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The Burdekin’s premier running event saw a record-breaking turnout on Sunday, 26 April, as nearly 400 athletes laced up in Ayr for what was a Sugar Rush for the books. The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part. Club president Patrick Shannon hailed the event as a success for both the organisation and the wider North Queensland running community. “We’re chuffed with the turnout,” Mr Shannon said. “It was a bit unfortunate—we actually had to cut off entries a little bit early simply because we ran out of bibs. It just means we have to plan bigger and better next year.” Continued on page 28 Massive Field Powers Sugar Rush To New Record In Ayr Continued from cover The event attracted competitors from as far north as Cairns and south as Mackay, alongside families and first-time runners in shorter distance fun runs. Jeff Rubach of the Townsville Road Runners won the men’s half marathon in 1:15:08, while Vanessa Kennedy of Hungry Runners took out the women’s title in 1:27:15. Matt Hutchinson led the men’s 10km field in 35:51, with Brittany Hutchinson winning the women’s race in 40:26. Miles Kerr claimed the men’s 5km title in 20:18, while Mia Brunker of the PACE Project won the women’s event in 20:46. Each runner received a complimentary barbecue breakfast courtesy of the Ayr Rotary Club, while MC John Furnell entertained supporters at the finish line at the Ayr War Memorial. Mr Shannon said the memorial backdrop capped off the morning, the culmination of months of preparation. “There was a lot of work put in over the last three to five months… But to see the community coming out, the amazing weather, and the day after Anzac Day, having the monument behind us, was a really good feeling.” FULL RESULTS Half Marathon—Men Jeff Rubach (Townsville Road Runners) — 1:15:08 Grant Breadsell Aaron Bathis Half Marathon—Women Vanessa Kennedy (Hungry Runners) — 1:27:15 Liv Compton (Whitsunday Running Club) Elizabeth Maguire (Hungry Runners) 10km—Men Matt Hutchinson — 35:51 Sonny O’Rourke Brendan Maltby 10km—Women Brittany Hutchinson — 40:26 Anwen Mackay Isla Chapman 5km—Men Miles Kerr — 20:18 Nathan Barrett Brad Patti 5km—Women Mia Brunker (PACE Project) — 20:46 Bec Stedman Skye Claussen CAPTIONS: Back—The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part. 2—Jeff Rubach of the Townsville Road Runners won the men’s half marathon in 1:15:08. 3—Vanessa Kennedy of Hungry Runners took out the women’s title in 1:27:15. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Seniors A better weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had only four senior games winning three and losing one. The Premiers and Reserve, away to Riverway JCU, won 2-1 and the Reserves, also away to JCU also won 2-1, The Division 1, at home to rebels lost 3-6 but the Division 2, also at home to Rebels won 3-0. The Colts and Ladies both had byes. This week only four teams are in action as both Ladies and Colts have byes. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 are away to Olympic, at 8.30 and 6.30 and on Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Warriors at 7.00 and 3.00. The Colts and Ladies do not have games this week. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club An away trip to JCU is never easy, and after dropping points the previous week, there was added motivation to respond. JCU started strongly, limiting the Panthers time on the ball and making it difficult to find any rhythm early. The first half produced few clear chances, with JCU capitalising late to take a 1–0 lead into the break. The second half saw a renewed energy from the Panthers, while JCU looked to sit deeper and protect their advantage. This shift allowed Burdekin to dominate possession and build pressure in dangerous areas. The Panthers came close on many occasions, including a strike off the crossbar, before Elliott Dal Santo found the breakthrough with a well-taken finish following strong defensive work in the lead-up. Pushing for a winner, Kyle Taylor earned a penalty in the 87th minute, and Jake Siandri stepped up to calmly convert and give the Panthers a 2–1 lead which they held onto in the closing stages to secure a hard-fought result. That’s three wins from their opening four rounds. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service Another week and another changed side saw the Reserves debut opportunity for young players Charlie Predebon & Nyasha Gwarada. It was a very warm afternoon game and developed into a good contest with both teams working hard but neither finding any dominance in possession or field position. It took until the last five minutes of the first half for a goal to come from a longer range freekick and JCU went into the break one up. The second half for the Panthers was much better with senior players able to influence the game and keep better possession of the ball. With improved possession and control Burdekin were able to score two goals from Jonte Grazioli and Dom Arrate. It was a gritty game that in previous seasons the Panthers may have let slip, so very pleasing to turn it around and notch up another win. Division 1 – Austral Masonry Against Rebel, both teams and goals started fast, with two goals from Julen Arrate being answered by two from Rebels in the first eighteen minutes. At half time it was 2-2. After that Burdekin got stuck into the grind with tackles flying everywhere. Then a penalty to Rebels and second yellow card for Brad Wright tipped the balance, with Rebels side scoring two goals in quick succession. Cody Scalia headed in a beautiful Charlie Shears corner to give the Burdekin a chance, but with only ten men, it was too much of a struggle The game ended 6-3 to Rebels. Division 2 – RG Customs RG Customs 2nd division defeated Rebels 3-0 in a match they dominated from start to finish. Chris Achille gave Burdekin the lead early in the first half, but despite lots of possession and repeatedly attacking Rebels goal, the Funkies were unable to extend their lead in the first half. Burdekin added further goals through Simon Scuderi after 68 minutes and Fengil after 84 minutes in the second half to see the Funkies rewarded for their efforts and deserving winners in a match they controlled very much from start to finish. Next up is MA Olympic this Friday night away in Townsville. Masters The Masters had another good turnout and, augmented by the Ladies Squad had a replay of the World Cup Qualifier, Italy v Bosnia Herzegovina. A tight match ended in a 2-2 draw with a replay next Monday. Best players on the night were Charley Ruskin and Riley Granshaw. 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 Junior soccer returned in great spirit over the Anzac Day weekend, marking the first round of games following the school holiday break. Our youngest players in the U5–U7 age groups took to the field on Saturday afternoon, enjoying local matches filled with enthusiasm, teamwork and plenty of smiles. It was fantastic to see so many familiar faces back and eager to play. Sunday saw an exciting milestone for the U8–U12 teams, who travelled to Townsville for their first games of the season. The step up in competition didn’t deter our players, with all teams showing determination and great sportsmanship throughout the day. It was a wonderful way to kick off the return to soccer, with strong participation across all age groups and a positive start to the term ahead. The U15's had their first game at the weekend against Wulguru. A new coach, a few new players and whole lot of enthusiasm. A bit of nervous energy to start with the first goal being scored by the opposition, but the team went in at half time with a 2-1 lead. Goals for the Panthers scored by Annan Power and Nathan Casella. The team lost Linc Innes due to a nasty clash with their keeper which depleted the bench with only one sub. The second half saw the team digging deep to secure three more goals. One of the new Panthers, Cecil Badza Gwarda scoring two and Emmanuel Mio banging in the final goal for the Panthers to secure a convincing win 5-2. Unfortunately, there is a bit of a break before their next round on the 16 May. An excited U13 Burdekin Panthers team took the field for the first time this season again MA Olympic. The Panthers came away with a very good 3-0 win with two goals from. 2 Caelan Farrell and one from Jazz Chung. All players played outstanding football!! National The A League Men’s season has reached the final stages. Newcastle have won the Premiership; five points clear of Adelaide with Auckland third and Melbourne Victory fourth. The Elimination Finals start on Saturday with Auckland playing Melbourne City and Victory playing Sydney FC. The A League Women are at the Semi-finals stage. At the end of regular fixtures Melbourne City were Premiers six points clear of Wellington, with Canberra third and Brisbane fourth. In the semi-finals this Saturday, Melbourne City face Victory and Brisbane play Wellington.
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Round 7 of the Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Burdekin Touch open competition produced a string of competitive results across all divisions. In the men’s draw, Way To Go defeated BAYWatch 8–4, while His Haas and Slush Puppies played out a 5–all draw. Alliance Pharmacy proved too strong for Wires Down 9–3, and Petrol Heads accounted for Touch n Go 8–5. Blue Murder continued their good form with an 8–4 win over Ball Grabbers, while Burdekin PCYC and Feelers finished locked at 4–all. Renegades edged a tight contest against Royal Touch 7–6, and Teamo Supremo claimed a narrow 3–2 victory over Creampuffs. In the women’s competition, Eathorne’s Princesses defeated Lasers 5–2, while First in Physio delivered the most dominant performance of the round, overpowering Salty Sirens 12–1. Chick Flicks also secured a solid 6–4 win over Can’t Catch. Junior action in the under-14 division saw Chicken Burgers and Cowboys share the points in a 6–all draw. Rockies defeated Broncos 8–3, BAYWatch A accounted for Red Dogs A 8–2, and Silly Soft Serves rounded out the round with a 10–5 win over Red Dogs B. Meanwhile, junior touch football sign-on will be held on Friday, May 1 at 5.30pm at the Burdekin Touch Football clubhouse. The program is open to boys and girls aged 4 to 12, with six weeks of skills, drills and games to follow. Returning Term 1 players can register for free, while new sign-ons cost $20. For more information, contact Rebecca on 0400 705 205 or Peter on 0437 710 500.
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As this is the final patrol weekend for the season, the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club would would like to thank all our patrolling members for the countless volunteer hours that were undertaken on the beach for our community, your time is appreciated and we thank you for keeping Alva Beach safe. Beach patrols will resume again in the September School Holidays. Beach patrols will resume again in the September school holidays. Saturday, 2/5/26 (1pm–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group I – Sage Hisatake (PC), Ben Hisatake, Luke Hisatake, Austin Dewar Sunday, 3/5/26 (9am–1pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group G – Carl List (PC), James Kennedy (PC), Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards, Ross Blakey, Jedd Giddy, Nate Giddy Sunday, 3/5/26 (1pm–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group E – John Moloney (PC), Anne Moloney (PC), Sophia Moloney, Tony Felisina, Tramayne Horan, Jarrod Rossato Monday, 4/5/26 (9am–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group A – Chris Wicks (PC), Richard Dale (PC), Jane Olsen, Zackary Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner, Wil Holt
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As we approach the climax of the monthly medal competition at the Ayr Ladies Golf Club, the competition among the talented ladies is reaching fever pitch, all vying for the opportunity to secure a place in the coveted end-of-year monthly medal final. On a day blessed with relatively calm weather conditions, the golf course witnessed some truly remarkable performances, setting the stage for an exciting weekend ahead as 80 women golfers geared up for the Ayr Ladies Open.
In the A grade category, it was Pat Lawson who emerged as the undisputed champion, demonstrating her prowess with a stellar net score of 73. She was closely followed by Janet Trezise, who displayed impressive form with a net score of 74, while Shirley Jones rounded out the top three with a commendable net score of 76.
Over in the B grade division, Sandra Wight delivered a standout performance to claim the top honours, carding an exceptional net score of 66. The rising star, Gabby Cahill, showed her promise by securing the second position with a net score of 69, while Betty Durrant wrapped up the top three spots with a net score of 73.
In the C grade category, Ingrid Vaes continued her remarkable run, producing yet another stellar round and accumulating an impressive 43 points to secure the top spot. Angie Baxter put up a valiant effort and secured the second position with a score of 42 points, while Lorraine Henderson exhibited her skill and determination to finish in third place with 34 points.
Ayr Ladies Open results will be covered in next week’s edition.
The Burdekin Swimming Club, affectionately known as the Burdekin Torpedoes, is gearing up for an exciting start to its club nights, which commence tomorrow evening (Friday).
With a total of 18 events planned (9 this year and 9 in the upcoming year), the club will be hosting 14 of these events in Ayr and 4 in Home Hill. As members, individuals also have the opportunity to represent the Burdekin Swim Club at swim meets. Club Nights provide swimmers with the ideal platform to demonstrate their skills in a carnival-like atmosphere, racing against the clock.
It's time to dive in and make a splash! Contact the Torpedoes and enjoy a sport that allows you to stay cool in the pool.
10-year-old Mark Wilkie has been playing cricket for over a year and loves batting, saying his favourite player is David Warner.
“I play out on the fields here with a hard ball,” Mark said.
“I like that we can see our friends and have fun.”
Mark attended the Brisbane Heat Holiday Clinic at the Home Hill Cricket Association last week before travelling to Charters Towers for the NQ Country Cup where he high scored with 9 runs.
The biggest tip he learnt at the holiday clinic was to “always get ready and no hands in the pockets while you’re fielding.”
The holiday session was facilitated and run by Antony Stewart, Cricket Manager North for Queensland Cricket.
“It’s just six hours of a lot of fun, doing a lot of cricket skills and then we end it with a big game of cricket at the end of the day,” Mr Stewart said.
“You want to make the cricket experience as fun as it can possibly be, you want to make it a memorable experience.
“It’s nonstop cricket action and a lot of it is just playing games, the kids don’t even realise they’re learning but we’re trying to enhance the hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and we do that through the games.”
Home Hill Cricket Association holds junior cricket on Friday nights for kids aged 7-17.
“While they’re competitive and kids always want to win, it’s a bit more relaxed, they’ve got the music playing, the canteen will be open, they’ve got awesome volunteers down here, there’s just a really good family vibe,” Mr Stewart said.
“Burdekin would certainly like to have a few more young players playing and they’re working really hard, they’ve got some really good coaches here and they’ve upgraded their facilities since last year.
“Once kids start playing, they love it and they want to keep playing so we have to get them here in the first place.”
The 2023/24 cricket season is about to begin and Home Hill Cricket Association would like to welcome all new and returning players.
Junior cricket for kids aged 7 - 17 starts on Friday October 6 at the Nutrien Ag Solutions cricket fields in Home Hill, with Blast Cricket for 5–7-year-olds starting on Tuesday October 10 at East Ayr State School. The Senior cricket competition starts Saturday October 14 with social but competitive 25 over games each Saturday afternoon.
If you’re interested in playing cricket this summer or would like some more information, please contact Home Hill Cricket Association at homehillca@gmail.com or find them on Facebook.
Two Home Hill teams travelled to Charters Towers last weekend for the NQ Country Cup. Photo credit: Antony Stewart
12 kids enjoyed a day of cricket in Home Hill last week thanks to Queensland Cricket. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
Fishing is one of the Burdekin’s most popular pastimes, and the Burdekin District Sportsfishing Club is one organisation bringing people together over their mutual love of wetting a line.
The fishing club meets once a month where fishing will open on a Friday evening and close on a Sunday afternoon.
The club will then meet at a member’s residence for a barbecue and to weigh in their catches on the Sunday night.
Being a sportsfishing club, the lighter the line used, the more points are scored.
The fishing club is Australian National Sportfishing Association (ANSA) affiliated and fishes under ANSA rules.
Join Burdekin District Sportsfishing Club on Facebook for more information.
Catches Of The Month
Rian Berryman and George Mclees both had good catches at the club’s last meet.
Rian caught a barra on prawn lures, while George’s grunter was caught on bait, believed to be a prawn.
George had a good laugh as he reeled in the grunter because he knew it was a little bigger than Rian's from their last trip.
Rian and George weighed the barra and grunter in at the last fishing club weigh in.
Rian Berryman and George Mclees
Five-year-old Isabelle Sutcliffe with bream
Ellie Sutcliffe with a jack that took slab bait
Russell Sutcliffe with Grunter
Three-year-old Henry Sutcliffe and Isabelle Sutcliffe weighing their catch in at a BBQ
Photos supplied: Simone Sutcliffe
The Home Hill Tennis Association wrapped up the 2023 Burdekin Open and Age Tournament with two days of strong windy conditions making tennis challenging for all.
Despite this, the event was a great success with the 70 competitors displaying great sportsmanship and respect for their opponents throughout the event.
Players came from across the state with a large contingent from the southeast corner, up to Cairns and all places in between including a large group from Pioneer Tennis in Mackay, Charters Towers and Western Suburbs in Townsville.
Two new champions held up the Davies and McLaughlin Trophies in the Open events with Rudy Thorogood and Lily Shepherd.
Local Dallan Garvey teamed up with Townsville player Mikayla Zahirovic to take out the Open Mixed Doubles.
Dallan played tactically using the wind to his advantage, finishing a solid fourth in the Men’s singles.
Club players showed great support for their events with strong competition in singles, doubles and mixed doubles.
Everyone agreed it was good fun whether they won or lost.
The club would like to thank their loyal sponsors, players and volunteers who made this tournament possible.
2023 Burdekin Open and Age Tournament Results
Open Ladies Singles: Lily Shepherd (Mackay)
Open Mens Singles: Rudy Thorogood (Brisbane)
Open Mixed Doubles: Dallan Garvey (Home Hill) and Mikayla Zahirovic (Townsville)
Club Mens Singles: Allan Kemp (Townsville) and Finalist Aidan Slatcher (Home Hill), 4th Daniel Caddies (Home Hill)
Club Ladies Singles Div 1: Paula Simpson (Townsville)
Club Ladies Singles Div 2: Brooke Davies (Townsville formerly Home Hill) and Home Hill’s Tennis Coach Kayla Accornero
Club Mens Doubles: Daniel Caddies and Aidan Slatcher (Home Hill)
Club Ladies Doubles Div 1: Donna Sunderland (Home Hill) & Keren Richardson (Townsville)
Club Ladies Doubles Div 2: Brooke Davies & Kylie Newman (Townsville formerly Home Hill) and Finalists Sahra Prescott and Donna Sgroi (Home Hill)
Club Mixed Doubles: Scott Kittle and Paula Simpson (Townsville)
10 & U Singles: Cooper Edwards (Cairns)
10 & U Doubles: Tasha & Vanesse Fitzgerald (Cairns)
12/14 Boys Singles: Raice Gibbons (Mackay)
16 & U Boys Singles: Riley Carr (Ingham) and Julian Bates (Charters Towers)
Boys Doubles: Reyne and Raice Gibbons (Mackay)
14 & U Girls Singles: Ruby Owen (Brisbane)
14 & U Girls Doubles: Ellie Argent and Saebra Brayshaw (Brisbane)
Club Doubles Mens Winners L-R Aidan Slatcher, Daniel Caddies, Bruce Wootten and Ben Wootten
Club Doubles Ladies Div 1 L-R Keren Richardson, Donna Sunderland, life member Steve Sunderland, Paula Simpson and Monica Milesi
Club Doubles Ladies Div 2 L-R Brooke Davies, Kylie Newman, Life member Steve Sunderland, Sahra Prescott and Donna Sgroi
Open Mens Winners L-R Rudy Thorogood, Mitchell Wescott, life member Steve Sunderland and Lucas Chansoosen
Open Ladies Winners Zedneiyar Meafua-Ur and Lily Shepherd
Brooke Davies and family
Home Hill Supporters Torrie Davies, Mick Zabala, Tony Carrett and Dallan Garvey
Photo credit: Kate Casswell
In an unforgettable 2023 rugby union season, the Burdekin Rugby Union Club left an indelible mark, triumphing in a dramatic Reserve Grade Grand Final showdown. Building on the previous year's independence from A-grade, the team's journey was marked by talent, resilience, and unyielding determination.
By the time mid-season arrived, the Reserve Grade boasted an impressive record of six wins and two losses. The team had started to take shape, with a backline that bore a striking resemblance to the renowned Fiji Bati, a youthful forward pack, and the experience of players like Hugh Leeson-Smith and Chris Baker added further depth to the squad, making them a formidable competitor.
In the elimination final, Burdekin faced a formidable Teachers West team known for their physicality and confidence. As rugby aficionados know, the forward pack often determines the outcome, while the backline determines the margin of victory. The young Burdekin pack rose to the occasion, outmatching and outlasting Teachers in every aspect of the game. Notable performances by Robbie Cantarella, who scored two crucial tries, and workhorse Aaron Peters were instrumental in securing the victory.
The grand final match against Brothers was a heart-pounding roller coaster of emotions. Despite the adversity of losing live-wire halfback Zac Nolan, the team rallied behind the selfless Hugh Leeson-Smith, who delivered an outstanding all-around performance. The game had it all, from charge-down tries to long-distance efforts and even extra time, pushing both teams to their limits.
In front of an electrifying Burdekin crowd, the team got off to a flying start, leading 14-0. The forward pack dominated Brothers, with Robbie Canterella and Wainui Matainavora giving their all. However, Brothers mounted a comeback, tying the game at 14-all at halftime. The tension continued for 70 intense minutes, with no clear winner emerging as the final whistle blew, leaving the score at 28-all.
Extra time seemed to bring out the best in Burdekin's playing group, especially Joeli Lutumailagi and Isireli Nasawalu, who launched a two-try onslaught that sealed the victory with a final score of 38-28. The win was a testament to the team's incredible performance and their ability to shine in critical moments, marked by brilliant individual displays.
Special congratulations were in order for Nemia Nawave, who was named Player of the Final, recognising his exceptional contribution to the team's success.
Head Coach, Jeff Sullivan, said he was extremely proud of the way the Burdekin boys bonded throughout the season, forever learning, and progressively improving to keep cool heads under pressure in the final. He made special mention of Captains, Chris Baker, CJ Nolan and Xander Barnard for their leadership and encouragement of the team.
The 2023 season will forever be etched in the annals of Burdekin Rugby Union Club's history as they showcased their talent, tenacity, and teamwork on their path to grand final glory.
Reserve Grade 2023 champions
Nemia Nawave was named Player of the Final
On Friday, September 15, the last bowl was sent down the rink at Home Hill Community Sports Club by Joe Linton.
The next morning, 14 players and club members turned up to begin the dusty and dirty task of ripping up the carpet and clearing out the drainage ditches surrounding the green.
Monday, September 18 saw the arrival of the contractor from Brisbane to begin laying the new green.
Upon completion, the new green will be named Rummeny Green after club patron Karl Rummeny, who turns 100 years young in December.
The Home Hill Bowling Club first opened in 1930.
In 1961, the cement surrounds were completed, the date engraved in concrete and only discovered after removing the carpet beside the clubhouse.
The green was last upgraded in 2009 when it was opened by the then Member for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens.
The committee currently consists of President Trevor Elton, Vice President Lloyd Shepard, Treasurer Wayne Newton, Secretary John Clark and Public Relations and Games Coordinator Stephen Doig.
Social bowls is played on Thursday afternoons commencing at 1:30pm, Friday nights from 6:00pm with weekend bowls hoping to commence in the near future.
The club has a function room and a licensed bar area, hosting regular community events including bingo on Friday mornings, craft on Wednesday mornings and fitness.
The club will host a reopening event upon the completion of the new green with a date and time to be confirmed.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
Home Hill Community Sports Club President Trevor Elton and Public Relations and Games Coordinator Stephen Doig overseeing the laying down of a new green. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
Following a short hiatus during the school holidays, Ayr Junior Golf is gearing up for an exciting return on Saturday, October 7. The break saw some of its members showcase their skills at the Cairns Junior Open and the Townsville Junior Open. To kick things off, the young golfers will benefit from coaching sessions led by Darryl, setting the stage for the customary 3, 6, or 9-hole competitions.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 14, as Ayr Junior Golf will host the October Monthly Medal event, building anticipation for the eagerly awaited two-day Karrie Webb Junior Masters scheduled for October 21 and 22.
As always, Ayr Junior Golf extends a warm welcome to new members interested in joining the ranks. For additional information, please reach out to juniorcaptain@ayrgc.com. It's time to tee off and embrace the world of junior golfing!
Junior golfers are being kept busy in the school holidays with the Cairns and Townsville Junior Opens, followed by the Karrie Webb Junior Masters October 21 and 22
In a showcase of community support and sporting camaraderie, the Burdekin Tyre Service Day 2023 witnessed a vibrant gathering at the Ayr Golf Club. Pam and Jason Guy, renowned for their unwavering backing of sports across the Burdekin region, once again displayed their generosity by sponsoring this year's captivating partner day.
The event, which featured a 4-ball best ball (4bbb) format, attracted the participation of 25 enthusiastic ladies, all eager to showcase their golfing prowess. The competition was fierce, with impressive scores punctuating the day's play, and the distribution of prizes extended down to the fifth spot.
However, it was Donna Reid and Ingrid Vaes who emerged as the day's shining stars, displaying a remarkable synergy that propelled them to the top with 45 points. Their outstanding performance is sure to turn heads as they gear up for the upcoming Ayr Open.
The competition remained intense as four teams finished closely behind with 43 points each. In a nail-biting countback, Janet Trezise and Loretta Mauro secured the second spot, edging past the formidable duo of Betty Durrant and Sandra Wight. Meanwhile, Angie Baxter and Kim Manty held their own to secure the fourth position, followed closely by Tuk Williams and Lorraine Henderson in fifth place.
The Ayr Golf Club community now eagerly anticipates the upcoming Peagham Honour Board 4bbb event on Saturday, followed by the thrilling 9-hole Burnt Sugar afternoon challenge on Sunday.
In a display of family camaraderie, the McIntosh Family made their mark at the BMX State Championships held at Coolooa BMX Club in Gympie. Bradley McIntosh competed in the masters in the 40-44 Cruiser Men category, Deon raced in the 13 Boys and 13-14 Cruiser Boys categories, while sister, Holly, rode in the 11 Girls and 11-12 Cruiser Girls divisions.
The McIntosh Family's journey to the championships was a testament to their love for the fast-paced sport of BMX. Riding fearlessly through every fast corner, they showcased their skills and determination on the track.
BMXers in the Burdekin race every Wednesday night and enjoy Sunday Fundays filled with thrilling rides and friendly competition. Their training sessions are organised into skill groups, ensuring that everyone, from rookies to seasoned riders, can improve their abilities.
Lisa Purssell, President of Burdekin BMX, expressed the club's enthusiasm for the upcoming season. "We are having the most amazing time at Burdekin BMX and look forward to the season ahead," she said. "Our biggest and most talked-about carnival of the year is on the horizon, taking place on the 18th and 19th of November. We anticipate hosting 150-200 riders and their families from across the region for an unforgettable weekend of BMX action."
To make this event even more remarkable, Burdekin BMX is actively seeking sponsors. Their commitment to promoting BMX and community engagement is evident, and they welcome any support to make the carnival a resounding success.
Recently, Burdekin BMX held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), welcoming a new committee that is eager to steer the club towards a promising future. With fresh ideas and a passion for the sport, the club looks forward to a year filled with exciting events and opportunities for riders of all ages.
For those interested in joining the BMX fun or supporting Burdekin BMX, whether as a rider, sponsor, or enthusiast, they can visit the club's Facebook page for more information.
The McIntosh Family travelled to Coolooa BMX club in Gympie for The Cycling Queensland BMX State Championships
Deon launching off the start line at the State Championships. Credit: Tahlia Jayne Photography
The 24th annual Hacker's Cup, hosted by the Lower Burdekin Hockey Association on Saturday, September 23, saw around 40 passionate players take to the field for a fun day of grass hockey. In a remarkable turn of events, the Broncos, leading the way for their NRL counterparts, clinched victory, adding to the day's excitement.
The carnival was designed to introduce new players to the sport of hockey through a 5-a-side competition on modified fields. Teams are mixed gender with novice hockey players, or hackers, a hot commodity. A number of teams also use junior players in their roster, helping to ensure that the future of the sport is in good hands.
The windy conditions were welcomed by players to combat the effects of a sunny, cloudless sky. Fields were green and lush, with the unpredictability of ball movement on grass proving to be a challenge for some of the experienced turf and indoor hockey players.
Although the day was physically challenging with all teams playing in at least four games, the spirit of friendly competition was evident all day. The Darcy Duggan Memorial Award for Spirit of the Carnival (introduced in 2014) acknowledges the player who epitomises the friendly, fair and inclusive hockey player we all strive to be.
Results
A Division Winners – Burdekin Broncos
B Division Winners – Thunder
Best and Fairest Female – Ashley Green and Lynette Wheeler
Best and Fairest Male – Westley Darwen, Wesley Glover, Mark Nicolaides, Bradley Sibson
Goal Hog – Westley Darwen
Spirit of the Carnival – Matthew Gardner
B Division Winners, Thunder
Three Burdekin Roosters Junior Rugby League squads recently travelled to compete in tournaments, bringing their 2023 seasons to a close.
The under 9s team travelled to Proserpine to compete in the Paul Bowman Challenge from September 16 to 17.
The non-competitive carnival welcomed over 80 teams from across Queensland to the Proserpine Junior Rugby League Fields.
“Every year, our whole club attends all carnivals from under 8s to under 15s,” said Burdekin Roosters JRL President Jared Smith.
“It’s good for the kids to get out and play a lot of different kids from a lot of other communities.
“They play eight or nine games in those two days, so they jam in a lot of football and get a lot out of it.”
The Burdekin Roosters under 9s team wore black armbands as they ran onto the field for the Paul Bowman Challenge in Proserpine, honouring local rugby league legend and Burdekin Roosters life member Norm Bohl, who passed away on Sunday, September 10.
Norm’s great grandson played in the under 9s team at the carnival.
“The boys wore black armbands for Norm because he was instrumental in the starting of junior rugby league in the Burdekin,” said Mr Smith.
The weekend of September 23 to 24 saw both the under 10s and under 14s compete in respective tournaments.
The under 10s travelled to Townsville for the Gorden Tallis Cup where 80 teams from across Queensland met for the non-competitive carnival.
“They played five games on the Saturday and four on Sunday,” said Mr Smith.
“They have an absolute ball, those kids.”
The under 14s then travelled to Cairns for the Tassel Trophy Challenge, the boys unfortunately not making it past the group stages of the tournament.
“The boys kept training once a week and went up there to have a good time rather than trying to take it out,” said Mr Smith.
“We’d rather go with the teams we have and give all of our kids the opportunity to play in those carnivals.”
The under 9s Burdekin Roosters recently travelled to Proserpine to compete in the Paul Bowman Challenge. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
The Burdekin Roosters under 9s team wore black armbands honouring local rugby league legend life member Norm Bohl. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
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