The rainy weather early in the week that forced the cancellation of Monday's training thankfully cleared for the Home Hill Cricket Association’s junior cricket games on held on Friday, 18 October. 

Three groups of eager cricketers lined up for their games under sunny skies at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex in Home Hill.  The youngest of these, the Challengers, were playing in front of the clubhouse on the "Barry Richards Field".  The children put on a good show of skills for the adults who were watching with Nicholas Marrinan winning the "Player of the Match Award" for his efforts.

Over on the astro pitches the "Hardball" games were being played by the older children.  It was a one-sided affair in the "Blue" group as one team took all the wickets in the game to come away with the win.  Tait Parker, Kayleah McCarthy and Corey Pensini took 2 wickets each and Chaz Moschella bowled economically to help their team achieve this. The great batting from Alex Cullen, Billy Muilwyk and Mazlyn and Tyler Smith was the highlight of the game. 

The "Gold" group found scoring runs more difficult than last week as the bowling was tighter.  Marshall Parker was again the top scorer with 18 runs not out, just pipping Tyler Schultz on 17.  Three other batters retired, they were Ben Watkins, Jacques Gardner and Nathaniel Backo.  The best bowler and winner of this week's "Player of the Match Award" was Aanav Desai who's second over was a two-wicket maiden, he finished with three wickets for the game.  Mark Wilkie, Marshall Parker and Jacques Gardner all took one wicket each.

Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Cricket Association Secretary, Tiffany.

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Kaisen Petersen at the bat!
Batting for the win was Player of the Match, Aanav Desai.
Tait Parker took 2 wickets in Friday’s “Hardball” game!
Xavier Cross gave it his all on the pitch!
Tyler Schultz scored 17 runs in Friday’s game.
Alex Cullen, Billy Muilwyk and Mazlyn and Tyler Smith were commended for their batting.
The “Blue” group were Friday’s victors!
Working hard, the “Blue” group took all the wickets, scoring them the win!

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The big news for the Ayr Bowling Club this week is Irene Wilson being named North Queensland District Ladies Bowling Association’s Bowler of the Year! Irene has been a standout performer at the club and secured this prestigious title by winning the North Queensland singles. The club also sends best wishes to Pam Power, another exceptional female bowler, as she heads to Bargara Bowls Club to compete in the State Champion of Champions after claiming the North Queensland Champion of Champions title. The Ayr Bowling Club is immensely proud of these two women, who are leading the way in ladies’ bowls in North Queensland.

Ladies’ Social Bowls kicked off a busy week at the club, with 16 bowlers taking to the green as the weather warms up. Winners on the day were Linda Guimelli, Deslie Olsen, Heather Jorgensen, and Sandra Stidston, who defeated Karen Shepherd, Karen Page, Ron Soper, and Irene Wilson. In another match, Ruth Moore, Isabel Cislowski, Rayleen Harvey, and Pam Power triumphed over Katharina Stuckler, Donna Soper, Beryl Cornford, and Dot Cutting.

Wednesday Mixed Social Bowls saw three games of triples and one game of pairs, with some fantastic bowls played throughout. G Tiomo, Barry Hewson, and John MacDonald emerged as the day’s winners.

On Wednesday night, two games of triples were played in the social competition. Katharina Stuckler, Tegan Cesconetto, and Michael Parravacini claimed victory in the first game, while Tricia Achille, Rob Jorgensen, and Gary Pearce won the second.

In Thursday’s Three-Bowl Pairs competition, winners advanced to the next round. Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeated Donna Soper and Joy Comollatti, while Deslie Olsen and Mary Poli overcame Katharina Stuckler and Heather Jorgensen.

Saturday Social Bowls featured four games of triples. Ray Wall, Joe Grabbi, and Chris Olditch secured a win over Linda Giumelli, Merle Nixon, and Anthony Bull.

Club championships continued on Sunday. In the Mixed Triples, Lorraine Wolffe, Sandra Stidston, and Anthony Bull defeated Sandra Darwen, Sam Caltabiano, and Michael Parravacini. In the Mixed Singles, Pam Power triumphed over Lew Stidson, and Gary Pearce defeated Barry Shepherd. For information on upcoming championship games scheduled for October 27th, please see the club board.

The Ayr Bowling Club invites everyone to Fun Friday Night Bowls on Friday, 1 November, starting at 6pm. This is a great night out for bowlers of all levels—bring friends or sign up solo and meet new people! The cost is $10 per game, which includes a sausage sizzle and a light supper. The sizzle begins at 6pm, and bowling starts at 7pm. To enter or for more information, contact Maurie Power at 0412 551 816 or Pam Power at 0458 330 019.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

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Irene Wilson, North Queensland District Ladies Bowler of the Year.

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The October Monthly Medal was the highly sought-after prize among the junior golfers at the Ayr Golf Club this weekend, with competitive scores across the 3, 6, and 9-hole competitions.

In the 3-hole competition, Opie McKeough once again claimed the Monthly Medal with a net score of 5, while Tyler Smith secured the Gross win with a score of 22. Opie dominated the event, also taking home the prizes for Longest Putt and Least Putts.

Heath Smart, playing his best round yet, won the Monthly Medal in the 6-hole competition, and Jett James was the Gross winner with a score of 43. Both Heath and Jett tied for the Least Putts award.

The 9-hole group saw some close competition, but Lyla Land emerged victorious with a net score of 25 to win the Monthly Medal, while Rheanna Bain claimed the Gross title with an impressive score of 60. Parker Oar was awarded Nearest to Pin, and Riley Dobe took home the prize for Least Putts.

Players are now looking forward to the Karrie Webb Championships next weekend.

Contributed with thanks to Kristina Patane Land.

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The weekend’s victors with presenters Kyle Wilkie and Riley Dobe. 

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The Burdekin Roosters have named three of their four coaches for the 2025 season in the RLTD.

The club will be fielding an under 20 team next year after not doing so in 2024, with Peter Horan set to coach. Peter took the under 18 to the grand final this season and although they were beaten by Brothers, Horan had them playing an attractive style of football. Peter said he expected to field a strong side with most of that team stepping up plus the addition of a few new players he has recruited.

Taking charge of the Hens next season will again be this year’s coach Anita Hagarty. Anita, despite a lot of personnel interruptions this season, took her team to the Preliminary Final only to be beaten by Western Lions. Anita said she expected to field practically the same squad next season plus the addition of a couple of new players.

2024 A grade coach Steve Lansley will again be in charge of the A grade team next season. This year Steve had a number of youngsters in his team and with a season in A grade under their belt, he expects to field a very competitive team next year. Plans are under way to have a couple of class Fijians join the squad while player recruiter Paul Horan is looking at a couple of experienced imported players. Steve said he would like to rely on his young local stars as he believes the talent in well and truly in the Burdekin.

The AGM of the club will be held at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club on Sunday 17 November at 10:30am with all positions on the executive committee declared vacant.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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A good crowd of Rugby League supporters last Sunday witnessed a good standard of Rugby League played at the annual Home Hill Harvest Festival Town of Origin!

The first Town of Origin in this format was played in 2013 and since then Ayr has won five times to Home Hills four with no games played in 2018 and 2020.

As is customary in these games the type of play was tough and hard with the town heritage at stake. Two former A grade coaches of the roosters, Chris Perry and Kieran Dawes took control of the two teams, and both had simple instructions - do your best and think of the town you are playing for.

Play seesawed for the entire match with one team scoring and then the other. In the end it came down to an attempted conversion from the sideline with the ball heading towards the uprights only to be blown away. That gave the win this year to Home Hill by 24 – 22 now levelling up the annual scoreline.

Coach Kieran Dawes said he thought Jayden Sgarbossa was his best player and judges agreed with Sgarbossa receiving the man of the match. Dawes did say he thought Liam Cannavan, Joel Pennisi and Robert Canteralla also had good games. Dawes said he thought all had a crack and they used a lot of effort and energy. He said he told them to make their tackles and mean it.

Ayr coach Chris Perry said he thought Lachlan Shepherd was his best player by a long shit although John Zaro and Llama Ghee never stopped especially Llama with his defence.

“It was not our best effort but regardless it was a good game and congratulations to Home Hill,” said Perry.

For Home Hill Dom Arrate, Lachlan Kerr, Jayden Sgarbossa and Liam Cannavan scored tries with Don Arrate kicking 4 from 4. For Ayr Jones Munro, Kane Batchelor, Luca Lago and Llama Ghee scored tries with Joel Mason kicking 3 goals.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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The only senior match of the round in Home Hill Cricket took place on Saturday afternoon, with Peto's Marine winning the toss and sending the Crowned Mongrels in to bat.

The Mongrels made the most of their time at the crease, with Andrew Wallwork top-scoring with 46 runs from 41 balls. Handy contributions from Luke Mottin (29 runs) and Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro (23 runs) helped set a competitive total of 6/153 from 25 overs.

In response, Peto's Marine started strong with quick runs from Cal Boland (34 runs) and Jack Gimson (25 runs). They needed just 11 runs from the last two overs, but strong bowling performances from Dan Olditch and Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro saw the Mongrels claim the last three wickets, leaving Peto's all out for 146, just short of the target.

In other news, Alliance Pharmacy forfeited their game against the Rookies.

Next weekend, Peto’s Marine will face off against the Rookies, while the Crowned Mongrels take on Alliance Pharmacy.

Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Cricket Association Secretary, Tiffany.

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Tuesday Ladies’ Social bowls kicked the week off and had 14 bowlers competing. Winners were Karen Shepherd, Isabel Cislowski, Merle Nixon and Dot Cutting def Donna Soper, Katharina Stuckler, Joy Comollatti and Sandra Stidston. Ruth Moore, Rayleen Harvey and Irene Wilson def Linda Guimelli, Karen Page and Mary Poli. 
Wednesday Mixed Social bowls there were 3 games of triples with lots of fantastic bowls played over the 3 games. Winners on the day were J Pirrone, Col Essex and Chris Berkery def Ray Wall, Dino Poli and M Power. 
On a windy Wednesday night, two pairs’ games were played.  The winners of the night were, Michael Parravacini and John Cesconetto in the first pairs game. Rob Jorgensen and Bertilla Piazetta won the second game.   
Competition Thursday morning the mixed singles were played and saw some very good bowling in a close fought game Irene Wilson def Anthony Bull. Thursday afternoon the Handicap Pairs were played. Deslie Olsen (sub) and Irene Wilson def Ruth Moore and Dot Cutting with great bowls being played all round. 
Saturday Social Bowls sponsored by the mahjong ladies saw three games of triples and one game of pairs.  Winners were Merle Nixon Joe Papale, and Ron Soper def Lorraine Wolffe, Barry Hewson and John MacDonald. Second place winners were Donna Soper and Joe Grabbi def Linda Guimelli and David Kroll. 
Club championships continued Sunday.  Mixed Triples saw Margaret Chapman, Henry Hazle and Gary Pearce def Lorraine Wolffe, Sandra Stidston and Anthony Bull. Mixed singles saw Michael Parravacini def Irene Wilson.  Please see the club board for further championship club games for the 13th of October.  
If you are interested in trying lawn bowls, Ayr Bowling club is a hub for lawn bowls enthusiasts, offering a friendly and social environment for players of all skill levels. Here are some details about the Ayr Bowling Club: 
   • Location: 101 Young Street, Ayr, Queensland 4807 
   • Phone Number: (07) 4783 1336 
   • Facebook Page:Ayr Bowling Club | Ayr QLD | Facebook  
Social bowls are played on Wednesday or Wednesday evening or Saturday afternoon – we would love to see you!  We have plenty of sets of bowls for you to try with.  Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a beginner looking to try your hand at lawn bowls, the Ayr Bowling Club is a great place to connect with fellow enthusiasts and enjoy the sport.  
 

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This week our Home Hill junior cricketers, big and small, returned to the fields for the start of the 2024/25 cricket season.

Junior cricket sessions are available for children ages 5 and up.  The “Rookies” (5-7 yr olds) play Tuesday afternoons from 3:30pm at East Ayr State School.  Friday afternoons see the “Challengers” (8-10yr olds) and Juniors (U11’s +) play at the Home Hill Cricket fields from 4pm.  All boys and girls are welcome to join in the fun, even if you’re new to cricket.

Last week saw the start of the 24/25 Home Hill Cricket Association's Junior Cricket season.  Rookies were at East Ayr State School on Tuesday afternoon from 3.30pm. The sessions are for 5 to 7 year olds and aim to teach the children the basics of cricket in a fun way with soft balls.  Challengers are the next level up for 7 to 10 year olds and their sessions are at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex in Home Hill on Fridays at 5pm.  These are still played with soft balls but the activities are more game based.   
They have two groups of "hardball" cricket on Fridays at Home Hill as well, starting at 4pm.  In the "Blue Group" Alex Cullen and Kyle Wilkie scored some good runs and were both not out at the end of their batting.  Tait Parker took the best figures of 2/3, Kip Nicholas and Tyler Smith also bowled well with 1/1 and 1/2 respectively.  This group is for the players who have just moved up from Challengers and has modified rules to make it more enjoyable for them.
The "Gold Group" is the other game and this is played with essentially normal cricket rules as their skill levels are generally higher.  Marshall Parker starred with the bat this week with 46 not out off 30 balls which included 6 fours.  Ben Watkins had fun with the ball taking 3 wickets for 10 runs, Jacques Gardner took 2 and Aanav Desai and Oscar Mahoney 1 each.
It is not too late to register for the 24/25 Junior Cricket season, just go to www.playhq.com and search for Home Hill Cricket Association to join in the fun.
Senior Cricket
It was a family affair as 4 teams took the field for the start of the 2024/25 Senior cricket season at Home Hill Cricket on Saturday.  The Rookies, Alliance Pharmacy and Crowned Mongrels all had fathers and sons playing together.

A tight contest ensued on Barry Richards field as the Rookies took on Crowned Mongrels. The top score of the match by the Rookies Dan Olditch (45 runs from 48 balls) wasn’t enough to secure the win as the Mongrels took the glory in the final over. Crowned Mongrels finished the match 6/137 over the Rookies 6/131.

On field 2, Alliance Pharmacy made a competitive total of 5/130, anchored by opener Lee Watts who retired not out on 50 runs from 58 balls. Peto’s Marine worked hard in reply and helped by an unbeaten 50 not out off 36 balls by Andy Ballin, took the win with a total of 6/151.

Next Saturday will see the two Round 1 winners, Peto’s Marine and Crowned Mongrels, face off on  Barry Richards field from 1pm. Alliance Pharmacy will take on the Rookies on field 2.

To register and join a team, visit www.PlayHQ.com and search “Home Hill”.

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Crowned Mongrels father and son - Aiden and Joe Marano. Photo Supplied
Three generations playing for the Rookies - Leo, Chris and Dan Olditch. Photo Supplied
Alliance Pharmacy family - JD, Alf and Travis Wilkins. Photo supplied
A great day on the field. Photo supplied

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A monumental milestone occasion, this Saturday, 19 October, will see the 300th Plantation Parkrun event take place from 7am at Plantation Park.

A beloved Burdekin tradition, the very first Plantation Parkrun event made its debut on Friday 17 February 2018, which saw almost 100 local runners take to the 5k track. Making history, the first runner to cross the Plantation Parkrun finish line was Adrian Royce with a time of 18:45, who was soon followed by Justin Knight-Gray (20:22), and Josh Schultz (20:45).

Over the past 299 events, almost 6000 runners have crossed the Plantation Park finish line, with an average time of 39:35. A number to be celebrated, more than 900 personal bests have been achieved, and almost 200 volunteers are to be commended for their efforts in making the past 299 events possible.

To those with a competitive streak, these are the 5k times to beat to make it into the Plantation Parkrun history books! In the female division, the time to beat is 21:10 which was set by Shannen McDonald in the 27th Plantation Parkrun held on 1 September 2018. 16:05 stands as the time to beat in the male division; a record set by 116 time return Parkrun champion, Tony Gordon on 2 October 2021.

Plantation Parkrun operates as a free, fun and friendly weekly five-kilometer community event where locals are invited to come along for a walk, jog or run, with many also encouraged to volunteer, or spectate. Each Saturday at 7am, runners prepare to ready, set, go close to the Plantation Park Information Centre and complete two equal laps of the park, South into the Juru Walk.

Operated on a voluntary basis, there are plenty of opportunities for members of the community to try new roles and become part of the Parkrun event. If you would like to become a volunteer, please email plantation@parkrun.com or pop down to the park on a Saturday from 7am to speak with team.

The entire Burdekin community is invited to bring their pups, prams and running shoes to Plantation Park this Saturday to be part of this extraordinary 300th milestone event! Competitors interested in walking, running or jogging the trail along with members of the community wanting to cheer on their friends as they cross the finish line are invited to meet near the Plantation Park Information Centre before the 7am start.

To register to compete in this Saturday’s event, please visit www.parkrun.com.au/plantation.

What: The 300th Plantation Parkrun Event
When: Saturday 19 October at 7am
Where: Near the Plantation Park Information Centre
More Information: Visit www.parkrun.com.au/plantation

A wonderful milestone, the community is invited to come along to Plantation Parkrun’s 300th event this Saturday!

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The Ayr Bowling Club had a busy week of competitions, kicking off with Tuesday Ladies' Social Bowls, which saw 14 bowlers take to the green. The winners were Karen Shepherd, Isabel Cislowski, Merle Nixon, and Dot Cutting, who defeated Donna Soper, Katharina Stuckler, Joy Comollatti, and Sandra Stidston. In another match, Ruth Moore, Rayleen Harvey, and Irene Wilson triumphed over Linda Guimelli, Karen Page, and Mary Poli.

Wednesday’s Mixed Social Bowls featured three exciting games of triples, with plenty of top-notch bowls on display. The winning team of the day, J Pirrone, Col Essex, and Chris Berkery, overcame Ray Wall, Dino Poli, and M Power.

Later that night, despite windy conditions, two pairs’ games were held. Michael Parravacini and John Cesconetto secured victory in the first match, while Rob Jorgensen and Bertilla Piazetta took out the second game.

Thursday’s competition continued with the Mixed Singles in the morning, where Irene Wilson edged out Anthony Bull in a closely fought match. In the afternoon, the Handicap Pairs saw Deslie Olsen (subbing in) and Irene Wilson defeat Ruth Moore and Dot Cutting in a round of exceptional play.

Saturday’s Social Bowls, sponsored by the Mahjong ladies, included three games of triples and one pairs match. The winners were Merle Nixon, Joe Papale, and Ron Soper, who triumphed over Lorraine Wolffe, Barry Hewson, and John MacDonald. Second place went to Donna Soper and Joe Grabbi, who bested Linda Guimelli and David Kroll.

The weekend wrapped up with Sunday’s Club Championships. In the Mixed Triples, Margaret Chapman, Henry Hazle, and Gary Pearce secured victory over Lorraine Wolffe, Sandra Stidston, and Anthony Bull. Meanwhile, in the Mixed Singles, Michael Parravacini came out on top against Irene Wilson.

For upcoming club championship games on 20 October, be sure to check the club board.

The Ayr Bowling Club is always welcoming new players! Whether you’re an experienced bowler or looking to try lawn bowls for the first time, the club provides a friendly and social environment. Social bowls are held on Wednesday, Wednesday evening, and Saturday afternoons.

Come join in the fun - there’s plenty of bowls to go around!

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

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Following their undefeated run at the North Queensland Junior Basketball Championships (NQJBC), the Burdekin Wildcats u12 Girls have now claimed the title of Division 2 State Champions, securing a Gold Medal at the Queensland State Championships. This remarkable achievement continues to showcase the talent and determination of these young athletes.

After dominating the NQJBC in August 2024 with 15 consecutive victories, the Wildcats traveled to Zillmere in September to compete in Basketball Queensland’s premier competition, which brought together athletes from across South, Central, and North Queensland. Held at the Northside Basketball Sports Centre from September 19 to 22, the tournament saw the Wildcats continue their undefeated streak.

The team, consisting of nine dedicated junior athletes, worked tirelessly to win all five of their pool games, earning them first place in their pool and a spot in the semi-finals. In a commanding semi-final performance, the Wildcats defeated Northside Wizards 1 with a score of 71-43, securing their place in the gold medal match.

On Sunday, 22 September, the Wildcats faced off against the North Gold Coast Seahawks 2 in the Championship game. In a hard-fought contest, the Wildcats emerged victorious, winning 54-42 to claim the Queensland State Champions title for Division 2.

Head Coach Larni Vasta expressed her joy at the team’s accomplishment, stating, "What an incredible season it has been for our team - winning 22 consecutive games, along with dominating three carnivals and becoming State Champions, is a remarkable achievement!

I am immensely proud of each and every one of them.

Their hard work, dedication, and teamwork have truly paid off.

This success reflects not just their skills on the court, but also the effort they put in during training and the support they give each other."

Coach Larni, in her first season at the helm, also acknowledged the support she received throughout the journey.

"As a first-time coach, this season has been an incredible journey - I’m grateful for the unwavering support I’ve received, which has been crucial to our success.

The girls’ hard work and determination made it a joy to lead this talented team.

I, personally, would like to extend a big thank you to our community for your generous support and donations that helped us reach state championships - this made a significant difference in our journey, providing the resources and encouragement that fuelled our success - we couldn’t have achieved this without you!"

The Wildcats would like to extend their gratitude to the Burdekin community and local businesses for their support throughout the season, as well as the family and friends who cheered them on from the sidelines and back home. Special thanks go to Assistant Coaches Kate Gaze and Jodie Miller, Manager Hayley Colls, and, of course, Head Coach Larni Vasta for their dedication and leadership throughout this unforgettable season.

GO WILDCATS!

Contributed with thanks to Hayley Colls.

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BACK ROW (L to R) Manager – Hayley Colls, Head Coach – Larni Vasta, Darci Colls, Allie Boland, Dakota Oliver, Bella Galbraith, Gracie Giardina, Assistant Coach – Jodie Miller.  FRONT ROW (L to R) Scarlett Sinclair, Radha Haller, Hallie Friend and Addison Reid.
BACK ROW (L to R) Gracie Giardina, Manager – Hayley Colls, Allie Boland, Head Coach – Larni Vasta, Scarlett Sinclair, Darci Colls, Bella Galbraith, Assistant Coach – Jodie Miller.  FRONT ROW (L to R) Addison Reid, Hallie Friend, Radha Haller and Dakota Oliver.
Allie sinking a free throw.
Coach Larni giving team instructions.
Time-out team huddle.
Scarlett getting the pass off.
Darci navigating the centre court.

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It was another competitive week at Brandon Bowls Club, starting on Wednesday, 9 October, with Darelle Pearce securing victory in an A-grade singles match against Margaret Chapman, furthering the Pearce family’s bowling legacy. In the social pairs, Ann Newton and Vanda Ballao triumphed over Bev Garioch and Lyn Farr.

Friday evening saw two competitive games played under the lights. In the pairs match, Lloyd Shepherd and the formidable Ray Paneccasio faced off against Peter Lejarraga and "Mr. Bowls" himself, Gary Pearce. Despite the high-quality bowlers on both sides, Shepherd and Paneccasio delivered a masterclass, securing a decisive win.

The triples game saw Joy Woods, Jayson Farry, and Jamie Woods take on Margaret McLaughlan, Bob Jorgensen, and Ross McLaughlin. The Woods team led throughout the night, but McLaughlin's team staged a dramatic comeback on the final end to snatch the victory.

Scratchy ticket winners for the week were Lloyd Shepherd and Ray Paneccasio, while the jackpot went to Joy Woods, Jayson Farry, and Jamie Woods.

Sunday featured an exciting A-grade pairs match where Leo Kenny and Richie Mau battled Chris and Gary Pearce in a 21-end thriller. It was a close contest, but Chris and Gary Pearce edged out their opponents to secure a place in the final, where they will face Peter Henderson and Jamie Woods.

In the social bowls, two triples games and one pairs game were played. In the pairs, Neville Dickinson and Kevin Collins narrowly lost to Peter Lejarraga and Vince Beitia. In the triples, Ross McLaughlin, Rob Jorgensen, and Peter Jorgensen took down Henry Hazel, Joe Yipnazar, and Ray Paneccasio, while in the final triples game, Kenny Ferguson, Doug Kiehne, and Doug Robins were bested by the in-form Jamie Woods, Glenn Woodford, and Ben Mills.

The Brandon Bowls Club invites the community to come along for Trophy Bowls on Friday, 18 October, at 6:30pm, sponsored by Nutrien AG. If you haven’t put your name down, please do so as soon as possible. The cost is $12 per player, which includes a sausage sizzle before the game and the best smoko in Brandon afterwards.

Be sure not to miss out on another fantastic night of bowls at Brandon!

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

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Jackpot Winners, Jamie Wood and Jayson Farry (Joy Woods absent).
Gary and Chris Pearce were victorious on Sunday, securing a place in the final!

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Local
The Burdekin Panthers Presentation Night was held last Saturday at Populin’s Hall, and a good crowd turned up to celebrate a good year for the Burdekin Football Club. Major Awards were Men’s Player of the Year – Ryan Scodellaro and the Women’s Player of the Year was Sian Reardon. The President’s Medal this year went to Wayne Kolb and Josh Valle and Maddison Taylor took out the Taylah Pearson Memorial Trophy.

The Senior Club Person of the ear went to Sian Reardon and Casey Calligaro and Oscar Licciardello were the Junior Club Persons of the Year.

Angelo Licciardello was made a Life Member, deservedly, after a good thirty plus years associated with the Club from playing as a fifteen-year-old to coaching and everything in between.

The Escriva Cup is due to be played on Friday evening, 1st November and is a fundraiser held by The SLoBs (Soccer Legends of the Burdekin) to help out ex-players with health problems. Last year fourteen Men’s teams and two Ladies teams took part. Hopefully, we will have more teams involved this year.

Night Soccer
Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s Week 6 produced 67 goals from the twenty two games. Top scorers for the Men were UDS and Rapos Utd with five goals and in the Women’s competition DILLIGAF led the way with four goals. Sin Bins were earned by Gareth Ferguson from Plumb Dingers and Ryley Siandri from Jaime’s Boys.

Juniors
Junior Social Soccer kicked off Tuesday afternoon with 40 teams taking part this year!  It was a very successful afternoon, with a lot of returning players and teams from last year and also a lot of new kids and new teams formed.

It was good to see the kids having fun with their friends! Thank you to the managers of each team, and especially those who took on teams that were formed in just the few days. Also, a big thank you to the youths who have put their hands up to referee again. You make the afternoons run smoothly and it is hoped that you will gain further experience and confidence from this.

Sian Reardon was celebrated as the Club Person of the Year.
Casey Calligaro and Oscar Licciardello were congratulated as the Junior Club Persons of the Year.
Maddison Taylor was the recipient of the Taylah Pearson Memorial Trophy.
Celebrated as the Women’s Player of the Year was Sian Reardon.
The Men’s Player of the Year was Ryan Scodellaro.
Wayne Kolb and Joshua Valle were presented with the Presidents Medal.

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Saturday 19th of October 1.00pm to 5.00pm ( Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wasmuth, Briella Wassmuth.
Sunday 20th of October  9.00am to 5.00pm ( All Day Patrol Group E ) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Bella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, Danni Coughlin.

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Over the weekend, the Ayr Surf Club headed north to Forrest Beach, near Ingham, to undertake the second carnival of the North Barrier Branch competition season.

Despite a smaller than usual cohort of competitors, there were some absolutely brilliant individual and team efforts throughout the two days of competition, and it was fantastic to see some of the club's newer members pushing themselves to take on the challenging Ironperson event. 

Club Junior Activities Co-ordinator Kellie Lawry reported that she was extremely proud of all members and enjoyed watching such good sportsmanship and comradery displayed by all competitors over the weekend.

Seeing the nippers forming friendships and engaging positively with members from the other clubs, is so great to see, and where members make friendships for life.

She reported that it was a big two days with some challenging conditions, and it was very rewarding to see members tackling the tricky conditions with skill and determination and never giving up.

Next up on the competition carnival is the North Australian Championships to be held in Mackay in a couple of weeks, which will see competitors converge from the majority of the northern half of the State and will be a real test for our local competitors.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry.

Quinn Pontifex in Under 8 Female wade race
Alyssa Irvine catching a wave in U12 Female Ironperson
Alexandra Moloney, Taylor Chapman & Charlotte Dale following U11 Female Board Race
Ross Rickards & Chris Wicks in Masters Male Flags
U13 Board Relay Team - Emilee Wassmuth, Cole Pontifex, Charlotte Lawry
Zachary Dale in All Age Relay
Photos supplied

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