Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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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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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