Katrina O'Brien and her Coral Trout. Photo supplied: Cardwell Sportfishing Club

‍

Katrina’s stunningly speckled coral trout has taken out this week’s Catch of the Week, showing off the quality of fish coming from our local waters. It’s certainly a catch worth celebrating!

‍

Do you want to flex your fishing skills in the newspaper? Send your fishing photo along with your name and what you caught to victoria@lifepublishinggroup.com to be featured in Catch of The Week!

‍

Photo credit: Cardwell Parkrun

‍

Palm Creek parkrun #144 – 31 participants

Fastest time: Julian Lee (18:46)

Final finisher: Christine Knickel (1:00:44)

PBs: 2 | First timers: 8

Volunteers: Sandra Coco, Erin Cerutti, Simon Niam, Matteo Mancuso, Christine Knickel

‍

Cardwell parkrun #405 – 30 participants

Fastest time: Jake Ball (21:54)

Final finishers: Phoebe Pembroke and Celeste Pembroke (1:10:30 and 1:10:31)

PBs: 0 | First timers: 7

Volunteers: Kerry Snell, Marcus Ritchie, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Celeste Pembroke, Phoebe Pembroke

‍

(L-R) J Bell, N Mammarella, K Rotondo & J Fenoglio. Photo supplied: Elsa Piotto

‍

Contributed with thanks by Sandy Ryan

‍

Conditions were again unfavourable for bowls, with the wind testing players’ ability to remain consistent throughout the day.

‍

The Club Fours final delivered exactly what a final should, with a thrilling one-point finish, seeing J. Bell, N. Mammarella, K. Rotondo and J. Fenoglio as they defeated D. Bull, M. Spano, L. DiBella and E. Piotto 17–16.

‍

In the Consistency Games on Monday, N. Mammarella defeated N. Evans 152–138, while M. Owen defeated J. Casanovas with 116 points.

‍

Social play took place, with A. Burns, B. Eddleston, A. Foti and S. Ryan defeating Mrs Mac, I. Byrns, M. Moore and D. Tomba.

‍

Year 11 and Year 12 Tully State High School students go head to head at the Walker Cup. Photo supplied

‍

The annual Walker Memorial Cup took place at Tully State High School last week, with the Year 12 team eventually taking the win after a close and competitive match.

‍

Held each year in honour of the two Walker boys who tragically passed away, their family has chosen to continue their legacy through sportsmanship and camaraderie.

The event also aims to raise awareness of men’s mental health, connection, mateship and looking out for one another.

‍

‍

Bruce Walker attended on the day and generously donated funds towards replacing the football goalposts on the school oval this year.

A battle between the year groups, the annual event sees the Year 11 team challenge the Year 12 team in a bout of friendly rivalry.

‍

‍

Player of the Game went to Mulacek (Year 10), who stepped up to play for the Year 12 team and was named Player of the Game by Andrew Cripps.

Meanwhile, the LJ Carlaw Medalist – Players’ Player award went to Ben (Year 12), who was voted Players’ Player by his teammates.

‍

‍

“Thank you to everyone from our school and wider community who came along to support our students. Your presence and support made the day even more meaningful,” said a school spokesperson.

‍

‍

‍

Anglers hoping to throw a line into the 20th annual Cardwell Barra Bonanza will need to get their entries in soon, with registrations already approaching 80 per cent.

The Cairns Hardware Cardwell Barra Bonanza will return from October 22nd to 24th, bringing anglers together for one of North Queensland’s major catch-and-release sportfishing competitions.

‍

With places filling quickly, organisers are encouraging anyone planning to compete to register now rather than risk missing out. The 2026 event also offers plenty of incentive to get involved, with a major prize boat among the prizes available to entrants.

‍

The senior entrant prize is a custom wrapped 440 Quintrex Busta Boat and Trailer Package fitted with a 60hp Yamaha tiller-steer motor, valued at nearly $40,000.

‍

‍

Anglers will also be competing for the prestigious John Carter Trophy for Grand Champion Barramundi, with awards recognising senior and junior champions, runners-up, teams and veteran anglers.

‍

There will be prizes for anglers recording the largest accumulated lengths of Mangrove Jack, Javelin Fish and Threadfin Salmon, as well as Mystery Length and Best Photo awards.

‍

Teams can include two or three anglers, with no requirement for all team members to fish from the same boat.

The briefing night is Thursday, 22rd October at 6pm, at the Cardwell Community Centre where entrants are required to collect their entrant's bag with their shirt, brag mat, name tag (with number) and the rules. One person from each team must attend the briefing night.

‍

The fishing begins at 6am on Friday, 23rd October, with submissions closing at 4pm on Saturday, 24th October.

And for those chasing even more chances to win, the event’s Mega Raffle offers three tickets for $5, with prizes including vouchers, accommodation, tours and gift packs from businesses across the region.

‍

With registrations already nearing capacity, anglers are encouraged to secure their spot now. Register at cardwellsportfishingclub.com.au

‍

WHAT: Cardwell Barra Bonanza

WHEN: Fishing Friday, 23rd October 6am - Saturday, 24th October 4pm

‍

Young local athlete Chase Frumento represented Peninsula in baseball for the second consecutive year, earning MVP honours in the team's opening game at the 2026 State Championships. Photo supplied: Chloe Frumento

‍

Young local athlete Chase Frumento is proving his sporting talents extend well beyond one field.

‍

An accomplished young cricketer, Chase’s success on the cricket pitch has seen him represent Cricket Far North (CFN) for the past two years.  

Also hitting the athletics track, Chase has represented Peninsula in the throwing events of hammer throw, javelin, discus and shot put.

‍

But it doesn’t end there. Most recently, Chase added baseball to his arsenal, after his schoolteachers encouraged him to trial for the sport last year.

Despite being relatively new to the game, Chase successfully earned a place on the Peninsula team and competed at the 2025 state championships. The experience sparked interest, and Chase spent the following year training hard, developing his skills and learning more about the sport.

‍

His work paid off when he was once again selected for the Peninsula baseball team in 2026, earning the opportunity to compete at the state championships at Tivoli from 27th to 30th August.

‍

Chase wasted little time making his mark on the competition.

‍

In Peninsula’s opening game against Met West, he was named the team’s Most Valuable Player following an impressive performance that included stealing bases and executing double plays.

‍

While his growing list of individual achievements is something to be proud of, what Chase particularly enjoys is being part of a team, experiencing the camaraderie and meeting new people.

‍

Now, Chase is continuing to train and develop across his chosen sports, with his sights set on an even bigger goal for the future: earning a sporting scholarship.

Works are now underway for the Ingham Tennis Courts. Photo source: Ingham Tennis Association

‍

Work is now underway to give the Ingham Tennis Association’s facilities a major upgrade.

‍

The works will see significant improvements across the club’s existing courts, including the rear courts being lifted, a retaining wall installed and new concrete laid, while the front courts will also receive new concrete.

‍

All of the courts will receive new black fencing and be resurfaced as part of the works, giving the facility a major refresh and improving the playing areas for the local tennis community.

‍

The project will also expand the club’s sporting opportunities, with six dedicated pickleball courts included in the new layout plan.

The pickleball court are planned to be positioned through the centre of the facility, with the arrangement also designed to provide spectator areas for tournaments.

Courts 1 and 2 will serve as the club’s show courts, with the largest possible rear, centre and side run-off areas incorporated into the design.

‍

Courts 4 and 5 will have the minimum required side and centre run-off, while the rear courts will mirror the upper courts for their side and centre run-off areas, with the rear run-off kept to the minimum required.

‍

The existing central lights prevent a seventh pickleball court from being added, so the area will instead be used as a social space.

The redevelopment will also include new drainage near the clubhouse, with tap locations incorporated into the plan to provide adequate water pressure for cleaning the rear and side courts.

‍

‍

There is also potential for a drinking fountain to be installed near the planned covered tables, adding another amenity for players and spectators.

‍

The Ingham Tennis Association has welcomed the start of the works, with courts 6 and 7 remaining available during construction so junior and adult players can continue to play while the redevelopment progresses.

‍

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa MP also praised the upgrade.

‍

“I’m pleased to see work underway to give the Ingham Tennis Association a much-needed facelift, supported by my election commitment and funding through the Sport and Recreation Recovery Grant,” Mr Chiesa said.

‍

The project will provide the Ingham Tennis Association with upgraded tennis facilities while also creating dedicated spaces for the growing sport of pickleball and improved areas for players, spectators and the wider club community.

‍

‍

Darcy Winter hefting up his huge Spanish Mackerel. Photo supplied: Herb Winter

‍

Darcy, that fish is almost taller than you! A MASSIVE mackerel to say the least, congratulation on a fantastic catch and what looks to be an awesome day on the water.

‍

Do you want to flex your fishing skills in the newspaper? Send your fishing photo along with your name and what you caught to victoria@lifepublishinggroup.com to be featured in Catch of The Week!

‍

Photo sourced: Cardwell Parkrun

‍

Palm Creek parkrun #143 – 23 participants
Fastest time: Julian Lee (19:54)
Final finishers: Kirra Towner and Amanda Towner (1:03:53)
PBs: 9 | First timers: 2
Volunteers: Ted Cogger, Simon Niam, Kirra Niam, Christine Knickel, Amanda Towner, Bridgette Duffy

‍

‍

Cardwell parkrun #404 – 29 participants
Fastest time: Jake Ball (22:24)
Final finisher: Ronald Avenell and Claudine Rivera (54:54)
PBs: 0 | First timers: 13
Volunteers: Anita Davina, Jake Ball, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Ronald Avenell, Claudine Rivera

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

Player of the Year Benn Campagnolo with Brad Chiesa (representative of the Moretto, Chiesa & Fletcher families) Photos credited: Donna Macarone

‍

By Peter Reitano

‍

The Herbert River Crushers held their Presentation Night last week at their clubhouse. A good crowd gathered to relive the season & award the players that stood out amongst their peers. In A-Grade back Benn Campagnolo, who had originally come to Ingham from the Townsville Blackhawks in 2025, was named the A-Grade Player of the Year, following on from his Player’s Player award that he had sealed earlier in the evening for the second year in a row.  

‍

Other awards went to Kyle Stewart (Best Back), who even though he is still young, is one of the senior leaders in the team; Jaia Poppi (Best Forward), who could not be present due to being away preparing for a Boxing Tournament, and Shaun Devietti (Rookie of the Year), who was playing his first full season of Senior league after turning 17 at the end of 2025.  

In Reserve Grade, five-eighth Tremayne Priestley won the Peter Seri, Graeme & Debbie Gibson Player of the Year medal. The equally talented centre Jerrmaine Nean was named Most Consistent; back Riley Dickson (Coaches Award); Hezekiah Nona, who often backed up from Under 19s, was named Most Improved; and hooker Keith Kyle, who alternated a bit between the backs and forwards, was named Best Forward.  

‍

‍

In the Under 19s, lock Connor Matsen was named the Mark Cockburn & Billy Johnson Under 19s Medallist. Halfback Hezekiah Nona was named Player’s Player, with this being his first award of the night before receiving an award in Reserve Grade. Winger Rawiri Bartlem was named Most Improved, Utility Riley Morris received the Coaches Award, while hooker Aiden Steadman was named Most Consistent.  

‍

Special Awards went to A-Grade Captain Dylan Gaggiano (most points), Tremayne Priestley (Most Tries) and Benn Campagnolo (Dennis Quagliotto Representative Player of the Year). Josh Macarone and Kyle Stewart co-jointly received the Martha Wilkie Spirit of the Club Award. Tracey Chinotti also received a gift of flowers as a thank you for all that she did on the ladies' side for the year.  

‍

‍

Club Legend, stalwart, backbone and President Matthew Chiesa, stated that his mentor, Joe Pennisi, was named Club Person of the Year. Joe spends endless hours at the grounds getting them prepared for games, is there on Game Days and travelling away with the teams.  

‍

The Crushers President and Coaches thanked all Players, Committee, Sponsors and Supporters for their involvement in the club in 2026. The club is now starting to prepare for the 2027 season.

‍

‍

See more photos here: www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/campagnolo-wins-morettto-chiesa-fletcher-medal

‍

For the Ingham Ladies Bowls, the next round of Club Fours was played, with another closely fought game keeping players on their toes.

‍

J. Bell, N. Mammarella, K. Rotondo and J. Fenoglio claimed a 13-11 victory over B. Eddleston, D. Tomba, G. Wright and J. Craven.

Social play also continued, with T. Arkink, L. DiBella and M. Own winning 18-15 over J. Johnson, A. Foti and E. Piotto.

‍

D. Bull, I. Byrns and S. Ryan also finished ahead, defeating M. Clancy, M. Moore and T. Rhodes 18-13.

‍

Contributed with thanks by Sandy Ryan, Ingham Bowls Club

‍

Last year’s winner, Marco Lapico, with his 108cm barramundi. Photo supplied: Cardwell Sportfishing Club

‍

The Cardwell Sportfishing Club will celebrate 20th anniversary of its iconic Cardwell Barra Bonanza when the tournament returns from October 22 to 24, 2026, with a bigger field, a $80000 prize pool and the chance for one lucky competitor to take home a new boat.  

‍

This year's competition will welcome up to 300 senior competitors, an increase from the previous limit of 250, while junior entries will remain unlimited. The major prize is a Quintrex 440 Busta fitted with a 60 hp Yamana outboard which will be awarded to one of the 300 senior entrants in a prize draw at the presentation evening. Competitors must be present at the presentation to claim the prize.  

‍

‍

The public are also invited to join the celebrations on Saturday, 24th October, at the Cardwell Community Centre, where Koffin Rockers will provide the entertainment and a selection of food vans will be on hand throughout the evening.

The Barra Bonanza is a catch-and-release tournament, with competitors able to fish individually or as part of a two or three-person team. All catches are photographed on a tournament-issued bragmat and submitted electronically for assessment, with prizes awarded for barramundi, mangrove jack, grunter and threadfin salmon.  

Competitors can chase both individual and team prizes, with awards based on the largest fish caught as well as the combined length of fish caught throughout the competition.  

‍

‍

The event has become the Cardwell Sportfishing Club's major competition of the year, attracting anglers from across Australia.  

‍

The Club said that Barra Bonanza would not be possible without the support of its sponsors, including Naming Rights Sponsor Cairns Hardware, Platinum Sponsors Carmin and Anaconda, Gold Sponsors Cav's Marine & Outdoor, Kai's Signs, Shimano, Fishfeen, Economic Development Queensland and Silver Sponsors Solahart Cairns, BWS Cardwell, Cassowary Coast Regional Council, Qld Steel & Equipment, Tackleworld Tully, Hinchinbrook & Cassowary Coast Life newspaper and Lanotec.

Regristrations for the 2026 Cardwell Barra Bonanza close on Thursday, 8th October, or earlier if the 300-entry limit is reached. Anyone interested in competing can visit the Cardwell Barra Bonanza Facebook page or their website, www.cardwellsportfishingclub.com.au and follow the registration link.

‍

WHAT: Cardwell Barra Bonanza
WHEN: October 22–24, 2026
WHERE: Presentation evening at the Cardwell Community Centre

‍

Ten-year-old Kurrimine Beach gymnast Tess Soper is heading to Brisbane to compete in her first Queensland State Championships. Photo supplied

‍

What began as a dream for 10-year-old Kurrimine Beach gymnast Tess Soper is about to become a reality, with the young athlete qualifying for her first Queensland State Championships.

‍

Tess will travel to Brisbane with her family and coach this month to represent Tully Gymnastics and Trampoline Club (TGTC) at the Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Level 4 State Championships.

‍

“I was so happy and excited, it was my dream,” Tess said of finding out she had qualified.

‍

Tess began gymnastics recreationally at TGTC before progressing into the club’s competitive program under coach Greg Corsiglia.

Her talent was already shining through in 2025 when she became the Level 3 Regional Champion in vault – an achievement that seems fitting given it remains her favourite apparatus.

‍

Ahead of her State Championships debut, Tess said she plans to give the competition her all.

Before performing, she mentally runs through each routine, helping her feel confident about what she needs to do once she steps onto the floor.

‍

‍

Among her biggest inspirations is Australian gymnast Georgia Godwin, whose decorated career includes Commonwealth Games gold medals and Olympic representation.

‍

Tess has even read all of Godwin’s books and looks to the Australian champion as an example of what dedication and hard work can achieve.

Coach Greg Corsiglia said Tess's own determination had been instrumental in her success.

‍

“Tess is an extremely talented gymnast who is dedicated, goal driven and a hard worker,” he said.

‍

“These attributes have resulted in her being the youngest State qualifier from TGTC.”

‍

When she isn't training, Tess enjoys reading, spending time with her family and, perhaps unsurprisingly, tumbling around the house and yard.

There is also one tradition waiting for her at the end of a competition.

‍

Tess gets to choose the family meal – and more often than not, tuna bake gets the call.

‍

Tess will now take the next big step in her gymnastics journey when she heads south to Brisbane, carrying both her own ambitions and the support of her Kurrimine Beach and Tully communities with her.

Cohen Emmi was named Senior Player of the Year. Photo source: Tully Tigers Rugby League Football Club

‍

The Tully Tigers have wrapped up their 2026 season with a celebration of the players, families, coaches and volunteers who make the club what it is.

Held across two presentation nights at the Tully Leagues Club, the celebrations recognised the achievements of players across the junior and senior grades, while also shining a light on the many people who give their time behind the scenes.

From standout performances on the field to the countless jobs done off it, the nights were a fitting way to celebrate another season of Tigers football.

‍

Tully Tigers Celebrate 2026 Season

‍

By Victoria Velton

‍

The Tully Tigers have celebrated another season on the field, with players, coaches, volunteers and families coming together for the club’s 2026 presentation nights.

Held at the Tully Leagues Club across the end of August and start of September, the Junior and Senior presentation nights recognised the achievements and contributions of players across all grades, as well as the volunteers who helped keep the club running throughout the season.

‍

Phil Nona was recognised as the club’s Top Points Scorer after finishing the year with 128 points, while Darian Burton was named Top Try Scorer after crossing for 15 tries in Reserve Grade.

‍

Cohen Emmi was awarded Senior Player of the Year, while Mark Davis received Senior Club Person of the Year for his ongoing contribution to the club.

Amelia Solien was awarded the Tully Tigers Junior Player of the Year, a prestigious club honour recognising her achievements and potential as she continues her football journey.

‍

Davis was recognised for his willingness to help wherever needed, from managing players and handing out jerseys to helping fill teams, with the club describing him as a huge asset who always approaches the job with a smile.

‍

Cathy Cavallaro was named Junior Club Person of the Year for her work across the junior grades from U6 through to U17, while also helping out with the senior teams.

‍

A Grade

Coaches Award – Darian Burton

Best Back – Osbourne Ingui

Best Forward – William Blennerhassett and Diega Teaukura

Most Improved – Jamie Muriata

‍

Reserve Grade

Coaches Award – Samuael Ulutui

Best Back – Zackary Ketchell

Best Forward – Nathan Muriata

Most Improved – Richard Tamwoy

Gary ‘Gazza’ Aikens Reserve Grade Player of the Year – Darian Burton

‍

U19s

Coaches Award – Jaiden Mothe

Best Back – Case Durighello

Best Forward – Cooper McAllister

Most Improved – Benny Muriata

Player of the Year – Jackson Solien

‍

U17 Girls

Coaches Award – Edna Roumanu

Best Back – Amelia Solien

Best Forward – Amarri Con Goo

Best & Fairest – Mena Waira

‍

U16 Boys

Coaches Award – Neil ‘DJ’ Leo

Best Back – Archie Walker

Best Forward – Paul Con Goo

Best & Fairest – Jacquin Gutchen

‍

U15 Girls

Coaches Award – Urata Roumanu

Best Back – Mahalya Tabuai

Best Forward – Vanora Noonan

Best & Fairest – Hayley Jack

‍

U14 Boys

Coaches Award – Inez Ketchell

Best Back – Kelly Clifford

Best Forward – Graysen Sala

Best & Fairest – Logan Jesse

‍

U13 Boys

Coaches Award – Chad Watson

Best Back – Kyuss Crook

Best Forward – Malachi Williams

Best & Fairest – Wyatt Greenwood

‍

U13 Girls

Coaches Award – Mia Morice

Best Back – Zali Con Goo

Best Forward – Addison Sala

Best & Fairest – Ally-Rose Clayton-Payne

‍

‍

‍

See more photos here: www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/tully-tigers-celebrate-2026-season

Palm Creek parkrun #142 – 25 participants
Fastest time: Julian Lee (19:51)
Final finishers: Julie Mac Pherson (1:17:04)
PBs: 3 | First timers: 2
Volunteers: Bridgette Duffy, Sandra Coco, Donna Panzenbock, Helen Digger, Julie Mac Pherson, Nowell Tento

‍

‍

‍

Cardwell parkrun #403 – 15 participants
Fastest time: Neil Jesse (25:03)
Final finisher: Graeme Lake (55:32)
PBs: 2 | First timers: 4
Volunteers: Judith Clarke, Marcus Ritchie, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Graeme Lake, Kellie Ball

‍

‍

‍

Photos sourced and used with permission from Palm Creek & Cardwell Parkrun Facebook pages

‍