The words you are searching are inside this book. To get more targeted content, please make full-text search by clicking here.

Season Review of the QRL Central Division

Discover the best professional documents and content resources in AnyFlip Document Base.
Search
Published by tonycarmelprice, 2019-12-04 18:53:41

The Crow Flies High 2019

Season Review of the QRL Central Division

LEAGUEQUEENSLAND.COM.AU

THE CROW FLIES HIGH

2019 QRL CENTRAL DIVISION

COMPILED BY TONY PRICE

TOP & MIDDLE PHOTOS: QRL Media

Maroon’s star, Dane Gagai and Cameron Munster, both from the bush.
PHOTO: Courtesy Auswide Bank

2 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

THE CROW FLIES HIGH

From the Editor

This is the fourth year we have compiled “The Crow Flies held around the region from Under 14 upwards create a
High” and with several clubs and areas holding 100 Year pathway for the game to expand.
Celebrations it has special significance. I enjoy writing
rugby league history and with clubs like Toowoomba In closing I’d like to thank Rob Crow, Danny McGuire and
Valleys celebrating their 36th A Grade premiership in 100 the Board of the Central Division to allow me to do this
seasons, it’s easy to see where the Queensland Rugby Season in Review and in particular I’d like to thank Dave
League talent pool comes from. Pearce, Cameron Stallard, Peter Rafter, Jodie Teys, Jackie
Stephson, Amanda Ohl, Amanda Ingham, Lisa Anderson
The Central Division is the leader in Queensland when it and Maree Thompson for helping me along the way.
comes to developing rugby league talent with the 2019
Queensland Origin squad including Corey Oates (Baralaba), It’s often easier to write a magazine this size from scratch
Cameron Munster (Rockhampton), Ben Hunt (Blackwater), rather than collate other people’s information and I’d like
Moses Mbye (Noosa), Matt Gillett (Bribie Island), Felise to thank the many suffering people in club-land that I have
Kaufusi (Bundaberg), Kurt Capewell (Charleville), Tim driven mad about supplying better photos etc.
Glasby (Rockhampton) and Ethan Lowe (Goondiwindi)
leading from the front that trend will continue. Our big task in 2020 is to write a 424-page book about
‘Rugby League in Queensland’ and the Central Division
Sadly, all careers must come to an end and we wish all clubs are a huge part of that history.
the best to Matt Scott (Ilfracombe) and Matt Gillett (Bribie
Island) who have been magnificent servants to the game. I’ll be in touch,
The Central Division leads the way in Women’s Rugby Kind Regards,
League in Queensland and also the many carnivals Tony Price.

Contents

4 Report from QRL Central Division Chairman 53 The Hauff Family
5 Message from QRL Central Division Manager 54 Central Highlands – Dysart
6 2019 Premiership Honour Board CQ 58 Glen Rees Country Carnival
8 47th Battalion Wrap 60 Central Division Referees Shine at Awards
11 QRL State League Championships 62 Get in the Game – Country Week
16 Central Crows U20 and U18 Carnival 64 Outback Defend Title on Thursday Island
18 Stars of the Central Division 66 Broncos Central Outback Challenge
24 NRL in the Central Division 67 Charleville Win in the West
25 State of Mind in Cherbourg – Preston Campbell 68 "Boomer" An Outback Legend
26 Beyond The Nest 69 18th Year – St George Broncos 9s
28 Central Burnett Season in Review 70 Roma and District Rugby League
32 South Burntett 72 Rockhampton Rugby League
33 Wolves Howlng on Sunshine Coast 75 JT visits Quilpie
36 Maroons Star in Charleville 76 U18 Girls Carnival in Murgon
38 Bundaberg Brothers Dominate 78 Adrian Vowles Cup in Charleville
43 Bundaberg/Fraser Coast Junior Rugby League 80 Longreach Rugby League
44 Northern Districts 82 Warwick and District Junior Rugby League
45 Toowoomba Rugby League 84 Gladstone Rugby League
50 100 years of Rugby League in Toowoomba 88 Mighty St George – 100 Years
52 Central West – Blackall Magpies 90 Barcaldine 100

THE CROW FLIES HIGH Subeditor: Disclaimer:
Simon Price No part of the magazine may be reproduced, in part or in whole
Publisher: without written permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest care
League Queensland is wholly owned Information and Advertising: is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct
by Tony and Carmel Price. Carmel Price at the time of going to press, the publisher does not assume and
ABN: 1508728009 P: 0439 675 325 hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or
COPYRIGHT 2019 by Tony Price, E: [email protected] disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or
all rights reserved. omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.
Printed by:
Editor: Fast Proof Press As it is not possible to ensure that the advertisements which are
Tony Price Unit 21, 12 Lawrence Drive, published in this magazine comply with the Act the responsibility
E: [email protected] Nerang, Qld. 4211 must, therefore, be on the person, company or advertising agency
P: 0427 451 913 submitting the advertisements for publication.
A: 2 Andrew Court, On the cover:
Alexandra Hills, Qld. 4161 The Central Division Men and Women's The views expressed within League Queensland are not necessarily
Representative Teams, 2019. the views of the publisher, but those of individual writers.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 3

2019 Queensland Rugby League

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT Central Division is still leading the way in female
participation. We now have established competitions
THIS year’s magazine continues in a digital form and once for both girls and open women in several regions. It has
again it makes for excellent reading. The magazine “The grown from just one senior women’s team in 2008 to
Crow Flies High” highlights many of the achievements in more than 20 senior sides in 2019. Central Highlands,
2019. Year by year we see much about Rugby League Rockhampton, Gladstone, Bundaberg and Sunshine
that we can be proud of in QRL Central. Coast all ran strong competitions in 2019.

Rugby League’s mission is to “enrich the lives of all those Toowoomba will join the leagues offering senior
who participate.” We achieve this on almost a daily basis. competitions in 2020. We have the largest league base
This is a result of the tireless efforts and work done by of junior female players in Australia and in fact the most
QRL Central staff and particularly volunteers. I also thank registered female players in any Division in Qld. This
both the QRL and the NRL for their continued and strong year saw the introduction of an under 16 Girls Outback
support for our programs. side joining the under 14 team competing in the City
Country Exchange at Coolum. I look forward to seeing the
This year we sort help from the leagues in supporting game develop in the female space and the introduction of
Stanthorpe in their moment of need. Shortage of drinking expanded competitions in 2020.
water was acute. Within days of putting out a request we
were able to ship around 25000 litres of drinking water to The Women’s State of Origin game will be played in our
their community. Region in 2020 at the Sunshine Coast Stadium. A great
result for QRL Central.
Thanks, must go to Cooroy Spring Water for supplying
the 3 litre bottles of water at cost price and to Lindsay The Maroon Nomad (Mark 2) is following in the footsteps
Brothers Transport for free delivery to Stanthorpe. of the original model – now traversing Northern Region.
Peter Rafter continues to clock up the miles and has
The Division is growing in participants and culturally we become a very familiar face in outback areas in his home
are moving forward with a great feel around carnivals and away from home.
divisional events.
He does a great job and in fact in the years he has been
Some of the highlights for me this year. in the job the participation numbers for Outback juniors
has grown 39%.
Divisional Junior carnival in Bundaberg – this carnival is
growing in popularity each year and as part of contributing The State Junior Carnival held on the sunshine coast was
to the local community the 500 sleeping bags purchased a great event thanks to the efforts of QRL central staff
for the participants are donated to the local Salvation and the local league volunteers. Congratulations must be
Army. This tradition will continue in 2020. extended to the Sunshine Coast Council for their efforts in
providing fields to a magnificent level. Congratulations to
47th Battalion – held on the Sunshine Coast this year in the divisional teams that performed so well in 2019. See
the 100th year of Rugby League on the Sunshine Coast. elsewhere in the Magazine for the results.
Toowoomba once again took out the major men as did
the Rockhampton ladies for the women’s competition. In Coaching and refereeing development plans continue to
2020 a 4 team under 18 competition will commence. The evolve with a high level of instruction and guidance being
venue this year is Bundaberg – the home of the beginnings provided to all those that enter programs.
of the 47th Battalion competition. 2020 will see the event
happening for the 50th time – a magnificent testament to Much of the success of programs undertaken in the year
those early administrators. The longest running yearly can be attributed to the core people within QRL central,
carnival in Australia. State of Origin will enjoy 40 years as these include the Operation Managers, Administration
well in 2020. We look forward to a great carnival. Staff and the Regional manager – Rob Crow. “They
continue to embrace QRL Central’s direction and I would
2019 saw Murgon host the inaugural Under 18 female publicly like to acknowledge their support, and on behalf
competition in September. It was a great carnival with of the leagues and clubs extend our gratitude”.
tremendous support from Murgon Rugby League. We
look forward to transitioning this to the 47th Battalion The efforts of Richard Dugdale and the Central Division
format in 2020. NRL Game Development team must be recognised. As
always, their work has extended beyond the core job
4 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019 description, with the work they do in promotion of referee
development and the Divisions coaching and development
philosophy. We welcomed aboard an additional Referees
Development office in 2019 and look forward to close ties
in 2020.

Central Queensland Division

However, our game is much bigger than individuals and home, being the grounds. Pleasingly, Board members
without the support of the grassroots volunteers none have reported improved behaviour in the Region but there
of the delivered programs would succeed. The support is more work that needs to be done in this area and a
from the club and league executive, administrators continued commitment from Leagues and Clubs will be
and volunteers has been terrific. I shouldn’t neglect further sought.
the parents as well who support the game in so many
ways. Remember Volunteers don’t just happen – they Apart from the ‘Not In My House’ campaign mentioned
are nurtured by the clubs and leagues and we must not above the Region has made a conscious effort to support
be reluctant to ask for assistance as sometimes that is our Referees in 2019 and this will continue in 2020 and
all that is needed. A feeling of self-worth is so important beyond. The Region has rewarded those Referees
in many ways – a simple question like “Would you mind selected to control Region Representative carnivals with
helping out this weekend as our kids need support.” uniform kits just as the competing teams would receive,
the Referees are acknowledged at the end of each carnival
In closing, I would like to thank all those people who in receiving medallions for their efforts and as a result of a
some way small or large helped in making the season recent survey the Region is looking to provide assistance
such a success. Recent rains have put a smile on many for Referees to commence a Referee exchange program
faces and whilst we face many challenges, the one thing and encourage more comradery between Referee
that stands out in our rugby league community is their associations in Central Region.
resilience and the support we give one another.
Financially the Region remains very solid. Final figures
Looking forward to season 2020 – all the best for are not available at time of print but the indication is that
Christmas. Remember slow down on the roads and if the Region will come under budget again in 2019.
flooded forget it!
The Region is proud of its grants program and again
– DANNY MCGUIRE in 2019, $47 298 was provided to clubs for projects to
Chairman Central Division enhance their viability. A further $6 362 is promised for
projects that are not yet complete. This totals $53 660 in
DIVISION MANAGER grants to clubs in 2019.

IT’S been another great team effort in QRL Central Region I acknowledge the efforts of all volunteers in our Region
in 2019 to successfully deliver quality competitions, whether at club level, league level or at Central Region
entertaining representative carnivals, support of Leagues representative level. Time is more precious these days
and Clubs, providing life education advice to representative than before and all volunteers go above and beyond. I do
teams, clubs and schools, livestreaming carnivals for the notice the effort and commitment and thank them all.
benefit of those who couldn’t travel to see their loved ones
compete and many other successes. Central Region appreciates the opportunities and
conditions of employment afforded to all QRL staff which
The team I refer to is Chairman Danny McGuire, the contributes to the great morale with staff who now receive
Region Executive comprising Peter Hunt (Finance), Tim a common uniform throughout the state, the opportunity to
Wood (Juniors), Andrew Neven (Referees) and Anthony improve knowledge through the Professional Development
Lansky (Schools/Women’s – and for tipping Vow and program and the acknowledgement of work/life balance.
Declare in the Melbourne Cup which he part owns), the
Board comprising the Chairpersons of all Leagues and Currently, the Region is working on three projects
the Region staff who continue to enthusiastically deliver going forward. Firstly, an Indigenous well-being project
quality results. A big thankyou to all! in South Burnett, secondly a whole of game concept
called Project Climb which will see a restructure of staff
Early in season 2019, the Central Region Board agreed which will provide an increased level of support to clubs
that behaviour at games by some spectators was in our Region and thirdly a Wide Bay Review which is
detrimental to increasing crowd numbers and recruiting concentrating on finding the optimum competitions and
and keeping Referees and decided to make a stand, by events that will revive the interest of participants in the
introducing the “Not in my House Campaign”. Bundaberg, Fraser Coast, South Burnett, Central Burnett
and Northern Districts Leagues.
Quite simply if certain types of behaviour are not tolerated
at home then it is not tolerated at our Rugby League I look forward to season 2020 and meeting the new
challenges that it may bring knowing that we are a close-
knit Region that strives to improve in every area of our
delivery.

– ROB CROW
Region Manager
QRL Central Region

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 5

2019 PREMIERS HONOUR BOARD
CENTRAL DIVISION

QRL DIVISIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Benderoo Bulls d St George 16-8 SUNSHINE COAST/GYMPIE
Men – South East Queensland A Grade – Stanley River 28 d Caboolture 16
Women – Northern Division GLADSTONE Women’s – Maroochydore 16 d Gympie 12
Under 14 Boys – SEQ Green Division One – Valleys d Brothers 34-12 Div 2 Pool A – Coolum 20 d Beerwah 16
Under 14 Girls – SEQ Water Dragons Division Two – Valleys d Brothers 18-12 Div 2 Pool B – Beachmere 26 d Kilcoy 4
Under 16 Boys – Central Crows Under 12 – Valleys d Wallabys 20-16 Under 18 Div 1 – Kawana 34 d Beachmere 0
Under 16 Girls – Central Crows Under 13 – Calliope d Brothers 22-10 Under 16 Boys (Div 1) – Kawana d Nambour 28-18
Under 18 – Regional Queensland d Brisbane 34-18 Under 15 – Valleys d Tannum 24-20 Under 16 Boys (Div 2) – Beerwah d Bribie 20-18
Under 20 – Regional Queensland d SEQ 22-14 Under 17 – Tannum d Brothers 20-16 Under 16 Girls – Caboolture d Kawana/Cal/Beer 28-12
Under 15 Boys (Div 1) – Kawana Maroon d Caboolture 52-14
47th BATTALION SHIELD NORTHERN DISTRICTS Under 15 Boys (Div 2) – Palmwoods/Nambour d Coolum 30-0
Men – Toowoomba d Sunshine Coast 20-6 NDRL Premiership – Avondale Tigers 56 d South Kolan 16 Under 14 Boys (Div 1) – Caloundra Gold d Caboolture Black 30-22
Men’s Player of Carnival – Chris Conway (Central Highlands) NDWRL – Avondale Tigers d Gin Gin 20-6 Under 14 Boys (Div 2) – Caboolture Yellow d Bribie 32-10
Women – Rockhampton d Central Highlands 20-0 Under 14 Girls – Gympie d Kawana/Cal/Beer 35-28
Women’s Player of Carnival – Tamika Upton (Rockhampton) REFEREES AWARDS (QRL) Under 13 Boys (Div 1) – Gympie d Maroochydore 22-16
Under 20 – Toowoomba d Bundaberg 34-10 CMO of Year – Vic Collins (Sunshine Coast) Under 13 Boys (Div 2) – Caloundra Black d Bribie 34-24
Under 20 Player of Carnival – Thomas Colwell (Central Highlands) Barry Gomersall Encouragement Award – Luke Fletcher Under 12 (Pool A) – Caloundra Black d Caloundra Gold 18-16
Under 18 – Rockhampton d South Burnett 12-0 (Rockhampton) Under 12 (Pool B) – Stanley River d Maroochydore White 22-4
Under 18 Player of Carnival – Tristan Butcher (Rockhampton) Under 12 (Pool C) – Noosa d Kawana Grey 20-10
ROCKHAMPTON DISTRICT Under 12 (Pool D) – Gympie Blue d Nambour 22-16
BUNDABERG DISTRICT A Grade – Yeppoon 28 d Norths Chargers 18 Under 12 (Pool E) – Caboolture Black d Caboolture Yellow 40-18
A Grade – Bundaberg Past Brothers d Waves Tigers 32-28 Ollie Howden (Rockhampton) – Dean Blackman (Yeppoon)
Les Summerfield Medal – Jayden Alberts (Brothers) Women’s – Brothers 14 d Yeppoon 4 TOOWOOMBA DISTRICT
Reserve – Easts Magpies d Wests Panthers 28-22 Women’s Player of Year – Tamika Upton (Yeppoon) A Grade – Valleys 24 d Warwick 16
Under 18 – Hervey Bay d Waves Tigers 26-16 Reserve – Brothers 38 d Norths Chargers 10 Player of Year (Price Webcke Medal) – Tom O’Sullivan (Pittsworth)
Under 20 – Brothers 40 d Norths Chargers 0 Reserve – Valleys 18 d Gatton 10
BUNDABERG FRASER COAST JUNIORS Under 12 – Emu Park 2nd Division – Newtown 14 d Gatton 8
Under 13 – Waves Tigers d Western Suburbs 30-8 Under 13 – Yeppoon d Tigers 13-12 Under 18 – Dalby 32 d Gatton 12
Under 14 Boys – Bundaberg Brothers d Hervey Bay 14-10 Under 14 – Capricorn Coast d Yeppoon 22-6
Under 15 Boys – Wallaroos d Grizzlies 36-10 Under 15 – Capricorn Coast d Norths 26-12 TOOWOOMBA JUNIORS
Under 16 Boys – Western Suburbs d Hervey Bay 28-12 Under 16 – Capricorn Coast d Yeppoon 26-14 Under 13 – Brothers d Valleys 20-16
Under 17 Girls – Bundaberg d Tannum Sands 16-8 Under 18 – Yeppoon d Brothers 24-10 Under 13/14 Development – Oakey d 30-20
Under 14 Girls – Highfields d Warwick 24-14
Bundaberg Fraser Coast Gladstone Girls League ROMA DISTRICT Under 14 – Dalby d Valleys 28-4
Under 14 Girls – Wallabys (Gladstone) d Bundaberg 34-8 A Grade – Roma Cities d Wallumbilla Surat 30-10 Under 15 – Highfields d Brothers 28-20
Seniors – Tannum Sands d Brothers 8-0 A Grade Player of Year – Brendan Grulke (Roma Cities) Under 16 – Souths d Highfields 26-22
Reserve – Roma Cities d Mitchell Magpies 26-18 Under 17 Girls – Gatton d South Burnett 42-22
CENTRAL BURNETT Reserve Grade Player of Year – Daniel Bruce (Mitchell Magpies)
Gayndah Gladiators 32 d Mundubbera Tigers 26 Under 18 – Chinchilla d Wallumbilla/Surat 31-22 WARWICK & DISTRICT JUNIORS
Player of the Year – Daniel West-Pes (Mundubbera Tigers) Under 18 Player of Year – Matt Eising (Chinchilla Bulldogs) Under 14 – Collegians d Wattles 26-24
Under 16 – Chinchilla d Wallumbilla/Surat 30-28 Under 15 Girls Leaguetag – Tenterfield d Stanthorpe 30-22
CENTRAL HIGHLANDS Under 16 Player of Year – Dylan Ogden (Wallumbilla/Surat) Under 16 – Collegians d Goondiwindi 32-22
Men – Dysart Bulls 55 d Bluff Rabbitohs 12 Under 17 Girls Leaguetag – Stanthorpe d Goondiwindi 8-4
Women – Blackwater Crushettes 26 d Emerald Cowgirls 12 SOUTH BURNETT
Under 19 – Emerald Brothers 48 d Emerald Tigers 10 A Grade – Murgon d Cherbourg 28-14 WESTERN LEAGUE
Under 16 – Emerald Brothers d Dysart Bulls 32-16 Under 14 – Nanango d Murgon 14-10 Charleville d Cunnamulla
Under 14 – Emerald Brothers d Blackwater Crushers 54-10 Under 12 – Kingaroy d Nanango 18-12
Under 12 – Blackwater Crushers d Clermont Bears 16-12 South Burnett Junior Eagle - Dominique Sandow QUEENSLAND RUGBY LEAGUE AWARDS
South Burnett Senior Eagle - Glen Fisher Intrust Super Cup Coast of the Year – Eric Smith (Sunshine Coast
CENTRAL WEST Kathy Duff Female Eagle of Year - Traevonnah Fisher Falcons)
Blackall Magpies 18 d Winton Devils 0 Deb Frecklington Senior Player of Year – Matthew Stumer (Wondai)
Man of Match – Joint Winners; James Moller & Alex Choyce MAJOR AWARDS (PLAYERS OF YEAR)
Central West (Under 14) Outback Challenge Harvey Norman Women’s Rep. Player of Year – Annette Brander

6 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

They Played The Game

LIFE MEMBERS OF CENTRAL DIVISION Edward 'Ted' Christian Weber (OAM), a stalwart of rugby
league in the Wide Bay district, passed away during 2019,
Mal Breen – (deceased) aged 86.
Bert Borland
Rex Little Maryborough-based, Weber was a life member of
Queensland Rugby League and still served the game he
Grahame Lenton – (deceased) loved, long after he stepped down as a QRL director in
Rhonnda Poor 1998.

MEMBERS FOR LIFE Weber was a noted historian and author and undertook a
Life Members of the former CQ, SW & WB Divisions number of literary projects; including 'Hard Yards: Rugby
League Recollections Maryborough 1910-2010', and
John Barrett OAM 'Saints Alive: The History of Rovers Rugby League Club,
Bob Bateman 1891-1991'.
Tim Bliss
Clarrie Bullen He also had his own column in the Maryborough Chronicle
and reported on local league games.
Peter Cavanagh
Artie Clewley – (deceased) In 1989, Weber was appointed manager of the Queensland
Residents' team for a four-match tour of France.
John Diamond
Jeff Eyles – (deceased) The Greg Reynolds' coached side returned undefeated
and that tour remains the only visit to France by a state
Peter Flynn team. Weber also managed Residents' sides on trips to
Jim Gallagher – (deceased) Papua New Guinea and New Zealand.
Duncan Hall – (deceased)
In 1992 and 1993, he managed Australian Test sides
Paul Goener coached by Bob Fulton - the World Cup final win over
Bob Love – (deceased) Great Britain at Wembley in 1992 his biggest highlight.

John McDonald AM In 1994, Weber joined Dick 'Tosser' Turner and Keith
Barry Nugent Welsh on the management team of the Queensland State
Bill Oliver of Origin side and retired at the 1998 QRL annual meeting,
Glynn Rees when he was awarded his life membership.

Roy Rowe – (deceased) Weber received his Order of Australia Medal in 2007, for
Ian Sanderson his services to rugby league.

Danny Tanner – (deceased) His involvement with rugby league began as a member
EC (Ted) Weber OAM – (deceased) of the Rovers' club in 1948, when he was part of the
undefeated Third Grade side.
Ron Wilkinson – (deceased)
Ron Wroe He was Rovers' first aid officer in 1970, and then a
strapper, before climbing through the ranks, until he
Roy Rowe was made a life member of the Central became chairman of the Wide Bay Division; a QRL
Queensland Rugby League on 28th November, 2008, Board member, and a director of the South Queensland
on his retirement as chairman of the Gladstone Rugby Crushers' Club in the ARL competition.
League.
A fitter and turner by trade, Weber was also a Maryborough
From the original Central Queensland Rugby League life City Councillor.
members, only Clarrie Bullen, Barry Nugent and John
Diamond are still living. He is survived by his wife, Margaret and children Ted,
Phil, Dianne and Ian.
Roy Rowe was the delegate to the Queensland Rugby
League in 1990, when incumbent chairman Jim Gallagher – STEVE RICKETTS (QRL History Committee)
resigned on 28th July, 1990.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 7

TOOWOOMBA CLYDESDALES REPRESENTATIVE TEAM – 2019 47th BATTALION CHAMPIONS – Back (L-R): Mark Sullivan (Assistant Coach), Lennie Currie, Daniel Jennings,
Sam Broomhall, Hnoloan Budden, Joe Fuimaono, Sam Beilefield, Justin Murphy (LeagueSafe) Middle: Geoff Bainbridge (FAO), Ty Gardner, Connor Nolan, Nathan Gaulton, Dale
Perkins, Billy Jackwitz, Campbell Stewart, Xavier Manley, Hayden Lipp, Brod Guymer (FAO) Front: Ross Burke (Manager), Cory McGrady, Ben Sullivan, Steve Franciscus (Capt),
Ned Murphy (Coach), Matt Duggan (Capt), Corey Blades, Blake Mara, Trent Tuesley (Manager)

CLYDESDALES AND RUSTLERS
WIN 47TH BATTALION TROPHY

THE 47th Battalion trophy has changed hands once In one of the most-anticipated finals in recent years,
again with the Toowoomba Clydesdales regaining the the Clydesdales were out for revenge after last year’s
prestigious silverware on the home turf of the Falcons, loss at home to the Falcons and clearly showed their
completing a 20-6 shutout of the defending premiers intentions from the opening whistle, forcing a number of
Sunshine Coast in the decider. uncharacteristic errors from the men in gold.

Chris Conway (Player of Carnival) getting his award from Toowoomba’s first points were a stroke of luck when young
Glen Peatling (Chairman of Sunshine Coast Rugby League). flyer Billy Jackwitz intercepted a loose Nat McGavin tip-on
and ran 95 metres to score against the run of play in the
PHOTO: Courtesy of Red in League Photography seventh minute.

Boosted by the early scoreboard pressure, the Clydesdales
put their foot down and peppered the relenting Sunshine
Coast defensive line for the next few sets, but to no avail.

Due to this, and the prospect of the game being a low-
scoring affair like in previous years, the Clydesdales
chose to take the two when rewarded with a penalty in
front of the posts.

Leading 8-0, the match-winning Clydesdales' spine of
Haydan Lipp, Corey McGrady, Matt Duggan and Ben
Sullivan combined flawlessly to force repeat sets, starving
the Falcons of possession.

To make matters worse, they were forced to defend the last
eight minutes of the first half with 12 men after repeated
ruck penalties resulted in five-eight Dylan McGrath sat
down for 10.

In the 22nd minute, the pressure was all too much with
Sam Bielefeld combing with Sullivan to crash over, giving
the Clydesdales a sizeable 14-0 lead going into the sheds.

ROCKHAMPTON RUSTLERS REPRESENTATIVE TEAM – 2019 47th BATTALION CHAMPIONS – Standing: Ron Tasker (Trainer), Tamika Upton, Shae Minto, Mikayla Roe,
Gemma Brennan, Lakiila Gudgeon, Tashina Ketchup, Emmaley McMurdy, Atleethia Row Row, Tylah Phillips, Amanda Ohl (Coach) Kneeling: Meg Neven, Justine Willie, Rhiannon
Revell-Blair, Chloe Fattore, Mackzenie Reid (Captain), Bree Spreadborough, Kira Boland. Sitting: Hannah Burke (Assistant Coach), Chantelle Dodd, Sharni Upton, Sarah Field.
Laying in front: Amelia Mackay (Manager)

Even after the break, the Falcons couldn’t stop the Scoring two tries at the back end of the game to be only
onslaught with Sullivan playing his part in another eight points behind, an injury forced the game to be called
Clydesdale try, this time to prop Xavier Manley five early with both teams shaking hands after a hard-fought
minutes into the second half. contest between the country-cousins.

Falcons rake Danny Kerr was one of the Coast’s best The same success couldn’t be shared by the Highlands’
throughout the weekend and rewarded himself with a women after Rockhampton successfully defended their
four-pointer to keep their hopes alive. title with a strong 20-0 whitewash to go back-to-back.

With the Falcons needing three tries with 12 minutes Australian Touch representative Tamika Upton’s skill at
remaining, the Clydesdales hung on and reclaimed the five-eighth to distribute the ball to either side of the field
trophy after losing it to their counterparts at home last worked wonders with both Rustlers wingers Meg Neven
year. and Bree Spreadborough capitalising with their speed
to attack and score through the brittle Highlands edge
In the plate final earlier, they say all good things come defence.
in threes and third-time lucky, Central Highlands claimed
their first silverware with a 24-16 win over South West in a A massive congratulations and thanks to the Sunshine
repeat of last year’s playoff. Coast Rugby League and Sunshine Coast Regional
Council for their hard work contributing to a successful
The Highlands came out to play from the opening whistle carnival at Sunshine Coast Stadium.
and before the Stockmen knew it, the scoreboard read
18-0. The Region congratulates all players who took part
in this year’s carnival and looks forward to the 2020
Central Highlands added one more try before the break to 47th Battalion, celebrating 50 years of the respected
lead 24-6 but as expected, the boys from the west fought competition.
back.

The acrobatic Rowan Klein scoring a try. Lakiila Gudgeon scoring for Rockhampton.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Red in League Photography QRLPCHEONTTOR:ACLoQurUteEsEyNRSeLdANinDLeDaIVgIuSeIOPNhotog9raphy

Tamika Upton, seen here scoring a
try for Queensland Country against
South East Queensland, is a star
on the rise in ‘Women’s Rugby
League’.

Following her ‘Player of the Carnival’
performance in the 47th Battalion
trophy she went from Queensland
Country selection to the Brisbane
Broncos where she put the classy
Chelsea Baker out of the fullback
spot for the WNRL Grand Final.

Since then she has played in the
Jillaroos team that played New
Zealand in the 9s tournament in
Canberra.

PHOTO: NRL Imagery

2019 47th BATTALION TROPHY RESULTS

MEN'S PLAYER OF THE CARNIVAL WOMEN'S PLAYER OF THE CARNIVAL
Chris Conway (Central Highlands) Tamika Upton (Rockhampton)

DAY 1 RESULTS Storch, Tasma Vesey tries; Kailah Rogers 4 goals) defeated BUNDABERG 0
MEN ROCKHAMPTON 12 (Rhiannon Revell-Blair, Bree Spreadborough, Justin Willie
tries) defeated WESTERN MUSTANGS 10 (Kaleshia Janes, Natalia Parsons tries;
GAME 1: SUNSHINE COAST 46 (Callum Klein 2, Chris Aiton, Sam Bernstrom, Caleb Natalia Parsons goal)
Daunt, Danny Kerr, Nat McGavin, Paul McKewin tries; Danny Kerr 4, Caleb Daunt CENTRAL HIGHLANDS 10 (Miranda Davidson, Layla Fauid tries; Kailah Rogers
goals) defeated GLADSTONE 0 goal) defeated SUNSHINE COAST 6 (Annette Brander try; Lana Sheedy goal)
GAME 2: ROCKHAMPTON 12 (Jamie Minto, Jace O’Neill, Falcon Peni tries)
defeated CENTRAL HIGHLANDS 12 (Shae Cox, Clayton Kilpatrick tries; Ray DAY 2 RESULTS
Ebsworth 2 goals) MEN
GAME 3: TOOWOOMBA 48 (Sam Broomhall, Hnaloan Budden, Steve Franciscus,
Ty Gardner, Daniel Jennings, Haydan Lipp, Cory McGrady, Ben Sullivan tries; Matt GAME 9: GLADSTONE 24 (Deklin Huth 2, Beau Elphinstone, Jayden Hansen, Chris
Duggan 8 goals) defeated BURNETT 0 Riley tries; Kyle Mongta 2 goals) defeated BURNETT 22 (Arthur Saltner 2, Barwoo
GAME 4: BUNDABERG 24 (Shaun Collins 2, Josiah Alberts, Matt Craven, Clinton Fisher, Barry Tapau-Fewquandie tries; Barry Tapau-Fewquandie 3 goals)
Horne tries; Arden Lankowski 2 goals) defeated SOUTH WEST 0 GAME 10: ROCKHAMPTON 34 (Ryan Franks 2, Lachlan Norris, Gavin Hiscox, Sam
GAME 5: CENTRAL HIGHLANDS 12 (Reece Baker, Clayton Kilpatrick tries; Ray Stibbards, Jace O'Neill tries; Falcon Peni 5 goals) defeated BUNDABERG 6 (Shaun
Ebsworth 2 goals) defeated GLADSTONE 6 (Chris Riley try; Kyle Mongta goal) Collins try; Arden Lankowski goal)
GAME 6: SOUTH WEST 12 (Warren Draper, John Russo tries; Warren Draper 2 PLATE FINAL: CENTRAL HIGHLANDS 24 (Leigh Coghill, Chris Conway, Justin
goals) defeated BURNETT 6 (Michael Giles try; Barry Tapau-Fewquandie goal) Daniels, Danyon Reed tries; Ray Ebsworth 4 goals) defeated SOUTH WEST 16
GAME 7: SUNSHINE COAST 38 (Rowan Klein 2, Dalton Perrins-Phillips 2, Chris (Floyd Daniel, Warren Draper, Jack Just tries; Warren Draper, Joseph Packer goals)
Aiton, Josh Buckland, Dylan McGrath tries; Caleb Daunt 3, Danny Kerr 2 goals) TROPHY FINAL: TOOWOOMBA 20 (Sam Bielefeld, Billy Jackwitz, Xavier Manley
defeated ROCKHAMPTON 0 tries; Matt Duggan 4 goals) defeated SUNSHINE COAST 6 (Danny Kerr try; Danny
GAME 8: TOOWOOMBA 26 (Corey Blades, Hnaloan Budden, Matt Duggan, Billy Kerr goal)
Jackwitz, Campbell Stewart tries; Matt Duggan 3 goals) defeated BUNDABERG 0
WOMEN
WOMEN POOL A 3RD v POOL B 3RD: BUNDABERG 10 (Kady Tinker, Sophie O'Toole tries;
ROCKHAMPTON 20 (Lakila Gudgeon 2, Sarah Field, Rhiannon Revell-Blair tries; Holly Blucher goal) defeated GLADSTONE 10 (Natasha Van Der Breggen, Zeah
Tashina Ketchup 2 goals) defeated GLADSTONE 4 (Krystal Sulter try) Lane tries; Krystal Sulter goal)
SUNSHINE COAST 30 (Kelli Dunlop 2, Peta Dray, Amalee McClennan, Michaela POOL A 2ND v POOL B 2ND: WESTERN MUSTANGS 8 (Karen Reynolds, Nadine
Peck tries; Lana Sheedy 5 goals) defeated BUNDABERG 0 Hattingh tries) defeated SUNSHINE COAST 6 (Sophie Fisher try; Lana Sheedy goal)
WESTERN MUSTANGS 16 (Teresa Aiton, Kaleshia Janes, Karen Reynolds tries; WOMEN’S FINAL: ROCKHAMPTON 20 (Lakila Gudgeon, Bree Spreadborough,
Natalia Parsons 2 goals) defeated GLADSTONE 0 Tamika Upton, Meg Neven tries; Tashina Ketchup 2 goals) defeated CENTRAL
CENTRAL HIGHLANDS 28 (Deb Barchard, Lauren Pingel, Tegan Rolfe, Mariah HIGHLANDS 0

10 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019 Chris Conway in action
PHOTO: Courtesy of Red in League Photography

CENTRAL COMPETITIVE AT
STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

CENTRAL DIVISION MENS REPRESENTATIVE TEAM – 2019 STATE RUGBY LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS – Back Row L-R: Reece Maughan, Tom Rafter, Ray Ebsworth,
Xavier Manley, Billy Jackwitz, Paul McKewin, Chris Conway Middle Row L-R: Chris Munro (Head Coach), Michael Fletcher (Team Manager), Kevin Sherriff, Blake Mara,
Hnaloan Budden, Matt Pacey (Assistant Coach), Dwayne Kangan (Sports Trainer) Front Row L-R: Rowan Klein, Corey McGrady, Jake Ainsworth, Callum Klein, Steve
Franciscus, Dalton Phillips, Danny Kerr, Caleb Daunt, Ben Sullivan

TWO new names have been etched on the winning pieces SEQ continued with the flurry of tries; Matthew Milson
of silverware after an impressive final day of the Queensland crossing for his first in the 16th minute, followed by Sam
Rugby League State Championships at Southport. Elliott in the following set.

At the completion of the annual premier A Grade carnival Down 16-4, the Crows needed some points to reward
on the Gold Coast, the SEQ Green Men and Northern their 100% first half completion rate.
Marlins Women claimed their first titles in emphatic fashion
– the first time either side has won the respected honour. In a set that had nothing going, journeyman Steve
Franciscus somehow broke through a snoozing defensive
The opening Men’s clash of the day showcased a high- line to be tackled ten metres short, and then in the
quality ‘winner takes all’ affair between SEQ Green and following play, magician Corey McGrady again went to his
Central following good wins to both sides in Saturday's bag of tricks to find the chalk and ease the deficit to 16-10
matches. at the break.

The Crows couldn’t have started the unofficial grand final Central were their own worst enemy in the second half
any sweeter with the Klein twins combining on the right with a number of unforced ball-handling errors prohibiting
edge for Rowan to score in the fourth minute. them from leaving their own end.

The Water Dragons hit back in the 10th minute when SEQ made them pay in the 40th minute; halfback Chris
Semisi Ahoafi brought a number of Crows defenders Ash throwing a well-timed cut-out pass to Milson for his
across the try line with him to score. double after identifying a short right edge defensive line.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 11

CENTRAL DIVISION WOMENS REPRESENTATIVE TEAM – 2019 STATE RUGBY LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS – Back Row (L-R): Lakiila Gudgeon, Kody House, Gemma
Brennan, Meg Neven, Reeghyn Beardmore Middle Row: Michael Jeffs (Assistant Coach), Kym McIntosh (Team Manager), Cassandra Marks, Kelli Dunlop, Mackenzie
Reid, Mikayla Roe, Sonia Lund (Sports Trainer), Steve Savage (Head Coach) Front Row: Michaela Peck, Courtney Douglas, Tashina Ketchup, Rikarra Benjamin, Kailah
Rogers, Kiara Taylor, Stefanie Gallagher, Sarah Field, Krystal Sulter

It was a brave effort from the Crows to defend set after set With 15 minutes to go in a low scoring affair, Lauren Moss
on their line for the opening 15 minutes and only concede put the game all but beyond doubt with a four-pointer to
one try, the last points for SEQ. make it 16-0.

On the back of their frustrating defensive pressure, Klein SEQ were able to get a consolation try with Sasha
scored his double in the 58th minute, and a second four- Mahuika crossing in the final three minutes, but it wasn’t
pointer to McGrady with only single digits remaining setup enough to deny the Marlins juggernaut their first ever
the game for a grandstand finish. championship win.

Central toiled hard in the dying minutes, but it wasn’t The Marlins' success will be the first time the trophy leaves
enough with the home side claiming victory – a first for the the South-East corner, ending such a dominant period for
newly-formed SEQ Green outfit. the Water Dragons, who this year decided to split their
immense talent into two teams after continuing growth of
Jack Miers was rewarded for his quality service and the South-East Queensland competition.
creative play from dummy-half, being named the player
of the carnival with a hopeful Queensland Rangers jersey In the opening and closing games of Day 2 that had no
coming his way when the side is announced later this impact on the State Championship titles, SEQ Green were
week. able to snatch victory after an early second half scare
from the Central Crows Women and SEQ White narrowly
It was a history-making moment when the Northern got home against the Northern Marlins Men 20-14 to wrap
Marlins emphatically defeated SEQ White 16-4 to claim up another fantastic year of a high-quality rugby league
their first ever female title. competition.

Martina Monday was the only try scorer in the opening A special congratulations and thanks must go the
half to give the Marlins a 6-0 lead at the break. Southport Tigers and SEQ Region QRL staff for their
contributions pre, during and post this year’s event and all
Only 30 minutes from claiming their first ever title, Levinia three Regions look forward to another exciting year of the
Robinson extended the lead in the 33rd minute after State Championships in 2020.
breaking the line to run 20 metres and score.
– CAMERON STALLARD
12 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019 Central Division Correspondent

MEN'S FULL RESULTS WOMEN'S

SEQ GREEN 36 (Christopher Ash 2, Sam Elliot 2, NORTHERN MARLINS 12 (Levinia Robinson, Angela

Iosua Afoa, Rashaun Denny tries; Jack Miers 5, Solomon tries; Angela Solomon 2 goals) defeated

Michael Molo goals) defeated NORTHERN MARLINS SEQ GREEN 8 (Keisha-Leigh Coolwell, Liahona

16 (Jesse Dee, Joseph Eichner, Samuel Martin tries; Theodore tries)

Bradley Stephan 2 goals) POINTS: Northern Marlins 6, SEQ Green 2

POINTS: SEQ Green 8, Northern Marlins 0 SEQ WHITE 24 (Sasha Mahuika 3, Shae-Yvonne

CENTRAL CROWS 20 (Jake Ainsworth, Caleb De La Cruz, Vaituulima Soe, Caitlyn Taleni tries)

Daunt, Danny Kerr, Reece Maughan tries; Caleb defeated CENTRAL CROWS 0

Daunt 2 goals) defeated SEQ WHITE 12 (Jaiyden POINTS: SEQ White 8, Central Crows 0

Hunt, Kurtis McDonald, Andrew Petaia tries) SEQ GREEN 22 (Zara Canfield, Keisha-Leigh

POINTS: Central Crows 6, SEQ White 2 Coolwell, Chanelle Kohika-Skipper, Liahona

SEQ GREEN 22 (Matthew Milson 2, Semisi Ahoafi, Theodore, Kristine Vaalepu tries; Zoey Holland

Sam Elliott tries; Jack Miers 3 goals) defeated goal) defeated CENTRAL CROWS 14 (Gemma

CENTRAL CROWS 20 (Rowan Klein 2, Corey Brennan, Kelli Dunlop, Kailah Rogers tries; Tashina

McGrady 2, Caleb Daunt 2 goals) Ketchup goal)

POINTS: SEQ Green 6, Central Crows 2 POINTS: SEQ Green 8, Central Crows 0

SEQ WHITE 20 (John Mackin 2, Stuart Mason, Kurtis NORTHERN MARLINS 16 (Martina Monday, Levinia

McDonald tries; Matthew Egan 2 goals) defeated Robinson, Lauren Moss tries; Angela Solomon 2

NORTHERN MARLINS 14 (Steven Tatipata, Bradley goals) defeated SEQ WHITE 4 (Sasha Mahuika try)

Steven, Harold Snell tries; Bradley Steven goal) POINTS: Northern Marlins 8, SEQ White 0

POINTS: SEQ White 6, Northern Marlins 2

CROWS DOMINATE AT JUNIOR STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

THIS year's Queensland Rugby League Junior State Central able to hold on in a thrilling finish to this year’s
Championships was yet another indication of the young event to lift the newly-named Cyril Connell Shield.
talent that can be found across the entire state.
It was an all-round dominant display by SEQ in the
At the conclusion of a successful tournament on 7th July, Under 14 girls, remaining undefeated and only conceding
all three regions challenged each other throughout the 14 points across their four games to easily secure the
four days to be the best and play the hardest, culminating Heather Ballinger Shield; however, it was a different story
in all three featuring in one of the two boys’ deciders – a in the older grade.
first since the Championships’ new format was introduced
in 2016. Despite no finals in the girls fixtures, the last Under 16
fixture between Central and SEQ was effectively a playoff
Last year’s joint-premiers SEQ Green finished on top of to determine the titleholder, with SEQ needing to win or
the Under 14 Boys competition once again, despite a draw the match to retain the honour.
scare on Day 1 from Central that ended in an electrifying
draw to kick-start the carnival. At halftime, SEQ led 12-8, but a barnstorming final 25
minutes from experienced representatives Traevonnah
The Under 16 Boys competition was similarly even, with Fisher and Georgia Voll saw the Crows hit the lead with
both of Saturday’s games crucial in the final’s makeup. 10 minutes remaining.

The opportunity to be selected for either Queensland Lateesha Barker gave her Water Dragons hope when
City or Queensland Country in the newly announced she crossed the chalk with five minutes on the clock, but
representative pathway further fuelled the fire in the Central held on to regain the Karyn Murphy Shield in an
belly for many players to give it all they’ve got for their emphatic come-from-behind victory.
respective region.
CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS
The decider was one for the ages with both teams giving it Under 14 Boys Michael Pease Shield: SEQ Green
their all. The Marlins led 10-4 at the break, but an inspired Under 14 Girls Heather Ballinger Shield: SEQ
second half performance by the Crows team, aided by the Water Dragons
number of experienced, Junior State Carnival title-winning Under 16 Boys Cyril Connell Shield: Central Crows
players in the outfit, got them in front by eight points with Under 16 Girls Karyn Murphy Shield: Central Crows
11 minutes to play.
PLAYERS OF THE CHAMPIONSHIPS
A final roll of the dice saw Xavier Charfield-Mooka, nephew Under 14 Boys: Devonte Vaivela – SEQ Green #12
of Harvey Norman Queensland Maroon’s centre, Steph Under 14 Girls Veronica White Award: Eliza
score his double to get within two points of the home side Lopamaua –SEQ #10
with three minutes to play. Under 16 Boys Peter Gray Award: Keanu Wright-
Dunrobin – Central #6
With the packed grandstand of Sunshine Coast Stadium Under 16 Girls: Stephanie Hancock Award: Georgia
on their feet, a frantic final few minutes played out, with Voll – Central #13

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 13

CENTRAL DIVISION U16 BOYS REPRESENTATIVE TEAM – 2019 STATE RUGBY LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS – Back Row (L-R): Noah Dwyer, Morgan Byrne, Jesse Page,
Grady Callaghan, Jaeden Usher, Tyler Keogh-Paladin, Angus Wright Middle Row: Mal McMillan, (Coach), Bob Boon (Asst. Coach), Shaun Packer, Tyler Conroy, Coby
Williamson, Cyron Tull, Neil Dabelstein (Sports Trainer), Tim Wood (Manager) Front Row: Ky Rashleigh, Izaac Jackson, Keanu Wright-Dunrobin, Tyson Stevens (VC),
Xavier Va’a (C), Glen Fisher, Brayden Paix, Jackson Warde

CENTRAL DIVISION UNDER 14 BOYS REPRESENTATIVE TEAM – 2019 STATE RUGBY LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS – Back (L-R): Bud Smith, Tariq Tanner, Cayleb
Johnson, De La Salle VA’A, Brock Thomas, Matthew Williams, Jayden Smith Middle: Brendan Wilson (Assistant Coach), Dwayne Kangan (Sports Trainer), Dominique
Sandow, Noah Rauluni, Lyhkan King – Togia, Harry Eyers, Bryce Holdsworth (Head Coach), Daniel Nunn (Team Manager) Front: Giago Giuffrida-Munhoz, Connor
Lacey, Jed Zerk, Hoani Harris, Tyler Peckham – Harris, Lincon Baran, Jayden Alefaio, Brayden Crawford
14 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

CENTRAL DIVISION U16 GIRLS REPRESENTATIVE TEAM – 2019 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS – Back Row (L-R): Brad Eggmolesse (Coach), Otesa Pule, Delaney Claridge,
Lillian Yarrow, Jayde Ramsay, Emmogen Taumafai, Scott Lonergan (Asst. Coach) Middle Row: Christine Oakes (Manager), Prue Peters, Grace Giampino, Tamzin
Taumafai, Ashlea Nolan, Skye Girard, Tarnee Evans, Sonia Lund (Sports Trainer) Front Row: Alenna Whipp, Sophie Wright, Courtney-Lee Nolan, Taevonnah Fisher
(Co-Captain), Georgia Voll (Co-Captain), Katelyn Anderson, Abbey Holley, Shaniqua Tamwoy

CENTRAL DIVISION UNDER 14 GIRLS REPRESENTATIVE TEAM – 2019 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS – Back (L-R): Shaybella Bouna, Katelyn Collie, Ciyoulani Beezley,

Reegan Hicks, Maddison Riley, Tori Dakin, Shayla Powell Middle: Lisa Anderson (Manager), Terri Weatherley (Coach), Madison Pryde, Mackenzie Zeller, Miah Powell,

Katelyn Leech, Cedric Auda (Ass. Coach), Sheree Prendergast (FAO/Sports Trainer) Front: Chloe Pallisier, Leila Murphy, Tashma-Maree Antonio, Charlotte Blackwood

(Captain), Mackayla Champion (Captain), Nancy Sullivan, Mariah Brown, Mackayla Oakley QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 15

CENTRAL CROWS U20 & U18
MEN'S CARNIVAL

THE Under 18 and Under 20 Men’s Carnival was played
in Murgon with the results shown below.

Following the Carnival there were two Regional
Queensland teams selected from the Central Division and
the Outback side that had played on Thursday Island.

These teams played Brisbane and South East Queensland
at Bishop Park on the 27th July with the country boys
winning both encounters.

The Under 18s defeated Brisbane 34-18 and the Under
20s defeated a South East Queensland side 22-14.

RESULTS FROM CARNIVAL:

U18 Plate Final – between Sunshine Coast and Roma
Sunshine Coasts winners – 18-6
Player of Plate Final - #10 Sunshine Coast – Liam Smith

U20 Plate Final – between Roma & Central Highlands
Roma winners – 14-12
Player of Plate Final – #1 Central Highlands – Daniel
McNamara

U18 Final – between Rockhampton & South Burnett
Rockhampton winners – 12-0
2019 47th Battalion U18 Champions – Rockhampton
Player of Final - #1 Rockhampton – Cooper Marshall
Player of Carnival - #6 Rockhampton – Tristan Butcher

U20 Final – between Toowoomba & Bundaberg
Toowoomba winners – 34-10
2019 47th Battalion U20 Champions – Toowoomba
Player of Final – #17 Toowoomba – Leslie Hartvigsen
Player of Carnival – #13 Central Highlands – Thomas Colwell

UNDER 18 CENTRAL CROWS REPRESENTATIVE TEAM UNDER 20 CENTRAL CROWS REPRESENTATIVE TEAM

1. Haydyn Andrews Outback 1. Layton Chambers Bundaberg

2. Daron Bligh South Burnett 2. George Fisher South Burnett

3. Tristan Butcher Rockhampton 3. Errol Simpson South Burnett

4. Rylee Carpenter Rockhampton 4. Nicholas Van Der Peel Toowoomba

5. Connor Clement Toowoomba 5. Zachariah Miles Toowoomba

6. Cameron Fitzsimmons Gladstone 6. Tyrell Howard Bundaberg

7. James Heinrich Toowoomba 7. Joe Gallagher Central Highlands

8. Cooper Marshall Rockhampton 8. Andrew Champney South Burnett

9. Flynn Martin Sunshine Coast 9. Tiko Hooper Bundaberg

10. Quinn Martin Rockhampton 10. Brendan Steward Bundaberg

11. Bailey Paul Sunshine Coast 11. Thomas Colwell Central Highlands

12. Damon Qualischefski Roma 12. Leslie Hartvigsen Toowoomba

13. Tanar Rivers Roma 13. Diega Teaukuna Outback

14. Lachlan Santana Outback 14. Tyson Douglas Bundaberg

15. Liam Smith Sunshine Coast 15. Mitchell Watson Toowoomba

16. Jobbaker Tamanabae Toowoomba 16. Jackson Slack Central Highlands

17. Callum Wilson Central Highlands 17. Mitchell Clarke Outback

16 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

REGIONAL QUEENSLAND UNDER 20 REPRESENTATIVE RUGBY LEAGUE TEAM 2019 – Back (L-R): Mitchell Clarke, Travis Babington, Nickolas Van Der Poel, Leslie Hartvigsen,

Joe Gallagher, Mitch Watson, Tony Mather Middle: Brian Pengelly (Ass/Coach), Andrew Champney, Brandon Kemp, Brendan Stewart, Layton Chambers, Errol Simpson, Tyson

Douglas, Chris Waters (Manager) Front: Tiko Hooper, Tom Colwell (Captain), Bert Tabuai (Head Coach), Tyrell Howard (V/Captain), George Fisher, Diega Teaukura

PHOTO: Courtesy Jodie Teys (QRL)

REGIONAL QUEENSLAND UNDER 18 REPRESENTATIVE RUGBY LEAGUE TEAM 2019 – Back (L-R): Justin Brown (Sports Trainer), Liam Smith, Cameron Fitzimmons, Bailey

Paul (Vice Capt), James Heinrich, Noah Brady, John Buttigieg (Asst Coach) Middle: Ian Kearton (Coach), Tristan Butcher, Connor Clement, Quinn Martin, Lachlan Santana, Tanar

Rivers, Brad Steer (Manager) Front: Flynn Martin, Callum Wilson, Damon Qualischefski (Capt), Daron Bligh, Haydn Andrews, Jobbaker Tamanabae, Kaia Williams

PHOTO: Courtesy Jodie Teys (QRL)

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 17

2019 was another
strong season for the
many talented players
and coaching officials
that commenced their
careers on the rugby
league fields of the

Central Division.

We have listed them here
in alphabetical order with
their club/town of origin
in brackets.

STARS OF THE CENTRAL DIVISIONBaker–Chelsea(Gladstone)
Bateman – Luke (Miles)
Bennett – Wayne (Warwick)
Brander – Annette (Caboolture)
Capewell – Kurt (Charleville)
Cooper – Gavin (Murgon)
Croft – Brodie (Highfields)
Davey – Andrew (Emerald)
Fermor – Beau (Dalby)
Friend – Jake (Noosa)
Gillett – Matt (Bribie Island)
Glasby – Tim (Rockhampton)
Granville – Jake (Rockhampton)
Hunt – Ben (Blackwater)
Kaufusi – Felise (Bundaberg)
Kaufusi – Patrick (Bundaberg)
Lowe – Ethan (Goondiwindi)
Mahoney – Reed (Beerwah)
Mann – Kurt (Winton)
Mbye – Moses (Noosa)
McCullough – Andrew (Dalby)
Munster – Cameron
(Rockhampton)
Oates – Corey (Baralaba)
Pearson – Jonus (Yeppoon)
Scott – Matthew (Ilfracombe)
Seibold – Anthony
(Rockhampton)
Stitt – Elle (Emerald)
Taylor – Ashley (Toowoomba)
Timm – Lachlan (Maroochydore)
Upton – Tamika (Rockhampton)

TOP: Ethan Lowe, outstanding in Origin III for Queensland.
BOTTOM: Annette Brander – 2019 Karyn Murphy Medalist
PHOT1O8S: NRLTImHEagCeRrOyW FLIES HIGH 2019

Beau Fermor, sure to make a splash in 2020.

Gavin Cooper, champion Cowboy.

Kurt Capewell, one of the best for the Sharks in 2019. Jake Friend – three premierships, great player.
ALL PHOTOS: NRL Imagery

Chelsea Baker (Gladstone Wallabys) Norman Jillaroos in 2014 as part since joining them in 2011 and was
Chelsea made her Harvey Norman of the team's first Auckland Nines part of their historic grand final victory
Jillaroos debut on the wing in 2016 appearance, she also debuted for in 2015.
against the New Zealand Ferns and Queensland in the same year and
has been part of the team ever since, is one of the outstanding players in His appetite for work is amazing and
including the 2017 World Cup win. women’s rugby league. since the end of the 2014 season
Often used as a fullback, Baker played the classy second-row forward has
for the Brisbane Broncos in 2019. Brander was the star of the 2019 averaged 25 games a season for
NWRL Grand Final, playing for the Cowboys. His 232 games for the
Luke Bateman (Miles) has now the Brisbane Broncos against the Cowboys and 76 games (Penrith and
played 71 first grade games for the Dragons and won the Karyn Murphy Titans) takes him into rarefied territory
Raiders and has signed a contract Medal as Player of the Final. indeed.
for the 2020 season. Bateman has
struggled to find a first grade spot Kurt Capewell (Charleville) returned Brodie Croft (Highfields) finished the
with the heavy contingent of English to his home town in 2019 as part 2019 season with a Junior Kangaroo
Internationals in front of him. of the Queensland State of Origin selection and several high-profile
squad and although he never got a clubs including the Brisbane Broncos
Wayne Bennett (Warwick) has now run during the series, it’s clear that are chasing his signature. Croft has
held the reins in more than 800 NRL the classy utility who played 25 NRL played 40 games for Melbourne and
games and his 3rd placed finish with games in 2019 is heading in the right is one of a number of quality half-
South Sydney in 2019 is testimony to direction. backs who could vie for Queensland
another strong season. Origin selection in the next couple of
Capewell can play in the backs and seasons.
Bennett has nothing to prove and in forwards and will be looking for a new
2019 was selected as the co-coach club as we head into the 2020 season Andrew Davey (Emerald) is a
along with Duncan Thompson in the as the Sharks cannot fit him under the newcomer to the NRL after several
star-studded Toowoomba Team of the salary cap. seasons in the Intrust Super Cup
Century. with the Townsville Blackhawks and
Gavin Cooper (Murgon) will play Mackay Cutters. He signed with the
Annette Brander (Caboolture) started on into his 15th NRL season after Parramatta Eels and although he
playing rugby league in 2010 with the agreeing to a one-year contract never played an NRL game has been
Caboolture Snakes in the under 18s extension with North Queensland for resigned for the 2020 season.
competition, before also debuting for 2020.
the Sunshine Coast Sirens Women's Davey was a key player in their
team in the same year. The 34-year-old, who became part of Wentworthville Magpies team which
the 300-game club this season, has reached the grand final this year and
Annette debuted for the Harvey played 232 games for the Cowboys played 26 games in their colours.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 19

Matt Gillett, a great servant to the game. Ben Hunt, Queensland and Australia 2019. Felise Kaufusi, leader of the Queensland forward pack.

He was subsequently awarded the winning in 2013, 2018 and 2019. Tim Glasby (Rockhampton) joined
Bob O’Reilly NSW Cup Player of the The little champion from Noosa has Newcastle in 2019 after playing
Year at 2019 Ken Thornett Medal now played 247 NRL games in 12 six seasons with the Melbourne
Presentation Night. seasons in the toughest competition Storm. Included in his 110 games
in the world. in Storm colours were the 2016,
Beau Fermor (Dalby) signed with 2017 and 2018 NRL Grand Finals
the Newcastle Knights for the 2018 Matt Gillett (Bribie Island) has and he has a premiership ring after
season and although he never played accepted the medical advice which his 2017 success against the North
at NRL level he has played for New brings to an end his stellar career Queensland Cowboys. In 2019 he
South Wales and Queensland! In his that included 200 NRL games for played 21 games for the Knights and
first season with the Knights, Fermor the Broncos, 20 Origin appearances two games for Queensland.
took home the NSWRL and the for Queensland and 12 Tests for the
club’s Jersey Flegg player of the year Kangaroos. Jake Granville (Rockhampton) has
awards and played for Queensland been a great servant to the North
Under 20’s in their Origin win over The former Bribie Island Warrigal was Queensland Cowboys after arriving
NSW, the first representative side he also crowned Dally M Second Rower at the club from Wynnum Manly in
had ever played in at state level. Of The Year in 2016 and 2017, and 2014. One of four hookers from the
Dally M Rookie Of The Year in 2010 Central Division playing in the NRL,
In 2019 he played for New South after making his debut for the Broncos Granville has been the back-bone of
Wales Residents against Queensland in Round 1 of that year against the a Cowboys outfit that has struggled
but his 2020 season will start North Queensland Cowboys. for several seasons.
somewhat disrupted, with Fermor
on the mend following an ACL injury Renowned for his toughness and By the time season 2020 comes
suffered in the back half of last year. work ethic, Gillett fought back from around he will be almost 31 years
a fractured neck that kept him out old and in the twilight of a great
Jake Friend (Noosa) is now a very for much of 2018 to start the 2019 career that includes two premierships
seasoned campaigner having played season for the Broncos and won back with Wynnum Manly and an NRL
for Australia and won three NRL his place in the Queensland team for premiership in 2015 with the
premierships. The 2019 season was the first two Origin games, before Cowboys. Granville has averaged 25
bitter-sweet with the long serving groin and lower back complaints games a season with the Cowboys
Sydney Roosters hooker missing interrupted his year. and there is nothing to indicate he
most of the season through injury won’t add another 25 in 2020.
but recovered in time to play in The 31-year-old worked his way back
their winning Grand Final against onto the field before the shoulder Ben Hunt (Blackwater) is one of
Canberra. injury struck in the dying minutes seven St Brendan’s College, Yeppoon
of the final home game of the year players in our Central Division list
Some players wait a life-time and against South Sydney – the extent and one of the few Queensland
never play in an NRL Grand Final, of this injury was revealed in post- players to retain his Australian jersey
Jake Friend has played in four, season scans. in 2019. While he plays half-back for

20 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

Corey Oates, the reluctant winger with 92 tries.

the Dragons he has been used off Australia and would be considered in Discarded by the Cowboys in 2019 he
the bench for Australia and can play a best Australian XIII of 2019. joined the Wayne Bennett-coached
hooker or half-back with ease. Hunt South Sydney where he played 25
is a very experienced campaigner Patrick Kaufusi (Bundaberg) has been games in an outstanding year. Lowe
having played 235 NRL games in the NRL system for six seasons and made his Origin debut on the 10th
including 189 for the Broncos and has played for the North Queensland July 2019 and was rushed into the
46 for his current club, St George. Cowboys, Melbourne Storm and in starting line-up and kicked four goals
The classy half-back has also played 2019 signed a mid-season contract from four attempts and set up the
seven games for Queensland and with the St George-Illawarra Dragons. try that almost won Queensland the
eight games for Australia. Kaufusi went to the Dragons in July game and the series.
and played six games towards the
Felise Kaufusi (Bundaberg) is one end of the season. A different style of Reed Mahoney (Beerwah) will play
of the best forwards in Australia and player to his brother, Felise, he has State of Origin for Queensland, it’s
has played in all games during the also played two tests for Tonga. a matter of time. The rugged hooker
2018 and 2019 Origin campaigns for is only 21 and his break-out season
Queensland. Now in his fifth season Ethan Lowe (Goondiwindi) is like old (2019) with the Parramatta Eels
with the Melbourne Storm he has wine, he gets better as he gets older saw him play 26 games including
averaged 24 games a season over and in 2019 made an outstanding two semi-finals. The only game he
the last four years. A hard running debut for Queensland. A goal kicking was not the run-on hooker was in
second-row forward, Kaufusi is an second row forward he had played round 11 when the Eels lost 64-10 to
automatic Australian selection but 108 games for the North Queensland Melbourne.
missed the 2019 end-of-season tests Cowboys since joining the club in
through injury. He has played three 2013 including the 2015 and 2017 Mahoney played for Queensland
games for Tonga and four tests for NRL Grand Finals. Under 20 in 2018 and was selected

Moses Mbye, one of the stars of the Central Division.
QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLANLLDPDHIOVITSOIOSN: NRL I2m1agery

in the Prime Ministers XIII and to join Wests Tigers in 2018 and history, passing Allan Langer (258
Australian Under 23s at the end of the was captain of their club on several games), but he is no longer the
2019 season. occasions during the 2019 season. selection untouchable who reigned as
Brisbane’s No.1 hooker for the past
Kurt Mann (Winton) is another of the Mbye is another of the handy utility decade. Injuries and a host of young
journey-men rugby league players players who can wear Queensland talent including Corey Paix and Jake
that sit just below the top tier of rugby colours and during his 120 game Turpin are keeping McCullough on
league. A very dependable utility he NRL career he has played half- his toes.
has played fullback, winger, centre, back, centre, five-eighth, hooker and
five-eighth and half-back in his total fullback. Cameron Munster (Rockhampton) is
of 107 NRL games for the Melbourne the new player than the Blues love
Storm, St George-Illawarra and in Andrew McCullough (Dalby) has to hate and one of the few current
2019 the Newcastle Knights. been the heart and soul of the Queensland players certain of
Brisbane Broncos since coming into Australian selection.
He played 19 games for the Knights grade in 2008. The veteran hooker is
in 2019 and at 26 years of age is still only in his late 20s but has played Although equally at home at fullback,
looked at as a serious utility player by 261 games for his beloved Broncos Munster is the 2018 and 2019 Dally M
most good judges in the game. as well as all three Origin games for ‘Five Eighth of the Year’ and creates
Queensland in 2018. havoc whenever he plays. Still only 25
Moses Mbye (Noosa) had an years old he is an automatic selection
outstanding 2019 season culminating A tackling machine who has often for Queensland and Australia and
in his selection in all three Origin led the NRL in defence, McCullough has now played 114 games in the
games for Queensland. A victim of has had a magnificent career at the Melbourne Storm colours.
the salary cap problems that plagued Broncos. The 29-year-old is the
the Sydney Bulldogs, he was forced fifth most-capped player in Broncos A player who does something every

Matt Scott, one of the very best of the Central Division. Elle Stitt, a role model for young players.

Reed Mahoney, maybe Queensland 2020 hooker.
ALL PHOTOS: NRL Imagery

22 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

Cameron Munster plays with his heart on his sleeve. Lachlan Timm, you will hear about him in 2020.
ALL PHOTOS: NRL Imagery

time he touches the ball, Munster is best rugby league in ahead of him. talented player, she has played for
the new go-to man for Melbourne Queensland Country for the past two
since the departure of Cooper Cronk Matt Scott (Ilfracombe) has finally seasons.
and Billy Slater. hung up the boots after a sterling
16 season career with the North Ashley Taylor (Toowoomba) was
Corey Oates (Baralaba) played all Queensland Cowboys, Queensland the Dally M Rookie of the Year in
three games for Queensland during and Australia. The mighty man from 2016 but only managed 10 games
the 2019 Origin campaign and with Ilfracombe commenced his career on with the Titans in 2019. Taylor, an
more than 140 NRL games under his the 17th July 2004 and played the last outstanding attacking player when
belt for the Brisbane Broncos is now a of his 268 NRL games on the 17th on-song departed the Titans for a
seasoned campaigner at the ripe old August 2019 against the Knights in period in mid-season but is back
age of 25. He is now closing in on a Newcastle. training for 2020. Often mentioned
century of tries with 92 to his name and when Queensland Origin teams are
is seen as a major attacking weapon Scott won a grand final and a World selected, the talented Taylor has now
in the Queensland and Broncos back- Club Challenge with the Cowboys played more than 80 NRL games and
line. Considered by many unlucky to and also played in 22 Origin games must lift for the Titans in 2020.
have not played for Australia by now, and 22 tests for Australia.
it’s only a matter of time before the Lachlan Timm (Maroochydore) was
big winger from Baralaba wears the One of the greatest forwards to selected in the 2018 Queensland
green and gold. come from the Central Division he Residents team while playing for
will always be remembered as an the Sunshine Coast Falcons and in
Jonus Pearson (Yeppoon) moved honest forward who never knew 2019 while signed for the St George
from the Brisbane Broncos to the when to stop. Illawarra Dragons was one of the
Dragons in 2019 and played 10 most impressive forwards in the
games in the top grade after 11 games Elle Stitt (Emerald) who plays for New South Wales Intrust Super Cup
in three seasons with the Broncos. the Emerald Cowboys was named topping the Leader-board for metres,
The former Queensland Residents 18th player for Queensland in the runs and post-contact metres in the
winger is only 24 years old and his 2019 Women’s Origin game. A NSW Cup.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 23

NRL IN THE Warriors and New Zealand fullback, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck running in front of a packed stadium.
PHOTO: NRL Imagery

CENTRAL DIVISION
Round 5 – South Sydney Rabbitohs vs New Zealand Warriors
Sunshine Coast Stadium 13th April 2019

THEY came from everywhere to break the record for a
sporting event at the newly developed Sunshine Coast
Stadium when the New Zealand Warriors played the South
Sydney Rabbitohs in round five.

11,912 rugby league lovers were thrilled to see their
champions in action and the players never let the spectators
down as they put on a mighty display.

Both teams scored two tries in the opening 40 minutes and
with the board locked a 12-12 everybody expected a great
second half.

The Warriors went out to a 24-12 lead and looked home for
all money before the Rabbitohs scored the last three tries of
the game to take the points with a 28-24 victory.

Cody Walker played himself into a New South Wales jersey
with a mighty four try effort while former Central Division
player, Ethan Lowe from Goondiwindi had the Queensland
selectors looking after scoring the game winner.

Ethan Lowe has thrived under the coaching of Wayne Bennett The Wayne Bennett coached Rabbitohs handled the
PHOTO: NRL Imagery conditions the better with a 77% completion rate and
eventually 54% of possession.

The crowd loved the action and the Sunshine Coast Stadium
has been awarded the 2020 Women’s State of Origin game
to ensure another full house.

24 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019 A good view of the record crowd that packed Sunshine Coast Stadium for the NRL game.
PHOTO: NRL Imagery

PRESTON CAMPBELL

STATE OF MIND IN CHERBOURG

A very important message was shared Cherbourg Hornets and Wondai Wolves after game
at the end of the senior rugby league PHOTO: Contributed by South Burnett Online
game played in Cherbourg in August
… and it wasn’t the final score. like they were alone, but this wasn’t between the two clubs.”
the case.
The match was between the The game began with the release of
Cherbourg Hornets and Wondai “The reason I do what I do is to help yellow balloons.
Wolves, two teams that have been hit people be brave and speak out,” he
hard by tragedies in their junior ranks said. Despite being down in numbers,
during recent times. Wondai put up a game fight and were
“Let’s keep these young girls and behind just 16-10 midway through the
A special guest on the sidelines was boys alive.” first half.
former Titans, Panthers and Sharks
NRL star Preston Campbell. Cherbourg Council CEO and Hornets But several length-of-the-field runs
club president Warren Collins said he by the Hornets’ Errol Simpson and
Preston, who retired at the end of the hoped the shield would be contested Malachi Wallace soon put paid to any
2011 season, was in the South Burnett annually between the Wolves and Wolves’ ambitions.
to speak at Murgon State High School Hornets.
and present the NRL’s State of Mind For the record, the Hornets were
program at the Cherbourg JRL Sports “Both of our clubs, families and ahead 66-16 when the game was
Complex on Friday night. communities have been devastated called off late in the second half.
during recent times,” Warren said. In the other A Grade rugby league
This program aims to tackle the stigma game, played in Kingaroy on Friday
around mental illness, increase “We thought it would be fitting to play night, the Mustangs defeated the Red
understanding and encourage all for the Suicide Awareness Shield. I Ants 34-22.
players, referees, volunteers and hope we can continue this tradition
supporters to seek help. – Ann Miller (South Burnett Online)

Preston told southburnett.com.au the George Fisher (Hornets) and Robert Christensen (Wolves)
visit had been scheduled in advance were presented with the shield by Preston Campbell.
and he would have understood PHOTO: Contributed by South Burnett Online
completely if the clubs had decided
to postpone it in the wake of recent
deaths.

However, the decision was made to
go ahead with the planned Suicide
Awareness Round despite the shock
and sadness in the local community.

Preston, who has fought depression
himself, said he wanted to encourage
young people to speak up and ask for
help.

He shared this message at the end
of the game when he presented the
inaugural Suicide Awareness Shield.

“No doubt it’s a tough time for the
community, for the whole area,”
Preston said. “I wish I was here in
better circumstances.

“Everyone has been touched by
suicide, by mental health and it
shouldn’t be swept under the carpet
any more.”

He said young men and women felt

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 25

Proud to be
"BEYOND THE NEST”

Assembled participants at 2019 Camp Murgon PCYC

“BEYOND THE NEST” Rugby League Program (South Beyond the Nest guides players to improving their
Burnett Rugby League) was established in June 2018 to on-field skill set, their work ethic and personal pride,
reconnect the South Burnett Rugby League with its local through professionally run development sessions
clubs, to improve the quality of coaching and training for held sporadically throughout the season.
our local junior players and to improve the professionalism
of the league and its participants. On top of these development sessions, Beyond the Nest
also has an annual development camp that goes for two
Beyond the Nest is an all-inclusive program offered to all nights held at the Murgon PCYC. The camp involves more
registered players from the ages of 12 to 17 (Under 13-18) than rugby league, boasting guest speakers, leadership
and has grown to have over 100 participants through players workshops and indigenous cultural components as well.
and staff; a number that is expected to grow again in 2020.

26 THE CROW FLIES HWIGrHes2t0li1n9g at the camp U14 Boys Gym Session at the camp U15/16 Boys

2019 U14 Boys Coaching Staff (L-R): Alan Trunks, Danny
Slade, Peter Carstairs, Leslie Alexander, Sheree Prendergast

The program developed out of a recognised need for as positive role model in a young person’s life. This fact
pride to be put back into the South Burnett Eagles is not lost on the coaching staff and this professionalism
Representative Program. The zing had been lost for a and dedication by the staff is one reason the program has
once proud Rugby League area and to pull on a mighty been successful.
Eagles jersey just didn’t have the same appeal.
It is the mantra of the program that by investing in our
Representative Rugby League was at an all-time low in youth incorporating sport, teamwork, community spirit
the Junior Ranks. In order to rectify this, Beyond the and personal pride we will produce quality citizens
Nest was born to develop our junior Eagles to give them who at the end of the day are our future.
the best platform to springboard into higher competitions
when it is time to spread their wings, not only in Rugby The program is run monthly in the off season and builds
League, but into the wider community. towards the commencement of the representative season
in May with additional sessions run after the subsequent
Strong work ethics are expected of participants, selection of these teams.
positive behaviour and community involvement. Brand
identification is a key to ensuring youths “want” to belong The program has been greatly supported by Ken Mills
to this program. It is not a representative program, but Isuzu, Kingaroy who has enabled the expansion of
it is an expectation that those wishing to play Rep Footy Beyond the Nest. Without this support the program could
attend regularly. not reach the participants it does.

The program involves up-skilling coaches, managers South Burnett Regional Council has also supported the
and assistants, firstly in coaching of Rugby league but Development Camps ensuring an affordable experience
additionally in other life skills. for all participants. Without the support of these two
wonderful organisations this new initiative would just be
It is recognised that Rugby League coaches are identified an idea.

SBRL Coaching Staff U35/43kg to U18’s training session with
QBRlLaCkEeNMTRaArLaQaUnEdEDNSeLnAnNisDMDIoVoISrIeOiNn Kin2g7aroy.

CENTRAL BURNETT

YEAR IN REVIEW

2019 South Burnett U35kg Team 2019 South Burnett U43kg Team
PHOTO: Courtesy of JD Sporting Photography PHOTO: Courtesy of JD Sporting Photography

Murgon DV Awareness Round – May 17th for Zone 5 U35kg Carnival. All 9 teams brought the
drought stricken town of Cunnamulla alive for the week.
“No Excuse for Abuse” was the theme for this round. The
round started with the NRL Game Development Officer, The majority of the South Burnett teams camped on the
Blake Mara doing eight school visits over three days banks of the Warrego River and great times were had by
assisted by Queensland Police Constable Jemma Grant all.
and Detective Sergeant Scott Prendergast. They delivered
reading and literacy programs as well as focusing on This carnival truly brings the best out of young players
domestic violence awareness. This led to game day in and it gives everyone a better understanding of our great
Murgon. It was a round robin for all junior grades which game.
saw over 100 modified games played from U6 – U12 to
keep the young people entertained and occupied while The South Burnett Coach, Nathan Prain was proud of his
the Stanwell 9’s for the seniors ran and raised awareness player’s efforts and behaviour over the entire week.
around the issues of Domestic Violence throughout the
community. It was a free event, which included a jumping Balonne Barwon were the successful winners of the
castle, and face painting and was also an alcohol-FREE carnival, while the South Burnett team took home the
day. Athletics Shield for the first time.

50th Anniversary for Zone 5 U35kg Carnival – July 2019 The highlight of the week at the end of the Carnival was
the Lolly drop – many kilograms of lollies were dropped
This year saw the South Burnett team travel some 600kms onto the ground from a helicopter, the kids were like a
to Cunnamulla to participate in the 50th year anniversary swarm of bees collecting them.

PHOTO: Courtesy of Cole Cooper

28 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

Kingaroy Pink Day
17th August

This was the 5th year Kingaroy
has held their annual Pink Day. It
is the one day of the year the club
looks forward to raising money for
Women's cancer research.

Money is raised from the hugely
popular pink cupcake and lolly stall,
meat tray raffles, merchandise, gate
takings and a major raffle prize of a
signed jersey.

This year the Kingaroy Club donated
$2750.00 to QLD cancer foundation
which has taken the total to over
$10,000 since it started.

It's always greatly supported by
opposing teams to come up against
the mighty Kingaroy Pink Ants.

Kingaroy Under 12 Team showing the colours
PHOTO: Courtesy Wayne Frohloff

Zone 5 – U43kg Carnival – July 2019

This year the South Burnett U43kg team travelled to
Clifton for a jammed packed week of football against other
regions including; Central Downs, Warwick, Balonne
Barwon, Western Downs, Cunnamulla, Wynnum and
MacIntyre.

South Burnett started strongly and played well throughout
the week, only going down to Balonne Barwon. Coaching
staff were very impressed with their players effort and
behaviour over the week-long carnival, with five South
Burnett boys named in the Team of the Carnival (Darryl
Gyemore, Trent Aubrey, Sebastian King, Harrison
Braithwaite and Rory Crumpton).

Wondai Mini-Mod Carnival – 21st July

The annual Mini Mod rugby league carnival was held on
Saturday 21st July.

The event attracts scores of junior teams from across the
Wide Bay region including the seven local clubs as well as
teams from Burrum, Maryborough, Gympie and Hervey
Bay in U6’s to U12’s.

Mini-Mod is an introductory form of rugby league, with
modified rules, which emphasises skill development and
having fun.

The carnival usually attracts more than 500 junior players
– and their supporters – to Wondai every year.

All games are played with a quick turn-around which
gives spectators constant footy action across three fields.
Kingaroy U12’s were the overall winners of the carnival
for 2019

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 29

QLD TRAINING AWARDS PHOTO: Courtesy Sheree Prendergast
26th July

Brenna Prendergast completed her
Certificate III in Business with the
Australian Training Company hosted by
the South Burnett Rugby League and
supported by QRL in April 2019.

Brenna was a Regional Finalist for
School Based Apprentice/Trainee of
the year for the Queensland Training
Awards in July this year.

Brenna was a worthy representative
in this category and the South Burnett
Rugby League and affiliates were
extremely proud of her achievements.

CENTRAL BURNETT GRAND FINAL

GAYNDAH GLADIATORS RLFC – 2019 CENTRAL BURNETT PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Callan Trott, Luke Altham, Gavin Berrie (President), Leroy Brown, Stuart Kirk, Tom
Jameson, Shane Morgan, Mac Kenny, Jaybin Pearce, Justin Taylor, Dave Madden (Coach), Dave Ulcoq (Manager), Peter Randell (Committee), Liam Godden, Chris Banhnisch,
Kirsty Taylor (League Safe), Robert Linsket (League Safe) Front: Mitch Ballin, Zac Dann (Captain), Clem Shadford (Supporter), Hayden Morgan, Matt Emmerton, Matt Ulcoq,
Trent Berrie, Kai Clancy Sitting: Ben Kenny

MUNDUBBERA Tigers half back Daniel West-Pes was Round 8, featuring five tries.
awarded the Walter Slack Memorial Award for Central
Burnett Rugby League's Player of the Year at the conclusion The Men of League Foundation named West-Pes their
of the Tigers' 26-32 grand final loss to Gayndah Gladiators. Tigers Man of the Match.

In another clinical display, West-Pes scored a hat-trick of Gladiators captain Zac Dann was the Foundation's pick
tries, but it was not enough to haul his side over the line. for Man of the Match and was also presented the trophy
for Representative Player of the Year, leading to cries of
West-Pes also received the trophy for Highest Points "two grand Dann” from the Gladiators players.
Scorer, after he nabbed 72 throughout the season,
consisting of 14 tries and eight conversions, including a CBRL secretary Melinda Thorburn said Dann plays "with
season-high of 34 points scored against Monto Roos in his heart on his sleeve.” "He gives 120 per cent,” she said.

30 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

Tom Jameson’sGfoauyrntdraiehs,hgoomoed.enough to get

Daniel Wes-Pes, winner of the Walter Slack Memorial Trophy for Player of the Year – pictured
with Central Region Chairman, Danny McGuire and CBRL Secretary Melinda Thorburn.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Cole Cooper

"This year, I've seen him play so well and try and drag his playing (the grand final), the growth has been amazing to
team along with him, he's been the difference in quality.” watch and inspiring,” she said.

Dann said it was an "honour” playing representative football. "I think if he went for mayor he'd probably win.”

He applauded the Tigers for a thrilling final. Tom Jameson, meanwhile, was the CBRL Man of the
Match for his four tries coming back from injury.
"I can't thank Mundubbera enough, you've pushed us this
year,” he said. "To me, there's no argument, this guy made the difference
between winning and losing,” Thorburn said.
In the words of Thorburn, "big bad” Leroy Brown was
named Rookie of the Year. Jameson also lauded the Tigers, who he said had been
"Watching you play your first game to coming here and the "team to beat” this year.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 31

SOUTH BURNETT GRAND FINAL

Maurice and Barwoo Fisher celebrate

MURGON RLFC – 2019 SOUTH BURNETT PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Matthew Wallace, Barwoo Fisher, Mark Saltner, Jeffrey Vaughan, Karl Berlin, Arthur Saltner, Neil Stanley,

Eric Law Jnr, Sam Fuller, Maurice Fisher, Barry Tapau-Fewquandie, Lehman Brunjes, Luke Dudgeon, Buddy Stanley Front (L-R): Wade Stanton, Keith Walsh, Elwyn Fewquandie,

Dwayne Malone, Christopher Bond, Lewis Hopkins, Michael Giles, Justin Giles, Corey Smith, Ryan Brown PHOTOS: Courtesy of Ann Miller (South Burnett Online)

THE Murgon Mustangs are weren’t able to convert this pressure With the clock ticking down, Murgon
celebrating after wrapping up the into points. was ahead but Cherbourg weren’t
2019 season with a victory in the about to give in and at times looked
A Grade grand final before an Barwoo Fisher put the Mustangs’ first set to overpower the home team.
enthusiastic home crowd. points on the board with 26 minutes But some Murgon magic in the last
left in the half. The wind, which had 10 minutes led to tries by Elwyn
It’s been a big year for the Mustangs been playing havoc with goal attempts Fewquandie and Eric Law Jnr, blowing
club … new changing rooms, multiple across grades all day, struck again and the scoreline out to 28-14.
carnivals and taking home the minor Lewis Hopkins’ conversion attempt hit Murgon tries were scored by Barwoo
premiership in A Grade. the posts and was waved away. The Fisher (2), Arthur Saltner, Mark
score was 4-all. Saltner, Elwyn Fewquandie and Eric
Grand Final day was always going to Law Jnr. Lewis Hopkins kicked two
be huge at Murgon Showgrounds – When Arthur Saltner crossed for goals.
with trophies to be decided in U12s and Murgon just minutes later, there were Cherbourg tries were scored by
U14s as well as the senior competition celebrations on the field and in the Richard Conlon, Norman Wragge
– and the crowd responded. stands as Murgon had now hit the and Kenneth Bone. Bernard Hopkins
front for the first time. kicked one goal.
Supporters gathered around the
ground behind balloons and banners. Twelve minutes from the break, a Captain Michael Giles with Rob Crow
Cherbourg player was sent to the sin
The windy conditions played havoc bin but the loss didn’t stop the Hornets
with goal kicking, and the dust added from scoring almost immediately.
an extra flavour to everything, but all Norman Wragge’s try again evened
three games were close and played in the score again, 8-all.
good spirit.
However, a Mark Saltner try just four
Murgon 28 def. Cherbourg 14 minutes later meant Murgon went into
The A Grade grand final was a lot half-time ahead 12-8.
closer than the final score indicated,
with the Hornets dominating the first Murgon were the first to draw blood
25 minutes of the game and testing in the second half with Barwoo Fisher
Murgon for most of the 80 minutes. scoring his second try. This time
the conversion was successful and
Cherbourg scored first via Richard Murgon’s lead had extended to 18-8.
Conlon just after kick-off, and then
mounted multiple attacks on the Ten minutes later the Hornets struck
Mustangs’ line for at least 10 minutes, back, with Kenneth Bone narrowing
starving Murgon of possession. the gap and Bernard Hopkins adding
Unfortunately for Hornets’ fans, they the extras.

32 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

WOLVES HOWLING

ON SUNSHINE COAST

STANLEY RIVERS RLFC A GRADE – 2019 SUNSHINE COAST PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Daniel Bott (Leaguesafe), Gary Zealand (Sports Medicine), Courtney Smith (Sports
Medicine), Rowan Klein (player-coach), Ryley Kajewski, Jake Carl, Ryan Hansen, Dean Lude, Connor Jackson, Russell Klein (Manager) obscured, Brodie Sharman, Gerard
Tibbetts, Scott Floss, Paul Ivan, Kevin Weaver (Club President), Rod McLeod (Leaguesafe) Middle crouching: Trevor Collett, Brett Doherty, Rueben Baillie, Blair Howard, Sam
(Carrot) Armitage Front sitting: Dayne Rogers, Chris Aiton (Captain), Callum Klein (player-coach), Tom Murphy (Captain), Cory Parker, Riley Hallam (Tee/Ball Boy)

LIGHTNING can strike twice and there are fairy tales as But that would be the end of Caboolture’s points until the
Stanley River Wolves defeated Caboolture 28-16 to win 79th minute as the boys from Woodford re-grouped and
the 2019 Vantage Homes Cup Division 1 Grand Final. after stretching play from touch line to touch line, Connor
Jackson eventually posted the Wolves' first try after taking
With almost 4,000 raucous fans and spectators, Grand out the corner post to make it 10-4.
Final day at the Sunshine Coast Stadium concluded with
the re-born Stanley River Wolves claiming the title at their No nonsense defence and robust tackling from both sides
first attempt since 2002 by defeating Caboolture 28-16. prevailed until 4 minutes from the break when Wolves
co-captain and eventual Man of the Match, Tom Murphy
In a repeat of history 40 years previously when the scored a converted try to make it 10-all.
Wolves defeated Caboolture in another A-Grade final, it
does show that lightning can strike twice. Reminiscent of the preliminary final where Caboolture were
run down after leading 14-10 at half-time, Stanley River
Bolting out of the blocks faster than Usain Bolt, gathered momentum to once again dominate the second
Caboolture’s Aaron Clode scored out wide from an off half with tries in the 11th minute to Ryley Kajewski and
load by Connor Cox in the 3rd minute after some slick Brett Doherty in the 16th minute to race to a 22-10 lead.
backline play.
Two penalty goals to Brett Doherty and a try to Brodie
Seven minutes later, Jackson Moule scored near the posts Sharman saw the Wolves lead by 18 points and suddenly,
after a deft in-goal kick by Scott Maddick. Converted by time was against the Snakes, but it was a case of too little
Andrew Davies, the Snakes led 10 nil and looked on song too late when Jessy Besselaar crossed for a consolation
against a Wolves side struggling to find its rhythm. try in the 79th minute.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 33

COOLUM COLTS RLFC DIVISION 2A – 2019 VANTAGE HOME CUP PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Tomas Child, Jackson Smith, Jesse Shearer, Joshua Olsen (President) Luke
Wade, Joseph Price, Cheyne Gray, Elijah Bax, Patrick Preston, Michael Cocks, Nathan Shelton, Troy Bramham, William Sullivan, Keir Nicholls, Jamie McBrien, Nicholas Hewton,
Rokat Nawaitodre, Ryan Carfantan (Assistant Coach) Luke Vogler Front: Bodhi Roberts, Souksakhone Sikham, Russell Bebbington (Coach), Nathan Carney, Jordan Line, Jake
Bartel, Luke Philp, Jackson Shearer, Donald Miller, Daniel Morgan, Jayden Brown, Stuart Murdoch (FAO)

Converted by Andrew Davies from the touch line, as the Will Sullivan from Coolum was judged the Man of the Match.
full-time whistle was blown, Stanley River 28 defeated
Caboolture 16 to show that sometimes, just sometimes, A three-try haul from fullback Mitchell Braun and a double
fairy tales do come true. to centre and Man of the Match Ashley Mumby, saw
minor premiers Beachmere claim the Division 2B Vantage
In a wonderful entertaining game of rugby league in the Homes Cup title as they defeated the Kilcoy Yowies.
Vantage Homes Cup Division 2A Grand Final, Coolum
hung on to beat minor premiers Beerwah 20-16. Kilcoy were on the back foot from the kick-off after the ball
went untouched over the dead ball line while early penalties
Leading 20-10 with nine minutes to go, Beerwah stormed enabled Beachmere to go on the attack as Mitchell Braun
back into the match with a converted try to Luke Philip and scored the first of his triple after just 4 minutes.
then with just four minutes remaining, Coolum defenders
had to push the Beerwah winger into touch on the try line With play see-sawing up and down the field, Yowies' four-
before laying claim to their second consecutive title. try hero from the previous week, Trae Storr crossed in the
28th minute after some good lead up work by Steve Reay
With both team scoring three tries, it was the goal kicking of to make it 4-all, but that would be the end of the scoring
Coolum’s Jackson Shearer and Keir Nicholls that proved for the lads from Kilcoy as Braun sliced through for his
the difference while Shearer directed his team around the second just two minutes from half-time for the Pelicans
stadium all afternoon. to lead 10-4.

SUNSHINE COAST GYMPIE RUGBY LEAGUE GRAND Man of the Match – Tom Murphy with the Mal Meninga Trophy
FINAL RESULTS PHOTO: Contributed

Vantage Homes Cup Division 1
Stanley River 28: Connor Jackson, Brodie Sharman, Ryley
Kajewski and Thomas Murphy tries; Brett Doherty try and
4 goals d Caboolture 16: Aaron Clode, Jessy Besselaar
and Jackson Moule tries; Andrew Davies 2 goals.

Vantage Homes Cup Division 2A
Coolum 20: Jake Bartel, Jordan Line and Luke Philp tries;
Keir Nicholls goal and Jackson Shearer 3 goals d Beerwah
16: James Soanes, Rakari Kake tries; and Tony Ainsworth
try and 2 goals.

Vantage Homes Cup Division 2B
Beachmere 26: Mitchell Braun 3 tries, Ashley Mumby 2
tries and Jake Wood 3 goals d Kilcoy 4: Trae Storr try.

WIN TV Under 18 Cup
Kawana 34: Jack Aiken 3 tries, Ethan Akers, Lucas Bell,
Sam Reid and Kaleb Sutton tries, Joseph Lowe 3 goals.

34 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

KAWANA DOLPHINS RLFC UNDER 18 – 2019 WIN TV Sunshine Coast Premiers – Standing (L-R): Pat Liebke (Manager), Mark Murphy (Coach), Caleb Sutton, Jack Aiken, Mark
Gordon (League Safe), Sam Reid, Gerald Thompson (FAO), Lincoln Savanh, Zac Short, Harry Liebke, Jai Harris, Jay Lanuto, Jackson Ricotta, Luke Osborne, Kobe Kay, Jimi
Parsons, Ethan Green, Chad Stewart Kneeling: Tyler Gillam, David Long, Mason Hogarth, David Hogg, Grant Osborne (League Safe), Tom Foster, John Lanuto (FAO) Sitting:
Ethan Akers, Joe Lowe, Jake Zammit, Lucas Bell

MAROOCHYDOORE RLFC WOMENS A GRADE 18 – 2019 SUNSHINE COAST PREMIERS – Standing (L-R): Gary Dwyer, Jordan Dwyer, Lauren Coutts, Tarni Sullivan, Toni-Lee
Hutchison, Kaitrin Lovell, Jason Chizzotti, Ella-J Harris, Natalie Orth, Luke Lanham, Amber Carney, Madison Kelly, Lily Bougoure, Tanya Bougoure, Tamara Collins, Tiarna Sellars
Middle: Jade Shuttlewood, Mitch Ford, Georgia Gradwell, Matya Ramsey, Tyla Mitchell, Demi Chizzotti, Chantal Nagel, Codi Daley, Kassy Stort, Chanelle Chizzotti Front: Sarah
Stalhut, Tyra Davies, Xena Ene, Maddison Thomson

When Braun crossed for his third try six minutes into the Three tries to Jack Aiken and three goals to Joseph Lowe
second half and converted by Jake Wood, Beachmere complemented Kawana’s Jake Zammit’s performance as
had one hand on the trophy at 16-4. Man of the Match.

Two tries to Ashley Mumby, a late penalty to Jake Wood As part of the day, the race to determine the fastest
and some solid defence saw the Pelicans keep Kilcoy man and woman over 100m from the Sunshine Coast
scoreless in the second half to make it 26-4. Rugby League were held at half-time of the main game.
Congratulations to Jessica Taylor (Noosa) on winning the
In the Win TV Under 18 Cup, minor premiers Kawana women’s and Henderson Godfrey (Kawana) who won in a
defeated Beachmere 34-0, rattling up 28 unanswered tight finish on winning the men’s title.
points in the first half to hold a comfortable lead at the
break. In a dominating display, the Dolphins were too big, The SCGRFL would like to thank all those who contributed
too strong and too fast across the field for Beachmere to make Grand Final day at the Sunshine Coast Stadium
who tried hard all game. such a success.

Enjoy the off-season.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 35

MAROONS STAR IN CHARLEVILLE

Michael Morgan (seated) is ‘King of the Kids’ in Charleville. Other Maroons
players (L-R): Dylan Napa, Corey Oates and Kurt Capewell.
PHOTO: QRL Media

Charleville was abuzz with activity

(L-R): Joe Ofahengaue, Kieron Lander (Deadly Choices) and David Fifita CHARLEVILLE turned a patriotic shade of Maroon when
PHOTO: QRL Media it welcomed Queensland's State of Origin Game 1 side
to town.
Maroon’s star, Dane Gagai with young fans in Charleville.
PHOTO: QRL Media The squad embarked on its annual regional Fan Day less
than 24 hours after being named as a team and took time
36 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019 out to meet with the throng of adoring fans – some of
whom had travelled hundreds of kilometres to see them.

The players, many who have roots in the bush, took the
trip in their stride, letting locals know they were keen to be
in the west.

"This is definitely a special day,” said Ben Hunt, who will
be donning the number nine jersey for Game 1 at Suncorp
Stadium on June 5.

"Coming out to see all the country kids, and being one
myself, you really appreciate when something like this
happens.

"They don't come around very often, so it is good to come
out and give back to some families who are doing it a bit
tough.”

The sentiment of the Fan Day being a once in a lifetime
opportunity was shared among the entire community in
Charleville, and outside of it.

"It has been a long time coming and we are very excited
now that it has arrived; it is everything that we thought
would happen,” said Murweh Shire Mayor, Annie Liston.

Corey Oates and Matt Gillet
PHOTO: QRL Media

as the 2019 Queensland Maroons arrived for their annual Origin Day.

"I want to thank everybody for coming along and supporting "It means a great deal to have the Origin team come
us with this, we are stoked that all of it has happened. here,” Mrs Liston said.

"It is everything we hoped it would be, the crowd is where "A lot of our players from past years – Darren Lockyer
we thought it would be, and we can't thank the QRL from Roma, Chris Close from Cunnamulla, and our own
enough for choosing Charleville, it is absolutely beautiful. Adrian Vowles - have all played State of Origin.

"Everyone seems to be having a good time, so that is a "This is all very exciting, and I am so proud to see our
bonus.” local Western Ringers boys training alongside the Origin
team.
Those who hold footy nearest and dearest shared how
much it means to the community. "To be honest, we have had a lot of skilled footballers in
Charleville, who have started their careers here.
"This event is huge, not only for our Shire, but also
surrounding shires as everyone has come on board to "I'm sure a lot of these Western Ringers will be just as
be involved,” said local councillor, and western Ringers valuable; we can hope they will make the Origin side one
coach, Shaun Radnedge. day, and will be very proud of them if they do.”

"To come to a central point to celebrate and meet their For both the avid local players, and the extended Maroons
Origin heroes in person is uplifting for their spirits and squad, Fan Day was a chance to celebrate not just the
morale. best of the game, but the best of the supporters.

"Murweh Shire has already forged a number of positive "We're delighted to be able to bring the Maroons to such
partnerships from this initiative, starting out with The Hope a fiercely proud rugby league region, which is fortunate
Project, who assisted with our submission to the QRL. to have a progressive local council and rugby league
representatives who are passionate about the game,”
"We can't thank the QRL enough for putting on this event.” said Maroons spokesperson Robert Moore.

Outback Queensland has long been a notable training "Of course, we can't thank Kevvie and his team enough
ground for some of rugby league's biggest names, with for their willingness to embrace our regional fans.”
former locals now known as household names.
– FEATURE: Courtesy Western Times

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 37

BUNDABERG BROTHER

Bundaberg Brothers RLFC – 2019 Bundaberg & District A Grade Premiers: Back Row: Daryl Thomas, Jason Templeman, Michael Murphy, Tien Nguyen, Ben Kuskey, Mathew
Templeman, Brent Kuskey, Tyrell Priestley, Taylar Barritt, Tyla Hodge, Jayden Alberts, Brenton Stewart, Pacey Plath, Rick Golchert, Sahlie Komndi, Kaysie Florance, Jamie
Morey, Middle Row - Ben Schrader, Steven Plath, Logan Tanzer, Josh Birch, Hayden Golchert, Jake Bonus, Zak Bainbridge, Josh Straub, Scott Grogan, Mitchell Richardson
Front Row: Brendan McKeown, Kevin Sherriff, Nathan Moore, Kaysan Moore, Benaiah Kambanei, April Plath, Lana Hodge, Kiera Golchert

Les Somerville Medal Winner, Jayden Alberts DYNAMIC fullback Jayden Alberts bagged a double
with David Batt (State Member) and took out the coveted Les Somerville Medal
for A Grade Player of the Grand Final as Past

Brothers completed a golden decade, taking out the
Bundaberg Broadcasters Premiership for the sixth
time in the 2010’s with a tough 32-28 victory over

Waves Tigers at Salter Oval.

But after missing the finals for the first time in many years
in a disastrous 2018 campaign, they had to dig very deep
to oust the defending champions in a pulsating and classic
grand finale, with both sides scoring five tries.

However, the boot of journeyman five-eighth Zak
Bainbridge, who was part of Waves’ beaten grand final side
three years ago, was the difference as he was successful
with all his six attempts, taking his season points tally to a
staggering 198 from eight tries and 83 goals.

Seventeen-year-old Waves winger Lachlan Santana,
who had made his A Grade debut in the qualifying final
and was backing up from their Under 18 grand final loss
earlier in the day, stunned the Brethren when he scored
after just two minutes.

He repeated his heroics at exactly the same point in the
second stanza, taking his finals haul to six in four games,
after Brothers had led 14-10 at the break.

The minor premiers replied swiftly with Alberts’ first try,
but the reigning champions rallied again and took a handy
28-20 lead in the 55th minute with two tries in quick
succession after their other winger and Under 18 captain

38 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

S DOMINATE DECADE

Jayden Alberts Zak Bainbridge

QRL CENTRAL QBUrEoEtNhSeLrAsNcaDpDtIaViInSI,OKNevin3S9heriff

HERVEY BAY SEAGULLS RLFC – 2019 BUNDABERG & DISTRICT UNDER 18 PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Chris Trevallion (Leaguesafe), Ace Webb, Sebastian Currie, Daniel
Goodluck, Jayden Carpenter, William Kluck, Burung Shillingsworth, Tyrese Ross, Gula Shillingsworth, Brock Shepherd, Tshone Dixon Front: Kris Pitchford (Manager), Tyren
Sleath, Casey Russell, Lachlan Tanna, James Hamilton (Mascot), Brodie Rogers, Lachlan Knight, Kyle Sutton, Jacob Blanke (Coach), Kerry Raspoor (Leaguesafe)

Sam Tobin again did brilliantly to score, then powerhouse HERVEY Bay Seagulls claimed the Under 18 title for the
second rower Kristian Colasimone strolled through with first time in eight years, atoning for their drubbing by Wests
alarming ease and veteran Clinton Horne converted both. in last year’s decider, coming from behind to defeat minor
premiers Waves Tigers 26-16.
But Brothers regrouped with a second try to quiet achieving
second rower Hayden Golchert, then with Alberts driving The Tigers roared out of the blocks and led 12-0 after eight
a dagger through Waves’ hearts with his second gem, minutes but the Seagulls drew level with two converted
Bainbridge adding the extras for both for a 32-28 lead with tries in the last five minutes of the half, the second of
14:30 remaining. which came from back-to-back penalties with 23 second
remaining.
Both defences really aimed up as the battle went right
down to the wire, and Waves looked to set to score with Hervey Bay took the lead for the first time with a superb
50 seconds remaining when they again exploited an individual try to halfback Dominic Maguire five minutes into
overlap on the right but the last pass was correctly ruled the second stanza but Waves levelled the ledger at 16-apiece
probably a metre forward. with a fine try to interchange winger Isaac Castanho-Kerr in
the 42nd minute, and they could have been in control except
After a season in which they lost just two games, Brothers’ for disallowed tries either side of that.
Steve Plath later announced that he would be stepping
down after five years as firstly assistant coach, then The Seagulls were unable to capitalise from a string of
coach, to devote more time to his wife and family, while it penalties and a six-again call, but after the Tigers had
was also a fitting farewell for retiring veteran champions, another disallowed try and instead Hervey Bay were
hooker Brent Kuskey and rugged forward Mat Templeman. awarded a penalty, on the back of another penalty in the
ensuing set, powerhouse lock William Kluck plunged over
Templeman, 35, was backing up after playing for the on the right with 6:33 remaining.
Queensland Fire Service against the Queensland Police
Service in the September 11 Commemoration Match in Waves tried hard to respond, but Maguire grabbed the
New York earlier in the week. ball from a perfectly placed attacking kick to the Tigers’
red zone and touched down, four minutes later, before
For Kuskey, 31, it was his eighth A Grade Premiership and Griffin Lowe added the extras.
his sixth for Brothers, while for Templeman, who was part
of the Souths Logan Magpies team which won the InTrust Hervey Bay, who had upset Wests in the minor semi-final,
Cup in 2008, it was also his sixth premiership in the Blue before snatching a last-gasp two-point preliminary final
and White. victory over Wallaroos, celebrated a cherished premiership,
while Waves were left to rue what may have been.
Past Brothers 32 (Jayden Alberts 2, Hayden Golchert
2, Ben Kuskey Tries; Zak Bainbridge 6 Goals) D Waves William Kluck took out the Player of the Final award, but
Tigers 28 (Lachlan Santana 2, Ben Ashford, Sam Tobin, Maguire was also outstanding, while for the Tigers, front
Kristian Colasimone Tries; Clinton Horne 4 Goals). rower Lachlan Madden had a whale of a game, fullback

40 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

Player of the Final, William Kluck with BRL Life Member, Terry Dodd Lachlan Santana and crafty hooker Corey Picaro were
always dangerous, and halfback Sam Tobin turned in his
usual rock-solid performance.

Hervey Bay 26 (Dominic Maguire 2, Brodie Rodgers,
Brock Shepherd, William Kluck Tries; Tshone Dixon 2,
Griffin Lowe Goals) D Waves Tigers 16 (Jackson Paul,
Lachlan Santana, Isaac Castanho-Kerr Tries; Lachlan
Santana 2 Goals). Player Of The Match: William Kluck
(Hervey Bay).

MANY A Grade stars featured in both the Reserve Grade
grand final stars but it was Easts Magpies who triumphed
28-22 in extra-time to make it back-to-back titles.

Easts led 8-4 at half-time but there was never anything
between the sides in a battle royale and after the Magpies
opted not to take a penalty kick in front of the posts in the
dying minutes of regulation time, then went agonisingly
close to scoring in the corner on the siren, the match
finished at 14-all.

Sent into two 10-minute periods of extra-time, the Magpies
broke the deadlock with a second try to one of their A
Grade aces, Dylan Taylor, after just 90 seconds.

But the game-breaker was the sin-binning of Panthers’
Nicholas Tanner midway through that term, and the
Magpies took a commanding 28-14 lead with a try to

EASTERN SUBURBS RLFC – 2019 BUNDABERG & DISTRICT RESERVE GRADE PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Romond Pompey, Daniel Finau, Shane Lea, Tyler Jones,
Gage Paulson, Dylan Zelenski, Isaiah Gala, Trent Seeds, Danny Moran, Paula Naidika, Lachlan Gough, Scott Sologinkin (President) Kneeling: Mesulame Ratubola, Josateki
Masibalavu, Mark Fraser, Jackson Paulson, Robert Wondrock, Dylan Taylor, Cody Moriarty Sitting: Seremaia Kaulala, Sakenasa Lalakomacuata Front: Jordan Bowman

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 41

TANNUM SEAGULLS WOMEN’S RLFC – 2019 PREMIERS BUNDABERG/GLADSTONE INTERCITY LEAGUE – Back (L-R): Vassa Hunter Jnr, Reggie Hickey, Nadine
Day, Leesa Coughlin, Ashleigh Docherty, Shaeli Carty, Axel Maeyke (Leaguesafe), Elle Hughes, behind Elle is John Eade (FAO), Prue Hair, Riley Bateson, Taylah
Cutting, Lucia Coleiro-Carbone, Shakeera Ututaonga, (Hidden behind Shakeera is Kirsty Roberts), Kelly Gallagher, (Hidden behind Kelly is Emily Lymbery) Amy Pople,
(Hidden behind Amy is Kalotini Pople) (Leaguesafe), Allegra Witeri and Barry Nugent (Senior FAO). Front: Hannah Geesu, Rachel Hansen, behind Rachel is Courtney
Kynigalakis, Jasmin Jones, Krystal Sulter, Jamie-Lee Gehrmann, India Poulton, Nakita Rhind, Racquel Nugent, Sarah Morey, Butch Bryson (Coach)

fullback and BRL Reserve Grade Player of the Year Player of the Final award by Amy-Lee Pople, who made a
Jackson Paulson, who then landed his fourth straight goal real impact after starting on the bench.
kick, the first of which had been a booming side-line shot Brothers, who had won the Bundaberg women’s title
which had balanced the ledger at 14-apiece. in eight of the nine years it was contested, suffered a
massive blow with their League Player of the Year and
Wests got back to within a converted try with back-to-back former Queensland open women’s representative star
strikes in the 4th and 6th minutes in the second section of Nicole Curtis suffering a badly broken leg in the last round.
added time, the second of which was scored by Panthers The minor premiers were then smashed by Tannum 32-
electric half Tyson Douglas. 10 in the major semi-final before bouncing back to outgun
Waves Tigers in the preliminary final, and they tried
But that was as close as they got and Easts dominated their hearts out again, but the Seagulls got home with a
over the last few minutes and hung on to claim a deserved boisterous home crowd behind them.
premiership with 21-year-old Waves A Grade fixture of the Tannum Sands 8 (Hannah Geesu 2 Tries) D Past Brothers
past two seasons Paulson completing a red-letter double 0. Player Of Match: Amy-Lee Pople (Tannum).
in his Magpies’ debut year by taking pout the Player of the
Final gong. Player of the Final, Jackson Paulsen with Rob Crow
(Central Division Manager)
Easts 28 (Dylan Taylor 2, Paula Naidika, Trent Seeds,
Jackson Paulson Tries; Jackson Paulson 4 Goals) D
Wests 22 (Tyson Douglas 2, Gage Laird, Jake Coros,
Jensen Deamer Tries; Tymone Robinson Goal) In Extra-
Time. Full Time 14-All. Player Of The Match: Jackson
Paulson (Easts).

HANNAH Geesu was the centre of attention, scoring both
tries to guide hosts Tannum Seagulls to a hard-fought 8-0
victory over Bundaberg’s Past Brothers in the grand final
of the inaugural Bundaberg/Gladstone Intercity Women’s
League in Gladstone.

It had been her centre partner Ashleigh Docherty who had
stolen the thunder all year, finishing as the competition’s
leading try scorer with 22, but Geesu stepped up to the
plate with one try per half to finish with eight for the season,
including one each in their qualifying win over Hervey Bay
and major semi despatch of Past Brothers.

Halfback Krystal Sulter again led from the front, as she
has done all season, but she too was beaten for the

42 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

BUNDABERG/FRASER COAST

JUNIOR INTERNATIONALS GRAND FINALS

THE first Sunday in September hooker Patrick Curtis was deservedly in this game was awarded to a very
at Salter Oval was the significant awarded the player of the match. promising player Liam Doolan, a
timeframe for all Bundaberg, Fraser name to remember as I am sure
Coast and Gladstone (Girls) junior The U17 Girls match between Bundy it will be prominent in future years
international players involved in their and Tannum Sands (Gladstone) within our great game.
annual grand finals played in front of was also an entertaining game
an interchanging crowd of 2000 plus continuously flowing from end to end 2:15 pm and finally the main game
supporters. until the Bundy team prevailed to take of the day with the U16 Boys
out the honours 16-8. Western Suburbs defeating minor
Commencing at 8:00am the Waves Bundy girl Tasma Davies played very premiers Hervey Bay 28-12 in a very
Tigers U13 boys proved far too well and was justly awarded player of entertaining game to complete a
dominant over their Western the match. great program.
Suburbs opponents and ran out very
comfortable winners 30 – 8. Player In what was probably the upset of Wests had very good line speed
of the Match was Waves Tigers the day in the U15 Boys Wallaroos in both attack and defence and
number 4 Thomas Morcom who was (Maryborough) were far too outplayed the Seagulls in a great
outstanding crossing for four tries. methodical and defeated the Grizzlies display of rugby league. Judges had
36-10. The Grizzlies (combined team a very hard time choosing a player
The U14 Girls game was also a one- of Wests & Easts players) were of the match which was awarded
sided affair with Gladstone Wallabys guilty of not completing their sets to Wests non-stop tackling lock
too strong for the Bundy team ticking and their line speed especially in number 13 Connor Black who was
the scoreboard over to finally read defence wasn’t consistent, whereby outstanding in this department.
34-8 at the fulltime siren. Outstanding their opponents were very good in all
number 7 Jakaylha Docherty was aspects of their game and combined In summary out of the six great
unanimously awarded player of the very well team wise. games only two minor premiership
match. winning teams prevailed at the big
Congratulations should be given dance, U13 Waves Tigers Boys and
In what was probably the match of to both Wests & Easts for their U17 Bundy Girls which goes to prove
the day Brothers withstood a strong foresight of combining clubs to the old coaching saying – THE GAME
challenge from Hervey Bay Seagulls make up a team so these young ISN’T OVER UNTIL THE FINAL
to win the U14 Boys GF. Spectators players could compete due to lack WHISTLE.
were kept engaged throughout the of numbers in this age group in
entire contest to witness the Brethren each club. The player of the match – DAVE PEARCE, QRL
take out the game 14-10. Brothers Operations Mgr., Central Region.

WALLABYS UNDER 14 GIRLS JRL – 2019 BUNDABERG/FRASER COAST/GLADSTONE PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Kym Churchward (Manager & FAO), Ciana Williams, Temiah
Lusty, Jakaylha Docherty, Sophie Davison, Miah Powell, Caitlynne Phillips-Powell, Mackenzie Smith, Jamayka Webbe, Gary Churchward (Co Coach) Front: Breana Hickey,
Tamika Melvin, Abby Churchward, Lily Jarvis, Chloe Williams, Brian Pengelly (Co Coach)

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 43

NORTHERN DISTRICTS RUGBY LEAGUE

SUNDAY 11th August was the Northern District RL Grand Player of the Grand Final was Judith Bust from Gin Gin.
Final Day hosted by the Avondale Club at their grounds in This form of the game has proven highly successful and
Tegege. very suitable to our small community brand of Rugby
League.
The day was hugely successful with crowds up by 50% on
2018. The main game, the NDRL Premiership Grand Final was
played between the Avondale “Tigers” and the South Kolan
VIP’s attending were Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor “Sharks”.
Jack Dempsey and CQ Region QRL Chairman and
Manager Danny McGuire and Rob Crow. The “Tigers had only lost one game throughout the season
and had a strong side across the field.
The day started with the Slean Cup between 3rd and 4th
finalists Miriam Vale and Gin Gin. Miriam Vale winning 42 South Kolan had struggled most of the season but gained
– 18. form in time for the final series eliminating Gin Gin in the
Minor Semi and Miriam Vale in the Preliminary Final.
Next on the program was the Women’s League Tag
Premiership between Avondale and Gin Gin. The Avondale The “Tigers” however proved too strong on the day taking
ladies taking the first NDRL Women’s League Tag out the Premiership 56 – 16, player of the Grand Final
Premiership 20 – 6. going to Avondale forward Patrick Tanna.

AVONDALE RLFC – 2019 NORTHERN DISTRICTS PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Atueta Balekana, Keni Nadaro, Paul Barret (Assistant Coach), Kevin Meiers (in green shirt), James

Brogden Next: Gary Leather (Manager), James Clarke (sunnies on hat), Nick Hart, Blake Santalucia, Brendan Prossliner, Grant Charteris (behind guy holding trophy), Tyler

Harvey (also behind guy holding trophy), Dylan Wagner (looking down) Middle: Sennalati Qarau, Matt Beer (Coach, holding can) Malcolm Lambell (leaning over daughter), Clint

Beer, Adam Hides (holding trophy), Frank Primevera (Captain), Dallas Bamberry (holding can), Richard Nagas, Nick Sarnadsky (in blue jacket) Front: Viliamini Tufulele, Patrick

Tanna, Jordan Russell, Billy Sarnadsky Sitting: Aaron Kuskey PHOTO: Red in League Photography

Player of the Final, Judith Bust from Gin Gin Player of the Final, Patrick Tanna from Avondale Tigers
PHOTO: Red in League Photography
44 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019 PHOTO: Red in League Photography

DALBY DIEHARDS RLFC. – 2019 TRL UNDER 18 PREMIERS & PRESIDENTS CUP WINNERS – Back (L-R): Daniel Wassell (Leaguesafe), Ian Wassell (Leaguesafe),
Sam Gillespie, Trent Cuzens, Kristian Bond, Noah Brady, Jamarl Gibbs-Turnbull, Mark Brown, Blake Hunter, James Heinrich, Cory Salter, Scott Hall (Coach), Brent
Hunter (Manager) Front: Keanu Wright-Dunrobin, Daelan Rolls, Timothy Sheehan, Harley Barbarich, David Rongo, Drew Williams, Max Brady, Joshua Chappell, Jake
McCarthy, Brian-Adam Babington, Kuyahn Dunrobin Absent: Jack Clague, Malaki Fing, Trent McGee, Kniran Egel First Aid: Kylie Milne, Jenn Kelly

PHOTO: Dalby RLFC

TOOWOOMBA JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE

ANOTHER exciting season of the Toowoomba Junior Dalby won convincingly over Valleys in the Under 14
Rugby League reached its climax at Clive Berghofer game with the Devils chasing away the Roosters 28-4.
Stadium for the 2019 Grand finals. Gatton recorded the first Under 17 Girls premiership,
defeating South Burnett 42-22.
The TJRL Grand Final day featured seven grand finals
with nine clubs represented. TJRL President Dan The Oakey Bears came out on top against Gatton in the
Aldons declared it was a culmination of another thrilling Under 13/14 Development cup final 30-20. Highfields
season for not only many of the players, but also the Eagles defeated the Leprechauns 28-20 in the Under 15
coaches, managers and match officials. Match.

For the first time in the TJRL’s history, grand final day The Under 16 match was the game of the day as the
included the Under 14 and Under 17 Girls’ finals. All Highfields Eagles and Souths Tigers were both fast-paced
players on the day shone on the biggest stage as they ad full of action.
came alive with the atmosphere of a passionate crowd.
Both teams hit their stride, going into the halftime drawn
The day kicked off with the Under 14 Girls grand final 10 all. The Eagles’ momentum was halted after halftime
with Highfields defeating Warwick 24-14. as the Tigers got on the attack.

Four points separated Brothers from Valleys in the South took the lead in the final minutes as hooker Shaun
Under 13 decider with the Leprechauns coming out on Packer produced some magic to cross the line and snatch
top 20-16. victory from the Eagles 26-22

Toowoomba Juniors introduced an all New Competition for all female teams in 2019.

It’s the first year of the girl’s competition and In 2018 there was a bit of a come and try
there was history made with the introduction of experience with 85 girls interested. This year the
Girls teams in Under 12, Under 14 and Under 17’s. TJRL had had over 300 registered girls playing
across 10 clubs. The interest went berserk and
This was a new initiative of having an established watching the girls from round one and compared
league of their own and the Toowoomba Juniors to now, the standard improved by having a week
where excited to see the girls to be able to get to week competition, which has resulted in a high
involved. quality.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 45

SOUTHERN SUBURBS TIGERS UNDER 16 – TJRL 2019 PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Paul Lowien, Peter Berg, Mitchell Berg, Logan Gray, Noah Dwyer, Flynn Burns, Jackson
Neale, Lachlan Taylor, Logan Hoyling, Kai Thompson, Angus Wright, Tay Murphy, Connor Hoyes-Cock, William McCarthy Front: Llyeton Croome, Blake Moore, Shaun Packer,
Brayden Paix, Riley Burns, Ben Sheppard, Matthew Wilson

2019 AMBASSADORS TOOWOOMBA JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE BALL
The 49th Annual Ball was hosted by the Gatton Junior Rugby League Club and they didn’t disappoint.
Chloe Bradford who represented Pittsworth Junior Rugby League was announced as the 2019 TJRL Ambassador.
Runner up was Taylor Anderton representing the Dalby Devils Junior Rugby League.
L-R: Taylor Anderton (Dalby, runner up), Dan Aldons (TJRL Chairman), Chloe Bradford (Pittsworth, TJRL Ambassador 2019)

46 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

GATTON UNDER 17 GIRLS PREMIERS – Front (L-R): Jessica Fredrick, Kyha Black, Courtney-Lee Nolan, Sophie Klein Middle: Melissa White (Coach), Cindy Storey, Tenesha
Trunks, Jasin Buhse (Assist coach). Back: Sarah Ryan (Gatton girls coordinator), Sheryn Ene, Michele Bobby, Letisha Buhse, Ashlea Nolan, Sara Brauer, Wednesday Fitzpatrick,
Jo Cook (Publicity), Rachel Andrew (FAO), Hayden Dunn (League safe), Kerryn Potter (League safe)

HIGHFIELDS UNDER 14 GIRLS JRL PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Leighton Norris (Coach), Aleesha Hartley, Caitlin Fisher, Katelyn Collie, Charlotte Morcomn, Maggie Webber, Mikki

Cox , Erin Chandler, Ella Fleming, Anthony Fisher (Trainer), Steve Haywood (Trainer) Middle: Sienna Norris, Mackenzie Zeller, Mikki Cox Front: Mariah Brown, Abbie Haywood,

Kyah Zeller, Eliza Morcom ALL PHOTOS: Courtesy JD Sporting Photography

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 47

A Grade - Valleys go back-to-back in

TOOWOOMBAcentenary year. “Valleys 24 – Warwick 16”

THE Valleys Roosters defended their 2018 premiership Valleys started the second half with plenty of energy, with
in style, defeating the Warwick Cowboys 24-16 to lift the Gerome Burns ad Ben Cook both scoring two converted
Toowoomba Ruby League silverware in its 100 year. tries. Cowboys Mitch Watson scored a late try to claim his
hat-trick. Although Valleys played very well, especially in
The Valleys forwards laid the foundation for their the second half to claim back-to-back Premierships.
impressive win in what is also the club’s 100th season.
Roosters prop Drew Jackson was named the player of
Two tries in the first half went to Cowboys, Mitch Watson the final and awarded the John McDonald medal for his
with one try converted and a penalty goal, put Warwick outstanding efforts up front.
out in front over Valleys with tries to Denzel Burns and
Hnaloan Budden. Half time: Warwick 12 – Valleys 10. 100 Year Player of the Year

Pittsworth player Tom O’Sullivan (pictured left) was
awarded the Toowoomba Rugby Leagues top individual
honour at the 2019 Presentation night with being named
Price/Webcke Medal winner for 2019 A Grade player of
the year, he also collected the Frank Purcell Memorial
Trophy for most points throughout all grades.

Reserve Grade: Valleys 18 – Gatton 10

Valleys and Gatton contested the Reserve Grade grand
final with these two teams have faced off in lower grade
finals for some time. Valleys got the better of the first
half to lead 12-4 at halftime. The decider was no place
for the faint-hearted in the second half and Gatton’s Tyler
Hawthorn got the Hawks to within two pints and opened
the door for anyone to claim the honours. Two minutes
from the final siren, Tevita Cocker broke the Hawk’s line to
set up his brother Sam beside the post and take the 2019
title in a thriller.

TOOWOOMBA VALLEYS RUGBY LEAGUE CLUB INC. – 2019 TDRL A GRADE PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Gary de Joux (President), Cory McGrady, Mitchell Sargent, Dwayne

Duncan, Aaron Stillitoe, Joe Mua, Junior Chong Nee, Jason Sharpe Middle: Mick Kelly (LSO), Matthew Schulze (Coach), Jock Waters, Kalemb Hart, Drew Jackson, Robert

Trott, Dexter Buchanan, Reggie Munn, Daniel Bain, Matthew Rohde, Ned Murphy (Coach) Front: Ross Bourke (Life Member), Ben Cook, Luke Starr-Moroney, Gerome Burns,

Hnaloan Budden (Captain), Ryan Stevens, Nathan Bowering, Dylan Chown, Marcus Lang (Manager) Absent: Nathan Short, Zac Miles, Richard Murray, Brent Edwards, Nick

Sargent, Denzel Burns, Brett Seymour PHOTO: Toowoomba Valleys

48 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

RUGBY LEAGUE

Under 18: Dalby 32 – Gatton 12 Representative 2019

Dalby Put in a polished display to defeat Gatton. The The Trophy Cabinet at the Toowoomba Rugby League
game started well and the lead changed hands a number has two further trophies to add to its collection with the A
of times before Dalby took a 20-12 advantage into the Grade men becoming the 2019 47th Battalion Champions
break. The young Diehards did not allow Gatton to score with defeating the Sunshine Coast Falcons 20-6 in the
a point in the second half to put the game beyond doubt. finals at the Sunshine Coast Stadium. The team was
eager to avenge their 2018 loss to the Falcons.
Second Division: Newtown 14 – Gatton 8
Under 20’s Clydesdales also added a Trophy with winning
The opening game of the grand final day, Newtown claimed the 47th Battalion Under 20’s Carnival in Murgon, while
a fairytale finish with a nail-biting win over the Hawks in the Under 18’s gave a respectable defence of their title,
second division. Making the premiership sweeter was the finishing the carnival in third.
fact the Bluebags tasted success in their first year back
since leaving the TRL competition in 2012.

Newtown RLFC – TRL Second Division Premiers

TOOWOOMBA VALLEYS RUGBY LEAGUE CLUB INC. – 2019 TDRL RESERVE GRADE PREMIERS – Back (L-R): James Utumapu, Lachlan Markham, Curtly Hammond,
Joshua Hancock, Kamutu Siaosi, Tevita Cocker, Joshua Barrett (Coach) Middle: Gary De Joux (President), Mick Kelly (LSO), Nick Ryals, Harrison Burns, Emiliano Buntak, Robert
Trott, Sam Dempsey, Ben Atkins, Sam Cocker, Geoff Mason (Manager) Front: Nathan Duncan, Luke Starr-Moroney, Alex Hinch, Daniel Bain (Captain), Joshua Mason, Wesley
Aumau, Trent Nicholls, Jacob Lesley Absent: Nathan Short, Jake Brauer, Brent Edwards, Huntta Mills, Antoine Roma, Novan Munro, Nick Sargant

PHOTO: Toowoomba Valleys

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 49

TOOWOOMBA RUGBY LEAGUE 2019
100 YEARS OF RUGBY LEAGUE

THE Toowoomba Rugby League It must be pointed out that all in 1967 while Warwick, Gatton and
celebrated its 100th year in 2019 players and coaches selected had Stanthorpe joined in 1986.
in Grand Style. The Centenary represented Australia with Duncan
year was a year in which so many Hall also selected in the Australian Dalby and Goondiwindi joined in 1996
achievements were celebrated. Team of the Century. Tommy Gorman, with Highfields coming onboard in
Peter ‘Mick’ Madsen, Herb Steinohrt, 2013.
A special 100 year Celebration Duncan Thompson and Wayne
dinner was held where a team of the Bennett (Coach) are also included in Over the last 51 seasons the
Centenary was announced. the Queensland Team of the Century. competition has again been
dominated by Valleys with 13 titles
A crowd of over 280 people attended Toowoomba clubs, Valleys and followed by Brothers (7), Oakey (7),
the evening. Current TRL Chairman Brothers also held 100 Year Functions Pittsworth (5), Newtown (4), Wattles
Brian Gilroy attributed the success of during the 2019 year and there were (4), Souths (2), Millmerran (2),
the evening to the passion and tribalism stars aplenty in their big events. Warwick (2), Gatton (2) while Dalby,
so often associated with sport. Goondiwindi and the Broncos Colts
Valleys and Brothers are two of the have also won a flag.
A special team photo of the Centenary mighty clubs of Queensland Rugby
team was revealed with so many League with a roll of honour that would The current club competition
outstanding players named. It was a make most current NRL Clubs envious. consisting of Brothers, Dalby, Gatton,
hard task for the team to be selected Goondiwindi, Highfields, Oakey,
with so many to choose from who The most successful club has Pittsworth, Souths, Valleys, Warwick
have participated as part of the TRL been Valleys with 36 premierships and Wattles is basically the largest in
100 years. which also is the most of any club Regional Queensland alongside the
Cairns Regional Competition in the
Team selected: 1. Frank Drake, 2. in Queensland while Brothers far north.
Des McGovern, 3. Tom Gorman, 4. (Past Brothers, All Whites)
John McDonald, 5. Michael Hancock, have won 27. Toowoomba on the representative
6. Bob Banks, 7. Johnathan Thurston, front has been a power-house of
8. Herb Steinorht, 9. Dan Dempsey, Valleys (23) and Past Brothers (20) Australian Rugby League and in
10. Peter Madsen, 11. Steve Price, 12. dominated the first fifty seasons with the 1920s and 1930s there were
Duncal Hall, 13. Elton Rasmussen, Newtown (2), Souths (3), Pittsworth three occasions when four of the
14. Ian Doyle, 15. Vic Armbruster, 16. and Carlton picking up a premiership. run-on Australian side came from
Shane Webcke, 17. John Gleeson, Toowoomba.
18. Pat McMahon Coaches: Duncan Pittsworth, Wattles, Oakey and
Thompson and Wayne Bennett. Millmerran joined the competition

50 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019


Click to View FlipBook Version