We have been reminded this week what a significant part rituals and traditions play in our lives be it on the sporting field or in our general every day activities.
The Anzac tradition and spirit lives on in us all and parades and dawn services on the Southern Downs once again drawing big crowds as they did elsewhere.
Of course, once the traditions have been observed many move on to the yearly game of two-up if it is available at a nearby watering hole where throwing heads or tails become not just a sport but an art form for some.
For the majority of Aussies, sport is part of the fabric of our being. It is as though it is in our DNA. It should therefore come as no surprise that some of the most important football games of the season in all codes have also become tied into the rituals and traditions of Anzac Day.
The AFL of course drew sensational crowds to their games and AAMI Park was a sell out for the Storm Warriors clash while new records were set in Sydney for the Dragons Roosters battle.
Inspired no doubt by the occasion, teams played with a depth of passion shown on the footy field in those Anzac Day games that was spine tingling.
The four NRL sides treated fans to outstanding games full of good sportsmanship and a never-say-die attitude that so reflects the day we all hold so dear and celebrate on Anzac Day.
For the players who are often so maligned (often with good reason) this is a very special day and represents a significant ritual in their season and the winners of the Man of the Match medals were visibly moved to receive their awards.
It begs the question – when the NRL officialdom, players and clubs can get things so right on this most special occasion, why is it that they fall down so badly in so many other areas?
We should of course be grateful that this tradition continues and grows. Sport for some Diggers luckier than others, in many theatres of war has provided a welcome release from the horror that was their reality.
These games decided on and around Anzac Day are played for far more than two competition points. Let’s hope that this is a tradition that continues to thrive.
– Casey
TOUGH AGAIN FOR TIPSTERS
Round eight of the NRL was filled with emotion, and some results no doubt left a fair share of tipsters emotional.
The Eagles upset quite a few tipsters from the get go and showed they are not winging it this season. They look to have regrouped and while they may not be playing well at Lottoland (who could blame them) they are becoming a force in their away games.
The Bunnies and Broncos game was another arm wrestle and coaches must be losing years off their life span this season – none more than Bennett who must be hanging out for a win that doesn’t go down to the wire in heart attack territory.
Corey Norman was the star of the show as the Eels accounted for the Panthers who did come home well but are still not achieving what was expected at the outset of the season.
The Sharks hoodoo at the Gold Coast continues. The Titans put the writing on the wall with a good performance against the Broncos and brave tipsters may have snagged this one.
The Cowboys settled into their routine without JT better in the game against the Knights and had a comfortable win in the end.
In a game where the lead changed several times, Tigers Luke Brooks set up the match-sealing try with a kick for Kevin Naiqama to pinch the lead back late in the game.
In a sensational game on Anzac Day, Mitchell Pearce snapped a field goal in golden point extra-time to hand the Roosters a thrilling 13-12 win over a brave Dragons.
Melbourne Storm wrapped up the round with a tradesman like win over a gallant Warriors side in Melbourne.
And so on to round Nine.
Hard to go past the Broncos on Thursday night, however expect a bold showing from the Panthers who are sure to put a good showing for Anthony Griffin against his former club.
The Bunnies and Sea Eagles is a game that could go either way – both are in good form. The game is being played at Allianz and I have a leaning (only slightly) to the Bunnies who were good against the Broncos.
The Cowboys could welcome back JT who has been named in an extended squad and should atone for the Eels at 1300 Smile Stadium.
After their win over the Sharks, it is hard to go against the Titans in their game against the Knights.
The Bulldogs and Raiders is a toss of the coin job for me. It has come down the way of the Raiders.
Another tough game is the Tigers and Sharks game. A home game for the Tigers might give them an advantage to cause an upset.
The Warriors were tough against the Storm and this week host the Roosters. I sense an upset in the wind and if the Warriors turn up they might get the points.
The Dragons and Storm close out the round in a top-of-the-table clash. The Dragons have lost Widdop which will be a big blow. Think this one will go Melbourne’s way even though it is played at WIN Stadium
Casey’s Tips:
Broncos
Rabbitohs
Cowboys
Titans
Raiders
Tigers
Warriors
Storm
SLOW AND STEADY GETS THE PRIZE
A good field assembled for the Single Stableford at the Stanthorpe Golf Club on Saturday. The eventual winner Rino Piovesan began slowly but managed to card 21 points on the front nine. A back nine of 19 saw him back in the clubhouse with a score of 40 points which was just enough to get him over the line in the event sponsored by club member Darryl Boekholt.
Aaron Simmers eventually claimed the runners-up spot after edging out Stephen Kay and Mick O’Brien in a countback. Kay and O’Brien left to settle for a ball each in the rundown stakes. Others to take a ball in the run down included Richard Reardon, Peter Gibney and Bob Watts, all with 37 points.
Pin shots went to Matt Waterworth at three and Adrian Jannenga at 12. Once again the pin at 17 again was unclaimed. Stephen Kay collected more balls for pro-pins at 5/14 and 9/18 and Eric (Rino) Piovesan 5/14.
Lyn Ludlow was in good form winning the Ladies event with a good score of 42 points. She was out in 23 and home in 19 to finish seven points clear of the field. Joining daylight in second place on 35 points was Lorraine Evans. Kay Webb had the Best Approach shot but pin shots were hard to come by – left for another day.
Nikki Waterworth, Kay Webb and Tric Fittock each collected a ball in the ladies run down.
Golfers are gearing up for another busy weekend and will be spoilt for choice over the coming long weekend.
A medley 4BBB stableford is scheduled for Saturday and will be sponsored by Jeff and Biz Ihle. A number of visitors are expected and spots are scarce. If you are planning to play, it is essential to get your name on the time sheet at the clubhouse for the Fourball. Registrations close at 11.30am ready for a shotgun start at 11.45am.
On Sunday, Rob Reeves sponsors the annual Central Motors Three Ball Ambrose event. Once again the time sheet for this event is almost full only a few spaces remain if you have not already given your name, do so quickly or you will miss a great day.
Registration for the day on Sunday closes at 8.30am with a shot gun start at 9am.
PLAYERS IN GOOD FORM
Players enjoyed almost perfect conditions for the golf croquet games this weekend with good numbers on the court. Three groups played doubles. In a good performance, John Castles scored nine hoops in each of two games. Liz Ellway was also in outstanding form, scoring eight in her opening game and seven in the second game.
In the first session, Bev Sullivan and John Castles had a 13-11 win over Shirley Page and Pauline Inglis. Sullivan’s score included a hole in one.
Dianne Wren and Justin Liddy took advantage of an out of form Elaine Brown playing two balls to score a convincing 13-4 win in their game. In a closer game, Liz Ellway and Teresa Payne defeated Val Fancourt and Marian Castles 13-9.
After the break, Sullivan and Castles had another good win scoring a 13-7 win over Justin Liddy and Elaine Brown. Pauline Inglis and Liz Ellway had a 13-10 win in their game against Val Fancourt and Dianne Wren. In the final game, Shirley Page played two balls against Marian Castles and Teresa Payne and scored a 13-7 win.
Several Stanthorpe players travelled to Toowoomba recently and were hosted by the Toowoomba Croquet Club. The visitors played both association and golf croquet. Some trying yet another form of the game, ricochet for the first time. The group enjoying the challenge of playing against the Toowoomba players who we hear looked after them very well during their visit.
A NUMBERS GAME
It’s all about the numbers in team sport, and there were teams with a little unbalance when Gateballers took to the court. The Red team kicked off with a team of four players (Andrea Denkewitz, Heather Widderick, Val Fancourt and Les Williams). The White Team led by Bill Golding numbered only three, (Golding, Joy Newman and Grace Howard).
Despite the uneven team numbers, it was a White team that prevailed in the first two games which were closely contested affairs. In both games, scores were level until the last shot, and it was left to Bill Golding to secure wins for his White team with the last shot in each game. Scores were 13 – 11 and 14 – 12 respectively.
Following the break, Les Williams joined the White team replacing Grace Howard who took an early mark. In the third game, White scored another narrow victory (11-10). Game four was a better result for the Red team coming away with a 13-9 victory.
WIN FOR SPEER
Sporters apparently do not like their routine to be upset too much if last weekend’s numbers are any indication. With tee off for Sporters delayed until the afternoon due to Pennants only a small field went round.
It was Mick Speer who took full advantage of the conditions to take out the event from runner-up Eric McLellan. McLellan also held the pin shot on the third.
The run-downs went to Paul Armstrong and Mark Lynam. Armstrong also took the pro pin while Lynam had the best gross. Mark also had the best gross.
Dick Hilton and Nikki Waterworth did not go home empty handed – each won a meat tray.
This Sunday there is no Sporters competition due to the Central Motors Golf Day but Sporters will back on the greens the following week, 7 May. A reminder that tee off will change to the winter timing of 8am – 8.30am.
HIGHFIELDS GET THE POINTS
In a high quality game of rugby league at Platz Oval on Saturday night, Highfields proved too strong for their hosts Wattles and recorded a 24-12 win.
There was not a point scored by either side in the opening half hour of the game as both sides struggled to assert their ascendency. In the end it was Clydesdale representative players Jarrod Lee (Highfields) and Matt Duggan who traded tries and conversions. The teams went to the half time break with the score at six-all and the game is anyone’s for the taking.
In the second half, it was the home side who drew first blood. Highfields were quick to hit back as Lee claimed his second for the game and local the scores up again at 12- all.
Wattles attacked and looked certain to score, but the ball was plucked from the air by an Eagles speedster Aaron Hooper who sprinted almost the length of the field to put his side back in the lead. Highfields then scored again right on full time in an entertaining game.
Wattles had more success in the Reserve Grade where they posted a convincing 44-10 win. Honours in Reserve Grade however went to Highfields who had a 42-1 win.
A GRADE: Highfields 24 (Jarrod Lee 2, Aaron Hooper, Nick Bainbridge tries; Jarrod Lee 4 goals) defeated Wattles 12 (Matt Duggan, James Johnson tries; Matt Duggan 2 goals)
Things do not get any easier for Wattles this week as they face Valleys who were on fire last weekend in Warwick
COWBOYS OUTGUNNED
Valleys set a cracking pace from the kick off in their game against the Cowboys on Sunday at Fr Ranger Oval. The visitors had the scoreboard ticking over at a point a minute in the first half. They went to the break with 28 points on the board and well in control of the game. Coming off the bench for the Cowboys, Craig Donn was probably their best and had an immediate impact when he was injected in to the game.
The home side trailed 28-6 at the break, and when play resumed they had few answers to the Valleys onslaught. The visitors ran in another 24 points in the second half. The Cowboys managed some late tries, but the game was in the bag for Valleys.
It was a disappointing performance from the Cowboys with their defence found wanting in a below par performance. Valleys centres Capewell and Simpson terrorised the Cowboys defence and fullback Dylan Chown had ample opportunity to showcase his speed running in a hat-trick.
Warwick had wins in the Reserve Grade (44-22) and the C Grade 40-16 but were defeated 30-14 in the under-18s.
The Cowboys need to regroup and no doubt there will be plenty of focus on their defence this week as they prepare for an away game against Highfields. Warwick has now slipped to sixth on the ladder. Pittsworth continue their run at the top of the able.
A GRADE: Valleys 52 (Dylan Chown 3, Emmanuel Cerei 2, Nathan Simpson 2, Liam Capewell, Nick Sargent tries; Emmanuel Cerei 3 goals) defeated Warwick (Dylan Galloway 2, Craig Donn, Dan Watson tries; Dan Watson 4 goals)
REDBACKS READY
Warwick Redbacks players are ready for their opening game of the 2017 AFL Darling Downs season which kicks off on Saturday at 3.20pm. Up for grabs in the game between Lockyer Valley and the Redbacks will be the ANZAC Cup.
The Veterans Support and Advocate Service of Australia Australian rules fixture is played at Warwick Credit Union Oval each year on a Saturday close to Anzac Day and an Anzac Day Ceremony will be conducted before the men’s game. The ceremony will include members of the VSASA, the Warwick RSL Sub-branch and the Redbacks club.
Warwick will be playing in the men’s second division this season under coach Peter Millard and has a squad of 24. Division Two is a five team competition and includes teams from Warwick, Highfields, Chinchilla, Dalby and Lockyer Valley.
The Redbacks are hoping to rebuild this season with a view to returning to Division One next year. Players set to play in the opening game include Cameron Peterson, Andrew Bardsley, Shannon Cameron, Bindi Sailor and the Wiedman brothers, Jason and Daniel.
Warwick and Lockyer Valley have combined to form a team in the women’s competition and will play South Burnett at 1.30pm Saturday in Warwick.
Keith Clarke is co-coach of the combined women’s team, but runs Tuesday and Thursday afternoon training in Warwick.
“We have a squad of 20 between the two clubs and had 16 players at our first game in a loss to Souths on Saturday,” Clarke said.
“The club has a core group of girls who are driving the involvement of a women’s team in the competition.”
With home games for the women shared between Cahill Park at Gatton and Warwick Credit Union Oval, unfortunately the Warwick men’s and women’s teams will not always be scheduled to play at the same venue.
The teams in the women’s competition are Souths, Warwick/Lockyer Valley, Toowoomba Tigers, Dalby, Goondiwindi and South Burnett.
Home games will get underway on Saturday at 8am with a full round of junior fixtures between Warwick/Lockyer Valley and Chinchilla/Dalby.
Games will be played in under-9, U10, U12, U14 and U16 age groups. Players are welcome to join any of the club teams.
Juniors train at 4.30pm each Thursday with the senior men and women training at 5.30pm Tuesday and Thursday.
Anyone interested in playing should contact Keith Clarke on 0417746595 or come along to training.
Players who have never played will be helped to start an Aussie rules career. With Warwick in Division Two, this season it is a great opportunity to start at the lower level.
The Redbacks get together at the clubhouse from 6pm each Friday, and this week the clubhouse is the venue for a Brighter Futures Auction this Friday from 6.30pm with proceeds divided between Redbacks and Safe Haven.
BRL PLAYERS HEAD TO 47TH BATTALION CARNIVAL
Five BRL players will join counterparts from Roma and further west on Friday in preparation for the 2017 47th Battalion carnival. This year the carnival will be played in Yeppoon after it was successfully hosted by Roma last year in conjunction with their centenary celebrations.
Three Killarney players, Jamie Watts, Brett Watts and Ian Brown will be joined by Brett Hearne and Jamie Meddings of the Inglewood Roosters in the side. The team will be without the services of the Border Bushrangers captain coach Brent Osborne who was ruled out after injuring himself in a clash with a barbed wire fence recently.
The South West Country side has a tough assignment in their opening game on Saturday afternoon where they have drawn Gladstone.
After playing in this competition the South West Rep side will next play in the Queensland Outback Carnival at Ilfracombe in June.
The 47th Battalion carnival, organised by the Central Division of the QRL, has been running for more than 50 years and rotates around the Central region.
Its name honours the 47th Infantry Battalion AIF, known as the “Wide Bay Regiment” because so many of its members were recruited from the local region.
The 47th Battalion served with honour in New Guinea during World War II.
ANOTHER AUSTRALIAN SELECTION
After a successful trip to New Zealand for the 2017 Oceania Championships staged over the Easter weekend, Simeon Burrill of Warwick has been selected in the Australian Team for the Junior World Orienteering Championship for the third successive year
The 2017 Junior World Championships will be held in Tampere in southern Finland in early June and will see Burrill and his fellow team-mates competing in a program that includes sprint, middle distance, long distance and the traditional relay event.
Currently studying physiotherapy at UQ, Burrill a former Warwick High School student is a member of the local Bullecourt Bounders club but is currently training in Brisbane.
Selection in the Australian squad is reward for another successful season for this young man after good results in events in the Southern State early this year and in New Zealand.
The Australian team includes a boys and girls squad. He will be joined on the team by fellow Queensland Cyclone team member Winnie Oakhill. The full Australian squad is Aston Key, Jarrah Day, Joseph Dickinson, Patt Jaffe, Simeon Burrill, Toby Wilson, Asha Steer, Caroline Pigerre, Rachel Allen, Tara Melhuish, Winnie Oakhill, and Zoe Dowling. Reserves: Georgia Jones and Patrick Miller.
