Confro Team and staff. Photo supplied

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Gilroy Santa Maria College (GSMC) is celebrating 30 years of QISSRL Confraternity Carnival competition, as the Herbert River school prepares to take on Queensland's biggest schoolboy rugby league tournament once again.

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Led by experienced coach Peter Groundwater, the boys from the canefields entered their first carnival in 1996 as underdogs going down in a semi final to St Brendan's College, Yeppoon in Mackay.  

Nowadays not much has changed, with the GSMC boys travelling to Marist Ashgrove this year as underdogs from one of the smallest schools in the competition, with players of all experience levels.

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“Our school community embraces the annual Confro and QISSN carnivals and this year being our 30th anniversary of involvement the entire region has gotten behind us. We have reimagined our 1996 playing kit, with a touch of our 1940s-1990's history factored into it, like butcher stripe sleeves and our sponsorship packages sold out in a day and it was great to see so many Old Boys back at our inaugural Old Boys event last week,” said GSMC Sports Coordinator & Rugby League Manager Annan Whittington.

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The Ingham based college has a proud rugby league and sporting history dating back to 1949 and has proudly developed NRL, Queensland Cup, Rugby League World Cup and hundreds of RLTD A-Graders for the Herbert River Crushers.  

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Inaugural North Queensland Cowboys Captain Laurie Spina (Cowboy 1) and son Ben Spina (Cowboy 249) have both proudly pulled on the blue and gold of GSMC and many players have gone on to higher honours after wearing the GSMC jersey and helping their less experienced teammates enjoy the game.  

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The 2026 coaching staff will be led by RLTD A-grader/GSMC Confro Old Boy Matthew Spina, Manager Annan Whittington (who has returned home after winning the Confraternity Cup & NRL Schoolboy Trophy with Ryan Catholic College), assistant coach Jack Dixon who himself is a Confro Old Boy of Columba Catholic College, GSMC Old Boy Jaidyn Spina and former North Queensland Cowboys hooker Paul Dezolt, who mentors many of the younger players and coaches.

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“We have an exceptional coaching staff across rugby league at the college and many other sports for that matter, but to have experienced Confro players and former Cowboys on our coaching staff gives our students the best possible development from our u13s all the way through to pulling on the 1st XIII jersey at the College,” Annan Whittington said.  

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“We have some bold plans for 2027 to really take our sports program to the next level and really offer the students of our region a program that develops excellence both on and off the field,”  

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The Confraternity Carnival is the largest schoolboy rugby league carnival in Queensland, which plays host to over 60 schools from around the state and the action kicked off on Monday 29th  June with Gilroy Santa Maria College taking on Chanel College from Gladstone.

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The countdown is on for the 2026 Ingham Gold Cup, with racing fans, fashion lovers and eventgoers preparing for one of North Queensland’s premier race days.

Held on Saturday 11^th July at the Herbert River Jockey Club, the Ingham Gold Cup promises a day of exciting country racing, entertainment and standout race day style. The 2026 Ingham Gold Cup will feature five local races, live music, a DJ, bar, canteen and plenty of race day atmosphere.

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A highlight of the event will be Fashions on the Field, where entrants will showcase their creativity, confidence and individual style in front of this year’s judging panel.

Meet the judges who will be selecting the best dressed on the day.

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Hannah O’Kane

Born and raised in North Queensland, Hannah O’Kane grew up on her family’s sugar cane farm near Tully. With a strong connection to regional communities and events, Hannah has built a career in event coordination and public speaking, including MC roles at major agricultural and community events across the region.

Combining her passion for fashion, creativity and race day style, Hannah looks forward to celebrating the elegance and individuality that make Fashions on the Field such a popular part of the racing calendar.

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Natalie Burns

Natalie Burns is the founder and creative director of The Bloom Room Townsville, an award-winning floral studio known for its fashion-inspired floral sculptures, luxury weddings and modern event styling.

With a passion for creativity, design and beauty, Natalie brings a unique eye for detail to the judging panel. Her work is influenced by fashion, art and contemporary design, making her a perfect fit for this year’s event. The Bloom Room team will also be creating floral installations and styling for the Ingham Gold Cup.

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Stephanie Clifford

A North Queensland local, Stephanie Clifford is a primary school teacher and mum of three. Outside of work and family life, Stephanie enjoys keeping active, spending time outdoors and making memories with loved ones.

A lover of race days and fashion, Stephanie is excited to be part of Fashions on the Field and celebrate the confidence, creativity and style of entrants.

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Jenna Clarke

Born and raised in North Queensland, Jenna Clarke has built a rewarding career in the public service and currently works with the Department of Education.

A passionate lover of fashion, race days and style, Jenna enjoys staying active, spending time outdoors and connecting with family and friends. She is looking forward to seeing the unique fashion choices and personal flair that make race day such a memorable occasion.

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What: Ingham Gold Cup Race Day

When: Saturday 11^th July 2026, 11am

Where: Herbert River Jockey Club, 69 Marina Parade, Ingham

Tickets & Tables: www.hrjc.com.au

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Young Athletes Impress At School Carnivals

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Schools across the region have been celebrating a busy season of athletics carnivals, filled with healthy competition, camaraderie and teamwork.

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From sprints and field events to cheering on teammates, students embraced every opportunity to compete, connect and celebrate the joy of sport across all events.

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Students from Tully State High School. Photo supplied

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Photo credit: Cardwell State School

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Students from Cardwell State School, Kennedy State School and Murray River Upper State School came together on Friday for the annual Super Southern School Athletics Day, enjoying a fun-filled day of competition, teamwork and friendship.

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Hosted by Kennedy State School, the event provided students with the opportunity to test their skills across a range of athletic events while strengthening connections with their peers from neighbouring schools. Throughout the day, participants displayed excellent sportsmanship, enthusiasm and encouragement, creating a positive atmosphere both on and off the field.

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A special thank you was extended to the staff and volunteers who helped organise the event, including Mrs Foley, whose efforts in preparing students and coordinating the day helped ensure everything ran smoothly.

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Congratulations to Murray River Upper State School, which claimed overall honours for the carnival.

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The Super Southern School Athletics Day continues to be a highlight on the school calendar, bringing together local school communities to celebrate participation, achievement and the joy of sport.

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Students from across Mission Beach State School enjoyed two successful sports carnivals, with both junior and senior competitors embracing the opportunity to participate, compete and showcase outstanding school spirit.

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The Junior Sports Carnival was held between passing weather systems and proved to be a fantastic day filled with smiles, enthusiasm and plenty of fun. Families turned out in force to cheer on the young athletes, helping create a supportive and encouraging atmosphere.

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Perfect conditions greeted students at the Senior Sports Carnival, allowing all track and field events to be completed successfully. Students demonstrated excellent sportsmanship and determination throughout the competition.

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The school thanked its P&C volunteers for providing barbecue lunches at both carnivals and acknowledged the families whose support helped make the events such a success.

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A huge congratulations to our Age Champions:

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• 9 Years – Girls: Aurora | Boys: Bailey

• 10 Years – Girls: Isabella | Boys: Ashton

• 11 Years – Girls: Lylah | Boys: Xavier

• 12 Years – Girls: Rami | Boys: Hunter

• 13 Years – Girls: Dazzel

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See more photos here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/senior-sports-carnival-ends-term-on-a-high

The Herbert River Crushers A Grade vs. The Charters Towers Miners

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By Peter Reitano

Herbert River hosted the Charters Towers Miners in 2 grades on Saturday with the honours shared between the 2 grades.  

In the A-Grade game, Charters Towers were first on the board with a converted try, then the Crushers got on the board with a try out wide. The Towers then blasted through with their centre just outjumping the Crushers defender, and with the conversion, they were up 12 - 4 with 22 minutes to go in the first half.

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Dau then crossed for his second try, and with captain and fullback Dylan Gaggiano's conversion, the Crushers were down by 2, and 12 - 10 to the Miners remained the score until halftime.  

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After sustained pressure in the Crushers quarter, the Miners crashed over for an unconverted try to lead by 6 with 20 minutes to go. The Miners then crossed for another converted try to give them a 12-point lead. The Miners scored again to lead 26 - 10 with 13 minutes to go. Unfortunately, the Crushers could not make up the difference, and the Miners ran away winners 26 - 10.

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In the Reserve Grade, the Crushers jumped out to a 10-point lead after winger Jayden Smallwood opened the scoring. Matty Chiesa put a kick through that Keith Kyle collected to score, and Tremayne Priestley converted. Priestley followed with a double, which he converted to give the Crushers a 20-nil lead at halftime.  

Soon after halftime both centres, Jerramaine Nean and Riley Dickson, scored. Followed by a conversion to Priestley, the Crushers were up 30-nil.  Nean then scored his second converted try taking the Crushers to 36 nil.

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The Miners finally got on the board with an unconverted try 13 minutes to go, just before Chiesa broke the line and drew the defender, passing to Nean for his hattrick. Priestley pulled a conversion when he also crossed for his own try leaving the Crushers to run out winners 48 - 4.

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The Crushers don't play this coming weekend. Their next game is on Sunday 4^th July, followed by Friday night footy against Brothers on Friday 10^th July. The NRL Legends game vs the Herbert River Crushers Allstars game will be on Saturday 18^th July.

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Super Sunday at the Ingham Bowls Club. Photos credited: Councillor Donna Marbelli

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It was a fantastic Super Sunday at the Ingham Bowls Club, with players, supporters and guests coming together to celebrate another successful season.

The event included presentations for the Division One winners and Division Four Pennant winners, with congratulations shared among all teams and players involved.

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A special thank you was extended to guests who attended the celebrations and helped recognise the achievements of the club’s bowlers.

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The club also celebrated the team representing Ingham at the Dunn Cup, with best wishes sent to the players as they take on the prestigious competition.

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Everyone had such fun at the Thursday night Tennis finals. Photo supplied

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The Thursday Night Tennis finals were played on Thursday, 18th June, with players battling it out for the season’s top honours.

The night was enjoyed by all, with plenty of great tennis, along with pizza and prizes to celebrate the end of the competition.

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The competition will resume after the school term holidays, with new players welcome to join. Players are graded from 1 to 4 to help create competitive and enjoyable matches for everyone.

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Winners: Wishful Thinking; Aaron Emmanuel, Miles Dahlstrom, Norm Scott, Lynda Kelly

Second: Sheep Stations; Richard Peeke, Clarry Wyles, Jarrod Schiappadori, Melissa Dance

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(Contributed with thanks by Geoff Caso)

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Ingham Squash held its annual Closed Championships last week with 65 players vying for a podium finish in 13 divisions. It was a great week of sizzling squash with some final’s games going down to the wire.  

A big thank you to our generous sponsors for 2026: Hinchinbrook Dental Group, Galipo’s Midtown Meats, Russo and Vella Machinery, Mick’s Bread Kitchen, Robyn’s Mobile Computer Services, Sportspower Ingham and NQAS.

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Results were:

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A Men

Winner: Liam Fascetti

Runner up: Jordan Di Bella

Third: Daniel Thomson  

B Men

Winner: Beau Lepinath

Runner up: Kurt Serra

Third: Brendan Wallis  

C Men

Winner: Niko Dillon

Runner up: Carter Hague

Third: Oliver Hoyle  

D Men

Winner: Braydan Rynne

Runner up: Owen Borello

Third: Bryce Borello  

A Ladies

Winner: Charlotte Erba

Runner up: Diane Biddle

B Ladies

Winner: Hayley Giliberto

Runner up: Karlye Rhodes

Third: Sheridan Jeffrey  

C Ladies

Winner: Brianna Lamari

Runner up: Madison Giorcelli

Third: Ruby Williams

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A Juniors

Winner: Carter Bates

Runner up: Niko Dillon

Third: Carter Hague  

B Juniors

Winner: Carter Bates

Runner up: Niko Dillon

Third: Carter Hague  

C Juniors

Winner: Owen Borello

Runner up: Kyan Biasi

Third: Madison Giorcelli  

D Juniors

Winner: Andy Barra

Runner up: Charlie Borello

Third: Max Quabba

E Juniors

Winner: Josie Dillon

Runner up: Ethan Park

Third: Ayla Barra  

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See all photos here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/championship-week-delivers-sizzling-squash-action

Palm Creek #130 – 20 participants

Fastest time: Julian Lee (20:37)
Final finisher: Maria Bertocchi (46:39)
PBs: 4 | First timers: 2
Volunteers: Steven Veltmeyer, V Velton, Brett Griffiths, Matteo Mancuso, Maria Bertocchi, Bridgette Duffy

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Cardwell #391 – 28 participants

Fastest time: Carter Hague (18:17)
Final finisher: David Clarke (1:03:21)
PBs: 4 | First timers: 10
Volunteers: Anita Davina, Eva Garde, Terry Curtin, Bruce Boland, David Clarke, Jake Ball, Kerry Snell

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Photos sourced from Palm Creek & Cardwell Parkrun Facebook pages

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Archer Carr (9 goals) and Huxley Beatts (9 goals) shared 18 goals between them in four matches, C. 2025. Outdoor play in sports, enjoyed by children who love to play soccer. Photo supplied: Jonny Pearce.

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In a world where screens are becoming an increasingly common part of childhood, health professionals are reminding families that movement is far more than just a way for children to burn off energy.

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According to the team at Naturally Kids Allied Health, active play is one of the most important building blocks of healthy childhood development. Active play isn't simply about keeping children physically active. Through movement, children develop physical, social, emotional and cognitive skills that support participation at home, school and in the community.

Research continues to show that movement plays a critical role in childhood development. Activities such as climbing, running, jumping, balancing, dancing and participating in sport help develop strength, coordination, balance, endurance, motor planning and body awareness.

However, the benefits extend far beyond physical health.

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The team at Naturally Kids explains that active play provides valuable opportunities for children to develop communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving abilities and emotional regulation.

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When children are engaged in active play, they are learning much more than movement skills. They are learning how to take turns, manage challenges, communicate with others, follow instructions and build confidence in their own abilities.

These skills form the foundation for successful participation in everyday activities throughout childhood and beyond.

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Building Confidence and Resilience Through Participation

Regular participation in sport, recreation and outdoor activities provides children with opportunities to experience achievement through effort and persistence.

Confidence develops when children learn a new skill, practise it and see themselves improve over time. Resilience develops when children experience challenges and discover they can work through them.

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Children don't build resilience by avoiding challenges. They build resilience when they learn they can overcome them.

Whether it's learning a new dance routine, mastering a bike ride, completing an obstacle course or participating in a team sport, children learn that progress comes through practice, persistence and patience.

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These experiences help children develop self-belief and confidence that often carries across into school, friendships and other areas of life.

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The Challenge of Growing Up in a Digital World

While technology offers many benefits, allied health professionals are seeing increasing challenges associated with reduced opportunities for movement, outdoor exploration and face-to-face social interaction.

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The goal isn't to eliminate technology. The goal is to ensure children continue to have meaningful opportunities to move, play, explore and connect with others.

The team encourages families to focus on making movement enjoyable rather than treating it as exercise.

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Children are far more likely to remain active when activities are fun, social and aligned with their interests.

Simple activities such as visiting local parks, riding bikes, swimming, dancing, participating in community sport or exploring nature can all help establish lifelong healthy habits.

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Why Structured Activities Matter

While free play remains important, structured activities provide additional developmental benefits that children may not experience elsewhere.

Through organised sport, recreation programs and community activities, children learn important life skills including following instructions, managing routines, setting goals, working as part of a team and developing self-discipline.

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Structured activities also provide opportunities for children to receive support, encouragement and guidance from trained professionals within a predictable and supportive environment.

Participation is one of the strongest contributors to positive developmental outcomes. When children feel capable, connected and included, the benefits often extend across multiple areas of development.

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Importantly, structured activities also provide opportunities for children to develop friendships, a sense of belonging and meaningful social connections that support emotional wellbeing.

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Keeping It Simple

For parents looking to encourage more activity, the advice from Naturally Kids is straightforward: start with activities your child enjoys.

The most effective activity is not necessarily the most structured or expensive, it's the one your child wants to keep doing.

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Consistency is often more important than intensity. Small amounts of regular movement can make a significant difference to a child's physical health, emotional wellbeing, confidence and overall development over time.

Through their work with children and families across North Queensland, the Naturally Kids team regularly sees the positive impact active play has on participation, confidence, emotional regulation and social connection.

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Whether through organised sport, community programs, outdoor adventures or everyday play, movement remains one of the most powerful tools available to support healthy childhood development.

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Certificate of appreciation from Mission Beach Community Bank for 2026 Volunteer Week presentation. L-R: Lee-Ann Club President, Barry, Denise Club Treasurer, Dan, Mirella, Bryan. Photo sourced: Silkwood Bowls Club

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Community Bank Mission Beach has celebrated 18 years of supporting the local community and the organisations that help make the region stronger. The milestone celebration coincided with Volunteers Week, recognising the dedication of those who give their time to support others.

Two long-standing members, Len Charman (Vice-President) and Bryan Meyer, attended the celebrations, where members with 10 or more years of service were presented with Appreciation Certificates.

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As part of the celebrations, Silkwood Bowls Club was also presented with a $200 donation.

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The club is inviting the community to discover the fun and accessibility of lawn bowls, with free coaching available for anyone wanting to get started.

Silkwood Bowls Club will host a “Come and Try” Introduction to Bowls Day on Sunday, 28th June from 10am to 12noon, followed by a sausage sizzle for participants.

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Coaches will be available on the day to help newcomers learn the basics. Anyone interested is encouraged to call the club on 0475 759 808 to reserve a spot.

Individual coaching can also be arranged by calling the club.

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WHAT: “Come and Try” Introduction to Bowls Day
WHEN: Sunday, 28th June 2026, 10am to 12noon
WHERE: Silkwood Bowls Club, 185 Silkwood/Japoon Rd, Silkwood

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Young rugby league players will have the opportunity to train alongside former NRL players during the Ganyarra Rugby League Academy Community Open Day at Callendar Park, Innisfail, on 1^st July. Photo supplied

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Young rugby league players from across the region will have the chance to learn from former NRL stars when the Ganyarra Rugby League Academy hosts a free Community Open Day Training Session in Innisfail next month.

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Proudly presented by Radiant Life College and hosted by the Innisfail Leprechauns Junior Rugby League Club, the event is open to boys and girls aged seven to 16 and aims to provide aspiring players with a taste of elite-level coaching and development pathways.

The session will be held at Callendar Park on Wednesday 1st July, from 9:30am to 12pm where participants will have the opportunity to train alongside former NRL players and Ganyarra Rugby League Academy coaching staff while taking part in a range of skill-development activities designed to improve confidence, game awareness and fundamental rugby league techniques.

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The open day will also showcase the coaching philosophy and culture of the Ganyarra Rugby League Academy, while providing information about future rugby league and educational opportunities available through Radiant Life College.

Academy representatives say the initiative is part of a broader commitment to creating opportunities for young people throughout the region and helping talented players explore potential pathways both on and off the field.

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Whether participants are completely new to rugby league or already playing for a local club, organisers say the free-to-attend event will offer a fun and positive environment to develop skills, meet experienced coaches and connect with other young players who share a passion for the game.

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With places limited, families are encouraged to register early to secure a spot.

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WHAT: Community Open Day Training Session with Former NRL Players
WHEN: Wednesday 1^st July, 9.30am-12pm
WHERE: Callendar Park, Innisfail

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Main Teams from GSMC and ISHS for game 1 of the Marbelli Cup. Photo supplied

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A fantastic afternoon of netball saw Gilroy Santa Maria College take on Ingham State High School in the opening game of the 2026 Marbelli Cup series.

The Marbelli Cup is named in honour of Herbert River Netball stalwart, the late Mrs Gloria Marbelli. Both GSMC and ISHS recognise the significance of Mrs Marbelli’s legacy in local netball and have the honour of playing in this annual series.  

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GSMC’s Junior Girls showed incredible determination, staging a brilliant comeback to secure a hard-fought 9–7 victory. Their resilience and teamwork were on full display as they fought their way back into the contest.  

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After a slow start, GSMC’s QISSN Girls found their rhythm and lifted their intensity, finishing strongly to claim a 23–15 win. Their persistence and composure under pressure proved the difference.

This gives GSMC a 1–0 lead in the three game Marbelli Cup series being played over the coming weeks.

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Next Game: Marbelli Cup – Game 2 will be held at Gilroy SMC, Thursday 18^th June. With Juniors at 3:30pm and the Main Game at 4:00pm.

(Contributed with thanks by Gilroy Santa Maria College)

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The Herbert River Crushers VS the Burdekin Roosters in Ingham. Photos credited: Donna Macarone

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The Herbert River Crushers hosted the Burdekin Roosters in Ingham on Saturday. In the A-Grade game, the Burdekin had jumped away to lead 16 nil before hooker Kurtis Solari crossed with 10 minutes to go.

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With captain and fullback Dylan Gaggiano's conversion the score was 16 - 6.  With seconds to go secondrower Jaia Poppi crossed in the corner and the Crushers went to the break 16 - 10 down. An intercept try saw the Roosters go up 20 - 10 before a try to newcomer frontrower Trent Veikuso and Gaggiano's conversion saw the Crushers down by 4 with 22 minutes to go.

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Burdekin then scored a try in the corner after their player wrapped around to take the lead to 8 points. Despite valiant efforts by the Crushers the Roosters closed out the game to win 24 – 16.

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In the Reserve Grade the Roosters had come out strong to lead 2 - 4 at halftime with the Crushers solitary try to Captain halfback Ben Stanford. The Crushers came out the strongest in the second half and after tries to secondrower Michael Stack, Stanfords second, centre Riley Dickson, interchange back Hezekiah Nona and 2 goals to Nona and one to secondrower Wyatt Tetley the Crushers led 26 - 22 with 13 minutes remaining.

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The Burdekin scored soon after to lead 28 - 26 with 9 minutes. Sack then scored his second try and with Nona's conversion the Crushers were up 32 - 28 with 4 minutes left.  From there the Crushers held on to victory.

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In the Under 19s the Crushers had jumped to a 16 - 10 lead at halftime with tries to centre Antonio Eseli, with a double and interchange back Frederick Pearson and 2 goals to five eighth Hezekiah Nona. Unfortunately the Roosters came out too strong in the second half and ran away winners at 44 - 16.  

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The Crushers play Norths Devils at home on Sunday.

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(Contributed with thanks by Peter Reitano)

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