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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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Lower Burdekin Table Bowls held a great day thanks to sponsors Dowson Family and the Ayr Hotel. Grand Final was played between Mick Parison and Darren Oats v Jesse Williams and Ryan Cranitch with Mick and Darren winning the final.
Round 1 week 1:
Nat 11 v Nat 1 7-3, Falcons v Ants 8-2, Crushers v Cougars 8-2 and Bombers bye
Round 1 week 2:
Nat I v Falcons 7-3, Ants v Bombers 10-0, Nat II v Cougars 8-2 and Crushers bye
Round 1 week 3:
Falcons v Cougars 6-4, Crushers v Ants 9-1, Nat II v Bombers 8-2 and Nat I bye
Points:
Crushers - 27, Nat II - 23, Nat I - 20, Falcons - 17, Ants - 13, Bombers - 12 and Cougars – 8
This week games: Nat I v Bombers at Queens, Cougars v Ants at Anzac, Falcons v Crushers at Ayr Hotel and Nat II have the bye.
Contributed by Kerry Davison
Tisti Tavasci pot luck doubles were held at the Ayr Hotel with 34 players
Local
With it being Easter and the school holidays, nothing much has happened on the local football scene. Back in the day, the seniors would be involved in the Greaves-Munroe Cup, a knockout competition played over the Easter weekend. Ah, yes.
Apparently, there are no fixtures next weekend either. However, the following week all teams are back on the park. On Friday 12th April the Panthers Division 1 side are away to Estates and on the Sunday, the Premiers, Under 23s and Ladies are all at home to Saints Eagles Souths.
Training, at International Park is on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30 pm for men and Wednesdays at 6.00 pm for women. New to town? Come down to training and have a run.
Juniors
Nothing is happening this week as it is the school holidays.
Masters
Monday Night Masters has been in hibernation but will be on again next Monday. Old and New players welcome, usual time, usual place, 6.30 at International Park. Treat it as an escape…
National and International
The Matildas kick off in the Paris Olympics with a game against Germany on 26th July. Prior to that they have a series of “friendlies”. On 10th April they travel to Mexico and following that they have two matches against China. The first is at home on 31 May in Adelaide and the second, in Sydney on 3rd June.
The Socceroos having beaten Lebanon twice in the AFC Asian Qualifiers now have two more games left in their Group. They are away to Bangladesh on 6th June and then play Palestine, at home, on 11 June.
In the A League, only three of the top five teams won. Wellington beat Brisbane to go six points clear of Central Coast who lost to Sydney FC. However, the Coast has a game in hand. Victory stays in third place after winning against Perth. Macarthur, three points behind Victory stay in fourth place, one point clear of Sydney despite losing to Western Sydney Wanderers. Brisbane remains in eighth place and Western Utd stay bottom of the league.
In the A League Women, in the final round, Melbourne City beat Perth and with Sydney losing at home to Melbourne Victory, City are champions by two points from Sydney with Western Utd in third place. Victory finish fourth place and Central Coast fifth. Brisbane lost to Central Coast and finish in eighth place. The Finals series starts this weekend with Western Utd v Newcastle Jets and Melbourne Victory hosting Central Coast.
In the EPL with nine Rounds left it is still very tight at the top of the table with Liverpool two points ahead of Arsenal with Manchester City a further point behind. Liverpool beat Brighton 2-1 and Arsenal drew 0-0 at Manchester City. Aston Villa stay fourth and Spurs fifth. At the foot of the table, it is not looking good for Sheffield Utd and Burnley with either Luton, Notts Forest or Everton likely to join them.
In Germany, with Bayern losing and Leverkusen winning it looks to be all over with seven rounds left to play. Leverkusen is now thirteen points ahead of Bayern who now only lead Stuttgart by three points. Dortmund stays in fourth place with Leipzig safely in fifth spot. In the bottom half of the league, only Wolfsburg won, and Darmstadt, Mainz and Cologne look due for the drop.
In Italy’s Serie A, with eight rounds left to play, the city of Milan has it all sewn up. Inter leads AC Milan by fourteen points and AC are six points clear of third placed Juventus. Who, after losing again, is only two points ahead of Bologna with Roma in fifth place. At the foot of the table, it is goodnight to Salernitana and any two of the seven clubs above them.
In Spain’s, La Liga all four of the leading teams won. With eight rounds left Real Madrid leads Barcelona by eight points and Girona by eight. Atletico stays in fourth place seven points away and Atletico drops to fifth spot. At the foot of the table Almeria has won a game at last, but along with Granada looks doomed to the drop.
Finally, in Ligue1 in France, all four top teams won, and PSG stays twelve points clear of Brest. Third placed Monaco is a further point behind, and Lille stays in fourth place. At the foot of the table all four bottom teams lost and Clermont and possibly Metz look doomed.
The 1st Leg of the Europe Champions League Quarter finals starts next week, with Arsenal at home to Bayern, and Real Madrid hosting Manchester City. Barcelona is away to PSG and Dortmund travels to Atletico.
This week’s quote is from star Notts Forest and England star "I can see the carrot at the end of the tunnel."
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A small field of 12 players took to the green on Monday, April 1 for a club trophy.
Today's winner was Ross Wilkie with 38, handicapper is going to catch you.
Second went to Carol Betteridge with 37. Close behind was Peter Dale on 35.
Friday arvo club played on Thursday because of Good Friday. 21 players. NTP.
A Grade: Gysie. C Grade: John Ross Dale. Ladies: Carol. Least putts: Ross Wilkie. The day’s winner: Johnno. Lucky Number: Pete Mackaway.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
The RLTD season gets under way this weekend with games played in Ingham, Charters Towers and Townsville.
The Roosters will have an away game on Sunday with Western Lions in Townsville.
Roosters A grade coach Steve Lansley says he is waiting on allocations from both the Cowboys and Blackhawks before naming his team.
“We have two allocated from the Cowboys and two from the Blackhawks but so far in Trials we have seen only Jeremiah Matuatu from the Cowboys and Christan Gale from the Blackhawks,” the coach said.
“I believe the other two, Henry Tautau from the Cowboys and Ratu Rotavisora from the Blackhawks, could also be on our list this week.”
Reserves coach Chris Perry said he will have a big forward pack with the return of Mitchell Guy, Stevie and Antonio with Mark Cervoni, Zac Campbell and Beau Cowdey at hooker.
Perry added Mitch and John Zaro at half would co-captain the team which would also have Masi Mills, Caleb Noah and the flying Dom Arrate on the wing.
The Monday sisters Martina and Steph with Blackawks Logan Roncato, Talitha Bulgarelli and former Brisbane Natives player Kazzia Lammon could feature for the Hens but they and new coach Anita Hagarty have a real tough game first up with the Lions who have won the past three premierships.
Contributed by Brian Carnes
A fantastic day was had by all at Burdekin Clay Target Club’s Team/Novice Shoot on Saturday March 23.
You couldn’t have asked for any better conditions; the sun was shining and the breeze was just perfect.
Thank you to the sponsors for the day, Queensland Clay Target Association and Joe Caruso Construction.
Thank you to Cameron Cislowski for donating the prizes for Best Dressed Team and Lui Populin for donating the Raffle Prize.
Kinno’s Mongrels, the team of Aiden Heffernan, Blake Heffernan, John Kinnomonth, Andre Rapisarda and Peter Lejarraga, came first in the team shoot. Photo supplied
Novice Individual
1st Blake Heffernan 45/50
2nd Robert Rea 45/52
3rd Brendan Egan 44/52
Members Individual
1st Michael Zabala 48/50
Novice Junior Individual
1st Cooper Elliott 30/50
2nd Reid Delle Biate 12/50
Novice Ladies Individual
Katie Lowe 21/50
Teams
1st Kinno’s Mongrels- score 237
Blake Heffernan, Aiden Heffernan, John Kinnomonth, Andre Rapisarda, Peter Lejarraga
2nd Below Average- score 233
Josh Elliott, Blake Schulz, Parl James Noah, Keon Noah, Hugh Russell
3rd Lui’s No 1- score 232
Wayne Cislowski, Alan Lord, Michael Zabala, Mark Biffanti, Chris LeBlowitz
Contributed by Sylvia Rossato
Caption 1: 2nd placed team Josh Elliott, Blake Schulz, Parl James Noah and Keon Noah. Absent: Hugh Russell
Caption 2: 3rd placed team Back Row: Sponsor Joe Caruso, Chris LeBlowitz, Mark Biffanti and Michael Zabala. Front Row: Wayne Cislowski, Lui Populin and Alan Lord
Caption 3: Back Row: Sponsor Joe Caruso, Member Individual Michael Zabala. Front Row: Junior 1st Cooper Elliot, Novice Ladies Katie Lowe, Junior 2nd Reid Delle Baite
Caption 4: Back Row: Sponsor Joe Caruso, Novice Individual 4th Aiden Heffernan, 5th Andre Rapisarda and 6th Peter Lejarraga. Front Row: 2nd Robert Rea, 1st Blake Heffernan and 3rd Brendan Edan
Photos supplied
Home Hill Tennis is excited to announce that coaching for juniors and adults will recommence in Term 2 on April 19. This initiative is being supported by the State Government. The club was recently successful in gaining a Sport and Recreation grant to enable Queenslanders to participate in Sport and Recreation activities.
Lessons will recommence on Friday afternoons with a free come and try for all onwards from 3.30pm. Interested participants should check the Home Hill Tennis Association Facebook page. All lessons will then run for a 7 week block at bargain rate of $84. When juniors sign up, they can get a free Hot Shots shirt and be in the running to get a new junior racquet. In addition to this there will be free match play immediately after their lesson.
One of the program initiatives is to get more Girls and Women active. Adults’ cardio is on at 6pm where players can pay for themselves and bring along a friend, mother or daughter for free for all 7 weeks.
Kayla Accornero returns as coach and is excited to be back. Kayla loved coaching down here last year and has a good connection with her clients.
Home Hill Tennis is looking forward to getting coaching back in Term 2 and 3 this year and are thankful to the State Government for their support, because without it this opportunity would not have been available for our community. To register now contact kalyndachasetennis@outlook.com or phone Tim on 0457 041074.
Supplied by Home Hill Tennis Association
Social Ladies Bowls on Tuesday March 19 winners were Deslie Olsen, Betty Schultz and Heather Jorgensen defeating Ruth Moore, Isabel Cislowski and Dot Cutting. Merle Nixon, Joy Comollatti and Pam Power defeated Katharina Stuckler, Karen Page and Irene Wilson.
Competition Results Thursday March 21 rinks Deslie Olsen, Trish Achille, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeated Katharina Stuckler, Elaine Young, Heather Jorgensen and Mary Poli. Singles Irene Wilson defeated Sandra Stidston.
Wednesday night March 20: Evelyn Wiltshere, David Burt and Joe Grabbi won their triples game. In the other triples game, it was an 8 all draw between Katharina Stuckler, Margaret McLaughlin, Ross McLaughlin, and Bertilla Piazetta, Rob Jorgensen and Heather Jorgensen
Come on down for a game of lawn bowls on Wednesday nights. Phone the bowls club on 47831336 between 6:00pm and 6:30pm to put your name down. We have bowls you can borrow and you will be shown the basics of the game.
Results of competition games - Championship Singles - M. Milan def A. Bull. Championship Four's - J. Pirrone/V. Beitia/C. Pearce/G. Pearce def. J. Grabbi/G. Papale/S. Caltabiano/L. Stidston.
Competition games Sunday 31/3 @ 8.30am - Championship Singles - G. Pearce vs J. Hall (m) V. Beitia. L. Stidston vs M. Power (m) A. Bull. W. Coonan vs M. Milan (m) TBA. C. Pearce vs R. Soper (m) P. Power.
Competition games Sunday 7/4 @ 8.30am - Championship Singles - (w) G. Pearce/J. Hall vs (w) C. Pearce/R. Soper. V. Beitia vs S. Caltabiano. Championship Pairs - R. Young/C. Essex vs R. Garner/W. Coonan.
Contributed by Michael Parravicini
Wednesday March 20
11 Ladies ventured out onto the green with winners of the day Bernice Kugatoff, Lyn Storrie and Joy Woods.
Next contact Joy Woods with names in by 1:00pm for 1:30 start.
Sunday March 24
Club Championship events – A Grade single was played between Doug Robins and Brett Wilshere and early on in the game Brett was giving Doug a run for his money however the veteran from Giru was the eventual winner.
Thanks to Lenny Feeney for marking yet again.
B Grade Pairs Semi Final - the in-form Tony Battaglia had to carry his partner Glen Woodford to take the chocolates against Con Sexton and Ross McLaughlin.
In the other semi-final it was Peter Lejarraga and Lloyd Shepherd playing against Doug Kiehne and Trevor Elton. The game was in the balance for most of the way but in the end the combination of Shepherd and Lejarraga were too strong in a close contest.
Social Bowls Men’s Sunday March 24
Two games of Triples and one pairs with the following winners: Garry Nosworthy, Norm Storrie, Peter Jorgenson defeated Kenneth Ferguson, Hugh Montgomery and Leo Penny.
Norm Higgy, Vince Beitia and Peter Henderson defeated Mick Murison, Ray Panecassio and Gary Pearce.
And the final game was Pairs played between Helen Collins and Jamie Woods drew with Neville Dickinson and Richi Mau.
Coming up next month will be event held on Anzac Day so more information will be out shortly.
Tony Battaglia, Glen Woodford, Lloyd Shepherd and Peter Lejarraga
18 players rolled up for barefoot bowls on Wednesday March 20.
Three games of triples were played. Mark, Margaret and Torrie proved too strong for Kate, Greg and Lloyd winning 23 to 10.
Carol, Meryl and Mick prevailed against Phoebe, Yogi and Sam 12 to 6.
The final game saw Conner, John and Alex put the cleaners through Brenda, Laurence and Joe 16 to 4.
Thursday March 21’s winners by mystery draw were Bones, Bob and Dino.
Rink 4 saw triples match Dino, Bob and Bones out lasted Karl/Terry, Alex and Henry 12 to 10 and 9 ends each.
Rink 5: Jimmy, John and Wayne cleaned up against Tony, Clinton and Mick McClosky with a big win 30 to 13 and 14 ends to 6.
Rink 6: Mick Olsen and Joe held on to defeat Rino, Mick Murison and Hugh 18 to 15 and 10 ends each.
Rink 7: Ray Menkens and Trevor Elton scrapped home against Warren Bunn and Stephen Doig 20 to 18 and 11 ends to 10.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
Thursday March 21’s winners by mystery draw were Bones, Bob and Dino. Photo credit: Stephen Doig
27 players turned up on Friday, March 15 to do battle on a course that looked amazing after all the rain.
The day’s winner was Pat Toohey who also drew his own ticket out of the bucket.
Least amount of putts went to Gary Pappalardo with 12.
Pin shots on 9.
The ladies winner was Beth Prescott.
Gary Pappalardo won the C grade.
Sadly no one from A/B hit the green.
The fifth hole was the most difficult putting hole with scores of 5, 4, 3 and multiples of them there were only two one putts.
Friday club starts a 3pm $12 comp fees and also a $2 putting competition weekly.
There was a good roll up on Sunday, March 24 with 38 players for the Drummond Day 4BBB.
The pin shots were won by Stringy, Kieran and Mary (in the hole) on 4/13 with Sibo, Kieran and Mac for 9/18.
The winners were Stacey and Amy Smail on 44 on a countback from Jason Farry and Tim Branch.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
Six Juniors from the Ayr Surf Club spent four days on the Gold Coast battling it out with the best of the best for the Queensland Youth State Championships. With over 1,500 competitors from across the state converging on North Kirra, a relocation from its original location at Burleigh due to conditions, it was a sight to see.
It was a weekend with big surf, tough conditions and inclement weather where all competitors gave it their all for the entire weekend. The Ayr kids travelled down as part of the North Barrier Branch Youth State Team allowing them to take part in team events, and the NBB Team ended up coming in 7th overall for the State.
All members had a fantastic weekend away and found the challenging experience great for honing their skills and making new friends.
Zachary Dale in U13 Board Race. Photo supplied
A few juniors from the Ayr Surf Club brought home some bling winning medals in some Team events after competing at the Queensland Youth State Championships on the Gold Coast on the weekend.
Congratulations to Zachary Dale who won Bronze in the 2x1km Beach Relay with Nathaniel from Eimeo, Milla Chapman who won a silver medal in both U12 Mixed Beach Relay & U12 Female Beach Relay, and Emma Jones also won a silver medal in the U12 Female Beach Relay.
Contributed by Kellie Lawry
L-R: Ryley Sartori, Isla Chapman, Emma Jones, Milla Chapman and Mia Wicks. Front: Zachary Dale
Milla Chapman competes in the U12 Flags. Photo supplied
Ivy Ryan (Arcadian) & Ayr girls Emma Jones & Milla Chapman (with board)
Isla Chapman (far right) with her U14 Female team mates
Mia Wicks (far right) with U11 Female team mates
Zachary Dale & Nathenial (Eimeo) 3rd in U13 Male 2x1km Beach Relay
Photos supplied
The best of the region’s talent came together at the first ever Super JDS Series event to be hald at Home Hill Tennis Association. Rallying 48 players and 8 coaches together, the event featured interactive workshops, a full-day player camp and a thrilling team competition.
The Super JDS series aims to bring key stakeholders within each region together, whilst hosting a fun event that focuses on positive values and future collaboration opportunities.
By supporting the aspiring players through a combination of coaching, competition, physical testing, and player camaraderie, it provides a pathway for talent identification as well as an opportunity to develop their skills in a fun and supporting environment.
Player Training Camp and fitness testing commenced on day one, Saturday, March 16, which was held by the Tennis Australia National Coach Development Team.
Players had the opportunity to sharpen their skills on their serve and return through a variety of activities throughout the day.
As the daylight faded, everyone gathered for Pop Tennis and a BBQ, where players, parents, and coaches mingled as they shared their passion for the game.
Day two was the highlight of the event, featuring a level-based team competition.
The day was fun-filled with timed singles and doubles matches, keeping players and spectators on the edge of their seats.
Parents and coaches also had the chance to participate in workshops and play alongside their children in a friendly match of Pop Tennis.
What set this event apart is the Fast 4 format, coupled with bonus points awarded for team spirit, sportsmanship and tactical expertise execution.
This unique scoring system heightened the competition and encouraged players to give their all on the court.
Head of Coach and Players Pathways, Sheridan Adams said, “It’s fantastic to see so many players, coaches, and parents here over the weekend in Home Hill. Working together and having fun to improve their game and tennis in the region.
“Thank you to Home Hill Tennis Association for their amazing hospitality and home cooked meals.”
Home Hills first ever Super JDS Series deemed to be a success!
Photos supplied: Tennis Queensland
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Our Tuesday Rookie Blaster Group joined the Challengers and Junior Hardball Cricket players at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex last Friday for the final games of the 23/24 Junior Cricket season. Although no stats were recorded for these games there is one thing that should be mentioned: everyone was very excited when Michael Finn hit his first ever six when the ball sailed over the boundary at ‘Cow Corner’ late in the Junior Hardball game.
After the games were completed, everyone enjoyed a free slushie and sausage sizzle, kindly donated by Woolworths. With full bellies and the sugar from the slushies kicking in, the Presentations of Awards and Trophies for the 23/24 season commenced. All Rookies and Challengers received a Certificate, Blaster Ball and an Easter Egg. The Junior players didn’t miss out either with all getting a Certificate, Medal and Easter Egg (or two). Some special award winners for this group were then presented with trophies. William Chandler received an ‘Encouragement Award’ and Xavier Cross was the ‘Most Improved’ for the season. Marshall Parker took out the ‘Allrounder Player of the Season’ trophy.
Some of our ‘TCI Under 17 Andrew Symonds Cup’ players were there to celebrate the end of the season as well. The trophies for most runs scored in the season was awarded to Salvatore Cardillo and best bowling to Corey Heidke. The recipient of the ‘Andrew Loizou Memorial Trophy’ for the ‘Junior Cricket Player of the Year’ was Thomas Cardillo.
A huge thank you must go to Woolworths, Antony Stewart (Queensland Cricket) and everyone that helped out during the season to give the kids of the Burdekin the opportunity to play cricket.
Contributed by Scott Heidke
The first grade game against Estates started positively when Matthew Kolb found Jack Gimson's well-timed run with an even better through ball. After being taken down in the box, we were awarded a penalty, which Matthew Kolb calmly slotted to make it 1-0. This kicked Estates into gear, and they started to dominate the proceedings. Estates had a free kick that they crossed in nicely and it dropped to an unmarked player who put it in the back of the net to make it 1-1. This continued and after a looping high ball was not cleared properly, with the ball falling to an Estate’s player, they made it 2-1. Soon after, they made it 3-1 after another miscue on defense. Oliver Gabiola forced a great save from the keeper and hit the post right before half time. We were the dominant team early on, with Elliott Dal Santo hitting the post with the rebound going straight to a prone goalkeeper. Straight away, down the other end an Estates player put his foot through a ball that careened off the post and into the goal to make it 4-1. We continued to push until the very end with Jay Leckenby getting a late consolation goal to finish the game 4-2. We have a 2 week break to help us get back to winning ways.
Burdekin FC Reserves travelled to Estates with a changed lineup due to new injuries and some returning from injury. Expectations were for a good result, but the match became one to regret and forget. It was a poor start by conceding an opening goal inside the first 5 minutes. The entire team put in full effort, but ball control and pass execution let us down. Without sustained possession the team was always under pressure, and this led to another goal just before half time.
After the break, the Burdekin boys came out with better energy and Tarryn Smith scored the goal they deserved for their effort. From the 60-minute mark it all unraveled. Individual mistakes were being made right across the pitch and in a 12-minute period, Estates pounced on these errors and scored 4 goals to put the result out of doubt.
The pleasing aspect of the team's performance was the continued effort and support of each other. If that effort is maintained and we improve our execution of control and passing, we will reverse the result as the season progresses.
The Austral Masonry Funkies travelled to Townsville on Friday night to play Riverway JCU in 1st Division. The Burdekin team was made up of a number of 1st and 2nd Division players from last year. Burdekin started with several people in new positions, and it showed early on with Riverway taking the lead after only 6 minutes. Further goals followed in the 9th and 18th minute. After the early goals Burdekin started to get into the game more but couldn’t hold the ball long enough to threaten the Riverway goal. Two further late goals took the half-time score to 5-0 to Riverway. A change in defensive structure from Burdekin in the second half allowed them to stem the flow of goals somewhat. Riverway added another two goals in the second half, but Burdekin managed to control the ball better towards the end of the game and this resulted in Mick Taylor getting two late consolation goals to bring the final score to 7-2. A tough night for the Burdekin team who for sure will now enjoy a week off due to the Easter holidays.
Juniors
The last round before the Easter and School Holiday's break was played on Saturday. The vibe at the grounds is amazing with so many kids playing and people watching. For the under 8's and up who play two games, it is great seeing them interact with their teammates and also others in between games. Hope you all have a great Easter break and are excited for when things recommence after the school holidays!
Following on from a successful Home Hill Junior Open on Saturday, Ayr Juniors saw another great field of juniors playing the wonderful Ayr course. 3, 6, 9 and 18 hole competitions were run for both boys and girls, with some great scores and fun had by all. Players and their families travelled from as far as Mackay, Charters Towers, Bowen, Proserpine and Townsville, along with a great local turn our of Ayr juniors, a field of 52 players took to the course.
A huge thank you to Oar and Horan Dentist for sponsoring our Ayr Junior Open.
We now look forward to four days of junior golf hosted in Townsville over the Easter holidays.
Contributed by Laura Mahoney
A total of 52 players took to the course for the Ayr Junior Open. Photo supplied
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