For every year since its inception in 1981, the Sugar Bowl has served up a weekend full of all-round entertainment and good quality tennis. This year’s edition was no different. However, unlike any year in the past, this year’s event saw the opening of a brand-new, wheelchair-accessible amenities block. Players and spectators alike gathered early on Saturday morning to
witness the official opening of the facility, at which Member for Burdekin Dale Last and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort were both present.
“The design makes a statement—it’s no longer just a rudimentary toilet block, but a functional, welcoming, and classical structure that enhances our club’s identity,” said Home Hill Tennis Association (HHTA) Secretary, Kate Casswell.
The opening of the amenities marked the commencement of the tournament, with hundreds of players battling it out for ultimate glory across a range of skill and age-based divisions.
on page 28
WILLCOX RETAINS SEAT & INCREASES MARGIN
(Left to right) - Club Secretary Kate Casswell, Hon Dale Last MP, Tennis Development Officer Tennis Queensland Ryan Coffey, Club Patron Jill Barbagallo, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Councillor John Furnell.
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Jump in with Jacob
Well, I finally decided to become fully immersed as a citizen of the Burdekin—that is, I finally decided to indulge in the proud sporting culture that envelops this wonderful community. And, I kinda loved it.
As I’ve touched on before, I love sport—both as a player and a spectator. Although I’ve mainly stuck to football growing up, I’ve been aching to try my hand at some new ones—and what better place to do so than the Burdekin?
I decided to give pickleball a go on Tuesday night. Somewhat aided by my experience playing social tennis sporadically over the last few years, I managed to hold my own, and had a blast in the meantime. I would definitely recommend giving it a go if you haven’t already.
Then it was onto bowls on Wednesday night, where my lack of experience was definitely apparent early on. Maybe I was slightly distracted by the beauty of the night sky above, glistening as the olden-day tunes hummed across
the green, setting a beautiful scene. As the night went on, I managed to find my bowling rhythm—and let me just say: if I can, you can. So, if you’re hesitant to give it a go due to fears of being terrible, fear no more.
But what I enjoyed most about these experiences wasn’t necessarily bowling the closest ball or hitting a point-winning shot, but rather the sense of belonging that came with sharing the fun and the laughs with fellow members of the community we all call home. For me, this is the essence of the Burdekin.
And who knows what’s next. Netball? Touch footy? Let me know if you have any suggestions. Or a story!
Cheers!
RESILIENT ECHIDNA RESCUED AFTER FLOODS
Asweet little echidna was recently rescued by NQ Wildlife Care after being washed up on a Burdekin beach in the aftermath of the recent floods.
Despite the ordeal, the tough little creature was in surprisingly good condition, though it was a little soggy and stunned. After being brought into care, it received the rest and recovery it needed before returning to the wild.
Echidnas, known for their unique spiky appearance and digging habits, are well-adapted to tough conditions, and this resilient one is expected to soon be back to doing what it does best - digging, foraging, and living independently in the wild.
“Nature sure throws some curveballs, but it’s amazing how resilient our native wildlife can be,” shared NQ Wildlife Care on their social media.
The dedication of NQ Wildlife Care’s local wildlife carers who work tirelessly to ensure these animals can recover and return to their natural habitats was commended online, with many members of the community happy to see how well the prickly pal recovered.
NQ Wildlife Care kindly asks the community to be vigilant and to call 0414 717 374 for all wildlife rescues. For more information about local wildlife care or how to support these efforts, visit NQ Wildlife Care’s website, https://nqwildlife.org. au/.
NQ Wildlife Care nursed the little echidna back to health after the floods earlier this year (Photo Credit: NQ Wildlife Care)
Ambassador To Advocate Sasha Previtera Keeps the Spirit Flowing with Burdekin Water Festival
After a lifechanging experience as an Ambassador in 2024’s monumental Burdekin Water Festival, Sasha Previtera has made the decision to join this year’s Burdekin Water Festival Committee to continue one of the community’s most treasured traditions.
“After such an amazing experience last year, I knew I wanted to stay involved in a meaningful way,” explained Sasha.
“Throughout last year’s festival, I saw how much heart goes into every event and how willing people are to come together to create something special - it really opened my eyes to the deep sense of community we have here, and I feel so lucky to be part of it.”
Alongside another former Ambassador, Sasha has undertaken the role of Social Media Manager for the event, and she cannot wait to bring 2025’s theme of Bon Voyage: Roam the Globe to life online.
“I’m especially looking forward to showcasing the creativity of the community, the Ambassador journey, and the fun, vibrant energy that makes this event so special - all whilst supporting the new Ambassadors through a different lens.”
In 2024, the Burdekin Water Festival made its triumphant return to the region following on from its unfortunate absence the year prior, and after witnessing the perseverance of the newly formed Committee, Sasha knew this was something she wanted to be part of.
“The dedication from both the Committee, Ambassadors and the wider community to bring back the Water Festival was inspiring - it truly showed how much this event means to everyone involved.”
With Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade and Mardi Gras set for the 6th of September, Sasha hopes the idea of becoming an Ambassador has crossed the minds of many within the region.
“As an ambassador, I gained so much confidence in my ability to connect with others, represent my community, and speak publicly and it was such a rewarding experience that helped shape who I am today,” Sasha recalled.
To inquire about becoming a Junior or Senior Ambassador, email Kari on info@ burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.
“If you’re even slightly considering entering - just go for it,” added Sasha.
“Don’t let fear hold you back as this is your chance to be part of something truly special.”
WHAT: Burdekin Water Festival
WHEN: Saturday 6th September
Honouring the Past, Celebrating the Present St. Stephen’s Greek Community Return to the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival
St. Stephen’s Greek Community will once again bring the colour, flavour and rhythm of Greek culture to the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival, offering festival-goers a taste of tradition through food, music and dance.
The Home Hill-based group has been part of the Burdekin’s multicultural fabric for generations, with roots tracing back to early Greek migrants seeking opportunity in Australia.
“Our ancestors migrated to Australia to have more opportunities, for the betterment of their families,” says committee member Isodia Scuderi. “They began sharing our religion, culture and customs… and today we continue to share this history within our shire, state and wonderful country of Australia.”
A major milestone in that history came in 1961, when St. Stephen’s Greek Orthodox Church was consecrated by Archbishop Ezekiel. It became a hub for local worshippers and a gathering place for the broader Greek community. The adjacent Hellenic Memorial Parish Hall was later built to honour the pioneers of the Greek Orthodox faith in the region.
This year, St. Stephen’s will return to the festival with its signature loukoumades—crispy golden honey puffs served hot and sweet—as well as traditional dance performances and their ever-popular plate-smashing competition.
“There’s a real joy in seeing people from all backgrounds taste Greek food for the first time, clap
along to the music, or even try a few dance steps,” says Scuderi. “It creates this beautiful sense of connection between cultures.”
She says the group takes pride in its role not just as performers, but as cultural storytellers. “It’s not just about the food or the dancing… it’s about sharing a piece of our history, family stories, and identity with the wider Burdekin community.”
For newcomers, Scuderi says the event is a sensory celebration: “Music of different cultural groups, food stalls lined up, the air thick with the smells of dozens of cuisines… dancing, performances, people from all backgrounds. It feels like a big global party.”
The Burdekin Cultural Fair will take place on Friday, 30 May, from 6 pm to 11 pm, with gates opening at 5 pm. Visitors can look forward to an evening filled with cultural performances, multi-cultural cuisine, and free children’s activities, topped off with the spectacular First Fire, marking the season’s first cane fire.
The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival will be held at the Home Hill Showgrounds from 30–31 May. Book your tickets now at: www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au
Sasha’s Burdekin Water Festival journey continues with her new role behind the scenes (Photo Supplied)
St. Stephen’s will return to the festival with its traditional dance performances and ever-popular plate-smashing competition. Photo supplied
Burdekin Men’s Shed Holds Biannual Garage Sale
On April 26, the Burdekin Men’s Shed hosted its biannual Garage Sale to help raise funds for its ongoing activities and community contributions.
“What we sell at the garage sale is our main funding for the year,” said President Rob Ritchie. “We might have one or two a year, and we also sell stuff on Facebook.”
From 8am to 11:30am, customers were spoilt for choice, with a range of modern and antique household items, artworks, tools, gadgets and a host of other items available for purchase at bargain prices. Most of these items are donated, says Ritchie:
“People have stuff from a deceased estate, or they’re downsizing their house, or they’re having a garage sale of their own and the stuff doesn’t sell, and we go and pick it up.”
But beyond taking on these unwanted items, the Men’s Shed members apply their craftsmanship in order to restore, repair, or repurpose them, before offering them up at affordable prices, or simply giving them away to those that need them more.
“If we find there’s someone in town needing something and they’re finding it hard, we’ll give them something, if they can use it,” says Ritchie. Any unsold items from the garage sale are still available for purchase during the Men’s Shed’s regular operating hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8:00am to 11:30am.
Farmer Wants A Wife Launches Casting Call
Acasting call has been sounded across the Burdekin region leaving the farmers of the region well and truly in the spotlight and under the microscope!
Casting for the next season of Farmer Wants a Wife has begun, and producers of the hit reality TV series have identified the Burdekin as a promising region for potential contestants ahead of its 14th season, and the buzz is already spreading across the paddocks.
With all eyes on the Burdekin’s most eligible farmer bachelors and in true country fashion, mates have cheekily nominated each other behind their backs, but casting directors say the
show’s success speaks for itself.
“The stats don’t lie, this show works, your chances of finding love are high and this could really change your life,” shared Judy Smart.
Whether you’re a single farmer yourself or know one who deserves a shot at romance, applications can be made online at www.farmerwantsawife.com.au, or nominations can be emailed to farmerwantsawife@eurekaproductions.au.
The Burdekin Men’s Shed hosted its biannual Garage Sale to help raise funds for its ongoing activities and community contributions. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Farmer Wants a Wife Producers have eyes on the region ahead of the show’s next season (Photo Supplied)
Motors, Mates & More
Afantastic display of Ford vehicles will ignite Townsville’s Cannon Park on Saturday the 10th of May from 8:30am to delight motor enthusiasts of all ages!
The Townsville Ford Enthusiasts Club warmly invites everyone to come along for an open-door morning to remember where all makes and models will be on display from members travelling from Ingham, Charters Towers, Giru and Ayr. Attendees are also invited to join a designated cruise route to the Strand before parking at the end of Palleranda to complete the day.
“Remember we welcome all motoring enthusiasts not just Fords and cars all makes
and models welcome and we invite any motorbike groups to tag along, and other vehicles are encouraged to join our display and cruise,” shared Townsville Ford Enthusiasts Club member, Isiaha Reardon. Coffee and food will also be available throughout the morning with members advising attendees to arrive on or before 8am to secure the best parking spot to enjoy the display.
“See you all there for a massive event and a great chat!”
WHAT: Ford Super Meet & Cruise WHEN: Saturday the 10th of May from 8:30am
WHERE: Cannon Park
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The excitement is building ahead of this Saturday’s Ford Super Meet & Cruise.
Photo Credit: Townsville Ford Enthusiasts Club
Bendigo Bank’s May Economic Update
Bendigo Bank’s Chief Economist
David Robertson outlines in his latest economic update why growth and jobs will be the key drivers for the RBA’s cash rate decisions through 2025 in light of the latest inflation figures.
Global turbulence stems local inflation
The uncertain global backdrop and lower growth expectations have served to limit upside risks to inflation, with the RBA’s preferred measure of underlying inflation falling to 2.9% in the March quarter.
“Fortunately, unlike the US which faces stagflation due to its tariffs, our inflation outlook appears much more benign than previously forecast,” Mr Robertson said.
ertson noted, but this is an unlikely course of action for the moment.
“The trimmed mean - the Reserve Bank’s preferred measure of underlying inflation - is expected to settle between 2.5% and 2.75% and to stay there.”
So after three years of having a laser sharp focus on inflation, the primary focus for the RBA is now rapidly shifting, Mr Robertson said.
“The RBA has been dealing with global inflation shock for three years but its concerns are quickly moving from price stability and inflation to protecting growth and jobs.”
All eyes on May for next cash rate cut –but by how much?
May looks set for the next cash rate cut, but questions remain over just how deep the cut will be.
“The next cut is almost certain for May 20, but of what magnitude?” Mr Robertson said.
“We have four more cuts, including May, in our forecasts taking the rate down to around 3.1%, a drop of 25 basis points per quarter.
“A larger 50 basis point cut in May is most unlikely unless markets become dislocated like in the GFC, which isn’t currently visible, but a 35 basis point cut from the RBA in May would round out the cash rate to more convenient fractions.”
Financial markets face extreme volatility
Volatility on financial markets remains extreme, despite the latest exemptions and deferrals of the US Government’s tariffs, Mr Robertson said.
“Equity markets have been clawing back some of their losses but there are still difficult times ahead.
“Tariffs are generally bad for everyone but especially problematic for the country imposing them. So with the escalation between the US and China - the world’s two largest economies - it’s a question of just how much slower these economies will be growing this year and next.”
Community Grant Program
When
“Meanwhile, the markets are now factoring in five rate cuts to around a 2.8% level by year end. It’s a deeper path than previously expected.”
The RBA can ease rates quickly if global conditions suddenly worsen, Mr Rob-
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) now forecasts US growth will re duce by a third to 1.8% this year, and China’s GDP growth is projected at 4% (down from 4.6%).
Mr Robertson notes these forecasts may be a ‘best-case scenario’ given how chal lenging any negotiations are likely to be.
David Robertson - Chief Economist Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied.
Burdekin Set to Kick
Off 2025 Crushing Season
Wilmar Sugar Australia Limited has officially confirmed that the Burdekin region will lead the way in launching the 2025 crushing season, with operations at its four local mills, Invicta, Pioneer, Kalamia and Inkerman, set to commence on Tuesday, the 3rd of June 2025.
The Burdekin mills will be among the first in Wilmar’s network to fire up, with production in other regions, including Plane Creek Mill, Proserpine Mill and the Herbert district, scheduled to begin shortly after. The remainder of Wilmar’s mills are expected to be fully operational by the 17th of June.
Preparation is already well underway, with steam trials scheduled as part of Wilmar’s comprehensive pre-season commissioning program. The first of these trials will take place at Inkerman Mill on Monday, the 13th of May, allowing teams to test equipment, ensure safe operations, and fine-tune machinery ahead of the season start.
Wilmar has expressed optimism for a strong and productive season, supported by favourable crop estimates and the early rollout of operational readiness. With just weeks to go, the company is working closely with growers, harvesters, and mill staff to ensure everything is in place for a smooth and successful 2025 crush.
New Leadership To Drive Rural Support Forward
Agricultural Voices Strengthen QRIDA Board With Historic Appointments
Queensland’s farmers and regional businesses will benefit from strengthened leadership at the state’s rural support agency, with four new appointments to the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) Board –each bringing deep roots in agriculture, regional development and the private sector.
The Queensland Government’s renewed focus on rural resilience and economic growth is reflected in the announcement by Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last, who has named a new-look QRIDA Board set to champion the needs of primary producers and rural enterprises across the state.
Among the new appointments is sixth-generation farmer and senior lawyer Caitlin McConnel, who has made history as QRIDA’s first female Chairperson. Joining her on the Board are agricultural machinery industry leader Bruce Vandersee, rural business banking expert Danica Olsen, and agribusiness lawyer Ari McCamley.
Ms McConnel, Mr Vandersee and Ms Olsen will serve three-year terms, while Mr McCamley has been appointed for approximately 16 months to provide continuity in governance.
Minister Last said the new Board brings strong agricultural credentials and practical insight that will be vital in steering QRIDA through challenges such as recovery from recent flooding in Western and North Queensland.
“Strong leadership at QRIDA is vital to support our long-term disaster recovery efforts, particularly after the recent flooding in Western Queensland and in North
Queensland,” he said.
“These Board appointments will bring new perspectives and help the organisation explore new opportunities in developing Queensland’s rural and industry sectors.”
He highlighted the diverse private sector experience each new Director brings: from Mr Vandersee’s extensive career in supplying farm machinery, to Ms Olsen’s work in business banking tailored to rural clients, and Mr McCamley’s legal expertise supporting the agribusiness sector.
“QRIDA plays a critical role assisting farmers, businesses, and non-profits, particularly through financial support during times of hardship,” Minister Last said. “With this refreshed Board, QRIDA is in a strong position to deliver for rural Queenslanders in the long-term recovery from this year’s natural disasters.”
The Burdekin region will begin crushing from the 3rd of June (Photo Source: Wilmar Sugar Australia Limited)
Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last, pictured during a past visit with Honey the pig, continues his support for the sector with new leadership at QRIDA.
Photo source: Dale Last MP (Facebook)
Regis Home Hill to Host Heartfelt Mother’s Day Fundraiser In Support Of NBCF
Regis Aged Care Home Hill will soon host a beautiful Mother’s Day Garden Party and Cent Sale Fundraiser on the 10th of May in support of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) and in an exciting 2025 debut, the organisation has extended a warm invitation to the entire Burdekin community to attend.
An afternoon of socialisation, refreshments and plenty of prizes, attendees are encouraged to pop on over to Home Hill’s Tenth Avenue from 1pm onwards on the 10th of May to browse the wonderful selection of prizes before the Cent Sale begins at 1:30pm. Over the past couple of months, Regis Aged Care kindly asked the businesses of the community to donate prizes of any kind towards the Cent Sale Fundraiser, and in true Burdekin fashion, Regis has been beyond overwhelmed with the region’s support.
“The response to our upcoming event has been truly heart-warming, with an amazing array of prizes already donated,” shared Regis Home Hill’s Office Manager, Megan Tye.
Gift hampers, vouchers, and uniquely handcrafted items are among the plethora of prizes on offer with Megan noting, that this is simply the beginning.
“We’re still reaching out to more business-
es, and the prize pool continues to grow, and this wonderful show of community spirit demonstrates just how special our local business community is,” added Megan.
Attendees are asked to present a $5 entry fee (children are free) which includes afternoon tea, and a ticket into the door prize competition all whilst supporting NBCF.
“Our upcoming fundraiser combines the charm of a classic afternoon tea with an exciting cent sale, bringing families and community together for a cause that touches us all – the Breast Cancer Foundation,” said Megan.
“This initiative holds deep personal significance for our team, particularly as many of us have been affected by breast cancer, and what makes this event even more special is the active involvement of our residents, who are helping with wrapping prizes to creating beautiful display for the day.”
tion of May’s event, and Megan, along with the rest of the staff, find the lead up to each of these occasions a spectacle in itself.
The excitement across the Aged Care community has continued to build in anticipa-
“You can feel the excitement building days before, as residents pick out their favourite outfits and share memories of social gatherings from their younger years as our morning and afternoon tea socials aren’t just about refreshments – they’re about
creating moments that matter,” noted Megan.
“These gatherings serve as perfect occasions for our residents to step out of their daily routines and into something extraordinary and we believe that by uniting our community, we can make a meaningful difference in the fight against breast cancer.”
Wednesday to Saturday 11.30 am- 2.30pm
Regis Aged Care Home Hill invite the community to attend May’s Mother’s Day Garden Party and Cent Sale Fundraiser. Photo: Illustration only
5 Definite (8)
9 Revealing (8)
13 Spontaneous (9)
14 Want (6)
16 Stumbling (8)
17 Outer personality (7)
18 Spider’s web material (8)
19 Pamphlets (8)
20 Rigour (9)
25 Training periods (15)
26 Found on sand (8)
27 Igneous rock (7)
29 Cheap accommodations (7)
32 Circle measure (13)
36 Flower (8)
40 Crannies (5)
41 Clear (11)
42 Underground railway (5)
43 An instance of seeing something (8)
46 Coldest (13)
49 Ancient (7)
52 Affianced (7)
55 Deliberately (8)
56 Poor (15)
58 Excessive pr ide (9)
63 Scatter (8)
64 Highly regarded (8)
65 Travelled as a member of a group (7)
66 Double or single knotted? (8)
67 Reviewer (6)
70 Come to pass (9)
71 Campaigns (8)
72 Prehistoric reptile (8)
73 Amusements (7)
Down
1 Held on tightly (7)
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5 Nestle (7)
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37 Program of business (6)
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44 Picturesque cavern (6)
45 Inconsequential things (6)
47 Duo (4)
48 Coalition (4)
50 Frugality (9)
51 The symbol ‘&’ (9)
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57 Not one nor the other (7)
58 One who checks the accounts (7)
59 Revoke (7)
60 More disgusting (7)
61 Concerning weddings (7)
62 Infinite (7)
68 Hotel (3)
69 Many – and buts (3)
TODAY'S SOLUTIONS
Clear (11) 42 Underground railway (5)
An instance of seeing something (8)
Coldest (13)
Ancient (7)
Affianced (7)
Deliberately (8) 56 Poor (15)
58 Excessive pr ide (9)
63 Scatter (8)
64 Highly regarded (8)
65 Travelled as a member of a group (7)
66 Double or single knotted? (8)
67 Reviewer (6)
70 Come to pass (9)
71 Campaigns (8)
72 Prehistoric reptile (8)
73 Amusements (7)
Down
1 Held on tightly (7)
2 Put in danger (7)
3 Lengthen (7)
4 Elucidate (7)
5 Nestle (7)
6 Prompt (3)
7 US investigative body (1,1,1)
8 Major sale (9)
9 Places of business (14) 10 Inmates (9) 11 Tomb (9)
12 Incessantly (7)
14 Hopelessness (7)
15 Whet (7)
21 Made cool (4)
22 Put out (6)
23 Number of players in a cricket team (6)
24 Young bovine (4)
28 Charged (7)
30 Ditch (6)
31 Submerged (6)
33 Angered (5)
34 Groaning (7)
35 Squares (5)
37 Program of business (6)
38 Sufficient (6)
39 Appeal (14)
44 Picturesque cavern (6)
45 Inconsequential things (6)
47 Duo (4)
48 Coalition (4)
50 Frugality (9)
51 The symbol ‘&’ (9)
52 Proven (9) 53 Increase (7)
54 Regularly occurring in a particular area (7)
57 Not one nor the other (7)
58 One who checks the accounts (7)
59 Revoke (7)
60 More disgusting (7)
61 Concerning weddings (7)
62 Infinite (7) 68 Hotel (3) 69 Many – and buts (3) No.
codeword
Each number corresponds to a letter of the alphabet. Two have been filled in for you, can you work out the rest?
Cecillia Cason Crowned National Junior Champion In Tenor Horn Performance
Cecillia Cason has once again added another commendable achievement to her growing collection of titles after returning home from Melbourne’s 2025 Yamaha Australian National Band Championships.
Cecillia was awarded the Junior Champion award for her outstandingly skilled Tenor Horn performance and technique after competing in the Junior Solo section against many other experienced musicians.
Representing Townsville Brass, Cecillia’s talents left the judges speechless, earning her an outstanding score of 95 points, first place in Australia, and the prestigious title of National Champion.
In the past twelve months alone, Cecillia has travelled across Australia and to the United States of America to showcase and hone her musical skillset to respected judges and celebrated musicians across the globe. November of last year saw Cecillia set off to Seattle as one of only 20 Australian students selected to participate in the highly prestigious Western International Band Clinic, a place she earnt following on from attending Griffith University’s Pacific
Honours Ensemble Program.
With her feet now back on Burdekin soil for the moment, Cecillia believes this remarkable milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering support of her dedicated tutors and teachers. One mentor in particular, Dr. Mark Smith, was warmly thanked for his expert guidance and support, with Cecillia noting his mentorship, encouragement, and belief in her abilities were key to achieving her success and national triumph.
A Magical Mother’s Day Breakfast
Amagical Mother’s Day Breakfast will delight the community on Sunday the 11th of May as Little Leaves Nursery opens its kitchen doors in celebration of the wonderful women of the Burdekin.
In celebration of the incredible women of the community, the nursery will serving up a full breakfast menu for this day, and this day only, from 7:30am to 11:30am.
The tranquil setting and delicious offerings promise the perfect way to spoil mum and start the day with love, laughter, and a warm meal and Mother’s Day just around the corner, you won’t want to miss the chance to treat the special women in your life to a breakfast they’ll remember.
Bookings are essential and are now opento reserve a table, phone 4701 2904.
Cecillia Cason was awarded first in Australia for her Tenor Horn performance at the 2025 Yamaha Australian National Band Championships (Photo Supplied)
Lawn Bowls for the Ladies
BOWLS
The Home Hill Community Sports Club, in partnership with the Department of Sport & Recreation, is launching a new Barefoot Bowls program aimed at boosting female participation in lawn bowls. The weekly event invites women of all ages to enjoy the game in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Running every Wednesday evening from April 23 to May 28, 2025, the program will be held at the Home Hill Community Sports Club. Registration is open before 6pm each week.
The night kicks off with a free sausage sizzle at 6:30pm, followed by bowls at 7pm
under the stars on the locally renowned Rumney Green. With music playing and the barefoot format removing the need for any special gear, it’s a perfect way to try the sport for the first time or return to it in a social setting.
The initiative is part of a broader push to make lawn bowls more accessible and inclusive. Whether you’re a seasoned player or brand new to the game, all women are welcome to come down, have a roll, and enjoy a night of friendly competition and community spirit.
For more information, or to register, please contact 0468 313 115.
Ayr Bowling Club Weekly Report
It’s been another fantastic week at Ayr Bowling Club, filled with fun and fierce competition! The greens have been alive with energy as members participated in both social games and championship matches. With the championship season in full swing, the talent and sportsmanship on display have been outstanding.
Wednesday’s social bowls featured two games of triples and one rink match. The winners were B Young, J Pirrone, J Papale, and B Shepherd, who defeated R Aplin, G Braid, D Poli, and M Power.
Wednesday night’s social bowls saw two games of triples. The first game was won by Bertilla Piazetta, Margaret McLaughlin, and Joe Grabbi. The second game was claimed by Tricia Achille, David Burt, and Sam Caltabiano.
Saturday’s social bowls, sponsored by the Mahjong ladies, included three games of triples. The winners were Donna Soper, John Pirrone, and Anthony Bull. Second place went to Ron Smythe, Ray Wall, and Wayne Coonan. On Saturday, May 10, we’ll celebrate George Nixon’s 90th birthday, sponsored by George himself. Mem-
BOWLS
bers are invited to bring a plate to mark this special occasion.
In championship play this week, the men’s A Singles match was a close contest, with Lew Stidston defeating Anthony Bull 2519. In the rink game, J Pirrone, M Milan, W Coonan, and Barry Shepherd won in a nail-biting finish against B Hewson, R Soper, A Bull, and M Power. Winners will progress to the next round.
If you’re interested in trying out bowls, join us for Friday Roll Ups every Friday afternoon from 3:00 - 5:30 PM. Whether you want to improve your skills, get some friendly training tips, or simply relax with a drink, these casual roll-ups are a great way to start the weekend.
You’re also welcome to join us for Friday Fun Nights! The next one will be on Friday, May 9, starting at 6 PM. This evening is open to bowlers of all levels, so feel free to bring friends or come solo to meet new people. The entry fee is $10 per game, which includes a sausage sizzle at 6 PM and a light supper after bowling begins at 7 PM. Grab some friends and enjoy a night of fun and laughter!
