This weekend, the Burdekin is the place to be with three exciting sporting events that promise to bring energy, competition, and plenty of fun for all! Lace up your shoes and hit the starting line at the Burdekin Sugar Rush, kick off your tennis skills at the 44th Annual Sugar Bowl, or grab your cricket bat and join the Canefield Ashes carnival for an action-packed two days of T20 cricket. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to have a good time, there’s something for everyone. The Burd
Read the full storyLocal Senior fixtures resume this weekend after a very long hiatus. The Panthers have four home games and one away game over the weekend of 24 -26 April. On Friday, the Ladies are at home to Wulguru at 6.30 and the Division 1 Men play Wulguru at 8.30. The Division 2 Men’s team is away to Estates at 6.30 at Paradise Park. Then on Saturday the Panthers have two home games against Brothers with the Premiers playing at 7.00 after the Reserves have played at 5.00. Juniors Juniors are finally back un
Read the full storyThe Burdekin Sugar Rush Is Back With Some New Twists and Turns! Lace up and bring the energy—on Sunday, April 27, the Burdekin Sugar Rush is back to fire up the region and kick off the ANQ Half-Marathon Series with a bang! Hosted by the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers for the 23rd year running, the event will feature races for all ages and abilities. The morning is kicked off at Anzac Park with the Half-Marathon at 6:30am, followed by the 10km run at 7:15am, and the all-inclusive 5km fun run
Read the full storyIt has been a bustling week at the Ayr Bowling Club, with social bowls, awards presentations, and the Annual General Meeting bringing members together to celebrate a successful year of bowling.
On Wednesday 4 December, the club hosted three games of triples with Ron Smythe, Joe Papale, and Anthony Bull emerging victorious over Cisco, Col Essex, and Ron Soper in a close match. The club's covered greens provided respite from the summer heat, ensuring an enjoyable afternoon for all participants.
Saturday’s social bowls saw a fantastic turnout of 29 players before the annual awards presentation. Four games of triples and one game of pairs were played, with Val Edwards, Thelma Klopper, Joe Papale, and Anthony Bull taking home gift vouchers donated by the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club for their win. Runners-up Lorraine Wolffe, Col Essex, and Lew Stidston earned Christmas hams, while Dot Cotting won the major raffle prize, which included a bag and prawns from Home Hill Prawn Shop.
The annual awards presentation on Saturday evening recognised the club’s top performers. Vice Men’s President Maurie Power and Vice Ladies’ President Sandra Stidston officiated the ceremony, expressing gratitude to players, committee members, and volunteers. Special thanks were extended to Honeycombes for sponsoring the Mixed Singles award, which was won by Michael Parravicini.
The prestigious Bowler of the Year titles went to Joe Grabbi for the men and Pam Power for the women, acknowledging their dedication and exceptional performances both at the club and in inter-district competitions.
Sunday’s Annual General Meeting marked the end of an era as Anthony Bull stepped into the role of Club President, succeeding Ron Soper.
The incoming committee includes:
• Secretary: Pam Power
• Treasurer: Maurice Power
• Men’s Senior Vice President: Maurice Power
• Ladies’ Vice President: Beryl Cornford
• Greens Director: Ron Soper
• Provedore: Sam Caltibiano
• Men’s Games Director: Anthony Bull
• Ladies’ Games Director: Irene Wilson
• Ladies’ Committee Member: Joy Comollatti
• Men’s Committee Members: Chris Berkery and John Perone
• Grants Coordinator: Lorraine Wolffe
Ray Wall will continue in his role as Patron of the club.
Social bowls will continue over the Christmas break, with games scheduled for 11, 14, 18 and 21 December. There will be no bowls on 25 or 28 December. Instead, mixed social bowls will take place on Tuesday, 31 December.
Members and newcomers alike are encouraged to join the club's social bowls events, which continue on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons, with evening games on Wednesdays during summer. Names are to be submitted by 6:30pm, with games starting at 7pm.
The Ayr Bowling Club looks forward to an exciting year ahead, with activities resuming in January 2025, weather permitting, and social bowls likely to begin on 14 January.
Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.
Saturday Winners received RSL Vouchers for their stellar performances.
Bowlers of the Year were Pam Power and Joe Grabbi.
Michael Parravicini was the Mixed Singles campion as sponsored by Honeycombes.
The final junior cricket games for 2024 before the Christmas break were played last Friday evening at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex, bringing together players, families, and the wider community for a fantastic celebration of the season.
The Tuesday Rookies joined forces with the Challengers for the occasion, creating an exciting atmosphere where all players showcased their skills before enjoying a well-earned sausage sizzle, generously sponsored by Woolworths.
In the Challengers' match, Henry Cohen and Cooper Gardner impressed with a strong partnership of 16 runs, both remaining not out. Corey Pensini and Doug Cohen followed suit with their 11-run partnership, also unbeaten. Among the bowlers, Amaya Goggi and Royce Cohen each claimed two wickets, while Hunter O'Shea, Mica Kemp, and Henry Cohen picked up one each.
The "McDonald’s Sports Awards" were presented to Mica Kemp, Nicholas Marrinan, and Doug and Royce Cohen for their outstanding performances.
Kaisen Petersen returned to the "Blue Group" after several weeks in the "Gold Group," showcasing his refined skills by top-scoring with 12 not out and taking a wicket. He also earned a "McDonald’s Sports Award" for his all-round effort.
Tait Parker and Kye Quinlan shone with the bat, scoring 11 and 10 runs respectively, with Kye hitting two boundaries. Tait delivered with the ball as well, taking three wickets for just four runs, while Kip Nicholas narrowly missed a hat-trick, claiming three wickets in four balls to earn another "McDonald’s Sports Award."
Other wicket-takers included Jacob Adcock, Jude Shannon, Kye Quinlan, and Mitchell Patti, with Mitchell also contributing two runouts.
The "Gold Group" played a shortened game to join in the festivities. Marshall Parker dazzled with 19 runs off 15 balls, including a six and a four, while Xavier Cross added an unbeaten 12 runs with two boundaries.
The standout bowler of the game, Mark Wilkie, took two wickets for just eight runs off three overs, earning him a "McDonald’s Sports Award." Tyler Schultz, Ben Watkins, and Logan Pickup each claimed a wicket, while Alex Cullen added a sharp catch to his name.
The evening wrapped up with a lively sausage sizzle, bringing families and players together to celebrate the season’s efforts and achievements. The Home Hill Cricket Association extends its gratitude to Woolworths for donating sausages, onions, and bread, making the half-season break-up a resounding success.
The association wishes all its players and supporters a safe and happy festive season and looks forward to seeing everyone back on the field in 2024!
Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke.
Mark Wilkie was celebrated as the game’s standout bowler!
Kaisen Petersen and Kip Nicholas both received McDonalds Sports Awards on Friday.
The Rookies and Challengers joined forces last week.
The Rookies and Challengers game created an awesome atmosphere.
The Blue Group putting on a lively show.
The Gold Group performed exceptionally well.
The rain stayed away long enough last Friday for the penultimate week of Junior Cricket before the Christmas break, giving the young cricketers a chance to showcase their skills. Thanks to Dan and the grounds team, the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex fields were in top condition, despite the recent wet weather.
In the Challengers group, Noah Tanner and Corey Pensini stood out with a superb partnership of 19 runs, with Corey remaining not out. Batting wasn’t easy, but the bowlers made their mark, with Hadley, Anna, Royce, Lincoln, Noah, and Corey all taking wickets. For their excellent performances with both bat and ball, Corey and Noah received the "McDonald's Sports Awards" for the week.
Over on field 4, the "Blue Group" delivered an exciting match. Tait Parker and Kip Nicholas were impressive with the bat, scoring 16 and 15 runs respectively, both remaining unbeaten. Tait smashed three boundaries during his innings and also shone with the ball, taking 2 wickets for just 6 runs. Mazlyn Smith matched his bowling prowess, claiming two wickets herself, while Kyle Wilkie and Kayleah McCarthy took one wicket each. Kip Nicholas and Jake Cullen added to the action with a runout each. Tait’s all-round brilliance earned him a "McDonald's Sports Award," while Mazlyn’s spirited bowling and encouragement in the field saw her claim the other award.
In the "Gold Group," Marshall Parker delivered a standout performance, smashing five boundaries and one six in a blistering 24-ball innings of 35 runs, retiring not out. He also impressed with the ball, taking 2/9, earning him the "McDonald's Sports Award" for his efforts. Other noteworthy contributions came from Oscar Mahoney, who remained unbeaten with 16 runs, while Xavier Cross, Tyler Schultz, and Ben Watkins all took wickets. Ben also added a runout to his tally, and Oliver Calligaro made a great catch.
As the Christmas break approaches, the juniors continue to deliver fantastic performances each week, showcasing the depth of talent and enthusiasm within the Home Hill Cricket Association.
Contributed with thanks to HHCA Junior Co-Ordinator Scott Heidke.
Tait Parker and Mazlyn Smith were Blue Group standouts!
Marshall Parker shone in the Gold Group.
Challenger’s Noah Tanner and Corey Pensini made a perfect pair.
Saturday 14 December, 1pm to 5pm: Patrol Group A - Chris Wicks, Damien Rickets, Emma Rickets, and Jane Wicks.
Sunday 15 December, 9am to 5pm: All Day Patrol Group D - Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac Dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, and Briella Wassmuth.
Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.
Burdekin Christian College’s open boys’ basketball team made history by winning the inaugural Calvary Cup, held at Townsville Basketball Stadium on November 28. Competing against schools like Annandale, Whitsunday, and hosts Calvary Christian College, BCC’s boys remained undefeated, securing the boys' basketball title.
Coach Rachel Cornelius praised the team’s effort, while BCC also celebrated standout performances from Peter Heron, Linked Darr, and Lataiah Trindle, who were awarded Best & Fairest honors. Despite limited facilities, BCC’s success reflects determination and teamwork, with the school eager to defend its title in next year’s event.
Burdekin Christian College’s open boys’ basketball team has won the inaugural ‘Calvary Cup’, a new inter-school sporting competition. The highly anticipated new event took place on Thursday, 28th November, and was held at the Townsville basketball stadium.
The competitive and tight competition included other Christian schools within the Far North Queensland region, such as Annandale Christian College, Whitsunday Christian College, and Calvary Christian College, who hosted the event.
“Burdekin Christian College (BCC) was invited to compete in the very first Calvary Cup by Calvary Christian College in Townsville, which we were very excited by” says Rachel Cornelius, who coached the boys’ team to victory.
BCC had several teams represented, which included grade 7-9 students in both the boys’ and girls’ basketball and netball.
The open boys’ team won the boys' basketball Calvary Cup, with David Nourdine coaching the girls’ basketball team, who fought well despite not being the most experienced team and facing a few injuries.
“The girls fought really well. They had a very strong game. Although they were not the most experienced team out there, they had a good fight. They played really well as a team, and even though there were a few injuries, they just persevered through the competition. I’m really proud of them,” David, BCC girls’ basketball coach says.
The boys’ second team, coached by Jerri Cakau, though less experienced, demonstrated good sportsmanship throughout despite not winning any games.
“They weren't an overly experienced team, but they played really hard. Unfortunately, they didn't win any games but showed good sportsmanship and really enjoyed being part of the competition,” Jerri says.
However, it was the open boy’s team, coached by Rachel Cornelius, which was undefeated and won the Calvary Cup for the boys’ basketball division, in what was an exciting and well organised event.
“We made history in the fact that, it's the first time that we have been invited, first time they’ve run the competition, and then to win one of the cups, was beyond our wildest expectations,” says Rachel.
There were three Calvary cups: one for netball, one for girls' basketball, and one for boys' basketball. The netball team, coached by a year 12 student, did not qualify for the finals, while the boys' netball competition was canceled due to lack of participation.
Other notable achievements on the day for BCC, included three of their students, Peter Heron (Open Boys Basketball); Linked Darr (Boys Basketball); and Lataiah Trindle (Girls Basketball), who were all awarded the Best & Fairest players for their respective divisions, in the cross-Christian school rivalry.
Despite being small and having limited facilities, the school is extremely proud of its achievements. While the event was praised for fostering inter-school Christian competition and good camaraderie.
“The competition was a really good initiative for bringing Christian schools together and we look forward to it becoming an annual event. Overall, we had a very successful competition and we can’t wait to defend the boy’s title,” says David with a smile.
Burdekin Christian College’s open boy’s basketball team hoisting their winning Calvary Cup aloft. Photo: Supplied by BCC
BCC’s open boy’s basketball and their coach, Rachel Cornelius. Photo: Supplied by BCC
The BCC girl’s basketball team and their coach, David Nourdine. Photo: Supplied by BCC
Lataiah Trindle, who won the Best & Fairest players for the best girls' basketball player. Photo: Supplied by BCC
Plantation Parkrun #307 saw local runners and walkers gather for a morning of fitness and fun on Saturday 7 December. The weekly event showcased the talents of participants across various age groups, with Skye Claussen taking the top spot overall. Claussen crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 24:26.
Hot on her heels was Drew Bursey, who secured second place in 26:22, followed closely by Robert Tama at 26:25. The fourth and fifth positions were claimed by Karin Thorburn in 26:31 and Chris Cohen in 26:33, respectively.
The Plantation Parkrun continues to provide a fantastic opportunity for community members of all ages to stay active and achieve personal bests. New participants are always welcome to join in the fun and register for free at www.parkrun.com.au/plantation.
The Burdekin Clay Target Club wrapped up its year in style with a highly successful Christmas shoot on Sunday, December 8. With 58 competitors braving the steamy heat, the event showcased impressive scores across the board.
The day featured six exciting events, and participants from various grades delivered outstanding performances.
Event 1 – 15 Target Medley (15m)
• AA Grade: 1st Aaron Lemphers (50/50), 2nd Wayne Cislowski (49/50), 3rd Jarrod Coleman (48/50)
• A Grade: 1st Tony Robinson (49/50), 2nd Col Edgerton (47/50), 3rd Gian Vassalini (46/50)
• B Grade: 1st John Kinnimonth (25/25), 2nd Daniel Scott (47/50), 3rd Andrew Bergin (46/50)
• C Grade: 1st Brian Bonanno (47/50), 2nd Michelle Russell (43/50), 3rd Pedro Le Blowitz (24/25)
Event 2 – 10 Target Pointscore Handicap
Top performers included Gian Vassalini, Glenn McHenry, Phil Russell, and Wayne Cislowski, each scoring a perfect 30/30.
Event 3 – 10 Target Single Barrel Handicap
Jy Yarrow, Chantal Morelli, and Tony Caruso excelled with 10/10 scores, while Daniel Scott achieved 14/16.
The day also included the Double Barrel Handicap, Consolation Rounds, and the 5 Pair Double Rise, where Lindsay Groat, Joe Caruso, and Joe Scalia led in their respective grades.
A big thank you goes to sponsors including Peto Marine, Burdekin Tyres, and Hall's Firearms, whose support ensured the day’s success.
The club looks forward to its next event on Sunday, 12 January, 2025. Stay safe, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!
Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato.
Local
Pre-season training has begun. and a mixture of seasoned senior players and Under16 and Under14 players have turned up. Training will continue up until 19 December then start again on 2 January. Thursday nights at International Park from 6pm. All new and returning players are welcome.
Only Night Soccer is left on the local Calendar. Next Tuesday, 10 December is Semi-finals night, and the Grand Finals are on Friday 13 December.
Night Soccer
Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s Week 13 and only one more round before the semi-finals. Top scorers on the night were UDS Ladies who defeated a depleted Kicken Goals 9-0 and DL Lager who somehow marmelised Coral Coast Electrical 8-0.
Mottin Earthmoving is back on top of Group A1 after defeating Rocky Pond Warriors 3-2 and UDS still lead in Group A2 after defeating Plumb Dingers 2-1 in a very close match. In Men’s B Grade, 7 Stooges are top on goals from Oary’s Levellers after beating Karls Mowing Service 3-0 the Levellers beat Mountain View Fresh 1-0.
In Men’s Social, Wires Down still lead the Group after a 1-0 win against Boarin n Scorin followed by Old Grumpies who defeated Jaime’s Boys 3-1.
In the Women’s competition UDS Ladies still top the A Grade table Sanco produce is in second place, but the team has now gone home! In Social A Grade, Shin Kickers beat Let’s Get Messi and Havn’t a Kahlua thumped Orange Goal Diggers 4-1.
Week 14’s games on Tuesday were called off because of the wet weather but will, hopefully, be played tonight Thursday 5 December.
Juniors
Junior Social Soccer wound up for the season last Tuesday.
National and International
The Socceroos are now ‘resting’ after their match against Bahrain. Their next match, another “Must Win”, is at home against Indonesia on 20 March. The Socceroos are in second place on the table one point ahead of the next four teams. Japan seems to have already qualified with five wins and a draw from their six games. Each team plays ten games. The top two teams in the Group qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup. Third placed teams have to go to Play offs!
The Matildas have played two friendlies against Brazil and lost both of them. Last Thursday in Melbourne they lost 1-3 and then on Sunday, on the Gold Coast they lost 1-2. The Matildas then play Chinese Taipei on 4 and 7 December, also in Australia.
In the A League, Auckland continue their outstanding run and is the only club with a one hundred per cent record. They beat Newcastle jets 2-1to stay at the top of the table two points clear of Melbourne Victory who beat Western Utd 3-1. Adelaide is in third place after a 2-2 draw with Perth and at the foot of the table Brisbane gained their first point in 4-4 draw away to Macarthur.
The A League Women only had two matches because of the Matildas games. Melbourne City beat Western Sydney 2-1 to go top of the league and Central Coast won 2-1 against Canberra. The Roar stay in second place level on points with the Mainers but having played a game less.
In England and the EPL, Manchester City lost their fourth match in a row, 2-0 away to Liverpool who have now opened a nine point lead over second placed Arsenal who won 5-2 at West Ham. Chelsea moves up to equal second with a 3-0 home win against Aston Villa and ManU with their new manager move up to ninth spot with a 4-0 home win against Everton.
In Germany, only three of the top six teams won. Bayern still tops the Bundesliga four points clear of Frankfurt despite only drawing away to fifth placed Dortmund. Leverkusen moves up to third place with a 2-1 away win at Union Berlin and is a further three points off the pace. Leipzig lost and drops to fourth spot. At the foot of the table Bochum and Holstein Kiel both lost again and look doomed.
In Italy’s Serie A, the top four teams all won again and so Napoli, who won 1-0 at Torino still top the table three points clear of Inter and Fiorentina. Atalanta is in fourth spot a further point behind but has a game in hand. Juventus could only manage a draw away and drops to sixth place. At the foot of the table none of the bottom six teams won and Venezia continues to hold up the league.
In Spain, Barcelona was the only one of the top nine teams to lose. Somehow, they managed to lose at home to eighteenth placed Las Palmas. Oh Dear! Real Madrid in second place is just one point behind Barca and Atletico in third place is another point adrift. Atletico Bilbao won 2-1 away to Rayo Vallecano and moves up to fourth place.
At the foot of the table Espanyol were the only one of the bottom six teams to win. with just six points separating the bottom six clubs.
Finally in France, Marseille and Lyon were the only teams out of the top six to win. PSG could only draw 1-1 at home to seventeenth placed Nantes but is still seven points ahead of Marseille and Monaco. Lille is in fourth place another three points away. Montpellier managed a draw but continues to hold up the league and looks to be in danger of the drop.
The Quote of the Week is from new Coventry City Coach Frank Lampard “When you take a lot of stick you want to ram it down people's throats.”
The End of Harvest Golf Classic is shaping up to be a spectacular event, with plenty of activities and excitement planned for next Friday, 13 December. Organisers are urging teams to finalise their registrations quickly, as only three spots remain. Due to the popularity of the event, nominations cannot be accepted on the day. The finalised draw will be released next week and shared via the End of Harvest Golf Classic’s Facebook page.
Bray Slushy Bar
Platinum sponsor Bray will feature a Slushy Bar, opening at 11am, serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, with all proceeds donated to CORES, supporting a great cause.
Longest Drive Competition
This year’s Longest Drive Competition kicks off at 1:30pm near the Slushy Bar. For $5, participants get three balls to try their luck. Entries are unlimited, and the competition includes men’s and women’s categories. Proceeds from this contest will also go to CORES.
Drinks and Raffle Tickets
Drink tickets will be available for purchase from the Ayr Golf Club and can be used on the course or at the main bar. Raffle tickets are also on sale, and attendees can buy them on the day or pre-order via email. EFTPOS facilities will be available at the main bar, kitchen, slushy bar, and registration table.
With an action-packed schedule and plenty of prizes, this year’s End of Harvest Golf Classic promises to be a fantastic celebration. Mark your calendars for 13 December and get ready for a day of fun on the greens!
What: End of Harvest Golf Classic.
When: Friday 13 December.
Where: Ayr Golf Club.
More Information: End of Harvest Golf Classic’s Facebook page.
Contributed with thanks to Kelsey and Ben.
Another fantastic End of Harvest Golf Classic is on the horizon with organisers gearing up for one of their biggest events yet!
Saturday 7 December 1pm to 5pm (Super Sub Patrol) Joshua Furnell, Barry Cross, and Brooke Cross.
Sunday 8 December 9am to 1pm (Patrol Group B) Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, and Danny Wilson.
Sunday 8 December 1pm to 5pm (Patrol Group G) Carl List, Jimmy Hayllor, James Kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Richards, and Jedd Giddy.
Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.
A morning of fitness and fun unfolded at Plantation parkrun on Saturday for event #306.
Leading the pack was Terry Brennan, crossing the finish line in a time of 26:25. Close behind was Precious Rush, completing the course in 27:11 with an impressive performance.
John Byers secured the third spot, finishing his run in 30:28. Further down the field, Keith Crichton completed the course in 48:39, demonstrating great determination. Finally, Travis Crichton wrapped up the event with a time of 59:54, rounding out another successful parkrun morning.
Plantation parkrun continues to provide a welcoming space for participants of all abilities to stay active and enjoy the community spirit. Congratulations to all finishers!
If you're interested in joining, Plantation parkrun takes place every Saturday morning at 7am, with all abilities welcome. Whether you're chasing a personal best or just looking to enjoy a morning walk or jog, parkrun has something for everyone.
The Burdekin Canetoads are celebrating another remarkable achievement, with Caitlin Holmes earning a well-deserved spot in the TRDU Women’s Team of the Year.
Caitlin's exceptional talent and dedication has shone throughout the season, from competing in July’s Queensland Country Rugby Union Championships to being selected for the Women’s Brolgas Team in April. Congratulations, Caitlin!
On Friday 29 November, the Burdekin Touch Football Association celebrated the conclusion of the 2024 U14 Mixed Competition! The competition hosted plenty of action, with Baywatch teams showcasing their skills in both A and B grade clashes.
In the A grade match, Baywatch dominated with an impressive 8-2 victory over the Gold Diggers. Vern Pope and Gordon Malayta led the charge, each scoring two tries, while Harvey Sgroi secured both tries for the Gold Diggers.
The B grade game was a closer contest, with Baywatch Babes edging out Mustangs/Red Robins in a thrilling 6-5 win. Jerry dazzled with three tries, supported by Webber’s two, while Brianna’s hat-trick for the Mustangs/Red Robins kept the game competitive.
Contributed with thanks to Amity Cornford.
The Ayr Bowling Club celebrated its final Fun Friday Night for 2024 with a lively evening of camaraderie and competition. The weather cooperated, allowing a full green of bowlers to enjoy the last event of the year. The club extends its gratitude to the evening’s sponsors, Chiropractic Care (Northwood’s) and Sparkle Town Carwash (Strano’s), for their generous support.
The event was a resounding success, filled with laughter and spirited play. Winners on the night were Jared Poletti, Ella Northwood, Mika Strano, and Noah Arboit, while RM Care staff - Sophie, Karen, and Di - secured second place. The Sportsman’s Prize was awarded to Fraser, Holly, Rebekah, and Johnny.
A special thanks goes out to all the volunteers who made the Fun Friday Nights possible throughout the year. Their dedication has been vital to the event's success, and the club eagerly anticipates welcoming everyone back in 2025. Those interested in sponsoring a Friday Fun Night are encouraged to contact Pam Power (0458 330 019) or Maurie Power (0412 551 816).
The midweek social bowls saw some fantastic competition. Winners for Wednesday’s triples were Ron Smythe, Joe Papale, and Anthony Bull, who defeated Cisco, Col Essex, and Ron Soper.
Although the ladies’ bowling season has concluded, the men’s and social bowls continue every Wednesday and Saturday afternoon. With excellent overhead cover, the club ensures a cooler and more enjoyable environment for afternoon games.
On Wednesday night, two thrilling triples games took place: Tricia Achille, Tegan Cesconetto, and Sam Caltabiano claimed victory in one, while Katharina Stuckler, John Cesconetto, and Heather Jorgensen triumphed in the other. This weekly event is an excellent opportunity for both seasoned players and newcomers to enjoy summer bowling. Names should be in by 6:30pm, with games starting at 7pm.
The club looks forward to its Presentation Day on Saturday, 7 December, a chance to celebrate the year’s bowling achievements and award winners. The festivities will follow the afternoon social bowls, with a BBQ planned to cap off the day.
Additionally, the Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place on Sunday, 8 December. All members are encouraged to attend this crucial event to help shape the club’s future.
Despite the rain cutting short the Saturday competition last weekend, the Ayr Bowling Club concludes the season on a high note. The club is excited to carry this momentum into the new year, with Fun Friday Nights set to return in 2025.
Whether you’re a bowler or a supporter, the club welcomes you to join the fun and be part of its thriving community spirit.
Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.
Friday Fun Night Winners.
Friday Fun Night Runners Up.
Friday Fun Night Sportspersons' Prize.
The Brandon Bowls Club hosted a fantastic President, Secretary, and Treasurer Ham Day on Sunday, 1 December, with 44 bowlers competing in triples and pairs. Players from Giru, Ayr, Home Hill, South Townsville, and even Holbrook, NSW, came together to support the event, making it a memorable occasion despite a brief delay due to storms.
The winners of the day were Meryl Smith (Home Hill Bowls Club) and Anthony Bull (Ayr Bowls Club), joined by President Jamie Woods for a celebratory photo. Second place went to Lloyd Shepherd, Judy Elton, and Joe Yipnazar, while third place was secured by Kevin Collins, Vince Beitia, and Mick McCloskey.
A big thank you goes to all who contributed, from the bar staff to the kitchen team, who prepared a delicious smoko. The camaraderie and sportsmanship on display ensured everyone had an enjoyable afternoon on the green.
Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.
The Brandon Bowls Club hosted a wonderful Ham Day on the weekend.
President, Jamie Woods presented the winners of the day - Meryl Smith (HHBC) and Anthony Bull (Ayr BC).
Second place getters were Lloyd Shepherd, Judy Elton, and Joe Yipnazar pictured with President Jamie Woods
Third place getters were Kevin Collins, Vince Beitia and Mick McCloskey, pictured with President Jamie Woods.