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.

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

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

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A group of talented Ingham Squash juniors recently travelled to Townsville to compete in a Northern region squash tournament. The event was held at the Dalrymple Squash Centre and was part of the selection process for Northern juniors to be selected into the Northern Redbacks team to compete at the Queensland Junior Championships.

Juniors from Mackay to Cairns took part in the two-day event ranging in ages from under 10 to under 19. Our Ingham contingent played extremely well against some of the best players in the North and almost all players received a podium finish.

In division four local lad, Ashton Hoyle and Maraka princess, Hazel Cary finished second and first respectively. Oliver Hoyle finished second in division three against a class field, while Oliver Flynn finished third in division two. Queensland representative player, Liam Fascetti outclassed his competitors winning division one. Senior girl player, Kara Nash, who continues to improve with every tournament, fought her way to third place in the girl’s division. Other players who participated and played well, gaining valuable experience, were Clint Seri and Niko Dillon.

Players trained hard for the weekend’s compulsory tournament in Mackay where the Northern Region Redbacks team was announced.

Calling all golf enthusiasts The Cane Season Ambrose Golf Day is swinging into action on Sunday, 25th May 2025! It promises to be a fantastic day of friendly competition, camaraderie, and community spirit. Don't forget the sausage sizzle!

This 4-player Ambrose format event is perfect for golfers of all skill levels, offering a relaxed and social way to enjoy the game while helping support a great cause. Hosted at the scenic Ingham Golf Club, this tournament is more than just a day on the green—it’s a way to give back. All funds raised will go directly to supporting the Ingham Golf Club, a vital part of our local community.

For just $25 per player, that's $100 per team, you can enjoy a great game, take part in the exciting raffle, and indulge in a mouth-watering BBQ lunch. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just keen for a day out with mates, this event is one you won’t want to miss.

Nomination forms are available on the Ingham Golf Club Facebook page or can be picked up from L & W Repairs. Completed forms should be emailed to inghamgc2021@gmail.com. The $25 green fee per player is to be paid in cash on the day. So grab your best mates, golf buddies and clubs, its time to scramble!

WHAT: Cane Season Ambrose Golf Day (4 Player Ambrose)
WHEN: Sunday, 25th May 2025 – 10:00am for 10:30am tee off
WHERE: Ingham Golf Club
ENTRY: $25 per player / $100 per team (Card only, paid on the day)

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Get those racquet ready as the Ingham Tennis Club is offering FREE Junior Coaching session! These sessions offer fun games and tennis tips delivered by the club's tennis coach and dedicated club volunteers.

Monday 5th May (Labor Day Holiday)
9:30am – 10:30am for ages 5–9
10:30am – 11:30am for ages 10–17

Tuesday 17th June
3:30pm – 4:30pm for ages 5–9
4:30pm – 5:30pm for ages 10–17

To register your interest, please contact Coach Tom Casey on: 0413 199 702.

This program is proudly sponsored by Powerlink Queensland and the sessions will be held at the Ingham Tennis Courts, located next to the Showgrounds.

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Perfect weather set the stage for a thrilling day of semi-final action in the Championship Singles, with four fiercely contested rounds played across A and B Grades. Spectators were treated to a display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship as players battled it out on the greens.

In the A Grade, G. Wright edged out J. Fenoglio in a tight contest, finishing 25–19, while E. Piotto claimed a strong 25–15 win over N. Evans. B Grade saw equally gripping games, with T. Rhodes dominating 26–14 against N. Mammerella and Jan Johnson narrowly securing victory over D. Tomba, 25–21.

The finals of the Championship Fours were played in good conditions, with M. Spano, J. Casanovas, J. Fenoglio, and N. Evans delivering a commanding 36–10 win over J. Johnson, D. Tomba, A. Foti, and T. Rhodes.

Social play also delivered plenty of highlights. M. Moore and B. Eddleston triumphed 20–16 over N. Mammerella and J. Fenoglio. Meanwhile, J. Bell, D. Tomba, and T. Mawson outplayed J. Johnson, I. Byrnes, and A. Foti with a solid 20–11 win. In a spirited fours match, M. Spano, L. DiBella, J. Craven, and L. Melvin took a commanding 22–17 win over the team of G. Wright, T. Rhodes, S. Ryan, and E. Piotto.

Additional social results saw N. Mammerella, M. Moore, and T. Mawson edge out I. Byrnes, B. Eddleston, and A. Rutherford 21–16, while L. DiBella and L. Melvin narrowly defeated S. Ryan and E. Piotto 19–18.

Contributed with thanks to Sandy Ryan

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On Saturday the 19th of April, the 69th Palm Creek Park Run was held.
There was a total of 40 parkrunners and 7 volunteers.

This event is free to participate in, all you need is your Park Run barcode to scan if you would like to log your time. Anyone can join in, walk, jog, run, sprint as long as you give it a go, even the dog is welcome!

Come along next week on 26th at 7am to one of Hinchinbrook's two local Park Run's - At the Cardwell Foreshore for the Cardwell Park Run or at Palm Creek Park for the Ingham Park Run.

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Elisha is inspired by professional players Alex de Minaur and Novak Djokovic, and has had the chance to see them play live at the Australian Open. Next month, she will be trailing to be a ball girl for the 2026 Australian Open — an exciting opportunity!

At her local Ingham club, Elisha appreciates the great coaching, the multiple sessions available each week, and the chance to be grouped with players of a similar ability. She hopes to start competing in tournaments later this year.

A big fan of professional tennis, Elisha has attended the Australian Open twice. One of her favourite memories is watching Djokovic play Nick Kyrgios in a pre-tournament match.

Outside of tennis, Elisha also participates in the Herbert River Athletics Club and enjoys wakeboarding as a hobby, but tennis remains her favourite sport.

A group of talented Ingham Squash juniors recently travelled to Townsville to compete in a Northern region squash tournament. The event was held at the Dalrymple Squash Centre and was part of the selection process for Northern juniors to be selected into the Northern Redbacks team to compete at the Queensland Junior Championships.

Juniors from Mackay to Cairns took part in the two-day event ranging in ages from under 10 to under 19. Our Ingham contingent played extremely well against some of the best players in the North and almost all players received a podium finish. In division four local lad, Ashton Hoyle and Maraka princess, Hazel Cary finished second and first respectively. Oliver Hoyle finished second in division three against a class field, while Oliver Flynn finished third in division two. Queensland representative player, Liam Fascetti outclassed his competitors winning division one. Senior girl player, Kara Nash, who continues to improve with every tournament, fought her way to third place in the girl’s division. Other players who participated and played well, gaining valuable experience, were Clint Seri and Niko Dillon.

Players are now training hard for next weekend’s compulsory tournament in Mackay where the Northern Region Redbacks team will be announced. Good luck!

Ingham Tennis has started the year with one of the wettest seasons in recent memory. However, with the worst of the weather now behind us, we’re looking forward to what is often the best time of year to be outdoors—playing sport, staying active, and catching up with friends. Term Two Tennis will begin after Easter, with Mixed Tennis running on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6:30 PM.

Junior Social Tennis is held on Tuesdays at 3:30 PM and is perfect for kids with some prior tennis experience. For beginners or those looking to improve their skills, coaching lessons are available with Tom on Thursdays and Fridays, with group sessions offered for all ages and no experience necessary.

Tennis is a fantastic sport for kids—it's fun, social, and provides a safe environment to learn valuable life skills. It’s also a sport they can enjoy for life. This year, we’re excited to offer free coaching sessions proudly supported by Powerlink. Whether your child is new to tennis or has played before, they are welcome to join in. It’s a great opportunity to try the sport without any commitment.

Pickleball is also available on Monday nights, and there’s no need to book—just come down and give it a try! For more details, contact Gordon on 0409 092 058.

And don’t forget—FairPlay vouchers (valued at $200) are accepted by the club and can be used toward kids’ sport fees. For more information about Mixed Tennis: Contact Richard on 0428 152 125 or Steve on 0488 763 270 and for Junior Coaching: Contact Tom on 0413 199 702.

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What a fantastic way to finish the final day of term, with a strong turnout despite the extreme heat. Thanks to the dedication and quick recovery efforts following recent flood damage, the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre was restored and ready just in time for the big event!

Rice dominated the carnival, claiming the Overall House Championship, as well as the titles for Junior Boys, Senior Girls, and the coveted Spirit Trophy. McAuley also put on a strong performance, taking home victories in the Junior Girls and Senior Boys divisions. O'Meara made a splash by winning the highly anticipated Teacher Relay, although this was their only win on the day. Adding a fun and meaningful touch to the day, the “Sponge a Teacher” novelty event raised over $150 for the Year 12 Graduation Fund.

Age Champions
12 Years – Boys: Nate Ihle | Girls: Claire Reid
13 Years – Boys: Charlie Reid | Girls: Eva Grace Hutchings
14 Years – Boys: Kadin Astorquia | Girls: Lara Biasi
15 Years – Boys: Jett Reid & Brayden Marino (tie) | Girls: Shae Butler
16 Years – Boys: Lucas Masters | Girls: Jess Furber
Opens – Boys: Cooper Barnes | Girls: Louise Kaurila

Record-Breaking Swims
Lucas Masters had an incredible day in the pool, breaking several long-standing records:
100m Freestyle – 1:01.15 (Previous: 1:02.91 by Nicholas Di Bella, 2020)
50m Freestyle – 26.43 (Previous: 28.38 by Nicholas Di Bella, 2020)
50m Butterfly – 30.79 (Previous: 31.40 by T. Southern, 2007)

Special mention also goes to Lucas for his selection in the North Region School Swimming Team! Competing in Brisbane across a three-day event, he achieved outstanding PBs and proudly served as co-captain of the team. Well done to all the swimmers, lifeguards and teachers for truly getting behind the carnival spirit!

Evandah Bann has cemented his place as Australia’s 'Fastest Man On Sand' after clinching the gold medal in the U19 male beach sprint at the 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships. For Evandah, this was a victory and a thrilling triumph that capped off a remarkable season and years of training progression. The gold is just the latest milestone in his rapidly growing career. But it’s not just individual glory—Evandah’s spirit shines through in the team challenge, where his dedication helped propel the U19 relay team onto the winner's podium as well.

A Triumphant Team!
Local Surf Life Savers Bring Back National Medals

Evandah Bann has firmly established himself in the Forrest Beach S.L.S.C's history books by bringing home numerous medals back to North Queensland after competing in The 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships. Evandah has competed before but this year he truly earned the title 'The Fastest Man On Sand'.

In a nail-biting finish, the crowd cheered as Evandah powered through to claim gold. Edging out his competitors in the U19 male beach sprint with a perfect combination of speed, technique, and raw determination, his victory is not just a reflection of his natural talent but also of the hard work and dedication that have been the hallmarks of his training. This gold medal is a crowning achievement in a season that has already seen Evandah rise through the ranks of Australian beach sprinting.

It is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the occupation that keeps many beach-goers safe, and the countless hours of preparation he has put in. But beyond his individual glory, Evandah’s impact is felt within his team. As a key player in the U19 beach relay team, Evandah was also part of a team that secured a silver medal finish. Having achieved the same position last year, this marks Evandah third national silver in the relay, alongside Jared, who also earned his third, and newcomers Rawiri and Mike, who stepped up onto the national podium for the first time.

Under the guidance of coach Lenny, Evandah and the team’s achievement is a reflection of years of hard work and belief in one another. Lenny, who has long been a fixture at Forrest Beach, has instilled a sense of community and resilience in his athletes, guiding them not just to medals, but to personal excellence.

For Evandah Bann, the gold medal in the beach sprint and the silver in the relay represent not just a victory, but the culmination of a team and community effort that highlights the strength and support behind his rise to the top.

The Herbert River Crushers RLFC have received a practical donation of sporting equipment from the National Australian Bank (NAB) in the form of sleek, new goal post pads. Simon Hitchcock, the NAB Ingham Branch Manager and his team presented the Crushers Club President and committee members with the new pads reflecting the donation as an opportunity to get the local sports clubs back on track after the recent floods.

Flood Recovery In Action

Mr. Hitchcock stated that NAB had, "a focus program with 'NAB Local' that gives us the ability at a local level to see where there are community groups in need. For instance Joe mentioned to me during the middle of the floods that the old goal post pads got washed away, and that they were quite badly deteriorated. So that absolutely gives us the opportunity to support a club that needs help."

He added that, "We're also looking to support the soccer team next door as they've lost a lot of kitchen equipment. We're going to assist like we have here, so our local clubs can get back on their feet sooner."

Matthew Chiesa the Crushers RLFC club president, was grateful for the donations saying that "With everything having been underwater, it was a tough gig straight off the bat to get a disaster like the floods, one of the biggest ones we've had. But to see the community coming together since then has been good. Everyone's doing a little bit and everyone's come on board so, every little bit is appreciated."

The sentiment was echoed by Joe Pennisi, Crushers RLFC club committee member & grounds keeper, as he set the new pads on the goal posts saying, "We thank NAB for their support. We lost our pads because we thought it was pretty safe for them be at the show grounds for training. But then the flood happened and they got washed away, they got absolutely destroyed in the slop of the flood water."

He added that everybody in the club couldn't wait to use the new pads and show their appreciation, "These new ones are fantastic and we'll use them for game day to thank them for their support. It's just fantastic that they can show such support to the community, and it means everything to get the players back on the field."

Noorla Bowls Club has announced a new date for its Ladies Goodwill Game after the initial event was postponed due to wet weather. The match is now set to take place on Wednesday, April 9, with the same format and invitations extended to sister clubs in Ingham.

As per the original plan, men from Ingham’s clubs are also welcome to participate, ensuring a day of friendly competition and camaraderie. Organisers are hopeful that the weather will cooperate this time, allowing bowlers to enjoy the much-anticipated event.

Players interested in joining are asked to submit their names to Rosemary, Carmen, or at the clubhouse by Monday, April 7. Noorla Bowls Club looks forward to seeing a great turnout for what promises to be an enjoyable day on the greens.

For more information, contact the club.