The Herbert River Cricket Club has been left without any playing or training equipment after devastating floods swept through their Club House.

The loss has been a major blow to the club, impacting both senior and junior players as they prepare for the upcoming season.

However, the cricketing community is stepping up to help. Queensland Cricket is leading a donation drive to collect second-hand cricket gear in good condition and deliver it to Herbert River Cricket Club.

If you, or someone you know, has spare bats, pads, gloves, helmets, balls, or any other cricket equipment that is no longer in use, now is the perfect time to pass it on to those in need.

Donations can be dropped off at your local cricket club by March 1, ensuring that the equipment reaches Ingham as soon as possible. Whether you are inside or outside of the Ingham area, Every contribution, big or small, will help the club rebuild and get back on the field.

The Herbert River Cricket Club has been a cornerstone of the local sporting community, and this is an opportunity for fellow cricketers to show their support.

The greens were buzzing with excitement as 18 enthusiastic players gathered for Noorla Bowls Club's first Ladies Day of 2025. Following recent flood disruptions, the event was a fantastic way to bring the community together and kick off the new year’s competition.

The day’s top honors went to Keith Wegert’s team, securing victory with the highest margin of 8 over 18 ends. Terry George’s team followed closely in second place, finishing with a 7-point margin, while Joe Mugica’s team put in a strong performance, earning a respectable margin of 2.

A fantastic time was had by all, with plenty of skill and camaraderie on display. The club extended special thanks to their providore Chris, for providing an excellent "smoko" that kept players energized throughout the day.

The event also brought cause for celebration, with Sue Pizzi earning a well-deserved selection in the North Queensland Team set to compete on the Sunshine Coast. This is a tremendous personal achievement for Sue and a proud moment for the small but talented club.

Looking ahead, the clubs Jackpot Pairs competition resumes this Sunday. All affiliated club members are invited to participate. Players should submit their names to Joe Mugica (0447 768 621) by Saturday, 5 PM. Games will commence at 8:30 AM, with a call time of 8:15 AM.

Noorla Bowls Club took to Facebook to thank all their members for participating:

"A huge thank you to all who participated, and we look forward to seeing everyone back on the green for more great competition!"

Looking to serve up some fun and get active? Ingham Tennis Club has everything you need to stay fit, meet new friends, and enjoy a great time. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and social environment, the club provides a perfect blend of sports, fitness, and community connection. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, Ingham Tennis Club offers a variety of activities to suit all skill levels.
For those new to the sport or simply looking for a more relaxed introduction to tennis, the club hosts weekly pickleball sessions on Monday nights. This fun and easy-to-learn game is a great way to ease into the world of tennis, with a smaller learning curve that helps newcomers feel comfortable while meeting new people. It’s a great chance for beginners to get active, socialise, and enjoy a light-hearted game.
On Tuesday and Thursday nights, the competition ramps up, offering an exciting and energetic atmosphere for those looking to satisfy their competitive streak. These nights are perfect for players who enjoy a bit of friendly rivalry and want to hone their skills while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow tennis enthusiasts. With regular fixtures, there’s always something happening for those who love a challenge.
The club also places a strong emphasis on developing young talent. Junior coaching is available on Thursdays and Saturdays, providing young players with the opportunity to improve their skills in a supportive and encouraging environment. Additionally, the club has plans to introduce junior fixtures.
Social events are a big part of the Ingham Tennis Club experience. Throughout the year, the club hosts a variety of social gatherings, including year-end breakups and barbecues. These events are a great opportunity to unwind, celebrate the season’s successes, and connect with fellow members outside of the court.
Head Coach Steven Merker, stated that despite recent challenges, including flood damage, the Ingham Tennis Club is ready to get back into action. The club’s courts are available for play under lights, meaning members can enjoy their favorite games at any time of day or night. The club is committed to providing a safe, friendly, and fun environment for all who wish to participate.

Brax Roveda, a rising futsal star from Ingham, continues to shine on the international stage. Having already represented Australia in Malaysia with the Under-12 team, he’s set to play in Barcelona with the Under-13 squad this November. Brax’s journey began at age six with soccer, eventually transitioning to futsal, where he thrives as a goalkeeper. His quick reflexes, leadership, and tactical awareness make him a standout player. Traveling to Spain with his grandparents, Brax will face the world’s best, showcasing his talent and dedication, and cementing his place on the global futsal scene.

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Brax Roveda’s Futsal Journey Goes Global

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Continued from back cover
While many young athletes dream of representing their country, Ingham’s Brax Roveda is doing it—again. The rising futsal star has already made his mark on the international stage, playing for Australia in the Under-12 team in Malaysia, and come November, he will take on the world once more—this time in Barcelona with the Under-13 squad.
Brax’s love for the game began at just six years old, kicking off on the soccer field before transitioning to futsal, a high-speed indoor variation that demands sharp reflexes, quick thinking, and precise footwork. The fast-paced nature of futsal has shaped him into a formidable player, giving him an edge on both the indoor court and outdoor pitch.
While Brax is a versatile soccer player who can slot into any position, it’s in futsal where he has truly found his calling—as a goalkeeper. From the goal line, he’s not just a last line of defense but also a vocal leader, shouting encouragement and offering tactical tips to his teammates. His ability to read the game and react in a split second has made him a key player in his squad.
Later this year, Brax will travel to Spain alongside his proud grandparents, taking another step in what is already an impressive sporting journey. With Barcelona on the horizon, he will once again test himself against the world’s best, proving that dedication, skill, and a love for the game can take a young player from Ingham to the global stage.

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The Ingham Tennis Association is welcoming young players back to the courts for Term 1 of junior tennis in 2025, offering both group coaching and social play opportunities. With programs catering to children aged 3 to 17, the club is committed to providing a fun, active, and inclusive environment for kids to get involved in sport.

A new addition for 2025 is Junior Social Tennis, designed to introduce more children to the game in a relaxed, friendly setting. The program officially starts on Tuesday the 4th of February at 3:30pm and aims to encourage participation and skill development.

Coaching sessions have already commenced on Thursdays and Saturdays at the Ingham Tennis Courts and to ensure activities can continue in all conditions, the club has plans in place for wet weather. Indoor games such as pickleball and ping pong will be introduced in the hall, allowing kids to stay active even when the courts are unavailable.

Parents looking to enrol their children can take advantage of the Queensland Government’s $200 Fair Play Vouchers, which are accepted at the club to help cover costs.

For more information or to sign up:
   • Junior Social Tennis – Call Richard on 0428 152 125
   • Coaching Groups – Call Tom on 0413 199 702

Tennis is a fantastic sport for children of all ages, and the Ingham Tennis Association makes it easy and fun to get involved!

Not only does tennis help improve hand-eye coordination, speed, and agility, but it also builds strength and keeps kids active and healthy. Plus, it’s a great way to learn important life skills like resilience, problem-solving, and sportsmanship - whether they’re playing singles or teaming up for doubles. Best of all, it’s a social sport where kids can make new friends while having a blast on the court.

Whether they’re just starting out or looking to sharpen their skills, Ingham Tennis Association is the perfect place to play, learn, and grow!

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The Ingham Ladies Bowls Club enjoyed a fantastic Opening Day on Wednesday the 22nd of January. Despite the hot conditions, 18 ladies took to the green for a fun-filled afternoon of bowls, showcasing great sportsmanship and camaraderie.

Results:
   • B. Eddleston, M. Moore, L. DiBella (19) were narrowly defeated by A. Foti, J. Casanovas, J. Craven (21).
   • Byrnes, K. Rotondo, L. Melvin (22) claimed a convincing win over G. Wright, T. Mawson, J. Fenoglio (11).
   • N. Mammerella, M. Spano, E. Piotto (17) triumphed over J. Johnson, I. Mahon, S. Ryan (10).

Looking ahead, next Wednesday promises to be an exciting day with the club hosting its "Bring a Friend Day." Whether you're a seasoned player or completely new to bowls, everyone is welcome to join in the fun. The event starts at 1:30pm, with names to be submitted by 12:30pm.

The Ingham Ladies Bowls Club is looking forward to another great year on the green!

Contributed with thanks to Sandra Ryan

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Sunday the 20th of January marked the exciting start of the 2025 season at Noorla Bowls Club with the Earlybird Pairs event. 12 dedicated teams battled it out for the jackpot in what proved to be a competitive and spirited morning of bowls, despite the challenging summer heat.

Taking home the honours as winners on the day were Andrew Cole and Chris Hewitt, while the runners-up were Brett Haupt and Carla Pizzi. Congratulations to all players for their efforts and sportsmanship.

A special mention goes to Craig Menegon for his outstanding achievement in winning the B Grade Final in 2024. Well done Craig!

The Herbert River Crushers Rugby League Football Club is gearing up for a major milestone in 2025 as they celebrate 30 incredible years of community, camaraderie, and rugby league. The club has announced a weekend of festivities set for the 13th and 14th of June, promising a celebration filled with nostalgia, fun, and a vibrant display of community spirit.

As part of the celebrations, the Crushers have treated themselves to a significant upgrade - a brand-new scoreboard. The old scoreboard has been retired, and the new one is set to be installed in the coming weeks. Club members and fans are looking forward to seeing it in action during the upcoming season.

The Crushers extended their gratitude to everyone who encouraged the upgrade, acknowledging the importance of staying up to date while honouring their legacy.

With more details to come, the club invites everyone to save the date and join in commemorating this remarkable milestone. Happy 30th birthday to the Herbert River Crushers!

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North Queensland Touch Football is gearing up for the 2025 season with a series of coaching courses available to the community.

The first two courses on offer are:
   • Foundation Coach – Saturday, the 8th of February
   • Talent Coach – Sunday, the 9th of February

These courses are open to everyone in the NQ Touch community. For more details and to access the free affiliate code, interested participants are encouraged to contact the hosting affiliate directly at thuringowatouch@gmail.com.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your coaching skills ahead of the new season!

Get ready for an exciting year of track and field action across North Queensland in 2025! From February to October, athletes of all ages and abilities will have the chance to compete in a variety of exciting meets.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the upcoming events:
February:
   • North Star Summer Series Meet 1 – 1 February, Townsville (State Permit Meet)

March:
   • North Star Summer Series Meet 2 – 1 March, Townsville (State Permit Meet)

May:
   • Mackay Track & Field Carnival – 3 – 4 May, Mackay
   • Mulgrave Relay Day – 18 May, Gordonvale
   • Great Barrier Reef Masters Games – 30 May to 1 June, Cairns
   • Cairns Twilight Carnival – 30 May, Cairns

June:
   • Outback Pentathlon – 14 June, Normanton
   • Central Queensland Track & Field Carnival – 28 – 29 June, Rockhampton

July:
   • Festival of Athletics – 5 – 6 July, Townsville (National Permit Meet)
   • The Challenge Games – 23 – 24 July, Townsville
   • Coral Coast Carnival – 26 – 27 July, Cairns

August:
   • Tablelands Pentathlon – 10 August, Tolga
   • Outback Sunset Carnival – 23 – 24 August, Longreach
   • Bowen Track & Field Carnival – 30 – 31 August, Bowen

September:
   • Douglas Rainforest Rush – 7 September, Mossman
   • North Queensland Championships – 26 – 28 September, Townsville (National Permit Meet)

October:
   • QRSS Track & Field Championships – 13 – 19 October, Townsville

These events provide excellent opportunities for athletes to qualify for state and national competitions, including national permit meets such as the Festival of Athletics and North Queensland Championships. Make sure to mark your calendars and get ready to compete in 2025!

The Inghamvale Housos are a cricket team that compete in the Goldfield Ashes competition in Charters Towers every single year, but did you know that in the most recent team that played at the competition there was three generations of a family involved?

January 17th to 19th 126 teams participated in the Charters Towers Goldfield Ashes, in the Inghamvale Housos team the Camp family runs through it.

Inghamvale Housos Manager Debbie Camp said that her husband is in the team, as well as sons, sons-in-law, and her grandchildren. Ages span from 68, to 40’s, 30’s and 14 and 15. A wide arrange of ages, all brought together by their love for cricket.

The rest of the team is filled with friends, cousins, and other family members, all with various ages.

Debbie said members of the team have been a part of it for a very long time.

“My husband's been going for 51 years. One of our sons has been going for 20 years, and the other one not much less than that. And this is the first year that my grandsons have gone,” said Debbie.

In the Goldfield Ashes competition, the Inghamvale Housos finished 42nd out of the 126 teams, with two wins and one loss.

Debbie enjoys the weekend and said her favourite part is watching her boys play cricket and having a good time doing it.

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An Associate Professor at La Trobe University, Hamsa Puthalakath has recently found himself “living the life” exploring the waterways of Hinchinbrook Island.

“I have been living the life over a large swathe of this piece land called Hinchinbrook Island and its territorial waters, flush with creatures young and old, beautiful and beastly, tasty and not so tasty,” shared Mr. Puthalakath.

Originally from Melbourne, the change of scenery, paired with a good old Hinchinbrook crocodile sighting, has left Mr. Puthalakath breathless, and he believes many more people should embark on a journey north.

“Folks, what are you waiting for? Hit the road to Hinchinbrook with your hook, line and sinker!”

OPINION PIECE
The Hinchinbrook Channel, renowned for its natural beauty and abundant marine life, is facing increasing challenges due to the actions of professional crabbers, or "procrabbers," who are making crabbing harder for local residents.

Local fishermen and crabbers are concerned about the depletion of adult male crabs, with procrabbers reportedly overharvesting the population. The practice is affecting the balance of the marine ecosystem, with fewer crabs available for locals who rely on crabbing as both a recreational activity and a source of food.

Further compounding the issue, discarded crab pots are being left in the waters, often trapping crabs and fish. These animals are left to die from starvation or heat exposure under the harsh FNQ sun, adding to the environmental impact.

As the community continues to witness these concerning practices, many are calling for greater regulation and awareness surrounding sustainable crabbing practices to protect the local marine life and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the unique ecosystem of the Hinchinbrook Channel.

Dr Kirstie Broadfield

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Check out these pics submitted by Georgia Dametto out on the water at Hinchinbrook Reef with the fish she has caught.

Submit your photos to daniel@lifepubshlinggroup.com to be included in the newspaper.

The Queensland Kids Fishing Classic (QKFC) is back this January, running from the 11th to the 27th, and it’s the perfect opportunity for young anglers to get outdoors, enjoy some fishing, and compete for over $6,000 in prizes! The competition is open to kids across Queensland, with three age groups: 3-7 years, 8-12 years, and 13-17 years.

This is a kids-only competition where participants can fish anywhere that is legal (excluding offshore areas). With 12 species categories, there’s something for everyone - whether you're fishing in rivers, lakes, or the coast. Plus, even if you don’t catch a fish, you can still win as the major prize, a kayak, is awarded through a random draw, so everyone has a chance to win!

In addition to the fishing categories, there’s also a special prize for collecting rubbish while fishing, encouraging kids to keep our waterways clean. Over the holidays, young anglers helped remove more than 240 invasive species like carp and tilapia, showing the positive impact they can have on the environment.

The competition is easy to enter through the 2 Bent Rods app, where kids and parents can upload their catches, track progress, and view leaderboards. Stay up to date by joining the Qld Kids Fishing Classic Facebook group.

Don’t miss out - download the app today and join the fun this January!