Sports

AYR BOWLING CLUB WEEKLY REPORT 10 July

AYR BOWLING CLUB WEEKLY REPORT 10 July

The Ayr Bowling Club has had a brilliant week on the greens, with members embracing the cooler weather and enjoying a mix of competitive and social games. Spirits have been high as players continue to show enthusiasm and support for the game, reinforcing the club’s strong community spirit. With momentum building and winter conditions ideal for play, members are looking forward to another exciting month of bowls and camaraderie. Our Ladies’ Social Tuesday Afternoon on the 1st July was very enjoy

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Canetoads Represent The Burdekin At Queensland Country Champs

Canetoads Represent The Burdekin At Queensland Country Champs

A crew of Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads hopped their way up north a couple of weekends ago to play in Townsville’s Queensland Country Champion Competition on the 28th and 29th of June. Closing out the month with a bang, seven players and celebrated coach, Rowland Holmes, represented the Canetoads with pride both on and off the field, with the club praising each of the players for their skills and sportsmanship. “Well done to our incredible men and women who participated in the QLD Country Cha

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A Decade On: Remembering the Roosters’ Last Premiership Run

A Decade On: Remembering the Roosters’ Last Premiership Run

The year 2025 marks ten years since the Burdekin Roosters last won an A Grade premiership in the then Townsville District Rugby League. Originally appointed as A Grade coach that season was Chris Perry, but he had to withdraw early, making way for Glenn Brock — a familiar face in local league circles, having coached many Burdekin junior sides. Brock brought in Carl List as assistant coach, and with several Bowen-based players in the squad, Bowen’s Brent Stocker joined the coaching team. Gary We

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Football Matters with Cyclops 10 July

Football Matters with Cyclops 10 July

Another difficult weekend for the Panthers, winning two and losing three matches. On Sunday, in Townsville against Saints Eagles Souths, the Premiers lost 2–3 but the Reserves won 3–2. On Friday, also in Townsville, the Ladies beat Warriors 6–1, but the Division 1 Men lost 1–5 to Ingham and the Division 2 Men lost 1–3 to Brothers. This Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Olympics—the Premiers at 7:00 and the Reserves at 5:00. The Ladies and Division 2 Funkies are playing in Towns

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New Berm For BMX

November 9, 2023

The Burdekin BMX Club is gearing up for its annual carnival, scheduled for November 17th and 18th. In anticipation of the event, the club has been hard at work repairing and enhancing their track. Berm 1 has received a major facelift with approximately 20 buckets of dirt added, resulting in a smoother and faster track.

The club expressed immense gratitude to its dedicated track crew, who have spent countless hours in the past weeks to ensure the track is in top-notch condition. The track's overall improvement is the result of months of effort during various working bees, and it promises to provide an exhilarating experience for riders and spectators alike.

This year's carnival will feature the famous Burdekin March Past with a "Pool Party" theme, adding an extra layer of fun and excitement to the event. BMX enthusiasts and the local community are eagerly looking forward to this fast and furious annual sporting gathering.

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Junior Cricket Recap

November 9, 2023

The PBR Grand Final in Townsville depleted the numbers in the Challengers and Under 13s last week, but Kyle Wilkie, Morgan Burrell and Tyler Smith didn’t mind having less fielders as they were top scorers with the bat in the Challengers. Paige Elphinstone and Delta Burrell were the pick of the bowlers in this game.

The Under 13s still had enough to field two teams, with the help of a stand-in wicket keeper (Aaron) for the game.  Nate Elphinstone and Logan Pickup got the ‘Players of the Week’ Awards for top scoring with 17 runs each. They also took wickets when bowling, two for Nate and one for Logan.  Not too far behind them with runs scored was Michael Finn who hit 15 runs. Parker Oar also snared two wickets with Mark Wilkie and Tyler Schultz getting one each.

Our Under 17 mixed Charters Towers/Home Hill team were playing Wanderers in Townsville on Saturday afternoon where we won the toss and chose to bat first. We lost our first wicket in the third over with only 10 runs on the board but settled in to not lose any more at the 15 over drinks break. A handy 56 run partnership between our opener Corey Heidke and first drop Harry Pickering was broken just three overs later when Harry was bowled. Corey was next out which brought Salvatore Cardillo out to the crease to join his younger brother Thomas for a partnership which produced 38 runs. The wickets fell quickly then, and we ended up all out on the last ball of the innings for 143 runs. Corey top scored with 42 runs followed by Thomas on 25 and Salvatore with 22.

We got an early breakthrough when Salvatore got one of the Wanderers openers caught in the third over. It wasn’t until the 12th and with 80 runs scored that we took our second when Corey got a finger on the ball after it was smashed straight back down the pitch for a much needed run out. A couple of missed chances and 98 runs before the next wicket, then another in the same over but it was too late as Wanderers had already passed our score. Our bowler with the best figures this week was Salvatore with 1 for 19 runs off 4 overs.

Contributed by Scott Heidke

Morgan Burrell and Steve Wallwork

Logan Pickup and Nate Elphinstone

Photos supplied: Scott Heidke

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Tennis Icon Honoured

November 9, 2023

In Inaugural Col Casswell Inter-City Shield

Western Suburbs Tennis Club were privileged to host the inaugural Col Casswell Inter-City Shield named after legendary North Queensland tennis player and supporter Col Casswell on October 21. Col died in 2021 from brain cancer leaving behind a rich legacy in the sport that will hopefully continue. Nine teams from six different clubs from Charters Towers, Ingham, Townsville and the Burdekin made their way to Wests to put their clubs’ pride on the line. It was amazing to see so many come together, sharing a common love for the game. Kate Casswell said the choice of format was a fitting tribute to her late husband, who loved interclub tennis and the Sugar Bowl above all other tennis. Col would have been chuffed to just know that more people were out there playing tennis on the weekend. For him it was all about camaraderie, sportsmanship and building lifelong friendships.  

Organiser Paula Simpson said days like this don’t just happen. Many thanks to the volunteers of Wests who helped, not only during the event but in the days leading up to it. Kate personally thanked each of the players.

“It was an amazing day that brought together so many people from across the region,” she said.

“You all played in some hot conditions but with great spirit.

“I am proud of your sportsmanship and dedication.

“You have honoured the memory of the late Col Casswell, an absolute legend of our sport.”

Well done to the winners and to all the teams who participated.  A special mention goes to Lesley Prideaux from Charters Towers who, at 72 years old, played all 10 sets. Winners: A grade Tennis Townsville, B Grade Home Hill (defeated Charters Towers by 1 game). Next year the event will be held in Charters Towers.

Contributed by Home Hill Tennis Association

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All The Fun From Plantation Parkrun

November 9, 2023

20 people took to Plantation Park for 253rd parkrun on Saturday, November 4.

Three were first timers and two parkrun tourists were among those who ran, jogged and walked the course while four runners achieved new personal bests.

The event was made possible by volunteers Vicky Brennan, Terry Brennan, Steve Crouther, Gwenda Crichton and Donna Howard.

The full results and a complete event history can be found on the Plantation parkrun Results Page.

Plantation parkrun started on 17th February 2018.

Since then, 886 participants have completed 4,592 parkruns covering a total distance of 22,960 km, including 796 new personal bests.

A total of 166 individuals have volunteered 1,404 times.

Plantation parkrun takes place every Saturday from 7:00am at Plantation Park, Bruce Highway, Ayr.

Photos supplied: Plantation parkrun

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A Burdekin Rugby League Legend Retires

November 9, 2023

Over two decades ago, a hesitant eight-year-old boy stood at the gates of Rugby Park in Ayr, feeling queasy about playing his first Rugby League game. Little did anyone know that this young boy, Ryan Davenport, affectionately known as Davo, would grow up to become one of the most tenacious and revered figures in the Burdekin's rugby league history.

Davo's unwavering dedication to the game and his fearless approach on the field made him a true warrior of the sport. He was never one to ask his teammates to do something he wasn't willing to do himself.

His journey in rugby league saw him rise to captain many teams and culminated in a crowning achievement – leading his A-Grade team to a premiership in the TDR (Thuringowa & District Rugby League) in 2015, a pinnacle in the career of any local footballer.

Despite his quiet demeanour, when Davo spoke, players listened. He wasn't known for saying much, but when he did, his words were inspiring. This was nowhere more evident than in the Grand Final.

Under coach Glen Brock, the Roosters defeated Brothers in the major semi-final and advanced to face Herbert River in the Grand Final. The Roosters held a commanding 16-6 lead well into the second half and seemed poised for victory. However, they underestimated Ingham's veteran playmaker, Mitchell Seri.

Seri, a crafty halfback, had orchestrated numerous Crushers victories, and he set out to stage another remarkable comeback, putting the Roosters' hopes in jeopardy. With just two minutes to go, the River surged ahead 18-16 after scoring and converting.

It was in this critical moment, behind the goal line, that Davo called a meeting and addressed his teammates. When Davo spoke, you listened. His plan worked, and as the final siren sounded, hooker Zac Heron scored a sensational try, clinching the trophy for the Burdekin.

He proudly represented Townsville in the Foley Shield competition and played for the Country team in the City vs. Country clashes.

His dedication extended beyond club rugby league. He also played for the Home Hill Devils in the annual Ayr-Home Hill matches and in end-of-season local club games. Additionally, he co-founded and played every year for the Buffalo Riders in the Bowen Tens, often emerging as champions.

As Ryan bids farewell to his beloved Roosters, he now looks forward to spending more time with his family – Holly, Ally, and Jordi. Though he may receive enticing calls to return to the game, his legacy in Burdekin rugby league is cemented, and he can savour his well-deserved retirement.

Contributed by Brian Carnes.

Ryan Davenport won the Norm Dee Perpetual Shield at this year’s Burdekin Roosters prizegiving

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Water Skiing Wiseman Receives Runner Up At NQ Sportstar Awards

November 9, 2023

Three Burdekin athletes were recently announced as finalists for the NQ Sport star Awards held in Mackay over the weekend, with 18-year-old Kiera Wiseman being recognised as runner-up in the NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sport star Of The Year category.

Kiera and Ky Mitchell were both finalists in NQ Junior Sport star Of The Year and NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sport star Of The Year categories while Lisa Furnell was a finalist in the NQ Sport Volunteer Of The Year category.

Kiera and Ky, their families and other members of the Burdekin community travelled to Mackay for the awards which have played a major role in sporting communities for 32 years, recognising the incredible achievements of regional North Queensland athletes.

An unforgettable evening recognising sporting excellence in north Queensland took place at the highly anticipated 2023 MM Electrical NQ Sportstar Awards last Saturday, November 4 in Mackay.

Hosted by, and marking the 40th anniversary of the North Queensland Sports Foundation, the event was a celebration of sporting achievements across north Queensland with three Burdekin superstars, Kiera Wiseman, Ky Mitchell and Lisa Furnell, all nominated across a variety of categories.

Read on to learn more about the Burdekin’s star nominees.

Kiera Wiseman

A finalist in both NQ Junior Sportstar Of The Year and NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sportstar Of The Year, Kiera Wiseman feels proud to be recognised for her hard work in the sport of waterskiing.

Kiera first started social skiing at 3 years old with her dad, turning to tournament skiing at the age of 10.

Now 18 years old, she’s been tournament skiing ever since.

“I love being able to travel so much for the sport, as well as the amount of really good friends I’ve made,” Kiera said. “I also love the adrenaline rush I get when skiing.”

2023 has been a massive year for Kiera, a highlight coming when she travelled to Chile to represent Australia at the Junior World Championships.

She also competed in her first junior Moomba Master on the Yarra River in Melbourne and represented Australia for the 3rd time in the Aussie/Kiwi challenge in Albury.

While preparing for the World Championships, Kiera would train up to four times a week and often travel to receive expert coaching.

She recognises elite water-skier and two-time world champion of water ski jumping, Jacinta Carroll, as her role model; Jacinta’s world record breaking jumps inspiring Kiera to strive in the sport.

Kiera was announced as runner-up NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sportstar Of The Year and was in Mackay to accept her award.

“It was a really lovely night,” she said.

“I’d just like to thank the sponsors of the event as it’s always such a great night to attend.”

As she finishes high school this year, Kiera is looking forward to enjoying this time of her life and, as for next year she says “Anything is possible”.

Ky Mitchell

Ky Mitchell was also a finalist in both NQ Junior Sportstar Of The Year and NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sportstar Of The Year categories.

The 11-year-old started riding motorbikes at age 3 and racing at age 5, now competing in two disciplines: Flat Track; 85cc 9-13yrs and Speedway; 125cc solo under 16yrs.

“I love everything about bikes from riding for fun to racing speedway and dirt bikes and anything with wheels,” he said.

“I ride every day and compete most weekends.”

Ky said he was extremely happy to be nominated and picked as a finalist in the NQ Sportstar Awards.

Attending on the night, he and his family found great inspiration from fellow nominees and guest speaker Brook Hansen OAM.

Ky has won multiple titles in recent years and is proving himself as a star of the future in motorcycle racing.

Having been selected in the Under 16yrs Australian Speedway Championship, Ky and his family will travel to Tamworth next weekend to take on the next chapter of his racing journey.

Lisa Furnell

Lisa Furnell was unable to attend the NQ Sportstar Awards over the weekend as she had to cover an eight-hour patrol for Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club the following day.

While on patrol on Sunday, Lisa and the team completed a rescue, highlighting the importance of her role in the Burdekin community and the justification behind her nomination for NQ Sport Volunteer Of The Year.

“We don’t have a lot of rescues, but it’s nice to know that we’re out there covering the beach, especially in the stinger season,” Lisa said.

Lisa was the first member of the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club, and has come to achieve 1,000 patrolling hours and she’s also heavily involved in training younger members and fundraising.

She first became involved in the club when her children started Nippers before competing and volunteering herself.

“I just loved the idea of being down there on the beach and patrolling the beach,” she said.

Following on from a Lifesaver of the Year award in 2022, Lisa was disappointed to be unable to attend the awards but thankful for the recognition and support.

“It was a privilege to be nominated considering there are so many volunteers involved in local clubs,” she said.

“It’s just a great club and we have a really supportive community.”

Kiera Wiseman was announced as runner-up NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sportstar Of The Year. Photo supplied

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin, Kiera Wiseman, Ky Mitchell and Burdekin Shire Council Manager Community Services Tony Blackwell at the NQ Sportstar Awards in Mackay

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Harvest Festival Golf Is Back!

November 9, 2023

The Home Hill Harvest Festival Golf Ambrose saw a massive resurgence in 2023 and returned to be an integral part of the festival program. Home Hill member Doug McCubben had a vision to revive the Ambrose to the legendary event of years past. He approached QSL who were enthusiastic major sponsors of the day, and with the support of Mark Vass and the queens, the teams started to book in to levels not seen in decades.

Fortunately, on the day, Sunday November 5, the weather was very kind, with a nice breeze, and missing the usual oppressive humidity common for this time of year. 37 teams belted, swung (sometimes missed) and putted around the 9 hole course, and from all reports, everyone had a fabulous day.

The Tradies ended the day as the individual team winner, QSL won for the corporate teams and the Lions Queen Allie-Jo Farry won the queens challenge.

Many thanks to our Sponsors and donors, the Harvest Festival Committee, and the many people who played. Thanks to all our members who helped out in any way, you all helped to put on a fantastic event that showcased our wonderful little club, and a special thanks to Doug for reviving the event.

Contributed by Megan Barbagallo

Photo credit: Stephen Doig

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Home Hill Bowls Report

November 2, 2023

Forty-three players turned up to play in the Burdekin Motors sponsored bowls day last Thursday, October 26.

Seven rinks were used with 14 randomly selected teams of three contesting for the prizes of $180 for first, $90 for second and $30 for third.

The winning team over 18 ends was decided by four points the win and one point for every end won.

Rink 1: Karl and Mick only played nine ends each, Neville and Mick M, 25, and 13 ends def  Norm, Sandra and Peter 7, fine ends.  

Rink 2: Lyn, Margaret and Kevin 23, 12 ends def Con, Graham and Len 11, six ends.  

Rink 3: Gary, Vince B and David D 17, 11 ends def Helen, Ross and Glen 12, 7 ends.  

Rink 4: Ron, Alex and Hugh 15, 10 ends def Paul, Joe and Trevor 14, 8 ends on the last end.  

Rink 5:  Joe L, Des and Wayne 21, 12 ends def Happy, Jocelyn and Bob 8, 6 ends.  

Rink 6: Jim, Dino and Ron 24, 11 ends def John, Dave G, Stephen 18, seven ends.  

Rink 7: Judy, Peter and Henry 21, nine ends def Ken, Bob and Rick 17, nine ends.

The winners of the day on Rink 1 was Karl/Mick, Nev & Mick M with 17 points winning $180. 2nd and 3rd with Lyn, Margaret and Kevin on Rink 2 and Joe L, Des and Wayne on Rink 5 with both teams finishing with 16 points while Ross McLaughlin won the raffle.

Contributed by Stephen Doig

Burdekin Motors sponsored bowls day winners Mick M, Karl, Nev and Mick with sponsor Hugh

Equal 2nd were Lyn, Margaret and Kevin and Wayne, Des and Joe with sponsor Hugh. Photo credit: Stephen Doig

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Local Runners Conquer The Hill

November 2, 2023

The Burdekin’s keenest athletes met at Mount Inkerman last Saturday morning on what turned out to be a spectacular day for the Home Hill Harvest Festival’s King and Queen of the Hill event.

Teams, families, and even four-legged friends joined for the ultimate challenge, the determination to conquer the hill felt throughout the crowd.

Prizes were awarded by Mark Watson from Alliance Pharmacy in Home Hill who also sponsored the event.

Congratulations to all runners who conquered Mount Inkerman in such impressive times.

Home Hill Harvest Festival is hosting Derby Day at the Burdekin Race Club this coming Saturday, November 4 and Golf Ambrose at the Home Hill Golf Club this Sunday, November 5.

Kings and Queens of the Hill

Under 12 Girls - Taylor Chapman - 25.14

Under 12 Boys - Angus Watson - 20.21

13-18yrs Girls - Elle Mitchell - 23.34

13-18yrs Boys - Mac Olsen - 27.38

19-35yrs Ladies - Louise Groth - 23.02

19-35yrs Men - Andrew Parison - 18.49

35+ Ladies - Kerri Christo - 25.07

35+ Men Bryce Davis - 23.33

Taylor Chapman

Angus Watson

Elle Mitchell

Mac Olsen

Louise Groth

Andrew Parison

Kerri Christo

Bryce Davis

Photos supplied: Home Hill Harvest Festival

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Junior Cricket Recap

November 2, 2023

A couple of special milestones happened in the Under 13s this week with Marshall Parker getting a hattrick and Jacques Gardner hitting his first ever four in a hardball cricket game, finishing on 11 not out at the end of his innings.  

Both were deserving of the ‘Player of the Week Awards’ they received after the game.  

Other notable mentions with bat and ball were Logan Pickup who scored an unbeaten 13 runs which included 2 fours and Nate Elphinstone who took 2 wickets for only 5 runs.  

In the Challenger Blaster’s games Kyle Wilkie and Tate Parker scored the highest partnership with 33 runs, followed by Billie Muilwyk and Jamie Goldsworthy on 25 runs.

Morgan Burrell, Kye Quinlan and Kip Nicholas all bowled really well and each took wickets in their overs.  

Queensland Cricket’s Antony Stewart who came down from Townsville to help out was having so much fun with the other Challenger group that he didn’t record any stats for their game.  

It didn’t really matter at the end of the game because the players and Antony all had a great time playing cricket.

Contributed by Scott Heidke

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Saturday Cricket At Home Hill

November 2, 2023

Saturday’s senior cricket took to the astro pitch as Home Hill Cricket Association was hosting the North Queensland Cricket Association’s U13 boys representative trials this weekend, with the two unbeaten teams, Crowned Mongrels and Guardian Pharmacy, facing off for an early season lead on the ladder.

Crowned Mongrels won the toss and elected to bat, with opener Lucas Sunderland and number three Adam Camer getting things back on track after an early wicket, scoring 27 off 32 and 21 off 18 respectively.

Guardian Pharmacy then tore through the middle order, taking the next six wickets for only 13 runs, before Alex Stillhard, Joel Hanson and Brad Patti finished the innings strong scoring 29 off 20, 40 off 37 and 12 off 23 respectively.

Bowlers Jd Wilkins, Kane Batchelor and Andrew Cardillo all took two wickets each and Isaac Cardillo, Ross Parker, Daniel Olditch and Doug Mccubbin all took one to have Crowned Mongrels all out for 153 off 24.2 overs.

Guardian Pharmacy also appeared to struggle with the change of conditions, losing their first four wickets for 19 runs.

Joey Southwell batting at six and Daniel Olditch batting at eight were the only two batsmen to score double figures, with 11 from 11 and 39 from 29 not out respectively.

It was too little too late, however, with Crowned Mongrels bowling them out for 80 runs from 15.4 overs to take the victory.

Jack Oborne and David Vass both took two wickets for the bowling team while Leo Olditch, Alex Stillhard, Nicholas Pengelly and Adam Camer all took one.

Some nimble fielding from Leo Olditch and Joel Hanson also saw two run outs with the aid of wicketkeeper Ayden Marano.

With all three teams having played two games each, Crowned Mongrels take a clear lead on ladder winning both their games while Guardian Pharmacy have won one and Peto’s Marine remain on the bottom without a win.

Peto’s Marine will get their chance at redemption when they take on Guardian Pharmacy on Saturday.

Joel Hanson high scored with 40 runs from 37 balls for Peto’s Marine. Photo supplied

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Double Dolphins In All Blacks Carnival Finals

November 2, 2023

Two Burdekin Rugby League teams, known as the Burdekin Delta Dolphins, made a strong showing at the Bindall Sharks All Blacks Carnival in Townsville, reaching the finals of the competition but narrowly missing out on top honours.

Despite facing teams bolstered by current and former NRL players, such as Ben Barba, Josh Dugan, James Roberts, and Gehamat Shibasaki, the Burdekin squads held their own with local pride.

In the women's division, coach Tamara White praised her team's performance, emphasising their commitment to fast, open football. Although the Dolphins were one of the smaller teams at the carnival, their spirited play left a lasting impression. Tamara noted that the presence of physically imposing opponents may have contributed to their final result. Unfortunately, a few key players, including Martina Monday, Teah Lee Monday, and Tamara herself, had to withdraw due to injuries sustained at a prior Mackay carnival.

Local talents like Kazzia Lammon, Kaitlin Daley, Tamika Murdock, Jessica Capper, Logan Roncato, and Jo Morgan, along with Townsville players Chloe and Shaniah Watson and Madison Hegart, delivered standout performances. The women's title ultimately went to the Eastern Warriors, who secured victory with a score of 24-10.

In the men's division, coach Emene Monday encouraged his players to keep it simple and enjoy the game. The Dolphins followed his advice and displayed exceptional teamwork and skill, coming tantalizingly close to securing the Grand Final win. However, they fell just short, losing 20-19 in one of the most memorable games the carnival has seen in years.

Dylan Doak, the five-eight from Roosters A-Grade, received the prestigious title of the overall player of the carnival. Yet, it wasn't only Doak who earned recognition. Leonard Heron was named the player of the series, with hooker Jayden McMinn earning the player of the finals award. Raymond Campbell Jnr was recognized as the most improved player of the carnival, and winger Nemia Nawave stood out as the best-performing back.

Coach Emene Monday expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed to the team's success, including Martina Monday, Annie Nauque, Vanessa Monday, Peter Heron, Keon Noah, Gavina, and Michaela. Despite the tough loss in the finals, the Burdekin Delta Dolphins left a lasting mark on the Bindall Sharks All Blacks Carnival, showcasing the region's rugby league talent and spirit.

Contributed by Brian Carnes

The Burdekin Delta Dolphins women’s team at the All Blacks rugby league carnival in Townsville

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Burdekin FC Celebrates Stellar Season

November 2, 2023

It’s been a big month for Burdekin FC, capping off a successful season with their senior presentation night at Populins Hall last Saturday, October 28.

The presentation night came after the club marked 50 years of football in the Burdekin with a Gala Dinner earlier in October.

The night was an opportunity to reflect on the 2023 football season, inviting life members, past and present players, committee members, coaches, managers, sponsors and supporters to join the celebrations.

Premier League Men's Awards Winners Kyle Taylor (Coach), Ryan Scodellaro, Jay Leckenby, Oliver Gabiola, Joshua Valle (Coach), Jarrod Camer, Matthew Kolb and Leighton Gallagher (Coach)

Ladies Award Winners Mia Galbraith, Gina Dal Santo (Manager), Kayla Steiner, Amelia Pivotto, Eliza Licciardello, Kya Quagliata, Charlotte Dal Santo and Jay Leckenby (Coach)

Women’s Player of the Year Maddison Dal Santo

Men’s Player of the Year Matthew Walker

Taylah Pearson Memorial Trophy Winner Sian Reardon with parents Bruna and Greg

Club Person of the Year Wayne Kolb

President’s Medal Winner Alan Chatfield. Photos supplied

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Brave Battling At North Aussie Championships

November 2, 2023

Over the weekend, eleven of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club members attended the North Australian Championships in Mackay for three gruelling days of competition.

They battled it out in the pool at The Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Centre on Friday for the Pool Rescue Championships, then competing over two days at Mackay Harbour for beach and surf events.

The conditions at the beach were extremely tough with strong winds and large waves, making the weekend a true test of their surf skills and abilities.

Several events were cancelled due to conditions and carnage occurred from broken boards and injuries, but the Ayr crew prevailed and produced some amazing individual and team performances.

Results:

● 2nd – Under 13s Male 100m Patient Tow - Parker Bonato and Zachary Dale  

● 3rd – Under 13s/14s Male Medley Relay – Parker Bonato and Zachary Dale

● 1st – Under 12s Female Board Race – Milla Chapman

● 3rd – Under 12s Female Beach Flags – Emma Jones

● 2nd – Under 13s Male 2km Beach Run – Zachary Dale

● 2nd – Under 14s Female 2km Beach Run – Isla Chapman

● 2nd – Under 12s Female Beach Sprint – Milla Chapman

The club returns to normal training this weekend, as well as turning their focus to additional training of lifesaving skills with the North Barrier Branch Surf Rescue Championships carnival held in Ayr on 11th November.

This carnival will allow members to test their knowledge of lifesaving skills including resuscitation, surf awareness, rescue skills and first aid.

Contributed by Kellie Lawry

Parker Bonato and Zachary Dale for Under 13s Male 100m Patient Tow at Pool Rescue Championships

Charlotte Lawry in Under 12s Board Race Final

Emma Jones 3rd in Under 12s Female Beach Flags

Bella Lawry (far left) Start of Under 14s 50m Patient Carry

Isla Chapman - 2nd Under 14s Female 2km Beach Run

Zachary Dale - 2nd Under 13s Male 2km Beach Run

Milla Chapman - 2nd Under 12s Beach Sprint

Under 14 Beach Relay Team - Parker Bonato, Zachary Dale, Isla Chapman and Bella Lawry

Ryley Sartori (second from left) in the start of Under 15 Ironperson Final

Milla Chapman - 1st in Under 12s Female Board Race

Emma Jones with her board for Under 12s

Emma Jones competing in Under 12 Beach Flags

Photos supplied

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Ayr Lawn Bowls

November 2, 2023

Tuesday 26th October

Winners, M Nixon, I Cislowski and R Soper Defeated K Stuckler, L Guimelli and B Schultz.

R Moore and H Jorgensen Defeated B Cornford and I Wilson

Thursday 26th October. 3 Bowl Pairs.

I Cislowski and I Wilson Def D Soper and D Lindridge.

M Nixon and P Power Def M Poli and H Jorgensen.

Final play Thursday 2nd November 8.30. M Nixon, P Power against I Cislowski, I Wilson.

Wednesday Social Afternoon

Winners J.Hall, T. Battagia, C.Berkerly

Friday Night Sponsored Event: Crazy Skates

Winners C.Power, B.Hewson, T.Power, M.Power.

Well done, it looks like new champions are emerging.

Friday 24th November will be the last event for this year sponsored by Crazy Skates. Don't miss out, get your team in.

Saturday Social Afternoon

Winners P.Vass, S.Darwin, D.Cutting

Sunday Competition

Mixed Singles winner W.Coonan Defeated J.Hall

Finals of the Club Mixed Triples Championship winners congratulations to M.Chapman, H. Hazel, G.Pearce Runners- up B. Cornford, D.Burt, D.Lindridge

Every Tuesday Ladies Social names in by 12.30.

Contributed by Michael Parravicini.

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