Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Local rugby league royalty met again at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club last weekend for the latest instalment of Burdekin Roosters’ Old Boys Day. More than 80 former Roosters across multiple eras reconnected over beers, fond memories, and a full itinerary of presentations. This year saw the 1979 Colts premiership side honoured for their heroics that brought silverware to the town almost 30 years ago. John Reid and Troy Great were also officially recognised as life members of the club. Colts, Hornets, Devils and Brothers memorabilia was also on display throughout the event, offering a glimpse into the past of the historic organisation. At the event’s conclusion, attendees made their way down to Bendigo Bank Park to support the new generation of Roosters as they triumphed over Brothers 22 - 12. Event organiser Garren Arroita said he was “very happy” with how the afternoon panned out. “It was an unreal day,” he said. “This is the only time we all get to catch up with each other, so it was very important.” Established in 2008, Burdekin Roosters Old Boys supports current and ex-players of Burdekin Rugby League. Funds raised at the annual Old Boys Day support past and future players, families and community members in need, while assisting the next generation of young local sporting talent. Most recently, the group donated to 13-year-old speedway rider Ky Mitchell as he competes in Europe.
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Before a huge crowd of Old Boys and supporters at Bendigo Bank Park last Saturday night, the Burdekin Roosters A grade side posted their fourth win on end, beating Brothers 22 to 12 to join Centrals, Herbert River and Western Lions in third place on the ladder. Earlier, the second placed Roosters joined Brothers at the top of the Under 19 ladder, posting a 28 to 26 win in a thriller. Unfortunately, the reserves could not add to the celebration, going down 26 to 18. At the conclusion, an auction of 15 pieces of memorabilia and local business donations was conducted, with all proceeds going to the Davenport appeal. The auction raised just under $25,000. Burdekin Brothers games are usually exciting clashes and this A grade match was no exception. Although the Roosters won the match 22 to 12, the result was in doubt till the final whistle. Coach Steve Lansley was a happy man afterwards, saying the Roosters continued their impressive form on the weekend, securing a fourth consecutive victory with a hard-fought 22 to 12 win over powerhouse Brothers. Defence laid the foundation for the Roosters’ success, with the side producing a spirited first half performance that frustrated Brothers and limited attacking opportunities. The Roosters carried that momentum into the second half, building pressure through disciplined defence and capitalising on their chances with the ball. Their dominance was rewarded when they raced to a commanding 20–0 lead midway through the second half, putting one of the competition’s strongest clubs firmly on the back foot. However, the Roosters briefly switched off late in the contest, allowing Brothers to claw back some points and create a tense finish. Despite the late surge from the visitors, Burdekin remained composed when it mattered most, holding on to a deserved 22–12 victory and extending their winning streak to four straight games. Best players were Jye Olsen, Lachlan Sheppard and Joseph Doyle. For Burdekin, tries came from Lachlan Shepherd, Jones Munro, Jye Olsen, Jake O’Brien. Jake kicked three goals. In other A grade matches, Souths beat Charters Towers 28–18, Centrals beat Western Lions 8 nil and Herbert River beat Norths 30–16. In a match that was dominated by some strange whistle blowing decisions, Brothers took the reserve grade over the Roosters 26–18. The Roosters had their chances but bad handling cost them dearly, as they were down 14 to 12 at the break after scoring the first try. Ron Geia was outstanding for the locals, scoring two tries and not deserving to be on a beaten team. Curtis Cox received the players’ player award for a solid match, with Dylan Doak not far behind, along with Kane Dyne. Doak became frustrated with some of the calls, receiving a bin sentence with two minutes to go. Ron Geia scored two tries, with Dylan Doak scoring a try and kicking 3 goals. In other reserve grade matches, Souths beat Charters Towers 44–10, Western Lions beat Centrals 21–12 and Norths beat Herbert River 32–14. In a top of the table clash, the Brothers Roosters game lived up to what it was supposed to be — smart attack and punishing defence. Burdekin scored the first of two tries in the first half to lead 10 nil and looked good, but Brothers were not perturbed and, by scoring the next three tries, went to lemons leading 16–10. Both sides crossed the stripe in the second session, with this time the Roosters three to the opposition two. The difference between the two teams came down to a goal kick. In the forwards, Joey Southwell had a big hard game, getting plenty of punishment but still coming back with support from Leylan Lampton, Mason Kiehne and Tyce Cursio. The standout forward and team player though was Jack Power, who twice sliced through for tries when needed. Pint sized Power is also a tiger in defence. The backs played as a team, but half Chad Fraser stood out, as did Kaddy Zaro and Tyreece Trindle. Last week in Ingham it took the team till the second half to get the feed to Kirk Viero, and when they did he crossed three times. This time again it was not till late he received good ball, and again the centre made mince meat of the opposition centres to score. For the Roosters, Jack Power scored 2 tries with Riley Smith, Tyreece Trindle, Kirk Viero. Chad Fraser 3 goals. In other Under 19 matches, Centrals beat Western Lions 80 nil and Herbert River drew with Norths 28 all. Only one women’s match was played, with Western Lions beating Centrals 20 nil. Martina Monday scored a try for the Lions. This Saturday the Roosters are on the road for the last time for a few weeks of home games. The A grade will meet the undefeated Souths at the old Binda Grounds at 6, with the reserves to play Souths at 3. The Under 19 team has a bye this week as Souths do not have a team. At 4.30, Souths will meet Charters Towers in the women’s grade. In A grade, Souths are undefeated on top of the ladder, with the Roosters now tied with Centrals, Western Lions and Herbert River for third place, with Brothers second. In reserve grade, Souths have lost only one game this season — to Burdekin early in the season in Ayr. Souths are on top with the Roosters now tied for sixth after some indifferent performances. With Caleb Noah expected back, they could be a different team. Supplied by Brian Carnes
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Seniors Not a good weekend for the Panthers. They played just three games, winning only one match. The Premiers and Reserves were at home to JCU Riverway with the Premiers losing 0-3 and the Reserves winning 11-0. The Division 1 and Division 2 teams were away to Estates with the Division 1 forfeiting and the Division 2 losing 3-5. The Colts had a bye. This week just three teams are in action. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams both have a bye and the Colts are at home to Warriors at 6.30. On Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Warriors at 7.15 and 5.15. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club Against JCU, the Panthers knew they were facing a quality opponent and that it would be a tough challenge from the opening whistle. Unfortunately, JCU started the stronger of the two sides, putting Burdekin under pressure early and preventing them from finding any real rhythm. A turnover in possession proved costly, with JCU capitalising through a well-taken finish to open the scoring. Not long afterwards, another poor passage of play allowed them to double their advantage and take a 2–0 lead. While the opening stages were disappointing, the Panthers responded well in the latter part of the first half, enjoying more possession and spending longer periods in attacking areas. Despite the improvement, the Panthers were 0-2 at half time. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Burdekin showing greater intent and competing much more strongly. They created some promising moments and looked more threatening going forward, but we couldn't convert their chances. JCU, meanwhile, remained clinical and added a third goal to put the result beyond doubt. To the Panthers credit, they continued to push until the final whistle and never stopped working. While the 3–0 scoreline was disappointing, there were positive signs in the way they responded after a difficult start, and those improvements will be important looking ahead to the next fixture. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service A rare Saturday home game and Burdekin were fielding a very good line-up brimming with confidence. The home side started very strongly and completely dominated all aspects of the game. The scoring started early with a goal from Oscar Licciardello after three minutes and continued until the 83rd minute with Charlie Predebon scoring the teams eleventh goal. Three goals were scored by Oscar Licciardell with Cooper Kross netting 4, Jonte Grazioli 2 and 1 each for Kyle Taylor and Charlie Predebon. Defensively the team was also strong keeping a clean sheet with keeper Haydn Grazioli only having one touch in the second half. A very good performance that keeps the Panthers in second place on the table and looking to make a run for a string of good results. Division 2 - RG Customs Funkies lost 5-3 to Estates at Victoria Park. In a game where both teams started very well, Burdekin was disappointed not to find the net after several great chances early on. Estates soon led 2-0 but Burdekin responded through Jared Giardina and Cody Scalia to see the score level at 2-2 at half time. Half time was the worst part of the game for Burdekin halting all the momentum and dominance the side had created. Estates settled back into the game and scored another three goals before Jarrod Dal Santo scored a late goal for the Funkies. In a game that had everything, Estates had two players sent off but there was very little time for Burdekin to try and capitalise and final score was 3-5. Jake Lacey was Burdekin’s best player and Jared Giardina and Cody Scalia looked dangerous going forward especially in the first half. Masters The Masters were well up in numbers and in cool conditions featured a re-play of the recent Australia v Switzerland. The game ended with the Toblerones winning 7-1 after leading 5-0 at half time. Best players on the night were Mick Lequerica and Jack Moustoukas. The Magic Moment was another Riley Granshaw header straight at the Red goalkeeper from one meter, saved. The Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick Off. Juniors Another great weekend of Junior soccer saw our young players take to the field against local opposition. Across all age groups, teams displayed plenty of enthusiasm, teamwork and determination as they continued to develop their skills and enjoy the game. It was fantastic to see strong support from families and supporters on the sidelines, creating a positive atmosphere throughout the day. There were no matches involving Townsville clubs. National The Matildas have had two friendlies against Mexico. In the first on 6th June in Newcastle, they lost 0-1 but in the second, last Saturday, they won 3-1. International In the World Cup the Socceroos have got off to a great start, beating Turkey 2-0 in their first Group D game in Vancouver. Their next match is against the USA in Seattle on 20th June and their final group game is against Paraguay in San Francisco on 26th June. Quote the of the Week is from ex Everton manager Gordon Lee “I don’t drink, I don’t smoke and I’m getting fed up with gardening. I’ve no interests at all apart from football and family”.
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The Burdekin Touch Association's Under 14 competition wrapped up last week with four grand finals showcasing the region's emerging talent. The A-grade decider between BAYWatch and Silly Soft Serves produced an entertaining contest, with both teams displaying strong attacking play and determined defence. BAYWatch proved too quick across the park, running in eight tries to secure an 8-2 victory and claim the premiership. Adea, Elias and Fantasia each crossed for two tries. The B-grade grand final saw Chicken Burgers defeat Red Dogs B 6-3 thanks to Oliver and Kaesy doubles, while BAYWatch Cowboys edged out Rockies 1-0 in a hard-fought C-grade final. Logan Pickup scored twice as Red Dogs A completed the grand final action with a convincing 6-2 win over BAYWatch Broncos in the D-grade decider. Burdekin Touch Association president Peter Knapton praised the efforts of coaches and referees throughout the season. Mr Knapton thanked volunteers for the time and commitment they devoted to developing players and ensuring the competition's success. Season awards were also presented, recognising standout performances and improvement throughout the year. Best and most improved players were Hazeman Mundraby and Elias Douglas (BAYWatch), Marcel Smallwood and Azual Taiters (BAYWatch Broncos), Abbie Daniels and Daushay (Silly Soft Serves), MJ Russo and Apo Ghee (Red Dogs A), Logan Pickup and Emmett Bonato (Red Dogs B), Connor Linton and Flynn Levitt (Rockies), and Lillie Levitt and Audrey (Chicken Burgers). The Under 14 competition will resume following the school holiday break. Meanwhile, in Round 14 of the Coutts Commercial Hotel Open Men's and Women's competitions, Alliance Pharmacy defeated One Touch 7-1, Nrgize beat BAYWatch 6-3, and Teamo Supremo accounted for Royal Touch 7-1. Burdekin PCYC recorded the biggest win of the round, defeating Blue Murder 14-5, while Slush Puppies overcame Petrol Heads 9-1. Touch N Go defeated Creampuffs 5-2 and Renegades defeated Ball Grabbers 11-0. Way To Go and Crocs collected competition points via forfeits. In the women's competition, Eathorne's Princesses defeated Silly Soft Serves 8-1. Supplied by Burdekin Touch Association CAPTIONS: 1—The Under 14 competition’s Most Improved Players 2—The Under 14 competition’s Best Players Photos supplied
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Friday night’s highlight was the singles match between Pancho and Gary Pearce.
Pancho set the pace early on in the game only to lose to Gary in later stages of game.
Gary Pearce joined three other energetic bowlers in Chris Pearce, Peter Lejarraga and Lloyd Shepherd. Bowen Invitational Fours has been going for many years and along with 15 other teams the competition was very strong. Teams came from Townsville in the North to Mackay in the South.
Three rounds on Saturday and the team walked away with one win and two losses. On Sunday, they had one win and one loss.
Wednesday Ladies Bowls starts for 2024 with names in by 1.00pm for 1.30pm start.
Friday night we start with first Corporate Bowls night proudly sponsored by Ray Peterson at Peto’s Marine Home Hill.
Members attending don’t forget plate for smoko at end of evening.
Don’t forget championship games to be played as soon as possible.
Good Bowling.
Contributed by Lloyd Shepherd
Wednesday night’s barefoot bowls saw 18 players take to the green on February 7.
The winners for the night were Joclyn, Aaron and Meryl.
Thursday February 8 also saw 18 bowlers do battle on Rummeny Green.
Thanks again to the sponsor Rocky Ponds Produce.
The winners on the day were Paul, Judy and Glen.
Barefoot bowls again on Wednesday night with a pre-game snag Sanger as well as Wednesday morning craft group, Tuesday Trimmers, Thursday morning bingo and Thursday arvos for social bowls.
The Tuesday Trimmers club recently donated $100 to Home Hill Community Sports Club.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
Barefoot bowls winners Joclyn, Aaron and Meryl
Thursday bowls winners Paul, Judy and Glen
Home Hill Community Sports Club President Trevor Elton receiving a cheque from Bev Woods
Photos supplied
It was all looking good for Friday Junior Cricket to kick off after it was called off the previous week due to wet fields. That was until around 2:30pm when the rain came down at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex which dashed our hopes for play. It also put in jeopardy our home game against Wanderers in the Under 17 Townsville competition the next morning. The start time for this game was put back to 12 noon in the hope that pitch would dry out enough. Thanks to our groundsmen for their hard work in getting the job done preparing the pitch and mowing the field. The later start meant that we were going to be without one player for half the game and another would have to leave later in the second innings due to both having work commitments.
We won the toss and chose to bowl first, hoping that more players in the field would outweigh the loss of a batter in our lineup. The first ball of the innings was sent down by Leo Olditch which resulted in their opener top edging a catch to Salvatore Cardillo at cover, they were 1 for 0. Their batters then dug in and slowly added runs, only losing five more wickets to end their innings on 177. In the hot and humid conditions our bowlers and fielders performed well with Thomas Cardillo getting two wickets, Leo Olditch, Salvatore Cardillo, Rian Berryman and John Southwell getting one each. Joey Southwell took two catches, Jacob Machin and Salvatore one each, Corey Heidke contributed with a stumping.
The decision at the toss put us out in the field in the hottest part of the day which really sapped the energy of our players, and it showed in our batting. Our opener was also caught on the first ball of the innings but the similarities with Wanderers’ batting ended there. Most of our batters didn’t bat with any patience, not waiting for the bad balls to put away. Two runouts of batters that were looking comfortable and a bottom edge from a short ball onto the stumps didn’t help our situation at all. We were all out in the 14th over with Corey Heidke our top scorer this game.
Time now to regroup and train for our next game which is against Brothers who we beat last time we met.
Contributed by Scott Heidke
Wanderers defeated Home Hill in the first home game of the year on Saturday. Photo supplied
Ayr Junior Golf held its first game for the year last Saturday, February 10.
The weather was hot, but a nice group of players came ready to get back into it. Many regular members returned along with two new players, Celine and Heath.
A mini 3 hole, 6 hole and 9 hole competition was played. Heath was the gross winner for 3 holes, Opie was the Nett winner. For 6 holes, some close scores, with Logan the gross winner, and Kyle the Nett winner. In 9 holes, Amaya was the gross winner, and Oscar the Nett winner. Well done to all for coming along, and also to Dave for helping the juniors for the morning.
This weekend on Saturday the club will host coaching for the morning. New members always welcome, times will be confirmed. Please follow Junior Golf Ayr for more information.
Contributed by Laura Mahoney
Players new and old attended Ayr Junior Golf’s first game of the year last weekend. Photo supplied
Coming off a defeat in round 10 last week, Peto’s Marine have bounced back in a big way with a trouncing of Crowned Mongrels in their first fixture of the year.
Peto's Marine won the toss and elected to bat, with opener Simon Vickers getting to work immediately with 33 runs from 17 balls.
First drop Josiah Ballin top scored agonisingly short of his half century with 48 from 53, while Daniel Olditch also contributed with 37 from 36.
Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro shone with the ball for Crowned Mongrels, taking 3/26 from three overs while Nicholas Pengelly, Andrew Wallwork, Alex Stillhard and Casper Licciardello all took one wicket each.
Alexander Romeo also took a run out for the fielding side, seeing Peto's Marine finish their 25 overs on 8/191.
With a handy total to defend, Peto's Marine made short work of Crowned Mongrels’ batting lineup, starting with a caught and bowled on the second ball of the innings from Leon Franklin.
Crowned Mongrels struggled to establish their presence in the middle, with not one batsman making double figures and top scores going to Alexander Romeo with eight runs and Jay Leckenby with six.
Franklin went on to take two more wickets, finishing the innings with 3/7 from three overs, while Josiah Ballin, Darren O’Keeffe, Ben Walters, Darren Fabbro and Mark Nosworthy took one wicket each and Josiah Ballin took a run out.
Down one player, Crowned Mongrels lost all nine wickets for 42 runs after 10.5 overs.
Crowned Mongrels will take on ladder leaders Guardian Pharmacy this Saturday.
Leon Franklin took 3/7 for Peto's Marine
Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro took 3/26 for Crowned Mongrels
Photos supplied
Wednesday January 31: winners were Richard Aplin, Vince Beitia & Lew Stidston who defeated John Hall, Happy Horan & Kaos.
Saturday February 3: Despite very hot conditions, we had a good turnout for our belated Australia Day Celebration sponsored by Phelan’s Pies.
1st Prize went to Barry Hewson, Sam Caltabiano and Thelma Klopper who defeated Jim Murray/Mick Olsen, George Nixon and Henry Hazle.
2nd Prize went to Happy Horan, Joe Grabbi and Lew Stidston who defeated Katharina Stuckler, Rob Garner and Pam Power.
3rd Prize went to Paul Vass, Chris Berkery and Wayne Coonan who defeated Lorraine Wolffe, Anthony Bull and Chris Olditch.
A big thank you to Phelan’s Pies for their continued support.
Mens Club Championship rinks and singles open Wednesday February 14 and close on Sunday February 25. Competition commences Sunday March 10 at 8:30am for Championship rinks.
Come along for a game of bowls on Wednesday nights at the Ayr Bowls Club. If you have never played bowls, no worries, we have bowls you can use, and you will be shown how to play bowls. Phone the bowls club on 47831336 between 6.00pm and 6.30pm to put your name in. Play begins at 7.00pm.
Winners last Wednesday night were Robyn McAllister, Ross McLaughlin, Evelyn Wiltshere and Heather Jorgensen.
Contributed by Michael Parravicini
12 Bowlers attended for social bowls on Friday with eventual winners Marg McLaughlin, Lloyd Shepherd and Norm Storrie winning on countback.
Championship B grade pairs started with Lloyd Shepherd and Peter Lejarraga defeating Gary Norsworthy and Kevin Ferguson 24 /18.
Chris Pearce and Simon Griggs were selected for NQ District side trials at Northern Beaches Bowls Club, Mackay over the weekend. More trial matches still to come.
Thanks to all those who turned up for the working bee on the weekend. All went well for those in attendance with lots of jobs completed.
Corporate bowls starts up February 16 sponsored by Peto’s Marine Home Hill.
Bookings via Gary Pearce on 0488 214 222.
A club meeting will be held on Sunday, February 18 at 12:15pm at the clubhouse followed by social bowls.
Contributed by Lloyd Shepherd
A Giru cowboy has returned from Tamworth an open bull riding champion after the Australian Bushmen's Campdraft and Rodeo Association National Finals Rodeo was held in the ‘country music capital’ from January 25-27.
Braydon Wellby went into the event placed third in the standings in the YETI Open Bull Ride, qualifying as one of 15 finalists after stellar results throughout 2023.
With three opportunities to accumulate points, there were no qualified rides in the first go-round and the second was looking much the same until Braydon was one of only two riders to get to the buzzer in round two.
“I bumped off my first bull, rode my second bull for 84.5 points on Back Handed Panda and then my third bull was Cliff Hanger and rode it for 81 points to seal the deal,” Braydon said.
Giru cowboy Braydon Wellby is an open bull riding champion after competing in Tamworth. Photo credit: Stephen Mowbray
Giru bull rider Braydon Wellby said it felt “pretty good” to be crowned an open bull ride champion at the recent Australian Bushmen's Campdraft and Rodeo Association National Finals Rodeo in Tamworth.
“It’s been on my bucket list for a while, to become an Australian champion,” Braydon said.
“It took a little bit to sink in, but it was good.”
Growing up between Townsville and Georgetown, Braydon was raised surrounded by rodeo.
“Both of my parents rodeoed so I’ve always been around it and always done it,” he said.
“I love doing it, I love versing the animal.
“I do other events in rodeo, too, but bull riding’s probably my favourite event.”
Braydon now lives in Giru where his work also involves cattle, working in contract mustering and fencing.
“It’s good being around the cattle all the time, it’s what I enjoy doing,” he said.
While he’s travelled all over Australia and the world to compete, including to America and Canada, Braydon said nothing beats a local rodeo.
“These days, I’d much rather go to these local Queensland events, go to rodeos and compete around here,” he said.
“They’re a bit more relaxed and cruisy.”
Braydon hasn’t yet finalised his calendar for the rest of 2024, but looks forward to these local rodeos the most.
“I’ll do all the shows up in north Queensland here, but I haven’t picked which events I want to travel away for yet around Australia,” he said.
Braydon Wellby won the championship with two big rides in Tamworth. Photo supplied: Lorraine Wellby
Burdekin FC is now getting ready for the 2024 season. Pre-season training has already started, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30 pm for men and Wednesdays at 6.00 pm for women. The Panthers first match of the season will be away to Estates in the Kappa Qld Cup this Saturday night in Townsville. Leighton Gallagher will be coaching the Premiers again this season.
The Juniors have an exciting year of football coming up, with regular matches plus games against out of town opponents. Registrations for Under 5 to Under 12 are now open! Go onto the Burdekin FC Facebook page for more information or email the club at burdekinfc@hotmail.com. Registrations are due on Saturday the 10th of February, and players will be organised into teams.
A great new addition this year is a training shirt for every fully registered and paid up player! Compulsory pre-season games will be Saturday the 17th and 24th of February, with the season kicking off on the 2nd of March. We can't wait for the 2024 season to begin.
The Masters kicked off the 2024 season on Monday night. Usual time, usual place, 6.30 at International Park. New and old players all welcome. In fact, it doesn’t really matter if you can’t play. Treat it as an escape.
The Socceroos are out of the Asian Cup after losing 1-2 to South Korea in extra time. They had reached the quarter finals by beating Indonesia 4-0 in the Round of 16. In the Group matches Oz beat India 2-0, Syria 1-0 and drew 1-1 with Uzbekistan. The Asian Cup is now at the semi-final stage with Jordan playing South Korea and Qatar up against Iran. It looks like a South Korea v Iran final.
The Matildas have not played since losing twice to Canada in early December. Their next matches are Olympic qualifiers against Uzbekistan, home and away, in late February. In the FIFA World Rankings, Australia are currently ranked12th place with Uzbekistan at 47th.
In the A League, leaders Wellington could only draw away to Brisbane but stay two points clear of Central Coast and Melbourne Victory, who both won. Macarthur stay in fourth spot and Brisbane stays in ninth place.
In the A League Women competition, after 15 rounds Melbourne City is three points clear of Western Utd with Sydney FC in third place and Melbourne Victory fourth. Brisbane, who won at the weekend stay in tenth place.
The African Cup of Nations is now at the semi-final stage with Nigeria playing South Africa and Ivory Coast playing DR Congo. Both matches are on Thursday with the final to be played next Monday.
Read Football Matters with Cyclops on the Burdekin FC Facebook page.
Contributed by Richard Samwell
Winners for the day on Thursday, February 1 on countback was the team of Ray, Gary and Glen pictured with sponsor Des Chapman from Rocky Ponds Produce.
18 players turned up to play so three rinks of triples were contested.
Rink 5: Ray, Gary and Glen outlasted Paul, John and Stephen 16 to 11.
Rink 6: Bob, Alec and Wayne proved too strong for Phil, Joe and Mike 21 to 15.
Rink 7: Warren, Des and Trevor narrowly defeated Judy, Jocelyn and Henry 21 to 18.
Thanks again to sponsor Rocky Ponds Produce.
Wednesday night barefoot bowls is on again at 6:00pm, come along for a snag sanger.
Thursday morning bingo is still all the go.
Wednesday mornings have craft group.
Come along and support your club.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
Winners for the day Ray, Gary and Glen pictured with sponsor Des Chapman from Rocky Ponds Produce. Photo supplied
Pre-season training has started for the three men’s team for the Roosters with the Hens to start this week under new coach Anita Hagarty.
Newly appointed A Grade coach Daniel Beazley has been in charge of the pre-season work assisted by Reserve Grade Coach Chris Perry and under 20 leaders Paul and Peter Horan.
Former Junior Roosters star Terry Connors has returned home after six years away playing in Townsville.
Whilst in Townsville, Connors attended Kirwan High where he reached a position in that school's top team.
In club football, the half five eight played five years for Brothers in Townsville representing that city in all grades.
He also represented Queensland in both under 12 and under 13 teams.
Last season Connors decided to switch clubs with a number of his mates and played with Souths in under 19.
2023 was also a big year for the talented utility inside back with him being selected as half for the Murri Queensland under 18 team who played a Samoan representative team in Brisbane.
“That was an experience,” Connors said.
“Some of them are big boys.”
Connors said he has moved back home to be with family and catch up with old mates.
“Since I was a youngster growing up, I have always wanted to be a Rooster,” Connors added.
Coach Daniel Beazley said the half would be a welcome addition to his squad which is coming together nicely.
Contributed by Brian Carnes
Former Junior Roosters star Terry Connors. Photo supplied
Senior cricket returned to Barry Richards Field for the first time in 2024 last weekend, with Peto’s Marine taking on Guardian Pharmacy on Saturday, February 3.
Guardian Pharmacy won the toss and elected to bat, with contributions from Hugh Smith (41 runs from 39 balls), Thomas Cardillo (23 from 27) and Jay Leckenby (21 from 13) setting a total of 7/183 runs from 25 overs.
The bowling effort for Peto’s Marine was evenly spread, with Leo Olditch, Jack Oborne, Simon Vickers, Ben Walters, and Shaun Goldsworthy each taking a wicket while Brad Parravicini finished the innings with a wicket and a runout.
Peto's Marine were unable to convert a few starts into big scores, with Leon Franklin (13 from 18 not out), Darcy Walters (12 from 22) and Simon Vickers (11 from 8) top scoring in the run chase.
The batting side was ultimately bowled out for 79 runs in 16.4 overs with three of those wickets coming from Jay Leckenby, two from both Damien Ricketts and Matthew Gardner and one each from Thomas Cardillo, Salvatore Cardillo and Jd Wilkins.
Peto’s Marine will look to rebuild when they take on Crowned Mongrels this weekend.
Jay Leckenby took 3 wickets for 2 runs off 2 overs
Dan Olditch took four catches. Photo credit: Tiffany Olditch
Wednesday January 24 Afternoon Social Bowls – On a very hot and humid day those who braved the conditions struggled, but managed to get a game in. Winners were Sandra Darwen and Maurice Power who defeated Anthony Bull and Chris Berkery.
Saturday January 27 Social Afternoon – Winners were Jim Murray/Mick Olsen, Paul Vass and Pam Power who defeated Lorraine Wolffe, Anthony Bull and Chris Berkery.
New date for our postponed Australia Day Bowls sponsored by Phelan’s Pies will be Saturday February 3. All welcome and wear your best Aussie gear. 1:00pm start, names in by 12:30pm.
Amcal Pharmacy is sponsoring the first day back for Ayr Ladies Bowls playing on Tuesday February 6.
Ladies’ names in by 12.30 to 1:00pm, please call 4783 1336.
Green fees paid by 1:00, for a 1:30pm start.
Here's to a great year of bowls and friendship.
Contributed by Michael Parravicini
Get your racquet out, the Ayr Tennis Association is hitting up your calendar with some of the best tennis action in the region.
On the cards is the beginning of the Ayr Tennis Social and Competitive Competitions, from this evening, Thursday February 1, at 7pm.
Described as ‘extremely social’, Ayr Tennis’ social competition is a great opportunity to get to the court, smash around the ball, enjoy some laughs and share some post-drinks. Taking place every Thursday, everyone is welcome to bat the ball and practice their tennis swing.
Next on the cards, the rescheduled Open Day, postponed due to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily, has been announced for Saturday February 3, perfect for those interested in joining the club to get a taste for the sport and meet with key club officials.
And finally, the Junior Development Series kicks off March 2 and 3, which is set to aid in the technical growth and development of skills in youth tennis players.
To learn more about the Ayr Tennis Association, and to inquire, contact us the Club President, Robert Slatcher, on president.ayrtennis@gmail.com or ayrtennisasssociation@outlook.com
The Burdekin Shire Council and Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre have partnered to bring residents over the age of 55 into a free initiative to encourage movement and exercise.
Beginning last week, the ‘Move It Burdekin’ initiative is a 15-week program that offers low impact training, exercises, yoga and chair activities, to suit a range of different fitness levels and improve the physical and mental wellbeing on Burdekin’s residents.
The first post-cyclone session was held at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on Monday, January 29, wherethe vibe was “pumping”.
“Huge shout out to facilitator, Andrea Piotto, for bringing her expertise and energy to the program!” Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre posted on social media.
“Going by the laughter, smiles and energy in the room - everyone enjoyed 'moving it'”
The social aspect is also highly encouraged, with participants welcome to share some refreshment, a coffee, and a chat after each session.
Also supported by Move It NQ and North Queensland PHN, Burdekin residents are encouraged to get involved, and get moving!
For more information and to download a registration form, visit https://bit.ly/MoveItBurdekin or phone Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on (07) 4783 3744.
Participants enjoying the first ‘Move It Burdekin’ session last week. Photos supplied: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
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