Sports

A Rising Star In Rugby Union And Mentor For The Next Generation

A Rising Star In Rugby Union And Mentor For The Next Generation

With almost seven years of experience under her belt, Caitlin Holmes continues to reach new levels of success within her rugby union career, with 2024 hosting a world of opportunities for both personal and professional growth with the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads. “The 2024 season has definitely been a very social one for myself, and I’m sure a few of the ladies from our rugby team as the friendships gained through not only this year, but my past years of playing rugby, will always be part of

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Festive Fun Continues at Ayr Bowling Club

Festive Fun Continues at Ayr Bowling Club

As the Christmas season draws near, activity at the Ayr Bowling Club has eased, with many members heading off for holiday festivities. However, the spirit of social bowls remains alive, ensuring skills stay sharp and friendships flourish. Men’s social bowls on Wednesday saw two engaging games of triples. The winning team of Ron Smythe, Happy Horan/Ray Wall, and Col Essex triumphed over their opponents John Pirrone, Margaret Chapman, and Lew Stidston. Wednesday night social bowls brought a live

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Ayr Surf Club Beach & Christmas Patrol Roster

Ayr Surf Club Beach & Christmas Patrol Roster

Saturday 21st of December, 1pm to 5pm: Patrol Group F - Lisa and John Furnell, Jen and Jo Morgan, Lauren and Isla Chapman, and Ryley, Jake, Kat and Dave Satori. Sunday 22nd of December, 9am to 5pm: Patrol Group D – Ben, Bella, and Kellie Lawry, Parker Bonato, Richard and Zac Dale, William Holt, Sharli and Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, and Kristy and Briella Wassmuth. Wednesday 25th of December, 9am to 1pm: Christmas Day Patrol Members - Jimmy Hayllor, and John, Anne, Sophia and Isabella Molon

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Burdekin Swimming Sprint Fundraiser

Burdekin Swimming Sprint Fundraiser

The countdown is on for the 2025 NQIB Burdekin Sprint, which is being held 18 January 2025, at the Ayr Pool. The event draws some 250–300 competitors annually, with families visiting the Burdekin from Ingham to Mackay, out through to Collinsville, Richmond and Charters Towers. Beyond the club, the benefits extend to the local businesses and community, with visitors often staying over the weekend during the carnival. With the Burdekin Swimming Club being such a small club, this type of importa

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Bowls, Bites, and Big Wins at The Ayr Bowling Club

November 28, 2024

The recent rainfall may have dampened plans for Fun Friday Night, but the Ayr Bowling Club are pleased to announce that the event has been postponed to this Friday, 29 November, starting at 6pm. The club invites community members to come out and enjoy a fun evening of bowling - whether you're an experienced bowler or trying it for the first time, this event is perfect for players of all levels. It’s a fantastic opportunity to bring friends or join in solo and meet new people.

The evening kicks off with a sausage sizzle at 6pm, followed by bowling starting at 7pm and a light supper afterward. The entry fee is just $10 per game, which includes both the meal and the bowling. For more information or to reserve your spot, please contact Maurie Power at 0412 551 816 or Pam Power at 0458 330 019. The Ayr Bowling Club looks forward to welcoming both new faces and regular members for a night of community and fun.

On Monday, 18 Novebmer, the semi-final of the 3 Bowl Pairs was played, with Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeating Tricia Achille and Irene Wilson. Thursday saw the final match of the 3 Bowl Pairs, with Beryl Cornford and Pam Power coming out on top, beating Deslie Olsen and Mary Poli to claim the title of 3 Bowl Pairs champions.

Tuesday’s Social Bowls was a lively affair, with Merle Nixon, Dot Cutting, and Mary Poli defeating Karen Shepherd, Ron Smythe, and Heather Jorgensen. In another game, Isabel Cislowski, Katharina Stuckler, Karen Page, and Sandra Stidston won against Meryl Smith, Raylene Hervey, Beryl Cornford, and Pam Power.

Wednesday's social bowls featured a series of exciting triples matches. In the day's first match, Happy Horan, Chris Berkery, Dino Poli, and Anthony Bull triumphed over Ron Smythe, John Pirrone, and Lew Stidson. Wednesday night also featured some spirited competition in both triples and pairs. In the triples match, Katharina Stuckler, John Cesconetto, and Heather Jorgensen emerged victorious, while in the pairs, Bertilla Piazetta and Joe Grabbi claimed the win.

In the weekend's championship matches, Lyn Storrie and Gary Pearce defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Anthony Bull in the mixed pairs event on Saturday morning. It was a great game of bowls, showcasing top-level play.

On Sunday, in the Mixed Fours Championship, Margaret Chapman, Henry Hazle, Lyn Storrie, and Gary Pearce triumphed over Lorraine Wolffe, John Perrone, Sandra Stidson, and Anthony Bull.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

The community is invited to attend the Ayr Bowling Club’s Fun Friday Event this Friday 29 November.

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Football Matters with Cyclops

December 5, 2024

Local

Pre-season training has begun. We have had twenty-four players the last two weeks, a mixture of seasoned senior players and Under16 and Under14 players. 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 left on the local Calendar. The Group rounds continue until the 3rd December followed by the Semi-finals on 10 December and Grand Finals on Friday 13 December.


Night Soccer

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s Week 12 and getting very close to the semi-finals. Top scorers on the night were short Staffed who defeated a depleted Orange Goal Diggers 8-1 with Jo Butler scoring seven times.

Nutrien Ag Solutions are back on top of Group A1 after defeating FJV 2-0 and UDS still lead in Group A2 after drawing  with Show Me Da Mane. In Men’s B Grade, Oary’s Levellers beat Pacific Thunder 2-1 to take over the lead and 7 Stooges drop to second place after forfeiting  to Mountain View Fresh.

In Men’s Social, all five of the top teams were involved in 0-0 draws. Wires Down lead the Group followed by Old Grumpies and Jamie’s Boys.

In the Women’s competition UDS Ladies still top the A Grade table after a 3-0 forfeit win  and Smiling Assassins beat Rocky Pond Wonders. In Social A Grade, Shin Kickers lost to DILLIGAF and Young Guns beat Blue Goal Diggers.


Juniors

Week 6 of Junior Social Soccer had some great team and individual performances.
There is now just two weeks to go, the season will end on Tuesday 3 December.

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Home Hill Juniors Battle It Out in Bowen

November 28, 2024

Despite a rainy start to the weekend, the Home Hill Cricket Association juniors made their way to Bowen on Sunday for two intertown matches in the Blue and Gold Groups. While the weather initially put a halt to Friday’s play at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex, Sunday saw the teams giving it their all on the field.

In the Blue Group, Jude Shannon led the way with an impressive 17 not out, hitting some clean boundaries along the way. Kip Nicholas also showcased his batting skills, remaining unbeaten on 12 runs. The bowlers delivered a solid performance, with Mazlyn Smith, Billy Muilwyk, and Kyle Wilkie each claiming a wicket and bowling a maiden over. Several players, including Jude Shannon, Chaz Moschella, Kip Nicholas, Tyler Smith, Mitchell Patti, Tait Parker, and Kye Quinlan, added to the team’s disciplined bowling by delivering maiden overs. Tyler Smith was named “Player of the Match” for his all-around effort and awarded the game ball.

The McDonald’s Sports Awards went to Kyle Wilkie for his enthusiasm and to Billy Muilwyk for his outstanding batting technique. Despite the team’s strong efforts, Bowen managed to secure the win by capitalizing on Home Hill’s lost wickets.

In the Gold Group, Bowen elected to bat first after winning the toss. With Bowen short on players, Home Hill’s Marshall Parker and Xavier Cross showed great sportsmanship by stepping in to play for the opposition. The Home Hill bowlers toiled for 30 overs, restricting Bowen to 161 runs, with a run-out by Oliver Calligaro in the 17th over being the sole wicket. Kaisen Petersen stood out as the most economical bowler, conceding just nine runs. Interestingly, Marshall Parker, batting for Bowen, top-scored with 25 runs, while Xavier Cross contributed 14.

Home Hill’s chase began on a positive note, with their top three batters retiring not out. By the midway point, the team was in a strong position with nearly 80 runs and only three wickets down. Tyler Schultz anchored the innings with a composed 29 not out, including four boundaries, and Ben Watkins supported with an unbeaten 18. Despite their determined partnership, Home Hill fell short by just eight runs.

Marshall Parker also shone with the ball for Bowen, claiming 2 for 18. Tyler Schultz and Ben Watkins were awarded the McDonald’s Sports Awards for their composed batting displays.

The Home Hill juniors are already looking forward to hosting Bowen early next year, aiming to reverse the results and continue their spirited rivalry.

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

Tyler Smith received the Player of the Match award on the weekend.
Kyle and Billy Muilwyk were celebrated for claiming a wicket each.
Tyler Schultz and Ben Watkins were commended for their standout performances.
The Gold Group put on a great show for spectators on Bowen fields.
Taking to the field, the Gold Group were commended for their sportsmanship.
Gold Group played for 30 overs on the weekend against Bowen.

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Canetoads Hit the Ground Running for Men's Mental Health Fundraiser

November 28, 2024

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads came together on Sunday 24 November in support of an incredible fundraiser aimed at supporting men’s mental health, reflecting their strong commitment to both community and well-being.

The event saw fantastic participation, filled with laughter and meaningful conversations. While the day was all about raising awareness, some of the players may have ended up feeling more "mentally tough" than physically tough, with sore muscles reminding them it might be time to start training for next season. A huge congratulations Austin, Brayden, Campbell and all involved for organising such a successful and impactful event!

Donations to Austin, Brayden and Campbell’s Three Blokes Running fundraising page can be made online at https://movember.com/t/three-blokes-running?mc=1.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.

The Burdekin Canetoads rallied together on Sunday for a fantastic Men's Mental Health Fundraiser.

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Home Hill Cricket Association Secures Victory Against Bowen

November 28, 2024

On Sunday, 24 November, the senior representative team from the Home Hill Cricket Association travelled to Bowen for an exciting 40-over inter-town match. Bowen won the toss and chose to bat first, setting the stage for an engaging contest.

Bowen’s opening batsman, Jamarley Daley, provided a strong start, making the highest score of the innings with 61 runs before being dismissed by Alex Stillhard. Lee Watts (51 runs) and Ricky Parslow (26 runs) contributed valuable runs, helping Bowen reach a total of 8/213. Home Hill's bowling attack was led by Salavatore Cardillo, who claimed 3 wickets for 29 runs off 4 overs, and Joel Hansen, who took 2 wickets for 28 runs in 7 overs.

In response, Home Hill's run chase was anchored by Brad Parravicini and Alexander Romeo. Parravicini played a crucial role, scoring 54 runs off 64 balls before being caught and bowled. Hugh Smith stepped in next and remained unbeaten, contributing a solid 64 runs to the total. Other key contributions came from Ayden Marano (34 runs) and Alex Stillhard (26 runs), with Home Hill reaching 3/215 to claim victory with 7 overs to spare.

The Home Hill Cricket Association would like to extend its thanks to Bowen Cricket Inc. for hosting this thrilling match. Looking ahead, both teams are already gearing up for the second match in the inter-town series, which will be held at Home Hill’s cricket fields in the New Year.

Contributed with thanks to HHCA Secretary, Tiffany Olditch.

(Back L-R) Hugh Smith, Brad Parravicini, Joe Marano, Leon Franklin, Alexander Romeo, Alex Stillhard, Salvatore Cardillo, (Front L-R) Ayden Marano, Joel Hansen, Leo Olditch, and Thomas Cardillo.

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Ayr Surf Club Weekend Beach Patrol Roster

December 5, 2024

Saturday 23 November 
1.00pm to 5.00pm Patrol Group D: Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, and Briella Wassmuth.

Sunday 24 November
9.00am to 1.00pm Patrol Group B: Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, and Danny Wilson.

Sunday 24 November
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, and Danni Coughlin.

Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.

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North Barrier Branch Surf Rescue Championships

November 21, 2024

On Saturday 16 November, lifesavers from across the North Barrier Branch attended the Annual Surf Rescue Championships at the Ayr Surf Club.  Surf Rescue Champs is a specialised carnival that focuses on events that test your 'life saving' skills. Competitors in the Champion Lifesaver event will compete in a Rescue Tube race, board, surf swim and beach sprint, as well as completing a theory test paper, a live patient assessment and a Resuscitation component. The day also hosts a First Aid competition where teams of two assist in the management and treatment of simulated first aid scenarios. For most of the competitors this is an introduction to a different aspect of lifesaving competition and allows them to broaden their knowledge and experience.

The Ayr Team brought home some fantastic results to win the carnival overall. Some individual results include: 
   • U12 Female Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Alyssa Irvine, 2nd - Eva Rickards
   • U13 Male Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Cole Pontifex
   • U13 Female Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Milla Chapman, 2nd - Emma Jones, 3rd - Charlotte Lawry
   • U14 Male Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Zachary Dale
   • U15 Female Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Bella Lawry, 2nd - Isla Chapman
   • U17 Female Champion Lifesaver: 3rd - Ryley Sartori
   • Masters Male Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Ben Lawry
   • Masters Female Champion Lifesaver: 1st - Kristy Wassmuth
   • U15 First Aid Competition: 1st - Bella Lawry & Briella Wassmuth

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry.

Zachary Dale completing his CPR component in Under 14 Champion Lifesaver
Bella Lawry & Briella Wassmuth competing in U15 First Aid Competition
Start of U17 Rescue Tube Race - Ryley Sartori (far left)
Isla Chapman in the Under 15 Female Board Race
Charlotte Lawry performing Live Patient Assessment in Under 13 Champion Lifesaver

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Ayr Bowling Club’s Week of Wins and Welcoming Fun

November 21, 2024

The Ayr Bowling Club kept the competition lively throughout the week despite the warmer weather. On Tuesday, the ladies’ social games enjoyed a refreshing breeze. Ruth Moore, Sandra Stidston, and Pam Power triumphed over Karen Shepherd, Karen Page, and Mary Poli, while Ron Soper and Heather Jorgensen secured a win against Donna Soper and Irene Wilson.

Thursday, 14 November, saw no competition games for the ladies, but only three more games remain in their season, which wraps up at the end of the month.

Wednesday night brought cooler conditions, perfect for two games of triples. The first match saw Tricia Achille, John Cesconetto, and Heather Jorgensen claim victory. The second game ended with a win for Tegan Cesconetto, Rob Jorgensen, and Sam Caltabiano. With warmer days ahead, Wednesday evenings offer an excellent chance to enjoy a friendly game of bowls.

Saturday featured three fiercely contested triples games. The standout team of Katrianne Stuckler, George Nixon, and Pam Power came out on top, defeating Cisco, Merle Nixon, and Rob Garner.

On Sunday, the club’s championships continued with a Mixed Pairs match. Gary Pearce and Lyn Storie overcame Sandra Darwen and Michael Parravinci to claim the win. The board is up with this week’s scheduled championship games.

The Ayr Bowling Club is excited to host its final Fun Friday Night Bowls event of the year on 22 November. Sponsored by Chiropractic Care and Sparkle Carwash, this event invites the community to join in for an enjoyable evening of bowls, whether as seasoned players or first-timers. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring friends or come solo and meet new people.

Festivities kick off with a sausage sizzle at 6pm, followed by bowling at 7pm and a light supper. Entry is just $10 per person, covering both the meal and game.

For more details or to reserve your spot, contact Maurie Power at 0412 551 816 or Pam Power at 0458 330 019. The Ayr Bowling Club looks forward to welcoming everyone for an evening full of fun, camaraderie, and community spirit.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

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Brandon Bowls Club's Week of Triumph and Togetherness

November 21, 2024

The Brandon Bowls Club had an eventful week filled with excitement and community spirit. The festivities began on Friday, 15 November, with the club’s final Trophy Bowls evening for 2025, sponsored by Bennett Mechanical Exhaust & 4x4. A special thanks goes out to Josh Samuel for his generous support.

The event saw an impressive turnout of 62 bowlers who enjoyed a warm evening of competitive play. The standout winners of the night were Sandra Darwin, Henry Hazel, Margaret Chapman, and Gary Pearce with the Mio Farming team taking out second place. The Bradman Trophy for the evening went to Damien Morello, Raymond Tortorica, Lloyd Shepherd and Jayson Farry. The club extends its gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed, including the ladies in the kitchen, Len Feeney for expertly handling the BBQ, and Leo Kenny for his work behind the bar. Special recognition also goes to Gary Pearce and Rob Jorgensen for their dedication in organising sponsors and coordinating teams throughout the year.

Trophy Bowls will return in February 2025, and more details will be shared as the date approaches.

Sunday, 17 November, was a more relaxed affair with Social Bowls, featuring 14 bowlers who enjoyed mixed games of triples and pairs after the previous day’s celebrations. In the pairs matches, Rob Jorgensen and Richi Mau claimed victory over Mick McCloskey and Kev Collins, while Gary Nosworthy and Jamie Woods defeated Peter Lejarraga and Allan Gairoch. The triples game saw Henry Hazel, Joe Yipnazar, and Jeff Taylor triumph over Ben Mills, Leo Kenny, and Doug Robins with an impressive count.

Saturday, 16 November, was another highlight as Brandon Bowls Club welcomed the Gold City Bowls Club from Charters Towers for their return visit to compete for the Dalgety Shield - a tradition dating back to 1996. This time, Brandon emerged victorious, reclaiming the coveted trophy in a memorable win. The day was marked by camaraderie, with two matches played and breaks for a delicious lunch and afternoon tea, culminating in celebrations that lasted well into the evening.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

Sponsor, Josh Samuel with Friday Trophy Bowls winners Gary “Mr Bowls” Pearce, Margaret Chapman, Henry Hazel and Sandra Darwen.
Sponsor, Josh Samuel with Runners Up Joe, Glen, Peter, and Anthony.
Sponsor, Josh Samuel with Bradman Trophy winners Lloyd Shepherd Raymond Tortorica and Jayson Farry (absent Damion Morrello).
Brandon Bowls Club VS Gold City Bowls Club competing for the Dalgety Shield.

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Football Matters with Cyclops

December 5, 2024

Local

Pre-season training for the 2025 season has started for Burdekin Panthers. Thursday evenings at International Park 6pm to 7pm for Men and Youths. Only Night Soccer left on the local Calendar. The Group rounds continue until 3 December followed by the Semi-finals on 10 December and Grand Finals on Friday 13 December.


Night Soccer

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s Week 11 for some reason had six forfeits but made up for it with three Sin Bins. The sixteen games produced 50 goals. Top scorers for the Men were Wires Down with six goals and  for the Women, no team scored more than three goals.

Mottin Earthmoving are back on top of Group A1 after defeating Nutrien Ag Solutions and UDS still lead in Group A2 after beating JB Automotive. In Men’s B Grade, 7 Stooges remain on top of the Group after beating  Oary’s Levellers and Pacific Thunder is now in second place with a 3-0 win against Karls Mowing Service. In Men’s Social Wires Don lead the Group followed by Old Grumpies and Jamie’s Boys.

In the Women’s competition UDS Ladies still top the A Grade table followed by Sanco Produce and in the Social A Grade, Shin Kickers stay at the top followed by DILLIGAF and The Hangovers.


Juniors

Week 5 of Junior Social Soccer had some great team and individual performances.
Team performance of the week went to Pink Panthers, the girls playing so well as a team! Goal of the week went to Jensen Power for Young Panthers for a long run from inside his own half with defenders in pursuit concluding with a precision finish in the far bottom corner of goal. Keeper performance of the week went to Delphaine Savage for Mini Fillies for her first stint in goal ever and she did an amazing job against the boys.

The kids have three weeks to go, the season will end on Tuesday, 3 December. A huge shoutout to Travis Butler for the marking of the fields each week!

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A Week of Happy Bowling at the Home Hill Bowls Club

November 21, 2024

Twenty players braved the warm afternoon to enjoy a great day of bowls at Home Hill Bowls Club. Fortunately, a refreshing breeze kept conditions pleasant for all.

The winners of the day were Phil, Dino, and Hugh (pictured), who claimed victory on Rink 2 over Mick Murison, Alex, and Jeff.

Rink 3 featured a nail-biting match that came down to the end, with Margaret, Stephen D, and Terry edging out Bob, Joe, and Henry by just one point.

On Rink 4, Yogi and Glen proved too strong for Paul and Trevor, while on Rink 5, Judy and Gary secured a convincing win against Steve Muti and Mick McClosky.

In the raffle, Steve Muti took home first prize, with Karen McClosky claiming second place.

The recent “Come and Try” Bowls Day was a resounding success, potentially bringing as many as four new members to the club. A big thank you goes to Michael Paravacini for his coaching expertise on the day.

Other weekly activities at the club are thriving, including the Monday morning fitness group, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning craft group, Thursday morning bingo, and bowls on Thursday and Saturday afternoons.

Contributed with thanks to Stephen Doig.

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That’s All Folks! Ayr Golf Club Juniors Wrap Up for 2024

November 21, 2024

The Ayr Golf Club celebrated its Junior Golf break-up on Sunday with an impressive turnout. Each junior brought along a parent or friend to join in a fun, two-person ambrose competition over 6 holes. The morning was filled with laughter and friendly competition, followed by a well-deserved lunch back at the clubhouse, where participants also enjoyed a lively 'wobbly' putter contest.

The day concluded with the end-of-year presentations, acknowledging the juniors' hard work and achievements throughout 2024.

Heath Smart was recognised as the Most Improved Golfer for 2024, showcasing significant progress over the season. The Nett Junior Golfer for 2024 title was awarded to newcomer Riley Dobe, while Oscar Mahoney took home the prestigious Gross Junior Golfer of the Year award.

Monthly medal winners were celebrated with Drummond gift cards, and special recognition was given for the least putts in the 3, 6, and 9-hole categories.

With the summer break now underway, junior activities will pause and resume at the end of February. The new season will kick off with come-and-try days and coaching sessions, leading into the regular Saturday morning competitions. The club looks forward to welcoming back all juniors for another great year of golf.

Contributed with thanks to Laura Mahoney.

Father and son duo, Tyler and Ben Smith.
Melanie and Rhianna Bain, and Hudson and John Suficiencia enjoying a putt.
Micah and Matt Kemp had a swing in the ambrose.
Mark and Angus Watson and Parker Lawson enjoyed a great day on the green.
Dynamic duo Peter and Sam Heatley made the perfect pair.
Parker and Kristy Oar were full of smiles on Sunday!
Ben Watkins and Kyle Wilkie had a ball on Sunday.
All smiles! Julie and Riley Dobe - 2024 Nett Junior Golfer.
Annalise Calligaro and Amaya Mahoney had plenty of fun at Sunday’s break-up.
Putting Champions, Oscar, Lyla and Hudson.
Major Winners for the year, Heath Smart, Oscar Mahoney and Riley Dobe.

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Alliance Pharmacy Triumphs in Round 5 of Home Hill Senior Cricket

November 21, 2024

Round 5 of the Home Hill Senior Cricket competition featured an impressive display by Alliance Pharmacy as they secured a strong victory over the Rookies.

Winning the toss, Alliance Pharmacy elected to bat first and laid a formidable foundation with openers Lee Watts and Mark Coventry leading the charge. Coventry showcased his batting prowess, retiring not out with a quick 51 runs from 41 balls, while Watts followed closely behind, retiring on an equally commendable 50 runs from 52 balls. The pair set the stage for a high total, supported by a sharp caught and bowled from Adam Jarvis that dismissed Hugh Smith for 26 runs. Glen Stockdale added to the Rookies' efforts by claiming JD Wilkins for 37, but Alliance Pharmacy’s innings concluded with an imposing 2/194 at the end of their 25 overs.

The Rookies began their chase with the father-son duo of Dan and Leo Olditch opening the innings. Dan anchored their effort with a solid run-a-ball 47, while contributions from brothers Thomas and Salvatore Cardillo added 27 and 16 runs respectively. Despite their commendable attempts, the Alliance bowling lineup proved too economical and effective, with JD Wilkins and Lee Watts each claiming two wickets. The Rookies ultimately fell short, posting a final total of 7/124.

In the other scheduled match, Peto’s Marine was awarded the points after the Crowned Mongrels forfeited.

The competition continues to heat up as teams vie for dominance in the Home Hill Senior Cricket season.

Contributed with thanks to HHCA Secretary, Tiffany Olditch.

Mark Coventry - 51 runs off 41 balls retired not out.
Lee Watts - 50 runs off 52 balls retired not out.

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Young Cricketers Play To The Backdrop Of Cane Field Controlled Blaze

November 21, 2024

The cricket match continued with an impressive display of orangeflames as their backdrop. Photo supplied

Young Cricketers Shine at Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex

Last Friday, the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex was alive with energy as junior Home Hill Cricket Association players took to the fields for their weekly matches. It was a day filled with impressive performances and fierce competition, showcasing the budding talent of our young cricketers.

In the Challengers group, Corey Pensini delivered a standout performance, topping the score chart with the bat and demonstrating exceptional bowling with figures of 1 wicket for 0 runs. Henry Cohen and Harvey Shannon also made their mark, taking 2 for 2 and 3 for 2, respectively. For their fantastic efforts, Lincoln McDowell and Henry Cohen were awarded the coveted McDonald’s Sports Awards.

Over in the Blue Group, the bowlers ruled the game, with Chaz Moschella being the only batter to reach double digits, scoring 10 runs. Kye Quinlan dazzled with his exceptional bowling, claiming 4 wickets for just 4 runs. Jude Shannon and Steve Wallwork each took 2 wickets, while Jacob, Tyler, Mazlyn, Tate, and Mitchell chipped in with one each. The McDonald’s Sports Awards in this group went to Jude Shannon and Mitchell Patti for their standout contributions.

The Gold Group saw a more balanced contest between bat and ball. Marshall Parker emerged as a dual threat, scoring an unbeaten 16 runs and taking 2 for 5, making him the standout player of the match. Oscar Mahoney added a solid 11 runs to the scoreboard, and Mark Wilkie batted confidently with 10 runs. Marshall Parker, Ben Watkins, and Nathaniel Backo achieved wicket maidens, while Tyler Schultz and Oscar Mahoney also picked up wickets. Ben Watkins’ all-round performance earned him the McDonald’s Sports Award.

Congratulations to all the young cricketers for their incredible performances and a special thank you to the Home Hill Cricket Association for fostering such a vibrant cricket community. Here’s to more thrilling matches ahead!

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

A talented allrounder, Ben Watkins was awarded a McDonald’s Sports Award.
Challengers Players, Henry Cohan and Lincoln McDowell received McDonald’s Sports Awards last week.
Blue Group standouts, Jude Shannon and Mitchell Patti were celebrated with a McDonald’s Sports Award each.
Gold Group experienced a well-balanced contest between bat and ball on Friday!
With a classic Burdekin cane fire ablaze in the background, the Gold Group put on an impressive show!
The Gold Group hosted many standout players on Friday.

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Burdekin Clay Targets Club Hosts Successful November Shoot

November 18, 2024

The Burdekin Clay Targets Club hosted a successful competition on Sunday, 10 November, drawing 47 competitors to the event. Despite the hot sun, a refreshing breeze kept conditions manageable, leading to outstanding performances across all grades. Congratulations go out to all the winners for their remarkable achievements.

The club extends heartfelt thanks to sponsors Peter and Juantia DelleBaite, Mick Parison from the Giru Shop, and Lui Populin for generously donating meat trays for the raffle. The event featured a range of exciting categories and showcased the talent and dedication of all participants.

Event 1-25 Target Double Barrel Novelty Event-Sponsored by Peter & Juantia DelleBaite
AA Grade 1st Tony Caruso, 2nd Bill Gall
A Grade 1st Bruce McBow, 2nd Greg Maltby
B Grade 1st Jeff Dunstone, 2nd Chantal Morelli
C Grade 1st Toni Scott, 2nd Pedro Le Blowitz

Event 2-25 Target Double Barrel Handicap
OPEN 1st Greg Maltby 35/36
2nd Wayne Cislowski 34/36
3rd Michael Zabala 32/34

Event 3-20 Target Double Barrel Sweeps
AA Grade 1st Andrew Bowater, Wayne Cislowski & Aaron Lemphers 20/20
A Grade 1st Colin Ferguson, Jay Murray, Bruce McBow & Alan Lord 20/20
B Grade 1st Mick Populin, John Kinnimonth, Daniel Scott, Richard Stanhope & Ross Pryde 19/20
C Grade 1st Lynda Potter & Alf Gangemi 19/20, 3rd Pedro Le Blowitz & Samuel Gibson 18/20

Event 4-30 Target Burdekin Pointscore Championship 15m-Sponsored by Giru Shop
OPEN 1st Aaron Lemphers 90/90
AA Grade 1st Aaron Lemphers 90/90
A Grade 1st Davis Stitt 88/90
B Grade 1st Ross Pryde 87/90
C Grade 1st Alf Gangemi 89/96

Event 5-20 Target Single Barrel Continental 
AA Grade 1st Bill Gall 35/35
A Grade 1st Sylvia Rossato 20/20
B Grade 1st Mick Populin 18/21
C Grade 1st Peter Scott 20/20

The club’s next event will be their annual Christmas shoot, marking the final competition of the year. Stay tuned for more updates and congratulations once again to all participants!

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato.

Event 1- 25 Target Double Barrel Novelty Event as Sponsored by Peter & Juantia DelleBaite - (back row) Peter DelleBaite, Bill Gall, Greg Maltby and Pedro Le Blowitz, (front row) Tony Caruso, Jack McBow, Jeff Dunstone and Toni Scott.
Event 2- 25 Target Handicap - Wayne Cislowski, Greg Maltby and Michael Zabala.
Event 4-30 Target Burdekin Pointscore Championship 15m-Sponsored by Giru Shop - Aaron Lemphers, David Stitt, Ross Pryde and Tony Caruso.
Event 5-20 Target Single Barrel Continental - Bill Gall, Sylvia Rossato, Mick Populin and Peter Scott.

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