
REPRESENTATIVE TEAMS RISE TO THE CHALLENGE Continued from cover Burdekin Netball Association’s junior representative teams have returned from the Queensland Junior State Age Championships with plenty to celebrate, producing strong performances against some of the state’s leading clubs. The Under 13 team finished an impressive 11th out of 21 teams, while the Under 14 side also secured 11th place from a field of 18 teams. These highly respectable results reflect not only the dedication of the players but also the depth of talent continuing to emerge through the Burdekin Netball Association pathways. The Association was also proud to see club player Luca Lawry selected to compete with QC Netball's boys team at the championships. Luca earned his invitation following a standout performance at the North Queensland School Sports netball championships in May. Luca's journey is a testament to the strength of grassroots sporting organisations and the important role community clubs play in developing young athletes. Netball runs deep in the Lawry family, with Luca's grandparents, uncle, aunties and siblings all having represented the Burdekin Netball Association over the years. Despite being one of the youngest members of the QC Netball team, Luca performed exceptionally well throughout the tournament and demonstrated enormous potential for the future. With his sights now firmly set on representing Australia at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, his future in the sport looks incredibly promising. The Burdekin Netball Association is proud to provide opportunities for aspiring netballers to represent the Burdekin region, challenge themselves against the state's best players and create lifelong memories and experiences through sport. Supplied by Burdekin Netball Association Under 14 Team Photo Back row (left to right) Indy Broadhead, Ivy Martin, Chloe Bowen, Eden Godfrey, Charlotte Lawry Front row (left to right) Charmaine Reid (coach), Lily Ahern, Miley Gesah, Makenna Trail, Popi Loizou, Kasey Dobe, Jacki Samwell (manager). Photos supplied
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Burdekin’s next generation of touch footballers will soon have their chance to hit the field, with the Under 14 competition kicking off next Wednesday, July 22. Sign-on will take place from 5pm, with both full teams and individual players encouraged to get involved. Those who nominate individually will be placed into teams to ensure everyone has the opportunity to take part. Games will run each Wednesday from 5pm to 5.45pm, with the season continuing through until November 18. The cost is $60 per player. For more information, contact Bruce on 0408 060 476. CAPTION: Mazlin Smith in action. Supplied.
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Seniors A good weekend for the Panthers. They played four games against Rebels, winning three, losing one and scoring twenty three goals! The Premiers and Reserves were away on Saturday with the Premiers winning 10-0 and the Reserves winning 7-0. The Division 1 and Division 2 teams were away on Friday night with the Division 1 losing 2-5 and the Division 2 winning 4-2. This week, all five teams are in action. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are at home to MA Olympic kicking off at 8.30 and 6.30. The Colts are away to Brothers with a 6.30 kick off. On Sunday, the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Estates kicking off at 5.00 and 3.00. Ladies Day tickets went on sale last Friday and sold out within ours. Did not get a ticket? You can still join in on all the fun at International Park on Saturday 22nd August!’ Calling all Life Members, Sponsors & Old Boys. It’s time to celebrate you! On Sunday August 9th, join us for an afternoon of football, free drinks, and food! Let’s reminisce on all the good, bad, and ugly! Please confirm attendance with Sian Reardon. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club The Panthers produced a ruthless attacking display against Rebels, running out convincing 10–0 winners after dominating from the opening whistle. Jake Siandri made an immediate impact on his return from injury, opening the scoring inside the first three minutes. Elliott Dal Santo doubled the advantage after ten minutes before Jay Leckenby added a third in the 22nd minute. The goals continued to flow, with Matthew Kolb finding the net three minutes later, followed by Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro in the thirtieth minute. Dal Santo then grabbed his second of the afternoon in the 34th minute to send the Panthers into the break with a commanding 6–0 lead. The second half began in much the same fashion, with Cooper Kross scoring just two minutes after the restart. Burdekin continued to create chances throughout the half and were rewarded late in the match. Ryan Scodellaro added the eighth goal in the 79th minute before Matthew Kolb claimed his second three minutes later. Jonte Grazioli completed the scoring in the 85th minute, capping off an impressive team performance. It was a clinical display across the park, with the Panthers showing their attacking quality while also keeping a clean sheet to round out a dominant 10–0 victory. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service The Panthers Reserves also produced an outstanding attacking performance against Rebels, recording a comprehensive 7–0 victory with goals spread across both halves. Cooper Kross got the scoring underway in just the fourth minute before Jhett Jones struck twice in quick succession, finding the net in the 12th and 13th minutes to put the Panthers firmly in control. Kross added his second of the afternoon just two minutes later, giving Burdekin a commanding 4–0 lead heading into half time. The Panthers picked up where they left off after the break. Jonte Grazioli extended the advantage in the 48th minute before Cooper Kross completed a well-deserved hat-trick with his third goal in the 53rd minute. Grazioli then rounded out the scoring in the 59th minute, grabbing his second of the match to seal an emphatic 7–0 victory. It was a dominant team performance from start to finish, with the Panthers controlling the contest throughout and showing plenty of quality in front of goal while keeping another clean sheet. Division 1 – Austral Masonry The Division 1 Panthers took on Rebels also but unfortunately suffered a 2-5 loss. Burdekin started well but could not convert their chances in front of goal, hitting the crossbar and hitting shots wide. Rebels made the most of their chances and jumped out to a 3-0 lead after just twenty minutes which remained the score at half time. The Panthers were much better in the second half with goals to Krishneel Singh and Jack Shears but a penalty and a late goal to Rebels gave them the 5-2 win. A score that did not reflect the amount of possession or chances on goal that Burdekin had. Despite the loss a good performance from a relatively young Burdekin Division 1 side. Jack Shears and Jack Gimson had strong games. Division 2 – RG Customs The Funkies got their season back on track after a couple of tough games recently with a 4-2 win against Rebels. Jared Giardina opened the scoring before Chris Achille made it 2-0 after only five minutes of play. Rebels pulled a goal back soon afterwards and the score remained 2-1 to Burdekin at half time. The Funkies were quite dominant and in control of the game in the second half. Goals to Krishneel Singh and then James Dwyer from the penalty spot gave the Funkies a 4-1 lead approaching full time. Rebels scored a late goal, but the Funkies won 4-2 quite comfortably and move into 4th place on the table. Masters The Masters numbers were higher despite the cool conditions and featured a pre-play of the England v Norway World Cup Quarter Final. The game ended with Norway winning 4-2. after drawing 2-2 at half time. Best players on the night were Felipe Brazil and Shane Feeney. The Magic Moments were very rare! Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick Off. Juniors Junior Saturday games are still on a break for the school holidays, but we’re looking forward to seeing everyone back on the field next weekend! While regular games were on pause, four Burdekin teams travelled to Townsville to compete in the Filippo Mele Memorial Competition from 7–9 July. It was a busy three days of soccer, with plenty of great games and valuable experience for our players. Well done to all players, coaches and families involved for representing the club throughout the competition. International The World Cup Is now at the semi-final stage. France plays Spain on Wednesday in Dallas and England meet Argentina in Atlanta on Thursday. The Final will be played on Monday in New York Quote the of the Week is from ex-Manchester Utd and Scotland manager Tommy Docherty “I’ve always said there’s a place for the press, but they haven’t dug it yet.”
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Burdekin Roosters utility Nemia Nawave had a standout game against Western Lions at Bendigo Bank Park on Saturday night, but it wasn’t enough to get the locals over the line, going down 30-24. Both sides played open, fast football in the first half to have the scores 30-18 to the visiting Lions at the break. While the first half was fast and exciting, with eight tries scored, the second half was a dour affair with a lot of dropped ball as both teams tried to get the ascendancy. The Roosters looked the better team in attack in the second session, but dropped ball robbed them of tries at vital stages. Nothing could be taken away from the defence from both teams in the second session, as both fought valiantly to get on top. The loss by the locals sees them now in fifth place on the ladder, and with Centrals giving the premiers from the last two years, Souths, a hiding on Sunday, Western Lions are now equal third with Brothers behind Souths and Centrals. Coach Steve Lansley said the Roosters produced a spirited second-half fightback but were left to rue a costly opening 40 minutes as they went down to the Western Lions in an entertaining rugby league contest. The first half was an attacking spectacle, with an incredible scoreline as the Lions raced to 30 points while the Roosters kept themselves in the contest with three tries of their own. Defensive improvements after the break saw just one try scored in the entire second half, highlighting the commitment and resilience shown by the Roosters. Unfortunately, the damage had already been done, with the 30 points conceded before half-time proving too much to overcome. Despite the defeat, Burdekin never stopped competing and pushed the Lions all the way to the final siren. Mitch Brown was outstanding throughout, while Nemia once again provided plenty of spark in attack and Jake O’Brien impressed with his tireless work across the park. On to Ladies Day and the return of the Home Hill Devils reunion. For Burdekin, tries came from Lachlan Shepherd, Jake O’Brien, Nemia Nawave and Lach Bachbach. Jake O’Brien kicked four goals. In other A Grade games, Centrals caused the upset of the season so far, beating two-time premiers and undefeated this year Souths 50-10, while Brothers and Herbert River played out a 30-all draw and Norths beat Charters Towers 26-14. It was not a good day for the Roosters, with Western Lions easily winning the reserve grade 40-6 over a disappointing Burdekin team. The Lions led 24-0 at the break, and it wasn’t until near the end that the locals showed any glimpse of what they are capable of. Then Pryce Gesah finished off his match with a good try. Coach Peter Horan said he was thoroughly disappointed with the efforts of a number of players. Braiden Di Bella was the players’ player for a good effort, with Lincoln Boccolatte, Luca Lago, Bryce Caltiabano and Calem Saxby giving of their best. Pryce Gesah scored the try, converted by Dylan Doak. In other reserve grade matches, Norths beat Charters Towers 46-8, Brothers beat Herbert River 40-6 and Souths beat Centrals 34-6. The Roosters Under 19s had a bye for the weekend. Only one Ladies game was played, with Charters Towers beating Norths 24-12. Supplied by Brian Carnes CAPTIONS: 1—A grade Player of the match - joint winners are Nemia Nawave (left) & Jake O'Brien (right) presented by old boy Thomas Lammon (middle) 2—Reserve grade Player of the match - Braedyn Di Bella (accepted by Jahi Starr (right)) presented by old boy Sam Russo (left) Photos supplied
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Two Burdekin Rugby League teams, known as the Burdekin Delta Dolphins, made a strong showing at the Bindall Sharks All Blacks Carnival in Townsville, reaching the finals of the competition but narrowly missing out on top honours.
Despite facing teams bolstered by current and former NRL players, such as Ben Barba, Josh Dugan, James Roberts, and Gehamat Shibasaki, the Burdekin squads held their own with local pride.
In the women's division, coach Tamara White praised her team's performance, emphasising their commitment to fast, open football. Although the Dolphins were one of the smaller teams at the carnival, their spirited play left a lasting impression. Tamara noted that the presence of physically imposing opponents may have contributed to their final result. Unfortunately, a few key players, including Martina Monday, Teah Lee Monday, and Tamara herself, had to withdraw due to injuries sustained at a prior Mackay carnival.
Local talents like Kazzia Lammon, Kaitlin Daley, Tamika Murdock, Jessica Capper, Logan Roncato, and Jo Morgan, along with Townsville players Chloe and Shaniah Watson and Madison Hegart, delivered standout performances. The women's title ultimately went to the Eastern Warriors, who secured victory with a score of 24-10.
In the men's division, coach Emene Monday encouraged his players to keep it simple and enjoy the game. The Dolphins followed his advice and displayed exceptional teamwork and skill, coming tantalizingly close to securing the Grand Final win. However, they fell just short, losing 20-19 in one of the most memorable games the carnival has seen in years.
Dylan Doak, the five-eight from Roosters A-Grade, received the prestigious title of the overall player of the carnival. Yet, it wasn't only Doak who earned recognition. Leonard Heron was named the player of the series, with hooker Jayden McMinn earning the player of the finals award. Raymond Campbell Jnr was recognized as the most improved player of the carnival, and winger Nemia Nawave stood out as the best-performing back.
Coach Emene Monday expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed to the team's success, including Martina Monday, Annie Nauque, Vanessa Monday, Peter Heron, Keon Noah, Gavina, and Michaela. Despite the tough loss in the finals, the Burdekin Delta Dolphins left a lasting mark on the Bindall Sharks All Blacks Carnival, showcasing the region's rugby league talent and spirit.
Contributed by Brian Carnes
The Burdekin Delta Dolphins women’s team at the All Blacks rugby league carnival in Townsville

It’s been a big month for Burdekin FC, capping off a successful season with their senior presentation night at Populins Hall last Saturday, October 28.
The presentation night came after the club marked 50 years of football in the Burdekin with a Gala Dinner earlier in October.
The night was an opportunity to reflect on the 2023 football season, inviting life members, past and present players, committee members, coaches, managers, sponsors and supporters to join the celebrations.
Premier League Men's Awards Winners Kyle Taylor (Coach), Ryan Scodellaro, Jay Leckenby, Oliver Gabiola, Joshua Valle (Coach), Jarrod Camer, Matthew Kolb and Leighton Gallagher (Coach)
Ladies Award Winners Mia Galbraith, Gina Dal Santo (Manager), Kayla Steiner, Amelia Pivotto, Eliza Licciardello, Kya Quagliata, Charlotte Dal Santo and Jay Leckenby (Coach)
Women’s Player of the Year Maddison Dal Santo
Men’s Player of the Year Matthew Walker
Taylah Pearson Memorial Trophy Winner Sian Reardon with parents Bruna and Greg
Club Person of the Year Wayne Kolb
President’s Medal Winner Alan Chatfield. Photos supplied

Over the weekend, eleven of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club members attended the North Australian Championships in Mackay for three gruelling days of competition.
They battled it out in the pool at The Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Centre on Friday for the Pool Rescue Championships, then competing over two days at Mackay Harbour for beach and surf events.
The conditions at the beach were extremely tough with strong winds and large waves, making the weekend a true test of their surf skills and abilities.
Several events were cancelled due to conditions and carnage occurred from broken boards and injuries, but the Ayr crew prevailed and produced some amazing individual and team performances.
Results:
● 2nd – Under 13s Male 100m Patient Tow - Parker Bonato and Zachary Dale
● 3rd – Under 13s/14s Male Medley Relay – Parker Bonato and Zachary Dale
● 1st – Under 12s Female Board Race – Milla Chapman
● 3rd – Under 12s Female Beach Flags – Emma Jones
● 2nd – Under 13s Male 2km Beach Run – Zachary Dale
● 2nd – Under 14s Female 2km Beach Run – Isla Chapman
● 2nd – Under 12s Female Beach Sprint – Milla Chapman
The club returns to normal training this weekend, as well as turning their focus to additional training of lifesaving skills with the North Barrier Branch Surf Rescue Championships carnival held in Ayr on 11th November.
This carnival will allow members to test their knowledge of lifesaving skills including resuscitation, surf awareness, rescue skills and first aid.
Contributed by Kellie Lawry
Parker Bonato and Zachary Dale for Under 13s Male 100m Patient Tow at Pool Rescue Championships
Charlotte Lawry in Under 12s Board Race Final
Emma Jones 3rd in Under 12s Female Beach Flags
Bella Lawry (far left) Start of Under 14s 50m Patient Carry
Isla Chapman - 2nd Under 14s Female 2km Beach Run
Zachary Dale - 2nd Under 13s Male 2km Beach Run
Milla Chapman - 2nd Under 12s Beach Sprint
Under 14 Beach Relay Team - Parker Bonato, Zachary Dale, Isla Chapman and Bella Lawry
Ryley Sartori (second from left) in the start of Under 15 Ironperson Final
Milla Chapman - 1st in Under 12s Female Board Race
Emma Jones with her board for Under 12s
Emma Jones competing in Under 12 Beach Flags
Photos supplied

Tuesday 26th October
Winners, M Nixon, I Cislowski and R Soper Defeated K Stuckler, L Guimelli and B Schultz.
R Moore and H Jorgensen Defeated B Cornford and I Wilson
Thursday 26th October. 3 Bowl Pairs.
I Cislowski and I Wilson Def D Soper and D Lindridge.
M Nixon and P Power Def M Poli and H Jorgensen.
Final play Thursday 2nd November 8.30. M Nixon, P Power against I Cislowski, I Wilson.
Wednesday Social Afternoon
Winners J.Hall, T. Battagia, C.Berkerly
Friday Night Sponsored Event: Crazy Skates
Winners C.Power, B.Hewson, T.Power, M.Power.
Well done, it looks like new champions are emerging.
Friday 24th November will be the last event for this year sponsored by Crazy Skates. Don't miss out, get your team in.
Saturday Social Afternoon
Winners P.Vass, S.Darwin, D.Cutting
Sunday Competition
Mixed Singles winner W.Coonan Defeated J.Hall
Finals of the Club Mixed Triples Championship winners congratulations to M.Chapman, H. Hazel, G.Pearce Runners- up B. Cornford, D.Burt, D.Lindridge
Every Tuesday Ladies Social names in by 12.30.
Contributed by Michael Parravicini.

On Sunday, the annual Sheahan’s Shootout was held. Thanks went to Scott and Judi Sheahan for sponsoring the popular event once again. A stableford was played and then 6-hole numbers were drawn. The stableford points for these 6 holes were totalled. Five players went straight through and a putt off was had to determine the 6th player through.
The six players that went through to the shootout were Mac Jones, Val Smith, Ross Wilkie, Craig O’Keefe, David Falco, and John Power. Val Smith and Mac Jones dropped out after the first hole followed by Craig O’Keefe and Ross Wilkie after the second hole. That left Dave Falco and John Power to fight it out. They both had a par on the final hole to be played so another putt off was had to determine the winner.
David Falco took first prize home and John Power second prize. The daily winner was Ross Wilkie with 44 points from runner-up John Power. Pin shots on 4/13 went to Greg Macelroy, Megan Barbagallo and Bev Macdonald. On 9/18 they were won by Craig O’Keefe, John Power, and Ruth Cooper.
This Sunday is the Harvest Festival Ambrose.
Contributed by Bev MacDonald.

Club nights have officially kicked off for the Burdekin Swimming Club, and their recent ‘come and try’ night made quite a splash with approximately 80 swimmers taking to the water, marking an excellent start to the season.
In addition to the club's dedicated members, swimmers from various swim schools enthusiastically joined the event to have some enjoyable races in a friendly setting. Although club nights emphasise participation rather than competition, each child's performance was timed and recorded. These times serve as personal benchmarks, motivating swimmers to return to the next club night and strive to beat their own personal bests. Those who achieve new personal best times are rewarded with the coveted Freddo's!
The club will be hosting another ‘come and try’ event on the 8th November.
The swim season extends through April next year, and the Burdekin Swimming Club welcomes swimmers of all skill levels and ages. The club currently has swimming ranging in age from five to 50 years old. Participants can engage in all swim strokes or focus on the ones they are most comfortable with. Beyond the fun and fitness aspects, the swim club also offers opportunities for those aspiring to improve their times. Swimmers have the chance to attend competitions where they can challenge themselves against peers from around the region.
Club nights are held every Wednesday night, with a 6pm start time. Further information can often be found on the club's Facebook page, or inquiries can be directed to the club via email at info@basc.net.au. Newcomers are welcomed to attend three free club nights before making a commitment.
The club will be hosting another ‘come and try’ night on 8th November.
Mark your calendars, as the Burdekin Swimming Club will host another exciting "Come and Try" night on November 8th. It's a fantastic opportunity to dive into the world of swimming and experience the camaraderie and thrill of the sport.
Burdekin Swimming Club kicked off its season with a successful ‘come and try’ night, welcoming swimmers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the water. Photo supplied: Burdekin Swimming Club
Burdekin Swimming Club launched its season with a bustling participation night, emphasising personal progress, and promoting the joy of swimming. Photos supplied: Burdekin Swimming Club

A beautiful morning unfolded at Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club's Points Day event at Alva Beach last weekend. Under the warm sun, club members and supporters gathered for a day of beachside enjoyment.
While Ayr Beach set the scene for Points Day, some devoted club members are preparing for one of the biggest competitions on the Queensland lifesaving calendar. This weekend, they will travel to Mackay, where over 1000 participants and spectators from the Gold Coast to Cairns will converge. Their goal is to compete for the prestigious title of Northern Australian Surf Lifesaving Champions for 2023. It's an exciting opportunity for our club to showcase their skills and spirit on a grand stage.
For those not participating in the North Aussies, the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club continues to nurture the next generation of lifesavers through their Nippers program. Every Sunday morning, children have the chance to learn the ins and outs of surf lifesaving. This family-friendly sport encourages young ones to build their confidence, acquire vital safety skills for the ocean, and have a fantastic time by the seaside.
Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club is committed to promoting safety, confidence, and a profound appreciation for the beach, ensuring that our future generations have the skills and knowledge to enjoy the ocean while staying safe.
Last weekend’s Points Day event at Alva Beach. Photos supplied

Burdekin District Sportfishing Club held their monthly meeting last weekend where fishing opened on Friday evening and closed on Sunday afternoon.
The club then met at a member’s residence for a barbecue and to weigh in their catches on Sunday night.
There was a variety of species weighed in, including sea bream, black bream, cod, whiting, trevally and a tuna.
Being a sportsfishing club, the lighter the line used, the more points are scored.
The fishing club is ANSA affiliated and fishes under ANSA rules.
Join Burdekin District Sportsfishing Club on Facebook for more information.
Josh Brett and little sister Kadence with a Mangrove Jack
Russell Sutcliffe with a Mangrove Jack that took a lure
Russell and Henry Sutcliffe gathering live bait
Kerby Brett with fish caught over the last month
Photos supplied: Simone Sutcliffe

Play on Wednesday 18th October was well supported with 20 players, resulting in two triples teams and two pairs teams.
The conditions were very tricky with the wind playing havoc. Top bowls were played overall.
TRIPLES RESULTS
Wayne Coonan, Alan Jones, Tony Battagia defeated Mick Olsen, Arthur Gavvin, Barry Hewson.
Henry Hazel, Margaret Chapman, Richard Aplin defeated Ron Soper, Happy Horan, Jim Murray.
PAIRS RESULTS
Chris Berkerly, George Nixon defeated Maurice Power, Dino Polio
Chris Olditch, John Hall defeated John McDonald, Bob Pickard
Winners for the day were George Nixon and Chris Berkerly. Jackpot didn't go off.
Play on Saturday 21st October saw fourteen players with one triples game and two pairs games played.
TRIPLES RESULTS
Henry Hazel, John Hall, Paul Vass defeated Val Edwards, Joe Grabbi, Arthur Gavvin.
PAIRS RESULTS
Thelly Klopper, Katarina Stuckler defeated Sandra Darween, Wayne Coonan
Joe Papale, Mick Olsen defeated Alan Jones, Ron Soper
Winners of the day were Joe Papale and Mick Olsen.
Jackpot and Joker didn't go off and continues to build.
CRAZY FRIDAY NIGHT – SPONSORED BY CRAZY SKATES
Please don't forget to come along and support our sponsored event by Crazy Skates this Friday Night, 27th October. Your entry fee includes a sausage sizzle at 6pm with 7pm bowls start, 9pm finish with light supper provided, prize money and a very fun atmosphere. We welcome new bowlers, who knows, you might be Queensland’s next champion! Give it a go.
Contributed by Ayr Lawn Bowls
Wickets were hard to come by in a low scoring Under 13 game last Friday, with all batters very watchful and not throwing their wickets away. Only two bowlers were good enough to take any, these were Mark Wilkie, 1 for 5 and Nate Elphinstone with 1 for 12. Top scorer with the bat with 12 runs was Marshall Parker, followed by Nate Elphinstone on 11 not out, then Oscar Mahoney 10 runs. Nate Quagliata bowled very economically without getting a wicket and had only two runs scored off the bat from his overs.
There are such good numbers in the Challenger Blasters that we have split them into two groups. Kye Quinlan scored 17 runs which included a four, Tate Parker was next on 14, closely followed by Jamie Goldsworthy who hit a six on his way to 13. Tate and Jamie took wickets when they were bowling as did Billy Muilwyk.
In the other Challengers game Tyler Smith smashed his way to 18 runs with 3 fours. This was enough for him and Levi Trail to take out the highest partnership for the day. The next highest was Anna Muilwyk and Delta Burrell then Paige Elphinstone and Evelyn Mahoney.
Last weekend Thomas Cardillo travelled to Mackay to play with the North Queensland Team in the Under 15 Boys Northern Hub Championships. Thomas helped his team win all their games and bring home the Under 15 Boys Northern Hub Championship for NQ.
This weekend the Home Hill Cricket Association will be hosting the Boys Under 13 North Queensland Trials at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex. The best Under 13 players will come from Herbert River, Charters Towers, Townsville and the Burdekin to try and make the North Queensland Under 13 Team to play in their Zone Championship in December.
Contributed by Scott Heidke
Kye Quinlan and Evelyn Mahoney
Parker Oar and Nate Quagliata
Thomas Cardillo

As the final whistle echoes through the fields, concluding an exhilarating 2023 Rugby Union season, the Burdekin Rugby Union Club would like to take this moment to convey our deep gratitude to the sponsors whose unwavering support brought this unforgettable season to life. Their steadfast commitment enabled our teams to achieve remarkable success both on and off the field, and we eagerly anticipate the prospect of continuing this fruitful partnership into the forthcoming 2024 season.
Rugby Union, a sport that thrives on the collective efforts of players, coaches, supporters, and sponsors, came alive in the 2023 season, with sponsors playing a pivotal role in shaping our success story. Their invaluable contributions have not only nurtured young talent but have also fostered a positive culture within our team and community.
As we bid farewell to the remarkable 2023 season, our sights are already set on the 2024 Rugby Union season. We extend a warm invitation to potential sponsors to join our club on this exciting journey. Your support will not only fuel the growth of our club but will also elevate your brand's visibility and reputation.
We are proud to offer a range of sponsorship packages, starting at just $500, designed to accommodate businesses of all sizes and provide numerous benefits, including enhanced brand exposure, prominent logo placement, and exclusive access to our events. To explore the possibilities of sponsoring our club in the upcoming 2024 season, please do not hesitate to contact us at brucsecretary@outlook.com. Your involvement will be highly valued and will undoubtedly leave a significant imprint on the success of the forthcoming season.
As we draw the curtains on this exceptional year of rugby, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our current sponsors, dedicated players, loyal supporters, and every individual who has contributed to the success of the 2023 season. We are eagerly looking ahead to the 2024 season, where we aspire to achieve even greater milestones with your continued support.
Once more, we thank our community for your generous support, and we eagerly anticipate the thrills and triumphs that 2024 will bring.
Contributed by Burdekin Rugby Union
THANK YOU TO OUR 2023 SPONSORS

Round 2 of the Home Hill Cricket Association senior competition was the first opportunity of the season for Crowned Mongrels to come up against Peto’s Marine, with Peto’s Marine winning the toss and electing to bat first.
Openers Simon Vickers and Brad Parravicini got the batting side off to a great start, falling for 46 off 29 and 32 off 37 respectively.
The rest of the order struggled to find runs, however, with Shaun Goldsworthy the only other batsman to reach double figures with 12 runs of 22 balls and a handy 9 off 24 from Darcy Walters, seeing Peto’s Marine to a total of 134 runs.
Adam Camer, Scott Hazard and Alex Stillhard all shone with the ball for Crowned Mongrels, all taking three wickets each while Nicholas Pengelly took one.
Crowned Mongrels’ run chase was off to a rocky start with an early wicket, but opener Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro and number three batsman Alex Stillhard steadied the ship with a respective 19 off 12 and 15 off 17 before Andrew Wallwork contributed a mighty 48 from 45 balls.
Casper Licciardello and Adam Camer also contributed with 17 from 36 and 11 from 10, steering the Mongrels to a match winning 9/171 from their 35 overs.
Simon Vickers, Brad Parravicini and Mark Nosworthy all took two wickets each for Peto's Marine and Leon Franklin, Salvatore Cardillo and Daniel Olditch took one.
Crowned Mongrels will take on round one victors Guardian Pharmacy in this weekend’s clash at Barry Richards Field.
A bowler’s day out - Scott Hazard took 3 wickets for 7 runs off 2 overs and Alex Stillhard took 3 wickets for 8 runs off 2 overs. Photo supplied

The Ayr Ladies Golf Club is cheering after completing their annual Baxter Family Day 4bbb Stableford Medley.
“Many thanks to Peter Baxter for your ongoing support each year,” said a representative from the club.
In a fantastic day of golf, there of course had to be one winning team.
“And the winning score was mind blowing,” said the representative.
“A pairing of ladies Marion Chappell and Kim Manty scored a massive 50 points. Well done ladies.”
Second place was secured by Dennis Mondin and Kevin Campbell with 46 points.
“And in third place was Joy Cornford and John Kapeechkin with 45 points.”
The Ayr Ladies Golf Club would also like to invite members and community members to the Ayr Golf Club end of year presentation dinner and Christmas party.
Scheduled for December 1, the presentation will include welcome nibbles and a two course meal, a
Tickets are $50 per person and will be available for purchase from the clubhouse in early November.
“Also a big thank you to all the members who helped with the big event of Karrie Webb Junior Masters. This takes a lot of work and to those that helped in any way - a big thank you.”
Happy winners of the Baxter Family Day at Ayr Ladies Golf Club. Photo supplied

Plantation parkrun, hosted at Ayr’s Plantation Park, celebrated 250 runs on Saturday, October 14.
16 runners and walkers celebrated by completing the course, one joining for the first time and two smashing their personal bests, as well as plenty of furry friends joining in on the fun.
Plantation parkrun thanked their volunteers, including Holly Alford, Donna Howard, Jody Lindley, Carol O'connor, Robert Tama, Nicholas Wiseman, for making the event possible.
Plantation parkrun takes place every Saturday from 7:00am at Plantation Park, Bruce Highway, Ayr.
16 runners completed Plantation parkrun’s 250th run on Saturday, October 14. Photos supplied: Plantation parkrun

Thursday October 19 saw 24 players at the new Home Hill rink.
Rink 5 saw a great game between Judy, John and Glen running out as eventual winners over Hugh, Alex and Peter 17 to 13.
Rink 6 saw a pairs game with Happy and Mick winning over Lee and Henry 28 to 7.
Rink 7 saw what turned out to be the match of the day with Dino, Bob and Trevor winning on the last end against Karl, Paul and Des 18 to 17.
Rink 8 pitted Jimmy, Dave and Gary eventually winning against Natasha, Joe and Stephen.
Winning the lucky Rink and the day on Rink 6 was Mick and Happy while the weekly raffle was won by Jimmy Murray; thanks to Dino Poli for donating the prize.
Don't forget next Thursday October 26 is the Burdekin Motors sponsor day with cash prizes up for grabs.
Names in by 1pm for a 1.30pm start, $12 a head, teams of triples will be done in the lucky mixed format.
Friday night bowls has also been moved to Wednesday night barefoot bowls; family and children are welcome.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
Last week’s winners Mick and Happy