We had a near full house for Juniors this Saturday with 18 juniors taking the field. It was the March Monthly Medal and some great scores came in for the morning, with some close ones too and two count backs to decide on the winners. Heath Smart was the 3 hole monthly medal winner, Lyla Land for 6 holes, and Gabe Hatherall for 9 holes. Well done to all competitors. We also had coach Darryll from Townsville join us for the morning to teach some short game and putting skills to the juniors first. This definitely helped Lyla who had a birdie on the 11th hole with a chip onto the green from 50 metres out to sink the ball into the hole. Well done Lyla.
This Saturday morning will be the April Monthly medal.

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Contributed by Laura Mahoney

Heath Smart and Oscar Mahoney

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Millie Lyne and her coaches, Kim and Mick McConnachie, travelled to the Gold Coast earlier in the month to compete at the Australian Age Swimming Championships on the Gold Coast and represent the Burdekin Torpedoes at a National level. The experience for Millie was amazing and she would not have reached it without the support of her wonderful coaches and the Burdekin Swimming Club being 100% behind her. Millie raced in the 14yo Girls 50m Breaststroke and put in a fantastic swim to just go above her personal best time and place 50th in the Nation from 81 swimmers who made the qualifying time.
On pool deck was former Burdekin Torpedo Seamus Casey who had a jampacked week of seven swims and he came away with a silver medal in the Boys 14-15yo 4 x 50m Freestyle relay for St Peters Western.

Contributed by Kate Lyne

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Millie Lyne and her coaches Mick and Kim McConnachie

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Round 1 week 5:
National 1 v Crushers at the National 7-3
Cougars v Bombers at the Ayr 8-2
National II v Ants at the Anzac 7-3
Falcons had the bye 10 points
Points:
Nat II - 40, Crushers - 37, Nat I - 36, Falcons - 30, Ants - 22, Cougars - 20 and Bombers 15
Games for Wednesday 24/04:
Nat II v Falcons at National, Bombers v Crushers at Queens, Cougars v Nat I at Ayr and
Ants have the bye

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Contributed by Kerry Davison

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National II Team

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It was a great day for the Burdekin Roosters at Rugby Park on Saturday night in front of a very big crowd when the locals played Brothers in three grades, winning two and drawing one.
Instead of concentrating for only three quarters of the game as they have done in recent matches the, A grade put it together from go to whoa winning 28 - 4.
“I was glad to see the boys in focus for the full game and they now know what they could have done in other matches as they did in this one,” coach Steve Lansley said.
The coach thought his team had a full eighty-minute performance.
Fullback Jones Munro had an outstanding game both in defence and attack.
Brothers peppered him with a variety of kicks, but he came through with flying colours.
Munro then turned attack into defence with some long jerking runs up the paddock which yielded two good tries.
His defence was also spot on diffusing a number of try attempts.
With Rhett Williams attending his siters wedding, Kalin Nauque was moved to hooker from lock with Blackhawk Englishman Chris Gale coming in.
It took Kali back in time when he represented Fiji at two World Cups as a hooker.
He controlled play well giving his big men plenty of good ball with front rower Jeremiah Matuate a menace to the Brothers’ defence.
Second rower Lachlan Shepherd was once again one of the better players in all areas.
Terry Connors was brought in to play half with Joel Mason out and he turned on a great game.
Terry was the perfect link between forwards and backs with his defence playing above his weight and size.
The coach said the boys now know how to win and they have to put the practice into action when they play other sides, especially Souths at home this Sunday.
Jones Munro scored 2 tries with one each to Patrick Krause, Caleb Noah, Kali Nauque and Dylan Doak kicked 4 goals
In other A grade matches, Souths beat Norths 48 - 4, Charters Towers beat Western Lions 19 - 16 while Herbert River and Centrals had byes.
The two French imports playing in the reserves showed what they can do with the weather a bit cooler as they both stood out in the reserve grade 14 all draw with Brothers.
Both boys have played two matches in searing heat before Saturday night and found the drop in temperature so good they both played a full reserve grade game before sitting on the bench for A grade where they again played well.
Coach Chris Perry said his team did not play well enough to deserve the win, but they put themselves in that position with costly errors.
“Basic mistakes cost us the game ...  we have to work on our fitness and those mistakes won’t come,” the coach said.
The coach named Paul Meryl as his best player and his three tries from dummy half were smart efforts.
Fellow Frenchman Wassime Mahali wasn’t far behind with his defence and hard straight running.
Perry said his two centres Kyle Ferguson and Riley Horan were two of the best players out there with forward Sem Tom doing some good runs in attack.
Paul Meryl scored three tries with John Zaro kicking a goal.
In other reserve matches Souths beat Norths 34 - 12, Western Lions beat Charters Towers 14 - 8, Centrals gave Bowen their first loss 32 - 12 with Herbert River on a bye.
With coach Anita Hagarty walking the Kokoda Trail, Ricky Dallachy took over the coaching of the Hens team and they made Anita’s trek a little easier by running out commanding winners 40 - 10.
Ricky told his team to take it up the centre a couple of times and then send it wide as often as possible and run the bigger Brothers girls off their feet.
They did that with five of the eight tries coming from out wide.
The halves Soliel Heron and Toni Daisy controlled the play well with Soliel being players player.
Teah Lee Monday, Abby King and Theo Mosby Nona were dangerous up front making ground with Anna Mila Bin Awel showing plenty of promise.
Out wide, Jo Morgan was on fire with two tries while Martina Monday and Toni Daisy cut holes in the defence.
Logan Roncato was another stand out and it was great to see Tegan Johnson pick up a four pointer.
Jo Morgan scored two tries with Theo Mosby Nona while Martina Monday, Toni Daisy, Teah Lee Monday and Tegan Johnson scored tries with Soliel Heron kicking four goals.
In the other Ladies match Western Lions beat Charters Towers 52 - 4 while Norths, Centrals and Herbert River had byes.
This Sunday, the A grade side meets Souths at Rugby Park with the reserves playing Bowen also in Ayr.
Teams had not been selected at time of writing but Rhett Williams, Joel Mason and Nemia Nawave should all be back for A grade.
The Hens have a bye this week.
Norths will play Centrals, Brothers meet Charters Towers and Herbert River host Western Lions.

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Contributed by Brian Carnes

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The Eugene Pagotto Memorial Canefield Ashes celebrated its 20th anniversary over the weekend with hundreds of cricketers, supporters, families and friends flocking to Home Hill to celebrate.
The carnival saw innumerable huge sixes hit, classic catches taken, and beverages consumed, but attendees ultimately enjoyed the weekend as an opportunity to catch up with mates and participate in what has become an iconic Burdekin event.
Organisers expressed satisfaction with the 2024 event and gratitude to the attendees, supporters, sponsors and volunteers.
Read on to find the results.

ALL GRADES
Most Catches - Reece McCubben (Zookickers)
Most Ducks - Jack Castrejana (Home Hill Bandits)
Most 6’s - Mitch Bradford (Sugar Daddies)
Highest Score - Chris Mann (Nomads)

SOCIAL GRADE
Winners - Borders XI
Runners up - Shouldawornabox
Most Runs - Jarrod Camer (Home Hill Bandits)
Most Wickets - Michael Carrara (Moores Marauders)
Social Grade Player of the Carnival - Deegan Woods (Shouldawornabox)

C GRADE
Winners - Buldgers XI
Runners up - Canefield Slashers
Most Runs - Salvatore Cardillo (Sledgers XI)
Most Wickets - Dan Olditch (Sledgers XI)
C Grade Player of the Carnival - Bryce Stockdale (Buldgers XI)

B GRADE
Winners - Bowen Chargers
Runners up - Honeycombes JD
Batting Aggregate - Lee Watts (Horny Bulls)
Batting Average - Alex Brown (Clout’n’Out)
Bowling Aggregate - Chris Stainsby (Thirsty Rhinos)
Bowling Average - Daniel Borgh (Bowen Chargers)
B Grade Player of the Carnival - Matthew Ryder (Castlemain Kings)

A GRADE
Winners - Ben Dovers
Runners up - Sugar Daddies
Batting Aggregate - Andy Ballin (Ben Dovers)
Batting Average - Mitchell Carmen (MVM)
Bowling Aggregate - Damien Ricketts (Victorious Secret)
Bowling Average - Brendan Williams (Wackers)
A Grade Player of the Carnival - Grant Dilger (Bumbos XI)

A Grade winners Ben Dovers
B Grade winners Bowen Chargers
C Grade winners Buldgers XI
Social Grade winners Borders XI

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Thursday April 11 was an afternoon of mixed social bowls with the winners of the day in a very tight game was Kay Garner, Vanda Ballao, Joy Woods and Margaret.
Friday April 12, we had our monthly Trophy night proudly sponsored by North Queensland Green Solutions where most of the Brandon community turned up for a great night of bowls. We had 82 bowlers which must be a record with everyone having a great time.
The weather was perfect and nice to bowl in cooler conditions for a change.
A massive thanks goes out to the evening’s Coordinators Gary Pearce and Bob Jorgenson for making sure everyone got on the green under very difficult circumstances.
Another big thank you to the ladies in the kitchen for putting together a great smoko and the BBQ was cooked by our onsite chef Len Feeny who once again did a great job.
Stayed tuned for next round and sponsor.
Winners were Sandra Darween, Margaret Chapman, Henry Hazel and Gary Pearce; Runners Up were Ryan West, Lloyd Shepherd Brett Wilshere and Jayson Farry; and Winners of the Losers were J Lewis, Dee, H Prideaux and E Lewis.
Sunday April 14 Championship Rounds
Three games were played and in the A grade singles, Tony Bayliss played Doug Robins with Tony too strong to take out the match.
B Grade singles saw three games played with Gary Nosworthy playing the in-form Peter Lejarraga in the first; the form continued with Peter taking out the match.
Ken Ferguson played Norm Storrie on Friday with Norm taking out the lead early on in the game - unfortunately for him, Fergie came home strong to win the game.
And in the final game of B grade singles, it was once again Ken Fergusen playing the powerhouse Doug Kiehne in a tight game where Doug was eventual winner.
Sunday April 14 Social Bowls
Rob Jorgenson and Ray Paneccasio def Ross McLaughlin.
Norm Highinbothem, Trevor Elton and Danny O’Shea def Mick McCloskey, Vince Beitia and Jamie Woods.
Con Section and Leo Kenny def Neville Dickinson and Joe Yipnazar.
Judy Elton, Lyn Storrie and Allan Garioch def Henry Hazel, Norm Storrie and Geoff Taylor.
Don’t forget to get your names in for Anzac Day Mixed Triples proudly sponsored by RLA finance; bowls attire required and affiliated players only.
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Contributed by Lloyd Shepherd

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Tony Bayliss, Doug Kiehne and Peter Lejarraga. Photo supplied

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Queenslanders have the opportunity to tell the state’s electricity networks about their energy needs and wants in the 2024 Queensland Household Energy Survey.  
Energy Queensland CEO Peter Scott said more residential customers are being encouraged to share their insights in the long-running survey which is a joint initiative of Energex, Ergon Energy Network and Powerlink Queensland.
“Every customer’s input into the Queensland Household Energy Survey matters and 4,200 households participated last year,” he said.
“The more we understand about what’s happening on the home front, the clearer picture we have of what the network of the future needs to cater for.  
“The energy landscape has changed dramatically since the first survey in 2009 when rooftop solar was only just taking off in Queensland and electric vehicles were a novelty.    
“Last year’s survey results reflected the community’s focus on cost of living - 53% of respondents were concerned about their ability to pay their power bills, 75% were looking to reduce their electricity use and 72% of households with solar were using it to cut costs.  
“Energy affordability has always been a top priority for us and all the feedback from our customers reinforces that approach.”
The online Queensland Household Energy Survey is open from now until Sunday April 21.
Visit www.talkingenergy.com.au/qhes to find out more and to take the survey.

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Round 1 week 4:
National 1 v Bombers at the Queens 9-1
Ants v Cougars at the Anzac 6-4
Crushers v Falcons at the Ayr Hotel 7-3
National II had the bye 10 points
Points: 
Crushers - 34, Nat II - 33, Nat I - 29, Falcons - 20, Ants - 19, Bombers - 13 and Cougars –12
Games for 18/04:
Nat I v Crushers at National, Ants v Nat II at Anzac, Cougars v Bombers at Ayr Hotel and Falcons have the bye

Contributed by Kerry Davison

Peter Peach (left) and Chandler Taylor (right) played off in the finals of the 2024 Open Handicap Singles with Peter taking out the Peter Hine Memorial Trophy

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What a great day at the President’s Day on Tuesday, April 9 hosted by the Ladies’ President, Sandra Stitson. It was good to see all the Clubs in the local region represented, especially Gold City from Charters Towers.  

Winners on the day were:
1st Place - Kaye Garner, Raylene Butler, Heather Rogers and Lynette Riches.
2nd Place - Vicky Hughes, Robyn Whiting, Lorraine McClintock & Mary Poli

The club would like to thank sponsors QLD Country Bank. They have been sponsoring this event for several years now, their support in the local community, especially our club, is much appreciated.

Saturday afternoon saw a great line up of players for Saturday Social Mixed bowls.  There were five games of Triples held with first place was Barry Hewson; Margaret Chapman and Maurice Power defeating John Hall; Beryl Cornford; Henry Hazle.  Runners Up were Desley Olsen; Linda Giumelli and Betty Schultz defeating Karl Rumney/Jimmy Murray; Sam Caltabiano and D Cutting.
On Friday April 19, the club will be hosting a Fun Friday Night Bowls sponsored by Chiropractic Care. To enter or find out more information, contact Maurie Power 0412551816 or Pam Power 0458330019.  
On Thursday April 25, the club will host Anzac Day Mixed Bowls starting at 1.30pm.
Competition Games – Results - Championship Pairs  - J. Grabbi/L. Stitson def H. Horan/M. Parravicini Championship Fours -  A. Bull/C.Essex/M. Power/R. Soper def J. Pirrone/H. Hazle/V. Beitia/C. Pearce
Competitions Games will continue Sunday April 21 at 8:30am.
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Contributed by Anthony Bull

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President’s Day winners
President’s Day runners up

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Local

Senior and Youth fixtures were mostly at home last weekend. On Friday, the Burdekin Panthers Division 1 was away to Estates and lost 0-5. Then on Saturday at home to Saints Eagles Souths (SES), the Under 23s lost 0-4, the Ladies were unlucky to lose 3-4 but the Premiers did very well to win 3-1.

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers were keen to bounce back after a couple of losses. Injuries and suspensions saw our depth tested with five regular reserve graders having to step up to the Premier league with all of them doing more than just holding their own. The Panthers dominated for much of the first half with Jay Leckenby making it count after a sublime ball through from Joshua Valle. Jay Leckenby doubled his tally with another good finish to put Burdekin 2-0 ahead at half time. Saints tried to make something work but the Panthers backline, which had three new players in it, gave them nothing and made sure Jarrod Camer had an easy night in goal. Matthew Kolb sealed the result with a nice mazy run from outside the box, slotting the ball in the bottom corner. Saints got a consolation goal right at the end, but it wasn’t enough, with Burdekin winning 3-1. A very good result to help the Panthers stay in touch with the league leaders. 

The Burdekin Tyre Service Under 23s (Reserve Grade) were missing a number of players through either injury or being required to play in the Premier league game later in the day. This resulted in a number of 1st Division players being drafted in and a very small bench of two. The game started as a scrappy affair with neither team being able to string together any passes without losing the ball. The young Burdekin midfield wouldn’t let SES settle on the ball with their running and willingness to throw themselves into a tackle. SES took the lead after ten minutes and the game then settled into a pattern of SES trying to go down the wings and Burdekin trying to move the ball through the middle of the park. The Panthers had a good chance when in a one-on-one with the keeper, the shot hit the far post and bounced out. Late in the half SES doubled the lead to go 2-0 up at halftime. The second half was very even with chances at both ends. Burdekin began to tire late in the half and SES took advantage to run in two late goals to make the final score 4-0 to SES.

The Austral Masonry Funkies (Division 1) played Estates Blue at Victoria Park. Burdekin were on the back foot from the start of the game and conceded the first goal early after eight minutes. Some desperate defending kept the score at 0-1 at half time. The second half started in the worst possible way with Estates doubling their lead after only a minute’s play. The game then started to open up allowing Burdekin to get out of their half on a number of occasions, but they couldn’t convert any of the resulting chances. After 54 minutes, Estates scored again to make it 0-3 and after Brad Wright collected his customary yellow card to mark his return to the Funkies, Estates scored twice more bringing the final score to 0-5. The Funkies are finally at home next week where they will hope to get their first win of the year against Warriors.

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies were up against a strong Saints team and midway through the first half were two goals down. However, goals from Tahlia Lawson and Kya Quagliata in five minutes before half time made it 2-2 at the break. Saints went ahead again straight after the resumption and although Kya Quagliata equalised again a late fourth goal from Saints gave them a 4-3 win.

This week the Panthers have one home game with the Division1 team playing Warriors on Friday night the other three teams are away to JCU Riverway on Saturday. 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.

The Under 14/15 played Warriors and after being 1-2 down at halftime, eventually lost 1-7. The Panthers goal was scored by Brayden Card. There were a lot of missing players due to school holidays. It was an exhausting game with no subs and most of the game was played with 10 players. Coaches said they all worked hard. It is a double game this weekend in Ayr at International Park. Games on Saturday and Sunday. 

The Under 13 Panthers took on Saints Eagles South's at Honeycombes Park. A spirited first half saw the boys go in with a 2-0 lead at half time with goals from Tannar Cole and Lincoln Innes. Annan Power was exceptional in goal keeping a clean sheet. Unfortunately, after half time, SES scored five unanswered goals. A lack of Panthers’ match fitness left the opposition with plenty of time and room to run riot. The Panthers standout performance was Annan Power in goal.

Juniors

It’s an exciting time for Burdekin Football Juniors with Townsville teams coming down to the Burdekin to play in Under 8s to 12s. A big thanks to the committee for pushing this and helping make it happen. For this week we have MAO making the trip south. Everyone please make them feel welcome to our grounds.  Let’s hear lots of loud cheering for our Burdekin teams also!

Before Saturday fixtures, on Friday there is a Meet and Greet sausage sizzle at 5pm at the junior grounds. Come down, bring the kids and a ball, grab something to eat and drink, meet everyone, and ask any questions you have about the upcoming season.  There will also be a ‘nets up’ tutorial so come down so you can learn what is to be done when your team is rostered on nets up.

It doesn’t end there, on Saturday afternoon there is a Mini Roos coaching clinic. It’s still not too late to join coaches, and it’s free. A great time ahead for Burdekin Football!

Masters

Monday Night Masters had another reasonably good turn out and in a top of the table clash, Aston Villa beat Arsenal 4-2 after leading 3-0 at half time. Player of the night was Jonty Davis. Old and New players are welcome, usual time, usual place, 6.30 at International Park. Treat it as an escape…

National and International

The Matildas played Mexico in Texas and won 2-0. They now have two matches against China in the lead up to the Paris Olympics. The first is at home on 31st May in Adelaide and the second, in Sydney on 3rd June.
The Socceroos have two games in June but nothing in the meantime. Both games are the last of the AFC Asian Qualifiers Group fixtures. They are away to Bangladesh on 6th June and then play Palestine, at home, on 11 June.
In the A League, with two rounds left Central Coast and Wellington both won, and the Mariners top the table on goal difference. Victory stays in third place despite losing and Sydney FC and Macarthur both won to stay fourth and fifth. Western Sydney lost but stay in the top six one point ahead of Melbourne City. Brisbane lost and stay in eighth place.
In the A League Women the Finals series Newcastle Jets beat Western Utd 4-2 on Saturday and on Sunday Central Coast defeated Melbourne Victory also 4-2. This Saturday Newcastle is at home to Melbourne City and Central Coast is at home to Sydney FC in the 1st leg of the semi-finals.

In the EPL it is still very tight at the top. Manchester City won but both Arsenal and Liverpool lost, at home! With six rounds left Man City leads Arsenal and Liverpool by two points with Aston Villa fourth and Spurs dropping to fifth. At the foot of the table, only Everton won, and it appears that either Notts Forest or Luton will accompany Sheffield Utd and Burnley into the Championship.

In Germany, all top five teams won and with just five rounds left, Leverkusen are champions sixteen points clear of Bayern. Third placed Stuttgart is level on points with Bayern and seven points clear of Leipzig with Dortmund fifth. At the foot of the table, it looks like ‘Goodnight’ to Darmstadt and Cologne.

In Italy’s Serie A, it is all but over. With six rounds left Inter is fourteen points ahead of AC Milan and Juventus is a further six points behind. Bologna stays in fourth place with Roma fifth. Salernitana is doomed together with two out of the next five bottom clubs.

In Spain’s La Liga only three of the top six clubs won. Real Madrid and Barcelona were two of them and with seven rounds left Real still leads Barca by eight points. and Girona by thirteen. Atletico stays in fourth place with Bilbao fifth. At the foot of the table Almeria along with Granada are already gone.

And in Ligue1 in France, only two of the top six teams won. PSG drew and is now ten points clear of Brest who lost. Monaco is one point below Brest with Lille a further three points behind but five points clear of Nice. Clermont, Metz, Lorient and Le Havre are in trouble.

In the 1st Leg of the Europe Champions League Quarter finals Arsenal at home to Bayern drew 2-2 and Real Madrid hosting Manchester City drew 3-3. Barcelona won 3-2 away to PSG and Dortmund lost 1-2 away to Atletico. The second leg matches will be played this week.

This week’s quote is from English manager Neil Warnock “I don't think we've got a discipline problem. It's the players who are thick who are causing the problems”.

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By Chelsea Ravizza

The Burdekin Netball Association has been on a celebratory high since bringing home an amazing win from the Queensland Netball’s Senior State Age Netball Championship.

The championship was held at the Western Districts Netball Association in Brisbane on the weekend of April 6-9, where the U15 girls were awarded first place in Championship Challenge Division 4. Extending over four days, the girls played 15 games competing alongside 16 other teams from around the state including Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Downey Park, Cairns, Mooloolaba, Innisfail, and Tully.

After three days of yielding exceptional results, the girls put on a nail-biting show for spectators as they went up against their biggest competitors, Rockhampton and Downey Park, on the fourth and final day.

Spurred on by their first and only loss, falling short by one point against Cairns on the third day of the competition, the fourth day became more important than ever. The team’s coach, Alix Ballin along with the team’s manager, Christy Pensini, knew going into the fourth day of the tournament the girls would be challenged with the toughest games yet to polish off the championship.

“On that final day, I was sick to my stomach with nerves,” expressed Alix.

“The second game of the day was against Rocky, and the girls were down 5 nil at the start, but they came back playing super strong and we won 13 to 10!”

“The girls knew they had to step up, and they had a good sense of confidence that they could do it, and when it came to game time, they really did, they put it on the court,” explained Christy.

“That game against Rockhampton to get back on top of the ladder was amazing because they all really showed up and it just gave me goosebumps, it was awesome to watch.”

The final game of the day was against Downey Park where the girls either had to come out on top or with a tie score to win the championship due to the high goal average they had accumulated over the tournament.

“Going into that final game, Christy and I knew we either had to win or draw but we didn’t tell the girls because they didn’t need that added pressure and we really had faith in them that they were going to play hard and work hard, which they definitely did,” exclaimed Alix.

The girls walked away from the final day with four wins out of four games, drawing against Downey Park, 9 all, and both Alix and Christy could not have been prouder.

“The girls all worked so well together, the transitions down the court looked really slick, everyone had hands over in defense, everybody pulled their weight, and it was a great team effort,” exclaimed Christy.

Alix and Christy gathered the girls back at the tent and got them settled to share the victorious news which garnered plenty of yelling, crying, screaming, TikToks, photos and an emotional team group hug.

“There were lots of group hugs, screaming and jumping up and down,” explained Christy.

“They were so excited, so ecstatic, all the parents were excited, even the other teams were excited, and Christy and I were just bawling our eyes out, we’re so proud of them,” expressed Alix.

The win was more than well-deserved for the dedicated team as they had been hard at work training since team selections in late October to early November. Once selected, the girls underwent six weeks of Sunday sessions with coaching coordinator and association secretary, Kayla Betteridge, in the lead up to Christmas.

After the Christmas break, Alix coordinated two training sessions per week on Sunday afternoons, and Tuesday mornings before school where the girls focused on footwork techniques, coming forward towards the ball, creating space, drives, center passes, and crafting backline throw-in plays. After 12 weeks of double sessions, Alix and Christy oversaw three weeks of Prep for Rep sessions, and with additional Thursday night netball games thrown into the mix, the girls were putting in the work which certainly showed on game day.

“We made this play called the Zebra, and whenever a play like that went to plan, it was just amazing because you could see the consistency and fluency down the court,” explained Alix.

At a preparation weekend, four weeks out from the championship, the team created a motto; positivity, resilience, and teamwork.

“That was our motto every game, and Christy had shoe locks made so the girls could wear the acronym on the court, and then when we got that win, in our celebrations, we were chanting out our motto the whole time,” exclaimed Alix.

Christy and Alix could not be prouder of their girls, and the community has celebrated this win alongside everyone in the Burdekin Netball Association.

“Every player was a standout, across the defense, the mid court, and the attack, they all gelled together, played well and did what they had to do, and that’s what made us winners,” expressed Alix.

“We kept getting compliments from the other teams on hour well our girls gel together, and I love the word family because I feel like we are a family; we all supported each other on and off the court with how we spoke, the positivity, and the encouragement and I think that’s what made a big difference.

“There were times when the girls had to fight back from being down, and they kept fighting to then win by margins, and I think we definitely have some junior Silverlinks in the making.”

Indi MacDonald, Lola Carmichael, Ryley Sartori, Idoya Aguirre, Jayel Gibson, Jorja Bapty, Pascale Crooks, Sophie Michielin and Isla Chapman

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Last Sunday week Burdekin Roosters A Grade coach Steve Lansley watched his team play one half of decent football before going down to Western Lions 24 - 22.
This Sunday, the coach watched on as they improved that switch-on period to 60 minutes before turning off and allowing premiership favourites Souths to take the win 40 - 22.
The Roosters looked really good for the first thirty minutes actually leading by 10 nil with two tries before the Redmen came alive to score 10 points themselves through sloppy play from the visitors.
The second try by Souths showed their determination and the Roosters switch off period.
It was soon 16 all after the break but then the floodgates opened as the Roosters played virtually without the ball for close on twenty minutes.
During that time, the Bulls, led by former NRL Star Shaun Nona, scored four converted tries with excellent handling, defence and backing up to blow the game away.
The Burdekin boys did come back but the horse had bolted, and the game was gone.
“We have to get the little things right as we are making too many mistakes,” a dejected coach said after the game.
“I really thought we could win that game but to do that you have to be focused for the whole game and not three quarters of it.
“You can't switch off like we did and hope to win footy matches.”
Lansley thought centre and captain Ethan Hagarty had a top game and was one of the better players on the ground backed up by forward Lachlan Shepherd who tackled anything that moved as well as scoring a good try.
Tate Brombal and Kali Nauque first half were players who did not deserve to be on a losing side.
The coach said the squad would now regroup and get ready for Brothers at home this Saturday.
Tries were scored by Lachlan Shepherd, Kali Nauque, Ethan Hagarty and Tate Brombal with Dylan Doak kicking 3 goals.
In other A grade games Herbert River defeated Charters Towers 18 - 10 and  Western Lions were too good for Centrals 32 - 8 with both Brothers and Norths on byes.
After coming home with a wet sail last week to just go down to Western Lions, the Roosters reserves started off in great fashion to race out to 20 nil against Souths in Townsville last Sunday.
They then snoozed and let Souths in for two triers for a 20 - 12 lead at the break.
Souths continued to throw everything at a tiring Burdekin outfit without much ball, but the defence held to see the Roosters post their first win of the season 26 - 24.
Coach Chris Perry said failing to complete sets nearly cost his team who had to dig deep against a team coming off a big win over Herbert River last week.
Perry praised the efforts of French import Paul Meryl who scored a great 60 metre try to win the game when it looked all was lost.
“Paul is a hooker but I have him playing in the centres and he has gone well there scoring a try last week and again this week in hot conditions he and fellow Frenchman Wassine Mauhili are not used to,” the coach added.
Perry said three players tied for players player in Kyle Ferguson, Aiden Stevens and Paul Meryl.
The award went to Ferguson for his great defence and outstanding attack with the other two close by.
Stevens with his great speed and swerve cut the defence to score whilst handing on another.
The coach added that his team has to be with it for the entire game and cannot afford to sit back when in front.
Taluh Pepa scored two tries with one each to Aiden Stevens, Terry Connors, Paul Meryl with John Zaro kicking thee goals.
In other reserves matches Charters Towers beat Herbert River 22 - 10 with Bowen over Norths 32 - 14 and Centrals too good for Western Lions 36 - 10.
In the Ladies, Herbert River defeated Charters Towers 22 - 6 and Centrals defeated Western Lions 16 - 8 while Burdekin, Brothers and Norths had byes.
Burdekin do not have under 20 but Centrals defeated Western Lions 34 - 10, Herbert River defeated Charters Towers 66 - 4 and Bowen defeated Norths 42 - 12 .
This Saturday the Roosters are to play Brothers at Rugby Park in the Ladies, Reserves and A grade with the games starting at 3:30pm.
The A grade will have a couple of players missing attending a wedding but depending on allocation of Cowboys and Blackhawks should put together a side to test last year’s premiers.
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Contributed by Brian Carnes

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William wasn’t short of any white meat for Good Friday after he caught this 115cm barra. Photo supplied: William Smith
Ted’s barra. Photo supplied: Ted Shields
Trout and parrot fish were among Kyle’s haul after a weekend at Cape Gloucester. Photo supplied: Kyle Stuart Mclennan
Laurinda’s biggest flathead of the day at 63cm caught off the beach at Alva. Photo supplied: Laurinda George
A 100cm plus queen fish. Photo supplied: Kristopher Stockham
John’s barra. Photo supplied: John Chandler

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Saturday, April 13 to Sunday, April 14
Home Hill Cricket Association

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Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, the Eugene Pagotto Memorial Canefield Ashes cricket carnival in Home Hill has become a beloved annual event, drawing participants and spectators from far and wide. Originally conceived in 2005 by Doug McCubben who was inspired by the similar concept of Bowen’s Watts Shield, the tournament has evolved into a vibrant celebration of camaraderie, cricket, and community spirit.
What began with just 14 teams has now swelled to an impressive 40, testament to the enduring popularity and significance of the event. Supported by the enthusiasm of families, friends, community and cricket enthusiasts alike, the tournament has transcended its humble origins to become a major fixture North Queensland’s sporting calendar.
“Six years ago, we got to 40 teams, and that had every field covered for every session, so we capped it at that,” said Doug. “For the very first time this year, all 40 are coming back, and that’s never happened before.”
Eight months prior to the inaugural carnival, the Burdekin cricket community lost a cherished member, Eugene Pagotto, who lost his battle with cancer. Amidst the sometimes fierce, sometimes not so fierce, competition on the cricket field, the Canefield Ashes remains rooted in its core values of giving back to the community. Originally donating a percentage of profits to the Cancer Council, the tournament has recently directed its contributions to the Icon Cancer Centre in Townsville, where Eugene and many others from the Burdekin region have received treatment. The funds raised over the years have facilitated essential improvements and equipment purchases, enhancing the quality of care and support available to cancer patients.
“From word go, there was always a donation because that was one thing we felt strongly about,” said Coordinator Alexander Romeo. “Having the carnival in Eugene’s name, it was important to give back and help out in some way.”
For many, the Canefield Ashes is more than just a cricket tournament—it's a social reunion, a chance to reconnect with friends and family, and a weekend filled with fond memories. Players from Townsville, Ingham, Innisfail, and even as far as southeast Queensland converge on Home Hill, forming bonds that endure across generations. Indeed, nine teams participating in the tournament this year have been loyal contenders since its inaugural year, passing on the baton from player to player, generation to generation.
“I just can’t get over how people love coming to the carnival to catch up with mates,” Doug said. “That’s a real big thing and I think that’s why it’s so popular. Of course, you’re having a beer and there’s a band and the cricket too, but I think the thing I get out of it is the camaraderie and catching up with mates.”

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Continued on page 32

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Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth running of the tournament, from maintaining the grounds to organising sponsorship and hospitality—a true testament to the community's collective effort and dedication.
“If we didn’t have the backing of the Home Hill Cricket Association and their volunteers, it would never happen,” Doug said.
“The club has done a good job of running it over the years, so I think people enjoy coming because they feel welcome, and they want to come back,” added Alexander.
Even cricketing legends such as Geoff Thompson, Doug Walters, and Colin "Funky" Miller have graced the tournament with their presence in the past, adding an extra layer of excitement and prestige. Plans are underway for an invitational match against the Bulls Masters in the coming year, promising a thrilling spectacle for cricket enthusiasts.
The format of the tournament reflects its inclusive ethos, with teams competing across various grades including A, B, C and Social, ensuring that players of all abilities can participate and enjoy the experience. Each team plays three T20 matches over the weekend, with results tallied to determine the top contenders for the finals on Sunday afternoon—a highlight eagerly anticipated by players, volunteers and spectators alike. Matches are played across the eight fields at Home Hill Cricket Association and fields at Home Hill State High School and Home Hill State School. Moreover, the weekend even features an invitational match between the Home Hill Cricket Association and Flexi Queensland participants, a local not-for profit disability service, which is looked forward to for all involved.
Away from the pitch, the festivities continue with live music, delicious food, and a convivial atmosphere that encapsulates the spirit of the event. All games, presentations and entertainment are free for the public to attend and enjoy.
As the Canefield Ashes enters its third decade, the sense of pride and gratitude is palpable among those who have been part of its journey. Doug McCubben, one of the tournament's pioneers, reflects fondly on its origins and evolution, acknowledging the unwavering support of the community and the tireless efforts of organisers past and present. Meanwhile, Alexander Romeo, a stalwart of the tournament scene for 14 years and a key organiser for the past decade, reflects on the remarkable growth of the Canefield Ashes.
From its humble beginnings to its status as a cornerstone of the local sporting calendar, the Canefield Ashes embodies the enduring spirit of community, friendship, and solidarity. As participants and spectators gather once again to celebrate this milestone anniversary, they do so not only in honour of Eugene Pagotto's memory but also as a testament to the power of sport to unite and uplift.

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Canefield Ashes Foundation Teams
Still Playing 20 Years On
   • Horny Bulls
   • Evolution
   • Bendovers
   • Bumbo’s XI
   • Nomads
   • Wackers
   • Shaggers XI
   • Lager Louts
   • Thirsty Rhinos

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