It has been a lively and memorable week at the Ingham Bowls Club as members wrapped up the final events of 2025 with strong turnouts, good humour and festive cheer. Barefoot Bowls celebrated its final night of the year with an impressive crowd taking to the green. Players enjoyed a relaxed evening of friendly competition before gathering for a well-earned barbecue and Christmas cake. The club extended its thanks to everyone who supported Barefoot Bowls throughout the season and looks forward to welcoming players back in the new year. The Men’s Friday Pairs event also attracted excellent participation, with bowlers turning out for both their scheduled games and the much-loved cane-cutter smoko. The club expressed its appreciation to the men for their ongoing commitment and support. A highlight of the week was the special Ladies’ Sponsored Christmas Afternoon, which drew 56 players despite the hot and humid conditions. President Elsa acknowledged the hard work of the men in running the club and presented them with a donation in recognition of their efforts. The afternoon concluded with a beautifully prepared high tea, enjoyed by all and adding a touch of festive indulgence to the occasion. The week’s events reflected the strong camaraderie and community spirit that continue to define the Ingham Bowls Club.
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Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club will be extending the gear shed to make a new Clubhouse for our Junior Club members. Club Vice President and Building Committee Chair, Kris Reid said, "Our Club would like to thank the Gambling Benefit Fund for $100,000 received to create a Clubhouse for our Nipper program, and we are now seeking quotes from builders to help us make our vision a reality". Forrest Beach Nippers have surged in numbers in recent years and including achieving recognition at a State level, winning the Junior Club of the year in 2024. "There is nothing better than seeing our young club members having fun, making friends and gaining lifesaving skills and we are looking forward to starting next season in our new Junior Clubhouse", Melissa Hall, Junior Activities Chair. If your business is interested in quoting for these works, contact Forrest Beach Lifesaving on fbslsc1@bigpond.com
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By Victoria Velton The temperatures may be climbing, but that won't stop folks from getting out and moving about. Amazing work by Julian from Palm Creek for his new PB, I don't know how he has all that energy to run full tilt the entire 5ks, but kudos to him! Now, a big misconception is that Parkrun is all about running full speed like Julian does - yes, I know it's in the name - but many of us enjoy a jog or a walk too. For many, Parkrun is about getting up and getting healthy, finding joy in exercising together as a community, and feeling proud together as we cheer each other on. Or, if you're not into any of that, simply put on your headphones and enjoy the scenery; we don't judge out here on the track. It's all about enjoying Parkrun your way and we would love to see more out there! Parkrun Results: 6th December Palm Creek #102 – 20 participants First finisher: Julian (19:24) Final finisher: Bridgette (52:47) PBs: Julian (19:24), Jason of 'Team Runna'(23:56) Volunteers: Tracey Castles, Sandra Coco, Ted Cogger, Bridgette Duffy, Matteo Mancuso. Cardwell #364 – 21 participants First finisher: Jason (22:50) Final finisher: Kerry (47:02) First timers: Marcela Terry Curtin, Ben Dean, Matthew Gardiner, Kerry Snell, Lyndel Weare.
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Thursday night’s mixed tennis finals delivered a spirited end to the season, bringing players of all ages and abilities together for a close and entertaining contest. The atmosphere courtside stayed lively throughout the night and the margin between the top teams came down to only a handful of games. Team Room For Improvement: Steve Dahlstrom, Geoff Casanovas, Norm Scott and Macie Casanovas, claimed the victory after a tight battle. With Team Here For Fun: Peter Stocker, Susan Dibartolo, Miles Dahlstrom and Lynda Kelley, finishing as runners-up, with Richard Reeke stepping in for Stocker on the night. Players wrapped up the competition with pizza, drinks and plenty of laughs. It was a relaxed and enjoyable way to celebrate another successful season of community tennis. (Contributed with thanks by Geoff Caso of the Ingham Tennis Association)
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By Victoria Velton
Next week is Seafest in Cardwell, and guess what? Park Run is on the official itinerary! This means long-term Cardwell volunteer Terry gets a goodbye with a bang, and everyone else gets to run with all the visitors in town for the festival. In Palm Creek, it was a day for PB's with 5 runners improving their times.
This week in Cardwell, runners enjoyed the morning despite the summer humidity, with a juicy watermelon at the finish line proving the perfect refreshment. Congratulations to Judy who reached her 25th Park Run. With Terry�E��Es farewell just around the corner, everyone is invited to join in, run together, and help send him off in true Cardwell style.
Parkrun Results: 27th September 2025
Palm Creek #92 �E��E 22 participants
Fastest time: Jayson (20:36)
Final finisher: Erin (57:17)
PBs: Eli (27:44), Marika (30:22), Courtney (31:31), Brett (31:53), Victoria (35:28)
First-timers: Evie (28:18), Amie (28:21), Michael (54:18)
Volunteers: Erin Cerutti, Sandra Coco, Ted Cogger, Bridgette Duffy, Julie Macpherson, Matteo Mancuso
Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club is excited to announce the launch of its first Silver Salties program, designed to support fitness, movement, and social connection for locals with a touch of silver in their hair.
The program will kick off with six weeks of Chair Aerobics classes held at the Surf Club. These sessions are designed to improve range of movement, muscle tone, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness, all in a friendly and supportive environment.
To get things started, classes will run on the following dates:
Tuesday 23 September, 8�E��E�E���E��E9am and 5�E��E�E���E��E6pm
Tuesday 30 September, 5�E��E�E���E��E6pm
Thursday 2 October, 5�E��E�E���E��E6pm
With a focus on fun, friendship, and wellbeing, Silver Salties is the perfect way to stay active while enjoying the company of others. For more information or to register, email fbslsc1@bigpond.com
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Last week, the Ingham Bridge Club recently welcomed players from across North Queensland for the annual Hinchinbrook Challenge Congress, proudly supported by Hinchinbrook Shire Council�E��E�E���E��Es Community Grants funding program.
Winners
Section A: Steve Vigh & Marlies Maussen (Ingham Club)
Section B: Korma Byrne & Sandy Mollenhagen (Tully Club)
Section C: Alan Giles & Ken Muhling (Ingham Club)
Congratulations to all competitors for making it a memorable weekend of bridge, camaraderie, and friendly rivalry.
Contributed with thanks by Donna Marbelli, Councillor of Hinchinbrook Shire
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Ingham Flames gymnasts Bella and Imogen Giorcelli shone at the recent Junior State Championships for Women's Artistic Gymnastics at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Brisbane.
Imogen competed in level 4 open and placed 18th for All Around, with a 9th placing on beam and Bella competed in level 6 under 13 and placed 21st for All Around.
The athletes have been preparing for the Championships for the last few months and inspire many children in the Club with their skills and determination.
Contributed with thanks by Helen Stanton
The Herbert River Netball Association has capped off a fantastic 2025 season, celebrating with its grand final and presentation night on Friday, September 5. The evening was a showcase of talent, teamwork, and community spirit, with exciting netball matches and plenty of support from the sidelines.
A Division
Winners: Marlins
Runners Up: Renegades
Player of the Final: Amberlee Hatcher
B Division Winners
Winners: Cyclones
Runners Up: Synergy
Player of the Final: Ella Bertucci
C Division
Winners: Yellow
Runners Up: Blue
Player of the Final: Ruby Myles
The night also celebrated individual excellence and dedication to the sport.
Players of the Year:
A Division: Montana Hanson & Meghan Marbelli
B Division: Maddison Giorcelli
C Division: Ruby Cockburn
Umpire Encouragement Award: Chloe Kopeshke
Club Person of the Year: Leanne Accornero
Champion Team: Cyclones
Just two days later, on the 7th of September, Herbert River teams travelled to Tully for the annual River Cup. Despite the rain, spirits were high and the players gave their all, proudly representing the association.
It has been a year to remember for Herbert River Netball �E��E�E���E��E both on and off the court. Congratulations to all players, coaches, umpires, and supporters who made the 2025 season such a success.
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The Ingham Tennis Association hosted a big weekend of competition with the Col Casswell Shield, a tournament held in honour of Col Casswell, a man who gave so much to tennis in North Queensland.
Among those who returned to Ingham for the event was former local Scott Kittle, who reflected on fond memories of growing up in the town. Standing in front of the honour boards bearing his parents�E��E�E���E��E names, Kittle said, "s great to be back in Ingham for the Col Casswell Shield, whom I knew for over forty years. It was good to see teams from across the regions come together for such an enjoyable day of tennis.
I have so many memories of growing up and playing tennis in Ingham. Saturday afternoon fixtures would be Dad, my two sisters and myself to play, and back then all fourteen courts would be full. The Ingham Open Tournaments would draw over 300 entries, and matches would run until midnight, using every court across the district just to get through the draw.
Seeing all the Honour Boards of the Closed and Open Tournament winners, plus photos with so many familiar names, brought back great memories from those times. Hope to be back on court in Ingham again soon."
The Col Casswell Shield was established in 2023 to reinvigorate interclub tennis in North Queensland. It honours Col Casswell, who played in Proserpine, Mackay, Ayr and Home Hill, and served the Home Hill Tennis Association as secretary, club and regional delegate, and as a Tennis Queensland Board member before sadly passing away at age 60 from brain cancer.
This year�E��E�E���E��Es shield was particularly significant, coming after devastating floods earlier in the year that sent water through the clubhouse and over every court. Despite the damage, Ingham has bounced back with determination and looks forward to upgrading its facilities.
Contributed with thanks by Kate Casswell and Geoff Caso.
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"Wow, the humidity certainly came to visit today after rain earlier in the week. Well done to the 16 participants who walked or ran along the beautiful foreshore. Welcome to the visitors and congratulations to Eva on her 1st parkrun." - Cardwell Parkrun
Palm Creek #91 �E��E 27 participants
Fastest time: Duncan (18:39)
Final finisher: Sandra (1:00:46)
PBs: Zeke (25:22), Marika (30:41), Katrina (37:25), Edith (41:20), Audra (41:28)
First-timers: Brent (26:29), Lydie (41:45)
Volunteers: rin Cerutti, Sandra Coco, Bridgette Duffy, Donna Panzenbock, Amanda Towner
Photos sourced from the Cardwell Parkrun Facebook page.
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In the Consistency, M. Owens defeated J. Fenoglio in a close game before going on to win the Final game against N.Evans with 152/148.
Marie Owens is new to our club this year and it appears we have gained a very experienced member, the game was very closely fought all the way and congratulations to both ladies for playing great final bowls.
In the Club Championship Fours, J.Petersen, M.Moore, L.Dibella, E.Piotto vs T.Ackink. B.Eddleston, j.casanovas, S.Ryan with a score of 19/13.
In Social bowls, M.Moore, K.Rotondo, J.Fenoglio vs B.Eddleston, L.DiBella, E.Piotto with a score of 21/12. Followed by a win from team Irene, M.Spano, J.Casanovas vs Irene, A.Foti, J.Craven scoring 23/8.
Contributed with thanks by Sandy and Elsa of the Ingham Bowls Club
On Saturday, 20 September, the Noorla Bowling Club proudly marked its 90th anniversary with a celebration that brought members, friends, and families together. The day began with a meet and greet before guests took to the green for 21 ends of lawn bowls, followed by time to reconnect ahead of dinner.
The evening�E��E�E���E��Es atmosphere was lifted by live entertainment from Tony Fracchia, whose music encouraged dancing and plenty of laughter. Special guest Mayor of Hinchinbrook, Ramon Jayo, delivered a heartfelt speech, while Club President Gary reflected on the club�E��E�E���E��Es proud history and the dedication of its members over the decades.
Contributed with thanks by the Noorla Bowls Club
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By Victoria Velton
At the last parkrun, I was invited to learn how to become an official Parkrun Director. Sadly, this meant I could not run like I love to, but I now know how to set up, course inspect, and pack down a Parkrun. It was fun cheering you all on at the lap-turnaround. Happy 90th Palm Creek, what a huge turnout for both Parkruns, great job everyone.
I would also like to put out a call for more volunteers. Parkrun has different types of volunteer positions that suit all types of Saturday morning-ers. If you want to be active, you can tail or park-walk: calling out encouragement to participants. Or if you prefer to be more stationary, there's timekeeping and scanning barcodes as the runners cross the finish line. Parkrun doesn't happen without our wonderful volunteers, so give it a go!
Parkrun Results: 13th September 2025
Palm Creek #90 – 32 articipants
Fastest time: Duncan (18:35) PB
Final finisher: Steven (1:02:15)
PBs: Marika (30:54), Melissa (37:51), Kristina (42:01)
First-timers: Heath (28:32), Henie of AussieWalk (39:14), Charlotte (42:15), Blake (56:48), Melanie (1:01:58)
Volunteers: Blake Badenoch, Helen Digger, Bridgette Duffy, Kym Hazelton, Julie Mac Pherson, Matteo Mancuso, Steven Veltmeyer, Victoria Velton
Cardwell #352 – 17 participants
Fastest time: Nicolas (19:23) First Timer.
Final finisher: Judith (47:46)
PBs: Fiona (40:29)
First timers: Jacques (26:49), Emma (29:22), Matthew of Blyth RC (20:42)
Volunteers: Dave Ball, Zoe Ball, Judith Clarke, Terry Curtin, Jan Ferguson, Kerry Snell
Photos sourced from the Cardwell Parkrun Facebook page.
Scott had an impressive weekend, finishing second in the Kalynda Chase JDS Division 3. Some of our junior players also travelled to compete in the tournament. Scott won four games, earning his place in the final, where he was narrowly beaten by a junior from Kalynda Chase. Well done to all our juniors for their effort and sportsmanship!
These school holidays, we’re offering free tennis coaching! Sessions will be held on Tuesday, 23 September and Tuesday, 30 September from 8:30am to 11:30am for ages 5–13. Racquets will be available if you don’t have your own.
Come along, get active, and try tennis with our fully qualified coach. Fun skills development and games are guaranteed! To register your interest, call Coach Tom Casey on 0413 199 702. Sessions take place at the Ingham Tennis Courts, next to the Showgrounds.
WHAT: Free tennis coaching
WHEN: 23 September & 30 September, 8:30 am – 11:30 am
WHERE: Ingham Tennis Courts
Contributed with thanks by Geoff Caso of the Ingham Tennis Association
Calling all basketball fanatics! The Ingham Basketball Association Inc. have excitingly announced two of the biggest names in Australian basketball are coming to Ingham next Thursday the 25th of September to host an unforgettable She Hoops clinic program!
Three-time WNBA MVP and four-time WNBA Champion, Lauren Jackson and former Opals Captain, Tess Madgen will grace the Ingham State School courts from 9am to 10:30am for the community clinic.
“These incredible athletes aren’t just passing through – they’ll be right here in Ingham, running programs, inspiring our kids, and showcasing the pathway from small towns to the world stage,” shared the Ingham Basketball Association Inc. in a post online.
“This is a huge deal for our community. To have legends like Lauren and Tess in our backyard is something special – an opportunity for our players, families, and aspiring coaches to connect directly with the best of the best.”
Commonly referred to one of the greatest to ever play the game, Jackson has accumulated four Olympic Medals over the course of her basketball career and has been prestigiously inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Madgen has won several Medals including Bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Silver and Bronze in the FIBA World Cup, and has been named a WNBL Champion (2021 – 2022).
“We are also inviting local female coaches to come along, meet them, and get involved in the She Hoops initiative, which is all about empowering women and girls through basketball,” added the Ingham Basketball Association Inc.
“Let’s show Lauren and Tess that Ingham is ready to roll out the red carpet – this is one event you won’t want to miss!”
Additional details and registration information can be found online via the Ingham Basketball Association Inc.’s social media pages or via the QR code.
WHAT: She Hoops Basketball Clinic
WHEN: 9am to 10:30am Thursday, the 25th of September
WHERE: Ingham State School
Over 100 competitors from Townsville, Burdekin and Tully joined host Club Ingham Flames for the 2025 Ingham Flames Gymnastics Comp. A massive crowd of spectators supported and cheered on the athletes competing in trampoline, double mini trampoline, women's artistic gymnastics and men's artistic gymnastics.
A highlight was tumbling and trampoline displays, which featured synchronised trampolining by Momentum Gymnastics athletes, soon to be competing at National Clubs.
Trampolining is ramping up at Ingham Flames and term 4 off the back of this successful competition, which would not have been possible without the leadership and support from Katrina Dingley at Momentum Gymnastics.
Ingham Training Centre manager, Helen Stanton said, "We are grateful for Hinchinbrook Shire Council for supporting local sport through their Community Activity grant. To be able to offer a regional event for our local gymnasts to experience in front of family and friends is an amazing opportunity. It was so great to see so many happy kids doing what they love."
Head Coach, Connor Decampo said, "This event wouldn't be possible without the dedication of our local coaches and judges. I am immensely proud of you."
Last Tuesday the 2nd of September, the Lions Club of Ingham held the Annual Sportstar of the Year Awards.
The Herbert River Sub-Branch RSL in Ingham hosted the Annual Event, with over 130 people in attendance, including Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo, Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto and guest speaker 3-time Olympian Suzy Batkovic.
This year, judges Cr. Donna Marbelli, Maurie Soars and Stephen Farrell, former CEO of NQ Sports Foundation, were overwhelmed with the quality of the nominees. The Guest Speaker, Suzy Batkovic, one of Australia’s most decorated Basketball Players, gave an inspiring presentation on her sporting journey and to never give up. The guests were treated to the privilege of holding her 2 Silver and 1 Bronze Olympic Medals. She gave the athletes the hope that with persistence and hard work, making it to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics might not just be a dream.
An event like this is not possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Townsville Lime and Gypsum, Hip Pocket Work Wear, Wilmar Sugar and Carey Group.
Lions Club of Ingham Chairperson Sharon Fighera also congratulated all nominees and encouraged the athletes to continue to shine. Not everyone can be a winner tonight, but you already are just for being nominated.
The winners of this year’s Awards will be nominated by the Lions Club of Ingham for the NQ Sports Foundation Sportstar of the Year Awards, which will be held on 25th October 2025.
PDG Des Rooker – Recognition of Service Award – Awarded to a volunteer
Winner: Lenny Chiesa - Forrest Beach Surf Lifesaving Club & Crushers Rugby League
Runner Up: Maureen Lahtinen - Ingham Squash Racquets Assoc.
Team of the Year
Winner: FBSLSC U/19 Beach Relay Team
2nd: GSMC U/13 Boys Futsal Team
3rd: GSMC U/13 Junior Mixed Touch Football Team
Sports Innovation Team of the Year: GSMC Velocity Raptors - Hydrogen Powered Grand Prix
Junior Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Julian Cohen: Winner
Brax Roveda: Runner Up
Ty O’Halloran: Runner Up
Millie Bartolini: Encouragement Award
Joshua Gurnick-Stagnitta: Encouragement Award
Mikinley Blewitt: Encouragement Award
Mia Carr
Aurora Blewitt
Senior Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Liam Fascetti: Winner
Jess Furber: Runner Up
Spencer Riys: Encouragement Award
Evandah Bann
Brandon Hamilton-Kaurila
Masters Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Kelli Carbone: Winner
Para-Athlete Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Carla Pizzi: Winner
Luke Rosadi: Runner Up
Story and Photos contributed with thanks by Sharon Fighera
Find more pics here: https://tinyurl.com/26qqy462
By Victoria Velton
A sensational start to our Saturday and to September with lovely locals and a score of wonderful visitors. Palm Creek had folks from Melbourne, Cairns and Brisbane. For the last lap of the course at Palm Creek, a fellow Brisbanite joined me, and we kept each other motivated while recommending and reminiscing about old Brissy parkruns we had tried. We both had a lot of love for Mitchelton Parkrun, remembering how busy it always is.
For Cardwell, it was another lovely morning running and walking along the foreshore with Katie from the Red Earth Running crew taking out the top spot, and the rest of the Red Earthers not far behind.
Remember to register! You won't get your times or stats if you don't have your barcode.
Parkrun Results: 6th September 2025
Continued from back cover.
Palm Creek #89 – 24 participants
Fastest time: Jayson (19:45) PB
Final finisher: Matteo (54:45)
PBs: Jayson (19:45), Courtney (31:38), Judah (41:09)
First timers: Harry (21:51), Isabel (24:21), Scott (25:56), Ryder (29:36), Philip (46:29)
Volunteers: Erin Cerutti, Bridgette Duffy, Matteo Mancuso, Donna Panzenbock, Amanda Towner
Cardwell #351 – 13 participants
Fastest time: Kellie (25:13)
Final finisher: Matthew (51:31)
PBs: Janet (51:13)
First timers: Justin of WA Marathon Club (25:59)
Volunteers: Dave Ball, David Clarke, Terry Curtin, Anita Davina, Jan Ferguson, Matthew Gardiner, Rachelle Warlond
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