Sports

45 Teams Mark 45 Years of the Burdekin’s premier tennis tournament

45 Teams Mark 45 Years of the Burdekin’s premier tennis tournament

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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BURDEKIN BELLES BRAVE THE BREEZE

BURDEKIN BELLES BRAVE THE BREEZE

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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Football Matters with Cyclops - 7th May

Football Matters with Cyclops - 7th May

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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Burdekin Touch Wrap – Junior Numbers Surge, AGM Set, Round 8 Results In

Burdekin Touch Wrap – Junior Numbers Surge, AGM Set, Round 8 Results In

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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Home Hill Golf Club Results

March 14, 2024

Home Hill Golf Club finally held their Summer Cup final, seeing a close event in very windy conditions.

Winner on the day was Tim Branch on 35 points followed by Stephen Doig 35 points, Jaylen Mcubben 34 points, Eric Barbagallo 34 points, and Kieren Dawes 34 points.

Pins 4/13 Tim Branch and Kieren Dawes, 7/16 Tim Branch and Scott Sheahan, 9/18 Eric Barbagallo and Stephen Doig and least putts Stephen Doig on 24.

Summer cup runaway winner for the season was Kieren Dawes 28 points; 2nd Kevan Chatfield on 19 points; 3rd Tim Branch on 18 points; 4th Luke Carrett on 17 points; 5th Guysie LeBlowitz on 17 points; 6th Ross Wilkie on 17 points; 7th Tony Carrett on 16 points; 8th John Power on 15 points; 9th Tarra Cesconnetto on 15 points; 10th Eric Barbagallo on 14 points.

Caption: Ladies winner Amy Smail, Men’s A Grade winner Jonathan McKeough and B Grade winner Keiran Dawes. Photo supplied

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Ayr Junior Golfers Compete For First Monthly Medal

March 14, 2024

On Saturday morning, Ayr junior golfers held their February monthly medal competition. The Nett winner from each group wins the monthly medal. Just a light shower or rain didn’t stop the juniors from completing their holes, with a great number of 6 holes players competing this week.

The 3 hole monthly medal winner was Hudson Suficiencia, 6 hole monthly medal winner was Lyla Land, and the 9 hole monthly medal winner was Oscar Mahoney. Congratulations all.

The club would also like to welcome Riley Dobe, who joined us for the first time this week, playing 9 holes.

This Saturday coaching is planned, more details will be on the Junior Golf Ayr Facebook page.

Contributed by Laura Mahoney

Caption: Ayr Junior Golf Monthly Medal winners

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Burdekin Legends Take On Former League Greats

March 14, 2024

The former greats of the Rugby League Townsville & Districts (RLTD) gave the visiting NRL Legends team something to think about when both teams played out a 26 all draw in Townsville at the Sports Reserve last Saturday night.

Burdekin Roosters reserve grade coach Chris Perry was asked by the Townsville coach Kev Marty to be his assistant as well as manager.

Perry did so and said the game was played in the right spirit with the Legends team showing that even though the legs are slower and the bellies are bigger, it is still there in the head.

The Burdekin Coach said that the Townsville team never gave in, and the Legends knew they had been playing.

Perry estimated close to 1,000 people were at the game and he thought that had the match been in Ayr, there would have been a much bigger turnout.

“Matty Bowen could still be playing today, he is so fit and still quick turning on a coin,” Perry said.

Former Dragons, Cowboys and Burdekin Roosters star Noel Goldthorpe looked like he could still play today.

The will of the wisp half back is remembered for his exploits for the Dragons, kicking a field goal from near halfway for the Blues to win the deciding Super League Origin and leading the Burdekin Roosters to a RLTD premiership.

On speaking to Goldie on Monday, he said he still plays competitive Oz Tag on the Sunshine Coast where he lives.

The Burdekin had four ex-players in the Townsville team: hooker Lee Mclean, front rower Damien Lynch, second rower Jeff Linton and utility back Brad Parravicini.

Kurt Olsen was to play but a work accident ruled him out.

Perry said the Old Roosters were four of the better players out there with Parra looking like he could still go round.

"I think the promotion would go well in the Burdekin with spectators flocking to see old faces like Sam Thaiday, John Hopoate, Kevin Campion, Ben Hannant, Matty Bowen and Antonio Winterstein,” Perry said.

Contributed by Brian Carnes

Caption: Four former Burdekin players took on the NRL Legends side in Townsville on the weekend. Photo supplied: International Legends of League

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Senior Cricket In Home Hill

March 14, 2024

The stage has been set for the Home Hill Cricket Association senior grand final following a Guardian Pharmacy victory on the weekend.

Guardian faced Crowned Mongrels on the astro wicket, with Mongrels winning the toss and electing to bat.

Some tight bowling led to a conservative start for the batting side and an early wicket before Andrew Wallwork dug in for 57 runs from 44 balls assisted by Scott Hazard with 26 from 31, Casper Licciardello with 12 from 13 and Travis Butler with 11 from 17.

Simon Vickers, Matthew Gardner and Gill Singh took two wickets each for Guardian while Jamie Grabs and Sam Gillespie took one each and another Clay Brush assisted with the final runout to have Mongrels all out for 137 from 23.5 overs.

An opening stand of 35 runs between Clay Brush and Lee Watts got the Guardian run chase off to an ideal start, with Brush making 30 from 39 and Watts 14 from 29.

The runs kept coming down the order with Salvatore Cardillo making 23 from 19 and the partnership of Jd Wilkins (29 from 26) and Thomas Cardillo (39 from 33) getting Guardian the victory in the final over.

Wickets came to Andrew Wallwork, Jay Leckenby and Joel Hanson for Mongrels with Andrew Wallwork and Jay Leckenby both getting runouts to see the batting side finish on 5/144 from 25 overs.

Guardian Pharmacy will now face Peto’s Marine in the grand final at Barry Richards Field this Saturday, March 16.

Caption 1: Andrew Wallwork scored 57 runs off 44 balls

Caption 2: A partnership between JD (29* runs) and Thomas (39* runs) guided Guardian to victory in the final over

Photos supplied

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Footy’s Back New Coach Impressed After First Roosters Trial

March 14, 2024

The Burdekin Roosters had two successful trial matches with the visiting Mackay Magpies on Saturday night at Rugby Park winning the A grade and drawing the Reserve Grade.

New A grade coach Steve Lansley said it was great to get a win with his team first up.

“The defence was terrific by the boys who never gave up in the tough physical encounter,” Lansley said.

The former Ignatius Park First grade coach said the team had good contact in defence, slowing the opposition down consistently.

“Magpies were a bigger side but the speed of our team in defence stopped them from getting any momentum,” the coach added.

Caption: Roosters A grade and Reserves squads took on Mackay Magpies in pre-season trials on the weekend. Photo supplied

Tries Galore In First Trials Of The Season

Burdekin Roosters A grade coach Steve Lansley said the defensive pattern employed by the locals worked well for most of the game.

He thought lock forward Kali Nauque was particularly strong, with Dylan Carew having a good one off the bench.

Big forwards Blackhawk English front rower Christan Gale, Cowboy forward Jeremiah Matuate and Tate Brombal led the way, especially in attack, given good service from hooker Rhett Williams who led his team around well whilst being very safe and reliable up the middle.

Hayden Lammon was a handy input off the bench and could be in for a good year.

Lachlan Shepherd and Ethan Hagarty went well in the back row with Shep deserving of his try.

Lansley added he was impressed with his halves Joel Mason and Dylan Doak who kept the opposition guessing along with Terry Connors who came off the bench.

Connors showed how dangerous he can be by cutting the defence in scoring a neat try.

Mason was strong in defence and Doak capped off his game with a timely intercept which won the game from the resulting try.

New winger Aiden Stevens was dangerous as was the other flanker Nemia Nawave with fullback Jones Munro diffusing several skyscrapers.

“It was a good result and a good hit out but we won't get carried away,” the coach added.

Tries were scored by Isnel Makamali, Dylan Doak, Lachlan Shepherd, Terry Connors, Jeremiah Matuate, with Joel Mason converting two goals.

Both teams scored four tries each and kicked two goals with the Roosters and Magpies drawing the reserve grade 20 all.

The Roosters skipped away to lead 12 nil at quarter time and 16 - 6 at the main break.

Superior ball possession by the visitors then had the Roosters defending well whilst scrambling for points.

In that period the Magpies scored three tries to one by Masi Mills, a new player to the Roosters showing plenty of talent.

Mills had earlier converted two tries, good efforts in the strong wind at the time.

Forward Mitchell Guy was the stand out in the match with his hard running backed up by Zac Campbell, John Zaro, Caleb Noah, Masi Mills, Dominic Augostis, Beau Crowdey and the dangerous Terry Connors.

Tries were scored by Masi Mills, Caleb Noah, Beau Crowdey and Antonio Tagicaki with Masi Mills converting two goals.

This Saturday, the A grade Roosters will have a trial match with Townsville Brothers, the game played in Airlie Beach.

Contributed by Brian Carnes

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Ayr Bowls News

March 7, 2024

Social Tuesday February 27 Winners were Katharina Stuckler, Beryl Cornford and Irene Wilson defeating Isabel Cislowski, Joy Comollatti & Mary Poli.

Desley Olsen, Heather Jorgensen and Pam Power defeated Donna Soper, Karen Page and Sandra Stidston.

Competition on Thursday's 1:30pm in March  Championship Rinks starting.

Ayr lady bowlers, see the bowls club noticeboard or contact your skips - good bowling.

Men's Championship Four's 8:30am Sunday March 17.

1. G. Papale, J Grabbi, S. Caltabiano, L. Stidston vs A. Bull, C. Essex, M. Power, R. Soper.  

2. H. Horan, J. Hall, W. Coonan, M. Parravicini vs D. Poli, M. Olsen, R. Young, M. Milan.

Contributed by Michael Parravicini

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Home Hill Bowls Report

March 7, 2024

18 players fronted up for Wednesday night barefoot bowls.

Rink 2: Wayne, Carol and Nev were too good for Jocelyn, Merle and Mark winning 14 to 12.

Rink 3: Kate, Paul and Joe put the cleaners through Maisie, Betty and Ron 17 to 5.

Rink 4: Kita, Sam and Stephen were way too strong for Yogi, Gladys and Judy winning 20 to 8.

22 Players fronted on it seems the first dry Thursday afternoon bowls in weeks.        

Rink 3 Triples: Karl/Mick O, Mick and Glen won the day in a close one over Ray, Terry and Henry 15 to 13.  

Rink 4 Pairs: Alex and Trevor were much too strong for Paul and Bob to the tune of 33 to 22.

Rink 5: After Norm had to pull out for health reasons Stephen skipped for two teams. Jim and Stephen just lasted to defeat Dino and Stephen to the tune of 15 to 13.

Rink 6: John and Joe won a nail-biting contest over Tony and Hugh 25 to 24.

And finally on rink 7, Judy and Wayne were convincing winners over Yogi and Des 28 to 18.

Thanks again to sponsor Rocky Ponds produce.

Supplied by Stephen Doig

Caption 1: Wednesday night’s barefoot bowls winners were Nev, Carol and Wayne

Caption 2: The winners of Thursday were Alex and Trevor

Photos supplied: Stephen Doig

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Junior Cricket Recap

March 7, 2024

The blue skies late last week dried out the grounds and pitches enough at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex for the Junior Cricket and Challenger Blasters’ games to go ahead. The slow outfield in the Junior Cricket “Hardball” game meant only one four was scored in the whole match. Xavier Cross was quite proud of this shot as it was his first ever four scored in a game. Marshall Parker was top scorer with 17 runs followed by Mark Wilkie on 12. The weeks of net sessions and batting drills are starting to show in the nice shots that some of the batters are now playing. It is good to know that the coaching is working and that they are putting what they are being shown into practice in the games to score runs.

If it was hard to score runs, then it was even harder to take wickets as only five fell for the entire game over both innings.  William Chandler came out on top with the ball getting 2 for 15. Oliver Calligaro and Jacques Gardner snared one each, and Marshall Parker combined with Oscar Mahoney to affect a run out. ‘Players of the Week Award’ winners for this game were Harrison Smyth and Spyridonas Spyrou. No stats were available for the Challenger Blaster game, but Kyle Wilkie was the top scorer, and the award winners were Levi Trail and Morgan Burrell.

Caption 1: Harrison Smyth and Spyridonas Spyrou

Caption 2: Levi Trail and Morgan Burrell

Photos supplied

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Ayr Junior Golf

March 7, 2024

After two weeks of rain and cancelled coaching sessions, the sun finally came out to let our Juniors out on the golf course this Saturday morning. Many thanks to Darryl for coming down to coach our young golfers, with everyone’s swing being recorded for analysis and future work. Darryl will be down again in a forthright and then monthly, working on different aspects of the game each time.

This Saturday we will be holding the February Monthly Medal, with a 3, 6 and 9 hole competition being held, with the Nett winner in each group receiving a monthly medal. Please follow the Junior Golf Ayr Facebook page for more details.

Contributed by Laura Mahoney

Caption: Ayr Junior Golf returned on Saturday morning. Photo supplied

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Roosters Prepare For Pre Season Trial

March 7, 2024

The Burdekin Roosters will have their first hit out of the season when they host the Mackay Magpies at Rugby Park this Saturday.

Two grades will be played: A grade and Reserve grade with the reserves scheduled to start at 3:30pm.

The two clubs play a trial match each year on a rotating basis.

The Roosters will be out to silence the birds from Mackay after they were the victors last year.

Rooster coach Daniel Beazley said his team could be a little underdone after recent rain had severely curtailed training.

“I expect they would be in the same boat as well,” Beazley said.

The coach said he wanted to have a look at a couple of players in different positions and that is what trials are all about.

It is not expected the two players each allocated from the Cowboys and Blackhawks will be playing.

“We have a keen bunch of boys and I expect them to give a good account of themselves,” Beazley said.

The coach added he particularly wanted to see three players in action.

“Adam Stephens appears to be a very good player, very professional and athletic and as he is only new, I want to see him on the field while Rhett Williams will play at hooker and I expect him to add a touch of class out there,” he said.

Beazley went on to say that he was glad to see Nemia Nawave at training and going hard.

He added, “Nemia will start on the wing where he is very quick but I have been told he played at hooker in Fiji so I will give him a go there to see what he offers in the middle.”

“Tate Brombal has been putting in the hard yards at training and is welcome back home after a year away playing in the Toowoomba League.

“Riley Horan is another I want to see after having a year off with former Queensland schoolboy representative Terry Connors who could be the X Factor as he appears quick.”

Reserves coach Chris Perry has named a squad with plenty of youth on one hand plus experience on another.

Former Marlins representative Mitchell Guy says he has finished playing A Grade but still wants to put the boots on and help out Chris and his reggies.

His experience will be invaluable to the coach who will have a number of last years under 19 players making the step up.

The canteen will be open with the bar and doubles sold on the gate.

Contributed by Brian Carnes

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Boars And Barras Take Over Clare

March 7, 2024

Last weekend saw the successful return of the Burdekin Boars & Barras Competition, hosted by the Clare State School P&C, with hundreds of people showing up for the weigh in on Sunday, March 3.

There was something for everyone at the event including facepainting, kids’ corner run by Lillies Cubby House, a bar, delicious food, and live music by Tammy Moxon.  

The Crab races and auction kept everyone entertained with a total of $1100 prize money up for grabs for the winner, while the Yeti toss proved to be very popular with lots of kids lining up for their chance to win a Yeti Water bottle.

“A massive thank you to all of the event sponsors,” said Emma Bethel of the Clare State School P&C.

“Without their generous support this event would not have been possible.

“The Clare State School P&C are very grateful to everyone who supported this event.”

Caption: Heaviest Junior Barra Winner Josh Patterson (left) and Heaviest Boar Winner Shane Cavanagh (right). Photos supplied

BURDEKIN BOARS & BARRAS

2024 WINNERS

OPEN DIVISION

HEAVIEST BOAR- 118 Kg Shane Cavanagh

HEAVIEST SOW - 62.55 Kg Mat Corradi

HEAVIEST CRAB - 1.47 Kg Mathew Lynch-Harlow

JUNIOR

BARRA - 8.38Kg - Josh Patterson

MANGROVE JACK - 1.26Kg - Jace Klaka

CATFISH - 5.32Kg - Joshua Brett

FLATHEAD - 0.94 kg - Keatan Jarvis

SECRET BARRA WEIGHT – 3.14Kg - Alex Wright

SENIOR

BARRA - 8.56 Kg - Joel Bethel

MANGROVE JACK - 1.76Kg - Jack Malas

CATFISH - 3.56Kg - Tiffany Jones

FLATHEAD - 1.72Kg - Mathew Lynch-Harlow

SECRET BARRA WEIGHT – 8.46Kg - Mark Zunker

JUNIOR LUCKY DRAW - Angus Galvin

SENIOR LUCKY DRAW - Melissa Hyne

Caption 1: Heaviest junior flathead winner Keatan Jarvis with Clare State School Principal Troy Patti

Caption 2: Heaviest junior catfish winner Joshua Brett with Troy Patti

Caption 3: Heaviest mangrove jack winner Jack Malas with Troy Patti

Caption 4: Heaviest senior catfish winner Tiffany Jones with Troy Patti

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Ayr Bowls News

February 29, 2024

Social Bowls were played Tuesday February 20 where the winners were Ruth Moore, Elaine Young, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeating Desley Olsen, Donna Soper, Sandra Stidston and Irene Wilson.

Isabel Cislowski, Heather Jorgensen and Mary Poli defeated Katharina Stuckler, Joy Comollatti amd Dot Cutting.

Eighteen bowlers enjoyed playing lawn bowls under the stars at Wednesday Night Bowls on February 21.

Coming in first place were Katharina Stuckler, Anthony Bull and Robyn McAllister.

In second place were Carolyn Jones, Rob Jorgensen and Heather Jorgensen.

Men's Championship Fours 8:30am Sunday March 10 - 1. G. Papale, J. Grabbe, S. Caltabiano, L. Stidston vs D. Poli, M. Olsen, ? , M. Milan.  2. H. Horan, J. Hall, W. Coonan, M. Parravicini vs A. Bull, C. Essex, M. Power, R. Soper.

Nominations for championship pairs and triples close March 3.

Wednesday February 21 winners were Bob Young and Col Essex who defeated Vince Beitia and Chris Berkery.

Other results were John Hall, Barry Hewson and Maurie Power defeated John Pirrone, Sandra Darwen and Wayne Coonan.

Mick Olsen, Joe Papale and Lew Stidston defeated Jim Murray, Dino Poli and Ron Soper.

Contributed by Michael Parravicini

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Brandon Bowls

February 29, 2024

Wednesday February 20

Ladies results: only four ladies turned up and conditions still not favourable however those who turned up certainly had a good time.

Kaye Garner and Lyn Storrie beat Ann Newton and Vanda Ballao.

Ladies, please have your names in by 1:00pm for 1:30pm start.

Sunday February 25

A grade singles: Gary Pearce defeated Henry Hazel.

And the other A grade singles game went down to the wire with Doug Koehne defeating Jamie Woods.

A Pairs: Vince Beitia and Allan Garioch defeated Joe Ypinazar and Peter Jorgensen.

Social Bowls

Triples game: Norm Storrie, Rob Garner and Peter Henderson defeated Kaye Garner, Bob Jorgensen and Ray Panacassio.

And final game of was Rinks with Neville Dickinson, Helen Collins, Lloyd Shepherd and Doug Robins defeating Glen Woodward, Ken Ferguson, Lyn Storrie and Leo Kenny.

Sunday March 3 Jackpot will be drawn until we get a winner.

Names in by 1.00pm for 1.30pm start.

Contributed by Lloyd Shepherd

Caption: Winners of Sunday’s Championship events. Photo supplied

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Grant Win Leads To Women’s Changeroom Upgrades

February 29, 2024

Burdekin FC will work towards upgrading its women’s changerooms and facilities at International Park after winning a grant from the 2024 Ergon-Energex Community Fund.

The $10,000 grant will enable renovation of the women’s changerooms to provide a safer, more inclusive, and accessible space for players to feel comfortable and confident in their environment and increase participation.

Burdekin FC Senior Secretary Sian Reardon said the women’s facilities currently has two toilets, one of which often malfunctions, a women-only shower that is used as storage and a communal shower that is shared with the men’s facilities and doesn’t have a lock on the door.

The club plans to upgrade all facilities including a third toilet, new shower area and new basin and mirror.

“At the moment, it’s just not a nice place to be in,” Ms Reardon said.

“The facilities are our foundation.

“If we don’t foster a positive, clean environment, it’s not a welcoming environment for those girls to come into.

“If they see that we take pride and responsibility and put that money in to make the facilities clean and welcoming, we get more people through the door.”

Ms Reardon, who also plays for the senior women’s team and coaches junior teams, said the investment proves the growth of the women’s game in the Burdekin.

She said the club currently has enough junior girls for two teams in U9s, U10/11s and U12/13s age groups this year.

“The numbers have grown incredibly this year,” she said.

“We’ve seen more girls interested in coming down to our women’s training as well.

“We’ve got a few 15-year-olds floating around who are really eager and want to get involved, which is awesome.”

The club has also recently purchased new goal posts using a previous grant which are due for installation soon.

“We would not be able to function without grants and community support,” Ms Reardon said.

“Whenever Louise (Nicholas, Grants Officer) sees a grant that could towards the club, the entire club comes together to discuss what’s most important.”

Caption: Burdekin FC Senior Secretary Sian Reardon is excited to see upgrades to the women’s changerooms after securing a grant. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Home Hill Bowls Report

February 29, 2024

18 players arrived to do battle in the barefoot bowls night onWednesday, February 21.

3 games oftriples were played.

Rinks 5,6 and 7were used running east/west.

Rink 5: Gladys,Meryl and Joe were much too strong for Betty, Judy and John winning14 to 5.

Rink 6: Ashley,Tony and Amy had a good win over Lyn, Nev and Ron to the tune of 12points to 3.  

Rink 7: Conner,Margaret and Stephen won on the final end after being all squareafter 11 ends over Wayne, Mark and Torrie 11 to 7.

Trevor's morningtea is weekly on Monday morning, Tuesday Trimmers on Tuesday, Wednesday Kraft group and barefoot bowls at 6pm on Wednesday.

Thursday morning bingo and bowls in the arvo, names in between 12 and 1pm.

There was no bowls on Thursday.

Good bowling.

Contributed by Stephen Doig

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