Come one, come all to another fantastic Australia Day Ambrose event as hosted by the Cardwell Golf Club on Sunday the 26th of January!

A monthly attraction, the Cardwell Golf Club’s regular Ambrose events continue to provide attendees with a wonderful day of both socialisation and sport on the green, however, this Sunday’s spectacular will be one of the biggest days on record!

With the help and support of fellow Cardwell Golf Club members, Coleen Mikkelsen has been busily organising the Australia Day Ambrose, ensuring all the t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted ahead of the event.

“Monthly it’s a big day, but this event is a BIG one,” explained Coleen.

“This has been my first Ambrose that I have taken on from previous organisers, and I’m only a new girl at this game but I’m right into it - it’s a lot of teamwork which is good, and many people like to put their hand up to help.”

With less than a week to go until the event, energy levels are certainly high in anticipation of the competition with teams having travelled from Atherton, Mission Beach, Ingham, and Tully to have a swing.

“We have really awesome sponsors, and raffles, and this event will have the best-dressed buggy competition, which will be a little bit different for a bit of fun,” Coleen added.

“I’m absolutely looking forward to the day!”

18 teams comprising of four people each will take to the green for the nine-hole competition teeing off at 10:30am on Sunday morning. Players of all abilities are welcome to register, and with only a few team spots left, golfers interested in being part of Sunday’s event are strongly encouraged to call or email Coleen on 0411 509 630 or onel11@bigpond.com to secure their registration.

What: Australia Day Ambrose
When: Sunday the 26th of January from 10am
Where: Cardwell Golf Club
More Information: Call or email Coleen on 0411 509 630 or onel11@bigpond.com

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In February, the Queensland Firebirds will be hitting the road once again as part of a spectacular Regional Tour to deliver comprehensive netball clinics across five locations in the Burdekin, Laidley, Murwillumbah, Townsville and the Whitsundays!

On Sunday the 2nd of February, the Queensland Firebirds will host a clinic the Townsville Netball Association from 3:30pm to 5pm. Children aged 6 to 17 are invited to participate in the clinic with the hour-long session set to focus on improving passing, defence, agility and shooting skills. After the clinic concludes, attendees will have the opportunity to meet the players for photos and autographs.

As well as the clinic, little ones aged 3 to 4 are also allowed to come along for a free Little Nettys come and try session on the same day!

Registrations are essential and clinics are priced at $45 per person. Visit https://firebirds.net.au/regional-tours for registrations and more information.

What: Queensland Firebirds Regional Tour
When: Sunday the 2nd of February 3:30pm to 5pm
Where: Townsville Netball Club
More Information: https://firebirds.net.au/regional-tours

The Ingham Tennis Association’s Tennis Open Day held on Monday the 13th of January, was a great success, with over 30 kids of all ages participating. The event saw a fantastic mix of boys and girls enjoying the sport, along with a great turnout for free court hire as local residents took advantage of the holiday offer.
Tom Casey, the club’s coach, led the sessions, starting with the younger participants (under 7 years) on the mini courts, before moving to the open courts with the older kids. The day was packed with fun games and drills designed to improve fitness and coordination. Tom was joined by a team of enthusiastic helpers who made the event a hit, finishing off with cold drinks and sausages generously provided by the Ingham Tennis Association.
In addition, the Ingham Tennis Association will be running Junior Social Fixtures starting on Tuesday, the 4th of February, at 3:30pm. This is a fantastic opportunity for kids to continue developing their skills in a friendly, supportive environment. For more details, contact Richard at 0428 152 125.
Tom also offers coaching lessons for individuals or groups on Saturday mornings and Thursday afternoons. For coaching details, call Tom at 0413 199 702.
Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports, has also kicked off for the year with Monday night sessions at 6:30pm - everyone is welcome! For more details, contact Gordon at 0409 092 058.
Tennis fixtures are also starting soon on Tuesday and Thursday nights, with mixed teams. For more information or to book your spot, contact Steve at 0488 763 270. Ladies’ tennis is held on Wednesday mornings, with Belinda handling enquiries at 0417 782 227.
It’s shaping up to be an exciting year for tennis and pickleball in Ingham, so get involved and enjoy the fun!

Contributed with thanks to Geoff Caso.

Join the Ingham Bowls Club on Sunday, January 26, to celebrate the spirit of Australia with an afternoon of bowls, great food, and festive fun. All men and ladies are invited to don their Aussie outfits for a social game of bowls with mates, starting at 1:30 pm.

The day will feature a traditional Aussie barbecue with sausages and pavlova served after play, creating the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the celebrations. Additionally, the Men’s 2024 competition presentations will take place during the event. Visitors are warmly welcomed, and nominations can be made by calling 4776 2117 or 0487 240 397. Ensure your name is on the board by 12:30 pm on the day.

Weekly Club Events
The Ingham Bowls Club has a busy schedule this week, with several events and ongoing games:
   • Barefoot Bowls: Resumes on Thursday, January 16.
   • Men’s Pairs: Played every Friday at 1:30 pm. Names must be submitted to the club by 12:45 pm. G. Brierley is on duty for January 10.
   • Mixed Social Bowls: Played every Sunday at 1:30 pm. Names should be on the board by 12:30 pm.
To nominate for any of these games, call 4776 2112 or 0487 240 397.

Contributed with thanks to Ingham Bowls Club

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Parents and guardians, it's time to dive into the new year with confidence! The Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre is hosting its Term One Learn-to-Swim Sign-On days this Wednesday, January 15, and Thursday, January 16, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.

This is a fantastic opportunity for families to discover what the centre's swim school can offer young swimmers. Whether your child is just starting or ready to build on existing skills, the Learn-to-Swim program is designed to foster water safety, skill development, and fun in the pool.

As an added bonus, every swimmer who signs up during the event will enjoy a free swim session—perfect for getting a taste of the program and cooling off from the summer heat.

So, why not make a splash and secure your child's spot in this essential program? Head down to the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre and let their experienced team help your child gain confidence in the water.

Learning to swim can save lives, and it’s a low impact exercise with a variety of benefits including:

   • Increasing lung capacity 
   • Improving heart health 
   • Building strength and endurance 
   • Improving flexibility and coordination

Best of all, swimming is fun for all ages!
See you at the pool!

What: Term One – Learn to Swim Sign On
Where: Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre
When: Wednesday 15 January and Thursday 16 January (9am – 11am)

The club enjoyed a perfect day for social bowls today, with a refreshing breeze, dry conditions, and a strong turnout of 12 players. The afternoon was filled with camaraderie and competitive spirit, as members participated in a mixed social bowls session that was a highlight of the summer season.

Looking ahead, the Early Bird Mixed Pairs competition is scheduled for Sunday, January 19, 2025. Members are encouraged to pair up and register, or simply submit their names to be matched with a partner. Entries close on Friday, January 17 and can be submitted to Joe Mugica, Thomas, or directly at the club.

Another special event on the horizon is the Australia Day celebration on Sunday, January 26, 2025, featuring the G & G Accornero Memorial Day. Starting at 12:45 pm, the day promises to be a wonderful opportunity to honour the Accornero family and celebrate Australian pride. To participate, members are asked to register their names by Friday, January 24, with Joe Mugica, Thomas, or at the club.

The club is looking forward to these upcoming events, promising more afternoons of fun, friendship, and friendly competition.

Contriubted with thanks to Noorla Bowls Club

The Mixed Pairs final at Ingham Bowls Club took place on Sunday the 22nd of December to officially close the book on the 2024 season.

After a hard-fought match, Maria Spano and Frank Pallanza emerged as the celebrated 2024 victors!

A special mention was extended to Janice Johnson and Phill Kite, who played an excellent game, with the final score being a close 23-19.

Players and Club members hung around after the competitions were completed to enjoy an afternoon of socialisation in celebration of their 2024 efforts whilst embracing a bit of festive cheer!

Noorla Bowls Club wrapped up the year with a festive Christmas Party, marking the end of a successful 2024 season. The event was well-attended, with a delicious dinner prepared by Dora and her dedicated kitchen team, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Four life memberships were awarded to Vanda Raiteri, Diane Spina, Nella Mancuso, and Carlo Cavallo, in recognition of their many years of dedicated service to the club. Their contributions were celebrated, and they were warmly acknowledged for their hard work and commitment.

Club President Gary expressed gratitude to everyone for attending and congratulated the day's winners: Andrew Cole, Richard Crossman, and Robert Raiteri, who were drawn from the hat. Special awards for best dressed went to Richard Crossman and Janice Craven.

The Club has already begun planning for 2025 and is eager to welcome members back for another year of action and comradery.

An early morning call on Monday, the 23rd of December 2024 alerted MRQ Lucinda (formerly Ingham Coast Guard) that a local Marine Assist member’s motor had failed while out near Pelorus Island. A concerning situation, the engine had given out in a plume of smoke, and assistance was urgently needed.

Despite the early hour, the Coast Guard team rallied, with a series of phone calls ensuring a crew was assembled. Missing their breakfasts, the volunteers had the rescue vessel, Snow Stafford, on the water by 8am!

The disabled boat was located to the north-east of Pelorus Island, and a tow line was quickly attached for a safe return to Dungeness.

2024 saw MRQ Lucinda respond to 32 calls and rescue 93 people, further displaying their unwavering dedication to keeping locals and visitors safe on the water.

Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14, MRQ Lucinda.

Looking for a fun and active way to spend your school holidays? The Ingham Tennis Association is offering free court hire day or night until Monday, the 27th of January 2025! Whether you're an early riser or prefer to play under the stars, courts 1 to 12 are available from 6am until 11pm!

Booking is simple! To access the courts, you’ll use a PIN code with a smart igloohome padlock on the gate adjacent to Court 6, facing Cooper Street. Your unique, one-time PIN code will be provided once you complete your booking, and if you’re playing in the evening, you’ll also receive an 8-digit PIN to operate the lighting controller, located near the power box by Court 3. Detailed instructions are available on-site for easy use.

Visit play.tennis.com.au/inghamtennisassociationinc for more details on the club and the court hire process to make your booking!

Once your account is set up, simply input your code at the electronic lock on the gates, located near Davidson Street, for access, and remember, if you need help at any time, feel free to reach out to Steve at 0488 763 270.

In addition to the free court hire, there will be two open days in January where the public can come and enjoy tennis with no charge. It’s the perfect opportunity for kids to try out the sport, with rackets available at the club if needed across both open days scheduled for Monday the 13th of January, and Saturday the 18th of January.

So, why not get the family together, get active, and enjoy the courts over the school holidays? Don't miss out on this great opportunity!

Contributed with thanks to Geoff Caso.

The Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club wrapped up a fantastic year last December, celebrating the first part of the 2024/25 season with a fun-filled morning that included a visit from Santa!

A heartfelt thank you was extended to Santa and his helpers, Mariam and Nalini, for making the day even more memorable and the club also expressed their appreciation to all volunteers, coaches, age managers, water safety crew, kitchen helpers, and families who contributed to making the event such a success - the support from everyone throughout the year was deeply appreciated.

The Forrest Beach SLSC looks forward to continuing the season this January and reminds all beachgoers to always swim between the red and yellow flags for safety.

Thomas Casey, known by his students as Tom, has been a celebrated tennis coach for just over eight years, training children aged three to 17 years with the skills and techniques required to enjoy and excel in the sport.
With a world of experience behind him, Tom first picked up a racquet when he was 10, and hasn’t left the court since, pursuing various academic qualifications to educate fellow tennis lovers on the sport’s ins and outs.
“I love coaching, it’s the most rewarding aspect of tennis for me,” shared Tom.
“Tennis is your own sport where you can focus on your own development, and I have one student who has travelled to a lot of tournaments who has shown a lot of improvement.”
Having already completed a Junior Development Coaching Qualification, Tom is currently pursuing education studies to become a certified teacher with the intention of coaching more students in the coming months.
“I will be coaching in Ingham in 2025, and adding an extra day of Thursdays, in addition to Saturday, and I currently coach 20 students a week, and hope to double that next year,” Tom added.
Tom invites students to have a swing at the sport and reach out to him on 0413 199 702 to learn more about upcoming new year free trial offers and join a fantastic and supportive tennis community at the Ingham Tennis Association.

The Ingham Bowls Club ladies hosted a unique and enjoyable day of bowling on Sunday 8th December, introducing a special format where all players switched positions every five ends. This creative twist provided a fun challenge for participants and added a refreshing spin to the day’s games.

To cap off the event, players indulged in a delicious high tea, a fitting reward after an afternoon on the greens. President Frank expressed his gratitude to the ladies for their generous donation to the Men’s Club, a gesture warmly appreciated by all.

For nominations or inquiries, call 4776 2117 or 0487 240 397. Happy bowling!

The Herbert River Crushers Rugby League Football Club have kickstarted pre-season for the 2025 season.

Ex-President Joe Pennisi said he is looking forward to the new season, and looking forward to more people getting out to training.

“This time of year is more to get people back in the rhythm of playing footy, and get back into the swing of things,” said Joe.

“It’s good to get a couple of sessions in before Christmas, at the end of our last session before Christmas we will have a barbecue, and then we start up again 14th of January.”

The Crushers had a challenging 2024 season and the team were disappointed not to make the semi-finals.

Joe wants to ensure the Crushers have a successful 2025 season and said that cannot be done without commitment.

“Hopefully we can fulfill our poor team commitment, for our A-Grade, Reserve Grade, Under 20’s and Women,” said Joe.

“Being a small town, that’s what we struggle with, every year we do seem to get there but we are still disappointed about the semi-finals.”

2025 marks the 30th year for the Crushers in the Townsville and District Rugby League Competition and they are aiming to do well in their 30th year.

Pre-season will continue every Thursday, if weather allows, at 5.30pm. The last training will be on 19 December with a barbecue following.

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The Noorla Bowls Club held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) yesterday, drawing a strong turnout from its members. With the meeting concluded, the new committee for the upcoming year was announced:

   • Patron: Johnny Leonardi
   • President: G. Accornero
   • Assistant President: R. Rose
   • Secretary: P. Menegon
   • Vice Secretary: C. Mugica
   • Treasurer: J. Girgenti
   • Games Directors: Men – J. Mugica; Ladies – S. Pizzi
   • Greens Director: N. Craven
   • Men’s Selectors: G. Accornero, T. Garate, K. Wegert
   • Ladies’ Selectors: G. Bison, R. Rose, C. Hewitt
   • Provedores: Men – G. Rose; Ladies – C. Hewitt
   • NQ Delegates: G. Accornero, S. Pizzi
   • Publicity Officer: G. Bison

The club also celebrated the conclusion of its Jackpot Pairs competition, which saw 12 teams face off under the North Queensland heat. The day’s winners were Ronnie Williams and Michael May, while the jackpot prize was claimed by Rink 5’s R. Rose, G. Rose, A. Carr, and T. Garate.

Despite the hot conditions, the event was a great success, with players enjoying the games and camaraderie. Congratulations to all the participants and the new committee members, and here’s to another fantastic year at Noorla Bowls Club!