The Ayr and Home Hill Rugby teams. Photo credit: Marni Hine
The Town of Origin event on Sunday delivered an action-packed day of sports, with Home Hill securing the overall victory in thrilling fashion. The competition between the two towns featured cricket, netball, and rugby, each fiercely contested and filled with moments of excitement.
The day kicked off with cricket, where Ayr claimed a narrow victory in a match that went down to the wire. Ayr posted a solid score of 3/136, but Home Hill came close, finishing with 5/135. Despite strong batting from Home Hill’s top order, they fell just short of victory, handing Ayr the lead.
Next came the netball match, where Home Hill dominated from the start, bouncing back from the cricket loss. Their superior teamwork and precision shooting saw them pull away, finishing with a commanding 27-16 win over Ayr. This result brought the two towns level in the overall standings, setting the stage for a dramatic rugby decider.
The rugby match was a highlight of the day, providing a nail-biting finish that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. The match was closely fought, with both teams exchanging points throughout. However, it was in the final six minutes that the drama truly unfolded. Ayr and Home Hill each scored a try in quick succession, but Home Hill held on to clinch a thrilling 24-22 victory. Their try sealed the win and secured the overall Town of Origin title for Home Hill.
Beyond the sports, the day featured plenty of fun for families and spectators. The tug-of-war during the rugby half time between the local children and the Harvest Festival Queens was a crowd favorite, with the kids coming out on top. Attendees were treated to delicious food from the Lions Club, while the Home Hill Community Kindergarten kept everyone refreshed with drinks and snacks. Kids enjoyed the jumping castle, and the Burdekin Cruisers Club displayed a selection of classic cars, adding to the community atmosphere.
It was a fantastic day of sport and entertainment, with Home Hill emerging as the Town of Origin champions for this year.
Photo credit: Marni Hine