Thursday, 26 June 2025

Twenty-eight players fronted on a perfect winter’s afternoon. The winning team today was Henry Hazel, Phil Marsden and Alex Bojack (pictured). Sorry—no Henry in the photo as he had already left.

Four games of triples and one game of pairs were played.

Rink 2: Paul Vass and Jeff Taylor had a narrow win over Bob Young and Hugh Montgomery, 20–19.
Rink 3: Judy Elton, Delys Fuller and Keith Roser defeated Margaret Linton, Dino Poli and Norm Bethel, 18–7.
Rink 4: Henry Hazel, Phil Marsden and Alex Bojack edged out Brian Kapizke, Lyn Storie and Terry Feakes in another close game, 14–13.
Rink 5: Kaye Garder, Sandra Darwin and Yogi Bunn accounted for Jo Roser, Michael Young and Joe Linton, 27–15.
Rink 6: Maureen Marsden, Ron Smith and Bones Berryman outlasted Margaret Chapman, Elaine Young and Steve Doig, 19–17.
Club Notes:
Monday Trimmers is going well.
The Wednesday morning Kraft group is well attended.
Thursday morning BINGO is the place to be.
Wednesday night barefoot bowls continues, along with regular Thursday afternoon social bowls.
Saturday afternoon bowls is also on.

Until next week—good bowls!

Story and photo by Steve Doig.

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The Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club Men's 4BBB Golf Championships took place over the weekend at Ayr Golf Club, with a host of local golfers battling it out for ultimate glory across three skill-based divisions.

The two-day event was highly contested, with gross winners and nett winners being recognised for each division at the tournament's close.

Gross winner of Grade B, Terry Hancock, said he was happy to be part of this years tournament.

"It was great to be involved in this event. Thank you to everyone involved at the Ayr Golf Club for putting on this competition," he said.

He hopes that it can continue to grow as an event in the future, rallying for more locals to participate.

"Please keep this event in mind for next year and make it a huge event again."

Results:
A-Grade
Gross Winners: Jake Lacey & Matt Wright
Nett Winners: Rob Pitt & Shane Power

B-Grade
Gross Winners: Geoff Munro & Terry Hancock
Nett Winners: Rod Williams & Jackson Plate

C-Grade
Gross Winners: Steve Orchard & Barry White
Nett Winners: Darrel Schieff & Liam Smith

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Burdekin Basketball Pushes For More Girls In The Game

From competitive fixtures to community programs, the courts are always buzzing at Burdekin Basketball. But now, the association is making a play for change—and it starts with getting more girls on the court.

“We’re a community facility, and we want to make sure everyone feels included,” said club president Shane James. “This current push is about getting girls back into sport—giving them opportunities to be active, to build friendships, and to grow their confidence through basketball.”

Located on Little Drysdale Street, Burdekin Basketball operates out of a multipurpose space with three courts, including a full indoor stadium and two outdoor concrete courts. Weekly fixtures run on Mondays and Wednesdays, with skills training and representative team sessions scattered throughout the rest of the week. Beyond basketball, the space also hosts everything from badminton and Pilates to youth groups and exercise classes.

“We’re a bit of a community hub,” Shane said. “We try to be a space for the whole community.”

But with support from recent state government funding, the club is now putting extra energy into programs designed to attract more female players. Shane, who personally applied for the grants, said the idea was to strengthen grassroots participation and bring new faces into the sport—especially at a school level.

“We’ve been into a couple of local schools already,” he said. “We’re holding come-and-try sessions and inclusion clinics to give girls a chance to get involved in a fun, no-pressure environment. Last week we were at St Francis, and this week our female coaches are running a session at East Ayr.”

While the club already boasts girls' representative teams, their regular weekly fixtures are mixed-gender, due simply to current player numbers. The hope, Shane said, is that with increased visibility, encouragement, and school involvement, the female side of the game will continue to grow.

“Basketball’s a great way to build bonds between kids,” he said. “It teaches teamwork, it builds relationships, and it gives them a sense of community. It’s empowering—especially for young girls.”

Outside of schools, the club is also ramping up its presence in the wider community—leaning into social media, word of mouth, branded apparel, and partnerships with local youth programs to spread the word.

“Any opportunity we have to get involved with the community, we take it,” Shane said. “A lot of our coaches are school teachers, and we’re already a familiar face around town. We want to keep that going.”

For Shane and the rest of the Burdekin Basketball committee, the goal is simple: to provide a welcoming, active space for everyone—and to make sure young girls know there’s a place for them in the game.

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The Brandon/Home Hill Purple Pennants team travelled to Bowen and Wangaratta over the weekend to compete in the Pennants competition, facing off against five opposing teams.

The team came away with a solid performance, recording two rink wins, one draw, and one match win. Beyond the results, the weekend was highlighted by friendly competition, reunions with familiar faces, and the formation of new friendships across clubs.

Friday Night Bowls Draws Strong Turnout

There was a great atmosphere at the club on Friday night, with 18 players taking to the green. A number of visiting players from Bowen added an exciting edge to the evening’s matches.

Game 1 saw Brad McIntosh, Jason Farry, and Jamie Woods secure victory over Nik Pearson, Ben Mills, and Joe Ypinazar.

In Game 2, Paul Anderson, Margaret McLaughlan, and Lyn Storrie staged a thrilling comeback to snatch a surprise win on the final end against Deon McIntosh, Rob Jorgensen, and Ross McLaughlin.

Game 3 ended in a well-fought draw between the teams of Lloyd Shepherd, Chris Pearce, and Gary Pearce, and Crowey, M. Wright, and J. Wright.

The evening was not only competitive but also a testament to the strong community spirit and camaraderie that continues to define the club.

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Margaret Linton, Judy Elton, Lyn Storrie, Colleen, Helen Collins, Sandra Darwen, Ann Newton, Meryl Smith.

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Local

Another mixed weekend for the Panthers, winning one, drawing one, and losing three of five matches.

On Friday night in Townsville, the Division 2 Funkies drew 0–0 with Brothers, and also in Townsville the Division 1 Men lost 1–4 to Ingham, but the Ladies defeated Saints Eagles South 5–0.

On Saturday, in Townsville against Brothers, the Premiers lost 0–2 and the Reserves lost 2–3.

This Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves are away to Warriors, the Premiers at 3.30pm and the Reserves at 1.30pm. The Ladies, Division 1 Men, and Division 2 Funkies are not playing.

Premiers

Whenever Burdekin and Brothers clash, it is never short of intensity — and this weekend’s encounter was no exception, despite both sides battling injuries to key players.

The Ayr Anzac Club Panthers started the brighter of the two, settling into the game with strong spells of possession. Jay Leckenby came close early, firing narrowly wide from a tight angle, but genuine chances were few and far between despite controlling much of the play. Brothers broke the deadlock in the 30th minute. The Panthers continued to boss possession for the remainder of the half but could not break down Brothers’ organised defence.

The story didn’t change much after the break. Burdekin dominated the ball but lacked composure in the final third, too often resorting to hopeful long balls that gifted possession. With time running out, the Panthers threw bodies forward in search of an equaliser but were caught out at the back in the dying moments, as Brothers sealed the contest with a late goal to make it 2–0.

A frustrating result for the Panthers, who will need to regroup ahead of next week’s challenge.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Services Reserves travelled to Brothers with another changed lineup due to more injuries and absences.

In a replay of the last two games there were periods of good ball play and possession but also times of poor passing and silly mistakes that allowed Brothers time and space to create chances.

Burdekin started poorly, conceding an early goal and were often just slightly off the pace through the first half.

Down 0–2 at the break, the Panthers knew they could improve on effort and energy. Brothers got a scrappy goal early in the second half, but the Panthers rallied through the last twenty minutes of the game.

Burdekin lost a player to a sin-bin call, but that spurred the team to greater effort. Reward came with a very good strike from Brayden Card fifteen minutes from time, and a few minutes later another good move found Cooper Kross in space at the top of the penalty area to score and make it 2–3.

Unfortunately, time was against the Panthers, who were left to rue a patchy performance that could have been a win.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Panthers played Ingham in Townsville on Friday night. The Panthers lost 1–4 after being behind 1–2 at half time. Henry Fallon scored for the Panthers in the first half.

Burdekin played with a man down for the last 15 minutes due to injury and lack of players. The final score didn’t accurately reflect the game, with Burdekin dominating at times.

Seaton Ivory and Agustin Agote both played very well.

Division 2 Men

The C.A Contracting Funkies battled Brothers in what is always a tense and spiteful encounter at their home ground.

Both teams were up for the fight and a hard-fought match took place. Good chances were created by both teams, but great saves from keeper Dave Bryan kept Brothers scoreless, while at the other end Burdekin was unable to break the deadlock.

With just minutes left, a very unjust penalty for handball to Brothers, along with a red card to Burdekin, threatened to ruin the game. However, keeper Dave Bryan, Man of the Match, stepped up again to save the penalty and give the Funkies a well-earned point from a 0–0 draw.

A very rare score for a second division game.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies were in Townsville on Friday night, facing off once again against Saints Eagles Souths.

Ellyana Mugica set the tone early, striking to open the scoring just minutes into the match. Not long afterwards, Sienna Lago followed up with another slick finish, doubling Burdekin’s lead.

A deflected shot from Sian Reardon created the perfect setup for Chayse Feeney, who capitalised to make it 3–0 at half time.

After the break, Charley Ruskin extended the lead with a goal from a well-placed corner kick, and in the final minutes of the game, Brielle Astorquia sealed a dominant Burdekin performance, slotting home the fifth and final goal.

A strong all-round effort from the Burdekin ladies.

Juniors

The last round of fixtures was played on Saturday before the school holiday break.

The Under 5 to 7s enjoyed themselves playing local games, and the Under 8s and up travelled to Townsville for two games.

The Juniors are on a break now until after the school holidays, so get the kids a ball and let them practice their first touch and passing in the backyard or down the park!

The first thing before fixtures start again is the Bowen Carnival on Sunday 13th July. Bowen are a big supporter of our carnival, so it will be good to get as many Burdekin teams as possible to their carnival which is always a great day.

Team nominations are to be in by 4th July. If you are unsure how to register, please contact the club.

Masters

A good turnout on a cool, damp Monday evening. Andorra and England, in a replay of the recent World Cup qualifier, played out a 4–4 draw.

In a see-sawing game, Andorra were two goals up and then 4–2 down before equalising right on full time.

Man of the Match was Jonty Davis.
Monday nights at 6.30 — be there.

National and International

The Matildas have two friendlies lined up against Slovenia. Both games are at HBF Park in Perth on 26 and 29 June. New coach Joe Montemurro will be in charge.

The Socceroos, having qualified for the 2026 World Cup, now have to wait — possibly until the end of the year — to see who and where they play in the group rounds.

The group stage runs from 11–27 June, kicking off in Mexico City, and the final will be played in New York on 19 July.

Quote of the Week

From Spurs manager Terry Venables after a 4–1 home defeat to Chelsea, when ordering a drink:

“An arsenic… A large one.”

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Thrills on the Green: Canefire Fours Brings Regional Rivals Together

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The Ayr Bowling Club came alive over the weekend as it played host to the highly anticipated Canefire Fours—a two-day carnival that drew 56 passionate lawn bowlers from across the North Queensland region. Teams journeyed from as far afield as Collinsville, Bowen, Wangaratta, and Townsville, and were proudly joined by local contenders from Ayr, Brandon, and Home Hill, creating a vibrant blend of regional talent.

The format saw each team contest five games—three on Saturday followed by two fiercely competitive showdowns on Sunday. With every end hotly contested and no easy victories in sight, the tension mounted as the scoreboard tightened.

By the final round on Sunday, it was still anyone’s carnival to win. Spectators watched on as the top contenders took to the green, knowing the outcome hinged on those last few bowls. In the end, it was a nail-biting finish, with the championship decided in the final game of the final day—a testament to just how evenly matched the teams were throughout the weekend.

Congratulations to the top performers:

· 1st Place – Shaun Anderson's team, drawing on players from Cutheringa and Wangaratta
· 2nd Place – Jason Wright's team, featuring bowlers from Bowen and Brandon
· 3rd Place – Maurie Power's team, proudly representing Ayr

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to our generous sponsors—Queensland Country Bank, the Kalamia Hotel, NQIB, and Wilmar—whose support made this fantastic weekend possible. Their contributions help events like these thrive and bring small communities together on and off the green.

The presentation of prizes was graciously conducted by Kim Harding from Queensland Country Bank, adding a personal touch of appreciation on behalf of the event’s major sponsors.

Earlier in the week, unfortunately, Tuesday Ladies Social Bowls was washed out.

Wednesday’s Men’s Social Bowls brought together a lively group of players for four well-fought games of triples. Taking top honours on the day were Richard, John, John, and Trevor, who bowled brilliantly to claim victory. Adding to the excitement, the Jackpot was also struck—congratulations to Karen, Gordon, and Mick on their winning touch!

Wednesday night social bowls was put on hold for the State of Origin game.

In Championship action this week, the Men’s A Grade Pairs was played, with Cisco and Sam defeating Wayne and Barry. Highlight of the week was the Mixed Pairs Final, with Maurie and Pam defeating John and Beryl.

As we go to print today, the Ayr Bowling Club is proudly represented at the prestigious Men’s Dunn Cup—one of the standout events on the North Queensland bowling calendar. Flying the flag for the club are Ron Smythe, Sam Caltabiano, Anthony Bull, and Maurie Power. We extend our best wishes to the team as they take to the green against the region’s top talent—go Ayr!

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Winners
Second Place
Third Place

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Some of the brightest bowling talent in the Burdekin will congregate at Home Hill Bowling Club this weekend for the fast-approaching Club Championships.

The Championships will see 27 players across two draws battle it out for ultimate local bragging rights at the esteemed event, which will take place over the next few months to determine the outright champion.

Among contestants is long-time Home Hill Bowls member Norm Bethell, who says the event this time around is set to feature one of the most competitive fields yet.

"It's extremely competitive--it's the best players going toe-to-toe all the way up until the final," said Bethell. "I'm looking forward to seeing how it all plays out this year."

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The Burdekin Clay Target Club ran very successful shoots on Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th June. The weather was beautiful all weekend. Thank you to our sponsors JBS Foods Australia, Burdekin Tyres, Burdekin Engineering & Andrew Bergin. Thank you to Lui Populin for donating the meat tray for the raffle. Our next shoot will on Sunday 13 July.

Saturday Shoot saw 43 Shooter Attend

100 Target Double Barrel Handicap-Sponsored by JBS Foods Australia
Event 1-
OPEN 1st Joe Caruso 25/25
2nd Colin Ferguson, Jy Yarrow, Glenn McHenry & Glenn Clarke 24/25

Event 2-
OPEN 1dt Bill Gall 25/25,
2nd Joe (Jnr) Sebastiani 24/25

Event 3-
OPEN 1st Cameron Cislowski 24/25
2nd Bill Gall, Peter Scott, Isaac Sebastiani & Joe Caruso 23/25

Event4-
OPEN 1st David Stitt, Leisa Hopkins & Gregory Calder 24/25

Overall Winners
OPEN 1st Bill Gall 94/100
2nd Jy Yarrow 91/100
3rd Brian Bonanno, John Cerqui, Glenn McHenry & Rob Ness 89/100

Saturday Night Shoot saw 34 Shooters Attend

Event 1- 25 Target Burdekin Night Double Barrel Championship- Sponsored by Burdekin Tyres
OPEN 1st Benji Micallef 41/41
AA Grade 1st Benji Micallef 41/41
A Grade 1st Joe Scalia 45/46
B Grade 1st Brett Paton 27/28
C Grade 1st Isaac Sebastiani 26/29

Event 2-25 Target Burdekin Night Single Barrel Championship- Sponsored by Burdekin Engineering
OPEN 1st Michael Zabala 25/25
AA Grade 1st Michael Zabala 25/25
A Grade 1st Wayne Cislowski 27/31
B Grade 1st Sarah Sebastiani 22/25
C Grade 1st Keiren Scott 20/25

Sunday Shoot saw 32 Shooters Attend

Event 1-30 Target Medley 15m
AA Grade 1st Bruce Murphy, Ron Gough 50/50, 3rd Jason Phillis 49/50
A Grade 1st Jy Yarrow 49/50, 2nd Cornelius Venter & Ian Kriesel 48/50
B Grade 1st Glenn Clarke 49/50, 2nd Brett Paton 39/50,3rd Sylvia Rossato 38/50
C Grade 1st Keiren Scott 44/50, 2nd Toni Scott 43/50, 3rd Rob Ness 41/50

Event 2-25 Target Double Barrel 15m
AA Grade 1st Joe Caruso & Michael Zabala 150/150
A Grade 1st Ron Clive 26/26
B Grade 1st Peter Scott 25/25
C Grade 1st Keiren Scott 24/25

Event 3-20 Target Pointscore 15m
AA Grade 1st Tony Caruso 60/60, 2nd Michael Zabala & Benji Micallef 59/60
A Grade 1st Colin Ferguson 60/60, 2nd David Stitt & John Cerqui 57/60
B Grade 1st Peter Scott 59/60, 2nd Rob Ness & Sylvia Rossato 58/60
C Grade 1st Keiren Scott 55/60, 2nd Rob Ness 52/60, Brian Bonanno 50/60

Event4-25 Pair Burdekin Double Rise Championship 15m- Sponsored by Andrew Bergin
OPEN 1st John Cerqui 63/70
AA Grade 1st Aaron Lemphers & Benji Micallef 69/80
A Grade 1st John Cerqui 63/70
B Grade 1st David Stitt 48/60
C Grade 1st Keiren Scott 42/50

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato

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The Burdekin Under 14 Touch Football season wrapped up in style last Wednesday with the staging of its Grand Finals, showcasing the skill of local junior players.

“The competitive nature of these Juniors was on display as they battled for championship honours,” said Burdekin Touch Technical Director, Bruce Johnson.

“Games throughout the season were played in good spirit with plenty of skill displayed. It was great to see how much each player improved throughout the season.”

In a one-sided A Grade final, Baywatch proved too good for the Mustangs, running away with a commanding 14–2 victory. Hank Williams led the charge with an impressive five touchdowns.

The B Grade contest was much tighter, with Babes overcoming Red Robins 5–3 in a hard-fought clash.

Competition co-ordinator Bob Clerke also announced the individual award winners for the season.

For Baywatch, Lorna Rattle was named Best Player, with Dakkie Daniels taking out Most Improved. Babes’ top honours went to Joan Anthony (Best Player) and Tahnay Cooktown (Most Improved).

Mustangs’ Best Player was Bri Robertson, while Abbey Becke and Lyla Land shared the Most Improved award.

Red Robins recognised both Digby Brown and Stella Borellini as joint Best Players, with Mebena Russo named Most Improved.

Bruce Johnson extended his thanks to all referees, coaches, and parents for their efforts across the season.

A Grade Final
Baywatch 14 (H. Williams 5, K. Neliman 2, M. Doolah 2, D. Daniels, Z. Williams, G. Malayta, W. Malayta)
def. Mustangs 2 (B. Robertson, J. Dabelstein)

B Grade Final
Babes 5 (Fantasia 2, Shai-tay 2, Sheree)
def. Red Robins 3 (S. Borellini, D. Brown)

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It’s been another big week at the Ayr Bowling Club, with plenty of action on the greens and the highly anticipated Cane Fire Fours competition set to take centre stage on June 21–22. A total of 14 teams will compete for the title across the two-day event. Please note there will be no Saturday social bowls due to the tournament.

Tuesday – Ladies Social Bowls
One game of triples and one game of pairs were played.
Triples winners: Meryl Smith, Beryl Cornford and Heather Jorgensen defeated Isabel Cislowski, Rayleen Hervery and Dot Cutting.
Pairs winners: Katharina Stuckler and Pam Power defeated Donna Soper and Mary Poli.

Wednesday – Men’s Social Bowls
Two games of triples and two pairs games were contested in a tight afternoon of play.
Triples winners: Rob, Dino and Lindee defeated Arthur Gauvin, Peter Sauer and Ron Soper.
It was a great afternoon of camaraderie and quality bowls, enjoyed by all.

Wednesday Night – Social Bowls
Two rinks were in action:
Game 1 winners: Ali Vasefi, Lyn Cecil, David Burt and Sam Caltabiano.
Game 2 winners: Mosayeb Noori, Shane Stanford, Tricia Achille and Heather Jorgensen.

Saturday – Social Bowls
Three triples games and one pairs game were played.
Winners: Karen Shepherd, Donna Soper and Pam Power defeated B. Haynes, John McDonald and Ron Soper.
Second place: Margaret Chapman, George Nixon and Dot Cutting defeated Barry Hewson, Peter Sauer and Barry Shepherd.

Championship Action
In the Ladies Competition Open Pairs Final, played Thursday June 5 at 3:30pm, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Irene Wilson.

Mixed Pairs action saw two games played:

• John Pirrone and Beryl Cornford defeated Deslie Olsen and Ron Soper.
• Pam Power and Maurie Power defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Anthony Bull.
  Both winning pairs now progress to the final.

Friday Roll-Ups – New Bowlers Welcome
If you’re interested in giving bowls a try, Friday Roll-Ups are a great place to start. Held every Friday afternoon from 3:00–5:30pm, these casual sessions offer a relaxed environment for training, socialising, and enjoying a drink with fellow members. Come down, have a go, and join the fun!

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It was a weekend of mixed results for the Burdekin Roosters across all grades.

The action kicked off on Friday night, with the Burdekin River girls fighting back to earn a hard-fought 22-all draw against Brothers in Ingham. Missing several key players due to the early kick-off, including star attacker Martina Monday, the team showed great resilience to come from 16–4 down. Paige Horvat starred with three tries, earning best-on-ground honours. Abby King, Toni Daisy, Tanley Rowe and Lily Chappel were also among the standouts. King and Chappel added a try each, while Rebecca Pace slotted a conversion. The Burdekin River side now sits fourth, with the combined Burdekin–Herbert River experiment showing promising signs.

On Saturday, the Reserve Grade Roosters made it three wins in a row, storming back from an eight-point deficit to defeat Centrals 24–20. Coach Peter Horan praised his side’s determination after they trailed 20–12 early in the second half. “Centrals were on a roll, but the boys said no and fought back,” Horan said. “Some of these boys are still eligible for under 20s, so to see them respond like that was impressive.”

Dylan Doak led the way with a try and four goals. Adam Camer, Caleb Noah, and Riley Easton also crossed the line. Archer Swindey was named players’ player for his standout effort, while Camer was solid at fullback and Llama Ghee looked dangerous in attack. Horan also welcomed back Riley Easton after a week off due to illness. The reserve grade side is now sitting fifth and will look to continue their winning streak against Bowen this weekend before facing the strong Crushers outfit in Ingham the following week.

Later on Saturday, A Grade faced Centrals in Townsville and went down 24–14 in a controversial match. Despite a spirited comeback attempt, the Roosters were undone by both contentious calls and their own fundamental errors.

After previously defeating the Tigers 36–24, Burdekin began the match confidently but dropped ball and a fired-up Centrals outfit kept them scoreless in the first half, which ended 16–0. Defensive lapses and attacking mistakes continued to plague the visitors, who then conceded another try early in the second stanza to trail 20–0.

Burdekin rallied, scoring three tries to bring the margin back to 20–14. A fourth try was disallowed by the touch judge—a decision that, if reversed, could have levelled the scores with the conversion. Centrals sealed the match with a late try to secure the 24–14 win.

Coach Steve Lansley was blunt in his assessment. “We were our own worst enemies. Dropped ball, falling off tackles, poor decision-making in attack and defence—it cost us dearly.”

Logan Dickson was named players’ player for his efforts at fullback, while forward Terrence Mosby and big man Braedyn Cotter also impressed. “A few weeks ago, we hadn’t won a game after three rounds. Now we’re fifth, nearly in the top four—but we need to cut out the errors and stay focused,” Lansley added.
Try scorers were Terry Connors (2), Saleki Walifeo and Jye Olsen, with one goal kicked.

Weekend Results Summary

A Grade

• Centrals def Burdekin 24–14
• Brothers def Herbert River 24–12
• Charters Towers def Western Lions 38–24
• Souths def Norths 44–8

Reserve Grade

• Burdekin def Centrals 24–20
• Herbert River def Brothers 18–14
• Charters Towers def Bowen 14–6
• Souths def Norths 58–0
• Western Lions – Bye

Women’s Grade

• Burdekin River drew with Brothers 22–22
• Charters Towers def Bowen 54–0
• Byes: Western Lions, Centrals, Norths

This Week’s Fixtures

• Burdekin A Grade – Bye
• Burdekin Reserves & Women – vs Bowen in Bowen
• Souths host Charters Towers (A Grade & Reserve)
• Brothers host Norths (A Grade & Reserve)
• Western Lions host Centrals (A Grade, Reserve & Women)
• Herbert River – Bye (A Grade & Reserve)

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Local

It was a mixed weekend for the Panthers, with one win, one draw, and three losses across five matches. On Friday night in Townsville, the Division 2 Funkies drew 1–1 with JCU, while back home, the Division 1 Men lost 0–7 to Rebels. The Ladies, however, stormed to an 8–0 win over Saints Eagles South. On Saturday, in Townsville against Estates, both the Premiers and the Reserves went down, 0–3 and 0–10 respectively.

This Friday, the Division 1 Men, Division 2 Men, and the Ladies all travel to Townsville. The Division 1 side faces Ingham at 8.30pm, the Division 2 team meets Brothers at 6.30pm, and the Ladies take on Saints Eagles Souths at 6.30pm. On Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves are away to Brothers, kicking off at 7.30pm and 5.30pm respectively.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Panthers faced a tough assignment away to top-of-the-table Estates, always one of the most challenging fixtures on the calendar. The match started disastrously, with Estates scoring directly from a corner to put Burdekin on the back foot from the outset.

To their credit, the Panthers responded well. For the rest of the first half, they dominated possession and forced Estates to sit deep and absorb pressure. Despite the control, clear-cut chances were rare, and the half ended 1–0 to Estates.

The second half resumed in similar fashion, with the Panthers pressing for an equaliser. But football can be cruel—against the run of play, Estates doubled their lead around the 60-minute mark. The goal rattled Burdekin’s composure, and just five minutes later, Estates made it 3–0. Despite a late push, the Panthers couldn’t claw their way back. The score didn’t reflect the effort, but it’s back to the drawing board as Burdekin look to regroup.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Services Reserves travelled to Estates with a reshuffled lineup due to more injuries and absences. It was another match full of effort and moments of strong possession, but the Panthers were undone by unlucky bounces and costly errors, gifting the ball back to a quick and skilful opposition. The game was effectively over by halftime at 0–4, and the final score of 0–10 is one best left in the past as the team enters the second half of the season.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Panthers struggled against an experienced Rebels side, going two goals down early. By halftime, it was 0–4. The Panthers showed improvement for the first 25 minutes of the second half, keeping Rebels scoreless during that stretch. However, they were unfortunate to concede a penalty, followed by two late goals. Seaton Ivory and Charlie Shears stood out in a tough 0–7 loss.

Division 2 Men

The C.A. Contracting Funkies were frustrated with a 1–1 draw against a lower-ranked JCU Riverway side in their Friday night clash. It felt more like a loss. Chris Achille opened the scoring off a well-placed pass from Heath Swindley midway through the first half.

Burdekin dominated play throughout but were wasteful in front of goal. That proved costly when JCU snatched a late equaliser from a free kick. The Funkies will aim to bounce back into the top four with a win over Brothers this Friday night.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies had no issues dispatching Saints Eagles Souths on Friday night. They led 4–0 at halftime, with two goals from Sienna Lago and one apiece from Zandi Bonanno and Tearra Tinson.

It took a while to get going in the second half, but once they did, the Burdekin side added three goals in five minutes through Dayna Linton, Brielle Astorquia, and Karina Guglielmi. Charley Ruskin capped off the night with the eighth, just before full time.

Juniors

Perfect weather set the stage for a great Saturday of junior football, with competitive matches played across all grades against Mundingburra Olympic. A big thank you to MAO for making the trip down.

This Saturday, Under 5 to Under 7 teams play at home in Ayr, while Under 8 and up travel to Townsville. A reminder to all travelling teams: arrive at least 30 minutes before kickoff. Have fun!

Masters

A solid turnout on a cool Monday night saw Portugal and Spain replay the Nations League Final. Spain came from 0–2 down to win 3–2 in a cracking match. Man of the Match was Drac Bryen. Monday nights, 6.30pm. Be there.

National and International

The Matildas have two friendlies lined up against Slovenia, both at HBF Park in Perth on 26 and 29 June. New coach Joe Montemurro will take the reins for the first time.

The Socceroos have secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup and now wait—possibly until year’s end—to learn their group stage opponents and venues. The tournament kicks off 11 June in Mexico City, with the final scheduled for 19 July in New York.

Quote of the Week

From former Shrewsbury manager Ian McNeill after losing an FA Cup game to the bottom team in the league:

“I can’t decide whether to go out and get drunk or throw myself in the nearest canal.”

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Representing Burdekin Junior Rugby League

A school leader, student council member, and now a 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador; Jorja Vasta will proudly represent Burdekin Junior Rugby League over the next four months.

After admiring the Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade from the footpath for many years, Jorja has been eagerly waiting for her turn as a Junior Ambassador to come, and now that it’s become a reality, she’s beyond excited to create community connections, and expand her friendship circle.

“I have grown up watching the Burdekin Water Festival Procession and absolutely love the different floats and watching the community come together,” shared Jorja.

“After speaking with previous Ambassadors, I am most excited to be up on the float, enjoying the parade from a different view and I am also looking forward to gaining confidence during this time.”

When she’s not on the football field playing in the Rooster’s U11 team, Jorja keeps herself busy with her strong interests in gymnastics, crafts and knitting and volunteering at community events and school fundraisers on occasion.

Jorja’s journey is just beginning, and with her family cheering her on from the sidelines and cannot wait to experience everything the Ambassador Program has to offer.

“I attend a small school, and I am looking forward to getting to know more people,” added Jorja.

“Personally, rugby league is a big part of my family’s life and history, and I am grateful to be representing Burdekin Junior Rugby League and hope to promote our awesome club in the Burdekin Water Festival.”

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Jorja Vasta will represent Burdekin Junior Rugby League as a 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador (Photo Credit: Sharron Bozzetto)

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Three Burdekin locals have done the region proud at the 2025 National Touch Football Championships in Coffs Harbour, representing at the highest level in both playing and officiating roles.

Veteran player Ian Kerr suited up for Brisbane in the Over 65s division and helped steer his team to an undefeated run in the round robin stage. In a tense grand final clash against the Sydney Scorpions, Kerr and co. held their nerve to clinch a 3–2 victory and take home the national title. His efforts didn’t go unnoticed—Kerr has since been selected to represent Queensland in the upcoming Touch State of Origin series against New South Wales, also in Coffs.

Peter Knapton flew the North Queensland flag in the Over 55s division, where his team scored solid wins over Hunter Hornets (3–2), Coolum Bluefins (4–3) and Victoria Storm (3–2). Despite some strong performances, the NQ side was edged out by the Gold Coast, ACT Raiders and Sydney Scorpions, before falling to the Gold Coast again in a semi-final showdown played in soggy conditions. The Gold Coast went on to defeat the Scorpions 3–1 in the final.

Meanwhile, Burdekin referee Michael Littlefield was in elite company, taking his place in the National Referees Squad. Over the week, he controlled six pool games, a Men’s Open Quarter Final, a Mixed Open Semi, and capped off the tournament with the Women’s Open Grand Final—an appointment that cements his reputation as one of the top whistleblowers in the country. Like Kerr, he’ll return to Coffs in two weeks for State of Origin duties.

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Ian Kerr, Michael Littlefield, and Peter Knapton recently flew the Burdekin flag at the 2025 National Touch Championships in Coffs Harbour.

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It was a red-letter day for Burdekin rugby league on Saturday in Ayr, with the Roosters defeating Charters Towers across all three grades.

A Grade made it three straight wins with a convincing 38–18 victory, backing up recent triumphs over Western Lions and Centrals. Despite a sluggish start and conceding the first try and conversion to trail 6–0, the Roosters didn’t take long to hit back. Front-rower Tate Brombal strolled through the Miners' defence to score beside the posts, and from there, captain and five-eighth Joel Mason took control.

Mason kicked seven from seven—six conversions and a penalty—in a flawless display with the boot. The Roosters crossed three more times before halftime to lead 24–8 at the break. A standout moment for the Miners came courtesy of player-coach Jake Bourke, who slotted a two-point field goal from near halfway.

The Miners opened the second-half scoring, but Burdekin responded with two more tries and a Mason penalty to seal the final 38–18 result.

Coach Steve Lansley admitted the side made a few errors but said they covered them well with smart football. He singled out Terrence Mosby for an outstanding performance, noting the utility’s speed around the rucks and reliable defence. Mosby had vied with Colby Thompson for the players' award last week, but with Thompson out, he made the honour his own.

Lock Hayde Munro was another standout, while his brother Jones impressed in the centres. Lansley also praised Dylan Doak, who played a full reserve grade match before coming off the bench in A Grade and making a big impact.

Burdekin A Grade Try Scorers: Kali Nauque 2, Jones Munro 2, Tate Brombal, Ethan Hagarty
Goals: Joel Mason 7

Roosters Reserves Go Back-to-Back

Despite missing several regulars, the Burdekin Reserve Grade side made it two in a row with a gritty 32–22 win over Charters Towers.

Coach Peter Horan welcomed back key players Jerome Iacco and Bokeem Moore Reid, both of whom made strong contributions. He admitted it wasn’t the prettiest of wins but credited strong defence for holding things together as the reshuffled attack found its feet.

Tala Pepa was named players' player for his dominant performance in both attack and defence. Dylan Doak directed the backs with class, John Zaro was a constant threat, and Caleb Noah continued his strong form, scoring with ease.

Jack Rushton was rewarded with an A Grade bench spot for his continued improvement. Braithen Heron and Jack O’Keefe were tireless, while Horan gave special praise to Jerome Iacco for his efforts despite limited training.

Burdekin Reserve Grade Try Scorers: Caleb Noah 2, Bokeem Moore Reid 2, Pacey Horan, John Zaro
Goals: Dylan Doak 4

River Girls Power to Big Win

The Burdekin River Ladies side secured a strong 18–4 win over Charters Towers, running in four tries to one.

Missing captain Paige Horvat, Lilly Chappell, and Aleikah Heron, the team reshuffled well. Martina Monday shifted to fullback and was unstoppable, earning players’ player honours for her decisive running game.

Abby King returned from injury and steered the team around the park, while Tianna Krutzfeldt shone in the backs, her try a showcase of slick hands. Rebekah Pace was again a force in the forwards, and Charlee Pott gave her all before being sidelined with injury.

Coach Anita Hagarty praised the effort, admitting fitness was a struggle. “They know what to do, but sometimes they just can’t get there,” she said. “Still, it was nice to get the win.”

Burdekin Ladies Try Scorers: Tianna Krutzfeldt, Abby King, Charlee Pott, Toni Daisy
Goals: Martina Monday

Around the Grounds – Other Results

A Grade:

Centrals 30 def. Norths 6
Souths 30 def. Brothers 24
Herbert River 30 def. Western Lions 14
Reserve Grade:

Centrals 32 def. Norths 16
Western Lions 32 def. Herbert River 30
Souths 48 def. Bowen 16
Ladies:

Centrals 46 def. Norths 6
Next Up: Roosters Face Centrals Again

This weekend sees Burdekin back on the road, facing Centrals again—this time at the Townsville Sports Reserve on Saturday across all three grades.

A Grade will be without five-eighth Joel Mason, opening the door for utility Terrence Mosby to step into the playmaker role. Hooker Colby Thompson is also set to return.

Centrals bounced back last week with five team changes following their loss to Burdekin, and there’s a chance Cowboys-linked Selikeo Malifeo could return this week.

The Reserves are set to welcome back Adam Camer, Riley Easton, Matthew Lee, and Luca Lago—adding depth across the board.

The River Ladies face a tough challenge against the Tigers, but as the Miners showed, an upset isn’t out of the question.

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Last Sunday, the Home Hill Tennis Association hosted its second annual Cane Country Cup pickleball tournament, with cheers, sighs, lows and highs marking each match from the first at 8am to the last at 3:30pm.

The tournament featured 24 teams—a mix of local and travelling outfits—all battling it out for glory on a day that, for the most part, delivered perfect weather conditions.

Play was split into two divisions: competitive and social. Each fixture across both categories included four matches—men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and two mixed doubles.

Teams in the social division played seven fixtures in a round-robin format, with final rankings determined by point differential. The competitive division followed a standard format, building to a semi-final and then a grand final showdown.

Continued on page 28.

Pickleball & Good Vibes

Morning tea was served early, with lunch later in the day featuring a generously stocked menu. The venue buzzed with energy, the atmosphere a lively blend of competitive grit, cheerful banter, and good-natured chatter.

At day’s end, the winners of both divisions—Pickle d'Lulu in the comopetitive division and the Jubilee Pocket Rockets in social—hoisted trophies, while second and third place teams also earned recognition for their efforts. In a new addition this year, a “Team Spirit” award—voted on by fellow players—was handed out to the side that best embodied sportsmanship throughout the day.

Home Hill Tennis Association Secretary Kate Casswell was glad that the occasion could bring people together.

“It was fantastic! Everybody came along, and they all had a good time,” she said. “I heard a lot of laughing, a lot of fun going on… We think that’s more important than winning.”

Results:
Competitive
1st: Pickle d'Lulu
2nd: Let's Pickle
3rd: Airlie
Team Spirit: Extra Pickles Please

Social:
1st: Jubilee Pocket Rockets
2nd: Smiley Whitsundays
3rd: Mixed Pickles
Team Spirit: Cardwell Crocs

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Home Hill representative teams
Social Team Spirit winners: Cardwell Crocs
Competitive winners: Pickle d'Lulu
Competitive Team Spirit winners: Extra Pickles Please
Social winners: Jubilee Pocket Rockets

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A great Pennants practice session was held on Wednesday, with the Home Hill ladies joining in. Margaret Linton, Judy Elton, Lyn Storrie, and Colleen Olsen secured a win over Meryl Smith, Ann Newton, Sandra Darwen, and Helen Collins.

Despite low numbers on Friday, 6th June—due to other commitments—10 bowlers braved the very smoky conditions and enjoyed the games.

In a tight game of triples, Dave Sheehan, Lyn Storrie, and Ross McLaughlin defeated Dion McIntosh, Rob Jorgensen, and Gary Pearce.

In the final match, Damion Morello and Jamie Wood gave Brad McIntosh and Jayson Farry a bowling lesson.

Sunday, 8th June saw a strong turnout with 30 bowlers enjoying a beautiful afternoon in near-perfect conditions. Three games of rinks and one game of triples were played.

Sandra Darwen, Jayson Farry, and Richi Mau defeated Glenn Woodford, Brett Wilshire, and Leo Kenny.
Gary Nosworthy, Judy Elton, Rob Garner, and Allan Gairoch defeated Kaye Garner, Mick McCloskey, Vince Beitia, and Doug Robins.
Gary Pearce, Danny O’Shea, and Chris Pearce defeated Lloyd Shepherd, Ben Mills, Jamie Woods, and Peter Jorgenson.
Dave Sheehan, Doug Kiehne, Lyn Storrie, and Trevor Elton defeated Ken Fergusen, Joe Yipnazar, Helen Collins, and Peter Henderson.
Upcoming Event:
The Trophy Bowls Night will be held on Friday, 13th June, starting with a sausage sizzle at 6:30pm, followed by bowls at 7:00pm.
Reminder to members: Please bring a plate for smoko.

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A great Pennants practice session was held on Wednesday, with the Home Hill ladies joining in. Photo supplied

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Ayr Bowling Club has enjoyed a fantastic week of bowls, camaraderie and community spirit, with events rolling across the greens from Tuesday right through to the weekend.

The week kicked off with the Tuesday Social Afternoon on June 3rd, which saw some thrilling matches and great sportsmanship. Congratulations to the winning trio—Meryl Smith, Beryl Cornford and Heather Jorgensen—who defeated Isabel Cislowski, Rayleen Hervey and Dot Cutting. In another well-fought game, Katharina Stuckler and Pam Power emerged victorious over Donna Soper and Mary Poli.

Thursday, June 5th, was one for the record books as the final of the Women’s Open Pairs Competition was played. After a hard-fought match, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power were crowned champions, defeating Lorraine Wolffe and Irene Wilson in an exciting showdown.

Wednesday night, June 4th, brought the greens alive with three games under the lights. Winners on the night were:

• Evelyn Wiltshere, Rob Jorgensen and Joe Grabbi
• Ali Vasefi, Katharina Stuckler and Ross McLaughlin
• Barry Hewson and Gary Pearce

But it was Fun Friday Night that stole the show! With a full green, music, laughter and fantastic energy, players enjoyed their first Friday night bowls under the new lights – and what a difference it made! A huge thank you to Ferguson Plumbing for sponsoring the night, with Gareth Ferguson on hand to present the prizes.

The results for the night:
🥇 Winners: Masayeb, Ali & Ron
🥈 Second: Lyndal, Ross & Helen
🏅 Sportsman’s Prize: Sam, Mary, Angela & Arthur

Mark your calendars – the next Fun Friday Night is set for July 4th, and promises to be just as enjoyable!

Rounding out the week was a great Saturday afternoon of mixed social bowls, featuring two triples games and a pairs match. The winners of the day were Linda and Joe, capping off a successful and social week at the club.

With strong turnouts, competitive spirit and a great sense of community, it’s clear that Ayr Bowling Club is the place to be each week. See you on the green!

The Winners from Friday Night Fun Night. Photo supplied

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Local

A much better weekend for the Panthers, winning four of five matches and scoring twenty goals! On Friday night in Townsville, the Division 2 Funkies beat Rebels 5-1, while the Division 2 Men lost 1-3 at home to SES. The Ladies defeated Wulguru 5-0. On Saturday, at home to SES, the Premiers won 5-0 and the Reserves won 4-1.

This Friday, the Division 1 Men and the Ladies are at home. Division 1 play Rebels at 8.30, and the Ladies play Saints Eagles Souths at 6.30. The Division 2 Men play JCU in Townsville at 6.30. Then on Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves are away to Estates—the Premiers at 8.00 and the Reserves at 6.00.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Panthers took on Saints Eagles South for the first time this season. Burdekin knew not to be fooled by the Saints’ recent results. The Saints have quality across the park and came out firing. The first half was a grind—Saints brought the intensity early and made life difficult for the Panthers, who couldn’t find any real rhythm. Chances were few in a dour opening forty-five minutes, with neither side able to break the deadlock.

The Panthers came out after the break with a point to prove. In-form striker Matthew Kolb opened the scoring in the 62nd minute, before two rapid-fire goals from Jay Leckenby turned the game on its head. Leckenby’s first goals of the regular season had Burdekin up 3-0 by the 65th minute. Kolb added his second in the 75th, while Cooper Kross capped off the performance with a well-taken goal in the final minute. Burdekin now shift their focus to league-leaders Estates this week—an away clash that promises to be their toughest test yet.

Reserves

The Burdekin Tyre Services Reserves returned to International Park after a disappointing loss last week. Injuries and absences continue to impact the line-up, but a committed and capable squad was ready to return to the winners list. The home team had weight of possession, but it took 30 minutes before Oscar Licciardello netted the opening goal. The team lifted the intensity and kept the lead into the break.

An unfortunate error gifted Saints a goal just 30 seconds after the restart and the game was back level. However, patience and persistence paid off, and at the 50-minute mark, Cooper Kross put Burdekin back in the lead. From there the Panthers were always in control and continued to create chances. The third goal came from a deflected Tarryn Smith shot, and then Smith iced the cake late to make it 4-1.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Panthers, up against SES, played well in the first half although there was no score at halftime. The Panthers took the lead after 54 minutes with a goal from Jack Shears. However, SES replied with three goals in twenty minutes—all of them from free kicks—to win 3-1. Jack Shears was the Panthers’ Man of the Match.

Division 2 Men

The C.A. Contracting Funkies returned to winning ways with a 5-1 defeat of Wulguru.

Burdekin started well, and Eugene Burelli opened the scoring in the third minute. The Funkies were well on top and created several chances and shots on goal before Simon Scuderi made it 2-0 just before half-time.

Travis Butler continued the scoring immediately after the break with a superb free kick. Wulguru did get a goal back during the second half, before two goals to Jake Lacey gave the Funkies a dominant 5-1 victory. Burdekin were very convincing winners despite missing a lot of chances in front of goal. Hopefully, that will improve in the coming weeks.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies delivered a commanding performance on Friday, controlling the match against Wulguru from start to finish. Karina Guglielmi set the tone early, finding the back of the net in the 17th minute to give Burdekin the lead. She doubled the advantage in the 35th minute with a brilliant strike into the top right corner, capping off a strong first half.

After the break, it was Sienna Lago who took charge. Using her pace, Lago netted three goals in the second half to complete a stunning hat-trick and seal a 5-0 victory for the Panthers.

Juniors

With Townsville hosting an FQ Academy carnival last Saturday, juniors played local games. Junior players who represented Northern in Townsville in the academy matches on Saturday and Sunday played well and in great spirits against teams from Far Northern and the Whitsundays.

Masters

A good turnout on Monday night, with PSG playing Inter Milan in a replay of the European Champions League Final. Mick Taylor-Martinez scored the winning goal for Inter in the last minute. Man of the Match was George Koukouris.

Monday Nights at 6.30. Be There.

National and International

The Matildas, after their success in two friendlies against Argentina, have two more lined up against Slovenia. Both games are at HBF Park in Perth on June 26 and 29. New coach Joe Montemurro will be in charge.

The Socceroos played the first of their two 2026 World Cup Qualifying Group C matches on Thursday night against Japan in Perth, winning 1-0 in front of 57,000 spectators. On Thursday, June 10th, they are away to Saudi Arabia in their final group game. Provided they don’t suffer a heavy loss, they should qualify for the 2026 tournament.

Quote of the Week
From Sir David Beckham:
“Alex Ferguson is the best manager I've ever had at this level. Well, he's the only manager I've actually had at this level. But he's the best manager I've ever had.”

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On Saturday, 31st May, the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships swung into action under perfect weather and buzzing crowds. From seasoned veterans to fresh faces, competitors showed off their skill and speed—and a bit of friendly rivalry—across a range of divisions sponsored by some of the region’s top local businesses.

The day saw fierce competition and plenty of impressive performances across all categories, culminating in the final showdown—the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championship, taken out by first-time winner and Burdekin local, Mark Vass.

“It’s great to get it back home,” he said. “The Vass’ and the Gilbert’s have always had a big rivalry. They’re great people, and they were hard to beat for years, so it’s good to get the Vass name back on there.”

He added, “It was the best turnout I’ve seen for a long time. What they did this year with the extra shade and the smoke-offs and stuff like that, it was just amazing and I loved every bit of it.”

Results:

Over 55 Years
Sponsored by Next Gen Building Co
1st Place: Wayne Borellini – 10:57
2nd Place: Enzo Codega – 12:26
3rd Place: Joe Gallea – 13:16

35–55 Years
Sponsored by Diamantina Lime & Gypsum
1st Place: Adam Gilbert – 11:26
2nd Place: Karl Vass – 13:15
3rd Place: Mark Vass – 13:22

Under 35 Years
Sponsored by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables
1st Place: Keith Gilbert – 11:29
2nd Place: Stuart Gilbert – 12:35
3rd Place: Angus Gilbert – 18:53

Ladies Novice
Sponsored by Tallai Project Group
1st Place: Nichola Borellini – 2:30
2nd Place: Patrea Bojack – 4:41
3rd Place: Laura Gilbert – 5:16

Ladies Cup
Sponsored by Lillie’s Cubby House
1st Place: Lyn McLaughlin – 4:30
2nd Place: Rosie McLean – 6:45
3rd Place: Krystel Kerr – 7:44

Corporate Team Challenge
Sponsored by Keir Steele Waldon Lawyers
1st Place: Vass Engineering
2nd Place: Next Gen Building Co
3rd Place: QSL

Cut, Top and Load Team Challenge
Sponsored by Elders Insurance Ayr
1st Place: Gilbert Group – 15:00
2nd Place: Vass Group – 16:21
3rd Place: Codega Group – 20:25

2025 Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships
Sponsored by Parkside Group
1st Place: Mark Vass – 14:08
2nd Place: Stuart Gilbert – 15:58
3rd Place: Adam Gilbert – 16:52

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Burdekin Catholic High School’s Open Rugby League team has made a powerful impression in their inaugural year competing in the prestigious Townsville Blackhawks Schoolboys Shield, North Queensland’s elite secondary schools rugby league competition.

The BCHS Bears entered the competition with high hopes and quickly proved they belonged among the region's best. Their campaign began with a commanding 20–8 win over All Souls St Gabriels School, showcasing grit, skill, and impressive teamwork.

“The boys really came together on the field,” said Principal, Lorraine Wolffe. “It was a solid team performance that set the tone for the rest of the competition.”

Building on that strong start, the Bears powered through their next match with a thrilling 30–20 victory over Blackheath & Thornburgh College. Known for their fast-paced play and relentless drive, the BCHS boys demonstrated composure under pressure and excellent cohesion across all positions.

“There’s always room for improvement,” Coach, Luke Marano added, “but the effort, determination, and spirit shown by the team was outstanding.”

In their final game of the round, the Bears faced a formidable challenge in Columba Catholic College — last year’s champions. Despite falling short with a 24–10 result, the BCHS side played with heart and courage, never backing down from the contest.

“Columba is a well-drilled team with a lot of experience in this competition,” said team captain Lleylan Lampton. “But we’re proud of how we played — we showed resilience, stuck to our game plan, and represented our school with pride.”

The team's debut season in the Blackhawks Schoolboys Shield has not only been a significant milestone for the school but also a perfect build-up to the upcoming QISSRL Confraternity Carnival in Rockhampton this July. The Confraternity Carnival, often referred to as "Confro," is an annual rugby league competition organized by the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Rugby League (QISSRL). Established in 1980, it brings together Catholic and independent secondary schools from across Queensland and other regions for a week-long tournament that emphasizes sportsmanship, community, and the values of Catholic education. Many NRL players have risen from this competition.

Principal Mrs. Lorraine Wolffe praised the team’s performance and attitude throughout the tournament.

“Our students have shown what it means to wear the BCHS jersey — with determination, respect, and school pride,” she said. “We’re incredibly proud of our Open Rugby League team and can’t wait to see what they achieve in July.”

As the Bears turn their focus to the QISSRL Carnival, one thing is clear: Burdekin Catholic High School has arrived as a force in schoolboy rugby league in the North.

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They say two is better than one—and in the case of the Burdekin Roosters winning games, that’s absolutely true.

Last week, the A Grade side notched their first win of the season by defeating the Western Lions. Then, on Sunday, they backed it up with a solid victory over Centrals. The Reserves also broke through for their first win of the season, defeating Centrals as well.

A Grade started slowly against the Tigers, who scored early to take the lead. But the locals fought back, with Terrence Mosby and Kali Nauque crossing for tries to push the Roosters ahead 12–4. It could have been 18, but a try held up over the line was waved away—much to the frustration of players who protested the decision.

Centrals hit back soon after, and at halftime the Roosters led 12–8.

After the break, Centrals came out firing, scoring twice to take control at 20–12. But the locals weren’t done—they shifted gears, scoring four more tries to Centrals’ one and claiming an entertaining 36–24 win.

Coach Steve Lansley said it was pleasing to see the boys dig deep and come back for the win.

“They’ve been working hard and deserved the victory,” he said, adding that he was especially impressed with the team’s defence in the final stages when they repelled wave after wave of attack.

Colby Thompson and Terrence Mosby were neck and neck in the players' player tally, until Colby mesmerised the opposition with a 50-metre solo try. Lansley also praised Jesse Yallop’s performance at fullback, saying he looked set to keep the jersey.

Try scorers were Aiden Arusa (2), Terrence Mosby, Kali Nauque, Nemia Nawave, and Colby Thompson. Joel Mason kicked 6 goals.

In other A Grade matches:

Charters Towers defeated Herbert River 24–18
Western Lions edged Norths 34–32
Souths and Brothers had byes

Reserves

Reserves coach Peter Horan has been saying all season he lacked quality numbers—but this time, he had them, and the result was a 34–10 win over Centrals.

Horan had watched his side start games well before fading due to injuries and fatigue. Not this time. The team led 24–0 at halftime and held strong in the second half to draw the session and secure the win.

The inclusion of Caleb Noah provided the spark the team had been missing, and with Llama Ghee working hard up front, Caleb and Dylan Doak ran amok, making plenty of metres.

Luca Lago was another standout, along with Jye Starr, Matthew Lee, and Jack Rushton.

The team scored six tries, with Dylan Doak landing five goals—four from four in the first half.

Try scorers: Harvey Horan, Matthew Lee, Luca Lago, Caleb Noah, Llama Ghee, Jye Starr
Goals: Dylan Doak (5)

In other Reserves matches:

Herbert River defeated Charters Towers 38–14
Brothers beat Bowen 34–10
Lions narrowly beat Norths 16–12

Ladies

The newly formed Burdekin River Ladies team took on last year’s premiers, Centrals, and for most of the game it looked like an upset was on the cards. With just two minutes remaining, the score was locked at 12-all.

But the Tigers’ experience told in the end, scoring a late try to win 18–12.

The visitors showed their class with some sharp attacking footy, and ironically, their best player was former Ingham product Eryn McCulloch.

The Burdekin River girls showed marked improvement from last week, with much better ball movement. Alekiah Heron combined well with Toni Daisy and Martina Monday, both of whom were standouts. Alyssa Partch worked hard in the forwards, but none were better than Paige Horvat, who looked dangerous every time she touched the ball.

Toni Daisy scored two tries, while Martina Monday kicked two goals.

In other Ladies matches:

Brothers thrashed Bowen 50–4
Lions defeated Norths 42–6

Coming Up

This Saturday will be another Super Saturday, with the Burdekin Juniors playing 13 games and Bowen Juniors also in town for 13 games of their own—followed by three senior matches featuring the Roosters and Burdekin River taking on Charters Towers.

The 2015 A Grade premiership-winning team will also be holding a 10-year reunion. Look for another article in this edition detailing that memorable season.

Elsewhere in the R.L.T.D. this weekend:

Western Lions host Herbert River Crushers on Sunday
Centrals play Norths on Saturday
Souths face Brothers in a top-of-the-table clash on Sunday
Tiana Krutzfeldt and Lilly Chappell also had strong games.

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It’s been another big week at the Ayr Bowling Club. The highlight was our men travelling to Bowen for the North Queensland Purple Pennants.

Our team went into the final day of play with four match wins—equal top with Bowen—putting them in a strong position. Ayr faced Bowen first up, who went on to win the Purple Pennants, and unfortunately we couldn’t secure the win.

In our last game against Giru, we notched another match win, bringing our total to five for the weekend and placing Ayr second overall—Runners Up. This was a fantastic result for our club, and the playing group had a strong campaign against some quality sides.

Earlier in the week, Tuesday Ladies’ Social Bowls featured two games of triples. Winners on the day were Karen Shepherd, Donna Soper, and Irene Wilson, who defeated Meryl Smith, Beryl Cornford, and Heather Jorgensen. Runners-up were Katharina Stuckler, Rayleen Hervey, and Pam Power, who defeated Isabel Cislowski, Linda Giumelli, and Mary Poli.

On Wednesday, Men’s Social Bowls saw three games of triples and one pairs match played. Competition was close out on the green. Taking out the honours on the day were Arthur Gauvin, Peter Sauer, and Lew Stisdton, who defeated Barry Hewson, Helena Sauer, and Ron Soper. It was a great afternoon of camaraderie and quality bowls, enjoyed by all.

In Championship action, the Ladies’ Competition Open Pairs Final will be played on Thursday, June 5th at 3:30pm. It will be Beryl Cornford and Pam Power taking on Lorraine Wolffe and Irene Wilson.

The Ayr Bowling Club invites everyone to its Fun Friday Night Bowls, sponsored by Ferguson Plumbing, on Friday, June 6th, starting at 6:00pm under our new lights. The evening promises fun for bowlers of all levels—bring your friends or come solo and meet new people. The $10 entry fee includes a sausage sizzle at 6:00pm and a light supper once bowling starts at 7:00pm.

If you're interested in giving bowls a try, Friday Roll-Ups are a great place to start. Held every Friday from 3:00–5:30pm, these casual sessions are perfect for sharpening your skills, getting friendly tips, or just relaxing with a drink. Come down for some light training, enjoy a few drinks, and join in the fun with fellow club members.

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A smaller group of juniors took to the course this week—perhaps deterred by the cooler morning or earlier tee time—but that didn’t stop a close and competitive round across both the 6-hole and 9-hole events.

A big thank you to Menkens Farms for generously sponsoring the morning, with Drummond Golf gift vouchers up for grabs.

In the 9-hole competition, Amaya claimed the gross win with a score of 41. Kyle took out the nett honours with a score of 40, just edging out Riley by one shot and Heath by another—making for a tightly contested leaderboard.

In the 6-hole comp, Evelyn topped the field, beating the boys with a gross score of 53, while Maxx took out the nett prize with a strong score of 19.

Well done to all juniors for participating and continuing to support Ayr Juniors.

This weekend marks the Ayr Juniors Closed Championship, with some incredible prizes on offer. Keep an eye on the Ayr Golf Club Facebook page for full event details.

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A smaller group of juniors took to the course this week, but that didn’t stop a close and competitive round across both the 6-hole and 9-hole events.

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This year, Brandon Bowls Club’s Red Pennants team hit the Bruce Highway for a tough three-day competition across seven rounds at Suburban and South Townsville Bowls Clubs.

Facing off against some of the region’s powerhouse clubs, 12 Brandon bowlers gave it their all in what remains one of the district’s most fiercely contested events.

Results – Suburban Bowls Club

Round 1: Brandon def. Cutheringa
Round 2: Brandon lost to Macknade
Round 3: Brandon lost to Suburban
Round 4: Brandon lost to Thuringowa
Round 5: Brandon lost to Bowen
Results – South Townsville Bowls Club

Round 6: Brandon def. Jubilee
Round 7: Brandon def. South Townsville
A special congratulations goes to Gary Pearce (skip), Chris Pearce, Peter Lejarraga, and Lloyd Shepherd, who recorded five wins and two losses to finish third overall in the special trophy event.

Macknade Bowls Club took out the Red Pennants section—well done to them on a strong showing.

While the Red Pennants team was away, Brandon Bowls Club proudly hosted two days of Blue Pennants—the top-tier colour in the region. A huge thank you goes to all the ladies in the kitchen, the grounds crew who prepared the green and surrounds, and our hardworking bar staff. Hosting an event like this takes a village.

Congratulations to Jubilee on taking out the Blue Pennants title for the third year in a row.

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The Cane Country Cup is back for its second year, bringing with it more teams and more action. The mixed-team pickleball event, hosted by the Home Hill Tennis Association, will take place on Sunday, June 8 from 8am, with spectators welcome to join the action courtside.

After a successful debut, the 2025 edition has grown to 24 teams, up from 16 last year, with teams coming from across North Queensland—including Whitsundays, Bowen, Townsville, Home Hill, Ingham, Cardwell, and Tully.

Teams will compete in two divisions: competitive and social. Among the top contenders in the competitive division are Peter Hughes Airlie Norfolk and Chance, who return as defending champions, and Pickle d’Lulu, led by Hannah Casswell. In the social division, the much-loved Cardwell Crocs make their return.

A new highlight for 2025 is the introduction of the Fair Play Trophy, a perpetual award crafted from silky oak by Merv Mohr and the Burdekin Woodcraft Association. The trophy celebrates the values of fairness, team spirit, and sportsmanship.

With strong regional representation and a welcoming atmosphere, the Cane Country Cup promises a great day out for players and spectators alike.

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It’s been 10 years since the Burdekin Roosters last claimed A Grade glory in the Townsville District Rugby League—and this weekend, the heroes of that 2015 premiership will reunite to relive one of the club’s greatest triumphs.

The Roosters’ 2015 campaign began with Chris Perry appointed head coach, but he was forced to withdraw early in the season. Local junior coach Glenn Brock stepped in, bringing on Carl List as assistant. With a number of Bowen-based players in the squad, Brent Stocker also joined the coaching team.

Gary Wegert took on the role of team manager, while fitness was kept sharp under Cathy Higgs, her son Hayden, and trainer John Furnell.

Despite a rollercoaster season, the Roosters powered into the Grand Final against a formidable Herbert River side, led by the brilliant Mitch Seri.

Burdekin’s squad was just as stacked—with club stalwart Ryan Davenport leading from the front, backed by player of the year Lona Kaifoto, who would go on to sign with the Blackhawks.

The backline was electric, featuring the elusive Power brothers—Karmen and Rainer—along with speedster Bryce Stockdale and versatile utility Jerome Lacco, who only retired this season.

Joining Davenport and Kaifoto in the forwards was Dylan Jensen, brother of current Broncos prop Corey Jensen. The towering Sio Ataata—believed to be the biggest man in the TDRL at the time—was a standout both on field and off, famously listing his occupation as “fish filleter.”

Former University halfback Tyson Stocker steered the side around the park with a defence-first mindset. He would later become Kaifoto’s brother-in-law.

New Zealand front-rower Brad Hunt was recruited to add starch to the pack but missed the decider through injury. Seventeen-year-old Mitchell Guy, however, earned a dream call-up and was named in the matchday squad.

The Roosters looked to have the premiership sewn up with a healthy lead late in the game—but Mitch Seri had other ideas. Two tries in the dying minutes turned the contest on its head and left Burdekin fans stunned.

Enter Zac Heron.

With one final play on the clock, the Roosters hooker scooped up the ball 40 metres out, ran backwards, sliced across the field, straightened up and dived over in the corner.

The moment was immortalised by local photographer Peter Peach. The image of Heron’s match-winner has become one of the most iconic in Burdekin league history.

The Roosters were premiers—and celebrations erupted across the Burdekin and Bowen.

This Saturday, players and officials from that side will gather for a reunion lunch at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, a major sponsor in 2015 along with Burdekin Tyre Service.

They’ll then head to Rugby Park, where the current Roosters A Grade side takes on Charters Towers.

There, the 2015 premiership team will be introduced to the crowd and form a guard of honour before kickoff.

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The Burdekin Touch Association paid tribute to the vital role women have played in the sport during its Women in Touch celebration last week.

Held during Round 11 of the local competition, the event honoured the countless women and girls who have helped shape Touch Football into one of the region’s most popular sports. Players, referees, coaches, and volunteers were treated to a drink and sausage sizzle in recognition of their contributions.

Incoming president Peter Knapton acknowledged the strength of the women’s competition in the Burdekin.

"We have seven teams in our current Open Women’s competition, as well as scores of girls who play in our Under 14 Mixed and Junior Touch seasons,” commented incoming president Peter Knapton.

“Prior to COVID, we had 22 women’s teams playing,” he continued.

The Burdekin has a proud history of female athletes representing at higher levels. Among the women selected for North Queensland representation are Heather Desbois, Desley Urry, Sonya Hesp, Tramayne Horan, Kate Neal, Shelly Wilkie, Vicki Toohey, Leesa Johnston, Jenny Gagen, Sonia Setter, Naomi Lampton, Lynette Monday, Leah Smallwood, and Anita Hagarty (née Cantarella).

Desley Urry went on to represent Queensland, while Heather Desbois, Anita Hagarty, and Leesa Johnston were selected for both Queensland and Australia. Heather even captained the Australian team during a tour of England, and Anita later served as Chair of the Board of Touch Football Australia.

From playing to refereeing, coaching, administration, and volunteering—Burdekin women have been central to the sport’s success.

The Burdekin Touch Association celebrated its female players last week with a Women In Touch event (Photo Supplied)

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A cornerstone of the Burdekin Shire since 1926, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club will officially celebrate its 100th anniversary in less than a year’s time, with a three-event extravaganza set to kick off from the 29th of May 2026.

Although its early days, the club has taken to social media to ramp up the excitement and anticipation ahead of what’s shaping up to be a historic celebration to remember.

To mark the monumental milestone, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club will host an elegant Formal Dinner to celebrate the remarkable achievement in style at the beautiful Burdekin Memorial Hall in Home Hill.

The Formal Dinner will take place the evening of Saturday the 30th of May (2026) where members of the club and the broader community will come together to reconnect with old friends, journey through cherished memories, and reflect on the impressive legacy the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club has built over the past century.

In preparation for next year’s anniversary, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club have asked past presidents, life members, and past lifesaver of the year and surf girl ambassadors to reach out to the committee at ayrslsc100@gmail.com to detail their most treasured memories they’ve shared with the club over the years.

“As we gear up for our 100 year celebrations, we’d love to hear your stories,” wrote the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club online.

“Get in touch with the committee and help us create something truly special – a tribute to the people and the history that shaped our club.”

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What: Ayr Surf Life Saving Club 100th Anniversary Celebrations
When: 29th, 30th and 31st of May, 2026

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club holds a rich history dating back to 1926 (Photos Supplied)

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The Burdekin Clay Target Club held its monthly shoot on Saturday, 10th May, attracting 34 enthusiastic shooters to the range. It was a pleasant day for competition, with ideal weather and a great turnout across all grades. A sincere thank you goes to the valued sponsors for the day — Raine & Horne and Dal Ponte Electrical — for their ongoing support of local sport.

The shoot featured four competitive events: Double Barrel, Pointscore, Single Barrel, and the crowd-favourite Handicap, testing shooters’ skills across a variety of formats. A strong showing from all grades was highlighted by multiple perfect scores and close finishes. Congratulations to all the winners and participants for their performances, including standout shooters Tony Caruso, Glen Rea, Joe Scalia, Rob Ness, and Pedro Le Blowitz, who each claimed wins in their respective grades.

The next shoot is set for Saturday, 7th June, and will feature the 100 Target Double Barrel Handicap, commencing at 12:00pm. This exciting event will continue into the evening under lights for a special night shoot. A regular monthly shoot will follow on Sunday. All members and new participants are encouraged to attend.

Event Results

Event 1 – 25 Target Double Barrel 15m
AA Grade – 1st Tony Caruso, Paul Hill 25/25; 3rd Wayne Cislowski 24/25
A Grade – 1st Gian Vassalini 25/25; 2nd Jy Yarrow & David Stitt 24/25
B Grade – 1st Pedro Le Blowitz 23/25; 2nd Peter Wade & Gregory Calder 20/25
C Grade – 1st Rob Ness 24/25; 2nd Keiren Scott 22/25

Event 2 – 25 Target Pointscore 15m
AA Grade – 1st Glen Rea 75/75
A Grade – 1st Joe Scalia 75/75
B Grade – 1st Andrew Bergin 69/75
C Grade – 1st Alf Gangemi 70/78

Event 3 – 25 Target Single Barrel 15m (Sponsored by Raine & Horne)
AA Grade – 1st Glen Rea 34/35
A Grade – 1st Mark Simpson 24/25
B Grade – 1st Andrew Bergin 20/25
C Grade – 1st Rob Ness 22/26

Event 4 – 25 Target Double Barrel Handicap
OPEN – 1st Tony Caruso 25/25
2nd Tony Robinson 24/25
3rd Jason Phillis 30/32

Dal Ponte Electrical High Gun Winners
AA Grade – Glen Rea 144/150
A Grade – Joe Scalia 140/150
B Grade – Pedro Le Blowitz 129/150
C Grade – Rob Ness 132/150

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Pic 1 Event 2-25 Target Pointscore
Andrew Bergin, Joe Scalia, Glen Rea Alf Gamgemi

Pic 2 Event 3-25 Target Single Barrel-Sponsored by Raine & Horne
Mark Simpson, Glen Rea, Andrew Bergin, Rob Ness

Pic 3 Event 4-25 Target Double Barrel Handicap
Tony Robinson, Tony Caruso, Jason Phillis

Pic 4 Dal Ponte Electrical High Gun Winners
Glen Rea, Joe Scalia, Pedro Le Blowitz, Rob Ness

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Before a huge crowd at Rugby Park last Saturday night, the monkey was lifted from the Graders’ back when they recorded their first win of the season, beating last year’s grand finalists Western Lions 38 to 14.

The locals were on top from go to whoa, using the ball to their advantage. The Lions were the bigger side across the park, and for the Roosters to win, they had to let the ball do the work and run the opposition off their feet.

Coach Steve Lansley pulled the right strings, moving regular fullback Joel Mason to five-eighth and shifting Hayde Munro to lock. The move worked a treat, with Mason giving his speedy outside men the ball at every opportunity. Munro’s presence in the pack also proved crucial, bringing down several bigger Lions forwards with classic low tackles.

While Mason had one edge humming, halfback Jye Olsen was doing the same on the other. So effective were they that both wingers scored three tries each.

Coach Lansley said the team finally played the way they’ve been promising all year. “We’re not a big side, but we’re quick, and we used that to our advantage. The ball stuck tonight.”

While the backs starred, the forwards laid the platform. Tate Brombal earned players’ player for his all-round effort, with strong support from Munro, Terrence Mosby, and Lachlan Shepherd.

In the backs, Joel Mason and Jye Olsen were standouts, Jones Munro was solid in his return from injury, and the two wingers were a constant threat.

Supporters are also excited about new Cowboys recruit Selalike Malifeo, a 19-year-old former New Zealand Schoolboy who recently arrived to join the Cowboys. “We know what we can do now,” Lansley said. “The task is to do it consistently.”

Scorers
Tries: Selalike Malifeo 3, Nemia Nawave 3, Jones Munro, Tate Brombal
Goals: Joel Mason 3

Other A Grade Results

Souths def. Norths 34–8
Brothers def. Herbert River 28–24 (scored in the final two minutes)
Centrals def. Charters Towers 12–0
Reserve Grade Report: Roosters Falter After Fast Start

After a strong start, the Roosters reserves faded and went down 44 to 10 against the Lions.

The Lions opened the scoring early, but the Roosters hit back to trail just 6–8. Despite some promising attacking moments, poor ball control plagued the Roosters. Repeated handling errors allowed the Lions to pile on the points, leading 32–6 before the Roosters finally held the ball. A sweeping move saw winger Malik Ogameni cross for a late try.

The final score was 44–10. Coach and supporters believe the team can perform much better with improved ball control.

Best Players
Terry Connors led from the front, with Brody Ferguson, Riley Easton, and Llama Ghee all contributing solidly.

Scorers
Tries: Malik Ogameni, Dom Southwell
Goal: Dylan Doak

Other Reserve Grade Results

Brothers def. Herbert River 24–12
Souths def. Bowen 20–6
Centrals def. Charters Towers 6–0
Ladies Side Shows Grit Against Grand Finalists

The newly formed Burdekin River ladies team faced a tough test against regular grand finalists Western Lions in their second match together.

Comprising players from the Burdekin, Herbert River, and Townsville, the side trains together in Townsville and had notched a win over Norths two weeks prior.

The Lions, well-drilled and cohesive, executed sharp backline moves and combined well in the forwards. Despite the pressure, the Burdekin River team fought hard and created several scoring chances. Their lone try came from a sharp backline move finished by winger Jo Morgan.

Final score: Lions 24 – Burdekin River 4, with four Lions tries coming through the backs.

Best for Burdekin River
Backs: Tiarna Kruszfeldt, Paige Horvat, Toni Daisy
Forwards: Lilly Chappell, Sarah Castle, Abbey King

Other Ladies Match

Charters Towers and Centrals drew 20–20
Under 6 Roosters Take the Field

The Under 6 Roosters led the A-grade side onto the field and played a halftime mini-match.

Yellow Team: Harvey Mauro, Jase Olsen, Lucas Quagliata, Lane McIvor, Declan Kyle
Green Team: Cooper Johnson, Tate Levitt, Bohdi Bevilacqua, Tahj Nash, Oscar Watson

This Sunday: Roosters at Home Again

This Sunday, the Roosters host Centrals at home.

A Grade kicks off at 3:30 pm
Reserves play beforehand
Ladies may play earlier, pending confirmation
Canteen and bar will be open
Doubles will be sold on the main game
Other Matches This Weekend

Charters Towers hosts Herbert River (Saturday)
Norths face Western Lions (Saturday)
Brothers travel to Bowen (Saturday) – Reserves, Ladies, and Under 21s all scheduled

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Two Burdekin locals recently competed in the 2025 Australian Mus Championships held in Brisbane, claiming the national title and earning a place at the upcoming World Titles in Argentina this October.

Cousins Ramon Lequerica and Joe Aguirre emerged victorious, representing the Basque Club of North Queensland. The tournament featured 11 teams from across the country, including entries from Brisbane, Sydney, and Adelaide.

Mus is a traditional card game with roots in the Basque Country in northeast Spain, dating back to the 1700s. Still widely played in Basque and Spanish communities around the world, it is known for its unique blend of strategy, communication, gamesmanship, and good-natured bluffing.

The Burdekin has long-standing ties to Basque culture, with many local families tracing their heritage back to Basque migrants who arrived in Australia after World War I. A second wave followed in the 1950s and '60s, drawn by job opportunities in the sugar cane industry. Under a government sponsorship scheme, Basque canefarmers provided employment and accommodation to newcomers, helping them get established. While some eventually returned home, many settled permanently in the Ingham and Burdekin regions.

Card games became a favourite pastime among the early Basque settlers, along with costumed dancing, traditional sports demanding strength and endurance, and the annual making of chorizos (pork sausages), a beloved tradition that continues today.

Since the formation of the Basque Club of North Queensland in Townsville in 2003, this culture has been kept alive and celebrated. Monthly lunches featuring traditional Basque cuisine are always well attended, keeping the spirit—and flavours—of the Basque community thriving in the region.

Ramon and Joe’s national victory is a proud milestone not only for their families but also for the broader Basque community in North Queensland. All eyes will now turn to Argentina, where they’ll carry the region’s hopes onto the world stage.

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Cousins Ramon Lequerica and Joe Aguirre with the embroidered Txapelas made in Bilbao.

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It’s been a bustling week at the Ayr Bowling Club, with plenty of action on the greens and members preparing for the upcoming Purple Pennants in Bowen from May 30 to June 1. Best of luck to our men’s team this weekend.

Tuesday’s Ladies Social Bowls featured a game of triples and a rinks match. Karen Shepherd, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power claimed victory over Linda Giumelli, Heather Jorgensen and Dot Cutting. Runners-up on the day were Donna Soper, Rayleen Hervey, Joy Comollatti and Irene Wilson, who defeated Isabel Cislowski, Deslie Olsen, Merle Nixon and Mary Poli.

Men’s Social Bowls on Wednesday was sponsored by Arthur Gauvin, who celebrated his 80th birthday in style. A big thank you to Arthur for his continued work around the club—it’s greatly appreciated. On the green, three games of triples and one pairs match were played. The top-performing team was John Pirrone, Joe Papale and Barry Shepherd, while runners-up honours went to Dino Poli, Richard Saurer and Anthony Bull. It was a fine afternoon of friendly competition and good spirits.

Later that evening, Wednesday Night Social Bowls saw two games contested. The first was won by Kate Stringer, Tricia Achille and David Burt. In the second, Angela Williams, Katharina Stuckler and Joe Grabbi emerged victorious.

Thursday’s Ladies Competition Open Pairs produced two strong performances. Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeated Karen Shepherd and Heather Jorgensen, while Lorraine Wolffe and Irene Wilson overcame Katharina Stuckler and Mary Poli.

Saturday brought another great turnout, with three social games of triples played. Cisco, Barry Hewson and Ron Soper defeated Ron Smythe, George Nixon and Lachlan Grantz. In championship action, the Mixed Pairs produced several competitive matches. John Pirrone and Beryl Cornford defeated Sandra Stidston and Wayne Coonan; Lorraine Wolffe and Anthony Bull got past Raylene Hervey and Ron Smythe; and Deslie Olsen and Ron Soper beat Cisco and Katharina Stuckler. The B Grade Pairs Final was also played, with John Pirrone and Ron Smythe taking out a well-fought and entertaining game against Cisco and Barry Hewson. Members are encouraged to check the board for upcoming Mixed Pairs and Ladies Pairs matches.

For those interested in giving bowls a try, Friday Roll Ups are a great place to start. Held every Friday from 3:00 to 5:30pm, these sessions offer a relaxed environment for players of all levels. Whether you're looking to hone your skills, pick up some tips, or simply enjoy a drink with fellow club members, Friday afternoons on the green are the perfect way to kick off the weekend.

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Local

It was another strong weekend for the senior teams, with three wins and two losses. All five teams are expected to be in action again this weekend in Townsville.

On Friday night at International Park, the Division 1 Men went down 0–6 to Brothers, while the Division 2 Men lost 1–2 away to Rebels. The Ladies, playing at home to Warriors, delivered a dominant performance and won 7–0. On Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves travelled to face Rebels, with both teams returning victorious. The Premiers ground out a 1–0 win, while the Reserves secured a convincing 4–1 result.

This Friday, the Division 1 Men, Division 2 Men and the Ladies are all on the road. The Division 1 Men play Estates at 8:30pm, the Division 2 Men face Rebels at 6:30pm, and the Ladies also take on Rebels at 6:30pm. On Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves meet JCU Riverway away, with the Reserves kicking off at 5:30pm and the Premiers at 7:30pm.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Panthers were looking to bounce back after a disappointing loss the previous week, but standing in their way was a determined Rebels outfit that never makes it easy. From the opening whistle, it was a scrappy contest. The Panthers struggled to find their rhythm in attack, while Rebels created the better chances throughout much of the match. Defensive discipline proved critical, with the Panthers holding firm thanks to several desperate goal-line clearances and a sharp reflex save from keeper Jarrod Camer that kept the score locked at 0–0.

With the game hanging in the balance, a moment of class finally broke the deadlock. Kai Goodman delivered a perfectly weighted pass to Matt Kolb, who showed composure to calmly slot it past the Rebels keeper with just five minutes remaining. The final moments were tense, but the Panthers dug deep and held on for a hard-fought 1–0 victory. It wasn’t pretty, but after last week’s setback, the boys will take confidence from proving they can win ugly when it counts.

Reserves

The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves headed to Paradise Park to take on Rebels, desperate to end a run of three straight scoreless draws. From the outset, the Panthers dominated possession and created numerous chances, but the goal drought continued into halftime with the score still 0–0. The frustration was evident, yet Burdekin stayed patient and stuck to their game plan.

The breakthrough came when Kyle Taylor made a wide run and crossed to Cooper Kross, who headed home to open the scoring. That goal lifted the team's confidence. A pinpoint cross from Adam Mottin found Tarryn Smith, who finished well with his head to double the lead. Rebels responded with a goal from a corner and pushed hard for an equaliser, but Burdekin raised their efforts again. Kross beat his defender and squared it for Smith to score his second from close range, and Kross later added a fourth to give the Panthers a deserved 4–1 win.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Panthers suffered a heavy 6–0 defeat to Brothers after trailing 2–0 at halftime. The side missed a few good chances to get on the scoreboard and were punished late, with Brothers piling on four goals in the final fifteen minutes. Despite the result, Max Kelly and Caleb Formilan both put in strong performances.

Division 2 Men

The Funkies went down 1–2 to top-of-the-table Saints in what was a hard-fought and evenly contested clash between two top-four teams. Chris Achille gave Burdekin the lead just before halftime with a clever finish after stealing the ball out wide near the halfway line. The Funkies began to tire in the second half but managed to hold on until two long-range free kicks gave Saints the edge and the eventual 2–1 win.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies delivered a dominant display against Warriors. Zandi Bonanno opened the scoring in the fourth minute, setting the tone early. Ellyana Mugica followed in the 12th minute with a well-placed chip over the keeper, and in the 23rd minute, Sienna Lago broke through one-on-one, hit the post, and calmly finished the rebound after it deflected off the goalkeeper.

Lago added a second soon after, while Mugica notched her second just before halftime, giving Burdekin a commanding 5–0 lead at the break. Chayse Feeney scored in the 53rd minute, and in the final minute of the match, Lago completed her hat-trick with a coolly taken penalty after being brought down in another one-on-one. A dominant 7–0 win for Burdekin. Well done, ladies!

Juniors

Saturday’s junior matches were played in fine weather, with various Townsville clubs making the trip down. The quality of the games continues to improve each week. Kids who received Player of the Week awards proudly showed off their new ribbons. On Sunday and Monday, Burdekin hosted the North Queensland Schoolboy and Schoolgirl Trials. The standard was high, with teams from Townsville, the Whitsundays, Charters Towers and Herbert River all taking part.

Congratulations to all players for their teamwork and sportsmanship, and further congratulations to those selected in the final NQ teams. A big thank you goes out to all the volunteer referees—both youth and senior—who helped the two-day event run smoothly, along with everyone working behind the scenes to make it happen.

Masters

Monday night brought cooler weather but another solid turnout. A tight match saw Crystal Palace defeat Manchester City 2–0 in a replay of the FA Cup Final. Goals came from George Giorgos-Karagounis and Lee Kosta-Manolis. A reminder—Masters continue every Monday at 6:30pm. Be there.

National

In the A-League Men, the second leg of the semi-finals wrapped up over the weekend. Auckland lost 0–2 at home to Melbourne Victory, giving Victory a 2–1 win on aggregate. Meanwhile, Melbourne City drew 1–1 at home to Western United, cruising through with a 4–1 aggregate result. That sets up an all-Melbourne Grand Final this Saturday night.

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Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads have congratulated a few of their star players, Caitlin Holmes, Brooke Smith, Amanda Brown, Julea Farry, Nathan Steel, Dom Arrate, Tubby Heron, and Jack McIntosh for being selected to represent the Brolgas over two massive days on the green.

Over the weekend of the 17th and 18th of May, the crew did an exceptional job both on and off the field, playing with precision whilst displaying high levels of sportsmanship in each game.

“The club is incredibly proud of your dedication and hard work, and we know you would have given your all on the field,” shared the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

The club also extended another congratulated to esteemed coach, Rowland Holmes, for coaching the Under 14s girls team over the weekend, commending his skills once again.

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Julea Farry, Brooke Smith, Caitlin Holmes, and Amanda Brown did the Canetoads proud (Photo Supplied)
Brooke Smith going for possession (Photo Supplied)
Coach Rowland Holmes was commended for his skills (Photo Supplied)

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The highly anticipated Clash of Clubs event will return to the Burdekin Shire on the 3rd and 4th of October and locals are being urged to save the date for what promises to be a thrilling weekend of sporting action and community celebration.

Hosted by Burdekin Football Club, the event will once again bring together Senior, Masters and Ladies teams for a fierce but friendly competition, with bragging rights on the line across two full days of matches.

Back by popular demand is the fan-favourite Clash of Codes showdown, where athletes from different sporting backgrounds will put their skills to the test in a light-hearted clash like no other.

Described as a weekend of fun, laughter and action, the Clash of Clubs is more than just a football tournament, it’s a chance for the community to come together, rekindle old rivalries, make new friends, and enjoy a festival atmosphere filled with entertainment for the whole family.

Interested players who’d like to join a team or learn more are encouraged to get in touch by emailing the club at burdekinfc@hotmail.com.

Stay tuned for more updates, but for now, mark your calendars and get ready to Clash!

What: Clash of Clubs
When: 3rd and 4th of October
Where: International Park, Beach Road

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Clash of Clubs annually provides the community with plenty of action, excitement and competition (Photo Supplied)

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A couple of weeks ago, the Burdekin Touch Association (BTA) took time out to recognise a special group of people on and off the field - its players and officials who are past or present members of local emergency services.

“The contribution made to the Burdekin community by SES, Lifesavers, Police, Fire & Rescue, Paramedics and Marine Rescue members often goes unnoticed,” said BTA President, Michael Littlefield.

“We wanted to thank our Touch Football members who make our community a safer place to live.”

Among the most recognisable is Blue Murder, a team made up predominantly of local police officers. But their service spirit is spread far and wide—nearly every team in the competition features at least one player who currently serves, or has served, in an emergency role.

To say thanks, the Association treated emergency service representatives to a free sausage sizzle and a well-earned drink, as a small gesture of appreciation for the big role they play in the Burdekin every day.

Contributed with thanks to Amity Cornford.

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The BTA thanked the region's first responders with a sausage sizzle (Photo Credit: Amity Cornford)

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Home Hill Pickleball numbers continue to rise. Over the weekend, club members headed up to Townsville to participate in a Queensland Pickleball Tournament. While the opposition were consistent and quick at the net, all the players did some learning and had a great time. Debbie Tait came home with a silver medal in the mixed doubles and Hannah Casswell a silver in the open ladies’ doubles. The club is looking forward to hosting the Cane Country Cup, a mixed doubles team event on Sunday 8th June.

For those new to the sport of pickleball, it is a fun, fast moving, social and easy to play game. It is played with a light paddle and a whiffle ball on a small court. The point is started with an underarm serve. The club has paddles to borrow, and the first trail week is free. Pickleball is regularly played on Tuesday nights from 6.45 pm and Saturday mornings from 7.30 am. It is sometimes played on Thursday afternoons and Sunday afternoons as well. New players are welcome.

On Tuesdays the club will be starting a “Pickle Kids” program for kids aged 10 – 15 years. The club was recently successful in gaining a grant for through the Australian Sports Foundation and Hart Sport for extra equipment to support these sessions. The kids will learn skills through games and playing matches. It is an awesome, affordable option at just $35 for five weeks. Sessions will be from 6 – 6:45 under lights. Be sure to register your child by emailing homehilltennis@gmail.com.au as spaces are limited! We are also thankful to the Queensland Government for supporting this program to enable Queenslanders to participate in sport and recreation activities.

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On Tuesday's, the club will be starting a “Pickle Kids” program for kids aged 10 – 15 years. Photo supplied

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It’s been a big week at the Ayr Bowling Club, with two major highlights bringing excitement and energy to our local greens.

Thanks to a generous grant from the Community Gaming Benefit Fund, brand-new lighting was installed on the club’s green on Tuesday. The upgrade was made possible with the support of Ergon Energy and expertly carried out by the team at Coral Coast Electrical. These lights are set to enhance the club’s popular Wednesday Night Social Bowls and Friday Fun Nights, providing a brighter and more enjoyable environment for evening play.

Adding to the buzz, the club was proud to host the Country Pennants on Sunday, welcoming teams from Bowen, Wangaratta with the support of Home Hill) and Brandon for a fiercely contested day of bowls. Spectators were treated to a high standard of competition, with Ayr finishing in a strong second place. A standout performance came from Col Essex and his team, who won all three of their games on the day.

Congratulations to Brandon Bowls Club for taking home the trophy, and a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated volunteers who worked behind the scenes to ensure the event ran smoothly. Events like these simply wouldn’t be possible without their tireless support.

In Wednesday Men’s Social Bowls, the green was alive with friendly competition as two games of triples and a game of pairs were played. Taking out the honours on the day were Jeff, Joe Papale, Norm Bethel, and Mick McCloskey, who bowled consistently to secure the win. It was a great afternoon of camaraderie and quality bowls enjoyed by all.

Wednesday night social bowls had a good turnout of players as our new lights were turned on for the first games played under the new lights. There were some good bowls played in the rinks and the triples game. The winners of the rinks game were Ali Vasefi, Evelyn Wiltshere, David Burt and Sam Caltabiano. Lyn Cecil, Rob Jorgensen and Joe Grabbi won the triples game.

Saturday had another great afternoon at Ayr Bowling Club as some of our southern guests arrived for a game. There were two games of pairs and a triples played winners were Donna Soper and Anthony Bull def Lorraine Wolffe and Beryl Cornford.

In Championship action this week, the Men’s Championship Rinks final delivered a closely contested match featuring some outstanding bowls. The team of John Pirrone, Mario Milan, Wayne Coonan, and Barry Shepherd claimed victory with a 21–15 win over Cisco, Sam Caltabiano, Joe Grabbi, and Lew Stidston in a well-fought and entertaining game. Please see the board for the Mixed Pairs and the Ladies Pairs games coming up soon.

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.

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The Ayr Men's Pennants Team. Photo Supplied

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Trophy Night – Sponsored by Cignal

The club was buzzing with energy and camaraderie at Trophy Night, sponsored by Cignal. Bowlers and spectators alike enjoyed a fantastic evening of fun and competition.

Winners: Peter Micklan, Rhonda Martin, and Joe Yipnazar
Second Place: Ken Ferguson, Deon McIntosh, and Heather Jorgensen
Bradman's Prize: Braedyn, Clinton, Aiden, and Rhianna
Mark your calendars – the next Trophy Night is set for June 13.

Wednesday Bowls

A strong turnout made for an exciting midweek session featuring pairs and triples.

Pairs Winners: Colleen Olsen and Lyn Storrie defeated Joy Woods and Darelle Pearce
Triples Winners: Ann Newton, Vanda Ballao, and Helen Colling edged out Kaye Garner, Bev Garioch, and Margaret Chapman in a well-fought match.

Saturday Competitions

Two fiercely contested matches lit up the greens on Saturday.

David Defranciscis and David Harding narrowly defeated Peter Lejarraga and Doug Robins in a nail-biter that was decided by an extra end after the scores were tied at 21 ends.
In the B Grade Pairs Semi Final, Trevor Elton claimed victory over Doug Kiehne in another tight encounter.

Sunday Afternoon Social Bowls

Fourteen bowlers turned out for a relaxed but competitive afternoon of triples and fours.

Triples Winners: Henry Hazel, Glenn Woodford, and Alan Garioch beat Rob Jorgensen, Peter Henderson, and Jeff Taylor
Fours Winners: Gary Nosworthy, Leo Kenny, Joe Ypinazar, and Richard Mau defeated Margaret Chapman, Sandra Darwen, Vince Beitia, and Hugh Montgomery

Men’s Country Pennants – Held in Ayr

Brandon Bowls Club took top honours at the Men’s Country Pennants, finishing with three wins and earning first place.

Team 1: Jamie Woods, Jason Farry, David Harding, David Defranciscis
Team 2: Ken Ferguson, Ray Panecassio / Peter Lejarraga, Chris Pearce, Gary Pearce
Team 3: Ben Mills, Doug Robins, Kevin Collins, Peter Jorgensen

Ayr came in second with two wins. The next round of the Country Pennants will be hosted in Bowen on September 6.

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Local

Not a great weekend for the seniors — one draw, three losses, and one win by forfeit. All five teams are expected to be in action this weekend.

On Friday night at International Park, the Division 1 Men lost 0-2 to MA Olympic, while the Division 2 Men won by forfeit. The Ladies were away to Brothers, going down 0-4. On Sunday, the Premiers and Reserves travelled to MA Olympic, with the Premiers losing 1-2 and the Reserves drawing 0-0.

This Friday, the Division 1 Men and the Ladies are both at home. Division 1 face Brothers at 8.30, while the Ladies play Warriors at 6.30. The Division 2 Men are away to Saints Eagles Souths. On Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Panthers knew that the day after the races is always a tough one — especially against a side like MA Olympic. Burdekin started sluggishly and paid the price early, conceding two quick goals.

To their credit, the Panthers responded with some quality build-up play. Jay Leckenby sparked a promising move down the right, linking up nicely before threading a pass to Damien Casella, who calmly finished to close the gap before halftime.

Despite building momentum and creating chances, a string of injuries forced some reshuffling at the break. The Panthers controlled large stretches of the second half and pushed forward with intent, but the finishing touch was missing. Plenty of positives to take, but ultimately the boys went down 1-2.

Reserves

The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves were away to Olympic for a top-of-the-table clash. With their strongest line-up of the season, the Panthers were quietly confident despite facing an unbeaten opponent. The match was hard-fought, with both sides showing solid defence and creating goal-scoring chances. MA Olympic had a few good looks in the first half but couldn’t convert.

The second half began poorly, with Burdekin sloppy in possession. Once again, their effort and commitment were tested. In a carbon copy of recent games, the Burdekin defence stood firm and continually repelled Olympic’s attacks. In the final 20 minutes, the Panthers were the better side and had several chances to steal the win, but poor finishing or great goalkeeping kept the score 0-0. A third straight scoreless draw.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Division 1 Men took on MA Olympic on Friday night, going down 0-2 after trailing 0-1 at halftime. The Panthers created chances but it just wasn’t their night. Standout performances came from Seaton Ivory and Dom Woodford.

Division 2 Men

The Burdekin 2nd Division Funkies were scheduled to play Warriors at home on Friday night, but the Townsville club forfeited.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies travelled to Townsville on Friday night to take on Brothers, losing 0-4 — quite the contrast to their 16-0 win the week before!

Juniors

Teams from Under 8s and up made their first trip to Townsville on Saturday — a great experience, especially for kids playing away for the first time. The Under 5s to 7s played local matches and had an absolute ball.

Burdekin was represented by four teams at the SESFC carnival on Sunday, with all players giving it their all and having a great time. The combined Easts and Crusaders Under 8 team came away with four wins, including the Grand Final.

Saints Under 8s recorded one win, one draw, and one loss. The Under 11 boys had one win and two defeats. The Under 10/11 girls finished runners-up after two wins and a draw took them to the Grand Final. Fantastic work from all the players, coaches, managers, parents, and supporters.

Masters

Another solid turnout on Monday. In a tight match, Arsenal beat Manchester United 1-0, with Tobin Messi netting the winner. Monday night at 6.30 is the place to be — see you there. A reminder that the Mooney Cup will be played around the end of July.

National

In the A-League Men, the first leg of the semi-finals saw Auckland win 1-0 away to Melbourne Victory, and Melbourne City claim a 3-1 win away to Western United. The second legs will be played this weekend.

In the A-League Women’s Grand Final, Central Coast Mariners beat Melbourne Victory on penalties (5-4) after a 1-1 draw.

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The Burdekin Roosters will be back on the playing field this Saturday—and, more importantly, will play their first home game after opening the season with three games on the road.

It will be a big day at Rugby Park, with the Juniors also in action. Thirteen junior teams, along with Bowen, will take the field.

Games will kick off at 8.30am across four fields, finishing with the A Grade clash on Field One at 6.30pm.

The Roosters Old Boys Club will be at the Ayr Anzac Club from midday for a get-together before heading to Rugby Park to cheer on the current players.

The first senior match will start at 3.30pm, with the combined Burdekin/Herbert River women’s team—named Burdekin River—taking on the Western Lions.

The Lions have been top-notch for a few years, but the local girls showed in their first outing, with a win over Norths, that they could be a force once fully fit.

Players to watch for the Hens include Townsville centre Martina Monday, hooker Abby King, and five-eighth from Ingham, Paige Horvat. Blackhawks Under-19 players Tiana Krusjfeldt and Lily Mills are also in the squad.

At 5pm, the Reserves will meet the Lions, and coach Peter Horan will relish having a full crew to call upon. In matches so far, the Reggies have been close at halftime, with a lack of numbers telling in the second stanza.

Dylan Doak will lead a good young group around, with John Zaro and Llama Ghee prominent. Riley Easton had a big game against Norths and will again be looked to for impact.

Roosters A Grade coach Steve Lansley will be hoping PNG international Aiden Arisa is back from injury and that Blackhawks centre Logan Dickson is available to play.

The locals held Souths until near the end of their last match with good defence and clever attack. With halves Jye Olsen and Hayde Munro steering the team around, Olsen’s kicking game could prove decisive.

The Roosters have speed and youth—and that could be the difference. Terrence Mosby and Colby Thompson are two young forwards to keep an eye on.

Last weekend in RLTD fixtures:

Brothers got back on track with a 30–0 win over Centrals.
Norths beat Charters Towers 24–22.
In the top-of-the-table clash, Souths spoiled Ladies Day in Ingham with a 38–14 win over Herbert River.
Lions and the Roosters had byes.
Reserve Grade:

Brothers beat Centrals 20–18.
Norths and Towers drew 18–18.
Souths defeated River 36–4.
Bowen were too good for the Lions, winning 24–16.
Women's:

Centrals beat Brothers 24–4.
Towers overcame Norths 18–8.
The Lions dominated Bowen 64–0.

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Home Hill Cricket Club’s current and former juniors, Xavier Cross and Nate Elphinstone, proudly represented Queensland in the Century Cricket State of Origin Under-13 Series held in Brisbane over the April school holidays. The series brought together junior players from five regional teams: Victoria Metro, Victoria Country, New South Wales, Queensland, and the Allies – a combined side featuring players from Tasmania, South Australia, and Western Australia.

Despite the first day being rained out, Xavier and Nate made the most of the weather setback by experiencing indoor cricket for the first time – an exciting new challenge that sharpened their reflexes and team communication.

Over the following three days of fast-paced T20 cricket, the Queensland side had mixed results but showed strong character. They secured close wins against the Allies and Victoria Country but fell narrowly short in a thrilling 3-run loss to New South Wales. The boys wrapped up the tournament in the third-place playoff, where they faced the Allies again but couldn’t chase down a strong total.

In a series where wickets were scarce, both Xavier and Nate stood out with the ball. Each took key wickets for their side, applying pressure in crucial overs and showcasing strong bowling discipline and accuracy.

The tournament also provided a valuable opportunity for growth under the guidance of coach Hassan. With 18 years of experience representing the Maldivian National Team, and now active in Queensland Premier Cricket with Western Suburbs, Hassan brought a wealth of international experience and tactical knowledge.

A special highlight for the boys came when Josh Brown, former Brisbane Heat Big Bash League powerhouse, made a surprise visit to Marchant Park. Known for his big-hitting and explosive top-order performances, Brown watched a few overs live and then joined the team back at their accommodation for a Q&A session. His insights into professional preparation, mindset, and power-hitting were eagerly absorbed by the young cricketers.

Xavier and Nate did themselves, their club, and their region proud—competing hard, learning fast, and growing both as players and teammates. Their performances at this level show they’re ones to watch in Queensland cricket’s future.

Written by Brooke Cross

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Nate: Nate Elphinstone representing Queensland at the Century Cricket State of Origin Under-13 Series. Photo supplied
Xavier: Xavier Cross representing Queensland at the Century Cricket State of Origin Under-13 Series. Photo supplied

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After a busy weekend of events, the club returned to its regular routine, starting with Friday night bowls. Attendance was down slightly due to the long weekend, with ten players participating across one game of triples and one game of pairs.

In the triples, Margaret McLaughlan and Ray Panacassio defeated D. Sheehan and Ross McLaughlan. In the pairs, the team of Ben Mills, Lloyd Shepherd, and W. Newton proved too strong for A. Newton, L. Storrie, and Jamie Woods.

Saturday, 3 May – Pairs Championship

Saturday saw the continuation of the Pairs Championship, with Kevin Collins and Lloyd Shepherd facing off against Peter Jorgensen and Joe Yipnazar. The game was played in challenging conditions, with strong winds and rain forcing play to pause at times.

Jorgensen and Yipnazar started the stronger of the two sides, displaying impressive draw bowling that saw them take an early lead. Collins and Shepherd knew they had a fight on their hands and slowly worked their way back into the game. A rain delay midway through left the match hanging in the balance, but once play resumed, Collins and Shepherd managed to take control and secure their place in the final.

Sunday, 4 May – Pairs Championship

The championship resumed on Sunday with Jamie Wood and Peter Henderson coming up against Doug Robins and Peter Lejarraga. Played in fierce winds reaching 25 to 30 knots, it was always going to be a question of which pair could best adapt to the tough conditions.

Robins and Lejarraga rose to the challenge and dominated the match from early on. Wood and Henderson struggled to find their rhythm, and even when they managed to land positional bowls, luck wasn’t on their side. Robins and Lejarraga claimed a convincing win.

Sunday, 4 May – Social Bowls

Social bowls also went ahead on Sunday, despite the same difficult conditions. Two games of rinks and one game of pairs were played.

In the first rink match, J. Farry, B. Mills, G. Woodford, and D. Defrancisci defeated D. Sheehan, H. Hazel, M. McCloskey, and P. Jorgenson. The second rink saw C. Sexton, S. Darwin, G. Nosworthy, and R. Mau come out on top against M. Chapman, H. Collins, L. Shepherd, and J. Taylor. In the pairs match, K. Ferguson and A. Gairoch overcame N. Dickinson and D. Kiehne.

Midweek and Upcoming Events

Wednesday’s lawn bowls also went ahead in windy weather. Congratulations to Bev Garioch, Darelle Pearce, and Lyn Storrie, who defeated Kay Garner, Colleen Olsen, and Helen Collins.

Friday night saw more players return to the green. Margaret McLaughlan, Ken Ferguson, and Gary Pearce notched a win over D. McIntosh, Lyn Storrie, and Ray Panacassio. In another match, B. McIntosh, Dave Sheehan, and Jamie Woods proved too strong for Joy Woods, Ben Mills, Rob Jorgensen, and Ross McLaughlin.

Looking ahead, the club wishes good luck to those selected for the upcoming Country Pennants, to be held on 18 May at Ayr Bowls Club.

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Lloyd Shepherd, Kevin Collins. Photo supplied

Doug Robins, Peter Lejarraga. Photo supplied

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After a week off with away opens, junior golf was back on here in Ayr this Saturday morning. Overcast and cool, it was a perfect few hours on the course. May Monthly Medal. Our winners for the monthly medal for 9 holes was Kyle Wilkie, with a wonderful PB. For 6 holes it was Hunter Oar, who played some great shots today. And for 3 holes it was River Oar. Gross winners were Amaya Mahoney for 9 holes, Evelyn Mahoney for 6 holes, and Opie McKeough for 3 holes. Congratulations all.

Ayr Junior golf runs a 3, 6 or 9 hole competition every Saturday morning during school term. We also have coaching this year, once a month from a professional coach, Tara Jenkins, who travels down from Townsville. Please follow our Junior Golf Ayr Facebook page for more information, or enquire at the Ayr golf clubhouse.

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Synonymous with the Sugar Bowl are the Teaspoons.

The Teaspoons have been part of the Sugar Bowl since the 1980s, originally led by longtime captain David Woods. Today, the legacy continues with his son Josh, who rallies the team each year. They come together not just to play, but for mateship, camaraderie, and to support the club and the wider community. The Sugar Bowl simply wouldn’t be the same without their unwavering commitment.

The Woods family motto — “first to arrive, last to leave” — is lived out every year. Captain Josh even managed a 5 a.m. run to Cape Upstart to tow home his brother, handing off early morning duties to his son Deegan, who rose to the challenge.

Though some members, like Councillor Max, are no longer in playing shape, they still turn up to help, often manning the barbecue. Sunday tradition sees the team gather to cook pork for the evening meal — a highlight of the weekend.

Each year, the organisers award the Woods Team Spirit Trophy to the team that best embodies the spirit of the game. With their sharp 2025 shirts, steadfast club support, strong court presence, and unwavering sportsmanship, the Teaspoons earned it this year.

They averaged 22.5 games per session and held their usual place of honour a teaspoon tradition — a strong performance, especially compared to past runs at the Casswell B Grade Men's Trophy.

At the closing, President Joel Hanson and Josh Woods paid a tribute to all the volunteers in both clubs who contributed in any way to the running of the Sugar Bowl. “This is our main event of the year and without all the people helping out we could not run the event. All the people, especially the organisers, the workers who get the jobs done, the kitchen staff, and the cooks are just terrific. They are long hours.” The club and players are already looking forward to the 2026 Bowl.

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On Saturday, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club hosted their annual Presentation night for both the Junior and Senior members to celebrate and recognise achievements over the season.  The club had over 100 members, family, friends and sponsors attend to wrap up the 2024-25 Season. The Ayr SLSC junior committee would like to thank their additional sponsors for the donations for prizes and awards - Wassmuth Automotive, Radar Floors, Rocky Ponds Produce, Laser Electrical, Bob Gould's Fabrication, Astute Finance, Burdekin Swim School, Rob's Tree Solutions, Pontifex Farming and Julie's Pharmacy.

Ayr Surf Club Award Winners Announced

Junior Award Winners:

Age Champions - U6: Georgia Irvine & Micah Kemp, U7: Eliza Hayllor & Koby Flower, U8: Mackenzie Sartori & Jude Lawry, U9: Toby Hatherell, U10: Lola Gibson & Ryan Irvine, U11: Taylor Chapman, Lewis Bonato & Luca Lawry, U12: Alyssa Irvine, U13: Milla Chapman & Nate Giddy, U14: Briella Wassmuth & Zachary Dale.

The Bill Blakey Memorial Trophy for Junior Best Triers - Ryan Irvine & Quinn Pontifex.
Open Best Triers - Cole Pontifex & Emma Jones.

Burdekin Swim School Best Open Water Swimmers - Zachary Dale & Milla Chapman.
The Bevan & Treena List Perpetual Trophy for Open Ironman and Ironmaiden - Parker Bonato & Milla Chapman.

The Bennett Family Memorial Trophy for the Junior Champions - Angus Wicks & Lola Gibson.
Senior Champions - Nate Giddy & Milla Chapman.

The JR Benvenuti Memorial Trophy for the Most Improved Junior - Hoyt Pontifex.

The Roy & Bev Young Perpetual Trophy for the Most Improved Open - Jake Sartori.

The Robbie & Joyce Great Perpetual Trophy for Most Points at Carnivals - Taylor Chapman.

The Ken Steel Encouragement Award - Harrison Sartori. Additional encouragement awards went to Oscar Hayllor, Lane Hartwell, Lachlan Jones, Gabriel Hatherell, Torah Giddy, Audrey Rickards, Eva Rickards & Isabella Flower.

The Bob & Bev Andrews Perpetual Trophy for the Most Promising Junior - Lola Gibson.

Recognition of Long Service to Nippers - Parker Bonato.

The Jack Sartori Memorial Trophy for the Most Consistent All Rounder - Zachary Dale.

The Margaret Webber Memorial Trophy for The Junior Lifesaver of the Year - Briella Wassmuth.

Recognition was given to our junior members who went above and beyond in surf sports this season by acknowledging Isla and Milla Chapman who made the Queensland Country Team, where Milla won gold in the U13 Flags, bronze in U13 Sprints & silver in the U13 Beach Relay, the 13 members who made the2024-25 North Barrier Branch Youth State Team: Charlottte Dale, Taylor Chapman, Luca Lawry, Mia Wicks, Milla Chapman, Emma Jones, Emilee Wassmuth, Charlotte Lawry, Cole Pontifex, Briella Wassmuth, Zachary Dale, Isla Chapman & Bella Lawry (with 7 of these also attending the Australian Championships.

***Senior Awards:

Age Champion - U15: Isla Chapman, U17: Ryley Sartori, Female Masters Champion: Jan Hatherell, Male

Masters Champion: Jimmy Hayllor, Female Open Champion: Ryley Sartori, Male Open Champion (Mr & Mrs

Jack Vernon Memorial): Jimmy Hayllor.

The Don Johnson Memorial for Official of the Year - Stephanie Dale.

The Jim Great Memorial for Most Efficient Patrol Member - Bella Lawry.

Highest Patrolling Hours - Bella Lawry, Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Briella Wassmuth, Kristy Wassmuth,

John Moloney, Lisa Furnell, Tony Felesina, Terry Lund, Heather Scott, Jane Jones.

The Sam Johnson Memorial for Most Active Club Member - Kristy Wassmuth.

The June Galbraith Memorial Encouragement Award - Zachary Dale.

The Laurie 'Rags' Regattieri Memorial for Contribution to Surf Life Saving - Bella Lawry.

Contribution to Surf Rescue (donated by Furnell Family) - Kellie Lawry.

The Kevin (Keg) Helander Memorial for Club Member for Outstanding Services - John Moloney.

The Lifesaver of the Year (donated by the Chappell Family) - Kellie Lawry.

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Most Consistent All Rounder - Zachary Dale
U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year - Briella Wassmuth
Most Points at Carnivals - Taylor Chapman

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Local

It was a strong weekend for the seniors, with four wins and two draws from six matches, scoring 35 goals across the board. All five senior teams will be in action again this weekend.

On Friday night at International Park, the Ladies defeated Saints Eagles Souths 16-0, while the Division 1 Men thumped Warriors 11-0. In Townsville, the Division 2 Men beat JCU Riverway 2-1. On Saturday at home, the Premiers drew 1-1 with Warriors and the Reserves finished 0-0 against the same opponent. Then on Sunday, Division 2 faced JCU again in Townsville, securing a 5-0 victory.

This Friday, both Division 1 and Division 2 Men are at home. Division 2 kicks off at 6:30pm against Warriors, followed by Division 1 vs Olympic at 8:30pm. The Ladies are away to Brothers at 6:30pm. On Sunday, the Premiers and Reserves travel to Olympic for 6:00pm and 4:00pm kick-offs respectively.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers and Warriors played out a tense 1-1 draw on Saturday in a fierce, emotionally charged clash. Still riding high from their gritty performance against Brothers, the Panthers were up for the fight. The first half saw chances for both sides, but disciplined defence and sharp goalkeeping kept it scoreless.

Warriors struck early in the second half when Ethan Roberts latched onto a through ball and chipped the Burdekin keeper from 25 yards. The goal sparked the Panthers into gear. With their midfield pressing higher and forcing turnovers, Matthew Kolb found a breakthrough, weaving through defenders and firing home the equaliser. Both teams pushed for a winner, but the contest ended as a hard-earned draw — a fair result in a match full of grit and quality.

Reserves

The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves hosted Warriors on Saturday afternoon in a reshuffled lineup due to Premier League absences. They started slowly, but the backline held firm, allowing the Panthers to gain momentum as the game progressed. Leighton Gallagher was denied by a top-shelf save, and Oscar Licciardello hit the post. In the second half, Warriors pressed hard, but Burdekin’s resolve didn’t waver. The match remained scoreless, with both sides creating late chances. The point keeps the Panthers in second on the ladder.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Division 1 side produced a massive 11-0 win over Warriors after a modest 3-0 halftime lead. Once they found rhythm, the Panthers poured in the goals. Angus Innes and Lachlan Fry bagged hat-tricks, Brayden Card netted a double, and Charlie Shears, Max Kelly, and Seb Mio each added one.

Division 2 Men

The Burdekin Funkies had a dream weekend, earning their first points of the season with back-to-back wins. On Friday night, they edged out Riverway JCU 2-1 with goals from Chris Achille and Jake Lacey. On Sunday, they faced the same opponent again, this time cruising to a 5-0 win. Simon Scuderi netted a hat-trick, with James Dwyer and Heath Swindley also on the scoresheet. The Funkies face Warriors at home this Friday at 6:30pm.

Ladies

There was no stopping the Ayr Anzac Club Ladies on Friday night. They scored in the opening minute against Saints Eagles Souths and led 7-0 at halftime before piling on another nine goals to win 16-0. Kya Quagliata, Sienna Lago, Charlie Ruskin, and Zandi Bonanno each netted twice. Tahlia Lawson, Rhia Neilsen, Dayna Linton, and Sian Reardon added one apiece.

Juniors

Saturday saw great junior football action, with Warriors bringing teams from Under 8s up to play Burdekin sides. Brothers also visited, facing the Under 10/11 girls. The weather was perfect — overcast and cool — ideal for the kids. The quality of play in the 5–7 age group continues to impress, and the Burdekin girls looked sharp in their new kits.

This Saturday, all Under 8 and older Burdekin teams head to Townsville for their first away trip of the season. It’s a great opportunity to experience a new venue. Good luck and safe travels to all teams!

Masters

Another great turnout for Monday Masters, with Arsenal beating PSG 4-2 in a thrilling match. Even Leonardo Charlie-George found the net! We’re excited to welcome Nathaniel Ek, our first player from Belize, and to see the return of “Hippy Nige” from Côte d’Ivoire and Jaison from India. Monday nights at 6:30 — be there!

National & International

The Socceroos begin their 2026 World Cup Group C Qualifiers with a home match against Japan on 5 June, followed by an away clash with Saudi Arabia on 10 June. Australia must win at least one to secure automatic qualification.

The Matildas return to action on 30 May in Melbourne against Argentina, followed by a second friendly on 2 June in Canberra.

In A-League Men’s Elimination Finals, Western United edged Adelaide 3-2, and Melbourne Victory beat Western Sydney Wanderers 2-1. Semi-final first legs: Western United vs Melbourne City, and Victory vs Auckland.

In the A-League Women’s semi-finals, Central Coast defeated Melbourne City 1-0 to reach the Grand Final. They’ll face Melbourne Victory, who beat Adelaide 3-1. The Final will be played this Sunday.

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It was a tough outing for the Roosters in Townsville on Saturday, with Norths racing away to a 40–4 win in A Grade, thanks in no small part to a host of NRL and QRL talent.

The difference in resources was stark. Norths fielded seven Cowboys-contracted players and three from the Blackhawks system — a luxury the Roosters simply didn’t have. The Burdekin side was allocated one Cowboys player this year, but he remains sidelined for the season after being injured in last year’s City-Country clash. Of their two Blackhawks players, one is also out long-term with an ACL injury sustained against Souths.

Still, coach Steve Lansley wasn’t making excuses.

“It is what it is — the local boys are giving their best,” Lansley said.

Despite the lopsided result, the Roosters showed grit. They kept Norths scoreless for the opening 29 minutes before two costly mistakes led to three quick tries and an 18–0 halftime deficit.

“To the boys’ credit, they never gave up,” Lansley said. “The penalty count went against us, and we made a few errors that led to tries, but the effort was there.”

Colby Thompson had a strong performance at hooker, steering the side with maturity, while newcomer Terrence Mosby showed promise in his debut. Kicker Jye Olsen was effective in relieving pressure, and Terry Connors scored the Roosters’ lone try.

Around the Grounds – A Grade

Souths thumped Brothers 50–18
Charters Towers edged out Western Lions 20–16
Herbert River downed Centrals 34–12
Reserves Outgunned Despite Strong Start

The Reserve Grade Roosters also suffered a heavy loss, going down 36–10 to Norths after leading at halftime.

Coach Peter Horan’s side showed early promise, leading 10–8 at the break with tries from Riley Easton and Bokeem Reid, and a conversion from Dylan Doak. But the tide turned in the second half, with Norths bolstered by players dropping back from their stacked A Grade squad.

“Two of our players didn’t show up, and that didn’t help,” Horan said. “But I take my hat off to the youngsters — 11 of the 17 are still eligible for Under 20s.”

Llama Ghee was named players’ player for a strong debut, while Easton again impressed in the forwards. Solid contributions also came from John Zaro, Dylan Doak, and Niall Lee.

Reserve Grade Results

Western Lions 48 def. Charters Towers 6
Souths 44 def. Brothers 6
Centrals 64 def. Bowen 4
Herbert River had the bye
Burdekin River Women Off to a Winning Start

With both Burdekin and Herbert River short on numbers in the women’s competition, the two clubs combined to form Burdekin River — and the new side made a strong first impression.

After just one joint training session, the team took to the field on Saturday and ran out 26–14 winners, having led 26–0 before fatigue crept in during the final 15 minutes.

Coach Anita Hagarty was thrilled.

“It was a great effort first up, and things look promising,” she said.

Centre Martina Monday starred for Townsville, while five-eighth Paige Horvat was also impressive. Hagarty believes the team will only improve as combinations develop.

Try-scorers were Martina Monday, JP Morgan, Tiana, Tanley, Talisha Bulgarelli, and Teah Lee Monday. Tiana kicked a goal.

Women’s Results

Bowen forfeited to Centrals
Western Lions 40 def. Charters Towers 0
Brothers had the bye
Looking Ahead – This Week’s Fixtures

The Roosters have the week off, with byes in both A Grade and Reserves.

Upcoming matches:

Brothers host Centrals
Souths travel to Herbert River
Norths take on Charters Towers
Western Lions also have a bye

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If you’ve ever set foot in the Home Hill Bowls Club, chances are you’ve heard the name Bob Young.

Bob first joined the club in 1960, back when he was juggling life as a young father and the demands of a growing bakery business. Even then, his talent on the green was unmistakable. It didn’t take long before fellow members noticed his knack for the sport—and his drive to see the club thrive.

By 1979, Bob had been elected club president, stepping into the role with trademark energy. That year alone saw the bar floor carpeted and tiled, and for the first time in club history, pennant players were reimbursed for their lunch and green fees—a small gesture that meant a lot.

He wasn’t just a figure behind the scenes, though. Bob was also a fierce competitor. Over the years, he took out the B Grade Singles, Open Pairs, and Consistency Singles titles. He also played a key role in Home Hill’s Pioneer Cup wins in 1971 and 1976.

But it wasn’t all serious business. Locals still remember the rumble of his Ford Fairlane 500 echoing through the streets—a signal to his kids that dad was on his way home, or maybe just heading back to the club.

For Bob, bowls has always been about more than just the game. It’s about friendship, loyalty, and giving back. As a Rotarian and long-time club member, he poured energy into the Home Hill community, just as he did into his bakery and the sport he loves. His wife Elaine, a champion bowler in her own right, has always been a big part of that story—though Bob would prefer not to face her on the green.

Now, decades on, Bob’s passion has rubbed off on the next generation. His son Mick has recently taken up the game, inspired by a childhood spent at the club watching his parents’ tireless dedication.

Because in the Young family, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

Stormin’ Norman

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Reg Oats, Jim Oats, Harry Hartwell, and Bob Young won the pioneer cup for the second time in our club in 1971.

Local

Another long weekend with no senior fixtures. However, all five teams should be in action this weekend. On Friday night, the Ladies play at home against Saints Eagles Souths at 6:30, followed by the Men’s Division 1 match against Warriors at 8:30. On Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Warriors, with the Reserves kicking off at 5:00 and the Premier at 7:00. The Division 2 men are away to JCU Riverway at 6:30 on Friday.

This is Pink Panthers Female Football Week, with a variety of events culminating on Friday, including a Junior Girls Exhibition match, face painting, and fairy floss, immediately before the Ladies' fixture against SES.

Juniors

No junior games were played over the long weekend due to the FQ Academy Carnival in Mackay. Fixtures will resume this Saturday. Let’s hope for a clear run now for the year! A massive thanks to everyone involved locally and in Townsville for scheduling draws and games across our multiple age groups and venues—an absolute mammoth task.

Masters

Another decent turnout on Monday night at 6:30. See you there.

National and International

There’s barely a month left until the Socceroos play their first of two 2026 World Cup Qualifying Group C matches. They will be at home to Japan on June 5, then travel to Saudi Arabia on June 10. Australia must win one of these games to be sure of direct qualification. Japan leads the group, and Saudi Arabia is in third place.

The Matildas will be back in action in three weeks, with two friendlies against Argentina. The first is on May 30 in Melbourne, followed by the second on June 2 in Canberra.

In the A-League Men, fixtures were completed over the weekend. Auckland lost 2-4 away to Western Utd but had already won the minor premiership. Melbourne City thrashed Sydney FC 5-1 to secure second place, with Western Utd in third, just one point behind. Western Sydney finished fourth after winning 3-1 away to Macarthur. Victory finished fifth, and Adelaide came sixth. The Finals series starts this weekend with the Elimination Finals: Western Utd at home to Adelaide on Friday, and Western Sydney hosting Melbourne Victory on Saturday.

In the A-League Women, the Finals series has begun, with the first leg of the semi-finals played over the weekend. Melbourne City and Central Coast drew 2-2, while Melbourne Victory won 3-1 away to Adelaide. It’s looking like an all-Melbourne Grand Final at this stage. The second leg of the semis will be played this weekend.

In England’s EPL, with just three rounds to play, champions Liverpool somehow lost 3-1 away to Chelsea. However, Arsenal also lost 1-2 at home to Bournemouth, so Liverpool remains 15 points ahead of the Gunners. Manchester City moved up to third after Newcastle could only draw away to Brighton. Chelsea remains in fifth, level on points with Newcastle.

In the Bundesliga, with two rounds left, the top four teams all drew. Bayern are now champions, eight points clear of Leverkusen, last year’s champions. Frankfurt stays in third, a further 12 points adrift, while fourth-placed Freiburg is four points behind. Bochum and Kiel are already relegated, with Heidenheim looking most likely to join them.

In Serie A, both Napoli and Inter won. With three rounds left, third-placed Atalanta is six points behind. Juventus remain in fourth, despite a 1-1 draw away to Bologna, now five points adrift of Atalanta. Monza’s relegation is certain, and two of Empoli, Venezia, or Lecce could join them.

In La Liga, with four rounds left, Barcelona and Real Madrid both won. Barca stays top, four points clear of Real, with third-placed Atletico a further eight points behind. Bilbao is six points behind Atletico in fourth. Valladolid is certain to be relegated, and Leganes, Las Palmas, Girona, and Alaves are in danger.

In Ligue 1, with two rounds left, PSG lost again, but it matters little as they are already champions, 19 points ahead of Marseille, who drew and is now one point ahead of Monaco. Nice won and is now fourth, just one point behind Monaco. At the foot of the table, Montpellier is already relegated, and St Etienne looks likely to join them. Le Havre, Angers, and Nantes are also in danger.

The European Champions League semi-finals, second leg, will be played this week. Barcelona is away to Inter after drawing 3-3 at home, and Arsenal is away to PSG after losing the home leg 0-1. It’s looking like an Inter vs PSG Final.

Quote of the Week: Former Manchester Utd Manager Ron Atkinson, on Steve Coppell, who had retired due to injury: "With his enthusiasm, I like to think he would stay in the game, although he is an intelligent lad."

Masters

Monday Night Masters had a better-than-expected turnout on Easter Monday. In a very tight game, Liverpool and Spurs drew 1-1. Daniel Ziliotto put Liverpool in front, but Len Duquemin equalised for Tottenham in the second half. Everyone is welcome to the Masters on Monday nights at 6:30, International Park. Be there!

National and International

Not much happening on the international front with the Socceroos and Matildas on a break. The Socceroos have just two games left in the 2026 World Cup Qualifying Group C: at home to Japan on June 5 and away to Saudi Arabia on June 10. Australia must win one of these games to be sure of direct qualification. Japan leads the group, and Saudi Arabia is in third place.

The Matildas won’t be back in action until the end of May. They have two friendlies against Argentina, the first on May 30 in Melbourne, and the second on June 2 in Canberra. Mary Fowler, one of the Matildas’ stars, has suffered a serious ACL injury and could be sidelined for some time. Hopefully, the Matildas will have appointed a new coach soon!

In the A-League Men, Auckland won 1-0 at home to Perth, securing the Minor Premiership. A fantastic performance in their first year in the competition. Melbourne City drew at home to Adelaide and stayed in second place, while Western Utd beat Sydney FC to move into third. Western Sydney won away to Newcastle, staying in fourth, and Brisbane won again! They beat Wellington 1-0 and are now safely in twelfth place. Perth will finish bottom of the table.

In the A-League Women, it’s the Finals series, and the Elimination Finals were played over the weekend. Adelaide beat Western Utd 1-0, and Central Coast beat Canberra...

In the EPL, with four games to go, Liverpool are champions after thrashing Spurs 5-1. The Scousers are 15 points clear of Arsenal, with third-placed Newcastle a further five points away. Manchester City is still fourth, although they beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 in the FA Cup semi-final. In the other semi-final, Crystal Palace thumped Aston Villa 3-0. Ipswich, Leicester, and Southampton have all been relegated.

In the Bundesliga, with three rounds left, the top four teams all won. Leaders Bayern now need just one point to become champions again, eight points clear of Leverkusen. Eintracht remains in third place, a further 12 points adrift, and Freiburg stays in fourth, two points behind. Bochum and Kiel are already relegated, and Heidenheim looks most likely to join them.

In Serie A, Napoli won, and with Inter losing, Napoli now have a three-point lead with four rounds left. Atalanta remains in third place, six points behind, and Juventus are fourth, just a point behind. Monza’s relegation is certain, and Empoli, Venezia, Lecce, Cagliari, and possibly Parma could join them.

In La Liga, with five rounds to go, Barcelona stays top after defeating Real Madrid 3-2, giving them a four-point lead. Atletico remains third, six points behind, with Bilbao fourth, another six points back. Valladolid is certain to be relegated, and Leganes, Las Palmas, Girona, and Alaves are in danger.

In Ligue 1, with three rounds left, PSG lost 1-3 at home to Nice, their first loss of the season. This cuts their lead to just 20 points over second-placed Marseille, with Lille in third and Monaco dropping to fourth. Montpellier is doomed, and St Etienne, Le Havre, Angers, and Nantes are all in danger.

Quote of the Week: Then Northern Ireland Manager Billy Bingham: "The proof of the pudding is when you get down to the nitty-gritty."

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Last weekend, the Foley Shield was contested in Townsville between the host city, Mackay, and Cairns, in both men’s and women’s matches. On Saturday, Townsville beat Cairns 40-16 in the men’s match and 48-14 in the women’s, with Burdekin’s Martina Monday scoring two tries. On Sunday, Mackay defeated Cairns 58-6 but lost to Townsville 40-0 in the women’s. Townsville completed a clean sweep on Monday, beating Mackay 40-10 in the men’s and 50-4 in the women’s, with Martina scoring again.

The RLTD fixtures will resume this weekend after the May break, with Townsville’s successful performance in the Foley Shield in both men’s and women’s competitions. Townsville defeated Cairns 40-16 in the men’s and Mackay 40-10. In the women’s, they beat Cairns 48-14 and Mackay 50-4, with Martina Monday continuing to stand out for Burdekin.

The Roosters will travel to Peggy Banfield Park at Bushland Beach on Saturday afternoon to face Norths in A and Reserve grade, and possibly the ladies' fixture.

Coach Steve Lansley has lost another player for the season, with English Blackhawk forward Alfie Mather joining Jayden Sgarbossa on the sidelines due to an ACL injury. The coach also mentioned that Hayde Munro may not be available this week due to a hamstring injury, but Terence Mosby and Josh Hunt will return to play.

Norths are expected to feature some young Cowboys players, making them a tough opponent. They’ve only played one fixture this season, a loss to Herbert River in Ingham a fortnight ago.

Locals will rely on the experience of PNG international Aiden Arisa to lead the forwards, while they aim to get the ball to speedster Jesse Yallop to make an impact in the backs. The game is set to start at 4:30 PM.

Reserve grade coach Peter Horan is aiming for a full squad for this match. Last time out, his team led Brothers at halftime but was eventually run over due to injuries. The same thing happened against Souths, and Peter believes a lack of numbers for the entire game is hurting his team. Norths, who were beaten by the River in their last match in Ingham, are expected to have a full squad at home. That match will kick off at 3:00 PM. Should the Hens play, their match will be at 1:30 PM.

Other matches this weekend include Souths meeting Brothers in the match of the round on Sunday, Charters Towers hosting Western Lions, and Centrals facing Herbert River in A grade, with Bowen also traveling to the Tigers.

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The Home Hill Community Sports Club, in partnership with the Department of Sport & Recreation, is launching a new Barefoot Bowls program aimed at boosting female participation in lawn bowls. The weekly event invites women of all ages to enjoy the game in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Running every Wednesday evening from April 23 to May 28, 2025, the program will be held at the Home Hill Community Sports Club. Registration is open before 6pm each week.

The night kicks off with a free sausage sizzle at 6:30pm, followed by bowls at 7pm under the stars on the locally renowned Rumney Green. With music playing and the barefoot format removing the need for any special gear, it’s a perfect way to try the sport for the first time or return to it in a social setting.

The initiative is part of a broader push to make lawn bowls more accessible and inclusive. Whether you're a seasoned player or brand new to the game, all women are welcome to come down, have a roll, and enjoy a night of friendly competition and community spirit.

For more information, or to register, please contact 0468 313 115.

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It’s been another fantastic week at Ayr Bowling Club, filled with fun and fierce competition! The greens have been alive with energy as members participated in both social games and championship matches. With the championship season in full swing, the talent and sportsmanship on display have been outstanding.

Wednesday’s social bowls featured two games of triples and one rink match. The winners were B Young, J Pirrone, J Papale, and B Shepherd, who defeated R Aplin, G Braid, D Poli, and M Power.

Wednesday night’s social bowls saw two games of triples. The first game was won by Bertilla Piazetta, Margaret McLaughlin, and Joe Grabbi. The second game was claimed by Tricia Achille, David Burt, and Sam Caltabiano.

Saturday’s social bowls, sponsored by the Mahjong ladies, included three games of triples. The winners were Donna Soper, John Pirrone, and Anthony Bull. Second place went to Ron Smythe, Ray Wall, and Wayne Coonan. On Saturday, May 10, we’ll celebrate George Nixon’s 90th birthday, sponsored by George himself. Members are invited to bring a plate to mark this special occasion.

In championship play this week, the men’s A Singles match was a close contest, with Lew Stidston defeating Anthony Bull 25-19. In the rink game, J Pirrone, M Milan, W Coonan, and Barry Shepherd won in a nail-biting finish against B Hewson, R Soper, A Bull, and M Power. Winners will progress to the next round.

If you’re interested in trying out bowls, join us for Friday Roll Ups every Friday afternoon from 3:00 - 5:30 PM. Whether you want to improve your skills, get some friendly training tips, or simply relax with a drink, these casual roll-ups are a great way to start the weekend.

You’re also welcome to join us for Friday Fun Nights! The next one will be on Friday, May 9, starting at 6 PM. This evening is open to bowlers of all levels, so feel free to bring friends or come solo to meet new people. The entry fee is $10 per game, which includes a sausage sizzle at 6 PM and a light supper after bowling begins at 7 PM. Grab some friends and enjoy a night of fun and laughter!

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Nicholas Tremaine, cycling across Australia for his Distance 4 Dementia initiative, recently visited the Burdekin region, stopping in Home Hill after a 119-day journey. Motivated by the impact dementia had on his mother, Nicholas aims to raise awareness and funds for the disease.

On his way through the Burdekin, he shared his story with the Home Hill / Ayr Lions Club, receiving heartfelt support. His mission, covering 40,075 km by 2025, is dedicated to advocating for better care and a cure for dementia, a condition that is affecting an increasing number of Australians.

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Nicholas Tremaine is cycling across Australia for the Distance 4 Dementia initiative. Photo supplied

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Brandon Bowls Club marked ANZAC Day on 25 April with a moving minute’s silence before 46 bowlers from Bowen, Alligator Creek, Home Hill, and Suburban Bowls Clubs took to the green, enjoying a day sponsored by RLA Finance. The event was filled with laughter and camaraderie.

The day’s winners were Ross McLaughlin, Andy Cap, and Mitch Wright, with Yogi Bare, Neville Dickinson, and David Harding taking second, and Henry Hazel, Lyn Storrie, and Joe Yipnazar finishing third. Thanks go to Hugh Montgomery for organising the sponsorship and the kitchen ladies for the excellent afternoon smoko.

The weekend continued with the Brandon Fours tournament, sponsored by Burdekin Skips, featuring 16 teams from across the region. After a strong performance on Saturday, Ben Cribben’s Jubilee team finished the tournament with a perfect five wins, claiming the Brandon Fours title. Brandon Bowls extends its thanks to all the sponsors and volunteers for their support.

Contributed with thanks to Llyod Shepherd, Brandon Bowls.

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Hugh Montgomery ( sponsor rep ) Ross McLaughlin Andy Cap Mitch Wright and President Jamie Woods
Hugh Montgomery ( Sponsor Rep ) Lyn Storrie Joe Yipnazar Jamie Woods.    ( President )

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It’s been a fantastic week of fun and fierce competition at Ayr Bowling Club! The greens have been buzzing with energy as members threw themselves into both social games and championship matches. With the championship season in full swing, the talent and sportsmanship on display have been nothing short of impressive.

Social Ladies’ bowls continued Tuesday with a good turn up, giving us two rinks’ games. Winners were Meryl Smith, Karen Page, Heather Jorgensen and Irene Wilson defeating Merle Nixon, Rayleen Hervey, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power. Runners up were Donna Soper, Linda Giumelli, Ron Soper and Dot Cutting defeating Karen Shepherd, Katarina Stuckler, Sandra Stidston and Mary Poli.

Ayr Bowling Club celebrated a special day on Friday, 25th April, hosting a memorable bowls afternoon in honour of Anzac Day. The turnout was fantastic, with every rink in use, showcasing six games of triples and one game of pairs. The afternoon began with a moving minute’s silence to pay tribute to the brave service men and women who gave their lives for our country. It was a wonderful day of camaraderie and competition, with the winners being Lorraine Wolffe, Marion Nicholson, and Wendy Jones. Runners-up on the day were Kate Leverton, Linda Scells, and Wayne Coonan.

In Championship games this week, the Men had two games of the A Singles. In a very tightly contested game, Lew Stidston defeated Maurie Power 25 – 23. In the other game, also a cliffhanger, Barry Shepherd defeated Wayne Coonan 25 – 24. Both Lew and Barry now progressed to the next round of the A Singles.

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.

You are also very welcome to come and play in our Friday Fun Nights. The next one will be on Friday 9th May, starting at 6 PM. This evening promises fun for bowlers of all levels, encouraging participants to bring friends or join solo to meet new people. The entry fee is $10 per game, which includes a sausage sizzle at 6 PM and a light supper after bowling begins at 7 PM. Get some friends together and come and have an evening of fun and laughter.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull, Ayr Bowling Club.

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Anzac Day Winners
Anzac Day Winners
Anzac Day Runners Up

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Saturday th 3rd of May  1.00am to 5.00pm ( Patrol Group A ) Chris Wicks, Damien Rickets, Emma Rickets, Jane Wicks.

Sunday th  4th  of May  9,00am to 5.00pm ( All Da y Patrol Group F ) Lisa Furnell, Jen Morgan, John Furnell, Jo Morgan, Lauren Chapman, Isla Chapman, Ryley Sartori, Jake Sartori, Kat Sartori, Dave Sartori.

Monday 5 th  May  9.00am to 5.00pm (  Labour Day Patrol Group G ) Carl list, Jimmy Hayllor, James kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Rickards Jedd Giddy.

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As the sun rose over the famous cane fields of the Burdekin on Sunday morning, competitors and spectators alike gathered in Anzac Park for the highly anticipated 2025 Burdekin Sugar Rush.

The morning was kicked off with the Wilmar Half Marathon at 6:30am, with runners setting out on a newly revamped course that highlighted the region’s iconic cane paddocks and scenic rural roads.

The Half Marathon was the first of four races that made up the day’s packed schedule, drawing in athletes and running clubs from across North Queensland eager to make their mark in the opening event of the ANQ Series.

Almost 300 Runners Participate In Annual Sugar Rush!

The vibes were certainly high at Anzac Park, with music blaring and the MC keeping the energy high as a record-high 281 participants battled it out on-track.

Spectators lined the course in support of the athletes as they made their way through the Burdekin’s picturesque landscape, with each racer greeted at the finish line by an uproar of applause and a well-deserved barbecue breakfast.

The morning was capped off with an awards ceremony, with victorious contestants winning cash prizes, while lucky draw winners walked away with a range of spot prizes, including getaways and vouchers worth up to $200.

Race results—my.raceresult.com:

Wilmar Half Marathon—Mens:
1st—Damien Messmer
2nd—Luke Chamley
3rd—Kienan Blanco

Wilmar Half Marathon—Womens:
1st—Saskia Jurriaans
2nd—Aimee Sulzberger
3rd—Vanessa Kennedy

Sunwater 10km—Mens
1st—Brendan Maltby
2nd—Shay Jones
3rd—Jayden Jones

Sunwater 10km—Womens
1st—Casey Chalmers
2nd—Amaya Castrejana
3rd—Anwen Mackay

FiP 5km—Mens
1st—Nicholas Dixon-Grover
2nd—Liam Collings
3rd—Jesse Gillepa

FiP 5km—Womens
1st—Skye Claussen
2nd—Georgia Toohey
3rd—Naomi Jones

NIS Junior—Mens
1st—Joshua Kwa
2nd—Angus Bamber
3rd—Cameron Dobbins

NIS Junior—Womens
1st—Mia Brunker
2nd—Liz Brunker
3rd—Alexis Howell

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Local

Senior fixtures resumed last weekend, and the Panthers had three home games and one away game.

On Friday, the Division 1 Men were at home to Wulguru and lost 1-3. The Division 2 Men’s team was away to Estates at Paradise Park and lost 0-4. Then on Saturday at International Park the Reserves drew 0-0 with Brothers and the Premiers came from behind to beat Brothers 3-2. The Ladies game against Wulguru was postponed at Wulguru’s behest.

Panthers have no fixtures this weekend, blame Labour Day.

Juniors

On Saturday the Juniors got back underway under sunny skies, with Brothers and Warriors from Townsville travelling down to play our teams. It looked like the kids were excited and happy to be back playing! Let’s hope for a clear run now for the year! A massive thanks to everyone involved both locally and in Townsville to schedule draws and games across our multiple age groups and venues, an absolute mammoth task.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers were glad to finally be back at home after a few weeks off with weather and holidays. The game started evenly, with both teams sticking to their strengths. Brothers struck first with a header from a free kick in the 20th minute and doubled their lead 10 minutes later. The Panthers clawed one back through Elliot Dal Santo, finishing a corner with a sharp volley.

Five minutes after halftime, Oliver Gabiola won a high ball and found Jay Leckenby, who slipped Matthew Kolb in to make it 2-2. The momentum swung again when Ryan Taylor was sent off for a second yellow card and not long after that Elliott was also shown red, leaving the Panthers with just nine men. Brothers also had a man sent off but kept the pressure on.

The Panthers adjusted the gameplan and kept pushing. With five minutes left, Oliver Gabiola whipped in a perfect cross, Jay Leckenby’s header hit the post, but Ryan Scodellaro was there to bury the rebound and give the lads a 3-2 lead. Brothers threw everything at the Burdekin goal but after a tense stretch of added time, the Panthers held on for a gutsy win.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves got the season back underway hosting Brothers on Saturday afternoon with a capable side on paper, but lacking game time due to the prolonged wet season. The team started slowly against a Brothers side showing good ball control and passing and were creating opportunities. Despite the low intensity and lack of possession the Panthers scrapped to stay in the contest and kept Brothers from scoring. As the game progressed the Panthers were able to gain some control, and Brothers missed some good chances to score. The second half was a much better showing and as the game progressed the Panthers were able to create some chances and were unlucky not to take the lead. They showed a gritty commitment, and the defence was resolute and just kept stopping Brothers attacks. The result could have gone either way, but the draw was a valuable point. On a day that the club paid its respects to the passing of Life Member, Ramon Oar, the Reserves team performance showed a calibre of effort and endeavour that Ramon would have cherished.

Division I Men

The Austral Masonry Division 1 met Wulguru on Friday night. In a fairly even game, Wulguru took the lead in the thirty fifth minute. However, the Panthers were back on equal terms four minutes later with a goal from Brayden Card to make the score at half time 1-1. The second half was fairly tight until Wulguru regained the lead after seventy three minutes and twelve minutes later, they scored again to effectively put the game to bed. After a long break this was quite a good performance by the Panthers and the final score flattered the opposition.

International

England and the EPL with four games to go, Liverpool are Champions after marmelising Spurs 5-1. The Scousers are fifteen points clear of Arsenal with third placed Newcastle a further five points away. Manchester City are still fourth although they were beating Nottingham Forest 2-0 in the FA Cup semi-final. In the other semi-final Crystal Place thumped Aston Villa 3-0. Ipswich, Leicester and Southampton have all been relegated.

The Quote of the Week is from then Northern Ireland Manager Billy Bingham “The proof of the pudding is when you get down to the nitty-gritty.”

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With the 2025 Sugar Bowl—Queensland’s premier regional tennis event—just around the corner, excitement is building both on and off the court. For locals, the tournament represents more than just a competition: it’s a celebration of community pride, connection, and resilience.

“It gives something to the people in our town, in our district, and it brings them together through physical, social and emotional activity,” says Home Hill Tennis Association (HHTA) Secretary, Kate Casswell.

The HHTA, founded in 1932, has seen many generations of families pass through its doors, each adding their own chapter to the rich history of the Sugar Bowl.

The Casswell family is a prime example, with multiple generations involved over the years. Col Casswell, who passed away in 2021, was deeply passionate about the Sugar Bowl, a love he passed down to his children.

Today, each of Col’s kids has their own team, and Col’s Crew—now captained by former local Brett Wheeler—is proudly one of the 42 teams competing in this year's Bowl. There are 16 captains that hail from Burdekin and feature iconic local names like Woods, Hanson, Davies and Vidler just to name a few.

Kate says it’s her way of giving back, “I volunteer my time here for the community, because we’re such a small, regional town that we don’t have all the facilities and services that you’d have in the city.”

The Sugar Bowl was created in 1981 by Pat and Lex Anderson and was launched to celebrate the HHTA’s 50th anniversary. Now in its 44th edition, the Sugar Bowl has since become a symbol of both sporting excellence and the unwavering spirit of a small regional town. Sadly, Pat passed away in January, so we dedicate the 44th edition to her.

"Her granddaughters Lisa and Janae are making a come back this year and I can just feel Lex and Pat’s pride in seeing them play and that the event is still going strong," said Casswell.

But, as well as locals, the Sugar Bowl has long drawn in participants from all corners of Queensland—and even further afield—with some in it to win it, while others relish a chance to catch up with family and friends in the community.

“We have lots of teams that have friends and family here, and so they use this as a great reason to come back and visit their family and friends,” says Kate.

The event is back in town this weekend from 8 am and will see 42 teams go head-to-head to win it all. The rules have been relaxed over the years to allow the over 55s to take to the court for just one session and for those with work or other commitments to play a couple of sessions.

As well as hundreds of participants, this year’s Sugar Bowl is set to bring locals and visitors together once again, reinforcing its role as a highlight of the region’s sporting and social calendar.

There is a special bonus this year, with the official opening of the upgraded amenities on Saturday at 7.45 am.

On Sunday evening from 5-10 pm there will be live music, pig on the spit as well as the raffle being drawn. The committee is hopeful that the whole community will get down to the club to enjoy the weekend.

What: 2025 Sugar Bowl (Tennis)
When: 3rd-5th of May
Where: Home Hill Tennis Association

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The Senior members of the Ayr Surf Club headed to Alva Beach on ANZAC Day to culminate their competition season. Although numbers were down on previous years, it was good to see some strong competition between Club mates in all disciplines, and a good afternoon of friendly racing.

The seniors will join the juniors on Saturday 10th May at the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club's Annual Presentation Night to recognise their achievements over the 2024-25 Season. Celebrations will commence at the Ayr SLSC Clubhouse from 5pm with the Junior awards, followed by a Club dinner and then Senior awards.  Tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for children (kids under 6 free).  If you are interested in attending please contact Kellie Lawry, admin on ayrslsc@gmail.com or visit the Ayr Surf Club's Facebook page.

This long weekend (Monday 5th May) also brings about the end of the patrolling season at Alva Beach. The red & yellow volunteers of the Ayr Surf Club will be back on duty in September. Although patrols are ending, the start of the new 2025-26 Nipper Season is only a few months away. More details with dates and times will be confirmed shortly. So if you're interested in getting involved with the Ayr Surf Club please don't hesitate to contact us.

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Home Hill State High School enjoyed good weather for its cross country carnival on Monday, April 28, 2025, with a challenging course winding through the school’s surrounding farmland.

Students tackled a range of terrains around the school, testing their endurance and spirit across grass, dirt tracks, and rugged paddocks. The event brought together competitors from across the school’s houses — Upstart, Inkerman, and Beachmount — all vying for age champion honours and a spot on the school’s representative team.

In the Open division, Sonny O’Rourke (Upstart) and Mary Hinde (Inkerman) took out the top honours for the boys and girls respectively. The 16 years age group saw Rowen Peterson (Upstart) and Indianna Macdonald (Beachmount) finish first.

Luke Potter-Geitz (Upstart) and Jemma Olditch (Inkerman) led the 15 years division, while Allow Brown (Inkerman) and Ashley Oats (Beachmount) were victorious among the 14-year-olds.

The 13 years titles went to Alex Cullen (Inkerman) and McKenna Trail (Upstart), while in the 12 years division, Braxton Bowen and Chloe Oats, both from Beachmount, claimed the wins.

The school congratulated all students for their participation, sportsmanship, and house spirit, with staff praising the competitive but friendly atmosphere throughout the day.

Winners from each age group will now represent Home Hill State High School at the Burdekin State School trials, to be held on May 12 at the same Home Hill course.

At last year’s BSS trials, HHSHS had four students qualify for the Burdekin team to compete at the North Queensland trials, and with a strong group of runners this year, Home Hill looks well positioned for another big result at district level.

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Captain Cruz Torkington and Captian Blaze Palmer

Age Champion Open Boy Sonny O'Rourke

Age Champion Open Girl Mary Hinde

Old Friends

At 101, Carl is a living testament to the power of longevity in sport. He continues to bowl alongside his long-time mate, Bob, proving that age is no barrier to staying active. With years of experience on the green at Home Hill Bowls, Carl’s passion for the game, coupled with Bob’s ongoing involvement, shows how sport can remain a rewarding part of life, no matter your age.

Mid-Week Bowls

Mid-week bowls at Home Hill offer a great opportunity for everyone to enjoy the game in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Come down, have some fun, and join in on the action!

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Three Sporting Events, One Cane-Triffic Weekend!

This weekend, the Burdekin is the place to be with three exciting sporting events that promise to bring energy, competition, and plenty of fun for all! Lace up your shoes and hit the starting line at the Burdekin Sugar Rush, kick off your tennis skills at the 44th Annual Sugar Bowl, or grab your cricket bat and join the Canefield Ashes carnival for an action-packed two days of T20 cricket. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to have a good time, there’s something for everyone. The Burdekin will be buzzing with visitors, bringing an economic boost to local businesses and a vibrant atmosphere to the region. Don’t miss out on the action—get ready for an unforgettable weekend of community spirit, sportsmanship, and family fun!

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Get ready for an action-packed weekend in the Burdekin! The Burdekin Sugar Rush, Sugar Bowl tennis tournament, and Canefield Ashes cricket carnival promise excitement, competition, and community spirit for all!

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Local

Senior fixtures resume this weekend after a very long hiatus. The Panthers have four home games and one away game over the weekend of 24 -26 April. On Friday, the Ladies are at home to Wulguru at 6.30 and the Division 1 Men play Wulguru at 8.30. The Division 2 Men’s team is away to Estates at 6.30 at Paradise Park. Then on Saturday the Panthers have two home games against Brothers with the Premiers playing at 7.00 after the Reserves have played at 5.00.

Juniors

Juniors are finally back under way this Saturday! There will be local fixtures between Under 5 to 7 teams, Brothers club from Townsville is travelling down to play Under 8 to 12 teams, and Under 13s and 14s playing Townsville teams at home or in Townsville. All the kids cannot wait to get back into it! Let’s hope for sunny skies and good weather!

Masters

Monday Night Masters resumed last Monday, with the return of dry weather There was a reasonable turnout, after a very long break and Manchester City beat Manchester Utd 5-4! And yes, Masters was on again, even though it was Easter Monday.

National and International

Nothing much is happening on the International front with the Socceroos and Matildas having a rest. The Socceroos have just two games left in the 2026 World Cup Qualifying Group C. They are at home to Japan on 5th June and then on 10 June they travel to Saudi Arabia. Australia must win one of these games to be sure of direct qualification. Japan leads the group and Saudi Arabia is in third place.

The Matildas are not back in action until the end of May. They have two friendlies against Argentina, the first on 30 May in Melbourne and the second on 2 June in Canberra. Mary Fowler one of the Matildas’ stars has suffered a serious ACL Injury and cold be sidelined for some time. And, hopefully the Matildas will have appointed a new coach soon!

In the A League Men, Auckland won 2-0 away to Melbourne Victory and with just two rounds left can almost claim the minor premiership. They lead Melbourne City, who drew away to Western Sydney by six points and have a far superior gaol difference. Western Utd stay in third place despite losing 0-2 to Brisbane, who move off the bottom of the table. Western Sydney stay in fourth place and Perth is now holding up the A League.

In the A League Women Melbourne City made it two premierships in a row with a 5-1 thumping of Perth. Victory defeated Perth 2-0 and finish runners up. Adelaide beat Sydney to retain third place and Central Coat finished fourth. Brisbane finished in seventh place, missing out on the Elimination Finals which take place this coming weekend.

England and the EPL with five games to go, Liverpool is thirteen points ahead of second placed Arsenal who are seven points clear of third place Newcastle, the only one of the top five teams to lose. Manchester City has moved up to fourth place and Chelsea is now fifth. At the foot of the table, Ipswich and Leicester will be in the Championship next season along with Southampton. Wolves continue their good run winning 1-0 at ManU.

In the Bundesliga, with four rounds left, Bayern now leads Leverkusen by eight points and look like champions. Third placed Frankfurt won but is a further twelve points away and Leipzig hangs onto to fourth place one point ahead of Freiburg. At the bottom of the league, none of the bottom ten teams won and Holstein, Bochum and Heidenheim, all look doomed.

In Italy, Serie A has five rounds left. Inter lost at Bologna and is now level on points with Napoli. Atalanta won and is seven points adrift in third place. Bologna has moved up to fourth place and Juventus won and moves up to fifth place, but Juve has a game in hand. For Monza relegation looks certain and Empoli, Venezia, Lecce and possibly Parma could accompany them.

In Spain’s La Liga, Barcelona and Real Madrid were the only two of the top eleven teams to win. Barca stays top four points ahead of Real and Atletico are six points away in third place. Bilbao and Villareal stay in fourth and fifth places. Valladolid are certain to be relegated and Leganes, Las Palmas and Alaves are not looking good.

In France’s Ligue 1, with four rounds left PSG has a twenty two point lead over Marseille with Monaco a further point adrift. Lille is in fourth place and Nice has moved up to fifth. Montpelier is doomed and St Etienne, Le Havre, Angers and Nantes all look to be in danger.

The Quote of the Week is from then Shrewsbury Town player-manager Graham Turner after dropping himself from the team and seeing them win “Perhaps I found our weakness at last.”

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The Burdekin Sugar Rush Is Back With Some New Twists and Turns!

Lace up and bring the energy—on Sunday, April 27, the Burdekin Sugar Rush is back to fire up the region and kick off the ANQ Half-Marathon Series with a bang!

Hosted by the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers for the 23rd year running, the event will feature races for all ages and abilities.

The morning is kicked off at Anzac Park with the Half-Marathon at 6:30am, followed by the 10km run at 7:15am, and the all-inclusive 5km fun runs at 7:30am.

The Half Marathon—which will debut a new track showcasing more of the Burdekin’s iconic cane paddocks and regional roads—serves as the championship race for the ANQ Half-Marathon series, attracting people from all over the region and beyond, says club president Patrick Shannon.

“We get a lot of Burdekin locals, but also people from the wider region, like Townsville, Mackay and Cairns,” he said. “It’s great for our community because it brings a lot of people from the wider region, which brings business to lots of local pubs and motels and cafes over the weekend.”

Upon completion of the race, competitors are treated to a free barbecue brekky and an iconic Burdekin Sugar Rush finishers towel, with place-getter and lucky ‘bib’ prizes also up for grabs.

Registrations are open all the way up until midday of Saturday the 26th of April. Head over to http://burdekinroadrunners.com.au/ for more information, or to book your place in this years Burdekin Sugar Rush!

What: Burdekin Sugar Rush

Where: Anzac Park

When: 6:30am, Sunday, April 27

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The Burdekin Sugar Rush is back to fire up the region and kick off the ANQ Half-Marathon Series with a bang! Photo supplied

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Saturday th 26th 0f April 1.00pm to 5.00pm (Patrol Group D )Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry Zac Dale, Parker Bonato, Richard dale, Belly Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, Briella Wassmuth.

Sunday th 27th Of April (9.00am to 1.00pm ( Patrol Group B )Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell , Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, Danny Wilson,

Sunday th 27th April ( 1.00pm to 5.00pm ) ( Patrol Group E ) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isabella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, Shaize Christie, Emma Jones.

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Young football star Terence Mosby is proving that dedication and talent can take you places starting from the remote community of Thursday Island to now signing with the Burdekin Roosters in Ayr as he chases his dream of playing professionally.

Mosbys journey began when he made the bold move to leave Thursday Island and join the Townsville Blackhawks Under 19 squad. The transition wasnt easy, but his speed, agility and work ethic made him a standout player.

Now, with the Blackhawks season concluded, Mosby has set his sights on his next challenge playing A Grade in the R L T D with the Burdekin Roosters.

For Mosby this move is more than just another season, it's a crucial stepping stone towards his ultimate goal of playing professionally.

"Its been a big adjustment coming down from Thursday Island but I m grateful for the opportunity with the Blackhawks and now the Roosters," Mosby said.

"I know A grade in the R L T D is a tough competition but Im ready to work hard and prove myself. One day I want to play at the highest level.

Burdekin Roosters Coach Steve Lansley praised Mosbys potential saying "Terence has a raw talent and the right attitude. He's quick, strong and eager to learn. If he keeps developing there's no doubt he could go far."

Mosbys story is an inspiration for young athletes in remote communities, showing that with determination the path to professional football is possible.

The Burdekin Roosters season kicked off recently and all eyes will be on the rising star as he takes the next step.

Will Terence Mosby be the next Torres Strait Islander to make it big in Rugby League? Only time will tell but one thing is certain - he is on the right track!

After the Easter break the season will continue this weekend in the R L T D with the Roosters to play last year premiers Souths at the Bindall Sharks ground on Sunday at 3.30pm.

The reserves will also meet Souths with their game as 2 and as Souths do not have a Ladies team, the Hens will have a bye.

At the time of writing the Roosters A grade coach Steve Lansley had not named his team but he does have a couple of extra players in his squad with the signing of Terence Mosby who can play hooker, lock or five eight as well as the return of Figian Nemia Nawave from a rib injury in Bowen.

Although well behind at the break with Brothers two weeks ago the locals showed what they can do by being 10 all second half.

Souths started off with a big 52 nil win over Lions and although they have lost a few key players from their premiership team the signing of Kyle Laybutt and Jaeleen Feeney will make up for that.

In the reserves the Roosters lead Brothers at half time but the loss of six players quickly saw them fall away in the second half.

Coach Peter Horan will, out a strong side with the possible addition of a couple of A graders coming back and some new players at training.

In other matches this weekend, Charters Towers makes their first appearance meeting Centrals on Saturday at the Sports Reserve with Centrals going down to Herbert River first game.

Norths will travel to Ingham on Sunday playing Herbert River with Brothers hosting Western Lions on Saturday.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Young football star Terence Mosby has signed with the Burdekin Roosters. Photo supplied

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Another lively week at the Ayr Bowling Club saw excellent competition, great sportsmanship, and some tightly contested matches across both social and competition games.

Ladies’ bowls on Tuesday, April 15, saw a fantastic game with Donna Soper, Ron Soper and Pam Power coming out on top against Karen Shepherd, Sandra Stidston and Heather Jorgensen.

Runners-up on the day were Meryl Smith, Linda Giumelli and Beryl Cornford, who claimed victory over Ruth Moore, Isabel Cislowski and Irene Wilson in another well-fought match.

In the Wednesday Men's bowls day, congratulations go to John Pirrone and Ron Soper, who delivered a solid performance to take out the win in their match and winners overall for the day.

A good turnout and great spirit marked the Wednesday night triples games. Winners of the evening’s matches included Harry Dewing, Margaret McLaughlin, and Sam Caltabiano. Also victorious in a separate triples game were Kate Stringer, Dr Ali, Katharina Stuckler, and Ross McLaughlin. Easter Saturday, the winning team on the day was Donna Soper, Barry Hewson and Beryl Cornford, who played consistently to claim a well-earned victory.

The Final of the Ladies B Singles was played on Monday, April 14, in what turned out to be a thrilling, shot-for-shot contest. Lorraine Wolffe edged out Heather Jorgensen in a close match, 25-24, with the game marked by Ladies’ President Beryl Cornford.

The Semi-Finals of the Ladies’ A Singles took place on Thursday, April 17, producing two excellent matches. Pam Power defeated Karen Shepherd to book her place in the final, while Irene Wilson claimed victory over Dot Cutting. Pam and Irene will now meet each other in the Ladies’ A Singles Final.

In the Men’s A Singles game, Lew Stidston defeated Maurie Power is a very closely contested game. It was very exciting with Lew finishing on top 25 – 23. Lew now advances to the next round of the Men’s A Singles.

The club is looking forward to hosting the Anzac Day Social Mixed Bowls competition. Names are to be down by 1pm, with games commencing promptly at 1.30pm. Play will conclude by 4pm, followed by a shared Afternoon Tea. All are welcome to attend and commemorate the occasion with friendly competition and club camaraderie.

Congratulations to all players and many thanks to our volunteers, markers, and supporters who make each week at the club a success. Good luck to all our Ladies’ Pennants players who compete in the Division 1 NQ Pennants commencing Saturday 26th April at the Ayr Bowling Club.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

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44th Annual Sugar Bowl Tennis Tournament This Weekend!

The Home Hill Tennis Association is proud to host the 44th Annual Sugar Bowl this weekend—an iconic event and a sweet spot on the North Queensland tennis calendar.

This year, 42 teams have nominated, with matches played across the Home Hill and Ayr tennis courts. Each team consists of at least six players, with some fielding ten or more to allow for rest breaks. Games kick off at 8am Saturday and continue through to about 2 p.m. on Monday.

With over 300 visitors expected in the region, the event brings a welcome economic boost to the Burdekin—supporting local cafes, shops, and accommodations throughout the long weekend.

A special celebration will take place on Saturday at 7.45 am as Home Hill Tennis officially opens its newly upgraded amenities.

A Fresh Serve At The Sugar Bowl

The Sugar Bowl began in 1981, thanks to Lex and Pat Anderson, who invited team captains from places like Mackay and Ingham to compete in the inaugural tournament. Sadly, Pat passed away in January this year and we dedicate this year’s event to her. Fast-forward to today, teams now travel from as far as Brisbane to Mareeba to be part of the tradition with some individual players coming from interstate.

Returning champions, the Teabags, featuring Dallan and Kurtis Garvey, are back to defend their A Grade title. Challenging them is the Bartlett Division A1 team, led by Robert Bartlett—originally from Home Hill, now returning with a Brisbane-based team. In A2, keep an eye on Kylie Newman’s Post Card Lifers, packed with five Davies cousins and ex-Home Hill locals. In B Grade Here 4 Beer and Sweet Triers are also in with a definite chance of taking home the Hanson and Casswell Trophies.

A highlight of the weekend is the Woods Team Spirit Award, named in honour of David Woods, the original captain of the Teaspoons.

The Hon. Dale Last MP will preside over the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The previous facilities, built in 1957, have received a major upgrade thanks to a collaborative effort led by Mark Vass from Next Gen Building and local contractors.

The upgrade includes custom-designed privacy screens by artist Jane Hawkins, fabricated by Blakey Welding. Funding for the build came from multiple sources: $250,000 from the Queensland Government, $50,000 from Tennis Australia, and $62,500 from Home Hill Tennis funds, with support from the Burdekin Shire Council’s RADF grant.

The project was driven by Club secretary Kate Casswell, who not only wrote the successful grants but also served as the visionary behind the entire upgrade. “Mark and all the contractors did a great job, and I would thoroughly recommend Next Gen,” she said. “The finished building is exactly what we envisaged—and so much more.”

We also extend a big thank you to all our past and present sponsors and supporters—your continued backing made this ambitious project possible, despite challenges with infrastructure and existing courts.

Sunday night, all are invited to enjoy a taste of Burdekin hospitality with live music by Jason Clark (Townsville artist) from 5pm, delicious food including roast pork rolls, and a fun, relaxed vibe. For those wishing to have a drink, transport back to Ayr can be arranged.

Lastly, thank you to the volunteers, sponsors, and donors who help make this event possible. For more updates, check out the Home Hill Tennis Facebook page. Life members, sponsors, and all supporters—past and present—are warmly invited to join the weekend festivities and Monday’s presentation ceremony around 2pm.

Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Tennis.

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Kylie Newman's Post Card Lifers - Brooke, Jacklyn, Helen, Jodie and Kylie. Photo supplied

The Sugar Bowl began in 1981, thanks to Lex and Pat Anderson

James Casswell's The Shoeys

Rose, Donna and Alan Hanson (Life Member and former Patron)

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Alongside professional development and coaching courses, 14-year-old Calem McCathie continues to reach new levels of cricketing success with the support and personalised mentorship of his father, Dean McCathie, formerly from Ayr.

Just last week, Calem’s proud grandparents John and Lydny McCathie returned home from Adelaide where they enthusiastically cheered Calem along from the sidelines as he impressed spectators in the Schoolsport Australia 15 Years and Under Boys Cricket Championships.

Currently residing in Brisbane, Calem’s cricket career has taken off, and has led him to represent the state and play against other cricketers well above his age level on numerous occasions. Whilst a member of the Queensland Team, Calem and his teammates were victorious in their 50 over matches against South Australia, the Northern Territory, and West Australia as well as against the Australian Capital Territory in the Semi Finals.

In a nail-biting finale, last week’s Grand Final against New South Wales had everything a first class match would have, including the rain delay, and went right down to the last over which was bowled by Finn Haller, another local connection - son of Ryan and Granson of Wayne and Lyn Haller.

Queensland came out on top, winning the match by three runs, and ending a 30-year drought, and in the competition’s Closing Ceremony, Calem was selected to be part of the Under 15 School Boys Australian Merit Team, making the McCathie’s trip to Adeliade an 1,000 / 10 experience all around.

“We returned from Adelaide very proud Grandparents and look forward to where we will go next as we follow Calem’s cricket career,” shared Lyndy.

“His dream is to wear the baggy green!”

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Calem with his father Dean McCathie at Adeliade's Championships last week (Photo Supplied)
The 15 Years and Under Boys celebrated a win for Queensland after a 30-year drought (Photo Supplied)

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The Ayr Surf Club is gearing up for a big finish to the season, with several key events on the horizon, starting with the annual Senior Club Championships.

Set to take place on Friday, 25th April, the championships will commence following the local ANZAC Day march and parades. All competitors in the Under 15 through to Masters categories are asked to arrive at the Ayr Surf Clubhouse by 1pm.

Participants are reminded that full competition attire is required, including a stingersuit, pink competition vest, and Club noddy cap. Competitors must also have completed their required patrol hours for the season to be eligible.

With only three weekends of patrols remaining, the 2024–25 season is drawing to a close. To celebrate, the Club will host its end-of-season presentation night on Saturday, 10th May at the Ayr Surf Clubhouse at Alva Beach.

Festivities will begin at 5pm, starting with the presentation of Junior Awards, followed by an awards dinner and Senior Presentations.

All current junior and senior members, their families and friends, life members, and sponsors are warmly invited to attend. Further details regarding ticketing will be made available in the coming days.

Meanwhile, the Club’s popular Annual Beach Golf Day has been postponed once again due to recent weather. A new date for the event is currently being finalised and will be announced shortly.

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Local
Once again, there was no football in the Burdekin last weekend and unless there is a  possible re-arrangement of postponed matches, there are now no more games until the end of April. The Panthers have four home games over the weekend of 25 -26 April.

Juniors

The school holidays and nothing now happens until the 3rd of May. We hope the kids and families enjoy the holidays.

Masters
Monday Night Masters resumed last Monday after a very long break.

National and International

The Socceroos now have just two games left in the 2026 World Cup Qualifying Group C. On 5 June they are at home to Japan and then on 10 June they travel to Saudi Arabia. Australia must win one of these games to be sure of direct qualification. Japan leads the group and Saudi Arabia is in third place.

After their two games against South Korea the Matildas do not play again until the end of May. They then have two friendlies against Argentina, the first on 30 May in Melbourne and the second on 2 June in Canberra.

In the A League Men, Auckland  drew 2-2 away to Sydney FC to claim the minor premiership with one round left to play. They lead Melbourne City by four points who beat Brisbane 3-2. Western Utd stay in third place despite losing 0-2 to Western Sydney who move up to fourth spot. Perth won their third game of the season leaving Brisbane alone at the foot of the table.

In the A League Women Melbourne City cemented first place with a 4-1 win over Newcastle Jets. Victory stays in second place with a 1-0 win at Central Coast and Adelaide is still third after defeating fourth placed Western Utd 3-1. Brisbane stays in seventh place.

England and the EPL with six games to go, Liverpool is almost home and hosed after beating West Ham 2-1. They are now thirteen points ahead of Arsenal with third placed Notts Forest another six points away. Newcastle thumped Man Utd 4-1 and move up to fourth place. At the foot of the table, Ipswich and Leicester look set to accompany Southampton into the Championship.

In the Bundesliga, with five games to go, Bayern still leads Leverkusen by six points after both clubs drew. Third placed Frankfurt won but is a further eight points away  and Leipzig has  moved up to fourth place. At the bottom of the league, Holstein, Bochum and Heidenheim, all look doomed.

In Italy, Serie A also has six rounds left. Inter beat Cagliari and with Napoli drawing now has a six point lead. Atalanta is a further four points adrift in third place and Juventus won and moves up to fourth place. For Monza it looks like Goodnight Luigi and Empoli, Venezia and Lecce are all struggling.

In Spain there are still seven rounds to go. The top five teams all won and Barcelona stays four points clear of Real Madrid with Atletico a further four points away and Bilbao another three points away. Valladolid are certain to be relegated and Leganes, Las Palmas and Alaves are not looking good.

And in France, with five rounds left PSG has  twenty one point lead over Monaco and has a game in hand! Marseille is one point behind in third place and Lyon is fourth a further point behind. In the danger zone, Montpelier looks doomed and St Etienne, le Havre and Reims all look to be in danger.

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Home Hill Tennis is thrilled to announce the return of Junior Tennis Coaching in Term 2, kicking off with a FREE Come and Try Day on Tuesday, April 22! The program will run throughout the cooler months, across Term 2 and Term 3.

We’re excited to welcome back Kayla Accornero as our Club Coach — now operating under her own business, Next Point Coaching. Kayla, originally from Ingham, has a strong understanding of coaching in regional areas and brings great energy and experience to our club.

Why choose tennis? Beyond the physical, social, and emotional benefits, our coaching program includes:

· Public liability insurance

· Free daytime court hire for kids

· A FREE Hot Shots shirt

· Access to our newly upgraded, modern club facilities

Tennis is a sport for life! Whether your child is just 3 years old or you're looking to pick up a racquet yourself, there’s something for everyone. Kayla will also be running Cardio Tennis — a fun fitness-based tennis class suitable for all skill levels. It’s a great way to smash your step goals without even noticing!

We also accept Sport and Recreation Fair Play vouchers.

Spots are limited — so don’t miss out! To sign up or find out more, contact Kayla at kayla.jodie03@gmail.com or call 0408 014066.

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Coach Kayla Accornero. Photo supplied.

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A huge congratulations to the Ayr High Hawks Swimming Squad, who made a splash at the BSS Interschool Swimming Carnival earlier this month, proudly finishing second overall!

From powerhouse team efforts to standout individual races, each of the swimmers gave it their all in the pool and showed incredible determination, sportsmanship and school spirit throughout the day.

A special shoutout was extended to the school's Age Champions, Mia Wicks, Briella Wassmuth, Isla Chapman and Ayden Barnett, for their outstanding achievements!

Well done to all students involved!

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ASHS finished second overall at the BSS Interschool Swimming Carnival (Photo Source: ASHS)
Mia Wicks, Isla Chapman, Briella Wassmuth and Ayden Barnett were celebrated as the BSS Age Champions (Photo Source: ASHS)

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The Ayr High family showed their true colours at the end of Term 1, proudly celebrating Pink Stumps Day 2025 in support of the McGrath Foundation.

With students, staff and community members all getting behind the cause, the school has already raised over $1000, with the final total still to come!

Adding a bit of fun to the festivities, Year 12 student Bradley Cahill took out the win in the lolly jar guessing competition with a sharp guess of 203.

A heartfelt thank you was extended to everyone who wore pink, donated, and helped make the day such a success.

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ASHS was a school of pink in support of the McGrath Foundation (Photo Source: ASHS)

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Burdekin Christian College may have sent a small team to this year’s Burdekin Interschool Swim Carnival, but their impact in the pool was anything but small.

With just eight determined students, Team BCC showed up with courage, heart, and incredible sportsmanship—proving once again that it’s not the size of the team, but the strength of the spirit that counts.

From strong finishes to cheerful sideline support, students gave it their all and proudly represented the College in every event.

A huge congratulations to Zachary Dale, who was crowned 14 Years Age Champion, and to Talea Leilua-Kava and Lachlan Shand, both awarded Runner Up Age Champions in their respective age groups. The full list of results is a testament to the dedication and effort shown by the entire team:

Zachary Dale
– 14Y Age Champion
– 1st: 50m Freestyle, 50m Butterfly, 50m Backstroke
– 2nd: 100m Freestyle
– 4th: 50m Breaststroke

Talea Leilua-Kava
– 13Y Runner Up Age Champion
– 1st: 50m Backstroke
– 2nd: 100m Freestyle, 50m Freestyle, 50m Butterfly, 50m Breaststroke

Lachlan Shand
– 12Y Runner Up Age Champion
– 1st: 50m Freestyle, 50m Backstroke, 50m Breaststroke

Amelia Bowden
– 2nd: 50m Butterfly
– 3rd: 100m Freestyle, 50m Breaststroke
– 4th: 50m Backstroke

Danny Wilson
– 2nd: 100m Freestyle, 50m Freestyle

Zak Populin
– 3rd: 100m Freestyle, 50m Butterfly

Sophie Leamon
– 5th: 100m Freestyle, 50m Freestyle, 50m Breaststroke

Cole Pontifex
– 3rd: 50m Butterfly, 50m Backstroke, 50m Breaststroke

Well done Team BCC!

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Burdekin Christian College Swimmers impressed onlookers at the BSS Carnival (Photo Source: BCC)

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Burdekin Clay Target Club held it's 100 Target Double Barrel competition on Sunday 13th April. It was a complete turn around to last months extreme heat, the weather was very pleasant with a constant breeze all day. Thank you to our sponsor Honeycombes Sales & Service and lui Populin for donating the meat trays for the raffle. Our next shoot will be on Saturday 10th May.

Event 1 – 15 Target Pointscore 15m
In AA Grade, Simon Steele, Joe Caruso, and Wayne Cislowski all shot a perfect 45/45 to share the honours.
A Grade saw Ron Clive take first place, with Bill Gall close behind on 43/45 and Bruce McBow finishing third with 42/45.
B Grade resulted in a four-way tie for first, with Dwayne Bartlett, Leisa Hopkins, Kevin Zarb, and David Stitt all scoring 42/45.
In C Grade, Tim Ewens and Alf Gangemi shared first place with 41/45, while Lynda Potter secured third on 40/45.

Event 2 – 100 Target Double Barrel 15m
Sponsored by Honeycombes Sales & Service, the main event saw Phillip Scalia claim the Open win with a perfect 100/100.
Joe Caruso took out AA Grade with an impressive 150/151, ahead of Riley Mikkelsen on 149/151.
In A Grade, Greg Maltby finished first with 96/100, followed by Mark Simpson who scored 122/128.
B Grade honours went to Dwayne Bartlett with 96/100, while Kevin Zarb was second on 93/100.
C Grade saw Brodie Elephinstone shoot 89/100 to win the category, with Rob Ness finishing runner-up on 88/100.

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato

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Back Row: Representative for Honeycombes Sales & Service Steven Caltabiano, Brodie Elphinstone, Dwayne Bartlett, Greg Maltby, Joe Caruso, Front Row: Rob Ness, Mark Simpson, Phillip Scalia, Riley Mickelsen, absent Kevin Zarb

Photo supplied

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Friday 11th April
Brandon Bowls Club was the epicentre of bowls thanks to North Queensland Green Solutions Ayr for sponsoring trophy bowls night.

The Bowls club saw 64 bowlers on the green with everyone in attendance enjoying themselves regardless of the level of bowls.

Second place went to the boys from Mio farming.

Bradman trophy went to Aiden Kratzman , Braydon Dibella , Logan Towner , Clinton White , Charlie Conway sponsor, Rachel sponsor

Saturday 12th April

Championship Pairs
Peter Jorgensen and Joe Yipnazar defeated Gary Pearce and Chris Pearce

A Singles
Kevin Collins defeated Mick McCloskey

Sunday 13th April

Championship A singles
David Harding defeated Jamie Woods
Peter Lejarraga defeated Lloyd Shepherd

4s
David DeFranciscis, David Harding, Danny O’Shea, and  Ross McLaughlin won against Peter Jorgensen, Ray Paneccasio, Doug Kiehne, and Neville Dickinson.

Coming events
Ladies bowls on Wednesday 16th April names in by 1.00pm for 1.30pm start.
Friday 18th no bowls this week bowls due to Good Friday.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd

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Ramon Tortorica , Peter Lejarraga, Jayson Farry , Rachel sponsor , Lloyd Shepherd , Charlie Conway sponsor

Simon, Paola, Frank, Peter Charlie Conway sponsor, and Rachel sponsor

Aiden Kratzman, Braydon Dibella, Logan Towner, Clinton White, Charlie Conway sponsor, Rachel sponsor

Ross McLaughlin, David Harding, Danny O’Shea, David DeFranciscis, and Peter Lejarraga

Photos supplied

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The Ayr Bowling Club has been a hive of activity once again, with a dynamic week of championship matches, social bowls, and special events drawing large numbers to the greens.

With the championship season in full swing, the club has come alive with spirited but good-natured competition, showcasing the impressive talents and sportsmanship of its bowlers. Social games have also remained a major highlight, contributing to the club’s warm and energetic atmosphere.

Monday saw the resumption of the Ladies Competition A Singles, which had been suspended due to wet weather. Irene Wilson secured victory over Heather Jorgenson, earning her place in the next round.

On Tuesday, the club hosted the Ladies President’s Day, led by Ladies Senior Vice President Beryl Cornford. Sponsored by Queensland Country Bank, Ayr, the day was a celebration of friendship and bowls, welcoming clubs from Brandon, Alligator Creek, South Townsville, Jubilee, Wangaratta, Suburban, Thuringowa, and Home Hill. Special guests included NQDLBA President Lynette and Patron Wilma, whose presence was warmly appreciated. Ayr’s own Ladies Committee worked tirelessly behind the scenes to organise prizes, prepare lunch, and decorate the hall, while club members Lew, John P, and Anthony lent their support throughout the day, ensuring a memorable event for all.

Wednesday’s Men’s Social Bowls featured three games of triples, with John Pirrone, Joe Pappale, and Lew Stidston taking out the win. The club was also pleased to welcome Rob, a visiting bowler passing through Ayr, highlighting the club’s reputation for warm hospitality.

Later that evening, two games of triples lit up the greens. Harry Dewing, Margaret McLaughlin, and Sam Caltabiano were victorious in one match, while Kate Stringer, Dr Ali, Katharina Stuckler, and Ross McLaughlin claimed the win in the other, delivering an exciting night of bowls.

Thursday brought the Ladies Championship Fours Final, with Donna, Betty, Beryl, and Pam delivering an outstanding performance to claim the title after a thrilling display of skill and teamwork.

Saturday’s Mixed Social Bowls saw a great turnout, with social players sharing the afternoon with the women’s and men’s pennants teams for some practice matches. In a closely fought contest, the men narrowly defeated the women by just four shots. Wixi, Anthony, Barry, and John were named winners of the day, with Cisco, Linda, and Lew finishing runners-up.

To round out the week, Ron Soper and Joe Grabbi completed their suspended Championship A Singles match, with Ron coming out on top to move through to the next round.

Looking ahead, the club is gearing up for a special ANZAC Day gathering. An afternoon of Social Bowls will be held from 1:30 to 4:00 pm, followed by a delightful afternoon tea. Everyone is welcome to come along, pay tribute, and enjoy a wonderful afternoon with friends.

Please note there will be no Social Bowls on Saturday, April 26, as the club will be hosting the Division 1 Ladies Pennants competition. This exciting event will run over four days and will feature Ayr’s own Ladies team competing against the best in the division.

To book your spot for Social Bowls, contact or text Anthony Bull on 0409 480 490.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

President Beryl's Day. Photo supplied

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Four young riders from the Burdekin. will compete at the Australian Dirt Track Titles this weekend in Kurri Kurri, New South Wales. Representing the Ayr Motorcycle Club, they have earned their spot after strong performances in local and regional events. The Australian Dirt Track Titles attract top junior competitors from across the country, with all riders chasing the honour of becoming a national champion.

Burdekin Young Guns Set to Chase Glory at Australian Dirt Track Titles

Four talented young riders from the Burdekin – Ryke Haller, Ky Mitchell, Ryder Vass, and Noah Ready – are set to compete at the Australian Dirt Track Titles this weekend in Kurri Kurri, New South Wales.

After a series of impressive results in local and regional events, the young Burdekin riders have earned their place among the nation's best. Representing the Ayr Motorcycle Club, they’ll take to the track this weekend to showcase their talent and determination against top junior competitors from across Australia.

Each rider will compete in their respective classes: Ryke in the Junior 250cc, Ky in the Junior 125cc, Ryder in both the 85cc and 65cc classes, and Noah in the 50cc class.

The Australian Dirt Track Titles are a major highlight on the motorsport calendar, drawing competitors from across the nation, all aiming for the prestigious title of national champion.

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The opening round of the Rugby League Townsville and District (RLTD) season was played last weekend after being postponed due to wet weather. Those games will now be played in July.

In A-grade, Western Lions started strong, defeating last year’s grand final opponents 52–0. Herbert River also impressed, beating Centrals 18–10 on Sunday.

At Jack Manski Oval, Brothers overpowered the Burdekin Roosters 40–10, although the match was closer than the score suggests. Norths and Charters Towers had byes.

Brothers dominated early, taking full advantage of penalties and Roosters' mistakes to race to a 30–0 halftime lead. However, the Roosters regrouped and matched Brothers in the second half, with both teams scoring 10 points each.

Roosters coach Steve Lansley said the limited preparation due to rain made it a tough start but expected improvement as conditions dry out. He praised Jesse Yallop’s strong all-round game and Logan Dickson’s standout performance, including a brilliant try.

Halves Jye Olsen and Hayde Munro impressed, steering the team well, while hookers Colby Thompson and Josh Hunt added spark around the ruck. PNG international Aiden Arisa showed promise and will be a danger once fully fit.

Caleb Noah made plenty of metres with his powerful running, supported by Lachlan Shepherd and Alfie Mather. Colby Thompson and Logan Dickson scored tries, with Jye Olsen adding a goal.

Injuries Hurt Roosters Reserves

The Roosters reserve grade team went down 46–16 to Brothers after leading 16–14 at halftime.

After trailing 10–0 early, the Roosters hit back with three tries to take the lead. But injuries crippled the side, with six players lost early in the second half. Forced to finish the game with only 13 players, the Roosters couldn’t hold out a fast-finishing Brothers.

Coach Peter Horan praised his young side, many playing their first senior match. Bryce Gesah was a standout, with strong performances from Jye Starr, Aiden Camer, Jack Rushton and Dylan Doak, who scored a classy try and kicked two goals. John Zaro also featured well.

Other try scorers were Bokeen Reid and Kane Bachelor.

In other reserve grade games, Norths beat Bowen 22–10, Souths defeated Western Lions 34–12, and Centrals beat Herbert River 46–6.

Ladies and Juniors

In the women’s match, Norths thrashed Bowen 68–0. The Burdekin Hens were unable to field a team but are expected to return next week.

In under-18s, Centrals beat the Roosters 34–12 in a trial game. Cheanne Taiters, Johben Tabo and Mason Kiehne scored tries for the Roosters.

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Saturday 12th 0f April 1.00pm to 5,00pm ( Patrol Group B ) Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, Danny Wilson.’

Sunday 13th 0f April 9.ooam to 1oopm ( Patrol Group E) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isabella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, Shaize Christie, Emma Jones.

Sunday 13th 0f April 1.00pm to 5.00pm ( Patrol Group G ) Carl List, Jimmy Hayllor, Jamey Kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Rickards, Jedd Giddy.

Friday 18 0f April ( Good Friday ) 9.00am To 5.00 pm All day ( Patrol Group E ) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isa Bella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, Shaize Christie, Emma jones.

Saturday 19th 0f April ( Easter Saturday ) 9.00am to 5,00pm All day ( Patrol Group B ) Terry lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, danny Wilson,.

Sunday 20th 0f April ( Easter Sunday ) 9.00 to 5.00pm All day ( Patrol Group F ) Lisa Furnell, Jen Morgan, John Furnell, Jo Morgan, Lauren Chapman, Isla Chapman, Ryley Sartori, Jake Sartori, Kat Satori, Dave Sartori.

Monday 21st of April ( Easter Monday ) 9.00am to 5.00pm All Day ( Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kelllie Lawry, Zac dale, Parker Bonaato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, Willam Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, Briella Wassmuth.

Friday 25th Of April ( Anzac Day ) 9.00am to 5,00pm ( All day ) ( Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac Dale, Parker bonito, Richard dale, Bella Lawry, Willam Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa vibian, Kristy Wassmuth Briella Wassmuth.

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Ayr Bowling Club has enjoyed another vibrant week on the greens, with a fantastic mix of social and championship games bringing members together. With the championship season now in full swing, competition has been fierce but friendly, highlighting the impressive skill and sportsmanship of the club's bowlers. Social games have also been well-attended, creating a welcoming and lively atmosphere that continues to strengthen the club’s sense of community.

Club President Anthony Bull praised the positive energy surrounding the club, saying, “It’s been fantastic to see so many members out on the greens, supporting each other and enjoying the game. The enthusiasm this season has been outstanding, and it’s a credit to the great culture we are building at Ayr Bowling Club.”

Tuesday Ladies’ Social Bowls was played in overcast conditions with intermittent showers throughout the afternoon. Winners on the day were Donna Soper, Beryl Cornford and Dot Cutting, who defeated Katharina Stuckler, Merle Nixon and Pam Power. On the next rink, Meryl Smith, Karen Page and Heather Jorgensen triumphed over Ruth Moore, Sandra Stidston and Mary Poli.

The Ladies’ Competition B Singles, which had previously been suspended due to wet weather, resumed on Sunday. Lorraine Wolffe defeated Karen Shepherd 25–20 and will now progress to the final against Heather Jorgensen.

Men’s Social Bowls on Wednesday featured one game of triples and one game of pairs. Despite the high humidity, a committed group turned out to play. The winners on the day were Cisco, Wayne Newton and Wicksie.

On Friday evening, the club hosted its Fun Friday Night Bowls, proudly sponsored by B & M Drilling. The night was a great success, with many new bowlers returning to enjoy the fun and camaraderie. Prize-winners were Charmaine, Lyndall, Helen and Steve (1st); Lisa, Crystal and Kerrie (2nd); and Kate, Lyn and Pam (Sportsman award). The club extended a big thank you to B & M Drilling for their continued support.

Saturday’s Social Bowls, sponsored by the Mahjong Group in celebration of their 13th birthday, saw four rinks of mixed social bowlers enjoying lively games of triples. The Mahjong Group, which meets at the clubhouse every Wednesday and Sunday, has generously supported the club’s events over the years.

As the competitive season approaches, the men’s and ladies’ pennants teams seized the opportunity to play a friendly yet competitive practice match, taking to the greens in two games of rinks featuring men vs women.

Winners on the day were Ron Smythe, Sam Caltibianco, Col Essex and Ron Soper. Runners-up were Wicksie, Henry Hazle, Barry Hewson and Joe Papale. First prize winners received £25 per person, while runners-up took home £15 per person, all thanks to sponsorship from the Mahjong Group.

On Sunday, the B Grade Championship Final was held between Cisco and Ron Smythe. Both relatively new to the game, the pair put on a thrilling display of skill. It was a tight contest until Ron began to pull away towards the end, ultimately winning 25–16. Congratulations to Ron Smythe on being crowned the B Grade Champion.

For those interested in trying lawn bowls, Ayr Bowling Club offers a friendly and inclusive environment for players of all levels.

Club Information:
Location: 101 Young Street, Ayr, Queensland 4807
Phone: (07) 4783 1336
Facebook: Ayr Bowling Club

Social bowls are played on Wednesday mornings or evenings, and Saturday afternoons. The club welcomes new faces and provides plenty of sets of bowls for beginners to use. Whether experienced or new to the sport, all are invited to join in and enjoy the game in a fun and social setting.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull - Ayr Bowling Club.

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Saturday bowls winners
Friday fun night winners

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Junior Golf Ayr capped off the school term with a competitive and spirited April Anzac Monthly Medal event, held on a steamy and humid morning that tested the mettle of our rising golf stars.

In the 9-hole competition, Oscar Mahoney took out the Gross honours, while Kyle Wilkie claimed the coveted Monthly Medal.
Heath Smart delivered the top Gross score in the 6-hole division, with Tyler Smith earning the Monthly Medal.
The 3-hole comp saw Opie McKeough take out Gross, while Zade Keating walked away with the Monthly Medal.

A special shout-out goes to Zade Keating, Evelyn Mahoney, Heath Smart, and Oscar Mahoney for their strong performances in the skills challenges, taking out titles in Longest Putt, Least Putts, and Nearest to the Pin across their respective divisions.

Junior Golf Ayr will now break for the school holidays, returning to the fairways on 26 April. Best of luck to all our players heading off to compete in the Townsville Classic—swing strong!

Contributed with thanks to Laura Mahoney - Ayr Junior Golf.

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Presenter Lyla Land with winners from back Zade Keating, Oscar Mahoney, Heath Smart Front Tyler Smith, Evelyn Mahoney, Kyle Wilkie. Absent Opie McKeough

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Local

Once again, there was no football in the Burdekin last weekend. The Panthers should have had a Ladies match in Townsville on Friday night against Warriors, but the wet weather postponed it.

Except for possible re-arrangement of postponed matches, there are now no more games

until the end of April. The Panthers have four home games over the weekend of 25 -26 April.

Juniors

As it is now the school holidays the Juniors fixtures will resume after Easter on the 3rd May. We hope the kids and families enjoy the holidays.

Masters

Monday Night Masters had to be called off yet again as the grounds were too wet. Fingers crossed that we will be able to resume next Monday 14th April.

National and International

The Socceroos now have just two games left in the 2026 World Cup Qualifying Group C. On 5 June they are at home to Japan and then on 10 June they travel to Saudi Arabia. Australia must win one of these games to be sure of direct qualification. The New Zealand All Whites have already qualified winning the Oceania Group!

The Matildas played South Korea again on Monday. In the first game last Friday Australia won 1-0 in a not very convincing performance in Sydney.

In the A League Men, Auckland could only draw 1-1 at home to Western Sydney and now leads Western Utd by five points. Western won 3-1 in Perth, their fifth consecutive win. Third placed Melbourne City won 1-0 at home to Central Coast and is a point below Western and four points clear of fourth placed Wanderers. Brisbane lost 1-5 at home to Macarthur but stays in twelfth place.

Only one match in the A League Women. Melbourne City is still top, two points clear of Victory after Victory beat Western Sydney. Adelaide is still in third place and Western Utd stays in fourth place. Brisbane remains seventh.

England and the EPL with seven games to go, Aston Villa was the only one of the top six teams to win. Liverpool now has an eleven point lead over Arsenal, after surprisingly losing 2-3 away to Fulham. Arsenal could only manage a draw away to Everton and is now five points clear of third placed Notts Forest who lost. Chelsea is in fourth place and Manchester City stay fifth.

Meanwhile in Germany, with six games to go, Bayern still leads Leverkusen by six points after both clubs won. Third placed Frankfurt lost and is now fourteen points away in third place with Mainz still fourth.

In Italy Inter could only draw and is now only four points ahead of Napoli has a three point lead over who have a match in hand. Atalanta lost its third match in a row but hangs on to third place six points behind Napoli and two points clear of Bologna.

In Spain, where only Atletico of the top six teams won, and with eight games left Barcelona leads Real Madrid by four points and Atletico by seven points. Fourth placed Atletico Bilbao is a further six points adrift.

Finally in France, also with six matches left PSG now has it all sewn up with a twenty two point lead over Marseille after Monaco lost and drops to third place. Strasbourg won again and stay in fourth place.

The Quote of the Week is from ex- Nottingham Forest Manager Brian Clough "Centre-forward, your job is to get hold of the ball and keep it and when you've got it, pass it to someone that can play football."

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With all games in the opening round of the senior R L T D transferred to the contingency date in July due to the weather and state of grounds last week, the season will officially get underway this weekend.

Only four clubs are fielding the under 20 grade so that will leave four clubs contesting with Brothers, Western Lions, Centrals and Souths.

With the exception of Souths who do not have a Ladies team, all clubs will be in the other three grades.

This weekend on Saturday Souths will host Western Lions in a replay of last seasons Grand Final while on Sunday Burdekin will travel to Brothers and Centrals will host Herbert River, Charters Towers and Norths A grade having byes.

The North reserves and ladies though will be visited by Bowen.

Wet weather has severely hindered training so far this season with all teams affected by the conditions.

Normally teams would have had two or three trials.

The Roosters did have a reserve grade match with Bowen while Brothers did play half a match with the Blackhawks.

Brothers have secured one of the best and most experienced League players in the competition and he alone should put them back up near the top of the ladder.

Half, five eight Shaun Nona lead Souths to a premiership last season with his kicking game alone a match winner.

The former Dragons NRL star has also played New South Wales and Queensland Cup over the years and has claimed many victories through his goal kicking.

Nothing much is known concerning the remainder of the Brothers squad but they will be enough.
The Roosters have gained PNG International Aiden Arusa and former Blackhawk speedster Jesse Yallop and they will be strengthened by the return from the Hawks MMC team Jye Olsen and Hayde Munnro but will not be till next week.

The Burdekin Hens knocked Brothers out of the Women's race last year in the semi final but a couple of Hens have now moved to Brothers and the match could be interesting.

Meanwhile back at Rugby Park the annual Shane Muspratt Cup games will be played in the under 12 division.

28 teams from Cairns in the North to one from Brisbane will contest the two day carnival on Friday and Saturday.

The carnival has been well supported by the clubs from Townsville as well as Mackay and the Whitsundays.

The Burdekin Little Roosters team will be a strong one coached by former Australian Schoolboy John Nash.

Roosters Junior President Jarod Smith said the team relay and the coaches relay could be two of the highlights.

The canteen will be open during the two days while the carnival is alcohol free.

Play gets under way on Friday morning with former local Rooster, Cowboys and Parramatta Eel Shane Muspratt in attendance.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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The Burdekin Touch association celebrated the contribution of senior players to Touch football in the Burdekin recently.

With over 25 male and female players over the age of 50 taking the field each week, Touch is proving to be a great sport for fitness and social connection.

“I started playing Touch in 1981 when I was transferred to Home Hill,” said Bruce Johnson, now 70 years of age.

“It’s a contact sport but not a collision sport so there is maximum speed and skill with minimum injury. Even though I’ve retired to Townsville, I drive down every Wednesday to play Touch with my mates,” he continued.

Peter Knapton began playing Touch in Townsville in 1978.

“I still look forward with the same enthusiasm to playing every week as I did all those years ago,” said the 73 year old.

“A little slower these days but still thinking like a youngster. The brain says go but the body says whoa,” he added.

Among the players over 50, there are quite a few in their 60s with seven players and referees over 70.

Burdekin Touch President, Michael Littlefield, acknowledged the contribution of the older players.

“They are role models. They’ve played, refereed and coached for years and they keep supporting Touch in the Burdekin,” he said.’

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Saturday 5th of April 1.00pm t0 5.00pm ( Patrol Group G ) Carl List, Jimmy Hayllor,  James Kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Rickard, Jedd giddy.

Sunday 6th of April 9.00am to 1.00pm  ( Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac Dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, Briella Wassmuth.

Sunday 6th of April 1.00pm to 5.00pm ( Patrol Group E ) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isa bella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sophia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, Shaize Christie, Emma Jone

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Home Hill Tennis is excited to announce that the upgraded amenities block is nearing completion and will soon be officially opened. What started as a simple idea has become a reality through dedicated planning, hard work, and strong community support. The project took a major step forward in 2023 when the club secured a $250,000 grant from the Queensland Government to upgrade the amenities, enabling Queenslanders to participate in sport and recreation activities.

Careful consideration went into designing the new facilities to integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure, including septic tanks, soakage pits, and electrical switchboards, while also meeting modern standards. The upgraded amenities block now features a wheelchair-accessible shower, toilet, and baby change room, a separate shower, a cleaner’s room, a storeroom, and a bank of five new toilets, including an ambulant toilet.

Funding for the project was provided by the club itself, along with contributions from Tennis Queensland and Tennis Australia. Additionally, privacy screens designed by artist Jane Hawkins and manufactured locally by Michael Blakey were incorporated into the building. This aspect of the project received partial funding through a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grant, a partnership between the Queensland Government and the Burdekin Shire Council aimed at supporting local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

The official opening, conducted by Dale Last MP, will take place at 7:45 am on Saturday, 3rd May, coinciding with the start of the iconic Sugar Bowl event. Everyone is welcome to attend and view the new facilities.

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The new amenities block at the Home Hill Tennis grounds. Photo supplied

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The 2025 rugby league season is set to officially begin this weekend in the R L T D competition, with Brothers and Centrals' A-grade teams not in action. Centrals will face Bowen in Bowen, but the home side does not have an A-grade team, meaning no game will take place. Brothers are having a bye this round.

In other matches, the Western Lions will host Charters Towers on Saturday, while the Roosters will play Norths at Rugby Park, and Souths will face Herbert River in Townsville. Norths will bring three teams to Ayr: Women, Reserves, and A-grade.

The Reserves, coached by Peter Horan, will kick off the season at 3.30pm, with gates opening at 2pm. Horan's squad will feature a mix of youth and experience, with several players from his grand final-winning U18 team from last season stepping up to higher grades. Norths are traditionally a tough, hard-hitting side, so if the Roosters play an expansive game, the locals could have the upper hand.

Anita Hagarty will once again coach the Hens, who reached the preliminary final last season. The Hens have lost their strike weapon, Stephanie Monday, but her twin sister, Martina, has been training and is known for her speed. Hooker Abby King, who had a disrupted season last year due to a knee injury, appears fully fit and will be a significant threat. Alongside her, Talisha Bulgarelli and the returning Shae Kratzmann will be key players in defense.

Kezzia Lammon is reportedly back at fullback and remains a dangerous playmaker, especially when linking up with speedy wingers Tegan Johnson and Jo Morgan. The Hens' match will kick off at 5pm.

At 6.30pm, a new-look Roosters A-grade side will face Norths, who have appeared to bolster their squad during the off-season. The Roosters have lost Cowboys players Henry Teuteu and Jeremiah Matuatu, along with Englishman Chris Gale. However, they have secured two Blackhawks players: outside back Logan Dixon from Penrith and forward Alfie Mather from the London Broncos. Mather impressed coach Steve Lansley with his playing style.

Two new signings could also make an impact: Jesse Yallop, reportedly the fastest man in the R L T D, and former Papua New Guinea international Adrian Arusa. Yallop, usually a winger, may be used in the halves, where he stood out in a recent trial with Bowen.

Jye Olsen and Hayde Munro have been the under-19 halves for the Blackhawks all season, but last week, Hayde was left out of the squad. Roosters coach Steve Lansley will hope that continues, as it would allow the experienced Munro to slot into the Roosters' halves.

Arusa was a standout in the Bowen trial and, along with forwards Mather, Braedyn Cotter, Ethan Hagarty, Kali Nauque, Lachlan Shepherd, and Caleb Noah, will look to dominate up front, with good service from hooker Colby Johnson. Joel Mason will lead the team from fullback, with Nemia Nawave in form on the wing, and possibly Luca Lago to make an appearance as well.

Jones Munro is always a dangerous player, and Terry Connors can score tries from anywhere on the field. John Zaro, Dylan Doak, and Jhye Starr could also play key roles for the Roosters.

The canteen will be open, staffed by the Lions Club, and the bar will also be serving throughout the day. After the games, patrons are invited to join the major sponsor, the Queens Hotel, for further celebrations.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Local

Once again, all four Burdekin Panthers games had to be called off because of the wet weather. In fact, all NQ Football fixtures were called off. There is now a three week break for the Premiers and Under 23s until they play Brothers at home on 26 April!

The only fixture this week is the Division One Ladies who are down to play Warriors in Townsville this Friday night. Weather permitting.

Juniors

The Juniors fixtures were once again called off due to the ongoing wet weather. Hope the kids and families have good school holidays and we will see you all back for training and games after Easter.

Masters

Monday Night Masters had to be called off yet again as the grounds were too wet. This week’s Master’s has also been postponed.

National and International

The Socceroos played China in Hangzhou last Tuesday in the third round of qualifying games for the 2026 World Cup. They won 2-0 and are now three points clear of third placed Saudi Arabia who drew 0-0 with Japan.

The Socceroos have two games left in the Qualifying Group C. On 5 June they are at home to Japan and then on 10 June they travel to Saudi Arabia. Australia must win one of these games to be sure of direct qualification.

The Matildas have two games against South Korea coming up. The first is on 4 April in Sydney and the second game is three days later in Newcastle. Sam Kerr has retained the captaincy and will join the squad in Sydney.

In the A League Men, Auckland won 2-0 away to Brisbane and is seven points clear of second placed Western Utd with Melbourne City another point behind and Victory in fourth place another point away. However, Victory has played one game more. Brisbane is still in twelfth place equal on points with Perth.

In the A League Women, Melbourne City is still top, five points clear of Victory after beating Wellington 1-0 in New Zealand. Victory beat third placed Adelaide 2-1 at home and has a game in hand. Western Utd stays in fourth place. Brisbane lost away to Central Coast and drops to seventh.

The European Leagues are back in action this week and in England with nine games to go Liverpool has a twelve point lead over Arsenal while in Germany, with seven matches to go, Bayern leads Leverkusen by six points. In Italy Inter has a three point lead over Napoli, with eight games to go and in Spain, with nine games left Barcelona leads Real Madrid by just three points. Finally in France, with seven matches left PSG has it all sewn up with a twenty one point lead over Monaco.

The Quote of the Week is from ex Crystal Palace and Irish star Clinton Morrison. “I'd been ill and hadn't trained for a week, and I'd been out of the team for three weeks before that, so I wasn't sharp. I got cramp before half-time as well. But I'm not one to make excuses.”

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The 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships began at North Kirra on the Gold Coast, with the Nipper and Youth Championships on 29-30 March. Harsh weather led to water event cancellations and a reduced beach program. Ayr Surf Club’s seven youth competitors performed well despite event limitations. Bella Lawry & Briella Wassmuth and Charlotte Lawry & Emilee Wassmuth placed 6th in their R&R finals, with Bella & Briella as the top Queensland team. Other members excelled in beach and ocean events. The season ends with the Championships, but patrols continue until May, with a new season starting in July.

The 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships kicked off on the weekend at North Kirra on the Gold Coast, with the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Nipper and Youth Championships taking place on the 29th & 30th March.

This annual event where members from the 314 Surf Clubs across Australia come together to compete in more than 480 beach and ocean events, is the largest event of its kind, only comparing the likes of the Commonwealth Games. Wet and wild conditions greeted competitors on the opening day of the Championships, with all water events cancelled and a limited number of beach events run in horrendous conditions after the program was revised.

Delays in the start of competition had competitors nervously waiting for their opportunity at a national title and the uncertainty of proceedings and conditions making for a very unsettled morning. Beach flags and R&R were the only events that could be held as part of day one youth competition, with the youngsters battling the wild winds and rain.

The seven youth members from the Ayr Surf Club - Isla Chapman, Bella Lawry, Briella Wassmuth, Zachary Dale, Milla Chapman, Charlotte Lawry and Emilee Wassmuth - all had a very solid carnival with the limited events they were able to partake in due to the shortened program.

Both the 2 Person R&R teams: U14/15s - Bella Lawry & Briella Wassmuth & U13/14s - Charlotte Lawry & Emilee Wassmuth, had strong performances in their heats to advance to the finals and both teams placed 6th in some very close and tough competition, with only a handful of points separating all teams and several countbacks to determine placings. Bella & Briella were the top Queensland team in their competition which was taken out by Brighton SLSC, and Charlotte & Emilee were the 4th Queensland team, with the top 3 QLD teams taking out the medals; Redcliffe, Burleigh and Townsville-Picnic Bay respectively.

The other 3 members took to the ocean and beach for their events, having to choose between specific events due to clashes in the revised program and missing additional events which were cancelled due to further deteriorating conditions on Sunday and all 3 youth members performed exceptionally well and should be proud of their efforts.

The Australian Championships brings the 2024/25 competition season to a close, however beaches will still be patrolled across Queensland until the end of the May Day long weekend and a new season of lifesaving for both Juniors and Seniors will be kicking off at the end of July. If you are interested in joining the Ayr Surf Club, please contact ayrslsc@gmail.com or the Ayr Surf Club Public.

Contributed by Ayr Surf Club.

R&R Teams - Charlotte Lawry, Emilee Wassmuth, Bella Lawry & Briella Wassmuth
U14/15 2 Person R&R - Bella Lawry & Briella Wassmuth
U13/14 2 Person R&R - Charlotte Lawry & Emilee Wassmuth
Zachary Dale
Isla & Milla Chapman

After persistent rain, bowlers finally had their chance to return to the green at Brandon, with competitive action kicking off on Friday night. The A & B Pairs final saw Jayson Farry and Jamie Woods prove too strong for Gary Pearce and Lloyd Shepherd, securing a decisive victory.

Saturday 29th March – A Grade Singles

Championship events continued on Saturday with a highly anticipated second-round A Grade Singles clash between two powerhouses, Peter Lejarraga and Vince Beitia. The match was finely balanced, but in-form Lejarraga shone on the green, sealing his place in the next round.

Sunday 30th March – Championship & Social Bowls

Sunday saw 30 bowlers take to the green for a mix of championship and social bowls.

In the A Grade Singles, a family rivalry took centre stage as Gary Pearce faced his son, Chris, for annual bragging rights. Chris took an early lead, but Gary’s experience ultimately prevailed as he edged a narrow victory.

The A Grade Pairs second-round match between Lloyd Shepherd and Kevin Collins against Gary Nosworthy and Trevor Elton was another tightly contested encounter. Shepherd and Collins emerged victorious, progressing to the next round.

Social bowls also saw competitive play, with several matches producing impressive performances:

Bruce McCallum & Richie Mau defeated Henry Hazel & Jamie Woods.

Sandra Darween, Hugh Montgomery & Peter Jorgensen overcame Ken Ferguson, Lyn Storrie & Ray Paneccasio.

Margaret Chapman, Leo Kenny & Peter Henderson triumphed over Ben Mills, Doug Kiehne & Jeff Taylor.

Joe Linton, Mick McCloskey & Doug Robins edged Neville Dickinson, Glenn Woodford & Joe Yipnazar.

The club’s monthly meeting will be held on Sunday 6th April at the usual time, followed by bowls at 1:30 pm.

Contributed by Brandon Bowls Club.

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Gary Pearce, Lloyd Shepherd and  Kevin Collins

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The heavens opened again which made it impossible for playing the last week of Junior Cricket games of the 24/25 season. The breakup and presentations went ahead at the Nutrien Ag Solutions cricket clubhouse though. Players from the youngest Rookies to the Challengers, along with members of the Blue and Gold groups and their families, gathered for the end-of-season celebration last Friday night. A free sausage sizzle was provided for all players and their siblings before the presentation of gifts and trophies took place.

The Rookies and Challengers all received a certificate for completing the season, and a ball each for practicing cricket at home. The Blue and Gold players were given a certificate, a laminated field position picture and a medal for their season at Home Hill Cricket.

Some individual trophies were then presented to some of the Blue and Gold group. Mitchell Patti received the "Most Improved Player" in the Blue Group. The "Coaches Award" in the Gold Goup went to Xavier Cross, Marshall Parker got the "Batting Award" and Ben Watkins the "Bowling Award". The major award for the year, the "Junior Cricket Player of the Year" went to Marshall Parker for his all-round performances in the Friday games as well as at Representative level throughout the season.

Gratitude was extended to everyone who contributed in any way to providing children with the opportunity to play cricket in the Burdekin. Appreciation was also expressed to Woolworths for donating the items used for the free sausage sizzle.

Contributed by Home Hill Junior Cricket.

Xavier, Gold Coaches Award
Marshall Parker, Gold Battling Award
Ben Watkins, Gold Bowling Award

The weather gods were not smiling on Home Hill Cricket this week, with the grand final game between Peto Marine and the Rookies, and the playoff for third between Alliance Pharmacy and the Crowned Mongrels being washed out.

Despite the rain, presentations and a small celebration of the 2024/25 cricket season were held on Sunday afternoon.  Winners from the season were:

Minor premiers - Peto Marine

Most runs - Lee Watts (210 runs for the season)
Batting average - Lee Watts (average 70 runs)
Highest individual score - Alex Stillhard (116 runs)
Most wickets - Dan Olditch (9 wickets)
Bowling average - Ayden Marano (taking 4 wickets at an average of 5 runs per wicket)
Fielding - JD Wilkins (10 catches)

An overall champion was also crowned, with the Senior Player of the Season being awarded to Dan Olditch from the Rookies for strong performances across all aspects of the game.

Home Hill Cricket Association would like to thank all the senior players who made the effort to take the field this season.  While the regular Saturday games might be over, cricket will be back soon with the Canefield Ashes scheduled for April 26 and 27.

Contributed by Home Hill Senior Cricket.

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Minor premiers - Peto Marine 
Highest score - Alex Stillhard (L)
Player of the Season Dan Olditch (R) and his son and fellow Rookies teammate Leo Olditch (L)

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The Ayr Bowling Club has celebrated another excellent week on the greens despite the rain, with members coming together for a mix of club Championship games and engaging social matches. The atmosphere and enthusiasm around the club remains high, as members are gearing up for Ladies Division 1 Pennants. With Ayr Bowling Club hosting the event from 26th – 29th April, 2025. We encourage members and anyone who has an interest in bowls to come and support our ladies during this prestigious event. Our ladies’ pennants team has been announced and available on the Club Noticeboard.

Tuesday Ladies Social bowls was played in overcast conditions with intermittent showers throughout the afternoon. Winners on the day were Katharina Stuckler, Isabel Cislowski, Deslie Olsen and Heather Jorgensen defeating Rayleen Hervey, Donna Soper, Karen Page and Irene Wilson. Runners up were Merle Smith, Sandra Stidston and Beryl Cornford defeating Karen Shepherd, Linda Giumelli and Mary Poli.

Ladies Competition A Singles played on Thursday saw Pam Power defeating Isabel Cislowski. Pam now progresses to the next round. In the other A singles games between Deslie and Karen, Irene and Heather, the games were suspended due to the wet weather conditions.

Men’s Social bowls on Wednesday saw one game of triples and one game of pairs. Winners on the day were Arthur Gauvin, Joe Papale and Ron Soper defeating Ron Smythe, Wayne Coonan and Barry Shepherd. In the pairs John Pirrone and Lew Stidston defeated Happy Horan and Anthony Bull.

Saturday’s Social bowls sponsored by Mahjong Ladies saw another great turnout of 22 players, with three games of triples and a game of pairs played. The winners on the day were Donna Soper, John Pirrone and Anthony Bull who put on a good performance to take the top spot. Runners up were Barry Hewson and Pam Power.

On Saturday 5th April, Mahjong Ladies will be sponsoring the Saturday Social bowls, celebrating 23 years of Mahjong at the club. The club is looking forward to a great afternoon of celebration with 1st prize $25 pp 2nd prize $15pp with a lucky number draw and other prizes to be won.

The Ayr Bowling Club invites everyone to its Fun Friday Night Bowls Sponsored by B & M Drilling on Friday 4th April, starting at 6 PM. This evening promises fun for bowlers of all levels, encouraging participants to bring friends or join solo to meet new people. The entry fee is $10 per game, which includes a sausage sizzle at 6 PM and a light supper after bowling begins at 7 PM.

Contributed by Ayr Bowling Club.

Saturday runners up, Pam and Barry
Saturday Winners, John, Donna and Anthony

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The sun was shining as the Ayr Juniors enjoyed a fantastic round of golf two weekends ago. The front nine was played, with 3-, 6-, and 9-hole competitions running.

The club expressed its gratitude to Burdekin Christian College for generously sponsoring the morning and to Debra Creed for joining Ayr Juniors to help present the wonderful prizes, which included bags of golf goodies.

In the 3-hole competition, Opie McKeough claimed the gross win, closely followed by Pia Mauro, who secured the nett victory with an impressive -1 nett score. A warm welcome was extended to Pia’s brother, Harvey, who played his first 3-hole round and recorded a strong debut score of 30 shots.

Heath Smart took out the gross win in the 6-hole competition, with Tyler emerging as the nett winner.

In the 9-hole competition, Amaya Mahoney secured the gross win, while Rheanna claimed the nett victory. The club congratulated all players for their efforts, participation, and support of the event.

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Logan, Max and Debra
Juniors with their wonderful prizes.

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