If you’ve ever set foot in the Home Hill Bowls Club, chances are you’ve heard the name Bob Young.

Bob first joined the club in 1960, back when he was juggling life as a young father and the demands of a growing bakery business. Even then, his talent on the green was unmistakable. It didn’t take long before fellow members noticed his knack for the sport—and his drive to see the club thrive.

By 1979, Bob had been elected club president, stepping into the role with trademark energy. That year alone saw the bar floor carpeted and tiled, and for the first time in club history, pennant players were reimbursed for their lunch and green fees—a small gesture that meant a lot.

He wasn’t just a figure behind the scenes, though. Bob was also a fierce competitor. Over the years, he took out the B Grade Singles, Open Pairs, and Consistency Singles titles. He also played a key role in Home Hill’s Pioneer Cup wins in 1971 and 1976.

But it wasn’t all serious business. Locals still remember the rumble of his Ford Fairlane 500 echoing through the streets—a signal to his kids that dad was on his way home, or maybe just heading back to the club.

For Bob, bowls has always been about more than just the game. It’s about friendship, loyalty, and giving back. As a Rotarian and long-time club member, he poured energy into the Home Hill community, just as he did into his bakery and the sport he loves. His wife Elaine, a champion bowler in her own right, has always been a big part of that story—though Bob would prefer not to face her on the green.

Now, decades on, Bob’s passion has rubbed off on the next generation. His son Mick has recently taken up the game, inspired by a childhood spent at the club watching his parents’ tireless dedication.

Because in the Young family, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

Stormin’ Norman

‍

Reg Oats, Jim Oats, Harry Hartwell, and Bob Young won the pioneer cup for the second time in our club in 1971.

Local

Another long weekend with no senior fixtures. However, all five teams should be in action this weekend. On Friday night, the Ladies play at home against Saints Eagles Souths at 6:30, followed by the Men’s Division 1 match against Warriors at 8:30. On Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Warriors, with the Reserves kicking off at 5:00 and the Premier at 7:00. The Division 2 men are away to JCU Riverway at 6:30 on Friday.

This is Pink Panthers Female Football Week, with a variety of events culminating on Friday, including a Junior Girls Exhibition match, face painting, and fairy floss, immediately before the Ladies' fixture against SES.

Juniors

No junior games were played over the long weekend due to the FQ Academy Carnival in Mackay. Fixtures will resume this Saturday. Let’s hope for a clear run now for the year! A massive thanks to everyone involved locally and in Townsville for scheduling draws and games across our multiple age groups and venues—an absolute mammoth task.

Masters

Another decent turnout on Monday night at 6:30. See you there.

National and International

There’s barely a month left until the Socceroos play their first of two 2026 World Cup Qualifying Group C matches. They will be at home to Japan on June 5, then travel to Saudi Arabia on June 10. Australia must win one of these games to be sure of direct qualification. Japan leads the group, and Saudi Arabia is in third place.

The Matildas will be back in action in three weeks, with two friendlies against Argentina. The first is on May 30 in Melbourne, followed by the second on June 2 in Canberra.

In the A-League Men, fixtures were completed over the weekend. Auckland lost 2-4 away to Western Utd but had already won the minor premiership. Melbourne City thrashed Sydney FC 5-1 to secure second place, with Western Utd in third, just one point behind. Western Sydney finished fourth after winning 3-1 away to Macarthur. Victory finished fifth, and Adelaide came sixth. The Finals series starts this weekend with the Elimination Finals: Western Utd at home to Adelaide on Friday, and Western Sydney hosting Melbourne Victory on Saturday.

In the A-League Women, the Finals series has begun, with the first leg of the semi-finals played over the weekend. Melbourne City and Central Coast drew 2-2, while Melbourne Victory won 3-1 away to Adelaide. It’s looking like an all-Melbourne Grand Final at this stage. The second leg of the semis will be played this weekend.

In England’s EPL, with just three rounds to play, champions Liverpool somehow lost 3-1 away to Chelsea. However, Arsenal also lost 1-2 at home to Bournemouth, so Liverpool remains 15 points ahead of the Gunners. Manchester City moved up to third after Newcastle could only draw away to Brighton. Chelsea remains in fifth, level on points with Newcastle.

In the Bundesliga, with two rounds left, the top four teams all drew. Bayern are now champions, eight points clear of Leverkusen, last year’s champions. Frankfurt stays in third, a further 12 points adrift, while fourth-placed Freiburg is four points behind. Bochum and Kiel are already relegated, with Heidenheim looking most likely to join them.

In Serie A, both Napoli and Inter won. With three rounds left, third-placed Atalanta is six points behind. Juventus remain in fourth, despite a 1-1 draw away to Bologna, now five points adrift of Atalanta. Monza’s relegation is certain, and two of Empoli, Venezia, or Lecce could join them.

In La Liga, with four rounds left, Barcelona and Real Madrid both won. Barca stays top, four points clear of Real, with third-placed Atletico a further eight points behind. Bilbao is six points behind Atletico in fourth. Valladolid is certain to be relegated, and Leganes, Las Palmas, Girona, and Alaves are in danger.

In Ligue 1, with two rounds left, PSG lost again, but it matters little as they are already champions, 19 points ahead of Marseille, who drew and is now one point ahead of Monaco. Nice won and is now fourth, just one point behind Monaco. At the foot of the table, Montpellier is already relegated, and St Etienne looks likely to join them. Le Havre, Angers, and Nantes are also in danger.

The European Champions League semi-finals, second leg, will be played this week. Barcelona is away to Inter after drawing 3-3 at home, and Arsenal is away to PSG after losing the home leg 0-1. It’s looking like an Inter vs PSG Final.

Quote of the Week: Former Manchester Utd Manager Ron Atkinson, on Steve Coppell, who had retired due to injury: "With his enthusiasm, I like to think he would stay in the game, although he is an intelligent lad."

Masters

Monday Night Masters had a better-than-expected turnout on Easter Monday. In a very tight game, Liverpool and Spurs drew 1-1. Daniel Ziliotto put Liverpool in front, but Len Duquemin equalised for Tottenham in the second half. Everyone is welcome to the Masters on Monday nights at 6:30, International Park. Be there!

National and International

Not much happening on the international front with the Socceroos and Matildas on a break. The Socceroos have just two games left in the 2026 World Cup Qualifying Group C: at home to Japan on June 5 and away to Saudi Arabia on June 10. Australia must win one of these games to be sure of direct qualification. Japan leads the group, and Saudi Arabia is in third place.

The Matildas won’t be back in action until the end of May. They have two friendlies against Argentina, the first on May 30 in Melbourne, and the second on June 2 in Canberra. Mary Fowler, one of the Matildas’ stars, has suffered a serious ACL injury and could be sidelined for some time. Hopefully, the Matildas will have appointed a new coach soon!

In the A-League Men, Auckland won 1-0 at home to Perth, securing the Minor Premiership. A fantastic performance in their first year in the competition. Melbourne City drew at home to Adelaide and stayed in second place, while Western Utd beat Sydney FC to move into third. Western Sydney won away to Newcastle, staying in fourth, and Brisbane won again! They beat Wellington 1-0 and are now safely in twelfth place. Perth will finish bottom of the table.

In the A-League Women, it’s the Finals series, and the Elimination Finals were played over the weekend. Adelaide beat Western Utd 1-0, and Central Coast beat Canberra...

In the EPL, with four games to go, Liverpool are champions after thrashing Spurs 5-1. The Scousers are 15 points clear of Arsenal, with third-placed Newcastle a further five points away. Manchester City is still fourth, although they beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 in the FA Cup semi-final. In the other semi-final, Crystal Palace thumped Aston Villa 3-0. Ipswich, Leicester, and Southampton have all been relegated.

In the Bundesliga, with three rounds left, the top four teams all won. Leaders Bayern now need just one point to become champions again, eight points clear of Leverkusen. Eintracht remains in third place, a further 12 points adrift, and Freiburg stays in fourth, two points behind. Bochum and Kiel are already relegated, and Heidenheim looks most likely to join them.

In Serie A, Napoli won, and with Inter losing, Napoli now have a three-point lead with four rounds left. Atalanta remains in third place, six points behind, and Juventus are fourth, just a point behind. Monza’s relegation is certain, and Empoli, Venezia, Lecce, Cagliari, and possibly Parma could join them.

In La Liga, with five rounds to go, Barcelona stays top after defeating Real Madrid 3-2, giving them a four-point lead. Atletico remains third, six points behind, with Bilbao fourth, another six points back. Valladolid is certain to be relegated, and Leganes, Las Palmas, Girona, and Alaves are in danger.

In Ligue 1, with three rounds left, PSG lost 1-3 at home to Nice, their first loss of the season. This cuts their lead to just 20 points over second-placed Marseille, with Lille in third and Monaco dropping to fourth. Montpellier is doomed, and St Etienne, Le Havre, Angers, and Nantes are all in danger.

Quote of the Week: Then Northern Ireland Manager Billy Bingham: "The proof of the pudding is when you get down to the nitty-gritty."

‍

Last weekend, the Foley Shield was contested in Townsville between the host city, Mackay, and Cairns, in both men’s and women’s matches. On Saturday, Townsville beat Cairns 40-16 in the men’s match and 48-14 in the women’s, with Burdekin’s Martina Monday scoring two tries. On Sunday, Mackay defeated Cairns 58-6 but lost to Townsville 40-0 in the women’s. Townsville completed a clean sweep on Monday, beating Mackay 40-10 in the men’s and 50-4 in the women’s, with Martina scoring again.

The RLTD fixtures will resume this weekend after the May break, with Townsville’s successful performance in the Foley Shield in both men’s and women’s competitions. Townsville defeated Cairns 40-16 in the men’s and Mackay 40-10. In the women’s, they beat Cairns 48-14 and Mackay 50-4, with Martina Monday continuing to stand out for Burdekin.

The Roosters will travel to Peggy Banfield Park at Bushland Beach on Saturday afternoon to face Norths in A and Reserve grade, and possibly the ladies' fixture.

Coach Steve Lansley has lost another player for the season, with English Blackhawk forward Alfie Mather joining Jayden Sgarbossa on the sidelines due to an ACL injury. The coach also mentioned that Hayde Munro may not be available this week due to a hamstring injury, but Terence Mosby and Josh Hunt will return to play.

Norths are expected to feature some young Cowboys players, making them a tough opponent. They’ve only played one fixture this season, a loss to Herbert River in Ingham a fortnight ago.

Locals will rely on the experience of PNG international Aiden Arisa to lead the forwards, while they aim to get the ball to speedster Jesse Yallop to make an impact in the backs. The game is set to start at 4:30 PM.

Reserve grade coach Peter Horan is aiming for a full squad for this match. Last time out, his team led Brothers at halftime but was eventually run over due to injuries. The same thing happened against Souths, and Peter believes a lack of numbers for the entire game is hurting his team. Norths, who were beaten by the River in their last match in Ingham, are expected to have a full squad at home. That match will kick off at 3:00 PM. Should the Hens play, their match will be at 1:30 PM.

Other matches this weekend include Souths meeting Brothers in the match of the round on Sunday, Charters Towers hosting Western Lions, and Centrals facing Herbert River in A grade, with Bowen also traveling to the Tigers.

‍

The Home Hill Community Sports Club, in partnership with the Department of Sport & Recreation, is launching a new Barefoot Bowls program aimed at boosting female participation in lawn bowls. The weekly event invites women of all ages to enjoy the game in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Running every Wednesday evening from April 23 to May 28, 2025, the program will be held at the Home Hill Community Sports Club. Registration is open before 6pm each week.

The night kicks off with a free sausage sizzle at 6:30pm, followed by bowls at 7pm under the stars on the locally renowned Rumney Green. With music playing and the barefoot format removing the need for any special gear, it’s a perfect way to try the sport for the first time or return to it in a social setting.

The initiative is part of a broader push to make lawn bowls more accessible and inclusive. Whether you're a seasoned player or brand new to the game, all women are welcome to come down, have a roll, and enjoy a night of friendly competition and community spirit.

For more information, or to register, please contact 0468 313 115.

‍

It’s been another fantastic week at Ayr Bowling Club, filled with fun and fierce competition! The greens have been alive with energy as members participated in both social games and championship matches. With the championship season in full swing, the talent and sportsmanship on display have been outstanding.

Wednesday’s social bowls featured two games of triples and one rink match. The winners were B Young, J Pirrone, J Papale, and B Shepherd, who defeated R Aplin, G Braid, D Poli, and M Power.

Wednesday night’s social bowls saw two games of triples. The first game was won by Bertilla Piazetta, Margaret McLaughlin, and Joe Grabbi. The second game was claimed by Tricia Achille, David Burt, and Sam Caltabiano.

Saturday’s social bowls, sponsored by the Mahjong ladies, included three games of triples. The winners were Donna Soper, John Pirrone, and Anthony Bull. Second place went to Ron Smythe, Ray Wall, and Wayne Coonan. On Saturday, May 10, we’ll celebrate George Nixon’s 90th birthday, sponsored by George himself. Members are invited to bring a plate to mark this special occasion.

In championship play this week, the men’s A Singles match was a close contest, with Lew Stidston defeating Anthony Bull 25-19. In the rink game, J Pirrone, M Milan, W Coonan, and Barry Shepherd won in a nail-biting finish against B Hewson, R Soper, A Bull, and M Power. Winners will progress to the next round.

If you’re interested in trying out bowls, join us for Friday Roll Ups every Friday afternoon from 3:00 - 5:30 PM. Whether you want to improve your skills, get some friendly training tips, or simply relax with a drink, these casual roll-ups are a great way to start the weekend.

You’re also welcome to join us for Friday Fun Nights! The next one will be on Friday, May 9, starting at 6 PM. This evening is open to bowlers of all levels, so feel free to bring friends or come solo to meet new people. The entry fee is $10 per game, which includes a sausage sizzle at 6 PM and a light supper after bowling begins at 7 PM. Grab some friends and enjoy a night of fun and laughter!

‍

Nicholas Tremaine, cycling across Australia for his Distance 4 Dementia initiative, recently visited the Burdekin region, stopping in Home Hill after a 119-day journey. Motivated by the impact dementia had on his mother, Nicholas aims to raise awareness and funds for the disease.

On his way through the Burdekin, he shared his story with the Home Hill / Ayr Lions Club, receiving heartfelt support. His mission, covering 40,075 km by 2025, is dedicated to advocating for better care and a cure for dementia, a condition that is affecting an increasing number of Australians.

‍

Nicholas Tremaine is cycling across Australia for the Distance 4 Dementia initiative. Photo supplied

‍

Brandon Bowls Club marked ANZAC Day on 25 April with a moving minute’s silence before 46 bowlers from Bowen, Alligator Creek, Home Hill, and Suburban Bowls Clubs took to the green, enjoying a day sponsored by RLA Finance. The event was filled with laughter and camaraderie.

The day’s winners were Ross McLaughlin, Andy Cap, and Mitch Wright, with Yogi Bare, Neville Dickinson, and David Harding taking second, and Henry Hazel, Lyn Storrie, and Joe Yipnazar finishing third. Thanks go to Hugh Montgomery for organising the sponsorship and the kitchen ladies for the excellent afternoon smoko.

The weekend continued with the Brandon Fours tournament, sponsored by Burdekin Skips, featuring 16 teams from across the region. After a strong performance on Saturday, Ben Cribben’s Jubilee team finished the tournament with a perfect five wins, claiming the Brandon Fours title. Brandon Bowls extends its thanks to all the sponsors and volunteers for their support.

Contributed with thanks to Llyod Shepherd, Brandon Bowls.

‍

Hugh Montgomery ( sponsor rep ) Ross McLaughlin Andy Cap Mitch Wright and President Jamie Woods
Hugh Montgomery ( Sponsor Rep ) Lyn Storrie Joe Yipnazar Jamie Woods.    ( President )

‍

It’s been a fantastic week of fun and fierce competition at Ayr Bowling Club! The greens have been buzzing with energy as members threw themselves into both social games and championship matches. With the championship season in full swing, the talent and sportsmanship on display have been nothing short of impressive.

Social Ladies’ bowls continued Tuesday with a good turn up, giving us two rinks’ games. Winners were Meryl Smith, Karen Page, Heather Jorgensen and Irene Wilson defeating Merle Nixon, Rayleen Hervey, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power. Runners up were Donna Soper, Linda Giumelli, Ron Soper and Dot Cutting defeating Karen Shepherd, Katarina Stuckler, Sandra Stidston and Mary Poli.

Ayr Bowling Club celebrated a special day on Friday, 25th April, hosting a memorable bowls afternoon in honour of Anzac Day. The turnout was fantastic, with every rink in use, showcasing six games of triples and one game of pairs. The afternoon began with a moving minute’s silence to pay tribute to the brave service men and women who gave their lives for our country. It was a wonderful day of camaraderie and competition, with the winners being Lorraine Wolffe, Marion Nicholson, and Wendy Jones. Runners-up on the day were Kate Leverton, Linda Scells, and Wayne Coonan.

In Championship games this week, the Men had two games of the A Singles. In a very tightly contested game, Lew Stidston defeated Maurie Power 25 – 23. In the other game, also a cliffhanger, Barry Shepherd defeated Wayne Coonan 25 – 24. Both Lew and Barry now progressed to the next round of the A Singles.

If you are interested in giving Bowls a try, Friday Roll Ups are a good place to start. They are held every Friday afternoon from 3:00 - 5:30pm. Whether you're looking to hone your skills, enjoy some friendly training tips, or simply unwind with a drink, these casual roll-ups are the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Come down for some training, enjoy a few drinks, and join in the fun with fellow club members.

You are also very welcome to come and play in our Friday Fun Nights. The next one will be on Friday 9th May, starting at 6 PM. This evening promises fun for bowlers of all levels, encouraging participants to bring friends or join solo to meet new people. The entry fee is $10 per game, which includes a sausage sizzle at 6 PM and a light supper after bowling begins at 7 PM. Get some friends together and come and have an evening of fun and laughter.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull, Ayr Bowling Club.

‍

Anzac Day Winners
Anzac Day Winners
Anzac Day Runners Up

‍

Saturday th 3rd of May  1.00am to 5.00pm ( Patrol Group A ) Chris Wicks, Damien Rickets, Emma Rickets, Jane Wicks.

Sunday th  4th  of May  9,00am to 5.00pm ( All Da y Patrol Group F ) Lisa Furnell, Jen Morgan, John Furnell, Jo Morgan, Lauren Chapman, Isla Chapman, Ryley Sartori, Jake Sartori, Kat Sartori, Dave Sartori.

Monday 5 th  May  9.00am to 5.00pm (  Labour Day Patrol Group G ) Carl list, Jimmy Hayllor, James kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Rickards Jedd Giddy.

‍

As the sun rose over the famous cane fields of the Burdekin on Sunday morning, competitors and spectators alike gathered in Anzac Park for the highly anticipated 2025 Burdekin Sugar Rush.

The morning was kicked off with the Wilmar Half Marathon at 6:30am, with runners setting out on a newly revamped course that highlighted the region’s iconic cane paddocks and scenic rural roads.

The Half Marathon was the first of four races that made up the day’s packed schedule, drawing in athletes and running clubs from across North Queensland eager to make their mark in the opening event of the ANQ Series.

Almost 300 Runners Participate In Annual Sugar Rush!

The vibes were certainly high at Anzac Park, with music blaring and the MC keeping the energy high as a record-high 281 participants battled it out on-track.

Spectators lined the course in support of the athletes as they made their way through the Burdekin’s picturesque landscape, with each racer greeted at the finish line by an uproar of applause and a well-deserved barbecue breakfast.

The morning was capped off with an awards ceremony, with victorious contestants winning cash prizes, while lucky draw winners walked away with a range of spot prizes, including getaways and vouchers worth up to $200.

Race results—my.raceresult.com:

Wilmar Half Marathon—Mens:
1st—Damien Messmer
2nd—Luke Chamley
3rd—Kienan Blanco

Wilmar Half Marathon—Womens:
1st—Saskia Jurriaans
2nd—Aimee Sulzberger
3rd—Vanessa Kennedy

Sunwater 10km—Mens
1st—Brendan Maltby
2nd—Shay Jones
3rd—Jayden Jones

Sunwater 10km—Womens
1st—Casey Chalmers
2nd—Amaya Castrejana
3rd—Anwen Mackay

FiP 5km—Mens
1st—Nicholas Dixon-Grover
2nd—Liam Collings
3rd—Jesse Gillepa

FiP 5km—Womens
1st—Skye Claussen
2nd—Georgia Toohey
3rd—Naomi Jones

NIS Junior—Mens
1st—Joshua Kwa
2nd—Angus Bamber
3rd—Cameron Dobbins

NIS Junior—Womens
1st—Mia Brunker
2nd—Liz Brunker
3rd—Alexis Howell

‍

Local

Senior fixtures resumed last weekend, and the Panthers had three home games and one away game.

On Friday, the Division 1 Men were at home to Wulguru and lost 1-3. The Division 2 Men’s team was away to Estates at Paradise Park and lost 0-4. Then on Saturday at International Park the Reserves drew 0-0 with Brothers and the Premiers came from behind to beat Brothers 3-2. The Ladies game against Wulguru was postponed at Wulguru’s behest.

Panthers have no fixtures this weekend, blame Labour Day.

Juniors

On Saturday the Juniors got back underway under sunny skies, with Brothers and Warriors from Townsville travelling down to play our teams. It looked like the kids were excited and happy to be back playing! Let’s hope for a clear run now for the year! A massive thanks to everyone involved both locally and in Townsville to schedule draws and games across our multiple age groups and venues, an absolute mammoth task.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers were glad to finally be back at home after a few weeks off with weather and holidays. The game started evenly, with both teams sticking to their strengths. Brothers struck first with a header from a free kick in the 20th minute and doubled their lead 10 minutes later. The Panthers clawed one back through Elliot Dal Santo, finishing a corner with a sharp volley.

Five minutes after halftime, Oliver Gabiola won a high ball and found Jay Leckenby, who slipped Matthew Kolb in to make it 2-2. The momentum swung again when Ryan Taylor was sent off for a second yellow card and not long after that Elliott was also shown red, leaving the Panthers with just nine men. Brothers also had a man sent off but kept the pressure on.

The Panthers adjusted the gameplan and kept pushing. With five minutes left, Oliver Gabiola whipped in a perfect cross, Jay Leckenby’s header hit the post, but Ryan Scodellaro was there to bury the rebound and give the lads a 3-2 lead. Brothers threw everything at the Burdekin goal but after a tense stretch of added time, the Panthers held on for a gutsy win.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves got the season back underway hosting Brothers on Saturday afternoon with a capable side on paper, but lacking game time due to the prolonged wet season. The team started slowly against a Brothers side showing good ball control and passing and were creating opportunities. Despite the low intensity and lack of possession the Panthers scrapped to stay in the contest and kept Brothers from scoring. As the game progressed the Panthers were able to gain some control, and Brothers missed some good chances to score. The second half was a much better showing and as the game progressed the Panthers were able to create some chances and were unlucky not to take the lead. They showed a gritty commitment, and the defence was resolute and just kept stopping Brothers attacks. The result could have gone either way, but the draw was a valuable point. On a day that the club paid its respects to the passing of Life Member, Ramon Oar, the Reserves team performance showed a calibre of effort and endeavour that Ramon would have cherished.

Division I Men

The Austral Masonry Division 1 met Wulguru on Friday night. In a fairly even game, Wulguru took the lead in the thirty fifth minute. However, the Panthers were back on equal terms four minutes later with a goal from Brayden Card to make the score at half time 1-1. The second half was fairly tight until Wulguru regained the lead after seventy three minutes and twelve minutes later, they scored again to effectively put the game to bed. After a long break this was quite a good performance by the Panthers and the final score flattered the opposition.

International

England and the EPL with four games to go, Liverpool are Champions after marmelising Spurs 5-1. The Scousers are fifteen points clear of Arsenal with third placed Newcastle a further five points away. Manchester City are still fourth although they were beating Nottingham Forest 2-0 in the FA Cup semi-final. In the other semi-final Crystal Place thumped Aston Villa 3-0. Ipswich, Leicester and Southampton have all been relegated.

The Quote of the Week is from then Northern Ireland Manager Billy Bingham “The proof of the pudding is when you get down to the nitty-gritty.”

‍

With the 2025 Sugar Bowl—Queensland’s premier regional tennis event—just around the corner, excitement is building both on and off the court. For locals, the tournament represents more than just a competition: it’s a celebration of community pride, connection, and resilience.

“It gives something to the people in our town, in our district, and it brings them together through physical, social and emotional activity,” says Home Hill Tennis Association (HHTA) Secretary, Kate Casswell.

The HHTA, founded in 1932, has seen many generations of families pass through its doors, each adding their own chapter to the rich history of the Sugar Bowl.

The Casswell family is a prime example, with multiple generations involved over the years. Col Casswell, who passed away in 2021, was deeply passionate about the Sugar Bowl, a love he passed down to his children.

Today, each of Col’s kids has their own team, and Col’s Crew—now captained by former local Brett Wheeler—is proudly one of the 42 teams competing in this year's Bowl. There are 16 captains that hail from Burdekin and feature iconic local names like Woods, Hanson, Davies and Vidler just to name a few.

Kate says it’s her way of giving back, “I volunteer my time here for the community, because we’re such a small, regional town that we don’t have all the facilities and services that you’d have in the city.”

The Sugar Bowl was created in 1981 by Pat and Lex Anderson and was launched to celebrate the HHTA’s 50th anniversary. Now in its 44th edition, the Sugar Bowl has since become a symbol of both sporting excellence and the unwavering spirit of a small regional town. Sadly, Pat passed away in January, so we dedicate the 44th edition to her.

"Her granddaughters Lisa and Janae are making a come back this year and I can just feel Lex and Pat’s pride in seeing them play and that the event is still going strong," said Casswell.

But, as well as locals, the Sugar Bowl has long drawn in participants from all corners of Queensland—and even further afield—with some in it to win it, while others relish a chance to catch up with family and friends in the community.

“We have lots of teams that have friends and family here, and so they use this as a great reason to come back and visit their family and friends,” says Kate.

The event is back in town this weekend from 8 am and will see 42 teams go head-to-head to win it all. The rules have been relaxed over the years to allow the over 55s to take to the court for just one session and for those with work or other commitments to play a couple of sessions.

As well as hundreds of participants, this year’s Sugar Bowl is set to bring locals and visitors together once again, reinforcing its role as a highlight of the region’s sporting and social calendar.

There is a special bonus this year, with the official opening of the upgraded amenities on Saturday at 7.45 am.

On Sunday evening from 5-10 pm there will be live music, pig on the spit as well as the raffle being drawn. The committee is hopeful that the whole community will get down to the club to enjoy the weekend.

What: 2025 Sugar Bowl (Tennis)
When: 3rd-5th of May
Where: Home Hill Tennis Association

‍

The Senior members of the Ayr Surf Club headed to Alva Beach on ANZAC Day to culminate their competition season. Although numbers were down on previous years, it was good to see some strong competition between Club mates in all disciplines, and a good afternoon of friendly racing.

The seniors will join the juniors on Saturday 10th May at the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club's Annual Presentation Night to recognise their achievements over the 2024-25 Season. Celebrations will commence at the Ayr SLSC Clubhouse from 5pm with the Junior awards, followed by a Club dinner and then Senior awards.  Tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for children (kids under 6 free).  If you are interested in attending please contact Kellie Lawry, admin on ayrslsc@gmail.com or visit the Ayr Surf Club's Facebook page.

This long weekend (Monday 5th May) also brings about the end of the patrolling season at Alva Beach. The red & yellow volunteers of the Ayr Surf Club will be back on duty in September. Although patrols are ending, the start of the new 2025-26 Nipper Season is only a few months away. More details with dates and times will be confirmed shortly. So if you're interested in getting involved with the Ayr Surf Club please don't hesitate to contact us.

‍

Home Hill State High School enjoyed good weather for its cross country carnival on Monday, April 28, 2025, with a challenging course winding through the school’s surrounding farmland.

Students tackled a range of terrains around the school, testing their endurance and spirit across grass, dirt tracks, and rugged paddocks. The event brought together competitors from across the school’s houses — Upstart, Inkerman, and Beachmount — all vying for age champion honours and a spot on the school’s representative team.

In the Open division, Sonny O’Rourke (Upstart) and Mary Hinde (Inkerman) took out the top honours for the boys and girls respectively. The 16 years age group saw Rowen Peterson (Upstart) and Indianna Macdonald (Beachmount) finish first.

Luke Potter-Geitz (Upstart) and Jemma Olditch (Inkerman) led the 15 years division, while Allow Brown (Inkerman) and Ashley Oats (Beachmount) were victorious among the 14-year-olds.

The 13 years titles went to Alex Cullen (Inkerman) and McKenna Trail (Upstart), while in the 12 years division, Braxton Bowen and Chloe Oats, both from Beachmount, claimed the wins.

The school congratulated all students for their participation, sportsmanship, and house spirit, with staff praising the competitive but friendly atmosphere throughout the day.

Winners from each age group will now represent Home Hill State High School at the Burdekin State School trials, to be held on May 12 at the same Home Hill course.

At last year’s BSS trials, HHSHS had four students qualify for the Burdekin team to compete at the North Queensland trials, and with a strong group of runners this year, Home Hill looks well positioned for another big result at district level.

‍

Captain Cruz Torkington and Captian Blaze Palmer

Age Champion Open Boy Sonny O'Rourke

Age Champion Open Girl Mary Hinde

Old Friends

At 101, Carl is a living testament to the power of longevity in sport. He continues to bowl alongside his long-time mate, Bob, proving that age is no barrier to staying active. With years of experience on the green at Home Hill Bowls, Carl’s passion for the game, coupled with Bob’s ongoing involvement, shows how sport can remain a rewarding part of life, no matter your age.

Mid-Week Bowls

Mid-week bowls at Home Hill offer a great opportunity for everyone to enjoy the game in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Come down, have some fun, and join in on the action!

‍