Lago in the backs. Other potential backline players include Nemia, Iowane, Epi, with Joel at fullback.

In other news, only two games will be played in the women’s competition, as Herbert River’s ladies have forfeited to the local Hens. This result ensures the Hens finish in third place behind Centrals and Western Lions, with Brothers taking fourth.

The Reserve Grade will kick off after junior league matches on what’s being dubbed a "Super Saturday," starting from 8:30am. Reggies coach Chris Perry has his team locked in fourth place as they head into the mini semi-finals next week. Perry may see the return of Jerome Lacco and possibly Jermaine McIvor this week, which would add some much-needed size to the front line.

The Reserves suffered a defeat to the Crushers in Ingham, largely due to the presence of former River great Mitchell Seri, who controlled the game. However, Seri is not expected to play this time.

The Roosters have recorded 10 wins and a draw compared to the Crushers’ five victories, most of which were at home. The Reserve Grade match is scheduled to start at 3:15pm, followed by the A Grade clash at 5:30pm.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Deciding games will be held over the coming weekend to determine the final standings of both A and Reserve Grades before heading into the playoffs.

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Crushers v Nat II at the Ayr  8-2
Nat I v Ants at the National  10-0
Falcons v Bombers at the Anzac  10-0
Cougars had the bye 10 points

Points:
Nat II - 157, Crushers – 151, Falcons - 141, Nat I -128, Cougars - 114, Ants - 101, and Bomber 48

1st round of finals Thursday 15/08/24:
Nat II v Ants at  the National, Crushers v Cougars at the Anzac and Falcons v Nat I at the Ayr

CONGRATULATIONS TO NATIONAL II FOR TAKING OUT THE MINOR PREMIERS

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Davison.

National 1 performed well in last week’s rounds.

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