This Saturday, the Burdekin Roosters will face off against Brothers in an exciting lineup across three grades at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville. The day holds special significance for Brothers, commemorating their club's premiership victories in 2004 and 2014, marking 20 and 10 years since these triumphs over none other than the Burdekin Roosters. Despite their defeat in 2014, the Roosters bounced back impressively in 2015 to claim the grand final against Herbert River.

The day will feature four gripping matches, with the curtain-raiser being a Host Plus game featuring the Blackhawks. In the A grade fixture, the Roosters currently sit sixth with nine points, while Brothers share second place with 18 points, just behind the Western Lions. Last week, the Roosters drew 18-all with the Lions, a match where luck could have swung their way.

However, the Roosters are facing potential setbacks, with Blackhawk forward Chris Gale possibly facing suspension this week, and centre Tomasi uncertain due to a knee issue. On a positive note, Hayde Munro and Colby Thompson are set to return from injury and work commitments.

Coach Steve Lansley anticipates strong performances from Cowboys recruits Jeremiah Matuatu and Henry Teuteu, especially highlighting Teuteu's impressive full 80-minute stint in the front row last week. The A grade clash kicks off at 7 PM.

Reserves Match: Burdekin Roosters vs Brothers
In the Reserves match, the third-placed Roosters will take on sixth-placed Brothers. This matchup is unusual for Brothers, known for their usual strength. Their previous encounter in Ayr ended in a 16-all draw.

Roosters coach Chris Perry will rely on his forwards, led by Alex Lennox, Zac Heron, Caleb Noah, Jerome Lacco, and Jermaine McIvor, to set the tone. Strong halves Dylan Doak and John Zaro will look to distribute the ball to try-scoring threats like Terry Connors, Dom Arrate, Braithan Heron, Brady Horan, and Taylah Peppa. Kick off for the Reserves match is scheduled for 3:15 PM.

Ladies' Match: Burdekin Hens vs Brothers
The day commences with the third-placed Burdekin Hens taking on fourth-placed Brothers in the ladies' competition. The Hens secured a solid victory when they last met in Ayr, but Brothers have shown improvement, coming off a commanding 26-0 win against Herbert River last week.

Coach Anita Hagarty plans to utilize her team's speed, emphasizing an expansive playing style. Margie O'Rourke, Thea Mosby Nona, Lily Chappell, and Anna Marie Bin Zawel will anchor the midfield, with Abby King poised to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Speedy backs Stephanie and Martina Monday, Kezzia Lammon, and Toni Daisy are primed to exploit any defensive gaps.

Other Matches This Weekend
Elsewhere this weekend, Centrals will face Herbert River in both ladies' and A grade fixtures, while Bowen will meet Western Lions in the Under 20s and Reserve Grade competitions. Charters Towers will challenge the Western Lions, and Norths will clash with Souths at Bushland Beach.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Last Saturday, the Burdekin Roosters' A grade team delivered an exhilarating performance, holding the second-placed Western Lions to an 18-all draw at the RLTD grounds in Townsville. This marked a significant turnaround from their previous encounter two weeks ago, where the Lions had triumphed over the Roosters with a 26-0 victory on home turf.

Coach Steve Lansley praised his youthful squad, highlighting their strong showing for the majority of the match.

"We were leading well but in that last wo minutes we let in two converted tries whilst bombing a couple of our own to draw the match," Lansley commented.

He acknowledged the team's relative inexperience, noting the absence of seasoned players as a contributing factor.

Lansley specifically lauded the performance of young half Jye Olsen, advocating for his potential inclusion in the Blackhawks under 19 squad next year.

"That young fella (Jye) has played two games A grade and has impressed his team mates that much he has received two players player awards," Lansley added, highlighting Olsen's impressive kicking game with two successful forty-twenty kicks.

The coach awarded two points to French hooker Paul Meryl, underscoring the 18-year-old's maturity and significant contribution, including two tries scored. Additionally, front-rower Henry Teuteu's return from the Pride was commended for his endurance in playing the entire 80 minutes, showcasing his resilience as a formidable presence on the field.

In other A grade fixtures, Charters Towers defeated Norths 34-24, Brothers narrowly edged out Herbert River 12-10, and Souths dominated Centrals with a commanding 54-20 victory.

The ladies' match demonstrated a fierce battle of strengths, where the Burdekin Hens displayed commendable speed in open play but faced formidable challenges in the forward exchanges against the physically imposing Western Lions.

Despite their efforts, the Hens struggled to match the Lions' size and power, particularly in defence.

Coach Anita Hagarty expressed disappointment over the absence of key players who missed the game, resulting in a thin bench for the team. Despite these setbacks, Hagarty praised individual efforts, highlighting Abby King for her standout performance and Margie O'Rourke for her determined runs through the centre. Anna Marie Bin Awel's resolute try was a testament to the Hens' tenacity in the face of a robust opponent.

In other women's matches, Charters Towers secured a 22-4 victory over Norths, while Brothers delivered a commanding 26-0 win against Herbert River.
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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The Burdekin Rooster's up and coming success story Jye Olsen

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Round 3 week 1 – 2 – 27/06
Nat I v Nat II at the National 8-2
Falcons v Ants at the Ayr 8-2
Crushers v Cougars at the Anzac 6-4
Bombers had the bye 10 points

Round 3 week 2 – 04/07:
Nat II v Cougars at the Ayr – 8-2
Ants v Bombers at the Anzac – 10-0
Nat I v Falcons at the National - 8-2
Crushers had the bye 10 points

Points:
Nat II - 120, Crushers - 112, Falcons - 107, Nat I - 96, Ants - 86, Cougars - 78 and Bombers 41

Games for Thursday 11/07/24:
Cougars v Falcons at Anzac, Crushers v Ants at Ayr, Nat II v Bombers at National and Nat I have the bye

Photo:  Queens Bombers

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Davison.

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Caitlin Kross has been celebrated for her refereeing excellence after returning from Basketball Queensland’s State Referee Program’s (SRP) Camp on Monday 17 June.

Caitlin was prestigiously selected for the six-week program after refereeing at the U16 States Competition in April and has since been selected as 1 of 4 referees to represent Queensland at the School Sport Australia Nationals in July later this year.

Caitlin made the decision to progress into the referring sphere four years ago following a lack of opportunities to compete in rep basketball championships within her age group.

“Referring is a lot faster; the games are a lot more interesting, and it’s a different aspect not many people consider taking up,” explained Caitlin.

Continuing to play for the Burdekin Wildcats whilst pursuing refereeing, Caitlin has persevered to reach new heights.

“It’s taken a long time to get to this stage, and you receive feedback and education when you go away for carnivals, but overall, it’s taken a lot of work to get to this point,” said Caitlin.

Over the six weeks, Caitlin underwent numerous online meetings covering a range of educational topics, including breaking down real game footage to explore and analyse various aspects. In conclusion of the program, Caitlin attended the SRP’s in-person camp in Brisbane from 14 – 16 June. The weekend hosted classroom sessions as hosted by NBL referees, along with the opportunities to sit in on NBL1 games, along with NBL1 pregame preparations and postgame wrap-ups.

Caitlin’s parents are beyond proud of their daughter’s achievements and are overjoyed with how far Caitlin has come in achieving her goals.

“Over the past year, she set herself a goal, that has required travelling many thousands of kilometres around the state, juggling senior study, work, as well as study and development as a Referee, and her determination and persistence are now paying off,” explained Caitlin’s mother, Helen Kross.

“Refereeing in any sport these days whether recreational or professional is extremely challenging due to continual scrutiny, so watching her development and growth in confidence over the past few years has been a pleasure.”

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The Burdekin’s own Adam Walton made his Wimbledon debut in London one to remember, marking several impressive milestones.

Making his Wimbledon debut in the top 100 paired with a maiden ATP main-draw win, as well as earning direct acceptance into a Grand Slam tournament for the first time, has earned Walton waves of celebrations across the Burdekin region and beyond.

“We are extremely elated for Adam and his family on this monumental first round win at Wimbledon,” expressed the Home Hill Tennis Club’s Secretary, Kate Casswell.

“Like Adam, we are over the moon.”

At 25, Walton’s list of achievements is beyond impressive. He made a major breakthrough in his first-round men’s singles action on 2 July, with a 6-3-6-3 7-5 victory against Argentina’s Federico Coria. The biggest win of his career, Walton kept momentum to close out the win in an efficient two hours and five minutes.

“It feels very good – I’ve had a very good year,” said Walton.

“I thought I’ve done very well at the Challender level, and been able to consistently win matches there, which has been nice.

“Obviously the Grand Slams are the events you want to perform at, it’s where the big money is, the big points – to get the win today, I’m really, really happy.”

Walton has won 40 of his 60 singles matches so far in 2024 and will turn his attention to a second-round meeting with Francisco Comesana later this week.

“It was everything I could have hoped for and I can’t wait to go again this Thursday.”

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The Ayr Bowling Club has been a hub of activity over the past few weeks, and warmly thanks their dedicated weekly working bee team for buzzing around the club each Tuesday. The team arrives to the club early to ensure the grounds and greenkeeping are up to standard and paired with the hard work of the roster goers, the green is ready for players to give it their best during the crushing season.

On Wednesday 26 June, the spirit of friendship filled the afternoon’s competition, despite the slight State of Origin halt to Wednesday Night Mixed Social Bowls. Two games of Triples graced the green, with John Pirrone, Peter Sauer and Rob Garner victorious.

Saturday saw two games of triples and two games of rinks, with M. Nixon, B. Cornford, P. Sauer and W. Coonan crowed as the winners. Runners Up were B. Conus, D. Soper and S. Keeta, and the club welcomed travelling visitors to join in on the friendly competition.

The club extends congratulations to their Dunn Cup representatives, S. Calltabiano, C. Essex, A. Bull and M. Power. The group faced tough competition from many of the regional bowling clubs and were able to hold their heads high throughout.  

On Sunday 7 July from 8:30am, the Semi Final Championship Pairs and B Grade Single games will ignite the Ayr Bowling Club. Further details are published on the club board.

Contributed with thank to Anthony Bull.

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On the last weekend of June, four Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads players put it on the field for the Queensland Country Championships in Rockhampton.

Andy Smyth, Caitlin Holmes, Kelsey Hesp and Nathan Steel brought their all for a jampacked weekend from 28 June to 30 June.

“The Country Championships are a celebration of the talents, passion, and dedication of the Queensland Country Rugby community,” said Queensland Country Rugby Union President Mr. Rod Hohn.

The event was one of the biggest in the championship’s history, with over 1,000 players, staff and volunteers in attendance from all areas of Country Queensland.

Spirits were high, and game faces were on for what was an excellent display of skill and dedication for the 2024 Queensland Country Championships.

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The four Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoad players who participated in the Queensland Country Championships in Rockhampton. Photo supplied

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The Ayr Golf Club made a splash at the Drummond Golf 4BBB Day last weekend, producing outstanding results across the board.

Prizes were donated with thanks to Kev from Drummond Townsville, and both men and women participated in the event, with fantastic numbers in attendance for a shotgun start to what was a beautiful day on the course.

The slight tilt in weather conditions did not dampen the players spirit or the course, with everyone eying off incredible scores to bag some of the amazing prizes.

Making his debut, Matt Kemp was one of the celebrated winners in the men’s section, along with Robert Pitt. The pair scored 47 points over Phil Johnston, and Emanual Coribitarte with 46 points.

In the ladies section, the winners were Angie Baxter and Sandra Wight with 41 points over Evelyn Webb and Ronda O’Brien with 40 points - determining the winner between the ladies came down to a nail-biting last hole.

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

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Local

The Burdekin Panthers had no matches last week. This week they have four games, and the Women Premiers are in action twice.

On Friday the Austral Masonry Funkies are at home to Riverway JCU and on Saturday the ANZ Anzac Club Premiers, the Burdekin Tyre Service Under 23s and the Ayr Anzac Club Women Premiers are all away to Olympic. Then on the following Wednesday the Ladies are away, in Townsville again, to Saints Eagles Souths.

Masters

A better turn out on Monday night with some new players, using the word loosely. In a re-play of the Euro 2024 match, Switzerland beat Italy 4-2 after a 1-1 score at half time. Player of the Week this week was Switzerland’s George Koukouris

Juniors

Preparations for the Burdekin annual carnival on Sunday 14th July are well and truly underway. The Carnival draw will be out next week. Parents and carers are asked to help out where they can and should refer to Facebook posts and check e-mails for assistance when required, to ensure the carnival is successful.

There are no Saturday fixtures for all grades on Saturday 13th July.

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On Thursday 27 June, Richard and Jeff were victorious at the Home Hill Bowls Club, with Jimmy Murray luckily walking away with a raffle win, and Keith, visiting from Jervis Bay crowned the lucky ball winner.

The club celebrated their new sponsor, Oar and Horan, with 21 players turning up for a roll on a cool damp winters afternoon on the weekend.

Rink 3: Helena and Joe outlasted Margaret C. and Gary 20 to 16.

Rink 4: Richard and Jeff were too strong for Yogi and Henry defeating them 18 to 8.

Rink 5: Tony, Peter and Stephen hung on in a close one from Ray M/Jimmy, Bob and Keith (visitor Jervis Bay) 13 to 9.

Rink 6: Margaret L., Mick M. and Glen defeated Ron, Rosa (visitor Jervis Bay) and Ray 18 to 7.

The Monday morning fitness group, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft group, the Wednesday night barefoot bowls, and the Thursday morning BINGO are all going “strong” as are social bowls on Thursday afternoons.

Contributed with thanks to Stephen Doig.

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The Burdekin Roosters are down to face Western Lions for the second time in three weeks with all the players gearing up for what will be an intense weekend with the Roosters still reflecting on their 26 nil defeat held three weeks ago at Rugby Park against Western Lions.

The Roosters were contending with a heavy penalty count against them, and had two players receive suspensions, Kali Nauque, and Epi Kikau. Since defeating the Roosters, the Western Lions have remined on top, going on to beat Centrals by 6 points, with Roosters going down again, this time against premiership leaders, Souths. Despite the loss, the Roosters’ defence against Souths was heavily praised by all who witnesses the event.

Coach, Steve Lansley will be concentrating on finishing off promising attacking moves to combat weaknesses to deliver better outcomes in future games. Lansley is yet to be informed on Cowboy or Blackhawk allocations; however, he’s expecting to have front rower, Christian Gale from the Hawks.

There are speculations Dudley Dotoi could keep his spot having played on the team last Saturday, and kudos has been earned by Henry Teuteu, however Jeremiah Matuate could come back into play from a knee injury. Both Hayde Munro and Hayden Lammon were out with injuries in the game against the Souths, but after resting up for the week, are expected to make a return along with winger Nemia Nawave, and centre Tomasi. Also against the Souths, Iowhani Cavuilati made an impressive debut, receiving praise.

The Reserves will have a bye with Bowen playing the Lions in reserves, and Under 20s at the Junior Rugby League grounds in Townsville.

In other games this weekend, Charters Towers will host Norths on Saturday with Brothers playing Herbert River and Souths meeting Centrals on Sunday.

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The Hens are set to play the undefeated Western Lions who have taken out wins in both games of the season, 44 – 12 and 28 – 16.

The Western Lions are sitting on 18 points from 6 wins, and 3 byes to the Hens 16 points from 4 wins and 4 byes.

The Hens abandoned their game plan when faced against the Western Lions last in Ayr, giving the ball air, which did not please coach, Anita Hagarty. Toni Daisy and Margie Orourkev were injured in the game, however, should be back on the field along with Talisha Bulgarelliu. Abby King is expected to be fully fit to play and she, like Logan Roncato, Martina and Stephanie Monday are dangerous in possession.
 
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Brandon Bowls Club was represented by skip Gary Pearce, Chris Pearce, Doug Robins and Lloyd Shepherd at the Dunn Cup at Jubilee Bowls Club Townsville where the players went up against the best bowlers in the district.

17 teams from the district congregated at Jubilee to fight for bragging rights for 2024 playing 7 rounds of rinks / 4s bowls over 4 days. 

The team played against South Townsville, Bowen, Wangaratta, Giru, Alligator Creek, Magnetic Island and Ingham, and after 4 gruelling days Brandon finished with 3 wins and 4 losses.

On Sunday 30 June, the club hosted Competition Bowls. In the B Grade singles quarter final, Ross McLaughlin played Glen Woodford with Ross shooting out to an early lead. Ross will play Lloyd Shepherd in the final in 2 weeks time.

Sunday’s social bowls saw 20 bowlers entertained on the green producing the following winning rinks results:

Peter Lejarraga, Bob Jorgensen, Allan Garioch and Keith Roser.

Gary Nosworthy, Joanne Roser,  Jeff Taylor, and Rich May.

Neville Dickinson and Len Feeney.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

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Doug Robins, Chris Pearce, Gary Pearce and Lloyd Shepherd.

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Homehill bowls club Thursday winners were Jocyln,Peter, Keith and Jeff. 2 of our Lady members travelled to Townsville too combine with the Magnetic Island bowls club in the NQ PURPLE PENNANTS.  The combined team ran 2nd in the competition.  Well done Judy Elton and Margaret Linton. 33 players turned out to play on another perfect winters afternoon. RINK 2.Con, Yogi and Glen defeated Sandra, Tony and Bob 28 to 5. RINK 3. Nev W, Joe and Hugh  too good for Ross M, Bob P and Henry 23 to 11. RINK 4.Helena, Joanne and Jeff won over Barry, Richard and Dino 16 to 13. RINK 5. This rink was used as a practice for our DUNN CUP TEAM OF Alex,  Mick Mc ,Trevor and Wayne who unfortunately were not good enough against today's winners Joclyn, Peter, Keith and Jeff.25 to 16. RINK 5. Karl/Jimmy, Skeeta from Yarrawonga and Mick M outlasted Paul(visitor), John and Stephen 23 to 16. Today's raffle winner was Karen McClosky 2nd was Trevor Elton.  No winner in the mystery ball jackpot next week.  Once again a huge thanks to our sponsor Ferguson plumbing. Don't forget Monday fitness group,  Tuesday Trimmers,  Wednesday Kraft group and Wednesday night barefoot bowls,  Thursday morning BINGO and Thursday afternoon social bowls. A working bee on Monday morning before morning tea. Until next week good bowling.

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On Saturday 22 June, and Sunday 23 June, the Ayr Bowling Club held a jampacked weekend for the Canefire Fours.

The event saw plenty of friendly banter and great results across the board, despite kicking off with a chilled, rainy start on Saturday. Many players found the weekend to be the perfect opportunity to catch up with old friends and form new friendships both on and off the green.

The weekend celebrated the following victorious winners; Gus Munro, Crowy, Michell Wright and Jason Wright.

Bruce Maggs, Tom Corling, Ash Clinnick, and Simon Griggs took out second place, with third place going to Wixi, Donna Ware, Tiarna Winter and Kaos.

The Round Winners were as follows;
Round 1 - Hendo, Leggs, Woodsy and Doug Robins
Round 2 - Michelle Sumpton, Wanda Goodwin, Lorraine McClintock and Lynette Riches
Round 3 - Geoff Taylor, Guy Heron, Brad Garner and Glen Hamilton
Round 4 - Jodie Giessmann, Kirsty Greig, Kevin Giessmann and Brian Greig
Round 5 - Beryl Cornford, Pam Power, Maurie Power and Steve Mottin

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Friday 21 June saw the Brandon Bowls Club celebrate their players at their Trophy Bowls Evening proudly sponsored by Cignall.

60 bowlers took to the green, once again, having lots of laughs.

The winners of the evening were June Zanella, John Hall, and Pancho.

The Runners Up were Dave Bycroft, Norm Storrie, Lyn Storrie, and Joe Ypinazar.

Third place winners were Steve, Amy, Simon and Jacob.

On Sunday 23 June, the Brandon Bowls Club hosted a day filled with competitiveness and sportsmanship, producing plenty of great wins across the board.

The Competition A Grade Singles match saw Mich McClosky and Glen Woodford go head-to-head with Glen coming out on top.

Social Bowls numbers took a hit due to the Canefire Fours held in Ayr, however 20 bowlers ventured onto the green to have a laugh and a bowl.

The Rink winners of the day are as follows:
   • Ken Ferguson, Dough Kiehne, and Hugh Montgomery
   • Neville Dickinson, Trevor Elton, and Richi Mau
   • Norm Storrie, Vince Beitia, and Joe Ypinazar

This week, the Brandon Bowls Club will play in the prestigious Dunn Cup, a competition beginning on Thursday 27 June, and concluding on Sunday 30 June. Held at the Jubilee Bowls Club in Townsville, the club’s representatives, Lloyd Shepherd, Dough Robins, Chris Pearce and skip Gary Pearce will play in the four-day competition, with the finals scheduled for Sunday.

The Brandon Bowls Club wishes its representatives the best of luck!

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

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