For The Col Casswell Shield

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

Parkrun Results: 20th September 2025

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

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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

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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 Takes Off at Ingham Flames

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

Ingham Tennis had plenty to celebrate following last week’s Junior Development Series (JDS), with several young players showcasing their skills on the court.

Riley Carr impressed as the Division 1 winner, while Miles battled strongly to finish runner-up in Division 4 Green Ball. Elisha also claimed runner-up in Division 5 Green Ball, showing great consistency throughout the competition. In Division 7 Orange Ball, Deon emerged as the winner, with Ayla finishing close behind as runner-up.

The results highlighted the strength of Ingham’s junior program, with both seasoned players and younger competitors achieving success. The strong performances are a sign of promising talent and dedication across all age groups.

Contributed with thanks by Geoff of the Ingham Tennis Association

On September 6th, Ingham hosted the 2025 Dean Schifilliti Shield, a premier Under-8 rugby league carnival that brought together 31 teams from across Queensland. Organised by the Herbert River Junior Rugby League, the event attracted approximately 3,000 visitors, making it one of the largest gatherings of young rugby talent in the region.

Now in its ninth year, the carnival honours Dean Schifilliti, a former professional rugby league player who began his career in Ingham. Schifilliti's legacy continues to inspire young athletes, with the event emphasising fun, participation and sportsmanship.

Throughout the day, teams engaged in friendly but competitive matches, fostering camaraderie and a strong sense of community. The coveted Shield was claimed by the North Devils from the North Thuringowa Rugby League Club at Bushland Beach, who impressed with their skill and teamwork.

The success of the Dean Schifilliti Shield is a testament to the dedication of Herbert River Junior Rugby League members and volunteers, as well as the support of local businesses and the wider community. Their combined efforts ensure the event remains a highlight of North Queensland’s sporting calendar, offering young athletes an invaluable opportunity to grow their skills, showcase their talent, and develop a lifelong passion for rugby league.

Social Pictures can be viewed here: https://tinyurl.com/2aqs8kfs

By Victoria Velton

What a month, and wow, what a way to finish up! Both Parkruns were packed, with so many achievements on the last parkrun of the month. Palm Creek really hit it out of the park, recording 8 PBs and welcoming 13 visitors to the looping track. Cardwell had just one visitor, all the way from Melbourne, but he made his presence felt, crossing the finish line first with the Red Earth Running Crew hot on his heels.

It’s fantastic to see the parkrun passion in both our locals and visitors. A huge shout out and thank you to the volunteers who keep parkrun going. Here’s to another month of running our socks off!

Parkrun Results: 30th August 2025

Palm Creek #88 – 35 participants
Fastest time: Nathan - 18:45 (PB)
Final finisher: Donna - 56:53
PBs: Kristina (42:25), Abbey (31:55), Marika (30:57), Amie (30:49), Emerson (27:48), Caden (24:24), Julian (19:29), Nathan (18:45)
First timers: Caden (26:57), Jodie (31:48), Philip (40:47), Mandy (52:03)
Volunteers: Sandra Coco, Helen Digger, Bridgette Duffy, Julie Mac Pherson, Matteo Mancuso, Donna Marbelli, Sandra Prove

Cardwell #350 – 11 participants
Fastest time: Philip – 21:15 (first timer)
Final finisher: Sophie – 52:12
First timers: Philip (21:15)
Volunteers: Dave Ball, Jake Ball, Bruce Ferguson, Jan Ferguson, Joshua Shipard, Robyn Shipard, Sophie Shipard, Lyndel Weare

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Ingham hosted the JDS over the weekend, with strong participation from our local juniors. Competitors also came from Townsville and Charters Towers to take part in the tournament. The orange ball division was especially popular, with many younger players getting involved and some taking out the division. Orange ball is played on a smaller court, giving younger children the chance to test their skills against kids from other towns.

In total, the tournament featured seven divisions: two orange ball divisions, several green ball divisions, and yellow divisions. We would like to thank all of our local juniors who took part—great work to everyone for having a go in such a friendly and encouraging environment.

We also extend our thanks to our major sponsors, Hinchinbrook Shire Council and Cheapa Auto Spares, as well as our court sponsors: Galipo’s, Icon, Tyrepower, Johnny’s Fish & Chips, Mitre Ten, Guido’s, Vella & Russo, SpinFX, Cellebration, Sports Power, Ingham Agencies, and Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers. We also appreciate donations from Devetti Mazda.

Three Herbert River netball teams recently travelled to Townsville to compete in the annual McDonald’s Netball Carnival, returning home with some outstanding results.

The Herbert River Halos secured first place in the Under 12 Division 7 competition, while Herbert River Havoc finished runners-up in the Under 15 Division 7. Synergy also enjoyed success, taking out third place in the Under 15 Division 5.

Adding to the celebrations, Chloe Kopeshke from Synergy was recognised with the prestigious Most Valuable Player award for her team’s division.

Meanwhile, the local netball season is set to conclude with the Grand Final and Presentation Night on Friday, the 5th of September. The evening will begin at 5:15pm and promises to be a true celebration of community spirit. Spectators are encouraged to come along, enjoy a barbecue dinner and refreshments from the bar, and support the teams as they contest the season’s top honours.

Contributed with thanks to Sara Barbagallo.