LEAGUE QUEENSLAND - The Crow Flies High

THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

THE 2016BY QRLTONY CENTRAL DIVISION COMPILED PRICE

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THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

CONTENT 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 15 16 18 19 20 22 23 24 26 27 30 33 35 38 40 42 44 47 48 49 51 52 54 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 64 67 68 72

Chairman’s Report Premiers Honour Board Central Division Rizeup Central Win Divisional Championships Crows Dominate In Wet Birdsville, Bedourie, Boulia, Stonehenge and All Points West Garden of Eden in Ilfracombe 47th Battalion Memorial Trophy The Falcons Flew High Legends of the Central Division Rockhampton and District RL More than a game for Woorabinda The Ollie Howden Medallion The CQ Capras Rustlers win in Yeppoon Gladstone Rugby League Jason Hetherington Cup Central Highlands Rugby League NRL Central Division All Stars State Junior Carnival – Toowoomba Roma and District Rugby League Western League/Central West Rugby League Northern District Rugby League Burnett and District Rugby League The Danes dig deep in Toowoomba CNW Hervey Bay Seagulls Bundaberg Rugby League Holden do their stuff Women in Rugby League Pink Day in Beerwah Outback Muster The Mighty 1966 Wide Bay Reunion Tommy Terrific Sunshine Coast and Gympie Rugby League The House That Aldo Built Young Warriors Camp Northern Grab Inaugural Arthur Beetson Shield Central Outback Challenge Border Rugby League/Team of the Decade Confraternity Shield Central Division Junior Carnival City Girls Go West

THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

Publisher: League Queensland is wholly owned by Tony and Carmel Price. ABN: 15 808 728 009.

COPYRIGHT 2016 by Tony Price, all rights reserved.

Editor: Tony Price E: tony@leaguequeensland.com.au P: 0427 451 913 A: 34 Faust Street, Proserpine, Qld. 4800 Subeditor: Simon Price Information and Advertising: Carmel Price P: 0439 675 325 E: admin@leaguequeensland.com.au Graphic Art: Kartia Designs www.kartiadesigns.com.au Printed by: Crystal Media T: 07 3356 0788 E: crystal@crystalmedia.com.au A: Unit 7/ 36 Windorah Street, Stafford, Qld. 4053 www.crystalmedia.com.au Digital version at leaguequeensland.com.au On the cover: The Central Division team who won the Divisional Championships (top) and the Sunshine Coast team who won the 47th Battalion Trophy Disclaimer:

All material contained in this publication is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced, in part or in whole without written permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check latest information before visiting. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. As it is not possible to ensure that the advertisements which are published in this magazine comply with the Act the responsibility must, therefore, be on the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisements for publication.

The views expressed within League Queensland are not necessarily the views of the publisher, but those of individual writers.

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central division chariman’s report

queensland rubgy league chariman’s report ‘GRASSROOTS rugby league’ is a term that we all should have an affinity with.

I know I certainly do and when you talk grassroots footy, the Central Division of the QRL epitomises it.

Geographically it is Queensland’s biggest Division and within every corner of its boundaries you will find many passionate men, women and children playing or supporting the game they love.

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank everyone who has been involved throughout 2016, from the players who took the field to the coaches, managers, trainers, referees, committee members and parents.

I’ve enjoyed my travels throughout the Division and the opportunity to meet so many community-minded people who have the game’s best interests at heart.

The Central Division’s grassroot competitions and representative programs once again provided excellent opportunities for participants this year.

The success we’ve had in recent years can be traced back to the work of our Divisions and Local Leagues, as they provide the platform for our participants to go on to bigger and better things.

When we watch a young player or coach emerge from the local scene and go into the Intrust Super Cup and beyond, it gives so many of us a great deal of joy.

Pleasingly, the ARLC has recently reinforced the importance of building a strong platform for the game to prosper in the future.

That’s why we are confident the game in Queensland will continue to produce home grown NRL, State of Origin and international stars of the future.

A quick glance at both the Melbourne Storm and Cronulla Sharks grand final squads indicates that the game in Queensland is in good hands.

Seventeen members of the Melbourne Storm’s 22-man squad have played in the Intrust Super Cup at some stage in their careers for a combined total of 497 games.

Four players from the Sharks squad also featured in Queensland’s premier competition, including former Charleville junior Kurt Capewell who played a starring role in Ipswich’s 2015 premiership success.

Capewell’s old team, the Charleville Comets, took home the Western League this year after beating the Augathella Meatants in the grand final.

I took a great of delight in following the grand final scores from around the state and I cannot wait to do it all again in 2017.

Peter Betros Chairman Queensland Rugby League

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In 2015 I spoke about the year as being one of consolidation. This year it has been about growth and providing new opportunities for people. This transition has provided many benefits and 2016 has seen a number of firsts within the division, many of which will be highlighted in this publication. Some of the highlights in 2016 include: • • • • • • • • • • • •

First Divisional Magazine First Junior Divisional Carnival – tent city in Kingaroy Creation of a fourth region (Sunshine Coast) Under 14 girls team in the state carnival for the first time Young Warrior Project – leadership program for under 16 boys Player/Club Education and Welfare Program Manager Outback Carnivals Central Crows performances at State Carnivals Community engagements – RizeUp partnership Country Week games – Gympie, Charleville and Barcaldine Origin Fan Day in Gladstone Growing Grass at Ilfracombe – no mean feat!

Growth of the women’s game (more than 10% of our players are now female!)

The list goes on but I must say without the support of the 27 leagues within the division and their willingness to take ownership of initiatives, much of what has been achieved would not have happened.

So many thanks to all the senior and junior League Chairpersons and their committees and to the thousands of volunteers who have given their time and energy to make this game so successful. The Mums and Dads who unselfishly support their children during the year.

To the canteen convenors, to the people setting up the fields each week, to the coaches and match officials who volunteer in the game. Everyone plays a part.

To all the QRL staff employed within the division your work has been fantastic. Words cannot really give justice to the wonderful things that have happened this year. The performances of many teams in 2016 has been heartening. If in years ahead, we can build on the successes for 2016 we can look forward to great times.

In conclusion special thanks to the Management Committee of 2016 for without your support and the work of those mentioned above the great stories of 2016 may not have had the chance to be told. Finally, thank you to Tony Price and League Queensland for giving us such a great platform to share our successes.

Looking forward to season 2017 - all the best for Christmas. Enjoy the festive season and I look forward to seeing everyone once again in 2017.

Danny McGuire Chairman Central Division

THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

THANK YOU FROM

Magazines like this are only possible with the assistance of the people involved and I have to say that the assistance given by the people of the QRL Central Division in 2016 has been second to none. I’d firstly like to acknowledge the support and confidence shown in me by Glenn Ottaway, who has a touch rarely seen in a sporting official. It is clearly obvious that he loves rugby league and the clubs, players, officials and supporters in this division are the richer for him being there. Danny McGuire who is the Divisional representative on the Board of the Queensland Rugby League has also been a strong supporter and once again I thank him.

There have been many people who have assisted and I’m confident I’ll forget somebody but some that come to mind include:- Dave Pearce, Peter Hunt, Amanda Ohl, Peter Rafter, Cameron Stallard, Neil Redfern, Kristy Zagari, Peter White, Richard Goldsworthy, John Chaplain, Melissa Macklin, Jodie Teys, South Burnett On-line, Trish Drummond, Michael Jensen, Col Hennessy, Lisa Anderson, Stacey Hughes, Chris Waters, Julie Whiley, Michael Hillier (QRL) and Stephen Buckley (Brisbane Broncos).

Kind Regards Tony Price Editor

CENTRAL DIVISION LIFE MEMBERS

Mal Breen (2011) Bert Borland (2012) Rex Little (2013) Grahame Lenton (2016)

MEMBERS FOR LIFE –

from former Central, Wide Bay and South West Divisions John Barrett OAM Bob Bateman Tim Bliss Clarrie Bullen Peter Cavanagh Artie Clewley (dec.)

John Diamond Jeff Eyles (dec.)

Peter Flynn Jim Gallagher (dec.)

Duncan Hall (dec.)

Paul Goener

Bob Love (dec.)

John McDonald AM Barry Nugent Bill Oliver Glynn Rees Roy Rowe Ian Sanderson Danny Tanner EC (Ted) Weber OAM Ron Wilkinson (dec.)

Ron Wroe

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THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

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central division 2016 PREMIERS HONOUR BOARD QRL Divisional Championships Men Central Crows 1st on 9.5 points 2nd SEQ Poinsettias on 5 points 3rd South East Queensland on 4.5 points 4th Northern Marlins on 1 point Women South East Queensland 1st on 10 points 2nd Central Crows on 5 points 3rd Northern Marlins on Nil 47th Battalion Trophy (Played in Roma) Sunshine Coast 6 d Central Highlands 4 (Women) Sunshine Coast 26 d South West Queensland 8 (Men) South East Queensland (Womens) Toowoomba Fillies 34 d Sunnybank 18 Border League Inglewood Roosters 44 d Tenterfield Tigers 10 Tenterfield Tigerettes 32 d Wallangarra Ramettes 10 Bundaberg U13 – Hervey Bay Green 28 d Across the Waves 24 U14 – Western Suburbs 36 d Across the Waves 4 U15 – Bundaberg Brothers 36 d Western Suburbs Nil U16 – Bundaberg Brothers 22 drew Wallaroos 22 U18 – Past Brothers 34 d Hervey Bay 10 Women – Bundaberg Brothers 46 d Isis Nil Reserve – Maryborough Brothers 20 d Bundaberg Brothers 12 A Grade – Hervey Bay Seagulls 20 d Waves Tigers 12 Burnett Region U14 Cherbourg Hornets 14 d Wondai/Proston Wolves 10 U16 Nanango/Wondai 24 d Central Burnett Brumbies 16 Mundubbera Tigers 40 d Eidsvold Eagles 14 (Central Grand Final) Cherbourg Hornets 68 d Nanango Stage 20 (Sth Burnett Grand Final) Cherbourg Hornets 66 d Mundubbera Tigers 28 Central Highlands U13 – Peak Downs 26 d Emerald Brothers 18 U15 – Emerald Tigers 38 d Emerald Brothers 20 U17 – Emerald Tigers 38 d Clermont 12 Mens A Grade – Emerald Tigers 22 d Middlemount Panthers 14 Womens A Grade – Emerald Tigers 18 d Clermont Bears 12 Central Outback Challenge U14 Roma 28 d Central West 10 Central West Ilfracombe Scorpions 30 d Winton Devils 12 Gladstone U13 – Brothers 38 d Calliope 8 U14 – Brothers 28 d Tannum Sands 20 U15 – Tannum Sands 24 d Valleys 22 U17 – Tannum Sands 20 d Calliope 6 Women’s A Grade – Wallaby’s 26 d Emu Park 6 Men’s A Grade – Calliope Roosters 27 d Emu Park 22 Jason Hetherington Cup (Gladstone) Western Lions Pride (Townsville) 12 d Caboolture Snakes 4

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Northern Districts Slean Cup – Agnes Waters 66 d Burnett Heads 0 Ausbank Premiership – Avondale 26 d Gin Gin 6 Rockhampton U13 – Rockhampton Bros 20 d Gracemere 14 U14 – Emu Park 26 d Yeppoon 14 U15 – Fitzroy 38 d Rockhampton Bros White 16 U16 – Capricorn Coast Bros 12 d Rockhampton Bros 10 U18 – Rockhampton Bros Blue 50 d Capricorn Coast Bros 16 U20 – Yeppoon Seagulls 24 d Norths Chargers 20 Reserve – Woorabinda Warriors 52 d Norths Chargers 30 A Grade – Norths Chargers 24 d Past Brothers 18 Roma and District U16 – Chinchilla 24 d Wallumbilla Surat Red Bulls 20 U18 – Mitchell 22 d Roma Cities 18 Reserve – Roma Cities 12 d Wallumbilla Surat Red Bulls 10 A Grade – Roma Cities 34 d Chinchilla 10 Sunshine Coast U13 (Div 1) – Kawana Maroon 52 d Coolum Beach Maroon Nil U13 (Div 2) – Caloundra Gold 22 d Kawana White 14 U13 (Div 3) – Palmwoods 18 d Noosa Blue 10 U14 (Div 1) – Kawana Maroon 32 d Beachmere 6 U14 (Div 2) – Bribie Island Blue 20 d Stanley River 16 U14 Girls – Caboolture 46 d Kingaroy 12 U15 (Div 1) – Kawana Maroon 16 d Bribie Island Blue 14 U15 (Div 2) – Stanley River 28 d Gympie 20 U15 (Div 3) – Palmwoods 74 d Kawana White 16 U16 (Div 1) – Kawana Maroon 32 d Caboolture Gold 14 U16 (Div 2) – Bribie Island 36 d Stanley River 20 U 16 Girls – Kawana 30 d Caboolture 22 U18 (Div 1) – Kawana Maroon 36 d Maroochydore/Coolum 28 U18 (Div 2) – Coolum Beach 16 d Beerwah 4 U18 Girls – Beachmere 48 d Nambour 36 Div Two Cup Pool A – Kawana 22 d Beerwah 18 Div Two Cup Pool B – Nambour 36 d Maroochydore Coolum 28 Division One Cup – Maroochydore Coolum 18 d Kawana 16 Toowoomba U13 – Highfields 32 d Dalby 18 U13/14 – Toowoomba Valleys 55 d Oakey 4 U14 – Dalby 14 d Southern Suburbs 10 U15 – Southern Suburbs 42 d Highfields 12 U15/16 – Highfields 24 d Southern Suburbs 22 U16 – Southern Suburbs 32 d Dalby 4 U18 – Toowoomba Valleys 24 d Warwick 12 2nd Division – Gatton 24 d Dalby 0 Reserve Grade – Gatton 12 d Valleys 4 A Grade – Pittsworth 18 d Warwick 12 Warwick and District Under 13 – Collegians 50 d Goondiwindi 8 Under 14 – Collegians White 24 d Collegians Blue 23 Under 16 (Girls) – Goondiwindi 22 d Millwood 0 Under 16 – Goondiwindi 22 d Collegians 16 Western League Charleville Comets 28 d Augathella Meatants 10

THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

CENTRAL DIVISION RIZEUP DOMESTIC violence is one of those statistics we don’t want to grow, but unfortunately over time it has done exactly that. It has been recorded that when children witness violence in the home it has a devastating impact on their lives and statistics show us that 60% of little boys who witness violence in the home go on to become perpetrators, and 55% of little girls go on to become adults who replicate the relationship they saw their mum in whilst they were growing up.

Earlier this year, the Central Division of the Queensland Rugby League partnered with RizeUp in an effort to help tackle domestic violence. RizeUp is an independent charity that provides practical assistance to families affected by domestic violence. The division wanted to use rugby league and its community involvement to help “educate, empower and end domestic violence”, which is RizeUp’s philosophy.

violence that had caused them to leave everything they knew and loved behind.

Through ongoing education and awareness, the division will continue to support RizeUp and their proactive approach.

Making the RizeUp round an annual event will be our first step of many in the direction of educating, empowering and ending domestic and family violence.

The cycle of violence for so many people means they are suffering from the silent scourge that plagues our nation.

There is no doubt that by the division joining together with RizeUp and continuing to move forward in such a practical manner that we will make a huge dent in reducing the tolerance to, and the domestic violence throughout Australia.

RizeUp is a registered Australian charity. RizeUp and their volunteers are referred homes through the refuges and domestic violence services. Without ever meeting the families and through the power of social media, the homeware needs are placed on Facebook and within 24 to 48 hours, the team have enough donations to furnish a home, fill the cupboards and provide the little extra special touches that make a house a home.

As part of the divisions partnership with RizeUp and the ongoing commitment to tackle the domestic violence epidemic in Australia. The division hosted a ‘RizeUp Round’ on Sunday 14th August in the hope to raise awareness of domestic violence and educate the public about how prevalent it is in our society. Homeware donations were collected across the division to help with the RizeUp homes program. St George created a RizeUp Cup event in their game against Chinchilla, while their A-grade team sported the logo on their team jersey for the season, all to show their support and raise awareness.

Since the RizeUp Round in August, 26 homes have been completed. The divisions donations have helped provide valuable support for 92 Queensland families, 26 Mums, 29 girls and 37 boys have received donations of much needed items to help them comfortably transition out of refuge and into their own homes and onto a journey that is free from the

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CENTRAL WIN DIVISIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

CENTRAL DIVISION REPRESENTATIVE RUGBY LEAGUE TEAM – 2016 DIVISIONAL CHAMPIONS TOP ROW( L-R): Grant Bignell, Eugene Seddon, Peter Rogers, Paul McEwin, Mitchell Carpenter, Steve Franciscus, Trent Richardson, Tyson White, Corey Forrest, Daniel Tanner, Jake Carl. Alexander Ambia, Richard Duff, Ron Tasker BOTTOM ROW (L-R): Chanel Seigafo, Reben Baillie, Dylan McGrath, Jason Wilmot, Jason Wardrop, Corey Blades, Murray Goldsworthy, Logan Houghton, Brendan Grulke

CENTRAL DIVISION WOMENS REPRESENTATIVE RUGBY LEAGUE TEAM 2016 BACK (L-R): Cloe Ramsay, Lana Sheedy, Annette Brander, Mariah Storch, Chelsea Baker, Stef Gallagher, Sarah Fields, Sarah Baker MIDDLE: Candice Hosking (FAO), Ellie Walters, Kailah Rogers, Kody House, Sheree Jewess, Carly Bell, Melissa Edwards FRONT: Steve Savage (Coach), Kristy McLennan (Manager), Kiri Samson, Emmaley McMurdy, Courtney Lockwood (Captain), Tegan Rolfe, Sarah Walker, Sam Beasant (L/Safe), Alan McIndoe (Asst/Manager)

Images: Courtesy QRL Central Division

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THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

CROWS DOMINATE IN WET TWO days in Roma proved the difference in the QRL Divisional Championships played at Owen Park, Southport on the weekend of the 3rd, 4th and 5th June. The Central Crows went through the two days undefeated but also went into the competition the best prepared following two hectic days in Roma playing in the 47th Battalion Memorial Trophy in May. The carnival was marred by torrential rain on the Friday evening and Saturday but the sun shone on the Sunday for the finals. Teams that took part in the carnival were Northern Marlins, South East Queensland, Central and SEQ Poinsettias.

The competition on the Friday evening saw South East Queensland Women defeat Central 10/0 after leading 6/0 at half-time.

Australian representative Karina Brown and Paige Rogers scored for SEQ with Zahara Temara kicking a goal. On the Saturday in conditions better suited to water-polo, Centrals with another Australian player in Chelsea Baker, defeated Northern 16/0 after leading 6/0 at the break. Baker scored a try and kicked two goals while Lana Sheedy and Sarah Walker also slid over the wet line. The final carnival standing for the Women’s Division was South East Queensland (10), Central (5) and Northern (nil).

The Men’s competition got underway on the Saturday in terrible conditions and the powerful Central Crows proved they were the team to beat by downing South East Queensland 36/12 after leading 18/12 at half-time. Chanel Seigafo (2), Jake Carl, Alexander Ambia, Brendan Grulke and Dylan McGrath scored tries for the Crows with Jason Wilmott kicking six goals. Ono So’Oialo and former North Queensland player Raymond Baira scored for South East Queensland while Isaak Gordon kicked two goals. The opening men’s game on the Sunday was actually the final as Central and the Poinsettias were both undefeated. The dry conditions made for good rugby league but at 16/0 at half-time to Central the result was never in doubt. Toowoomba’s Corey Blades played

himself into a Queensland Rangers jersey with a two-try haul while Chanel Seigafo, Brendan Grulke, Tyson White and Dylan McGrath also crossed with Jason Willmott kicking four goals.

The Poinsettias played well in the second half with Marlon Doak, Mitchell Wilson and Josh Hoffman scoring tries while Tyson Gamble kicked two goals.

The final standing for the men’s competition was Central (9.5), SEQ Poinsettias (5), South East Queensland (4.5) and the Marlins (1). Following the Carnival a Queensland Rangers team was selected to play the NSW Ron Massey Cup team on Sunday, July 24th at Pizzey Park, Gold Coast. Coached by Craig Grauf the Rangers team was (1) Yamba Bowie (Cairns Brothers), (2) Ono So’Oialo (Ipswich Jets), (3) Steve Franciscus (Gatton Hawks), (4) Kennedy Pettybourne (West Brisbane Panthers), (5) Corey Blades (Toowoomba Souths), (6) Mitch Wilson (Redcliffe Dolphins), (7) Chris Ash (Ipswich Jets), (8) Trent Richardson (Warwick Cowboys), (9) Brendan Grulke (Roma Cities), (10) Troy Kapea (Herbert River Crushers), (11) Lachlan Rowe (Ipswich Jets), (12) David Crampton (Normanton Stingers), (13) Ivan Petelo (Whitsunday Brahmans), (14) Chris Aiton (Fortitude Valley), (15) Josh Hoffman (Wynnum Manly), (16) Jason Wardrop (Maroochydore Swans), (17) and Logan Houghton (Sunshine Coast Falcons).

L-R: Tegan Rolfe, Carly Bell, Elle Waters

THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

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BIRDSVILLE, BEDOURIE, BOULIA, STONEHENGE AND ALL POINTS WEST playing only their second tournament together. They were up against an even more inexperienced local team but you could not question their commitment. After the first game there were doubts about enough numbers to play a second game but girls from the crowd registered and helped out to provide a real spectacle for the crowd.

THE NRL, Rod Dahl - Development Officer and QRL, Peter Rafter – Outback Operations Manager, again travelled to the far western Queensland Outback and visited a number of schools who get limited visitors. They visited Stonehenge, Jundah, Windorah, Birdsville, Bedourie and Boulia. Two of the schools, Stonehenge and Birdsville, consist of only four students in each while Boulia was by far the biggest with 24 students. The students were spoken to about Rugby League and the importance of warming up prior to any sport before playing numerous Rugby League orientated games.

The students and teachers thoroughly enjoyed the day and company. I know some parents complain about getting their kids ready for school of a morning but how would they handle the travel of some of these children who travel up to 60kms each morning to get to school, again no one complains. When leaving the QRL and NRL left the schools with a couple of footballs and plenty of gifts for the students.

After the tour of the schools it was on to the Bedouries 9s, in its second year. This year there were two women’s teams competing for the overall $3000 prizemoney with the winners cheques of $2000 going to the Northern Goannas, a team that had only been together for a couple of weeks and

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In the men’s there were teams from Boulia Bulls, Barcoo Bandits and the crowd favourite the local Bedourie Bogan Fleas. There was some quality footy played during the day with special cameo appearances from former NRL stars Clinton Toopi and Preston Campbell, both looking fit enough as if they had only been playing the previous day. Both these guys were doing a tour of the Outback with Queensland Health providing awareness of mental health and just being there to help a mate. It was good to see the old tradition of teams running on to the field together and shaking hands with all opposition players prior to the commencement of the game and then with no coin being in the possession of the refs the old paper scissors rock used to determine to kick off. Unfortunately for the locals the Bedourie team was outgunned on the day and missed the final. Despite the efforts and disappointment of Clinton Toopi last year’s winners Barcoo went down in the closest match of the day to the winners Boulia Bulls.

Again the efforts of Trevor Stewart, aka Colgate, must be acknowledged as he has continually worked over the last 12 months to get this up and running so that locals and visitors can enjoy a great weekend. There was also an auction conducted after the games on Saturday night. The final figure, which raised money for local charities, is not known but some of the items auctioned included jerseys worn by Clinton Toopi and Preston Campbell during the day as well as the opportunity to shave Colgate’s head which went for around $900 while one shaved eyebrow went for close to $400. There are some very generous people in the Outback.

All concerned are excited about the 9s again being played in 2017 on the weekend of 10th June. There will again be record prizemoney for all teams.

– PETER RAFTER (Outback Operations Manager for QRL)

THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

THE GARDEN OF EDEN IN ILFRACOMBE What happened in Rugby League circles was that in June 2015 a round of Rugby League played in the Central Division was named the Drought Relief Round and all clubs, players, parents and referees helped by making donations at their local game across the entire Division. The funds were collected and passed on to the Central West Rugby League to distribute in communities that were worst affected.

THE drought in the Queensland Outback is far from over but there have been some encouraging signs during 2016 with good rain in January. A lot more rain is still required before the word ‘drought’ is removed from the everyday vocabulary of people in the Outback.

The field issue at the Ilfracombe Sports Complex was first on the agenda. Whilst the Council were quiet prepared to help re turf the grounds a number of things had to be done initially. Firstly a kangaroo proof fence needed to be erected and with the combined effort of the Ilfracombe club, the Sports Committee and the drought relief funding a fence was erected. This was the first stage and it was completed towards the end of 2015. Still rain was needed as the local dams were bone dry and the town had no regular access to water.

One of the good stories from the Outback for 2016 involves the Ilfracombe Sports Complex which hosts Rugby League, Touch as well as school sports. Rugby League was last played on these fields in August 2014. As a result of the drought the fields dried up and the town of Ilfracombe ran out of water and was unable to salvage them. To make matters worse the drought bought large numbers of kangaroos into the township where they ate all remaining grass and roots, not only on the field but in and around the town.

In early 2015 photos started appearing of the barren footy fields. The Central Division raised awareness of the problem not only in Ilfracombe but many surrounding areas in the Outback. The idea of a ‘Drought Relief Round’ was started to raise money to help these areas and raise awareness of the many problems faced by the local footballers, farmers and their families as well as the people who have lived in these areas for most of their lives. The impact the drought has had on Outback communities has been well documented in many forms of the media.

Come December and January some rain came and supplied good water to the dams. Council gave the next stage of the project the green light. During the next few months irrigation / sprinklers were installed and when the right moment arrived the turf was laid. It took some months for the turf to take and the ground to be playable but in August 2016 the Ilfracombe Scorpions were able to return to their home ground and play a semi-final against Barcaldine. Victory in this game gave the Scorpions a shot at premiership glory.

The fairy-tale ending of course is that the Scorpions went on to win the Grand Final against the Winton Devils and collect their first ever Premiership. 2016 is a year to remember for the Scorpions and the small community of Ilfracombe.

– PETER RAFTER (Outback Operations Manager for QRL)

THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

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47TH BATTALION MEMORIAL TROPHY

Image: Redfern Sports Photography

SUNSHINE COAST RUGBY LEAGUE REPRESENTATIVE TEAM Winners of the 47th Battalion Memorial Trophy held in Roma 1st May 2016 BACK (L-R): Jason Wardrop, Blake Bella, Luke Roberts, Jamie Casey, Robbie Cordwell, Alex Clare, Scott Maddick, Logan Houghton, Dylan McGrath, Jordan Ryan MIDDLE: Rohan Messer, Phil Taylor, David Oakes, Jake Tyler, Darren Pereira, Jacob Friske FRONT: Corey Forrest, Murray Goldsworthy (Captain), Paul McEwin

THE name 47th Battalion Shield originates from a donation from Bundaberg’s Peter Macellos who served in the Battalion during the 2nd World War and gave the trophy to honour the memory of fallen comrades. The Battalion had a distinguished history in the 1st World War fighting at Pozieres, Bullecourt, Messines, Passchendale and Dernancourt. During these campaigns they lost 661 killed and 1,564 wounded.

The 47th Battalion in the 1st World War was drawn from Tasmania and Queensland with one Tasmanian soldier, Sergeant Stanley McDougall winning the Victoria Cross and Military Medal at Dernancourt. During the 2nd World War the 47th Battalion was essentially a Wide Bay unit that drew most of their soldiers from Tairo, Gympie, Murgon, Wondai, Kingaroy, Childers, Howard and Bundaberg. The battalion served with distinction in the New Guinea and Bougainville campaigns losing 67 killed and 147 wounded.

I have never pretended that I don’t have a soft-spot for country rugby league and after two great days enjoying the hospitality of the south-west Queensland town of Roma courtesy of the Central Division and the Roma Cities Club that soft-spot has intensified. The 47th Battalion Carnival has been continually run since 1971 and although it was originally a coastal competition involving Maryborough, Bundaberg, Gympie, South Burnett and the Sunshine Coast it has grown to encompass the entire Central Division. Over the years basically every area has won the trophy with South Burnett (6), Maryborough (3), Bundaberg (8), Toowoomba (3) and Maryborough/Hervey Bay in 1996. However Sunshine 12

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Coast/Gympie have won the most titles with victories on 21 occasions leading into the 2016 carnival.

The 2016 carnival attracted men’s teams from the South West (Miles to the border), North Wide Bay, Toowoomba, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Sunshine Coast, Gladstone and the Central Highlands while the Women’s section involved teams from South West, Bundaberg, Central Queensland Capras, Sunshine Coast/Beerwah and the Central Highlands.

The competition was broken up into pools with Toowoomba who had won the title in 2012, 2014 and 2015 in pool A along with Rockhampton, Sunshine Coast and North Wide Bay while the hosts South West Country were in pool B along with Bundaberg (2013 winners), Gladstone and the Central Highlands.

The Women’s competition was played in one group with a semi-final played on the Sunday morning followed by the Grand Final in the afternoon.

Points were allocated for winning each half and the game so it was possible to go through the competition undefeated as was the case with Bundaberg and not make the final.

Country Rugby League is fickle and while some teams had the advantage of being eight rounds into their club season so well prepared for the possibility of playing four games in two days THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

other teams had not started their season and came into the competition a little underdone. Despite this the standard of rugby league was high and there were no easy games in the 21 played during the carnival although an underdone North Wide Bay struggled in the closing stages of their three games.

field. The boys from the bush were gallant in defeat scoring a try in each half. Sunshine Coast was too strong on the day with their best being Murray Goldworthy, Cory Forrest and Dylan McGrath while South West Countries best were Brendan Grulke and Zac Downey.

Toowoomba paid for a mistake in their opening game against the Sunshine Coast giving away a penalty on the stroke of half time to let the opposition take a slender 12/10 lead into the break but more importantly give away the two possible points for the winning half. The Clydesdales looked the most polished of the teams on display and although they finished with the best points differential of a positive 68 they missed the finals. Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast both finished with six in the Central Division team while Rockhampton (3), Bundaberg (2), South West (1) and Gladstone (1) also featured.

Toowoomba’s Alex Ambia was a crowd favourite as the nuggetty Papua New Guinea player was dangerous every time he touched the ball.

On the Saturday the local South West Country boys defeated Central Highlands 28/10 in the opening game before losing to Bundaberg 28/18 in the afternoon while Bundaberg scrambled to defeat Gladstone 18/16. This narrow win and a half loss to South West Country and later Central Highlands cost Bundaberg a spot in the Grand Final as the six points was enough to see South West Country sneak into the big game. South West Queensland played out of their skins and despite the lack of match practice were the crowd favourites over the weekend. Their replacement hooker Brendan Grulke was the Player of the Carnival and made the run-on side for the Central Division.

The Sunshine Coast won their hardest game on the Saturday when they defeated 2015 winners Toowoomba 24/16 after both teams were tied up 10/10 with seconds on the clock in the first half. They defeated North Wide Bay 26/4 and Rockhampton 30/4 on their way to the final. They were professional and it’s obvious the near proximity to the Sunshine Coast Falcons has given some of their players an edge. The Grand Final was basically a classy Sunshine Coast playing a dogged but injured South West Country who went into the game with both starting props struggling to take the

CENTRAL CROWS – MEN’S A GRADE 1. Jake Carl (Bundaberg) 2. Corey Blades (Toowoomba) 3. Steve Franciscus (Toowoomba) 4. Chanel Seigafo (Rockhampton) 5. Alex Ambia (Toowoomba) 6. Corey Forrest (Sunshine Coast) 7. Jason Wilmont (Toowoomba) 8. Trent Richardson (Toowoomba) 9. Brendan Grulke (South West) 10. Jason Wardrop (Sunshine Coast) 11. Murray Goldsworthy (Sunshine Coast) 12. Tyson White (Gladstone) 13. Rueben Baillie (Bundaberg) 14. Dylan McGrath (Sunshine Coast) 15. Mitchell Carpenter (Toowoomba) 16. Logan Houghton (Sunshine Coast) 17. Daniel Tanner (Rockhampton) 18. Peter Rogers (Rockhampton) 19.2016 PaulQRL McEwin (Sunshine Coast) THE CENTRAL DIVISION

Women’s rugby league is the growth area of the sport in Queensland and the five teams that played in Roma never left anything on the field in any game. On the Saturday Bundaberg defeated Central Queensland 6/0, Central Highlands defeated South West Country 22/8 and the classy Sunshine Coast/Beerwah team defeated Bundaberg 50/0.

The Central Queensland team played without their Jillaroo’s Chelsea Baker and Kody House so this certainly took a lot of the attack out of this team while the Sunshine Coasts Annette Brander was also missing for the same reason. The Grand Final was between Central Highlands and Sunshine Coast/ Beerwah with the strappers working overtime to get the players on the field.

The final was a rugged dour affair with no holds barred. A high tackle on Central Highland’s former Australian player Tegan Rolfe took a lot of the sting out of their attack and although she returned to the field she struggled to get involved. Both team scored a try with the coastal team kicking a goal to win 6/4 in a tight encounter. It was an extremely physical contest and player of the final Mariah Storch (Central Highlands) tackled herself to a standstill while Sarah Walker (Sunshine Coast) was close to their best. Sunshine Coast captain Amy Bock commented in accepting the trophy that the match was as physical and as competitive as any that the highly credentialed Sunshine Coast team had experienced. Following the respective Grand Final’s the Central Division selectors picked their teams for the Divisional Championships. They were:CENTRAL CROWS – WOMEN’S A GRADE Lana Sheedy (Sunshine Coast) Chelsea Baker (CQ Capras) Steff Gallagher (Sunshine Coast) Kody House (CQ Capras) Kailah Rogers (Central Highlands) Tegan Rolfe (Central Highlands) Courtney Lockwood (Sunshine Coast) Ellie Waters (Central Highlands) Sarah Walker (Sunshine Coast) Carly Bell (Central Highlands) Annette Brander (Sunshine Coast) Emily McMurdee (Sunshine Coast) Sam Beasant (Sunshine Coast) Melissa Edwards (South West) Kiri Samson (Central Highlands) Mariah Storch (Central Highlands) Sheree Jewess (Bundaberg) Chloe Ramsay (Central Highlands) Sarah Field (CQ Capras)LEAGUEQUEENSLAND.COM.AU 13 – TONY PRICE

Image: Redfern Sports Photography

CENTRAL CROWS WOMEN’S REPRESENTATIVE TEAM 2016 (Photo taken after Carnival and some girls had departed) BACK (L-R): Alan McIndoe (Assistant Coach), Mariah Storch (CH), Carly Bell (CH), Cloe Ramsay (CH), Emmaley McMurdy (SC), Amy Bock (SC), Kailah Rogers (CH), Stef Gallagher (SC), Courtney Lockwood (SC), Steve Savage (Coach) FRONT: Sarah Field (CQ Capras), Kiri Samson (CH),Tegan Rolfe (CH), Elle Waters (CH), Lana Sheedy (SC), Sarah Walker (SC)

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THE FALCONS FLEW HIGH THE feats of the Sunshine Coast Falcons were the talking point of the Intrust Super Cup towards the end of the season. The Sunshine Coast Falcons came into the semi-finals in fifth spot on the premiership ladder and most experts never expected them to defeat the unbeatable PNG Hunters at home in the first elimination final. Who would have expected the Falcons to recover from their last round 34/4 defeat by PNG in Port Moresby but recover they did in a magnificent fashion. The Falcons who are a feeder club for the Melbourne Storm have some great players but when your attack is only marginally better than your defence it makes playing teams like the Hunters a nightmare. The Falcons

CEO, former Queensland Origin player Chris Flannery was full of praise for his team and the coaching of Craig Ingebrigtsen following the win especially after they trailed 6/4 at half time against a team that had not been beaten on home soil in 2016.

But more was to come against another competition heavy-weight the Townsville Blackhawks and once again the Falcons soared. A three try haul to Ryan Morgan and a try to Jye Ballinger saw the Falcons run out 18/10 winners to the team I considered the team to beat all season. Sadly the fairy-tale finish came to an end on Dolphin Oval in the Preliminary Final when a fired up Redcliffe defeated the Falcons 38/16 to go into the Grand Final.

SUNSHINE COAST FALCONS RLFC INTRUST SUPER CUP SEMI-FINALISTS 2016 FIRST ROW (L-R): Ryley Jacks, Alex Bishop, Dan Murphy, Troy Geiss, Rohan Klein, Tom Murphy, Same Burns, Dylan McGrath, Callum Klein, Brett Doherty SECOND ROW: Jon Grieve, Same Wright, Eddie Tautali, Tom Geraghty, Jye Ballinger, Martin Cordwell, Rohan Messer, Sam Young, Ryan Hansen, Jake Samoa, Tui Kamickamica

AIDING IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ALL LEVELS OF RUGBY LEAGUE IN QUEENSLAND

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDERS THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION www.fogs.com.au www.artie.net.au

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LEGENDS CENTRAL DIVISION OF THE

Image: Courtesy Brisbane Broncos

SEVERAL months ago when I commenced this chapter of the magazine I was dumbfounded by the quality of player who had gone onto bigger and better things from what we now call the Central Division. It was not a matter of who to select but more a matter of who to leave out such was the aura of the players available. For what it is worth this is “League Queensland’s” First XIII. Darren Lockyer was a standout as fullback although Robbie O’Davis, Ray Laird, Wayne Bennett, Bill Heidke and Doug McGregor had all played for Australia. Lockyer had done it all in rugby league playing more than 350 games for the Brisbane Broncos and more than 50 tests for Australia. Not many rugby league players get a major section of Queensland road named after them but the Darren Lockyer Way is travelled on by thousands of motorists every day.

Winger was one of the harder positions to pick in this team with many standout performers including Willie Carne, Les Kiss, Pat McMahon, Des McGovern, Harry Robinson, Alan McIndoe, Brent Tate and Harry Bolewski were all internationals but my standouts were the hard running Michael Hancock and the elusive Matt Sing. Hancock from Stanthorpe had a magnificent club career with the Broncos playing in winning Grand Finals in 1992, 1993, 1997 and 2000. Hancock also scored 120 tries for the Broncos in 274, played 16 games for Queensland and 13 tests for Australia. Matt Sing (Winton) was a try scoring machine who went over the white line on 176 occasions in 323 first grade games for Penrith, Sydney City, North Queensland Cowboys and Hull in the English Super League. Queensland teams are normally dominated by Queensland based players but Sing wore the maroon jersey on 24 occasions mainly from Sydney based clubs. Matt Sing was a credit to the game playing 15 tests for Australia and was still playing in Central Queensland at the age of 37 in 2012.

If you are selected in the Australian Team of the Century there is a fair chance you will make “League Queensland’s” Team of the 16

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Century from the Central Division so Mal Meninga (Bundaberg) is the first centre chosen in our team. There is a huge cast for this position with Fred Laws, Noel Hazzard, John McDonald, Steve Renouf, Vic Hey, Willie Tonga, Edwin Brown, Eric Bowe and Chris Close but I feel the Queensland Team of the Centre pairing of Meninga and Tommy Gorman would be hard to toss.

I wish rugby league teams had three centres because I feel that Steve Renouf playing outside of either Gorman or Meninga would be electrifying.

Both Meninga and Gorman captained Australia, they both played 43 games for Queensland and both had a hand in eras of dominance for Queensland.

The five-eighth in my Central Division team played in Cunnamulla and Toowoomba in a career that went for more than 15 seasons. The mercurial Bobby Banks got my nod over Fred Laws, Graham Laird, Cyril Connell and John Gleeson who all played for Australia from the bush. Banks played 33 games for Queensland, 13 tests for Australia, toured with the 1956/1957 Kangaroos and played in the 1954 World Cup. Originally from Newcastle Banks was ostracised by the Australian selectors and missed the 1959 Kangaroo tour when players of a lesser ability were selected. Ten seasons after first playing for Queensland he led Tully to their one and only Foley Shield Final in 1963.

The half-backs from the Central Division are sparse but Queensland Team of the Century player Duncan Thompson gets my nod over Freddy Gilbert from Toowoomba. Thompson had a wonderful career playing for Australia, Queensland and New South Wales. A thinking man’s footballer he was one of the most astute players and coaches who were ever involved in the game. He played both sides of the First World War and was a key figure in North Sydney’s only two premierships (1921/1922). He returned to Queensland after a major fallout with the New South Wales Rugby League in 1923 and was instrumental in the success of Toowoomba in 1924/1925 and 1926 when they defeated all comers including New South Wales, New Zealand and England.

The “League Queensland” lock-forward is the rangy Rod ‘Rocket’ THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

Reddy from Rockhampton who takes the jersey in front of the courageous Col Weiss, Ian Doyle and Vic Armbruster. Reddy played for Central Queensland and Queensland Country in 1971 at the age of 17 and was signed by the great St George Club in Sydney the following season. Between 1972 and 1983 he played 195 games for St George including victories in the 1977 and 1979 Grand Finals, 11 games for New South Wales and 16 tests for Australia. In 1980 he played for Queensland in the first ever Origin game and remarkably was selected to tour with the 1982 Kangaroos. Reddy was a controversial selection but he played in five tests on tour to illustrate his worth as a player. In 1984/85 he played for the Illawarra Steelers and in the twilight of a magnificent career he played for Townsville (North Queensland) in 1986/1987. In the 1987 Foley Shield Final as captain/coach at the age of 33 he set up six tries with silky passing as the Brolgas defeated Cairns 30/26.

My second row are simply two of the greatest players to ever wear a Queensland jersey in Arthur Beetson from Roma and Herb Steinohrt from Toowoomba.

Such was the class of Beetson and such is the class of the “League Queensland” Central Division team that he is selected in the second row although he’s in the Australian Team of the Century as a prop. I selected him in the second row because he made his Australian debut on the 23rd July 1966 in that position with John Wittenberg from Theodore in the front row. Arthur Beetson was the first indigenous Australian to captain Australia in any major sport, he played in 14 Tests, four victorious World Club campaigns, 17 times for NSW in interstate matches, three times for Queensland, and 222 NSW rugby league firstgrade games. He captained Queensland to an inaugural State of Origin victory against NSW, and twice captained Easts to premiership victory. He coached Queensland to repeated State of Origin victories and also coached the Australian team.

Herb Steinohrt made his test debut in the Tommy Gorman captained Australian team on the Brisbane Exhibition Grounds on the 23rd June 1928 and would eventually play nine tests for Australia and an amazing 51 games for Queensland. He toured England with the 1929/1930 Kangaroos and captained his country in all three tests of the 1932 series against England.

Players who received an honourable mention included Elton Rasmussen, Bernie Drew, Ray Higgs, the Platz brothers, Rohan Hancock, Noel Cavanagh, Billy Moore, Wally Fullerton-Smith, Gary Larsen and Jim Bennett.

Although the Central Division supplied both Australian Rugby League Team of the Century front row forwards we have already moved Beetson back to the second row. Duncan Hall (Toowoomba) immediately gets a spot because of his 22 tests for Australia, two Kangaroo Tours (1948/1949 and 1952/1953), 1954 World Cup and 24 games for Queensland. Hall played all his rugby league in Queensland with stints in Rockhampton, Brisbane, Home Hill and Toowoomba.

To be selected in the Australian Team of the Century in this position takes him into rarefied country.

My other front row knocks Queensland Team of the Century player, Mick Madsen off his perch but that is selection and I feel that the iron-man from Leyburn, Shane Webcke deserves his spot. Scott is simply a work-horse and after more than 250 games for the Brisbane Broncos including the 2015 premiership, 24 games for Queensland in Nine Origin Series and 27 tests for Australia he is out there with the best. There are champions galore in this position with the next in line THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

being Matt Scott and Mick Madsen both of whom would make most ‘Best Ever’ teams. John Wittenberg, Dennis Manteit, Steve Price, Brad Tessman and Mark Hohn.

The interchange has to be flexible so my four are Elton Rasmussen with his five Sydney premierships (St George), two Kangaroo Tours (1959 and 1967/68), 15 tests for Australia, 13 games for Queensland and six for New South Wales.

Rasmussen played in an era many regard as the best in rugby league history and the hard running lock or second row would be ideal in today’s interchange period. His forward partner on the bench is Queensland Team of the Century prop Mick Madsen with 41 games for Queensland and nine tests for Australia including two Kangaroo Tours. My interchange backs are Bundaberg’s Noel Hazzard who was in a class of his own in the early 1950’s playing 13 tests for Australia and 12 games for Queensland. His partner would be the Broncos and Murgon speed machine, Steve Renouf who scored 142 tries in 183 games for the Broncos and played 11 games for Queensland along with 11 tests for Australia.

Eight of the “League Queensland” Central Division Team are in the Queensland Team of the Century while Meninga, Beetson and Duncan Hall are in the Australian Team of the Century. I wonder if any other Divisional area in Australia could come up with a team to beat our “League Queensland” Central Division Champions?

Image: Courtesy Brisbane Broncos

Fullback – Darren Lockyer (Roma, Australia) Winger – Michael Hancock (Stanthorpe, Australia) Centre – Tom Gorman (Toowoomba, Australia) Centre – Mal Meninga (Wide Bay, Australia) Winger – Matt Sing (Winton) Five-eighth – Bobby Banks (Toowoomba, Australia) Half-Back – Duncan Thompson (Toowoomba, Australia) Lock – Rod Reddy (Rockhampton, Australia) 2nd Row – Herb Steinohrt (Toowoomba, Australia) 2nd Row – Arthur Beetson (Roma, Australia) Prop – Shane Webcke (Leyburn, Australia) Hooker – Brian Fitzsimmons (Gladstone, Australia) Prop – Duncan Hall (Rockhampton, Australia) Interchange – Mick Madsen (Toowoomba, Australia) Interchange – Noel Hazzard (Bundaberg, Australia) Interchange – Elton Rasmussen (Toowoomba, Australia) Interchange – Steve Renouf (Murgon, Australia) LEAGUEQUEENSLAND.COM.AU

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Image: Courtesy Bevan Hopes

ROCKHAMPTON AND DISTRICT RUGBY LEAGUE

CQU NORTHS CHARGERS RUGBY LEAGUE CLUB – ROCKHAMPTON A GRADE PREMIERS 2016 STANDING: Bevan Hopes (President),Brent Williams, Ron Poncho (FAO),Dean Loram (LS),Callin Atkinson, Thomas Whitehead, Russell Webber (obscured) Caleb Tull, Brodee Patti, Josh Johnston, Michael Songoro, Daniel Levi, Matt Jarvis, Lloyd Stiegler, Alex Hopes (Supporter), Andrew Dale. KNEELING: Kane Hardy (Coach), Julyess Jarvis, Dylan Webber, Dan Tanner (Captain), Todd Titmus, Nathan Bassini, Jack White, Bryan Spence.

IT wasn’t supposed to happen like this but the previously undefeated Rockhampton Brothers led 18/6 with 15 minutes to go in the Rockhampton and District Grand Final before going down to a more determined Norths Chargers 24/18.

Norths President Bevan Hopes was over the moon with three of the clubs team’s competing on Grand Final day with the Reserve Grade going down 52/30 to the Woorabinda Warriors while their Under 20 grade lost 24/20 to the Yeppoon Seagulls.

Brothers had clearly won the minor premiership with 15 wins from 15 starts and defeated Norths 30/20 in the major semi-final.

Until the Grand Final they were the only undefeated A Grade team in Queensland. Norths had struggled into the Grand Final with six of their top players injured throughout the season and they took no part in the last half of the season, including star signings Simon Gregory, Brent Williams and star half Dean Allen.

The Grand Final was played before one of the biggest crowds in over a decade and the game surpassed all expectations, with veteran captain Dan Tanner leading from the front along with other old boys Todd Titmus, Andrew “Heavy” Dale, Matthew Jarvis and Russell Webber.

Tull to turn around an 18/6 deficit with 13 minutes remaining to snatch an exciting victory.

The winning try was scored by 19-year-old Bryan Spence who earlier in the day had played a full game in under 20s so it was a wonderful day for the club and their policy to nurture local juniors. In the other games, Yeppoon defeated Norths in the under-20s and Woorabinda defeated Norths in the reserve grade. The Woorabinda Warriors had previously played in the Gladstone competition and their brand of attacking play was exciting to watch. They certainly have the ability to match it with the A Grade teams in Rockhampton.

Rockhampton Brothers were the only undefeated A Grade team in Queensland going into the Grand Final with a very impressive 15 wins from 15 starts plus an undefeated run in the semi-finals. They had scored 617 points while only conceding 142 which was a good as any club in the state.

The nine-team Rockhampton Competition includes Rocky Brothers, Norths, Yeppoon, Gladstone Valleys, Biloela, Tannum Sands, Gladstone Brothers, Fitzroy/Gracemere and Emu Park in A Grade while Woorabinda take Emu Parks place in the reserve grade. Woorabinda were a revelation, only losing one game in the regular season while scoring 642 points to 351.

They combined with their 18-year-old halves pairing of Jack White and Caleb 18

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Image: Courtesy Woorabinda Rugby League Facebook

MORE THAN A GAME FOR WOORABINDA

THE Woorabinda Warriors dominated the Rockhampton Reserve Grade competition in 2016, winning 14 of 15 games while scoring 642 points. Rugby League is more than a game in Woorabinda, it is an opportunity for the small community to show what their young players are capable of and for the town to be proud of their achievements. This is the first premiership for the rugby league loving town since 2000 and the 52/30 win over Norths Chargers was a long time in coming.

Captain Gerry Doyle was the sole survivor from their 2000 premiership. “Over the last two months we have lost a lot of loved ones back home, and all I asked from the boys was to believe in each other and give everything they’ve got,” Doyle said at full-time. “And they did it with pride and honour. I’m a police officer and for me, I want the guys to look up to me as a leader. I believe I am one and I took my boys with me today and they made me proud. We have a bunch of young fellas that play on belief.”

Doyle took time to single out one player, Jack Bond. “He lost his Dad only two weeks ago and for him to come out and play the way he did was inspiring,” Doyle explained.

“He was outstanding and played with such passion. I know his Dad was there with him and would have been proud.”

Pride, passion, belief and courage, combined with the natural attacking flair saw 17 players do it for the love of the game. And they did the double, claiming the minor premiership with an average attack that yielded 43 points per game. Joseph Oakley thrilled crowds with 27 tries for the season and Lawrence Roberts was the runaway leading point scorer with 188.

Coach Daniel Roberts said the hard work had paid off. “We have worked on our attack all year. We are pretty red hot with the ball in hand so we knew we just had to hold on to it and we would get away with it,” Roberts said.

“We only got back together this year, been going since preseason when we were training every day a week early on.

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I can’t pick a stand out, the whole side put a shift in and teamwork got us over the line.” From here, it is simple. Doyle wants a Woorabinda team in all three grades. And with the number of players currently in the competition, it is more than a pipe dream. “This is not only about Woorabinda, it is about football. These boys love playing league and we would love to get three grades playing,” he said.

“We have a lot of players who play for Rockhampton clubs and we want them to come home and make a strong A-grade side.

I think we can be really competitive.”

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THE OLLIE HOWDEN MEDALLION

WILLIAM Joseph Howden, better known as “Ollie” was born on 19th April 1891 in Collingwood, Melbourne. Ironically he was an ardent Richmond “Tigers” fan of the VFL in his early days.

He joined the 5th Battalion in World War 1 and saw service at Gallipoli. He was wounded during the war. On returning to civilian life he was married to Elsie Margaret May, with whom he had four children Gwen, Marie, Leo and Mervyn.

After separating from his family he ventured into gold prospecting in the Monto region and was an investor on the stock market. He later moved to Rockhampton and resided in Caroline Street, Allenstown and was regarded as a gentleman who enjoyed gardening, especially his rose garden. He also held a passion for Rugby League and was a supporter of the Fitzroy club. He was Patron of the Rockhampton Rugby League for many years and the medal was part of his legacy to Rugby League. It was initiated in 1954 to encourage the younger players, to aspire to be the best and fairest of our game. Ollie retired to the Ballina R.S.L. retirement home in his later years.

On his 100th birthday he broke his hip, he loved a party. This caused deterioration in his health. Ollie pasted away on 9th March 1993 in his 101st year. In his Will he bequeathed a sum of money to the Rockhampton Rugby League so that the medal will be presented annually, in perpetuity, to the BEST AND FAIREST player. Prior to the revised State League format the OHM Medal was contested by players in the Rockhampton competition. The 1950’s / 1960’s / 1970’s saw international players winning the medal. When the state League went to a season long format (1996) Capras/Comets players were restricted from winning the medal. The 2016 winner was Mitchell Power from Rockhampton Brothers.

Many prominent rugby league players have won the OIlie Howden Medallion including Paul White (CEO, Broncos), ‘Sugar’ Ray Robinson, Cyril Connell jnr, Ray Laird, Steven Crear, Garth Budge, Cec Cooper, Ron Dutton and Des Tracey. Laird, Connell and Steven Crear played for Australia from Rockhampton while Budge, Cooper, Dutton and Tracey played for Queensland.

‘Sugar’ Ray Robinson played for Queensland Country on many occasions in a career that lasted 15 years in first grade. The Queensland Country team above who defeated South East Queensland 15/10 and Brisbane 27/13 contained three Ollie Howden winners in Robinson, Cooper and Connell.

– PETER HUNT

QUEENSLAND COUNTRY RUGBY LEAGUE TEAM – 1955 FRONT (L-R): Eric Webster (Mackay), Rex McGlynn (Bundaberg), A.E. Lawrence (Manager, Townsville), Col Geelan (Captain, Rockhampton), J Browne (Manager, Rockhampton), Cec Cooper (Rockhampton), Hugh Kelly (Cairns) 2nd ROW: Phil Sear (Rockhampton), Cyril Connell (V/Captain, Rockhampton), K Weston (Maryborough), Ron Willey (Rockhampton), Ray Robinson (Rockhampton), K Roberts (Rockhampton) 3rd ROW: E Hughes (Rockhampton), Hume Ronald (Mackay), Danny Clifford (Tully), Vince Soorley (Rockhampton), B Long (Nambour), Brian Ford (Mackay) BACK: Unknown (Townsville), L Furness (Townsville) ABSENT: J O’Shea (Ayr)

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THE CQ CAPRAS THE Central Queensland Capras are the only Intrust Super Cup team not aligned to an NRL Club and it showed from round 14 onwards with the best result in the last 11 games being a 24/24 draw against Easts Tigers at Langlands Park. The Capras won six of 23 games with their best result being a 30/10 defeat

of Easts in round five. Injuries affected their season and 2017 is shaping as a comeback year for the Capras who have one of the better player catchment areas in the Intrust Super Cup with the great St Brendan’s College on their door-step and the Central Division the Queensland Champions.

BACK (L-R): Derek Hemopo, Maipele Morseu, Kayan Davis, Jaziah Dawson, Tom McKenzie, Reece Baker, George Grant, Masada Losefa, Lance Kuveu, Josh Mitchell, Nathan Wilson 3rd ROW: Mitch Berry (Ass/Coach), Justen Parle (S/C), Jake Ainsworth, Chanel Seigafo, Kirisome Junior Kirisome, Jordan Kane, Michael Ki, Bayley Liu, Tarrant Mariner, Samson Graham, Justin Tavau, Mitch Dare (S/C), Steuart Rodie (S/C), Damien Bath (S/C) 2nd ROW: Ron Tasker (Snr Sports Trainer), John Buttigeig (Ass/Coach), Casey McGuire (Ass/Coach), Brandon Manase, John Filipo, Dylan Webber, Tyson White, Bill Cullen, Nathan Young, Josh Johnston, Lyle Baker (Logistics), Nikita Williams (Sports Trainer), Leonie Van der Meer (Sports Trainer), Krystal Cook (Admin) FRONT: Stan Smith (Board Member), Brendan Bowers (Operations Manager), Vic Halfpenny, Jack Kavanagh, Peter Gallen, Aleki Falepaini, Adam Henry, Kim Williams (Coach), Gavin Hiscox, Ian Webster, Matt Minto, Liam Pickersgill, Marco De La Pena, Geoff Murphy (Chairman), Dominique McGregor (Finance) Absent: Gerard Tema, Mark Johnstone, Ratu Tobia Viravu, David Still, Jason Green (Ass/Coach), Lionel Harbin (Rookie Co-Ord), Mike Donahue (Board Member), Greg Reynolds (Board Member), Doug Webber (Board Member), Ray Conder (Board Member)

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RUSTLERS WIN DIVISIONAL CHAMPS IN YEPPOON THE weather couldn’t be any more perfect at a picturesque Webb Oval in Yeppoon for the 2016 Central Division Under 20’s Carnival.

In its second year of the new format, defending premiers Rockhampton hosted Gladstone, Bundaberg, Central Highlands and the best from the Queensland Outback over the weekend. Saturday started well for the Outback side who had been in a training camp since Wednesday, putting a plethora of points on the Gladstone U20’s to start the day off winning 52/12.

Alex Coonan was a standout for the Outback side taking control of the game, putting his forwards through holes in the Gladstone defence. Bryce Rackemann also did very well at dummy-half, getting his name on the scoreboard by bagging two tries. Rockhampton was next to face off against the Central Highlands side. The game started with Justin Asse scoring a trifecta of tries on the left wing in the first 20 minutes to give Rocky a 16/0 lead.

The Highlands broke the drought just before half-time and continued to put the points on Rocky after the break to get within two points of their lead.

The Rustlers didn’t give up that easily and with a minute to go, the “home town hero” Jace O’Neill scored to give the Rustlers a close win 24/18.

After Bundaberg’s narrow loss to Rockhampton last year, the Bears had showed up hungry to take the trophy back. Their first match against the Outback was a close affair in the first half with the Bears leading 16/12 at half-time.

A masterclass from Bundaberg centre Trent Seeds in the second half cemented Bundaberg’s first win of the carnival, defeating the Outback 32/16. It was a tough day at the office for the Gladstone side who were beaten by Rockhampton 48-0 in their second game of the day.

In the final match of the day, the Bundaberg side led from the front and comfortably defeated Central Highlands 30/10 in a very scrappy game of footy. The win for Bundaberg secured the Bears top spot on the ladder and booked a semi-final against Central Highlands (4th). Rockhampton (2nd) were drawn against Qld Outback (3rd) in the second semi-final.

In the first semi-final on Sunday, the Central Highlands played like a brand new footy side putting the previous night’s loss behind them. At the break, the Highlands led 12/10.

An inspirational half-time speech from Bundaberg coach Matt Templeman saw the Bears come out of the dressing sheds and put 22 unanswered points on the Highlanders to book a THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

spot in the Grand Final, winning 32/12.

In the second semi-final, Rockhampton came out of the blocks firing, scoring three tries to start the affair. The Outback started a late comeback early in the second half but the Rustlers switched on the afterburners to win 30/12. It wasn’t all smooth sailing though for Rocky with the loss of Justin Asse and Jake Ainsworth to injury in the match.

The Bundaberg Bears and Rockhampton Rustlers played off again in the Grand Final for the second year running but it was Rockhampton who took control of the game from the start.

Batted, bruised and down on troops with only two players on the interchange bench, the injuries didn’t stop the determined Rustlers who led from the start to defeat the Bears 30/4.

Credit must go to the Rustlers’ forwards with most players needing to play a full 60 minutes due to the number of injuries. Credit must also go to the Bundaberg Bears who never gave up in the encounter but were just outplayed and outmuscled at the end of the day. Congratulations to Jace O’Neill (Rockhampton) who was named Player of the Final and to Mitchell Forrest (Rockhampton) who was named Player of the Carnival. At the conclusion of the carnival, the Division named a merit side. The squad is listed below.

Well done to the Yeppoon Seagulls and Rockhampton Rugby League on hosting another successful Central Division Under 20’s 47th Battalion carnival. It was a terrific display of Rugby League from the young and upcoming players of the various regions and their attitude and sportsmanship should be congratulated.

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Isaiah Huet (Central Highlands) Justin Asse (Rockhampton) Jake Ainsworth (Rockhampton) Trent Seeds (Bundaberg) Chol Chol (Bundaberg) Mitchell Forrest (Rockhampton) Alex Coonan (Qld Outback) Josh Johnston (Rockhampton) Thomas Whitehead (Rockhampton) Braden Collins (Qld Outback) Isaak Pederson (Bundaberg) Ronald Francis (Qld Outback) Jace O’Neill (Rockhampton) Jayden Alberts (Bundaberg) Shaun Ezzy (Rockhampton) Wade Fickling (Rockhampton) Caleb McLean (Bundaberg) Will Mohr (Central Highlands) Jesse Johnson (Central Highlands) LEAGUEQUEENSLAND.COM.AU

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GLADSTONE RUGBY LEAGUE OUT AND ABOUT LIKE the crowds in Emerald, Bundaberg, Longreach and Proserpine before them the 5,000+ people from Gladstone loved their maroon heroes. This ongoing commitment to an “Origin Visit” to a country area of Queensland by the Queensland Rugby League team is seen by supporters and players alike as an integral part of ‘Origin’ in the 21st Century.

The downturn in the mining industry has seen house prices plummet and unemployment soar in Gladstone so when their Maroons boarded a charter flight and flew 550 kilometres to spend a day with them, thousands hit pause on life’s stresses to absorb the aura of a team who impacts the mood of their constituents based on the fortunes of their football team. With the downturn in the mining sector that the central Queensland region is dependent upon has come an exodus of footballers both at a senior and junior level.

The Gladstone A Grade competition could not be formed this year and it was only at the 11th hour that Brothers, Valleys and Tannum Sands clubs were invited to participate in the Rockhampton competition 110km to the north.

It’s why one of the first points of business that Kevin Walters had when he took the coaching position was to guarantee such fan days would be part of his team’s preparation too. “I remember the Australian team came to Ipswich to train when I was 12 years old and Dad took us over there and it was amazing to see Bob Fulton, Graham Eadie, Tom Raudonikis, all these New South Wales blokes that you see on television actually running around and training,” Walters said. “It just made you want to play for Queensland and for Australia and there are the thousands of kids up here in Gladstone don’t often get to see these players, not like the kids in Brisbane or on the Gold Coast or in Townsville.

“The Gladstone kids find it difficult and it’s a great opportunity for them to come along and see that that could be them one day. It really does lift your spirits as a Queensland kid and you see that if he’s there training and doing it, what’s stopping me from making it? The kids can live the dream, they can see the dream and to be able to reach out and touch it is bloody amazing. “It affects so many people’s lives in Queensland when an Origin game’s on. The day of an Origin, the week building up to it and the day after, the state shuts down if Queensland gets beaten. There are just so many people that are sad and don’t feel like getting up and going to work, but if Queensland wins, happy days.”

For Josh McGuire, who missed last year’s trip to Proserpine due to his Achilles tendon injury, a chance to rub shoulders with the Maroons’ faithful brought a greater sense of what it means to play Origin for Queensland. “It’s all a bit surreal to be honest,” McGuire told the reporter. “It just shows you how much this game means to the state and it’s great to get out there to these rural towns and give them the opportunity to meet some of the legends of Queensland. I grew up loving Queensland and watching them and it’s a bit surreal to be honest. I’m pinching myself at the amount of people that are here. Obviously this is more than a game of rugby league, you’re playing for your family and for your state and the people who love it. Everyone bleeds maroon up here so it’s a great opportunity to see them all live and it reminds you how much it means to people.”

Roosters forward Aidan Guerra was on his third fan day and said that along with 16 team-mates, it reinforces just how many people are relying on him to put in a good performance. “It’s a big day, but to see what it means to the little communities and the people that come out in their thousands and from hours away at the remote towns, it is quite humbling to see what it means to people,” Guerra said. “The people of Queensland love their footy and they love the Maroons so we try and get a feel for that and it’s just someone else you don’t want to let down.”

Game I debutant Corey Oates rose from Baralaba with a population of less than 500 people to represent his state and hopes that he and other players inspire youngsters to reach for Queensland star Matt Gillett signing an autograph / Image: Courtesy QRL

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THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

the heights the game has to offer. “As a kid growing up to be a part of that sort of stuff was something that made your day or made your week really,” Oates said.

“It just shows that it doesn’t matter how small the town is that you come from that if you have a dig at something and follow through with it then anything can happen.

There have been plenty of blokes that have come out of them kind of towns and played for Queensland and it just shows the kids that if you keep your head up and have a go you can make it from anywhere.”

FANTASTIC DAY AT GLADSTONE RUGBY LEAGUE GRAND FINAL Fantastic football was on display in front of a large crowd in excess of 2000 people in a big day of rugby league at Marley Brown Oval in Gladstone. The crowd was treated to a high

standard of rugby league in all grades with the two games of excellence stealing the show, with just two points separating both sides in each game. The young referees in charge throughout the day also did a fantastic job. Gladstone Junior & Senior president Richard Duff was ecstatic with the day and thanked all volunteers, coaches and active parents for making the year possible for their respective clubs and the Gladstone & District Junior Rugby League.

WOMEN’S GRAND FINAL MAKES THE DAY FOR GLADSTONE SENIOR GRAND FINAL Wallaby’s and Australian Jillaroo star Chelsea Baker inspired her team with a stand out performance on Grand Final day.

Up against the well drilled Emu Park team, Baker showed why she is one of the best players in the country with a player of the match performance, scoring three tries and kicking three goals. Baker enjoyed the freedom of playing fullback and created problems for the defense each time she touched the ball. The final score was Wallaby’s 26 Emu Park 6. In the men’s game the Calliope Roosters pipped Wallaby’s 27-22 in the dying minutes of the game.

U10 Brothers v Tannum Sands Image: Courtesy Peter White

U11 Brothers v Valleys Image: Courtesy Peter White

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JASON HETHERINGTON CUP

Image: Courtesy Rachael Williamson

JASON Hetherington played his junior football for Baralaba Panthers and made his NRL debut in 1993, playing 15 games for the Gold Coast as five-eighth. In 1994, Jason joined the Canterbury Bulldogs and started the season in reserve grade as five-eighth before receiving the opportunity to play first grade, as a replacement, against Manly in March of that year.

By mid-season, Jason had moved to hooker and secured a first grade position, and played in the grand final against Canberra.

In 1995, Jason was a regular member of the first grade team and played in the premiership winning side against Manly. In 1996, Jason missed the end of the season through injury and in 1997, missed several games through a knee injury.

In 1998, Jason captained the Bulldogs for the first time, and played in the 1998 Grand final against Brisbane. He captained the team on five occasions between 1998 and 2000. Jason was selected for Queensland in 1998 and played a total of eight for his state from 1998 to 2000 and played two tests for Australia from 1998 to 2000. In 1999, Jason’s season was ended midseason by a shoulder injury. He returned in 2000 for one last season. In 2001, Jason joined the London Broncos and retired in 2003. Since retiring, Jason has continued his passion for Rugby League and is a proud supporter of Gladstone Junior Rugby League.

The 2016 Jason Hetherington Cup was held in Gladstone with teams travelling from Bundaberg (Wests), Calliope, Caboolture, Sarina, Townsville (Brothers, Western Lions), Mackay (Brothers, Wanderers, Wests, Norths, Magpies), Burrum, Rochedale, Highfields, Yeppoon, North Ipswich, Toowoomba, Noosa, Tannum Sands, Springsure, Emu Park, Bowen, Ipswich and Rockhampton. The teams were split into three pools of ten teams. After Day One and Two which were played on the 8th and 9th July the leaders in Pool One were the Springsure Mountain Men who had won eight of a possible nine games 26

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The Caboolture Snakes JRLFC – runners up in Jason Hetherington Cup 2016

from Emu Park, Tannum Sands, Western Lions Roar, Mackay Norths, Bowen Seagulls, Rockhampton Tigers, Mackay Magpies, Gladstone Wallabys and North Ipswich.

In Pool Two Townsville’s Western Lions Pride won nine from nine to lead the field from Toowoomba Brothers, Highfields, Noosa Pirates, Capricorn Coast Brothers, Mackay Wests, Gladstone Brothers, North Ipswich, Rochedale and Gladstone Barbarians while in Pool Three the Caboolture Snakes also won nine from nine from Townsville Brothers, Sarina Crocs, Burrum Miners, Wests Bundaberg, Valleys, Mackay Wanderers, Mackay Brothers, Western Lions and Calliope Roosters.

The first four teams in each pool advanced to the next round where the finals were played over two days. The Sarina Crocs defeated Western Lions Road 12/8, Burrum Miners defeated Tannum Seagulls 8/4, Brothers Townsville defeated Emu Park 24/0, Noosa Pirates defeated Highfields 20/4, Caboolture Snakes defeated the Springsure Mountain Men 16/12 and Western Lions Pride defeated Toowoomba Brothers 8/0.

On the last day of the Carnival the games commenced at 8am with Townsville Brothers playing an 8/8 draw with the Sarina Crocs, Noosa Pirates defeating Burrum Miners 4/0 and then defeating the Springsure Mountain Men 4/0.

Townsville Brothers defeated Toowoomba Brothers 16/0 and the Caboolture Snakes defeated Noosa Pirates 16/0 to move into the Grand Final. Townsville’s Western Lions Pride took second spot in the Grand Final by defeating Townsville Brothers 8/4.

The Grand Final which was played over two 15 minute halves saw the Western Lions Pride defeat Caboolture Snakes 12/4 to win the 2016 Jason Hetherington Cup. THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

CENTRAL HIGHLANDS RUGBY LEAGUE

THE Central Highlands competition consists of eight clubs from Bluff in the south to Clermont in the north-west and Dysart in the north-east. The teams that took part in the 2016 competition in finishing order were Emerald Tigers (minor premiers) on 20 points from Bluff Rabbitohs (20), Middlemount Panthers (18), Dysart Bulls (16), Springsure Mountain Men (16), Blackwater Crushers (12), Emerald Cowboys (6) and the Clermont Bears (4).

There are five women’s teams in the Central Highlands with the Clermont Bears winning the minor premiership on a countback from the Emerald Tigers Ladies (both on 26 points) with the Blackwater Crushettes (18), Emerald Cow Girls (16) and Dysart Bulls Ladies on 14. During the season there were several finals played with the Dysart Bulls winning the Darryl Hicks Memorial Shield and the Bob Baird Memorial Trophy. Middlemount eliminated Dysart in the first semi-final while Emerald Tigers went through to the Grand Final after beating Bluff 22/18 in the Qualifying Final. On the 27th August Middlemount defeated Bluff 23/16 to move into the season decider.

The Deciders – Emerald Tigers are the Champions of Central Highlands Rugby League in both men’s and women’s competitions for 2016 after two great Grand Finals. In the Ladies Grand Final the Tigers won 18/12 after leading 14/4 at halftime. The Clermont Bears played well but made crucial mistakes that cost them dearly in the opening half with Casey Watkins scoring in the opening minutes to set the tone for the night. The Bears’ Australian player Tegan Rolfe scored to equalise but Kelsie Parter, playing fullback, scored to give the Tigers a handy 8/4 lead. Minutes later Stacey Kirkman barged over from ten metres out to extend the Tigers’ lead to 14/4. In

the second half, Rolfe passed to Carly Bell and broke through two tacklers to score and reduce the deficit to just a converted try but once again the Tigers came back with Kiri Samson going over to take the score to 18/8 in the closing stages. Rolfe was again involved in the last Clermont play of the evening when she combined with Rachael Simpson to narrow the gap to 18/12 which was the full time score. The Player of the Final was Miesha Huet.

The men’s final was stirring stuff with the Middlemount Panthers leading 10/0 midway through the first half with tries to Sam Creedon and Joel Duffy but just before the interval Jason King went in to narrow the gap to 10/6. The middle of the paddock was no place for the faint-hearted as both sets of forwards tried to dominate and the Panthers extended their lead to 14/6 with a Mitch Wyatte try.

The Tigers never say die attitude saw them claw back into the game with Rigby and Darby prominent while the little guys in Gavin Power and Darcy Hardness were everywhere. Tigers’ fullback Jason King went over for his second try and the game was anybody’s for the winning at 14/12 to the Panthers.

The Panthers seemed to wilt under the relentless pressure of the Emerald team and Matt Langby worked some magic from dummy half to create scoring options for Justin Cavanagh and Issiah Huet to give the Tigers a handy 22/14 lead in the last minute of the game. The best for the Tigers were Issiah Huet, Kyle Mattingley, Matt Langby and Jason King while Will Davidson and Alex Sainsbury played well for the Panthers.

Images: Courtesy Melissa Macklin Photography

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The Central Highlands celebrated and acknowledged all of the women involved in Rugby League through its annual ‘Women in League’ Round. Every player in the Central Highlands Rugby League pulled on a pair of pink socks to celebrate and

One is even playing against medical advice, warning that the next heavy impact could result in a debilitating injury. Rugby league players in central Queensland are granite tough. Yet, on the eve of their first Central Highlands grand final in 14 years, the irony facing these miners and graziers from Middlemount is just how fragile they were.

Only five months ago they considered folding, just as neighbouring club Tieri had done three years ago. “Once you’re out it’s hard to come back,” said 39-year-old hooker Jason Randell.

Randell, one of the Panthers’ spiritual leaders, “chases cows” for a living and has fought determinedly for the survival of the club he first represented 16 years ago.

He was a member of the 2000 premiership team and is clinging to a jersey in the hope of playing next season with his 16-year-old son.

Randell does more than just hang around. He commands a position in the run-on team, and the respect of his teammates. He is often first at training and just as often last to leave, albeit after a chilled can of mid-strength beer. And it doesn’t bother him that the closest away game is an hour’s drive to Dysart.

acknowledge the role women play at all levels and in all areas of the Rugby League family. The Central Highlands Junior Rugby League Under 15’s teams also pulled on a pair of pink socks to celebrate and say thanks to the many women involved within Junior Rugby League in the Central Highlands.

The Central Highlands Junior and Senior Rugby Leagues have over fifty women who are administrators of the game, and have plenty of other terrific women involved who work tirelessly week-in, week-out to ensure that Rugby League goes ahead without complaint.

Over 175 females are currently involved in either playing, coaching or refereeing the game at a local level and make up just some of the 450,000 women who have a direct connection to Rugby League at a national level.

QRL Central Highlands Operations Manager Cameron Stallard says without women in the game, weekly footy would just simply not go ahead. “Whether it is as administrators, players, coaches, employees, volunteers or club members, women really are at the heart of the game,” Stallard said. “In addition to thanking the women involved, this round truly highlights how far we’ve come in the Women’s game, with the continuation of our strong five-team Open Women’s competition and the newly formed Under 14’s and Under 17’s girl’s competitions.”

“I encourage all fans to get out there to be a part of saluting Women in League.”

The Middlemount Revival – They defy age, broken ribs and dangerous workplaces to wear the Panthers’ blue and gold.

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“There’s not as many players now, and the 12-hour shifts (in mining) make it hard to keep a side together,” he said.

“You go from playing under-17s to playing against blokes like me who’ve been around a while. All those things combine to make it hard.” Rugby league is thriving in the QRL’s Central Division which stretches from Warwick in the south to Rockhampton in the north, and west to Roma. Participation numbers across the region grew four per cent to 21,399 last year and the women’s competition is strong.

Players have been more scarce in the eight-team Central THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

PINK SOCK DAY men occupied. Without those opportunities, a community loses some of its health.” The Panthers Bar is the town’s social hub every other Saturday night, and beer and rum flow freely to those packed two-deep, ordering their drinks from passionate and selfless volunteers.

But the senior club was a breath away from collapse in April when, on the eve of the Nathan “Shorty” Moffatt Memorial Game against Mackay Norths, they could attract no more than 10 men to training.

They were also coach-less, and withdrawing from the league was a real option.

Highlands competition which has been hit hard by the downturn in the coal industry.

Miners who would once live in town and represent the Panthers now work seven-on seven-off shifts and disappear on their breaks.

And, such is the physical nature of their work, a footy injury can gravely impact their income. “People don’t want to risk getting hurt or missing work,” said halfback Joel Duffy, a 36-year-old deputy from nearby Grasstree Mine in his comeback season after a short-lived retirement.

A rallying cry meant players thought lost to the club were drawn back to Norm Blanche Oval and energised by the memory of one of Middlemount’s favourite sons who was killed in a car accident in 2014. Former juniors mentor Scott Lonergan then stepped up as coach to assist the senior players who were running the side. “Shorty’s game tugged at a few heartstrings,” utility Will Davidson said.

Having survived one of its toughest hours, Middlemount faced home side Emerald Tigers in the season climax at McIndoe Park, named after one of the town’s favourite sons, former Queensland State of Origin winger Alan. Steered by 2009 CHRL best and fairest winner Mitch Wyatte, who lined up for his third straight grand final after joining Middlemount from Bluff, the Panthers had to win six of their last seven games to reach the decider.

– CAMERON STALLARD

Senior participation numbers dipped this year, although that reins in a 28 per cent explosion in 2015. Brisbane Broncos chief executive Paul White understands more deeply than most the plight of bush footy after playing throughout central and northwest Queensland during his term in the police service.

He played alongside current Panthers Randell, Duffy and Steve Henderson in their 2000 premiership side. If younger players stepped out of line, as they often would at boozy, bonfire parties held on properties at the edge of town, White would scribble a mental note and drive them like mules at training.

And they loved him for it because his tough love generated respectful young men, a strong club and a community that cherished its Panthers.

“The coal industry was doing well then, there was no fly in, fly out, and the club was pretty strong for a decade,” White recalled. “Sport, rugby league in particular, was what held the community together. “We had good crowds and it kept young

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NRL CENTRAL DIVISION ALL STARS Thanks to Dally Cherry-Evans the rugby league world saw Ash Taylor from St George/Toowoomba win the NRL Rookie of the Year. The former Toowoomba Brothers player and 2015 Junior Kangaroo was allowed to leave the Broncos to further his career at the Titans and the decision by Cherry-Evans to not go to the Gold Coast let the door open for Taylor. That he took the opportunity with both hands is history now but suffice to say he was a key ingredient in the Titans playing in their first semi-final series for years. Injuries will be the only thing preventing Taylor playing representative rugby league.

Ben Hunt, born in Rockhampton but played his junior football in Blackwater played 26 games during the 2016 season for the Brisbane Broncos.

SEASON 2016 is over with our Central Division players having a big impact around the NRL. Almost every area of the Division has produced talent with some of the players below among the best. The minor premiers Melbourne Storm suffered a major blow early in the season when Australian fullback Billy Slater was ruled out for the year but nothing fazed his replacement, the ever reliable 22-year-old Cameron Munster from Rockhampton. The former Norths Rockhampton player has become an integral part of the clinical Melbourne attack and will still be around when Slater returns. A Junior Kangaroo from 2014 he will play for Queensland in the next couple of seasons.

An Australian Schoolboy from 2007 he is one of the unique players who has represented Australia at senior level but never played for Queensland.

A confidence player who is integral to the success of the Broncos he rarely misses a minute of football. A half back’s job is setting up his outside men and Hunt is the 3rd best in the NRL behind Thurston and Cronk in try assists and second best in the NRL behind Thurston with kicks in general play.

The wiz-kid from Baralaba, Corey Oates made his Origin debut this season and played in all three games.

Although missing four games mid-season with injury Oates still scored 18 tries in 22 games for the Broncos. In a year that had highs and lows for Oates he conquered his demons and played well through Origin and at the all-important business end of the season. A big player who is equally at home in the forwards the likeable Corey Oates is going to be around for a long time.

Out of sight out of mind would be a good way to describe Winton Devil’s Kurt Mann as he scored ten tries in 13 games for the Dragons. A classy fullback or centre he finished the season winning a premiership with the Illawarra Cutters in the NSW Intrust Super Cup. A Queensland Under 20 player from 2011/2012 he spent two seasons with the Melbourne Storm before signing with the Dragons.

One of the real stars of the NRL in 2016 was Noosa’s Moses Mbye who played in 25 games for the Bulldogs. A classy inside back he had a very strong start to the season and if he came from south of the border probably would have played Origin.

The class of Queensland’s inside backs with Thurston, Cronk, Hunt and Morgan running around makes it hard for Mbye to play representative football but he is up there with the best.

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Although they select two second-row forwards in any rugby league team and as many as five or six on a Kangaroo tour there is only one Dally M Second-Row of the Year and Matt Gillett from Bribie Island, Brisbane Broncos, Queensland and Australia is our man. In a standout year for Gillett he was selected as the best in his position despite missing five games in the regular season. A quality forward who is tipped to captain the Broncos in the future Gillett could be a future Maroons and Australian captain. Gillett was selected in the Australian Four Nations team at season end.

Rockhampton’s Tim Glasby had a great 2016 season culminating in a Grand Final appearance with the Melbourne Storm.

The strong running utility player won a premiership with the Rabbitohs in 2014 and has played five games for Queensland.

McQueen can play in the forwards or backs and has been one of the key signings for the Gold Coast Titans in their much improved 2016 season.

We can expect the fortunes of the Titans to continue to improve in 2017 and McQueen will be a vital element in their success.

The North Queensland Cowboys have the best player in the world in their ranks in the former Toowoomba schoolboy, Johnathan Thurston but his minder for the past six seasons has been the Murgon power-house Gavin Cooper. A clear example of good things come to those who wait has been his selection in the powerful Queensland forward pack in 2016. Cooper is widely regarded as one of the best second row forwards in the game and his six tries in six games from rounds five to ten this season saw him selected in the Queensland Origin team for Game Three.

The solid front-row or second-row forward who won the CQ Capras Player of the Year from 2010 to 2012 has been a vital player in the Melbourne Storm pack. Any forward pack containing five Internationals is a powerful pack indeed and Glasby fits the bill perfectly. The 27-year-old forward could see an Origin jersey in 2017 with some of the aging Queensland pack hanging up their boots.

Chris McQueen from the Kingaroy Redants is another great player who slips under the radar.

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A player with more than 230 NRL games to his credit along with a premiership flag in 2015 he is certainly one of ‘League Queensland’s Best for 2016’.

Bundaberg Brothers and Melbourne Storm’s Felise Kaufusi was named as 18th Man in the Queensland Origin side this season but has struggled to make the Melbourne Storm runon team. Kaufusi also first stepped onto the international stage by making an appearance for Tonga in the Polynesian Cup in 2015 and will be at the Storm in 2017.

Talking about players being born in the wrong era Rockhampton’s Jake Granville and Dalby’s Andrew McCullough have to contend with the amazing Cameron Smith for the Queensland and Australian hooking spot.

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Granville who won a premiership with the Cowboys in 2015 scored two tries in his 25 games this season compared to McCullough’s one try in 21 games. The Broncos’ McCullough is one of the best defenders in the NRL while Granville is a key element in the success of the Cowboys.

Ethan Lowe from Goondiwindi had averaged more than 120 run metres, 14 hit ups and 33 tackles in 25 matches for the Cowboys this season and I feel if he had not been seriously injured against the Storm in September would be Kangaroo bound at the end of the season.

A Junior Kangaroo and former Queensland Under 18 player the former Toowoomba Valleys player will be a key ingredient in the Cowboys quest for glory in 2017.

In the twilight of a magnificent career Matt Scott from Ilfracombe had another great season in 2016.

The International prop played 23 games for the Cowboys averaging 23 minutes per game on the paddock, three Origin games and featured in the Anzac Day test against New Zealand.

In an NRL career that has spanned 13 seasons the likeable Scott has played 231 games for the Cowboys, 22 games for Queensland and 16 tests for Australia

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STATE JUNIOR CARNIVAL TOOWOOMBA THE 2016 State Junior Carnival finished with a bang in Toowoomba with a thrilling clash between SEQ White and the Central Crows in the under 16 Boys Grand Final. SEQ jumped out of the blocks early and held a 12/0 advantage after just 10 minutes. A length of the field intercept by Central Crows five eighth Kade Tennyson kept them in the contest. The only other points of the half coming from a penalty goal to SEQ through Codey McLaughlin to ensure they headed to the sheds with a 14/6 advantage.

The Crows would hit the lead for the first time in the match 15 minutes into the second half after successive tries.

Their joy was short lived with SEQ White hitting back almost immediately to gain the ascendency 20/16. The next 10 minutes was end to end entertainment and with three minutes remaining Kane Jackson dived over from close range. Matthew Siebuhr converted the try off the upright to secure the trophy for the Crows 22/20.

Earlier in day four action the Central Crows under 13 Boys claimed victory over SEQ Green. It was a complete team performance with eventual Player of the Carnival Jayden Thurston scoring a double for the Crows.

It was an all SEQ affair in the under 14 boys. SEQ White prevailed 32/12 over their division rivals and were well led by player of the final Reece Walsh. The 2016 Carnival saw the under 14 girls added for the first time. In a round robin format the SEQ girls proved far too strong in winning all matches to claim the inaugural Heather Ballinger Shield.

The first round of the under 16 girl’s competition proved that it was anybody’s championship. The Central Crows defeated SEQ, Northern Marlins defeated Central Crows and SEQ defeated the Marlins. It was SEQ’s depth in the end which saw them shine through to claim the Karen Murphy Shield for winning the carnival.

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The young female players at the State Junior Carnival were treated to some spectacular women’s league and a visit from some female player royalty. The QRL Central Division took the opportunity to invite Steph Hancock and Heather Ballinger to stay on Saturday night and share their rugby league experiences with the best Under-14 and Under-16 girls in the state. Both willingly obliged and joined Nat Dwyer, Bec Jones and Jenni-Sue Hoepper on a panel where they were interviewed by current Fillies captain and former Queensland and Australian representative Milly Edwards. The ladies shared their views on respecting the badge, the best players they have played against, how and when they started playing rugby league, other sporting achievements and the dedication and discipline required to reach the elite level. The young players from the Central Crows, South East Queensland and Northern Division all listened intently and hopefully came away with renewed passion for the game. Many took the opportunity to have photos taken with their idols.

AWARDS On Sunday, the final day of the state carnival, Steph Hancock attended and presented the Player of the Match awards to the Under-14 and Under-16 girls and also the Under-16 Player of the Championships – the Stephanie Hancock Award. As the Under-14 age group was newly introduced to the state junior championships this year, the trophies were struck in honour of Heather Ballinger (Girls State Champions) and Veronica White (Player of the Championships).

PLAYERS OF THE CARNIVAL Under 13 Boys – Jayden Thurston (Central Crows) Under 14 Girls – Mariesha Orr (Central Crows) Under 14 Boys – Xavier Savage (Northern Marlins) Under 16 Girls – Jhana Magele (SEQ) Under 16 Boys – Billy Mozer (SEQ White)

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STATE JUNIOR CARNIVAL

CENTRAL DIVISION UNDER 13 TEAM – STATE CHAMPIONS 2016 BACK ROW: Matt Schulze, Jesse Page, Cody Bunn, Flynn Kelso, Flynn Purkis, Tyler Conroy, Blake Cesari, Francis Thinee, Jayden Thurston, Angus Wright, Mitchell Biddulph, Zac Buckingham, Xavier Va’a, Mal McMillian FRONT ROW: Dwayne Kagan, Matt Wilson, Keanu WrightDunrobin, Brayden Paix, Christopher Robinson, Shaun Packer, Brayden Duffy, Jed Bignell, Michael Fletcher

CENTRAL DIVISION UNDER 16 TEAM – STATE CHAMPIONS 2016 FRONT (L-R): Brock Diment, Leslie Hartvigsen, Kane Jackson, Dylan Carolan, Nic Ellems, Jeremiah Naawi, Tyler Zeisemer BACK (L-R): Mick Buckley, Tim Shepherd, Brendan Wilson, Tom Springate, Kade Tennyson, Aaron Nelson, James Mason, Kavaua Neliman, (Michael Hoare’s son), Jordan Croker, Kyle Petersen, Matt Murphy, Jai Cooke, Chris Chalmers, Matt Siebuhr, Rory Noonan, Michael Hoare 34

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Roma City Gladiators – 2016 A Grade Premiers Photo: Courtesy Peter Rafter (QRL)

ROMA AND DISTRICT RUGBY LEAGUE

THE 2015 premiers Chinchilla Bulldogs surrendered their title to the Roma Cities Gladiators 34/10 in front of a big crowd in Roma. The Gladiators finished the season with the minor premiership on 34 points in front of St George, Chinchilla and the Red Bulls. Chinchilla had beaten Roma 22/20 in the major semi-final and were the first team into the Grand Final but the signs were ominous when the Gladiators took their spot with a 68/4 thumping of St George in the preliminary final. With star senior captain Matt Waites (Roma and District Player of the Year) leading the charge, the Gladiators finished their sets and pushed their advantage during the first half, finishing 16/6 at the interval before going on with the job in the second half. The Bulldogs, who had won the title in 2014 and 2015, tried valiantly in the second session but several key penalties took the momentum out of their attack. For Roma Cities Chris Ghellar (2), Billy Coonan, Tom Barton, Matt Waites

and Braden Collins scores tries with Shannon Irwin (4) and Billy Coonan kicking goals while Joe Peters and Anthony Horswood scored for Chinchilla with Jeff Gilbert kicking a goal. Despite the setback for Chinchilla, Bulldogs captain Mark Lingard said he was proud of their efforts through what was a tough rivalry with the Gladiators. “At the end of the day we were outplayed” he said.

Roma finished the season on a high, fielding three teams in the Grand Finals with their reserve grade winning 12/10 against the Red Bulls and the Under 18’s going down 22/18 to Mitchell.

The Under 16 Grand Final was won by Chinchilla who defeated the Red Bulls 24/20. Player of the Year Awards for the Roma District went to Matt Waites (Roma Cities A Grade), Brian Argus (Miles/Taroom Reserve Grade), Ollie Peak (Mitchell Under 18) and Kade Tennyson (Chinchilla Under 16).

ROMA CITIES RLFC – 2016 ROMA AND DISTRICT RUGBY LEAGUE A GRADE PREMIERS BACK ROW: Jason Coonan (Manager), Clancy Stanford, Lachie Hoey, Tom Packer, Tom Barron, Tyson Jackson, Chris Gelhaar, Billy Coonan, Mick Lynch (Strapper), Ronnie Willett, Zac Downey FRONT ROW: Alex Coonan, Dan Murray, Braden Collins, Dan Lucas David Dingwall, Shannon Irwin, Cam Bartley, Matt Waites (Captain and RDRL Player of the Year) BACKGROUND: Cities Club President Steven Duff and Chinchilla Bulldogs Club President Lee Iwin

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ROMA CITIES RLFC – 2016 ROMA AND DISTRICT RUGBY LEAGUE RESERVE GRADE PREMIERS BACK ROW: Jack Laverty, Danny Forbes (Manager, obscured), Jeremy Green, Darren Haddock, RJ Landers, Steven Coupe, Elliott Lewis, David Laverty, Dean Kennedy, Alby Tardent, Gene Beck, Scott Walsh (Coach), Mick Lynch (Strapper) FRONT ROW: Al Lobb, Rob Ryan, Luke Bellenger, Rhett Lewis, Jeff Connolly (Captain) KNEELING: Clancy Sheehan, Campbell Crouchley, Nick Clifton, Brenton Martin, Will Clarke

MITCHELL RLFC UNDER 18 TEAM – 2016 ROMA AND DISTRICT PREMIERS BACK ROW (L-R): Ben Reid, Justin Lonergan, Wade Anderson, Charlie Handley, Ben Dodd, Conner Bach-Keegan, Griffin Newton, Ben Smith, Richard Meacle, Reilly Newton FRONT: David Street, Ben Richards, Kohan Anderson, Dakota Girdler, Warren Draper, Ollie Peak, Tom Kennedy (Captain), Geoffrey Kenafake (Coach)

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ST GEORGE

THE PRIDE OF THE LEAGUE

ST GEORGE RUGBY LEAGUE CLUB 2016 – A GRADE BACK ROW: Gavin Taylor (President), Charlie Adams, Jaiden Davis, Lindon Langton, Jarod Duiker, Cameron Knights, Dan Dwyer, Shaun Lacey, Rhys Jackson, Hayden Beardmore, Kelvin Duiker (Manager), Majella Morris (Secretary) FRONT ROW: Chris Bella, Nick Murphy, Sam McElligott, Corey Spackman, Reagan Morris (Captain), Jeremy Munro, P J Prince, Aaron Mitchell COACH: Sam Davis

THE mighty St George Club in western Queensland had tough decisions to make in 2016 and they did the right thing and have benefitted from it. Not many people like to admit there is a problem close to home but an ICE epidemic was wrecking the fabric of the town and the club. Players and spectators were walking away from the game so hard decisions had to be made. Officials decided to start random drug testing after the 2015 season. Club president Gavin Taylor said the club had gone through 60 players at A Grade level for various reasons.

Mr Taylor said some were fed up playing in a drug-fuelled environment and others were getting tired of picking up the

slack. One long time first grade player who has played for St George since he was a child, said it was confronting to watch players under the influence of ice on the field.

“It’s quite scary - they are kind of not all there and looking to hurt people,” he said. “Someone would get seriously injured one day if it was allowed to continue.” The Club decided they had to do something so purchased 75 swab and urine test kits at a cost of $1,500. The club’s 100th anniversary was fast approaching and officials said they needed to take action. “A small club doesn’t make money as it is at the best of times, so

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you don’t walk away with much money, but it’s an expense that we’ve had to do otherwise you’re not going to have a club,” Mr Taylor said.

The move has the full support of Queensland Rugby League.

Central Division Manager Glenn Ottaway said it had not been about catching players out, but providing support. “This isn’t about finding people who are on drugs and banning them from the sport, it’s about helping people identify that they have a problem,” Mr Ottaway said.

“They are a bit of a test bunny and if it makes a difference in their community then I’m sure that we could have a number of other clubs that will want to take on the program.” I recently spoke to a self-confessed ICE addict. He is part of the St George community and also a player for the Rugby League club. When the club introduced the drug policy he reached out for assistance. He loved playing Rugby League and realised he had a choice to make. He is now 10 months’ drug free and uses Rugby League as a reward for getting through the week without using drugs.

“It’s not just St George, drug use is a growing concern in many communities so it was a bold choice that the club made and it seems to have had a positive impact on the community.” Thirty random drug tests were carried out over the season and four players tested positive to illicit drugs but the change in the club has been positive. Club president Gavin Taylor said they were offered support and had to participate in follow-up tests.

“They provide counselling support for them and there’s no time frame on a return.” he said. “We ask them to stay in contact with the club and once rehabilitated they are welcomed back to the club.”

A player within the club this year voluntarily offered to be drug tested. This is despite knowing that he would test positive.

As expected the player did test positive and was stood down immediately. This player has since sought assistance and returned to the club and tested drug free. He is using Rugby League as a reward for remaining drug free.

This season crowd numbers were up and fewer players have quit since the random drug testing policy was introduced at the beginning of the year. The team’s grand final hopes ended after losing a preliminary final to Roma Cities who went onto win the competition but A grade coach Sam Davis said despite the loss, the season had been successful.

“I have noticed a change in the players,” he said. “The boys have been more committed than they ever have so we’ve had a really good season”. “There was less people dropping out, a lot stronger commitment and we had good crowds on our home games so our crowd numbers were back”.

St George Rugby League Club will continue the use of their anti-drug policy next year.

WESTERN LEAGUE

CHARLEVILLE COMETS RLFC A GRADE PREMIERS – 2016 WESTERN LEAGUE PLAYERS: Allan Muller, Zack Kinivan, Hobie Pegg, Rhys Teelow, Darcy Ahern, Damian Poole, Jamie Kinivan, Jack Keegan, Garret Smith, Brad Doneman, Ben Jarvis,Tyler Frousheger, Tyler Widgell, DJ Willet, Nick Russell, Nick Brook, Ethan Capewell, Sam Barrow, Josh Jensen, Jack Roberts, Leroy Holley COACH: Jeff Spencer LEAGUE SAFE: Jake Wade

THE Charleville Comets celebrated back to back premierships after beating the Augathella Meatants in the Western League Grand Final. The Charleville juggernaut has not been beaten since June 2015 but they did not have it all their own way in the 2016 decider. A huge crowd at the Charleville Showgrounds witnessed the best football of the season as both sides went at each other for 80 minutes of end to end entertainment.

The Meatants were stunned early as the Comets chose to run the ball on the 5th tackle in the first set of the game. This paid dividend with the Comets Jack Roberts crossing for a converted try. Some ill-discipline from the Augathella side ensured that the THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

first half attack of the Comets was relentless and the home side headed to the halftime break with a commanding 28 to 6 lead.

The second half did not have the attacking flair of the first largely due to a committed Meatants defensive line that refused to bend. Both side continually repelled the oppositions attacking raids with the only points of the second half a try to Augathella’s Rhys Teelow.

The final score read 28-10 was a reflection of a hard fought game. It was Charleville’s jump out of the blocks in the first half that ultimately earned them the 2016 premiership.

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CENTRAL WEST RUGBY LEAGUE ILFRACOMBE SCORPIONS RLFC 2016 CENTRAL WEST A GRADE PREMIERS BACK (L-R): Mitchell Neuendorf, Matt Hunter, Kurt Lacey, Clinton Hayward, Todd Gadd, Keith Lacey, James Batt, Liam Thurect, Joel Henney, Mitchell Anderson MIDDLE: Trent Thomas, Jake Callaghan, Brett Knickel, Robert Johnstone, Tommy Elliott, Blake Williamson, Courtney Hoad FRONT: Roger Batt, Kora Hoad, Trent Hoad

ILFRACOMBE, home town of North Queensland Cowboy’s and Australian legend Matt Scott, have won their first ever A Grade premiership. Winton Devils have won the last six premierships and in 2016 they hosted the Grand Final against the Ilfracombe Scorpions who have played Winton in five of the last six years and been unsuccessful. In front of the good sized local crowd, 2016 finished differently from previous years. Ilfracombe came out firing in the first half and Winton had no answer to their sparkling attack with the half time score favouring the visitors 22/6. The Winton Devils showed they meant business in the second half and were not going to go down without a fight.

The first ten minutes of the second half the Devils continually hammered the Scorpions line and were able to get an early try.

The defence from both teams in the second half was relentless with neither team willing to have their line crossed. Ilfracombe put on two late tries to seal the victory, running out winners 30/12 to take their first ever Central West Premiership.

Some of these opposing players have played against and with each other in local teams and rep sides for many years and the mateship between the two teams will be everlasting. Two Central West Rugby League Legends, Nathan “Nudie” Brotherton from Winton and Tom Elliott, Ilfracombe, said immediately after the game that retirement is now. We’ll wait and see who signs up in 2017.

NORTHERN DISTRICTS RUGBY LEAGUE THE Northern Districts Grand Final was played at “Marlin Park”, Agnes Waters on the 28th August. The weather was at its best for the big day and congratulations to the Agnes Waters ‘Marlins’ club for their efforts hosting the event this year. This year the day took on a carnival atmosphere with mechanizing stalls, face painting and even an artist painting a scene from the game. Both the Avondale ‘Tigers’ and Gin Gin ‘Hawks’ had firm belief the trophy would be in their possession at the end of the game.

The game kicked off with both teams muscling their defence and the arm wrestle continued for some time until Gin Gin winger Thomas Strahan broke the deadlock. The try was converted and 40

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the Hawks held the lead until just before halftime when ‘Tigers’ winger David Nathan Jones crossed in the corner. The Tigers failed to convert and the teams went to the break with Gin Gin leading 6/4. After the interval the wrestle continued for the next 10 minutes before the Tigers crossed under the posts through centre Matt Ross. Injuries and fatigue then started to take effect on the Hawks, losing their fullback, with the halfback carrying an injury, the Tigers started to dominate play.

Further tries to the Tigers through Dan Steemson, Matt Ross and Nathan Leather closed the Grand Final down at 26/6. The Player of the Final was Avondale’s Adam Goldsworthy.

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AVONDALE TIGERS RLFC – NORTHERN DISTRICTS A GRADE PREMIERS 2016 FRONT (L-R): Samuela Moala Jnr, Braydon, Graham, Shane Kemp, Craig Bek, Matt Ross, Luke Owen (Captain/Coach), Nathan Jones, Brendan Prossliner, Nathan Leather, Daniel Steemson BACK: Adam Goldsworthy, Tevita Naulangi, Anthony Dunphy, Leigh Eade, Tevita Fatanatavake, Sean Allen, Amy Maidment (Tiger), Todd Tronc, Riley Webb, Gavin Lovejoy, Frank Primavera, Sam Wylie Pila Tufulele, Luke Mason

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had racked up four quick tries to lead 20/0.

Mundubbera finally got points on the board with the score at 26/0 when Cameron McDonald crossed for a try. The Hornets scored twice more before the Tigers drew blood again via a try by Nikorima Kapene.

THE Cherbourg Hornets dominated the Burnett Rugby League competition, winning their fourth South Burnett title in five seasons with a comprehensive 68/20 defeat of Nanango and then winning the Burnett Grand Final with another big 66/28 victory over the Mundubbera Tigers.

Nanango’s hopes of a fairy-tale ending to their return to the South Burnett rugby league competition were brought back to earth with a thud by the Cherbourg Hornets, who have now won four South Burnett premierships in five years. Nanango scraped into the South Burnett Grand Final with a narrow lastminute win over Murgon the week before.

The Mundubbera Tigers had won the Central Burnett Grand Final with a tidy 40/14 defeat of the Eidsvold Eagles with Danyon Van Merlo scoring a double while Jackson Jones, Mitchell Thorburn, Bert Breezley, Nasinu Fiefia, Cody Augustine and Cody Augustine also scored. Maikolo Longi, Blake Popp and Lindsay Collins scored for Eidsvold.

At half-time, Cherbourg were cruising with a 38/12 lead. The Hornets resumed where they had left off after the break, with three more quick tries. With the score at 56/12, the Hornets started coasting, letting the Tigers score three tries back-to-back and giving the Mundubbera fans who had travelled all the way down to Nanango something to cheer about.

But with five minutes left on the clock, the Hornets got back into gear and put on two more tries before the final hooter.

There are hopes the play-off between the two top teams for the Burnett crown could become an annual fixture on the local rugby league calendar.

The Burnett Grand Final was hoped to be a close encounter as Munduberra had gone through their zone undefeated but the Cherbourg Hornets did a repeat of their previous final by running riot in the opening half. Cherbourg dominated the play for most of the game except for a period in the second half when the visiting Tigers were allowed to regain some pride. Fred Aubrey opened Cherbourg’s account while the official clock still read 40 minutes to go and after10 minutes, the Hornets

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MUNDUBBERA RUGBY LEAGUE A GRADE – 2016 CENTRAL BURNETT UNDEFEATED PREMIERS BACK (L-R): Jan-Adele Hotz (Sports Trainer), Hugh Kelly (Coach), Nasinu ‘Ninu’ Fiefia, Mitch Thorburn, Bailer Kimber, Troy Kimber, Jacob Kimber, Dan Augustine, Sam Charles, Jack Anderson, Jackson Jones, Maraga ‘Morgan’ Lohia, Bodido ‘Benji’ Lohia FRONT: Jamie Darby, Cody Augustine, Nickorima Kapene, Luke Berthelsen, Danyon Van-Mierlo, Neil Reinke (Captain), Cameron MacDonald (President), Brendon ‘Shorty’ Augustine, Bert Beezley, William Waugh

CHERBOURG HORNETS RLFC – 2016 SOUTH BURNETT AND BURNETT REGION PREMIERS BACK ROW: Fred Cobbo (FAO), Marcus Saltner (with child), Lewis Hopkins, Dennis Sandow, Merton Bulmer, Garry Wilmott, James Bligh, Anthony Gray, Michael Morris, Carl Aubrey, Keith Gadd Jnr. MIDDLE: Alex Speedy, Fred Cobbo, Bernard Hopkins (Captain) with trophy, Keith Walsh Jnr., Fred Aubrey FRONT: Keith Gadd Snr. Coached by Frank Malone (obscured at the back) Editor’s Note – not all in photo identified

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THE DANES DIG DEEP IN TOOWOOMBA PITTSWORTH DANES RUGBY LEAGUE FOOTBALL CLUB – TOOWOOMBA A GRADE PREMIERS 2016 BACK (L-R): Mat Janke (Assistant Coach), Thomas O’Sullivan, Bradley Brosnan, Cameron Millar, Alex Kahler, Conor Derksen, Kurtis Shayler, Braydon Gibbs, Alec Stevens, Jeffrey Webe, Liam Jocumsen, Darb McKinlay (Strapper) FRONT (L-R): Matthew Briggs, Mitchell Carpenter, Daniel York, James Dempsey, Braydon Wilson (behind), Kabunare (Les) Kofe, Adman Cronin, Patrick McDonald, Ian Brackstone (Coach)

THE mighty Pittsworth Danes dominated the opening 20 minutes of the second half of the Toowoomba Grand Final to go from 6/4 down at the interval to 18/6 with a three-try blitz against the Warwick Cowboys at the Clive Berghofer Stadium.

The game was played in wet conditions and no place for the fainthearted as the two packs of forwards tried to assert their authority.

It was the Danes first premiership since 2004 although their opponents had not lifted the trophy since 1988. The Toowoomba Competition is one of the strongest in Queensland with eleven clubs in the A Grade ranks. The Warwick Cowboys had won the minor premiership from Pittsworth, only losing two games for the season.

Prior to the semi-finals the finishing order for the clubs was Warwick, Pittsworth, Gatton, Souths, Highfields, Brothers, Dalby, Valleys, Wattles, Goondiwindi and Oakey.

Pittsworth scored first through clever ball playing forward Mitchell Carpenter but in tough conditions the Cowboys came back and scored a converted try on the half time bell to take a narrow 6/4 lead. The game was won in the opening 20 minutes of the second half when Pittsworth scored tries through Liam Jocumsen, Daniel York and Kurtis Shayler to go to 18/6 before the Cowboys hit back with a try to Joe Fuimaono to narrow the gap to 18/12.

The Cowboys thought they had scored a try in the last minute of play but magnificent defence saw the player go into touch.

The best for Pittsworth were five-eighth Thomas O’Sullivan who took out the John McDonald Medal for man of the match, Daniel York, Mitchell Carpenter, James Dempsey and Cameron Miller while the best for the Cowboys were Joe Fuimaono, Trent Richardson, Sam Broomhall and fullback Craig Don. Gatton won the Second Division Grand Final with a very convincing 24/0 defeat of Dalby, Valleys won the Under 18 Final by defeating Warwick 20/12 and Gatton won the Reserve Grade with a determined 16/4 defeat of Valleys.

Warwick had defeated the Danes late in the season and it was a surprise to some when the Danes were first into the Grand Final with a convincing 32/10 defeat of the minor-premiers after losing to Souths 46/22 in the last round of the competition.

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TOOWOOMBA FILLYS BACK TO BACK TOOWOOMBA FILLIES RUGBY LEAGUE FOOTBALL CLUB – 2016 SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND B GRADE PREMIERS FRONT (L–R): Emily Young, Kylie Thompson, Milly Edwards (Captain), Taylor Stevens, Karen Reynolds MIDDLE (L–R): Tamara Gibbs, Sam Liescha, Amanda Gibson, Carlena Gaske BACK (L-R): Coach Richard Dugdale, Ashleigh Sowter, Jai Godwin, Ali Scheaffe, Aime Justice, Trish Little, Emily Walker, Molly O’Connell, Loren Cockburn, Nicole Weier

Under new Coach Richard Dugdale, the Toowoomba Fillies were crowned back to back Premiers in the South East Women’s B Grade competition. This achievement was quite outstanding considering the rocky path to the start of the season. There was a time where it was very uncertain whether the team would get up and running and due to lack of numbers and committed players, had to forfeit the first game of the season.

With no coach or team staff, NRL Regional Game Manager Richard Dugdale stepped up to the plate to head his first ever Women’s team with Central Division Operations Manager, Jodie Teys taking on the Manager/Water Runner role. Richard was well assisted by former Filly and Australian and QLD player Melissa Edwards who captained the team and added the confidence and team spirit to the ladies. With the news of a Coach on board, the team welcomed rising star Molly O’Connell (Player of the Year) back to the area, original Fillies players, Kylie Thompson, Karen Reynolds, and a few weeks into the competition, Rebecca Jones.

Returning players Samartha Liesha, Taylor Stevens, Tamara Gibbs, Tamara Law and Lisa Goodman all added their valuable experience. Add in new players, Lauren Cockburn, Amanda Gibson and Ali Sheaffe from Toowoomba, Nicole Weier from Killarney, Chinchilla trio Trish Little, Carlena Gaske and Aime Justice and two Gatton rookies in Jai Godwin and Emily Walker, the team was set to ignite the competition. Mid-season saw the return of Emily Young who was joined by new Fillie Ashleigh THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

Sowter to form a formidable halves combination.

Season highlights for the team were travelling to Inala with only 11 players and coming away with a really tough win and leading A Grade Souths at half time 10/6 (eventually lost game but was a great boost to the ladies). With 11 wins, 5 losses and 1 drawn match, the Fillies ended up number 6 on the combined ladder of A, B and C teams. The Qualifying Final was a nail biting affair against Sunnybank with the Fillies missing three of their starting players. True to form, the ladies withstood the pressure and scored in the corner four minutes from the end of the match to advance into the Grand Final.

There were nerves a plenty on the big day, with Sunnybank putting a stronger, bigger team on the paddock the result from the previous final did not have the Fillies as favourites.

A few minutes into the match Sunnybank crossed the try line and converted to go ahead 6/0. This made the troops and their supporters pretty nervous. It did however ignite the Fillies who put on 26 unanswered points to go into half time leading 26/6.

On the commencement of half time, the Toowoomba Ladies added a further 8 points before Sunnybank mounted a strong comeback scoring two converted tries. After 60 minutes of skilful attack and brutal defence by both teams, the Fillies held the Premiership Cup aloft for the 2nd consecutive year with a 34/18 victory. Fillies half back, Emily Young, was named Player of the Match.

– JODIE TEYS: Operations Manager, QRL Central Division LEAGUEQUEENSLAND.COM.AU

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CNW HERVEY BAY SEAGULLS

RUGBY LEAGUE TEAM 2016 BUNDABERG RUGBY LEAGUE A GRADE PREMIERS SEAGULLS CAPTAIN/COACH TYE INGEBRIGTSEN IS PASSIONATE ABOUT DEVELOPING JUNIORS.....

AND INTEGRATING THE SEAGULLS INTO THE COMMUNITY.

Storm development networks. I would absolutely love to see some of these kids progress to the Seagulls A Grade ranks but more so I would like to see some get picked up by the Storm or other NRL clubs and hopefully see them go onto play NRL or Q Cup.

WITH the economics of today’s environment affecting the majority on Queensland’s country regions with respect to the employment situation, it is understandable that most of the senior rugby league clubs in the regions are finding it difficult at times to sustain good player numbers in the senior ranks.

Like I said before in our A Grade we have a lot of Gulls juniors playing and I am so pleased to see they have been Seagulls all their lives, Seagulls is their team, and Hervey Bay is their town.

I can tell you they are very proud of this and they are focussed on winning a Premiership. I would love to see them achieve this goal, they are a driving force to me which helps maintain our enthusiasm and desire. Sure we have a few players that have come from different locations to play with us, but that has happened here at Seagulls since they began in the early 70’s, as it does at every other club. At times we all (clubs) have to recruit not only to remain competitive but also for the benefit of the club and the current players, but again I must say it is a credit to the Seagulls Club that we have so many juniors playing in the senior grades at this point of time.

Through the generosity of sponsors like CNW Electrical we are able to continue to improve the facilities for our players and supporters, which helps us to retain and improve our player base. This year we have installed new lighting and built new change sheds which benefits all that get to use our facilities.

Sponsorship support also enables us to provide professional player development squads so our boys can improve their skills and follow their footy dreams. It also provides opportunities for these young men to support several local community groups and be part of the community as a whole. Without the support of sponsors like CNW Electrical, running programs like this would not be possible.

All clubs are severely affected when their current juniors reach the age of leaving school, many are lost to our region either moving away to seek employment or furthering their studies.

However the Seagulls are very proud to be one of the leading clubs in our region where the majority of players at present that are playing A Grade are Seagulls Juniors.

Probably the biggest difference in Seagulls recruiting to most other clubs is.....we do not splash the cash so to speak...we do not pay players. Lucky Hervey Bay is such a nice place to live! I am also lucky enough to know a lot of players around the traps, and a few good mates have come on board to help us out. If we hope to compete against the clubs that continually buy in quality players, we need to build up our player depth to cover for injuries and work commitments etc. so we can compete in every game.

Ingebrigtsen has not only instigated the Player Development Squads but has also been instrumental in getting the Seagulls involved in supporting a number of community organisations.

We have joined forces with local Police in promoting and standing up against domestic violence, providing support for suicide prevention, and showing more support for one another. We have also developed an affiliation with the local Cerebral Palsy League with a large number of their clients attending our home game matches to support us. One guy in particular, James Hamilton, absolutely loves his Seagulls and has become our number one supporter. We bring James into the dressing sheds where he loves to mix with and talk to the boys. We as a club are trying hard, not only to be a great rugby league team within our community but also a support group that contributes to the local community as a whole.

The Seagulls who are the current premiers will have used a total of 11 Seagulls junior players with another 5-7 juniors on the cusp of A Grade selection – they are currently unavailable due to work commitments or injuries.

In this day and age that is an almighty effort and very encouraging to all of our up and coming juniors of today.

A passion of A Grade captain/coach Tye Ingebrigtsen is developing the juniors - so much so, he has instigated junior development squads within the Seagulls and at the next level has instigated a Fraser Coast regional development squad with direct links to the Sunshine Coast Falcons and Melbourne THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

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BUNDABERG RUGBY LEAGUE THE Rugby League season started with a bang in the Wide Bay region with the much anticipated NRL Grand Final rematch between the North Queensland Cowboys and the Brisbane Broncos. On Saturday 6 February a crowd of over 8,000 patrons turned out in force to cheer on the Brisbane Broncos and North Queensland Cowboys when the teams met in a NRL Trial match played in wet and muddy conditions at Salter Oval. In what was a slippery affair, the handling skills from both teams were excellent. In the end it was the strength of the Broncos line-up that outclassed the young Cowboys as Wayne Bennett’s men ran away with a 48/26 win. The Broncos coach has endorsed Bundaberg for future matches and was pleased the team came to the region and was more than happy to come back again. Bundaberg’s Kyle Laybutt and Patrick Kaufusi both played for the Cowboys with Kyle Laybutt turning it on for his home crowd, offloading to set up the Cowboys’ first try of the night and converting 3 of 5 kicks.

BUNDABERG RUGBY LEAGUE ‘DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION’ Sunday 22 May 2016 was coloured “PURPLE” when Western Suburbs Rugby League Football Club played host to Domestic Violence and Prevention in association with the Uniting Care Community. Western Suburbs players along with all other participating clubs that day were wearing purple socks to draw public awareness of domestic and family violence within the local community in Bundaberg and Districts. Bundaberg Rugby League Chairman Mike Ireland spoke at the monthly meeting saying he believes it’s vital that a strong message is conveyed to the public and this is a perfect way to spread awareness and join the pledge to say NO to domestic violence. QRL Central Division teamed up with Rize Up and the BRL dedicated the final competition round held on Saturday 13 August 2016 with the aim of creating Domestic Violence Awareness and support through Education and Fundraising.

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The Grand Finals – The all-conquering Hervey Bay Seagulls had their work cut out in the Grand Final of the Bundaberg Rugby League Competition against Waves Tigers at Salter Oval. The Seagulls who had dominated the competition trailed 12/0 with five minutes to go in the first half. Early tries to Zak Bainbridge and Tien Nguyen both converted by Nguyen had the minor premiers on the ropes but midway through the opening half Damien Itto took advantage of a wilting Waves defence and ran 50 metres to score. The Seagulls who had beaten Waves on four occasions in 2016 were not prepared for the opening onslaught but once the seal was broken the Hervey Bay boys ran in 20 unanswered points through tries to Chol Chol and Terry Horne and four goals to Clinton Horne. The Hervey Bay captain/coach Tye Ingebrigtsen who had signed with Cairns club Mareeba for the 2016 season missed the game with a broken hand. This was the first premiership for the Hervey Bay Seagulls since Dean Pay delivered more than ten seasons before.

Blockbusting Seagulls front rower Tyson Woodman received the Les Somerville Medal as Man of the Match but they had many heroes, with former dual BRL A Grade Player of the Year Clinton Horne truly leading from the front in a robust team performance. Their excitement machine the 18-year-old Chol Chol has signed a contract with the Melbourne Storm and is sure to be seen on a bigger stage. Hervey Bay also contested the Under 18 grand final, but they were blown away by Past Brothers 34/10 despite scoring the first try of that match.

Brother’s fullback Layton Chambers, who scored one try and laid on two more as well as kicking four goals was Man of the Match. Brothers’ Women also completed an unbeaten season with a 46/0 whitewash of Isis, with Christi Chapman, who played in several positions during the game, bagging a hat-trick of tries. Powerhouse forwards Morgan Engstrom and Stephanie Shearer each notched doubles, but they were all beaten for the Player of the Match gong by crafty halfback Jude Bust. Brothers also contested the Reserve grade decider, but they were beaten by Maryborough Brothers 20/12.

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HOLDEN DO THEIR STUFF

FOR RUGBY LEAGUE

STATE of Origin fever arrived at Salter Oval Bundaberg on Thursday 16 June with former Origin players Brent Tate and Matt Cooper conducting a skills and drills clinic to over 500 participants.

A great display of young players keen and eager to have the opportunity to “meet and greet” the two former State of Origin stars participated in front of family members and junior coaches, who took the opportunity to use the moment as a training session.

NRL Game Development Officers along their assistant personnel and local school teachers also helped out at different skill drill stations in what can only be described as a huge success and a great effort by the local Junior Rugby League, who operated a sausage sizzle for all involved.

Maroon Billy Slater and Greg Inglis,” Roman said. Charlotte was equally excited. “On a scale of 1 to never ending, my love for footy is never ending! I just can’t believe this is happening,” she said. As well as playing in the Holden Junior State of Origin, Roman and Charlotte tossed the coin for the Blues vs Maroons match and with their teammates formed a guard of honour for the State of Origin players.

Holden’s executive director marketing, Geraldine Davys, said Holden was thrilled to make this opportunity possible for each of the clubs. “Roman and Charlotte came to our attention as budding rugby league stars via our Holden Home Ground Advantage program which recently awarded $10,000 to the Central Highlands Junior Rugby League and Dungog Warriors,” Geraldine said. “We’re thrilled to be providing this unique Junior State of Origin experience for some of Queensland’s and NSW’s most footy-mad kids,” she added.

The free community NRL clinics were held throughout various NSW and QLD locations culminating in Mackay on Saturday 18 June 2016. Ross Gray Holden presented the Bundaberg Junior Rugby League at the end of the clinic with a $1000 Holden Home Ground Advantage grant to put towards new uniforms and equipment. Junior Maroons make History – The mighty Under 9 Clermont Bears represented Queensland in Sydney on the 1st June prior to the First State of Origin game.

Their opposition in the big game were the Dungog Warriors from New South Wales. The captain of the Queensland team was Romen Revell-Blair who had the opportunity to get her photo taken with Queensland legend, Cameron Smith and her counterpart in the NSW team was Charlotte Baker, both aged 8. For Roman, whose uncle and Maryborough product Maurice (Bob) Blair plays for Hull KR in Britain, the experience is a dream come true.

To top it off, the kids also watched the first Holden State of Origin match from a designated Holden VIP ‘red zone’ and were put through their paces in a training session by former Maroon Mick Crocker and ex-Blue Matt Cooper.

– HOLDEN MEDIA

“I love playing footy at Clermont with my friends, but I never thought I’d be playing in Sydney in front of a big crowd and get to meet some of Australia’s best players such as injured THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

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QLD WOMEN’S RUGBY LEAGUE FEMALE participation is the fastest growing area of rugby league nationwide. The Queensland women’s rugby league team have been one of the most successful representative sides in the state and have been incredibly successful over an extended length of time. They have had outstanding success against NSW over the past 18 years in State of Origin having won for 16 years straight. Last year they drew and this year was their first loss ever.

This year Queensland Rugby League (QRL) unveiled a representative playing number to each female player who has worn a Queensland jersey (much like a FOG number) which was an important step in showcasing the history of the game and highlighting Queensland pride. The Queensland Women’s team also had the support of a team sponsor this year, with the players proudly representing sleeve sponsors Samios Plumbing Supplies’ “We support a range of fantastic charities and sporting teams and are proud to be able to support women in league,” said Terry Lucas, Executive General Manager, Samios Plumbing Supplies. “It’s fantastic to see increasing support for women in all sports and in particular, rugby league.

Whilst we sponsored the Queensland women’s team, we also want to congratulate the NSW team on their win.”

The Women’s Interstate clash this year was a tough and hard fought game as usual. Although Queensland’s undefeated streak finally came to an end, they only went down by four points. Amelia Kuk (Queensland centre) was held up in the 66th minute and Maroons hooker Brittany Brearley was denied a try in the 70th due to play-the-ball interference. NSW jumped to an 8-0 lead when the visitors were gifted a penalty in front after Bremner copped a high shot. Queensland’s Ali Brigginshaw scored a 79th minute consolation try but it wasn’t enough to keep the trophy.

Brittany Breayley played an outstanding game and was voted by her peers as Queensland’s Player’s Player, and at the recent QRL Awards night, she was also announced as the QRL’s Women’s Representative Player of the Year.

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more than 40,000 female volunteers in rugby league

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71,000 female NRL club members

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2.1 million women following the NRL

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a record six female NRL ambassadors appointed

Established in 2007, the Women in League program was initiated to make women feel proud of their roles and contribution to the game.

Now it’s a key fixture on the rugby league calendar and was played in Round 22 in August.

It continues to celebrate and acknowledge the role women play at all levels and in all areas of the Rugby League family.

The State of Origin is just one of more than 90 female-only rugby league competitions across Australia. There are more than 192,649 women and girls already playing rugby league in Australia and this number is increasing. A few additional statistics that may surprise you about Women’s Rugby League include: •

26 percent increase in club registrations in 2015 nationally

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over 30 percent increase in club registrations in Queensland

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11,677 registered female rugby league players, and over 482,000

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girls and women involved in playing the game (touch, tag or tackle)

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PINK DAY IN BEERWAH in 2010, the club enthusiastically embraced the new Beerwah Women’s side for the 2012 season.

The women’s players and supporters brought a new culture to the club, a different range of volunteers, and a willingness by many of the players to be much more involved in the day to day business of a rugby league Club.

One of the initiatives introduced by the players was the idea of a Pink Shorts’ Day to raise awareness of cancer.

Team manager, Kristy McClellan, recalled her surprise at how well the idea was accepted by the club.

IN late 2011, women rugby league players from around the Sunshine Coast approached the Beerwah Rugby League Football Club about hosting a women’s team.

“The club’s committee thought it was not only an opportunity to raise awareness of cancer issues but to organise a Day which promoted the family focus that the club was trying to achieve.

They really got behind the idea and found a sponsor for shorts for both the men and women’s teams” she said.

As the club was at the forefront of the development of girl’s rugby league on the Coast, with girl’s rugby league commencing

The first Pink Shorts’ Day raised money for the Australian Prostate Foundation and was held on the 16th June 2012.

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The event has been held each year since then and has supported a range of different cancer causes. In 2013 funds were donated to Ovarian Cancer Australia and the Breast Cancer Foundation, and in 2014, 2015 and 2016 it has been for the Breast Cancer Network Australia.

The day has evolved to become just “Pink Day” and is organised to include all of Beerwah’s junior and senior teams, the club sponsors and includes special activities, stalls, auctions and fun for the kids. In 2016, the event attracted the radio team from the Coast’s Sea FM to announce the Women’s match between Beerwah and Burleigh.

The proceeds from gate donations, a monster raffle from donated prizes, and a percentage of the profits from the day’s club activities are donated to the nominated charity.

In the last five years, thousands of dollars has been raised by the Pink Day events.

The key event organiser has been the Women’s team manager Kristy Zagari but committee members and a large number of volunteers, and junior and senior players get involved in the planning and running of the Day.

and the Burleigh Bears who were the Premiers in 2015 and had been undefeated in 2016. The game featured a number of international players, including two former Kiwi Ferns Beerwah’s Maia Davidson and Burleigh’s Rona Peters and two current Australian Jillaroos Beerwah’s Annette Brander and Burleigh’s Karina Brown. In addition, there were four current and former Queensland players involved in the match.

In a very hard fought match, the Beerwah ladies shot out to a 14-0 lead at half-time after a dominating 35 minutes in both attack and defence. In the second half Beerwah was forced to make twice as many tackles compared to the first session as the Burleigh ladies stormed home. Beerwah worked hard in defence to hold on for a 16-10 win.

– KRISTY ZAGARI

“It is a big focus for the club and attracts a large crowd throughout the day. Our aim is to help the many community members and families who are impacted by this disease.

It is a day of hope, as we honour lives lost, celebrate survivors, promote cancer research and help bring appropriate care to those who desperately need it.” Kristy said.

SUNSHINE COAST BEERWAH RLFC 2016 - 47TH BATTALION CHAMPIONS

Pink Day in 2016 was held on Saturday June 11th and included every junior and senior club team, although a number of the matches were played on Friday night 10th June. All junior teams wore pink socks and the Men’s and Women’s teams also wore pink jerseys for the occasion.

MIDDLE: Jo Kerr, Amy Horsburgh, Sarah Baker, Nat Browne, Lana Sheady, Sarah Walker, Sophie Ebbage, Eva Carless

The feature match was the Women’s game between Beerwah

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BACK (L-R): Rod Kerr (Coach), Ashleigh Topfer (FAO), Jo Nufioria (league safe), Emily Greeks, Emma Horton, Amy Bock, Abbey Templeman, Tabitha Papworth, Kayla Sadlier, Cassandra Cushing (league safe)

FRONT: Kristy McClellan (manager) Courtney Lockwood, Taylia Fragalie, Fran Wilson, Emily McMurdy, Stef Gallagher, Samantha Beasant Beerwah v Burleigh 10th September, 2016

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OUTBACK MUSTER THE 2016 Outback Carnival was held at Mitchell on Saturday, 18th June. Northern Outback, Central West and South West all travelled to compete for selection in the Queensland Outback A Grade team while the Southern Outback team played the Northern Outback team for selection in the Under 20 Queensland Outback Team. The A Grade team played in Townsville against Torres Strait team while the Under 20s competed at Yeppoon.

The day started off with what finished up being the match of the day with Northern Outback steamrolling the Central West team in the first half to shoot out to a 20-6 lead at half-time.

I don’t know what the coach said to the Central West team at half-time but they came out firing to eventually win the game 28-26 after scoring a try with only seconds to go and the successful conversion from the sideline after the hooter to win the game. There was plenty of good footy played on the day with the South West team taking out the shield for this year in A Grade and the Southern Outback earning the Under 20s Shield after running away with the second game.

There was concern for the Northern Teams being able to get home with the rain threatening to cause havoc with roads flooding. Both teams jumped on their bus and headed north immediately after the teams were announced, no doubt they still would have enjoyed their 13 hour trip home to Mt Isa and surrounding areas.

The Mitchell Club needs to be congratulated on the running of the day and providing amazing meals for all the teams and the Presentation Dinner where the Queensland Outback

MITCHELL – SATURDAY 18TH JUNE 2016

Teams were announced. There was also early entertainment provided by the local Under 8 teams which you can never pass up the opportunity of watching as well as the Mitchell Under 12 team up against Roma with locals going down in a very close match.

The Queensland Outback teams selected were:- A Grade (1) Les Wotley (South West), (2) Damian Greenwool (Central West), (3) Matt Waites (South West), (4) Brayden Russell (Central West), (5) Zeke Thompson (Central West), James Biara (Northern), (7) Roger Bait (Central West), (8) Ashley Dyball (South West), (9) Brenton Stonier (Northern), (10) John Turlin (Central West), (11) Clinton Taylor (South West), (12) Zac Downey (South West), (13) Trent Hoad (Central West), (14) Cody Stedman (Central West), (15) Rohan Schultz (Northern), (16) Tom Elliott (Central West), (17) Dan Dwyer (South West), (18) Jarred McIntosh (South West).

The Under 20 team selected was (1) Charlie Adams (South West), (2) Schakarne Aitkens (Northern), (3) Ronnie Francis (Northern), (4) Brandon Soverign (Southern), (5) Josh Carlton (Southern), (6) Allan Aitkens (Northern), (7) Alex Coonan (South West), (8) Brodie Germaine (Northern), (9) Bryce Rackerman (Southern), (10) Brayden Collins (Southern), (11) Jackson Shellwell (Southern), (12) Tyler Luxford (Southern), (13) Cody Tully (Northern), (14) Clifford Johnny (Northern), (15) Daniel Dunne (Northern), (16) Tom Dawson (Southern), (17) Jayden Davies (Southern), (18) Lucas Williams (Southern), (19) Herbie Walden (Northern).

•• • Coaching CoachingCourses Courses Coaching Courses •• • Coaching CoachingResources Resources Coaching Resources TrainingActivities Activities •• • Training Training Activities •• • Pre-Build Pre-BuildTraining TrainingSessions Sessions Pre-Build Training Sessions

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NRL NRL Coach Coach Education Education NRL Coach Education

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SOUTH WEST QUEENSLAND REPRESENTATIVE TEAM 2016 Back (L-R): Clinton Taylor, John Van Kujick (Strapper), John Chaplain, Greg Hamilton, Campbell Crouchley, Ronnie Willett, Steve Brownhalls (Captain), Geoff Gilbert, Tony Mitchell (Manager), Luke Brosnan (Coach), Ash Dyball FRONT: Jake Zerbst, Matt Waites, Les Wortley, Charlie Adams, Alex Coonan, Rhys Irwin, Blake Cowburn, Locke Naprasnik, Jarrod McIntosh KNEELING: Zac Downey ABSENT: Dan Dwyer

MOUNT ISA RUGBY LEAGUE A GRADE TEAM BACK (L-R): Donald Simmons, Patrick McDonald, Rohan Schulz, Jacob Takurit, Cris Lucas, Alan Baillie (Coach), Alex Weller, Adam Kleier, Daniel Simmons, Mick Smith, Dwayne Kangan (Sports Trainer) FRONT: Nathan Giles, Alan Tokawa, Matthew Toby, Troydan Dempsey, Brenton Stonier (Vice-Captain), James Baira (Captain), Dale Dempsey, Joshua Simmons ABSENT: Cicely Baira (Team Manager), Ron Francis, Cody Tully, Herbert Walden.

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THE MIGHTY 1966 WIDE BAY REUNION WIDE BAY RUGBY LEAGUE TEAM – 1966 STATE CHAMPIONS BACK (L-R): Col Weiss, Barry Gills, Bill Pearson(Captain), Liam Duggan(obscured), Mick Kruger, Noel Gallagher, Gary Pearson, Vic Beardmore (Manager), Ray Brosnan, Darrell Brady FRONT: Col Reynolds, Ralph Reynolds, Moray Smith, Merv Walsh, Kevin Weedon, Don Nixon (Captain) ABSENT: Andy Guerassimoff was late and missed photo but was at Reunion.

EXCUSE me sir, but have you paid for that?

In an era of Facebook, Twitter and Instagram the art of ‘storytelling’ has been lost. The information is at our fingertips before someone gets a chance to tell you the story.

I can confirm that the dying art is not lost on the 1966 Wide Bay Rugby League team that recently met to celebrate 50 years since winning the Courier Mail State Championships.

The group gathered at the Spotted Dog Tavern in Bundaberg last weekend and while the event was very informal it wasn’t long before the guests of honour held floor and were telling stories of past glory.

I was fortunate enough to sit with former Queensland and Australian player Col Weiss during lunch. Now in to his 70’s the qualified Blacksmith still looks fit enough to play today and he proudly boasts that he continues to work full time on the family owed cane farm near Childers.

Col shared plenty on his experiences playing for Queensland and he distinctly remembers the time when the Queensland Rugby League introduced the ‘intensive training camps’ for players involved in the state program. This required players to spend an extended period of time in Brisbane for, as the name suggests, some intensive training in preparation for an interstate game or an upcoming tour.

Due to work commitments in Bundaberg Col was unable to attend the training camps but such was his ability it did not exclude him from selection (he went on to play 22 games for QLD).

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He remembers arriving in Brisbane prior to the Queensland team touring New Zealand. All players on the tour that had been part of the intensive training camp arrived in Queensland Rugby League issued suits. This included slacks, shirt and tie and Queensland blazer.

Col and five of his mates were duly sent to the suit maker on Queen Street with the assurances from QRL hierarchy that the players would be measured up and suits could be made in time for the tour to depart.

Several weeks later, back in Bundaberg and back at work Col received a letter in the mail from the Queensland Rugby League. It was an invoice for the cost of the suit.

All good stories have a good ending. “It is almost 50 years since that tour……..and I still haven’t paid for the suit.” Col boasts.

Editor’s Note: This team held the Great Britain touring team to 30/22. Great Britain defeated Queensland 38/29 and Australia 17/15 leading up to the Wide Bay game. Col Weiss and Noel Gallagher played for Australia. Weiss won the Stephenson Trophy as Queensland’s best player in 1966, 1969 and 1970.

Gary Pearson, Bill Pearson, Ralph Reynolds and Bill Reynolds also played for Queensland.

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“TOMMY TERRIFIC!” ALL too often, we tend to focus on the competitive aspects of junior Rugby League. With this competiveness comes the associated pressures to succeed which invariably leads to the more negative aspects of the game being thrust into the limelight. Sadly, it tends to be these negatives that garner the headlines - overbearing coaches, abuse of match officials, player violence and the like seem to provide great headline fodder at the expense of the many good news stories happening every week in junior footy land. Every now and then though, there comes a story that cuts through the negativity, and reminds of why kids play footy, and why we want to be involved in it. The story of Tommy Ross-Buzza is a great example of this.

Tommy, like many other kids, LOVES his footy. He lives it and breathes it. The difference with Tommy though, is he was born with Down Syndrome. Living with Down Syndrome has been no obstacle to Tommy being involved in the game he loves.

Tommy shot to prominence in early 2014, when a video of him went “viral”. The clip depicted him playing in a 9-a-side tournament for Caloundra, against Caboolture Snakes, and shows the Caboolture boys being great sports, allowing him to score a try. It was a great “feel good” story that had thousands of views and shares and saw Tommy appear on several news stories in press and on TV. If you google his name, the articles and clip are still there (well worth a watch!) but Tommy’s rugby league story did not start there, and certainly did not finish there! “Tommy started playing football (mini league) in Port Macquarie NSW at the age of 8” his dad Gavin explains, “He played in excess of 75 games over a sixyear period. When we moved to the Sunshine Coast in 2014, Tommy continued playing for the Caloundra Sharks” One would expect that with the perceived competitive nature of junior rugby league, and its associated physicality, that Tommy’s participation would have been met with some resistance and obstacles, but as Gavin explains, this is far from the case. “On a whole Tommy has been well accepted

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in the rugby league community, not only by the club he plays for, but also the opposition teams (players, parents and officials). What he might lack physically, he makes up for in personality and commitment. He rarely misses a training session, he knows all the team moves and is a great motivator to the rest of the team” Tommy continued to play in the fully competitive Sunshine Coast Division 2 competition in the Under 14’s, Under 15’s and this year wrapped up his junior career in the U16’s. Being able to be involved as a player in the game he loves has certainly been something special for Tommy and his family.

“As his father it is just so amazing to see his face light up every day we go training or to a game, and especially when he gets his occasional try,” explains Gavin “Seeing his peers, not just from his own team, but from others be so inclusive, understanding and supportive of his will to play rugby league often brings a tear to my eye” And Tommy’s involvement in the game, now goes a lot further than just playing as Gavin explains: “for the past 2 years he has travelled with me and the U13/U14 Falcons representative team as a team assistant, this year as a qualified league safe.

The inclusiveness of the Sunshine Coast Falcons JRL need to be commended for providing an opportunity for him to be a part of the wider rugby league community. He is also a regular attendee of the Caloundra Sharks and the Sunshine Coast Falcons Senior clubs where he runs the kicking tee out.

This has allowed him to learn so much about what happens behind the scenes and in the dressing rooms”.

As you can imagine, being able to play footy with his mates has had a profound and positive impact on Tommy’s life, as Gavin explains: “The game of rugby league has played an important role in Tommy’s physical, emotional, and social development. Physically, it has allowed him to be physically active and improve his coordination, strength, agility and flexibility. Dealing with the highs of winning and the lows of losing has assisted in providing emotional stability, and the social aspect of being part of a team and a club where people

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“TOMMY TERRIFIC!” talk to him and he is included has provide the foundations for his social development” When asked what special moments stick in his mind over past 9 years, it was difficult for Gavin to pin down any single highlight. “Any time Tommy gets to run on the field is a special moment for me, but when he gets to score a try or take a kick for goal it’s extra special. In his last game of juniors this year he was named captain and played half back which was a huge thrill for Tommy. He was just so proud of himself, and we all got a good laugh when during the game (as captain) he was called out by the referee to discuss some of the actions of his team mates!” So what’s next for Tommy?

“Our biggest challenge is now, trying to get him to understand that next year is senior football and he will have to just train with the team and help out as league safe, as he wants to keep playing, but we know he will continue to be involved any way he can!” As President of SCJRL, it provides me with a great sense of pride, not only seeing Tommy able to play every week, but seeing his opposition show amazing sportsmanship on a weekly basis by providing Tommy opportunities to not only participate, but score tries and kick goals.

It instils great faith in me that despite reports to the contrary, young rugby league player’s value mateship and inclusiveness over results, and that is the key to getting them to stay playing our game.

– TIM WOOD (President SCJRL)

SUNSHINE COAST/GYMPIE RUGBY LEAGUE THE Sunshine Coast/Gympie area is growing to be a powerhouse of rugby league in Queensland and their dominance of the 47th Battalion Shield in both the men’s and women’s divisions plus the improving Sunshine Coast Falcons is a sure sign of better things to come. On the NRL front the Division is the home league for Matt Gillett (Australia) and Moses Mbye (Bulldogs) who have starred in 2016. The local A Grade competition was competitive from start to finish with the Caloundra Sharks just edged out the Kawana Dolphins

to win the minor-premiership from Maroochydore/Coolum and the Caboolture Snakes. In Week One of the finals the Maroochydore/Coolum boys defeated Caboolture 32/10 to finish their season and the Kawana Dolphins upset the premiership favourites Caloundra 38/6 to advance to the Grand Final. In the preliminary final the Swans flexed their muscles defeating the Sharks 26/12 taking momentum into the big game.

MAROOCHYDORE/COOLUM RUGBY LEAGUE A GRADE TEAM – SUNSHINE COAST/GYMPIE PREMIERS 2016 (L-R): Nate Taber, Warrick Maher, Tom Royal, Luke Williamson, Michael Bauer, Brad Kent, Sam Madden, Tyler Oxenham, Luke Mendham, Troy Mendham, Bart Hold, Joey Meninga, Luke Barton, Luke Roberts, Jason Wardrop, Josh Buckland (Captain), Murray Goldsworthy (Captain) – coached by Brett Winkler

Image: Courtesy Richard Goldworthy

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SUNSHINE COAST/GYMPIE RUGBY LEAGUE Rugby League on the Sunshine Coast lived up to their ‘footy for families’ mantra in hosting the 2016 Grand Final. For the first time the event was a joint initiative between the Sunshine Coast/Gympie Senior Rugby League and the Sunshine Coast Junior Rugby League and proved hugely successful for the league. Maroochydore played host to competition from Under 11 through to Division 1 across two days of action, including 24 games featuring the best club teams in the region. Friday night matches were played in the juniors and attracted crowds in excess of 2,000 people. This was backed up on Saturday with crowds in excess of 5,000 attending well in to the night when arch rivals Kawana and MaroochydoreCoolum squared off in the Division One Grand Final. The Swans broke a 16 season premiership drought by defeating Kawana 18/14 after leading 18/6 at the interval. Kawana had won the 2015 premiership but were no match for the fired up Swans who recovered from being 6/0 down to score

three first half tries to dominate the last 30 minutes. Tyler Oxenham won the Man of the Match while Sam Madden (two tries) and Murray Goldsworthy played well.

As well as being a tremendous viewing spectacle for the community the Grand Final weekend had tremendous off field benefit to the combined leagues. Nett revenue for the event was up 50% of previous year’s and event management processes were streamlined due to all being at the one venue.

Most importantly the event generated a tremendous amount of goodwill and fellowship between the junior and senior leagues. An army of more than 100 volunteers across both leagues contributed to the success of the day and ensured that spectators and families walked away with a smile on their face having enjoyed the experience that Rugby League offered.

THE HOUSE THAT ALDO BUILT ON 23rd May 2015 Bribie Island Rugby League player and father of six Andrew Grant was involved in a tragic on field incident that left him fighting for his life with neck and spinal injuries. Andrew showed tremendous spirit and courage to beat all the odds and continues to rehabilitate from the injury 18 months on despite a few setbacks. It is his spirit, and willingness to put others first that inspired Bribie Island Rugby League stalwart Aldo Loi and the wider community of Bribie and Caboolture to support Andrew and his family.

Aldo took it upon himself to coordinate many fundraising initiatives all geared towards supporting the Grant family.

The traditional sportsman’s luncheons were considered and golf days were run and won but Aldo wanted to do more. He decided to build a house.

Aldo (and Andrew) were both well respected within the building industry so after securing the land Aldo set about the task of getting materials and labour all donated for the worthy cause. The end product would be a fully complete 4-bedroom home that would be auctioned off with all proceeds going to the Grant family and assisting Andrew with his rehabilitation.

The house is nearing completion and Aldo hopes to raise a minimum of $300,000 on the sale. “We have basically had everything donated. Labour was all supplied free of charge. This includes builders, brickies, tilers and landscapers. We have also had a huge response from suppliers.

A pool company donated a fully installed pool for the project and workwear companies donated boots for all the tradies working on the project.

The community response has been overwhelming. With the exception of purchasing the land we have built a ready to move in house for less than $1500 thanks to the support of the community.” Aldo said.

Andrew and his family never asked or expected anything like this but the response is not surprising for a guy that always looked out for those around him. “To be honest if this had of happened to someone else Andrew would have been the first person to put his hand up and donate his time to help.”

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YOUNG WARRIORS CAMP SOME of Central Division’s most promising young players have not only been receiving a footballing education on the field – but they have also been learning plenty of off-field skills as well. A selected group of future leaders from Central’s Cyril Connell Cup system have been taking part in the Young Warrior program – including a weekend leadership camp held at the Sunshine Coast Hinterland on May 14-15.

Central Division, in partnership with The Resilient Leaders Foundation have developed a youth leadership program in line with the mission of the QRL:

“To bring people together and enrich their lives focusing on excellence, inclusiveness, courage and teamwork.”

The aim of the Young Warrior Program is to build young men’s understanding, skills and attributes around personal leadership, self-confidence, emotional literacy and teamwork, and provides participants an opportunity to explore who they are and test their personal limitations whilst being supported by peers and other men. Central Division’s Welfare and Education Manager Trish Drummond said the Division were strong believers in developing the person and not just the rugby league player. “Football is a game where we need to be not only skilful on the field but also a well-rounded individual in all aspects of life,” Ms Drummond said.

“For me, it is exciting to be working with our future generations of potential Queensland and NRL players, helping them be the best young men they can be on and off the field. “We are excited to see how the boys go after the program when they are back playing footy and in their day to day.

opportunity to be selected, only those who demonstrated leadership qualities were selected in order to enhance these skills to positively influence peers. This camp was run by a group called “The Centre of Resilient Leadership” with director James Greenshields taking the boys, with their club support mentors out bush for a weekend to help them understand their leadership qualities, assisting them with implementing them when they return.

“Learning the skills taught by James Greenshields and his team gives the guys the opportunity to start applying them to their lives at a young age, learning how to overcome things in their older years which may have seemed harder if they had not learnt the tenants taught by the program,” Ms Drummond said.

This program is part of a much larger push within Central Division to promote resilience.

Club Support Officers have already been working with the boys as mentors who can provide a deep, practical understanding of the concepts taught during the program; and through their own personal life experience are able to assist young men as mentors.

Selections for 2017 mentors and Young Warriors will begin again soon.

– TRISH DRUMMOND

While all players in the Cyril Connell program had the

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NORTHERN GRAB INAUGURAL ARTHUR BEETSON SHIELD BUT SOUTHERN WINS U18 NORTHERN Outback claimed the inaugural Arthur Beetson Foundation Shield after a big weekend of junior rugby league at Winton in Western Queensland. Victories in the U-14s and U-16s in the Outback Challenge delivered Northern the shield.

Southern Outback however, triumphed in the U-18s.The Queensland Outback teams were also selected.

Players came from bush towns such as Charleville, Quilpie, Mount Isa, Blackall, Barcaldine, Longreach, Doomadgee, Cloncurry and Mitchell and had travelled up to 800km for the contest. The carnival was honoured to have special guests attend for the weekend including QRL chairman Peter Betros, QRL head of football Neil Wharton, Central Division chairman Danny McGuire and QRL Education and Welfare Manger at the NRL Murray Hurst, who is a former Cowboys head coach. The matches were followed by a presentation dinner in the Winton Shire Hall with about 250 players and guests attending. The inaugural Arthur Beetson Foundation Shield was presented and the 2016 Queensland Outback teams were announced.

This was the first year that the QRL and Queensland Police Service partnered to help the police to encourage applicants from the Outback areas into a career in the service. Members from the Police Stock Squad and Recruiting and Media

attended and spoke to the players about what opportunities were available in the QPS. This year the challenge also welcomed the sponsorship of the Arthur Beetson Foundation and the carnival was fortunate to have Big Artie’s three sons, Brad, Christian and Scott attend the carnival and conduct the presentations of the Arthur Beeston Foundation Shield. They had travelled from the Sunshine Coast and Sydney to attend.

Also on the weekend Mr Hurst delivered education sessions designed to help the players to become responsible adults and community members. The local Queensland Ambulance Service instructed the U-18 teams in CPR. Finally, the players also witnessed a domestic violence vigil organised by the Winton police during which the players impressed with their respectful attention to the presentation and observation of a minute’s silence for those affected by domestic violence. It is hoped that carnivals such as this also serve to lift spirits and provide a welcome distraction in drought-hit part of the state.

– PETER RAFTER Operations Manager- Queensland Outback, Central Division

Winton Mayor Butch Lenton was awarded QRL Central Division life membership by Mr McGuire for his outstanding service to rugby league not only in Winton but also in Central West Rugby League. Cr Lenton has been a player, coach, administrator and just an all-round good guy in rugby league for many years. His family were on hand to witness the honour and presented a video of his contribution to league. His contribution to rugby league included: Winton President (1982 – 1990) Winton President (1996 – 2011) Central West President (1990 – 1992) Central West President (2011 – 2013) THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

Central West Life Member

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CENTRAL OUTBACK CHALLENGE THE second year of the Under 14 Outback Challenge ended with the final round of matches played in St George.

Some players travel more than 8000km’s in the season to take part in the competition.

The winners this year were the Roma Schoolboys going back to back after winning last year’s competition. Across 5 rounds of competition (each of 3 games) the Roma team only lost one game.

Costs are kept to a minimum thanks to the hospitality of the host clubs. This includes feeding all teams and having them camp overnight in clubhouses. The Central West boys do the most travel but have made plenty of friends along the way. In their travels they always stop in Tambo at ‘Fanny Maes.’ Owner of the truck-stop Mardi Noonan always feeds the boys for free before sending them on their way.

Rounds this year were played in Miles, Blackall, Roma, Charleville and St George in a range of weather conditions.

The season started in Miles in typical Outback heat before moving to Blackall in conditions that almost called for a lifeguard to be on duty. The Charleville host day was the coldest and wettest on record with temperatures dropping as low as 1.5 degrees Celsius. St George did promise perfect weather conditions for the final round and they delivered.

The Outback Challenge in 2016 was supported by the Brisbane Broncos who provided promotional gear as well as donated trophies. It was also a great experience for the players to have former Broncos, Origin and Australian players Michael Hancock and Michael Devere attend the Charleville round of games. Their efforts were greatly appreciated as they also ran lines and refereed games during the day.

The concept of the Outback Challenge evolved from the limited amount of structured Rugby League available for under 14 players in the outback. Pleasingly, the players now get a minimum of 15 games per year as well as opportunities to attend representative carnivals, including the Cultural Exchange at Coolum. They travel by bus to all venues thanks to an extremely dedicated group of volunteers and parents.

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Sportsmanship is the standout of this competition. Whenever a team is short on players there are always plenty of willing boys to put their hand up and fill in for the opposition. This attitude is part of the reason why so many terrific friendships are formed during the competition.

This is real grassroots Rugby League and the players, parents and coaches wouldn’t have it any other way.

RESULTS 3v4 Miles defeated Charleville 1v2 Roma defeated Central West Outback Challenge Player of the Year: Cody Fechner (Roma) Central West Player of the Year: Mikey Wilde Charleville Player of the Year: Jarra Briggs Miles Player of the Year: Will Crosby Roma Player of the Year: Adam Hodgson St George Player of the Year: Rhyley Petfield

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Broncos Development Officers - former International Michael Hancock (left) and Paul Dyer with St John’s School in Roma during the Outback Under 14 Challenge.

BRONCOS AT OUTBACK CHALLENGE

The Queensland Rugby League Outback Tour hits Betoota.

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BORDER RUGBY LEAGUE TEAM OF THE DECADE THE Border Rugby League recently celebrated their 20th Anniversary as a competition, and also announced a “Border Rugby League Representative Team of the Decade 2007-2016”.

The Border Rugby League competition is one of the newest competitions in Queensland. The league started in 1997 after a number of Border Region teams joined forces to bring the game of rugby league back to their small communities.

Today there are five teams in the Border Rugby League competition including Stanthorpe/Texas, Tenterfield Tigers, Inglewood Roosters, Wallangarra Rams, and the Killarney Cutters.

The BRL clubs selected a team from the best players who played for the Border Bushrangers A Grade Representative Team from 2007 to 2016 with performances in normal club games not considered. For many years the Border Bushrangers Representative Team has played in the South West Country trials and then progressed to compete at the 47th Battalion Carnival.

The Bushrangers recorded some historic wins against much bigger centres in the past ten years, none more so than the win over Rockhampton in 2010 when they won 18/16, when team of the decade player, Nathan Shatte (Stanthorpe

Gremlins) scored a try. Three recent Queensland Outback representatives John Trindall, Jason Wilmot and Jarrod McIntosh were included in the 19-man Border Bushrangers A Grade Rugby League Team of the Decade. The Tenterfield Tigers and Stanthorpe Gremlins had the highest number of players selected in the Team of the Decade with six each.

Stanthorpe Gremlins players included Jason Wilmot, Nathan Shatte, Jason Cobon, Leon Karena, Matthew Hendry and Bradley Crisp. Stanthorpe Gremlin player, Matthew “Buzza” Hendry, has recently gone onto represent Queensland in the state police rugby league team. The Tenterfield Tigers six players chosen were Brendan Minns, Geoff Swan, Jarrod McIntosh, Coedie Tandy, Jake Kelly and Lucas Deardon who can claim to be the only player chosen in the two BRL Representative Teams of the Decade.

The Killarney Cutters had four players selected including John Trindall, Jamie Watts, Brett Lambert and Michael Marshall.

The Cutters could also stake a claim for one of the Tenterfield six, Coedie Tandy, who helped the Cutters win premierships in 2013 and 2014. Two highly talented footballers from the Inglewood Roosters, namely Matt Gainey and Brent Bennett were also included in the team. Uncompromising forward from recent years, Matthew Rouen (Wallangarra Rams) was rewarded with his inclusion as well. BRL president Norm Crisp said “the selected team were the players at the top of their form when they played for the Border Bushrangers”.

– MICHAEL JENSEN

BACK (L-R): Jake Kelly, Geoff Swan, John Trindall, Nathan Shatte, Matt Gainey, Brad Crisp, Jason Cobon FRONT: Jarrod McIntosh, Brett Lambert, Jason Wilmot, Brendan Minns and Brent Bennett. NB: Twelve of the 19 selected players were at the dinner.

Image: Courtesy Stanthorpe Border Post 64

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BORDER RUGBY LEAGUE GRAND FINALS THE small town of Inglewood and their A Grade Team the Inglewood Roosters are still celebrating after a dominate 44/10 win against the Tenterfield Tigers in the Border Rugby League Grand Final on Sunday the 4th September. The Inglewood Roosters won the BRL major semi-final against their grand final opponents the Tenterfield Tigers, in Tenterfield, to earn the right to host the BRL Grand Final at Inglewood. After a brief hiatus of two years without a senior team in the BRL Competition, it was great to see rugby league return to the town of Inglewood. The club has a proud history in the BRL having now won three premierships in the past six years.

The Inglewood Roosters big forwards came out firing early to set a platform for their speedy outside backs and were able to build a lead of 22/0 at the break. The Tigers came out after halftime and tried to get back in the contest and scored a great try through Josh Lucas to bridge the gap early in the second half. Despite the Tigers trying valiantly to get back into the contest, the Inglewood Roosters forwards again took control

of the middle of the park and continued to attack the Tigers try line eventually coming away with a dominate 44/10 win.

Best for Inglewood Roosters were Jamie Meddings, Brandon Sauverain, Tim West, Brent Bennett and Shane Hooper, while James Springborg, Josh Lucas, Jarrod McIntosh and Marc McGrady tried all day for the Tigers.

Although missing out on the major prize of the A Grade Premiership, the day had started well for the Tenterfield Tigers club with their Ladies Leaguetag team the Tigerettes defeating the Wallangarra Ramettes 32/10 in a hard fought match. The young Tenterfield side have now been undefeated for the last three seasons and look like the team to beat again in 2017 season with a very young side. They have been the most consistent side in the BRL Ladies Leaguetag Competition for the last three seasons and ran out deserved winners. Credit to the Wallangarra Ladies who refused to go down without a fight, and never gave up until the final whistle.

TENTERFIELD TIGERETTES RLFC – 2016 BORDER PREMIERS BACK: Jaime Scott, Sidney Peach, Sophie Cooper, Chloe Rutter, Ella Macintosh, Marian Mooney, Ellie Griffiths, Georgia O’Neill, Jesus Lockwood, Kymbellie Butler, Paige Koch, Candy Woodbridge, Grace Clothier, Emily McMeniman, Hannah Byrnes FRONT: Ryle Cooper, Meg Landers, Wayne Minns (Coach), Shay Landers - Image: Courtesy Stanthorpe Border Post

INGLEWOOD ROOSTERS RLFC – 2016 BORDER A GRADE PREMIERS BACK (L-R): Owen Osborne (Manager), Zack Johnstone, Jake Charles, Brent Bennett, Brant O’Dea, Rowan West, Warren Gage, Daniel Bosnjak, Jarrod West, Jamie Meddings, Tim West, Shane Hooper, Tyler Wolff (Trainer), Will Poulos, Luke Willett FRONT: Steve Sauverain, Robbie Morris, Zack Knox, Brandon Sauverain, Joey Frey, Brent Osborne (Captain/Coach), Ryan Donovan (President), Matt West, Nash Killen, Jamie Braden (Asst Coach), Aaron Perry (Trainer). - Image: Courtesy Stanthorpe Border Post

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THE CONFRATERNITY SHIELD ROCKHAMPTON

Ethan James tackling, with Oscar Carter in support.

THE Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Association held another successful carnival in Rockhampton during the last week of June. Mal Maninga was present on the first day to meet with coaches and present man of match awards. Bronco CEO Paul White spoke to officials and sponsors at the annual dinner on the Tuesday night. Petro Civonecciva had a presence through the week under the banner of the Men of League foundation. Apart from Monday morning when drizzling rain softened the fields there was glorious sunny weather for all the almost 150 games on display. Referees came from all over the state and appreciated the great spirit the games were played in. Most schools provided up to five of their staff who give up a week of their holidays to give their charges a week to remember.

improved every game as they grew into the code and the carnival. It won’t be long before they will be nominating for the top division. A highlight for them was the naming of their centre Ben Bucknall as the winner of the Bronco’s “Player with the most potential” award presented by life member of the association and Broncos staffer Steve Parle. He will have his name alongside the likes of Wendell Sailor and Julian O’Neill.

Player of the Carnival was the Aquinas College (Gold Coast) second rower Lochlyn Sheldon who won himself a $5000 bursary for further study from the recent sponsor The Carbine Club. In the Div. B schools group the player of the carnival was Trinity College’s Benjamin Thomas.

– COL HENNESSY

The Confraternity Shield proper was won once again by Ignatius Park College Townsville who defeated arch rivals St. Brendans College Yeppoon in a repeat of the 2015 final.

The final score in that match was 28-4.The winners were the most consistent side all week and deserved their victory. St. Brendans had dropped a point with a drawn match against Padua College on the Tuesday morning as well as being down 0-2 at half-time against St. Mary’s Toowoomba. Iggy Park were just too big and too strong for most of the week. Host school, The Cathedral College were expected to break the monopoly the two finalists have had for the past ten years but were in a particularly tough pool and went down narrowly to St. Brendans on Monday night and then had to play the eventual winners in the quarter final on Tuesday afternoon.

In the Bob Lindner Trophy final for the second half of Div A, St. Pats Mackay showed that they are beginning to reclaim the power they once had in the ‘80’s and ‘90’s. They defeated St. Teresa’s Abergowrie 26-18 in a fast and open game of football.

In Div B, newcomers to the carnival Marist Brothers Ashgrove completed what was a magic week for them by defeating Columba College Charters Towers 26-6 in the final. Marists had lost their first game on Monday morning but as expected, THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

Lope Goidubu running away from the St. Brendan’s defence.

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CENTRAL DIVISION JUNIOR CARNIVAL pathway. While all teams competed strongly the Division was very focused on ensuring that the carnival was more about the positive experience for those that attend.”

ON the weekend of the 4th and 5th of June over 500 junior players, officials and volunteers from throughout Central Division converged on the South Burnett community of Kingaroy for the inaugural Central Division Junior Carnival.

In a first for the Division four regional teams attended the carnival with the primary purpose of selecting the Central Crows teams to compete at the State Junior Carnival later in the month.

Division Manager Glenn Ottaway indicated that the event was delivered with a focus very much on positive participation.

Feedback from the event was that this was achieved. All players participated in the right spirit with captains and coaches all taking the NRL Respect Pledge at the carnival opening ceremony.

This experience also extended beyond the playing field. To meet the accommodation demand the Division sourced accommodation for all teams and officials through a company called Tent City. The Kingaroy Showgrounds were converted to a makeshift camping ground which was home for all participants over the weekend.

“Not only did this environment create a great atmosphere around the carnival it alleviated the pressure on local accommodation. Many families travelled to the region for the weekend and watched their kids play. I am sure we will all appreciate the great hospitality of the Kingaroy community.”

Ottaway added.

Those who were unable to attend were also able to follow the action live via the NRL Leaguenet Livescoring system. Over the course of the weekend there were 30 games of high quality football played and over 21,000 people tuned in to follow the live scoring.

As an inaugural event the Central Division were able to establish five new perpetual shields that will now be played for each year across the age groups. They came from far and wide for the Central Division Junior Carnival held in Kingaroy and it looked like a Scout Jamboree with more than 100 tents spread around the camping grounds. The competition involved Under 13 (boys), Under 14 (boys and girls) and Under 16 (boys and girls) from Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, South-West Queensland and Central Queensland.

“This program has been created to provide as many participants as possible with an opportunity to be part of the representative

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Under 13 Boys – Phil Shield Shield In recognition of his long standing service to the game at the junior level. Phil Shield was the longest serving junior delegate to the Central Queensland divisional board. South West won the carnival with 18 points from Sunshine Coast (9), Central Queensland (7) and Wide Bay (2).

Under 14 Girls – Sandra Curry Shield Sandra Curry was a pioneer for female administrators in the South West region. The Division recognises her long service to the game in Outback Queensland.

South West Queensland won the carnival on 18 points from Sunshine Coast (11), Wide Bay (7) and Central Queensland (0).

Under 14 Boys – Rex Zeeman Shield When the traditional Divisions were merged to Central Division, Rex Zeeman became the first Division Manager under the new structure. He is credited for establishing a number of the processes that are in place within the Division today. Sunshine Coast won the Carnival on 16 points from South West (11), Wide Bay (6) and Central Queensland (0).

Under 16 Girls – Stephanie Hancock Shield Stephanie Hancock is the current captain of the Australian Jillaroos. Hailing from Killarney she has paved the way for the vast female participation we see in the game today. Central Queensland won the Carnival on 15 points from the Sunshine Coast (14), Wide Bay (7) and South West Queensland (0).

Under 16 Boys – Darren Lockyer Shield Darren Lockyer is without doubt one of the most decorated players of the game as a captain for club, state and country. He started his football career in Roma which is still a focal point of Central Divisions outback region. South West won the Under 16 Division on 15 points from Central Queensland (11), Sunshine Coast (9) and Wide Bay (1).

Story and photos – REDFERN SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY

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CITY GIRLS GO WEST THE girls from the City travelled to the Outback to test themselves against the Country girls in Under 14 and Under 17 age groups as well as experience some of the Outback lifestyle. The girls from Waterford with a few friends they picked up along the way from other Brisbane clubs travelled to Mitchell, 600km west of Brisbane. The girls from the Outback came from Middlemount, Barcaldine, Charleville, St George, Roma and from areas surrounding Mitchell.

The girls witnessed Jack and his miracle horse performing tricks, learnt to line dance on Friday then followed by a Blue Light Disco on the Saturday night. Girls camped in swags and sleeping bags in the clubhouse while others bought their own tents and camped on the grounds.

Some girls cooked their own meals while others visited the local bowls club for home cooked meals.

As well as the canteen being supplied by the mums from the Mitchell Magpies JRL there were also freshly cooked scones and chocolate cake supplied.

The original idea for this carnival came from Cara Joseph from Waterford who had been speaking to girls from Charleville at a carnival near Brisbane and was informed that the girls don’t get much footy out this way so Cara put the idea in motion to help them get some more footy. The idea was then followed up by Wendy Clark from the Maranoa Magic Women’s Rugby League. The two women worked together to get this up and running with the help of many others. Special mention also to Cheryl Thompson from Barcaldine who organised the girls and the bus trip from Barcaldine so these girls could participate.

Grant Bignell and Mal McMillan from the NRL attended and helped with coaching and refereeing on the day. There was also massive help from John Birkett, President of the Mitchell JRL and Senior Club throughout the day. Trophies on the day were donated by The Western Star, Balonne Beacon, Central Division QRL, Beardmore Earthmoving and Girlz Tackling League.

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Amongst the activities for the weekend there was also some footy played between the Country girls and the City girls.

The girls from the Country, with limited footy throughout the year and meeting each other and their coaches for the first time, performed way above expectations. The sportsmanship from all players was outstanding. There was some incredible footy played during the day with some girls really standing out and obviously have a future in Rugby league given the right pathways. Hopefully this is the start of more footy for the girls in the Outback areas. The City Girls won the Under 14 while the Country girls won the Under 17s.

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E B I R C S B SU Y A D TO a g r e ata e d i t f i g

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10 issues $90 THE 2016 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION