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REPRESENTATIVE TEAMS RISE TO THE CHALLENGE Continued from cover Burdekin Netball Association’s junior representative teams have returned from the Queensland Junior State Age Championships with plenty to celebrate, producing strong performances against some of the state’s leading clubs. The Under 13 team finished an impressive 11th out of 21 teams, while the Under 14 side also secured 11th place from a field of 18 teams. These highly respectable results reflect not only the dedication of the players but also the depth of talent continuing to emerge through the Burdekin Netball Association pathways. The Association was also proud to see club player Luca Lawry selected to compete with QC Netball's boys team at the championships. Luca earned his invitation following a standout performance at the North Queensland School Sports netball championships in May. Luca's journey is a testament to the strength of grassroots sporting organisations and the important role community clubs play in developing young athletes. Netball runs deep in the Lawry family, with Luca's grandparents, uncle, aunties and siblings all having represented the Burdekin Netball Association over the years. Despite being one of the youngest members of the QC Netball team, Luca performed exceptionally well throughout the tournament and demonstrated enormous potential for the future. With his sights now firmly set on representing Australia at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, his future in the sport looks incredibly promising. The Burdekin Netball Association is proud to provide opportunities for aspiring netballers to represent the Burdekin region, challenge themselves against the state's best players and create lifelong memories and experiences through sport. Supplied by Burdekin Netball Association Under 14 Team Photo Back row (left to right) Indy Broadhead, Ivy Martin, Chloe Bowen, Eden Godfrey, Charlotte Lawry Front row (left to right) Charmaine Reid (coach), Lily Ahern, Miley Gesah, Makenna Trail, Popi Loizou, Kasey Dobe, Jacki Samwell (manager). Photos supplied
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Burdekin’s next generation of touch footballers will soon have their chance to hit the field, with the Under 14 competition kicking off next Wednesday, July 22. Sign-on will take place from 5pm, with both full teams and individual players encouraged to get involved. Those who nominate individually will be placed into teams to ensure everyone has the opportunity to take part. Games will run each Wednesday from 5pm to 5.45pm, with the season continuing through until November 18. The cost is $60 per player. For more information, contact Bruce on 0408 060 476. CAPTION: Mazlin Smith in action. Supplied.
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Seniors A good weekend for the Panthers. They played four games against Rebels, winning three, losing one and scoring twenty three goals! The Premiers and Reserves were away on Saturday with the Premiers winning 10-0 and the Reserves winning 7-0. The Division 1 and Division 2 teams were away on Friday night with the Division 1 losing 2-5 and the Division 2 winning 4-2. This week, all five teams are in action. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are at home to MA Olympic kicking off at 8.30 and 6.30. The Colts are away to Brothers with a 6.30 kick off. On Sunday, the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Estates kicking off at 5.00 and 3.00. Ladies Day tickets went on sale last Friday and sold out within ours. Did not get a ticket? You can still join in on all the fun at International Park on Saturday 22nd August!’ Calling all Life Members, Sponsors & Old Boys. It’s time to celebrate you! On Sunday August 9th, join us for an afternoon of football, free drinks, and food! Let’s reminisce on all the good, bad, and ugly! Please confirm attendance with Sian Reardon. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club The Panthers produced a ruthless attacking display against Rebels, running out convincing 10–0 winners after dominating from the opening whistle. Jake Siandri made an immediate impact on his return from injury, opening the scoring inside the first three minutes. Elliott Dal Santo doubled the advantage after ten minutes before Jay Leckenby added a third in the 22nd minute. The goals continued to flow, with Matthew Kolb finding the net three minutes later, followed by Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro in the thirtieth minute. Dal Santo then grabbed his second of the afternoon in the 34th minute to send the Panthers into the break with a commanding 6–0 lead. The second half began in much the same fashion, with Cooper Kross scoring just two minutes after the restart. Burdekin continued to create chances throughout the half and were rewarded late in the match. Ryan Scodellaro added the eighth goal in the 79th minute before Matthew Kolb claimed his second three minutes later. Jonte Grazioli completed the scoring in the 85th minute, capping off an impressive team performance. It was a clinical display across the park, with the Panthers showing their attacking quality while also keeping a clean sheet to round out a dominant 10–0 victory. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service The Panthers Reserves also produced an outstanding attacking performance against Rebels, recording a comprehensive 7–0 victory with goals spread across both halves. Cooper Kross got the scoring underway in just the fourth minute before Jhett Jones struck twice in quick succession, finding the net in the 12th and 13th minutes to put the Panthers firmly in control. Kross added his second of the afternoon just two minutes later, giving Burdekin a commanding 4–0 lead heading into half time. The Panthers picked up where they left off after the break. Jonte Grazioli extended the advantage in the 48th minute before Cooper Kross completed a well-deserved hat-trick with his third goal in the 53rd minute. Grazioli then rounded out the scoring in the 59th minute, grabbing his second of the match to seal an emphatic 7–0 victory. It was a dominant team performance from start to finish, with the Panthers controlling the contest throughout and showing plenty of quality in front of goal while keeping another clean sheet. Division 1 – Austral Masonry The Division 1 Panthers took on Rebels also but unfortunately suffered a 2-5 loss. Burdekin started well but could not convert their chances in front of goal, hitting the crossbar and hitting shots wide. Rebels made the most of their chances and jumped out to a 3-0 lead after just twenty minutes which remained the score at half time. The Panthers were much better in the second half with goals to Krishneel Singh and Jack Shears but a penalty and a late goal to Rebels gave them the 5-2 win. A score that did not reflect the amount of possession or chances on goal that Burdekin had. Despite the loss a good performance from a relatively young Burdekin Division 1 side. Jack Shears and Jack Gimson had strong games. Division 2 – RG Customs The Funkies got their season back on track after a couple of tough games recently with a 4-2 win against Rebels. Jared Giardina opened the scoring before Chris Achille made it 2-0 after only five minutes of play. Rebels pulled a goal back soon afterwards and the score remained 2-1 to Burdekin at half time. The Funkies were quite dominant and in control of the game in the second half. Goals to Krishneel Singh and then James Dwyer from the penalty spot gave the Funkies a 4-1 lead approaching full time. Rebels scored a late goal, but the Funkies won 4-2 quite comfortably and move into 4th place on the table. Masters The Masters numbers were higher despite the cool conditions and featured a pre-play of the England v Norway World Cup Quarter Final. The game ended with Norway winning 4-2. after drawing 2-2 at half time. Best players on the night were Felipe Brazil and Shane Feeney. The Magic Moments were very rare! 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 Junior Saturday games are still on a break for the school holidays, but we’re looking forward to seeing everyone back on the field next weekend! While regular games were on pause, four Burdekin teams travelled to Townsville to compete in the Filippo Mele Memorial Competition from 7–9 July. It was a busy three days of soccer, with plenty of great games and valuable experience for our players. Well done to all players, coaches and families involved for representing the club throughout the competition. International The World Cup Is now at the semi-final stage. France plays Spain on Wednesday in Dallas and England meet Argentina in Atlanta on Thursday. The Final will be played on Monday in New York Quote the of the Week is from ex-Manchester Utd and Scotland manager Tommy Docherty “I’ve always said there’s a place for the press, but they haven’t dug it yet.”
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Burdekin Roosters utility Nemia Nawave had a standout game against Western Lions at Bendigo Bank Park on Saturday night, but it wasn’t enough to get the locals over the line, going down 30-24. Both sides played open, fast football in the first half to have the scores 30-18 to the visiting Lions at the break. While the first half was fast and exciting, with eight tries scored, the second half was a dour affair with a lot of dropped ball as both teams tried to get the ascendancy. The Roosters looked the better team in attack in the second session, but dropped ball robbed them of tries at vital stages. Nothing could be taken away from the defence from both teams in the second session, as both fought valiantly to get on top. The loss by the locals sees them now in fifth place on the ladder, and with Centrals giving the premiers from the last two years, Souths, a hiding on Sunday, Western Lions are now equal third with Brothers behind Souths and Centrals. Coach Steve Lansley said the Roosters produced a spirited second-half fightback but were left to rue a costly opening 40 minutes as they went down to the Western Lions in an entertaining rugby league contest. The first half was an attacking spectacle, with an incredible scoreline as the Lions raced to 30 points while the Roosters kept themselves in the contest with three tries of their own. Defensive improvements after the break saw just one try scored in the entire second half, highlighting the commitment and resilience shown by the Roosters. Unfortunately, the damage had already been done, with the 30 points conceded before half-time proving too much to overcome. Despite the defeat, Burdekin never stopped competing and pushed the Lions all the way to the final siren. Mitch Brown was outstanding throughout, while Nemia once again provided plenty of spark in attack and Jake O’Brien impressed with his tireless work across the park. On to Ladies Day and the return of the Home Hill Devils reunion. For Burdekin, tries came from Lachlan Shepherd, Jake O’Brien, Nemia Nawave and Lach Bachbach. Jake O’Brien kicked four goals. In other A Grade games, Centrals caused the upset of the season so far, beating two-time premiers and undefeated this year Souths 50-10, while Brothers and Herbert River played out a 30-all draw and Norths beat Charters Towers 26-14. It was not a good day for the Roosters, with Western Lions easily winning the reserve grade 40-6 over a disappointing Burdekin team. The Lions led 24-0 at the break, and it wasn’t until near the end that the locals showed any glimpse of what they are capable of. Then Pryce Gesah finished off his match with a good try. Coach Peter Horan said he was thoroughly disappointed with the efforts of a number of players. Braiden Di Bella was the players’ player for a good effort, with Lincoln Boccolatte, Luca Lago, Bryce Caltiabano and Calem Saxby giving of their best. Pryce Gesah scored the try, converted by Dylan Doak. In other reserve grade matches, Norths beat Charters Towers 46-8, Brothers beat Herbert River 40-6 and Souths beat Centrals 34-6. The Roosters Under 19s had a bye for the weekend. Only one Ladies game was played, with Charters Towers beating Norths 24-12. Supplied by Brian Carnes CAPTIONS: 1—A grade Player of the match - joint winners are Nemia Nawave (left) & Jake O'Brien (right) presented by old boy Thomas Lammon (middle) 2—Reserve grade Player of the match - Braedyn Di Bella (accepted by Jahi Starr (right)) presented by old boy Sam Russo (left) Photos supplied
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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
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
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
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
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
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
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.”
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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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