As the cricket season wraps up for most of the Home Hill Cricket Association juniors, two talented players, Marshall Parker and Thomas Cardillo, are set to continue their cricketing journeys on the representative stage this December.

Marshall Parker has been selected for the North Queensland Under-12B team and will head to Townsville from 16 to 20 December for a week-long Northern Hub Championship. His team will compete in 40-over matches against squads from Central Queensland, Mackay, and Far North Queensland. Adding to the achievement, Marshall has earned the honour of being named Vice-Captain of his team - a testament to his leadership and skill.

Meanwhile, Thomas Cardillo will travel to Cairns to take part in the prestigious "Bulls Masters" championship during the same week. This statewide competition features the best Under-16 players from across Queensland, including regions such as Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Mackay, and the Sunshine Coast. Representing the "NQ Monsoons," Thomas will compete in 50-over games, with the ultimate goal of securing the championship title.

The Home Hill Cricket Association wishes both boys the best of luck in their respective tournaments. Their selection is a remarkable opportunity to showcase their talent and represents a proud moment for the local cricketing community.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke.

‍

Marshall Parker will soon travel to Townsville to play in NQ’s Under-12B team.
Thomas Cardillo has been selected to play in Cairns’ Bulls Maters championship!

‍

The Lower Burdekin Ski Club was buzzing with talented athletes on the weekend, with families travelling from across the northern end of the state to participate in the Club’s annual Christmas Classic Competition!

33 competitors showcased their skills on the water across three events, trick, jump and slalom with Lower Burdekin Ski Club President, Jay Wiseman thankful the sunshine pulled through for the competition.

“We’ve really turned the weather on today,” said Jay.

The Lower Burdekin Ski Club stands as the only three event side Club in North Queensland, with many talented athletes travelling to enjoy the Club’s facilities located at Hutchings Lagoon. 2024 has seen the Club hold both regular come and try sessions as well as a ladies’ and girls’ day to welcome newcomers to the sport, with both Kristy and Jay noticing more beginners on the water.

“We’ve got the largest Division 6 we’ve seen which means there’s more newcomers than experienced skiers competing this year - we’re the only club in North Queensland who offers this type of competition,” added Jay.

At just six years old, Addison Hurley was the weekend’s youngest competitor, with the oldest skier on the water aged over 70, proving water skiing stands as a sport accessible for all ages to enjoy. Kristy and Jay invite those interested in the sport to reach out to the Club via their website www.lowerburdekinski.com.au.

Maddie Knox, and Addison and Claire Hurley
Reese Fusco, Kristy Wiseman, Emma and Hannah Pollick, Julie Neilberding, and Karly Chaillon
Garry Pollock (Townsville Water Ski Club President), Craig Rankin (Barron River President), Jay Wiseman (Lower Burdekin Ski Club President), Ryan Alloway (Lower Burdekin Ski Club Treasurer, and BBQ Grill King), and Brett Barsby (Townsville Water Ski Club Committee Member)
Division 1 water skier, Sam Neilberding

Photo Credit: Chelsea Ravizza

The Delta Cleaners Night Soccer Grand Finals lit up International Park last Friday, drawing a large crowd to witness the thrilling conclusion of the 46th season of this iconic competition. With 13 games on the schedule, the event showcased the region's top teams battling it out for glory, with UDS and UDS Ladies emerging as the Men’s and Women’s A Grade champions.

In the Men’s A Grade Final, UDS claimed the title after a nail-biting 2-1 victory over Show Me Da Mane. The match was deadlocked at 1-1 at full time, with Elliott Dal Santo scoring for UDS and Brendan Mio equalising for the Mane. The game went into Drop Offs and then Shoot Outs, where Jay Leckenby secured the winning goal, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The Ladies A Grade Final saw UDS Ladies dominate Smiling Assassins 6-0 to claim their first-ever championship title, redeeming their loss in the 2023 final. Sian Reardon delivered a stunning performance with a hat trick, supported by goals from Sally Friend, Ciara McDonnell, and Charley Ruskin.

A fan-favourite event of the evening was the Ferg Holden Drinkers Trophy, which Fair Call won decisively, defeating Free Ballers 4-0. The finals night featured plenty of tight contests, with four games requiring extra time and Drop Offs, and two culminating in Shoot Outs.

Other Finals Results:
Ladies Social B: Short Staffed 1 def. Havn’t a Kahlua 0
Ladies Social A Plate: The Hangovers 4 def. Blue Goal Diggers 0
Ladies Social A: Shin Kickers 1 def. Let’s Get Messi 0
Ladies A Plate: Rocky Pond Wonders 3 def. Kicken Goals 2
Men A Plate: Nutrien Ag Solutions 3 def. Plumb Dingers 2
Men A Bowl: Rapos Utd 3 def. FJV 0
Men B Grade: Oary’s Levellers 2 def. 7 Stooges 1
Men B Plate: Karl’s Mowing Service 3 def. iComply Utd 0
Men Social A Grade: BA 2 def. Old Grumpies 0
Men Social A Plate: DL Lager 4 def. Delta Physio 1
Men Social A Bowl: Borin n Scorin 2 def. Hardly Athletic 1

Night Soccer began in 1979 to stay fit during the off-season, starting with just eight teams in Home Hill. Over the years, the competition moved to Ayr, with floodlit games at International Park beginning in 1981. At its peak, the league hosted 86 teams. Delta Cleaners, the inaugural sponsors, have proudly supported the competition since its inception, marking a remarkable partnership of 46 years.

Congratulations to all teams, and a special mention to the winner of the SLoBs Christmas Raffle: Yellow ticket Z 22. See you all next season!

‍

Edith, Addison, Eva, Asha and Audrey 
Riley Christensen, Jack Gimson, Mason Matthews, Sebastian Mio, Matthew Kolb and Matthew Walker 
Megan Durrant, Laylah and Zane 
Dan and Tiffany Olditch 
Shane Pensini, Jamie Levitt, Flynn and Lucas 
Sophie, Olivia, Jayden, Claire, Mitchell and Emily 
Rhia Nielsen, Cassie Towlen, Logan Guglielmana, and Jett Jones
David, Corryn, Angus and Lincoln Inness 
Scott and Adele Andreatta 
Caleb Totorica, Riley Catanzaro, Ryan Totorica and Adam Patane 
Father and son duo, Rick and Max Kelly 
Riley Christensen and Taylah Koutsonis 
Goal Diggers’ Kellie Rains, Rhianna White, Shay Kratzmann and Brytni Pearson 
Kicking Goals’ Lauren Raitelli and Eliza Worlein 
 
Photo Credit: Chelsea Ravizza. 

‍

Over the weekend, 42 competitors from the Ayr Surf Club travelled to Sarina to battle the best of the North Barrier in the annual Branch Championships. It was lovely to see the nippers being joined by a strong cohort of masters to give it their all over 2 very big days of strong competition.

The club had some brilliant individual results, incredible team efforts and genuinely showed some amazing never give up attitude in all events giving them one of their highest overall points scores at a carnival in years. 

The carnival concluded with the announcement of the 2024-25 North Barrier Branch Youth State Team who will travel to the Queensland State Titles at Tugun in March next year.

A massive congratulations to 13 Ayr Nippers who made the team - Charlotte Dale, Taylor Chapman, Luca Lawry, Mia Wicks, Milla Chapman, Emma Jones, Emilee Wassmuth, Charlotte Lawry, Cole Pontifex, Briella Wassmuth, Zachary Dale, Isla Chapman and Bella Lawry. 

Just a reminder that volunteer patrols will continue over weekends and public holidays during the Christmas school holidays. So please if visiting the beach, see the lifesavers if you have any questions and always stay safe by following displayed safety warning signs. 

In other lifesaving news, on Saturday 30th November, Milla and Isla Chapman also represented the Queensland Country Team on the Sunshine Coast at the Interbranch Championships. Both girls performed exceptionally well in individual and team events with Milla coming home with a Gold medal in U13 female flags, a Bronze medal in U13 Female beach sprint & a Silver medal in U13 Beach relay.

‍

All Age Relay Team - Audrey Rickards, Ryley Sartori, Toby Hatherell, Isla Chapman, Mackenzie Sartori, Milla Chapman, Taylor Chapman, Ross Rickards, Mia Wicks, Chris Wicks and Zachary Dale. Photo supplied
Milla Chapman in U13 Board Race. Photo supplied.
U14 Surf Team - Parker Bonato, Zachary Dale, Briella Wassmuth and Jake Sartori - 2nd. Photo supplied
Isla Chapman celebrating her 2km beach run win. Photo supplied
Ryan Irvine in U10 Wade Relay. Photo supplied
U13 Board Relay Champions - Milla Chapman, Emma Jones and Cole Pontifex. Photo supplied
U14/15 2 Person R&R Champions - Bella Lawry and Briella Wassmuth. Photo supplied
U9 Cameron Relay - 3rd - Quinn Pontifex, Jude Lawry, Toby Hatherell and Mackenzie Sartori - presented by Chief Judge, Mark Rossato. Photo supplied
Angus Wicks wading in the U10 Cameron Relay. Photo supplied
U11 Boys - Lachlan Jones, Harrison Sartori, Luca Lawry and Lewis Bonato with Age Manager Ned Bonato. Photo supplied
Audrey Rickards (2nd) and Lola Gibson (3rd) in U10 Female Flags. Photo supplied
Milla and Isla Chapman representing Qld Country Team. Photo supplied

‍

The Ayr Pony & Hack Club brought their year to a thrilling close with an unforgettable ride and camp at Virginia Park Station in November. Members and their families immersed themselves in the beauty and adventure of the great outdoors, making lasting memories in a picturesque setting.

The weekend was filled with excitement as riders explored bush trails, galloped across river sands, splashed through refreshing waters, and tackled every jumpable log in sight. The scenic station provided a perfect backdrop for riders of all ages to showcase their skills and enjoy the camaraderie of their fellow club members.

After a day of riding, participants returned to the welcoming homestead for more fun and relaxation. Activities included swimming in the pool, playing tennis, and gathering around the campfire for storytelling and laughter, all while enjoying delicious food.

The Virginia Park Station camp marked a fantastic conclusion to a year of shared passion for horses and the outdoors, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the adventures ahead in the new year.

Contributed with thanks to the Ayr Pony & Hack Club.

‍

It has been a bustling week at the Ayr Bowling Club, with social bowls, awards presentations, and the Annual General Meeting bringing members together to celebrate a successful year of bowling.

On Wednesday 4 December, the club hosted three games of triples with Ron Smythe, Joe Papale, and Anthony Bull emerging victorious over Cisco, Col Essex, and Ron Soper in a close match. The club's covered greens provided respite from the summer heat, ensuring an enjoyable afternoon for all participants.

Saturday’s social bowls saw a fantastic turnout of 29 players before the annual awards presentation. Four games of triples and one game of pairs were played, with Val Edwards, Thelma Klopper, Joe Papale, and Anthony Bull taking home gift vouchers donated by the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club for their win. Runners-up Lorraine Wolffe, Col Essex, and Lew Stidston earned Christmas hams, while Dot Cotting won the major raffle prize, which included a bag and prawns from Home Hill Prawn Shop.

The annual awards presentation on Saturday evening recognised the club’s top performers. Vice Men’s President Maurie Power and Vice Ladies’ President Sandra Stidston officiated the ceremony, expressing gratitude to players, committee members, and volunteers. Special thanks were extended to Honeycombes for sponsoring the Mixed Singles award, which was won by Michael Parravicini.

The prestigious Bowler of the Year titles went to Joe Grabbi for the men and Pam Power for the women, acknowledging their dedication and exceptional performances both at the club and in inter-district competitions.

Sunday’s Annual General Meeting marked the end of an era as Anthony Bull stepped into the role of Club President, succeeding Ron Soper.

The incoming committee includes:
   • Secretary: Pam Power
   • Treasurer: Maurice Power
   • Men’s Senior Vice President: Maurice Power
   • Ladies’ Vice President: Beryl Cornford
   • Greens Director: Ron Soper
   • Provedore: Sam Caltibiano
   • Men’s Games Director: Anthony Bull
   • Ladies’ Games Director: Irene Wilson
   • Ladies’ Committee Member: Joy Comollatti
   • Men’s Committee Members: Chris Berkery and John Perone
   • Grants Coordinator: Lorraine Wolffe

Ray Wall will continue in his role as Patron of the club.

Social bowls will continue over the Christmas break, with games scheduled for 11, 14, 18 and 21 December. There will be no bowls on 25 or 28 December. Instead, mixed social bowls will take place on Tuesday, 31 December.

Members and newcomers alike are encouraged to join the club's social bowls events, which continue on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons, with evening games on Wednesdays during summer. Names are to be submitted by 6:30pm, with games starting at 7pm.

The Ayr Bowling Club looks forward to an exciting year ahead, with activities resuming in January 2025, weather permitting, and social bowls likely to begin on 14 January.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

‍

Saturday Winners received RSL Vouchers for their stellar performances.
Bowlers of the Year were Pam Power and Joe Grabbi.
Michael Parravicini was the Mixed Singles campion as sponsored by Honeycombes.

‍

The final junior cricket games for 2024 before the Christmas break were played last Friday evening at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex, bringing together players, families, and the wider community for a fantastic celebration of the season.

The Tuesday Rookies joined forces with the Challengers for the occasion, creating an exciting atmosphere where all players showcased their skills before enjoying a well-earned sausage sizzle, generously sponsored by Woolworths.

In the Challengers' match, Henry Cohen and Cooper Gardner impressed with a strong partnership of 16 runs, both remaining not out. Corey Pensini and Doug Cohen followed suit with their 11-run partnership, also unbeaten. Among the bowlers, Amaya Goggi and Royce Cohen each claimed two wickets, while Hunter O'Shea, Mica Kemp, and Henry Cohen picked up one each.

The "McDonald’s Sports Awards" were presented to Mica Kemp, Nicholas Marrinan, and Doug and Royce Cohen for their outstanding performances.

Kaisen Petersen returned to the "Blue Group" after several weeks in the "Gold Group," showcasing his refined skills by top-scoring with 12 not out and taking a wicket. He also earned a "McDonald’s Sports Award" for his all-round effort.

Tait Parker and Kye Quinlan shone with the bat, scoring 11 and 10 runs respectively, with Kye hitting two boundaries. Tait delivered with the ball as well, taking three wickets for just four runs, while Kip Nicholas narrowly missed a hat-trick, claiming three wickets in four balls to earn another "McDonald’s Sports Award."

Other wicket-takers included Jacob Adcock, Jude Shannon, Kye Quinlan, and Mitchell Patti, with Mitchell also contributing two runouts.

The "Gold Group" played a shortened game to join in the festivities. Marshall Parker dazzled with 19 runs off 15 balls, including a six and a four, while Xavier Cross added an unbeaten 12 runs with two boundaries.

The standout bowler of the game, Mark Wilkie, took two wickets for just eight runs off three overs, earning him a "McDonald’s Sports Award." Tyler Schultz, Ben Watkins, and Logan Pickup each claimed a wicket, while Alex Cullen added a sharp catch to his name.

The evening wrapped up with a lively sausage sizzle, bringing families and players together to celebrate the season’s efforts and achievements. The Home Hill Cricket Association extends its gratitude to Woolworths for donating sausages, onions, and bread, making the half-season break-up a resounding success.

The association wishes all its players and supporters a safe and happy festive season and looks forward to seeing everyone back on the field in 2024!

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke.

‍

Mark Wilkie was celebrated as the game’s standout bowler!
Kaisen Petersen and Kip Nicholas both received McDonalds Sports Awards on Friday.
The Rookies and Challengers joined forces last week.
The Rookies and Challengers game created an awesome atmosphere.
The Blue Group putting on a lively show.
The Gold Group performed exceptionally well.

‍

The rain stayed away long enough last Friday for the penultimate week of Junior Cricket before the Christmas break, giving the young cricketers a chance to showcase their skills. Thanks to Dan and the grounds team, the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex fields were in top condition, despite the recent wet weather.

In the Challengers group, Noah Tanner and Corey Pensini stood out with a superb partnership of 19 runs, with Corey remaining not out. Batting wasn’t easy, but the bowlers made their mark, with Hadley, Anna, Royce, Lincoln, Noah, and Corey all taking wickets. For their excellent performances with both bat and ball, Corey and Noah received the "McDonald's Sports Awards" for the week.

Over on field 4, the "Blue Group" delivered an exciting match. Tait Parker and Kip Nicholas were impressive with the bat, scoring 16 and 15 runs respectively, both remaining unbeaten. Tait smashed three boundaries during his innings and also shone with the ball, taking 2 wickets for just 6 runs. Mazlyn Smith matched his bowling prowess, claiming two wickets herself, while Kyle Wilkie and Kayleah McCarthy took one wicket each. Kip Nicholas and Jake Cullen added to the action with a runout each. Tait’s all-round brilliance earned him a "McDonald's Sports Award," while Mazlyn’s spirited bowling and encouragement in the field saw her claim the other award.

In the "Gold Group," Marshall Parker delivered a standout performance, smashing five boundaries and one six in a blistering 24-ball innings of 35 runs, retiring not out. He also impressed with the ball, taking 2/9, earning him the "McDonald's Sports Award" for his efforts. Other noteworthy contributions came from Oscar Mahoney, who remained unbeaten with 16 runs, while Xavier Cross, Tyler Schultz, and Ben Watkins all took wickets. Ben also added a runout to his tally, and Oliver Calligaro made a great catch.

As the Christmas break approaches, the juniors continue to deliver fantastic performances each week, showcasing the depth of talent and enthusiasm within the Home Hill Cricket Association.

Contributed with thanks to HHCA Junior Co-Ordinator Scott Heidke.

‍

Tait Parker and Mazlyn Smith were Blue Group standouts!
Marshall Parker shone in the Gold Group.
Challenger’s Noah Tanner and Corey Pensini made a perfect pair.

‍

Saturday 14 December, 1pm to 5pm: Patrol Group A - Chris Wicks, Damien Rickets, Emma Rickets, and Jane Wicks.

Sunday 15 December, 9am to 5pm: All Day Patrol Group D - Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac Dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, and Briella Wassmuth.

Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.

‍

Burdekin Christian College’s open boys’ basketball team made history by winning the inaugural Calvary Cup, held at Townsville Basketball Stadium on November 28. Competing against schools like Annandale, Whitsunday, and hosts Calvary Christian College, BCC’s boys remained undefeated, securing the boys' basketball title.
Coach Rachel Cornelius praised the team’s effort, while BCC also celebrated standout performances from Peter Heron, Linked Darr, and Lataiah Trindle, who were awarded Best & Fairest honors. Despite limited facilities, BCC’s success reflects determination and teamwork, with the school eager to defend its title in next year’s event.

Basketball Team Wins Calvary Cup

Burdekin Christian College’s open boys’ basketball team has won the inaugural ‘Calvary Cup’, a new inter-school sporting competition. The highly anticipated new event took place on Thursday, 28th November, and was held at the Townsville basketball stadium.

The competitive and tight competition included other Christian schools within the Far North Queensland region, such as Annandale Christian College, Whitsunday Christian College, and Calvary Christian College, who hosted the event.

“Burdekin Christian College (BCC) was invited to compete in the very first Calvary Cup by Calvary Christian College in Townsville, which we were very excited by” says Rachel Cornelius, who coached the boys’ team to victory.

BCC had several teams represented, which included grade 7-9 students in both the boys’ and girls’ basketball and netball.

The open boys’ team won the boys' basketball Calvary Cup, with David Nourdine coaching the girls’ basketball team, who fought well despite not being the most experienced team and facing a few injuries.

“The girls fought really well. They had a very strong game. Although they were not the most experienced team out there, they had a good fight. They played really well as a team, and even though there were a few injuries, they just persevered through the competition. I’m really proud of them,” David, BCC girls’ basketball coach says.

The boys’ second team, coached by Jerri Cakau, though less experienced, demonstrated good sportsmanship throughout despite not winning any games.

“They weren't an overly experienced team, but they played really hard. Unfortunately, they didn't win any games but showed good sportsmanship and really enjoyed being part of the competition,” Jerri says.

However, it was the open boy’s team, coached by Rachel Cornelius, which was undefeated and won the Calvary Cup for the boys’ basketball division, in what was an exciting and well organised event.

“We made history in the fact that, it's the first time that we have been invited, first time they’ve run the competition, and then to win one of the cups, was beyond our wildest expectations,” says Rachel.

There were three Calvary cups: one for netball, one for girls' basketball, and one for boys' basketball. The netball team, coached by a year 12 student, did not qualify for the finals, while the boys' netball competition was canceled due to lack of participation.

Other notable achievements on the day for BCC, included three of their students, Peter Heron (Open Boys Basketball); Linked Darr (Boys Basketball); and Lataiah Trindle (Girls Basketball), who were all awarded the Best & Fairest players for their respective divisions, in the cross-Christian school rivalry.

Despite being small and having limited facilities, the school is extremely proud of its achievements. While the event was praised for fostering inter-school Christian competition and good camaraderie.

“The competition was a really good initiative for bringing Christian schools together and we look forward to it becoming an annual event. Overall, we had a very successful competition and we can’t wait to defend the boy’s title,” says David with a smile.

‍

Burdekin Christian College’s open boy’s basketball team hoisting their winning Calvary Cup aloft. Photo: Supplied by BCC
BCC’s open boy’s basketball and their coach, Rachel Cornelius. Photo: Supplied by BCC
The BCC girl’s basketball team and their coach, David Nourdine. Photo: Supplied by BCC
Lataiah Trindle, who won the Best & Fairest players for the best girls' basketball player. Photo: Supplied by BCC

‍

Plantation Parkrun #307 saw local runners and walkers gather for a morning of fitness and fun on Saturday 7 December. The weekly event showcased the talents of participants across various age groups, with Skye Claussen taking the top spot overall. Claussen crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 24:26.

Hot on her heels was Drew Bursey, who secured second place in 26:22, followed closely by Robert Tama at 26:25. The fourth and fifth positions were claimed by Karin Thorburn in 26:31 and Chris Cohen in 26:33, respectively.

The Plantation Parkrun continues to provide a fantastic opportunity for community members of all ages to stay active and achieve personal bests. New participants are always welcome to join in the fun and register for free at www.parkrun.com.au/plantation.

‍

The Burdekin Clay Target Club wrapped up its year in style with a highly successful Christmas shoot on Sunday, December 8. With 58 competitors braving the steamy heat, the event showcased impressive scores across the board.

The day featured six exciting events, and participants from various grades delivered outstanding performances.

Event 1 – 15 Target Medley (15m)
   • AA Grade: 1st Aaron Lemphers (50/50), 2nd Wayne Cislowski (49/50), 3rd Jarrod Coleman (48/50)
   • A Grade: 1st Tony Robinson (49/50), 2nd Col Edgerton (47/50), 3rd Gian Vassalini (46/50)
   • B Grade: 1st John Kinnimonth (25/25), 2nd Daniel Scott (47/50), 3rd Andrew Bergin (46/50)
   • C Grade: 1st Brian Bonanno (47/50), 2nd Michelle Russell (43/50), 3rd Pedro Le Blowitz (24/25)

Event 2 – 10 Target Pointscore Handicap
Top performers included Gian Vassalini, Glenn McHenry, Phil Russell, and Wayne Cislowski, each scoring a perfect 30/30.

Event 3 – 10 Target Single Barrel Handicap
Jy Yarrow, Chantal Morelli, and Tony Caruso excelled with 10/10 scores, while Daniel Scott achieved 14/16.

The day also included the Double Barrel Handicap, Consolation Rounds, and the 5 Pair Double Rise, where Lindsay Groat, Joe Caruso, and Joe Scalia led in their respective grades.

A big thank you goes to sponsors including Peto Marine, Burdekin Tyres, and Hall's Firearms, whose support ensured the day’s success.

The club looks forward to its next event on Sunday, 12 January, 2025. Stay safe, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato.

‍

Local

Pre-season training has begun. and a mixture of seasoned senior players and Under16 and Under14 players have turned up. Training will continue up until 19 December then start again on 2 January. Thursday nights at International Park from 6pm. All new and returning players are welcome. 

Only Night Soccer is left on the local Calendar.  Next Tuesday, 10 December is Semi-finals night, and the Grand Finals are on Friday 13 December.

Night Soccer

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s Week 13 and only one more round before the semi-finals. Top scorers on the night were  UDS Ladies who defeated a depleted Kicken Goals 9-0 and DL Lager who somehow marmelised Coral Coast Electrical 8-0.

Mottin Earthmoving is back on top of Group A1 after defeating Rocky Pond Warriors 3-2 and UDS still lead in Group A2 after defeating Plumb Dingers 2-1 in a very close match. In Men’s B Grade, 7 Stooges are top on goals from Oary’s Levellers after beating Karls Mowing Service 3-0 the Levellers beat Mountain View Fresh 1-0.

In Men’s Social, Wires Down still lead the Group after a 1-0 win against Boarin n Scorin followed by Old Grumpies who defeated Jaime’s Boys 3-1.

In the Women’s competition UDS Ladies still top the A Grade table Sanco produce is in second place, but the team has now gone home! In Social A Grade, Shin Kickers beat Let’s Get Messi and Havn’t a Kahlua thumped Orange Goal Diggers 4-1.

Week 14’s games on Tuesday were called off because of the wet weather but will, hopefully, be played tonight Thursday 5 December.

Juniors

Junior Social Soccer wound up for the season last Tuesday.

National and International

The Socceroos are now ‘resting’ after their match against Bahrain. Their next match, another “Must Win”, is at home against Indonesia  on 20 March. The Socceroos are in second place on the table one point ahead of the next four teams. Japan seems to have already qualified with five wins and a draw from their six games. Each team plays ten games. The top two teams in the Group qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup. Third placed teams have to go to Play offs!

The Matildas have played two friendlies against Brazil and lost both of them. Last Thursday in Melbourne they lost 1-3  and then on Sunday, on the Gold Coast they lost 1-2. The Matildas then play Chinese Taipei on 4 and 7 December, also in Australia.

In the A League, Auckland continue their outstanding run and is the only club with a one hundred per cent record. They beat Newcastle jets 2-1to stay at the top of the table two points clear of Melbourne Victory who beat Western Utd 3-1. Adelaide is in third place after a 2-2 draw with Perth and at the foot of the table Brisbane gained their first point in 4-4 draw away to Macarthur.

The A League Women only had two matches because of the Matildas games. Melbourne City beat Western Sydney 2-1 to go top of the league and Central Coast won 2-1 against Canberra. The Roar stay in second place level on points with the Mainers but having played a game less.

In England and the EPL, Manchester City lost their fourth match in a row, 2-0 away to Liverpool who have now opened a nine point lead over second placed Arsenal who won 5-2 at West Ham. Chelsea moves up to equal second with a 3-0 home win against Aston Villa and ManU with their new manager move up to ninth spot with a 4-0 home win against Everton.

In Germany, only three of the top six teams won. Bayern still tops the Bundesliga four points clear of Frankfurt despite only drawing away to fifth placed Dortmund. Leverkusen moves up to third place with a 2-1 away win at Union Berlin and is a further three points off the pace. Leipzig lost and drops to fourth spot. At the foot of the table Bochum and Holstein Kiel both lost again and look doomed.

In Italy’s Serie A, the top four teams all won again and so Napoli, who won 1-0  at Torino still top the table three points clear of Inter and Fiorentina. Atalanta is in fourth spot a further point behind but has a game in hand. Juventus could only manage a draw away and drops to sixth place. At the foot of the table none of the bottom six teams won and Venezia continues to hold up the league.

In Spain, Barcelona was the only one of the top nine teams to lose. Somehow, they managed to lose at home to eighteenth placed Las Palmas. Oh Dear! Real Madrid in second place is just one point behind Barca and Atletico in third place is another point adrift. Atletico Bilbao won 2-1 away to Rayo Vallecano and moves up to fourth place.
At the foot of the table Espanyol were the only one of the bottom six teams to win. with just six points separating the bottom six clubs.

Finally in France, Marseille and Lyon were the only teams out of the top six to win. PSG could only draw 1-1 at home to seventeenth placed Nantes but is still seven points ahead of Marseille and Monaco. Lille is in fourth place another three points away. Montpellier managed a draw but continues to hold up the league and looks to be in danger of the drop.

The Quote of the Week is from new Coventry City Coach Frank Lampard “When you take a lot of stick you want to ram it down people's throats.”

‍

The End of Harvest Golf Classic is shaping up to be a spectacular event, with plenty of activities and excitement planned for next Friday, 13 December. Organisers are urging teams to finalise their registrations quickly, as only three spots remain. Due to the popularity of the event, nominations cannot be accepted on the day. The finalised draw will be released next week and shared via the End of Harvest Golf Classic’s Facebook page.

Bray Slushy Bar
Platinum sponsor Bray will feature a Slushy Bar, opening at 11am, serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, with all proceeds donated to CORES, supporting a great cause.

Longest Drive Competition
This year’s Longest Drive Competition kicks off at 1:30pm near the Slushy Bar. For $5, participants get three balls to try their luck. Entries are unlimited, and the competition includes men’s and women’s categories. Proceeds from this contest will also go to CORES.

Drinks and Raffle Tickets
Drink tickets will be available for purchase from the Ayr Golf Club and can be used on the course or at the main bar. Raffle tickets are also on sale, and attendees can buy them on the day or pre-order via email. EFTPOS facilities will be available at the main bar, kitchen, slushy bar, and registration table.

With an action-packed schedule and plenty of prizes, this year’s End of Harvest Golf Classic promises to be a fantastic celebration. Mark your calendars for 13 December and get ready for a day of fun on the greens!

What: End of Harvest Golf Classic.
When: Friday 13 December.
Where: Ayr Golf Club.
More Information: End of Harvest Golf Classic’s Facebook page.

Contributed with thanks to Kelsey and Ben.

Another fantastic End of Harvest Golf Classic is on the horizon with organisers gearing up for one of their biggest events yet!

‍

Saturday 7 December 1pm to 5pm (Super Sub Patrol) Joshua Furnell, Barry Cross, and Brooke Cross.

Sunday 8 December 9am to 1pm (Patrol Group B) Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, and Danny Wilson.

Sunday 8 December 1pm to 5pm (Patrol Group G) Carl List, Jimmy Hayllor, James Kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Richards, and Jedd Giddy.

Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.

‍