Last Tuesday 26 November the Lions Club of Ingham brought back their Sportstar of the Year Awards, an event welcomed back by the whole community after a four year hiatus.

Herbert River Sub Branch RSL – Ingham hosted the long awaited event. Over 130  people were in attendance including Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo and guest speaker Maurie Soars.

Maurie congratulated all nominees and winners, stating that they were all winners just for being nominated. Maurie also talked about the importance in volunteers, especially in rural communities, and encouraged everyone to get involved in local clubs.

Lions Club of Ingham Chairperson Sharon Fighera also congratulated all nominees on the night and said she hopes the Sportstar of the Year Awards will now be a permanent fixture in the local annual events calendar.

“Here is to hoping that they continue for many years to come, and continue to acknowledge the sporting talent and volunteers we have in our small town,” expressed Sharon.

List of all nominees and winners:
*NEW AWARD*
Recognition of Service Award – Rina Zatta & Brenda Oats – Herbert River Athletic Club

Team of the Year Nominees
Gilroy Santa Maria College Open Boys Cricket Team
Ingham Football Club Mens Division 1
Forrest Beach Surf Lifesaving Club Male Beach Sprint Team – WINNER

Junior Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Kyan Biasi
Rori Biasi
Kyla Guandalini
Lacey Jayasuria
Brax Roveda
Mariah Long
Adam Mammino – Runner Up
Jack Larsen – WINNER
Mikinley Blewitt
Billie Lahtinen
Lara Biasi
Molly-Rose Gaggiano
Levi Murray – Encouragement Award

Senior Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Kyrah Mancinelli
Millie-J Lino-Gofton
Jess Furber
Spencer Riys – Encouragement Award
Liam Fascetti – Runner Up
Jared Dau
Meshack David
Ally Rhodes
Evandah Bann – WINNER
Darius Lewin-Pearson

Masters Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Carmen Mugica
Joyce Buffa - WINNER

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Maurie Soars Guest Speaker and Judge
Lions Club of Ingham Chairperson Sharon Fighera
Lions Club of Ingham President Colin Dallavanzi, Rina Zatta and Brenda Oats
Team of the Year Nominees with Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo
Guest speaker Maurie Soars and Masters Sportstar of the Year Joyce Buffa
Junior Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Maurie Soars and Junior Sportstar of the Year Jack Larsen
Junior Sportstar of the Year Winner Jack Larsen, Maurie Soars, Runner-up Adam Mammino, and Encouragement award Levi Murray
Councillor Donna Marbelli and Senior Encouragement award Spencer Riys
Councillor Donna Marbelli and Runner-up Liam Fascetti
Guest speaker Maurie Soars, Lions Club of Ingham Chairperson Sharon Fighera, and Councillor Donna Marbelli
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Senior Sportstar of the Year Evandah Bann. Photo credit: Paula Henderson

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The Noorla Bowls Club wrapped up a lively week of events with two exciting competitions, showcasing impressive skills and camaraderie among bowlers.

Ladies Day Success
On Wednesday, November 20, the Noorla Bowls Club hosted its Ladies Day, drawing 18 enthusiastic bowlers for a day of triples competition. The event featured a special prize for the first toucher, which went to Johnny Leonardi.

The top honors of the day went to Terry George’s team, featuring Gail Bison and John Silvini, who finished with the highest score. Close behind, Albert Bison’s team of Johnny Leonardi and Joe Girgenti claimed the runners-up prize.

A heartfelt thank-you was extended to everyone who supported the club throughout the year—whether by attending, helping with smoko, buying raffle tickets, or assisting with cooking and preparations. The club's ladies will attend the Ingham Ladies Presentation Day next Wednesday, but the men are invited to keep the games going in their absence.

Sunday Jackpot Fours
On Sunday, December 1, Noorla’s Jackpot Fours competition unfolded under humid but dry conditions. Nygel and Jan Craven claimed victory, with Keith Wegert and Chrissy Hewitt taking the runners-up spot.

Looking ahead, next Sunday will see a return visit from South Townsville, promising another exciting day of bowls. Meanwhile, Wednesday bowls will proceed as scheduled, weather permitting, with names to be in by 1 p.m.

Noorla Bowls Club photograph from 2022. Photo sourced: Facebook

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The Russo brothers have been active members of the horse racing community for well over thirty years and show no sign of slowing their successful roll anytime soon.

Charlie, Angelo and Joe reflect on their trail of success with pride, and even following on from a lengthy twenty-year hiatus, the Russo’s are more than eager to jump back in the saddle, with big plans already in motion for 2025.

The Russo’s entered the industry in the 1990’s and made quite a name for themselves with their star stallion, Mr Rogers winning many races across the state, as well as a record place in the Sydney limelight.

In the beginning of the Russo’s horse racing career, Charlie trained each of the horses, with the trio all having a hand in the preparation process. However, more recently, Joe has picked up the reins and trains the horses himself down at the local club.

In the past couple of years, the Russo name has returned to the spotlight, particularly following last month’s Gold Cup celebratory win at the Herbert River Jockey Club on Saturday 19 November.

“He’s not a bad horse and Zouhope has won about four or five races for us, and this year he won the cup!” explained Joe.

“His win wasn’t a surprise; we were pretty confident – he’s a good horse.”

Although Saturday saw the Russo’s first Gold Cup victory, the brothers have celebrated many prestigious wins over their career, including several feature races such as 1998’s Cleveland Bay Handicap whilst also championing a Cluden training premiership, and Townsville Amateur Cup.

With 2025 on the horizon, the brothers hope to add an additional ten horses to the stable, bringing the total to fourteen stallions under the Russo name.

“We won just about everything all those years back from Townsville, to Brisbane, to Sydney – we do really enjoy our racing – we love it really,” added Joe.

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The Russo’s with their winning horse Zouhope and jockey Lacey Morrison on the Ingham track (Photo Credit Christopher Spencer).
Jockey, Lacey Morrison raced Zouhope over the finish line on 16 November (Photo Credit Christopher Spencer).
Joe, Charlie and Angelo Russo were confident Zouhope would take home a win (Photo Credit Christopher Spencer).
Jockey, Lacey Morrison and Zouhope being led by Charlie Russo (Photo Credit Christopher Spencer).

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The Herbert River Junior Crushers are on the lookout for passionate and skilled coaches to lead their teams into an exciting 2025 rugby league season.

The club is seeking dedicated individuals to coach boys' and girls' teams across all age groups, from Mini League (5 to 7 years old) through to U18s Boys and U17s Girls.

Whether you're an experienced mentor or an aspiring coach ready to make your mark, this is your opportunity to join a vibrant community and help develop the next generation of rugby league talent.

Age groups in need of coaches include:
🏈 Mini League (5-7 years)
🌞 U8s
🎉 U9s
🙋‍♂️ U10s
✅️ U11s
👌 U12s (Boys and Girls)
😎 U13s
🫡 U14s (Boys and Girls)
😁 U15s (Boys)
✨️ U16s (Boys)
🏉 U17s (Girls)
🥇 U18s (Boys)

If you’ve ever dreamed of following in the footsteps of coaching greats like Wayne Bennett or Craig Bellamy, the Crushers want to hear from you!

Applications close at 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2024. To apply, email your coaching credentials and expression of interest to hrjuniorrugbyleague@gmail.com.

Join the Crushers in their mission to make the 2025 season a success and foster a love for the game.

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The Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Club hit the road on 9 November, embarking on a successful trip to the stunning Tully Gorge. With perfect weather and breathtaking scenery, the day was a highlight for members. Adding to the excitement, several anglers managed to land impressive catches, capping off a truly enjoyable Tully outing.

Earlier this month marked the close of the 2024 barramundi season, and what a season it was! Club members celebrated an exceptional year, sharing photos and stories of their standout catches. These memories will undoubtedly tide them over until the highly anticipated 2025 season kicks off.

Contributed with thanks to the Hinchinbrook Sportsfishing Club.

Are you an avid fisherman with a passion for the hobby or know someone who loves a good day or two out on the water? We’re looking for an enthusiast to submit their tips, tricks, fishing stories and advice on a weekly basis to be featured as the Hinchinbrook Life’s Fishing Expert! Reach out and email Chelsea at Chelsea@LifePublishingGroup.Com to learn more information!

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Hinchinbrook Sportsfishing Club enjoyed a trip to Tully Gorge earlier this month.
What a catch! Tully Gorge saw plenty of members reel in a fish or two.
Club members had a fantastic time exploring the waters of Tully Gorge.
Bye bye barra season! Club members farewelled the 2024 barramundi season in style.
Many members reeled in impressive catches to conclude this year’s barra season.

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Junior basketball enthusiasts have something to look forward to this January, as Coach Travis Fisher brings his expertise back to the region for a two-day basketball clinic these summer school holidays. Following two sold-out sessions in April, this extended visit promises to deliver even more opportunities for young athletes to elevate their skills, thanks to the generous support of the Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

The clinic, scheduled for Thursday 16 and Friday 17 January 2025, will feature three engaging sessions led by Coach Travis, a State-Level Coach and founder of Own the Rock Academy. Known for his dedication to fostering talent across Queensland, Coach Travis has already clocked over 5,000 kilometres in past tours, bringing his basketball expertise to regional communities.

The clinic is open to athletes aged 8 to 17 years, with all skill levels welcome to join. The sessions are scheduled from 9an to 12pm on both days, and participants must wear closed-in footwear to ensure safety during activities.

Spaces for the clinic are limited, so early booking is highly recommended. To secure a spot, please visit www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au.

Don’t miss this chance to refine your basketball skills and join the fun. Stay tuned for more announcements as Coach Travis embarks on another impactful journey across the state.

What: Two Day Basketball Clinic.
When: Thursday 16 and Friday 17 January 2025.
Where: Cyclone Shelter, Ingham State High School.
More Information: www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au.

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With almost 30 years of basketball experience, Coach Travis Fisher will host an awesome clinic this January!

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A 12-year-old local boy Jack Larsen has been hitting the track as often as possible, his dedication and passion for the sport shining through as he zooms past his competitors on the track, bringing home a host of trophies.

Jack dreams of one day joining Formula 1 and loves the thrill of driving fast, winning races and beating his previous track times.

Jack’s 2024 calendar year has been full of accomplishments. He competed in the North Queensland Go Kart Events, the Queensland State Cup, Victorian State Titles but most importantly the Australian Kart Championships

At the Australian Kart Championships he competed in five different rounds of racing, in four states across the country.

Across the five rounds Jack secured an overall second place finish. Most excitingly for his second-place finish Jack was invited to ROK World Superfinal 2024 in Lonato, Italy.

In difficult conditions and with some setbacks during qualification, Jack started his race in Italy in 18th position but he managed to make up the distance, finishing sixth overall.

Jack’s Dad Darryl Larsen said it shows how fast Jack is out on the track, and with the limited time he has had practising he believes it is very impressive.

“Considering Jack only drives on weekends, whereas a lot of the guys he's against are at the track every day after school makes it even more impressive,” said Darryl.

“We are extremely proud of him, he's working hard, and has to keep working hard.”

Jack is currently supported by several local businesses and Jack and his entire family are grateful for their support.

Following his amazing performances this year, Jack has also been asked to compete in Italy again next year but as motorsport is considerably expensive it will only be possible if he has sponsorship or additional financial support.

If you would like to sponsor Jack in his efforts, please reach out to the family directly.

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Jack Larsen with his Trophies, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Fighting hard in the rain
Jack ready to race
Out on the track passing other competitors
Jack keeping it together in difficult conditions
Jack out on the track
Photos sourced: Facebook

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On 17 November, the Ingham Bowls Club hosted the highly anticipated final of the B Grade Pairs competition. A big congratulations to Hamish Dickerson and Jason Harrop, who emerged as the winners after an exciting and closely contested match. The pair played with impressive skill and determination, earning the well-deserved victory.

Equally deserving of praise are the runners-up, Jim Dickerson and Trevor Pallanza, who showed great sportsmanship and delivered a strong performance throughout the event. Well done to both teams for a thrilling final!

Looking ahead, the Ingham Bowls Club has a jam-packed week of events for both members and the wider community to enjoy including Wednesday Ladies Bowls, Thursday Barefoot Bowls, Friday Men’s Pairs, and Sunday’s Social Mixed Bowls.

Contributed with thanks to the Ingham Bowls Club.

Hamish Dickerson and Jason Harrop were the celebrated victors last weekend!

The Noorla Bowls Club held a wonderful Ladies Presentation Day on 14 November, celebrating a year of impressive bowling achievements. The event was a highlight for many, with members gathering to honour the winners of various competitions and enjoy each other’s company.

The winners of the Competition Pairs were Glen and Jan, who claimed top honours in a competitive field. A big congratulations also goes to the runners-up, Rosemary and Nella – well done to all four players!

A special thank you was extended to Carmen and Carla, whose efforts in decorating the tables and preparing the beautifully presented trophies and prize envelopes made the event even more memorable.

During the presentation of trophies, we also celebrated the victors of other key events:
   • 4s Winners: Sue Pizzi, Chris Hewitt, Dora Moggan, and Carla Pizzi
   • 4s Runners-Up: Rosemary Rose, Mia Bandeira, Nella Mancuso, and Gail Bison
   • Pairs Winners: Carla and Sue Pizzi
   • Pairs Runners-Up: Rosemary Rose and Nella Mancuso
   • A Grade Singles Winner: Carla Pizzi
   • A Grade Singles Runner-Up: Sue Pizzi
   • Thelma Lynch Consistency Trophy Winner: Sue Pizzi
   • Thelma Lynch Consistency Trophy Runner-Up: Rosemary Rose

The club is excited to see everyone back on the green in the near future, and wished all of their members good bowling and good health for 2025.

Contributed with thanks to Noorla Bowls Club.

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Top of the Pops! Winners Jan and Glen with President Rosemary.
The Club congratulated Runners Up Nella and Rosemary.
The Fours Champs celebrated their victory.
The Fours Runners Up were commended for their excellence.
The Noorla Bowls Club ladies and NQ Reps enjoyed a fabulous Presentation Day.

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The Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre was buzzing with excitement on 14 November, as Our Lady of Lourdes School Ingham joined forces with the Centre for an action-packed day of racing, showcasing some fantastic racing across all age groups.

The atmosphere was electric, with numerous "learn-to-swim" participants and squad members taking to the pool, eager to show off their skills. The Centre shared it was a heartwarming sight to see so many younger swimmers confidently competing in the races.

Contributed with thanks to the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre.

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Ryan took out the win for the 2024 Our Lady of Lourdes School swimming carnival.
Safety first! The Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre saw many novice swimmers take to the pool earlier this month.
Many students, and staff enjoyed the awesome Ryan Vs O’Connor carnival.

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Are you looking for a way to get active, have fun, and meet new people? The Ingham Tennis Association is the place to be for social tennis fixtures that promise friendly competition and a chance to get fitter while enjoying a laugh.
Here’s a look at the weekly tennis schedule:
   • Monday Night Pickleball: Join in for social games starting at 6:30pm. No need to sign up in advance - just turn up and enjoy some friendly play. For more information, call Gordon on 0409 092 058.
   • Tuesday Night Singles and Doubles: Starting at 6:30pm, this session features both singles and doubles matches in a 3-person team format. Play a variety of games and enjoy a fun night of tennis. For details, contact Steve on 0488 763 270.
   • Thursday Night Doubles: If doubles tennis is your thing, head down to the courts at 6:30pm. This session features a 4-person team format, making it perfect for those looking for a social, fast-paced game. Call Richard at 0428 152 125 for more information.
   • Wednesday Morning Ladies' Doubles: A relaxed and friendly doubles session for ladies, starting at 8:30am. If you’re interested, call Belinda on 0417 782 227 to join in the fun.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, these social fixtures are a great way to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy the wonderful sport of tennis.

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Pickleball is a new sport and great for all ages - just turn up on a Monday night and have some fun!

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The NQIB – Country Cups Challenge Qualifier Hinchinbrook Cup Raceday was a huge success earlier this month with organisers saying they were “very happy with the attendance”.
“We got the crowd we were hoping for, and more for a normal November meet,” they said.
Highlights on the day was the Fashions on the Field event which was a stand-out this year!
There were 10 Fashions Categories and over $10,000 worth of prizes.
“The Fashions itself, that were getting around trackside were phenomenal!”
Another highlight would be the amazing sponsorship the event received from the Ingham and Townsville business community.
“Without their generosity, we wouldn’t be able to have Race Day Events, or even, Fashions on the Field Events.”
Fashions on the Field Event
Judges were Marnie Davidson, Chelsea Burger and Jane Caffery.
Ingham Travel Classic Lady of the Track
Runner Up: Donna Smith
Winner: Amy Byrnes

Coffee Presto Contemporary Lady of the Track
Runner Up: Lolia Holder
Winner: Rachel Swarbrick

Snippers Boutique for Hair Millinery
Runner Up: Amy Byrnes
Winner: Hayley Place

Lifelong Supports Man of the Track
Runner Up: Bob Shaw
Winner: Peter Dibella

Northern Aroma Most Stylish Couple
Runner Up: Cheryl Shaw and Bob Shaw
Winner: Angelique Dibella and Peter Dibella
Living the Hinchinbrook Way (Local Category)
Winner: Sonia Milton

Best Dressed Family
Winner: Hayley, Brenton, Parker and Matilda Place

Best Dressed Junior Boy (0-11 years)
Winner: Parker Place

Best Dressed Junior Girl (0-11 years)
Winner: Matilda Place

There were no entrants in the Best Dressed Boy or Girl (12-17 years)

Spotter's Choice
Runner Up: Tahnee Bartolini
Winner: Amanda Truffa

Horse Racing Results

Horse racing was also a big part of the day, there were six local races on the day and all races were well contested with some very close finishers, especially Race 6, The Ingham Cellarbrations Ingham Gold Cup.

It was won by Joe Russo’s locally trained horse Zouhope.

After the races, the crowd were entertained with live music and DJ
Kids were also kept entertained during the day with face painting and balloon twisting.

Race Results

Race 1     COSCA ACCOUNTANT'S - MAIDEN PLATE  3-Y-O & Up. Set Weights  1100m
1st 1 Feargach Trainer. Alex Malliff Jockey. Nathan Day $12
2nd 2 Fivelineditty Trainer. Joe Russo Jockey. Ms L J Morrison $4.40
3rd 6 Miss Mildred Trainer. Matthew McGuire Jockey. S E Sheargold $3.20

Race 2    INGHAM CONCRETE / WILMAR SUGAR - QTIS BENCHMARK 55 HANDICAP  1200m
1st 2 Fast As Steel Trainer. Alwyn Bailey Jockey. Ms L J Morrison $2.80
2nd 5 Hit Snooze Trainer. Georgie Holt Jockey. Ms G S Semmens $4.40
3rd 3 Collombatti Trainer. Matthew McGuire Jockey. S E Sheargold $16

Race 3    INGHAM MAZDA - BENCHMARK 50 HANDICAP  1000m
1st 1 Jawgo Trainer. Alex Malliff Jockey. P G Romeo $2.20F
2nd 5 Tantrums Trainer. Bill Kenning Jockey. D Smith $6
3rd 2 Bean Warrior Trainer. Rodney Miller Jockey. Ms J S Edwards $13

Race 4    STOKES & COMPANY ACCOUNTANTS - CLASS B HANDICAP  1400m
1st 1 Tymon Trainer. Matthew McGuire Jockey. S E Sheargold $1.80F
2nd 3 Wong Way Trainer. Mark Dale Jockey. Ms G S Semmens $4
3rd 4 Russian Rose Trainer. Alex Malliff Jockey. N A Day $7

Race 5    NQIB COUNTRY CUPS CHALLENGE QUALIFIER / HINCHINBROOK CUP OPEN HANDICAP  1400m
1st 6 Aolani Trainer. Tom Button Jockey. Ms G S Semmens $2F
2nd 4 Loburn Lass Trainer. Alwyn Bailey Jockey. Ms L J Morrison $2.10
3rd 3 Savvy Sovereign Trainer. Matthew McGuire Jockey. S E Sheargold $4.40

Race 6    INGHAM CELLABRATIONS INGHAM GOLD CUP - BENCHMARK 60 HANDICAP  1600M
1st 4 Zouhope Trainer. Joe Russo Jockey. Ms L J Morrison $2.60
2nd 1 Going Nuclear Trainer. Matthew McGuire Jockey. S E Sheargold $2.50F
3rd 2 Tycoon Lad Trainer. Georgie Holt Jockey. A Butler $4.40

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Photo credit: Christopher Spencer

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