Sports

A LITTLE BIT SWEET & A WHOLE LOT SPORTY!

A LITTLE BIT SWEET & A WHOLE LOT SPORTY!

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

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Football Matters With Cyclops

Football Matters With Cyclops

Local 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

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Home Hill Easter Fours Raging Success

Home Hill Easter Fours Raging Success

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Cane You Keep Up?

Cane You Keep Up?

The 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

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Table Bowl Notes

August 29, 2024

Round 1 finals 15/08/24
Crushers won against Cougars at the Anzac
Falcons won against Nat I at the Ayr
Nat II won against Ants at the National
National II and Crushers automatically go into round 3

Round 2 finals  22/08/24
Falcons won against Ants at the Queens
Nat I won against Cougars at the National

This week’s games 29/08/24
Falcons v Nat II at the Ayr
Crushers v Nat I at the Anzac
Winner of these two games go into the grand final to be played at the National.

On Sunday we had the Tom Barrett Trophy with some great games being played, congrats to all that made it to the final rounds. The grand final was played between Mick Parison & Dennis Mondin v Sean Farrell & Mark Schofield with Mick and Dennis taking out the trophy for 2024.

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Davison.

2024 Trophy winners Mick Parison and Dennis Mondin!

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Serve Up Some Fun with Free Social Tennis Family Night

August 29, 2024

On Friday 30 August, the Ayr Tennis Association will host a fabulous FREE Social Tennis Family Night for the community to enjoy! Beginning at 6:30pm, the Burdekin community has been warmly invited to come down to the courts for an evening of socialization, laughs, and friendly tennis competition! A BBQ will also be held on the night, with drinks and food available for purchase. Those interested are encouraged to message the Ayr Tennis Association’s Facebook page for more information.

What: FREE Social Tennis Family Night.
When: Friday 30 August from 6:30pm.
Where: Ayr Tennis Association.
More Information: Message the Ayr Tennis Association’s Facebook page.

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Bowls, Banter, & Big Wins at Ayr Bowling Club

August 29, 2024

Wednesday, 21 August, kicked off with Mixed Social Bowls at the Ayr Bowling Club, featuring three exciting games of triples. The standard of play was high across the board. The winning team of the day was B. Hewson, J. Papale, and M. Power, who defeated R. Smythe, H. Hazel, and R. Lazarin in a well-fought match.

The weekend began with Fun Friday Night, where laughter, music, and good bowls brought everyone together for a memorable evening. A delicious supper was served at the end of the night, thanks to the generous contributions from members, making the event all the more enjoyable. The top teams were:

1st Place: John Casella, Holly Giarusso, Fraser Mitchelson, and Michelle James.
2nd Place: John Grabbi, Joe Zanella, Joe Grabbi, and June Zanella.
Sportsman’s Prize: John McDonald, John Pirrone, Lorraine Wolffe, and Anthony Bull.  

All prizes were presented by sponsor representative, Deslie Olsen, with a big thank you to Tinus Engineering for their sponsorship. Anyone interested in sponsoring a Fun Friday Night can reach out to Maurie Power (0412551816) or Pam Power (0458330019) for details.

Saturday Social Bowls saw four closely contested games of triples played across four rinks. The winning team consisted of R. Aplin, S. Darwen, and M. Power, who defeated R. Smythe, J. McDonald, and B. Schultz.

On Sunday, 25 August, a thrilling game of mixed pairs was held, with the result coming down to the final end. The winners were S. Darwen and M. Paravicini, who triumphed over L. Wolffe and A. Bull in a nail-biter.

For upcoming championship club games on 1 September, check the club board for details. Remember to enter your teams by the competition closing dates as indicated.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

First place winners, John Casella, Holly Giarusso, Fraser Mitchelson & Michelle James with sponsor representative, Deslie Olsen.
Second placeholders, John Grabbi, Joe Zanella, Joe Grabbi & June Zanella with sponsor representative, Deslie Olsen.
Sponsor representative, Deslie Olsen, presented John McDonald, John Pirrone, Lorraine Wolffe, and Anthony Bull with the Sportsman Prize.

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Teeing Off with Style @ The Ayr Golf Club

August 29, 2024

Last Wednesday, 21 August, marked an exciting partner event at the Ayr Golf Club, featuring the Club’s newest Wednesday sponsor, "Hair on Hillier." The Club extended their heartfelt thanks to Shannon Benato, who generously provided two vouchers for our winners to enjoy some well-deserved pampering at her salon.

The highlight of the day was the 4BBB format competition, where Nora Anderson and Evelyn Webb emerged as the winners with an impressive 45 points. Vicki Adcock and Ingrid Vaes followed closely as runners-up with 44 points, while Pat Lawson and Heather Desbois took third place with 41 points. Congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding performance!

Last week the Ayr Golf Club also celebrated Country Connection Day and were thrilled to have another fantastic local business supporting the event. The vouchers for this day went to Ingrid Vaes, who secured a respectable 36 points, and Shirley Jones, who was the top scorer with 37 points. Tuk Williams, Bev Power, and Janet Trezise also made it to the rundown. Well done to all the participants!

Another memorable celebration was held on the green on Saturday 24 August with a Happy Gilmore Bucks Party! The Ayr Golf Club wished the best of luck to all the players, sharing “hit ‘em well boys”!

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Golf Club.

Ayr Golf Club ladies were ready for a fantastic day on the green last Wednesday!
Last week’s Country Connection Day at the Ayr Golf Club was enjoyed by many local ladies.
Dressed to impress, the Ayr Golf Club hosted a Happy Gilmore Bucks Party on Saturday.

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Burdekin Clay Target Club’s August Shoot Victors

August 29, 2024

The Burdekin Clay Target Club hosted its monthly shoot on Saturday and Sunday. The weekend kicked off with a nostalgic twist, featuring the rarely-used Side by Side shotguns. Sixteen shooters competed in these old-school events, bringing a touch of tradition to the range. Later in the day, the action shifted to the Night Shoot, where 23 shooters took on the unique challenge of hitting targets in low light. Despite the difficulty, the shooters showed impressive accuracy.

Sunday’s weather was far less cooperative, starting overcast and quickly turning into a downpour during the final two events. Nevertheless, the competition continued, and the shooters remained unfazed by the conditions. A special thanks goes out to the Club’s sponsors: Wayne Cislowski, Sitefix Solutions, and Butches on Queen, for their generous support. Mark your calendars for the next shoot, set for Saturday, 31 August, at 9:00am.

Saturday 10 August Results:
Event 1-15 Target Double Barrel Side by Side
AA Grade1st Wayne Cislowski & Glen Rea 15/15
A Grade 1st Jay Murray 14/15
B Grade 1st Phil Russell 13/15
C Grade 1st Michelle Russell 13/15

Event 2-25 Target Mixed Side by Side
AA Grade 1st Wayne Cislowski & Glen Rea 32/35
A Grade 1st John Cerqui 28/35
B Grade 1st Phil Russell 28/35
C Grade 1st Paul Coleman 24/35

Overall Winners of the Side by Side events-Sponsored by Wayne Cislowski
AA Grade 1st Glen Rea 59/64
A Grade 1st Jay Murray 41/50
B Grade 1st Phil Russell 41/50
C Grade 1st Paul Coleman 45/50
Event 3-20 Target Night Double Barrel
AA Grade 1st Michael Zabala, Tony Caruso & Glen Rea 20/20
A Grade 1st David Stitt, Vito Patane, Colin Ferguson, Alan Lord & Brad Farry 20/20
C Grade 1st Michael Becke 19/20, 2nd Adam Patane 17/20 

Event 4-25 Target Night Single Barrel Championship-Sponsored by Sitefix Solutions
OPEN 1st Joe Scalia 25/25
AA Grade 1st Wayne Cislowski 24/25
A Grade 1st Joe Scalia 25/25
C Grade 1st 22/27

Sunday 11 August Results:

Event 1-15 Target Pointscore Continental
AA Grade 1st Glen Rea 45/45, 2nd Wayne Cislowski 42/45
A Grade 1st Ron Clive 45/45, 2nd Alan Lord & David Stitt 44/45 
B Grade 1st Ian Kriesel 39/45, 2nd Rob Mikkelsen 33/45
C Grade 1st Brian Bonnano 42/45, 2nd Paul Coleman 41/45

Event 2- 30 Target  Burdekin Double Barrel Continental Championship- Sponsored by Butches on Queen 
OPEN 1st Glen Rea 72/72
AA Grade 1st Glen Rea 72/72
A Grade 1st Joe Scalia 71/72
B Grade 1st Ian Kriesel 36/37
C Grade 1st Alf Gangemi 26/30

Event 3-20 Target Pointscore 15m Cash Trophy
AA Grade 1st Glen Rea 60/60
A Grade 1st Davis Stitt 56/60
B Grade 1st Ian Kriesel 52/60
C Grade 1st Brian Bonnano 57/60

Event 4-25 Target Handicap
OPEN 1st Ron Clive 24/25
2nd John Cerqui & David Stitt 23/25

Despite the weather challenges and tough conditions, the shooters showed great skill and resilience throughout the weekend.

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato.

Sponsor Wayne Cislowski with overall winners Glen Rea, Jay Murray, and Pual Coleman.
Event 2-30 Target Burdekin Double Barrel Continental Championship winners Glen Rea, Joe Scalia, Ian Kriesel and Alf Gangemi.

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Pickleball Gains Momentum at Home Hill Tennis Courts

August 29, 2024

Pickleball is continuing to surge in popularity at Home Hill Tennis, with solid attendance each Tuesday night. The fast-paced sport is drawing both new and seasoned players, including recent additions Noah, Chloe, and Bec, who have quickly adapted and are already making their presence felt on the court.

This week saw 22 players take part in a lively King and Queen of the Court competition. After a series of games with multiple partners, Daniel Walsh emerged as the King, while Amelia Pivotto claimed the title of Queen, showcasing their consistency and skill throughout the night.

Looking ahead, several Home Hill pickleball players are gearing up to compete in the "Double Trouble" tournament in Townsville on 7 September. Best of luck to those representing the club - your efforts are sure to make the community proud!

For anyone looking to join in, pickleball is played every Tuesday at 7pm with a $10 entry fee, and your first session is free. Additionally, you can catch the action on Saturday mornings from 7:30 - 8:30am, followed by a social coffee meet-up at Home Hill News and Coffee. Sunday afternoon games are also held on occasion, so be sure to keep an eye on the Home Hill Tennis Facebook page for updates.

New players are always welcome to jump in and experience the fun!

Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell.

Pickleball ignites the Home Hill Tennis Association’s courts every Tuesday and Saturday!

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Canetoads Prepare for Crucial Showdown

August 29, 2024

Burdekin Rugby Union Club’s Canetoads are gearing up for a do-or-die clash this weekend after experiencing mixed results in last weekend’s semi-finals. With the pressure mounting, the Cantoads’ Coach reflected on the team's performance during a recent radio appearance on Sweet FM, offering insights into what went right, what went wrong, and how they plan to move forward.

In the First Grade match, the Canetoads struggled to find their rhythm against Brothers, who quickly capitalised on Burdekin’s slow start. The Coach acknowledged that Brothers came well-prepared, as they often do in finals, catching the Canetoads off guard with their unpredictable style of play.

“We started off slowly, and Brothers took advantage of that,” the Coach explained.

“They put too many on us early, and we couldn’t come back.”

The final score stood at 26-15 in favour of Brothers, leaving the Canetoads to regroup ahead of their next encounter with North Ward. Looking ahead to that critical game, the Cantoads’ Coach emphasised the importance of preparation, focus, and controlling the game from the outset.

“We need to be prepared, travel well, and maintain a good mindset - It’s do or die this weekend.

The boys need to be ready and control the game early, and if we can handle their big forward pack, the outcome will be in our favour.”

In contrast, the Reserve Grade team delivered a solid performance, starting strong and keeping the pressure on North Ward. Their Coach was impressed with their energy and execution, though he gave credit to the opposition for keeping the game close. The final score was 14-12 in favour of the Canetoads.

“They came out of the blocks firing and played really well, but credit to North Ward for keeping the scoreline as close as they did.”

Looking ahead to their rematch against Brothers, the Toads’ Coach identified a few areas that need improvement. The focus, he said, would be on minimising errors, staying composed, and maintaining possession.

“They need to rectify small errors and not force it.

Fault-free footy and aggression will enable the boys to play in the Grand Final the following week.”

There was also cause for celebration within the club, as Tubby Heron was named TDRU A Grade Player of the Year for 2024. Heron’s stellar performance throughout the season earned him this prestigious honour, and the Canetoads couldn’t be prouder of their star player.

With both teams now preparing for what could be their final games of the season, the Canetoads are determined to give it their all. First Grade will face North Ward in a must-win match, while Reserve Grade seeks to secure their Grand Final berth against Brothers. If they can maintain focus, discipline, and composure, both teams could be on the cusp of something special.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

The results from last weekend’s semi-final clash will fuel the Canetoads’ fire for this weekend’s games.
Congratulations to Tubby Heron for taking out TDRUs A Grade Player of The Year.

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Roosters Rule!

August 29, 2024

The Burdekin Roosters A Grade team put together a complete performance, much to the delight of coach Steve Lansley. Reflecting on his team’s 14-12 victory over Herbert River at Rugby Park last Saturday night.

"We have been trying for some time to put things together for eighty minutes, and it was nice for the boys to see it finally happen,” said Lansley.

The tightly contested match featured strong defence and smart attacking play from both sides. The Roosters and Herbert River each scored two tries, with all conversions successful. It was a penalty kick with three minutes remaining, courtesy of captain Joel Mason, that secured the Roosters' win.

The defensive effort from both teams was notable, with big hits and crucial ankle tackles throughout the game. Lansley credited his forwards for laying the foundation, allowing the smaller players to capitalize on opportunities.

He praised Herbert River for their typical style of hard running, strong support play, and minimal mistakes.

"I told the boys they make few errors, and when they do, we had to capitalize... to their credit, they did," Lansley added.

Although it was difficult for the coach to single out standout players, he highlighted the performances of Henry Teuteu and Chris Gale in the forward pack, along with Lachlan Shepherd, who had a stellar game. Lansley also commended Roto Ravisore as one of the better backs and noted Joel Mason's vocal leadership from fullback. James Munro, returning from injury, was outstanding despite being denied a try that Lansley believed should have counted.

Burdekin Roosters A Grade:
- Tries: Tate Brombal, Ratu Kikau
- Goals: Joel Mason (3/3)

Other A-Grade Results:
- Souths defeated Brothers 30-14
- Charters Towers defeated Centrals 38-4
- Western Lions defeated Norths 64-10

Roosters Reserve Grade coach Chris Perry expressed frustration after his team let a strong start slip away.

"We led 12-0 and looked like going away with it before the calls started going the way of the River," Perry said.

Experienced Herbert River halfback Mitch Seri led his team with two tries, and Perry expressed disbelief at the officiating.

"How one team can get six 'six again' calls go against them, and the other team gets none, is beyond belief,” said Perry.

He noted that the lopsided penalty count caused frustration, leading to mistakes that Herbert River capitalized on.

Despite leading 12-6 at halftime, the Roosters ultimately fell 34-22. Perry praised Caleb Noah for scoring two tries and Brody Ferguson for his efforts in the forwards. The team is now focused on preparing for their knockout semi-final against Centrals this Sunday.

Burdekin Reserves:
- Tries: Caleb Noah (2), Sem Tom, Dominic Arrate
- Goals: Dominic Arrate (3)

**Other Reserve Grade Results:**
- Souths defeated Brothers 30-14
- Centrals defeated Charters Towers 58-22
- Norths defeated Western Lions 34-14
- Bowen had a bye

The Burdekin Hens received a forfeit from Herbert River and will face Brothers in the knockout semi-final this Sunday. In other ladies’ news, the club has announced Tegan Johnson will represent the Roosters in the upcoming annual Harvest Festival.

Other Ladies' Results:
- Centrals defeated Charters Towers 34-4
- Western Lions defeated Norths 72-0

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

Caleb Noah was praised for scoring two tries on Saturday in the Reserves’ clash against Herbert River.

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Home Hill Cricket Association Hosts Exciting NQ Schoolboys Trials

August 29, 2024

The Home Hill Cricket Association had an action-packed couple of days on as they hosted the NQ Schoolboys 10–12 years cricket trials on Sunday and Monday. The event brought together teams from across the region, including Townsville, Ingham, Charters Towers, and Bowen / Whitsundays, with the Burdekin schoolboys team enjoying a fantastic experience.

A special mention goes to one of Home Hill's own junior players, Marshall Parker, who made it to the Possibles and Probables cut. Although he didn't make the final team, it was a remarkable achievement that deserves recognition. The club is proud of Marshall and looks forward to seeing his continued progress on the cricket field!

Contributed with thanks to the Home Hill Cricket Association.

The Home Hill Cricket Association was busting with young cricketers last Sunday and Monday.
The NQ Schoolboys 10 – 12 years cricket trials brought teams from across Northern Queensland to the Home Hill fields.

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Football Matters with Cyclops

August 29, 2024

Local


The Burdekin Panthers had a successful Ladies Day, winning all three home games. The Division One Funkies beat Saints Eagles South 2-0, the Premiers won 5-0 against the Rebels, and the Under 23s also triumphed 5-0. The Ladies had a bye.
This week’s final round before the Finals features the Premiers, Under 23s, and Women Premiers playing away at MA Olympic on Saturday, while the Division One Funkies host Wulguru on Friday night.
The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers secured a 5-0 win over the Rebels, with goals from Elliott Dal Santo, Matthew Kolb, Mason Matthews, and Damien Casella.
The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves, led by Matt Walker and Oliver Gabiola, won 5-0 on Ladies Day, with goals from Gabiola, Connor Brown (two), Cooper Kross, and Adam Mottin.
The Austral Masonry Funkies defeated Burdekin 2-0 with two goals from Chris Achille. They’ll play their final home game against Wulguru on Friday night.
The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies had the bye and put on a fantastic Ladies Day!

The Under14/15 Panthers finished their fixtures in 4th place and will now play 3rd placed Brothers in the semi-final at 1.00pm on Saturday at Paradise Park in Townsville 

Masters

Monday Night Masters has been extended for one more week after, in a pre-play of next season’s A League Opener. Melbourne Victory thumped Central Coast 6-2, and the Mariners will be seeking their revenge next Monday.

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer begins its 46th Season on Tuesday 3rd September. Nomination Forms are at Delta Cleaners, Intersport and Sportfirst.


Juniors

Another sunny day for Saturday Juniors, with a few different Townsville clubs travelling down to take on the Burdekin juniors. Keep an eye out for details of Junior Social Soccer (formerly Night Soccer) coming up on Tuesday afternoons in term 4!

This week’s quote is from English manager Sam Allardyce: “Managers stay in a job when they win football matches.”

Sunday’s junior carnival in Ingham saw Burdekin FC celebrate taking home the overall winning club trophy!

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The Happenings at The Home Hill Bowls Club

September 5, 2024

The Home Hill Bowls Club had a busy and successful week, with 30 players turning out for Thursday afternoon social bowls. Sponsored by Oar and Horan, five games of triples were contested on the green.

- Rink 3: Tony, Tracy, and Andy triumphed over Paul, Gary, and Mick.
- Rink 4: Yogi, Bob, and Wayne secured a win against Ron, Joe, and Stephen.
- Rink 5: Judy, Tony, and Ross outplayed Bob Y., Des, and Cy.
- Rink 6: John, Reno, and Hugh defeated Ray M., Ray H., and Bruce.
- Rink 7: Jim, Dino, and Trevor bested Robert, Alex, and Henry.

Karen McClosky was the lucky winner of the raffle. However, the mystery ball $300 jackpot remained unclaimed, rolling over to next week.

In other club activities, Monday fitness sessions, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday Kraft group, and Wednesday night barefoot bowls were all well-attended. Thursday morning BINGO and Thursday afternoon social bowls continue to draw participants, as does the Saturday afternoon bowls.

Looking ahead, next Thursday marks the start of sponsorship by Molongle Creek.

Until next week, good bowling to all!  

Contributed with thanks to Stephen Doig.

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Sip ‘n Putt Success: Ladies Tee Off at Home Hill Golf Club

August 29, 2024

The Home Hill Golf Club's Sip 'n Putt ‘Come and Try’ sessions, initiated by Megan Barbagallo, are becoming a popular event for women of all golfing abilities. These free sessions offer a welcoming environment for participants to enjoy golf while socializing with others.
On Saturday, 17 August, 12 women gathered at the club to enjoy a day of sport, sunshine, and camaraderie under the expert guidance of PGA Professional Tara Jenkins. Tara, who began playing golf at the age of 10, has since developed her skills on the Sunshine Coast and earned her place in the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) by age 20.
“I spent most of my golfing years in the Burdekin before traveling extensively as I developed in the sport,” Tara explained, reflecting on her journey. As a qualified PGA professional, Tara has the credentials to coach, compete, and work in various roles within the golf industry.
The Sip 'n Putt sessions aim to empower women to explore golf in a relaxed, social setting. With a focus on fun and friendship, each session concludes with drinks and conversation. Since the first event on 20 July, the sessions have attracted women of all skill levels, including some complete beginners.
Tara’s next session on Saturday, 14 September, will guide participants through the use of drivers, with the goal of preparing them for a few rounds on the course during the final session on 12 October.
“There’s no need to be nervous; everyone is still learning. I invite ladies to come along and just have some fun,” Tara encouraged


What: FREE Ladies’ Sip ‘n Putt “Come and Try” Sessions.
When: 3:30pm – 4:30pm Saturday 14 September & 3:30pm – 4:30pm Saturday 12 October.
Where: Home Hill Golf Club.
More Information: Home Hill Golf Club’s Facebook Page or by contacting Megan Barbagallo.

PGA Professional Tara Jenkins guided the ladies through chipping techniques last weekend and invites ladies of all abilities to come along for the upcoming September session
Last weekend’s Sip ‘n Putt saw another great turnout on the green
Ladies of all abilities were treated to Tara’s professional golf guidance and coaching techniques
Time for tee off! 12 ladies had a swing at the Home Hill Golf Club

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Burdekin Roosters Gear Up for Semi-Final Showdown

August 29, 2024

The Burdekin Roosters will be in action this Sunday, with both the Reserves and Hens competing in their respective minor semi-finals. For both teams, it's do-or-die as losing means the end of their season.

In A Grade, minor premiers Souths will face Western Lions for a spot in the Grand Final. Souths have been dominant this season, remaining undefeated, with Western Lions being the only team to come close, managing a draw. In the A Grade knockout semi-final, Brothers will take on Charters Towers. Brothers owe their second chance to the Roosters, who secured a win against Herbert River last Saturday, eliminating Herbert River from the finals.

In Reserve Grade, Souths will meet Bowen in the major semi-final, while Chris Perry's Roosters will face Centrals in the knockout semi-final at 1pm on Sunday. Perry has named a strong lineup to avenge their recent controversial loss to Centrals, where the Roosters led 22-6 before a series of penalties turned the tide, resulting in a 30-22 defeat. Playmaker Dylan Doak was sent off in that match, but should the Roosters win this week, he'll return for the preliminary final.

Perry is still awaiting decisions on players placed on report last week. If the selected squad takes the field without issues, they stand a good chance of progressing. Key players like Nemia Nawave, Terry Connors, Hayden Lammon, Kali Nauque, Tate Brombal, and Paul Merlo are all expected to play, provided they clear the judiciary and injury concerns. Caleb Noah, Brody Ferguson, Dom Arrate, and Dominic Augostis are also in top form and ready to lead the charge.

In the Under 20s, the Townsville-based clubs will dominate the finals, with Souths facing Brothers in the major semi-final and Centrals taking on Western Lions in the minor semi-final.

The Burdekin Hens will meet Brothers at 11:45am on Field 2 in the knockout ladies' semi-final, while Western Lions will play Centrals in the major semi-final. Both the Hens and Brothers have had mixed seasons, with the Hens securing 8 wins and Brothers 7 wins and a draw. The teams have met twice this season, with the Hens winning convincingly in Ayr and Brothers returning the favour in Townsville.

The Hens may lack size, but they have plenty of speed, with Queensland Country backline players capable of scoring tries. The Monday twins, Martina and Stephanie, add more pace to the squad, with their older sister Teah Lee orchestrating play. A potential game-changer is former Brisbane Natives fullback Kezziah Lammon, who has the ability to turn a match around. Jo Morgan, returning from injury, is another player who can score tries, while Tiarna Krutzfelt, Lily Chappell, and Tegan Johnson will give their all.

In the forwards, Taleisha Bulgarelli, Margie O'Rourke, Abby King, Akeilah Thomasson, and new signing Alana Dobe, who has a knack for scoring, will carry the load.

All finals will be played at Jack Manski Oval, the home ground of Brothers.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

Set to clash with Brothers the Hens are ready to put it on the field this weekend for the semi-final showdown!

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Canetoads Wrap Up Final Home Game of the Season

August 29, 2024

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads had a busy weekend as they hosted their final home games of the season, setting the stage for the upcoming semi-finals.

The action kicked off on Friday night with the U11s taking on Teachers West. The young Canetoads played an outstanding game, pushing their opponents to the limit but narrowly missing victory by just one try. Despite the close loss, the team celebrated with high spirits in the sheds afterward. U11s Final Score: 45 – 40.

Unfortunately, the third-grade team missed out on their game as Teachers West were unable to field a team, resulting in a forfeit. Third-Grade Final Score: Forfeit.

On Saturday, the Pink Toads (Ladies) faced a tough challenge against North Ward. Battling injuries and held together by strapping tape, the ladies gave it their all but were unable to break through North Ward's defence. It was a tough day for the Pink Toads, who were held scoreless. Ladies Final Score:  45 – 0.

The Reggies took on Brothers in a match that displayed skill and determination. However, they were outmatched by the top-seeded Brothers, who seemed ready for the finals, securing a solid victory. Reggies Final Score: 26 – 0.

The main event of the weekend featured the Canetoads in a thrilling clash against a strong opponent. Both teams were clearly eyeing the semi-finals, and the game reflected their intensity. In a match characterized by excellent defense from both sides, neither team could pull ahead, resulting in a hard-fought draw. Canetoads Final Score: 12 – 12.

With the regular season now behind them, the Canetoads are gearing up for the semi-finals, where they’ll be looking to capitalize on their strong performances this season.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

Despite last weekend’s loss, the Pink Toads are gearing up for a memorable clash ahead of this weekend’s decider games.

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Home Hill Pickleball Members Enjoy Social Match at Tennis Townsville

August 29, 2024

Members of the Home Hill Pickleball group travelled to Tennis Townsville on Saturday 17 August for a social match, undeterred by bridge closures, fog, and heat. The players enjoyed a nearly perfect day, participating in a "King and Queen of the Court" format that allowed them to mix and compete with Tennis Townsville's highly skilled players, gaining valuable pickleball experience in the process.

Hannah Casswell, Ryan Schwab, and Toni and Michele Pivotto shone as the standout players for Home Hill during the match.

The day also included a delightful morning tea and provided a great opportunity for everyone to connect with other social and like-minded individuals.

“We were treated to a great morning tea and made the most of the opportunity to meet a bunch of social, and like-minded people,” shared Kate Casswell.

The Home Hill Pickleball members extend their thanks to Michelle and the Tennis Townsville crew for their hospitality.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell.

Home Hill Pickleball players brought the heat to the court on Saturday
Friendly competition and plenty of celebratory wins were had on the Tennis Townsville courts
A social and sporting success! Home Hill Pickleball players enjoyed an awesome day of “King and Queen of the Court” with Tennis Townsville

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