The Ingham Tennis Association celebrated the end of the year in style with its final group lesson, delivering a fun-filled day of games, prizes, and festive cheer.

Juniors were awarded prizes for their achievements throughout the year, while Christmas gifts of Nike sweatbands and tennis balls were handed out as a token of appreciation. After an energetic morning on the courts, a delicious lunch was served, much to the delight of the young players.

To beat the heat, the club hall’s air conditioning was turned on, providing a cool space for everyone to relax. The juniors, however, showed no signs of slowing down, transitioning seamlessly from tennis to lively games of ping pong in the hall.

The association extended warm Christmas and New Year wishes to all players and their families, encouraging everyone to return for more tennis action in 2025.

Mark your calendars for the Open Days happening in January on Monday the 13th and Saturday the 18th. Stay tuned for more details in the new year, and don’t miss out on the chance to kickstart another fantastic season of tennis in Ingham.

Contributed with thanks to Geoff Caso.

A young local boxing champion who narrowly missed out on gold in the Australian Title Final came hold with silver and is vying for gold in the next bout.

Spencer Riys is a 15-year-old boxer who fought hard for the title in his recent fight which led to a controversial result.

Spencer’s coach Dean Poppi said it was an amazing fight, and despite the result Spencer should be proud of his efforts.

“I thought Spencer got it and so did a lot of other people. It was a very controversial decision,” said Dean.

“They gave the other guy the decision but a lot of people thought that Spencer won the fight.”

“Spencer put an eight count on his opponent in the third round. An eight count is when the referee stops the fight counts and gives the other guy eight seconds to recover. It’s not a knockout, but it is to recover from being stunned.

“Spencer did really well in the first round, I thought he was pretty dominant. The second round was very close. The other guy came back, but then I told Spencer he had let the second round get too close. So, I said, you have got to take charge of the third round. And he did.”

Spencer has been boxing for less than two years and to be fighting in the Australian Title Final is a huge achievement.

Dean expects that following the result of this year, Spencer will be eyeing up the Gold in next year’s Australian Title.

Dean also said Spencer’s effort and dedication is fantastic.

“The kid backed himself, he went out, got his sponsors, and he did what he did, and worked for it,” said Dean.

“I'd like to give a thanks to him and his parents for putting it all together and the community, for really getting behind us.”

Photos supplied

The Hitch-n-Ride Horse Sports Club hosted an incredible event last week that brought riders of all ages together to compete, celebrate, and showcase their equestrian skills. With generous sponsorships and an impressive array of awards, the day was a roaring success, honouring participants across various age groups and disciplines.

Special thanks go to Lorna & Peter Lino for sponsoring the Led-In Medallions and Nutrien Ag Solutions Ingham for donating honeybee bags. Gear bags for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place were skilfully crafted by Sam Sellick, adding a personal touch to the event.

Age Group Results
Under 10
   • 1st: Lotti Duffy
   • 2nd: Mia Carr

10 - Under 13
   • 1st: Ruby Shaw
   • 2nd: Casey Celotto
   • 3rd: Benson Duffy

13–Under 15
   • 1st: Layne Biasi
   • 2nd: Krystal Taylor
   • 3rd: Annabell Butterworth

Junior Novice
   • 1st: Stevie Biasi
   • 2nd: Chloe Celotto
   • 3rd: Alexis Catasti

15–Under 18
   • 1st: Lilly Shaw

Opens
   • 1st: Ian Turner
   • 2nd: Sam Sellick
   • 3rd: Hayley Quartero

Special Awards
Horsemanship Buckles
   • U10: Chloe Celotto
   • U18: Ruby Shaw

Most Improved Saddle Pads recipients: Alexis Catasti, Elena Botto, Mia Carr, Casey Celotto, Krystal Taylor, and Charlene Taylor.

Encouragement Awards recipients: Archer Carr, and Benson Duffy.

The Hitch-n-Ride Horse Sports Club extends heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, participants, and supporters who made the event a success. Congratulations to all winners for their exceptional performances and sportsmanship!

Contributed with thanks to the Hitch-n-Ride Horse Sports Club.

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The Ingham Tennis Association has been bustling with activity, particularly with its junior squad training program. Catering to children aged 3 to 17 years, this program focuses on helping young players stay active, improve coordination, and develop their tennis skills. Led by local coach Tom, the squad offers a fun and engaging environment where juniors can enjoy games and refine their techniques.

As the year winds down, only one Saturday remains for squad training. However, tennis enthusiasts can look forward to two open days scheduled in January. Keep an eye out for further announcements about these exciting events.

The Association has also opened its courts to the entire community, allowing for online bookings both day and night. Families are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy some quality time on the courts during the holiday season. To book a court, visit play.tennis.com.au. Once booked, a code will be provided to access the courts via a secure lock system.

In addition to tennis, the club welcomes the community to give Pickleball a swing - one of the fastest-growing sports enjoyed by all ages. For those keen to give it a try, contact Gordon at 0409 092 058 for more information.

If you have a young tennis player on your hands, the Ingham Tennis Association also accepts $200 Fair Play Vouchers, making it easier for kids to pick up a racket and get involved in the fun!

The Ingham Tennis Association invites the community to pop down for a match and make the most of the facilities this holiday season.

Contributed with thanks to Geoff Casanovas.

The Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Club recently congratulated its members, Stephen, Helen, Ken, Adam, and Bob for their impressive achievements at the Australian National Sportfishing Association (ANSA) Awards!

Together, they secured four ANSA National Master Awards, one ANSA State Master Award, and one ANSA State Record.

The Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Club is proud to celebrate the dedication and skill of its members. Well done, team!

Contributed with thanks to the Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Club.

A fishing trip turned into a rescue mission last Wednesday when a fuel issue left a keen angler stranded about 30 kilometres up the Hinchinbrook Channel in his newly purchased second-hand tinny.

Ingham Coast Guard received a distress call and promptly deployed their RIB boat, "JJ," with two crew members onboard. Battling pouring rain and strong winds that severely hampered visibility, the crew navigated the challenging conditions and successfully located the stranded vessel.

A tow line was attached, and despite the bumpy return journey, the fisherman was safely brought back to shore. Though drenched from the ordeal, he was relieved to be back on dry land.

This incident marks the 30th call-out for the Ingham Coast Guard this year, with the dedicated team having rescued a total of 89 people in 2024.

As the festive season approaches, the Ingham Coast Guard reminds everyone to prioritise safety while on the water. Ensure your vessel is in good condition, carry sufficient fuel, and always have a means of communication in case of emergencies.

Stay safe and enjoy the waterways this holiday season.

Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps.

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Last Tuesday 26 November the Lions Club of Ingham brought back their Sportstar of the Year Awards, an event welcomed back by the whole community after a four year hiatus.

Herbert River Sub Branch RSL – Ingham hosted the long awaited event. Over 130  people were in attendance including Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo and guest speaker Maurie Soars.

Maurie congratulated all nominees and winners, stating that they were all winners just for being nominated. Maurie also talked about the importance in volunteers, especially in rural communities, and encouraged everyone to get involved in local clubs.

Lions Club of Ingham Chairperson Sharon Fighera also congratulated all nominees on the night and said she hopes the Sportstar of the Year Awards will now be a permanent fixture in the local annual events calendar.

“Here is to hoping that they continue for many years to come, and continue to acknowledge the sporting talent and volunteers we have in our small town,” expressed Sharon.

List of all nominees and winners:
*NEW AWARD*
Recognition of Service Award – Rina Zatta & Brenda Oats – Herbert River Athletic Club

Team of the Year Nominees
Gilroy Santa Maria College Open Boys Cricket Team
Ingham Football Club Mens Division 1
Forrest Beach Surf Lifesaving Club Male Beach Sprint Team – WINNER

Junior Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Kyan Biasi
Rori Biasi
Kyla Guandalini
Lacey Jayasuria
Brax Roveda
Mariah Long
Adam Mammino – Runner Up
Jack Larsen – WINNER
Mikinley Blewitt
Billie Lahtinen
Lara Biasi
Molly-Rose Gaggiano
Levi Murray – Encouragement Award

Senior Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Kyrah Mancinelli
Millie-J Lino-Gofton
Jess Furber
Spencer Riys – Encouragement Award
Liam Fascetti – Runner Up
Jared Dau
Meshack David
Ally Rhodes
Evandah Bann – WINNER
Darius Lewin-Pearson

Masters Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Carmen Mugica
Joyce Buffa - WINNER

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Maurie Soars Guest Speaker and Judge
Lions Club of Ingham Chairperson Sharon Fighera
Lions Club of Ingham President Colin Dallavanzi, Rina Zatta and Brenda Oats
Team of the Year Nominees with Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo
Guest speaker Maurie Soars and Masters Sportstar of the Year Joyce Buffa
Junior Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Maurie Soars and Junior Sportstar of the Year Jack Larsen
Junior Sportstar of the Year Winner Jack Larsen, Maurie Soars, Runner-up Adam Mammino, and Encouragement award Levi Murray
Councillor Donna Marbelli and Senior Encouragement award Spencer Riys
Councillor Donna Marbelli and Runner-up Liam Fascetti
Guest speaker Maurie Soars, Lions Club of Ingham Chairperson Sharon Fighera, and Councillor Donna Marbelli
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Senior Sportstar of the Year Evandah Bann. Photo credit: Paula Henderson

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The Ingham Ladies Bowling Club celebrated their end-of-year achievements with a heartfelt presentation of badges and awards on Wednesday, November 27. The event recognized the dedication and accomplishments of members throughout the year.

Highlights of the day included the presentation of competition badges and special recognition for a team that earned an 8 badge during Red Pennant matches. The club also honoured its bowlers who achieved veteran and super-veteran status during the year, marking significant milestones in their bowling journeys.

The celebration was further enhanced by the presence of Wilma, Carolyn, and Lorraine from NQ, who joined the festivities, as well as the enthusiastic participation of ladies from Noorla and Macknade. Their attendance helped create a vibrant and memorable atmosphere.

Special thanks were extended to N. Evans and J. Craven for generously sponsoring the event, as well as to all who donated items to contribute to the success of the occasion.

As the club bids farewell to another successful year, members extend their congratulations to all prize winners and participants.

The event closed on a festive note, with warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2025.

What a fantastic way to cap off a stellar year of bowling!

Rico Basaglia’s Team Triumphs in Men’s Triples Final
The much-anticipated final of the Men’s Triples competition has been played, with Rico Basaglia, Ren Cantatore, and Pat Ryan emerging as champions. The trio secured victory over the formidable team of Hamish Dickerson, Kevin Lawlor, and Cliff Johnson in a thrilling contest.

Congratulations to Rico, Ren, and Pat on their well-deserved win. Their teamwork and skill carried them to the top in a tightly contested match.

Commendations also go to Cliff, Hamish, and Kevin for an impressive campaign that saw them reach the final. Their determination and sportsmanship made for an exciting showdown.

A fantastic effort from all involved—well done to both teams!

Contributed with thanks to Ingham Bowls Club

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The Noorla Bowls Club wrapped up a lively week of events with two exciting competitions, showcasing impressive skills and camaraderie among bowlers.

Ladies Day Success
On Wednesday, November 20, the Noorla Bowls Club hosted its Ladies Day, drawing 18 enthusiastic bowlers for a day of triples competition. The event featured a special prize for the first toucher, which went to Johnny Leonardi.

The top honors of the day went to Terry George’s team, featuring Gail Bison and John Silvini, who finished with the highest score. Close behind, Albert Bison’s team of Johnny Leonardi and Joe Girgenti claimed the runners-up prize.

A heartfelt thank-you was extended to everyone who supported the club throughout the year—whether by attending, helping with smoko, buying raffle tickets, or assisting with cooking and preparations. The club's ladies will attend the Ingham Ladies Presentation Day next Wednesday, but the men are invited to keep the games going in their absence.

Sunday Jackpot Fours
On Sunday, December 1, Noorla’s Jackpot Fours competition unfolded under humid but dry conditions. Nygel and Jan Craven claimed victory, with Keith Wegert and Chrissy Hewitt taking the runners-up spot.

Looking ahead, next Sunday will see a return visit from South Townsville, promising another exciting day of bowls. Meanwhile, Wednesday bowls will proceed as scheduled, weather permitting, with names to be in by 1 p.m.

Noorla Bowls Club photograph from 2022. Photo sourced: Facebook

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The Russo brothers have been active members of the horse racing community for well over thirty years and show no sign of slowing their successful roll anytime soon.

Charlie, Angelo and Joe reflect on their trail of success with pride, and even following on from a lengthy twenty-year hiatus, the Russo’s are more than eager to jump back in the saddle, with big plans already in motion for 2025.

The Russo’s entered the industry in the 1990’s and made quite a name for themselves with their star stallion, Mr Rogers winning many races across the state, as well as a record place in the Sydney limelight.

In the beginning of the Russo’s horse racing career, Charlie trained each of the horses, with the trio all having a hand in the preparation process. However, more recently, Joe has picked up the reins and trains the horses himself down at the local club.

In the past couple of years, the Russo name has returned to the spotlight, particularly following last month’s Gold Cup celebratory win at the Herbert River Jockey Club on Saturday 19 November.

“He’s not a bad horse and Zouhope has won about four or five races for us, and this year he won the cup!” explained Joe.

“His win wasn’t a surprise; we were pretty confident – he’s a good horse.”

Although Saturday saw the Russo’s first Gold Cup victory, the brothers have celebrated many prestigious wins over their career, including several feature races such as 1998’s Cleveland Bay Handicap whilst also championing a Cluden training premiership, and Townsville Amateur Cup.

With 2025 on the horizon, the brothers hope to add an additional ten horses to the stable, bringing the total to fourteen stallions under the Russo name.

“We won just about everything all those years back from Townsville, to Brisbane, to Sydney – we do really enjoy our racing – we love it really,” added Joe.

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The Russo’s with their winning horse Zouhope and jockey Lacey Morrison on the Ingham track (Photo Credit Christopher Spencer).
Jockey, Lacey Morrison raced Zouhope over the finish line on 16 November (Photo Credit Christopher Spencer).
Joe, Charlie and Angelo Russo were confident Zouhope would take home a win (Photo Credit Christopher Spencer).
Jockey, Lacey Morrison and Zouhope being led by Charlie Russo (Photo Credit Christopher Spencer).

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The Herbert River Junior Crushers are on the lookout for passionate and skilled coaches to lead their teams into an exciting 2025 rugby league season.

The club is seeking dedicated individuals to coach boys' and girls' teams across all age groups, from Mini League (5 to 7 years old) through to U18s Boys and U17s Girls.

Whether you're an experienced mentor or an aspiring coach ready to make your mark, this is your opportunity to join a vibrant community and help develop the next generation of rugby league talent.

Age groups in need of coaches include:
🏈 Mini League (5-7 years)
🌞 U8s
🎉 U9s
🙋‍♂️ U10s
✅️ U11s
👌 U12s (Boys and Girls)
😎 U13s
🫡 U14s (Boys and Girls)
😁 U15s (Boys)
✨️ U16s (Boys)
🏉 U17s (Girls)
🥇 U18s (Boys)

If you’ve ever dreamed of following in the footsteps of coaching greats like Wayne Bennett or Craig Bellamy, the Crushers want to hear from you!

Applications close at 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2024. To apply, email your coaching credentials and expression of interest to hrjuniorrugbyleague@gmail.com.

Join the Crushers in their mission to make the 2025 season a success and foster a love for the game.

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The Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Club hit the road on 9 November, embarking on a successful trip to the stunning Tully Gorge. With perfect weather and breathtaking scenery, the day was a highlight for members. Adding to the excitement, several anglers managed to land impressive catches, capping off a truly enjoyable Tully outing.

Earlier this month marked the close of the 2024 barramundi season, and what a season it was! Club members celebrated an exceptional year, sharing photos and stories of their standout catches. These memories will undoubtedly tide them over until the highly anticipated 2025 season kicks off.

Contributed with thanks to the Hinchinbrook Sportsfishing Club.

Are you an avid fisherman with a passion for the hobby or know someone who loves a good day or two out on the water? We’re looking for an enthusiast to submit their tips, tricks, fishing stories and advice on a weekly basis to be featured as the Hinchinbrook Life’s Fishing Expert! Reach out and email Chelsea at Chelsea@LifePublishingGroup.Com to learn more information!

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Hinchinbrook Sportsfishing Club enjoyed a trip to Tully Gorge earlier this month.
What a catch! Tully Gorge saw plenty of members reel in a fish or two.
Club members had a fantastic time exploring the waters of Tully Gorge.
Bye bye barra season! Club members farewelled the 2024 barramundi season in style.
Many members reeled in impressive catches to conclude this year’s barra season.

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Junior basketball enthusiasts have something to look forward to this January, as Coach Travis Fisher brings his expertise back to the region for a two-day basketball clinic these summer school holidays. Following two sold-out sessions in April, this extended visit promises to deliver even more opportunities for young athletes to elevate their skills, thanks to the generous support of the Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

The clinic, scheduled for Thursday 16 and Friday 17 January 2025, will feature three engaging sessions led by Coach Travis, a State-Level Coach and founder of Own the Rock Academy. Known for his dedication to fostering talent across Queensland, Coach Travis has already clocked over 5,000 kilometres in past tours, bringing his basketball expertise to regional communities.

The clinic is open to athletes aged 8 to 17 years, with all skill levels welcome to join. The sessions are scheduled from 9an to 12pm on both days, and participants must wear closed-in footwear to ensure safety during activities.

Spaces for the clinic are limited, so early booking is highly recommended. To secure a spot, please visit www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au.

Don’t miss this chance to refine your basketball skills and join the fun. Stay tuned for more announcements as Coach Travis embarks on another impactful journey across the state.

What: Two Day Basketball Clinic.
When: Thursday 16 and Friday 17 January 2025.
Where: Cyclone Shelter, Ingham State High School.
More Information: www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au.

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With almost 30 years of basketball experience, Coach Travis Fisher will host an awesome clinic this January!

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A 12-year-old local boy Jack Larsen has been hitting the track as often as possible, his dedication and passion for the sport shining through as he zooms past his competitors on the track, bringing home a host of trophies.

Jack dreams of one day joining Formula 1 and loves the thrill of driving fast, winning races and beating his previous track times.

Jack’s 2024 calendar year has been full of accomplishments. He competed in the North Queensland Go Kart Events, the Queensland State Cup, Victorian State Titles but most importantly the Australian Kart Championships

At the Australian Kart Championships he competed in five different rounds of racing, in four states across the country.

Across the five rounds Jack secured an overall second place finish. Most excitingly for his second-place finish Jack was invited to ROK World Superfinal 2024 in Lonato, Italy.

In difficult conditions and with some setbacks during qualification, Jack started his race in Italy in 18th position but he managed to make up the distance, finishing sixth overall.

Jack’s Dad Darryl Larsen said it shows how fast Jack is out on the track, and with the limited time he has had practising he believes it is very impressive.

“Considering Jack only drives on weekends, whereas a lot of the guys he's against are at the track every day after school makes it even more impressive,” said Darryl.

“We are extremely proud of him, he's working hard, and has to keep working hard.”

Jack is currently supported by several local businesses and Jack and his entire family are grateful for their support.

Following his amazing performances this year, Jack has also been asked to compete in Italy again next year but as motorsport is considerably expensive it will only be possible if he has sponsorship or additional financial support.

If you would like to sponsor Jack in his efforts, please reach out to the family directly.

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Jack Larsen with his Trophies, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Fighting hard in the rain
Jack ready to race
Out on the track passing other competitors
Jack keeping it together in difficult conditions
Jack out on the track
Photos sourced: Facebook

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On 17 November, the Ingham Bowls Club hosted the highly anticipated final of the B Grade Pairs competition. A big congratulations to Hamish Dickerson and Jason Harrop, who emerged as the winners after an exciting and closely contested match. The pair played with impressive skill and determination, earning the well-deserved victory.

Equally deserving of praise are the runners-up, Jim Dickerson and Trevor Pallanza, who showed great sportsmanship and delivered a strong performance throughout the event. Well done to both teams for a thrilling final!

Looking ahead, the Ingham Bowls Club has a jam-packed week of events for both members and the wider community to enjoy including Wednesday Ladies Bowls, Thursday Barefoot Bowls, Friday Men’s Pairs, and Sunday’s Social Mixed Bowls.

Contributed with thanks to the Ingham Bowls Club.

Hamish Dickerson and Jason Harrop were the celebrated victors last weekend!