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BURDEKIN CLAY TARGET CLUB TO HOST NOVICE DAY THIS SATURDAY

BURDEKIN CLAY TARGET CLUB TO HOST NOVICE DAY THIS SATURDAY

The Burdekin Clay Target Club is opening its doors to beginners this Saturday, May 30, for an action-packed Novice Day designed specifically for first-timers. Starting at 9:00 AM, the community event offers a safe, welcoming introduction to the sport of clay target shooting, with absolutely no firearm licence required to participate. Attendees can assemble a team of five for some friendly competition, or show up solo to be placed into a group on the day. Every participant will get the chance to shoot 35 targets across the event, and trophies will be awarded to the top seven teams. The club provides all necessary supervision and guidance, making it an ideal opportunity for local residents curious about the sport to safely test their aim. Existing firearm licence holders are requested to bring their licences along. The event will take place at the Burdekin Clay Target Club Grounds, located at 1528 Ayr Dalbeg Road, Mount Kelly. Gates open at 9:00 AM, and all community members looking for a unique weekend activity are encouraged to attend.

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Burdekin Touch Football Junior Girls Shine

Burdekin Touch Football Junior Girls Shine

The U12 school girls recently represented the Burdekin at the NQ Touch Football trials carnival in Airlie Beach. Playing five games over two days the girls competed against Whitsunday, Herbert River, Charters Towers and Townsville with a mixed bag of a win, a draw and some very narrow losses. Drawing on their experience from the Junior State Cup, the girls' skills were on show with strong sliding defence, excellent rucking and some creative line attack. Following the round games two Burdekin players, Taylor Chapman and Bethana Rattler were named in the possibles and probables resulting in Taylor's selection in the NQ U12 team. Taylor was also awarded the Heather Desbois medal for the Burdekin's Best and Fairest. "All 12 girls should feel proud of the way they represented the Burdekin. They are a team on the rise, showing huge improvements," said team Manager Petrina Wellington. CAPTION: Taylor Chapman was awarded the Heather Desbois medal for the Burdekin's Best and Fairest. Photo supplied

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MEMBERS GATHER TO SAY FAREWELL TO RESIDENT CARETAKER

MEMBERS GATHER TO SAY FAREWELL TO RESIDENT CARETAKER

On Saturday 16 May 2026, around 50 Home Hill Bowls Club members and visitors gathered to farewell resident caretaker Warren Bunn, known as “Yougi”. Yougi has been caretaker for approximately 30 months, commencing 15 November 2023. At that time, he had played only one game of bowls in the Burdekin, but living alongside the green quickly saw him develop into a capable player. By 2024, he was selected to represent the club in NQ Pennants. Now approaching 83, Yougi is relocating to Brisbane to be closer to family and will live with his youngest daughter. The club extends its best wishes and hopes he finds a new bowling club to join. On the day, five rinks of triples were played. The overall winners on margins were Alex Bojack, Jo Roser and Bob Young. Wednesday night featured a mix of social lawn bowls and the Home Hill Hot Shots darts club. The evening remains popular for its relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Hot Shots advise that Darts of Origin begins 27 May 2026, followed by the first of three Origin raffles at Friday night 8 Ball. All community members are welcome. Bowls names in by 5.30pm for a 6.00pm start (Ph 0468 313 115). Darts start 6.00pm (Ph Scott 0480 208 335). Thursday afternoon club bowls hosted four games of triples and two pairs matches, marking the start of the club pairs championships. Visiting bowlers were welcomed from Jarvis Bay (NSW), Bathurst, and Elliott Heads. Pairs results: Rink 2 saw Bruce McCallum and Janet Arthur defeated by Scott Taylor and Paul Vass in a close match. Rink 4 went to Mick McClusker and Alex Bojack over Phil Marsden and Bob Pickard. Rink 3 saw Trevor Elton’s team defeat Geoff Taylor’s side by a solid margin. Rink 5 went to Joe Linton, Des Chapman and Warren Bunn. Rink 6 was won by Gary Nosworthy’s team. Rink 7 saw Hugh Montgomery’s team defeat Keith Roser and John Hobson’s side. The club congratulates all winners and participants. Raffle results: John Hobson won the breakfast tray, and Maureen Marsden won the bottle of wine. Weekly activities: Monday 9am Gentle Exercise, Tuesday 9am Trimmers, Wednesday 9am Craft Group, Thursday 9am Bingo (Eyes Down 9.30am). Contributed with thanks to Bob Pickard CAPTION: around 50 Home Hill Bowls Club members and visitors gathered to farewell resident caretaker Warren Bunn, known as “Yougi”. Supplied

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ROOSTERS GRIT IT OUT ON THE ROAD DESPITE INJURY CRISIS AND CLOSE FINISHES

ROOSTERS GRIT IT OUT ON THE ROAD DESPITE INJURY CRISIS AND CLOSE FINISHES

The Burdekin Roosters were on the road again last weekend, travelling to Charters Towers on Saturday with A Grade and Reserve Grade, and then to Bushland Beach on Sunday for the Under 19s. In their wisdom, the BLTD has created a separate draw for Under 19s, meaning clubs are being split up, as was the case with the Roosters last weekend. Charters Towers are always hard to beat on their home ground, and it was no exception, with the Roosters getting up in the dying stages to beat the Miners. A Grade coach Steve Lansley was a happy man after the match, saying his players showed plenty of character in coming from behind to beat the Miners in front of a huge crowd during Ladies Day. Lansley said the Burdekin Roosters produced another gritty come-from-behind performance to defeat the Towers Miners 28–20, overcoming a frustrating night of errors and missed opportunities. Dropped balls at crucial stages repeatedly handed the Miners valuable field position and piled pressure on the Roosters’ defence, making the task tougher than it needed to be. Despite the setbacks, the Roosters refused to panic and worked their way back through tough carries and relentless middle-third effort. The forwards laid the platform in the second half, dominating the physical battle and swinging momentum back in Burdekin’s favour. Best for the Roosters were Jye Olsen, Nemia Nawave and Lachlan Shepherd, all playing key roles in the hard-fought win. Jye was awarded Players’ Player. For the Roosters, Malik Ogameni, Terry Connors, Nash Beck, Lach Bachbach and Nemia Nawave scored tries, with Jye Olsen kicking four goals. In other A Grade results, Brothers beat Centrals 28–12, Souths beat Norths 42–18, and Western Lions upset Herbert River 30–18. Lack of numbers did not help the Roosters Reserve Grade, going down 20–12 to a full-strength Miners side. Coach Peter Horan said he travelled with only three on the bench, compared to the home side’s six, and “that makes a difference”. He estimated around 12 players were unavailable through injury. Harvey Horan was again a standout, with Jahi Starr, Luca Lago and Bokeem Moore Reid also strong performers. Ron Geia and Dylan Doak also contributed well. For the Roosters, Jahi Starr and Ron Geia scored tries, with Dylan Doak kicking two goals. In other Reserve Grade matches, Centrals beat Brothers 18–10, Souths defeated Norths 38–12, and Western Lions beat Herbert River 19–16. On Sunday, the Under 19s had a tough match against Norths at Bushy Beach, going down 18–14 in a topsy-turvy contest. Roosters coach Alf Cantarella said it was a difficult game, with only two on the bench and no bench left after injuries. The Roosters dug in but were overrun in the final 30 seconds. Jacob Drain captained the side well, with Chad Fraser named Man of the Match. “We were really down on players and didn’t get the two points,” Cantarella said. The Roosters also spent time down to 12 men after a send-off, with Norths scoring twice during that period. Jack Power, Callum Taiters and Romeo scored tries, with Chad Fraser adding a goal. In other Under 19 results, Brothers beat Centrals 24–4 and Herbert River defeated Western Lions 58–0. In the women’s competition, Western Lions defeated Charters Towers 62–0, Centrals beat Brothers 20–8, and Souths defeated Norths 56–4. This week, the RLTD has a rest round for all teams except Burdekin and Herbert River Under 19, who meet at Bendigo Park in Ayr on Friday night from 6.30pm in a delayed fixture. Fixtures resume Saturday 6 June in Ingham across three grades. Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Burdekin Clay Target Club Results

March 21, 2024

Burdekin Clay Target Club had a very successful 2 Day Shoot on Saturday March 9 and Sunday March 10. 73 shooters attended, travelling from Atherton, Silkwood, Townsville, Bowen, Mackay, Sarina and Charter Towers to compete over the weekend. The weather wasn’t looking the best leading up to the weekend but at least the heavy rain held off for us, with only scattered showers at times. The cloud cover and wind made conditions very challenging with visibility tough while the targets danced a jig but that didn’t stop the fantastic results in all grades. Thanks goes out to our sponsors for their continued support- B & M Drilling, QMN, John & Gina Calligaro, CVS Mechanical, Russo & Vella, AGnVET, Lui & Inez Populin, NQ Hardfacing & Kirknie Station. Also a huge thank you to all the club members and volunteers that helped make the weekend such a success. Our next shoot will be our Come & Try day on Saturday March 23 – come along for something different to try. For more details, visit our Facebook page.

Event 1-25 Target Pointscore 15m

AA Grade 1st Christopher Santarossa 73/75, 2nd Lindsay Groat & Ray Collinson 72/75,

A Grade 1st  Joe (Snr) Sebastiani 74/75, 2nd Peter Threlfall 72/75, 3rd Jason Sapuppo, Colin Ferguson & Ben Beazley 71/75

B Grade 1st Michelle Russell 71/75, 2nd Stephen Jones 68/75, 3rd Santo Greco 67/75

C Grade 1st Richard Stanhope 72/75, 2nd Kellie Rea 71/75, 3rd Jason Yarrow 69/75

Event 2-30 Target Medley 15m Sponsored by B & M Drilling

OPEN 1st Christopher Santarossa 50/50

AA Grade 1st Lindsay Groat 49/50, 2nd Bruce Murphy 48/50

A Grade 1st Wayne Cislowski 73/75, 2nd Colin Ferguson 71/75

B Grade 1st Santo Greco 48/50, 2nd John Kinnomonth 67/75

C Grade 1st Tim Ewnes 43/50, 2nd Peter Neubecker 66/75

Event 3-25 Target Single Barrel 15m Sponsored by QMN & John & Gina Calligaro

OPEN 1ST Joe (jnr) Sebastiani 25/25

AA Grade 1st Bruce Murphy 28/29, 2nd Joe Caruso 27/29

A Grade 1st Brad Farry 23/25, 2nd Ben Beazley 44/48

B Grade 1st Mick Populin 25/28, 2nd Sylvia Rossato24/28

C Grade 1st Brian Bonanno 29/33, 2nd Karl Perna 28/33

Event 4-30 Target Double Barrel 15m Sponsored by CVS Mechanical

OPEN 1ST Brad Farry 100/100

AA Grade 1st Max Nicolaides 99/100, 2nd Wayne Benson 76/77

A Grade 1st Joe (Snr) Sebastiani 40/41, 2nd Col Edgerton 31/32

B Brade 1st Santo Greco 99/100, 2nd Andrew Bergin 32/33

C Grade 1st Brian Bonanno 28/30, 2nd Alf Gangemi 35/39

Event 5-30 Target Double Barrel Continental 15m Sponsored by Russo & Vella & AGnVET

OPEN 1ST Christopher Santarossa 73/73

AA Grade 1st Ron Gough 72/73, 2nd Ray Collinson 40/41

A Grade 1st Brad Farry 39/40, 2nd Benji Micallef 36/37

B Grade 1st Mark Fiamingo 41/42, 2nd Rob Draper 30/31

C Grade 1st Karl Perna 29/30, 2nd Peter Scott 27/31

Event 6-30 Target Pointscore 15m Sponsored by Lui & Inez Populin

OPEN 1ST Rob Draper 95/96

AA Grade 1st Greg Maltby 97/99, 2nd Wayne Benson 94/99

A Grade 1st Wayne Cislowski 94/96, 2nd Col Edgerton 92/96

B Grade 1st Sylvia Rossato 83/90, 2nd Andrew Bergin 82/90

C Grade 1st Peter Delle Baite 86/93, 2nd Kellie Rea 83/93

Event 7-25 Target Double Barrel Handicap Sponsored By NQ Hardfacing

OPEN 1ST Mick Populin 25/25

2nd Karl Perna 51/52

3rd Benji Micallef 50/52

4th Santo Greco 37/39

5th Ron Gough 34/36

HIGHGUN WINNERS-Sponsored by Kirknie Station

OPEN 1ST Ray Collinson 309/325

AA Grade 1st Ron Gough 320/325

A Grade 1st Benji Micallef 304/325

B Grade 1st Santo Greco 294/325

C Grade 1st Kellie Rea 282/325

LADIES 1ST Annette Vassalini 288/325

VETERAN 1ST Lindsay Groat 307/325

JUNIOR 1ST Jarrod Coleman

Contributed by Sylvia Rossato

Caption 1: Back Row L-R: Wayne Cislowski, Christopher Santarossa, Lindsay Groat, Santo Greco, Tim Ewens. Front Row L-R: Bruce Murphy, Collin Ferguson, John Kinnomonth, Peter Neubecker

Caption 2: Back Row L-R: Joe (Jnr) Sebastiani, Bruce Murphy, Brad Farry, Mick Populin, Brian Bonanno. Front Row L-R: John Calligaro, Joe Caruso, Ben Beazley, Sylvia Rossato, Karl Perna

Caption 3: Back Row L-R: Brad Farry, Joe (Snr) Sebastiani, Santo Greco, Brian Bonanno. Front Row L-R: Wayne Benson, Col Edgerton, Andrew Bergin, Alf Gangemi

Caption 4: Back Row L-R: Christopher Santarossa, Ron Gough, Brad Farry, Mark Fiamigo, Karl Perna. Front Row L-R: Ray Collinson, Benji Micallef, Rob Draper, Peter Scott

Caption 5: Back Row L-R: Wayne Benson, Greg Maltby, Wayne Cislowski, Sylvia Rossato, Peter Delle Baite. Front Row L-R: Col Edgerton, Lui Populin, Rob Draper, Andrew Bergin, Kellie Rea

Caption 6: L-R Karl Perna, Benji Micallef, Mick Populin, Santo Greco, Ron Gough

Caption 7: Back Row L-R: Ron Gough, Glen Rea Jarrod Colman. Front Row L-R: Benji Micallef, Santo Greco, Ray Collinson, Kellie Rea, Annette Vassalini, Lindsay Groat

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Ayr Bowls News

March 14, 2024

Social Tuesday March 5: Katarina Stuckler, Karen Page and Mary Poli defeated Raylene Hervey, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power. Isabel Cislowski and Irene Wilson defeated Heather Jorgensen and Sandra Stidston.

Competition Results Thursday March 7 Open Rinks: Ruth Moore, Isabel Cislowski, Joy Comollatti and Irene Wilson defeated Katarina Stuckler, Elaine Young, Heather Jorgensen and Mary Poli.

Competition for Thursday March 14 Open Rinks: Team 1 Sandra Stidston plays Team 3 Mary Poli. Team 2 Pam Power plays Team 4 Irene Wilson.

The Ayr Ladies President Day is being held on Tuesday April 9. All Ladies bowlers are welcome.

Wednesday March 6: Winners were Joe Papale and Col Essex who defeated Alan Jones and Chris Berkery.

Saturday March 9 sponsored by Mahjong Ladies: Winners were Desley Olsen, George Nixon and Ron Soper who defeated John Pirrone, Beryl Cornford and Thelma Klopper.

Runners up were Paul Vass, Alan Jones and Mick Olsen who defeated Katharina Stuckler, Barry Hewson and Henry Hazle.

Contributed by Michael Parravicini

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Brandon Bowls

March 14, 2024

On Wednesday March 5, eight ladies played rinks with a very interesting and competitive game.

Margaret Chapman, Darelle Pearce, Ann Newton and Bernice Kugatiff defeated Helen Collins Colleen Olsen and Joy Woods.

Don’t forget names into Joy Woods by 1:00pm for 1:30pm start.

Friday March 8 evening, 13 bowlers played a mixture of triples and rinks.

Winning teams were Lloyd Shepherd, Norm Storrie, Joy Woods and Jamie Woods and in the other game David Bycroct, Ross McLaughlin and Ray Panecassio.

Sunday March 10 Competition A/B grade pairs: Trevor Elton and Hugh Montgomery defeated Doug Kiehne and Leo Kenny in very tight game.

18 bowlers played triples in social bowls and the winners in the 3 games were: Norm Storrie, Henry Hazel and Allan Garioch; Judy Elton, Neville Dickinson and Michael Paravacini; Higgy, Lyn Storrie and Peter Jorgensen

Trophy Night is coming up on Friday March 15, proudly sponsored by Meo Farming.

If you haven’t got your teams in, please do so to Gary Pearce ASAP.

Contributed by Lloyd Shepherd

Caption: Trevor Elton won Competition A/B grade pairs alongside Hugh Montgomery (absent). Photo supplied

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Home Hill Bowls Report

March 14, 2024

Thursday March 7 saw 23 players front up to do battle on Rummeny Green.

Four rinks were used on the east to west side.

Rink 5: Jimmy and Glen prevailed over Judy and Des 23 to 21 and 11 ends to 10.

Rink 6: Mick M, Dino and Stephen had a big win over John, Dave and Hugh 19 to 8 and 14 ends to 4 ends and were the day’s winners.

Rink 7: Mick O, Bob and Joe were too strong for Yogi, Alex and Wayne to the tune of 22 to 13 and 13 ends to 7.

Rink 8: Paul, Jeff and Henry were also convincing winners over Karl/Terry, Con and Trevor 18 to 14 and 12 ends to 6.

The weather has been perfect so hope to see you all next week.  

Don't forget Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday Kraft group, Wednesday night barefoot bowls, Thursday arvos for bowls and Thursday morning it's bingo.

Come along and join your club.

Supplied by Steve Doig

Caption: Thursday afternoon winners were Stephen, Dino and Mick M

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Torpedoes Take On Mackay

March 14, 2024

The North Queensland Swimming Championships were held in Mackay on March 2 and 3 at the Mackay Aquatic Centre. The Burdekin Torpedoes took a total of five swimmers, with coaches Kim and Mick McConnachie there to guide them once again through the meet. The Championships were opened with a themed march pass around the pool of all the Clubs participating in the meet. The Burdekin Torpedoes looked very relaxed in their 'Cruisin' Torpedoes' outfits and demonstrated their pride in the Burdekin with some loud chants. When the racing begun there were some outstanding swims with many of our swimmers achieving personal best times yet again and medalling in their age group.

Results:

Millie Lyne (13yo Women) - 1st 100m Breaststroke, 2nd 50m Breaststroke, 2nd 50m Butterfly, 2nd 100m Freestyle, 3rd 50m Backstroke, 3rd 100m Backstroke

Gabriella Mottin (12yo Women) - 2nd 50m Butterfly, 3rd 100m Freestyle, 3rd 50m Freestyle

Maddison Searle (9yo Women) - 2nd 50mFreestyle, 3rd 100m Freestyle.

On the weekend, Millie Lyne and her coaches, Kim and Mick McConnachie yet again travelled, but to Townsville this time to compete in the Townsville Lightning Swim Club meet. Millie put in some fantastic swims to PB in two of her swims, the 50m Butterfly and 100m Breaststroke.

Her results for the meet: 1st 50m Freestyle, 1st 50m Breaststroke, 2nd 100m Breaststroke, 2nd 50m Butterfly, 2nd 50m Backstroke.

Millie and her coaches will now travel to the Gold Coast to compete in the National Age Championships and represent the Burdekin Torpedoes in the 50m Breaststroke (14yo Women) on Wednesday April 10.

Go the Torpedoes.

Contributed by Kate Lyne

Caption 1: Millie Lyne 1st 100m Breaststroke North QLD championship 

Caption 2: Cruisin Torpedoes- Kim McConnachie, Gabriella Mottin, Arabella Sangiuliano, Brielle Sangiuliano, Millie Lyne, Mick McConnachie, Ellanah Searle, Maddison Searle.

Caption 3: Arabella Sangiuliano and Gabriella Mottin

Caption 4: Kim, Ellanah, Maddison, Gabriella, Arabella, Mick and Millie

Caption 5: Kim, Millie and Mick in Townsville

Photos supplied

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Juniors Take The Court At Ayr Tennis Association

March 14, 2024

Junior players from Ingham to Mackay travelled to Ayr from March 2 to kick off the first Junior Development Series tournament of 2024.

An amazing weekend was had by all with lots of tennis, lots of food and lots of slushies.

Day 1 started off early with the opening ceremony and a ground warm up on court which the players all loved.

Lots of tennis was played Saturday and final matches wrapped up early in the evening.

Day 2 started off early as well with last matches finishing about 2:15pm.

“As a club we are super proud and happy with the weekend,” said coach Patrea Bojack.

“Last year we had about 40 juniors play and this year we had 75 juniors play over the weekend!”

Ayr Tennis had 12 players representing the club from Delta Tennis with two player taking home trophies in the Orange ball division.

“We would like to thank Home Hill Tennis Association for hosting our division 5 players yesterday,” Ms Bojack said.

“Also, a massive thank you to the Pioneer Tennis players and Charters Towers players for coming all the way to Ayr to play, as well as all other players who travelled from near and far, and also Lefty for running the tournament.

“Finally, a massive thank you to all our committee members and volunteers over the weekend!

“We couldn’t have done this without you.”

Ayr Tennis Association has its AGM on Thursday March 14 at 6pm – all welcome to attend.  

Caption: Junior tennis players from across north Queensland took part in Ayr Tennis Association’s recent Junior Development Series tournament. Photos supplied

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A Splash Of Green To Support Young Referees

March 14, 2024

Green socks will run out onto rugby league fields all across the state this year as the Queensland Rugby League (QRL) increases its support for young match officials.

The new QRL campaign carries a key message to fans attending QRL fixtures in 2024: “If their socks are green, they are under 18”.

The campaign aims to create a more positive environment for young referees, attracting more to the role and boosting retention.

QRL State Match Officials Manager Clayton Sharpe said the initiative would complement the QRL’s existing Positive Environment Program (PEP).

“While wearing green socks may seem like a small change, it represents a powerful message for the rugby league community,” Mr Sharpe said.

“Primarily, it is about treating young referees with respect, refraining from abuse, and understanding that our emerging match officials are still learning, just like the players.

“We’re putting all of our resources into this to foster a supportive atmosphere and enhance the experience for young referees who make an immense contribution to our sport every year.”

A former Hostplus Cup referee and NRL touch judge, Mr Sharpe is familiar with the challenges that many young referees face in the community and QRL statewide competition matches.

“Rugby league is a highly competitive sport, played and supported by passionate people,” he said.

“But that doesn’t excuse poor behaviour or negative comments directed at our referees.

“This campaign will be built on respect, encouragement, patience and enjoyment – they’re just some of the guiding messages that will form part of what we hope will be a very successful initiative.”

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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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