It was a big week at Brandon Bowls Club, with thrilling finals and tight finishes across all divisions. Jason Farry and Glenn Woodford claimed the 2025 Pairs Finals title after a hard-fought victory over Kenny Ferguson and Gary Nosworthy, drawing cheers from the crowd for their sharp teamwork and calm under pressure.

In Wednesday’s A Grade Ladies Final, Lyn Storrie triumphed over Margaret Chapman in a close, high-quality match that had spectators glued to the green.

The Ladies’ Triples saw Vanda Ballao, Sandra Darwen, and Helen Collins edge out Lyn Farr, Bev Garioch, and Darelle Pearce in another nail-biter. Sunday’s mixed triples action wrapped up the week, with impressive wins from teams led by Margaret Chapman, Neville Dickinson, and Ken Ferguson — capping off a standout week of bowls.

‍

Finals Pairs winners: Glenn Woodford [L] and Jason Farry [R]
A Grade Ladies Finals winner: Lyn Storrie [L], runner-up Margaret Chapman [R]

‍

Ayr Bowling Club has enjoyed another vibrant week on the greens, with a great mix of social and championship games bringing members together. With the championship season now coming to an end competition has been fierce but friendly, highlighting the impressive skill and sportsmanship of our bowlers. Social games have also been well-attended, creating a welcoming and lively atmosphere that continues to strengthen the club’s sense of community.

Tuesday Ladies Social bowls was played, Winners on the day were Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeating Katharina Stuckler and Mary Poli. Karen Shepherd, Karen Page and Dot Cutting defeating Donna Soper, Betty Schultz and Heather Jorgensen

The Ladies Handicap Pairs Competition was played with Lorraine Wolffe and Irene Wilson defeating Katharina Stuckler and Heather Jorgensen winners progress to the next round.

Men’s Social bowls on Wednesday saw two games of triples and one game of pairs. Well done to all these players turning up in the high humidity. Winners on the day were Richard Aplin, Joe Papale and Chris Olditch.

Wednesday night social bowls two games of triples were played. The winners of the first game were Bertilla Piazetta, David Burt and Sam Caltabiano. Winners in the second game were Sonya Richards, Ken O'Shea and Gary Pearce.

On Thursday, the Mixed Singles Championship game was held between Beryl Cornford and Anthony Bull. Early in the game it was close, with Beryl Cornford taking a commanding lead halfway through the game to win 26 - 12. Bery now proceeds to the semi-final against Ron Soper.

Saturday’s Social bowls there were two games of triples. Winners on the day were Donna Soper, Deslie Olsen – Lachlan Grantz and Dot Cutting defeating Arthur Gauvin, Betty Schultz and Barry Shepherd.

If you are interested in trying lawn bowls, Ayr Bowling club is a hub for lawn bowls enthusiasts, offering a friendly and social environment for players of all skill levels. Here are some details about the Ayr Bowling Club:

· Location: 101 Young Street, Ayr, Queensland 4807

· Phone Number: (07) 4783 1336 · Facebook Page:Ayr Bowling Club | Ayr QLD | Facebook

Social bowls are played on Wednesday or Wednesday evening or Saturday afternoon – we would love to see you! We have plenty of sets of bowls for you to try with. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a beginner looking to try your hand at lawn bowls, the Ayr Bowling Club is a great place to connect with fellow enthusiasts and enjoy the sport.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

‍

Home Hill Bowls Club report Thursday 23rd October. Twenty-three players turned out for a windy afternoon. Rink 2 saw a singles match between Alex Bojack and Michael Young, which was eventually won by Alex. He will now play Wayne Newton in the final. Rink 2 was also the lucky rink drawn, so Alex and Michael are the daily winners, shown in the photo.

On Rink 4, Judy Elton, Janet Arthur, and Steve Doig went down to Bob Young, Michael Young, Ron Smith, and Gary Nosworthy/Trevor Elton after not being able to score a point following the tea break. Rink 5 saw Paul Vass, Nev Webb, and Mick McClosky prove too strong for Henry Hazel, Elaine Young, and Joe Linton. Bob Pickard and Joclyn DeFranciscus won handsomely over Betty Webb and Bruce McCallum on Rink 6, while Margaret Linton and Glen Bones Berryman were big winners over Warren Yogi Bunn and Margaret Chapman on Rink 7.

The breakfast tray raffle was won by Bones Berryman and Yogi Bunn, who took home the wine. This year’s Christmas party will be held on 29th November, beginning at 1pm. Janet Arthur and Gary Nosworthy both had birthdays during the week. As usual, Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, Wednesday morning Kraft group and Wednesday evening barefoot bowls and sausage sizzle all continued. Thursday morning Bingo, social bowls, and the $5 day on Saturdays are all going well.

Until next week, good bowling. Story and photos by Stephen Doig.

‍

Last Saturday, Burdekin Football Club celebrated another standout season at Populin Hall, honouring players, volunteers, and teams who went above and beyond. The night was a mix of camaraderie, recognition, and celebration, highlighting the dedication that fuels the club year after year.

Standout moments included the presentation of the Ramon Oar Memorial Spirit Award to Wayne Kolb, the Presidents Medal to Garry and Kiera Durrant, and the Taylah Pearson Memorial Award to Sian Reardon. Young talent like Zack Durrant and Cooper Kross also received top accolades, while Joshua Valle and Charley Ruskin were named Men’s and Ladies Player of the Year.

Celebrating a Season of Dedication and Achievement

Major Award Winners:
Ramon Oar Memorial Spirit Award- Wayne Kolb
Alan Chatfield Junior Club Person- Kristen Power
Taylah Pearson Memorial Award- Sian Reardon
Presidents Medal- Garry & Kiera Durrant
Young Club Person of the Year- Zack Durrant
Men’s Player of the Year- Joshua Valle
Ladies Player of the Year- Charley Ruskin
Colts Player of the Year- Cooper Kross
Fillies Player of the Year- Tahlia Lawson
Grand Final Winners- Ladies Team

Team Awards:
Division 2
Players of the Match: Jacob Rossato, Simon Scuderi, Chris Achille
Player of Finals: Jake Lacey
Most Improved: Jack Castrejana
Most Consistent: James Dwyer
Best and Fairest: Heath Swindley

Division 1
Players of the Match: Zack Durrant, Max Kelly, Angus Innes
Most Improved: Casey Calligaro
Most Consistent: Cody Scalia
Best and Fairest: Seaton Ivory

FQPL U23
Players of the Match: Brayden Card, Oscar Licciardello, Leighton Gallagher
Most Improved: Max Kelly
Most Consistent: Cooper Kross
Best and Fairest: Jalen Pedro

Ladies
Players of the Match: Sian Reardon, Ava Heatley, Rhia Nielsen
Player of the Finals: Karina Guglielmi
Most Improved: Dayna Linton
Most Consistent: Zandi Bonnano
Best and Fairest: Sienna Lago

FQPL Men:
Players of the Match: Oscar Licciardello, Jay Leckenby, Cooper Kross
Impact Player: Matthew Kolb
Most Consistent: Oliver Gabiola
Best and Fairest: Ryan Scodellaro

‍

It was Ayr who had the last laugh on Sunday, 19 October, after defeating cross-town rivals Home Hill in a three-sport series as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival's esteemed Town of Origin series.

The well-attended event drew hundreds of locals to Home Hill State High School grounds for the 11th instalment of the series, with Ayr's 2-1 victory across junior cricket, netball and rugby giving it a 6-5 historical lead and temporary bragging rights over its local counterpart.

Beyond the on-court and on-pitch action, Harvest Festival president Mark Vass said the event was a win for the entire Burdekin community.

"There's always a lot of banter out there, a lot of banter on the sidelines and it's just a good atmosphere," said Vass. "People are very passionate about it, and as long as people continue to support it, we'll keep it going."‍

Home Hill Pushed Hard, But Ayr Reigns Supreme

Ayr hit the ground running in the early afternoon, claiming a narrow, hard-fought 60-59 victory in the junior cricket showdown, with Kip Nicholas named Man of the match for his dominant performance. Home Hill bounced back with a commanding 40-17 win in netball, with Krystel Kerr named player of the game for her outstanding exploits. But it was Ayr that finished strongest, sealing the series with a comprehensive 32-4 rugby league victory to clinch the 2-1 series win.

With Ayr fans celebrating and Home Hill supporters already plotting next year’s comeback, the Town of Origin once again proved it’s as much about community as it is about sport.

‍

Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories & Photography

‍

After two wins at home last week, both teams were hoping to replicate that success again on Sunday at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex.

The Home Hill Third Grade side faced a disciplined Suburban Parks attack and dismissed for 126 runs. The innings never quite found momentum, with four early wickets falling to J Eldho, who proved to be the chief destroyer for Sub Parks. The partnership of Alexander Romeo (35 runs) and Darcy Walters (39 runs) proved crucial to the total.

Despite Home Hill’s bowlers delivering a spirited performance, Suburban Parks finished their innings at 6/153 to take the win by 4 wickets. Steven Zabala was the standout bowler for Home Hill, claiming 3 wickets for just 15 runs in his 6-over spell, including 2 maidens.

In Second Grade, Home Hill’s batting innings was a mix of resilience and missed opportunities, posting a low total 84 runs before Wanderers chased it down with five wickets in hand. Despite flashes of brilliance in both batting and bowling, Home Hill couldn’t quite hold off the opposition who took the win, 5/85.

Alex Stillhard (21 runs) and TJ Richards (20 runs) were the top scorers with the bat, supported by a steadying 11 run stand from Thomas Cardillo. Al Wilkins delivered with ball in hand, a tidy spell of 3 overs with 1 maiden, conceding just 9 runs and claiming 2 crucial wickets.

In both games, Home Hill’s bowlers gave their teams a fighting chance, but the batting lineups couldn’t match the intensity. Time to regroup for next week’s fixtures.

Contributed with thanks to HHCA Secretary Tiffany Olditch

‍

In both games, Home Hill’s bowlers gave their teams a fighting chance, but the batting lineups couldn’t match the intensity. Photo supplied

‍

The batters dominated at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex last week.

In the Blue Group, Kaisen Petersen led the way with an unbeaten 30 runs, including four fours. Jake Cullen also impressed with 19 not out, hitting two fours. Corbett Cross and Kip Nicholas both remained unbeaten on 17 runs.

With the ball, Tait Parker and Jake Cullen each took two wickets, while Kyle Wilkie, Henry Cohen and Petersen each contributed a run out. Jake Cullen and Henry Cohen were awarded the McDonald’s Sports Awards for their efforts.

In the Gold Group, Tyler Schultz scored 24 not out, just ahead of Ben Watkins’ 23 not out. Both were recognised with the McDonald’s Sports Awards. Only four wickets fell during the game, with Xavier Cross (1/10) and Tyler Schultz (1/17) taking the only wickets. Ben Watkins took a catch and a run out, while Oliver Calligaro also secured a run out.

There were no stats recorded for the Challengers this week, but Claire Cross and Aria Bryant earned the McDonald’s Sports Awards for their excellent all-round performances.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke

‍

The Junior Touch Football season kicked off last Friday with an impressive 170 boys and girls aged 4 to 13 registering to play. Teams participate in skills, drills, and games each week from 5.30 to 6.15pm, ensuring young players develop their ball-handling and game awareness while having fun.

Burdekin Life member Bob Clerke said, “It’s great to see so many young players. There are over 40 boys and girls aged from four to six years. The aim is to develop their ball and playing skills while making sure they enjoy themselves along the way.”

In preparation for the season, 13 referees from the Wednesday Senior Touch competition attended a coaching session conducted by NQ Technical Director Michael Littlefield last Sunday. “It’s important that referees are consistent with their rulings and sessions like these assist greatly,” Michael said. “It’s also pleasing to see young players wanting to referee as well.”

Four teenagers — Riley Dobe, Beau Ellwood, Danny Wilson, and Mia Robertson — attended the course and will now be mentored by senior referees.

Round nine results in the senior Mixed Touch competition saw some high-scoring games:
Nrgize 7 (L. Torkington 3, Leylan Lampton 2) def Alliance Pharmacy 4
Crocs 7 (J. McIvor 3) def Antiskeptics 4 (D. Ballin 2)
NIS 5 (J. Previtera 2) def Baywatch B 2
Nutek Titans 11 (L. Olditch 3, J. Olditch 2) def Slush Puppies 6 (L. Marshall 5)
One Touch IT 8 (C. Kross 3, R. Taylor 2, C. Spedding 2) def First in Physio 6 (T. Marshall 3, R. Palmer 2)
East Ayr 6 def Baywatch A 5
One Touch Wonders 11 (K. Drain 6) def Redskins 4 (M. Pavone 2)
Petrol Heads 8 (D. Torrisi 2, C. Ferrando 2, M. Worlein 2) drew Pink Piggies 8 (C. Lyne 3)
Touch Potatoes 6 (H. Horan 3, A. Watson 2) def Renegades 2 (K. Vitty 2)
Touch N Tease 8 (B. Hughes 2, H. Lammon 2, E. Catanzaro 2) def Blue Murder 6 (R. Smith 3, D. Walsh 3)

Players of the round included Mia Robertson and Beau Ellwood.

Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton

‍

Junior referees. Photo supplied

‍

The Burdekin FC Presentation Night will be held on Saturday 25 October at Populin’s Hall. Get your tickets on-line now, or at the Mad House on Tuesday night.

Night Soccer

The fourth week of competition and with two forfeits, the eighteen games produced sixty two goals, and there were no Sin Bins! Top scorers were Ladies team Body Tune with ten goals. Delta Physio scored four goals and there were six draws with five games being decided by the odd goal. Top individual scorer was Sian Reardon with three goals for Body Tune.

In Men’s Competitive Group, UDS top the table with 10 points ahead of Nutrien Ag and Clare Cutters with 9. In Mens Social 1, DL Lager with 12 points are two points clear of Willy Wackers and in Mens Social 2, Delta Physio with 7 points lead Bennetts Old Grumpies, Jaime’s Boys, Always Fits and Boarin n Scorin all with 6 points. In Ladies Group1, Scoregasms with 10 points lead Young Guns with 7 and in Group 2, 6 TO UR 7 and Rocky Pond Wonders, lead with 9 points each.

Juniors

Burdekin was represented in the first Northern Girls United Carnival in Townsville last weekend by our Under 10/11 girls. Due to some late team withdrawals, the girls were asked to play up in the Under 13 age group. With this we knew the girls would have some hard games, but they played so well both individually and as a team, that they made the semi-finals, finishing fourth out of seven teams. An amazing effort by the girls!

Junior Social Soccer was played on Tuesday afternoon again with plenty of great goals, saves and gameplay.

Our Junior coaches have a 'Foundation of Football' coaching course this Sunday at the clubhouse. If you have not signed up and keen to improve your coaching skills, please contact the club for the details.

Angelo Licciardello's Football Star Academy sessions are also on for Term 4. These are great for players to continue improving their skills in the off season, and also for new players. Angelo's sessions are both fun and informative skill wise. If you would like more info on these contact Angelo or the club.

National and International

The 2025-6 A League season kicked off last Friday and in the first round only three teams had a win. Central Coast, Adelaide, and Brisbane top the table. The other three games were draws. This week, the Roar are away to Wellington Phoenix, Central Coast meet Sydney FC and Adelaide are away to Macarthur.

The Women’s A league starts on Friday with eleven clubs. Brisbane Roar are at home to Melbourne Victory on Saturday and Champions Central Coast, are at home to Adelaide on Sunday.

The Matildas next match is a friendly against Wales, in Cardiff on 25 October, followed by another friendly against England on 29 October.

The Socceroos have played two friendlies, the first friendly was against Canada in Montreal last Saturday and resulted and in a 1-0 victory with a goal from Nestory Irankunda. They then played the USA in Denver, on Wednesday, losing 1-2.

The 2026 World Cup starts on 11 June ( Trump willing) with the Final on 19 July. Forty eight teams will compete in twelve groups of four team in the US, Canada, and Mexico. The top two teams from the groups plus the best eight third placed teams qualifying for the Round of 32. The Group Draw will be made in Washington DC on 5th December. So far twenty five countries, including Cape Verde, population 525k, have qualified plus the three host countries.

The major European leagues resumed last weekend. In the EPL, Liverpool lost at home to ManU and drop to fourth place. Arsenal now tops the table after eight games; three points clear of Manchester City with Bournemouth and Liverpool a further point behind. At the foot of the table, it is looking dire for Wolves who have just two points.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, the old order has not changed. After seven rounds Bayern, with maximum points, are already five points ahead of second placed Leipzig with Stuttgart third and Dortmund fourth. At the bottom of the league Munchen Gladbach are struggling with just three points. In Spain, after nine rounds, Real Madrid and Barcelona have moved ahead of the field. Real has twenty four points and Barca twenty two. Villarreal is third five points behind, and Atletico is in fourth spot.

In Italy’s Serie A it is a lot closer. After seven rounds AC Milan lead by a point from Inter, Napoli and Roma. Juventus without a win in their last four games are in seventh place. At the foot of the table Pisa, Genoa, and Fiorentina, all without a win, are on three points. Finally in France after eight Round, for once PSG do not top the table. Marseille leads PSG by a point with Strasbourg and Lens a further point away. At the bottom of the league Metz already looks doomed.

Quote of the Week is from Ange Postecoglou former Spurs and Nottingham Forrest Manager “Every time I see the light at the end of the tunnel it turns out to be an oncoming train.”

‍

This week the Ayr Bowling Club was filled with friendship and healthy competition. Tuesday 14th October saw Ladies Social Bowls with 10 ladies giving us 1 triple’s and 1 pairs game. Winners J McDonald, D Soper, and B Schultz defeated M Nixon, K Stuckler and P Power. In the pairs game Karen Shepherd and M Poli defeated M Smith and K Page.

On Wednesday, we saw a great afternoon’s social bowling competition. There were two games of Triples. Winners were Cisco, G Nixon and J McDonald defeating D Poli, J Pirrone and A Bull. On Wednesday evening, social bowls, two triples’ games and a pairs game were played. Winners were Evelyn Wiltshere and Gary Pearce winning the pairs game. Kate Stringer, John Cesconetto and Ross McLaughlin won 1 triples game. Sonya, Rob Jorgensen and Sam Caltabiano won the second triples game.

Saturday Social Bowls delivered a lively afternoon of competition and camaraderie, featuring four engaging games of bowls. Emerging victorious on the day were the talented trio of Jen McDonald, Joe Grabbi, and Chris Berkery defeating Harold Rumney, Betty Schultz and Dot Cutting. Second place went to Merle Nixon, Wayne Metzer and Anthony Bull defeating Karen Shepherd, Arthur Gauvin and Ron Soper.

The club also extended a warm welcome to several travelling visitors, whose presence added to the vibrant atmosphere and spirit of friendly play.

Saturday afternoons at the club continue to be a fantastic opportunity for locals and newcomers alike to meet new people, enjoy the fresh air, and discover the joys of bowls. Whether you're a seasoned player or picking up a bowl for the first time, you're invited to come down, give it a go, and join the fun!

Wednesday 15th saw a Championship semifinal game of mixed triples played. Winners were B Cornford, P Power and M Power defeating R Smythe, D Soper and R Soper 25 – 16 in a close contest. Friday night Championship mixed triples final was played under perfect conditions. Emerging victorious in an entertaining game were B Cornford, P Power and M Power defeating L Wolffe, J McDonald and Anthony Bull 20 – 13. Sunday mixed rinks were played winners were K Stuckler, R Smythe, B Cornford and C Essex defeating K Shepherd, B Shepherd, D Olsen and C Oldhitch 24- 17.

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.

‍

Twenty players attended, with eighteen taking to the greens across three rinks of Triples.

Rink 4: Yogi Bunn, Ron Smith, and Hugh Montgomery battled closely against Bob Young, Sandra Darwin, and Glen Bones Berryman.

Rink 5: Paul Vass, Gary Nosworthy, and Joe Linton, today’s winning team, comfortably defeated Michael Young, Trevor Elton, and Steve Doig. Rumour has it that Joe Linton’s team was touched by a fairy, as luck seemed to follow them all day.

Rink 6: An on-fire Margaret Chapman, Bruce McCallum, and Wayne Newton defeated Margaret Linton—also bowling strongly—alongside Dino Poli and Tony Eadie.

The day’s raffle featured a crumbed seafood tray, enthusiastically won by Gary Nosworthy, while a bottle of wine went home with Bruce McCallum.

As usual, the club hosts a variety of activities throughout the week: Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers with Tuesday Funday (a come-and-learn event to meet new friends), Wednesday Kraft group, Wednesday evening barefoot bowls with Ron’s world-famous sausage sizzle, Thursday morning BINGO, Thursday social bowls (names in by 1pm to assist with the draw), and Saturday afternoon $5 social bowls, which continues to draw a crowd.

Until next week, good bowling!

Photo and report by Stephen Doig

‍

Paul Vass, Gary Nosworthy, and Joe Linton, today’s winning team, in action on the greens. Photo supplied

‍

A strong field of young golfers took to the course last weekend for the October Monthly Medal at Ayr Golf Club, with 19 juniors turning out for a great morning of competition and practice ahead of this weekend’s major event — the Karrie Webb Junior Masters.

In the three-hole division, Frank McKeough claimed the Monthly Medal, while Patrick Richards took out the gross winner title.

The six-hole competition saw Pia Mauro crowned Monthly Medal winner, with Tyler Smith recording an impressive gross score of 42 to secure his division. Fletcher Sgroi also celebrated a personal best round, finishing with 52 shots.

In the nine-hole division, nine juniors competed, with Evelyn Mahoney winning the Monthly Medal and Amaya Mahoney taking the gross winner honours.

This weekend marks one of the most exciting events on the junior golfing calendar, as Ayr Golf Club proudly hosts the annual Karrie Webb Junior Masters. The event will feature the club’s namesake and Australian golfing legend Karrie Webb in attendance, along with more than 90 junior players travelling from Brisbane, Hervey Bay, Yeppoon, Cairns, and across North Queensland.

With a full field and perfect course conditions expected, the Karrie Webb Junior Masters promises to be a fantastic showcase of young golfing talent and a memorable weekend for all involved.

‍

What: Karrie Webb Junior Masters
When: Saturday, 8th November
Where: Ayr Golf Club

‍

Pia Mauro, Frank McKeough and Evelyn Mahoney (Photo Supplied)

‍

The Ayr Bowling Club has celebrated another excellent week on the greens, with members coming together for a mix of club Championship games and engaging social matches. The atmosphere and enthusiasm around the club is fantastic.

Men’s Social bowls on Wednesday saw two games of triples and a pairs game played. Winners on the day were Al Hardcastle and Chris Berkery defeating Ron Smythe and Col Essex.

Winners on Wednesday night bowls were Evelyn Wiltshere, Rob Jorgensen and Sam Caltabiano. In game two John Cesconetto and Gary Pearce had a win. Wednesday night is the perfect opportunity for new bowlers to play and learn the game. Sign up is at 6.30pm bowling commencing 7pm call the club for details or message us on Facebook.

Fun Friday Night Bowls saw a full green of bowlers turn out for a fantastic night of bowls. First place went to Leanne and Ally defeating Colin, Phil and Andrew. Second place went to Sophie, Kira, Lyndal and Helen defeating Johnny, Holly, Bek and Ross. Sportsman prize went to Anthony, Lorraine, John and Cisco. Thanks to our sponsor Ayr Medical group for sponsoring our Friday Fun Night.

Saturday’s Social bowls saw a turnout of 24 players, with four games of triples played. The winners on the day were Jennette McDonald, Betty Schultz and Anthony Bull defeating Karen Shepherd, Barry Hewson and Lachlan Grantz.

This week in Club Championship Games one game of mixed singles was played. Winner was Gary Pearce defeating Irene Wilson. A & B Pairs Cisco and Sam Caltabiano defeated Ron Smythe and Ron Soper 22 - 20. In mixed Triples Beryl Cornford, Pam Power and Maurie Power defeated Karen Shepherd, John Pirrone and Barry Shepherd 24 - 17. In Ladies Handicap pairs Lorraine Wolffe and Irene Wilson defeated Meryl Smith and Mary Poli winners now proceed to the next round. In the Men’s Championship Triples Final Shane Stanford, John McDonald and Anthony Bull defeated John Cesconneto, Sam Caltabiano and Lachlan Grantz 18 – 10.

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.

Photos:
1. Friday night fun
2. Saturday night's winners

‍

In a four-week period that has also seen Opals stars Lauren Jackson and Tess Madgen visit the region, the Burdekin’s young basketballers were treated to another special guest on the weekend when Townsville Fire head coach Shannon Seebohm and his S3 Academy team hit the courts for a high-energy skills clinic.

Hosted in partnership with Burdekin Basketball, the event saw Seebohm—joined by his wife Jaimee and assistant coach Miles—run a day of hands-on training sessions focused on teamwork, energy, and passion for the game.

Seebohm, a five-time WNBL Coach of the Year and current assistant coach of the Australian Opals, has an impressive record of developing athletes who’ve gone on to succeed in the WNBL, NBL, WNBA, and international leagues.

Burdekin Basketball organisers said the visit gave local juniors a major boost.

“Thank you to S3 Academy—Shannon, Jaimee and Miles—for visiting the Burdekin and helping to encourage and extend our junior ballers,” the club said. “They all thoroughly enjoyed their sessions.”

The S3 team praised the region’s community spirit and enthusiasm, describing the Burdekin as having a “beautiful, family-first culture that truly loves the game.”

The day wrapped up with a hearty lunch courtesy of Queens Hotel Ayr, which the S3 crew thanked for their “amazing hospitality and good vibes.”

It was, in every sense, a slam dunk for local basketball.

‍

Another warm spring afternoon set the scene on Rummeny Green as 18 players took to the rinks for a lively session of triples.

On Rink 5, Warren “Yogi” Bunn, Dino Poli, and Steve Doig were in top form, comfortably defeating Margaret Chapman, Bruce McCallum, and Gary Nosworthy. Rink 6 saw Paul Vass, Alex Bojack, and Mick McClosky secure a strong win against Terry Feakes, Ron Smith, and Hugh Montgomery. Meanwhile, on Rink 7, Elaine Young, Michael Young, and Glen Bones Berryman produced a solid performance to overcome Bob Young, Joclyn DeFranciscus, and Trevor Elton. Today’s winners are pictured: Yogi Bunn, Dino Poli, and Steve Doig.

In club news, the Bowen Fours tournament is scheduled for 25–26 October, with entries closing on 18–19 October. The day’s raffles also brought excitement, with Steve Doig taking home the meat tray and Gary Nosworthy winning a bottle of wine.

Home Hill Bowls continues to offer a full social calendar. Monday morning fitness sessions and Tuesday Trimmers provide opportunities to stay active, while Tuesday Funday encourages newcomers to learn the game and meet fellow bowlers. Wednesday mornings feature the popular Kraft Group, and Wednesday evenings attract a lively crowd for barefoot bowls and a sausage sizzle. Thursday mornings see enthusiastic participation in Bingo, followed by afternoon social bowls. Saturday afternoons are dedicated to $5 social bowls, drawing players each week.

The club looks forward to another week of enjoyable bowls and camaraderie on Rummeny Green.

Photo and report by Stephen Doig

Winners Yogi Bunn, Dino Poli, and Steve Doig. Photo supplied

‍

It was a weekend to remember for Home Hill Cricket Club, with both the Second and Third Grade sides producing commanding all-round performances to secure back-to-back wins.

In Third Grade, Home Hill’s top order set the tone with a powerful display, piling on 4/223. Captain Alexander Romeo anchored the innings with a composed 51 from 72 deliveries, while Simon Vickers blasted 65 off 47, finding the boundary eight times and clearing it once. Michael Richards added a rapid 37 from just 22 balls, and Daniel Olditch chipped in a brisk 34 from 24. Luke Mottin and Leo Olditch closed out the innings unbeaten, ensuring Home Hill finished with momentum.

Their bowlers then backed it up in style, restricting Wests to 8/178 for a 45-run win. Tomey Mathew led the attack with an inspired 4/21 from 5 overs, including a maiden, while Zappa, Olditch, Wallwork, and Mottin each grabbed a wicket. Behind the stumps, Michael Richards showed sharp reflexes with two stumpings to complete a well-rounded team effort.

In Second Grade, Adam Camer starred with a superb 99 from 111 balls, steering Home Hill to 7/197 against Norths. His near-century was supported by Zakk Myles (29) and JD Wilkins (18), ensuring a competitive total on a testing surface.

Defending the target, Home Hill’s bowlers delivered with precision and firepower. The father-son duo of Al and JD Wilkins combined for eight wickets—Al taking 4/19 and JD matching with 4/35—to bowl Norths out for 176 and claim a 21-run victory.

Outstanding fielding capped off the win, with sharp catches from Tristan Richards, plus crucial run-outs from Thomas Cardillo and Zakk Myles.

Both matches showcased Home Hill’s growing depth and determination, as strong batting foundations and disciplined bowling efforts continue to drive the club’s success.

Home Hill Third Grade in action
Home Hill Second Grade in action
Photos supplied

‍

It has been a busy couple of weeks for Home Hill Junior Cricket. At the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex on the weekend of October 4 and 5 juniors from Bowen, Charters Towers, Herbert River and Proserpine travelled to Home Hill to play in the 2025 Queensland Country Bank NQ Country Cup. It was a great success with cricket being played on four fields all weekend. The ages of the players ranged from 8-18 years old. Special guest, Ex Australia, Queensland and Brisbane Heat player Nathan Hauritz ran clinics for each age group throughout the carnival when they weren't playing games.

Last Friday saw the start of our local 25/26 Junior season at the club. In the "Gold Group" Marshall Parker scored an unbeaten 28 runs including 4 fours, the next highest was Alex Cullen on 19 also not out. Marshall Parker, Kaisen Petersen and Xavier Cross all took a wicket each when bowling. Billy Muilwyk in his first game in "Gold" got the "McDonalds Sports Award" and Alex Cullen was awarded the other for his great batting and fielding.

Kye Quinlan and Corbett Cross took home the "McDonalds Sports Awards" in the "Blue Group". Kye for scoring 14 runs not out and bowling a wicket maiden and Corbett for taking 2 wickets for only 4 runs. Other notable mentions go to Kip Nicholas, 17 runs and Jake Cullen 12 runs. Both Kip and Jake also took a wicket each.

The Rookie Blasters start on Thursday October 16 at East Ayr State School and Challengers start on October 17 at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke

1. Billy & Alex
2. Kye & Corbett
3. Scott Heidke, Nathan Hauritz & Ross Parker

Photos supplied

‍

The Burdekin FC Presentation Night will be held on Saturday 25 October at Populin’s Hall. Get your tickets on-line now, or at the Mad House on Tuesday night.

Congratulations to Alan Chatfield, a Burdekin FC Life Member, on being recognised with the Service to Football – Platinum Award for his outstanding contribution to the game.

Night Soccer

The third week of competition with just one forfeit. The nineteen games produced seventy goals, and there were three Sin Bins! Top scorers were RG Customs with seven goals and Clare Cutters, Always Fits, Let’s get Messi and Young Guns all with four. Top individual scorer was Dom Arrate with four goals for Clare Cutters, Perry Horan scored a hat trick for Oary’s Levellers, and quite a lot of players scored twice. The clash between Mottin Earthmoving and UDS saw Sin bins for Andrew Washbourne for Mottins and Luke Torkington for UDS and Harry Haynes was binned for Wires Down.

After three weeks, Nutrien Ag and Clare Cutters lead in Mens A Grade and DL Lager top the table in B1. Bennetts Old Grumpies and Jaime’s Boys lead in B2.

In the Ladies competition, Scoregasms leads from Red Carded, Young Guns and Chicks and Chooks in AI, and 6 TO UR 7 leads in A2 from Rocky Pond Wonders.

Juniors

The Junior Social Soccer season kicked off on Tuesday with over forty teams in four grades. The Under 7s kick off at 4.00pm, the Under 8/9s play at 4.30, the Under 10/12s at 5.30 and the Under 13/16s at 5.30.

Please check the Burdekin FC Facebook page and emails from the club for the draw each week and any information and updates on the season.

National and International

The 2025-6 A League season kicks off this Friday 17 October. It is a twelve team competition and Brisbane Roar’s first match is at home to Macarthur on that date. The Women’s A league starts on Friday 31st October with eleven clubs.

The Australian Championship started last weekend. Effectively a national second division competition, it has sixteen teams, mostly from the metropolitan areas but including South Hobart from Tasmania.

The Matildas next match is a friendly against Wales, in Cardiff on 25 October, followed by another friendly against England on 29 October. They then have a rest before the AFC Women’s Asia Cup. Their first match is against the Philippines on 1 March, they then play Iran on 5 March, and their final group match is against South Korea on 8 March. In the FIFA World Rankings, Australia is ranked at 15.

The Socceroos first friendly was against Canada in Montreal last Saturday resulted and in a 1-0 victory with a goal from Nestory Irankunda. They next play the USA in Denver, Colorado on Wednesday. In the FIFA World Rankings, the Socceroos are currently ranked 25th, and the US 16th.

The Young Socceroos defeated Cuba 3-1 in their final group game of the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 in Chile. However, results in other groups went against them and they failed to qualify for the Round of 16.

The 2026 World Cup starts on 11 June with the Final on 19 July. Forty eight teams will compete in twelve groups of four team in the US, Canada and Mexico. The top two teams from the groups plus the best eight third placed teams qualifying for the Round of 32. The Group Draw will be made in Washington DC on 5th December. So far seventeen countries, including Australia, have qualified plus the three host countries.

Because of the 2026 World Cup Qualifying games last week, there were no games in the major European leagues. They will resume this weekend. In the Group games there were no real surprises although Austria thumped San Marino 10-0 and Turley won 6-1 away to Bulgaria. Ukraine did very well to win 5-3 in Iceland, Norway thumped Israel 5-0 and Faroe Islands defeated Montenegro 4-0.

Quote of the Week is from Trevor Brooking former West Ham and England Star, on playing Sunday morning football for Havering NALGO. “You drop your shoulder and move round a defender only to discover he didn’t read your first dummy. So you crash straight into him, and he comes away with the ball”

‍

Ayr Surf Club Takes On Forrest Beach Carnival

30 members from the Ayr Surf Club headed north over the weekend to compete at the Forrest Beach Carnival. The team along with their families, volunteer officials, water safety and age managers attended the two day event with other clubs from across the North Barrier Branch. The competitors some phenomenal individual and team results helping Ayr to take out second place overall, only behind a significantly larger cohort of competitors from Arcadian club.

The Forrest Beach carnival is always a fantastic family friendly weekend full of surf sports, good food, club camping and making friends and this year did not disappoint. The club is continuing to train leading up to North Australian Championships in a few weeks time in Mackay, as well as conducting voluntary patrols each weekend to provide a valuable community service to the Burdekin region.

Weekend Roster

Saturday 18/10 1-5pm - Group A - Richard Dale PC, Chris Wicks PC, Jane Olsen, William Holt, Stephanie Dale, Zacary Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner

Sunday AM 19/10 9am -1pm - Group C - Jane Jones PC, Lauren Champman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman and Shaize Christie

Sunday PM 1/10 1-5pm Group B - Terry Lund PC, Kristy Wassmuth PC, Anita Giddy, Heather Scott, Briella Wassmuth, Emilee Wassmuth

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry and Kristy Wassmuth

Photos:
1. Ayr Team Colour Party
2. Under 13 Wade Relay - Alyssa Irvine, Eva Rickards, Isabella Flower & Harrison Sartori
3. Emilee Wassmuth diving in Under 14 flags
4. Bella Lawry in Under 17 ski race
5. Warne McShane & Zachary Dale winning Under 15 Board Rescue
6. 2 Person R&R - Charlotte Lawry & Emilee Wassmuth
7. Cole Pontifex in Under 14 Board Race
8. Ryan Irvine in Under 11 Board Race

It all began with a spark of community spirit. In May 1954, locals gathered at the Renown Movie Theatre in Brandon to discuss the possibility of forming a bowls club. From that meeting, the Brandon Bowls Club was born, with Mr. Vic Green elected as the inaugural president. Three blocks of land were purchased from G. Venables, H. Brickhill, and S. Brickhill at £50 each, and on 23 January 1955, the first blades of grass were planted, marking the start of a sporting legacy.

Through The Years At Brandon Bowls Club

Continued from cover

On 30 May 1955, a special meeting decided the position, size, and construction of the club house. The ladies formed an associate club in August, with Mrs. Toll as inaugural president. The first games were played on 24 and 25 September, leading up to the official opening on 5 and 6 November 1955, conducted by President Vic Green and NQMBA President Mr. Charlie Thomas. Tragically, one of the club’s hardest workers, Mr. Gordon Toll, passed away the day before the opening, never seeing the club he had helped bring to life. Mrs. Toll stepped down briefly but later resumed her position, continuing her dedication to the club.

A kitchen was added in 1963, with many further improvements over the years. In 1992–1993, the grass green was replaced with a synthetic green, though it proved less successful. Since then, three additional synthetic greens have been installed, each an improvement on the last, thanks to the dedication of Green Director Mr. Richie Mau.

Through decades of hard work, dedication, and volunteerism, Brandon Bowls Club has nurtured outstanding bowlers and claimed many district titles. On 5 October, the club proudly celebrated its 70th anniversary, welcoming visitors from NQDMBA and NQDLBA, council representatives, and fellow bowlers from across the region, all joining in the festivities.

Seventy years on, Brandon Bowls Club is still going strong, thanks to its members, volunteers, and love of the game.

‍

15 excited gymnasts from The Burdekin Academy made the journey to Ingham to participate in the 2025 Ingham Flames Gymnastics Competition last September.

Attracting over 100 competitors from communities across the state, gymnastics from The Burdekin Academy put on a showstopping performance, displaying exceptional levels of technique and expertise, executing each routine excellently.

Gymnasts from levels one through to four entered in the competition and The Burdekin Academy’s Club Manager and Head Coach, Amy Cranitch, was beyond proud of the work of her students.

“They all did an amazing job of showcasing their routines to the judges on floor, bars, bean and vault,” said Amy.

“Our Level 1 and 2 gymnasts were awarded ribbons on each apparatus of good, very good or excellent, and our Level 3 gymnasts who just recently moved up from Level Pre 3 did an excellent job!”

Level 3 gymnast, Ella, placed 2nd on both beam and floor, and 3rd on vault, receiving 3rd place overall. Level 3 gymnast, Adelyn, placed 3rd on vault and bars, and received 4th place overall. Level 4 gymnast, Amity, placed 1st on vault, bars and floor, and 3rd on beam, earning 1st place overall.

“For some of our gymnasts, it was their first ever competition and we are super proud of all of them for getting out in front of the judges and showing us their amazing skills,” added Amy.

In the lead up to the annual competition, the academy’s gymnasts were perfecting their routines across both Term 1 and Term 2, with Level 1 and 2 gymnasts training two hours each week, and Level 3 and 4 gymnasts training up to 8.5 hours weekly, concentrating on skill development and routines.

“Our club has had a rough start with the heavy rain fall in February causing significant damage to a lot of our hall and equipment - despite this our gymnast’s determination and attitude towards training has shone through and showed us strength when we needed it!”

‍

Ella Croatto Level 3, Amity Baxter Level 4, and Adelyn Goggi Level 3 with Coach Amy Cranitch (Photo Supplied)
Ella Croatto 3rd Overall Level 3 Champion, Amity Baxter 1st Overall Level 4 Champion, and Adelyn Goggi 4th Overall Level 3 Champion (Photo Supplied)
Coach Maggie with Level 1 & 2 Gymnasts (Back Row) Ariella Lewis, Kyrah Bereicua, Amaya Goggi, Willow Melville, Lucy Gorey, (Front Row) Lis Kelly, Lauretta Wegert, Everly Nichols, and Laine Malone (Photo Supplied)
All of the Burdekin Academy's Level 1, 2, 3, and 4 competitors eagerly waiting for awards presentations (Photo Supplied)

‍

The Clash of Clubs at the weekend was a huge success with old Burdekin players travelling from all over the state to take part. The Masters Final was won by Easts who beat Home Hill Rangers and the Seniors Final was decided on penalties, Saints winning after tying 1-1 with Rangers at full time.

The next big occasion will be the Escriva Cup which will be played early in November.

The Burdekin FC Presentation Night will be held on Saturday 25 October. Get your tickets now.

Night Soccer

The second week of competition and with three forfeits (School holidays?) The seventeen games produced sixty three goals, and the three scratch games produced a few more! Top scorers were DL Lager with five goals and Plumb Dingers, Nutrien Ag, 6 TO UR 7 and Willy Wackers all with four. Top individual scorer was Oscar Licciardello with a hat trick for BA and quite a lot of players scored twice.

After two weeks, Nutrien Ag, UDS and Clare Cutters lead in Mens A Grade and Wires Down and DL Lager top the table in B1. Bennetts Old Grumpies are the only team with maximum points in B2. In the Women’s Groups, Red Carded and Scoregasms lead in AI, and 6 TO UR 7 leads in A2.

Juniors

Preparations are well underway for the start of the Junior Social Soccer season on Tuesday 14th October. Teams are in, players looking for teams sorted. Due to the huge numbers of teams, we have to mark out Field 2 at International Park. If you can lend a hand marking the fields on Saturday morning that would be much appreciated. The time will be confirmed.

Please check the Burdekin FC Facebook page and emails from the club for the draw each week and any information and updates on the season. Each week, the ages groups play at the following times: U5-7 - 4pm, U8-9 - 4.30pm, U10-12 - 5pm, U13-16 - 5.30pm.

The name of the game is the kids to have fun playing with their friends and also forming new friendships.

National and International

The 2025-6 A League season kicks off on Friday 17 October. It is a twelve team competition and Brisbane Roar’s first match is at home to Macarthur on that date. The Women’s A league starts on Friday 31st October with eleven clubs.

The Matildas next match is a friendly against Wales, in Cardiff on 25 October, followed by another friendly against England on 29 October. They then have a rest before the AFC Women’s Asia Cup. Their first match is against the Philippines on 1 March, they then play Iran on 5 March, and their final group match is against South Korea on 8 March. In the FIFA World Rankings, Australia is ranked at 15.

The Socceroos have two friendlies coming up. They are away to Canada on Saturday and then play USA next Wednesday. In the FIFA World Rankings, the Socceroos are currently ranked 25th, the US 16th and Canada 26th.

The Young Socceroos have defeated Cuba 3-1 in their final group stage game of the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025.The result means that the Young Socceroos finished third in Group D. The team will await results in Group E and F tomorrow to determine if they will advance to the Round of 16 as one of four best third-placed teams.

The 2026 World Cup starts on 11 June with the Final on 19 July. Forty eight teams will compete in twelve groups of four teams, with the top two teams from the groups plus the best eight third placed teams qualifying for the Round of 32. The Group Draw will be made in Washington DC on 5th December. And yes, Australia has qualified!

In the EPL, Liverpool lost again and has now dropped to second place one point behind Arsenal. Spurs and Bournemouth are a further point behind, and Manchester City has moved up to fifth place. Oh, and Ange’s Notts Forest lost again, and it is not looking good. And at the foot of the table, none of the bottom seven teams won. Wolverhampton managed another draw and now has two points from seven games.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, after six games, Bayern is the only club with maximum points. They lead Dortmund by four points with Leipzig a point behind in third place. At the foot of the table two of the bottom seven teams won but Heidenheim was not one of them. Monchengladbach managed a draw but with Mainz still look to be in trouble

In Italy only three of the top six teams won and Napoli and Roma stay at the top of Serie A with fifteen points. AC Milan stays in third place two points behind and Juventus, still unbeaten stay in fifth place. At the bottom of the league all four teams lost. Pisa and Genoa are now equal on two points from six games.

In Spain, only three of the top six teams won and Barcelona got thumped 4-1 by Seville. Real Madrid won and now top the table two points ahead of Barca with third placed Villarreal three points further adrift. Real Betis are fourth and Atletico fifth. Of the bottom six clubs only Girona won and are now a point clear of Mallorca and Real Sociedad.

Meanwhile in France, PSG were held to a draw by Lille and are now only one point clear of Marsellie, Strasbourg and Lyon. Monaco and Lens are a further two points away. None of the bottom nine teams managed a win and Metz with just two points from seven games are in trouble.

Quote of the Week is from Frank Lampard former Chelsea and England star and now Coventry City manager - "Goals never come easy. No one gives you goals."

‍

The Seniors Final was decided on penalties, Saints winning after tying 1-1 with Rangers at full time.
The Masters Final was won by Easts who beat Home Hill Rangers.
Ladies Teams

‍

The Junior Touch Football season is set to kick off tomorrow night, Friday 10th October, welcoming boys and girls aged four to thirteen. Sign-on will take place at the Touch clubhouse on Wickham Street from 5:30 pm, with a season fee of $20 per child.

Teams will be organized from the nominations, and each week participants will enjoy a mix of skills, drills, and games. Sessions will run from 5:30 pm to 6:15 pm every Friday night throughout the season.

For further information, contact Michael Littlefield on 0408 000 497, Bec Watson on 0400 705 205, or Peter Knapton on 0437 710 500.

Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton

‍

Twenty-two players turned out on a very warm spring afternoon, with temperatures peaking at 36°C around 2:30 pm. Fortunately, a welcome breeze arrived just in time. We were pleased to welcome Vicki and Ian Connell, as well as Steve Motu and Jeff Taylor, all visiting from Giru.

On Rink 3, Paul Vass and Gary Nosworthy defeated Bruce McCallum and Glen Bones Berryman. Rink 4 saw Warren “Yogi” Bunn, Bob Darr, and Ian Connell account for Steve Motu, Ron Smith, and Terry Feakes. Meanwhile, Michael Young, Vicki Connell, and Joe Linton proved too strong for Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Steve Doig on Rink 5. On Rink 6, Margaret Linton, Joclyn DeFranciscus, and Jeff Taylor prevailed over Judy Elton, Trevor Elton, and Mick McClosky.

The prawn tray raffle was won by Jeff Taylor, with second place going to Steve Motu, reversing last week’s result. Giru must be a lucky place! Today’s winners were Paul Vass and Gary Nosworthy; unfortunately, Paul had another commitment and had to leave before the photo. The photo includes Vicki Connell, Steve Motu (slightly obscured), and Ian Connell, all from Giru, alongside Gary Nosworthy.

Club activities continue throughout the week with Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Funday sessions, Wednesday morning Kraft group, and Wednesday evening barefoot bowls and sausage sizzle, which is likely to grow in popularity as temperatures rise. Thursday brings morning BINGO and social bowls in the afternoon, and Saturday sees $5 social bowls continue as usual.

Till next week – good bowling.

Photo and report by Stephen Doig

‍

Vicki Connell, Steve Muto and Ian Connell with Gary Nosworthy. Photo supplied

‍

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 coming to an end, the talent and sportsmanship on display have been nothing short of impressive.

On Wednesday, we saw a great afternoon’s social bowling competition. There were two games of Pairs and one game of triples. Winners were Cisco, Wayne and Dave.

Saturday Social Bowls saw 28 players on the green for a fantastic day of bowling. The day was sponsored by the Mahjong ladies with two prizes up for grabs. Winners were Karen Shepherd, Betty Schultz and Al Hardcastle. Second place went to Barry Hewson and Ron Soper. It was wonderful to have some visitors to the come on this day too.

In Championship games this week, the Mixed Singles saw a very tightly contested game, Beryl Cornford defeated Lorraine Wolffe 27 – 22. In the A & B pairs game, John McDonald and Col Essex defeated Al Hardcastle and Barry Shepherd 26 – 12. In the Men’s Triples Cisco, Sam Caltabiano and Lachlan Grantz defeated Ron Smythe, Joe Grabbi and Ron Soper 21 – 13. All winners now progress to the next round.

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.

Friday Fun Night will be on Friday 10th October, starting at 6 PM. This is sponsored by Ayr Medical Group. 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.

‍

The Burdekin Rugby Union Club held its annual Presentation Night on Saturday, 27 September at the Queens Hotel, recognising the achievements of players, volunteers, and club representatives from the past season.

First and Second Grade awards highlighted standout performers. Player of the Year honours went to Kelsey Hesp (First Grade Women), Kasey Parison (First Grade Women), and Wainui Matainavora (Second Grade), while other awards recognised Most Improved, Most Consistent, Best Forward, Best Back, and Player’s Player across grades.

Representative honours were awarded to Dom Arrate, Amanda Brown, Julea Farry, Tubby Heron, Caitlin Holmes, Jack McIntosh, Nathan Steel, and Brooke Smith for their selection in Townsville and North Queensland teams across multiple grades.

Club awards celebrated contributions beyond the field, with Dedication to Players (Senior) awarded to Joe Paoletti, Volunteer Contributing the Most to Craig Steel (accepted by Nathan Steel), Player Contributing Most (Don Marshall Shield) to Caitlin Holmes, Spirit of Rugby (Gary Jensen Shield) to Jody Horan, and Clubman of the Year to Robbie Cantarella.

The night was a fitting celebration of the talent, dedication, and community spirit that define Burdekin Rugby Union Club.

‍

After a long season Burdekin Panthers can look forward to a few months off, except for the Clash of Clubs and the Escriva Cup! The Clash of Clubs is on this weekend, and the Escriva Cup will be played early in November.

In the Good News Department, three Panthers Players have been picked in the Football North Queensland Team of the Year. Congratulations to Ryan Scodellaro, Matthew Kolb and Josh Valle, a great achievement.

The Burdekin FC Presentation Night will be held on Saturday 25 October. Get your tickets now.

Night Soccer

In the first week of the competition proper, the twenty games produced seventy-two goals with Ladies team Kicken’ Goals scoring seven of them. Goal Diggers, and 7 Stooges both scored six and Body Tune scored five. Top individual scorer was Charley Ruskin with a hat trick. This year the Men’s A Grade has twelve teams and B Grade is split up into two Groups. The Women are also divided into two groups.

Juniors

Preparations for Junior Social Soccer in Term 4 are in full swing! Get your teams in if you have not already done so. If your child is keen to play but does not have a team, email the club and we will find them a team.

National and International

The Matildas next match is a friendly against Wales, in Cardiff on 25 October, followed by another friendly against England on 29 October. They then have a rest before the AFC Women’s Asia Cup. Their first match is against the Philippines on 1 March, they then play Iran on 5 March, and their final group match is against South Korea on 8 March. In the FIFA World Rankings, Australia is ranked at 15.

The Socceroos have two friendlies coming up. They are away to Canada on 11 October and then play USA on 15 October. In the FIFA World Rankings, the Socceroos are currently ranked 25th,

The 2026 World Cup starts on 11 June with the Final on 19 July. Forty eight teams will compete in twelve groups of four teams, with the top two teams from the groups plus the best eight third placed teams qualifying for the Round of 32. The Group Draw will be made in Washington DC on 5th December. And yes, Australia has qualified!

In the EPL, Liverpool lost to Crystal Palace but still have two point lead over Arsenal with Palace in third place and Spurs, fourth. Nottingham Forest lost at home to Sunderland and Ange Postecoglou is still waiting for his first win. And at the foot of the table, Wolverhampton managed a draw and now has one point from six games.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, after five games, Bayern is the only club with maximum points. They lead Dortmund by two points with Leipzig a point behind in third place. At the foot of the table Heidenheim have won a game and moved off the bottom a point ahead of Monchengladbach.

In Italy’s Serie A, Napoli lost away to AC Milan and drops to second place, behind AC on goals. Roma in third place also has twelve points. Juventus drew again and is in fourth place. At the bottom of the league all three teams drew. Lecce, Pisa, Parma and Genoa are all now equal on two points from five games.

In Spain’s La Liga, Real Madrid was thumped 5-2 in the local derby against Atletico. Barcelona has taken over at the top of the League, one point ahead of Real with Villarreal third and Elche fourth. Girona and Oviedo are holding up the table with three points each.

Meanwhile in France, PSG and Lyon top the table with fifteen points and Monaco, Marseille and Strasbourg all have twelve points. This after Marseille had beaten PSG. Metz managed a draw but is still in trouble at the foot of the table.

Quote of the Week is from former Spurs manager - Ange Postecoglou “By keeping my distance from players and staff, it means my decisions are unemotional. It makes sure every decision I make is best for the team ...

‍

Ryan Scodellaro, Josh Valle, Matthew Kolb have been picked in the Football North Queensland Team of the Year. Photo supplied

‍

Last week the Ayr Surf Club had several members attend the North Barrier Branch Bronze Medallion and Surf Rescue Certificate awards camp on Magnetic Island. The week consisted of members from across the region working together whilst learning and training to gain their relevant awards to join the patrolling ranks of SLSQ.

The club had 7 Under 14s gain their Surf Rescue Certificate to join the red and yellow family for the first time, as well as a current member gaining her Bronze Medallion and ART and an Austrian exchange student who gained his Observers, First Aid and Advanced Resuscitation.

These members have significantly boosted patrol numbers at the local Ayr Surf Club with several of them already hitting the beach over the weekend for their first patrols.  The Ayr SLSC is always looking for new members and will be running further training courses in the near future, so please reach out if you are interested in Joining the Club - there's a role for everyone in lifesaving.

Patrol Roster--Saturday 4th October:
1-5pm - Group E - John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tramayne Horan, Sophia Moloney & Tony Felesina
Sunday 5th October:
9am-1pm - Group H - Dave Sartori, Kathryn Sartori, Ryley Sartori, Jake Sartori, Cole Pontifex, Alissia Gibson & Billy Gibson
1-5pm - Group C - Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Lauren Chapman, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman & Shaize Christie
Monday 6th October:
All Day (9am-5pm) - Group D - Kellie Lawry, Ben Lawry, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry & Lisa Vivian.

‍

On Sunday, 21st September, the Home Hill Bowls Club hosted the inaugural Wilmar Cup, featuring teams from Ayr, Brandon, Home Hill, and Giru.

Three games were played with three teams from each club competing in very warm conditions on a green that proved challenging for some.

Home Hill Bowls Club provided a tremendous day, offering an abundance of food and refreshments for all.

Brandon Bowls Club emerged victorious with three wins and a +74 score, followed by Home Hill with two wins (+26), Ayr with one win (-10), and Giru finishing with three losses (-95). Standout performers included Gary Pearce and Chris Pearce, each with three wins, and Peter Jorgensen with one win. Brandon will host the next event in 2026.

In Wednesday afternoon mixed bowls Pairs finals, Sandra Darwen and Colleen Olsen had an exciting win over Lyn Storrie and Helen Collins. The match was tied at the 21st end, requiring an extra end to determine the victors.

Another pairs game saw Vanda Ballao and Margaret Chapman defeat Bev Garioch and Joy Woods.

Contributed with thanks to Lyn Storrie

‍

The first annual Wilmar Challenge Trophy was held on 21st September at the Rummeny Green Home Hill Bowls Club. Four Burdekin clubs entered three teams of four players each. The event was officially opened by Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort – thank you, Pierina.

After a full day’s play, Brandon came out on top with three wins and will host next year’s event. The hosts, Homehill, finished second with two wins, Ayr third with one win, followed by Giru. Thanks to Nathaniel from Wilmar Sugar for presenting the trophy. A huge thanks to the ladies in the kitchen for a sumptuous feast, and the bar staff for keeping everyone hydrated on a very warm spring day. Hopefully, the Wilmar Challenge will become a wonderful addition to the bowling calendar.

On another warm spring afternoon, a smaller field of 23 players competed. On Rink 3, Henry Hazel, Terry Feakes, Ron Smith, and Glen Bones Berryman (today’s winners pictured, minus Henry who left early) defeated Paul Vass, Elaine Young, and Jeff Taylor. On Rink 4, Des Chapman, visitor Wayne Coonan, and Steve Doig overcame Judy Elton, Sandra Darwin, and Bruce McCallum. Rink 5 saw Gary Nosworthy, Dino Poli, and Tony Eadie win over Michael Young, Steve Muto, and Joe Linton, while Rink 6 had Margaret Chapman and Mick McClosky outlast Meryl Smith and Trevor Elton.

Regular weekly activities continue with Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Funday, Wednesday morning Kraft group and Wednesday night barefoot bowls with sausage sizzle, Thursday morning BINGO and afternoon social bowls, and Saturday afternoon social bowls returning this weekend. Monday mornings at 10 am are also set aside for coffee and a chat for anyone interested.

Until next week – good bowling!

Photo and report by Stephen Doig

‍

It was all action at the dress up pickleball night that was run as a Harvest Festival Community event.

The Harvest Festival is all about community and Queen Entrant Amelia Pivotto is very supportive of this ideal. “Raising awareness of pickleball and getting people out of their comfort zone to try something new is always good,” said Amelia. “The fact that we raised a bit of money for Home Hill Tennis is great too as there are always things to improve and maintain in a club.”

Fun at Home Hill Pickleball

The whack of the ball and laughter from the participants was louder than the music that was played.

There were a few dinosaurs, Pat Cash, a couple from the Swiss Alps and there was even a doctor in the house. Luke Skywalker alias Daniel Walsh did a great job as Emcee and guest Judges Mitchell, Margaret, Penny and Sharon had a great night awarding the pickle prizes to best dressed, best couple, funniest costume etc.

The club is already looking forward to their next event, a trivia night on Friday 17th Oct.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell

‍

The Burdekin Ladies took out the Division 1 Women’s Grand Final on Friday night when they defeated minor premiers Brothers 5-4 after extra-time.

Brothers started strongly and were 3-1 ahead at half time, Ellyana Mugica having scored for the Burdekin. In the second half the Burdekin fought back with goals from Sienna Lago and Zandi Bonanno to make the full time score 3-3. The match then went to extra time, and a Brothers own goal put the Burdekin ahead. However, Brothers equalised early in the second half before Tegan Johnson scored the winning goal for Burdekin four minutes from full time.

Football Matters with Cyclops

Night Soccer

In the second trial week, the nineteen games produced 86 goals. Top scorers were UDS with eight goals followed by DILLIGAF, Let’s Get Messi and Mottin Earthmoving with seven and Delta Physio with six. Individual top scorers were Jack O’ Keefe with four goals and Travis Butler and Hannah Bradley with three goals. The competition starts next Tuesday with twenty-seven Men’s teams and fifteen Women’s teams. Fees are now due.

Juniors

Get your teams Nomination Forms in for Junior Social Soccer commencing at the start of Term 4. Email the club if your child does not have a team and we will find one for them!

National and International

The Matildas next match is against Wales, in Cardiff on 25 October. Matilda’s captain Sam Kerr came an as a sub for Chelsea in their 1-0 win against Leicester.

The Socceroos next games are both friendlies. They are away to Canada on 11 October and then play USA on 15 October.

In the EPL, Liverpool now with maximum points from five games, lead Arsenal, Spurs and Bournemouth by five points and at the foot of the table, Wolverhampton has lost all five games and West Ham and Aston Villa have just three points.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, after four games, Bayern is the only club with maximum points. They lead Dortmund by two points with Leipzig a point behind in third place. At the foot of the table Heidenheim have lost all four games. In Italy’s Serie A, Napoli has maximum points while Juventus could only draw away to Verona. AC Milan and Roma are further point adrift. At the bottom of the league Lecce and Pisa have just one point.

In Spain’s La Liga, Real Madrid still has maximum points from five games with Barcelona in second place with thirteen points. Villarreal and Espanol are a further two

points behind and Girona is holding up the table with one point. Meanwhile in France, PSG the only team with maximum points, is still to play this week. They are level on points with Monaco, Lyon and Strasbourg and Metz is in trouble at the foot of the table.

Quote of the Week is from former Wimbledon Star Vinnie Jones “Sometimes footballers are not perfect…”

‍
The Burdekin Ladies took out the Division 1 Women’s Grand Final on Friday night when they defeated minor premiers Brothers 5-4 after extra-time. Photo supplied

Over the weekend, 29 Ayr Surf Life Savers showcased their skills at the Arcadian Carnival, held at Alma Bay on Magnetic Island. The event was a resounding success, with competitors achieving outstanding individual and team results, earning numerous podium finishes across all age groups, and demonstrating exceptional sportsmanship throughout.

Saturday featured a full slate of individual events, surf teams, and beach relays, while Sunday was a highlight with thrilling water team relays, drawing cheers from participants and supporters of all ages.

Ayr Nippers will return to Alva Beach this Sunday, 28th September, kicking off at 8.45am.

Patrol Roster for the Weekend

On Saturday 27th September, Team D – Kellie Lawry, Ben Lawry, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry, and Lisa Vivian – will be on duty from 1–5pm. On Sunday 28th September, Team A – Chris Wicks, Richard Dale, Jane Olsen, Stephanie Dale, Zachary Dale, Warne McShane, and Nico Ortner – will patrol from 9am–1pm, followed by Team B – Terry Lund, Kristy Wassmuth, Heather Scott, Anita Lund, Briella Wassmuth, and Emilee Wassmuth – from 1–5pm.

U14 Ironman Trifecta: Cole Pontifex (3rd), Nate Giddy (2nd) & Warne McShane (1st).

All Age Relay Team - Quinn Pontifex, Mackenzie Sartori, Toby Hatherell, Audrey Rickards, Taylor Chapman, Eva Rickards, Warne McShane, Gabriel Hatherell, Ryley Sartori & Ross Rickards.

‍

Home Hill Bowls Club enjoyed a busy week of action on the greens, with club singles, triples, pairs, and rinks all contested. On Thursday, three games of club singles were played alongside two triples and two pairs. Michael Young defeated Tony Eadie on Rink 2, while Alex Bojack narrowly overcame Mick McClosky on Rink 3. Wayne Newton accounted for Jeff Taylor on Rink 4. In the triples and pairs, Henry Hazel, Ron Smith, and Des Chapman defeated Bob Pickard, Sandra Darwin, and Bruce McCallum on Rink 5, and Paul Vass, Dino Poli, and Joe Linton downed Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Terry Feakes on Rink 6. Judy Elton and Glen Bones Berryman were victorious over Margaret Chapman and Steve Doig on Rink 7, while Janet Arthur and Hugh Montgomery outlasted Cisco and Margaret Linton on Rink 8.

Saturday afternoon saw 14 players compete in a game of triples and a game of rinks, with Alex, Elaine, and Bruce taking the honours. Sunday’s Wilmar Challenge was won by Brandon, followed by Homehill and Ayr with Giru.

The club continues its regular activities, including Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, Wednesday Kraft Group and night-time barefoot bowls with a sausage sizzle, Thursday BINGO alongside social bowls in the afternoon, and Saturday afternoon social bowls.

Raffle winners were Joe Linton, who took home a seafood tray, and Mick Olsen, who claimed a dozen eggs and a bottle of wine.

Photos and report by Stephen Doig.

Until next week, good bowling!

The Home Hill Third Grade cricket side started their 2025/26 season with a home game against a young Brothers side.

In a tightly contested Third Grade CNQ fixture, Brothers – Urban Aspect Interiors edged past Home Hill by 11 runs in a low-scoring thriller. Both sides showcased disciplined bowling and sharp fielding, but it was Brothers’ ability to capitalize on key moments that sealed the win.

Brothers won the toss and chose to bat. Wickets fell early before Callum Lindeberg top-scored with a brisk 18 runs. Isaac Drummond anchored the tail with a composed 14* (17 balls). The Home Hill bowling attack was led by Leo Olditch and Al Wilkins taking 2 wickets each, with Billy McLees, Jay Leckenby and Steven Zabala also contributing wickets. Brad Parravicini led from the front in the field, taking 2 catches and 1 run out. The Brothers side was bowled out for 109 in 30 overs, setting a modest but defendable target.

Home Hill lost wickets steadily, with the top order struggling to build momentum. Al Wilkins led the chase with a fluent 29 (32 balls, 2 fours, 1 six). Dan Olditch contributed 14 valuable runs off the bat and Isaac Cardillo remained unbeaten on 11* (33 balls), but ran out of partners. The Home Hill innings ended at 98 runs from 28.5 overs, falling just short of the target and securing Brothers’ narrow win.

Home Hill’s Second Grade - CNQ side hosted Saints Lamberts Produce at Barry Richards Field in their first home game of the season.

Home Hill’s bowlers worked hard to contain Saints after they chose to bat first, but a few loose spells and extras allowed the opposition to build a solid total.
Saints posted a formidable 197/7, anchored by a composed and commanding innings from Kioren Stokes, who struck 72 off 97 balls with 9 boundaries and a six.
Mark Coventry led the Home Hill bowling attack, taking 3 wickets including 1 caught and bowled, while TJ Richards chipped in with 2 wickets. Salvatore Cardillo was outstanding in the field, taking 3 catches.

Home Hill’s chase never quite found momentum, with the top order struggling against tight bowling from Saints. Opener Adam Camer (22 runs), JD Wilkins (15 runs) and Lee Watts (14 runs) made solid contributions with the bat, but early wickets and a steady stream of dot balls stalled progress.
Despite the low individual scores, Salvatore Cardillo provided a late spark with a brisk 24* off 14 balls, including two boundaries and two sixes.

Home Hill showed flashes of brilliance—particularly in the field and with the ball—but fell short in the run chase, all out for 128 from 35.5 overs.

‍

Nineteen-year-old Hayde Munro has etched his name into Burdekin Roosters history by becoming the youngest ever winner of the coveted A Grade Player of the Year award.

Munro, who began playing rugby league at the age of five, was presented with the honour at the club’s annual presentation night at the Queens Hotel in Ayr on Friday. The gifted lock forward also enjoyed a strong season with the Townsville Blackhawks under-19 side, playing alongside fellow Roosters Jye Olsen and Terrence Mosby.

Having started the A Grade season in the halves, Munro was shifted to lock by coach Steve Lansley and flourished in the role, going from strength to strength. He was also recognised by his teammates, who voted him Players’ Player.

In other A Grade awards, captain Joel Mason was named Best Back, while young hooker Colby Thompson claimed Best Forward. The Most Improved player was forward Tate Brombal, who progressed from starting the season on the bench to becoming a regular selection. Terrence Mosby earned Most Consistent for his reliability in both attack and defence. Lachlan Shepherd, who played 80 minutes every week without complaint, received the Coaches Award, while Jye Olsen was presented with the Vic Eathorne Memorial Trophy as the most diligent A Grader. Winger Nemia Nawaf, who crossed for 13 tries, collected the John and Diane Calder Trophy for most tries in a season.

In Reserve Grade, five-eighth and goal-kicker Dylan Doak capped off an excellent year by winning both the Mike Horan Reserve Grade Player of the Year award and the Players’ Player. Johnny Zaro was named Best Back, giant forward Llama Ghee took Best Forward, and Matty Lee claimed Most Improved after establishing himself as a regular centre. Archie Swindley was recognised as Most Consistent, Pryce Gesah received the Coaches Award, and Jack Rushton was presented with the Crocket Heron Most Diligent Award, with coach Peter Horan declaring him an A Grade player in the making.

Club spirit was also recognised on the night, with versatile utility Caleb Noah, who played almost every position across grades and stepped up for A Grade when needed, receiving the Eric Taiters Memorial Shield.

Special honours went to a number of players. Rising junior Adam Camer was named Outstanding Junior, winning the David Gilmore Memorial Award. Terrence Mosby was presented with the Des and Betty Weaver Rookie of the Year, beating a strong field of nominees including Camer, Jye Olsen, Terrence Connors, Luca Lago and Jones Munro. The Norm Dee Award for club spirit on and off the field went to A Grade forward Ethan Hagarty, who not only gave his all on the paddock but also organised a major fundraiser for a seriously ill child. A new accolade, the Norm Bohl Award, was introduced this year and presented to Alex Lennox for his efforts in organising fundraising activities for the club.

The Burdekin River Ladies team, formed this season in partnership with Herbert River, also received recognition after an impressive campaign. The side defeated Brothers in the semi-final, having already overcome Norths, Charters Towers and Bowen, before bowing out to Western Lions in controversial circumstances in the preliminary final. The effort of the squad was remarkable, with players travelling more than 60,000 kilometres during the season to train and play, gathering weekly in Townsville under coach Anita Hagarty despite members commuting from Ingham and the Burdekin. Their dedication was underlined by the entire team attending both the Burdekin and Herbert River presentation nights on consecutive evenings.

Queensland Country winger Toni Daisy was rewarded for her outstanding all-round performances by being named Best and Fairest, and was also recently crowned the Triple S Lady Player of the Year. The flying Martina Monday claimed Best Back, while tireless goal-kicker Rebecca Pace was recognised as Best Forward. Lisa Stokes, who showed enormous development across the season, was named Most Improved, with pint-sized Jo Morgan – who plays well above her size – awarded Most Consistent. The Coaches Award went to forward Tanley Rowe for her relentless work in the tough areas, while the Crystal Herion Most Diligent Award was presented to co-captain Paige Horvat, who praised the team’s organisation in giving the women the chance to play the game they love.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

Photos:
Men's player of the year, Hayde Munro.
Women's player of the year, Toni Daisy.
Long time major sponsor, Jason Guy.

It’s been another big week at the Ayr Bowling Club with a highlight being the Wilmar Club Challenge played on Sunday 21st September. Home Hill Bowls Club hosted the event, and it was a great day of bowling with Giru, Home Hill, Brandon and Ayr competing for the Wilmar Shield. This was the first year this event was played with Brandon taking home the Shield, congratulations to Brandon. Ayr finished third which was a fantastic effort against some quality bowlers in the Burdekin region.

Let’s now look back on the week past. On Wednesday Men’s Social Bowls two games of pairs and one triples were played. Out on the green competition was close and taking out the honours on the day were John Pirrone and Lachlan Grantz, defeating Wayne Coonan and Chris Berkery. It was a great afternoon of camaraderie and quality bowls enjoyed by all.

Wednesday night social bowls the winners were Evelyn Wiltshere, John Cesconetto and Lachlan Grantz. In the pairs game Tricia Achille and Heather Jorgensen were the winners.

What a fantastic Super Saturday Jackpot Bowls! We saw 24 bowlers on the green. Four games of triples were played, and the winners were, Arthur Gauvin, Lorraine Wolffe and Joe Grabbi defeating Shane Stanford, Ron Smythe and Barry Shepherd. In the second triples game John Pirrone, Joe Papale, Ray wall and Dot Cutting defeated John McDonald, Barry Hewson and Beryl Cornford. Congratulations to Pam Power on taking out the $150 Jackpot. An excellent turnout, great bowls, and plenty of fun all round. A special shoutout to everyone who joined in to celebrate Mario’s birthday – the perfect way to cap off a brilliant afternoon!

In Championship action this week, Mixed Singles Competition Irene Wilson defeated Cisco. Mixed triples saw one game played this week and the winners were, Lorraine Wolffe, Macca and Anthony Bull defeating Henry Hazel, Lyn Storrie and Sam Caltabiano 17 – 16 in a close contest. The winners now progress to the next round.

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

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

Photo: Saturday's winners: Arthur, Lorraine and Joe

Ayr Motorcycle Club is proud to announce that it will host Founders’ Day on Saturday, 27th September 2025; a special event dedicated to honouring the club’s founding members as well as recognising past and present members who have helped shape the club’s legacy.

Alongside the club’s regular classes, Founders’ Day will feature four thrilling special night races. The Bill Smith Memorial Race will see the top 12 senior riders after three afternoon rounds battle it out under lights. The Hyne/Taylor Shield (Junior 125cc/250cc, 13–16 years) will feature the 12 highest-placed juniors competing in an exciting 8-lap final. The May Steel Memorial Race is another senior showdown featuring the top 12 riders, while the Shirley Chard Trophy will be awarded to the top female competitor, decided by total point scores across the day.

Racing action will kick off at 2:00pm, leading into the special night races under the floodlights. Spectators can look forward to an electric atmosphere, with both a licensed bar and canteen open throughout the event.

“Founders’ Day is about celebrating where we’ve come from, honouring the people who built this club, and showcasing the incredible talent we have today,” said Karl Vass, President of the Ayr Motorcycle Club. “It promises to be a day of great racing and community spirit.”

Ayr Motorcycle Club invites all members, supporters, and the wider community to come along and be part of this special day in the club’s history.

What: Founders’ Day
When: 27th September 2025 Racing from 2:00pm
Where:Ayr Motorcycle Club Saturday

Contributed with thanks to Lyn McLaughlin

‍

Just the two Finals series games last weekend. On Thursday night the Division 2 Funkies lost 1-3 to Saints Eagles Souths and their season is now over. However, the Ladies beat Rebels 2-0 and will now meet Brothers in the Grand Final.

Night Soccer

Kicked off its 46th year on Tuesday. In the first of two Trial Weeks, there were nineteen games with sixty-one goals scored. Clare Cutters, Rocky Pond Warriors, and Mountain View Fresh all scored five goals. So far there are twenty-seven Men’s and fifteen Women’s teams. Teams must be finalised by next Tuesday.

Division 2 Men

The C.A. Contracting Funkies played their preliminary final against Saints for a place in the Grand Final. Saints started the better of the two teams taking the lead after ten minutes. The Funkies worked their way into the game and started to look dangerous up front through Fengil and Nick Cathcart. However, it was Jake Lacey who scored the equaliser for Burdekin with an incredible strike from 30 yards out. Burdekin suffered injuries to Jarrod Dal Santo and Luke Cathcart just before half time with scores locked at 1-1.

Second half saw Saints start well and could have regained the lead numerous times, but some great saves from keeper Dave Bryen kept denying them. The Funkies were finishing strongly as full time approached through Brad Wright and Jack Castrejana, until Castrejana dislocated his kneecap just before full time. An ambulance was called and after a short delay the game was moved to another field.

Extra time again for the Funkies, was not something the team was looking forward to. Unfortunately, Saints took an early lead in extra time before getting another goal late in the game to win 3-1.The end of the season for the Funkies with a game that could have had a quite different result on another night. Player of match was Jake Lacey with Brad Wright and Heath Swindley both having strong games also. A season definitely to be proud of and already looking forward to next year.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies came in to this match determined to secure their spot in the grand final, but Rebels did not make it easy, holding them out of their half early on. Burdekin knew they were in for a tough battle. But after several unsuccessful through balls, the breakthrough finally came in the 30th minute when Zandi Bonanno drew the defence out before slotting home a brilliant finish.

In the second half, Burdekin piled on the pressure and despite Rebels’ strong defensive effort, the ladies managed to extend their lead in the 66th minute thanks to a superb goal from outside the box from Karina Guglielmi. The game ended in a 2-0 win to the Burdekin in a hard-fought performance. The Ladies now look to carry this momentum into the grand final showdown against Brothers!

Juniors

On Saturday, the Juniors had their final games for the season, along with the club’s breakup. The kids had a lot of fun after their games, continuing to kick the ball around,

along with a jumping castle, sausage sizzle and lolly drop. Thank you to everyone involved for such a successful season, and we will see you all in 2026!

Masters

That’s it for Masters Soccer in 2025. Night Soccer kicked off last week and Masters Soccer will return in February 2026.

National and International

The major European Leagues were back in action this week. And after three or four weeks, the old order hardly changeth. In the EPL, Liverpool with maximum points from four games, lead Arsenal, Spurs and Bournemouth and at the foot of the table, Wolverhampton has lost all four games.

In Germany, after three games, Bayern with three wins lead Dortmund and Cologne whilst in Italy’s Serie A, Napoli and Juventus have maximum points from three games with Udinese in third place. In Spain, Real Madrid and Barcelona, both with four wins, lead Atletico and Getafe and in France, PSG is the only team with maximum points leading Lille by two points, Monaco and Lyon.

The Matildas next match is against Wales, in Cardiff on 25 October. Matilda’s captain Sam Kerr is back! She scored a goal in Chelsea’s 3-1 win at Aston Villa.

The Socceroos played New Zealand last Friday in Canberra and were a bit lucky to win 1-0 with a goal in the 86th minute. In the return match in Auckland, the Socceroos won 3-1. They now have friendlies away to Canada and the USA in October.

Quote of the Week is from then Charlton manager Lenny Lawrence. “The last time we got a penalty at home, Christ was a carpenter.”

‍

Home Hill Bowls

A total of 29 players took to the greens today, joined by a few special visitors: Peter and Sue Dingle from Mooloolabah, in town to celebrate Iris Dingle’s 100th birthday, as well as Alan Gairoch from Brandon, and Steve Muto and Jeff Taylor from Giru.

On Rink 2, Margaret Chapman and Gary Nosworthy defeated Judy Elton and Alan Gairoch. Rink 3 saw Bob Pickard and Trevor Elton overcome Margaret Linton and Joe Linton. On Rink 4, Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Glen Bones Berryman triumphed over Paul Vass, Des Chapman, and Wayne Newton.

Today's standout performers on Rink 5 were Sue Dingle, Dino Poli, and Steve Doig, who accounted for Norm Bethell, Ron Smith, and Jeff Taylor (pictured). Rink 6 produced a close contest, with Steve Muto, Bruce McCallum, and Hugh Montgomery edging out Michael Young, Peter Dingle, and Mick McClosky 10 ends to 8 on a countback.

Raffle winners included Steve Muto, who took home a 2 kg fillet of mackerel, while Margaret Linton claimed the bottle of wine.

Looking ahead, don’t miss next Sunday’s Wilmar Challenge—come along, support your club, and enjoy the food and bar facilities. Regular weekly activities continue: Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, Wednesday morning Kraft group with barefoot bowls and a sausage sizzle in the evening, Thursday morning BINGO and social bowls in the afternoon, and the popular $5 Saturday afternoon social bowls.

Till next week, good bowling!

Report and photo by Steve Doig.

The day's winners: Steve Doig, Dino Poli and Sue Dingle.

‍

It’s been another big week at the Ayr Bowling Club. Let’s start with getting ready for next Saturday with Mario Milan’s 91st birthday celebration on Saturday 20th September joining with our Jackpot Saturday. Mario is sponsoring the day which is much appreciated. So, save the date in your calendar as the Jackpot will go off.

Let’s now look back on the week past. On Wednesday Men’s Social Bowls two games of triples were played. Out on the green competition was close and taking out the honours on the day were Dino Poli, George Nixon and Maurie Power defeating John Pirrone, Barry Hewson and Col Essex. It was a great afternoon of camaraderie and quality bowls enjoyed by all.

Wednesday night social bowls the winners were Bertilla Piazetta, John Cesconetto and Sam Caltabiano. In the second game the winners were John Fletcher, John Pirrone, David Burt and Joe Grabbi

Saturday Social bowls two games of triples and a two pairs game was played, winners were, Karen Shepherd, Joe Papale and John McDonald defeating Cisco, Al Hardcastle and Dot Cutting. In the second triples game Arthur Gauvin, J McDonald and Betty Schultz defeated

Merle Nixon, Donna Soper and Beryl Cornford. In the two pairs games George Nixon and Barry Shepherd defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Ron Soper. Ron Smythe and Anthony Bull defeated Barry Hewson and Lachlan Grantz.

In Championship action this week, Ladies Competition Two Bowl Pairs was played on Sunday. Karen Shepherd and Irene Wilson defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Sandra Stidston. Men’s triples saw one game played this week winners were, Shane Stanford, Macca and Anthony Bull defeating Al Hardcastle, Col Essex and Lew Stidston 24 – 15. The winners now progress to the next round.

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

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

‍

Saturdays winners; Macca, Joe and Karen. Photo supplied

‍

Home Hill’s cricket season heats up this weekend with the club hosting its first home fixtures at the Nutrien AgSolutions Cricket Complex. The Third Grade side takes the field against Brothers from 8am, before the Second Grade outfit squares off with Saints at 12:30pm.

Both teams will be looking to build momentum after strong early-season performances, highlighted by the Second Grade side’s seven-wicket victory over Wests on Sunday. With solid batting form from Zakk Myles and a sharp fielding display led by JD Wilkins, Home Hill is shaping up as a serious contender in this year’s competition.

Cricket Report

Round 2 of the CNQ Townsville Second Grade cricket competition saw Home Hill record a convincing seven-wicket victory over Wests Absolutely Dental at Mick Downey Oval on Sunday.

Wests, who won the toss and elected to bat, started steadily before Salvatore Cardillo made the first breakthrough, dismissing Beau McCarron for 23. Another wicket fell quickly, but Wests regrouped to reach 3/76 by the 17th over. From there the momentum shifted—five wickets fell for just 23 runs, with the tail adding only a small contribution. Wests were bowled out for 133 in the 32nd over. Thomas Cardillo and TJ Richards each finished with two wickets, while JD Wilkins impressed in the field with three catches.

Chasing 134, Home Hill’s opening pair of Zakk Myles and Adam Camer set a strong platform with a 61-run stand. Camer departed for 25, while Myles top-scored with 45 from 60 balls before being bowled with the score at 97. Lee Watts added 12, before Ayden Marano (21 not out) and Brad Parravicini (4 not out) guided Home Hill home. The side finished at 3/134 after 28 overs to claim a comfortable win.

Attention now turns to next Sunday, 21 September, when Home Hill will host their first games of the season at the Nutrien AgSolutions Cricket Complex. The Third Grade side faces Brothers from 8am, followed by the Second Grade clash against Saints at 12:30pm.

‍

The sound of celebration carried further in Ayr over the weekend, with Burdekin Shire Council’s upgraded Queen Street speaker system put to the test during the Burdekin Water Festival.

Originally installed to broadcast Sweet FM programs through the CBD, the stand-alone speakers have long been a feature of Queen Street, helping keep the community informed while supporting local businesses.

The recent upgrade introduced a public address function, giving the system new flexibility to deliver announcements, music, and commentary during major community events.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the investment ensures the speakers are equipped to serve a wider purpose.

“Queen Street is the hub of many community events, and this system now has the flexibility to support both our local businesses and our celebrations,” Cr Dalle Cort said.

“By adding a dedicated PA function, we can create a safer, more vibrant atmosphere for the many parades and festivals hosted in our CBD each year.”

The enhanced system was used for the first time during the Water Festival, where it supported commentary and music along Queen Street as thousands joined the celebrations.

‍

The Burdekin Netball Association held its fundraising evening “Wigs and Wine” on Friday, 29th August, drawing strong community support for a cause that blended entertainment, awareness, and local pride.

160 guests embraced the theme by arriving with wigs already on, filling the venue with colour and character. A glass of champagne on arrival and a hearty dinner set the stage for the evening, which combined light-hearted fun with a meaningful purpose.

The main focus of the event was the Ponytail Project, run in association with the Cancer Council. This initiative encourages participants to cut and donate their ponytails so they can be used to create wigs for people experiencing hair loss during cancer treatment. On the night, nine women volunteered to “get the chop:” Aimee Gibson, Kristine Patti, Jade Bolam, Brittany Bohl, Dominique Gorey, Cailin Gosling, Ella Zabel, Tayla McKaig and Tayah Gibson. Volunteers managed to raise $13,000, drawing a strong applause from supporters and provided a moving reminder of the impact small acts can have for those facing difficult health challenges.

The Burdekin Netball Association was pleased to welcome Cancer Council representative Teagan Marsden, who travelled from Townsville to support the initiative and acknowledge the community’s contribution. Her presence reinforced the broader significance of the Ponytail Project and the value of local fundraising efforts in supporting those living with cancer.

The practical side of the ponytail donations was made possible thanks to Amber Kelly of Lace Creative, who generously donated her hairdressing expertise and equipment on the night. Her contribution ensured the process ran smoothly and added a professional touch that made the evening more memorable for both the participants and the audience.

In addition to the ponytail donations, guests were kept busy with a cent sale raffle and a money board, which generated plenty of excitement while adding to the funds raised. Every dollar from the evening’s activities went directly toward supporting the Burdekin Netball Association’s 2025 Harvest Festival Queen entrant, Aaliyah Gibson.

The Harvest Festival Queen competition has long been a highlight of the Burdekin calendar, with entrants representing local clubs, businesses, and community organisations. Each entrant is tasked with running fundraising activities in the lead-up to the annual festival, with funds going back into their sponsoring organisation and into the festival itself. For the Burdekin Netball Association, supporting Gibson’s campaign not only raises the profile of the sport locally but also strengthens their role in the wider community.

Organisers were quick to acknowledge the efforts behind the scenes that made the night possible. The Burdekin Netball committee, together with Sheree McKaig and Shalon Gibson, were all recognised for their combined contribution in ensuring the smooth running and overall success of the event.

Events such as “Wigs and Wine” showcase the ability of local clubs to unite the community while contributing to larger causes. The combination of support for the Ponytail Project and fundraising for the Harvest Festival reflects the Burdekin’s tradition of giving back, where social gatherings double as opportunities to make a lasting difference.

Photos by Madison Mainwaring-Samwell and Carlene Muilwyk

Article by Carlene Muilwyk

‍

Tracey Young, Carlene Muilwyk, Lynnie McLaughlin, Gloria Vass
Zara Frost, Katerina Samios, Ella Logan, Aoife O'Dwyer
Danielle Kaminski, Sheryn Woods, Susan Catanzaro
Tayla McKaig having her hair cut by friends Lily Arrate and Sarah Kirke
Back L-R - Aimee Gibson, Kristine Patti, Jade Bolam, Aaliyah Gibson, Brittany Bohl, Dominique Gorey Front L-R - Cailin Gosling, Ella Zabel, Tayla McKaig, Tayah Gibson

‍

Last Saturday, a talented group of Burdekin riders travelled south to Proserpine to compete at the Whitsunday Motorcycle Club Day, joining a field of around 70 competitors. Across five races for most classes, riders collected points toward their overall placings — and Burdekin competitors made their presence felt.

One of the standout performers of the meet was Ky Mitchell, who completely dominated both the 125cc and 250cc (13–16 years) classes. Mitchell’s speed, consistency, and control saw him stamp his authority over the fields, collecting maximum points and proving he is in excellent form. With the speedway season just around the corner, all eyes will be on Ky to see how he carries this momentum onto the 250cc Solo, where he is expected to be a serious contender.

The 85cc (9–13 years) group was the only class not run on points but instead decided by a final. It proved to be one of the most thrilling races of the day, with lightning-fast pace and a nail-biting duel at the front. Townsville’s George Holmkvist, who only a few weeks ago placed 2nd at the Australian Titles, went head-to-head with Burdekin’s Ryder Vass in a gripping contest. The pair swapped positions back and forth, going from first to second and back again, keeping the crowd on edge until the chequered flag.

There were plenty of other notable achievements from the Burdekin juniors. Both Noah Ready (50cc) and Carter Macelroy (65cc 7–9 years) celebrated their first-ever overall victories, a huge milestone in their young dirt track careers. Ryder Vass also impressed in the 65cc (10–13 years) class, where he dominated the field and won all but one race across the day, adding to his strong performance in the 85cc final. Meanwhile, Isahia Forbes-Young secured a podium of his own with a solid third place in the highly competitive 85cc (13–16 years) class.

Burdekin podium results included:

50cc: 1st Noah Ready, 2nd Ruben Vass
65cc (7–9 years): 1st Carter Macelroy, 2nd River Vass
65cc (10–13 years): 1st Ryder Vass
85cc (9–13 years): 2nd Ryder Vass
85cc (13–16 years): 3rd Isahia Forbes-Young
125cc (13–16 years): 1st Ky Mitchell
250cc (13–16 years): 1st Ky Mitchell

The results showcase the depth of junior dirt track talent in the Burdekin, with riders showing skill, determination, and sportsmanship across all classes.

The club congratulates all competitors on their efforts and looks forward to more exciting results at upcoming events.

Contributed with thanks to Lyn McLaughlin

‍

Back Row (L-R): Carter Macelroy, River Vass, Ky Mitchell, Ryder Vass, Isaiah Forbes-Young
Front Row (L-R): Adalyn Forbes-Young, Noah Ready, Ruben Vass

‍

For the first time in more than a decade, Home Hill Cricket Association senior teams are returning to compete in the Cricket North Queensland (Townsville) competition.

On Sunday 7 September, Home Hill took to the field against Brothers Kenny’s Automotive for the first round of the Second Grade - CNQ comp at John McCulloch Oval, Kirwan.

Brothers won the toss and elected to bat first. The Brothers opening partnership amassed 44 runs before Greg Flanagan made the breakthrough with the ball to take the first wicket. Wickets continued to fall regularly with Guy Stevenson, JD Wilkins and Mark Coventry leading the bowling attack, taking 2 wickets each. The safe hands of TJ Richards contributed 2 catches in the field to have Brothers all out for 139 runs.

The Home Hill run chase was lead by Brendan Williams (29 runs) and Mark Coventry (11 runs), however a flurry of wickets in the middle order left Home Hill short of the total - all out for 68.

Despite the loss, the Home Hill players are excited for the season ahead.  The Second Grade side will take on Wests in Townsville next Sunday.

The Third Grade side will commence their season on September 21, with both the Second and Third Grade sides playing home games at the Nutrien AgSolutions Cricket Complex. Keep an eye on the Home Hill Cricket Association facebook page for all the details.

‍

HHCA Second Grade. Photo supplied

‍

Last weekend featured just two Finals games. Thursday night, Division 2 Funkies beat Brothers 4-0, while on Saturday the Ladies lost 1-3 to Brothers. For the Preliminary Finals: the Ladies must beat Rebels Friday 6.30pm, and the Funkies must beat Saints Eagles Souths Thursday 6.30pm to reach their Grand Finals.

Division 2 Men
The C.A. Contracting Funkies faced Brothers in the elimination final. Brothers started strong, but Burdekin scored first through Chris Achille, before Brothers equalised. In the second half, Jack Castrejana gave the Funkies the lead, only for Brothers to level again. Extra time saw Fengil score twice to seal a 4-2 win. Standout performers: Jarrod Dal Santo, Jake Lacey, Fengil, Nicholas Cathcart, Jack Castrejana.

Ladies
Ayr Anzac Club Ladies fell 1-3 to Brothers in the semi-finals. Brothers led 2-0 at halftime, Tegan Johnson pulled one back, but Brothers scored again to win. The Ladies face Rebels Friday night, aiming to bounce back.

Juniors
Townsville teams played the last Saturday fixtures of 2025. Thanks to Saints Eagles Souths FC and all visiting clubs. This Saturday is the final matches and end-of-season breakup.

Masters
Masters Soccer concludes for 2025. Night Soccer has started; Masters returns in 2026.

National & International
European leagues paused for 2026 World Cup qualifiers; resumes this weekend. Matildas next face Wales on 25 October in Cardiff; Sam Kerr is back in training. Socceroos beat New Zealand 1-0 in Canberra Friday, and play again Tuesday in Auckland, with friendlies vs Canada and USA in October.

Quote of the Week is from Terry Venables, then manager of Barcelona. “When I arrived in the summer, one of my predecessors told the Spanish media that I would be gone by Christmas. He forgot to mention which year.”

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer
Night Soccer kicked off its 46th year on Tuesday.

Night Soccer started in 1979 as a means of keeping soccer players fit during the off season. In that first season there were eight teams, and the matches were played in Home Hill. From those inauspicious beginnings the competition has grown to be the number one sporting competition in the Burdekin.

Delta Cleaners have been the competitions sponsor since the very first season – and that must be some sort of record. The younger generation of Nucifora’s weren’t even born when Night Soccer started.

The winners of the competition back in 1979 were Bonato’s Club Hotel and the Ladies joined the competition in 1982. Night Soccer moved to the Brothers Rugby League Club in Ayr in 1980 and to its present base at International Park in 1981. In the 1998 season Night Soccer attracted 84 Senior teams and 36 Junior teams which meant that upwards of a thousand players were taking part in the competition every Tuesday.

In the 2024 season Night Soccer had 28 Men’s and 15 Women’s teams and that included seven teams of Solomon islanders. Hopefully the 2025 season will be at least as good.

Visitors to International Park often comment that the facilities are the best in North Queensland and Night Soccer has paid for a lot of them.

‍

“We made too many mistakes,” said Burdekin River ladies coach Anita Hagarty after her team went down 24-14 to Western Lions at Brothers on Sunday in the R.L.T.D. Ladies preliminary final in Townsville.

Last week, the team beat Brothers by letting the ball do the work, and the strategy delivered a solid win. This week, they tried the same approach. Toni Daisy crossed for a strong opening try, and with Rebecca Pace’s conversion, Burdekin led 6-0.

However, the experienced and bigger Lions soon pressured the team, exploiting mistakes and using their size to move ahead. Western Lions scored three tries before halftime, taking a 10-6 lead, but Martina Monday’s pace and swerve brought Burdekin back to 14-10 at the break. Ball control remained the key to turning the match around.

In the second half, Lions extended their lead to 18-10. Martina Monday crossed again to make it 18-14. A potential chance to level the scores went unnoticed when a player was lifted and dumped near the tryline without a penalty. The Lions sealed the result with a converted try, finishing 24-14 and booking a Grand Final clash with Centrals.

Despite the loss, Anita praised her team, noting that five players are under 18. Paige Horvat was named best back, winning the Old Boys voucher despite taking several heavy hits. Lily Mills made some strong runs, while Martina Monday continued to shine despite tight marking.

In the forwards, Taleisha Bulgarelli’s tireless effort earned her the Old Boys award, while Rebecca Pace and Sarah Castles put in heavy work in the middle. Overall, the experiment of combining the two clubs has been successful and looks promising for the future.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

‍

Thirty players were on hand for a fantastic spring afternoon. Today’s winners were Margaret Chapman, Lloyd Shepherd, and Des Chapman. Unfortunately, Lloyd had to leave at the end of the game, so only Margaret and Des appear in our winners’ photo. The field consisted of four games of triples and a game of pairs.

On Rink 3, Judy Elton, Sandra Darwin, and Hugh Montgomery proved too good for Paul Vass, Neville Webb, and Phil Marsden. Rink 4 saw Betty Webb, Bruce McCallum, and Wayne Newton account for Bob Pickard, new member Rob Darr (welcome!), and Joe Linton. Rink 5 was a close contest, with Bob Young, Mark Swaine, and Trevor Elton narrowly defeating Henry Hazel, Terry Feakes, Ron Smith, and Mick McClosky. Margaret Chapman, Lloyd Shepherd, and Des Chapman defeated Warren “Yogi” Bunn, Dino Poli, and Steve Doig on Rink 6, while Maureen Marsden and Glen Bones Berryman recorded a good win against Michael Young and Alex Bojack on Rink 7.

A few dates to remember: The Wilmar Challenge is on 21st September, the Giru Open Fours on Saturday 27th September with 8:30am for a 9am start, Brandon Bowls Club celebrates its 70th anniversary on 5th October, and the Bowen Bowls Club Peter Bruce Memorial Open Fours takes place Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th October 2025. Check the notice board for more details.

Thursday’s raffle saw a 2kg piece of mackerel won by Yogi Bunn, while a bottle of wine went to Margaret Chapman, who had a pretty good day on the greens. Weekly activities continue, including Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, Wednesday Kraft group and night barefoot bowls, Thursday morning BINGO and social bowls, and Saturday $5 social bowls.

The other photo shows some of the young players enjoying a drink at the end of play. Till next week, good bowling.

Photo and report by Stephen Doig

Winners of the day, Margaret and Des.
Participants enjoying a drink at the end of play.

‍

The Ayr Bowling Club has enjoyed a fantastic week, with members coming together for a series of competitive and social matches. The energy on the greens has been great, as the club continues to foster a strong sense of enthusiasm towards the great game of lawn bowls. With the momentum showing no signs of slowing, members are eagerly anticipating another month of great matches and good times ahead.

Wednesday’s Men’s Bowls saw great participation, with two games of pairs and a triples game. The successful team on the day was Barry Shepherd and Col Essex who delivered a strong performance to claim the win over Chris Berkery and Barry Hewson. George Nixon and Anthony Bull defeated Dino Poli and Lew Stidston. In the triples game Arthur Gauvin, Ray Wall and Happy Horon defeated Ron Smythe, John Pirrone and Ron Soper.

Wednesday night bowls saw two games of pairs played. The winners of the first game were Margaret McLaughlin and Ross McLaughlin. In the other game the winners were Bertilla Piazetta and Heather Jorgensen.

The Ayr Bowling Club hosted it’s Fun Friday Night Bowls Sponsored by Lawrence & Hanson on Friday. What a great night! So good to see lots of regular and new bowlers coming every time for a fun night. Taking home the prizes on Friday night were Bertilla Piazetta, Tricia Achille and David Burt (1st) Lorraine Wolffe, John Pirrone and Anthony Bull (2nd) Kyle Grabbi, Johnny Grabbi and Joe Grabbi (Sportsman). Big shout out to Lawrence & Hanson for their sponsorship of the night.

Saturday saw our men travel to Bowen bowls club for country pennants while we didn’t come away with the shield our club put up a great performance. We had 3 new bowlers playing their first pennant games for the club. And they performed well for the first time playing pennants well done, Cisco, Al Hardcastle and Shane Stanford. You did yourselves and our club proud in your first pennant games.

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.

‍

Lyn’s President’s Day saw 42 bowlers hit the greens in a day full of competition, laughs, and community spirit. Players and spectators alike kept the atmosphere lively, and thanks to the effort of members, helpers, and sponsors Danny and Marissa O’Shea Painting, the event ran smoothly from start to finish.

On the leaderboard, the top prize went to Kaye Garner, Darelle Pearce, and Rhonda Tawse. Runners-up were Irene Adams, Elaine Young, and Colleen Olsen, while third place went to Wilma Berryman, Vanda Ballao, and Aisha Ryan.

The Club Triples produced one of the tightest battles of the week. Glenn Woodford, Jamie Woods, and Gary Pearce edged out Joe Ypinazar, Chris Pearce, and Steve Mottin after 18 ends left the scores locked. An extra end was needed to separate the sides, with Woodford’s team eventually prevailing.

President’s Day once again highlighted the strength of the local bowls community and the value of everyone who puts in the time—whether competing, organising, or simply showing up in support.

Contributed with thanks to Lyn Storrie.

‍

Lyn’s President’s Day saw 42 bowlers hit the greens in a day full of competition, laughs, and community spirit. Photo supplied
The Club Triples produced one of the tightest battles of the week. Photo supplied

‍

After starting the year with uncertainty about player numbers, the Herbert River and Burdekin Rugby Leagues decided to combine their personnel and form a single ladies’ team. The experiment proved a success, with the Burdekin River team now just one win away from the Grand Final of the RLTD Women’s competition.

Exhibiting the old adage of “let the ball do the work,” Burdekin River defeated Brothers 20–12 in the knockout semi-final last Sunday at Brothers, booking a place in this Sunday’s preliminary final against Western Lions. The winner will advance to the Grand Final to face Centrals, who beat the Lions 24–10 in the major semi-final.

Coach Anita Hagarty said her team started slowly, leading 10–4 at halftime after Brothers opened the scoring 4–0. “The Brothers team were bigger, but our girls countered that by letting the ball do the work in attack,” Hagarty said. “We were great in defence, with several knock-ons and some outstanding front-on tackles.”

The forwards led the way against the larger opposition, with Taleisha Bulgarelli named best forward, supported by Abby King, Tilney Rowe, and Aleikah Heron. It was hard to separate the backs, with top performances from Martina Monday at seven, Paige Horvat at five-eighth, Tiana Krutzfeldt, and fullback Toni Daisy.

Queensland Country fullback Toni Daisy was outstanding, scoring three tries with her positional play and speed. Hagarty noted that older fans at the ground were reminded of Toni’s father, the great Vern Daisy, as she tore through the opposition. While the coach praised several players individually, she highlighted that every team member did their job.

Burdekin River scorers:
Tries: Toni Daisy 3, Taleisha Bulgarelli
Goals: Tiana Krutzfeldt, Rebekkah Pace

Other semi-final results (all played at Brothers):
Ladies: 2024 Premiers Centrals defeated Western Lions 24–10, advancing to defend their title on Sunday, September 14.
A Grade: Souths defeated Brothers 32–10, advancing to the Grand Final. Brothers will meet Western Lions in the preliminary final after the Lions came from behind to beat Herbert River 42–24.
Reserve Grade: Defending premiers Souths defeated Brothers 28–18, advancing to the Grand Final. Brothers will play Herbert River after the River defeated Western Lions 28–14 in the knockout final.

All players came through unscathed, and Burdekin River is expected to field the same team for Sunday’s preliminary final. Hagarty noted, “While there were the usual bumps and bruises, no one suffered any major injuries. Western Lions have big forwards and experienced inner backs, but we have strong leadership in Paige Horvat and Martina Monday at halves. Toni will be closely watched, giving Tiana, Lily, Abbey, and Tanley a chance to shine.”

“Regardless of the opposition, I know all my girls will give it their best,” Hagarty added.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

‍

Twenty players turned out for a very warm winter’s afternoon, with temperatures reaching 30°C at 1:30 pm. You have to love winter in the Burdekin!

On Rink 3 (Pairs), Paul Vass and Steve Doig prevailed on the last end against Neville Webb and Trevor Elton.

Rink 4 (Triples) saw Judy Elton, Elaine Young, and Michael McClosky edge out Bob Young, Mark Swaine, and Warren “Yogi” Bunn in a close contest.

On Rink 5 (Triples), Des Chapman, Ron Smith, and Glen Bones Berryman accounted for Bruce McCallum, Dino Poli, and Joe Linton.

Rink 6 (Pairs) winners were Betty Webb and Alex Bojack (pictured), who defeated Janet Arthur and Norm Bethell.

The raffle, featuring a meat tray from DNS Butchers, was won by Steve Doig, with second prize—a bottle of wine—claimed by Glen Bones Berryman.

Mark your calendars for 21st September for the annual Wilmar Challenge, hosted this year at Rummeny Green, Home Hill. The event rotates between the four Burdekin clubs. Food and drinks will be available, so come along and support your club.

Regular club activities continue: Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, Wednesday morning Kraft group, Wednesday evening barefoot bowls with sausage sizzle, Thursday morning BINGO, Thursday afternoon social bowls, and Saturday social bowls at $5 per game. Last Saturday saw a strong turnout of players.

Until next week, good bowling!

Photo and report by Stephen Doig

‍

Winners of the day Betty Webb and Alex Bojack.

‍

AYR BOWLING CLUB WEEKLY REPORT

The Ayr Bowling Club has celebrated another excellent week on the greens, 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 Country Pennants. With Bowen Bowling Club hosting the event Saturday 6th September 2025. We encourage members and anyone who has an interest in bowls to come and support our men during this event. Our men’s pennant teams have been announced and available on the Club Noticeboard.

Tuesday Ladies Social bowls were played in perfect conditions for the afternoon. Winners on the day were. Meryl Smith, Betty Schultz and Mary Poli defeating Karen Shepherd, Rayleen Hervey and Beryl Cornford. Katharina Stuckler, Merle Nixon and Pam Power defeated Jeanette MacDonald, Donna Soper and Dot Cutting.

Ladies Competition three bowl pairs were played on Thursday winners going through to the next round are Beryl Cornford and Mary Poli.

Men’s Social bowls on Wednesday saw three games of triples. Winners on the day were Happy Horan, George Nixon, and Barry Shepherd defeating Mark Pearse, Joe Papale and Dave Harding. The winners on Wednesday night were Bertilla Piazetta, Margaret McLaughlin, Ross McLaughlin and Joe Grabbi. Wednesday night is the perfect opportunity for new bowlers to play and learn the game. Sign up is at 6.30pm bowling commencing 7pm call the club for details or message us on Facebook.

Saturday’s Social bowls saw a turnout of 16 players, with two games of triples and a game of pairs played. The winners on the day were Jennet McDonald, George Nixon and Ron Soper defeating John Pirrone, Merle Nixon and John McDonald. J Fletcher, Donna Soper and Joe Grabbi defeated Aurthur Gauvin, Betty Schultz and Pam Power. In the pairs game Joe Papale and Col Essex defeated Ron Smythe and Wayne Coonan.

On Sunday 31st two games of mixed singles were played. Winners were Gary Pearce defeating Lew Stidston 25 – 19. Ron Soper defeating Maurie Power 25 – 18. Gary and Ron now proceed to the next round.

The Ayr Bowling Club invites everyone to its Fun Friday Night Bowls Sponsored by Lawrence and Hanson on Friday 5th September, 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.

‍

Home Hill Cricket Association had the honour of hosting the Wanderers QLD Club on Tuesday, 19 August, as part of the Wanderers’ Country Tour through regional Queensland. The Wanderers, a charity-based side, bring their touring team to country towns every few years, with this year’s schedule including matches in Yeppoon, Mackay, Proserpine, Bowen, Home Hill, Clermont and Maryborough.

Adding to the occasion was the presence of cricket great Geoff Dymock, the former Australian international fast bowler, who travelled with the Wanderers during their stop in Home Hill.

The two sides played a 40-over fixture in front of an appreciative local crowd. The Wanderers batted first and set a strong total of 8/212. Home Hill began their chase positively and remained in contention deep into the innings. With just 30 runs required from the final two overs, the chase looked within reach. However, a flurry of wickets saw Home Hill bowled out for 180, falling short despite a spirited effort.

Thomas Cardillo stood out with the ball for Home Hill, taking 2 wickets for just 19 runs off his six overs. With the bat, the top contributors were Darcy Walters (35), Greg Flanagan (34) and Ayden Marano (31), all showing grit against a seasoned opposition.

The Wanderers also took the opportunity to give back to the community, hosting a coaching clinic for junior players. A number of local youngsters took part, gaining valuable skills and experience from the visiting team.

‍

The Home Hill Cricket Association.
Thomas Cardillo, Geoff Dymock and Leo Olditch,

‍

Twenty-one Ayr Juniors competed in this year’s Ayr Junior Open on Sunday, following straight on from the Home Hill Junior Open the day before. With 69 players taking to the course, it was a strong turnout and a successful day all round.

Local junior Amaya Mahoney claimed the overall Girls 18-Hole Championship with a score of 82, while Levi Holmes from Proserpine Golf Club took the Boys 18-Hole Championship with 81.

Other standout results for Ayr included Micah Kemp, gross winner for 3-Hole Boys, and Harvey Mauro, nett winner for 3 holes. Oscar Watson received an encouragement award for his first ever golf competition, finishing with a strong 25 gross for 3 holes. In the 3-Hole Girls, River Oar was nett winner, taking home a new tiger club head cover as her prize.

In the 6-Hole competition, Tyler Smith and Maxx Tannock represented Ayr, with Tyler also winning nearest the pin on hole 3. In 6-Hole Girls, Pia Mauro was nett runner-up, while Ivy Land claimed the least putts award.

Ayr had seven players in the 9-Hole Boys field, which saw 18 boys compete overall. Notable results were Riley Dobe, gross runner-up, and Angus Watson, nett winner. In the 9-Hole Girls, three Ayr juniors competed, with Evelyn Mahoney finishing gross runner-up and Teagan Saxby nett runner-up.

The 18-Hole Boys competition featured Oscar Mahoney, who posted a competitive 89 off the stick, while overall winner Levi Holmes secured victory with 81. In the Girls 18-Hole, Phoebe Moffat and Ayr’s Amaya Mahoney tied on 82 gross, forcing a play-off on hole 9. Mahoney sealed the win with a par, edging Moffat by a single shot.

Ayr Golf Club thanked sponsors KJ’s Mining, Oar and Horan Dentists, Sanco Produce, Wilmar, and B & M Drilling for their support.

Attention now turns to the Karrie Webb Junior Open, set for 25–26 October, the next major junior competition to be hosted at Ayr Golf Club.

Contributed with thanks to Laura Mahoney

‍

Below, Amaya Mahoney, Girls Open Champion.
Levi Holmes, Boys Open Champion.

‍

Over the weekend, 6 members of the Ayr Surf Club joined hundreds of lifesaving members from across the State for the Surf Life Saving Queensland Conference. The weekend consisted of a wide variety of sessions with information and updates ranging from governance and insurances, membership and development, lifesaving and education and Surf sports, and everything in between.

Two of the youth members, Bella Lawry and Briella Wassmuth attended the Youth Forum to work with 15–25-year-olds to address issues of high importance to the younger members of the organisation and at the end of the sessions presentation six incredible ideas to assist with improving the movement into the future.

The weekend also included the SLSQ Awards of Excellence evening, where nominees from across the 6 Branches of the State are recognised for their dedication in their respective fields. The Ayr SLSC had 4 nominees up for Awards on the evening - Briella Wassmuth: U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year, Kristy Wassmuth: Master Athlete of the Year, Stephanie Dale: Official of the Year & Kellie Lawry: Lifesaver of the Year.

The very first award for the night was the U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year, where Briella Wassmuth was honoured with this award for the 2024-25 Season. Unfortunately, the other nominees were not successful in their categories against some very stiff competition. Two other awards went to other the North Barrier Branch, with Forrest Beach SLSC bringing home Innovation Award & Adam Edwards from Arcadian Club winning the Andy Frizzell OAM OBE Award for services to Junior Activities.

Nippers is back at the beach this Sunday. Remember, it's not too late to join, so if you are interested please contact ayrslsc@gmail.com or Kellie Lawry for more information.

Briella Wassmuth - U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year
Nominees - Kellie Lawry, Briella Wassmuth, Kristy Wassmuth & Stephanie Dale
Bella Lawry &  Briella Wassmuth attending Youth Forum
North Barrier Branch Members at Awards of Excellence

‍

The roar of engines and the spirit of competition filled the air on Saturday, August 23rd, as the Ayr Motorcycle Club hosted a high-energy race day at the Brandon Sports Reserve. Kicking off at 3:00 PM, the event attracted 80 competitors from across North Queensland, with riders travelling from as far as Sarina, Townsville, and Charters Towers to take part.

Spectators were treated to a thrilling afternoon of racing, with events across multiple classes delivering plenty of close battles, skillful riding, and strong sportsmanship.

“It was a fantastic day for the club and the sport,” said Karl Vass, President of the Ayr Motorcycle Club. “We had great weather, strong numbers, and a supportive crowd. It’s always rewarding to see riders from across the region coming together to do what they love.”

The club praised the efforts of its volunteers, supporters, and sponsors for helping bring the event together and ensuring everything ran smoothly on the day.

Looking ahead, the Ayr Motorcycle Club is now gearing up for Founder’s Day on the 27th September. This will be a special memorial event, one of the most significant meets on the club’s calendar, honouring past members and celebrating the club’s racing legacy. A full day of racing and remembrance is planned, with more details to be confirmed shortly.

“Our memorial event is always an important day for our club community,” said Karl. “We expect another strong turnout, and we encourage everyone to come down and be part of it.”

For updates and information on how to get involved, follow the Ayr Motorcycle Club on Facebook.

‍

Spectators were treated to a thrilling afternoon of racing, with events across multiple classes delivering plenty of close battles. Photo supplied

‍

On Saturday, the 16th of August, the Burdekin Netball Association (BNA) became a hive of vibrant hues in celebration of their 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador, Charlotte Sgroi!

As part of her journey as a Junior Ambassador, Charlotte held a wonderful fundraising event at her home courts to fundraise for her club and celebrate her selection to represent the Burdekin Netball Association in such a treasured community event.

Commencing from 2pm, a wonderful mixed netball competition saw plenty of juniors (primary school age) take to the Home Hill courts for a couple of memorable matches against one another to get the excitement flowing and hearts racing! Shortly after, everyone changed into their white t-shirts, ready to be covered in colour, and paint themselves pink, orange, yellow, red, green, blue, purple, or a wild combination of every colour imaginable. Waves of colour climbed through an adventurous obstacle course and slid down the slime slide which was a highlight for many!

“We had over 60 people join in, along with the Ambassadors, and everyone literally had a ball at the colour run - it was  a great chance to catch up with old netball friends and meeting new ones,” explained Charlotte.

The clubhouse was open, serving up plenty of food and refreshments throughout the afternoon, and even as the day began to draw to a close, nothing could wipe the smiles of the faces of everyone at the courts.

“A huge thank you to everyone who came along and supported the day - your energy, smiles and laughter made it a truly memorable event,” Charlotte added.

“A special thanks to our amazing volunteers, sponsors, and families who helped behind the scenes to make the day possible. We couldn’t have done it without you!”

‍

Burdekin Water Festival Ambassadors Jorja Vasta, Ayve Cursio, Asha Grasso, Hunter Oar, Charlotte Sgroi, Georgia Tomasetig, Nicole Cervoni, Giulia Sarri and Molly Julyan ready to enjoy the Colour Run (Photo Credit: BNA)
2. Over 60 people came out to support Charlotte and the Burdekin Netball Association last weekend! (Photo Credit: BNA)

‍

The annual Burdekin Mixed Touch football carnival saw teams from Airlie Beach, Townsville and Burdekin clash in Ayr last weekend.

Local team Nrgize with Michael Littlefield, Tramayne Horan and the Lampton family combining, defeated a very competitive NQ Under 16 girls’ team in the Open A final 5 to 3.

Another local team Renegades under the guidance of Brendan Ford and the speedy Brad Johnson were too good in the B final defeating Townsville team The Chokers 5 to 3.

The under 16 division saw some entertaining touch played throughout the day. Whitsunday proved too strong for Baywatch in the final, winning 7 to 3.

The shoot-out competition saw The Chokers win the Open division while Whitsunday won the Under 16 division.

Sprints were conducted with Burdekin players proving too swift in five of the six events.
Winners in the Open division were Kyle Vitty (Renegades) and Maddy Wallace (Nrgize), Over 39’s Michael Littlefield (Nrgize) and Tramayne Horan (Nrgize) and Under 16’s Leo Rattler (Baywatch) and Claudia Ansell (Whitsunday).

At presentations, Burdekin President Peter Knapton thanked Wilmar Sugar and the Burdekin Shire Council for their generous support.

“All carnivals need volunteers to make it a success,” said Peter Knapton.
“I cannot thank enough our hardworking cooks, canteen staff and the referees who worked tirelessly in the hot conditions, “he said.

All teams thanked the organisers and were already looking forward to returning next year.

Contribiuted with thanks to Bruce Johnson

‍

The Burdekin Roosters Rugby League season ended on a high last Saturday night at Bendigo Bank Park, where a strong home crowd watched the A Grade side defeat Herbert River 24–18.
While the Crushers progress to face Western Lions in the RLTD semi-finals, the Roosters will reflect on what might have been.

Saturday was also Sponsors Day, with the club acknowledging the generosity of its backers. The players repaid that support in style, delivering a complete performance.

Coach Steve Lansley praised the effort, saying his side signed off with a commanding victory on a sun-drenched paddock. Built on forward dominance and a superb tactical kicking game, the win gave home fans optimism heading into 2026.

The Roosters started with energy, completing their sets and marching upfield with purpose. Early pressure produced a quick try down the right edge to establish a 6–0 lead they never surrendered.

Halfback Jye Olsen was the architect, controlling the match with a near-flawless kicking display. His towering bombs and perfectly weighted grubbers repeatedly trapped the Crushers in their own half, forcing errors and drop-outs.

Up front, the brutal work of Hayde Munro and Nemia Nawave set the platform. Munro, in a man-of-the-match effort, broke the line with every carry and attracted multiple defenders, while Nawave’s hard running and defence added punch. Quick play-the-balls gave Burdekin plenty of strike power.

Herbert River never gave in, capitalising on Roosters ill-discipline to close the gap to 22–14. But Burdekin steadied, with Dylan Doak kicking a penalty goal and Munro leading the forwards back on top.

Terry Connors scored two tries for the Roosters, with Jones Munro and Terrence Mosby also crossing. Doak added four goals.

The win capped off a strong finish, giving Burdekin a clear blueprint for next season.

Reserve Grade

Herbert River turned the tables in reserve grade, running out 52–28 winners despite trailing 18–10 at halftime.

The Crushers hit back through speedster Tremayne Priestly, whose pace, along with that of Jerraime Nean, Jakobym Assan and Bailey Skipper, proved decisive as Burdekin’s forwards tired.

The Roosters were kept in the contest early by the strength of Llama Ghee, Caleb Noah and John Zaro, while centres Morgan Noah and Bokeem Moore Reid also impressed.

It was a learning experience for a young Roosters outfit, with many playing their first senior season. A fifth-place finish is a solid platform to build from.

Ghee was among the best, alongside Noah, Jack Rushton, Morgan Noah and Lincoln Boccolastte. Doak again starred, backing up for both grades.

Tries came through Reid, Noah, Doak, Ghee and Zaro, with Doak adding four goals.

Other Results

A Grade: Norths def Brothers 32–16; Burdekin def Herbert River 24–18; Western Lions def Centrals 22–20. Souths and Charters Towers byes.

Reserve Grade: Herbert River def Burdekin 42–28; Bowen def Charters Towers 30–18; Brothers def Norths 44–18; Western Lions def Centrals 28–14. Souths bye.

Women: Charters Towers def Bowen 42–8; Western Lions def Centrals 10–4; Brothers def Norths 48–0. Burdekin River bye.

This Week’s Semi-Finals

A Grade: Souths v Brothers (major), Herbert River v Western Lions (minor).
Reserve Grade: Souths v Brothers, Herbert River v Western Lions.
Women: Western Lions v Centrals, Brothers v Burdekin River.

Brothers and Burdekin River finished with almost identical records. Brothers ended with 27 points (7 wins, 1 draw, 3 losses, 6 byes, 260 for/122 against, +138). Burdekin River tallied 23 points (7 wins, 1 draw, 5 losses, 4 byes, 326 for/194 against, +132).

The combined Burdekin River side only formed after the season began but has shown plenty of speed. Brothers boast the bigger pack, but Burdekin River are led by one of the smartest players in the competition, Paige Horvat.

If Horvat at five-eighth gains good ball, the pace of Tiana Krutzfeldt, Martina Monday, Toni Daisy, Tanley Rowe and Abby King could prove decisive.

‍

A tough weekend for the Panthers: two wins, three draws, and one loss from six games. On Saturday in Townsville the Premiers lost 0-1 to Warriors, while the Reserves drew 1-1. On Friday at home, the Ladies beat Warriors 4-0 and Division 1 Men drew 2-2 with Estates. Division 2 Funkies won 2-1 away to Rebels. On Sunday, the Ladies drew 2-2 with Brothers at home.

This week the Premiers and Reserves host Estates (Premiers 8.30, Reserves 6.30). On Friday the Division 1 Men, Division 2 Men and Ladies are all away: Div 1 vs JCU 6.30, Div 2 vs Olympic 6.30, Ladies vs Rebels 6.30.
U13 Panthers Red made semis after finishing fourth and face MAO at 8.30am in Townsville. U14/15 Panthers also finished fourth and face MAO at 10.30am.
Night Soccer starts its 46th year Tuesday 9 September.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers’ finals hopes ended with a 1-0 loss to Warriors. Keeper Jarrod Camer pulled off brilliant saves to keep Burdekin alive, but with five minutes left Warriors broke through. The defeat ended Burdekin’s top four chances, though the side matched Warriors’ intensity throughout.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves drew 1-1 with Warriors. Despite conceding just before halftime, the Panthers stayed strong and Cooper Kross equalised with a strike into the bottom corner. Defence, midfield, and forwards all worked hard in a game where Burdekin showed resilience.

Division 1 Men

Austral Masonry Division 1 Men drew 2-2 with top side Estates. Cody Scalia opened in the 15th minute, Henry Fallon added three minutes later, but Estates pulled one back before halftime. Keeper Zack Durrant made superb saves before Estates equalised in the 73rd. A strong showing from the young Panthers.

Division 2 Men

C.A. Contracting Funkies beat Rebels 2-1 in a fiery clash for the last finals spot. Burdekin lost Heath Swindley and keeper David Bryen to injury, trailing 0-1 at halftime. Bryce Davies stepped in as keeper, while Jack Castrejana and a Rebels own goal gave Burdekin the lead. Down to nine men after red cards to Brad Wright and Luke Cathcart, the Funkies held firm. Rebels collected five yellows; Burdekin five yellows and two reds. The Funkies now sit fourth, needing only to avoid a 13-goal loss to reach finals.

Ladies

On Friday the Ayr Anzac Club Ladies beat Warriors 4-0, with Zandi Bonanno scoring twice in the first 11 minutes, Dayna Linton adding another, and Sienna Lago finishing late. Sunday’s clash with Brothers ended 2-2. Lago struck in the 5th minute, Brothers equalised in the 20th, Lago hit back a minute later, before Brothers levelled in the 43rd. The second half was physical, with Charley Ruskin booked, but the Panthers held strong for a valuable draw.

The Quote of the Week is from former Manchester Utd manager Ron Atkinson. “I have had to swap my Merc for a BMW, I am down to my last 37 suits, and I am drinking non-vintage champagne”.

‍

Thirty players enjoyed another perfect Burdekin winter’s day on Thursday, with Glen “Bones” Berryman and Paul Vass taking top honours.

In singles play, Michael Young defeated Norm Bethell on Rink 2. On Rink 3, Tony Caruso and Tony Eadie overcame Judy Elton and Gary Nosworthy, while Rink 4 saw Margaret Chapman, Dino Poli and Wayne Newton too strong for Harold Rummeny, Elaine Young and Trevor Elton.

On Rink 5, Janet Arthur, Mark Swaine and Steve Doig stormed home to defeat Bruce McCallum, Nev Webb and Joe Linton. Rink 6 went to Bob Young, Ron Smith and Mick McClosky over Betty Webb, Sandra Darwin and Des Chapman. Meanwhile, Rink 7 featured the winning pair of Paul Vass and Bones Berryman, who accounted for Jos DeFranciscus and Alex Bojack.

Looking ahead, the Wilmar Challenge will be held on Sunday, 21 September 2025. Ayr, Brandon, Giru and Home Hill clubs will each enter three teams of four, competing for a shield crafted by the Burdekin Wood Turners. The event will rotate annually between clubs. Spectators are welcome, with a barbecue and bar operating on the day.

Raffle prizes went to Bones Berryman ($15), Bob Young ($10) and Gary Nosworthy ($5). The vegetable trays were won by Yogi Bunn and Priscilla Newton.

The club’s regular activities continue to draw strong numbers. Monday features morning fitness, followed on Tuesday by the Trimmers program and Funday bowls. Wednesday brings the Kraft group together during the day before barefoot bowls under lights, complete with the ever-popular sausage sizzle. On Thursday, morning bingo attracts a lively crowd before social bowls in the afternoon. Saturday’s $5 bowls remain a popular way to round out the week.

For social bowls, names are to be in by 1pm.

Photo and report by Stephen Doig

‍

Thursdays winners Glen (Bones) Berryman and Paul Vass. Photo supplied.

‍

AYR BOWLING CLUB WEEKLY REPORT

The Ayr Bowling Club is celebrating a great week, with members taking full advantage of the cooler weather conditions to enjoy both competitive and social matches. Enthusiasm has been high across the board, with players showing strong support for one another and a shared love of the game.

The club's vibrant community spirit has been on full display, as bowlers turned out in numbers to make the most of ideal playing conditions. With momentum building and friendships thriving, members are actively engaging with the many opportunities over the past week, including social and championship games, and NQ Triples hosted by Bowen Bowls club.

Ladies’ Social Tuesday Afternoon was a fantastic afternoon with one game of rinks and one game of triples played. Winners were Linda Giumelli, Merle Nixon, Betty Schultz and Beryl Cornford defeating Isabel Cislowski, Katharina Stuckler, Sandra Stidston and Pam Power. Jeanette MacDonald, Donna Soper and Dot Cutting Defeating Meryl Smith, Karen Shepherd and Mary Poli.

Wednesday’s Men’s Bowls saw 14 bowlers turn out for a great day of bowling. Winners on the day were Joe Papale and Ron Soper defeating Chris Berkery and Col Essex.

Saturday’s social bowls was another great afternoon with 24 bowlers hitting the green. The successful team on the day was Arthur Gauvin, Joe Papale and Pam Power defeating Mark Pearse, George Nixon and Barry Shepherd.

Sunday the Consistency Singles were played Pam Power defeated Lorraine Wolffe Pam is through to the next round. Dot Cutting is through to the final of Crooked Kitty. Beryl Cornford is through to the final of Consistency Singles. The draw for all games is available on the Women’s Notice Board.

Friday Roll Up is on this week, 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.

For more information, visit Ayr Bowling Club or find us on Facebook.

‍

Special Olympics Queensland is inviting children and adults with an intellectual disability and/or Autism to a fun Come N Try Ten Pin Bowling event at Burdekin Bowl on Saturday, 30 August, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Everyone in the Burdekin area is welcome to join, including participants who use wheelchairs.

Special Olympics is the world’s largest inclusive sporting organisation, offering pathways for athletes and volunteers to develop leadership skills while being fully supported. Children and adults from 8 years and older are welcome to join Special Olympics at any time.

This event is a fantastic opportunity for the community to experience the joy of sport in an inclusive environment and to discover opportunities to participate, compete, or volunteer.

For more information, contact Beverley Knowles, Liaison Special Olympics Queensland: qld.liaison@specialolympics.com.au or 0477 935 274.

‍

The Burdekin Roosters A Grade suffered another injury setback last Sunday, going down 32-22 to Western Lions in Townsville. After dominating Charters Towers in the second half last week, the forwards were expected to perform similarly against the Lions.

That didn’t happen. Last week’s player of the match, big forward Braedyn Cotter, went down injured in the first ten minutes and didn’t return. Soon after, recent signing and Fijian first-grader Kalevi Raluli injured a hamstring and was forced off. Coach Steve Lansley was left with just 15 men to rotate.

Lansley described it as a “heartbreaking loss” in a game marked by contentious officiating that seemed to go against the Roosters. Despite the effort, 50/50 calls consistently favoured the Lions.

Standouts were Lachie Sheppard, Colby Thompson, and Terrence Mosby. Sheppard excelled in attack and defence, Thompson’s creativity at nine kept Burdekin in contention, and Mosby constantly broke tackles, providing crucial go-forward.

Tries came from Terry Connors, Kali Nauque, Nemia Nawave, and Dylan Doak, with Doak kicking three goals. Disputed penalties and a tight no-try ruling shifted momentum at key moments, allowing the Lions to edge ahead in a tight second half.

The reserves went down 52-16 to a powerful Western Lions side. The Lions’ speed and mobility proved too much for the Roosters, who have had a mixed season. The loss eliminates finals hopes, though the season unearthed talent for the future. Tries were scored by Llama Ghee, Bokeem Reid (2), and Sakuisi Dreunimolea.

Other Results
A Grade: Brothers 22 d. Charters Towers 18, Norths 26 d. Herbert River 24, Souths 32 d. Centrals 18
Reserve Grade: Charters Towers 32 d. Brothers 28, Herbert River 44 d. Norths 16, Souths 40 d. Centrals 22, Bowen bye
Women: Brothers 22 d. Charters Towers 4

This Weekend
The final regular-round games see the Roosters host Herbert River on Saturday (reserves 3pm, A Grade 4.30pm). Centrals host Western Lions, Charters Towers and Souths have byes in A Grade. Towers visit Bowen in reserves and women’s matches.
Coach Lansley will welcome Tate Brombal back in the forwards and may blood some reserves. Herbert River, third on the ladder in both grades, will bring strong teams despite losing their last two A Grade games. The Roosters plan a big post-game celebration with a live band.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

‍

Ayr Bowling Club Report

This week at the Ayr Bowling Club had a busy week with competition games played all week. Tuesday 12th August saw Ladies Social Bowls giving us 2 triples game. Winners were Isabel Cislowski, Ron Soper and Betty Schultz defeating Jeanette McDonald, Donna Soper and Irene Wilson. Karen Shepherd Merle Nixon and Rayleen Hervey defeated Linda Giumelli, Katharina Stuckler and Dot Cutting.

On Wednesday, we saw a great afternoon’s social bowling competition. There were three games of Triples and one game of pairs. Winners were Joe Papale and Chris Berkery defeating Bruce and Barry Shepherd.

Saturday Social Bowls was sponsored by Ray Wall for his Patrons Day a lively afternoon of competition and camaraderie with 28 bowlers turning out. Featuring four fantastic games of triples and one pairs game. Emerging victorious on the day were Deslie Olsen, and Pam Power defeating Karen Shepherd and Barry Shepherd. Second place saw Arthur Gauvin, Lorraine Wolffe and Dot Cutting defeating Isabell Cilwoski, John McDonald and Lew Stidston. Third place went to Ray Wall / Val Edwards, John Pirrone and Sam Caltabiano defeating Donna Soper, Wayne Coonan and Sandra Stidston.

Competition Mixed singles featured four games this week. Cisco defeating Ron Smythe 25 -18. Ron Soper defeating Sam Caltabiano 25 – 15. Anthony Bull defeating Shane Stanford 25 – 10. Gary Pearce defeating John Macdonald. Winners now proceed to the next round. Country Pennants are on September 6th played at Bowen Bowls club. Players names on the clubhouse games board please 12 players are required.

The club also extended a warm welcome to several travelling visitors, whose presence added to the vibrant atmosphere and spirit of friendly play.

Saturday afternoons at the club continue to be a fantastic opportunity for locals and newcomers alike to meet new people, enjoy the fresh air, and discover the joys of bowls. Whether you're a seasoned player or picking up a bowl for the first time, you're invited to come down, give it a go, and join the fun!

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.

‍

In just a week’s time, nine members of the Burdekin Netball Association (BNA) will rock the chop as part of a wonderful fundraising initiative in support of both the Cancer Council Australia and the Ponytail Project!

Aimee Gibson, Kristine Patti, Brittany Bohl, Cailin Gosling, Dominique Gorey, Ella Zabel, Jade Bolam, Tayah Gibson and Tayla McKaig have all committed to cut their hair at the Burdekin Netball Association’s Wigs and Wine fundraising event in aid of Home Hill Harvest Festival Entrant, Aaliyah Gibson next Friday the 29th of August.

The event will see both members of the BNA and the wider community come together for one final “shindig” at the Home Hill courts before the BNA’s clubhouse undergoes an extensive renovation process over the end of season break and tickets to the evening are already on sale!

Priced at just $45, attendees can enjoy a glass of bubbles and a delicious high supper, and all tickets can be purchased from the BNA clubhouse or from NQIB located in Ayr’s Young Street.

With still plenty of time and the event itself to go, the girls have completely smashed their fundraising goals and have raised an outstanding total just shy of $10,000!

The Ponytail Project raises vital funds and awareness to directly support the important work of the Cancer Council Australia whilst developing wigs for those diagnosed with cancer. The BNA understands how a wig can make all the difference in a person’s journey through cancer, and asks anyone who can to donate to the girls’ fundraising links listed on the Burdekin Netball Association’s Facebook page.

‍

Twenty-four players turned out on another perfect Burdekin winter afternoon, with plenty of exciting action across multiple games.

In the club singles played earlier, Norm Bethell claimed victory over Yogi Bunn on rink 3. One of the closest games of the day took place on rink 3, where Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Steve Doig edged out Judy Elton, Yogi Bunn, and Mick McClosky on countback after scores and ends were tied—a thrilling finish for all involved.

Rink 4 saw Bob Pickard, Ron Smythe, and Trevor Elton secure a solid win against Paul Vass, Des Chapman, and Glen “Bones” Berryman. Meanwhile, rink 5 featured a tight contest with Michael Young, Dino Poli, and Gary Nosworthy prevailing over Margaret Chapman, Sandra Darwin, and Terry Feakes.

In a pairs match on rink 6, Bruce McCallum and Joe Linton were convincing winners against Maureen and Phil Marsden.

The club is currently seeking players for upcoming mixed 4s at Alligator Creek Bowls Club—entry is $100 per player—and the Bowen Club triples competition, both scheduled for the same weekend in August around the 24th. Interested players are encouraged to check the notice board for more details.

Members are also reminded to keep Saturday, 29th November free for the club’s Christmas party and presentation night, to be held after bowls.

Regular activities continue strong, with Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft group, Wednesday night barefoot bowls and sausage sizzle, Thursday morning Bingo, and well-attended social bowls on Thursday afternoons and Saturdays (only $5 entry).

Until next week, good bowling!

Photo and story by Steve Doig.

‍

Winners Gary Nosworthy,  Michael Young and Dino Poli. Photo supplied by Steve Doig

‍

This week at the Ayr Bowling Club was filled with friendship and healthy competition. Tuesday 8th August saw Ladies Social Bowls with 6 Ladies giving us 1 triples game.

Ladies’ competition on Thursday 10th crooked kitty was played in a great match Heather Jorgensen defeated Beryl Cornford. In consistency singles Katharina Stuckler defeated Karen Shepherd.

On Wednesday, we saw a great afternoon’s social bowling competition. There were three games of Triples and one game of pairs. Winners were Paul Workman, Ray Wall, and Chris Berkery. On Wednesday evening, social bowls, in the triples game, the winners were Lyn Cecil, John Cesconetto and Heather Jorgensen. Evelyn Wiltshere Jorgensen and Martin Ireland won the second triples game.

Fun Friday Night sponsored by Chiropractic Care Ayr saw 48 bowlers take to the green lots of fun and laughter were had and the weather was fantastic. Winners on the night were Mosayeb, Ali and John. Second place went to Charmaine, Leighann and Nathan. Sportsman’s Prize winners were, Andrew, Rebekah and John. Lucky number board winner was Charmaine and Beryl Cornford won the meat tray raffle. Thanks to our sponsors Chiropractic Care Ayr for their support on our Friday Fun Nights. Our next Friday Fun Night is on Friday 5th September contact the club for information.

Saturday Social Bowls a lively afternoon of competition and camaraderie with 18 bowlers, featuring three engaging games of triples. Emerging victorious on the day were the talented trio of Donna Soper, Mark Pearse, and Sam Caltibiano, who played with skill and sportsmanship.

Competition Mixed singles were played this week with two close games. Irene Wilson defeated Pam Power 25 – 24 in a nail-biting finish. Lew Stidston defeated Joe Grabbi 25 – 23 in a close fought game. Winners now proceed to the next round.

The club also extended a warm welcome to several travelling visitors, whose presence added to the vibrant atmosphere and spirit of friendly play.

Saturday afternoons at the club continue to be a fantastic opportunity for locals and newcomers alike to meet new people, enjoy the fresh air, and discover the joys of bowls. Whether you're a seasoned player or picking up a bowl for the first time, you're invited to come down, give it a go, and join the fun!

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

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

‍

Twenty-four players turned out on another perfect Burdekin winter afternoon, with plenty of exciting action across multiple games.

In the club singles played earlier, Norm Bethell claimed victory over Yogi Bunn on rink 3. One of the closest games of the day took place on rink 3, where Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Steve Doig edged out Judy Elton, Yogi Bunn, and Mick McClosky on countback after scores and ends were tied—a thrilling finish for all involved.

Rink 4 saw Bob Pickard, Ron Smythe, and Trevor Elton secure a solid win against Paul Vass, Des Chapman, and Glen “Bones” Berryman. Meanwhile, rink 5 featured a tight contest with Michael Young, Dino Poli, and Gary Nosworthy prevailing over Margaret Chapman, Sandra Darwin, and Terry Feakes.

In a pairs match on rink 6, Bruce McCallum and Joe Linton were convincing winners against Maureen and Phil Marsden.

The club is currently seeking players for upcoming mixed 4s at Alligator Creek Bowls Club—entry is $100 per player—and the Bowen Club triples competition, both scheduled for the same weekend in August around the 24th. Interested players are encouraged to check the notice board for more details.

Members are also reminded to keep Saturday, 29th November free for the club’s Christmas party and presentation night, to be held after bowls.

Regular activities continue strong, with Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft group, Wednesday night barefoot bowls and sausage sizzle, Thursday morning Bingo, and well-attended social bowls on Thursday afternoons and Saturdays (only $5 entry).

Until next week, good bowling!

Photo and story by Steve Doig.

‍

Winners Gary Nosworthy,  Michael Young and Dino Poli. Photo supplied by Steve Doig

‍

A good weekend for the Panthers, winning three and losing two of the five matches played. On Saturday, at home to Estates the Premiers won 3-1 but the Reserves lost 0-1. On Friday, in Townsville the Ladies beat Saints Eagles Souths 8-0, the Division 1 Men lost 1-3 to Olympic but the Division 2 Men beat Warriors 3-1.

This week the Premiers and Reserves are at away to Brothers, the Premiers at 7.30 and the Reserves at 5.30. On Wednesday night the Ladies, are at home to Wulguru at 7.00 and on Friday are away to Brothers at 6.30. Also, on Friday the Division 1 Men and Division 2 Men are in Townsville. The Division 1 take on Brothers at 8.30 and the Division 2 are up against Saints Eagles Souths at 6.30.

Night Soccer kicks off its 46th year on Tuesday 9th September.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers had a must-win clash against competition leaders Estates to keep their top-four hopes alive. The Panthers delivered when it mattered most, overcoming Estates 3-1 in a determined display. Burdekin started brightly, creating a couple of early half chances, but as the half wore on, Estates began to make life more difficult. The best chance of the opening period fell to Matthew Kolb, who found himself one-on-one with the keeper but couldn’t convert. Moments later, Jack Gimson broke in behind the defence and whipped in a perfect cross, for Kolb to rocket home his header to give Burdekin a 1-0 lead at the break.

Burdekin came out firing in the second half, and in the 55th minute, Jay Leckenby doubled the advantage with a composed finish after latching onto another well-weighted ball over the top. The pressure continued, but despite several good efforts, the elusive third goal didn’t come. Estates pulled a goal back with just two minutes to play, setting up a tense finish. But after relentless pressure from Oscar Licciardello, Elliott Dal Santo pounced to fire home and seal a vital 3-1 win for the Panthers, keeping their finals dream well and truly alive.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves were out to avenge a heavy defeat from the last time they played Estates. Also on the line was the chance to stay in the race for a finals berth. A very committed effort from the start showed that Burdekin were a force to be reckoned with and created some good opportunities that did not yield a goal. The standard of play was very much improved from the home team and confidence was high going into halftime even though the match was still scoreless.

The second half was the same as the first, the Panthers dominated possession and played good football but could not convert one of several good chances into goals. As the clock wound down the pressure to score and get a win meant playing with more attack and in the last few minutes Estates scored a cheap goal on the counterattack. The Panthers played well with plenty of heart but the inability to put the ball in the net was the difference. The win that was desperately needed, and would have been deserved, did not result.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Division 1 men lost 1-3 to MA Olympic in Townsville on Friday night.

Division 2 Men

The C.A. Contracting Funkies had a 3-1 win against Warriors on Friday night. Missing over two hundred years of experience with a few players missing, a very young Funkies team suited up knowing a win would move them into 4th place. Burdekin started very well, Nicholas Cathcart opening the scoring after only a few minutes. Warriors replied soon after to show they were up for the fight. However, the Funkies were the better team on the night and two goals to Fengil either side of half time gave Burdekin a very good win.

Missing several key players, it was an opportunity for others to step up and have an impact on this game. In a strong team performance Heath Swindley and Jarrod Dal Santo in the middle along with the finishing ability of Fengil ensured the Funkies got the three points on the night. Burdekin are now 4th and have their finals hopes in their own hands with only three games remaining.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies scrambled together before their annual ladies day event, sacrificing wet tan, fresh hair and fake nails to secure another victory. The ladies come up against tough opposition in Saints who were very quick to press and defend, However, speed and experience worked to the advantage of the Burdekin who won 8-0. There was some very impressive shooting and runs made by many players in a well-deserved win. Goal scorers were Sienna Lago, Zandi Bonanno, Brielle Astorquia, Charley Ruskin, Karina Guglielmi and Ellyana Mugica. This was a strong effort from the ladies going into a tough must win game this Friday!!

Juniors

Another perfect day for Saturday juniors, with Townsville teams travelling down for some good matches against our local teams. Not too many weeks to go now, enjoy the rest of the season!

Masters

Another good turnout on a winter’s evening, perfect for Soccer. Italy hung on to beat England 5-3 after leading 4-0 at half time. Helped somewhat by the England goalkeeper caught on the phone. Monday Nights at 6.30. Be There!

National and International

The Matildas are playing in the ASEAN Women’s Championship in Vietnam. In their first Group game, last Thursday against Myanmar they lost 1-2 but last Sunday they beat the Philippines 1-0. They next play Timor-Leste on Wednesday. The Socceroos next games are not until September when they play New Zealand in two friendlies home and away, on 5th and 9th of September.

The Quote of the Week is from Jose Mourinho, ex Chelsea, ManU and Real Madrid manager, “Pressure? What pressure? Pressure is poor people in the world trying to feed their families. There is no pressure in football.”

‍

Last Saturday, the Burdekin Roosters pulled off a stunning turnaround, avenging their 40-point thrashing by Charters Towers with a spirited 28–24 win. Down 18–4 at halftime, they showed remarkable fortitude to storm home, even with tough utility Kali Nauque spending 10 minutes in the bin.

Standout performances from Nevia Nawave, Isaia Vuda, and Kelevi Ralulu proved decisive. Nawave’s powerful running and tackle-breaking set the attacking platform, while Vuda and Ralulu’s explosive carries repeatedly split the Towers’ defensive line. Their relentless work laid the foundation, with the forwards dominating the middle third.

Halfback Dylan Doak came off the bench to steer the side with smart kicking and composure, landing four goals to seal the win. Tries came from Nawave, Terry Connors, Isiah Kuda, and Hayde Munro. The victory keeps Burdekin fifth, equal on points with fourth-placed Western Lions—whom they face away this Sunday—before hosting third-placed Herbert River next week. Captain Joel Mason is sidelined with a knee injury.

The reserves edged Bowen 14–4 in a scrappy match shortened by 18 minutes due to a serious Bowen injury. Down 4–0 at halftime, Burdekin hit back with tries to Sakilisa Dreunimolea, Keon Noah, and Morgan Noah. Llama Ghee was again dangerous, with strong forward efforts from Jack Rushton and Riley Easton.

The Burdekin River Ladies dominated Bowen 80–8, running in 14 tries and 12 goals. 2024 Queensland Country back Toni Daisy scored three, while Tanley Rowe crossed four times. Tiana Krutzfeldt added two tries and a goal, giving her 22 points in two weeks. Forwards Lily Chappell, Taleisha Bulgarelli, Rebecca Pace (12 goals), and Sarah Castles impressed.

Elsewhere, A grade: Souths beat Brothers 34–10, Centrals beat Norths 30–20, Western Lions beat Herbert River 44–14. Reserve grade: Brothers beat Souths 28–12, Centrals beat Norths 32–22, Herbert River beat Western Lions 26–12, Charters Towers bye. Ladies: Centrals beat Norths 38–6.

This week, Burdekin must beat Western Lions in both A and Reserves to stay in finals contention. Tate Brombal and Joel Mason are out; Ethan Hagarty returns, and Doak will play five-eighth. Caleb Noah’s return lifts the reserves.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

‍

On the 19th of July the Ayr Surf Club hosted the Annual North Barrier Branch Presentation Night to wrap up the 2024-25 Season.  The night is a celebration to recognise members from the seven clubs across the Branch - Forrest Beach, Arcadian, Townsville-Picnic Bay, Ayr, Eimeo, Mackay and Sarina - for their dedication, commitment and love of lifesaving in a variety of facets.  Surf sports athletes, teams, coaches and officials were recognised as well as volunteers in their respective areas.  Four of our local lifesavers were acknowledged for their involvement in surf lifesaving for the season and all progress onto the Surf Life Saving Queensland Awards of Excellence as nominees later this month.  A massive congratulations to Stephanie Dale - Official of the Year, Kristy Wassmuth - Master Athlete of the Year, Briella Wassmuth - U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year and Kellie Lawry - Surf Lifesaver of the Year.

2025-26 Season Commences

The 2025-26 Season of lifesaving has also commenced. The Ayr Surf Club held a Come and Try Day and their nipper program has commenced, however if you are keen to join the club for a fantastic family friendly activity, please reach out to ayrslsc@gmail.com or Junior Activities Co-ordinator Kellie Lawry for further details. The patrolling season at Alva Beach will commence on Saturday 20th September, and the club is always looking for more dedicated volunteers to join our patrolling ranks, so please contact club admin for further information.

Over the weekend, the club had 17 keen competitors head to the first carnival of the season at Townsville-Picnic Bay on the Strand to go head-to-head in a water carnival for the day on Saturday 9th. The kids braved the chilly water a little earlier in the season than normal and all had a fantastic day bringing home some great individual and team results. The nipper program will continue over the coming months, with competitors also looking forward to a regular schedule of carnivals leading up to Christmas.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry

‍

North Barrier Branch Award winners - Stephanie Dale (Official of the Year), Kristy Wassmuth (Masters Athlete of the Year), Briella Wassmuth (U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year) & Kellie Lawry (Surf Lifesaver of the Year)
Ayr Team representing at Townsville-Picnic Bay Carnival
Zachary Dale winning U15 Male Ironperson

Quinn Pontifex and Mackenzie Sartori before their U9 Surf Race

Hoyt Pontifex starting U11 Ironperson

‍

Three young Burdekin bowlers will put their skills to the test at the 2025 ANC Sunshine Coast Ultimate Tenpin Cup and Ultimate Teams Clash Junior Competitions over the week extending from Thursday the 14th of August until Wednesday the 20th of August.

14-year-old Aidan Butler, 14-year-old Chase Nucifora, and 16-year-old Xavier Jepsen will travel to the Sunshine Coast to compete in the CLS Townsville Jigsaw Team, and the trio could not be more excited to catch up with old friends and make new ones across the six-day tournament.

Having attended the competition in the Gold Coast in 2024, Aiden developed a strong love for the sport six years ago and has played in a few local tournaments where he’s continued to reach new levels of success, breaking free from the bumper league and scoring a personal best game count of 257.

Xavier was first introduced to the bumper league by a family friend seven years ago and has since scored a personal best game count of 279.

With nine years of bowling experience and a personal best game count of 244, Chase jumped into the sport to follow in his family’s footsteps and never looked back.

Annually organised by Corner Pin Standings, the competition attracts players from across Australia and New Zealand to have a bowl with 10 male and 10 female teams set to impress judges for another year.

Weekly, the boys play in a number of bowling leagues, competing alongside both junior and adult players to improve their skills within the supportive Burdekin Bowl community. Although the boys continually look forward to the socialising aspect of tournaments such as the 2025 ANC Sunshine Coast Competition, the opportunity to beat their own top scores and grow their skillsets proves to be the most exciting challenge each year!

‍

Touch footy fans across the region are gearing up for an exciting day of action as the third annual Burdekin Mixed Touch Football Carnival returns to the Ayr touch fields on Saturday, the 23rd of August.

A growing highlight on the local sporting calendar, the carnival will welcome teams from Townsville, Bowen, Airlie Beach, and the Burdekin, with three divisions on offer: Mixed Under 16, Mixed Open, and Mixed Seniors (over 39 years).

The event promises friendly competition, community spirit, and a fun-filled atmosphere for players and spectators alike with cash prizes set to be awarded to the winners of each division.

Beyond the main competition, the carnival will also feature a range of entertaining sideline events including division sprints and the ever-popular Touch Shoot-Out competition. Spectators and players can also enjoy plenty of food and drinks available throughout the day.

To get involved, teams can nominate by emailing peter.knapton@bigpond.com or calling 0437 710 500.

Teams are able to nominate for just $20 per player, and players can pay on the day of the carnival.

Team nominations and fee payments close on the 15th of August, so don’t miss out on your chance to take the field!

‍

The Burdekin Mixed Touch Football Carnival will return for the third year this August (Photos Supplied)

‍

The Wilmar Club Challenge is set to unite all four Burdekin bowls clubs for a special community event this September. Marking the first time in decades that the clubs will compete side-by-side, the Challenge celebrates the spirit of bowls and the strong sense of community in the Burdekin region. Each club will field three teams of four players in a round-robin format, with points awarded for wins, losses, and draws. Supported by club leaders, this promises to be a memorable occasion for players and spectators alike.

Sport plays a vital role with families in the Burdekin community and providing the appropriate facilities and resources is a constant challenge for local clubs.

For generations, rugby league has been the beating heart of the Burdekin sporting community. At the centre of this proud tradition stands the Burdekin Roosters – a club forged in 1994, but whose roots go back over a century in local league.

Over the years, the Roosters have grown from strength to strength, evolving into a vital part of community life. Today, with a new generation of players stepping up across both the men's and women's teams, the club continues to uphold its strong values on and off the field.

That sense of pride has been amplified with the recent naming of Bendigo Bank Park – a testament to the enduring support from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr. “The sponsorship has had a great impact on the Roosters community,” says club spokesperson Alex Lennox. “It’s brought a sense of professionalism and awareness to just how much the bank gives back to the region each year.”

This five-year partnership isn’t just about naming rights – it’s helping secure the club’s future. As a not-for-profit organisation, the Roosters rely heavily on local sponsorship to survive and thrive. Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr’s backing provides critical stability, funding maintenance and operational costs for new amenities and lighting infrastructure – investments that benefit both senior and junior leagues.

“This partnership reflects a shared vision for the future,” says Alex. “It’s helping us modernise outdated infrastructure and ensure we can offer a strong development pathway for players of all ages.”

And there’s room for everyone to get involved. Whether you're interested in playing, volunteering, sponsoring, or simply cheering from the sidelines, the Roosters welcome all.
Senior Branch Manager for Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, Chantel Michielin, says their board felt that sporting fields and clubrooms become a second home for many families and the sponsorship of Bendigo Bank Park is a reinforcement of their commitment to recognise the value of sport.

“Sport plays a pivotal role in our community. A place where friendships are formed, skills are developed, and a love for the game is fostered”, says Chantel. “Our Community Bank values this connection and will continue to invest part of our profits back into sport in our region”

Catch the action at the final two home games of Burdekin Roosters this year at Bendigo Bank Park on August 9 and August 23. Come for the footy, stay for the community spirit.

‍

Looking for a fun way to keep your mind sharp and enjoy good company? The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre hosts a friendly Mahjong group every Monday from 1pm–5pm, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels.

Mahjong, a traditional Chinese game believed to have originated in the Qing Dynasty, has been enjoyed for centuries for its perfect mix of strategy, memory, and a little bit of luck. Played with 144 beautifully decorated tiles, the game is often compared to rummy, as players draw and discard tiles to build winning hands. Beyond the rules, Mahjong has long been valued as a social pastime, bringing people together for conversation and connection.

Whether you’re an experienced player or completely new to the game, the group offers a relaxed and supportive environment to learn, play, and have fun.

So, if you’re free on Monday afternoons, why not give it a go? For more information or to express your interest, contact Dawn through the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on (07) 4783 4243.

What: Mahjong
When: Mondays, 1-5pm
Where: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

‍

A good weekend, for a change. for the Panthers, winning three, drawing one and losing one of the five matches. On Saturday, at home against Rebels, the Premiers won 5-0 as did the Reserves. On Friday, in Townsville the Ladies drew with Warriors 1-1, the Division 1 Men lost 0-1 to JCU Riverway but the Division 2 Men defeated Olympic 4-3.

In the Mooney Cup Charity Match, Rainbows defeated Blue Balls 3-0 after leading 2-0 at half time. Jake Lacey scored twice after Mick Lejarraga had opened the scoring.

This Saturday is another Big Day. The Premiers and Reserves are at home to JCU Riverway, the Premiers at 7.00 and the Reserves at 5.00. Saturday is also Sponsors and Old Boys Day! On Friday night the Ladies, are at home to Rebels at 6.30 but the Division 1 Men and Division 2 Men are both away in Townsville. The Division 1 take on Wulguru at 8.30 and the Division 2 are up against Estates at 6.30.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion, cruising to a 5-0 victory over the Rebels in a dominant performance from start to finish. From the opening whistle, the Panthers created a flurry of chances but struggled to make them count. It took a moment of individual brilliance from Ryan Scodellaro, who scored with a long-range strike, to break the deadlock and give Burdekin a 1-0 lead heading into the break.

Despite controlling possession and territory, poor finishing kept the scoreline tighter than it should have been in the first half. But that changed quickly after the restart. The Panthers came out firing, finally finding their shooting boots and piling on four more unanswered goals, through Kai Goodman, Jay Leckenby, Jaidyn Lambie Fabbro and a second goal from Ryan Scodellaro to put the result beyond doubt. The backline remained largely untested and secured a well-earned clean sheet in a complete team performance. The 5-0 win is a welcome boost and a statement of intent, but with a much tougher test against JCU looming this week, the Panthers will need to carry this momentum into what promises to be a far more challenging encounter.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves were back at home to take on Rebels. The side was focussed and from the outset was able to create chances and dominate possession. The Panthers showed early patience to maintain composure and the first goal came at the twenty minute mark Jhett Jones finishing a good passing move. The Panthers game stayed positive, and their effort was rewarded just minutes before half-time when Elliott Dal Santo punished a defensive error. The second half was a comfortable game, with more goals coming from Cooper Kross, Leighton Gallagher and Brayden Card. The result was a boost for team confidence and a chance at finals is possible if the Panthers can maintain that momentum and good attitude.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Panthers played on Friday night against Riverway JCU. This was a very good fight by the Division 1 team. All players took their game to the next level and fought hard. The result did not reflect the way they played but the Panthers just couldn't score in a very good performance. JCU were ahead at half time, courtesy of an

own goal. Notable performances came from Adam Mottin, Oliver Mio and Brayden Card. Zack Durrant was again solid in goal.

Division 2 Men

The C.A Contracting Funkies played MA Olympic in a very entertaining game on Friday night. The Funkies dominated the first half and were rewarded with goals to Jake Lacey and Simon Scuderi. Chris Achille made it 3-0 with a great finish just after half time. In a strange turn of events, the Funkies got a red card during the goal celebration and down to ten men, allowed Olympic to score three goals in twenty minutes to level the score. In a very gritty and tense finish to the game, both teams had good chances, and it was Chris Achille who scored from close range in the last few minutes to give the Funkies at 4-3 a very deserving win. Burdekin finally achieved a win after a few weeks of draws and losses.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies faced off against Warriors in a tough contest that ended in a 1–1 draw. Sienna Lago opened the scoring in the first half with a well-placed shot, giving Burdekin an early lead. Despite a strong first-half performance, the Burdekin ladies were unable to maintain their advantage, with Warriors equalising in the second half. Burdekin continued to create multiple scoring opportunities but could not find the net to secure the win. The Ladies will be looking to bounce back stronger in their next match.

Juniors

A beautiful sunny day for juniors on Saturday both in Ayr and for teams traveling to Townsville. A lot of good football was played with a few sore and tired bodies by the end of the school term break! It is a big weekend this weekend, with regular fixtures on Saturday morning with Townsville teams traveling down, and then, on Sunday it is the club’s annual junior carnival, which is a great day for all. A big thanks to everyone involved to make this day possible.

Masters

A very good turnout meant a twelve a side game on a full-sized pitch. Coventry City and Wrexham played out a 3-3 draw. Monday Nights at 6.30. Be There!

National and International

The Matildas will be playing in the ASEAN Women’s Championship in Vietnam in August. Their Group games are against Myanmar, Philippines and Timo-Leste.

The Socceroos next games are not until September when they play New Zealand in two friendlies home and away, on 5th and 9th of September.

The Quote of the Week is from ex Socceroos Manager Frank Arok before a World Cup qualifying match against Scotland. “They’re not so different. They have two arms and two legs and some of them even have heads.

‍

Man of the match Ryan Scodellaro. Photo supplied

‍

The Burdekin Roosters’ A-grade side delivered a performance that could only be described as “chalk and cheese” compared to last week’s 64–10 loss to Souths. On Saturday, before a large crowd that included many attending the annual Ladies Day, the Roosters turned on the style against strong contenders Brothers, only to go down by two points in the dying seconds.

With captain Joel Mason sent off for dissent 16 minutes from full-time, the locals were forced to hang on “like grim death” against an experienced Brothers outfit boasting four former NRL players. Burdekin had started brilliantly, racing to an 18–0 lead before Brothers used their superior size and experience to close the gap to 18–12 at halftime.

On the wrong end of the penalty count, the Roosters endured relentless pressure in the second half. They led 28–18 late in the match but, with a man down, couldn’t hold out defensively. Brothers leveled with a penalty goal attempt after the siren, but the kick sailed wide, giving the visitors a 30–28 victory over the youthful Roosters side, whose average age is just over 21.

Coach Steve Lansley said the match was fiercely contested, with a few contentious refereeing decisions going against his team. “Despite the defeat, the Roosters showed tremendous grit — every player left nothing in the tank,” he said. Goal-kicking proved the difference as Brothers edged ahead through crucial conversions while Burdekin fought bravely to stay in the contest.

Terrence Mosby was outstanding, making powerful runs and big defensive plays. Jesse Yallop’s speed and creativity troubled the opposition, Hayde Munro controlled the middle with hard carries and strong tackles, and Ethan Hagarty worked tirelessly at both ends. “We had our chances to win, but a few unlucky calls and missed opportunities cost us,” Lansley added. “With this sort of determination, we’ll be a force in the coming weeks.”
Tries: Jesse Yallop, Kali Nauque, Lachlan Shepherd, Terry Connors, Luca Lago; Goals: Joel Mason (4).

Reserves
Reserves coach Peter Horan praised his side’s effort in a 38–20 loss to Brothers. Missing key players Caleb Noah (suspended), John Zaro, Keon Noah, and Riley Easton (injuries), the Roosters dug deep and at one stage trailed by just six against an experienced Brothers outfit.

Horan highlighted strong performances from 17-year-old Leylan Lampton and veteran Jerome Lacco, who returned to help the side. “Lack of experience cost us a couple of tries — we had about ten boys under 20 out there,” he said. Joey Southwell earned players’ player honours for a standout showing, while Matt Lee, Lincoln Boccoalatte, Jaiden Cassela, and Dylan Doak also impressed. Llama Ghee caused problems every time he had the ball. Horan criticised the referee for not penalising a dangerous diving tackle that took out Ghee’s legs.
Tries: Llama Ghee (2), Matt Lee, Bokeem Reid; Goals: Dylan Doak (2).

Ladies
The Burdekin River ladies had a bye this weekend.

Other results
A-grade: Souths 34 def Charters Towers 18; Herbert River 28 def Centrals 8; Western Lions and Norths had byes.
Reserve grade: Charters Towers 34 def Herbert River 12; Herbert River 40 def Centrals 10; Bowen drew 18–18 with Norths; Western Lions had a bye.
Ladies: Norths 34 def Bowen 10; Charters Towers, Western Lions, Burdekin River, Brothers, and Centrals had byes.

Looking Ahead
The Roosters travel to Ingham this weekend for a big clash with Herbert River. The River won when the teams met a fortnight ago, and Burdekin will be out for revenge. Aiden Arisa and Colby Thompson are expected to return, though Joel Mason is in doubt. The Reserves and Ladies both have byes.

In other A-grade matches, Charters Towers host Norths for Country Week in the QRL, Western Lions are at home to Souths, and Centrals face Brothers.

Contributed with thanks Brian Carnes.

‍

Alex and Gary played a singles match on Rink 4 that Alex won on the 26th end.

Twenty-eight players turned out for another North Queensland winter afternoon. Today's winners were Steve Doig and Bruce McCallum, who unfortunately had to leave before the photo, so visitor Gary Bibby from Augusta Bowls Club in Perth, WA, was thrilled to step into the winners’ photo. People come from far and wide to play on our hallowed green (pictured).

The singles match between Alex Bojack and Gary Nosworthy on Rink 4 was an extremely close game that went to 26 ends, with Alex finally edging Gary out.

Rink 2: Paul Vass, Judy Elton and Phil Marsden won in a narrow one over Margaret Linton, Elaine Young and Yogi Bunn, 24–11.
Rink 6: Norm Bethell, Des Chapman and Hugh Montgomery had a big win over Bob Young, Gary Bibby (visitor) and Tony Eadie, 28–11.
Rink 7: Bruce McCallum and Stephen Doig were on song, accounting for Betty Webb and Jo Roser, 26–11.
One classic example of not reading the instruction manual was Norm Bethell with his brand-new bowling arm, using it facing the wrong way.

Today's raffle was won by Mick Olsen, and a nice bottle of red went to Terry Feakes for the second-place draw.

Monday fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and the Wednesday Kraft group continue to attract locals. Wednesday night barefoot bowls with the usual sausage sizzle (names in by 5:30–6 p.m.) remains popular. Thursday morning BINGO and Thursday afternoon social bowls both draw good crowds. Saturday afternoon $5 bowls is also gaining traction.

Check the notice boards in the bar for upcoming events. Until next week, good bowling.

Photos and story by Steve Doig.

‍

Burdekin Clay Target Club saw 30 shooters compete on Sunday 13th July. Conditions of a cool breeze made for a very pleasant day for shooting. Thank you to our sponsors for the day, Lui Populin, Glen Rea & BK Constructions. Our next shoot will be on Sunday 10th August.

Event 1-20 Target Double Barrel 15m
AA Grade 1st Phillip Scalia, Ron Gough, Aaron Lemphers, Lindsay Groat, Michael Zabala 20/20
A Grade 1st Michael Jones, David Stitt, Cornelius Venter 20/20
B Grade 1st Pedro Le Blowitz 19/20, 2nd Rob Mikkelsen & Dave Dundon 18/20
C Grade 1st Peter Scott & Alf Gangemi 19/20

Event 2- 25 Target Single Barrel 15m-Patron's Trophy-Sponsored by Lui Populin
AA Grade 1st Tony Caruso 27/27, 2nd Rob Hunter 26/27
A Grade 1st David Stitt 24/25, 2nd Joe Scalia 23/25
B Grade 1st Pedro Le Blowitz 20/25, 2nd Dave Dundon 20/26
C Grade 1st Alf Gangemi 21/25, 2nd Brian Bonanno 21/26

Event 3-25 Target Double Barrel Handicap-President's Trophy-Glen Rea
OPEN 1st Tony Caruso 34/34
2nd Peter Scott 33/34
3rd John Cerqui 34/35

Event 4-15 Pair Double Rise 15m
AA Grade 1st Ron Gough 29/30, 2nd Rob Hunter & Lindsay Groat 27/30
A Grade 1st Wayne Cislowski 28/30, John Cerqui 26/30, 3rd Phillip Scalia 24/30
B Grade 1st Cornelius Venter 26/30, 2nd David Stitt & Joe Scalia 23/30
C Grade 1st Peter Scott 25/30, 2nd Blake Heffernan 23/30

Event 5-20 Pair Burdekin Deauville Doubles Championship-Sponsored by BK Constructions
OPEN 1st Glen Rea & Aaron Lemphers 24/29
3rd Peter Scott & Michael Jones 23/29

‍

Event 2-25 Target Single Barrel 15m Patron's Trophy, Sponsored by Lui Populin
Back Row, Tony Caruso, Alf Gangemi, Pedro Le Blowitz, David Stitt
Front Row, Brian Bonanno, Lui Populin, Rob Hunter, Dave Dundon

Event 3-25 Target Double Barrel Handicap-President's Trophy, Sponsored by Glen Rea
Back Row, Glen Rea
Front Tony Caruso, Peter Scott, John Cerqui

Event 5-20 Pair Burdekin Deauville Doubles Championship-Sponsored by BK Construction
Glen Rea, Michael Jones, Peter Scott, Aaron Lemphers

‍

The Burdekin Mixed Touch Football competition is back for another exciting season, with pre-season games now underway at the Wickham Street fields.

Eleven teams have nominated so far, including East Ayr, First in Physio, Jigsaw, Nrgize, Petrol Heads, Pink Piggies, Redskins, Renegades, Royal Touch, Slush Puppies, and Touch n Tease. Pre-season games will continue over the next two Wednesdays before the official season kicks off on the 13th of August, which also marks the final day for team nominations.

The upcoming season will feature 14 rounds, culminating in a Grand Final on December 5. Defending A Grade champions Can’t Touch This will be aiming to retain their crown after narrowly defeating Nrgize in last year’s thrilling final.

Teams can register online via www.burdekintouch.com.au by clicking “Register” and following the prompts.

Individuals looking to join a team are encouraged to come down to the fields on Wednesday evenings and enquire at the canteen.

The Mixed Under 14s competition also returns next Wednesday with a second sign-on session for both teams and individual players at 5pm. Interested players can see Bob Clerke or Bruce Johnson at the canteen for more information.

Nominations are also open for the annual Mixed Touch Carnival on Saturday, August 23. Divisions include Under 16, Open, and Over 39s. To nominate a team, contact Peter on 0437 710 500.

Contributed with thanks to Amity Cornford.

‍

Burdekin Mixed Touch Football pre-season games began last Wednesday and will continue for another two weeks! (Photo Supplied)

‍

The Ayr Bowling Club is celebrating a great week, with members taking full advantage of the cooler winter weather to enjoy both competitive and social matches. Enthusiasm has been high across the board, with players showing strong support for one another and a shared love of the game.

The club's vibrant community spirit has been on full display, as bowlers turned out in numbers to make the most of ideal playing conditions. With momentum building and friendships thriving, members actively engaged in the many opportunities over the past week, including social and championship games, PBL on Friday night, and the NQ Champion of Champions.

The Ladies’ Social Tuesday afternoon was a great day, with two games of rinks played. Meryl Smith, Katharina Stuckler, Betty Schultz and Pam Power defeated Sandra Stidston, Lorraine Wolffe, Heather Jorgensen and Mary Poli. Isabel Cislowski, Merle Nixon, Terry Thompson and Irene Wilson got up over Karen Shepherd, Beryl Cornford, Anthony Bull and Dot Cutting.

Wednesday’s Men’s Bowls had a fantastic turnout, with all rinks in use. Winners on the day were John Hall, Joe Papale and Col Essex, with Arthur Gauvin, George Nixon and Chris Berkery the runners-up.

This week’s Wednesday Night Bowls was put on hold as the State of Origin took precedence in everyone’s lives.

A highlight of the week was Bowls Premier League, held at Ayr Bowling Club for the region. Four teams entered, playing two games of five ends against each other in a round robin format. The successful team was Ron Smythe, Pam Power and Maurie Power, who will now represent the Burdekin region at the next level in Townsville.

Saturday’s social bowls was another great afternoon. The successful team on the day was Merle Nixon, Jeannie and Col Essex, with second place going to Shane Standford, John McDonald and Ron Soper.

The Men’s Championships A Final was held on Sunday, with Ron Soper defeating Lew Stidston. Congratulations to Ron on a great win.

This week the women kicked off the Crooked Kitty, Consistency Singles, and Club-Selected Three Bowl Pairs. The first game played was a three bowl pairs match, with Katharina Stuckler defeating Karen Shepherd. The draw for all games is available on the Women’s Notice Board.

Friday Roll-Up is on this week, held every Friday afternoon from 3:00 to 5:30pm. Whether looking to hone 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. Members are encouraged to come down, enjoy a few drinks, and join in the fun.

For more information, visit Ayr Bowling Club or find them on Facebook.

‍

It was compared to going from Old Gold chocolates to boiled lollies — the Burdekin Roosters went from a convincing win last week to a 64–10 thrashing at the hands of unbeaten Souths in Ayr on Sunday.

The Roosters were outclassed from the opening whistle, struggling to match Souths’ intensity and committing far too many errors to build any pressure. Poor execution and a lack of urgency cost them dearly, with Souths dominating field position and capitalising on every mistake.

Coach Steve Lansley said his side “never looked up for the challenge,” with a poor kicking game, defensive lapses, and little resistance in the middle compounding their problems.

Despite the result, a few players stood out. Tate Brombal worked hard in both attack and defence, while Colby Thompson toiled tirelessly in the middle, making strong carries and trying to inspire a turnaround. Their efforts, however, weren’t enough to stop the blowout.

With a tough clash against Brothers coming up this Saturday, Lansley says composure, urgency, and discipline will be key areas to address. Ball-handling and defensive errors also remain a major concern.

Meanwhile, Souths continue their unbeaten run and are shaping up as serious premiership contenders, while the Roosters are left searching for answers.

Tries: Lachlan Shepherd, Cohen Dittman
Goal: Joel Mason

RESERVES BATTLE TO BRAVE DRAW AGAINST SOUTHS

In an exciting reserve grade match, the Roosters and Souths fought out a 22-all draw in Ayr.

Despite a lopsided penalty count that saw the locals on the back foot — at one point trailing by 12 points — the young Roosters side, led by veterans Dylan Doak, John Zaro, and Caleb Noah, refused to back down.

They were forced to dig even deeper in the final 12 minutes when Caleb Noah was sent off for a high shot, followed shortly after by big forward Llama Ghee, who was sin-binned with under 10 minutes remaining.

Coach Peter Horan praised the team’s composure under pressure. “They were upset with some of the calls and the tactics by the opposition, but to a big extent kept their cool,” he said.

Horan said Caleb Noah was outstanding as a leader, supported strongly by Doak and Zaro. Younger players like Joey Southwell, Jack Rushton, and Kane Batchelor all took heavy hits but stood up to the challenge.

Keon Noah was voted Players’ Player for his solid effort.

Tries: Dylan Doak, Bokeem Reid, Joey Southwell, Caleb Noah
Goals: Dylan Doak (3)

BURDEKIN RIVER LADIES CONTINUE WINNING RUN

The Burdekin River women’s team recorded another strong win on Saturday, defeating Charters Towers 20–4 in Ingham.

Despite some wayward goal-kicking, the team scored four tries and converted two. Injured hooker Abby King praised the powerful trio of Martina Monday, Toni Daisy, and joint captain Paige Horvat, saying they caused plenty of problems for the Lady Miners’ defence.

Martina Monday was again named Players’ Player for her standout performance.

“It’s great to see the players from two different towns combining so well,” Abby added.

Tries: Joleen O’Neill (2), Toni Daisy, Paige Horvat
Goals: Rebeccah Pace, Martina Monday

WEEKEND RESULTS - TDRL ROUND-UP

A Grade:
Herbert River def Charters Towers 16–14
Souths def Burdekin 64–10
Brothers def Centrals 28–16
Western Lions def Norths 28–16

Reserve Grade:
Herbert River def Charters Towers 36–10
Burdekin drew with Souths 22–22
Western Lions def Norths 54–22
Brothers def Bowen 52–18
Centrals – Bye

Women’s Grade:
Burdekin River def Charters Towers 20–4
Brothers def Bowen 44–0
This Weekend – Round Preview

This Saturday in Ayr, the Roosters will host Brothers in both A Grade and Reserves.

Elsewhere:
Herbert River will host Centrals
Souths travel to Charters Towers
Western Lions and Norths have byes in A Grade
In Reserve Grade, Bowen will be visited by Norths

‍

The annual Burdekin Roosters Ladies Day will be held this Saturday at Bendigo Bank Park (Rugby Park), running from 4pm until late.

Around 200 ladies are expected to enjoy an evening of fun, entertainment, and celebration, beginning with the stunning vocals of Megan Law, who will serenade guests as the afternoon gets underway.

Guests will be treated to four hours of complimentary drinks (from 4pm to 8pm) while taking in the all-important A Grade Rugby League match between the Roosters and Townsville Brothers.

The Roosters will take the field in special edition jerseys donated by event sponsors NQGS and GETM Contracting. Once the match concludes, the game-worn jerseys will be auctioned off to the ladies attending the function.

Throughout the evening, platters and nibblies will be served, and attendees will have the chance to win a range of prizes donated by generous Burdekin businesses.

The organising committee says they’ve been overwhelmed by the support and generosity from local sponsors. The Roosters extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone who’s helped make this year’s Ladies Day possible.

‍

The Roosters will take the field in special edition jerseys donated by event sponsors NQGS and GETM Contracting. Photo supplied

‍

Another difficult weekend for the Panthers, with just one win from five matches. On Saturday at home against MA Olympic, both the Premiers and Reserves lost 0–2. On Friday in Townsville, the Ladies beat Rebels 5–1, while the Division 1 Men were hammered 1–12 by Rebels and the Division 2 Men went down 1–4 to Wulguru.

This Saturday is a Big Day. The Premiers and Reserves are at home to Rebels — Reserves kick off at 5.00pm, with the Premiers under lights at 7.00pm. The Mooney Cup will also be played at 4.00pm. On Friday night, both the Ladies and Division 1 Men are at home. The Ladies take on Warriors at 6.30pm and the Division 1 Men play JCU Riverway at 8.30pm. The Division 2 Men travel to Townsville to face Olympic, also at 6.30pm.

Premiers
The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers went down 0–2 to MA Olympic in a game where they dominated possession but were undone by two unstoppable long-range strikes. From the outset, the Panthers controlled the tempo, with Olympic sitting deep and allowing them time on the ball. The front three looked dangerous early, with Ryan Taylor nearly opening the scoring — just inches away from converting a superb cross from Matthew Kolb.

Despite Burdekin’s early dominance, it was Olympic who struck first. Their centre-back picked up the ball near halfway, drove to the edge of the box, and rifled a shot into the top corner to make it 1–0 just before halftime.

The second half followed the same pattern: Burdekin pressing forward and creating chances but unable to finish. With ten minutes to go, Olympic landed another moment of magic — firing home a second screamer to put the result beyond reach. A frustrating night for the Panthers, who controlled everything but the scoreboard.

Reserves
The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves were again forced into changes with injuries and other absences. Despite the disruptions, the team brought a positive attitude and put in a strong first-half shift. Both sides created chances but struggled with finishing, though Olympic managed a goal from a ball over the top to an unmarked forward.

Halftime brought belief the Panthers could turn things around, but further injuries forced a reshuffle. Even so, the effort remained high. Olympic scored again in the 75th minute to seal the match, leaving Burdekin still searching for a full-strength performance.

Division 1 Men
The Austral Masonry Panthers had a tough night against a powerful Rebels outfit. They managed to hold out for much of the first half and trailed 0–3 at the break, but the floodgates opened after halftime. Rebels ran away with it, finishing 12–1 winners. Burdekin’s sole goal came from a 25-yard screamer by Max Kelly.

Special mention to goalkeeper Zack Durrant, who threw himself into the firing line, saving at least seven shots that looked destined for the back of the net.

Division 2 Men
The C.A. Contracting Funkies had a disastrous outing against Wulguru. Despite facing a side below them on the ladder, the Funkies looked disorganised and flat. Wulguru scored three goals in the first 33 minutes to take a 3–0 lead into halftime.

The second half was better. Luke Cathcart worked hard, and debutant Fengil scored his first goal for the club. The final score was a 1–4 loss — one they’ll want to quickly move on from.

Ladies
The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies put in a dominant display on Friday night, defeating Rebels 5–1. The match was tight early, but Burdekin broke through before halftime with a calmly taken penalty from Kayla Steiner.

In the second half, Burdekin took over. Ellyana Mugica bagged a brace in quick succession, before Zandi Bonato and Sienna Lago added one each to make it 5–0. Rebels pulled one back late, but the result was never in doubt.

Juniors
Seven Burdekin junior teams took part in the Bowen Carnival last Sunday — well done to all who travelled and represented the club proudly.

Training has resumed and fixtures restart this Saturday. Under 7s and down will play in Ayr, while Under 8s and up travel to Townsville. Best of luck to all teams.

Preparations for the Burdekin Annual Carnival on Sunday 27 July are in full swing. A working bee will be held this Sunday, 20 July at 9am to mark fields and prepare. All help welcome.

Masters
Another solid turnout on Monday night for the Masters. Marseille surprised PSG with a 5–2 win. Monday nights at 6.30pm — be there.

National and International
The Matildas split their recent friendlies against Panama — losing 0–1 in Bunbury before bouncing back to win 3–2 in Perth.

The Socceroos return to action in September for friendlies against New Zealand — home and away on the 5th and 9th.

The FIFA Club World Cup Final was held Monday morning, with Chelsea beating PSG 3–0.

Quote of the Week
From ex-Leeds and England star — and Ireland manager — Jack Charlton:
“On days like this, you get the distinct impression that someone up there likes you,”
— after Ireland beat England 1–0.

‍

The Burdekin Touch Association wrapped up another thrilling season a couple of weeks ago with the men’s and ladies’ open grand finals, showcasing fast-paced competition, athleticism, and community spirit.

A large crowd of enthusiastic spectators gathered to witness a display of attacking flair, tactical gameplay and gritty defence across all grades. Seven men’s and two women’s grand finals were contested, providing a high-energy spectacle that capped off the season.

Touch Football Finals Results

In the Men’s A Grade final, Crocs proved too strong for Alliance Pharmacy, taking out the title with a commanding 10-6 victory. Dylan Doak delivered a standout performance, crossing for four touchdowns and being named Player of the Final.

Crocs then made it a grand final double, edging out Eathorne’s Princesses 6-4 in a tightly contested Women’s A Grade showdown. Ani Naque scored a hat-trick of touchdowns, while Martina Monday’s all-round effort earned her the Player of the Final honours.

The Men’s B Grade final was one-sided, with Touch Me blanking His Haas 9-0. Leylan Lampton and KJ Zaro starred for the victors, with Zaro receiving the Player of the Final award.

In the Women’s B Grade final, Smiling Assassins held off a spirited challenge from First in Physio to claim a 3-1 win. Louise Groth impressed for the Assassins, earning the title of Player of the Final.

The Men’s C Grade final saw One Touch, led by Michael Taylor, overpower Teamo Supremo 8-3 in a commanding performance.

In D Grade, the experienced Creampuffs outclassed the youthful Slush Puppies 5-3. Landon Chatfield dazzled in attack and defence, scoring twice and securing Player of the Final recognition.

Nutek Titans put on a clinic in the Men’s E Grade final, dismantling Renegades 12-2 in their best performance of the season. Eight different Titans players got on the scoreboard, underlining their depth and teamwork.

In the Men’s F Grade, Onside saved their best for last—winning their only game of the season when it mattered most. They defeated Formidables 9-5, with veteran Kaddy Zaro—who came out of retirement this year—scoring three touchdowns and earning Player of the Final.

The final match of the night saw Touch n Go claim the G Grade title with a 10-3 triumph over Shake n Bake. Kyle Vitty was electric, scoring four touchdowns and picking up the Player of the Final award.

Touch Association President Peter Knapton congratulated all teams for an exciting and well-contested season.

“Thanks go to the referees who officiated throughout the season, Scotty in the canteen, Bob and Ian for line marking, and the Lewis’s for keeping the fields the best Touch fields in North Queensland,” he said.

Final Results:

Men:

A Grade: Crocs 10 (D Doak 4, J McIvor 2, T Heron, S McIvor, J Henaway, C Noah) def Alliance Pharmacy 6 (J Power, M Watson, J Olsen, J Searle, B Vasta, J Furnell) – Player of Final: Dylan Doak

B Grade: Touch Me 9 (L Lampton 3, KJ Zaro 2, J Profke, H Lammon, J Campbell, D Certanovic) def His Haas 0 – Player of Final: KJ Zaro

C Grade: One Touch 8 (S Smith 2, A Mottin 2, J Jones, M Taylor, R Taylor) def Teamo Supremo 3 (L Chapple, J Moustakas, J Thomassen) – Player of Final: Stephen Smith

D Grade: Creampuffs 5 (L Chatfield 2, P Knapton, J Lacey, B Cavanagh) def Slush Puppies 3 (D Woods, M Ahearn, C Becke) – Player of Final: Landon Chatfield

E Grade: Nutek Titans 12 (S O’Rourke 2, L Olditch 2, C Reid 2, L Howard, C Cooke, M Nicolaides, L Franklin, P Baxter) def Renegades 2 (S Andreatta, T Vettovalli) – Player of Final: Campbell Cooke

F Grade: Onside 9 (K Zaro 3, L Lampton, B Chapman, M Chapman, T Cordie, T Lammon) def Formidables 5 (R Petersen 2, R Dobe, A Brown, A Innes) – Player of Final: Kaddy Zaro

G Grade: Touch n Go 10 (K Vitty 4, R Palmer 3, C Saxby) def Shake n Bake 3 (S Pensini, P Jerkic, A Power) – Player of Final: Kyle Vitty

Ladies:

A Grade: Crocs 6 (A Naque 3, A Olsen, C Conway, J Sutherland) def Eathorne’s Princesses 4 (R Sartori 2, A Cornford, N Lacey) – Player of Final: Martina Monday

B Grade: Smiling Assassins 3 (L Groth, N Williams, A Lynch) def First in Physio 1 (F Ghee) – Player of Final: Louise Groth

Season Best and Fairest Awards:

Men:
1st – Ezra Henaway
2nd – Landon Chatfield
3rd – Rowan Petersen and Logan Guglielmana

Ladies:
1st – Tramayne Horan
2nd – Lataiah Trindle
3rd – Brooke Cavanagh

The Burdekin Touch Association looks forward to building on this season’s momentum and welcomes players and supporters back for more action next year.

Contributed with thanks to Amity Cornford.

‍

The Ayr Bowling Club has had a brilliant week on the greens, with members embracing the cooler weather and enjoying a mix of competitive and social games. Spirits have been high as players continue to show enthusiasm and support for the game, reinforcing the club’s strong community spirit. With momentum building and winter conditions ideal for play, members are looking forward to another exciting month of bowls and camaraderie.

Our Ladies’ Social Tuesday Afternoon on the 1st July was very enjoyable. Winners on the day were Sandra Stidston, Ron Soper and Irene Wilson defeating Rayleen Hervey, Heather Jorgensen and Mary Poli. Beryl Cornford, Betty Schultz and Dot Cutting defeated Karen Shepherd, Donna Soper and Pam Power.

Wednesday’s Men’s Bowls enjoyed strong participation, featuring two competitive games of triples and two pairs’ matches. The standout team on the day was John Pirrone and Col Essex who put in a solid performance to secure a win.

On a crisp Wednesday evening, members took to the greens for a game of triples and a game of fours. In the triples match, the winning team was Evelyn Wiltshere, John Cesconetto and Joe Grabbi, while the fours match saw victory go to Ali Vasefi, Katharina Stuckler, Margaret McLaughlin and Sam Caltabiano. The cool conditions didn’t dampen the competitive spirit, with both games played in great camaraderie and sportsmanship.

A highlight for the week was the Friday Fun Night. There was a huge turnout for a great night of bowls, raffles, drinks and eats. The night was sponsored by Sparkletown Car Wash providing great prize money. In first place, Robert Smythe, Arthur Gauvin, Ron Smythe and John Pirrone took home the honours. Second place was Johnny Grabbi, Angela Williams, Shane Stanford and Joe Grabbi. Taking home the Sportsman’s prize was Bertilla Piazetta, Evelyn Wiltshere, Tricia Achille and David Burt.

Saturday’s social bowls was fantastic, with three games of triples and a pairs game played. The winners on the day were Jeannie, Barry and Col who put on a fantastic performance to take the top spot.

The Men’s Championships A Pairs continued Sunday, Joe Grabbi and Lew Stidston were successful over Ron Smythe and Ron Soper 25 – 6 declaring after 18 ends.

The Women’s Championships Triples Final was held during the week. Congratulations go to the winners, Katharina Stuckler, Beryl Cornford and Dot Cutting. Runners up were Karen Shepherd, Heather Jorgensen and Pam Power.

Friday Roll Up is on this week, 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.

For more information, visit Ayr Bowling Club or find us on Facebook.

‍

Also a photo of the Friday Fun Night winners. Photo supplied

‍

A crew of Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads hopped their way up north a couple of weekends ago to play in Townsville’s Queensland Country Champion Competition on the 28th and 29th of June.

Closing out the month with a bang, seven players and celebrated coach, Rowland Holmes, represented the Canetoads with pride both on and off the field, with the club praising each of the players for their skills and sportsmanship.

“Well done to our incredible men and women who participated in the QLD Country Champs in Townsville,” wrote the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads online.

“The performances were outstanding all round!”

Looking ahead, the club has a world of preparations underway in anticipation of their infamous Ladies Day event, A Moment in Mykonos, scheduled for this Saturday, the 12th of July! The celebrations will kick off from 4pm at Jones Street’s Burdekin Rugby Union Club, with live music, drinks packages, finger food, raffles, and awesome games of rugby to entertain and delight right through until nightfall. Additional details can be found on the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads’ social media pages, or through emailing brucsecretary@outlook.com.

‍

7 Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads players and coach, Rowland Holmes, recently travelled to Townsville for the Queensland Country Champion Competition (Photos Supplied)

‍

The year 2025 marks ten years since the Burdekin Roosters last won an A Grade premiership in the then Townsville District Rugby League.

Originally appointed as A Grade coach that season was Chris Perry, but he had to withdraw early, making way for Glenn Brock — a familiar face in local league circles, having coached many Burdekin junior sides. Brock brought in Carl List as assistant coach, and with several Bowen-based players in the squad, Bowen’s Brent Stocker joined the coaching team. Gary Wegert came on board as team manager, while fitness was overseen by Cathy Higgs, supported by her son Hayden and John Furnell.

The team experienced its fair share of ups and downs throughout the season but rallied when it mattered, reaching the Grand Final against a formidable Herbert River side led by the mercurial Mitch Seri.

Burdekin had its own legends, including the fearless Ryan Davenport and standout player of the year Lona Kaifoto, who would go on to sign with the Townsville Blackhawks. The backline was packed with excitement: the dynamic Power brothers, Karmen and Rainer; flying winger Bryce Stockdale; and the tough, all-round Jerome Lacco, who only hung up his boots this year.

Joining Ryan and Lona in the forward pack was Dylan Jensen, brother of current Brisbane Bronco Corey Jensen. And then there was Sio Ataata — possibly the biggest man in the TDRL at the time — who stunned many when he listed his occupation as “fish filleter.”

Guiding the backs was former University halfback Tyson Stocker, a defensive general who would later become Lona’s brother-in-law. Also in the mix was former Kiwi front-rower Brad Hunt, brought in for extra muscle, though he missed the Grand Final due to injury.

One of the proudest moments on Grand Final day belonged to young Mitchell Guy, named in the squad at just 17 years of age.

The Roosters looked to have sealed the title late in the match, leading comfortably with time running out. But no one had accounted for the magic of Mitch Seri, who conjured up two tries in the dying minutes to break Burdekin hearts.

Yet all hope wasn’t lost.

With the clock ticking down, quick-thinking hooker Zac Heron took matters into his own hands. On the last play of the day, Zac collected the ball 40 metres out and ran back and then across the field to straighten up and dive in the corner.

Local photographer Peter Peach captured that moment — and the photo is now famous.

The Roosters had won, triggering celebrations not only in the Burdekin but also in Bowen.

Players and officials from that unforgettable 2015 team will reunite this Saturday at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club — a major sponsor that year alongside Burdekin Tyre Service — for a commemorative lunch. Afterwards, they’ll head to the local rugby league ground, where the current Roosters A Grade side will take on Charters Towers.

There, the 2015 champions will be introduced to the crowd before forming a guard of honour for today’s Roosters team — a fitting tribute, ten years on.

‍

Another difficult weekend for the Panthers, winning two and losing three matches. On Sunday, in Townsville against Saints Eagles Souths, the Premiers lost 2–3 but the Reserves won 3–2. On Friday, also in Townsville, the Ladies beat Warriors 6–1, but the Division 1 Men lost 1–5 to Ingham and the Division 2 Men lost 1–3 to Brothers.

This Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Olympics—the Premiers at 7:00 and the Reserves at 5:00. The Ladies and Division 2 Funkies are playing in Townsville on Friday. The Ladies play Rebels at 6:30 and the Division 2 Men are up against Wulguru, also at 6:30. The Division 1 Men travel to Townsville on Sunday to play Rebels at 4:00pm.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers fell short in a 3–2 thriller against Saints Eagles Souths. In a Sunday night catch-up clash against a Saints side fresh off a big win, the Panthers were unable to capitalise on a spirited second-half fightback, losing 2–3.

Travelling to a notoriously difficult venue, the Panthers started brightly—finding space in behind and creating early chances—but finishing proved elusive. Saints, on the other hand, made the most of their pressure, breaking through to open the scoring. Despite more promising moments going forward, Burdekin couldn’t convert, and some errant passing late in the half saw Saints score again to take a 2–0 lead into the break.

To their credit, the Panthers returned with renewed intensity. Oliver Gabiola rose highest to nod home a well-placed header and bring the game back to life at 2–1. Moments later, in-form striker Matthew Kolb coolly slotted the equaliser, levelling the match and swinging momentum Burdekin’s way. But Saints weren’t done. A stunning long-range strike restored their lead, leaving the Panthers chasing the game once more. Burdekin pushed hard in the closing stages and created more chances, but the finishing touch continued to evade them.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves had a Sunday night game in Townsville this week. Looking to bounce back after three losses in a row and fielding a very capable squad as players return from injury, the Panthers were keen for a result.

A short burst of rain leading up to the game made conditions a bit slick, and both teams had some issues with ball control in the first half. Burdekin had the weight of possession, but it was Saints who opened the scoring in the 30th minute. The Panthers kept on course and, at the forty-minute mark, a long-range strike from Kyle Taylor found the corner of the goal. The intensity picked up, several chances were created, and Leighton Gallagher scored his first goal for the club just before the break.

The second half was a struggle in both directions, with both teams making chances but not converting. The Panthers’ third goal came from a skilful volley by Jhett Jones in the 88th minute to give the team a deserved win.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Panthers travelled to Townsville to play Ingham Wolves. The Panthers played well in the first half to be only a goal down at halftime. The second half wasn’t as good, and despite Cody Scalia scoring for the Panthers, the Wolves won 5–1. Max Kelly and Jack Gimson had good games for the Panthers.

Division 2 Men

The C.A. Contracting Funkies lost 1–3 to Brothers. Missing quite a few regular players, the Funkies took a while to adjust to a few positional changes. Brothers scored early and settled into the match, controlling the majority of possession. They scored a second goal soon afterwards, but Simon Scuderi netted a good goal right on halftime to get the Funkies back into the game, going into the break only 2–1 down.

The second half could have seen either team score numerous times, but it wasn’t until close to full time that Brothers secured the win with a third goal. There wasn’t a bad player for the Burdekin side, with everyone competing well in a gritty and tough contest against a well-drilled and seasoned Brothers outfit.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies delivered a standout performance against the Warriors, despite being a player short and having no substitutes. Displaying determination and teamwork, they powered through to secure a commanding 6–1 victory.

The scoring opened in the 10th minute through Zandi Bonato, and just two minutes later, Tegan Johnson doubled the lead. The momentum continued with Sienna Lago adding a third goal, followed by a fourth from a brilliant solo run and finish by Dayna Linton. Just before halftime, Tegan Johnson struck again to make it 5–0.

In the second half, the Burdekin Ladies controlled the tempo and conserved their energy. The only goal of the half came from Ellyana Mugica, to make the final score 6–1. Congratulations to the Burdekin squad for an incredible effort, showing resilience, skill, and heart.

Juniors

The Juniors are presently on the school holiday break, and fixtures will resume next Saturday, 19th July. Training starts when school goes back. Good luck to the Burdekin teams travelling to Bowen on Sunday for their carnival.

Masters

A good turnout of eleven-a-side on a cool Monday evening. Olympiacos beat Panathinaikos 4–2, with Clinton Southern and Hippy Nige getting on the scoresheet for Olympiacos and Thomas McLean scoring for Panathinaikos. Monday nights at 6:30. Be there.

National and International

The Matildas are playing Panama in two friendlies. Last Saturday they lost 0–1 in Bunbury and play their second game, in Perth, on Tuesday night. The Socceroos’ next games aren’t until September, when they play New Zealand in two friendlies—home and away—on the 5th and 9th of September.

The FIFA Club World Cup, being played in America, has reached the semi-final stage. On Wednesday, Chelsea play Fluminense and on Thursday, PSG play Real Madrid.

Quote of the Week

“There is black and white proof that I am not the killer I am supposed to be. I have only been sent off twice.”
— Graeme Souness, Liverpool and Scotland hardman

‍

A total of 28 players turned up for another perfect winter’s afternoon of bowls, with a top temperature of 24 degrees. A warm welcome to our visitors: Cisco from Ayr; Keith and Jo Roser, and Charlie Cheetham from St Georges Basin; and Jeanie Thompson and Col Ceating from Ulladulla, NSW.

A big thank you to today’s sponsor: ALLRIG Townsville.

Five games were played — four games of triples and one of pairs — with plenty of friendly competition across the rinks.

Today’s winners, on Rink 3, were Steve Doig, Jeanie Thompson, and Gary Nosworthy (pictured).

Match Results:
Rink 3: Gary Nosworthy, Jeanie Thompson, and Steve Doig proved too strong for Margaret Chapman, Joe Linton, and Wayne Newton, winning 22–18.
Rink 4: Henry Hazel, Con Ceating, and Jeff Taylor edged out Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Charlie Cheetham in a nail-biter — a draw at 18–18, decided on countback.
Rink 5: John Hall, Ron Smith, and Glen Berryman defeated Michael Young, Sandra Darwin, and Hugh Montgomery 17–12.
Rink 6: Cisco, Terry Feakes, and Tony Eadie outlasted Yogi Bunn, Dino Poli, and Mick McClosky 17–12.
Rink 7: In a family affair, visitors Jo and Keith Roser won a close one over Judy and Trevor Elton.
Club Activities:

Monday – Fitness Group
Tuesday – Trimmers Group
Wednesday – Kraft Group (day) and Barefoot Bowls at night with the usual sausage sizzle (names in by around 5:30pm)
Thursday – Morning Bingo, afternoon Social Bowls (names by 1pm)
Saturday – Afternoon Social Bowls (names by 1pm)

Until next week — good bowling!

Report and photo by Steve Doig

‍

4 July 2025

Sixteen bowlers took to the Brandon greens on Friday night, 4 July, under lights and in near-perfect conditions. Two games of triples and one game of pairs were played, with all matches tightly contested.

Triples Results:
Dave Sheehan, Ben Mills, and Joe Yipnazar defeated Deon McIntosh, Rob Jorgensen, and Lyn Storrie.
Margaret McLaughlan, Zeek, and Jamie Woods got the better of Joe Darragh, Emma Woods, and Ross McLaughlin.
Pairs Result:
Brad McIntosh and Gary Pearce defeated Damian Morello and Bob Elwood.
QRI Bowls Day Success
Earlier in the day, the club had the pleasure of hosting the QRI group for a fantastic day of bowls. A total of 64 bowlers hit the green and played their hearts out, with the final result ending in a thrilling draw.

A big thank you to all the visiting QRI bowlers and our friends from Home Hill who made the trip over to join in. Also, a huge shoutout to the kitchen ladies, the behind-the-scenes helpers (including a few ring-ins), and Jorgo for keeping things running smoothly behind the bar.

Defrancisci and Bourne Take Out NQ Pairs
Congratulations to David Defrancisci (Brandon) and Josh Bourne (Jubilee) for winning the NQ Pairs Championship, defeating Justin Cribben (Jubilee) and Mark Hawkins (South Townsville) with an impressive 21–5 result.

Well done Defo and Josh — a great effort!

Dunn Cup 2025 Wrap-Up
The Dunn Cup 2025 has come to a close, and congratulations go to Suburban Bowls Club for taking out the title.

Brandon Bowls Club, skippered by David Defrancisci, alongside Chris Pearce, Danny O’Shea, and Gary Pearce, had an outstanding campaign. Over seven games and one bye, they finished with five wins — a huge achievement and the club’s best result in many years.

Despite some tough conditions across the four days, the team’s hard work and preparation paid off, finishing third in their section.

Brandon’s Match Results:
Lost to Cutheringa – 19–25
Defeated Thuringowa – 24–13
Defeated Ingham – 22–17
Defeated Home Hill – 25–15
Defeated Giru – 40–12
Lost to South Townsville – 23–24
Defeated Collinsville – 20–13

‍

Burdekin Catholic High School’s Confraternity Rugby League team has made an unforgettable debut at the 2025 Confraternity Carnival in Rockhampton, finishing 3rd in the Division 4 Classic Competition and proudly flying the BCHS flag throughout an action-packed week of school rugby league.

The week began with the team’s safe arrival and participation in the beautiful Opening Mass and Ceremony at St Joseph’s Cathedral, Rockhampton. They joined schools from across Queensland Catholic and Independent schools to celebrate the spirit and unity of the carnival.

Day 1 presented a tough start for the BCHS boys, with two hard-fought matches resulting in a 20–6 loss to Trinity College and a 20–6 loss to Siena College. Despite the setbacks, Harrison Lammon stood out, earning BCHS Player of the Match in both games — a clear demonstration of his leadership and determination on the field.

BCHS Fights Back on Day 2

On Day 2, the team took on Emmaus College, Jimboomba in Game 3 and narrowly went down 12–6 in a tightly contested battle. Leylan Lampton’s strong performance earned him Player of the Match. That result placed BCHS fourth in their pool, setting up a Quarter Final clash with the undefeated Good Counsel College, Innisfail from Pool A. Rising to the occasion, the team delivered a memorable 24–16 victory. Harrison Lammon once again led from the front and was awarded BCHS Player of the Match.

In the Semi Final, the BCHS boys showed incredible heart in a thrilling encounter, narrowly going down 20–18 to Emmaus College, Jimboomba. The loss placed them in the 3rd/4th place playoff — a match they approached with confidence, composure and determination. They finished their carnival campaign in style, defeating St Augustine’s College, Augustine Heights 14–0 in a dominant display. Mason Kiehne was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.

At the Carnival Presentation, BCHS’s impact was further recognised with two major awards. Harrison Lammon was named BCHS Player of the Carnival for his consistent excellence, leadership, and skill across the week. Mason Kiehne received the BCHS Spirit of the Carnival Award, honoured for his relentless effort, sportsmanship and passion every time he took the field.

This remarkable achievement in the school’s inaugural year in the competition is a testament to the dedication, resilience and unity of the team and coaching staff of Mr Luke Marano and Mr Thomas Lammon. The BCHS community is incredibly proud of the boys, who have not only made history but done so with pride, heart and unwavering school spirit.

BCHS looks forward to continuing to build their Rugby League program in 2026, with even more opportunities for students to grow, compete and succeed on and off the field.

‍

Local

Another mixed weekend for the Panthers, winning one and losing one of the two matches. On Sunday in Townsville, against Warriors, the Premiers won 3-2 and the Reserves lost 0-4.

This Sunday, the Premiers and Reserves are away to Saints Eagles Souths, the Premiers at 7.00 and the Reserves at 5.00. The Ladies, Division 1 Men, and Division 2 Funkies are all playing in Townsville on Friday. The Ladies play Warriors at 8.30, the Men’s Division 1 meet Ingham at 6.30, and the Men’s Division 2 are up against Brothers, also at 6.30.

Premiers

In a crucial clash against fellow top-four contenders Townsville Warriors, the Ayr Anzac Club Panthers rose to the occasion with a gutsy 3-2 win that sees them leap back into finals contention. The stakes were high, and the Panthers started like a side that knew it—dominating early possession and creating the better chances. The Burdekin side looked in control until a stunning strike from Warriors, completely against the run of play, found the back of the net to make it 1-0. Momentum shifted, and Burdekin struggled to regain their rhythm. But just before the break, Oscar Licciardello split the defence with a perfectly weighted ball to Matthew Kolb, who calmly finished to level the scores at 1-1.

The second half got off to a rocky start, with Warriors striking again just five minutes in to take a 2-1 lead. But rather than folding, the Panthers began to rally. After winning a free kick near the byline, Kai Goodman spotted the keeper off his line and cleverly curled it inside the post to level the match. The belief surged, and with fifteen minutes remaining, Ryan Scodellaro scored to put Burdekin into the lead. A brave defensive stand followed, sealing a vital 3-2 win and a return to the top four.

Reserves

Once again, Burdekin Tyre Services Reserves fielded a different team line-up, with the biggest number of injuries and absences of any game this season. A positive aspect was a Reserve Grade debut for Angus Innes and Zach Durrant. The Panthers made a slow start, and Warriors scored an opening goal after just ten minutes. From there, the Reserves settled into the game, and there were periods of good ball play and possession that ensured Warriors went into the break with only a one-goal lead. The Panthers started the second half poorly, again conceding an early goal. The team rallied again and stayed in the game, but two goals in the last five minutes ended the contest.

Juniors

The Juniors are presently on the school holiday break and will resume next week. The first event before fixtures start again is the Bowen carnival on Sunday, 13th July. 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. And in a pre-play of the Club World Cup group match, Esperance de Tunisia lost 4-5 to Chelsea. Man of the Match was Chris Achille. Monday nights at 6.30. Be there.

National and International

The Matildas have played two friendlies against Slovenia, both in Perth. Last Thursday they won 3-0, but on Sunday could only draw 1-1.

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. In the meantime, they have lined up a couple of friendlies against New Zealand, home and away, on 5th and 9th of September.

The FIFA Club World Cup, being played in America, has reached the Round of 16 stage, the winners of which go through to the quarter-finals. So far, Bayern and PSG are both through and will play each other, and Chelsea and Palmeiras play off in the second quarter-final.

Quote of the Week

From then-Chelsea manager John Hollins when Doug Rougvie was sent off:
"It was a case of handbags at three paces, and he was unlucky."

‍

A Grade

The A Grade Roosters fell short on Saturday in a gritty fightback against Herbert River in Ingham.
The team suffered a heartbreaking 14–12 defeat to the Crushers in a hard-fought derby, with a slow start and missed opportunities ultimately costing them the game.

The Roosters found themselves in a 14–0 hole after a frustrating first half plagued by errors and missed chances.
Poor ball control and a lack of attention to detail in attack saw them squander early field position, allowing the Crushers to capitalise with two tries.
The defensive effort was good, but the inability to convert pressure into points proved costly.

To their credit, the Roosters refused to lie down, mounting a spirited second-half comeback.
Their defence tightened significantly, shutting the River out, while their attack finally found some rhythm.
Two late tries gave them a chance to snatch a draw, but the conversions weren’t enough to level the scores.

The fightback was a testament to the team’s resilience, and the coach will take positives from that.
Hayde Munro had a relentless work rate in attack and defence, constantly bending the line, while Colby Thompson’s strong carries and smart decision-making kept the Roosters in the contest.
Terrence Mosby was electric on the edges, causing problems every time he touched the ball, while Adam Camer was solid in his A Grade debut at fullback, showing composure beyond his experience level.

The early errors and lack of execution will be a focus at training, with better ball control and sharper attacking structures needed.
With centre Jesse Yallop out injured on Saturday and Logan Dickson with the Blackhawks, the coach may start either Luca Lago or Dylan Doak, with Terry Connors moving to the centres alongside James Munro.

Burdekin tries: Dylan Doak and Jye Olsen
Goals: Joel Mason 2/2

Reserves

Reserves coach Peter Horan said his team made too many mistakes in a 34–6 loss.

“Once again, we did well with 15 of our side under 20 against a very experienced River team who tried to take charge of the game all the time,” he said.

The Crushers were an older team, but Burdekin didn’t let youth take over—perhaps because they were missing some experienced players.
Horan said he thought they were right in it at halftime, down only 12–6, but smart play by some old heads and great kicking by Ingham’s 30-year reunion halfback Mitchell Seri kept the result in their favour.

Matthew Lee at centre was the players’ player, not far ahead of Taylor Pepa, with Archer Swindley also going well.
Luca Lago was one of the better players on the paddock, while winger Malik Ogameni was closely watched but came out on top.

Try: Price Gesah
Penalty goal: Dylan Doak

Ladies

The Burdekin River ladies team were well beaten by last year’s women’s premiers, Centrals, on Sunday in Townsville, going down 32–0.

The Tigers girls had too much experience for the younger combined team. Although they tried hard, they were generally outclassed. Dropped ball on early tackles didn’t help.

Martina Monday was named players’ player, and Paige Horvat was also among the best for the Burdekin River team, who tried till the end.

Ladder Update

The latest placings now see A Grade and the Combined Women sitting fourth on the ladder, with Reserve Grade in fifth.

Other Results

A Grade:

Brothers def. Charters Towers 40–14
Souths def. Centrals 30–16
Western Lions and Norths drew 24–24
Reserve Grade:

Charters Towers def. Brothers 22–14
Western Lions def. Bowen 30–10
Souths def. Centrals 44–12
Ladies:

Brothers def. Charters Towers 24–8
Western Lions won by forfeit from Bowen
Next Round

This week was originally scheduled as a bye for all teams, but the first round—washed out earlier in the season—will now be played.

Norths will visit the Burdekin on Saturday in all three grades: A Grade, Reserves, and Burdekin River Women.

Charters Towers will also play Western Lions in Townsville on Saturday, while Souths will host Herbert River in A Grade on Sunday.
Brothers and Centrals have byes.

In Reserves and Ladies, Western Lions will meet Charters Towers, and Souths will play Herbert River Reserves.
Centrals will play Bowen in both Reserves and Ladies on Saturday in Bowen.

‍

Three Burdekin Touch players recently returned from the State of Origin series held in Coffs Harbour. This competition between Queensland and New South Wales is held every two years and is contested just as fiercely as its Rugby League cousin. The states compete in a three-game series for Open Men, Women, and Mixed, as well as several age divisions from Under 20 to Over 65. Results from all series are aggregated to decide the overall winning state.

Michael Littlefield attended as an elite referee and officiated the first Under 20 Women’s game, followed by the next two Over 35 Men’s games. This was Michael’s third major tournament of the year and confirms his standing as one of the best referees in Australia.

Tramayne Horan represented Queensland in the Over 40 Women’s team, which began promisingly, taking the first game 5–4. Unfortunately, NSW struck back convincingly in the second game with a 5–2 win. With the series on the line in Game 3 and the scores locked at 2–2, NSW managed to score the winning try in the final seconds—taking the series 2 games to 1.

Ian Kerr represented Queensland in the Over 65 division, which was unfortunately dominated by NSW. The Cockroaches took Game 1, 3–2, putting pressure on Queensland to win Game 2 to keep the series alive. The game featured outstanding attack and desperate defence and required extra time to determine the winner. After an additional 10 minutes of play in a 3-on-3 drop-off, NSW scored the decider to win 4–3. They then completed the clean sweep with a 3–1 win in Game 3.

Unfortunately, New South Wales claimed the overall State of Origin trophy. Queensland will be back in 2027!

‍

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.

‍