The rain stayed away long enough for the Junior Cricket games to go ahead at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex last Friday. After two weeks of wet weather and no games it could be assumed that the Challengers could be a little rusty, though this was not the case as some great cricket skills were on show in the group.

Flynn Sullivan top scored with 7 runs and had good awareness in the field to get a couple of runouts, as did Jaxon Watkins. Nicholas Marrinan scored 4 runs from some well-placed shots into the gaps and Doug Cohen bowled very fast and had great energy in the field. Cooper Amos, Oliver Richter and Everly Nicholas also bowled well, with Everly earning one of the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for her nice straight arm. Nash got the other award for his fine batting technique.

Flynn, Everly and Nash Star in Junior Cricket Comeback‍

There was plenty of energy in the field in the "Blue Group" with four runouts, and seven wickets taken by the bowlers.  Flynn Levitt had the best figures of 2 for 8 runs including one maiden in his overs.  Royce Cohen, 2 for 12 and Corbett Cross, 2 for 16 also bowled well.  Jardii Russell took one wicket, two runouts and led the way with the bat smashing 2 fours on his way to 16 runs.  Henry Cohen was next on 15 runs with 1 four and also a runout.  Jake Cullen and Tait Parker also hit a four each and scored 14 runs in their innings, with Jake also taking a catch and a runout.  Flynn and Tait got the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their great bowling and fielding in this game.

Only three wickets fell in the "Gold Group" this week and only 2 fours were hit in the whole game.  These fours were scored by Marshall Parker who ended his innings of 24 runs not out.  Ben Watkins was next highest on 15 but was out LBW on his last ball before retiring, trying a reverse sweep to Kip Nicholas in his first game in this group.  Tyler Schultz was next on 13 not out after he took a couple of overs to get going.  Ben was very economical and took 1 for 7 when bowling, Oscar Mahoney, 1/10 and Kip, 1/24 snared the other wickets.  Ben and Kip earned the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their overall performances.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke

Blue Group - Tait & Flynn

Challengers - Everly & Nash

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Over the weekend, more than 700 of the state’s top youth athletes from 53 lifesaving clubs descended on Maroochydore to compete on the sand and in the surf at the Queensland Youth State Lifesaving Championships. The 14 members from the Ayr Surf Club had a fantastic weekend, taking on very tough competition in challenging conditions. With incredible individual and team performances progressing through heats, quarters, semis, and finals, our members brought home multiple podium finishes — as well as a few close fourths.

“All of our athletes should be extremely proud of their efforts, representing the Ayr Surf Club and the North Barrier Branch with the highest level of sportsmanship and professionalism,” said Ayr Surf Life Saving member and junior activities coordinator Kellie Lawry.

Ayr Surf Club Excels in State R&R and Beach Events

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The four-day competition kicked off with Ayr's first five-person R&R team in decades, alongside our two-person teams, with all three teams claiming silver medals. Ayr’s U13/15 five-person team—Emilee Wassmuth, Charlotte Dale, Luca Lawry, Charlotte Lawry, and Briella Wassmuth—narrowly missed out on gold by just 0.5 points, taking home a well-deserved silver medal. Charlotte and Emilee also claimed silver in the U13/14 two-person R&R, narrowly beaten by the current Australian champions. Briella paired with Amalie from Arcadian Club to also win silver in the U14/15 two-person R&R, finishing behind a fellow North Barrier Branch team. Several of Ayr’s athletes also took on the 1km and 2km beach runs on Thursday afternoon, delivering strong performances.

Friday and Saturday saw Ayr’s athletes compete in a variety of individual and team water and beach events over two massive days of back-to-back competition. The club’s participants experienced a mix of success, progressing through various rounds and putting their hard work and training to the test. Taylor Chapman claimed a silver medal as part of the U12 Female 2x500m Beach Run Relay, and a bronze as part of the U12 Female Beach Relay. Milla Chapman earned a bronze in the U14 Mixed Beach Relay, as well as another bronze with Alyssa Irvine in the All Age Relay.

The final day of competition featured surf race finals and board semi-finals, with several strong performances. Four of Ayr’s members also competed in the March Past event, claiming a silver medal alongside their North Barrier Branch teammates.

Overall, the championships were a roaring success and a fantastic way to cap off the SLSQ competitive season for our Ayr Surf Club members.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry

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1 - Ayr's 5 person R&R team - Briella Wassmuth, Charlotte Lawry, Luca Lawry, Charlotte Dale & Emilee Wassmuth - Silver

Pic 2 - Briella Wassmuth & Amalie Edwards (Arcadian) - U14/15 2 Person R&R - Silver

Pic 3 - Emilee Wassmuth & Charlotte Lawry - U13/14 2 Person R&R - Silver

Pic 4 - Taylor Chapman (with partner Aria) in U12 2x500m Beach Run Relay - 2^nd

Pic 5 - All Age Relay Team - including Alyssa Irvine & Milla Chapman - 3rd

Pic 6 - Audrey Rickards - U11 Female beach flags

Pic 7 - Mahli McShane in U11 Surf Team

Pic 8 - NBB March Past Team - including Briella & Emilee Wassmuth & Charlotte & Luca Lawry - 2nd

Pic 9 - Taylor Chapman - U12 Female beach relay

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Local

The 1st Round of the Kappa Cup, where the Premiers are away to Saints Eagles Souths in Townsville, was postponed for the fourth Saturday in a row. Coach Leighton Gallagher must wonder if the game will ever be played! Hopefully, the match against Saints Eagles Souths will finally kick off at Aitkenvale Park at 7.00pm this Saturday night.

Seniors

Meanwhile training goes on, the Men train on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.15 and the Ladies are in action on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5.30 to 7.00. Fixtures start on the weekend of 20 - 22 March. The Division 1 and Funkies teams play Estates at home on the Friday, and the Ladies are away to MA Olympic. On the Sunday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels. The Premiers first home game of the season is against Estates on Saturday 28 March.

Juniors

A pre-season Training Clinic for both Boys and Girls aged 6-9 years will start on Tuesdays at 5.15 at International Park. A great way to get back into soccer before the season begins. Registrations for the 2026 season are now open and will close on Sunday 1st March. Teams will be hopefully getting sorted out in the next few weeks. Pre-season games will Kick Off on Saturday 21st March.

Masters

The Masters had to be cancelled last Monday as the pitches were too wet. The season should start next Monday Night. The Magic (or Mayhem) should now kick off on 2 March. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.

National and International

The Matildas are now just a few days away from their first match in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup which is being hosted by Australia. The Matildas first match is against the Philippines in Perth on Sunday 1st March. They then meet Iran on 5th March and South Korea on 8th March. The Matildas are in Group A with Iran, South Korea, and the Philippines.

The Socceroos are warming up for the 2026 World Cup with two friendlies. They play Cameroon on 27 March and Curacao on 31 March and very soon after that, the Socceroos fans will know their first opponents in Group D. It could be any of four countries, Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo. The play offs start on 27 March and finish four days later. In the meantime, The Socceroos know that they will meet USA and Paraguay but will not know their third opponents until 1st April.

In the A League, after eighteen rounds Newcastle are still the League leaders. They beat Macarthur 1-0 and have now won their last eight games. The Jets are now four points clear of second placed Auckland who won the NZ Derby, 5-0 in Wellington.

Sydney defeated Brisbane 1-0 and is in third place a further three points away. Brisbane drops to ninth place. Adelaide stays fourth and Western Sydney continue to hold up the league three points adrift of Wellington and Perth.

In the A League Women, Melbourne City is now three points clear at the top after winning 3-1 at Central Coast. Canberra stay in second place with a 3-0 win away to Western Sydney and third placed Adelaide beat Brisbane 2-0. The Roar is now in sixth place. Sydney FC continues to hold up the league a point behind Western Sydney.

Europe

In England it was back to the EPL and Arsenal, after drawing at Wolverhampton during the week, won 4-1 at Spurs and is now five points clear of Manchester City who beat Newcastle 2-1. Aston Villa could only draw and is a further five points behind six points clear of Chelsea, ManU and Liverpool. With eleven rounds left Wolves and Burnley look Championship bound and West Ham, Notts Forest or Spurs could be joining them.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, with eleven rounds left to play, Bayern was the only one of the top six teams to win. They beat Eintracht and is now eight points ahead of Dortmund. Hoffenheim are a further six points behind and Stuttgart another three points adrift. At the bottom of the league Werder Bremen and Heidenheim are still in trouble, but St Pauli won again and might escape relegation.

In Italy’s Serie A, only two of the top five teams won and Inter, who won 2-0 away to Lecce, is now ten points clear of AC Milan who lost at home to Parma. Napoli also lost and is a further four points behind. Roma moves up to fourth place and Juventus lost again and stays fifth. The two bottom teams, Pisa and Verona both lost again and look Serie B bound but Fiorentina won and might escape relegation.

In Spain’s, La Liga four of the top six teams won but Real Madrid lost at Osasuna and is now one point behind Barca who beat Levante 3-0. Villarreal is another nine points behind and fourth placed Atletico a further three points away. At the bottom of the league, none of the last seven teams won and Levante and Oviedo are still in deep trouble.

In France, PSG was the only one of the top four teams to win. They beat Metz 2-0 and are now two points ahead of Lens who lost to Monaco. Lyon also lost and is now a further seven points behind, but five points clear of fourth placed Marseille. Only Nantes of the bottom seven teams won, and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes are in severe trouble.

The Quote of the Week is from ex Manchester United Manager Sir Matt Busby - “Nobby Stiles a dirty player? No, he’s never hurt anyone. Mind you, he’s frightened a few!

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Two teams of Burdekin-based Rugby League players, Burdekin Delta Dolphins and Pacifika Warriors, will take part in the Annual Bowen Tens competition at Denison Park in Bowen this Saturday.

Founded in 2012 to raise money for Cancer Research, the Annual Carnival conducted by the Bowen Junior Rugby League Seagulls attracts teams from all over North Queensland. This year, teams will be coming from as far north as Cardwell to Emu Park and Morambah.

The carnival now supports several local charities, with Ronald McDonald House charities to the fore.

Players who are 18 years of age and over play in teams of 10 a side on the paddock, with 10-minute halves, using the rules of Rugby League except there are five tackles to a set instead of six.

Teams who have participated in the past have generously contributed to the charity cause. Several Burdekin teams have been successful in the past, donating half their winnings to the nominated charity.

There will be several food vans on site catering for the crowd at the games, which begin at 8 am Saturday morning on two fields and finish late Saturday afternoon.

Semi-finals and a final will be played for both men and women. A few seasons back, a women’s competition was added to the day, and this year that competition has attracted six teams.

Abbot Point Operations are the major sponsor of the women’s competition, with R A P Painting and Finishing sponsoring the runners-up. The six women’s teams are Townsville Souths, Bowen Bush Chooks, Morambah Miners, K A S L United, Emu Park, and Runamok of Bowen.

During the afternoon, a relay will be run between teams for a generous prize donated by Tin Cone. There will also be a draw for a lucky team for a prize donated by P L P Property.

The 14 men’s teams taking part include Emu Park, Shute Harbour Shufflers, Morambah Miners, Wests Tigers of Mackay, Cardwell Axeman, Burdekin teams Pacifika Warriors and Burdekin Delta Dolphins, plus Bowen-based teams Runamok, Chargers, Seagulls, 20 Prise Boys, Paradise Panthers, No Name, and Bowen Mudcrabs Rugby Union.

They will be competing for generous prizes from Williamson Transport Services as major sponsor.

The Burdekin Delta Dolphins team is Keon and Morgan Noah, K J Zaro, Josiah and Jermaine McIvor, Sem Tom, Leylan Lampton, Vakais and Tubby Heron, Harrison Lammon, Terry Connors, Joyton McNee, Gregory Daniells, Orlando Navaho, Jayke Rakiki, and Dylan Doak.

The Pacifika Warriors team is Maika at centre and captain, Maliq, Sepo, Joeli, Saki, Gordon, Johnathon, Toni, Nemi, Kelevi, Tala, Ricardo, Corter, Jayden, Kenneth, Braithen, Brendon, and Tom.

Ten of those players have specific positions on the field, but eight can play multiple spots.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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The Ayr Lady Golfers launched the 2026 Wednesday Competitions earlier this month with an action-packed opening day, highlighted by strong performances, camaraderie, and the support of a new sponsor.

Paul from Dingle Smash Repairs attended the event to personally present prizes to the day’s winners, including first- through fourth-place finishers, pin shot winners, and the “lucky loser” prize, much to the delight of the members.

The day also marked the start of the club’s nine-hole social competition for beginner members, giving newcomers a chance to build confidence as they progress toward playing the full 18-hole competition. Experienced members, including those currently sidelined with injury, provided encouragement and support throughout the day.

Opening Day Results:

• 4th Place: Kat Fensom – 31 points (her very first 18 holes)
• 3rd Place: Rhonda Martin – 31 points
• 2nd Place: Sandra Wight – 32 points
• Winner: Angie Baxter – 36 points

Pin Shot Winners:

• Hole 9: Debbie Searle
• Hole 5: Sandra Wight
  With no one finding the green on Hole 3, the Wheel of Fortune awarded the prize to Sonya O’Shea.

The Ayr Lady Golfers thanked Paul and Dingle Smash Repairs for their generous support, which helped make Opening Day a memorable start to the 2026 season.

Twenty players turned out on Thursday afternoon in hot and steamy conditions. Two games of triples and two games of pairs were contested.

On Rink 3, Judy and Trevor Elton clinched victory on the last end over Bob Pickard and Alex Bojack. Margaret Chapman and Mick McClosky defeated Paul Vass and Hugh Montgomery on Rink 4. On Rink 5, Bob Young, Michael Young and Glen “Bones” Berryman proved too strong for Norm Bethell, Les Hoey and Joe Linton. Meanwhile, Janet Arthur, Cisco and Wayne Newton held on to win against Scotty Taylor, Ron “the BBQ KING” Smith and Bruce McCallum on Rink 6.

The meat tray raffle was won by Mick McClosky, while Bones Berryman took home the bottle of wine.

Looking ahead, the club’s weekly activities continue with the Monday morning fitness group, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday – a chance for anyone wanting to get out, meet people, enjoy a cuppa and a chat – starting at 10am. Wednesday features Kraft morning and barefoot bowls, along with Ron “the BBQ KING’s” gastronomical sausage sizzle in the evening. Thursday brings morning Bingo and Social Bowls in the afternoon from 2pm, with names in by 1pm to help with the draw. Wednesday night is also Darts night, while Friday night hosts the weekly pool competition. Saturday afternoon rounds out the week with Social Bowls at 2pm, with names in by 1pm.

Until next week, good bowling!

Photo and report by Stephen Doig

The day’s winners, Judy and Trevor Elton

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Burdekin Touch is hitting the ground running, with a fresh crop of coaches and teams ready to make their mark this season.

A recent Foundation Touch Football coaching course in Ayr saw 16 local members sharpen their skills, setting the stage for strong performances on and off the field.

Those who successfully finished the course were Neil Inman, Julie, Riley and Kasey Dobe, Angela and Mia Robertson, Lawrence Lampton, Allyce Becke, Brooke Cavanagh, Heather Desbois, Brendan Ford, Peter Murray, Ian Kerr, Bob Clerke, Bruce Johnson, and Peter Knapton.

With the Northern Junior Touch State Cup set for Townsville from 16 to 18 June, the Burdekin Touch Association plans to send teams in U10, U12, U14, U16, and U18 divisions. Juniors interested in representing Burdekin will be advised of upcoming selection dates.

Meanwhile, the Coutt’ Commercial Tavern Men’s and Women’s Open Touch pre-season competition saw One Touch IT and BAYWatch finish on top of the men’s standings, while Eathorne’s Princesses and First in Physio lead the women’s competition. These teams will now contest the pre-season finals.

Round 3 Open Competition Results

Men

• BAYWatch 6 def Creampuffs 0
• One Touch IT 2 def Slush Puppies 1
• BAYWatch 5 def Teamo Supremo 1
• One Touch IT 4 def Petrol Heads 0
• Feelers 3 drew Touch n Go 3
• Teamo Supremo 2 def Creampuffs 1
• Teamo Supremo 3 def Ball Grabbers 0
• Blue Murder 2 def Ball Grabbers 0
• Slush Puppies 3 def Petrol Heads 1
• His Haas 1 drew Tha Murries 1
• Tha Murries 4 def Way to Go 1
• Way to Go 4 def His Haas 1
• Renegades 6 def Blue Murder 0
• Renegades 3 def Ball Grabbers 1
• Crocs 5 def Feelers 1
• Crocs 3 def Alliance Pharmacy 0
• Alliance Pharmacy 5 def Touch n Go 0
• Wires Down 4 def Royal Touch 3
• Wires Down 5 def Royal Touch 2

Women

• Eathorne’s Princesses 6 def Lasers 0
• Eathorne’s Princesses 3 def Lasers 2
• First in Physio 5 def Chick Flicks 2
• Salty Sirens 3 def Chick Flicks 0
• First in Physio 4 def Salty Sirens 1

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Home Hill Tennis has kicked off the 2026 season with four teams of seven players competing in Monday night fixtures from 7.00–8.30 pm. Players are enjoying both the strong competition and the social atmosphere the season brings.

After two rounds, Team Bendigo leads the ladder with two wins. Next Gen and HH Surgery are tied for second, with Bowen Pipeline close behind in third place. Scott currently tops the leaderboard with an impressive four wins from four matches.

It’s been great to welcome several new faces this season, and the club is always happy to hear from prospective players. With occasional absences creating opportunities to fill in, and a couple of team spots still available, anyone interested in playing weekly or fortnightly is encouraged to get in touch at homehilltennis@gmail.com.

The club is also gearing up for its most important date on the calendar — the AGM on 9 March. All members and supporters are invited to attend, hear about the past year’s activities, and vote in the new committee for the 2026/27 season.

Preparations are well underway for the much-anticipated Sugar Bowl from 2–4 May. The district will welcome a large number of visitors, with matches set to be played across Ayr, Giru and Home Hill.

Sugar Bowl preparations are underway, and the club is excited already for the 2nd-4th of May. The district will be packed out with visitors with matches taking place in Ayr, Giru and Home Hill.

Contributed with thanks to the Home Hill Tennis Association

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Burdekin Roosters under-19 coach Alfie Cantarella knows his team like the back of his hand, as Alf has been associated with these boys for a number of years.

Last season, Alf, assisted by John Nash and Thomas Lammon, took the under-18 team to the preliminary final of the Under-18 RLTD, only to be beaten by a lack of numbers due to important injuries.

The same coaching staff will again look after the boys, and even though they will face stiff opposition from powerhouse clubs Brothers, Centrals, and Western Lions, they would still be considered one of the favourites of the competition.

Players like Jett Castello, returning from injury, Joey Southwell, Mason Kiehne, Laylon Lampton, Brodie Scrivener, and Brodie Escriva are expected to shine in the forwards, given good service from number nine Harrison Lammon.

K.J. Zaro has returned after trialling with a southern club, and he, at five-eighth, and his halves partner Jack Power could dominate, with Jacob Drain and Chad Fraser chiming in.

Coach Cantarella said the numbers at training have been good, but he would like other boys to come and join the group on Tuesday and Thursday nights at Bendigo Bank Park at 6 pm.

Last season, Burdekin and Herbert River combined to form the Burdekin River in the ladies’ competition under coach Anita Hagarty.

This season, the club will be trying to go it alone, and with Anita unavailable due to work pressures, Chris Perry has taken over as the leader.

Perry said he is slowly putting together what looks like a strong squad, which should have plenty of speed, led by the Monday twins, Stephanie and Martina, and Toni Daisy, a Queensland Country representative from 2024, with Chloe Taiters.

Perry said they still have a few Townsville-based girls like Lily Chappell, Tiana Krutzfeldt, Tanley Rowe, Talisha Bulgarelli, and Abby King, with a couple of others they are hoping will join.

Abby, a smart utility who sets up and scores tries, will be back after recovering from a knee operation, and she is a very handy player.

Perry said the numbers are starting to grow, and he likes the look of Jo Morgan, Demi Smith, Jessica Capper, Cadence Alexander, and Charlie Pott as players who are not that big in stature but big in heart.

The girls are currently only training on Thursdays, with the Townsville-based girls coming down, but locals can also train on Tuesdays with the Burdekin-based men at 6 pm.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

New and returning players have kicked off another successful season. Photo source: Burdekin Roosters

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Saturday 21/2 (1pm to 5pm) Group I - Sage Hisatake PC, Ben Hisatake, Luke Hisatake and Austin Dewar.

Sunday 22/2 (9am to 1pm) Group F - Lisa Furnell PC, Jen Morgan PC, John and Josh Furnell, Jo Morgan, Jan and Gabriel Hatherell.

Sunday 22/2 (1pm to 5pm) Group H - Dave Satori PC, Katherine Satori PC, Riley and Jake Satori, Cole Pontifex, Alyssia Gibson, Billy Gibson and Halle Gibson.

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Local

In the 1st Round of the Kappa Cup, where the Premiers are away to Saints Eagles Souths in Townsville, the game was postponed yet again. The match, weather permitting, will now take place this Saturday at Aitkenvale Park at 7.00pm. This will be the fourth attempt. Perhaps scheduling these games in February is not a good idea in North Queensland.

Seniors

Men train on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.15 and the Ladies are in action on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5.30 to 7.00. Fixtures start on the weekend of 20- 22 March. The Division 1 and Funkies teams play Estates at home on the Friday, and the Ladies are away to MA Olympic. On the Sunday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels. The Premiers first home game of the season is against Estates on Saturday 28 March.

Juniors

Registrations are now open and will close on Sunday 1st March. Teams will be hopefully getting sorted out in the next few weeks. Pre-season games will Kick Off on Saturday 21st March. Please head to Facebook for registration information. If you have any questions, please email the club at burdekinfc@hotmail.com. Potential Coaches must also register by 1 March, together with their preferred age group.

Masters

The Masters will be on again next Monday Night. The Magic (or Mayhem) kicks off on 23 February. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.

National and International

The Matildas are now only two weeks away from their first match in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup which is being hosted by Australia. The Matildas are in Group A with Iran, South Korea, and the Philippines. The current FIFA Rankings of the Group A teams are Australia 15th, South Korea 21st, Philippines 41st and Iran 68th. The Matildas first match is against the Philippines in Perth on 1st March. They then meet Iran on 5th March and South Korea on 8th March.

The Oakland Roots/Soul Training Facility has been selected as the Socceroos’ official Base Camp training site for their seventh FIFA World Cup appearance. Located on Bay Farm Island in Alameda, California, the Oakland Roots and Soul Sports Soccer Club’s first-class training facility will host the Socceroos squad.

The Socceroos have two friendlies lined up. They play Cameroon on 27 March and Curacao on 31 March and very soon after that, Socceroos fans will not know their first opponents in the 2026 FIFA World Cup until 1st April. They know that Australia will meet USA and Paraguay but will not know their third opponents until 1st April. It could be any of four countries, Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo. The play offs start on 27 March and finish four days later. In the meantime,

In the A League, after seventeen rounds Newcastle are still the League leaders. They won 3-1 in Perth and have now won their last seven games. Second placed Auckland has yet to play, and Adelaide moves into third place after beating Sydney FC 2-1. Sydney drops to fourth, level on points with Macarthur. Brisbane drew away to Melbourne Victory and stays in eighth place. Western Sydney continue to hold up the league two points adrift of Central Coast

In the A League Women, Melbourne City are still top despite drawing 0-0 in the local derby. Wellington lost 1-2 away to Central Coast but stays in second place on goal difference from Canberra who lost 0-1 away to Perth. Fourth placed Adelaide has yet to play, and Brisbane lost 0-4 away to Sydney but hangs onto sixth place. Sydney and Western Sydney are holding up the League.

Europe

In England it was the FA Cup 4th Round and one of shocks so far was Burnley losing at home 1-2 to Mansfield Town from the third tier. Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool, West Ham, Leeds, Wolves and Newcastle are all through to the next round. The EPL resumes next week with Arsenal away to Wolverhampton, Manchester City at home to Newcastle and Chelsea at home to Burnley.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, with twelve rounds left to play, all four top teams won with Bayern winning 3-0 at Werder Bremen to maintain their six point lead over Dortmund. Hoffenheim is a further six points behind, and fourth placed Stuttgart is a further three points adrift. Heidenheim and St Pauli both lost hold up the table and Mainz, who won again, are almost out of the relegation zone.

In Italy’s Serie A, only two of the top five teams won and Inter is still eight points clear of AC Milan who have a game in hand. Napoli who drew at home to Roma is a further three points behind and Juventus who lost to Inter drops to fifth place one point behind Roma. The two bottom teams, Pisa and Verona both lost and look Serie B bound.

In Spain’s, La Liga both Barcelona and Real Madrid won and Real leads Barca by one point, but Barca has a game in hand. Third placed Villareal lost and is now thirteen points off the pace ahead of fourth placed Atletico on goal difference. At the bottom of the league, none of the last three teams won and Levante and Oviedo are still in deep trouble.

In France, PSG lost 1-3 at sixth placed Rennes and drops to second place, one point behind behind Lens who beat Paris FC 5-0. Lyon is a further six points behind but five points ahead of fourth placed Marseille, who drew at home to Strasbourg. Only Auxerre of the bottom five teams won, and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes are in severe trouble.

The Quote of the Week is from ex- Nottingham Forest Manager Sean Dyche “Life's not a dress-rehearsal. So, if you want to do it; do it.”

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Clay target shooters from across North Queensland are set to converge on Ayr next month, with the Burdekin Clay Target Club Inc. hosting a major two-day shooting event packed with prize money, trophies and community spirit.

The event will take place on Saturday, 7 March and Sunday, 8 March, at the club’s grounds on Ayr Dalbeg Road, Mount Kelly, with shooting getting underway from 9am on Saturday and 8.30am on Sunday.

The weekend features seven competitive events, including pointscore, medley, single barrel, double barrel and handicap shoots across graded categories AA, A, B and C. Juniors are also encouraged to take part, with free nominations available.

Saturday’s program includes four events, with highlights such as a 30-target medley and a double barrel trophy shoot, while Sunday will see shooters compete in continental and handicap events. Event seven, the 25-target Double Barrel Handicap, offers the weekend’s largest prize pool, with $1,000 for first place, followed by $500 for second and $250 for third.

Across the weekend, competitors will be shooting for more than $8,500 in cash and prizes, with additional giveaways including two .22 rifles. Sashes will be awarded for overall winners, with badges presented to first place in each grade.

The competition also includes Shooter of the Year points, with Events 2 and 7 counting toward the annual tally. The Kirknie Station High Guns title will be contested across Events 1 to 7, covering multiple categories including Ladies, Junior and Veteran.

Beyond the competition, organisers say the weekend is about bringing people together. Free basic camping is available on site, meals will be served throughout the weekend, and a Saturday night dinner will be followed by a Mini Calcutta.

With strong local sponsorship backing the event and a full weekend of shooting on offer, the Burdekin Clay Target Club is encouraging shooters of all experience levels to get involved.

For more information, shooters can contact the club via email at burdekinclaytargetclub@outlook.com or follow the club on Facebook.

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Registrations are now open for the Burdekin Sugar Rush 2026, with locals encouraged to start training early for one of the region’s most popular and inclusive running events.

Set to take place on Sunday, 26 April 2026 in Ayr, the Burdekin Sugar Rush offers something for everyone, with race distances including a Half Marathon (21km), 10km and 5km, welcoming runners and walkers of all ages and abilities.

As the signature event of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club, the Sugar Rush has become a much-loved fixture on the local sporting calendar, celebrating not only personal achievement but also community connection, health and fun.

Organisers say the event attracts participants from across North Queensland, including Townsville, Ingham, Cairns, Mackay and the Whitsundays, while maintaining a strong focus on first-time competitors and families through its shorter distances and pram-friendly options.

With training season now underway, locals looking to build fitness ahead of the event are encouraged to join Plantation parkrun, a free, weekly, timed 5km walk, jog or run held every Saturday at 7am. Open to all ages and abilities, Plantation parkrun provides an accessible and supportive way for beginners and experienced runners alike to train consistently and connect with others in the community.

The mental health benefits of regular exercise were highlighted in recent research led by Neil Munro from James Cook University, which reviewed more than 1,000 clinical trials examining the impact of exercise on depression and anxiety.

“There have been more than a thousand studies on this subject, we wanted to synthesise this vast body of evidence, cut through conflicting findings and provide the clearest picture yet of exercise’s impact on mental health,” said Mr Munro.

The study found aerobic activities such as walking and running were particularly effective, with supervised and group-based exercise delivering the strongest benefits — reinforcing the value of community events like parkrun and the Burdekin Sugar Rush in supporting both physical and mental wellbeing.

“For those facing barriers to traditional care, the message is clear: moving your body, especially with others, can be a powerful step toward better mental health,” Mr Munro said.

An early bird bonus is currently available for the Burdekin Sugar Rush, with early registrants receiving a free personalised race bib featuring their name.

Whether participants are chasing a personal best, training with friends, walking for fun or taking on their first-ever event, organisers say the Burdekin Sugar Rush offers a welcoming environment that showcases the region’s scenery while promoting an active, healthy lifestyle.

Registrations and event updates are available via the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club website, with locals encouraged to sign up early and make the most of the months ahead by getting moving at Plantation parkrun.

1. Hundreds of runners will hit the streets for the Burdekin Sugar Rush this April! Photo source: Burdekin Life
2. Runners are encouraged to lace up and train at Plantation parkrun each week. Photo source: Visit Burdekin

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Locals gathered at the Burdekin Race Club on Valentines Day to witness five local races in what was one of the Club’s four racing events of the calendar year.

1. Christine Woodward, Jill Barbagallo, Glenda Johnson

2. Adam Russo, David Jones, Sharon Pease

3. Anne Kerr, Gloria Vass, Sandra Danzinger

4. Tony and Juanita Chandler

5. Horses thunder down the final stretch as spectators cheer on their favourites at Burdekin Race Club.

6. Smiles, cheers, and high-fives as owners, trainers, and fans celebrate the day’s races.

7. Horses line up, ready for another exciting race.

8. Neck and neck: the race heats up toward the finish.

Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Burdekin is no stranger to producing global sporting talent, and the latest to carry the banner abroad is local teenage motorcycle racer Ky Mitchell, set to take on the world after being selected to compete in the prestigious World 250 Speedway Solo Title in Europe later this year.

The 13-year-old secured his place after impressing at the Australian Championships in Albury in December last year, one of only three Australian riders aged 13 to 16 invited to compete internationally.

Ky will first contest the semi-finals in Pardubice, Czech Republic, on 16 and 17 June. If successful, he will advance to the finals in Wrocław, Poland.

For Ky and his family, the selection marks a moment of pride, achieved on the back of countless hours of training, travel and sacrifice.

“He’s been preparing for this opportunity for the past 12 months,” his father Julian said.

“That’s meant travelling all over Australia to compete, including New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. We even leave bikes set up in Adelaide because sometimes it’s easier to fly than drive long distances.”

This is not Ky’s first taste of international recognition. In 2024, he earned selection for the SGP4 series after winning an Australian Championship, but was unable to travel at the time and missed the opportunity.

This time, the family is doing everything in its power to make sure he gets there.

“For speedway, we’re a little disadvantaged in North Queensland,” Julian said.

“Most of the competition for his age group is down south, and Ky is currently the only active 250cc speedway rider in Queensland.

“As a family, we work hard to put in the travel hours. We’re also very lucky to have support from many North Queensland locals who help him get training and track time where possible.

“Ky’s a ‘go-with-the-flow kid’. He’ll drive, fly and sleep anywhere if it means he gets to race.”

Once on track, the budding star’s talent speaks for itself.

“Ky always puts in 110 per cent at practice and race meetings,” Julian said.

“He’s very consistent and always turns heads. We’re extremely proud to see his hard work paying off.”

For Ky, the moment he found out about his selection was unforgettable.

“I was shocked with excitement,” he said.

“It’s been a dream of mine to represent Australia riding speedway.”

Having raced from the tender age of just four, the selection represents a significant lunge toward the teenager’s long-time goal of riding internationally as a profession.

He is eager to test himself against the world’s best, race at new tracks, meet new people from other countries, and watch the SGP live in Poland.

Julian is also hopeful the trip will broaden his horizons beyond racing, eager for him to “experience new countries, new tracks and what it’s like to race at an international level.”

In the coming months, the Mitchell family will be running fundraisers to help cover the significant costs of travelling and competing overseas.

Supporters can follow Ky’s journey and find updates through the Ky Mitchell Racing Facebook page.

Photos:

1. Local teenage motorcycle racer Ky Mitchell, set to take on the world after being selected to compete in the prestigious World 250 Speedway Solo Title in Europe later this year.

2. He’s very consistent and always turns heads. We’re extremely proud to see his hard work paying off,” said father, Julian Mitchell.

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14 Ayr Surf Club nippers have descended to Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast this week for the SLSQ Youth State Championships, with competition commencing on Thursday 19 February and going through until Sunday 22nd.

From iconic surf and beach races to team events and relays, it’s the ultimate celebration of surf sport and lifesaving skill on one of Queensland’s most beautiful beaches. With last year's event cancelled due to Cyclone Alfred the kids are all excited to get to put their hard work and training to the test this year.

Zachary Dale, Briella Wassmuth, Warne McShane, Cole Pontifex, Milla Chapman, Emma Jones, Emilee Wassmuth, Charlotte Lawry, Alyssa Irvine, Luca Lawry, Charlotte Dale, Taylor Chapman, Audrey Rickards & Mahli McShane will compete as part of the North Barrier Branch Youth State Team along with fellow members from across our region under the NBB white & blue cap.

All the action kicks off with R&R events and long beach runs and progresses over the next few days with individual and team events and concludes on Sunday with March Past and finals. Some of the action will be live-streamed and you can watch it on the Surf Life Saving Queensland Facebook page.

Contributed with thanks to Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club.

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Local
In the 1st Round of the Kappa Cup, where the Premiers are away to Saints Eagles Souths in Townsville, the game was postponed again and, weather permitting, will now take place this Saturday at Aitkenvale Park at 7.00pm. Meanwhile, training continues.

Seniors
Men train on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.15 and the Ladies are in action on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5.30 to 7.00. The Fixtures start on the weekend of 20- 22 March. The Division 1 and Funkies teams play Estates at home on the Friday, and the Ladies are away to MA Olympic. On the Sunday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels.

Juniors
Registrations are now open and will close on Sunday 1st March. Teams will be hopefully getting sorted out in the next few weeks. Pre-season games will Kick Off on Saturday 21st March. Please head to Facebook for registration information. If you have any questions, please email the club at burdekinfc@hotmail.com.

Masters
The Masters will be on again soon. Monday Night Magic (or Mayhem) kicks off on 23 February. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.

National and International
The Matildas are only a couple of weeks away from their first match in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Fortunately, it looks as if both Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler will be fit! The Matildas are in Group A with Iran, South Korea, and the Philippines and their first match is against the Philippines in Perth on 1st March. They then meet Iran on 5th March and South Korea on 8th March. The Asian Cup is being hosted by Australia.

Socceroos fans will not know their first opponents in the 2026 FIFA World Cup until 1st April. They know that Australia will meet USA and Paraguay but will not know their third opponents until 1st April. It could be any of four countries, Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo. The play offs start on 27 March and finish four days later. In the meantime, the Socceroos have two friendlies lined up. They play Cameroon on 27 March and Curacao on 31 March.

In the A League, after sixteen rounds Newcastle are still the League leaders after winning 3-2 in Adelaide. Auckland beat Sydney FC 1-0 to move to second place with Sydney dropping to third. Macarthur stays fourth after a draw against Perth and Brisbane is now eighth after losing 1-2 at home to Central Coast. Western Sydney continue to hold up the league despite a 1-1 draw with Melbourne City.

In the A League Women, Brisbane were the only one of the top six teams to lose, going down 2-5 to leaders Melbourne City. The Roar drop to fifth place. Wellington stay in second place with a 1-0 defeat of Perth. Canberra beat Sydney to move up to third place and Adelaide is fourth after winning against Western Sydney. Sydney and Western Sydney are holding up the League. Oh Dear!

Europe

In the EPL, Arsenal beat Sunderland 3-0 and stays six points clear of Manchester City who won 2-1 at Liverpool. Aston Villa drew but is still third a further three points behind and ManU continue their good run winning again to stay in fourth place. At the foot of the table West Ham and Leeds both won and Burnley and Wolverhampton look relegation bound.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, three of the top four teams won and Bayern thumped third placed Hoffenheim 5-1 to stay six points clear of Dortmund, with Hoffenheim now a further six points behind. Leipzig has moved up to fourth place. Heidenheim lost, St Pauli won but still hold up the table and Mainz, who won again, are almost out of the relegation zone.

In Italy’s Serie A, three of the top four teams won and Inter is still eight points clear of AC Milan who have a game in hand. Napoli is a further point behind and Juventus who drew 2-2 at home to Lazio stays in fourth place a further three points behind. The three bottom teams all drew, and Pisa and Verona still look Serie B bound.

In Spain’s, La Liga both Barcelona and Real Madrid won and Barca still leads Real by one point. Third placed Atletico lost and is now twelve points off the pace. Fourth placed Villarreal is another three points behind. At the bottom of the league, Oviedo was the only team to win but along with Levante is still in deep trouble.

Finally, in France, only three of the top eight teams won and PSG still leads Lens by two points with Lyon a further seven points behind. Marseille, who lost 0-5 at PSG, is now a further three points away in fourth place. None of the bottom five teams won and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes are in severe trouble.

Quote of the Week is from ex- England Manager Sam Allardyce "I won't ever be going to a top four club because I'm not called Allardici, just Allardyce."

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The Challengers and Junior cricket games went ahead at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex on Friday thanks to the mowing crew who kept at it when they could between the periods of rain during the week.  Low totals were scored though because of the thick grass and damp outfields slowing the balls, with only 2 fours hit in the three games.  In the Challengers game Cooper Amos and Oliver Richter, and Hugh Armstrong and Jai Baxter's partnerships were the highest.  Oliver was given one of the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for his batting and also for his great effort to bowl with a straight arm.  In her first game of Challengers Killara Russell won the other because of her great batting and fielding.  Jai also took 3 wickets and Olivia Patti, Dylan and Cooper took 2 each. 

Henry Cohen was the only batter to score double figures in the Blue Group this week with 10 runs, next were Mazlyn Smith and Jardii Russell on 8.  The bowlers and fielders dominated the scorebook in this low scoring game.  Royce Cohen was the best bowler with figures of 4 for 11 runs off his three overs and got a "McDonalds Sports Award" for his excellent bowling.  Flynn Levitt, 3 for 6 and Tait Parker, 3 for 10 were other notable mentions.  Flynn and Jardii also effected 2 run outs each and Mazlyn took a catch.  Mazlyn took home the other award in this game for her all-round batting, bowling and fielding.

Some great running between the wickets and the slow outfield enabled the Gold Group batters to post some reasonable scores, even though only one boundary was hit.  Marshall Parker retired not out on 19 with some well-run twos and threes when he hit into space in the outfield.  Oscar Mahoney, 12 was one ball off retiring when he was bowled by Tyler Schultz.  Ben Watkins was looking good on 7 runs until his stumps were rattled with another great ball from him, Tyler ended up with figures of 2 for 17.  Mark Wilkie, 11 was another batter to be doing it easy until Alex Cullen got him in a close runout decision.  Other bowlers to take a wicket each were Kyle Wilkie, Ben and Alex. Kaisen Petersen and Alex Cullen got the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their overall batting, bowling and their game awareness in the field.

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Ben Watkins drives through the crease during Friday’s match.
Alex Cullen delivers with pace and precision.

Photos supplied

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Burdekin Roosters A Grade coach Steve Lansley is putting together an A Grade side that will have plenty of speed, even though short of a couple of big men up front.

Leading the way will be last season’s Player of the Year Hayde Munro, again scheduled to run at lock. Hayde's older brother Jones is favoured to be one of the centres; he is very handy there with plenty of pace and solid defence.

With the retirement of five-eighth and captain Joel Mason due to a recurring knee injury, Lansley has recruited a more than handy number six, Mitch Brown, who has played A Grade for Brothers. Local Luca Lago would love a chance at wearing the 6, a position he was above average at in his junior years.

Brown's brother Ash is trialing with the Blackhawks but could also be joining the local Roosters. Lansley said if he does, he would be a very welcome addition, as he is a big front-rower with plenty of experience.

At the moment, the club is a bit short up front, with Lachlan Shepherd, Braedyn Cotter, and Tate Brombal the only big men with experience, backed up by former Blackhawk Ethan Hagarty and possibly a couple of players from the Reggies and Under-19s.

New signing hooker Nash Beck comes with experience and looks tough and nuggety. Last season’s Ignatius Park second-rower and captain Cooper Fletcher has joined the club and, even though not large in size, is a tiger on defence.

The club is also waiting on the Blackhawks to complete their Under-19 campaign, with big front-rower Torm Rupena expected to join. With Hayde Munro leading the forwards, last season’s half and Blackhawks Under-19 captain Jye Olsen will be given that role locally. Olsen won several Man of the Match awards last season and pushed Munro for the top player award with his organising ability at half.

Adam Camer came into first grade late last year but is now one of the first picked, with his tigerish defence and expert chiming into attack from fullback.

Terry Connors could be one of the wingers given his finishing ability, with Nemia Nawave the other. The club also has a new recruit from Western Lions, Jake O’Brien, who is an excellent finisher with plenty of speed.

Next week, we will have a look at the Reggies, Under-19s, and the Ladies, with big plans ahead for those teams.

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Roundtwo of the Coutt’sCommercial Tavern Men’sand Women’sOpen Touch pre-season competition delivered plenty of action lastweek, with several teams staking early claims on the leaderboard.

Inthe men’sdivision, One Touch IT emerged as the team to beat, securing twoconvincing victories to climb to the top of the standings. Close ontheir heels are Baywatch, His Haas, and Teamo Supremo, all tied forsecond place just one point behind the leaders.

Thewomen’scompetition saw Eathorne’sPrincesses maintain their strong start, sitting atop the ladder aftera solid win over Chick Flicks. Salty Sirens remain hot on theirheels, with the two sides sharing a 2-2 draw in a thrillingencounter.

RoundTwo Results –Men’sOpen:

• One Touch IT 4 def Baywatch 1
• One Touch IT 3 def Renegades 0
• Teamo Supremo 5 def Touch n Go 0
• Teamo Supremo 3 def Ball Grabbers 0
• His Haas 3 def Feelers 2
• His Haas 2 def Creampuffs 0
• Slush Puppies 6 def Blue Murder 1
• Slush Puppies 5 def Tha Murries 1
• Baywatch 3 def Renegades 1
• Feelers 2 drew Creampuffs 2
• Touch n Go 1 def Ball Grabbers 0

RoundTwo Results –Women’sOpen:

• Eathorne’s Princesses 3 def Chick Flicks 0
• Salty Sirens 4 def Chick Flicks 0
• Lasers 3 def Can’t Catch 0
• Lasers 3 def First in Physio 2
• First in Physio 6 def Can’t Catch 0
• Eathorne’s Princesses 2 drew Salty Sirens 2

Thecompetition is still open for team nominations, which will beaccepted up until March 1.

Meanwhile,the Friday Junior Touch program kicks off this week, welcoming boysand girls aged 4 to 12. Sign-on is scheduled for February 13 at theclubhouse from 5.30pm, with six weeks of skills, drills, and games tofollow. Registration costs $20.

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Local
The season was supposed to kick off last Saturday with the 1st Round of the Australia Cup where the Premiers are away to Saints Eagles Souths in Townsville. However, the match was postponed and will now take place this Saturday

Seniors
Training has been well underway now for a few weeks. Men train on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.15 and the Ladies are in action on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5.30 to 7.00. The Fixtures start on the weekend of 20- 22 M arch. The Division 1 and Funkies teams play Estates at home on the Friday, and the Ladies are away to MA Olympic. On the Sunday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels.

Juniors
Registrations are open and teams will be hopefully getting sorted in the next few weeks. Please head to Facebook for registration information. If you have any questions, please email the club at burdekinfc@hotmail.com.

Masters
The Masters will resume its Monday Night Magic (or Mayhem) on 23 February. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.

Europe

In the EPL, Arsenal thumped Leeds 4-0 and is now six points clear of Manchester City who could only draw 2-2 at Spurs. Aston Villa lost but is still third a further one point behind and ManU continue their good run under new Manager Michael Carrick beating Fulham to stay in fourth place. At the foot of the table West Ham, Burnley and Wolverhampton are in look relegation bound.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, Bayern could only manage a daw away to lowly Hamburg and is now only six points clear of Dortmund with Hoffenheim a further three points behind. Stuttgart is still in fourth place. Heidenheim and St Pauli both lost and are holding up the table and Mainz, who won again, are almost out of the relegation zone.

In Italy’s Serie A, only three one of the top eight teams won. Inter was one of them and they are now top the table eight points ahead of AC Milan. Napoli is a further point behind and Juventus who won 4-1 at Parma stays in fourth place one point behind. The bottom seven teams all lost, and Pisa and Verona look Serie B bound.

In Spain’s, La Liga Barcelona and Real Madrid both won and Barca still leads Real by one point. Third placed Atletico could only draw and is another nine points off the pace. Fourth placed Villarreal is another three points behind. At the bottom of the league, Oviedo was the only team to win but along with Levante is still in deep trouble.

Finally, in France, after twenty rounds, three of the top four teams won and PSG still leads Lens by two points with Marseille, who could only draw, now a further seven points away. Lyon is in fourth place on goal difference. None of the bottom seven teams won and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes are in deep trouble.

The Quote of the Week is from ex- Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger -“If you do not believe you can do it then you have no chance at all”.

The Matildas are only a month away from their first match in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. The Matildas are in Group A with Iran, South Korea, and the Philippines and their first match is against the Philippines in Perth on 1st March. They then meet Iran on 5th March and South Korea on 8th March. The Asian Cup is being hosted by Australia. Twelve countries have qualified for the event which is also a qualifying event for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.

Socceroos fans planning to travel to the United States and Canada for next year’s World Cup have been hit with hefty ticket prices. The cheapest ticket on offer for an Australian fan wanting to see the Socceroos in action in a group game is $210 (US$140). That price is for a category three ticket to Australia’s opening game against a yet to be determined European qualifier in Vancouver or the Socceroos’ final group against Paraguay in the San Francisco Bay Area.

For those matches, a category two ticket will set fans back $570 (US$380), while a category one ticket to be as close to the action as possible is listed at $675 (US$450). The prices get even worse for Australia’s clash with host nation, the USA, in Seattle. The cheapest ticket going for that match is $398 (US$265). The craziest tickets have been saved for the final at New York/New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on July 19, The cheapest ticket on offer is $6,280 (US$4,185), Category two will set you back $8,366 (US$5,575).
In the A League, after fifteen rounds Newcastle are now the League leaders after beating Brisbane 4-1 and after Auckland lost 0-2 to Perth Glory. Sydney FC demolished

Western Sydney 4-1 to move into second place two points behind Newcastle, with Auckland dropping to third spot. Brisbane has dropped to seventh place, winning just one of their last five games. Western Sydney continue to hold up the league.

In the A League Women, after twelve rounds Melbourne City are still top despite losing 1-2 to Adelaide. Canberra beat Melbourne Victory 2-1 to move up to second place a point clear of Adelaide. Brisbane drew 2-2 at home to Central Coast and is now fifth. Sydney is bottom of the league after losing 3-2 to Western Sydney.

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The Burdekin Roosters have officially kicked off training as preparations ramp up for the 2026 Rugby League Townsville District (RLTD) season.

The club is aiming to field four teams this year, with the under 20s competition disbanded and replaced by a new under 19 grade. Alf Cantarella will again lead the under 18s, assisted by John Nash and Thomas Lammon. After guiding the side to a preliminary final last season before injuries took their toll, Cantarella said he was proud to have coached many of the players from their junior years through to the senior ranks.
Peter Horan returns as reserve grade coach, while Steve Lansley will once again mentor the A grade side.

Under a new two-year agreement, the women’s program will combine with Herbert River to form the Burdekin River team. Last season’s coach Anita Hagarty was appointed to continue in the role, although work commitments may impact her availability. The Burdekin side of the team will welcome back speedster Stephanie Monday, who reunites with her twin sister after a year away, along with forward Ali Nauque, returning from an ACL injury. Both bring representative experience to the squad.

Training is being held at Bendigo Bank Park in Ayr on Tuesday and Thursday nights for Burdekin-based players, with Townsville-based players training at Bindal on Tuesdays and Ayr on Thursdays.

A tentative RLTD draw has been released, with officials hoping for changes after the Roosters were scheduled to play seven away games in the first nine rounds.

Off the field, the club has a new executive committee, led by chairman Alex Lennox, alongside deputy John Nash, secretary and registrar Melissa Lammon, and treasurer Connie Elton.

Further details on returning and new players will be revealed in next week’s edition.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Saturday 7 February (1-5pm) Group G - Carl List PC, James Kennedy PC, Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards and Ross Blakey.

Sunday, 8 February  (9am-1pm) Group B - Terry Lund PC, Kristy Wassmuth PC, Anita Giddy, Heather Scott, Briella and Emilee Wassmuth.

Sunday 8 February (1pm-5pm) Group A - Chris Wicks PC, Richard Dale PC, Jane Olsen, Zachary Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner and Wil Holt.

Contributed with thanks to Kristy Wassmuth.

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The Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Open Men’s and Women’s Touch pre-season competition got off to a flying start last week, with an impressive 120 touchdowns recorded.

After two games, Baywatch and Renegades remain unbeaten in the men’s competition, while Eathorne’s Princesses are the only undefeated team in the women’s draw. Even with shortened matches, the humid conditions proved challenging for many players.
So far, 12 men’s teams and six women’s teams have nominated, with further nominations expected in the coming weeks.

The four-week pre-season competition will conclude with finals on 11 February, before Round 1 of the Open competition begins the following week. Team nominations remain open until 28 February and can be completed via the burdekintouch.com.au website.

Sign-ons for the Under 14 and Under 12 Junior Touch competitions were held on Wednesday, 4 February, with those divisions set to begin next Wednesday.

Pre-season Round 1 results:
Men:
Baywatch 5 def Ball Grabbers 0
Baywatch 5 def His Haas 1
Renegades 7 def Touch n Go 0
Renegades 4 def Creampuffs 1
Creampuffs 4 def Touch n Go 2
His Haas 3 def Ball Grabbers 0
Teamo Supremo 3 def Feelers 2
One Touch IT 3 def Teamo Supremo 1
One Touch IT 0 drew Feelers 0

Women:
Eathorne’s Princesses 6 def Chick Flicks 0
Eathorne’s Princesses 2 def First in Physio 0
Salty Sirens 3 def Can’t Catch 0
First in Physio 1 def Salty Sirens 0
Can’t Catch 2 drew Chick Flicks 2

With strong numbers, competitive matches and junior divisions returning, the Burdekin Touch Football season is shaping up to be a big one.

Touch in the region is building momentum following the Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Open Men’s and Women’s Touch pre-season competition. Photo supplied

Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton.

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The Home Hill Third Grade side went down narrowly in a close contest at home on Sunday morning, falling eight runs short against Brothers. Batting first, Brothers posted 8/130, with Leo Olditch leading the charge for Home Hill with an outstanding spell of 4/14 from six overs. He was well supported by Jaiden Rice (2/24) and Travis Butler (2/6).

In reply, Home Hill fought hard but finished on 9/122 from their 30 overs. Andrew Wallwork anchored the innings with a composed 37 not out from 44 balls, including two sixes, while Luke Mottin added a steady 23 not out from 52 deliveries. However, the run chase was ultimately undone by five costly run-outs.

In the afternoon match, the Home Hill Second Grade side posted a modest total of 96. Al Wilkins top-scored with a quickfire 33 off 23 balls, striking three fours and two sixes, while Kris Wright contributed 21 from 17. Consistent pressure from the Wests bowling attack kept the scoring rate in check throughout the innings.

Despite disciplined bowling efforts, Home Hill was unable to contain Beau McCarron, whose unbeaten 69 steered Wests to 1/99 and a convincing nine-wicket victory. Alex Stillhard claimed the only wicket with a sharp caught-and-bowled effort, but the visitors proved too strong in the chase.

Contributed with thanks to Tiffany Olditch.

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Leo Olditch (Third Grade) - bowled 4/14. Photo supplied

Wicket! Photo supplied

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The Ayr Golf Club was buzzing with energy as a record field of 121players teed off for the Mini Masters, proudly sponsored by DrummondGolf.

Withthe course presented in immaculate condition, blue skies overhead anda light breeze keeping conditions comfortable, it was a near-perfectday for golf. The strong turnout saw competitors travel from acrossthe Burdekin region, as well as Proserpine, Rowes Bay and even NorthLakes in Brisbane, highlighting the growing appeal of the event.

Congratulationsgo to all the winners and to every player who took part and helpedmake the day such a success. A special thank you also goes to Jamesfrom Drummond Golf, who made the trip to Ayr to set up a pop-up proshop and ensure golfers had everything they needed on the day.

Theclub also extends its sincere thanks to the volunteers who preparedthe course, staffed the clubhouse and worked behind the scenes to setup and run the competition. Their time and dedication continue tomake events like this possible and ensure the Ayr Golf Club remains awelcoming place to enjoy great golf and even better company.

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Photos and article courtsey of the Ayr Golf Club.

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Twenty-two players took to the greens on Thursday afternoon, with three games of triples and one pairs match played.

On Rink 4, Les Hoey and Joe Linton edged out Bob Young and Hugh Montgomery in a very close contest. Rink 5 saw Margaret Chapman, Sandra Darwin and Alex Bojack record a strong win over Norm Bethell, Cisco and Tony Eadie. On Rink 6, Paul Vass, Ron Smith and Steve Doig led from start to finish for a comfortable victory against Scott Taylor, Michael Young and Mick McClosky. Rink 7 featured a dominant performance from Robert ?, Elaine Young and Wayne Newton, who defeated Trevor Elton, Bruce McCallum and Glen “Bones” Berryman.

The overall winners for Thursday were Paul Vass, Ron Smith and Steve Doig.

Saturday afternoon again attracted 22 players, despite very hot conditions. Sweet FM, the sound of the Burdekin, kept players and spectators entertained throughout the afternoon. A welcome is extended to Glenis Johns, who played her first game at the club.

Three triples and one pairs match were played. On Rink 4, Austin, Elaine and Ron defeated Yogi, Michael Young and Alex. Rink 5 saw Judy, Margaret Chapman and Mick McClosky finish strongly to overcome Paul, Bob Pickard and Trevor. A close contest on Rink 6 ended with Bernice, Katrina and Glen edging out Janet Arthur, Mick Olsen and Bob Young. Rink 7 produced a last-end thriller, with Glenis Johns and Hugh Montgomery narrowly defeating Laura Webber and Harold Rummeny.

Thursday’s raffle winners were Bob Young, who claimed a breakfast meat tray with ticket No. 11, and Ron Smith, who won a bottle of wine with ticket No. 41.

Monday morning fitness sessions continue, along with Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, which is open to anyone wanting to learn the game of bowls and starts at 10am. Wednesday morning Kraft group maintains its usual strong attendance, while Wednesday night barefoot bowls and sausage sizzles remain popular. Thursday morning bingo is well patronised, and with summer drawing to a close, afternoon social bowls are expected to continue growing through the cooler autumn and winter months. Saturday afternoon social bowls also continue to attract strong numbers.

Until next week, good bowling.

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Thursday’s winning team: Paul Vass, Ron Smith and Steve Doig

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Local swimmers have made a splash at the 2026 Townsville Tourist LongCourse Transition Meet, with the Torpedoes Swim Club delivering astandout performance across a big weekend of racing.

Theteam walked away with an impressive haul of place medals, upgrademedals, personal best times, state qualifying times and ribbons, butcoaches and parents alike say the results went far beyond whatappeared on the podium. For many swimmers, the meet provided valuablerace experience, the chance to overcome competition nerves and theopportunity to step outside their comfort zones by taking on newevents.

Aspecial mention goes to Mahli, Gabriella and Warne, who all qualifiedfor the highly competitive Eliminator event. The trio capped offtheir strong performances by securing wins and taking home cashprizes, adding an exciting highlight to the weekend.

Theclub also took time to acknowledge the strong support network behindthe swimmers’ success. Parents were thanked for volunteering theirtime as timekeepers, while the Dale family received specialrecognition for transporting the team tent and helping keep the grouporganised across the meet.

CoachesKim and Mick were praised for their guidance and encouragementthroughout the competition, helping swimmers stay focused andconfident across both days of racing. The Torpedoes also extendedtheir thanks to the Townsville Tourist Amateur Swimming Club forhosting what was described as a well-run and enjoyable event.

Withday one “done and dusted” and plenty of momentum heading into daytwo, the Torpedoes team showed strong spirit, determination andteamwork — proving once again that hard work in the pool pays off.

GoTeam Torpedoes!

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Burdekin’s Torpedoes Swim Club made a splash at the 2026 TownsvilleTourist Long Course Transition Meet. Photo supplied

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Junior cricket returned to the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex in Home Hill last week, with strong numbers of new and returning players taking to the field after the Christmas break.

Blast Cricket Challengers showcased plenty of young talent, with two exciting games played by the 8–10 year olds. In game one, Nate Ryder and Noah Tanner combined for a match-winning 12 runs, while Reuben Armstrong starred with the ball, taking three wickets to earn Player of the Match. Emily Patti also impressed with her early bowling.

In the second game, Jai Baxter delivered a standout all-round performance and was named Player of the Match after teaming up with Jaxon Watkins to score 29 runs from two overs. Aria Bryant claimed an impressive four wickets, while Olivia Patti showed excellent line and length.

In the Blue Group hardball match, bowlers dominated. Henry Cohen top-scored with eight runs, while Mazlyn Smith took 2 for 7. Jardi Russell and Flynn Levitt received the McDonald’s Sports Awards for an outstanding first week in hardball cricket.

The Gold Group saw Logan Pickup take 3 for 7 to earn the McDonald’s Sports Award, while Alex Cullen (19*) and Oliver Calligaro (18*) led the batting.

It was a strong and encouraging start to the junior cricket season, with plenty of promise on display.

Contributed with thanks to Scott and Joanne Heidke.

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Alex Cullen led the batting in the Gold Group last week. Photo supplied

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By Jacob Casha

Home Hill's own Adam Walton teamed up with Rockhampton's Patrick Harper in the opening round of the Australian Open Men's Doubles, facing Townsville local John Patrick Smith and Czech international Adam Pavlasek in what was a strong attestation of Queensland's tennis talent pipeline.

Walton and Harper showed strong teamwork—a synergy that helped them win the NCAA Doubles National Championship during their Tennessee Tech days—but ultimately fell in straight sets to Smith and Pavlasek, 7-6, 6-3.

Fellow Queenslander and Tennessee Tech alumnus Smith put in a solid performance on the other side of the net, advancing to the second round alongside Pavlasek, where they will face the ninth-seeded duo of Francisco Cabral and Lucas Miedler.

The opening set was tightly contested, with both pairs holding serve throughout, leading to a tense tiebreak that Smith and Pavlasek narrowly edged 11-9. In the second set, the Czech Australian duo secured an early break and maintained their lead, closing out 6-3 to take the straight-sets victory.

Home Hill Tennis Association Secretary, Kate Casswell, said the match-up proved a strong advertisement for Queensland tennis, noting a clear influx of interest in the tennis club following both Walton's duel with world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz and the triple-Queensland doubles showdown.

"The Facebook post on Adam [Walton's] match got 9,300 views—more than three times the population of Home Hill," she said.

Regional Queenslanders are no strangers to success in the sport, with Casswell pointing to a determination forced upon young athletes in remote areas as a potential reason.

"You look at Pat Rafter from Mount Isa, Rocket Rod Laver from Rockhampton… Historically, people from regional Queensland have done really well," she said.

"When you have to drive seven hours to get to tournaments… it definitely makes you more determined."

Although Casswell hopes regional towns can continue to nurture talent, she said the sport is for everyone to enjoy.

"It doesn't matter whether you're going to become the next Adam Walton," she said.

"It helps to develop hand-eye coordination, pick up social skills. It's a really fun sport to play."

Casswell encouraged anyone interested in trying tennis to inquire about the Home Hill Tennis Association’s coaching sessions, 24/7 court hire, or to join the Monday night fixtures starting 2nd February, or the Friday social sessions beginning at the end of March.

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Adam Walton began playing tennis in Home Hill at five-years-old and is currently ranked 81st in the world. Photo source: Tennis Australia

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Local

The 2026 season is fast approaching. The various teams have been in training for a few weeks and on Saturday there were a couple of practice matches at International Park. The season starts this Saturday with the 1st Round of the Australian Cup where the Premiers are away to Saints Eagles Souths in Townsville.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premier League side played Cairns team Southside Comets on Saturday evening. In hot, sultry conditions the Premiers won 4-3 after leading 4-1 with seven minutes left! The Panthers opened the scoring after only eight minutes with a goal from Matthew Kolb, but the Comets equalised sixteen minutes later. Jeremy Dal Santo restored the Panthers lead after forty three minutes and Sean Young quickly made it 3-1. With twenty minutes left Matthew Kolb added another goal and the Panthers looked to be cruising to a good win but two late goals from the Comets made the final score 4-3.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves and the Astute Financial Colts had a practice match. The Reserves won 2-0 with second half goals from Mason Matthews and Seaton Ivory.

Juniors

Registrations are now open for Juniors for the 2026 season. Please head to Facebook for registration information. If you have any questions, please email the club at burdekinfc@hotmail.com.

Our committee needs you! Due to some long serving committee members now moving on within the club, we need parents to put their hands up to take over these crucial roles in order to help run the club and continue to make it thrive. Positions available are Junior Secretary, Junior Registrar, Grants Officer and Junior Canteen Co-ordinator.

These are all vital roles within our club, and we thank and congratulate those who have helped been in these positions both last year and previous years. They have established a great platform for a smooth transition for incoming committee members.

Masters

The Masters will resume its Monday Night Magic (or Mayhem) on 23 February. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.

National and International

The Matildas will be hosting the AFC Women’s Asian Cup which kicks off in March. The Matildas are in Group A with Iran, South Korea, and the Philippines and their first match is against the Philippines in Perth on 1st March. They then meet Iran on 5th March and South Korea on 8th March.

The Socceroos have a couple of games lined up in March as they get ready for the World Cup which starts in June in America, Canada and Mexico. On 27th March they play Cameroon in Sydney and on 31st March meet Curacao in Melbourne.

In the A League, after fourteen rounds Auckland are one point clear of Newcastle after only managing a 2-2 draw at home to Central Coast. Macarthur thumped Melbourne City 6-2 and move up to third place. Brisbane Roar lost at home to Adelaide and drop to sixth place. Western Sydney continue to hold up the league.

In the A League Women, after eleven rounds Melbourne City are five points clear of Wellington after winning 2-0 in Perth. Canberra is in third place after losing 3-1 to Brisbane who are now fourth. Western Sydney are bottom of the league, two points adrift of Sydney.

Europe

In the EPL, Arsenal was the only one of the top five teams to lose, 2-3 at home to ManU. The Gunners are still top of the table four points clear of Manchester City and Aston Villa. ManU is fourth and Chelsea fifth. At the foot of the table West Ham and Nottingham Forest both won but Burnley and Wolverhampton are in deep trouble.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, Bayern lost for the first time this season, 1-2 at home, to fifteenth placed Augsburg! They are now only eight points clear of Dortmund with

Hoffenheim and Stuttgart another six points adrift. Heidenheim and St Pauli are holding up the table and Mainz, who won again, is still in trouble.

In Italy’s Serie A, Inter was the only one of the top four teams to win, They are now five points clear of AC Milan, and third placed Roma is another four points behind, together with Napoli who lost to Juventus who move up to fifth spot. None of the bottom seven teams won and Pisa and Verona look doomed.

In Spain’s, La Liga the top three teams all won and Barcelona leads Real Madrid by one point. Third placed Atletico is a further seven points behind and Villarreal another three points adrift. At the bottom of the League Levante was the only team to win but along with Oviedo is still in deep trouble.

Finally, in France, after nineteen rounds, PSG leads Lens by two points with Marseille a further five points away and fourth placed Lyon another two points behind. None of the bottom five teams won and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes have severe problems.

The Quote of the Week is from Alex Ferguson, on José Mourinho "He was certainly full of it, calling me boss and big man when we had our post-match drink after the first leg. But it would help if his greetings were accompanied by a decent glass of wine. What he gave me was paint-stripper.

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Funding is now available to help local sport, active recreation and racing clubs recover after recent flooding, with the Government rolling out targeted disaster assistance across Queensland.

Under the Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Program (SRDRP), eligible not-for-profit organisations in disaster-declared areas can apply for grants of up to $5,000 to support immediate clean-up efforts and help re-establish club activities and operations.

The program is open for the next three months and is designed to assist clubs impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji and the North Queensland Monsoon Trough, as well as other significant weather events experienced late last year.

For the first time, not-for-profit racing organisations across all three racing codes—Thoroughbred, Harness and Greyhound—are also eligible to apply, recognising the important role racing clubs play in regional communities.

Acting Minister for Sport and Racing Steve Minnikin said the funding was aimed at easing the pressure on volunteers who often shoulder the burden when disaster strikes.

“Most of Queensland’s sport and racing clubs are run and operated by tireless volunteers, and the burden is often left with them to clean up when disaster strikes,” Minister Minnikin said.

“The Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Program is here to help them get through the initial stages of recovery.”

He said extending eligibility to racing clubs acknowledged their social and community value.

“We also recognise that our racing clubs are part of the social fabric of Queensland which is why it is so important that they also have access to this funding,” he said.

“We’ll continue to monitor this weather event, and clubs can check the website for updates on additional eligible local government areas. I strongly encourage impacted clubs to apply for assistance and let us help them to get back on their feet.”

Organisations affected by weather events between October and December 2025 are also encouraged to check their eligibility.

More information and application details are available through the Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Program (SRDRP).

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Not-for-profit racing organisations across all three racing codes are also eligible to apply for the SRDRP. Photo source: Burdekin Race Club

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Home Hill’s senior cricket sides returned to the field on Sunday for the first time since the Christmas break.

The Third Grade side travelled to Riverway Stadium to take on Suburban Parks.

Suburban Parks, batting first, struggled to build momentum against the Home Hill bowling attack. Troy Patti led the charge, claiming three wickets for just 15 runs from his five overs. Darren O’Keeffe, Brad Parravicini and Brendan Williams chipped in with two wickets apiece to restrict Suburban Parks to 9/114 from their 30 overs.

Home Hill’s chase was anchored by Daniel Olditch (52) and Andrew Wallwork (46), with support from Brendan Williams (21) and Brad Parravicini (15). The final score of 8/164 comfortably surpassed the required total and sealed a valuable win for the visitors.

Home Hill’s Second Grade team faced a tough match-up against ladder leaders Brothers.

Home Hill posted a modest total of 79 runs, with early wickets tumbling in quick succession. A brief recovery came through Greg Flanagan (13 off 40) and Jack Gimson (35 off 45), whose counterattack gave Home Hill a glimmer of hope. Gimson’s seven boundaries were the highlight of the innings, but the tail couldn’t build on the momentum, with the final wicket falling at 79.

With the ball, Alex Stillhard struck early to remove opener Tom Herron for a duck. Greg Flanagan bowled with control, conceding just one run from two overs, including a maiden. Al Wilkins and Jay Leckenby bowled economically to keep the pressure on, but Brothers held firm and reached the target to win by nine wickets. The team will look to regroup and bounce back stronger in the next fixture.

Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Cricket Association

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Dan Olditch scored 52 runs on the day. Photo supplied

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As the new bowls season is underway, activity at Ayr Bowling Club has ramped up, with good numbers taking to the green on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Open social bowls on Saturday featured three games of triples and two pairs games. Winners on the day were Donna Soper, Barry Hewson and Ron Soper, who defeated Merle Nixon, Ron Smythe and Sandra Stidston. In game two, Lew Stidston, Cisco and Pam Power defeated Betty Schultz, Bruce McAllum and Al Hardcastle.

Australia Day, Monday 26 January, sponsored by Phelan Pies, saw 18 members turn out for three games of triples over 12 ends. Winners on the day were:

1st – Karen Shepherd, Kaz and Allen Bartlett defeated Shane, Al Hardcastle and Anthony Bull.

2nd – John Pirrone, Beryl Cornford and Maurie Power defeated Lew Stidston, Deslie Olsen and Ron Soper.

3rd – Betty Schultz, Barry Shepherd and Pam Power defeated Happy Horan, Sam Caltabiano and Sandra Stidston.

Also winners of a Phelan’s pie were losing lead Sandra, losing second Al Hardcastle and losing skip Ron Soper.

Ayr Bowling Club thanks Phelan Pies for sponsoring Australia Day for the past 18 years and appreciates their continued support of the club’s Australia Day celebrations.

Tuesday 3 February will be sponsored by Amcal Chemist Ayr, with great prizes to be won. Names in by 12.30pm, with play starting at 1pm. Come along for a great day of bowling.

Members are reminded to get their names on the board for the 2026 pennant season by the end of January. Club games are now open for 2026 — see the games director for details.

The club is now open for 2026, with open bowls formats on Tuesdays, Wednesday nights and Saturdays. Wednesday Night Social Bowls will resume on 28 January, with sign-on by 6.30pm. See our Facebook page for upcoming events.

If you are interested in giving bowls a try, Friday Roll-Ups are a great place to start. They are held every Friday afternoon from 3.00pm to 5.30pm. Whether you're looking to hone your skills, enjoy some friendly training tips, or simply unwind with a drink, these casual roll-ups are the perfect way to kick off the weekend. We also have a table bowls table, so drop in for a roll-up on our new table. Come down for some training, enjoy a few drinks, and join in the fun with fellow club members.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

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26 players were on the green on a warm and humid summer’s afternoon, and after a good turnout of 24 players for Wednesday night barefoot bowls, it’s a pretty good effort for our little club. Three games of triples and two games of pairs were contested.

Rink 3: Norm Bethell and Mick McClosky were too good for Paul Vass and Phil Marsden.

Rink 4: Bob Young and Glen “Bones” Berryman narrowly toppled (the players know the real score) Maureen Marsden and Alex Bojack.

Rink 5: Yogi Bunn, Des Chapman and Joe Linton recorded a dominant win over Judy Elton, Sandra Darwin and Michael Young.

Rink 6: Scott Taylor, Elaine Young and Wayne Newton won a close one that came down to the final end against Margaret Chapman, Ron Smith and Tony Eadie.

Rink 7: Les Hoey, Cisco and Trevor Elton (pictured, today’s winners) tied with Rhonda Martin, Margaret Linton and Bruce McCallum. Scores were tied, ends were tied, and the result went back to the highest end of the day — a three-count for Trevor’s team.

The meat tray raffle was won by Mick McClosky, with the wine going to James Taylor.

The Monday morning fitness group is up and running again. Tuesday Trimmers is back, and Funday Tuesday, run by Norm Bethell, is for anyone in the community sitting at home — come along, meet new friends and learn to bowl, with all equipment supplied. Just turn up at 10am.

The Wednesday Kraft group is also up and running, as are barefoot bowls and darts night. Thursday morning BINGO continues, with social bowls at 2pm. Friday night is pool competition night, and Saturday afternoon social bowls also commence at 2pm.

On Saturday 24 January, the club held an Australia Day BBQ for family and friends, as seen in the second photo. An Aussie sausage sizzle kicked off proceedings, along with an 80th birthday celebration — congratulations to Elaine Young. A game of spider bowls was arranged, with some first-timers and new members taking part, and Scott Taylor winning the event by drawing nearest to the kitty. A great day was had by all who attended.

Until next week — good bowling.

Contributed with thanks to Stephen Doig

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Today’s winners on Rink 7: Les Hoey, Cisco and Trevor Elton, who claimed victory on a countback after scores and ends were tied. Photo credit: Stephen Doig

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The Burdekin Swimming Club hosted its annual North Queensland Interclub Burdekin Sprint on Saturday, 17th January, drawing hundreds of competitors to the Burdekin Aquatic Centre for one of the region’s fastest swim meets.

A key fixture on the Swimming North Queensland calendar, the Burdekin Sprint is the final competitive opportunity for many athletes to record qualifying times ahead of the Queensland State Championships.

Read more on page 24

High-Speed Action as Burdekin Sprint Delivers Another Successful Meet

Continued from back cover

Around 215 swimmers competed across the afternoon, with more than 500 people passing through the venue as families travelled from Ingham, Mackay, Collinsville, Richmond and Charters Towers.

True to its name, the Burdekin Sprint is a high-intensity meet, featuring only 50-metre events across all four swimming strokes. It is the only sprint-only meet offered on the North Queensland calendar, making it a popular and unique event for competitive swimmers.

19 Burdekin Swimming Club athletes competed at the meet, recording strong performances and numerous personal best times.

The meet concluded with the popular “Dash for Cash”, a novelty event that sees the eight fastest freestyle swimmers in each age group compete for prize money, adding an extra layer of excitement to the program.

Despite a brief interruption due to storms and heavy rainfall, organisers said the event ran successfully and received positive feedback from visiting clubs.

Burdekin Swimming Club officials said the support from volunteers and local businesses was instrumental in the event’s success, with many visiting teams already expressing interest in returning next year.

The Burdekin Sprint continues to be a showcase event for the region, highlighting both competitive swimming talent and the Burdekin’s ability to host major sporting competitions.

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Photos supplied

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Walton Pushes World No. 1 on Tennis’ Biggest Stage

By Jacob Casha

Walton Takes Confidence From Australian Open Test Despite Defeat

Home Hill native and rising tennis sensation, Adam Walton, put the world on notice over the weekend, giving ATP world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz a stern test before falling in straight sets in the first round of the Australian Open.

Walton pushed Alcaraz hard on Rod Laver Arena, but the Spaniard’s class ultimately prevailed in a 6‑3, 7‑6(2), 6‑2 victory.

Alcaraz broke late in the first set to take a 6‑3 lead, but Walton responded in the second, holding serve early and forcing a tiebreak after leading 3‑1. The top seed raised his level in the breaker to move two sets to the good.

Walton continued to battle in the final set, matching Alcaraz point for point in the early games, but the tournament favourite won the last four games in a row to close out the match that Walton walked away from with his head held high.

“There’s a lot of positives I can take from tonight,” said Walton in his post-match press conference.

“Playing Carlos—it was a great moment to be able to share the court with him, and I thought I did pretty well, served pretty well… and ultimately, it’s unfortunate that I couldn’t get over the line.”

When asked what it felt like to step from Home Hill onto Rod Laver Arena, Walton said, “Yeah, it was a special moment to be able to walk out onto that court. It’s been a dream… to be able to play on a big court against a big player, and it’s a moment I will never forget.”

The 26-year-old, currently ranked 81st in the world, began playing tennis in Home Hill at age five. He rose through the ranks before relocating to Brisbane and then the US for college tennis, which prepared him to step into professional tennis.

Home Hill Tennis Association Secretary Kate Casswell said Walton’s performance, despite a first-round exit, made his hometown community proud.

“What a champion,” she said.

“He served magnificently, never gave up… and the whole community is proud of him and his achievements.”

Walton now turns his attention to doubles, teaming up with University of Tennessee teammate and Rockhampton native Pat Harper to round off his Australian Open campaign.

He hopes to carry the confidence from his Australian Open performance into a strong 2026 season.

“Hopefully I can keep progressing in my tennis. I just try hard each and every week—I was able to have a good 2025… and I’m ready to get stuck into 2026 and hopefully keep climbing the rankings.”

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Photo supplied: ATP Tour

The 26-year-old, currently ranked 81st in the world, began playing tennis in Home Hill at age five. Photo supplied

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Twenty-two players fronted on a very overcast afternoon, with humidity at a stifling high. Three games of triples and one game of pairs were played. Rain delayed the start as a heavy shower passed over, but the drainage at Rummeny Green coped admirably.

On Rink 3, Norm Bethell, Les Hoey and Joe Linton enjoyed a runaway win, aided by an extraordinary amount of luck, over Bob Pickard, Judy Elton and Steve Doig. Meanwhile, on Rink 4, Betty Webb, Nev Webb and Michael Young, today’s winners (pictured), accounted for Paul Vass, Ron Smith and Phil Marsden. Margaret Chapman, Trevor Elton and Tony Eadie snatched victory on the last end against Yogi Bunn, Cisco and Mick McClosky on Rink 5, while Tony Caruso and Jeff Taylor outlasted Maureen Marsden and Bruce McCallum in the pairs on Rink 6.

The Chicken Raffle was won by Trevor Elton, while Yogi Bunn added another bottle of wine to his growing collection. A breakdown in communication last week meant the previous report was lost somewhere in the cloud.

Off the greens, a darts club has commenced on Wednesday evenings from approximately 6 pm, and a Friday night pool competition has also started, currently limited to 24 players. Both are run by new member Scott Taylor, who can be contacted for further details.

The Home Hill Sports and Recreation Club held its AGM on Saturday, 10 January 2026. Trevor Elton was elected president, with Wayne Newton as vice president. Margaret Linton will serve as secretary, Lynn Elton as treasurer, Mick Olsen as games officer, Bob Pickard as promotions officer, Judy Elton as providor/kitchen officer, and Alex Bojack as greens officer. Jenny Manganaico continues for another year as auditor. Congratulations to all the new committee members.

Members attending Monday Fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday Kraft Group, and Friday BINGO are encouraged to contact their organiser to confirm program start dates. Bowlers can continue with Wednesday night Barefoot Bowls, Thursday afternoon social bowls at 2 pm, and Saturday afternoon bowls also at 2 pm.

Players are reminded to stay hydrated during the hot and steamy afternoons.

Contributed with thanks to Stephen Doig

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The day's winners: Betty Webb, Nev Webb and Michael Young. Photo credit: Stephen Doig

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Burdekin Touch Football is preparing for a big year, with competitions available for players of all ages.

The Coutt’s Commercial Hotel Men’s and Women’s Open Seniors competition will kick off on the 28th of January, while the Under 14 and Under 12 Mixed Touch competition for younger players begins on the 4th of February. Wednesday afternoon sign-on will allow individual boys and girls to be organised into teams, with games starting at 5pm.

Friday Junior Touch for children aged four to twelve will start on the 13th of February. Sign-on is at 5.30pm, followed by a six-week season featuring skills, drills, and games from 5.30 to 6.15pm.

Burdekin Touch Football will also be seeking junior players to represent the region at the Junior State Cup in Townsville from the 16th to the 18th of April. Divisions include boys and girls U10, U12, U14, U16, and U18.

Teams can be nominated online at burdekintouch.com.au. For any queries, contact Peter on 0437 710 500.

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Burdekin Touch Football is preparing for a big year, with competitions available for players of all ages. Photo supplied

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Weekend Patrol Roster at Alva Beach

Saturday 24/1 (1-5pm) Group F - Lisa furnell PC, Jen Morgan PC, John Furnell, Josh Furnell, Jo Morgan, Jan Hatherell and Garbriel Hatherell

Sunday 25/1 (9am-5pm) Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Larwy and Lisa Vivian

Australia Day
Monday 26/1 (9am-5pm) Group H - Dave Satori PC, Kathrine Satori PC, Riley Satori, Jake Satori, Cole Pontifex, Alyssia Gibson, Billy Gibson and Halle Gibson

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By Chelsea Ravizza

Caitlin Holmes capped off an outstanding 2025 season with the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads (BRUC), claiming Best Forward and Players’ Player honours, and proudly accepting the prestigious Don Marshall Shield for Player Contributing Most — a fitting recognition of her commitment both on and off the field.

Caitlin first stepped onto the field in 2018, competing in a Rugby Sevens carnival for the BRUC, before completing her first full season in 2019 with a Townsville-based team. It wasn’t until 2023, following her return to the Burdekin, that she officially joined the Canetoads, and became Captain and Coach of the women’s team.

Her 2025 representative achievements included multiple selections for the Townsville and District Rugby Union Brolgas Team, where she competed at the Queensland Country Championships in June. Caitlin also represented the BRUC in both the Townsville and North Queensland Open Women’s teams. Playing predominantly as a prop — most often in the tight-head position — one of her standout moments of the season was helping the North Queensland side secure victory at the Queensland Country Championships.

“Playing at the rep level is always helpful when trying to further develop skills and be a better player,” said Caitlin.

“Being able to play alongside other talented rugby players definitely helps with improvement, and it’s always nice to then bring what you learn back to the local club level.”

Caitlin’s rugby journey has been marked by sustained excellence. Her career highlights include selection in the 2024 TRUD Women’s Team of the Year, winning the 2023 Player Contributing Most Award, and representing North Queensland in 2021. She has also competed in multiple Queensland Country Rugby Union Championships, been selected for the Women’s Brolgas Team, and consistently earned accolades at club level, including Players’ Player and Best Forward awards with the Canetoads.

Off the field, Caitlin’s commitment to the sport remains strong. In recent years, she has stepped back from coaching to focus on her leadership role as captain, with her father, Rowland Holmes, taking on the coaching position. Guided by his support and experience, Caitlin continues to mentor junior female players, playing an important role in developing the next generation of rugby talent within the Burdekin community.

“My advice would be to not be afraid of giving rugby a go if you’re thinking about it,” said Caitlin.

“As scary as contact sport may seem for some, it’s actually a very fun atmosphere to learn in and becomes quite enjoyable once getting past the initial fears of contact and tackling.”

As Women’s Captain of the Canetoads, Caitlin remains focused on growing the game locally. She is passionate about encouraging more women and teenage girls to join the club, develop their skills, and discover the same love for rugby that has driven her impressive career.

“I’m looking forward to getting back into the season with my teammates - we have a very keen group of players this year, and I am excited to see what everyone can bring to the field,” she said.

“I hope to get more girls and women involved in playing for the BRUC so we can continue to grow and empower future generations of players to come.”

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Caitlin Holmes received the prestigious Don Marshall Shield for Player Contributing Most, Best Forward and Players’ Player honours at BRUC's 2025 Presentation Night. Photo supplied

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Record Turnout & Sizzling Temperatures Make This Year’s Tournament One for the History Books

2026 GOLDFIELD ASHES
Over 300 cricket teams flocked to Charters Towers last weekend to take part in the infamous three-day Goldfield ASHES extravaganza, held from Friday, the 16th of January, through to Sunday, the 18th of January.

Since its 1948 inception, the beloved annual tournament allows cricketers to nominate either a social or competitive team, producing both commendable and questionable results across the board.

Countless locals make the trip west for the ASHES each year, with 2026’s tournament labelled as one of the biggest and best ASHES in over seven decades. In 2025, 260 teams registered for the tournament, yet despite inland flooding, 2026’s event attracted a few hundred more cricketers, with organisers confirming a total of 305 teams took to the pitch this year.

Cricketers felt the full force of the heat over the weekend as temperatures pushed past 30 degrees, prompting local firies to step in with hoses and even a helicopter water drop to keep everyone cool.

Organisers said the energy, sportsmanship, and sheer scale of this year’s ASHES reinforced why the Goldfield ASHES continues to be one of the most anticipated cricket events on the Queensland calendar.

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Bobawaba Boys. Photo source: Home Hill Stockfeeds
Bro’s Ho’s and Boundary Babes. Photo source: Shay Kratzmann
Good Thanks Six Rums. Photo source: Riley Hawkins
Bloody Huge XI. Photo source: Home Hill Stockfeeds
Pitch Perfect. Photo source: Michaels
Cricketers cooled off with helicopter water drops over the weekend. Photo source: Dalu 2 Pty Ltd
Dalus Dolls. Photo source: Dalu 2 Pty Ltd

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As the new bowls season is underway, activity at Ayr Bowling Club has ramped up with 20 members taking to the green on Tuesday 6th January.

Open social bowls on Tuesday featured 2 games of triples and 2 pairs games. Barry Hewson, Joe Grabbi, and Pam Power defeated Donna Soper Betty Schultz and Heather Jorgensen. Sheila Hardcastle, Ron Smythe, and Sam Caltibiano drew with Karen Shepherd, Chris Berkery and Al Hardcastle. In the pairs games Deslie Olsen and Beryl Cornford defeated John Pirrone and Ron Soper. Cisco and Anthony Bull defeated Karen Page and Barry Shepherd.

Members need to get their names on the board for 2026 pennant season by the end of January. The club games are now open for 2026 see games director for details. Australia Day will be on Monday 26th January starting at 1pm with great prizes to be won. Dress in your best Aussie costume with a prize for best dressed.

The club is now open for 2026 with open bowls format Tuesdays and Saturdays. Wednesday Night Social Bowls will resume 29th January, sign up by 6.30pm.

If you are interested in giving Bowls a try, Friday Roll Ups are a good place to start. They are held every Friday afternoon from 3:00 - 5:30pm. Whether you're looking to hone your skills, enjoy some friendly training tips, or simply unwind with a drink, these casual roll-ups are the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Come down for some training, enjoy a few drinks, and join in the fun with fellow club members.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

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The countdown is on for the Burdekin’s beloved Boars and Barra event, set to take over Clare early next month with over $7,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs.

Competitors will take aim at the top spot over three days across multiple categories, including heaviest boar ($1,000), heaviest sow ($700), heaviest crab ($250), heaviest barra ($500–$1,000), secret barra weight ($250–$500), biggest catfish ($150–$250), and heaviest mangrove jack ($150–$250), to determine the Burdekin's most skilled hunters.

This year’s Senior Heaviest Barra honours Jaiden Booth, whose passion for fishing and infectious joy left a lasting mark on the Boars and Barra community.

Entries close at 5pm on Friday, the 6th of February, which simultaneously marks the start of fishing and hunting for ticketed participants. Saturday, the 7th of February features the first weigh-in for pigs and barra, giving spectators a chance to watch the action and enjoy the club bar.

Sunday, the 8th of February, the main event, runs from 2pm to 5pm, with the official presentation of winners. Family-friendly activities include kids’ face painting and crab races, while food and drinks will be available throughout.

The last iteration of the event in 2024 drew around 1,000 people to the closing presentation. Event organiser Sarah Hesp, a Clare Sports & Recreation Club member, said the club took on organising the event to ensure it continues as a key community fundraiser.

“We decided to take it on so the community doesn’t lose it, because it’s one of our only and biggest fundraisers out here,” she said.

Merchandise is also available for the event, including custom Boars and Barra 2026 fishing shirts, T-shirts, hats, and stubby coolers, with proceeds supporting the club.

The Boars and Barra event remains a highlight of the Burdekin calendar, and locals are encouraged to secure tickets early to be part of the weekend’s action.

What: Boars and Barra – fishing and hunting competition with cash prizes.
When: Friday, the 6th of February to Sunday, the 8th of February
Where: Clare Sports & Recreation Club, 26 Nelson Street, Clare, QLD
Tickets (for participation) & merchandise: https://burdekin-boars-barras.spiffystores.com/

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In previous years, the Boars and Barra event has attracted competitors of all ages! Photos supplied

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Burdekin Football Club is inviting young players across the region to register their interest ahead of the 2026 football season, as the club prepares to field a strong lineup of youth teams.

Expressions of Interest are now open for players in the Under 12, Under 13, Under 14/15, and Colts divisions, along with Girls Under 12/13 teams. Girls aged 14 to 18 are also strongly encouraged to express interest as the club looks to continue growing its female football pathway.

The club says the 2026 season will provide an opportunity for committed players ready to take the next step in their football development, with an emphasis on skill progression, teamwork, and competitive match experience.

Players and families should be aware that participation will involve travel between Townsville and Ayr, with some weekends expected to include double fixtures. Training sessions will be compulsory, and coaching staff for the upcoming season are set to be announced in the coming months.

Burdekin FC encourages players who are motivated and eager to further their football journey to get involved.

Expressions of Interest can be submitted by emailing burdekinfc@hotmail.com. Information regarding trials, if required, will be shared via the club’s social media channels.

Further details about the 2026 season, including junior, youth, and senior competitions, will be released soon. The club has asked the community to remain patient as preparations continue behind the scenes to ensure a successful season ahead.

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Juniors will soon take to the field with BFC calling for expressions of interest ahead of the 2026 season! Photo source: BFC

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Saturday 17/1 PM (1-5pm) Group C - Jane Jones PC, Lauren Chapman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Evan Chapman, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman & Shaize Christie

Sunday 18/1 AM (9am-1pm) Group A - Chris Wicks PC, Richard Dale PC, Jane Olsen, Stephanie Dale, Zachary Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner & Wil Holt

Sunday 18/1 PM (1-5pm) Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry & Lisa Vivian

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Highland Dancing Thrives at FC Caledonia

By Chelsea Ravizza

Highland dancing is a cherished Scottish tradition that dates back to the 12th century, with each dance telling its own unique story, and now, it’s known as a highly technical art requiring remarkable strength, stamina and grace; proudly taught locally by Fiona Christie at FC Caledonia.

“Anyone who loves music and movement will enjoy Highland dancing,” explained Fiona.

“The high-energy style combines intricate footwork with strength and skill, making it ideal for kids who love to move and are up for a challenge.”

2025 was slightly more relaxing for FC Caledonia in comparison to previous years, however, the dedication of Fiona’s cohort of talented dancers continued to wow and impress adjudicators across North Queensland. FC Caledonia assisted the Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association (LBCDA) with hosting Sugarcane and Sword Dances, a Highland Dancing competition held locally in the Burdekin in 2025, performed at the Burdekin Cultural Fest, and attended state competitions whilst completing dance examinations throughout the year.

In 2026, alongside competitions, exams, workshops, and community performances, Fiona announced the dance school will once again host a free community concert at the Burdekin Theatre on Saturday, the 11th of July, thanks to funding from a Regional Arts Development Grant to the LBCDA.

With a world of experience behind her and a passion for passing on the unique dancing style, Fiona has seen firsthand how her students grow on and off the stage as they continue to refine their technique.

“Having originated on the Scottish battlefields, it’s no surprise that Highland dancers are self-disciplined, confident and resilient,” said Fiona.

“Dancers also develop the desire to self-improve along with honing mental focus, while also learning social skills and teamwork values. You know those people who obliviously block the supermarket aisle whilst they choose their items – well they aren’t Highland dancers because we also learn how to be spatially aware!”

Fiona invites anyone and everyone who’s interested in learning more about Highland dancing and FC Caledonia to dive in and give it a go, outlining classes are available for dancers who wish to experience all the style has to offer as well as recreational classes.

“You don’t have to be Scottish to enjoy Highland dancing! Highland dancing suits energetic children, it suits children who love routine. It’s an individual sport most of the time, so it’s great for shy children as they are able to ease their way in. Highland dancing’s structured nature can also be very beneficial for neurodivergent children.”

In 2026, Fiona’s excited to confirm the return of the studio’s popular Highland Hijinks which caters to ex-dancers of any discipline who are looking for an opportunity to move for fun and fitness.

“So, whether your child would love the challenge of competition, the thrill of performing or if you want them to develop the attributes gained from learning dances once performed by warriors – Highland dancing is for you,” she enthused.

Contact Fiona on 0409 973 567 to find out more information or schedule a trial or two and open the door to a new and unique hobby in 2026!

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Dancers performed at the Burdekin Cultural Fest last year. Photo supplied
Fiona invites anyone of any age to reach out and join her growing studio! Photo supplied

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By Jacob Casha

The Burdekin Wildcats Under-18 women have capped off a standout season by finishing seventh at last week's Queensland State Championships on the Gold Coast, marking a major milestone for the association after competing in Division One for the first time in years.

Coached by John Bonanno, the Wildcats earned their Division One spot after a strong Northern Queensland Junior Basketball Competition (NQJBC) campaign, finishing second against powerhouse associations including Cairns, Mackay, Townsville and Rockhampton.

“For a long time we’ve been a Division Two association,” Bonanno said.

“To bring Burdekin back into Division One and then finish seventh in the state is a huge step forward.”

Small Town, Big Effort

The state championships, featuring 12 Division One teams and more than 36 teams across all divisions, proved a stern test. The Wildcats’ campaign was made more challenging after losing a starting player to injury in the opening quarter of their first game - a blow that reshaped the rest of the tournament.

Despite the setback, Burdekin won four of their seven matches, including a strong opening win over Northside Wizards (79–70) and a commanding victory against Southwest Metro Pirates (86–56). They also edged Cairns 76–55 in the playoff for seventh and eighth.

The Wildcats narrowly missed a chance to contest fifth and sixth place, finishing just one percentage point out after a three-way tie with Townsville and Northside Wizards.

“It was frustrating, but that’s basketball,” Bonanno said.

“Without injuries and a bit of bad luck, I think we would’ve been pushing for the top four.”

The team’s seventh-place finish saw them end the tournament ahead of larger North Queensland associations including Cairns, Townsville and Rockhampton—no small feat for a regional club with a far smaller player pool.

“When you’re up against associations from Brisbane and those southern districts, they’re choosing from hundreds of kids,” Bonanno said.

"It just goes to show we’ve got a pretty good little association."

The season's squad was supported by assistant coaches Craig Matthews, a long-time figure in junior Burdekin basketball, and former Fire player and local product Lauren Roncato, along with team manager Tanya Saldumbide.

Several players in the group have come through the Burdekin system since under-12s, with the championships marking their final season at under-18 level.

Coach Bonanno hopes the tournament served as an opportunity for his team to refine the skills they have been working on throughout the season.

"One thing I hope they took away from it is the individual work we focused on throughout the season," said Bonanno.

"They probably won’t play as that team again, so hopefully they take away the team effort, but also what they can do individually within team basketball.”

With the new season fast approaching, Bonanno is calling on anyone who thinks they have what it takes to join and help build on the Wildcats’ success.

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The team’s seventh-place finish saw them end the tournament ahead of larger North Queensland associations including Cairns, Townsville and Rockhampton—no small feat for a regional club with a far smaller player pool. Photo supplied
Coached by John Bonanno, the Wildcats had strong Northern Queensland Junior Basketball Competition (NQJBC) campaign, finishing second against powerhouse associations including Cairns, Mackay, Townsville and Rockhampton. Photo supplied

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The 26th annual Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride will cycle across the calendars of North Queensland this July, leaving the community buzzing with anticipation ahead of the three-day extravaganza.

Set to be held from Thursday the 23rd, to Saturday the 25th of July, the event runs to raise valuable funds to support children with cancer, hoping to raise approximately $400,000 each year for the Children's Cancer Institute. Since its inception, the event has raised over $9 million for the institution, and established a quarter century legacy of passion, endurance, and community spirit.

In 2025, the Eagles Team, comprised of local cyclists Evan Shannon, Andrew Sherrington, Andrew Kennedy, Mario Romeo, James Jensen, Robbie Mitchell, Mark Dale, Tahia Blakey, James Kennedy, Meg Blakey, Brooke Cross, and Kurt Perry joined 191 others from across the state to tackle the 374km journey.

The Eagles Team, once again, dedicated their involvement in the event to the late Michael Mooney (Moon), who lost his battle with Stage 4 Metastatic Melanoma in April of 2019. In the past, Moon had completed the Townsville to Carns Bike Ride six times, and the Eagles Team now cycle in his honour.

Annually, the three-day event runs similarly, with day one leading cyclists to travel from Townsville to Ingham, completing 112km after initially meeting at Townsville's Mercure Inn on Woolcock Street. On day two, cyclists then journey on to Innisfail, cycling a total of 169km, including the challenging Cardwell Range. On the third and final day, cyclists dust of the final 93km, arriving in Cairns to a formal welcoming ceremony and celebratory evening festivities.

Official registrations for the 2026 Townsville to Carins Bike Ride will open on Saturday, the 7th of March, at www.tcbr.org.au.

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The 12 Burdekin Riders at the Cairns finish line after completing the 374km 2025 Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride! (back) Evan Shannon, Andrew Sherrington, Andrew Kennedy, (middle) Mario Romeo, James Jensen, Robbie Mitchell, Mark Dale, Tahia Blakey, (front) James Kennedy, Meg Blakey, Brooke Cross, and Kurt Perry. Photo supplied

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Touch football is set to return to the Burdekin, with the Commercial Tavern Open Men’s and Women’s Touch Football competitions preparing to kick off in the coming weeks.

Action will begin with the Commercial Tavern Summer Cup pre-season competition, starting on Wednesday, January 28 and running for three weeks. Each Wednesday night, nominated men’s and women’s open teams will take part in two 20-minute matches, providing a competitive lead-in to the main season.

The pre-season will wrap up in week four on February 18, with Grand Finals contested by the points leaders in both the men’s and women’s divisions. Winning teams will receive $150 off their season playing fees, while runners-up will receive a $50 discount.

Round One of the Commercial Tavern Open Men’s and Women’s competitions will commence on February 25. The season will be played over 15 rounds, before concluding with Grand Finals on June 26.

Team nominations are now open and can be lodged online via the Burdekin Touch Football website at burdekintouch.com.au, giving players and teams the chance to lock in their spot for the upcoming season.

For further information or enquiries, contact Peter Knapton on 0437 710 500.

The Commercial Tavern Open Men’s and Women’s Touch Football competitions will start later this month! Photo source: Burdekin Touch Football Association

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Open-water swimmers from across the state and beyond are being invited to take part in one of the world’s most spectacular aquatic events, with the Great Barrier Reef Ocean Swim set to return on Saturday, the 17th of October 2026.

Now in its sixth year, the Great Barrier Reef Ocean Swim has earned a reputation as a true bucket-list event, offering participants the rare chance to swim directly above the Great Barrier Reef - one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World.

The swim takes place at Sunlover Pontoon on Moore Reef, located 50 kilometres off the coast of Cairns. Competitors will complete a marked course using floating buoys positioned above coral and sand, allowing swimmers to race alongside and directly over the reef while immersed in crystal-clear aqua-blue waters and vibrant marine life.

Swimmers can choose from competitive 2km, 3km and 5km races, or opt for the more relaxed 1km ‘Swim the Reef’ fun swim, designed for those who want to soak up the scenery without the pressure of racing.

The event is capped at 300 swimmers and includes a full day on the reef, with ferry transport from Cairns Marina, safety briefings, professional lifeguard and medical support, race timing for competitive events, event photography, merchandise, and a tropical buffet lunch on the pontoon.

Entries opened on the 1st of December 2025, with early bird registrations available until the 26th of January. Swimmers are encouraged to jump online to www.greatbarrierreefswims.com.au to secure their place early for what promises to be one of the most memorable swims of a lifetime.

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Registrations are now open for the 2026 Great Barrier Reef Ocean Swim. Photo supplied

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Saturday 25/10 1-5pm Group E - John Moloney PC, Anne Moloney PC, Tramayne Horna PC, Tony Felisina and Sophia Moloney

Sunday AM 26/10 9-1pm - Group H - Dave Satori PC, Katherine Satori PC, Riley Satori, Jake Satori and Cole Pontifex

Sunday PM 26/10 1-5pm - Group E - John Moloney PC, Anne Moloney PC, Tramayne Horna PC, Tony Felisina and Sophia Moloney

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Three of Burdekin Swimming Club’s brightest young stars returned home from Brisbane last month with personal bests, top-10 finishes, and a national qualifying time after competing at the 2025 Queensland Championships at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Chandler.

Cadence and Warne McShane, alongside Gabriella Mottin, were selected to represent the club, a testament to their dedication and hard work throughout the season. Under the guidance of coaches Kim and Mick, the trio took on the State’s best across a combined 14 events.

Torps Make a Splash

Gabriella Mottin had an outstanding meet, recording personal bests in all four of her events. Her highlight was finishing 19th in Queensland, a remarkable result for the Burdekin competitor. Warne McShane competed in seven events, reaching three finals, claiming six personal bests, and finishing a stunning 4th in the State in his strongest race. Cadence McShane also made her mark, achieving a personal best, a national qualifying time, and finishing 5th in Queensland.

The week offered the young swimmers a chance to manage nerves, form friendships, and learn valuable lessons on and off the pool deck. Club officials highlighted the tremendous efforts of all involved.

Burdekin Swimming Club congratulates Cadence, Warne, and Gabriella on a week full of achievements, representing the Burdekin region with pride and showcasing the potential of country swimmers on the state stage.

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Three of Burdekin Swimming Club’s brightest young stars returned home from Brisbane last month with personal bests, top-10 finishes, and a national qualifying time after competing at the 2025 Queensland Championships at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Chandler. Photo source: Burdekin Swimming Club

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Run Army Returns to Support First Responders

Burdekin locals are being called on to get active for a cause that hits close to home, with the nationwide Run Army event returning in March and April next year. The annual fitness initiative unites communities across Queensland while raising vital funds for charities supporting first responders, including the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the Australian Defence Force.

For the QPS, the event provides an opportunity to support Queensland Police Legacy (QPL), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to assisting families of officers who have lost their lives or are suffering a terminal illness. Since its inception in 1971, QPL has provided crucial financial and social support to hundreds of families in times of need.

Townsville will host the Run Army on Sunday, the 19th of April, offering participants the choice of 2.4km, 5km, or 10km walking, running, or virtual events. The initiative is designed not only to fundraise but also to promote resilience, mental health, and community engagement through physical activity.

Among those gearing up for the Townsville 5km track is Railway Squad member and avid runner, Senior Constable Julie Ryan, who will take part for the first time.

“The idea of taking part in a running event with other frontline service members, while promoting mental health and fundraising for a good cause such as Police Legacy, makes Run Army something I am excited to be involved with,” Senior Constable Ryan said.

A former two-time Australian amateur boxing champion, Senior Constable Ryan turned to running after retiring from the sport in 2012. She has since amassed 20 medals at the Australasian Police and Emergency Services Games, competing in cross country, track, trail, and road running events, and has participated in international events including the London and Berlin marathons.

“Physical exercise like running is great for our mental health. Being in frontline operations, you see a lot of traumatic events, so I use running to clear my head and to run off any stress,” she said.

Senior Constable Ryan also highlights the camaraderie that makes Run Army special.

“Events like Run Army provide a unique opportunity for us as officers to not only connect with fellow community members in a completely different setting, but also with our fellow frontline service workers,” she said.

Registrations for the Run Army are now open. Burdekin residents can support QPL while taking part in a meaningful community event. For more information, visit https://runarmy.org.au/.

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Among those gearing up for the Townsville 5km track is Railway Squad member and avid runner, Senior Constable Julie Ryan, who has amassed 20 medals at the Australasian Police and Emergency Services Games, competing in cross country, track, trail, and road running events. Photo credit: QPS

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The Burdekin Clay Target Club celebrated the festive season with their annual Christmas Shoot on Sunday, 14th December, drawing a strong field of 62 shooters. The day was a great success, with keen competition across six events.

A special thanks to our sponsors, Peto Marine for Events 1 and 6, and Johnson Landscaping for sponsoring Shooter of the Year. Appreciation also goes to Lui Populin for donating meat trays, Andrew Bergin for the lucky door prizes, and Leanne Cislowski for providing chocolates for the quicky board. Heartfelt thanks to all club members who helped set up and run the day’s events.
The club wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year – stay safe!

Results on page 30

Clay Target Champions Crowned at Burdekin Xmas Shoot

Continued from cover

Event Results
Event 1 – 15 Target Medley 15m (Sponsored by Peto Marine)
AA Grade: 1st Aaron Lemphers 75/75, 2nd Glen Rea 72/75, 3rd Bruce Murphy 49/50
A Grade: 1st John Cerqui 25/25, 2nd Wayne Cislowski 73/75, 3rd Matthew Baldwin 72/75
B Grade: 1st Bruce McBow 24/25, 2nd Doug Killick 45/50, 3rd Peter Wade 44/50
C Grade: 1st Zane Hicks 50/50, 2nd Ted Baldwin 49/50, 3rd Keiren Scott 43/50

Event 2 – 10 Target Pointscore Handicap
Matthew Charles, Doug Killick 30/30; Rob Mikkelsen, Brian Bonanno, Alan Lord, Peter Wade 29/30; Leslie Reeves, Aaron Lemphers 28/30; Keiren Scott, John Kinnimonth 42/45

Event 3 – 10 Target Single Barrel Handicap
Zane Hicks, Ted Baldwin, Bill Gall 10/10; Blake Heffernan, Sylvia Rossato, Wayne Cislowski, Glen Rea, Bruce Murphy, Joe Caruso 9/10; Benji Micallef 13/15

Event 4 – 10 Target Double Barrel Handicap
Alexander Parker, Toni Scott, Tim Ewens, David Russell, Peter Scott, Glen McHenry, Cameron Cislowski, Ben Beazley, Col Edgerton 10/10; Mark Simpson 32/33

Event 5 – 10 Target Double Barrel Consolation
Garry Bowen, Alexis Calder, John Calligaro, Peter Delle Baite, Colin Ferguson, Matthew Baldwin, Pedro Le Blowitz, Tony Robinson 10/10; Richard Stanhope, Meagan Baldwin 9/10

Event 6 – 20 Pair Deaville Doubles (Sponsored by Peto Marine)
Open: 1st Blake Heffernan & Ted Baldwin 26/26; 2nd Tony Robinson & Gregory Calder 26/26

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato

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Event 1-15 Target Medley 15m Sponsored by Peto Marine
Back Row Glen Rea, Bruce Murphy, Wayne Cislowski, Matthew Baldwin, Peter Wade, Keiren Scott.
Front Row John Cerqui, Jack McBow, Doug Killick, Ted Baldwin, Zane Hicks, Aaron Lemphers

Event 2-10 Target Pointscore Handicap
Back Row Matthew Charles, Aaron Lemphers, Peter Wade, Leslie Reeves, John Kinnimonth
Front Row Keiren Scott, Alan Lord, Doug Killick, Rob Mikkelsen, Brian Bonanno

Event 3-10 Target Single Barrel Handicap
Back Row Wayne Cislowski, Zane Hicks, Ted Baldwin, Benji Micallef, Joe Caruso, Blake Heffernan
Front Row Bruce Murphy, Glen Rea, Bill Gall, Sylvia Rossato

Event 4-10 Target Double Barrel Handicap
Back Row Mark Simpson, Glen McHenry,  Ben Beazley, Alexander Parker, Tim Ewens, Toni Scott
Front Row Peter Scott, Col Edgerton, David Russell, Cameron Cislowski  

Event 4-10 Target Double Barrel Consolation
Back Row Richard Stanhope, Matthew Baldwin, Peter Delle Baiye, John Calligaro, Garry Bowen, Alexis Calder
Front Row Meagan Baldwin, Col Ferguson, Pedro Le Blowitz, Tony Robinson

Event 6-20 Pair Deauville Doubles- Sponsored by Peto Marine
Gregory Calder, Tony Robinson, Ted Baldwin, Blake Heffernan

Shooter of Year Winners
Glen Rea, Presented By Wayne Cislowski, Joe Caruso

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Christmas Day 25/12 AM (9am-1pm)- Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry and Lisa Vivan
                         PM - (1pm-5pm) Kristy Wassmuth PC, Briella Wassmuth, Emilee Wassmuth, Lisa Furnell PC and John Furnell

Boxing Day 26/12       AM (9am-1pm)- Group B - Terry Lund PC, Kristy Wassmuth PC, Anita Giddy, Heather Scott, Briella Wassmuth and Emilee Wassmuth
                       PM - (1pm-5pm) Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry and Lisa Vivan

Saturday PM 27/12 (1-5pm) Group C - Jane Jones PC, Laurne Champman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Evan Champman, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman and Shaize Christie

Sunday AM 28/12 (9am-1pm) - Group A - Richard Dale PC, Chris Wicks PC, Jane Olsen, Stephanie Dale, Zackary Dale, Warne McShane and Nico Ortner

Sunday PM 28/12 (1-5pm) Group F - Lisa Furnell PC, Jen Morgan PC, John Furnell, Josh Furnell, Jo Morgan, Jan Hatherell and Gabriel Hatherell

New Year Day 1/1/26 (9am-5pm) - Group E - John Moloney PC, Anne Moloney PC, Sophia Moloney, Tony Felisina and Tramayne Horna PC

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The Burdekin Netball Association (BNA) has officially announced its representative teams set to compete at the 2026 Senior State Age (SSA) Competition, with a strong line-up of local talent ready to take on the state’s best in Townsville next year.

The prestigious four-day tournament will be held from the 11th to the 14th of April 2026 at the Townsville City Netball Association courts and will see players aged 15 to 18 represent their Netball Queensland member associations in one of the sport’s major community-based events.

Leading the charge for the Burdekin will be three representative teams across the 15s, 16s and 17/18s age groups.

The 15s representative team includes Emma Jones, Maggie Chandler, Ebony Moul, Paityn Coleman-Blakoe, Addy Chandler, Milla Chapman, Emily MacDonald, Zara Scovazzi, Eden Godfrey and Lily Ahern. The team will be coached by Sarah Butterworth, with Alicia Butterworth named as manager.

The 16s representative side features Shila Horan, Amaya Mahoney, Emma Wilkie, Amaya Caspanello, Clodagh Liessmann, Taliyah Lammon, Mya Mitchell, Jemma Kiehne, Ruby Prescott and Lisa Keryk. Chloe Steel will coach the team, supported by manager Lyn McLaughlin.

Rounding out the selections is the 17/18s representative team, comprising Lola Carmichael, Lacey Catanzaro, Jorja Bapty, Isla Chapman, Pascale Crooks, Jayel Gibson, Indiana MacDonald, Georgia Thygesen, Aja Olsen and Ryley Sartori. Christy Pensini has been appointed coach, with Alix Ballin as manager.

Senior State Age is renowned for bringing together players, coaches, officials, umpires and supporters in a large-scale celebration of netball, showcasing emerging talent, teamwork and strong community spirit.

The Burdekin Netball Association is also calling for umpires to support the representative teams. Interested umpires must hold, or be working towards, a National C Badge Accreditation and must have, or obtain, a current Blue Card. Expression of Interest forms and further information can be obtained by emailing burdekinnetball@gmail.com, with nominations closing on the 3rd of August.

With teams locked in and preparations underway, the Burdekin netball community will be watching closely as these young athletes train towards representing their region on the state stage.

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The 15's, 16's and 17/18's BNA rep teams are ready to take on the 2026 SSA. Photo source: BNA
BNA's coaches, managers and players are gearing up to top 2025's SSA performance. Photo source: BNA

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Saturday PM 20/12 (1-5pm) Group H - Dave Satori PC, Kathryn Satori PC, Riley Satori, Jake Satori, Cole Pontifex, Alyssia Gibson, Billy Gibson and Halle Gibson

Sunday AM 21/12 (9am-1pm) Group A - Richard Dale PC, Chris Wicks PC, Jane Olsen, Zachry Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner and William Holt

Sunday PM 21/12 (1-5pm) - Group C - Jane Jones PC, Lauren Chapman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Evan Chapman, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman and Shaize Christie

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Home Hill Tennis celebrated the conclusion of the tennis and pickleball year with the AO One Point Slam, with die-hard players turning out to enjoy the event despite a storm threatening and a few drops of rain falling.

In the official tennis competition, Bernie Claussen proved too strong for all her opponents and has been invited to play in the Brisbane event, with the club hopeful for a lucky draw and a chance to win $50,000. President Joel Hanson’s serve was on fire, helping him secure a first-round win against mate and fellow Vice President Mark Barbagallo. Joel went on to win the sign-on event after a lengthy final rally, while Toni Pivotto claimed victory in the pickleball event after several long points.

The celebrations highlighted the ongoing growth of pickleball at the club, which continues to attract strong numbers each week, with sessions on Tuesday nights from 6.30 pm and most Saturday mornings at 7.30 am. The group wrapped up the year with a social gathering at the Kalamia Hotel.

For more information about the club, contact Kate Casswell on 0447 384 441.

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Junior Touch Football players from across the region gathered in Ayr recently for the Fast Four Touch carnival, showcasing their skills in a day of fast-paced action.

Twenty-two teams competed across age divisions from under 10 to under 16, with four players per side taking to half a field. Local Burdekin teams were joined by several squads from Townsville, creating a highly competitive atmosphere.

The round-robin games saw over 250 touchdowns scored, with players backing up game after game in challenging hot conditions, impressing the large crowd of spectators. Before the finals, sprints and team relays were also held, adding extra excitement to the day.

In the finals, The Snippers defeated Six Seven Superstars 5-0 in the under-10 boys, while Shooting Stars beat Lollypops 5-0 in the under-10 girls. The Brotherhood edged out Walking Warriors 1-0 in the under-12 boys, with SSS A narrowly defeating SSS B 3-2 in the under-12 girls. Angus’s Team claimed a 3-1 win over Legacy 22 in the under-14 boys, and Baywatch triumphed 4-1 against Young Girls in the under-14 girls. In the under-16 divisions, 2 Deadly won 1-0 over Too Fresh in the boys, with Red Madness victorious in the girls.

After the action-packed day, club officials praised the players and volunteers for their efforts.

“All players displayed great sportsmanship throughout the day,” said President Peter Knapton. “Many thanks go to the referees, cooks, canteen workers, helpers and parents but more importantly to the players for the terrific skills and the competitive spirit of the games which made for an enjoyable carnival.”

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Junior Touch Football players from across the region gathered in Ayr recently for the Fast Four Touch carnival. Photo credit: Brendan Ford

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Local

Burdekin FC’s AGM will be held on Sunday 18th January at Honeycombes Hall on Beach Road. The Panthers would like all those interested, to be there.

Training for Men and Colts for the 2026 season has started. Thursday nights at 6.15.

Small sided games for the next three weeks. Be There!

Night Soccer

Friday was a big night at International Park. It was Grand Final night of the 47th season of Delta Cleaners Night Soccer and a very big crowd turned up to watch the twelve games. The Men’s A Grade Final was won by Mottin Earthmoving who beat UDS 3-1 and in the Ladies A Grade Final, Scoregasms defeated Body Tune 1-0.

In the other Men’s competitions, the A Grade Plate was won by Rocky Pond Warriors who beat FJV 1-0 and the A Grade Bowl went to RG Customs who beat 7 Stooges 7-0. In A Social Oary’s Levellers beat DL Lager 1-0 and in the A Social Plate Delta Physio defeated Willy Wackers 3-2. B Social was won by His Haas who beat Bennetts Old Grumpies and in the B Social Plate, Free Ballers beat Hardly Normal.

In the other Ladies competition, the A Grade Plate was won by 6 TO UR 7 who beat Lets Get Messi. In the B Grade, Kicken Goals beat Chicks & Chooks and in the B Grade Plate, Short Staffed won against Haven’t a Kahlua.

One of the highlights of the night was the annual Drinkers Trophy, won this year by Fair Call who beat Delta Physio 2-1. Winner of the SLoBs Raffle was ticket Grey H66.

Juniors

The final Burdekin Juniors report for 2025! The 2026 season will be upon us before we know it! Our AGM is scheduled for Sunday the 18th of January - all positions will be open and all new members to our committee much welcomed so come along. Keep an eye out for details on Junior Social Soccer in Term 1 before the season proper commences! Merry Xmas to you all!

International and National

In the A League Men, after eight rounds Sydney FC is still top after winning 2-1 away to Perth. Auckland is back in second place following their win at central Coast. Brisbane could only manage a goalless draw at Western Sydney and has dropped to third place.

In the A League Women, Canberra now top the table after winning away to Sydney FC. Adelaide is in second place after beating Adelaide and Newcastle beat Brisbane to move up to third place with Brisbane dropping to fourth. However, Newcastle and Brisbane both have two games in hand.

The Socceroos first World Cup group game is on 13 June. Presumably, there will be some friendly games announced before then.

The Matildas play in the AFC Asian Cup in March. In their group games their first match is against Philippines, they then play Iran and then Korea.

In England, in the EPL, the three top teams all won, and Arsenal is two points clear of Manchester City with Aston Villa in third place. At the foot of the table Wolves, Burnley and West Ham all lost and are in deep trouble.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, none of the top three teams won but the still unbeaten Bayern has a nine point lead over Leipzig and Dortmund. At the foot of the table St Pauli won but along with Heidenheim and Mainz are still in the relegation zone.

In Italy’s Serie A, only Inter of the top four teams won. Inter now leads AC Milan by one point with Napoli in third place. Juventus won and moves up to fifth place. At the foot of the table Verona won again but along with Pisa and Fiorentina look doomed.

In Spain the top five teams all won, and Barcelona leads Real Madrid by four points with Villarreal in third place and Atletico fourth. At the bottom of the league, Girona won but along with Oviedo and Levante are still in trouble.

In France’s Ligue 1, the top six teams all won, and Lens leads PSG by one point with Marseilles in third place a further four points adrift. At the foot of the table, none of the six bottom teams won and Auxerre, Metz, and Nantes are not looking good.

Quote of the Week

Is from Journalist David Lacey on Boby Robson. “His natural expression if that of a man who fears he might have left the gas on.”

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Brandon Bowls Club rounded out its official events for the year on Sunday, December 7, hosting its Sunday Social Bowls President, Treasurer and Secretary Day Triples in ideal playing conditions.

A total of 42 bowlers took part in the event, with players travelling from Home Hill, Giru and South Townsville to join Brandon members for the end-of-year fixture. The strong turnout capped off a successful season for the club.

After an afternoon of competitive but friendly bowling, refreshments were enjoyed before players were treated to afternoon smoko, prepared by Sharon Kenny, Patrice Ferguson and Lorraine Henderson.

The triples title was claimed by Meryl Smith, Joe Linton and Jamie Woods, with Neville Dickinson, Sandra Darwen and Gary Pearce finishing second. Third place went to Mick McCloskey, Glenn Woodford and Ross McLaughlin.

The raffle prize was won by Jeff Taylor, while the club also acknowledged the efforts of Dave “Dodgy” Shehan for his work behind the bar.

Club officials thanked all visiting players for their support as Brandon Bowls Club brought its competitive calendar for the year to a close.

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Next year marks a major milestone for the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, as it proudly celebrates its 100th anniversary. To honour a century of surf, service, and community, the club has planned a weekend of commemorative events in May 2026, bringing together past and present members, friends, family, and supporters.

The celebrations kick off on Friday, the 29th of May, with a relaxed Meet and Greet and Book Launch. Attendees will have the chance to reconnect with old friends, meet current members, and celebrate the launch of the club’s commemorative book, 100 Years of Ayr Surf Life Saving, authored by Martin Grandelis. The evening promises an opportunity to share stories, reflect on the club’s history, and raise a glass to the countless volunteers who have shaped its legacy.

The main event, the Gala Dinner, will take place on Saturday, the 30th of May, at the Memorial Hall, 77-79 Ninth Avenue, Home Hill, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This elegant evening will bring everyone together to celebrate the club’s remarkable 100-year journey, honouring the people, stories, and dedication that have built the legacy of Ayr Surf Life Saving. Tickets will go on sale in early 2026, and the club has been offering glimpses into its history on social media with 100 Years of Ayr Surf Life Saving – A Look Back Through the Decades.

The centenary celebrations conclude on Sunday, the 31st May, with a family-friendly gathering at the Ayr Clubhouse. This final event promises a relaxed day of good company, memories, and community spirit, providing an opportunity for everyone to celebrate the club’s enduring presence and contribution to the region.

From its early days at Alva Beach to a century of service, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club invites all to join in recognising 100 years of dedication, volunteering, and connection. More details about the weekend events will be released closer to the date.

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What: 100 Years of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Gala
When: Saturday, the 30th of May
Where: Memorial Hall, Home Hill

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club has been sharing photos from the decades gone by online in celebration of a century of surf, service and community. Photo source: Ayr Surf Life Saving Club

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Six local under-9 footballers have claimed tournament honours after forming a team to compete in the Jeremy Brockie World Cup in Townsville.

The end-of-season tournament, organised by former New Zealand international Jeremy Brockie, assigns teams a nation to represent, with the local side drawing Spain.

The team progressed through the pool stages undefeated, recording wins against New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, Norway, Portugal and Finland to book a place in the World Cup final.

Spain faced Brazil in the final and claimed a convincing 7–2 victory to secure the tournament title.

The squad was made up of Hunter Ferguson, Daley Rasmussen, Thomas LeFeuvre, Reni Brock, and brothers Arlo and Jobe Oar. Oar delivered a standout performance across the tournament, finishing as the leading goal scorer to claim the Golden Boot. He was also named in the World Cup All-Star Five and awarded Player of the Tournament.

The result capped off a strong year for the players, with local junior coaches Chris Wicks and Angelo Licciardello acknowledged for their work in developing the group and continuing to strengthen grassroots football in the Burdekin.

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Six local under-9 footballers have claimed tournament honours after forming a team to compete in the Jeremy Brockie World Cup in Townsville. Photo supplied

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The final games before the Christmas break were played at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex last Friday. After a couple of weeks away Mazlyn Smith smashed 3 fours in her innings of 15 runs not out and bowled very tight with figures of 0 for 2 runs, this earning her one of the "McDonalds Sports Award for the "Blue Group". Kip Nicholas was also unbeaten and next highest on 13 runs with 2 fours. The other award winner was Jake Cullen who scored 7 runs, took 2 for 9 when bowling and got a runout and a catch in the field.

An earlier finish for the breakup BBQ meant less balls faced before retirement in the "Gold Group" this week. Lower batting totals were scored but some fine shots were played in this game. Rylan Nicholaides and Alex Cullen were both unbeaten and top scored on 12 runs each. Oliver Calligaro and Tyler Schultz were next on 10 runs apiece, Tyler also took the only wicket in this game when he was bowling. Rylan and Tyler were given the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their efforts with bat and ball.

The youngest group, the "Rookies" were invited over to Home Hill to join in with the "Challengers" for this final week of games and breakup. No stats were recorded in these games as it was just a fun session for all to finish off the first half of the season. When the games were finished the players and their siblings all enjoyed a free sausage sizzle to end the day. Thank you to Woolworths Ayr for kindly donating the sausages and bread for the sausage sizzle.

Contributed with thanks to Junior Co-Ordinator of the Home Hill Cricket Club, Scott Heidke

Rylan and Tyler were given the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their efforts with bat and ball. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin was strongly represented at the Townsville Fire School Gala Day this week, with St Francis and East Ayr showcasing standout performances in the Year 5/6 basketball tournament.

St Francis fielded one boys’ team in Division 1, while East Ayr competed with both a girls’ and boys’ side, also in Division 1. The East Ayr girls impressed throughout the morning, advancing all the way to the finals before narrowly falling short of the title.

The day, however, ultimately belonged to St Francis. The boys claimed the trophy in emphatic fashion, winning by 30 points in the grand final to become back-to-back and the only ever winners of the championship. The dominant run continued their remarkable record of going undefeated two years in a row.

Across the day, St Francis played four games, securing victories in each by comfortable margins of 10–20 points. The team’s winning lineup consisted of seven Grade 6 students and two Grade 5 players, adding to the achievement’s significance and building confidence heading into their final weeks of primary school.

The competition featured strong Townsville and regional representation in Division 1.

Adding to the experience, players were treated to a special visit from Townsville Fire squad members, who spent time courtside signing autographs, posing for photos and sharing advice with young athletes.

Both schools returned home proud, representing the Burdekin with skill and sportsmanship on the regional stage.

The day ultimately belonged to St Francis, with the boys claiming the trophy in emphatic fashion, winning by 30 points in the grand final to become back-to-back and the only ever winners of the championship. Photo supplied

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Local

Training for Men and Colts for the 2026 season has started. Thursday nights at 6.15.

Small sided games for the next three weeks. Be There!

Night Soccer

The tenth week of competition and another low scoring night. There were four forfeits, and the sixteen games produced fifty nine goals. And there were two Sin Bins. Top scorers were Jaime’s Boys, UDS, Short Staffed and Body Tune all with five goals. There were just three dawn games and four games won by the odd goal.

In Men’s Competitive Group, UDS beat Plum Dingers 5-0 to finish top of the table. Clare Cutters defeated RG Customs 3-0 to finish second, Mottin Earthmoving won 4-0 against iComply to secure third place and fourth place went to Nutrien Ag who won 1-0 against Mountain view Fresh.

Men’s Social and Ladies matches were all friendlies and next Tuesday 9 December, all teams will be involved in semi-finals. Grand Final Night is next Friday 12th December.

Juniors

The 2025 Junior Social Soccer season concluded last Tuesday. What an amazing eight weeks it has been for the 43 teams! The biggest season yet since it was reintroduced in 2023, and no rain interruptions! A big thank you to all organisers, volunteers, refs, parents and carers, and most importantly the kids! There were so many happy and excited faces each week!

Here are some season highlights! Goal of the season - Ava Guistelli (Zoomies 5-7) - a solo run from near halfway after just coming straight after being a goalkeeper, she sprinted up to halfway, received the ball and with fast dribbling and a strong finish put it in the back of the net!

Goalkeeper - save of the season - Seth McIntyre (Raging Rhinos 8-9) - full length dive to his left to save a shot that looked certain for the top corner of net. Team of the season -The Underdogs (U10-12). School mates having fun together displaying great sportsmanship towards all teams. Age group of the season - U13-16’s. Was great to watch these teams of mates who currently play in youth teams, ex-players, new players, school mates and an U12 superteam go against each other.

Look out for upcoming social soccer news for term 1 of 2026 before the season proper commences!

International and National

The World Cup 2026 Draw has now been made and the Socceroos know who they are up against. On Saturday 13th June, in Vancouver, they will play the winner of a European play off. That could be Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo. Their second game will be against the USA in Seattle on 20th June and their final group match will be against Paraguay, in Santa Clara, against Paraguay on 26th June.

The current FIFA World Rankings are Australia 26, USA 14, Paraguay 39 and Türkiye 25.

In the A League Men, after seven rounds Sydney FC is still top after winning 2-1 away to Central Coast. Brisbane has moved up to second place, one point behind, with a 1-0 win away to Adelaide. Auckland is third on goal difference and Melbourne City is a further point behind in fourth place. Melbourne Victory is holding up the League.

In the A League Women, only three of the top teams won. Melbourne Victory, Brisbane and Sydney FC are locked together at the top with nine points each. Victory beat Perth 3-0, Brisbane won 3-1 away to Adelaide and Sydney FC could only manage a 0-0 draw away to Western Sydney. Perth is presently at the foot of the table.

The Matildas play in the AFC Asian Cup in March. In their group games their first match is against Philippines, they then play Iran and then Korea.

In England, in the EPL, Arsenal was the only one of the top six teams to lose. They went down 1-2 against Aston Villa and are now just two points clear of Manchester City with Aston Villa in third place one point behind. Chelsea is now fifth, Liverpool ninth and ManU 12th. At the foot of the table none of the bottom five teams’ won and Wolves and Burnley are in deep trouble.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, after thirteen rounds the top three teams all won and the still unbeaten Bayern has an eight point lead over Leipzig with Dortmund another point behind. Leverkusen in fourth place lost again and is now a further five points adrift. At the foot of the table Heidenheim won again and Mainz and St Pauli are in big trouble.

In Italy’s Serie A, the three top teams all won, and Napoli leads Inter by a point. AC Milan is third, with a game in hand and Roma who lost again is fourth. Juventus who lost 1-2 to Napoli is now seventh. At the bottom of the table Verona was the only of the bottom four teams to win. Fiorentina with just six points look doomed.

In Spain’s La Liga, Real Madrid, who have only won one of their last five matches, somehow lost 0-2 at home to Celta Vigo. Barcelona won again and is now four points clear of Real with Villarreal in third place and Atletico fourth. At the bottom of the league, none of the bottom nine teams won.

In France’s Ligue 1, after fifteen rounds. Lens leads PSG by one point with Marseilles, who lost but is still in third place a further four points adrift. Fourth placed Lille is now on the same points. At the foot of the table, although Auxerre won it is not looking good for them, Metz, and Nantes.

Quote of the Week Is from Aston Villa Manager Unai Emery "Our demands are very high, very great, but I want to ask every player every day to give us more”

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It’s been a bustling and memorable week at the Ayr Bowling Club, highlighted by vibrant social bowls, well-earned award presentations, and the club’s Annual General Meeting.

With the Ladies concluding their 2025 bowling season with a wonderful Xmas Lunch on Tuesday, there was no Ladies Bowling.

Wednesday Bowling saw two games of triples. Game 1 Stano, Lachlan Grantz and Anthony Bull defeated Sheila, Joe Grabbi and Ron Soper. In Game 2, John Pirrone, Lloyd Shepherd and Maurice Power.

Wednesday Night Social Bowls saw two lively games of triples take to the green, with plenty of friendly competition on display. The first match was claimed by the team of Kate Stringer, David Burt and Sam Caltabiano, while the second game was won by the trio of Evelyn Wiltshere, Margaret McLaughlin and Ross McLaughlin. A great night of bowls and camaraderie was enjoyed by all. This is a great night to come down and bowl during summer.

Saturday brought a great afternoon of bowling, with an impressive roll-up of 24 players taking to the green ahead of the Awards Presentation. Four competitive games of triples were played, with the day’s winners being Ron Smythe, Wayne Mietzell and Gary Pearce, while runners-up honours went to the team of Wayne Coonan, Betty Schultz and Col Essex.

After the social bowls, the Club celebrated its annual Awards Presentation on Saturday. Members and guests gathered at the clubhouse to recognise outstanding performances, enjoy camaraderie, and reflect on the achievements of the season. Congratulations to Pam Power – Ladies Bowler of the Year and John Cesconetto – Male Bowler of the Year.

The 2025 Championship season was marked by competitive spirit and a strong sense of community among bowlers. The club bowlers showcased their skills, with several members going on to represent the club at inter-district events. It was also a great year to see the development of our new bowlers to the club. A full list of all the Club Awards can be found on the Ayr Bowling Club Facebook Page.

On Sunday, the annual general meeting was held where the club returned Anthony Bull to the role of the Club President.

Secretary – Ron Smythe; Treasurer - Maurice Power; Men’s Senior Vice President – Maurice Power; Ladies’ Vice President – Karen Shepherd; Greens Director – Ron Soper; Provedore – Sam Caltibiano; Men’s Games Director – Allan Hardcastle; Ladies’ Games Director – Heather Jorgenson; Ladies’ Committee Member – Pam Power and Beryl Cornford; Men’s Committee Members – John Pirrone and Chris Berkery; Grant’s Co-ordinator – Lorraine Wolffe.

A special welcome again to Ray Wall as the continuing Patron of the Club.

Social bowls information over the Christmas break includes 14th, 17th, 20th December, with 20th December the special Xmas Ham Bowls Day. No bowls on 24th or 27th December.

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club hosted the annual North Barrier Branch Surf Rescue Championships on Saturday 6th December with a small but strong turn out. At Surf Rescue Champs competitors test their true lifesaving knowledge in Champion Lifesaver event, performing patient assessment and CPR, completing a theory paper and physical skills including a tube race, surf and board race and sprint. Members also competed in the First Aid Competition where they work in a pair to assess and treat a simulated scenario.

Ayr Surf Life Savers See Success at Champion Lifesaver Event

Ayr had 12 keen members take on Champion Lifesaver this season with some fantastic results and scores. Under 12 Male - Luca Lawry 1st; Under 12 Female - Charlotte Dale 1st; Under 13 Female - Alyssa Irvine 1st; U14 Male - Cole Pontifex 1st; Under 14 Female - Charlotte Lawry 1st & Emilee Wassmuth 2nd; Under 15 Male - Jake Sartori 2nd & Zachary Dale 3rd; Under 15 Female - Briella Wassmuth 3rd; Under 17 Female - Ryley Sartori 2nd & Bella Lawry 3rd; Masters Female - Kristy Wassmuth 1st. Ayr also had 2 first aid teams take on a very challenging scenario, with both teams - Under 15s - Briella Wassmuth & Charlotte Lawry & Under 17s - Ryley Sartori & Bella Lawry - bringing home second. The Ayr team ended up taking home the overall championship team accolades.

The junior club then backed up on Sunday 7th December to complete their Junior Club Championships to wrap up the season. They had a tough morning of competition vying for individual age championship honours as well as Junior and senior champions, with all official recognition happening at their presentation ceremony next year. The club then had a visit from Santa with some presents and fun before enjoying a relaxing afternoon with family and friends celebrating another successful season of surf.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry

Under 11 Female Surf Race - Lola Gibson, Audrey Rickards & Mahli McShane. Photo supplied
Briella Wassmuth & Charlotte Lawry in Under 15 First Aid Competition. Photo supplied
Santa with our 3 Junior Club Captain helpers - Cole Pontifex, Emilee Wassmuth & Charlotte Lawry. Photo supplied

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Monday 1st December marked a milestone event for the Burdekin district, as primary school swimmers from across the region gathered to compete in the 60th Annual Webber Shield Swimming Carnival. One of the longest-running inter-school sporting traditions in the district, the carnival showcased outstanding talent, sportsmanship and school pride.

Nine schools took to the pool this year: St Francis, East Ayr State School, Home Hill State School, Giru State School, Brandon State School, St Colman’s, Kalamia State School, Osborne State School, and Burdekin Christian College.

In an exciting and tightly contested finish, East Ayr State School claimed victory with 54 points, edging out St Francis by a single point, with 53 points. Although long-standing supporter Allison Robinson was unable to attend and present the shield, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort proudly stepped in to complete the honours.

The Max Tavasci Trophy, awarded to the school with the highest average points, was won convincingly by St Colman’s, demonstrating the depth of talent across their small but mighty team.

Age champions included Thomas Lefeuvre (Giru SS, 9 Years), Oliver Cavanaugh (EASS, 10 Years), Lewis Bonato (EASS, 11 Years), Ben Watkins (St Colman’s, 12 Years), and for the girls, a three-way tie for 9 Years went to Amaya Raielli (EASS), Sahra Towler (St Francis), and Adele Mial (St Francis). Other girls’ age champions were Mahli McShane (10 Years, St Francis), Taylor Chapman (11 Years, St Colman’s) and Arden Mitchell (12 Years, St Francis).

Two swimmers broke longstanding carnival records this year: Taylor Chapman (St Colman’s) in the Girls 11 Years 50m Breaststroke, 43.02 seconds, and Lewis Bonato (EASS) in the Boys 11 Years 50m Breaststroke, 42.91 seconds.

The 2025 Webber Shield proved once again why this event remains a highlight of the Burdekin school sporting calendar. Congratulations to all swimmers, staff, volunteers, and supporters who helped make the 60th anniversary carnival a true celebration of teamwork, determination, and community spirit.

Contributed with thanks to St Colman's Catholic School principal Karen Keys

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Ben & Kelsey to host their final End of Harvest Golf Classic, celebrating years of community & charity support

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The End of Harvest Golf Classic is teeing off this Friday, the 12th of December, at the Ayr Golf Club, promising a day of golf, fun, and community spirit. Annually, the event proudly supports CORES Qld, with all proceeds helping make a real difference for the local community.

Organisers Ben and Kelsey have announced that 2025 will be their final year running the event after many successful years.

“This has been an extremely tough decision, as this event has meant so much to us — not just for the golf, but for the way it’s brought our community together and made a lasting impact,” they said.

“Over the years, thanks to your incredible support, we’ve raised over $100,000 for local charities. That’s something we can all be proud of.”

The day will feature rolling tee times starting from 6am, with the final team wrapping up by 1:30pm. Highlights include the Longest Drive Competition from 2pm and a charity auction, featuring signed 2025 North Queensland Cowboys jerseys. Presentations will follow the auction to celebrate the winners and wrap up the event.

Platinum sponsor Bray will operate a Slushy Bar from 11am, offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, with proceeds going to CORES. Participants can also purchase drink and raffle tickets, with EFTPOS available throughout the course.

With limited tee times still available, organisers are encouraging teams to finalise their registrations via the team nomination form, https://form.jotform.com/241538497359875.

“This year’s tournament will be the best one yet — a true celebration of everything this event has stood for,” Ben and Kelsey said.

“Let’s finish strong — and with your help, keep the tradition alive for years to come.”

What: End of Harvest Golf Classic.
When: Friday, 12th of December from 6am.
Where: Ayr Golf Club.
More Information: End of Harvest Golf Classic’s Facebook page.

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The 2024 End of Harvest Golf Classic was one for the history books! (Photo Credit: Chelsea Ravizza)

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Sunday was a day of mixed results for Home Hill in the Townsville Cricket competition.

Home Hill’s Third Grade side secured a decisive 38-run victory over Brothers, posting 9/128 from their 30 overs. Dan Olditch delivered a captain’s knock of 29 from 39 balls to anchor the innings. Along with steady contributions from Luke Mottin (14 runs) and Mick Richards (12*), a defendable total was set.

It was Home Hill’s bowlers however who delivered a collective masterclass, dismantling Brothers for just 90 runs. Leo Olditch led the charge with a superb spell of 6 overs including 1 maiden, 10 runs, 3 wickets, and a hat-trick opportunity. Jay Leckenby was equally effective, claiming 2 wickets for 16 runs off 6 overs, maintaining pressure with two maidens.

In the Second Grade match, Home Hill took on Wanderers. JD Wilkins (3/44) and Ayden Marano (2/45) took the majority of the wickets despite being taken to task by the Wanderers batters. Alex Stillhard proved the most economical with ball in hand (0/12 from 6 overs), but was unable to break through with a wicket. Wanderers batted out their 40 overs to finish 7/185.

In reply, Ayden Marano led the way with the bat, posting 44 runs from 40 balls. Josiah Ballin (23) and Zakk Myles (18) provided notable contributions, but Home Hill were unable to match the required run rate, finishing all out for 116 after 32.5 overs.

Contributed with thanks to Tiffany Olditch

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The Burdekin Roosters will enter the coming season with a completely new-look executive following the club’s AGM held last Sunday at the Queens Hotel.

Twenty-one members attended the meeting, which confirmed that this year’s executive—Mick Brombal, Paul Horan, Zac Campbell and Courtney Weaver—did not seek re-election.

Alex Lennox, who organised the successful Club of Origin last weekend, will replace Brombal as President, with John Nash appointed Vice President and Mel Lammon taking on the role of Secretary.

Brombal stepped down after seven years in the top job, with a new Treasurer expected to be announced shortly.

Lammon will remain as Registrar, with Sara Smith continuing as Grants Officer. Jason Guy will stay on as Patron of the Club, a position he has held for more than 25 years.

The club has reappointed Steve Lansley as A Grade coach for the third straight season. Lansley will guide a young squad with some welcome experience mixed in.

Coaching announcements for the women’s, reserve and under-19 teams are expected soon, with the under-19s replacing this season’s under-20s in the RLTD. Club training across all grades will commence in the new year.

Outgoing President Mick Brombal delivered his annual report, saying:

"This year has been another strong one for our league, built on the commitment and passion of everyone involved. Our players have once again showcased not only their talent on the field but also the sportsmanship and spirit that represent the Burdekin with pride."

"To our volunteers, the heart and backbone of the competition ... thank you. From canteen workers to ground staff, committee members to timekeepers, your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed.
Without your efforts, our game days and community events would not be possible.

"Thank you to Burdekin Life for publishing our results. We are also deeply grateful to our sponsors, whose ongoing support enables us to provide opportunities for our players at all levels. Your contributions help sustain the future of Rugby League in our region."

"A special mention must go to our referees and officials. Their role is not an easy one, but it is vital to the success of our game. We thank you for your professionalism and commitment.

"While this year has not been without its challenges, our league has continued to grow stronger through team work and resilience. We have seen great crowds, exciting football, and a strong sense of community across all our teams.

"Looking ahead, our focus will remain on strengthening pathways for juniors, supporting our senior competitions and ensuring Burdekin Rugby League remains a family - friendly and community - driven organisation. With continued support from our members, volunteers, and sponsors, I am confident we are building a sustainable and exciting future.

"On behalf of the Burdekin Rugby League committee, I thank you all for being part of this year and look forward to another successful season ahead."

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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The Country Girl Who Became a Golf Legend

By Jacob Casha

Alberta, Canada, 1999. Five strokes off the lead at the du Maurier Classic, a 24-year-old Karrie Webb looked every bit the underdog—but she was used to that.

Hole by hole, she clawed her way back, sinking four birdies in her last five holes, each one a rebellion against the script.

A declaration that a country girl could not only stand among the world’s best, but best them.

And by the end of the 18th, after a deft chip and a clinical putt, Karrie had rewritten the whole story—standing there, clutching her first career LPGA major as the Webb surname, long synonymous with a modest North Queensland community, was now on lips around the globe.

Though beneath the cheek-to-cheek grin, beer-soaked jubilation, and the six other majors she would tack onto her illustrious resume beyond that point, she remained exactly what she’d always been—a country girl, who forged a way to the top by doing different, being different, and being...

Burdekin.

From Small-Town Swings to Worldwide Wins

Born in Australia’s Sugarcane Capital to locals Robert and Evelyn Webb in 1974, Karrie experienced the Burdekin like many of us.

Her upbringing was a rich mixture of family barbecues, the occasional Tavern dinner, fishing trips, and sport—typical for the region, most would say. Yet, this young local was anything but typical, and the signs of an anomaly began to reveal themselves quite early.

“Around grade one, one of my teachers was worried about me because I was always playing with the boys,” said Karrie. “The boys played sport, while all the girls were playing with their dolls and stuff. That didn't interest me.”

Karrie dabbled in most sports on the Ayr State School grounds, most notably cricket. But it was back in 1979, at just four years old, that she first stepped onto the golf course alongside her grandfather, clattering balls down the Ayr Golf Club fairways with her flimsy little plastic clubs.

The family, including young Karrie, were club regulars. “My parents were really active members when I was little. My parents would be up [in the clubhouse] after they played and all the kids would be downstairs, running around, playing in the bunkers and all sorts of things. It was just a great, great time,” she said.

By eight, she had received her first real set of clubs for Saturday morning junior competitions, and over the years that followed, golf would battle it out with cricket for Karrie's full attention. Come age 11, it delivered the knock-out blow.

It was 1986. Queensland Open. A then-dominant Greg Norman was looking to secure his second home-state open victory in just three years—and that, he did. But watching on as Norman strutted to a six-shot victory was an inspired Karrie, who was left mesmerised… hooked.

“I just couldn't believe how many people were there to watch people play golf. I was like, ‘you can do this for a job? How amazing!’ And when I returned home, I told my parents: ’I want to be a professional golfer.’”

That’s where, in a town more known for its cane farms than its courses, her unlikely rise to the top would begin.

A rise that would give way to nothing, and no one, despite prevailing doubts among the community.

"My parents had so many adults that were saying, 'you need to tamper her dream... A little girl from Ayr is never going to be a professional golfer,’” she said.

“In my Deb Ball video, I came down the aisle and they introduced me: ‘Karrie is the daughter of so and so… she goes to Ayr State High School, and in the future, she’d like a career in the golf industry... working at a golf resort or something.’"

"I was watching it thinking, 'when did I ever think I wanted to do that?' But back when I was in school, I always felt like I had to come up with something to avoid saying I wanted to be a professional golfer, because that’s not what people wanted to hear.”

After all, global success didn’t often come out of Ayr, and it wasn’t just the distance that made it difficult. Karrie remembers the hurdles she faced at every Queensland junior golf camp, and the unspoken assumptions, made quite unequivocally apparent, that country golfers didn’t belong on the state team.

“There was a real country stigma back then,” she said. “I wasn’t considered as polished as kids that go to private schools down South. I was just this country kid… that didn't fit the mould.”

Golf Queensland state team selectors kept her at arm’s length, refusing to pay for her flights down to Brisbane camps in what Karrie saw as attempts eliminate her from the state team equation. They soon learned it would take much more than that.

From the age of 14, she would embark on nearly two days of Greyhound bus travel for each camp. No mobile phones. No TikTok. Just the drone of an endless highway, cheek pressed to fist and eyes fixed on each passing sign. Thursday night to Brisbane, collected by her great-aunt for weekend training, Sunday night the long ride back, and reaching Townsville only on Monday evening, missing school along the way.

“I did that for three, four years, and I can still smell the inside of buses,” she laughed.

“I think it was [Golf Queensland’s] way of breaking me. But I never really questioned it. It was like, I just have to do it. If I want to make the state team, I have to do that.”

With the courage to turn a blind eye to the obstacles and a deaf ear to the doubters, she revealed a degree of maturity well beyond her years. Yet, she says the real secret behind her dogged perseverance was quite the opposite.

“I was just naive," she said.

"I thought, 'if I just practice harder, I’ll be better.' Putting in the work made my mind believe that the reward would come, no matter what."

It was off the back of this mindset that, every day after school, while most kids waited for their parents in kiss-and-drop, Karrie would trudge down Edwards Street to the golf club, where she spent hours perfecting her craft.

That close proximity was a dream for her; she didn't need a bigger city, nor did she want one. In fact, to her, living in Ayr was her superpower.

“I had way more access to a golf course than my friends in the cities, and I always took that as my advantage," she said. "I was able to improve my game way easier than they were, because they had restricted access to their golf courses [due to membership popularity]."

“I kept improving to the point where I became the best amateur in the country. So I thought, ‘why do I need to go to Brisbane?’"

"I probably would’ve had to change coach as well, which I didn't want to do.”

Enter, Kelvin Haller—Burdekin local, and an accomplished, self-taught regional golfer in his own right. A friend of Karrie’s mother, he became her coach when she was just 12, and from the very first day, everything clicked. From refining her swing to regularly caddying for her, Karrie very much credits Haller for shaping the foundations that facilitated her greatness.

“Everything I knew about golf was from him. He was my first hero in golf,” she said.

When Haller suffered a life-altering accident in 1990 that left him a quadriplegic, he didn’t step back. He remained Karrie’s guiding force despite his physical limitations, and it was under his tutelage that she embarked on one of the swiftest, most remarkable ascents the sport had ever witnessed.

In 1995, she became the youngest ever Women’s British Open champion at just 20. Within a year she had secured her LPGA Tour card and in 1996, in only her second start on America’s top women’s tour, she won the HealthSouth Inaugural in a sudden‑death playoff. She captured four titles that rookie season, becoming the first woman ever to earn over US $1 million in a single LPGA season, walking away with Rookie of the Year honours.

Despite this rapid global success far, far from home, the Burdekin parts of her still shone through. The same girl who was pipping some of the world's best golfers to trophies was walking barefoot into Subway’s in Orlando, copping stares as she pointed her ingredients out through the display glass. She had also retained her sharp country wit—wit that she admitted didn’t always translate across the Pacific.

“I played most of my golf with boys here in Ayr, and they loved banter and sarcasm… Here, proper sarcasm’s delivered with a straight face. They didn't get that [in the US]. They didn’t get sarcasm unless you said it smiling or with a smirk of some sort on your face, so I think they took that as me being bratty.”

Karrie was used to being misunderstood. Except, this time, all the quirks of this quiet little Burdekin girl were now on show for the world—which, she recalls, didn’t always serve her well.

“At that stage I had no media training,” she said with a smirk. “People were like, ‘you need to have media training,’ but I wasn’t gonna go and be fake just because they didn’t like who I was.”

“The LPGA actually didn't really help me very much there either. They were looking for someone different to lead the next generation… someone outgoing and boisterous, and that wasn't me.”

This media-shy notoriety stuck with Karrie all the way through her career—which was fine by her. She preferred to let her golf do the talking, a notion to which her eventual 41 LPGA Tour trophies and World Golf Hall of Fame induction would attest.

After decades of conquering the world, she has dialled back her tour commitments to reconnect with her roots back in North Queensland.

"It's always been the place where I could just take a deep breath and be the Karrie Webb that grew up here."

Her namesake tournament, the Karrie Webb Junior Masters, happens every October in Ayr, with participation increasing each year. This year saw its largest field yet: 105 participants, and some of whom, ironically, made the trip up from Brisbane.

Karrie admits she can’t help but see herself in some of the kids. For her, the tournament is a chance to pass her experience on to the next generation of ambitious young golfers who stand where she once stood.

“I never had anyone that had that level of experience when I was a kid. So, to be able to give that experience and advice to them… is fun to do," she said.

“There are a couple of kids up here that I know want to make it, and they talk about how it's hard from up here. And I say, ‘well, I did it. Don’t make that your excuse.'”

“If you dream big enough and work hard enough, you can achieve whatever you want.”

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Saturday PM 6/12 (1-5pm) Group H - Dave Satori PC, Katherine Satori PC, Riley Satori, Jake Satori, Cole Pontifex

Sunday AM 7/12 (9am-1pm) Group G - Carl List PC, James Kennedy PC, Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards, Ross Blakey

Sunday PM 7/12 (1-5pm) - Group F - Lisa Furnell PC, Jen Morgan PC, John furnell, Josh Furnell, Jo Morgan, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell

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Burdekin Roosters 2025 Best and Fairest A Grade lock Hayde Munro capped off his season by being named the best player in the Grand Final of the Club of Origin, played last Saturday at Bendigo Bank Park in Ayr.

Munro scored two tries for his Colts side as the Red Horses beat Brothers in the final 20-6. Coached by Ignatius Park coach Will Jack and Roosters A Grade captain Joel Mason, the Colts played entertaining football, with the backs finishing off the hard work of their forwards.

In the forwards, Caleb Noah, Nemia Nawave, Tame Reupena, and Cooper Fletcher paved the way, led by hooker Dyland Doak, who also had a strong day with the boot. Hayde played at half, setting up plays for Terey Connors, his brother Jones, and fullback Josh Furnell, who went close to the award.

Colts won the outstanding Bendigo Bank trophy, with Hayde taking home the medallion and $250 cash from Haywards Hydraulics. Brothers coaches Steve Sheppard and Paul Horan lifted their young charges to reach the final, ultimately falling to the more experienced Colts.

Declan Marchioni was outstanding, scoring several tries during the carnival and proving dangerous whenever in possession, narrowly missing out on the best player award for the final. Lachlan Shepherd, Jacob Poletti, and Joe Miehle also had strong performances for Brothers.

Mens’ Carnival Results:
Brothers and Colts drew 12-all
Home Hill def Hornets 12-10
Hornets and Brothers drew 12-all
Colts def Home Hill 22-0
Brothers def Home Hill 14-6
Colts def Hornets 10-0

Home Hill, coached by Kieran Dawes, fielded a young side led by experienced players Tate Brombal, Kali Nauque, and Ethan Hagarty. Adam Camer, Tyce Cursio, and Dom Arrate also had strong performances. The Hornets, coached by Ross and Kurt Olsen, tried hard but were hampered by a few breakdowns at crucial moments. Jye Olsen stood out, converting a sideline try, with Darian Lampton and Rhett Williams also impressing.

One of the biggest highlights of the day was the Ladies’ match between Ayr and Home Hill, believed to be the first ever. Led by the Monday twins, Martina and Stephanie, the Ayr team, coached by Jayson Okeefe, proved too strong, winning 16-4. Martina scored two tries and was named player of the match, winning $250 donated by Haywards Hydraulics. She was closely followed by her twin sister Stephanie, who booted two goals, and hooker Logan Roncato, who scored a try. Taleisha Bulgarelli also played well.

The Home Hill ladies, coached by Ryan Davenport, tried hard and never gave in, with Tanley Rowe and Lily Chappell performing strongly in the halves, and Lily scoring a try. Several Ayr players went home nursing sore ribs, including Theo Mosby, who made some big defensive hits. One of the biggest tackles of the day came from Charley Ruskin, who stopped a certain try with a full-ball tackle.

Two unsung heroes of the day were referees Andrew Ballin and Kevin Isaacs, who controlled all games admirably. At the conclusion of the games and trophy presentations, three jerseys from each club, plus a signed Cowboys jersey from Steve Sheppard, were auctioned off.
The day, organised mainly by Alex Lennox, attracted a huge crowd who partied well into the night. Alex thanked all who helped, including the Old Boys Club, all club sponsors, and especially Bendigo Bank, and Ricky and Leanne of the Burdekin Race Club.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Local

Training for Men and Colts for the 2026 season starts on this Thursday night at 6.15.

Small sided games for the next three weeks. Be There!

Night Soccer

The tenth week of competition and another low scoring night. There were four forfeits (Schoolies?) and the sixteen games produced just fifty one goals. And there were three Sin Bins. Top scorers were Mottin Earthmoving and Ladies team Goal Diggers with five goals and UDS and DL Lager each with four. There were three drawn games and just nine teams failed to score!

In Men’s Competitive Group, UDS now top the table with twenty four points one point ahead of Clare Cutters with Mottin Earthmoving a further point behind in third place and Nutrien Ag drop to fourth place. In Mens A Grade Social 1, DL Lager is still in first place followed by Borin n Scorin with Willy Wackers in third place. In Mens, A Grade Social 2, Oary’s Levellers lead Wires Down on goal difference with Always Fits dropping to third place. In Mens B Grade Social 1, the unbeaten Bennetts Old Grumpies top the Group with nine points and are five points clear of Fair Call and Hardly Normal and in Mens B Grade Social 2, His Haas, Real Steel Fab and BA all have three points.

In Ladies A Grade 1, Scoregasms lead Rocky Pond Warriors by three points with Young Guns in third place and in Ladies A Grade 2, Body Tune leads DILLIGAF by three points with 6 TO UR 7 in third place. In Ladies B Grade 1, Kicken Goals are three points clear of Goal Diggers with Short Staffed in third place and in Ladies B Grade 2, Chicks and Chooks are three points clear of We’ve got the Runs.

Juniors

The played their last games of Junior social soccer on Tuesday afternoon and had a great time. That is it for the season and year.

National and International

In the A League Men, after six rounds, Brisbane were the only club in the top five to win. They beat Melbourne Victory and are in second place, one point behind Sydney FC who lost to Western Sydney. Auckland lost to Newcastle and is in third place on goal difference.

In the A League Women, only one game was played over the weekend with Melbourne Victory beating Perth 3-0. The table is somewhat confusing at the moment. Some teams have played five rounds, Melbourne Victory, others three or four and Melbourne City has only played two games!

Victory is now top of the table after their win against Perth and Sydney FC is one point behind. Brisbane did not play and is now in fourth place, with two games in hand. Western Sydney, Central Coast and Perth are holding up the league with three points from four matches.

The Socceroos do not seem to have any more games planned but doubtless, with the World Cup starting in June, arrangements are being made. In the FIFA Rankings Australia is 26th.

The Matildas have two friendlies against New Zealand coming up. Last Friday in Gosford they won 5-0 and then they played again on Tuesday 2nd December in Adelaide. In the FIFA World Rankings, the Matildas are currently 15th and New Zealand 33rd.

In England, in the EPL, six of the top eight teams won and Arsenal and Chelsea drew 1-1. After thirteen rounds Arsenal leads Manchester City by five points and Chelsea and Aston Villa by six points. In a return to form both Liverpool and ManU won. At the foot of the table the bottom five teams all lost and so far, Wolves have two points.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, after twelve rounds the still unbeaten Bayern now has an eight point lead over Leipzig with Dortmund another point behind. Leverkusen drops to fourth place a further two points adrift. At the foot of the table Heidenheim was the only one of the six bottom clubs to win and Mainz and St Pauli are in big trouble.

In Italy’s Serie A, one point separates the top five teams. After thirteen rounds AC Milan leads Napoli on goal difference and Inter and Roma are just one point behind. At the bottom of the foot of the table the bottom four teams all lost and Verona and Fiorentina with six points each, already look doomed.

In Spain’s La Liga, Real Madrid drew their third match in a row and Barcelona has taken over at the top, one point clear of Real. Villarreal is a further point behind and one point ahead of Atletico. At the bottom of the league, it is not looking good for Oviedo and Levante with just nine points each from fourteen rounds.

In France’s Ligue 1 Lens now leads PSG by one point with Marseilles in third place a further point adrift. Fourth placed Lille is another three points behind. At the foot of the table Lorient was the only one of the bottom seven teams to win. And it is not looking good for Auxerre, Metz, and Nantes.

And incidentally, in the English Championship, Coventry City is ten points clear of Middlesbrough at the top!

Forty two countries so far have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, and this includes the three host countries, USA, Canada, and Mexico. The Group Draw will take place on Friday, and the Socceroos will then know at least two of the other countries in their group. The final six places will be sorted out in March next year. The competition starts on 11 June, and the Final is on 19 July. Forty eight teams will compete in twelve groups of four teams in the US, Canada, and Mexico. The top two teams from the groups plus the best eight third placed teams qualifying for the Round of thirty-two.

Quote of the Week

Is from Manchester United and Northern Ireland’s George Best "I used to go missing a lot... Miss Canada, Miss United Kingdom, Miss World."

He died on 25 November 2005 at the age of 59.

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Another warm spring afternoon, even starting at 2.30 pm, saw 28 players in attendance.

Rink 3: The final of the club triples was played, with the team of Des Chapman, Joe Linton, and Alex Bojack winning on the last two ends for victory over Margaret Linton, Joclyn DeFranciscus, and Jeff Taylor (all six finalists pictured). Congratulations to Des, Joe, and Alex!

Rink 4: Bob Pickard, Sandra Darwin, and Hugh Montgomery defeated Janet Arthur, Bruce McCallum, and Steve Doig.

Rink 5: Margaret Chapman, Michael Young, and Trevor Elton were just too good for Elaine Young, Judy Elton, and Wayne Newton.

Rink 6: Paul Vass, Nev Webb, and Gary Nosworthy came away with the win—and were the lucky rink for the day—against Bob Young, Ron Smith, and Glen Bones Berryman.

Rink 7: A pairs game saw Warren “Yogi” Bunn and Mick McClosky outlast Betty Webb and Phil Marsden.
The seafood tray raffle was won by Paul Vass, and the bottle of wine was taken home by Mick McClosky.

As we are now in December, all daily groups should check with their own members regarding the Christmas break. The AGM is on 13 December 2025, commencing at 10 am. Nomination forms are available on the bar.

The presentation day and Christmas party was a bit of a blast. Once again, thanks to the organisers—the bowls-for-prizes was very well received, especially by many non-bowlers. Check out the Facebook page for all award recipients.

So, until next week, good bowling!

Photos and report by Stephen Doig.

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Paul Vass, Nev Webb, and Gary Nosworthy came away with the win—and were the lucky rink for the day—against Bob Young, Ron Smith, and Glen Bones Berryman.

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The Ayr Bowling Club has celebrated an exceptional week on the greens, with members coming together for a mix of spirited club Championship games and engaging social matches. The vibrant atmosphere and camaraderie continue to strengthen, showcasing the club's dedication to fostering connections through the sport of lawn bowls. It is very heartening to see that despite the increase in warmer conditions our members keep coming down for a roll up under our shaded cover.

Wednesday men’s social bowls saw two games of pairs played. Winners were Wayne Coonan and Al Hardcastle defeating Happy Horan and Ron Soper. In the second game Dino Poli and Chris Berkery defeated Shane and Chris Olditch.

Wednesday night social bowls featured two lively games of triples, creating a fantastic atmosphere for players of all skill levels. These evening sessions are a great way to learn and improve in a relaxed setting, especially during the warmer months when the cooler night air makes bowling even more enjoyable. It’s the perfect opportunity to practice, socialise, and experience the fun side of the sport.

The Ayr Bowling Club wrapped up the Fun Friday Nights with the last one for the year las Friday. Drawing a strong crowd and plenty of community spirit, guests enjoyed an evening of friendly competition, socialising, and special prizes, creating a festive atmosphere to close out the season. A big Thank You to club members, Shane & Ange for sponsoring the night. There were a few extra prizes including Best Dressed which was won by Johnny. Lucky Liv won the meat tray. Winners for the night were Katharina & John; 2nd place was Brad, Ben, Chris & Gary; Sportsman’s Prize was won by Mary, Evelyn & Sam. The club extended heartfelt thanks to its sponsors throughout the year for their ongoing support, which makes these popular events possible.

Saturday was a highlight of the November calendar with Love on the Green, celebrating the wedding anniversaries of long-term club members Ron and Donna Soper and also Chris and Callie Olditch. With 22 players coming along to celebrate with an afternoon of great bowls, first place went to John Pirrone, Sam Caltabiano and Pam Power. Second place went to Barry Hewson, Chris Berkery and Col Essex. Third place went to Donna Soper, Shane Stanford and Danny O’Shea. The sportsman’s prize went to Beryl Cornford and Ron Soper. The Saturday Jackpot also went off with Donna Soper, Shane Stanford and Danny O’Shea claiming the prize.

Sunday saw the Mixed Championships rinks final with K Stuckler, R Smythe, B Cornford and Col Essex defeating M Chapman, H Hazel, H Jorgenson and S Caltabiano 25-10. The game was much closer that the score indicated. This Championship game was the finale to the season’s club competitions.

Some important upcoming events: Saturday 6th December is the Presentation Afternoon after Saturday Bowls with members bringing a plate. Then on Sunday 7th December, 9am is the Annual General Meeting at the Clubhouse.

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Friday Fun Night on the Green. Photo supplied
Friday Fun Night Winners

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The fields at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex are looking nice and green after the recent showers.

Blue Group: Only two bowlers took wickets in their game. Tait Parker claimed 2 for 9, while Mitchell Patti took 1 for 3 and also ran out a batter. Jake Cullen also contributed with a run out while fielding. The top scorer this week was Royce Cohen, followed by Jake Cullen and Corbett Cross, who continues to improve each week. Stirling Williams and Henry Cohen earned the "McDonald Sports Awards" for their performances in this game.

Continued on page 28

Highlights from Gold and Challengers Matches

Gold Group: Batting proved difficult, as wickets fell at regular intervals and no one could get settled. Ben Watkins scored 15 runs and was the only batter to retire not out. Tyler Schultz and Rylan Nicolaides both scored 16 runs to claim the top scores. Rylan also bowled well, taking 2 wickets for 9 runs, as did Marshall Parker with 2 for 12. Others to take a wicket each were Ben, Tyler, Xavier Cross, Oliver Calligaro, Alex Cullen, Oscar Mahoney, and Logan Pickup. In the field, Tyler took two catches, while Oscar, Xavier, and Alex each took one. The "McDonald Sports Awards" were awarded to Rylan and Alex for their all-round performances.

Challengers Game: An unbeaten 36-run partnership between Jack Gorey and Claire Cross was the highlight. Flynn Levitt and Nicholas Marrinan were not far behind with 34 runs but lost a wicket in their innings. Jack Gorey was also active with the ball, taking two wickets. Arthur Cohen and Aria Bryant each took two wickets, while Flynn, Jaxon, Hadley, and Nahjiyah snared one each. Jack received the "McDonald Sports Award" for his power hitting, while Dylan earned the other for his great bowling and field awareness.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke

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The "McDonald Sports Awards" were awarded to Rylan and Alex for their all-round performances in the Gold Group. Photo supplied
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In the Challengers Game, Jack received the "McDonald Sports Award" for his power hitting, while Dylan earned the other for his great bowling and field awareness. Photo supplied

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Memories of Johnno Cole’s match-winning try in the 1963 Foley Shield clash at Rugby Park may be long gone, but this Saturday, the spirit of Burdekin rugby league returns with the Clubs of Origin at Bendigo Bank Park.

Supporters of the region’s four historic clubs have resurrected the colours, appointed coaches, and created a day of action and celebration, uniting players from different codes for one unforgettable event.

The Colts will wear the familiar red and white, coached by Ignatius Park’s Will Jack and Roosters A-grade captain Joel Mason. Standout players include former North Queensland Marlin Kurt Perry and Roosters A-grade best and fairest Hayde Munro, alongside Jones Munro, Luca Lago, Terry Connors, Dylan Doak, John Zaro, Caleb Noah, and Llama Ghee.

Brothers—historically the most successful club in Burdekin rugby league—will sport their iconic butcher stripes, coached by former Roosters mentor Steve Sheppard with Paul Horan. Key players include forwards Lachlan Shepherd and Braedeyn Cotter, hooker Declan Martchioni, half Kelsey Hesp, try scorer Jared Giardina, and four members of the Horan family.

The Hornets will field a fast, all-round side led by Ross and Kurt Olsen, with pace in the centres from Gordon Daisy and support from the Lampton family. Rhett Williams at hooker, along with Jake Henaway in the halves, will ensure clean ball distribution.

Rivalries continue with the Home Hill Devils, coached by Kieran Dawes and Ryan Davenport. Young stars Adam Caner, Jya Cursio, Malik Ogameni, Lachlan Kerr, and Luke Torkington will feature, supported by a strong forward pack.

Games begin at 2pm with a round-robin format leading into semi-finals and the Bendigo Bank Cup Grand Final. At 5.40pm, a first-of-its-kind ladies’ match between the Ayr Bears and Home Hill Devils will showcase rising female talent, led by the Monday sisters, Kirra Hodder, Jo Morgan, Charlee Ruskin, and others.

Food and drinks will be available, and celebrations will continue after the final whistle, promising a day of rugby league, community, and memories to last a lifetime.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Over the weekend, a small contingent from Ayr Surf Club headed to Eimeo to compete at the North Barrier Branch Championships. The carnival is the culmination of the region’s main surf sports season, with the announcement of the NBB Youth State Team, who will go on to compete at Surf Life Saving Queensland Youth States in February 2026 on the Sunshine Coast.

The weekend saw some changes to the original program due to unexpected marine creatures; however, the majority of individual and team events were still completed, making for a very successful carnival overall, with some fantastic individual and team results.

A massive congratulations to the 14 nippers from the club who were all announced in the State Team at the conclusion of the weekend. Under 11s: Mahli McShane and Audrey Rickards; Under 12s: Luca Lawry, Taylor Chapman, and Charlotte Dale; Under 13s: Alyssa Irvine; Under 14s: Warne McShane, Cole Pontifex, Milla Chapman, Emma Jones, Emilee Wassmuth, and Charlotte Lawry; and Under 15s: Zachary Dale and Briella Wassmuth.

This coming weekend, Milla Chapman and Warne McShane will head to the Gold Coast as part of the Queensland Country Team for the Inter-Branch Championships. We wish them all the best. Patrols will continue at Alva each weekend as the club prepares to host the North Barrier Branch Surf Rescue Championships and their Junior Club Championships in early December.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry

Ryley Sartori taking out the Open Female flags
Jake Sartori starting the Under 15 board race
Charlotte Dale taking out the Under 12 Female Ironperson

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Saturday PM 29/11 1-5pm - Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry and Lisa Vivian

Sunday AM 30/11 9am-1pm - Group C - Jane Jones PC, Lauren Chapman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman and Shaize Christie

Sunday PM 1-5pm - Group A - Chris Wicks PC, Richard Dale PC, Jane Olsen, Stephanie Dale, Zachary Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner and William Holt

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The Grand Finals for the Burdekin Touch Association were the exciting culmination of a fantastic season. Baywatch A reigned supreme in Division 1 with an outstanding display of attacking Touch. The players’ athleticism, speed and agility ensured that they continued their domination of the competition.

All the hard work and training paid off for Silly Soft Serves as they were successful in Division 2. Laurence Lampton (Coach) and Allyce Becke (Manager) should be very proud of the team’s progress this year. All players have improved significantly and are playing excellent Touch.

Red Rippers were successful in Division 3, capping off a very promising season. A very young Baywatch C team will be a force for next season.

Competition Coordinator, Bob Clerke, thanked all the players, referees and especially parents and congratulated everyone on a very successful season.

U14 player awards-

Baywatch A Best Player Dakkies Daniel and Most Improved Adea Geas

Baywatch B Best Player Shaitay Tahana and Most Improved Xavier Campbell,

Baywatch C Best Player Josephine Twaddle and Most Improved Abby Rattler

Mustangs Best Player Bhree Robertson and Most Improved Abby Becke

Red Rippers Best Player Reni Brock and Most Improved Hoyt Pontifex

Silly Soft Serves Best Player Tayla Chapman and Most Improved Addison Reid

Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton

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Best and Most Improved players recognised for their growth and outstanding performance. Photo supplied

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Another warm afternoon greeted players at Homehill Bowls Club, and it’s still only spring! Twenty-five players took to the greens, including two very important competitors, Wayne Newton and Alex Bojack, finalists in the club singles. Alas for Alex, Wayne prevailed on the day and is our 2025 Singles Champion (pictured: Alex congratulating Wayne). The final was played on Rink 3.

On Rink 4, Michael Young, Elaine Young, and Hugh Montgomery narrowly defeated Judy Elton, Nev Webb, and Mick McClosky. Rink 5 saw Paul Vass, Dino Poli, and Steve Doig record a big win over Bob Young, Ron Smith, and new Skip Margaret Linton – don’t despair, Margaret, it doesn’t get easier! Rink 6 produced another very close match, with Bruce McCallum, Rob Garner, and Jeff Taylor edging out Yogi Bunn, Margaret Chapman, and Joe Linton. The winning rink of the day was Rink 7, where Betty Webb and Glen Bones Berryman (pictured) accounted for Bob Pickard and Mary Poli.

Members are reminded to mark Saturday 29 November at 3 pm in their calendars for the Presentation and Christmas Party. Regular weekly activities continue, with Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, and Wednesday Kraft group alongside Wednesday night barefoot bowls with a sausage sizzle. Thursday mornings feature BINGO, followed by social bowls at 2.30 pm, which is particularly popular during these warmer months. Saturday afternoon social bowls also starts at 2.30 pm, with names in by 2 pm at the latest.

The AGM is fast approaching and nomination forms are available at the bar. During these hotter days, players are reminded to stay hydrated and, if feeling wobbly or unwell, to rest in the cool, air-conditioned bar area.

Until next week, good bowling!

Photos and story by Stephen Doig

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As part of Tennis Australia’s 1 Point Slam community events, Home Hill Tennis is set to host it’s very own 1 Point Slam on Sunday 30th November at 5 pm.

The organizers hope to see a large number of local players take part, hoping to claim victory and a spot in the State Championships draw to be held on Saturday 20 December 2025. We need a minimum of 8 entries online.

Winners of the eight State Championships events around the country will move through to the AO 1 Point Slam Main Draw, where 48 pros, amateurs and wildcards will compete on Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday 14 January 2026 for $1 million.

To represent the club in Brisbane, players must nominate by the 27th of November by 11 pm online at tournaments.tennis.com.au or contact club representative Kate Casswell. If our eventual winner does not wish to travel to Brisbane, then our club will go in the draw to be represented by one of the Pro players in Melbourne at the AO.

The club will be celebrating the end of the year by running a One Point Slam for pickleball and tennis where members can sign on up to the time of the event. The cost to sign on is free and there is a chance for the draw winners to win $125 cash each. Any players who enters will receive a sausage sizzle for free and the best dressed Christmas themed player will receive free drinks. The cost for social tennis and pickleball for the afternoon is $5 each or $10 for the whole family, so come on down to Home Hill Tennis on Sunday afternoon for some fun.

For more information and to register your interest in playing in the 1-point slam phone Kate on 0447384441

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The Burdekin Mixed Touch Football season wrapped up in style last Friday, with finals across seven grades delivering thrills, skill, and plenty of nail-biting moments for the large crowd in attendance.

The A grade final saw Nrgize edge out Alliance Pharmacy 4–3 in a tense contest that swung from end to end, with desperate defence repeatedly halting sweeping attacks. Darian Lampton and Tremayne Horan were named players of the final for Nrgize.

Results Across The Grounds

In B grade, One Touch IT overcame First in Physio 5–4, with Ryan Taylor setting up the decisive try in the closing seconds for Dan Horan. Cooper Cross and Kristy Smith earned players of the final honours.

The C grade clash between Baywatch A and Touch Potatoes went into extra-time after a thrilling 8–8 full-time draw. Baywatch A ultimately scored in the corner, with Angus Watson and Wassie Ghee taking out player awards.

Other highlights included Slush Puppies defeating Renegades 6–3 in D grade, Baywatch B narrowly beating Petrol Heads 8–7 in E grade, and Pink Piggies overcoming Blue Murder 10–7 in F grade, with injured Blue Murder player Dan Walsh impressively scoring four tries.

Season awards recognised top performers, including Caleb Formilan (male best and fairest), Wassie Ghee (female best and fairest), Bruce Johnson as Club Person of the Year, and outstanding referees Riley Dobe, Damian Lampton, and Danny Wilson.

Burdekin Touch President Peter Knapton thanked players, referees, and volunteers for making the season a success, noting, “The Burdekin Touch fields remain the best in North Queensland thanks to the tireless efforts of John and Jono Lewis.” He encouraged players to start organising teams for the 2026 Commercial Tavern Open Touch competition.

The 2025 season finished with a bang, leaving fans and players excited for another year of top-class touch football in the Burdekin.

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Home Hill produced a composed and confident display at Barry Richards Field, securing a 47-run victory over Wests Absolutely Dental in their Second Grade CNQ One Day fixture.

Home Hill posted a competitive 6-160, built on patient partnerships and a late-innings surge. Alexander Romeo anchored the innings with a gritty 43 off 77 balls, absorbing pressure and rotating the strike before falling lbw to Shawn Hague. JD Wilkins starred at the finish, remaining unbeaten on 44 from 52 balls.

In defense, Home Hill’s bowlers executed a disciplined plan to dismiss Wests for 113. JD Wilkins led the attack with 3 wickets from 8 overs, maintaining an economical 4.25. Thomas Cardillo struck early with 2 wickets, followed by another 2 from Al Wilkins in quick succession. Jack Gimson wrapped up the tail with 2 scalps, including a sharp caught-and-bowled to end the innings.

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Home Hill claimed a convincing victory over Northern Beaches in their Third Grade fixture on the weekend, winning by 5 wickets and 96 runs.

After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Home Hill’s attack was relentless from the outset, restricting Northern Beaches to 6/110 from 30 overs. William McLees set the tone with a fiery opening spell, striking twice in quick succession—one LBW and one clean bowled—to leave the visitors struggling at 2/11. Travis Butler and Laurence Zappa maintained the pressure with a wicket each, while captain Brad Parravicini closed out the innings with two crucial breakthroughs.

Home Hill approached the chase with confidence and control. Despite the early loss of Jaiden Rice, skipper Parravicini steadied the innings with a composed 53 off 53 balls, featuring eight boundaries. He combined superbly with Andrew Wallwork, whose explosive 76 off 54 balls—including 10 fours and 2 sixes—kept the scoring rate comfortably ahead. Daniel Olditch added a brisk 32 off 21 balls* to seal the result, with Home Hill posting 5/206 to complete a dominant performance.

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Top scorers of the day, Andrew Wallwork and Brad Parravicini. Photo supplied

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The batters came out on top this week at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex in Home Hill, with only five wickets falling across both the "Blue" and "Gold" groups.

In the Blue Group, Kyle Wilkie remained not out on 10 runs, leading the way and earning the McDonalds Sports Award for his composed batting. Tait Parker and Corbett Cross each bowled a maiden over and were the most economical bowlers, while Mazlyn Smith effected a run out.

In the Gold Group, only three bowlers claimed wickets: Rylan Nicholaides (1/11), Ben Watkins (1/15) and Xavier Cross (1/23). Rylan’s dismissal of Oscar Mahoney on 13 runs was a spectacular caught-and-bowled. Oliver Calligaro made a fast 17 not out and contributed to two run outs, assisted by Tyler Schultz on one occasion. Mark Wilkie top-scored with an unbeaten 19 runs, earning the McDonalds Sports Award for the Gold Group.

The “Challengers” game kept spectators entertained, with 117 runs scored and 13 wickets falling. Partnerships included Nicholas Marrinan and Nate Ryder (23 runs), Flynn Sullivan and Jaxon Watkins (20 runs), and Mitchell Young and Noah Tanner (19 runs). Wickets were shared among Hunter, Nahjiyah, Claire, Jack, Doug, Mitchell, Noah, Nicholas, Aria, and Nate. Olivia Patti took home the McDonalds Sports Award for her outstanding bowling and fielding.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke

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Mark and Kyle Wilkie with their McDonald's Sports Awards after exceptional individual batting displays.
Olivia Patti took home the McDonalds Sports Award for her outstanding bowling and fielding.

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The Bendigo Bank Club of Origin returns to Bendigo Bank Park on Saturday, November 29, with former local teams battling for bragging rights, pride and the enduring spirit of the community.

The event promises a day of big hits, hometown heroes, high-energy action, family fun and plenty of unforgettable moments. The four resurrected local clubs are Colts, Hornets, Brothers and Home Hill.

As an added attraction, a ladies match will be played during the afternoon between Ayr and Home Hill.

Play will get underway at 2pm, with a round robin contested between the clubs in games consisting of two fifteen-minute halves.

The Burdekin Rugby League commenced under that name in 1963, with the last club matches played in 1986. The towns of Ayr and Home Hill then entered teams in A grade, reserve, under 19 and under 17 in the Townsville competition. Home Hill, under coach Billy Heron, won the Townsville reserve grade Grand Final in 19—(year incomplete in original text).

Burdekin later competed in the Burdekin Whitsunday competition until 1994, when they entered the Townsville League again as a club team playing in four grades, achieving immediate success with a premiership in under 19.

Between 1963 and 1986, twenty-four A-grade premierships were decided. Brothers claimed the most with eight, followed by Hornets with seven, Home Hill with five, and Colts with four.

The second-grade competition—run variously as reserve grade or juniors depending on the year, with some years not played—was dominated by Colts, who won six premierships. Brothers and Hornets claimed five each, while Home Hill won three.

In the third division, the under 18/17 competition, Colts won eight, Home Hill seven, Hornets four and Brothers two.

Overall, Colts were the most successful club of the era, accumulating 18 premierships, followed by Hornets with 16, and Brothers and Home Hill with 15 each.

Next week’s edition will feature a list of some of the players taking part in this year’s Origin event, including several well-known older names certain to stir up memories for long-time supporters.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Burdekin FC are chasing expressions of interest, by Sunday 23 November, for players aged12 and up for their Youths and Women’s teams for the 2026 season. The Club is also looking for those interested in coaching the various Burdekin Panthers teams in the Townsville competitions next season. Expressions of interest also close this Sunday.

Night Soccer

The eighth week of competition and a relatively high scoring night. There were no forfeits, which was a nice change. The twenty games produced seventy two goals and there were two Sin Bins. Top scorers were Nutrien Ag and Ladies team Kicken Goals with eight goals, Chicks & Chooks and 6 TO UR 7 both rattled in five goals. There were seven drawn games and fifteen teams failed to score!

In Men’s Competitive Group, UDS still top the table with twenty points one point ahead of Clare Cutters with Mottin Earthmoving a further point behind in third place.

In Mens A Grade Social 1, DL Lager is in top place followed by Willy Wackers and Boarin n Scorin. In Mens, A Grade Social 2, Oary’s Levellers lead Always Fits and Wires Down.

In Mens B Grade Social 1, Bennetts Old Grumpies are two points clear of Fair Call and Hardly Normal and in Mens B Grade Social 2, BA leads His Haas.

In Ladies A Grade 1, Scoregasms lead Rocky Pond Wonders on goal difference and in Ladies A Grade 2, 6 TO UR 7 is two points clear of DILLIGAF and Body Tune.

In Ladies B Grade 1, Kicken Goals lead Goal Diggers on goal difference and in Ladies B Grade 2, Chicks and Chooks are three points clear of Haven’t a Kahlua and We’ve got the Runs.

Juniors

A big thank you to our junior and youth players and coaches for helping out at McHappy Day on Saturday. Plenty of donations were raised and cars washed for a great cause!

Junior social soccer is into its last few weeks of the term 4 season, how good are the kids going?!!!

National and International

Because it was an International Week there were no A League Men’s games. The League will resume next weekend with current leaders Auckland at home to fourth placed Brisbane Roar. Second placed Sydney FC is at home to Melbourne Victory, and third placed Melbourne City is away to Adelaide.

The A League Women continued playing and after three rounds Brisbane is top of the table despite losing away to Western Sydney. Melbourne City is second on goal difference after beating Central Coast and Sydney FC stays in third place with a win over Perth Glory. At the foot of the table Canberra lost to Adelaide.

The Matildas have two friendlies against New Zealand coming up. The first is on Friday 28 November in Gosford and the second on Friday 2 December in Adelaide. These are warm up games for the Asian Cup which kicks off in March 2026.

The Socceroos played Venezuela in a friendly in Houston on Saturday and in a lack lustre performance lost 0-1. They now meet Colombia in another friendly in New York on Wednesday.

Internationally it was a World Cup Qualifying Week, which meant that there were no premier league fixtures in Europe. England, Italy, Spain , France, Wales and Ireland all won and the games remaining will be played this month as the Draw for the various groups will be made at the beginning of December. The European leagues will resume next weekend.

Thirty countries so far have qualified for the 2026 World Cup and this includes the three host countries, USA, Canada, and Mexico. The competition starts on 11 June and the Final is on 19 July. Forty eight teams will compete in twelve groups of four teams in the US, Canada, and Mexico. The top two teams from the groups plus the best eight third placed teams qualifying for the Round of 32.

Quote of the Week

Is from Ex Liverpool manager – Jurgen Klopp, “Only stupid people are changed by success. Anyone can have a good day, but you have to be able to perform on a bad day.”

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Twenty-seven players turned out for another sultry spring afternoon of bowls, with two games of pairs and two games of triples on the program. The ladies also staged a challenge game of triples.

On Rink 3, Des Chapman and Steve Doig were in sharp touch, defeating Michael Young and Joe Linton.
On Rink 4, the combination of Paul Vass, Trevor Elton and Wayne Newton worked well together to down Bob Young, Dino Poli and Glen “Bones” Berryman.

Rink 5 saw Nev Webb, Ron Smith and Gary Nosworthy outlasting Yogi Bunn, Margaret Chapman and Phil Marsden.

Over on Rink 7, Bob Pickard and Hugh Montgomery enjoyed the better of play against Bruce McCallum and Mick McClosky.

The ladies’ challenge unfolded on Rink 6, where Maureen Marsden, Elaine Young and Mary Poli—today’s winners—triumphed over Betty Webb, Judy Elton and Margaret Linton.

The day’s raffle, a lovely seafood tray, was won by No. 22: Bruce McCallum, while the bottle of wine (No. 51) went to Glen “Bones” Berryman.

Members are reminded of several upcoming events:
Xmas Party: 29 November at 3pm
AGM: 13 December at 10am

Regular activities continue, including Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Funday, and the Wednesday Kraft group. Wednesday night barefoot bowls and the sausage sizzle remain popular, as does Thursday BINGO. The 2.30pm start time for Thursday and Saturday afternoon social bowls has proven a sensible move in the warmer months.

Until next week—good bowling.

Photo and story by Stephen Doig.

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Maureen Marsden, Elaine Young and Mary Poli — the day's winners — after triumphing in the ladies’ challenge.

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Junior golfers from across Queensland descended on Ayr Golf Club on Saturday, the 8th of November  for one of the region’s most anticipated junior tournaments, the 2025 Karrie Webb Junior Masters! With more than 90 competitors travelling from Brisbane, Hervey Bay, Yeppoon, Cairns and North Queensland, the event once again proved to be a standout showcase of emerging golfing talent.

The Burdekin’s own national golf legend Karrie Webb attended across the weekend, much to the excitement of young players who relished the opportunity to compete on a pristine course and meet one of the sport’s greatest ambassadors.

Ayr Golf Club organiser Evelyn Webb and her dedicated team were praised for delivering another successful and highly competitive event.

Many thanks to Evelyn Webb and her team at the Ayr Golf Club on yet another successful and hugely competitive Karrie Webb Junior Masters. Along with Karrie in attendance all weekend, we hope it was a wonderful two days for all,” said Ayr Golf Club’s Laura Mahoney.

“Thank you to all competitors, parents and family’s for travelling to our great little club to play and enjoy some awesome golf.”

The event followed last week’s strong turnout at the October Monthly Medal, where 19 juniors teed up in preparation for the major tournament ahead. With energy high and recent play sharpening their skills, the stage was set for a stellar Masters weekend.

Notable Local Winners
Local players were well represented across the divisions, proudly bringing home several notable results:
3 Holes Boys Nett Champion: Jake Hollingsworth
3 Holes Boys Nett Runner-Up: Gray Perry
6 Holes Boys Nett Champion: Tyler Smith
6 Holes Boys Nett Runner-Up: Fletcher Sgroi
6 Holes Girls Nett Runner-Up: Pia Mauro
9 Holes Boys Nett Champion: Dayne Weston
9 Holes Girls Nett Runner-Up: Evelyn Mahoney
Nearest-the-pin winners included Pia Mauro, Evelyn Mahoney, Jake Hollingsworth, Dayne Weston, Riley Dobe and Amaya Mahoney.

Full Results
3 Holes
Champion Gross: Anthony Avolio
Runner-Up Gross: Arden Leigh
Champion Nett: Jake Hollingsworth
Runner-Up Nett: Gray Perry
Saturday Nett Winner: Jake Hollingsworth
Sunday NTP: Amelia Leigh
Sunday Longest Putt: Jake Hollingsworth

6 Hole Boys
Champion Gross: Axel Strathen
Runner-Up Gross: Darius Perrin
Champion Nett: Tyler Smith
Runner-Up Nett: Fletcher Sgroi
Saturday Nett Winner: Fletcher Sgroi
Saturday NTP: Boston Carus
Sunday NTP: Boston Carus

6 Hole Girls
Champion Gross: Cait Porter
Runner-Up Gross: Jaina Porter
Champion Nett: Grace Veth
Runner-Up Nett: Pia Mauro
Saturday Nett Winner: Grace Veth
Saturday NTP: Pia Mauro
Sunday NTP: Jaina Porter

9 Hole Boys
Champion Gross: Zeik Avery
Runner-Up Gross: Jaxon Strathen
Champion Nett: Dayne Weston
Runner-Up Nett: Colten Ward
Saturday Nett Winner: Dayne Weston
Saturday NTP: Dayne Weston
Sunday NTP: Riley Dobe

9 Hole Girls
Champion Gross: Chorus Andrews
Runner-Up Gross: Holly Howard
Champion Nett: Renee Ward
Runner-Up Nett: Evelyn Mahoney
Saturday Nett Winner: Evelyn Mahoney
Saturday NTP: Renee Ward

18 Hole Boys
Champion Gross: Dallas Douglas — 74 + 76 = 150
Runner-Up Gross: Bailey Ellis — 77 + 75 = 152
Champion Nett: Cody Webster
Runner-Up Nett: Toa Waerea
Saturday Nett Winner: Cody Webster
Saturday NTP #5: Oliver Chappel
Saturday NTP #17: Jim Breen
Sunday NTP #5: Hayden Poole
Sunday NTP #17: Jacob Painter

18 Hole Girls
Champion Gross: Jazarah Kamu — 71 + 72 = 143
Runner-Up Gross: Lily McGuiness — 79 + 69 = 148
Champion Nett: Georgia Holmes
Runner-Up Nett: Mariah Reynolds
Saturday Nett Winner: Georgia Holmes
Saturday NTP #3: Zara Brooks
Saturday NTP #17: Phoebe Moffat
Sunday NTP #17: Amaya Mahoney

With perfect weather, a full field of enthusiastic competitors, and the thrill of having Karrie Webb on course, the 2025 Karrie Webb Junior Masters was a weekend to remember!

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6 Holes Girls Nett Runner-Up & NIP Winner Pia Mauro with Karrie Webb (Photo Supplied)
9 Holes Girls Nett Runner-Up & NIP Winner Evelyn Mahoney with Karrie Webb (Photo Supplied)
9 Holes Boys Nett & NIP Winner Dayne Weston with Karrie Webb (Photo Supplied)
6 Holes Boys Nett Runner-Up & Winner Fletcher Sgroi with Karrie Webb (Photo Supplied)
6 Holes Boys Nett Champion Tyler Smith with Karrie Webb (Photo Supplied)
NIP Winner Amaya Mahoney with Karrie Webb (Photo Supplied)
River Oar, Andi Perry, Hunter Oar, Evelyn Mahoney, and Pia Mauro had a ball on the green (Photo Supplied

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The Burdekin Clay Target Club welcomed 38 shooters to its monthly competition on Sunday, 9th November. As the weather warms, targets are becoming harder to see, adding a new challenge for participants. Congratulations to all the winners, whose accuracy and skill made for a highly competitive day.

The club extended thanks to its sponsors: Peter & Juanita Delle Baite, Michael Parison-Giru Store, and Annette & Gian Vassalini, as well as Lui Populkin for donating meat trays for the raffle. The next event, the Christmas Shoot, will be held on Sunday, 14th December, and shooters are encouraged to come dressed in festive spirit.

The club looks forward to seeing members at the Christmas Shoot for another day of competitive clay target action.

Sharpshooters Hit the Mark

Event Highlights and Winners:
Event 1 – 25 Target Novelty Event, Single Barrel 18m (Sponsored by Peter & Juanita Delle Baite)
AA Grade: 1st Col Edgerton 25/25, 2nd Benji Micallef 24/25
A Grade: 1st Annette Vassalini 24/25, 2nd Bill Gall 26/30
B Grade: 1st John Kinnimonth 22/25, 2nd Sylvia Rossato 21/25
C Grade: 1st Peter Giardino 20/25, 2nd Rob Ness 21/28

Event 2 – 20 Target Single Barrel 15m
AA Grade: 1st Michael Zabala & Joe Caruso 20/20, 3rd Benji Micallef 19/20
A Grade: 1st Larry Archer 20/20, 2nd Annette Vassalini, Tony Robinson, Joe Scalia & Wayne Cislowski 18/20
B Grade: 1st John Kinnimonth & Mick Populin 17/20, 3rd Sylvia Rossato 16/20
C Grade: 1st Peter Giardino 18/20, 2nd Brian Bonanno, Rob Ness, Blake Heffernan & Toni Scott 16/20

Event 3 – 30 Target Burdekin Pointscore Championship 15m (Sponsored by Michael Parison-Giru Shop)
OPEN: 1st Greg Maltby 89/90
AA Grade: 1st Michael Zabala 88/90
A Grade: 1st Greg Maltby 89/90
B Grade: 1st Sylvia Rossato 82/90
C Grade: 1st Toni Scott 80/90

Event 4 – 40 Target Double Barrel Justin Scott Memorial Handicap (Sponsored by Annette & Gian Vassalini)
OPEN: 1st Alf Gangemi 55/57, 2nd Wayne Cislowski 54/57, 3rd Bruce McBow 46/49

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Event 1- 25 Target Novelty Event, Single Barrel 18m
Back Row Sponsor Peter Delle Baite, Benji Micallef, Bill Gall, Sylvia Rossato Rob Ness
Front Row Col Edgerton, Annette Vassalini, John Kinnimonth, Peter Giardino

Event 3- 30 Target Burdekin Pointscore Championship 15m
Greg Maltby, Michael Zabala, Toni Scott, Sylvia Rossato

Event 4-40 Target Double Barrel Justin Scott Memorial Handicap
Back Row- Sponsors Gian & Annette Vassalini, Ron & Helen Scott
Front Row Wayne Cislowski, Alf Gangemi, Bruce McBow

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Night Soccer

The seventh week of competition and not a high scoring night. There were four forfeits, but then, it was Melbourne Cup night. The sixteen games produced sixty one goals and there was just the one Sin Bin. Top scorers were Ladies team Scoregasms with eight goals, Mottin Earthmoving and Always Fits both rattled in five goals and JFV’s Jonty Davis was sin-binned!

In Men’s Competitive Group, UDS top the table with seventeen points one point ahead of Clare Cutters and, despite losing, Mountain View Fresh stay in third place. In Mens Social 1, Willy Wackers beat DL Lager and have moved into top place with fourteen points, one point clear of DL Lager and Oary’s Levellers. In Mens Social 2, Always Fits now lead with fifteen points, three points clear of Jaime’s Boys who are a further two points ahead of Delta Physio.

In Ladies Group 1, Scoregasms with nineteen points lead Young Guns by three points with Body Tune in third place and in Group 2, 6 TO UR 7 with fifteen points lead DILLIGAF by two points with Rocky Pond Wonders in third place.

Juniors

Social soccer on Tuesday afternoons continues with some very good team performances and some players stand out. More importantly the players are really enjoying themselves.

National and International

After the fourth round of the A League, Auckland are still top of the table after defeating Wellington 2-1. Sydney FC are one point behind after beating Macarthur 2-0 and Melbourne City has moved into third place after defeating Victory. Brisbane Roar is now in fourth spot with a 3-0 win at home to Newcastle.

After the second round of the Women’s A league, Brisbane has set the pace with a 3-2 win in Perth. Melbourne Victory is in second place with a 4-0 defeat of Central Coast and Melbourne City is in third place after beating Western Sydney.

The Matildas have two friendlies against New Zealand coming up. The first is on Friday 28 November in Gosford and the second on Friday 2 December in Adelaide. These are warm up games for the Asian Cup which kicks off in March 2026.

The Socceroos have two friendlies coming up in November. They play Venezuela in Houston on 15 November and then meet Colombia in New York four days later.

Another two countries have qualified for the 2026 World Cup. Jordan and Uzbekistan have joined the list of qualifiers for the competition which starts on 11 June. The Final is on 19 July. Forty eight teams will compete in twelve groups of four team in the US, Canada, and Mexico. The top two teams from the groups plus the best eight third placed teams qualifying for the Round of 32. And yes, The Socceroos have qualified.

In the EPL, after eleven rounds, Arsenal lead Manchester City by four points despite only managing a 2-2 draw away to Sunderland. Chelsea is now third two points behind, and Sunderland is in fourth place. Liverpool has dropped to eighth place on the same points as ManU! At the foot of the table, it is still looking dire for Wolves but Nottingham Forest and West Ham both won.

In Germany’s Bundesliga after ten nine rounds Bayern is still top despite only drawing away to Union Berlin. They are still six points clear of Leipzig with Dortmund and Stuttgart a further point behind. At the bottom of the league four points separate eight teams with Heidenheim and Mainz struggling with just five points.

In Italy’s Serie A only three of the top teams won. Inter and Roma share the lead two points ahead of AC Milan. Napoli, who lost to Bologna has dropped to fourth place with the same points. Juventus could only draw at home to Torino and stays in sixth place. At the foot of the table only Genoa and Pisa won, and Fiorentina props up the league.

In Spain, after twelve rounds, Real Madrid who could only draw away to Rayo Vallecano now leads Barcelona by three points. Villarreal is third two points behind, and Atletico is in fourth spot. Only Girona of the bottom teams won, and Oviedo and Levante hold up the league.

In France’s Ligue 1 all four top teams won again and after twelve rounds PSG leads Marseille and Lens by two points with Strasbourg a further three points behind in fourth place. At the bottom of the league Metz have won their last three games and Auxerre in last place look to be in trouble.

Worlds Cup Qualifying matches are on this weekend so there will be no European league games.

Quote of the Week

Is from David Moyes manager of Everton. “Did we miss out on a lot of targets? No. Was it disappointing? No.”

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Home Hill’s young cricketers delivered another strong showing at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex, with solid performances across both the Blue and Gold groups.

In the Blue Group, tight bowling set the tone early. Fielders supported well, with run-outs to Mazlyn Smith and Royce Cohen. Batting proved difficult, with Kyle Wilkie the only player to register runs before being bowled by Cohen shortly after hitting a four. Mitchell Patti, Henry Cohen, and Jake Cullen all retired not out.

Cullen produced the standout bowling figures of the match, sending down two maidens and taking 1/0. Wilkie followed with 1/1, while Patti collected 1/5. For his patient batting and economical bowling, Mitchell Patti received the McDonald’s Sports Award.

In the Gold Group, Marshall Parker dominated with a commanding all-round display. Parker struck 31 not out, including four fours and a six, and claimed 2/2 with the ball. Oliver Calligaro added an important 19 runs with three fours to help secure the win.

Bowling contributions also came from Mark Wilkie (1/1), Ben Watkins (1/6), Xavier Cross (1/7) and Rylan Nicholaides (1/9). Parker’s efforts earned him the McDonald’s Sports Award, completing a strong weekend across both junior groups.

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Marshall & Mitchell rec lived awards for their outstanding performances on the day. Photo supplied

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The 2025 Burdekin Small Schools Swimming Carnival brought ten schools to the Ayr Pool on Saturday for a full program of racing and junior water activities.

Airville, Brandon, Clare, Giru, Gumlu, Jarvisfield, Kalamia, Maidavale, Millaroo and Osborne State Schools fielded students aged 9 to 13 in 50-metre and 25-metre freestyle, breaststroke and backstroke events, along with the 50-metre butterfly. Younger students, aged eight and under, spent the day rotating through sponge relays and water-park games.

Giru State School claimed the Overall Average Winner trophy after a consistent showing across all events, while Clare State School earned the Spirit Award for its enthusiasm and strong support from the sidelines.

Continued on page 25

Giru Makes a Splash at 2025 Carnival

Continued from back cover

Age Champions were announced across each division:
• 9 Boys: Thomas (Giru)
• 9 Girls: Milla (Giru)
• 10 Boys: Stirling (Osborne)
• 10 Girls: Yolanda (Jarvisfield)
• 11 Boys: Kobi (Kalamia) & Jacob (Osborne)
• 11 Girls: Jorja (Jarvisfield)
• 12 Boys: Reece (Brandon)
• 12 Girls: Isabella (Giru)

The event ran efficiently, with tight races, steady volunteer support and strong school turnout. Kalamia State School coordinated the tuckshop, which kept swimmers and staff well supplied throughout the day.

The carnival delivered a clear showcase of participation, friendly rivalry and student achievement across the Burdekin’s small schools.

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Photos supplied

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The Ayr Golf Club capped off its junior season with an energetic end-of-year breakup and presentation afternoon, drawing families, new faces and plenty of young golfers to the course. Juniors mixed across the three, six and nine-hole groups, giving players the chance to partner with friends they don’t usually compete alongside.

The day marked the final junior meeting of the year, drawing a close to another successful year for junior golf at the club. The club praised all juniors for a strong season, including those who travelled for inter-club events.

2025 AWARD WINNERS

Monthly Medal Winners
• 3 Holes: Zade Keating
• 6 Holes: Tyler Smith & Pia Mauro
• 9 Holes: Kyle Wilkie
Putting Champions
• 3 Holes: Opie McKeough
• 6 Holes: Evelyn Mahoney
• 9 Holes: Oscar Mahoney
9-Hole Gross Champion
• Oscar Mahoney
9-Hole Nett Champion
• Kyle Wilkie
Most Improved Golfer Overall
• Pia Mauro
Encouragement Award
• Dayne Weston
Tara’s Award for Consistency in Coaching
• Pia Mauro & Maxx Tannock
Most Improved (Rundown)
• Fletcher Sgroi
• Harvey Mauro
• Lyla Land
• Heather Smart

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Young Touch Football players from across the region will converge on Ayr on Saturday, 22 November, when the Burdekin Touch Association hosts a Junior Touch Football Carnival for boys and girls aged 9 to 16 years.

The event will feature a ‘Fast Four’ competition format, played on half-sized fields with four players per side and up to six players allowed per team. While standard Touch rules will apply, each set will be limited to four touches, and matches will run for 10 minutes.

Divisions to be contested include Boys Under 10, Under 12, Under 14 and Under 16, and Girls Under 10, Under 12, Under 14 and Under 16. Prizemoney will be awarded to the winners of each division.

“The carnival will give the current players in our under 14 competition and the Friday Juniors a chance to learn more about the game of Touch in a competitive environment,” said Burdekin Technical Director Bruce Johnson.

“We expect teams from Townsville and Bowen to also participate,” he added.

Teams can nominate by completing a form available at the Burdekin Touch canteen on Wednesdays and Fridays, or by emailing burdekintouch4807@gmail.com with team details. The nomination fee per team is $20.

For further information, contact Bec Watson (0400 705 205) or Peter Knapton (0437 710 500).

Round 11 Results – Seniors and Under 14 Mixed

Mixed Under 14s
Baywatch 2 6 (Xavia 3) def Red Rippers 2
Silly Soft Serves 8 (O. Ferguson 3, T. Chapman 2) def Baywatch 3 1
Baywatch 1 10 (Matteo 3, Adea 3, Marcus 3) def Mustangs 1

Seniors Mixed Touch
Nrgize 7 (H. Munro 2, D. Lampton 2) def Antiskeptics 5 (Josiah Ballin 2)
Crocs 8 (C. Zaro 2, D. Doak 2) def Alliance Pharmacy 5 (J. Furnell 3, J. Gimson 2)
Nutek Titans 5 (S. O’Rourke 2, J. Olditch 2) def One Touch IT 4 (S. Smith 2)
Petrol Heads 6 (B. Vasta 2, D. Torrisi 2) def Redskins 2
Royal Touch 7 (C. Formilan 3, A. Miller 2) def Baywatch A 6 (E. Henaway 2)
Touch n Tease 7 (R. Siandri 2, H. Lemon 2) def Pink Piggies 4 (J. Dowson 2)
East Ayr 9 (K. Samios 2, N. Lacey 2) def Baywatch B 7 (G. Dau-Mocka 2)
Slush Puppies 6 def Jigsaw 3
First in Physio 11 (T. Marshall 4, L. Rattler 3, M. Noah 2) def Renegades 3 (S. Andreatta 2)
One Touch Wonders 9 (K. Drain 5, L. Dobe 2) def Blue Murder 8 (R. Smith 3, C. McGrath 2)
NIS 6 (D. Arrate 4) def Touch Potatoes 2 (H. Horan 2)

Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton

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