Burdekin Clay Target Club held it's 100 Target Double Barrel competition on Sunday 13th April. It was a complete turn around to last months extreme heat, the weather was very pleasant with a constant breeze all day. Thank you to our sponsor Honeycombes Sales & Service and lui Populin for donating the meat trays for the raffle. Our next shoot will be on Saturday 10th May.

Event 1 – 15 Target Pointscore 15m
In AA Grade, Simon Steele, Joe Caruso, and Wayne Cislowski all shot a perfect 45/45 to share the honours.
A Grade saw Ron Clive take first place, with Bill Gall close behind on 43/45 and Bruce McBow finishing third with 42/45.
B Grade resulted in a four-way tie for first, with Dwayne Bartlett, Leisa Hopkins, Kevin Zarb, and David Stitt all scoring 42/45.
In C Grade, Tim Ewens and Alf Gangemi shared first place with 41/45, while Lynda Potter secured third on 40/45.

Event 2 – 100 Target Double Barrel 15m
Sponsored by Honeycombes Sales & Service, the main event saw Phillip Scalia claim the Open win with a perfect 100/100.
Joe Caruso took out AA Grade with an impressive 150/151, ahead of Riley Mikkelsen on 149/151.
In A Grade, Greg Maltby finished first with 96/100, followed by Mark Simpson who scored 122/128.
B Grade honours went to Dwayne Bartlett with 96/100, while Kevin Zarb was second on 93/100.
C Grade saw Brodie Elephinstone shoot 89/100 to win the category, with Rob Ness finishing runner-up on 88/100.

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato

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Back Row: Representative for Honeycombes Sales & Service Steven Caltabiano, Brodie Elphinstone, Dwayne Bartlett, Greg Maltby, Joe Caruso, Front Row: Rob Ness, Mark Simpson, Phillip Scalia, Riley Mickelsen, absent Kevin Zarb

Photo supplied

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Friday 11th April
Brandon Bowls Club was the epicentre of bowls thanks to North Queensland Green Solutions Ayr for sponsoring trophy bowls night.

The Bowls club saw 64 bowlers on the green with everyone in attendance enjoying themselves regardless of the level of bowls.

Second place went to the boys from Mio farming.

Bradman trophy went to Aiden Kratzman , Braydon Dibella , Logan Towner , Clinton White , Charlie Conway sponsor, Rachel sponsor

Saturday 12th April

Championship Pairs
Peter Jorgensen and Joe Yipnazar defeated Gary Pearce and Chris Pearce

A Singles
Kevin Collins defeated Mick McCloskey

Sunday 13th April

Championship A singles
David Harding defeated Jamie Woods
Peter Lejarraga defeated Lloyd Shepherd

4s
David DeFranciscis, David Harding, Danny O’Shea, and  Ross McLaughlin won against Peter Jorgensen, Ray Paneccasio, Doug Kiehne, and Neville Dickinson.

Coming events
Ladies bowls on Wednesday 16th April names in by 1.00pm for 1.30pm start.
Friday 18th no bowls this week bowls due to Good Friday.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd

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Ramon Tortorica , Peter Lejarraga, Jayson Farry , Rachel sponsor , Lloyd Shepherd , Charlie Conway sponsor

Simon, Paola, Frank, Peter Charlie Conway sponsor, and Rachel sponsor

Aiden Kratzman, Braydon Dibella, Logan Towner, Clinton White, Charlie Conway sponsor, Rachel sponsor

Ross McLaughlin, David Harding, Danny O’Shea, David DeFranciscis, and Peter Lejarraga

Photos supplied

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The Ayr Bowling Club has been a hive of activity once again, with a dynamic week of championship matches, social bowls, and special events drawing large numbers to the greens.

With the championship season in full swing, the club has come alive with spirited but good-natured competition, showcasing the impressive talents and sportsmanship of its bowlers. Social games have also remained a major highlight, contributing to the club’s warm and energetic atmosphere.

Monday saw the resumption of the Ladies Competition A Singles, which had been suspended due to wet weather. Irene Wilson secured victory over Heather Jorgenson, earning her place in the next round.

On Tuesday, the club hosted the Ladies President’s Day, led by Ladies Senior Vice President Beryl Cornford. Sponsored by Queensland Country Bank, Ayr, the day was a celebration of friendship and bowls, welcoming clubs from Brandon, Alligator Creek, South Townsville, Jubilee, Wangaratta, Suburban, Thuringowa, and Home Hill. Special guests included NQDLBA President Lynette and Patron Wilma, whose presence was warmly appreciated. Ayr’s own Ladies Committee worked tirelessly behind the scenes to organise prizes, prepare lunch, and decorate the hall, while club members Lew, John P, and Anthony lent their support throughout the day, ensuring a memorable event for all.

Wednesday’s Men’s Social Bowls featured three games of triples, with John Pirrone, Joe Pappale, and Lew Stidston taking out the win. The club was also pleased to welcome Rob, a visiting bowler passing through Ayr, highlighting the club’s reputation for warm hospitality.

Later that evening, two games of triples lit up the greens. Harry Dewing, Margaret McLaughlin, and Sam Caltabiano were victorious in one match, while Kate Stringer, Dr Ali, Katharina Stuckler, and Ross McLaughlin claimed the win in the other, delivering an exciting night of bowls.

Thursday brought the Ladies Championship Fours Final, with Donna, Betty, Beryl, and Pam delivering an outstanding performance to claim the title after a thrilling display of skill and teamwork.

Saturday’s Mixed Social Bowls saw a great turnout, with social players sharing the afternoon with the women’s and men’s pennants teams for some practice matches. In a closely fought contest, the men narrowly defeated the women by just four shots. Wixi, Anthony, Barry, and John were named winners of the day, with Cisco, Linda, and Lew finishing runners-up.

To round out the week, Ron Soper and Joe Grabbi completed their suspended Championship A Singles match, with Ron coming out on top to move through to the next round.

Looking ahead, the club is gearing up for a special ANZAC Day gathering. An afternoon of Social Bowls will be held from 1:30 to 4:00 pm, followed by a delightful afternoon tea. Everyone is welcome to come along, pay tribute, and enjoy a wonderful afternoon with friends.

Please note there will be no Social Bowls on Saturday, April 26, as the club will be hosting the Division 1 Ladies Pennants competition. This exciting event will run over four days and will feature Ayr’s own Ladies team competing against the best in the division.

To book your spot for Social Bowls, contact or text Anthony Bull on 0409 480 490.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

President Beryl's Day. Photo supplied

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Four young riders from the Burdekin. will compete at the Australian Dirt Track Titles this weekend in Kurri Kurri, New South Wales. Representing the Ayr Motorcycle Club, they have earned their spot after strong performances in local and regional events. The Australian Dirt Track Titles attract top junior competitors from across the country, with all riders chasing the honour of becoming a national champion.

Burdekin Young Guns Set to Chase Glory at Australian Dirt Track Titles

Four talented young riders from the Burdekin – Ryke Haller, Ky Mitchell, Ryder Vass, and Noah Ready – are set to compete at the Australian Dirt Track Titles this weekend in Kurri Kurri, New South Wales.

After a series of impressive results in local and regional events, the young Burdekin riders have earned their place among the nation's best. Representing the Ayr Motorcycle Club, they’ll take to the track this weekend to showcase their talent and determination against top junior competitors from across Australia.

Each rider will compete in their respective classes: Ryke in the Junior 250cc, Ky in the Junior 125cc, Ryder in both the 85cc and 65cc classes, and Noah in the 50cc class.

The Australian Dirt Track Titles are a major highlight on the motorsport calendar, drawing competitors from across the nation, all aiming for the prestigious title of national champion.

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The opening round of the Rugby League Townsville and District (RLTD) season was played last weekend after being postponed due to wet weather. Those games will now be played in July.

In A-grade, Western Lions started strong, defeating last year’s grand final opponents 52–0. Herbert River also impressed, beating Centrals 18–10 on Sunday.

At Jack Manski Oval, Brothers overpowered the Burdekin Roosters 40–10, although the match was closer than the score suggests. Norths and Charters Towers had byes.

Brothers dominated early, taking full advantage of penalties and Roosters' mistakes to race to a 30–0 halftime lead. However, the Roosters regrouped and matched Brothers in the second half, with both teams scoring 10 points each.

Roosters coach Steve Lansley said the limited preparation due to rain made it a tough start but expected improvement as conditions dry out. He praised Jesse Yallop’s strong all-round game and Logan Dickson’s standout performance, including a brilliant try.

Halves Jye Olsen and Hayde Munro impressed, steering the team well, while hookers Colby Thompson and Josh Hunt added spark around the ruck. PNG international Aiden Arisa showed promise and will be a danger once fully fit.

Caleb Noah made plenty of metres with his powerful running, supported by Lachlan Shepherd and Alfie Mather. Colby Thompson and Logan Dickson scored tries, with Jye Olsen adding a goal.

Injuries Hurt Roosters Reserves

The Roosters reserve grade team went down 46–16 to Brothers after leading 16–14 at halftime.

After trailing 10–0 early, the Roosters hit back with three tries to take the lead. But injuries crippled the side, with six players lost early in the second half. Forced to finish the game with only 13 players, the Roosters couldn’t hold out a fast-finishing Brothers.

Coach Peter Horan praised his young side, many playing their first senior match. Bryce Gesah was a standout, with strong performances from Jye Starr, Aiden Camer, Jack Rushton and Dylan Doak, who scored a classy try and kicked two goals. John Zaro also featured well.

Other try scorers were Bokeen Reid and Kane Bachelor.

In other reserve grade games, Norths beat Bowen 22–10, Souths defeated Western Lions 34–12, and Centrals beat Herbert River 46–6.

Ladies and Juniors

In the women’s match, Norths thrashed Bowen 68–0. The Burdekin Hens were unable to field a team but are expected to return next week.

In under-18s, Centrals beat the Roosters 34–12 in a trial game. Cheanne Taiters, Johben Tabo and Mason Kiehne scored tries for the Roosters.

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Saturday 12th 0f April 1.00pm to 5,00pm ( Patrol Group B ) Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, Danny Wilson.’

Sunday 13th 0f April 9.ooam to 1oopm ( Patrol Group E) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isabella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, Shaize Christie, Emma Jones.

Sunday 13th 0f April 1.00pm to 5.00pm ( Patrol Group G ) Carl List, Jimmy Hayllor, Jamey Kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Rickards, Jedd Giddy.

Friday 18 0f April ( Good Friday ) 9.00am To 5.00 pm All day ( Patrol Group E ) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isa Bella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, Shaize Christie, Emma jones.

Saturday 19th 0f April ( Easter Saturday ) 9.00am to 5,00pm All day ( Patrol Group B ) Terry lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, danny Wilson,.

Sunday 20th 0f April ( Easter Sunday ) 9.00 to 5.00pm All day ( Patrol Group F ) Lisa Furnell, Jen Morgan, John Furnell, Jo Morgan, Lauren Chapman, Isla Chapman, Ryley Sartori, Jake Sartori, Kat Satori, Dave Sartori.

Monday 21st of April ( Easter Monday ) 9.00am to 5.00pm All Day ( Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kelllie Lawry, Zac dale, Parker Bonaato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, Willam Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, Briella Wassmuth.

Friday 25th Of April ( Anzac Day ) 9.00am to 5,00pm ( All day ) ( Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac Dale, Parker bonito, Richard dale, Bella Lawry, Willam Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa vibian, Kristy Wassmuth Briella Wassmuth.

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Ayr Bowling Club has enjoyed another vibrant week on the greens, with a fantastic mix of social and championship games bringing members together. With the championship season now in full swing, competition has been fierce but friendly, highlighting the impressive skill and sportsmanship of the club's bowlers. Social games have also been well-attended, creating a welcoming and lively atmosphere that continues to strengthen the club’s sense of community.

Club President Anthony Bull praised the positive energy surrounding the club, saying, “It’s been fantastic to see so many members out on the greens, supporting each other and enjoying the game. The enthusiasm this season has been outstanding, and it’s a credit to the great culture we are building at Ayr Bowling Club.”

Tuesday Ladies’ Social Bowls was played in overcast conditions with intermittent showers throughout the afternoon. Winners on the day were Donna Soper, Beryl Cornford and Dot Cutting, who defeated Katharina Stuckler, Merle Nixon and Pam Power. On the next rink, Meryl Smith, Karen Page and Heather Jorgensen triumphed over Ruth Moore, Sandra Stidston and Mary Poli.

The Ladies’ Competition B Singles, which had previously been suspended due to wet weather, resumed on Sunday. Lorraine Wolffe defeated Karen Shepherd 25–20 and will now progress to the final against Heather Jorgensen.

Men’s Social Bowls on Wednesday featured one game of triples and one game of pairs. Despite the high humidity, a committed group turned out to play. The winners on the day were Cisco, Wayne Newton and Wicksie.

On Friday evening, the club hosted its Fun Friday Night Bowls, proudly sponsored by B & M Drilling. The night was a great success, with many new bowlers returning to enjoy the fun and camaraderie. Prize-winners were Charmaine, Lyndall, Helen and Steve (1st); Lisa, Crystal and Kerrie (2nd); and Kate, Lyn and Pam (Sportsman award). The club extended a big thank you to B & M Drilling for their continued support.

Saturday’s Social Bowls, sponsored by the Mahjong Group in celebration of their 13th birthday, saw four rinks of mixed social bowlers enjoying lively games of triples. The Mahjong Group, which meets at the clubhouse every Wednesday and Sunday, has generously supported the club’s events over the years.

As the competitive season approaches, the men’s and ladies’ pennants teams seized the opportunity to play a friendly yet competitive practice match, taking to the greens in two games of rinks featuring men vs women.

Winners on the day were Ron Smythe, Sam Caltibianco, Col Essex and Ron Soper. Runners-up were Wicksie, Henry Hazle, Barry Hewson and Joe Papale. First prize winners received £25 per person, while runners-up took home £15 per person, all thanks to sponsorship from the Mahjong Group.

On Sunday, the B Grade Championship Final was held between Cisco and Ron Smythe. Both relatively new to the game, the pair put on a thrilling display of skill. It was a tight contest until Ron began to pull away towards the end, ultimately winning 25–16. Congratulations to Ron Smythe on being crowned the B Grade Champion.

For those interested in trying lawn bowls, Ayr Bowling Club offers a friendly and inclusive environment for players of all levels.

Club Information:
Location: 101 Young Street, Ayr, Queensland 4807
Phone: (07) 4783 1336
Facebook: Ayr Bowling Club

Social bowls are played on Wednesday mornings or evenings, and Saturday afternoons. The club welcomes new faces and provides plenty of sets of bowls for beginners to use. Whether experienced or new to the sport, all are invited to join in and enjoy the game in a fun and social setting.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull - Ayr Bowling Club.

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Saturday bowls winners
Friday fun night winners

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Junior Golf Ayr capped off the school term with a competitive and spirited April Anzac Monthly Medal event, held on a steamy and humid morning that tested the mettle of our rising golf stars.

In the 9-hole competition, Oscar Mahoney took out the Gross honours, while Kyle Wilkie claimed the coveted Monthly Medal.
Heath Smart delivered the top Gross score in the 6-hole division, with Tyler Smith earning the Monthly Medal.
The 3-hole comp saw Opie McKeough take out Gross, while Zade Keating walked away with the Monthly Medal.

A special shout-out goes to Zade Keating, Evelyn Mahoney, Heath Smart, and Oscar Mahoney for their strong performances in the skills challenges, taking out titles in Longest Putt, Least Putts, and Nearest to the Pin across their respective divisions.

Junior Golf Ayr will now break for the school holidays, returning to the fairways on 26 April. Best of luck to all our players heading off to compete in the Townsville Classic—swing strong!

Contributed with thanks to Laura Mahoney - Ayr Junior Golf.

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Presenter Lyla Land with winners from back Zade Keating, Oscar Mahoney, Heath Smart Front Tyler Smith, Evelyn Mahoney, Kyle Wilkie. Absent Opie McKeough

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Local

Once again, there was no football in the Burdekin last weekend. The Panthers should have had a Ladies match in Townsville on Friday night against Warriors, but the wet weather postponed it.

Except for possible re-arrangement of postponed matches, there are now no more games

until the end of April. The Panthers have four home games over the weekend of 25 -26 April.

Juniors

As it is now the school holidays the Juniors fixtures will resume after Easter on the 3rd May. We hope the kids and families enjoy the holidays.

Masters

Monday Night Masters had to be called off yet again as the grounds were too wet. Fingers crossed that we will be able to resume next Monday 14th April.

National and International

The Socceroos now have just two games left in the 2026 World Cup Qualifying Group C. On 5 June they are at home to Japan and then on 10 June they travel to Saudi Arabia. Australia must win one of these games to be sure of direct qualification. The New Zealand All Whites have already qualified winning the Oceania Group!

The Matildas played South Korea again on Monday. In the first game last Friday Australia won 1-0 in a not very convincing performance in Sydney.

In the A League Men, Auckland could only draw 1-1 at home to Western Sydney and now leads Western Utd by five points. Western won 3-1 in Perth, their fifth consecutive win. Third placed Melbourne City won 1-0 at home to Central Coast and is a point below Western and four points clear of fourth placed Wanderers. Brisbane lost 1-5 at home to Macarthur but stays in twelfth place.

Only one match in the A League Women. Melbourne City is still top, two points clear of Victory after Victory beat Western Sydney. Adelaide is still in third place and Western Utd stays in fourth place. Brisbane remains seventh.

England and the EPL with seven games to go, Aston Villa was the only one of the top six teams to win. Liverpool now has an eleven point lead over Arsenal, after surprisingly losing 2-3 away to Fulham. Arsenal could only manage a draw away to Everton and is now five points clear of third placed Notts Forest who lost. Chelsea is in fourth place and Manchester City stay fifth.

Meanwhile in Germany, with six games to go, Bayern still leads Leverkusen by six points after both clubs won. Third placed Frankfurt lost and is now fourteen points away in third place with Mainz still fourth.

In Italy Inter could only draw and is now only four points ahead of Napoli has a three point lead over who have a match in hand. Atalanta lost its third match in a row but hangs on to third place six points behind Napoli and two points clear of Bologna.

In Spain, where only Atletico of the top six teams won, and with eight games left Barcelona leads Real Madrid by four points and Atletico by seven points. Fourth placed Atletico Bilbao is a further six points adrift.

Finally in France, also with six matches left PSG now has it all sewn up with a twenty two point lead over Marseille after Monaco lost and drops to third place. Strasbourg won again and stay in fourth place.

The Quote of the Week is from ex- Nottingham Forest Manager Brian Clough "Centre-forward, your job is to get hold of the ball and keep it and when you've got it, pass it to someone that can play football."

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With all games in the opening round of the senior R L T D transferred to the contingency date in July due to the weather and state of grounds last week, the season will officially get underway this weekend.

Only four clubs are fielding the under 20 grade so that will leave four clubs contesting with Brothers, Western Lions, Centrals and Souths.

With the exception of Souths who do not have a Ladies team, all clubs will be in the other three grades.

This weekend on Saturday Souths will host Western Lions in a replay of last seasons Grand Final while on Sunday Burdekin will travel to Brothers and Centrals will host Herbert River, Charters Towers and Norths A grade having byes.

The North reserves and ladies though will be visited by Bowen.

Wet weather has severely hindered training so far this season with all teams affected by the conditions.

Normally teams would have had two or three trials.

The Roosters did have a reserve grade match with Bowen while Brothers did play half a match with the Blackhawks.

Brothers have secured one of the best and most experienced League players in the competition and he alone should put them back up near the top of the ladder.

Half, five eight Shaun Nona lead Souths to a premiership last season with his kicking game alone a match winner.

The former Dragons NRL star has also played New South Wales and Queensland Cup over the years and has claimed many victories through his goal kicking.

Nothing much is known concerning the remainder of the Brothers squad but they will be enough.
The Roosters have gained PNG International Aiden Arusa and former Blackhawk speedster Jesse Yallop and they will be strengthened by the return from the Hawks MMC team Jye Olsen and Hayde Munnro but will not be till next week.

The Burdekin Hens knocked Brothers out of the Women's race last year in the semi final but a couple of Hens have now moved to Brothers and the match could be interesting.

Meanwhile back at Rugby Park the annual Shane Muspratt Cup games will be played in the under 12 division.

28 teams from Cairns in the North to one from Brisbane will contest the two day carnival on Friday and Saturday.

The carnival has been well supported by the clubs from Townsville as well as Mackay and the Whitsundays.

The Burdekin Little Roosters team will be a strong one coached by former Australian Schoolboy John Nash.

Roosters Junior President Jarod Smith said the team relay and the coaches relay could be two of the highlights.

The canteen will be open during the two days while the carnival is alcohol free.

Play gets under way on Friday morning with former local Rooster, Cowboys and Parramatta Eel Shane Muspratt in attendance.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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The Burdekin Touch association celebrated the contribution of senior players to Touch football in the Burdekin recently.

With over 25 male and female players over the age of 50 taking the field each week, Touch is proving to be a great sport for fitness and social connection.

“I started playing Touch in 1981 when I was transferred to Home Hill,” said Bruce Johnson, now 70 years of age.

“It’s a contact sport but not a collision sport so there is maximum speed and skill with minimum injury. Even though I’ve retired to Townsville, I drive down every Wednesday to play Touch with my mates,” he continued.

Peter Knapton began playing Touch in Townsville in 1978.

“I still look forward with the same enthusiasm to playing every week as I did all those years ago,” said the 73 year old.

“A little slower these days but still thinking like a youngster. The brain says go but the body says whoa,” he added.

Among the players over 50, there are quite a few in their 60s with seven players and referees over 70.

Burdekin Touch President, Michael Littlefield, acknowledged the contribution of the older players.

“They are role models. They’ve played, refereed and coached for years and they keep supporting Touch in the Burdekin,” he said.’

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Saturday 5th of April 1.00pm t0 5.00pm ( Patrol Group G ) Carl List, Jimmy Hayllor,  James Kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Rickard, Jedd giddy.

Sunday 6th of April 9.00am to 1.00pm  ( Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac Dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, Briella Wassmuth.

Sunday 6th of April 1.00pm to 5.00pm ( Patrol Group E ) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isa bella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, Shaize Christie, Emma Jone

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Home Hill Tennis is excited to announce that the upgraded amenities block is nearing completion and will soon be officially opened. What started as a simple idea has become a reality through dedicated planning, hard work, and strong community support. The project took a major step forward in 2023 when the club secured a $250,000 grant from the Queensland Government to upgrade the amenities, enabling Queenslanders to participate in sport and recreation activities.

Careful consideration went into designing the new facilities to integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure, including septic tanks, soakage pits, and electrical switchboards, while also meeting modern standards. The upgraded amenities block now features a wheelchair-accessible shower, toilet, and baby change room, a separate shower, a cleaner’s room, a storeroom, and a bank of five new toilets, including an ambulant toilet.

Funding for the project was provided by the club itself, along with contributions from Tennis Queensland and Tennis Australia. Additionally, privacy screens designed by artist Jane Hawkins and manufactured locally by Michael Blakey were incorporated into the building. This aspect of the project received partial funding through a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grant, a partnership between the Queensland Government and the Burdekin Shire Council aimed at supporting local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

The official opening, conducted by Dale Last MP, will take place at 7:45 am on Saturday, 3rd May, coinciding with the start of the iconic Sugar Bowl event. Everyone is welcome to attend and view the new facilities.

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The new amenities block at the Home Hill Tennis grounds. Photo supplied

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The 2025 rugby league season is set to officially begin this weekend in the R L T D competition, with Brothers and Centrals' A-grade teams not in action. Centrals will face Bowen in Bowen, but the home side does not have an A-grade team, meaning no game will take place. Brothers are having a bye this round.

In other matches, the Western Lions will host Charters Towers on Saturday, while the Roosters will play Norths at Rugby Park, and Souths will face Herbert River in Townsville. Norths will bring three teams to Ayr: Women, Reserves, and A-grade.

The Reserves, coached by Peter Horan, will kick off the season at 3.30pm, with gates opening at 2pm. Horan's squad will feature a mix of youth and experience, with several players from his grand final-winning U18 team from last season stepping up to higher grades. Norths are traditionally a tough, hard-hitting side, so if the Roosters play an expansive game, the locals could have the upper hand.

Anita Hagarty will once again coach the Hens, who reached the preliminary final last season. The Hens have lost their strike weapon, Stephanie Monday, but her twin sister, Martina, has been training and is known for her speed. Hooker Abby King, who had a disrupted season last year due to a knee injury, appears fully fit and will be a significant threat. Alongside her, Talisha Bulgarelli and the returning Shae Kratzmann will be key players in defense.

Kezzia Lammon is reportedly back at fullback and remains a dangerous playmaker, especially when linking up with speedy wingers Tegan Johnson and Jo Morgan. The Hens' match will kick off at 5pm.

At 6.30pm, a new-look Roosters A-grade side will face Norths, who have appeared to bolster their squad during the off-season. The Roosters have lost Cowboys players Henry Teuteu and Jeremiah Matuatu, along with Englishman Chris Gale. However, they have secured two Blackhawks players: outside back Logan Dixon from Penrith and forward Alfie Mather from the London Broncos. Mather impressed coach Steve Lansley with his playing style.

Two new signings could also make an impact: Jesse Yallop, reportedly the fastest man in the R L T D, and former Papua New Guinea international Adrian Arusa. Yallop, usually a winger, may be used in the halves, where he stood out in a recent trial with Bowen.

Jye Olsen and Hayde Munro have been the under-19 halves for the Blackhawks all season, but last week, Hayde was left out of the squad. Roosters coach Steve Lansley will hope that continues, as it would allow the experienced Munro to slot into the Roosters' halves.

Arusa was a standout in the Bowen trial and, along with forwards Mather, Braedyn Cotter, Ethan Hagarty, Kali Nauque, Lachlan Shepherd, and Caleb Noah, will look to dominate up front, with good service from hooker Colby Johnson. Joel Mason will lead the team from fullback, with Nemia Nawave in form on the wing, and possibly Luca Lago to make an appearance as well.

Jones Munro is always a dangerous player, and Terry Connors can score tries from anywhere on the field. John Zaro, Dylan Doak, and Jhye Starr could also play key roles for the Roosters.

The canteen will be open, staffed by the Lions Club, and the bar will also be serving throughout the day. After the games, patrons are invited to join the major sponsor, the Queens Hotel, for further celebrations.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Local

Once again, all four Burdekin Panthers games had to be called off because of the wet weather. In fact, all NQ Football fixtures were called off. There is now a three week break for the Premiers and Under 23s until they play Brothers at home on 26 April!

The only fixture this week is the Division One Ladies who are down to play Warriors in Townsville this Friday night. Weather permitting.

Juniors

The Juniors fixtures were once again called off due to the ongoing wet weather. Hope the kids and families have good school holidays and we will see you all back for training and games after Easter.

Masters

Monday Night Masters had to be called off yet again as the grounds were too wet. This week’s Master’s has also been postponed.

National and International

The Socceroos played China in Hangzhou last Tuesday in the third round of qualifying games for the 2026 World Cup. They won 2-0 and are now three points clear of third placed Saudi Arabia who drew 0-0 with Japan.

The Socceroos have two games left in the Qualifying Group C. On 5 June they are at home to Japan and then on 10 June they travel to Saudi Arabia. Australia must win one of these games to be sure of direct qualification.

The Matildas have two games against South Korea coming up. The first is on 4 April in Sydney and the second game is three days later in Newcastle. Sam Kerr has retained the captaincy and will join the squad in Sydney.

In the A League Men, Auckland won 2-0 away to Brisbane and is seven points clear of second placed Western Utd with Melbourne City another point behind and Victory in fourth place another point away. However, Victory has played one game more. Brisbane is still in twelfth place equal on points with Perth.

In the A League Women, Melbourne City is still top, five points clear of Victory after beating Wellington 1-0 in New Zealand. Victory beat third placed Adelaide 2-1 at home and has a game in hand. Western Utd stays in fourth place. Brisbane lost away to Central Coast and drops to seventh.

The European Leagues are back in action this week and in England with nine games to go Liverpool has a twelve point lead over Arsenal while in Germany, with seven matches to go, Bayern leads Leverkusen by six points. In Italy Inter has a three point lead over Napoli, with eight games to go and in Spain, with nine games left Barcelona leads Real Madrid by just three points. Finally in France, with seven matches left PSG has it all sewn up with a twenty one point lead over Monaco.

The Quote of the Week is from ex Crystal Palace and Irish star Clinton Morrison. “I'd been ill and hadn't trained for a week, and I'd been out of the team for three weeks before that, so I wasn't sharp. I got cramp before half-time as well. But I'm not one to make excuses.”

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