Sports

Parkrunners, Register!

Parkrunners, Register!

by Victoria Velton This past weekend saw 7 parkrunners, including myself, claim personal bests! The chill morning and slight drizzle kept us all cool and eager to get running. We had 4 new faces and 5 'UNKNOWNS' join us this weekend, and volunteer tailwalker Julie got to hang out with a sweet greyhound while she did her laps. Remember to register with Parkrun if you want to track your results and achievements! Cardwell saw 5 new faces and 1 PB, and a visitor from the Canberra Runners took out

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Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club Celebrates Season's Awards

Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club Celebrates Season's Awards

The Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club’s 2024/25 Senior Awards Night was a meaningful occasion, marked by community pride, reflection, and well-deserved recognition. Against the backdrop of recent floods and the challenges faced across the region, the event paid tribute to the dedication and resilience of local volunteer lifesavers who played key roles in response and recovery efforts. Their actions once again highlighted the vital role the club plays in the safety and wellbeing of the Forrest

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Ingham Tennis Association To Host FREE Junior Tennis Day

Ingham Tennis Association To Host FREE Junior Tennis Day

The Ingham Tennis Association is inviting local juniors to pick up a racquet and give tennis a go at a Free Junior Tennis Day on Tuesday, the 17th of June. Open to children aged 5 to 17 years, the afternoon aims to introduce young players to the game in a fun and welcoming environment. Racquets will be available for those who don’t have their own, and experienced coach Tom Casey will be on hand to guide participants through a series of exciting games and activities designed to spark a love of t

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Ingham's Own 'Super' Wins Kingdom Cup

Ingham's Own 'Super' Wins Kingdom Cup

The Kingdom Cup 2025 delivered another explosive night of boxing action, thrilling the crowd in Ingham with a powerful mix of emerging talent, fierce matchups, and unforgettable moments. Local pride was on full display when 19-year-old Josh “Super” Shannon stepped into the ring and delivered a second-round knockout victory in front of his hometown crowd. The promising middleweight prospect, trained by Dean, made a spectacular professional debut and now boasting a perfect 1–0 record. Continued i

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Boxing Trio Strike Gold In Townsville

June 3, 2025

Ingham's Kingdom Boxing Gym's dynamic trio made sure they left their mark on the 2025 Sunstate League Golden Gloves held in Townsville last weekend, taking home many gold medals in their divisions.

Kelcee Robino picked up a gold medal in the senior female 60kg division and stepped up to also claim a gold medal in the female 65kg division.

Spencer Riys earned a gold medal in the junior 60kg division and went on to fight it out for a bronze medal in the junior 63.5kg division.

Grant Martin dominated for a gold medal in the junior 71kg division.

On behalf of myself and the Kingdom Boxing family, we would like to say a big well done to all the boxers, trainers, parents, and officials who selflessly give up their time to make events like this possible. You can’t put a price on what these individuals do for the positive development of our young athletes. Well done to all!

Contributed with thanks by Sophie, Secretary of the Kingdom Boxing Gym

Dean Poppi with gold-medalist Grant Martin, and Robert Sorbello after his match
Double gold-medalist Kelcee Robino (in white) and her friend after their match
Spencer Riys (in white) earning his gold medal in the ring
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Brisbane Visitors And 200 Parkuns

June 3, 2025

This past weekend saw 9 parkrunners, including myself, claim personal bests! I’m so proud of everyone who showed up and gave it their all, especially last weekend’s fastest runner, who achieved a PB with an amazingly even time of 21:21 across the line. There was even a family doing a great Australian circle road trip on their way back home to Brisbane, thanks for stopping by and running with us, Woosha’s Warriors club!

Cardwell saw 3 new faces and 2 PBs as the Dynamic Running and Red Earth Running clubs took out most of the top spots this past weekend. Amazing effort to all the volunteers this week and congratulations to Judy for completing 200 parkruns!

Park Run Results: 31st May 2025
Cardwell - 18 participants.
Fastest time: 23:20 | Finishers time: 52:38
Palm Creek - 34 participants.
Fastest time: 21:21 | Finishers time: 59:22

Photos sourced from Cardwell and Palm Creek Parkrun Facebook pages.
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Ingham Team Takes Squash State Champion

June 3, 2025

Eleven talented juniors recently represented the Northern Region at the Queensland Schools Squash Championship held at Arcia Ridge in Brisbane. Games went over four days with both singles and doubles matches being played.

The NQ team featured a mixture of experienced and new players, with all Ingham players, current members of the Ingham Squash Club. Senior students, Kara Nash and Liam Fascetti had the privilege of being captains this year exemplifying leadership and sportsmanship qualities throughout the championship.

Ingham players fielded well on the podium finishes with Liam Fascetti and Jack Butcher finishing second in the Elite doubles competition. Liam, Jack, and Oliver Flynn combined their efforts to win runners-up in the Open boys division, while Kara received the Open girls Spirit of Squash award which recognises players who demonstrate exceptional sportsmanship and dedication to the game, both on and off the court.

The coveted award of Open Boys State Champion was won by Liam Fascetti who never dropped a match for the championship. Liam was awarded with a selection for the Queensland team who will take on NSW and New Zealand later this year in the Trans-Tasman Challenge Shield.

Contributed with thanks by Kim Di Bella.

Kara Nash with her medal.
Captains Liam and Kara, senior players of the team.
Liam Fascetti with his Gold and Silver medals.
L to R: Oliver Flynn, Dustin Statham (Townsville), Jack Butcher, and Liam Fascetti.
Liam Fascetti with his Gold and Silver medals.
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Celebrating 30 years of crushing it!

May 28, 2025

This June, the Crushers Rugby League Club invites
fans, former players and supporters to join a landmark
celebration marking 30 years of sporting excellence
and community spirit. On Saturday, 14 June 2025, the
historic Shire Hall in Ingham will come alive with a
night dedicated to honouring the club’s proud legacy.
Doors open at 5:30pm, with formalities starting
promptly at 6:00pm. Attendees can look forward to
an evening filled with heartfelt stories, laughter and
a chance to reconnect with teammates and long-time
friends. Catering will be provided by the acclaimed
Piera & Marian, and the night’s entertainment promises
to dazzle, featuring a DJ and captivating magic
performances by Phil Cass.
A highlight of the evening will be the appearance of
the 1995 U21s Premiership Team — special guests
who brought home the club’s first premiership trophy
three decades ago. Their presence adds a deeper
meaning to the festivities, celebrating not just the
club’s history but the individuals who helped shape it.
Tickets are priced at $100 per person and are available
for purchase online. Those wishing to enjoy the evening
with friends can reserve a table of ten to secure a
spot together or opt for individual tickets and join the
camaraderie on the night.
This milestone event is more than just a party, it’s a
celebration of resilience, pride and the community
spirit that has defined the Crushers for 30 unforgettable
years.

WHAT: 30-year celebrations of the Crushers | WHEN: Saturday 14th June 2025, 5:30pm | WHERE: Historic Shire Hall Ingham

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Visitors Flock To Cardwell Parkrun

May 27, 2025

by Victoria Velton

On May 17th both Hinchinbrook Parkruns had something to celebrate. Cardwell welcomed visitors from Cairns, Townsville, Ingham, and Manchester on a beautiful, cooler dry morning and Parkrunner David achieved his 150th parkrun milestone, congratulations David! Many visitors from the Red Earth Running and Easier Said Than Run clubs, including 11 new runners on the course, made Cardwell feel very lively.

Palm Creek was also full of excitement that weekend as 10 parkrunners, including myself, claimed personal bests! I’m so proud of everyone who showed up and gave it their all, especially last weekend’s fastest runner, who achieved a PB with a perfectly exact time of 19 minutes across the line.

Park Run Results: 17th May 2025
Cardwell - 24 participants.
Fastest time: 20:50 | Finishers time: 58:45
Palm Creek - 31 participants.
Fastest time: 19:00 | Finishers time: 55:23

Park Run Results: 24th May 2025
Cardwell - 17 participants.
Fastest time: 22:04 | Finishers time: 53:56
Palm Creek - 34 participants.
Fastest time: 20:56 | Finishers time: 1:02:18

Photos sourced from Cardwell and Palm Creek Parkrun Facebook pages.

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Puppy Love: Ingham Pups Victorious At Saints Eagles Souths 2025 Soccer Carnival

May 28, 2025

The Ingham Pups have emerged victorious at the Saints Eagles Souths 2025 soccer carnival, defeating Brothers 4-3 in a thrilling grand final in Townsville. Goals from Patrick Pearce, Archer Carr, and a brace from Huxley Beatts secured the title for Herbert River. Ecstatic for the win, Herbert River's Sammy Pearce said, “We’re not Ingham Pups any more - we’re the Wolves now!”

Ingham Pups Claim Victory Against Brothers In Riveting 4-3 Win

The path to victory was powerfully fought with the under-7s side of the Ingham Wolves, advancing to the final after winning three consecutive matches. They kicked off their campaign with a commanding 7-1 victory over Northern Beaches, where Carr scored four and Beatts scored a hat-trick (3 goals). In the following match, Ingham dominated Saints Blue 7-0, with Patrick Pearce striking twice, Carr adding two more, and Beatts completing another hat-trick.

The final group match against Saints Red proved to be a gripping encounter with both sides knowing that a win would send them to the final. Sammy Pearce drew first blood, opening the scoring from the halfway line, but Saints Red responded with two quick goals to take a 2-1 lead. Carr fired back to level the game, and Beatts’ double secured a hard-fought 4-2 victory, earning Ingham a spot in the grand final.

Manager Melissa Carr expressed her pride in the team’s growth, saying, “Last year at our home carnival, the boys narrowly missed out in the grand final. Obviously, it’s all about fun and development at this age, but they really wanted the win today - and they deserved it. I can’t wait to see this team grow together this year.”

In the grand final match, Patrick Pearce put Ingham ahead, but the Brothers quickly equalised. Carr restored the lead, and a pair of goals from Beatts extended the advantage to 4-1. However, Brothers responded fiercely, and Thomas Martin's solid defending proved crucial for Herbert River.

One of the game’s highlights came when Ingham’s Cristiano Rapista had a shot blocked on the line by Brothers’ number 8, who then danced past two players before launching a long-range effort from inside his own half, scoring a stunning goal to make it 4-2. Brothers added a third to close the gap to 4-3, but Ingham’s relentless pressing helped them hold on to secure victory.

The Ingham Pups displayed their scoring prowess throughout the carnival, netting 22 goals in four matches. Huxley Beatts and Archer Carr led the charge with nine goals each. More than 70 young players represented Ingham at the carnival, with Herbert River fielding teams from under-6s to under-12s. Additional photos can be found on the Ingham Wolves FC Facebook page. Fans can support the Pups and Wolves at the next soccer carnival, scheduled for June 1 at Warriors FC in Townsville.

Victorious! (from left to right): Sammy Pearce, Thomas Martin, Linkyn Cerutti, Patrick Pearce, Huxley Beatts, Archer Carr, Cristiano Rapista. Photo supplied: Jonny Pearce.
Archer Carr (9 goals) and Huxley Beatts (9 goals) shared 18 goals between them in four matches. Photo supplied: Jonny Pearce.
Victorious! (from left to right): Sammy Pearce, Thomas Martin, Linkyn Cerutti, Patrick Pearce, Huxley Beatts, Archer Carr, Cristiano Rapista. Photo supplied: Jonny Pearce.
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Gilroy Velocity Raptors Race To World Stage Victory

May 27, 2025

In a thrilling showcase of innovation, determination and teamwork, a group of talented students from Gilroy Santa Maria College have raced their way into the global spotlight.

The Gilroy Velocity Raptors, the youngest team on the track, claimed top honours at the Horizon H2GP North Queensland Finals, securing a coveted place at the H2GP World Championships in Chemnitz, Germany, in August of 2025.

Their performance at the NQ Finals was nothing short of outstanding where they competed in a grueling four-hour endurance race with their self-built, hydrogen-powered 1/10 scale car. The Raptors clocked an incredible 397 laps, nearly 100 more than their nearest rivals, however the accolades didn’t stop there! The team also took home the Most Energy Efficient Award and the prestigious Engineering Innovation Award, cementing their place as a force to be reckoned with in this emerging field of sustainable energy.

Months of meticulous planning and hands-on engineering went into preparing for the race as the students designed, built and modified their car from the ground up, learning about hydrogen fuel cells, energy efficiency, and real-world problem solving along the way.

On race day, their hard work paid off as the Raptors not only managed their fuel cells efficiently but also maximised performance through savvy driving tactics and smart engineering decisions.

The Horizon Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP) program is more than just a racing competition, it’s a chance for students to gain hands-on experience in future-focused industries. For the Velocity Raptors, it’s also proof that regional students have the skills, innovation, and ambition to compete on the world stage.

Now, with the international finals just months away, the team is preparing to represent their school, region and Australia in Chemnitz, where they’ll face off against teams from the USA, Taiwan, Finland, the Czech Republic and more.

To get to Germany and make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the Velocity Raptors are calling on the community for support! To get behind the team, sponsor their journey, or help in any way, contact Gilroy Santa Maria College on (07) 4776 2888 or email nchapman@gilroysm.catholic.edu.au.

Gilroy Santa Maria College's Gilroy Velocity Raptors have their eyes set on securing a world stage win this August (Photo Supplied)
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Evening Tennis Delight Ends Even

May 28, 2025

Christine and Peter faced off against Con and Darcy in a spirited match that ended in a rare 6-all draw. Unlike traditional tennis scoring, this match was played until the bell rang, making for a unique and exciting format that kept the players on their toes.

It was a perfect evening for tennis — clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and the unmistakable sound of friendly competition. Adding a touch of charm to the night, a group of local kookaburras looked on from the nearby trees, offering their distinctive laughter as a backdrop to the action on court.

All four players displayed great skill and sportsmanship, making for a memorable match that was as enjoyable to watch as it was to play.

Thursday night play. Christine & Peter Vs. Con & Darcy. Photo supplied: Geoff Caso.
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The Darts Shield Stays!

May 27, 2025

On Saturday 24th of May, the Social Darts Clubs of Ingham hosted a thrilling inter-town clash against long-time rivals of Cardwell. The match featured a mix of game types, bringing variety and excitement to the day. Cardwell came to play, taking the bus down to Ingham's Brothers Club, packing it with talent.

Ingham was ready to defend their winning streak in a competitive but good-spirited fashion. As such, Ingham managed to hold onto the shield with a final score of 18 to 12 with many from Cardwell rearing to go for the next town clash; "Thanks for a great day, we will get them next time at home!" from Wya G. and, "Sooo glad we came, what a great way to spend a Saturday." cheered Linda P.

Top Performances:

Highest Peg – Men: Mick (Cardwell) with 87

Highest Peg – Ladies: Linda (Ingham) with 45

Highest Score – Men: Dave & Henry (Cardwell) with 140

Highest Score – Ladies: Lisa (Ingham) with 125

A big thank you goes out to the Brothers Club for hosting the event and supporting a fantastic day of darts and friendship. Congratulations to Stevo from Ingham, who took home the meat raffle prize!

Well played to all, and we look forward to the next showdown in Cardwell!

Photo credit: Cardwell Social Darts Facebook page.

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Gone Fishing! Reel Fun At Taylors Beach

May 27, 2025

The 2025 Taylors Beach Family Annual Fishing Competition was a resounding success, once again bringing together locals and visitors for a weekend of fun and friendly competition. Held under perfectly clear skies, the much-loved event saw families lining the shorelines and jetty, rods in hand, in celebration of the region’s rich fishing culture.

Mayor Ramon Jayo and Councillor Donna Marbelli were both in attendance, reinforcing the Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s strong support for grassroots community events. A cheque for $1,650 was proudly presented as part of the Council’s Community Grants Program, helping ensure the competition’s continued success.

“Done and dusted for another year,” said Cr Marbelli. “It was fantastic to see so many families out and about, enjoying the weekend together. A heartfelt thank you to all of our incredible sponsors — events like this simply wouldn’t be possible without your generosity."

She also extended appreciation to the Taylors Beach QLD – Community volunteers and committee, whose dedication drives the event’s success year after year.

With strong attendance, generous support, and plenty of fishy tales to tell, this year’s competition proved once again why it remains a highlight on the Hinchinbrook calendar.

Photos sourced: Donna Marbelli Hinchinbrook Shire Council Councillor Facebook page.

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Gina Wright Claims Open Singles Championship

May 20, 2025

It was a picture-perfect day for bowls as the finals of the Ladies Championship Singles took place, and the quality of play matched the beautiful conditions. In a thrilling and closely contested match, Gina Wright emerged victorious, claiming her first open singles championship title with a well-earned 25/18 win over the runner-up Elsa Piotto.

Both players showcased remarkable skill and composure throughout the final. Wright’s triumph marked a significant milestone in her bowling career, demonstrating her determination and focus under pressure. Piotto, a formidable opponent, put up a strong fight, but Wright’s consistency ultimately secured the win. Congratulations to both players on an outstanding match.

Social bowls also provided some engaging contests, with J. Bell, M. Spano, and M. Moore defeating I. Byrnes, J. Johnson, and T. Rhodes 16-10. In another match, A. Foti, K. Rotondo, and J. Casanovas secured a 21-16 victory over D. Tomba, A. Rutherford, and N. Evans.

Ingham Bowls Club continues to foster community involvement with a variety of weekly events. Wednesdays are reserved for Ladies Bowls and Thursdays are Barefoot Bowls, a great way for newcomers to experience the sport in a relaxed setting. Fridays see the Men’s Pairs take to the greens, and Sundays are dedicated to Social Mixed Bowls, welcoming players of all skill levels.

To stay updated on upcoming competitions and events, visit the Ingham Bowls Club Facebook page.

Gina Wright, Ladies Bowls Singles Champion. Photo supplied by Ingham Bowls Club.
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Lucinda Coast Guard Mourns The Loss Of One Of Its Own

May 13, 2025

The volunteers at Lucinda Coast Guard are saddened by the recent passing of long-time member Paul Entriken. After a long and distinguished career in the Police Force, Paul earned the right to retire and just go fishing, which he loved doing, but he decided that he had time and experience to do something for the community in which he lived, so he joined the Coast Guard.

Known as a quiet, contemplative man, Paul worked his way through the ranks to become the Flotilla’s Training Officer, a job that he excelled at. With care and attention, he guided both beginners and experienced crew through the many competencies which needed to be passed. Everyone benefited from his dedication to ensuring that the skill levels were attained and ticked off.

Paul will be sadly missed by all the volunteers he ever worked with, and they thank him for his dedication and service.

Written by Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard

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Meet Thomas: Tennis Enthusiast With A Fighing Passion

May 13, 2025

Thomas discovered his love for tennis in late 2020 when he was just nine years old. Before picking up a racket, he tried his hand at football, cricket, and taekwondo, but none of these sports quite matched his energy and enthusiasm. Then came tennis—a game full of non-stop action and high-paced excitement, and it was love at first serve.

One of the key reasons Thomas enjoys tennis so much is his coach, Tom, who knows how to make learning both engaging and enjoyable as his sessions are packed with challenges and plenty of laughs. Beyond the court, tennis has given Thomas new friendships with other young players from outside his school.

When he’s not playing tennis, Thomas can usually be found near water, either casting a line himself or watching fishing videos on YouTube. It’s clear that his passions are rooted in excitement and movement, whether it’s reeling in a catch or smashing a forehand.

Thomas’s journey in tennis is just beginning, but with his enthusiasm and love for the game, there’s no doubt he’ll continue to thrive, both on and off the court.

Thomas being light on his feet. Photo Supplied.
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Parkrun Goes Blue

May 13, 2025

This weekend saw 54 total Parkrunners, including this journalist and my little sister. This weekend we attended the Palm Creek parkrun in Ingham and took it very casually. We walked most of the way discussing this and that; school, horse-riding, how cool it was that tadpoles become frogs and sometimes toads, the usual kid topics. But when the final lap hit it was on!

We raced down path and all her friends called out to her, cheering her on. Needless to say she beat me across the line but just by a few feet, I wasn't going to let her win easily!

Cardwell Parkrunners also deserve a special mention this week as they showed their support for Do It For Dolly Day. There was blue balloons tied about the posts at the finish line and many wore blue in solidarity with the cause. Great job this week everyone!

Park Run Results: 10th May 2025
Cardwell - 20 participants.
Fastest time: 21:28 | Finishers time: 56:43
Palm Creek - 34 participants.
Fastest time: 19:34 | Finishers time: 53:32

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Horse-Power Drives Carrs To Success

May 13, 2025

Brother and sister, Archer and Mia Carr, claimed victory in their respective age groups during a bustling first day of horse sports at the opening Hitch-n-Ride event of the year in Long Pocket.

Archer (7) led the charge in the junior novice section, winning every event to achieve a perfect score of 42 points. Mia Carr matched this feat in the under-10s, while Lotti Duffy impressed in the 10–13 category, also securing maximum points at the event held on Saturday, 10 May. Layne Biasi topped the 13–15 category, with Krystal Taylor finishing close behind. In the open division, Katie-Anne McAuliffe, visiting from Woodstock, led the field with strong performances across multiple events.

More than $200 was raised through a raffle on the day to support flood victims. Dicky Devitt from Long Pocket won the top prize—a meat tray donated by Bullock Creek Beef, who also contributed all the steaks and sausages sold at the canteen.

The next event is scheduled to take place at Long Pocket on Saturday, 14 June.

Hitch-n-Ride Results – 2025
Junior Novice:
Event
Snakes and Ladders     | 1st Archer Carr      | 2nd Quin Barton                    | 3rd Cooper Pearson
Bounce Pony            | 1st Archer Carr      | 2nd Demi Celloto & Quin Barton (tie)|
Bending                | 1st Archer Carr      | 2nd Rhiannon                       | 3rd Cooper Pearson
Quadrangle             | 1st Archer Carr      | 2nd Rhiannon                       | 3rd Demi Celloto
Tangle                 | 1st Archer Carr      | 2nd Rhiannon                       | 3rd Demi Celloto
Running T              | 1st Archer Carr      | 2nd Rhiannon                       | 3rd Demi Celloto
Points Tally: Archer Carr – 42 points

Under 10:
Category  | 1st Place (1)
Under 10  | 1st Mia Carr
Points Tally: Mia Carr – 42 points

10 to Under 13:
Event
Snakes and Ladders     | 1st Lotti Duffy  | 2nd Stevie Biasi    | 3rd Alexis Catasti
Bounce Pony            | 1st Lotti Duffy  | 2nd Stevie Biasi    | 3rd Casey Celloto
Bending                | 1st Lotti Duffy  | 2nd Casey & Chloe Celloto (tie) | 3rd Alexis Catasti
Quadrangle             | 1st Lotti Duffy  | 2nd Stevie Biasi    |
Tangle                 | 1st Lotti Duffy  | 2nd Stevie Biasi    | 3rd Alexis Catasti
Running T              | 1st Lotti Duffy  | 2nd Stevie Biasi    | 3rd Chloe Celloto
Points Tally: Lotti Duffy – 42 points

13 to Under 15:
Category
13 to Under 15 | 1st Layne Biasi | 2nd Krystal Taylor
Points Tally: Layne Biasi – 42 points

Open:
Event
Snakes and Ladders     | 1st Katie-Anne McAuliffe | 2nd Hayley Quartero | 3rd Sam Sellick
Bounce Pony            | 1st Katie-Anne McAuliffe | 2nd Sam Sellick      | 3rd Jenna Lino
Bending                | 1st Kim Russo            | 2nd Katie-Anne McAuliffe | 3rd Jenna Lino
Quadrangle             | 1st Sam Sellick          | 2nd Katie-Anne McAuliffe | 3rd Jenna Lino
Tangle                 | 1st Katie-Anne McAuliffe | 2nd Sam Sellick      | 3rd Hayley Quartero
Running T              | 1st Hayley Quartero       | 2nd Katie-Anne McAuliffe | 3rd Jenna Lino
Points Tally: Katie-Anne McAuliffe – 33 points

Horsin' around: Saddle up for the first Hitch-n-Ride event of the year. (Image from last week's event, results from this week inside).
Mia Carr and her horse. Photo supplied.
Archer Carr, winner in his group and event categories. Photo supplied.
Meat tray winner Dicky Devitt. Photo Supplied.

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