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45 teams from across Queensland met in Home Hill last weekend, duelling for glory in what was the 45th edition of the region’s esteemed Sugar Bowl tennis tournament. Men’s and women’s teams travelled from as far as Brisbane, competing in a traditional round-robin format across A Grade, A2 Grade and B Grade divisions from Saturday, 2 May to Monday, 4 May. Emerald Tennis Club’s Keg Slayers took out the A Grade men’s competition, with M&M’s claiming the women’s A Grade title for a fourth time. A2 Grade men’s champions TTT dominated the division, while the Lady Bugs pipped their A2 women’s rivals to glory. The Shoeys edged the Wackers to claim men’s B Grade glory, and the Hot Shots proved too strong for the women’s B division after a comfortable victory. Both Col’s Crew and the Sugar Hits were recognised with Team Spirit awards to tie off the eventful three days. Home Hill Tennis Association secretary Kate Casswell said the event was another feather in the cap of the club, continuing the tournament’s 45-year history with another successful edition. “It was such a successful year with a really strong field. The quality we saw from the A men’s in particular this year was next level,” Ms Casswell said. She said the event garnered significant interest from the tennis community. “Tennis really picks up locally—even in Townsville—because this is a big thing on the calendar for them. They want to come to play, compete and have fun,” she said. Ms Casswell said the influx of visitors also boosted local business, with around 1,000 players and spectators filling local accommodation and supporting businesses throughout the long weekend. She thanked the committee, team captains and the Ayr-Home Hill Lions Club for their efforts in facilitating the event that was just as much social as it was competitive. “The highlight for me is just seeing all the teams come and have a great time together—the positivity and the energy that comes from it,” she said.
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Ayr’s finest golfers have returned triumphant from the 2026 Queensland Women’s Country Week. Battling "character-building" coastal winds across Yeppoon and Rockhampton, the eight-strong squad proved their mettle on the greens. The highlight belonged to Kerry Heuir and Sandra Wight, who secured the Division 2 Foursomes title with a gritty 95. Former local Amanda Gees also tasted glory in Division 1. Between rainbows and gala dinners, the week celebrated the unbreakable spirit and camaraderie of regional golf. Read on page 29 CAPTION: Battling "character-building" coastal winds across Yeppoon and Rockhampton, the eight-strong squad proved their mettle on the greens. Photo source: Ayr Golf Club/Facebook
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Seniors A disappointing weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had only three senior games drawing two and losing one. The Premiers and Reserves were away to Warriors with the Premiers drawing 1-1 and the Reserves losing 0-1. The Division 1 team forfeited but the Division 2, drew 1-1 away to MA Olympic. The Colts also had a bye, and the Ladies have withdrawn from the competition. This week four teams are in action as the Colts have a bye. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are at home to Olympic, at 8.30 and 6.30 and on Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are away to MA Olympic at 7.00 and 5.00. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club With several players unavailable, the Panthers were forced into their fifth different backline combination in as many games, heading into a tough away trip to Warriors at Melrose Park, a venue where points are always hard to come by. The first half was a stalemate, with neither side able to gain control despite the Panthers enjoying a large share of possession. Clear chances were limited, and both teams remained disciplined defensively. The second half followed a similar pattern, although Warriors began to create more threatening opportunities. Jarrod Camer stood tall in goal, producing key saves to keep the scores level. With ten minutes remaining, the breakthrough finally came, with Jay Leckenby finishing off a well-worked move to give the Panthers a 1–0 lead. However, the advantage was short-lived, with Warriors equalising five minutes later. The match finished 1–1, a result that reflected a hard-fought contest in difficult conditions. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service The Panthers started the game well with plenty of effort and pressure creating multiple chances which the Burdekin were guilty of not taking. On the back of the Panthers failing to score, Warriors took one of their very few chances and scored right before half time. The Panthers applied a lot of pressure after the break but were again guilty of not taking their opportunities. Luke Torkington received a red card, for letting his frustration at some questionable tactics get to him. Even with ten men, Burdekin still had Warriors camped in their half so despite the 1-0 loss there is potential for a better result next round. Division 1 – Austral Masonry Faced with a shortage of players, weddings etcetera, the Division 1 had to forfeit their match against Olympic. Division 2 – RG Customs The RG Customs Funkies drew 1-1 with MA Olympic on Friday night. It was a very competitive contest and free flowing game. Burdekin created numerous attacking chances but continued to be denied by Olympic keeper who was very good all night. It took until the 77th minute for Jared Giardina to give Burdekin the lead with a neat finish. The game was quite frantic until the end and Olympic managed to equalise in the 89th minute to share the points. An unfortunate goal after an incorrect decision to award Olympic a corner that resulted with the goal. Despite the draw the Funkies can be proud of the effort and intensity on the night, for the entire game. A focus, however, must be on finishing off attacking chances and dominating the scoreboard as well as the game. Great performances by Jared Giardina, Jesse Thomasson and also Chris Achille running out the full 90 minutes of play. Ladies Female Football is taking over Monday nights! A strictly social hour of football. All are welcome to attend. Small-sided game, no skills, or experience required! Grab your friends and come down and have good time. 6:30pm, Senior Fields! Welcome to Female Football Week! An exciting two weeks to celebrate the outstanding contribution and the growth of the female game! We are proudly hosting events across the two weeks! Keep an eye out on Facebook for more details. Thank you to all the amazing females and girls that shape the face of what Female Football means in the Burdekin! Masters The Masters had another good turnout and a replay of last week’s World Cup Qualifier, Italy v Bosnia Herzegovina. In a close game Bosnia won 3-2 and for Italy it’s Goodnight Luigi! Fengil scored twice for Bosnia. Best players on the night were George Karagkiozis and Jonty Davis. The Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off. Juniors After a quiet week with no games over the long weekend, our junior soccer teams are eager to get back into the swing of things. Training resumes this week, giving players a great chance to sharpen their skills, reconnect with teammates, and prepare for the return to matches this Saturday. We are looking forward to seeing everyone back on the field, refreshed and ready for another exciting round of junior soccer. National The A League Men’s season has reached the final stages. In the Elimination Finals Auckland defeated Melbourne City on penalties after a 1-1 tie and Sydney beat Melbourne Victory 1-0. On Saturday, Sydney now plays Newcastle and Auckland plays Adelaide in the 1st Leg of the semi-finals. The A League Women are at the Semi-finals stage, and in the 1st Leg, Melbourne City beat Victory 1-0 and Brisbane defeated Wellington 2-1. The second leg will be played this weekend. International In the World Cup department, the Socceroos travel to the USA to play Mexico on 31 May at the Rosebowl in Pasadena and now have another ‘friendly’ organised. They play Switzerland in San Diego on 6th June. Australia’s first Group D match is against Turkey in Vancouver on the 14th June. They then play the USA in Seattle on 20th June and Paraguay in San Francisco on 26th June. In Europe, the various leagues are very close to the end of season. In England with three rounds left, Arsenal leads Manchester City by six points, but City has two games in hand. ManU will probably finish in third place with Liverpool or Aston Villa finishing fourth. Wolves and Burnley are already relegated with either Spurs or West Ham joining them. Oh yes, Coventry City won the Championship by eleven points. What a team! In Germany with two rounds to go Bayern are already champions and Dortmund need one more point to finish second. Leipzig should finish in third spot with either Leverkusen, Stuttgart or Hoffenheim finishing fourth. Relegation faces Heidenheim, St Pauli and Wolfsburg. In Spain, with four rounds to go, Barcelona are champions with Real Madrid second and, probably Villarreal third and Atletico fourth. It is very tight at the foot of the table with Oviedo in deep trouble with Levante, Seville and Alaves struggling. In Italy, with three rounds left, Inter are already champions with Napol likely to finish in second place. AC Milan, Juventus, Como or Roma could fill the third and fourth places. Pisa and Verona are already relegated and either Cremonese or Lecce could join them. In France with two rounds to play PSG are already champions and Lens and Lyon are likely to finish in second and third spots. Lille or Rennes will finish fourth. Metz and Nantes are already relegated, and Auxerre will probably accompany them.
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Touch Juniors[Text Wrapping Break]Last Friday’s Junior Touch saw 45 boys and girls aged 4 to 12 nominate. Skills, drills and games will begin this Friday from 5.30pm to 6.15pm for six weeks. Further nominations will still be accepted. Annual General Meeting[Text Wrapping Break]The Annual General Meeting of the Burdekin Touch Association will be held next Tuesday, 12 May, in the Touch Clubhouse at 6pm. Everyone is welcome. Results – Coutt’s Commercial Hotel Open Men’s and Women’s (Round 8) Men[Text Wrapping Break]Way To Go 5 (B Palmer 2) def Nrgize 4 (L Torkington 2)[Text Wrapping Break]Wires Down 6 (K Parravicini 2, G Flannagan 2) drew One Touch IT 6 (J Ballin 2, J Leckenby 2, R Taylor 2)[Text Wrapping Break]Alliance Pharmacy 13 (J Furnell 4, K Hesp 3, A Watson 2) def Baywatch 1[Text Wrapping Break]Burdekin PCYC 12 (G Dau 6, S Doolah 2, T Heron 2) def Blue Murder 7 (N Spina 2, R Smith 2)[Text Wrapping Break]Royal Touch 7 (A Miller 3, C Formilan 2) def Touch n Go 5 (R Piva 2, K Vitty 2)[Text Wrapping Break]Creampuffs 9 (P Le Feuvre 3, L Chatfield 2, L Lampton 2) def Petrol Heads 4[Text Wrapping Break]Teamo Supremo 9 (J Moustakas 3, H Horan 2, R Heuir 2) def Feelers 5[Text Wrapping Break]Renegades 12 (B Frau 4, D McKeough 2, B Johnson 2, S Andreatta 2) def Ball Grabbers 2[Text Wrapping Break]Crocs won on forfeit Women[Text Wrapping Break]Lasers 12 (B Robertson 6, T Horan 3, M Robertson 2) def Can’t Catch 1[Text Wrapping Break]Eathorne’s Princesses 6 (A Cornford 4) def Salty Sirens 1[Text Wrapping Break]First in Physio 11 (L Trindle 5, M Nauqe 3, T Monday 2) def Chick Flicks 1 Under 14[Text Wrapping Break]Red Dogs 2 3 (Logan, Jamie, Emmet) def Broncos 2 (Jake, Kasey)[Text Wrapping Break]Red Dogs 1 6 (Connor Linton 3, Luca Lawry, Archie) def Rockies 2 Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton CAPTION: Torah Brock in action. Photo supplied
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The Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Men’s and Women’s Touch Football Grand Finals were held last week, marking the first time the pre-season competition featured finals.
In the women’s decider, Eathorne’s Princesses faced First in Physio. The Princesses’ defence proved impenetrable, keeping their opponents scoreless while putting four touchdowns on the board. Ryley Sartori scored twice and was named player of the final for her standout performance.
The men’s final between One Touch IT and BAYWatch delivered end-to-end action, with both sides showing strong attack and defence. The match finished five-all. Jayden Lambie-Fabbro earned player of the final honours. Both captains agreed to forego extra time, opting to share the prize money.
Results of Round 1 played 25 February, 2026
Under 14
BAYWatch1 5 def Silly Soft Serves 1,
Red Dogs 11 (F Levitt 5, L Pickup 3) def Rockies 1,
Cowboys 11 (Adea 6, S Williams 4) def Broncos 3 (Zaviar 2).
OPEN WOMEN
Pre-season Final:
Eathorne’s Princesses 4 (R Sartori 2) def First in Physio 0,
Salty Sirens 8 (A Dobe 2, L Groth 2) def Can’t Catch 2,
Lasers 9 (T Horan 5, B Robertson 3) def Chick Flicks 1.
OPEN MEN
Pre-season Final:
One Touch IT 5 (J Valle 2, J Leckenby 2) drew BAYWatch 5,
Alliance Pharmacy 9 (A Watson 2, J Olsen 2, B Vasta 2, K Hesp 2) def Slush Puppies 3 (J Levitt 2),
Way To Go 4 def Tha Murries 3 (C Taiters 2),
Crocs 9 (J McIvor 3, KJ Zaro 2, J Naque 2) def His Haas 1,
Nrgize 7 (H Munro 3, L Lampton 2) def Wires Down 1,
Burdekin PCYC 8 (G Dau 6) def Touch n Go 2,
Teamo Supremo 10 (B Horan 4, R Heuir 2) def Renegades 1,
Creampuffs 4 def Royal Touch 3,
Feelers 4 (L Dobe 2) def Blue Murder 1,
Ball Grabbers 6 (C White 2) def Petrol Heads 1.
Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton
CAPTIONS:
1—Eathorne's Princesses
2—First in Physio
Photos supplied
The Burdekin Roosters are scheduled to begin the R L T D season on Sunday, April 12, when they meet Brothers at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville. They have, however, arranged trial matches for all four grades in Ayr on Saturday, March 21.
On that day, Souths from Townsville will visit the Roosters with three grades — A, Reserve, and Ladies. The Under 19s will play Norths from Townsville as the first game of the day. Souths were A-grade premiers in the R L T D in both 2024 and 2025. Their Reserve grade team were premiers in 2024, while the Ladies team is a brand-new addition for the club.
Souths have put together a strong women’s team, winning the Bowen Tens Ladies last weekend. The Under 19s are new to the R L T D, but both Norths and Burdekin had strong teams in the Under 18s last year. The day will start with the Under 19s at 1:30 pm, followed by the Ladies, Reserves, and A-grade at 6:00 pm.
The two Burdekin-based teams acquitted themselves well at the annual Bowen Tens in Bowen last Saturday. The Burdekin Delta Dolphins won two games from four in a tough pool, with the Pacifica side taking three of their four games and just missing the final. Wests Tigers from Mackay were the men’s winners, narrowly defeating last year’s champions Emu Park from Rockhampton in a 14-team competition.
The women’s competition attracted six teams, with first-timers Souths from Townsville crowned winners over Emu Park from Rockhampton. Burdekin players Stephanie and Martina Monday, along with Toni Daisy, played for Souths. Emu Park defended the relay victory from last year, with Runamuck from Bowen the women’s winner. Kudin from Bowen was judged the lucky team at the carnival.
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes
Local
The 1st Round of the Kappa Cup, after being postponed four times, was finally played last Saturday. The Premiers were away to Saints Eagles Souths in Townsville and won 3-2 after Extra Time. Other North Queensland winners were Riverway JCU, MA Olympic and Brothers. Burdekin now play Brothers in the 3rd Round.
Seniors
In the Kappa Cup a tough opening match saw Burdekin travel to Saints, a venue where the Panthers traditionally find it hard to get going. That trend continued as the Panthers struggled early before breaking through with a well-taken goal from Ryan Scodellaro to lead 1–0. Soon afterwards Burdekin were reduced to ten men, and Saints equalised with five minutes remaining, to force extra time. The Panthers showed great resilience, with Jake Siandri calmly converting a penalty before Jay Leckenby added a third. Saints pulled one back late in the game to keep the pressure on, but the Panthers defended strongly in the closing minutes to secure a hard-earned first win of the season.
Only two weeks now before the season kicks off. the Men train on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 .15 and the Ladies are in action on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6.00. The Ladies are looking for a goalkeeper and a Coach. Fixtures start on the weekend of 20 - 22 March. The Division 1 and Funkies teams play Estates at home on the Friday, and the Ladies are away to MA Olympic. On the Sunday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels. The Premiers first home game of the season is against Estates on Saturday 28 March. Senior Registrations are open and players should register now.
Juniors
A pre-season Training Clinic for both Boys and Girls aged 6-9 years will start on Tuesdays at 5.15 at International Park. A great way to get back into soccer before the season begins. Registrations for the 2026 season are now open and will close on 1st March. Teams will be hopefully getting sorted out in the next few weeks. Pre-season games will Kick Off on Saturday 21st March.
Masters
The Masters had to be cancelled again last Monday as the pitches were too wet. The season should now start next Monday Night. The Magic (or Mayhem) should kick off on 9th March. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.
National and International
The Matildas played their first match in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup and managed to win 1-0 against the Philippines in Perth on Sunday. In a less than impressive performance, Sam Kerr scored the only goal. The Matilda’s are due to play Iran this Thursday and South Korea on Sunday. The Matildas are in Group A with Iran, South Korea, and the Philippines.
The Socceroos are warming up for the 2026 World Cup with three friendlies. They play Cameroon on 27 March and Curacao on 31 March in Australia and have now arranged a friendly against Mexico on 31 May at the Rosebowl in Pasadena. The Socceroos will know their first opponents in Group D by 1st April after the Play Offs between Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo. The play offs start on 27 March and finish four days later.
In the A League, after nineteen rounds Newcastle are still the League leaders, despite only managing a 0-0 draw with Central Coast. They lead Auckland, who beat Melbourne City 3-0, by three points and Sydney FC stay in third place after beating Wellington. Adelaide drew at Melbourne Victory to stay in fourth spot and Brisbane drew 1-1 with Perth to move up to eighth place. Wellington and Western Sydney now hold up the league one point adrift of Perth.
With the Asian Pacific Cup being played, there were no A League Women Fixture this week.
Europe
In the EPL Arsenal beat Chelsea 2-1 and is now five points clear of Manchester City who won 1-0 at Leeds and ManU has moved up to third place with a 2-1 win against Crystal Palace as Aston Villa drop to fourth place after losing to Wolverhampton! With ten rounds left Wolves and Burnley look Championship bound and West Ham, Notts Forest or Spurs could be joining them.
In Germany’s Bundesliga, only three of the top six teams won and Bayern who beat Dortmund 3-2 in the top of the table clash is now eleven points clear of Dortmund. Hoffenheim and Stuttgart are a further six points behind in third and fourth place. At the bottom of the league Heidenheim are definitely in trouble, but St Pauli and Werder Bremen both won and might escape relegation.
In Italy’s Serie A, four of the top six teams won and Inter, who beat Genoa 2-0, is still ten points clear of AC Milan who won away to Cremonese. Napoli won and is in third place four points further behind and Roma is fourth another two pints adrift. Juventus drew and dropped to sixth place and the four bottom teams all lost. Pisa and Verona both look Serie B bound.
In Spain’s, La Liga Barcelona beat Villarreal 4-1 and leads Real Madrid by four points but Real has a game in hand. Villarreal drops to fourth place and Atletico who won at Oviedo moves up to third place another nine points behind. At the bottom of the league, Levante was the only one of seven teams to win but together with Oviedo are still in deep trouble.
In France, PSG was the only one of the top three teams to win. They beat Le Havre 1-0 and are now four points ahead of Lens who drew at Strasbourg. Lyon lost again and is now a further eight points behind, three points clear of fourth placed Marseille. Paris FC was the only one of the bottom nine teams to win, and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes are in severe trouble.
The Quote of the Week is from ex Nottingham Forest Manager Brian Clough “Walk on water? I know that most people out there will be saying that instead of walking on it, I should have taken more of it with my drinks. They are absolutely right.”
The Ayr Lady Golfers launched the 2026 Wednesday Competitions earlier this month with an action-packed opening day, highlighted by strong performances, camaraderie, and the support of a new sponsor.
Paul from Dingle Smash Repairs attended the event to personally present prizes to the day’s winners, including first- through fourth-place finishers, pin shot winners, and the “lucky loser” prize, much to the delight of the members.
The day also marked the start of the club’s nine-hole social competition for beginner members, giving newcomers a chance to build confidence as they progress toward playing the full 18-hole competition. Experienced members, including those currently sidelined with injury, provided encouragement and support throughout the day.
Opening Day Results:
Pin Shot Winners:
The Ayr Lady Golfers thanked Paul and Dingle Smash Repairs for their generous support, which helped make Opening Day a memorable start to the 2026 season.
The rain stayed away long enough for the Junior Cricket games to go ahead at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex last Friday. After two weeks of wet weather and no games it could be assumed that the Challengers could be a little rusty, though this was not the case as some great cricket skills were on show in the group.
Flynn Sullivan top scored with 7 runs and had good awareness in the field to get a couple of runouts, as did Jaxon Watkins. Nicholas Marrinan scored 4 runs from some well-placed shots into the gaps and Doug Cohen bowled very fast and had great energy in the field. Cooper Amos, Oliver Richter and Everly Nicholas also bowled well, with Everly earning one of the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for her nice straight arm. Nash got the other award for his fine batting technique.
Flynn, Everly and Nash Star in Junior Cricket Comeback
There was plenty of energy in the field in the "Blue Group" with four runouts, and seven wickets taken by the bowlers. Flynn Levitt had the best figures of 2 for 8 runs including one maiden in his overs. Royce Cohen, 2 for 12 and Corbett Cross, 2 for 16 also bowled well. Jardii Russell took one wicket, two runouts and led the way with the bat smashing 2 fours on his way to 16 runs. Henry Cohen was next on 15 runs with 1 four and also a runout. Jake Cullen and Tait Parker also hit a four each and scored 14 runs in their innings, with Jake also taking a catch and a runout. Flynn and Tait got the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their great bowling and fielding in this game.
Only three wickets fell in the "Gold Group" this week and only 2 fours were hit in the whole game. These fours were scored by Marshall Parker who ended his innings of 24 runs not out. Ben Watkins was next highest on 15 but was out LBW on his last ball before retiring, trying a reverse sweep to Kip Nicholas in his first game in this group. Tyler Schultz was next on 13 not out after he took a couple of overs to get going. Ben was very economical and took 1 for 7 when bowling, Oscar Mahoney, 1/10 and Kip, 1/24 snared the other wickets. Ben and Kip earned the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their overall performances.
Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke
Blue Group - Tait & Flynn
Challengers - Everly & Nash
Over the weekend, more than 700 of the state’s top youth athletes from 53 lifesaving clubs descended on Maroochydore to compete on the sand and in the surf at the Queensland Youth State Lifesaving Championships. The 14 members from the Ayr Surf Club had a fantastic weekend, taking on very tough competition in challenging conditions. With incredible individual and team performances progressing through heats, quarters, semis, and finals, our members brought home multiple podium finishes — as well as a few close fourths.
“All of our athletes should be extremely proud of their efforts, representing the Ayr Surf Club and the North Barrier Branch with the highest level of sportsmanship and professionalism,” said Ayr Surf Life Saving member and junior activities coordinator Kellie Lawry.
Ayr Surf Club Excels in State R&R and Beach Events
The four-day competition kicked off with Ayr's first five-person R&R team in decades, alongside our two-person teams, with all three teams claiming silver medals. Ayr’s U13/15 five-person team—Emilee Wassmuth, Charlotte Dale, Luca Lawry, Charlotte Lawry, and Briella Wassmuth—narrowly missed out on gold by just 0.5 points, taking home a well-deserved silver medal. Charlotte and Emilee also claimed silver in the U13/14 two-person R&R, narrowly beaten by the current Australian champions. Briella paired with Amalie from Arcadian Club to also win silver in the U14/15 two-person R&R, finishing behind a fellow North Barrier Branch team. Several of Ayr’s athletes also took on the 1km and 2km beach runs on Thursday afternoon, delivering strong performances.
Friday and Saturday saw Ayr’s athletes compete in a variety of individual and team water and beach events over two massive days of back-to-back competition. The club’s participants experienced a mix of success, progressing through various rounds and putting their hard work and training to the test. Taylor Chapman claimed a silver medal as part of the U12 Female 2x500m Beach Run Relay, and a bronze as part of the U12 Female Beach Relay. Milla Chapman earned a bronze in the U14 Mixed Beach Relay, as well as another bronze with Alyssa Irvine in the All Age Relay.
The final day of competition featured surf race finals and board semi-finals, with several strong performances. Four of Ayr’s members also competed in the March Past event, claiming a silver medal alongside their North Barrier Branch teammates.
Overall, the championships were a roaring success and a fantastic way to cap off the SLSQ competitive season for our Ayr Surf Club members.
Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry
1 - Ayr's 5 person R&R team - Briella Wassmuth, Charlotte Lawry, Luca Lawry, Charlotte Dale & Emilee Wassmuth - Silver
Pic 2 - Briella Wassmuth & Amalie Edwards (Arcadian) - U14/15 2 Person R&R - Silver
Pic 3 - Emilee Wassmuth & Charlotte Lawry - U13/14 2 Person R&R - Silver
Pic 4 - Taylor Chapman (with partner Aria) in U12 2x500m Beach Run Relay - 2nd
Pic 5 - All Age Relay Team - including Alyssa Irvine & Milla Chapman - 3rd
Pic 6 - Audrey Rickards - U11 Female beach flags
Pic 7 - Mahli McShane in U11 Surf Team
Pic 8 - NBB March Past Team - including Briella & Emilee Wassmuth & Charlotte & Luca Lawry - 2nd
Pic 9 - Taylor Chapman - U12 Female beach relay
Local
The 1st Round of the Kappa Cup, where the Premiers are away to Saints Eagles Souths in Townsville, was postponed for the fourth Saturday in a row. Coach Leighton Gallagher must wonder if the game will ever be played! Hopefully, the match against Saints Eagles Souths will finally kick off at Aitkenvale Park at 7.00pm this Saturday night.
Seniors
Meanwhile training goes on, the Men train on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.15 and the Ladies are in action on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5.30 to 7.00. Fixtures start on the weekend of 20 - 22 March. The Division 1 and Funkies teams play Estates at home on the Friday, and the Ladies are away to MA Olympic. On the Sunday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels. The Premiers first home game of the season is against Estates on Saturday 28 March.
Juniors
A pre-season Training Clinic for both Boys and Girls aged 6-9 years will start on Tuesdays at 5.15 at International Park. A great way to get back into soccer before the season begins. Registrations for the 2026 season are now open and will close on Sunday 1st March. Teams will be hopefully getting sorted out in the next few weeks. Pre-season games will Kick Off on Saturday 21st March.
Masters
The Masters had to be cancelled last Monday as the pitches were too wet. The season should start next Monday Night. The Magic (or Mayhem) should now kick off on 2 March. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.
National and International
The Matildas are now just a few days away from their first match in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup which is being hosted by Australia. The Matildas first match is against the Philippines in Perth on Sunday 1st March. They then meet Iran on 5th March and South Korea on 8th March. The Matildas are in Group A with Iran, South Korea, and the Philippines.
The Socceroos are warming up for the 2026 World Cup with two friendlies. They play Cameroon on 27 March and Curacao on 31 March and very soon after that, the Socceroos fans will know their first opponents in Group D. It could be any of four countries, Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo. The play offs start on 27 March and finish four days later. In the meantime, The Socceroos know that they will meet USA and Paraguay but will not know their third opponents until 1st April.
In the A League, after eighteen rounds Newcastle are still the League leaders. They beat Macarthur 1-0 and have now won their last eight games. The Jets are now four points clear of second placed Auckland who won the NZ Derby, 5-0 in Wellington.
Sydney defeated Brisbane 1-0 and is in third place a further three points away. Brisbane drops to ninth place. Adelaide stays fourth and Western Sydney continue to hold up the league three points adrift of Wellington and Perth.
In the A League Women, Melbourne City is now three points clear at the top after winning 3-1 at Central Coast. Canberra stay in second place with a 3-0 win away to Western Sydney and third placed Adelaide beat Brisbane 2-0. The Roar is now in sixth place. Sydney FC continues to hold up the league a point behind Western Sydney.
Europe
In England it was back to the EPL and Arsenal, after drawing at Wolverhampton during the week, won 4-1 at Spurs and is now five points clear of Manchester City who beat Newcastle 2-1. Aston Villa could only draw and is a further five points behind six points clear of Chelsea, ManU and Liverpool. With eleven rounds left Wolves and Burnley look Championship bound and West Ham, Notts Forest or Spurs could be joining them.
In Germany’s Bundesliga, with eleven rounds left to play, Bayern was the only one of the top six teams to win. They beat Eintracht and is now eight points ahead of Dortmund. Hoffenheim are a further six points behind and Stuttgart another three points adrift. At the bottom of the league Werder Bremen and Heidenheim are still in trouble, but St Pauli won again and might escape relegation.
In Italy’s Serie A, only two of the top five teams won and Inter, who won 2-0 away to Lecce, is now ten points clear of AC Milan who lost at home to Parma. Napoli also lost and is a further four points behind. Roma moves up to fourth place and Juventus lost again and stays fifth. The two bottom teams, Pisa and Verona both lost again and look Serie B bound but Fiorentina won and might escape relegation.
In Spain’s, La Liga four of the top six teams won but Real Madrid lost at Osasuna and is now one point behind Barca who beat Levante 3-0. Villarreal is another nine points behind and fourth placed Atletico a further three points away. At the bottom of the league, none of the last seven teams won and Levante and Oviedo are still in deep trouble.
In France, PSG was the only one of the top four teams to win. They beat Metz 2-0 and are now two points ahead of Lens who lost to Monaco. Lyon also lost and is now a further seven points behind, but five points clear of fourth placed Marseille. Only Nantes of the bottom seven teams won, and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes are in severe trouble.
The Quote of the Week is from ex Manchester United Manager Sir Matt Busby - “Nobby Stiles a dirty player? No, he’s never hurt anyone. Mind you, he’s frightened a few!
Two teams of Burdekin-based Rugby League players, Burdekin Delta Dolphins and Pacifika Warriors, will take part in the Annual Bowen Tens competition at Denison Park in Bowen this Saturday.
Founded in 2012 to raise money for Cancer Research, the Annual Carnival conducted by the Bowen Junior Rugby League Seagulls attracts teams from all over North Queensland. This year, teams will be coming from as far north as Cardwell to Emu Park and Morambah.
The carnival now supports several local charities, with Ronald McDonald House charities to the fore.
Players who are 18 years of age and over play in teams of 10 a side on the paddock, with 10-minute halves, using the rules of Rugby League except there are five tackles to a set instead of six.
Teams who have participated in the past have generously contributed to the charity cause. Several Burdekin teams have been successful in the past, donating half their winnings to the nominated charity.
There will be several food vans on site catering for the crowd at the games, which begin at 8 am Saturday morning on two fields and finish late Saturday afternoon.
Semi-finals and a final will be played for both men and women. A few seasons back, a women’s competition was added to the day, and this year that competition has attracted six teams.
Abbot Point Operations are the major sponsor of the women’s competition, with R A P Painting and Finishing sponsoring the runners-up. The six women’s teams are Townsville Souths, Bowen Bush Chooks, Morambah Miners, K A S L United, Emu Park, and Runamok of Bowen.
During the afternoon, a relay will be run between teams for a generous prize donated by Tin Cone. There will also be a draw for a lucky team for a prize donated by P L P Property.
The 14 men’s teams taking part include Emu Park, Shute Harbour Shufflers, Morambah Miners, Wests Tigers of Mackay, Cardwell Axeman, Burdekin teams Pacifika Warriors and Burdekin Delta Dolphins, plus Bowen-based teams Runamok, Chargers, Seagulls, 20 Prise Boys, Paradise Panthers, No Name, and Bowen Mudcrabs Rugby Union.
They will be competing for generous prizes from Williamson Transport Services as major sponsor.
The Burdekin Delta Dolphins team is Keon and Morgan Noah, K J Zaro, Josiah and Jermaine McIvor, Sem Tom, Leylan Lampton, Vakais and Tubby Heron, Harrison Lammon, Terry Connors, Joyton McNee, Gregory Daniells, Orlando Navaho, Jayke Rakiki, and Dylan Doak.
The Pacifika Warriors team is Maika at centre and captain, Maliq, Sepo, Joeli, Saki, Gordon, Johnathon, Toni, Nemi, Kelevi, Tala, Ricardo, Corter, Jayden, Kenneth, Braithen, Brendon, and Tom.
Ten of those players have specific positions on the field, but eight can play multiple spots.
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes
The Ayr Lady Golfers launched the 2026 Wednesday Competitions earlier this month with an action-packed opening day, highlighted by strong performances, camaraderie, and the support of a new sponsor.
Paul from Dingle Smash Repairs attended the event to personally present prizes to the day’s winners, including first- through fourth-place finishers, pin shot winners, and the “lucky loser” prize, much to the delight of the members.
The day also marked the start of the club’s nine-hole social competition for beginner members, giving newcomers a chance to build confidence as they progress toward playing the full 18-hole competition. Experienced members, including those currently sidelined with injury, provided encouragement and support throughout the day.
Opening Day Results:
Pin Shot Winners:
The Ayr Lady Golfers thanked Paul and Dingle Smash Repairs for their generous support, which helped make Opening Day a memorable start to the 2026 season.
Twenty players turned out on Thursday afternoon in hot and steamy conditions. Two games of triples and two games of pairs were contested.
On Rink 3, Judy and Trevor Elton clinched victory on the last end over Bob Pickard and Alex Bojack. Margaret Chapman and Mick McClosky defeated Paul Vass and Hugh Montgomery on Rink 4. On Rink 5, Bob Young, Michael Young and Glen “Bones” Berryman proved too strong for Norm Bethell, Les Hoey and Joe Linton. Meanwhile, Janet Arthur, Cisco and Wayne Newton held on to win against Scotty Taylor, Ron “the BBQ KING” Smith and Bruce McCallum on Rink 6.
The meat tray raffle was won by Mick McClosky, while Bones Berryman took home the bottle of wine.
Looking ahead, the club’s weekly activities continue with the Monday morning fitness group, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday – a chance for anyone wanting to get out, meet people, enjoy a cuppa and a chat – starting at 10am. Wednesday features Kraft morning and barefoot bowls, along with Ron “the BBQ KING’s” gastronomical sausage sizzle in the evening. Thursday brings morning Bingo and Social Bowls in the afternoon from 2pm, with names in by 1pm to help with the draw. Wednesday night is also Darts night, while Friday night hosts the weekly pool competition. Saturday afternoon rounds out the week with Social Bowls at 2pm, with names in by 1pm.
Until next week, good bowling!
Photo and report by Stephen Doig
The day’s winners, Judy and Trevor Elton
Burdekin Touch is hitting the ground running, with a fresh crop of coaches and teams ready to make their mark this season.
A recent Foundation Touch Football coaching course in Ayr saw 16 local members sharpen their skills, setting the stage for strong performances on and off the field.
Those who successfully finished the course were Neil Inman, Julie, Riley and Kasey Dobe, Angela and Mia Robertson, Lawrence Lampton, Allyce Becke, Brooke Cavanagh, Heather Desbois, Brendan Ford, Peter Murray, Ian Kerr, Bob Clerke, Bruce Johnson, and Peter Knapton.
With the Northern Junior Touch State Cup set for Townsville from 16 to 18 June, the Burdekin Touch Association plans to send teams in U10, U12, U14, U16, and U18 divisions. Juniors interested in representing Burdekin will be advised of upcoming selection dates.
Meanwhile, the Coutt’ Commercial Tavern Men’s and Women’s Open Touch pre-season competition saw One Touch IT and BAYWatch finish on top of the men’s standings, while Eathorne’s Princesses and First in Physio lead the women’s competition. These teams will now contest the pre-season finals.
Round 3 Open Competition Results
Men
Women
Home Hill Tennis has kicked off the 2026 season with four teams of seven players competing in Monday night fixtures from 7.00–8.30 pm. Players are enjoying both the strong competition and the social atmosphere the season brings.
After two rounds, Team Bendigo leads the ladder with two wins. Next Gen and HH Surgery are tied for second, with Bowen Pipeline close behind in third place. Scott currently tops the leaderboard with an impressive four wins from four matches.
It’s been great to welcome several new faces this season, and the club is always happy to hear from prospective players. With occasional absences creating opportunities to fill in, and a couple of team spots still available, anyone interested in playing weekly or fortnightly is encouraged to get in touch at homehilltennis@gmail.com.
The club is also gearing up for its most important date on the calendar — the AGM on 9 March. All members and supporters are invited to attend, hear about the past year’s activities, and vote in the new committee for the 2026/27 season.
Preparations are well underway for the much-anticipated Sugar Bowl from 2–4 May. The district will welcome a large number of visitors, with matches set to be played across Ayr, Giru and Home Hill.
Sugar Bowl preparations are underway, and the club is excited already for the 2nd-4th of May. The district will be packed out with visitors with matches taking place in Ayr, Giru and Home Hill.
Contributed with thanks to the Home Hill Tennis Association
Burdekin Roosters under-19 coach Alfie Cantarella knows his team like the back of his hand, as Alf has been associated with these boys for a number of years.
Last season, Alf, assisted by John Nash and Thomas Lammon, took the under-18 team to the preliminary final of the Under-18 RLTD, only to be beaten by a lack of numbers due to important injuries.
The same coaching staff will again look after the boys, and even though they will face stiff opposition from powerhouse clubs Brothers, Centrals, and Western Lions, they would still be considered one of the favourites of the competition.
Players like Jett Castello, returning from injury, Joey Southwell, Mason Kiehne, Laylon Lampton, Brodie Scrivener, and Brodie Escriva are expected to shine in the forwards, given good service from number nine Harrison Lammon.
K.J. Zaro has returned after trialling with a southern club, and he, at five-eighth, and his halves partner Jack Power could dominate, with Jacob Drain and Chad Fraser chiming in.
Coach Cantarella said the numbers at training have been good, but he would like other boys to come and join the group on Tuesday and Thursday nights at Bendigo Bank Park at 6 pm.
Last season, Burdekin and Herbert River combined to form the Burdekin River in the ladies’ competition under coach Anita Hagarty.
This season, the club will be trying to go it alone, and with Anita unavailable due to work pressures, Chris Perry has taken over as the leader.
Perry said he is slowly putting together what looks like a strong squad, which should have plenty of speed, led by the Monday twins, Stephanie and Martina, and Toni Daisy, a Queensland Country representative from 2024, with Chloe Taiters.
Perry said they still have a few Townsville-based girls like Lily Chappell, Tiana Krutzfeldt, Tanley Rowe, Talisha Bulgarelli, and Abby King, with a couple of others they are hoping will join.
Abby, a smart utility who sets up and scores tries, will be back after recovering from a knee operation, and she is a very handy player.
Perry said the numbers are starting to grow, and he likes the look of Jo Morgan, Demi Smith, Jessica Capper, Cadence Alexander, and Charlie Pott as players who are not that big in stature but big in heart.
The girls are currently only training on Thursdays, with the Townsville-based girls coming down, but locals can also train on Tuesdays with the Burdekin-based men at 6 pm.
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.
New and returning players have kicked off another successful season. Photo source: Burdekin Roosters
Saturday 21/2 (1pm to 5pm) Group I - Sage Hisatake PC, Ben Hisatake, Luke Hisatake and Austin Dewar.
Sunday 22/2 (9am to 1pm) Group F - Lisa Furnell PC, Jen Morgan PC, John and Josh Furnell, Jo Morgan, Jan and Gabriel Hatherell.
Sunday 22/2 (1pm to 5pm) Group H - Dave Satori PC, Katherine Satori PC, Riley and Jake Satori, Cole Pontifex, Alyssia Gibson, Billy Gibson and Halle Gibson.
Local
In the 1st Round of the Kappa Cup, where the Premiers are away to Saints Eagles Souths in Townsville, the game was postponed yet again. The match, weather permitting, will now take place this Saturday at Aitkenvale Park at 7.00pm. This will be the fourth attempt. Perhaps scheduling these games in February is not a good idea in North Queensland.
Seniors
Men train on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.15 and the Ladies are in action on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5.30 to 7.00. Fixtures start on the weekend of 20- 22 March. The Division 1 and Funkies teams play Estates at home on the Friday, and the Ladies are away to MA Olympic. On the Sunday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels. The Premiers first home game of the season is against Estates on Saturday 28 March.
Juniors
Registrations are now open and will close on Sunday 1st March. Teams will be hopefully getting sorted out in the next few weeks. Pre-season games will Kick Off on Saturday 21st March. Please head to Facebook for registration information. If you have any questions, please email the club at burdekinfc@hotmail.com. Potential Coaches must also register by 1 March, together with their preferred age group.
Masters
The Masters will be on again next Monday Night. The Magic (or Mayhem) kicks off on 23 February. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.
National and International
The Matildas are now only two weeks away from their first match in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup which is being hosted by Australia. The Matildas are in Group A with Iran, South Korea, and the Philippines. The current FIFA Rankings of the Group A teams are Australia 15th, South Korea 21st, Philippines 41st and Iran 68th. The Matildas first match is against the Philippines in Perth on 1st March. They then meet Iran on 5th March and South Korea on 8th March.
The Oakland Roots/Soul Training Facility has been selected as the Socceroos’ official Base Camp training site for their seventh FIFA World Cup appearance. Located on Bay Farm Island in Alameda, California, the Oakland Roots and Soul Sports Soccer Club’s first-class training facility will host the Socceroos squad.
The Socceroos have two friendlies lined up. They play Cameroon on 27 March and Curacao on 31 March and very soon after that, Socceroos fans will not know their first opponents in the 2026 FIFA World Cup until 1st April. They know that Australia will meet USA and Paraguay but will not know their third opponents until 1st April. It could be any of four countries, Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo. The play offs start on 27 March and finish four days later. In the meantime,
In the A League, after seventeen rounds Newcastle are still the League leaders. They won 3-1 in Perth and have now won their last seven games. Second placed Auckland has yet to play, and Adelaide moves into third place after beating Sydney FC 2-1. Sydney drops to fourth, level on points with Macarthur. Brisbane drew away to Melbourne Victory and stays in eighth place. Western Sydney continue to hold up the league two points adrift of Central Coast
In the A League Women, Melbourne City are still top despite drawing 0-0 in the local derby. Wellington lost 1-2 away to Central Coast but stays in second place on goal difference from Canberra who lost 0-1 away to Perth. Fourth placed Adelaide has yet to play, and Brisbane lost 0-4 away to Sydney but hangs onto sixth place. Sydney and Western Sydney are holding up the League.
Europe
In England it was the FA Cup 4th Round and one of shocks so far was Burnley losing at home 1-2 to Mansfield Town from the third tier. Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool, West Ham, Leeds, Wolves and Newcastle are all through to the next round. The EPL resumes next week with Arsenal away to Wolverhampton, Manchester City at home to Newcastle and Chelsea at home to Burnley.
In Germany’s Bundesliga, with twelve rounds left to play, all four top teams won with Bayern winning 3-0 at Werder Bremen to maintain their six point lead over Dortmund. Hoffenheim is a further six points behind, and fourth placed Stuttgart is a further three points adrift. Heidenheim and St Pauli both lost hold up the table and Mainz, who won again, are almost out of the relegation zone.
In Italy’s Serie A, only two of the top five teams won and Inter is still eight points clear of AC Milan who have a game in hand. Napoli who drew at home to Roma is a further three points behind and Juventus who lost to Inter drops to fifth place one point behind Roma. The two bottom teams, Pisa and Verona both lost and look Serie B bound.
In Spain’s, La Liga both Barcelona and Real Madrid won and Real leads Barca by one point, but Barca has a game in hand. Third placed Villareal lost and is now thirteen points off the pace ahead of fourth placed Atletico on goal difference. At the bottom of the league, none of the last three teams won and Levante and Oviedo are still in deep trouble.
In France, PSG lost 1-3 at sixth placed Rennes and drops to second place, one point behind behind Lens who beat Paris FC 5-0. Lyon is a further six points behind but five points ahead of fourth placed Marseille, who drew at home to Strasbourg. Only Auxerre of the bottom five teams won, and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes are in severe trouble.
The Quote of the Week is from ex- Nottingham Forest Manager Sean Dyche “Life's not a dress-rehearsal. So, if you want to do it; do it.”
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