The Crow Flies High 2019

TOOWOOMBA VALLEYS RLFC SENIOR PREMIERS 1946 – Winners of Meagher Memorial Shield Back (L-R): M Payton, A Hofmann, H Mogg, V Mogg Middle: J Hehir,
J Obst, E Obst, K Cronin, A Wilson Front: D McMurtrie. G Pember, G Sharpe (Secretary/Manager), B Neilsen (Vice Captain), H Steinhort (Secretary/Coach), G Teys, N Kane
Insert J Martin (Captain) Absent: R Roche

TOOWOOMBA BROTHERS RLFC 1927 RUNNER UP – Back (L-R): C Williamson, M Harney, J Copas, G Cadman Middle: T Henry, G Turnbull, M Madsen (Vice-Capt),
K O’Mara, B Bowden, H Boshamer, R Cole (Official) Sitting: F Pobar, M Thompson, PJ Hickey (President), J O’Mara (captain), M Ryan (Official), R Williamson, G Riordan
Front: J Hegarty, AS McCarthy (Secretary), V Quinlan Absent: G Hawthorne, S Taylor, E Carey

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 51

BLACKALL MAGPIES WIN
CENTRAL WEST

BLACKALL RLFC – 2019 CENTRAL WEST RUGBY LEAGUE PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Trent Jackson, Steven Mainwaring, James Moller, Daniel McNamara, Jake
Richardson, John Hauff, Adrian Walker, Carl Hauff, Allister Macdonald, Andrew Hauff, John Turlan, Dallas Kowald-Dawson, Rudd Choyce, Beau Turlan, Clayton Smith,
Megan Allen, Jeremy Barron (Coach), Peter Hauff (Assistant Coach). Front: Harrison May, Travis Campbell, Patrick Campbell, Gavin Wemyss, Mitchell Hauff, Kelly
Hauff, Cody Trost, Andrew Russell (Captain), Justin Hauff, Matthew Wemyss, Alex Choyce, Braden Russell, Joe Groves, 'Maggie' (Mascot)

PHOTO: Courtesy Sally Cripps (Queensland Country Life)

THE Blackall Magpies have gone back to back to win the the season to participate in the Grand Final. They were
2019 Central West Grand Final played at Blackall against unable to field a team last year but have come back
Winton. bigger and better but not quite able to finish off the fairy
tale ending.
In one of the best Central West Grand Finals both teams
defence was superb with both teams defending their In a first for the Central West Grand Final the Man of
own try line for long periods of time. Blackall scored a the Match was shared between Blackall fullback James
converted try with 12 seconds remaining in the game to Moller and lock forward Alex Choyce after both played
give the final scoreline which was unjust to the Winton outstanding games contributing to the Magpies win.
Devils efforts on the night.
It is the first time in over 60 years that Blackall have been
There was an estimated 800 or more in attendance on able to go back to back.
the day which is nearly the population of Blackall with the
largely Magpies pro crowd certainly getting behind their The question was being asked after the game, “Could this
team at crucial times to help the team to the win. be the start of a dominant period by the Magpies in the
Central West similar to Winton winning 9 out 10 in the
The Magpies were the dominant team throughout the previous years?”
year, losing only one game which was against the Winton
Devils only three weeks before in Winton. I would imagine there are some other teams in the Central
West who would question this but only time will tell.
Both team captains spoke respectfully of their opposition
during the presentation and obviously have a high regard Blackall 18 Tries; Matthew Weymss, John Turlan, Cody
for each other. Trost, Conversions; Daniel McNamara 1, Jake Richardson
2 defeated Winton 0.
The Winton Devils showed great determination throughout

52 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

For the Love of the Game

BLACKALL’S HAUFF FAMILY

IF you have ever been to Blackall or know someone in Not to be outdone daughter Colleen Weymss, who washes
Blackall the chances are that the family name of Hauff the teams jerseys, also had her two sons playing and was
would have been mentioned. at the game to support the family.

If you have ever played against Blackall Magpies you Peter, Bevan and Tony had also previously played with
would have played against a Hauff. Blackall and won premierships.

At this years Grand Final, Patricia Hauff attended the Patricia’s husband Colin, who sadly passed away in
game to watch her eight grandsons play for Blackall. 2002, and Granddad to the boys played for Blackall and
John, Carl, Kelly, Mitchell, Justin and Andrew Hauff was a member of the team who last won back to back
as well as Matthew and Gavin Weymss. premierships 60 years ago.

Also in attendance was Mark Weymss who had played That is three generations in the one family who have
with the Magpies only a couple of years ago until a severe played and won premierships in the Central West for their
leg injury curtailed his career. Mark then went on to be beloved Magpies.
President of the club for a couple of years as well.
Well done to Patricia and Colin you have certainly done
Patricia’s family are still part of the Magpies Club with your part to ensure the success of Blackall team.
Peter Assistant Coach, Bevan Time Keeper Ground
Announcer and Tony who looks after the bar. No doubt the Hauff name will remain synonymous with the
Black Magpies for many years to come.

– PETER RAFTER, QRL Central Division

PHOTO: Back (L-R): Justin Hauff, John Hauff, Mrs Patricia Hauff, Mark Wemyss, Matthew Wemyss, Andrew (AJ) Hauff, Carl Hauff Front: Kelly Hauff, Gavin Wemyss

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 53

DYSART BULLS RLFC – 2019 CENTRAL HIGHLANDS A GRADE PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Brett Jorgenson (Coach), Boof Hicks, Josh Larsen, Davin Turner, Todd Moore, Josh
Kilpatrick, Nick Webster, Jeff Geeson (League Safe), Calin Schrader, Scott Williams, Matty Kiwara, William Creevey, Hayden Reid, Jay Sabbo (League Safe), Theo Page (Coach)
Kneeling: Clayton Kilpatrick (Captain), Quentin Olive, Josh Earl, Dylan Patteson, Dan McNamara, Bradley Fletcher, Jim Ryan, Reece Baker, Jesse Johnson, Payton Turner, Logan
Sullivan, Blake Waters Sitting: Todd Sherlock, Mitchell Power, Phil Derksen, Kerrod Page

THE DROUGHT HAS

THE Dysart Bulls broke their 27– a Rabbitohs error proved costly; with them of points for 30 minutes, they got
year title drought in style, defeating James Ryan capitalising by breaking back on the board in the 52nd minute
the Bluff Rabbitohs 55-12 to win this the defensive line and running 60 when Clayton Kilpatrick caught the
year’s Purcell’s Engineering Central metres to score their third try. defenders behind the ruck having a
Highlands Men’s premiership. snooze.
Derksen’s sharp-shooting from the
A crowd of just under 2000 were touchline blew the lead out to three With the almighty beast being
on hand at Hickey Oval, Dysart, to converted tries. awoken again, further points flurried
witness the occasion, with the win with Clayton’s brother Josh hitting the
also breaking the 26-year phenomena In the following set, the game was afterburners to score his first try in the
where a team has gone through the all but over in the 19th minute when next set, and then Clayton wanted to
Central Highlands A Grade season Josh Kilpatrick broke the line before ensure he’d outdo his younger sibling
undefeated. drawing and passing to Reece Baker on the try-scoring tally and bagged
who scored underneath the posts to his third out of dummy half in the next
The Red V led from start to finish, secure at sizeable 24-0 lead. following set.
with impressive backrower Quentin
Olive scoring the opening points from Bluff were struggling to win the battle Leading 42-6, it was becoming a
a Phil Derksen grubber kick in the at the ruck, but an overzealous Bulls fun day out for the Bulls, and the
first full set of six. defensive line continued to give the on-ground DJ even got in the action
Rabbitohs penalties on their own pumping Rick Springfield’s 'Jessie’s
Six minutes later, the Bulls were in goal line, and after having to defend a Girl' when the competition’s leading
again when Clayton Kilpatrick fooled number of sets, the pressure became try scorer Jesse Johnson ran away
the goal line defence and scooted too much with the red and green able to cross the chalk with 16 minutes
from dummy half to score his first of to score their first points through remaining.
three tries of the evening. Leigh Coghill with four minutes to go
till the break. Josh Kilpatrick scored the Bulls’ final
Leading 12-0, nothing was stopping four-pointer in the 68th minute, before
the Dysart juggernaut and more The Bulls led 24-6 at the break, and Bluff scored a consolation try through
points came in the 16th minute when although Bluff were able to starve Josh Rovelli, but with three minutes

54 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

BLACKWATER CRUSHERS RLFC – 2019 CENTRAL HIGHLANDS WOMENS A GRADE PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Leigh Manson, Katie Tankey, Sharyn Thompson, Tashia
Anthony, Vicky Tanirau, Jacinda Willson-Warren, Victoria Kellett-Taingahue, Olivia Hamilton, Zoe Mackay, Lauren Pingel, Ngtali Malone, Megan Latchford, Trent White (Coach),
Roy McGregor (FAO) Front: Brandon Lindeberg (President) Shane Pingel (League Safe), Maddison Mackay, Amber Allen, Melissa Evans, Rita Hill, Brooke Slatter, Tasma Vesey,
Miranda Davidson (C), Nickola Dickson, Sam Evans, Sean Daly (League Safe)

BROKEN IN DYSART

remaining, it was all but over with the Coghill, Peter McLaughlin goals). near the line and added a further four-
Bulls leading 54-12, but Baker had pointer to the tally under the sticks
one more trick to get the home crowd Earlier, the Blackwater Crushettes with just over a minute remaining.
on their feet. went back-to-back with premiership
glory after defeating the Emerald Blackwater coach Trent White didn't
With around 30 seconds to go, never Brothers Cowgirls 26-12 in the Allied hold back when speaking to the
having kicked a field goal in his Pickfords Women's decider. defending premiers at half-time, and
career, Baker dropped one onto his his motivational words of wisdom
boot from 25 metres out and added In a rematch of last year's grand final, inspired the players, coming out of
the cherries on top to the emphatic a resurgent Cowgirls outfit came out the sheds a different side in the final
victory; the Dysart Bulls defeating the of the blocks firing and pressured the 30 minutes.
Bluff Rabbitohs 55-12. Crushettes in the opening 15 minutes
of the match. Tashia Anthony was first to barge
Clayton Kilpatrick was judged as the over three minutes after the break,
player of the match for his impressive Attacking the line in the 16th minute, and when halfback Tasma Vesey
leadership and crafty dummy half halfback Kailah Rogers executed and exposed an open goal line defence
work in the number 9 jersey. chased a perfectly-timed grubber-kick with a much-needed try in the 37th
into the in-goal only for Blackwater minute, they were basically back
The club last etched their name on fullback Brooke Slatter to fumble and to level-pegging and had all the
the Bob Bainbridge Memorial trophy Rogers dive on to claim first points. ascendancy.
in 1992.
Trailling 6-0, the Crushettes made With 10 to play, Vesey took everyone
Dysart Bulls 55 (Clayton Kilpatrick 3, uncharacteristic mistakes which gave back in time by scoring again on the
Josh Kilpatrick 2, Reece Baker, Jesse last year's runners up the upper edge right edge in the exact same manner
Johnson, Quentin Olive, James for a majority of the first half. she did around 13 minutes prior, and
Ryan tries; Phil Derksen 8, Mitch she did the exact same play again to
Power goals; Reece Baker field goal) The opening half couldn't have ended bring up her hat-trick with 5 minutes
defeated Bluff Rabbitohs 12 (Leigh any sweeter for the Cowgirls when remaining.
Coghill, Josh Rovelli tries; Leigh Tayla Bean scooted from dummy half

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 55

BLACKWATER JRLFC – 2019 CENTRAL HIGHLANDS UNDER 12 PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Blue Shirt – Roy McGregor FAO, Nic Melvin, Jye Cooper, Ethan Little, Mason Blyth,
Cody Conway, Dekon Tai, Henry Hill, Kayden Jaques, Gage Fletcher, (Yellow Shirt) Casey Faine (League Safe), Pink Bib – Charlie Daly, Slade Hinds Yellow Shirt Sean Daly –
League Safe Kneeling: Bucket hat Shae Cox – Coach, Sean Ouston, Noah Sherwell, Johnny Coase, Luke Frame and Will McLaughlin (holding trophy) Carter Faine, Braxtan
Laherty, Laying at the front – Lille Merlow Missing: Kristy McLaughlin and Miranda Davn

Although leading at the break, the game CENTRAL HIGHLANDS JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE GRAND FINALS
was all but over for the Cowgirls, who
fought hard with only 14 players, and Rita UNDER 12: Blackwater Crushers 16 (Kayden Jaques, Will McLaughlin, Charlie
Hill sealed back-to-back premierships Daly tries; Kayden Jaques, Will McLaughlin goals) defeated Clermont Bears
for the Crushettes with a try in the corner 12 (Harvey Mahoney, Hunter Sale tries; Jorden Sypher, Cooper Hutton goals).
in the final two minutes to win 26-12. Player of the Final: Kayden Jaques (Blackwater Crushers)

A spirited second half performance by UNDER 14: Emerald Brothers White 54 (Sam Karanicolos 2, Sam Gilmour
Vesey that included a hat-trick proved 2, Sam Gersbach 2, Sam Chick, Patrick Whipp, Noah Cody, Jaidyn Cody tries;
to be the influence to the Crushettes' Sam Gilmour 6, Patrick Whipp goals) defeated Blackwater Crushers 10 (Kylan
triumphant comeback, and was Tranberg, Brayden Conway tries; Callum Denman goal). Player of the Final:
unanimously voted the player of the Charlie Shepherdson (Emerald Brothers White)
final.
UNDER 16: Emerald Brothers 32 (Callan Campbell 2, Lachlan Beames, Brodie
The win is the club's second women's title Stallman, Hayden Gillespie, Selamaia Taungahihifo tries; Callan Campbell 3,
after winning their maiden premiership Liam Nebauer goals) defeated Dysart Bulls 16 (Scott McCann, Harley Martinelli,
by a mere try in the final minutes last Jhi Berardi tries; Riley Fahl 2 goals). Player of the Final: Callan Campbell
year against the Cowgirls. (Emerald Brothers)

Blackwater Crushettes 26 (Tasma
Vesey 3, Tashia Anthony, Rita Hill tries;
Tasma Vesey 3 goals) defeated Emerald
Brothers Cowgirls 12 (Kailah Rogers,
Tayla Bean tries; Kailah Rogers 2 goals)

Prior to this match, the Under 14 Girls Emerald Brothers JRLFC Under 14 – Central Highlands RL President
took centre stage for their maiden grand Greg Coase shaking hands with U14 captain, Tommy Green
final, with the Dysart Bulls too good in
a nail-biting affair, defeating Emerald
Tigers 10-8.

– CAMERON STALLARD
QRL Central Division

56 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

EMERALD BROTHERS JRLFC UNDER 14 – 2019 CENTRAL HIGHLANDS PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Shae Stern (sponsor), Wendy Green (FAO), Sam Gilmour, Ben Heinemann
(LS), Jack Heinemann, Samuel Gersbach, Gareth Chick, Noah Cody, Jai Gilmour, James Campbell, Hunter Joass, Charlie Shepherdson, Tyler Pease, Michael Whipp (LS), Michael
Heinemann (coach), Michael Stern (Sponsor) Front: Patrick Whipp, Elias Cooper, Tommy Green, Jaidyn Cody, Samual Karanicolos, Jayden Tillack, Declan O’Sullivan, Samuel
Chick, Cooper Christie. Absent- Diezel Brunker and Saxon Mitchell

2019 PREMIERS DYSART SENIOR BULLS UNDER 14’s TEAM – Sarah Hicks (League Safe), Hayley Peters (Manager), Meliah Fuller, Phoebe Paul,Billee-Mai Neep, Karissa
Bailey, Reiney Harrington, Charlee-Jean Battis, Ella Cronin, Tegan Rolfe (Coach), Carmen Humphreys (League Safe), Yazmin Richards, Nari Smith, Hinewai O’Quinn, Darcie
Moore, Ciara Storch, Fallhyn Schafferius (Captain), Jennifer Wright, wHeidi Keene,Hannah Lyons, Lani Schafferius

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 57

GLYN REES CITY

THE Glyn Rees City Country Carnival was again a major It is a long trip for the players and the dedicated coaching
success hosted by the Coolum Colts on the Sunshine team, but the experience is all worth while with some
Coast. players seeing the beach for the first time.

26 teams from South East Qld, Toowoomba, Warwick, The Outback players had a number of training sessions
Western Downs, Sunshine Coast and the Queensland prior to their first game on Saturday and all teams
Outback participated this year with Under 16 girls being performed well and a huge improvement was noticed in
included for the first time along with Under 14 girls and all teams over the weekend.
Under 14 and 16 boys.
This is an opportunity for not only the Outback teams,
The players who represented the Qld Outback but all teams involved to play footy at a higher level than
commenced their trip on the Tuesday night with the girls they would normally and create lifetime memories and
from Normanton meeting their bus in Cloncurry, which left friendship. It might be the only carnival where scores are
Mount Isa at 4.00am on Wednesday morning. not kept, awards not handed out; this provides a different
atmosphere and environment over the weekend.
The trip continued on picking up players along the way
from numerous towns and arriving on the Sunshine Coast Players from different teams are keen to play with other
at 9.00am Thursday morning, a distance of 2056kms each teams when they are short after injuries start taking their
way to play a couple of games of footy. toll over the weekend and coaching staff are keen to help

58 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019 TOP: Under 16 Girls Outback v Sunny Coast
BOTTOM: Under 14 Girls

COUNTRY CARNIVAL

out opposition teams where possible. Overall it is an Senior Constable Stephanie Hancock (Ambassador for
enjoyable weekend of top footy. Queensland Outback Rugby League), a Qld Maroons
and Australian Jillaroos player was again present helping
A big thank you to the Sunshine Coast Falcons out the Outback girl’s teams. Her efforts are greatly
organising for the Under 16 girls and boys Outback appreciated by everyone and would be without doubt the
Teams to play Sunshine Coast at the Kawana Stadium favourite Police Officer for many girls who play the game.
as a curtain raiser to the Falcons V Redcliffe games.
Steph also participated in the Qld Police Women’s
For the fourth year running the Qld Police Service continued Representative team who took on the local Sunshine
their partnership with Qld Outback Rugby League where Coast Women’s rep team in a hard-fought win to the
the Police Recruiting Team, Cultural Engagement Unit as Police team. This game drew a big crowd and hopefully
well as the Rural Crime Squad speak to players, parents is going to be a permanent fixture in future years at this
and supporters in general about different aspects of carnival.
Policing in the Outback.
Brad Beetson, son of our great Arthur Beetson and an
This partnership is also supported by the Commonwealth integral part of the Arthur Beetson Foundation, was also
Government Alcohol and Drug Foundation LDAT funding in attendance and was impressed by the talent on show.
program. The ABF has continually supported and been a major
sponsor of the Outback Rugby League for 5 years.

TOP: Inder 16 Boys Outback v Sunny Coast
QRL CENTRAL QUBEOETNTSOLMAN: UDnDdIVerIS1IO4 Nand U5n9der 15

(L-R): Luke Fletcher and Andrew Neven (Central Division Board Member)
PHOTO: QRL Media

CENTRAL DIVISION REFEREES
SHINE AT QRL AWARDS

QUEENSLAND Rugby League has recognised two of the Saturday and Sunday – Collins can be found developing
Central Division's referees for outstanding work across and coaching junior referees from Gympie through to
the 2019 season. Caboolture. He then backs up and coaches senior football.

QRL Regional General Manager Glenn Ottaway said the Collins, a mentor and friend to many within the referee
two awards – CMO of the Year and the Barry Gomersall ranks and outside, said he did not coach for accolades,
Encouragement Award – were, in part, to thank the winners but he was honoured to get the award.
for what was sometimes considered a thankless job.
"I do it to stay in the game and help the next generation,
"We know that without match officials and volunteers we and I get enough of a kick out of that, but it is nice to be
don't have the game of rugby league, so it's important recognised," Collins said.
to recognise them and their contribution to the game,"
Ottaway said. Collins, described as approachable, dependable and
versatile, has been involved for several seasons with
"From young developing referees through to the volunteers the coaching of under 16, Auswide Bank Mal Meninga
who coach them, everything they do helps make the game Cup and Intrust Super Cup referees; attending Monday
better and helps more and more Queenslanders enjoy reviews and completing video reviews where required.
rugby league on the field and off."
Collins is also on the Sunshine Coast Referee's
CMO Of The Year – Vic Collins Association executive, junior committee and is the senior
selector for the Association.
Referee coach Vic Collins has a genuine passion and love
for rugby league. Every weekend of the season – Friday, Collins, who first officiated at 15 and has been coaching

60 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

(L-R): Rob Crow (Central Division GM) and Luke Fletcher
PHOTO: QRL Media

for 10 years at the Sunshine Coast and in the South "It's something I love doing," Fletcher said.
Burnett region, was this year also invited to the national
under 15 carnival and state under 18 carnival as a coach. Fletcher also assisted Stephen Hamilton by presenting
the Emerging Talent Program, the Referee Development
Barry Gomersall Encouragement Award – Luke Fletcher Program and is the supervisor/appointment officer of
junior referees in Rockhampton.
Luke Fletcher has had a great year officiating.
Fletcher is a great mentor for the junior referees and
The 21-year-old, who has been refereeing since he was assisted at the Central Queensland Referee Development
14, was a Hastings Deering Colts referee and touch Camp in September.
judge, made his Intrust Super Cup touch judge debut,
was a grand final referee for the Aaron Payne Cup at "I'm very proud to receive the award, especially coming
1300Smiles, officiated more than 70 local games and was from Rocky," Fletcher said. "It was a real surprise."
a regular referee in the A Grade competition.
– QRL Media

PHOTO: QRL Media
QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 61

“Get in the Game”
Country Week 20th – 21st July

Norths v Sunshine Coast at Nanago

Magpies and Dolphins at Pittsworth Souths Logan at Pittsworth
62 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019 ALL PHOTOS: QRL Media

THE Queensland Rugby League's initiative to take Intrust Dalby v Pittsworth at Pittsworth
Super Cup games to the bush was a sure-fired winner
in 2019 with great support from the locals in the Central games taking place in a big celebration of rugby league.
Division.
SUNSHINE COAST FALCONS 30 (Jon Reuben 2, Todd
The Intrust Super Cup 'Get in the Game' Country Week, Murphy, Tom Rafter, Nat McGavin tries; Todd Murphy 5
presented by BHP, once again delivered top tier rugby goals) def NORTHS DEVILS 12 (Herbie Farnworth, Pride
league to regional communities across Queensland, Petterson-Robati tries; Herbie Farnworth 2 goals) at
and Wabag in Papua New Guinea, and QRL Statewide Bernie & John Cronin Memorial Oval, Nanango.
Competitions Manager Dave Maiden could not be happier
with the success of the initiative. Pittsworth had already received a visit from Clinton Toopi
who delivered a State of Mind presentation, with Redcliffe
Games were played at Nanango, Ilfracombe and Pittsworth Dolphins, Souths Logan Magpies and NRL Game
and the cream of the Intrust Super Cup Competition never Development staff also facilitating junior clinics in the lead
let the locals down. up to the weekend.

The Tweed Heads Seagulls played the CQ Capras on On Saturday, the Pittsworth Danes and Highfields Eagles
Wayne Taylor Oval, Ilfracombe and went home with the Under 18, reserve grade and A grade warmed up the
chocolates after an Ashley Taylor-led 28-12 victory. crowd before the Intrust Super Cup game. The Danes had
the big crowd excited as they defeated Highfields 26-18
The NRL super-star who was on personal leave from the in A Grade but went down 42-20 in Reserve Grade and
Gold Coast Titans was a big hit in Ilfracombe with the many 40-18 in Under 18.
juniors who attended the game lining up for his autograph.
SOUTHS LOGAN MAGPIES 24 (Matt Soper-Lawler 2,
NRL Game Development staff had arrived early in Fanitesi Niu 2 tries; Guy Hamilton 4 goals) def REDCLIFFE
Ilfracombe to deliver a number of fun coaching clinics DOLPHINS 16 (Jeremy Hawkins, Josh Beehag, Izaia
for club and school participants. Both teams shared in a Perese tries; Tyson Gamble 2 goals) at Pittsworth Danes
community dinner before game day which was eagerly RLFC, Short Street, Pittsworth.
awaited by the rugby league starved community.
Over the last 51 seasons the competition has again been
TWEED SEAGULLS 28 (Ioane Seiuli 2, Ashley Taylor, dominated by Valleys with 13 titles followed by Brothers
Jarrod Morfett, Talor Walters tries; Lindon McGrady 3, (7), Oakey (7), Pittsworth (5), Newtown (4), Wattles (4),
Ashley Taylor goals) def CQ CAPRAS 12 (BJ Aufaga- Souths (2), Millmerran (2), Warwick (2), Gatton (2) while
Toomaga 2, Richard Sisifa tries) at Wayne Taylor Oval, Dalby, Goondiwindi and the Broncos Colts have also won
Ilfracombe. a flag.

School visits were the order of the week at Nanango, with The current club competition consisting of Brothers,
NRL Game Development and Queensland Police staff Dalby, Gatton, Goondiwindi, Highfields, Oakey, Pittsworth,
helping to promote reading. Souths, Valleys, Warwick and Wattles is basically the
largest in Regional Queensland alongside the Cairns
There was also clinics and player and coach development Regional Competition in the far north.
sessions held, as well as a special combined junior
training session featuring both Intrust Super Cup teams. Toowoomba on the representative front has been a power-
On Sunday, there were a number of junior and women’s house of Australian Rugby League and in the 1920s and
1930s there were three occasions when four of the run-on
Australian side came from Toowoomba.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 63

2019 QUEENSLAND OUTBACK REPRESENTATIVE TEAM – “SKYTRANS CHALLENGE CHAMPIONS” – Back Row: Ron Tasker (FAO), John Russo, Tom Kennedy, Trent
Lyons, Jekope Kauvere, Brendan Grulke, Steve Daniels, Ollie Peak, Dylan Buckingham, Bronson Smith, Mitch Eddon, Zeke Thompson, Cris Lucas, Peter Rafter (Manager),
Wayne Collie (Coach) Front Row: Wayne Smith (Assistant Coach), Chris Gelhaar, Troy Dempsey, Jackson Shellswell, Jack Just (Captain), Lance Cope, Michael Fletcher

OUTBACK DEFEND TITLE ON
THURSDAY ISLAND

IF you want a picture-perfect place to play rugby The 'home' side scooped up the ball and sent it left, before
league, look no further than Ken Brown Oval, Thursday popping a good short ball to former Jet Kevin Bell to run
Island in the Torres Strait where the Queensland in and score.
Outback team retained the Crown they won in 2018
against a highly competitive Northern United. They were nearly in again soon after but blew their chance
when a good kick that was put in under the posts was not
The Outback team was selected following a successful collected cleanly.
Outback Senior Muster played in Mount Isa in June and
the game on Thursday Island was played as the curtain- In an end-to-end game, Outback had a chance to square
raiser to the highly anticipated ‘Country Week; clash the ledger, but their kick into the in-goal went too deep.
between Intrust Super Cup rivals, the Northern Pride and However, when they had their next opportunity to attack,
Ipswich Jets on Saturday, July 20th. they made the most of it and a barnstorming run from
Chris Gelhaar saw him plant the ball under the post in his
Playing exciting football that thrilled the crowd, the lead first touch of the ball.
changed several times before the Outback boys proved
too strong in the closing stages to take the “Skytrans The successful conversion saw the scores locked at 6-6,
Challenge” trophy with a 28-18 victory. before Troydon Dempsey ducked over from dummy half
to put the Outback side in front.
The first try of the game came however via North
Queensland United, with a kicked fumbled by Outback However, Didymus Blanket got North Queensland United
right on the NQU try-line. back on the board when he was over out wide after a
jigging run.

64 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

Ollie Peak, Jackson Shellswell, Bauz Harry and Jack Just Danny McGuire, Isaac Toby, Rob Crow and Scott Nosworthy

Layton Sam was the next over for United before the break, defeated North Queensland United 18 (Isaac Rockerby,
again out wide on their left, with a try that gave his side a Didymus Blanket, Kevin Bell, Layton Sam tries; Izaac
14-12 lead.
Toby goal)

The second half started with a try to Outback to see the Other Central Division players selected in Central Outback
score change hands again, when a ball from player of teams following the Senior Outback Muster in Mount Isa
the match Brendan Grulke was caught by big prop Dylan were Kelland Elliott (CW), Koli Tangi-Tangi (W), Phillip
Buckingham who fell over the line. Anderson (W), Jordan Dukes (W), Connor Williams (CW),
Nicholas Doyle (CW), Isaiah Shillingsworth (W), Kent
The teams then traded tries – again out wide by NQ with Tanks (CW), Trent Willis (CW), Luke Clifford (W), Steven
Isaac Rockerby, before another huge run from firstly Mitchell (W) and Sam Card (CW) who were selected in
Gelhaar for his second and they Dempsey, also for his the Under 18 team.
double, sealed the deal for the Outback side in their 28-
18 win. Our Under 20 representatives were Nicholas Aplin, Riley
Bishop, Milan Hooper, Malik Luff, Layton Maunsell, Jackson
Queensland Outback 28 (Troydon Dempsey 2, Chris Mamoose, Diega Panisi and Edwin Simpson-Cobbo.
Gelhaar 2, Dylan Buckingham tries; Oliver Peak 4 goals)
– COLLEEN EDWARDS (QRL)

2019 QUEENSLAND OUTBACK TEAM

1 Ollie Peak South West 10 Mitch Ebdon Central West
2 Zeke Thompson Central West 11 Michael Fletcher South West
3 Jackson Shillingsworth South West 12 Lance Cope Mount Isa
4 Bronson Smith Mount Isa 13 Dylan Buckingham Mount Isa
5 Steve Daniels South West 14 Troy Dempsey Mount Isa
6 Tom Kennedy South West 15 Curtis Lukas Mount Isa
7 Jack Just South West 16 Jakare Kauver Mount Isa
8 John Russo South West 17 Trant Lyons Mount Isa
9 Brendan Grulke South West 18 Alistair Lobb Central West

John Russo, Michael Fletcher, QDRoLmCiEnNicTRMAaLcQoUmEbENoySLaAnNdDDDyIVlaISnIOBNuckin6g5ham

2019 BRONCOS CENTRAL OUTBACK CHALLENGE BEST & FAIREST

FOR EACH TEAM

ROMA SAINTS
Charlie McInnerney

CANARVON CUBS
Ashley Knapp

MITCHELL
Jacob O’Toole

WANDOAN
Charlie Hay

ST GEORGE
Lachie Webster

BENDEROO
Matthew Williams

Players at the 2019 Broncos Central Outback Challenge in Surat
PHOTO: Peter Rafter

IN March we saw the finals of the Under 14 Central doing a tremendous job with their players with many
Outback Broncos Challenge played in Surat the home players standing out.
of the Benderoo Bulls.
We had five teams participate this year with every team
We played a different format with teams competing in a having big numbers.
preseason competition which also doubled as selection
trials for the future rep program in 2019 for the Roma This is obviously a direct result of the Roma and District
and District Junior Rugby League teams. JRL, the Adrian Vowles Cup, the Central Outback
Broncos Challenge and the ongoing efforts of the clubs
The selected Under 14 and 13 teams travelled to involved.
Brisbane and Toowoomba for games prior to attending
the South West Mustangs trials. In 2019 there were again six teams playing in the local
comp.
This was the first time that Surat has hosted games
in the Challenge and the volunteers were incredibly The Final this year was played between Benderoo Bulls
accommodating. Food was great, fields were as good the local team and St George the 2018 champions. The
as can be expected in the current climate and the footy Bulls had gone through the competition undefeated,
was spectacular. but St George were certainly not going to give them an
easy game in the final.
Players came from nearby towns and travelled up to
500 kms to play on the day. Both teams put in everything during the final with
Benderoo running out winners 16-8.
It never ceases to amaze, the effort players and parents
go to so they can play footy. The coaching staff are – PETER RAFTER
QRL Central Division

Players at the 2019 Broncos Central Outback Challenge in Surat
PHOTO: Peter Rafter

66 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

CHARLEVILLE WIN IN WEST

IN Charleville in the Western League, the first Grand Final the Charleville Showgrounds to witness the first Grand
for the year has been played and won. Final in the Western League for two years.

In a revised format this year with neither Quilpie nor The rivalry between the two towns over the years has
Augathella being able to get a team together, Charleville never wavered and it was a much-anticipated Grand Final
Comets and the Cunnamulla Rams played each other by supporters from both towns. As was expected there
over a four-week period with the final game being the was open footy played by both teams but the fitness of
winner take all Final. the Charleville team told with them eventually running
out very convincing winners. The defence at times was
It has been an eventful four weeks in the area with 40 plus ferocious and the attack was outstanding.
degree temperatures, heavy rains, rivers overflowing,
severe dust storms and a former State Of Origin player, The season was still not over for most of the players. A
Adrian Vowles having a run for Charleville. team was selected to represent the Western Ringers in a
trial game against Roma with selection in the South West
One of the best stories you will ever hear about dedication Team to play in the Qld Outback Muster in June at Mt Isa
to your team comes from a Charleville player who resides in the hope of being selected in the Queensland Outback
outside Quilpie (approx. 250km away). He realised team to play a Northern Division team at Thursday Island.
earlier in the week that Quilpie would be cut off due to
rising waters in the Barcoo River so he left his vehicle on A big thank you to both clubs, coaching staff and players
the Charleville side of the river. from the Western Rugby League to keep Rugby League
going in the area and provide entertainment for your locals.
For the day of the game he organised a helicopter ride
from his property to his vehicle, then drove the two hours When the idea came up to get the Western League comp
to get to the game. Now you must agree that is dedication. up and running again these two clubs showed amazing
spirit and never say die attitude.
Unfortunately, the story does not have a happy ending as
a severe dust storm came through the area and they were There were so many stumbling blocks thrown in front of
unable to get the helicopter into the air so he missed the them, but they continued on with training and recruiting
Grand Final. players from everywhere and anywhere to ensure their
players got some decent footy this year.
After heavy rain in the area over the last few days to briefly
ease the thoughts of the drought the crowd gathered at – PETER RAFTER
QRL Central Division

CHARLEVILLE RLFC – 2019 WESTERN LEAGUE PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Jaye Steer, Joel Saffy, Shaun “Zoro” Radnedge (Coach), Dan Coble, Garrett Smith, Jack Keegan,

Jack Winter, Steelo Howard, Jack Radnedge, Norm Saffy (Assistant Coach), Tom Dawson Front: Morgan Collins(Trainer), Blake Thompson, Tyler Frousheger, Nick Murphy, Jack

Roberts (Captain), Daniel Bruce, Nick Russell, Charlie Aitken, Joe Dawson, Ben Richards PHOTO: Courtesy Peter Rafter (QRL)

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 67

'Boomer' (middle) before his last game
PHOTO: Contributed

'BOOMER' AN OUTBACK LEGEND

THERE are many types of people who dedicate the 15 rounds a distance of 7,500kms in his own vehicle
themselves to Rugby League in the Outback and Hewartt so you can imagine how much travel has been involved in
‘Boomer’ Kennedy is one of them. those 32 years when you add in the trips to Brisbane and
extra carnivals.
Boomer, although he was born in NSW, has dedicated
his Rugby League life to the Roma and District Rugby His puts his longevity in the referring ranks down to
League. He moved to Roma when he was 15 years of his passion and commitment to Rugby League and
age and played for the Wattles Club for 10 years before encourages any younger potential refs to consider the
taking up his desire to be a referee. pathway and opportunities that are around now as you
never know, they have to get NRL refs from somewhere
In 1988 he refereed his first game in Miles, an Under 18 and the Outback is just a good a place as anywhere.
game whilst he was still playing. The following year he
took up the position and retired from the playing ranks. Boomer has had some terrific mentors along the way with
special mention to Richie Johnson who Boomer says he
Now at 61 years of age he has retired as a referee after would not be where he is today without Richie's advice
officiating in his 27th Roma A Grade Grand Final. It's said and friendship.
that he has refereed between 25 and 27 Grand Finals but
for this story we are going with the 27. He has also had dealings with a who’s who in the referee
ranks including Eddie Ward, Tim Mander, David Manson
In between 1988 and now, Boomer has refereed a lot of and John Topp. He gives credit to Tony Mansour, who at
games, the exact number is not known. After three years a training camp Boomer attended, showed everyone how
in Roma he decided to improve his game and headed off to blow the whistle with authority.
to ref in the Toowoomba League, 350km down the road
and would travel the 700km round trip each weekend. Boomer has gained the respect from many teams and
clubs he has dealt with over the years and is considered
He then returned to the Roma League confident in the to have always done his best on game day and been
extra knowledge and experience he gained in Toowoomba. completely unbiased over the years.
Some of his ensuing highlights include refereeing the
Broncos on a visit out to Roma in 1992 with players like Watching him refereeing his last Grand Final he looks
Langer, Carne, Lazarus and Gillmiester. like he may have lost a little pace over the years but still
referred with authority and still had the respect of the
He has also been the man in the middle at Australian players.
Schoolboy and State Schoolboy Championships as well
as running the line and refereeing games at Suncorp Boomer would like to pass on his thanks for the support
Stadium. and cooperation he has received over the years to the
Roma League, the clubs, players and the QRL all of who
He’s not sure of the year but refereed his first A Grade have contributed to enjoyment as a referee as that is the
Grand Final in early 1990s. real reason he continued for so long.

In his 32 years of refereeing in the Roma area he He will not be lost to the Roma League as he will be taking
estimates that he would travel 500km per weekend over on Referee Co Ordinator and mentoring roles.

68 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

Year of St George

18th Broncos 9s

THE Under 14 St George, Broncos Nines have been held Carnarvon Cubs Under 14 – St George Broncos 9s Winners
for the 18th Year at St George in Queensland. PHOTO: Contributed

Seven teams participated this year with open footy being The two teams threw everything at each other with both
the order of the day. Teams came from Roma, Wandoan, teams scoring two tries with one goal kick being the
Surat, Wallumbilla and Lightning Ridge. difference to give the Cubs the win.

The teams were divided into two pools with the 1st and Casey McGuire, former Broncos Premiership winner and
2nd place getters gaining entry to the semis. Qld State of Origin player, was special guest for the day
and was on hand for the presentation with Kelvin Bella,
The early games were played with plenty of spirit, but you the organiser of the event.
could also see how much the players actually enjoyed
playing in this carnival. Casey who travelled out from Tannum Sands was not
only impressed by some of the individual brilliance that
The two Grand Finalists were the Barbarians, a team was on show but also with the attitude and commitment to
made up of the Wandoan players and players from a Rugby League of not just the players but the parents and
couple of the Roma teams, up against the Carnarvon coaching staff.
Cubs, a team from Roma.
Congratulations to the St George Junior Rugby League,
referees, volunteers and organisers for a great day of
footy.

– PETER RAFTER (QRL Central Division)

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 69

ROMA CITIES RLFC – 2019 ROMA AND DISTRICT A GRADE PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Lachlan Hoey, Darren Thrupp (strapper), Tim Phipps, Thomas Packer, Al Lobb, Billy
Coonan, Tom Barron, Matt Roberts, Scott Hilton (Coach), Brendan Grulke (Player of Year) Front: Dan Lucas (First Aid), Jackson Green, Jackson Shellswell, Jack Just, Joey
Packer, Chris Gelhaar, Matt Waites (captain), David Dingwall, Michael Fletcher

ROMA AND DISTRICT RUGBY LEAGUE

ONCE again, the Roma and District League held a highly and Red Bulls with the Red Bulls entering the game as
successful Grand Final day at the Bassett Park Complex. Minor Premiers. This was your typical entertaining Under
Another massive crowd started gathering early prior to the 18s game with plenty of skill on display as well as many
Under 16 game kick off, mostly to gain the best parking future A Graders from both clubs.
spot around the grounds.
From the start to the finish it was virtually try for try with
This would have to be the Jewel in the Crown of the neither side gaining a great advantage.
Queensland Outback Rugby League Grand Final days.
It is so good to attend a game in the country and watch the Final Score; Chinchilla Bulldogs 31:Tries – Brandon
game from the comfort of your car, in the grandstand, from Williams, Matt Hart, Will McCullagh, Brandon Pearon,
the well-attended bar, on the back of a parked semi or just Josh Colls, Conversions; Ray Mutch 5, Field Goal Will
in a camping chair. You don’t get this type of atmosphere McCullogh def Wallumbilla Surat Red Bulls 22: Tries –
just anywhere. Jarrod Rogers, Abe Irwin, Tanar Rivers, Jye Johnson,
Max Munro. Conversions; Ash Harth 1. 2019 Under 18
The day started out with an absolute thriller in the Under Player of the Year: Matt Eising , Chinchilla Bulldogs
16 Final between the undefeated Chinchilla team up
against Wallumbilla Surat Red Bulls. The Red Bull boys Reserve Grade. Always one of the games of the day with
started with two early tries and were up and looking strong so much passion shown by so many young players and
at 20 – 6 at half time. older players coming back for one more year.

Not sure what brand of oranges they used or what coach This year’s showdown was played between Roma
Mark Lingard said at half-time but the Chinchilla boys Cities and Mitchell Magpies and did not let anyone
came out firing in the second half scoring two tries in the down with no more than four points difference between
first seven minutes to eventually run out winners 30-28. the two sides all game up until three minutes to go
when Cities jumped out to win the game 26 – 18. This
Chinchilla Bulldogs 30: Tries - Lachlan Smith, Bryton Nimo was Cities' fourth consecutive Reserve Grade title.
2, Tom Lenihan 2. Conversion Lachlan Smith 5 defeated
Wallumbilla Surat Red Bulls 28 :Tries - Matt York, Logan Cities 26: Tries - Hamish Volker, Tristan Waites, Jordon
Walsh, Dylan Ogden 2, Mitch Taylor 2. Conversions Collinson, Rhett Lewis, Jeremy Mills. Conversion
Bryce Jump 2. 2019 Under 16 Player of the Year: Dylan Jeremy Green 3 goals. defeated Mitchell Magpies 18:
Ogden, Wallumbilla Surat Red Bulls. Tries - Warren Draper, Anthony Whittaker, Drew Page,
Geoffrey Kenafake. Conversions; Daniel Bruce 1.
The Under 18s was again played between the Bulldogs

70 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

ROMA CITIES RLFC – 2019 ROMA AND DISTRICT RESERVE GRADE PREMIERS – Assistant coach/strapper Scott Walsh (back row left end), Cities Club President
Mark Street (back row right end) and manager/sponsor Danny Forbes (front row) celebrate 4 reserve grade premierships in a row with the victorious 2019 team

2019 Reserve Grade Player of the Year: Daniel Bruce, In the second half had everything including a send-off and
Mitchell Magpies the injury to Boomer Kennedy refereeing his 27th A Grade
Grand Final and being replaced by Taine Duff.
The big one for the day A Grade was a match-up between
Roma Cities against the only team who were able to beat However, Red Bulls did not give up trying in the second
them all year, not once but twice ,the Wallumbilla Surat half, but overall Cities continued their dominance of the A
Red Bulls. Grade comp in 2019 and went on to win 30 – 10.

The game started out with Cities regaining the ball from Cities 30: Tries - Billy Coonan, Tim Phips 2, Tom Barron
the kick-off and scoring in the first 60 seconds of the game 2, Jackson Shellswell, Matt Roberts, Conversion Jackson
with Red Bulls hitting back in the next few minutes with a Green 1 defeated Red Bulls 10: Tries – Floyd Daniel,
converted try. The lead changed hands several times in Kahn Ladbrook. Coversions; Blake Cowburn 1. A Grade
the first half with Cities going in ahead at the break 16-10. Player of the Year: Brendan Grulke, Roma Cities

CHINCHILLA BULLDOGS RLFC – 2019 UNDER 18 ROMA & DISTRICT PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Sam Irwin (Leaguesafe), Bill Rackemann (Club Coach), Callan Davison, Kaleb
Baker, Beau Jakins, Connor O’Sullivan, Jackson Weier, Kalab Randall, Matt Eising, Brandon Paerau, Josh Colls, Tim Keating (Coach), Brad Smith (Manager/President), Romada
Barnes (League Safe) Front: Harry Smith, William McCullough, Joh Dickman, Steven McKay, Ramon Mutch, Racheam Bond, Lachlan Saun, Matt Hart, Blake Jackson Absent:
Frank Roma Jnr, Brooklen Williams

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 71

ROCKHAMPTON

YEPPOON SEAGULLS RLFC – 2019 ROCKHAMPTON A GRADE PREMIERS Back (L-R) Steve Stafford, Jarred Owens, Jamie Minto, Tre Watson, Brady McKenna, Wade
Fickling, Corbin Reeves, Will Neven, Neil Beckett, Parry Boland, Scott McGetrick, Gavin Hiscox, Jonathon Tavinor, Dion Callanan, Jay Stafford, Rob Ramke, Tully Wehmeir, Lewis
McPhail, Shaun Goode Front Row: Dennis Ogden, Dean Blackman, Jace O’Neill, Rhys Stafford, Sam Lollo, Sam Stibbard, Sam HolzHiemer, Patrick Busby, Josh Scott, Hayden
Murray, Christian Davies, Will Goode

ROCKHAMPTON BROTHERS RLFC – 2019 ROCKHAMPTON WOMEN’S A GRADE PREMIERS Back (L-R): Alethia Row Row, Peppa Hoare, Bree Speadborough, Emmaley
McMurdy, Rebecca Hall, Chloe Fattore, Gemma Brennan, Layne Ivey, Trishia Dougan, Anna Snell, Jessica Powell (Captain), Megan Ricketts, Zpe Norris (Leaguesafe), Dominic
Draper (Coach), Kira Boland (Manager), Mawea Wosomo, Olivia McCamley (kneeling) Jayde Ramsay (Leaguesfe), Maddie Bailey (Trainer) Megan Myers, Tia Morriss, Nyre
Gilluley, Emily Bleney, Frances Whap, McKenzie Reid, Krystal Harden, Nicole Wilkie (laying down) Amber Row Row, Hanna Burke (Captain)

PHOTOS: Contributed by Rockhampton Brothers RLFC

(L-R) – Seagulls' Will Neven, Jon Tavinor, Gavin Hiscox, Parry Boland Seagulls' captain, Sam Holzimer in full flight during Grand Final.
PHOTO: Courtesy Yeppoon Seagulls fb PHOTO: Courtesy Yeppoon Seagulls fb

RUGBY LEAGUE

ROCKHAMPTON BROTHERS RLFC – 2019 UNDER 20 RDRL PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Alex Gilbert, Bradlee Beck, Jai Green, Thallon Peters, Luke McMurdo, Nick Hooper,
Adam Bailey, Hugh Russell, Riley Mole, Mark Johnstone (LeagueSafe), Jacob Reid, Jeremy McLachlan, Damian Chapman (Asst. Coach, Manager), Zoe Norris (LeagueSafe) Tom
Pole Kneeling: Copper Marshall, Sam Lawrie, Cassidy Scantlebury, Tylen Wallace, Jordan Mole, Joe Shackleton (Captain) Brendon Sutton, Lachlan Crow, Chris Lee, Maddie
Bailey (sports trainer), Declan Mallia, Mitchell Zornig (Coach)

THE Yeppoon Seagulls atoned for their 2018 capitulation Brady McKenna put the Seagulls on the score board with
with a great 28-18 victory over Norths Chargers in a nice try and the Jared Owens' conversion narrowed the
the 2019 Rockhampton Rugby League Grand Final at gap to 12-6 at the interval.
Browne Park.
The Seagulls came out firing in the second session with
2019 was certainly the Year of Yeppoon as the Seagulls Patrick Busby crossing for the equaliser in the 6th minute
went through the regular season without a loss and but Norths took the lead again when Ryan Franks crossed
the only blemish in an outstanding season was a 32-22 in the 56th minute.
loss to Norths Chargers in the major semi-final. Norths
went straight into the Grand Final while the Seagulls got The next 15 minutes sealed the game with Yeppoon crossing
their act together by defeating their nemesis in 2018, for three tries in a blitzkrieg that was too hot for a gallant
Rockhampton Brothers 40-12 in the Preliminary Final. Norths. Jonathon Tavinor, Jace O’Neill and Parry Boland
crossed for tries with Jared Owens adding the extras.
In the big game the Chargers actually led 12-0 after 15
minutes through converted tries to Joshua Johnson and Rockhampton Brothers dominated the earlier games,
Mitchel Smith with Smith converting both tries but the winning the Reserve Grade 38-10 over Norths, the Under
Seagulls had learnt from their 2018 Grand Final when 20 Grand Final 40-0 over Norths and the Women’s Grand
they let Brothers dominate proceedings. Final 14-4 over Yeppoon.

The Rockhampton Junior Rugby League Grand Finals
were played in June with the following winners:-

Under 12 – Emu Park
Under 13 – Yeppoon defeated Tigers 13-12
Under 14 – Capricorn Coast defeated Yeppoon 22-6
Under 15 – Capricorn Coast defeated Norths 26-12
Under 16 – Capricorn Coast defeated Yeppoon 26-14
Under 18 – Yeppoon defeated Brothers 24-10

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 73

ROCKHAMPTON BROTHERS RLFC – 2019 RESERVE GRADE RDRL PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Damian Chapman, Mark Trathen (Sports trainer) Ryan Fraser, Brad Reeves,
Jayden Wheatley, Sam Granville, Aiden Neale, Michael Boulter, Ben Fleming (Coach), Rhys Chapman (Co-Captain) Jayden Vea Vea, Harrison Roultey, Dan Moyer, Joel Russell,
Bill Fleming (trainer) Kneeling: Brendon Porter, Jackson Reid, Bradley Spreadborough, Cohen Wassell, Ryan Witt, David Inskip, Troy Wheeler (Co-Captain), Nathan Lawton

Rockhampton’s finest – Ollie Howden Medal winner, Dean Blackman and the Women’s Player of the Year, Tamika Upton.
74 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

JT VISIT HELPS LIFT SPIRITS
IN QUILPIE
Johnathan Thurston talking to the children in Quilpie.
PHOTO: Courtesy Peter Rafter QRL

FORMER Queensland Maroons Origin star Johnathan the drought. As they had such little water available to use,
Thurston took part in a goodwill tour in November to help the fields got to such a state that they were unable to play
raise spirits in regional Queensland. on them this year.

Touring as part of his role with his Johnathan Thurston But due to the efforts of Challenor and Vagg, who worked
Academy, the rugby league great proved a popular visitor alongside local counsellor Bruce Paulsen and QRL
in the town of Quilpie. government relations officer Arthur Eustace Earle; they
were successful in applying for a grant from the NRL
Quilpie – which is also home to Ipswich Jets great and which along with a QRL Facility Grant, meant work could
2020 coach Keiron Lander – has been a strong rugby start on upgrading the fields. A new irrigation system was
league town for many years, but in recent times has not installed, the local water treated, and new turf laid.
been able to field a senior team in the local Western
League competition. This has transformed the once barren surface into an
oasis in the middle of one of the Outback’s worst effected
However, they have still been able to showcase their state drought areas.
pride and rugby league support, which was highlighted
by the fact they provided the “Q” in the recent XXXX The local council organised for Thurston to attend the
Queenslander can collection series. area recently and in amongst his activities over the two
days, he attended a session with the local juniors much to
In fantastic news, the juniors have continued to survive their delight. He also took part in a Q&A session with the
thanks to the efforts of WRL secretary and president of players and parents.
Quilpie Senior Rugby League Sally Challenor, Kerri Vagg
and other dedicated volunteers in the region. Afterwards, he officially re-opened the sports grounds,
with the opening also attended by Chairman of the QRL
During the past couple of years, their grounds have Central Region Danny McGuire.
deteriorated as a result of numerous problems including
– PETER RAFTER & COLLEEN EDWARDS (QRL)

Quilpie Junior Rugby League boys showing Johnathan Thurston around the grounds.
QRL CENTRAL QUPHEEONTSOL:ACNoDurDteIVsyISPIOetNer Raf7te5r QRL

2019 INAUGURAL U18 GIRLS

CARNIVAL AT MURGON

2019 saw the inaugural launch of the U18 Crows Girls Some of the girls from the other teams, filled in for an under
Carnival on the weekend of 21st September in Murgon. stocked South Burnett side – a big thankyou to them.

Expressions of interest where sent out to all Leagues Game 1 Toowoomba 26 – South Burnett 12
within the Central Region prior to Christmas 2018. A Game 2 Sunshine Coast 10 – Rockhampton 6
limited budget was approved and planning began. Game 3 Toowoomba 44 – Sunshine Coast 0
Game 4 South Burnett 36 – Rockhampton 10
The carnival was attended by 4 teams across the region Game 5 Sunshine Coast 20 – South Burnett 8
– Toowoomba, South Burnett, Sunshine Coast and Game 6 Toowoomba 26 – Rockhampton 6
Rockhampton.
All games were played in the truest spirit of the game
The draw saw two games for each team on the Saturday, with a merit side of 13 announced at the conclusion of the
with one game on the Sunday. Point allocation was the carnival. The Merit Team is listed below.
same as the Junior State Carnival, 2 points per half, and
2 points for a win – a total of 6 points up for grabs. This QRL CENTRAL CROWS
would determine the overall winner of the Carnival.
UNDER 18 MERIT TEAM 2019
Lunch time on day one, the girls had Kody House and
Millie Edwards, both former Jillaroos come and speak 1 Katelyn Anderson Toowoomba
about their experiences.
2 Reeghyn Beardmore Toowoomba
Dinner saw plenty of home cooked food from the hard-
working Murgon Mustangs volunteers – with plenty to go 3 Macey Finlay Sunshine Coast
around.
4 Trevonnah Fisher Burnett
Overall winners of the Carnival were Toowoomba – who
were undefeated over the weekend. 5 Amanda Hinch Toowoomba

6 Hayleigh Lonergan Rockhampton

7 Courtney-Lee Nolan Toowoomba

8 Allethia Row Row Rockhampton

9 Abelee Stanley Toowoomba

10 Taylah Syanley Toowoomba

11 Teneesha Trunks Toowoomba

12 Melanie Watherston Sunshine Coast

13 Sophie Wright Rockhampton

Front row: Tenesha Trunks, Reeghyn Beardmore, Taylah Stanley, Hayleigh Lonergan, Sophie Wright, Allethia Row Row Second Row: Traevonnah Fisher
Back Row: Macey Finlay, Amanda Hinch, Courtney-lee Nolan, Abelee Stanley, Melanie Waterson, Katelyn Anderson

76 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

Rockhampton U18 Girls
Toowoomba U18 Girls

Sunshine Coast U18 Girls
South Burnett U18 Girls

BEST EVER

ADRIAN VOWLES CUP

IN CHARLEVILLE

WE have just witnessed the most successful Adrian Local boys Adrian Vowles and Shaun Radnedge continue
Vowles Cup carnival to be held, some people estimating to step up every year to make this bigger and better than
the crowd to be in excess of the Intrust Cup game held in the year before.
the town a couple of years ago.
Profile of the AV Cup was lifted even further this year
Charleville was absolutely buzzing over the weekend with when we had several former NRL players involved, Adrian
visitors from Redlands, Redcliffe, Toowoomba, Caloundra, Vowles, Nick Patterson who coached the Caloundra
Winton, St George and everywhere in between. Some team, Tony Carrol coaching one of the Redcliffe teams,
teams travelling up to 800 kms to reach Charleville while with Petero Civoniceva and David Shillington in their
the closest team was Mitchell who only had to travel roles to help promote the announcement by Rob Moore,
200kms. the QRL Managing Director, of the QLD Origin Fan Day
being held in Charleville.
The AV Cup not only provides footy for the local players
but also boosts the local businesses with all motels A first for the carnival was the Live Streaming of 15
completely booked out for the weekend with the overflow Saturday afternoon games including Under 14 and 16
camping at the grounds in swags and tents. games, the Under 14 and 16 girl’s games as well as the
Finals and the Under 18 game.
The shelves in the local IGA stores needed a major re
stock at the end of the weekend as most visitors bought This proved incredibly popular with parents and friends
food and drinks locally. The Toowoomba Brothers Club who were unable to make the trip out to Charleville, as
brought out three teams and were catering for 140 which well as others around Australia who were interested in
included many parents who made the trip out. Outback Rugby League.

78 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

Charleville, great venue for Adrian Vowles Cup Caloundra Under 14 AV Cup Winners 2019
Under 16 Girls

Redcliffe Under 16 AV Cup Winners 2019

This year we had Annette Brander, our current Origin and First timers at the carnival, Toowoomba Valleys, were
Jillaroos player, attend and help with the girls Under 14 the stand-out team in the Under 14s going through the
and Under 16 teams. Annette was very popular with all preliminary rounds undefeated.
the girls and spoke to them about pathways and what she
has been able to accomplish. In the finals they came up against another first timer,
Caloundra. In a very close game, not decided until the
It is hoped that Annette will be one of our coaches for our final siren, Caloundra ran out deserving winners 8 – 0.
upcoming Queensland Outback teams.
The Under 16 final was contested between Redcliffe,
In an encouraging sign for female participation in the who were undefeated in their six preliminary games,
Outback we had 62 girls turn out compared to 18 last year. and Mitchell Magpies who advanced to the finals after
a countback.
The girls attended the training session with NRL staff, a
welfare Education session, followed by a game for the Another quality game with Redcliffe running out winners
Under 14 and 16 teams. Both games were played with 16 – 0 in a very dominant display.
a lot of spirit and well supported by the large crowd who
were gathering. A great weekend in the Outback with the date already
been set for 2020 being the 28th and 29th February.
The stars of the weekend were the Under 14 and Under Motels in the area have already started taking bookings.
16 teams competing for the Adrian Vowles Cup and the
opportunity to be named in the Adrian Vowles All Stars – PETER RAFTER
team. QRL Central Division

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 79

1928 LONGREACH REPRESENTATIVE RUGBY LEAGUE TEAM – Toured North and Central Queensland Back (L-R): H Donelly, S Bartholomew, G Hansson, V Lawson, K
Kitching, K Nicholls Middle: H Solloy, K O’Shea, A Howard, V Sheppard, K Bowes, E Page, W Ferris Sitting: C Young, W Stevenson, S Byrne (Manager), Alf ‘Smacker’ Blair
(Captain), R Shepherd, W Prickett (Vice Capt) Floor: C McNevin, J Browne, P Plumb

100 YEARS OF LONGREACH RUGBY LEAGUE

LONGREACH TEAM OF HALF CENTURY Former stars who wore the Longreach colours that
made the journey to attend the reunion included former
1 Brian McGrath 10 Des ‘Tractor’ Tracey Australian centre and all-round tough guy, Harry Wells,
Barry Dawson and Father Terry Loth.
2 Paul Cooper 11 Ray Higgs
On the Saturday evening a ‘Team of the Last 50 Years’
3 Ron Clark 12 Terry Loth was named while Gavin Ballard, Jodie Moore and Noddy
Hart were awarded Life Membership of the Club.
4 Barry Dawson 13 Ian Cameron
Longreach has played some mighty games over the years
5 Barry Shakespeare 14 Steve Searles and when combined with other towns in the region to form
the Central West Rugby League they have played with
6 Danny Cooper 15 Marc Fickling distinction.

7 Noel Bladerson 16 Ken Hoolihan Trivia - Legends who have worn the Longreach jersey include Harry Wells
(Australia), Ray Higgs (Australia), Geoff Connell (Australia), Cyril Connell
8 Lyle Midgley 17 John Jeffries (Queensland), Noel Balderson (Queensland) and Alf ‘Smacker’ Blair who was
one of the greatest leaders to ever play the game.
9 Shane Smith
Blair was a very experienced player when he took on the player-coach roll in
A lot of rugby league has been played in Longreach since Longreach in 1928. He had played first grade for South Sydney since 1927 and
Roy Petersen drew up the first set of rules and Blues had captained Souths to the 1925 (Undefeated), 1926 and 1927 premierships.
defeated Reds 22-11 on the 11th May 1919.
He had played five-eighth for Australia against England in 1924 and was at
That got the local club competition going and twice during the top of his game when in Longreach, having played five-eighth for New
that inaugural season Longreach and traditional rivals, South Wales against Queensland the previous year. Blair played for Central
Barcaldine did battle. The first inter-town game was Queensland against England in Rockhampton during the 1928 season and
played on the 23rd August with Barcaldine winning 8-7 when he returned to Sydney in 1929 he again lead the ‘Rabbitohs’ to a
but a month later Longreach squared the leger with a 15- premiership.
11 victory on their home turf.

Sine that inaugural year the fortunes of the club has ebbed
and flowed and in October this year the town celebrated
their 100 years with a mighty ‘Return to Longreach’
weekend that saw people travel from all over Australia for
the event.

80 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

LONGREACH TEAM OF THE HALF CENTURY – Back (L-R): Dan Cooper, Lyle Midgley, Marc Fickling, Peter Balderson (Representing Noel), Ron Clark, Shane Smith, Barry

Dawson, John Woodfield (Representing Brian McGrath), Ken Hoolihan, Steve Searles Front: Barry Shakespeare, Father Terry Loth, John Jeffries, Des ‘Tractor’ Tracey, Ian

Cameron Absent: Paul Cooper, Ray Higgs PHOTOS: Courtesy of Longreach Leader

Longreach Rugby League ‘Life Members’ (L-R): Gavin Ballard, Noddy Hart, Jodie Moore, Mark Davies, Tony Emslie

Harry Wells (left) giving former Queensland Origin star, Longreach Rugby League members and supporters having a great night
Billy Moore some advice. to celebrate 100 Years of rugby league in the district.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 81

WARWICK & DISTRICT

JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE

WARWICK COLLEGIANS JRLFC UNDER 16 – 2019 WARWICK AND DISTRICT PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Sam Broomhal, James Breen, Steve Howard, Baden Williams, Ethan
Le Sueur, Angus Ridley, Josh Reid, Jayden Tucker, Luke Hauff, Hayden Doherty, Joseph Thornton, Dean Mauch, Morgan Bourke Middle: Rohan Hay, Jack Coleman, Daniel
Fisher, Ethan Sweeney Front: Jack Breen, Ben Lyons, Damien Beresford, Maurice Webber, Morgan Byrne, Jayden Lippi, Thomas Ramsey, Dan Howard, Zack Beckwith

THE finals series was one that two of our Junior clubs their opposition and winning the trophy 30-22.
won’t forget quickly with fires surrounding their towns
on Preliminary Final Day. Two of the games where The under 16 match of the day was between Collegians
postponed and rescheduled mid-week to enable families and Goondiwindi and didn’t disappoint the spectators.
to stay safe. A strong game can always be on display when these
two teams take the field and Grand Final day was no
Thank you to the Clubs and Leagues within the Central exception.
Region who supported both Stanthorpe Juniors and
Tenterfield Juniors throughout this time. Collegians were altogether too strong on the day and took
out the 2019 Under 16 trophy with a win of 32 to 22 over
As in true fighting spirit the Stanthorpe Rugby League Goondiwindi.
Football Club hosted the Warwick & District Grand final
on week one and a fantastic day or football was held. 2019 saw once again two Girls Rugby League teams come
back together to participate in the new girls competition of
The day was kicked off with Goondiwindi and Collegians their bordering League TJRL.
contesting the match, which saw Goondiwindi winning the
match 24-10. Warwick fielded teams in Under 14 and Under 17 girls,
with girls and their parents travelling to train once a week
Next game was Under 17 girls Leaguetag which was hotly and then again travel on a Friday night to compete.
contested by the host club Stanthorpe taking the prize
with a win over the Goondiwindi Boars 8-4. A band of tireless Coaches, Managers and parents
enabled this to happen to give the girls the opportunity
The Under 14 boys match was closely contested between to play. The results come through with the Warwick
Collegians White and Wattles. Under 14 girls qualifying for the TJRL Grand Final in the
inaugural competition.
The game went right down to the wire with Collegians
taking the win 26 to 24 over Wattles. The team was unable to take the win and went down 24
to 14 to a determined Highfields team. The commitment
Under 15 girls Leaguetag was once again strongly of both the Under 14 and Under 17 Girls teams was
contested between neighbouring towns Stanthorpe and admirable by such young players. 2020 will be one to look
Tenterfield, with the Tenterfield girls being too strong for forward to for the Warwick & District Girls Rugby League.

82 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

WARWICK COLLEGIANS JRLFC UNDER 14 – 2019 WARWICK AND DISTRICT PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Martin Bell, Matthew Lane, Alex Stewart (Trainer), Jacob Fuhrman-
Luck, Cody Collins, Jamaine Smith, Andrew Willett, Harrison Boal, Caleb Farrell, Greg Hoffman (Trainer) Middle: Ryan Fischer, Thomas Durrington, Jesse Scanlan, Samuel
Wainwright, Jesse Bohm, Aaron Hinch, Lachlan Collins, Bevan Costello, Cooper Morton, Carge Martin-Brown, Brendan Hughes, William Gross, Jack Rossitor Front: Matthew
Watt, Samuel Neucom, Bob Bell (coach), Thomas Doherty, Isaiah Hinch, Campbell Ridley, Jack Talbot

WARWICK & DISTRICT RLFC UNDER 14 GIRLS – 2019 GRAND FINALISTS – Back (L-R): Mia Ammenhauser, Jacolene De Jager, Reagan McMillan, Summer Jacks, May’C
Giddy, Matilda Mitchell, Piper Brady, Shontai Saunders, Keya Williamson Front: Samantha Burns, Marnie Harre, Bonnie Zappa (C), Maddison Riley (C), Asher Harre, Kaysan
Miles Absent: Te Netti Spiller, Madysin Kettle, Alera Ross, Neitayah Prince

Farewell to our retiring Chairman, with the Under 43kg carnival in the
Dave Landers who has been Warwick and Tenterfield areas.
assisting the Warwick & District
Junior Rugby League, Senior Rugby He has mentioned that he will be
League, Clubs and Representative assisting to get the Tenterfield Senior
for 20 years. Rugby League back on track in 2020.

Dave was President of the Tenterfield Thank you, Dave for all you have
Juniors and Seniors for 15 seasons done for Junior & Senior Rugby
and has always been involved League in the Warwick area.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 83

GLADSTONE RUGBY LEAGUE

VALLEYS RLFC – 2019 GLADSTONE RUGBY LEAGUE DIVISION 1 PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Russel O’Dwyer (Coach), Zac Suter, James Cody, Ha’Ofanga Rabakewa
(Captain), Sonny D’Layni, Chris Riley, Dylan Brown, Jack Wilson, Niko Leilua, Josh Noovoa, Ashley Roberts, Dayn Richards, Joe Hayward, Col Gaston (Assistant Coach), Isaiah
McGarrow, Jaiden Richards (Captain) Front: Tom Gaston, Shannon Chynnoweth, Thomas Little, David West, Mason Collett, Leith Hammelswang

GLADSTONE Brothers fell at the last hurdle in the Grand The Gladstone Junior Rugby League Grand Finals
Final played at Marley Brown Oval on the 14th September. were played on the 24th August with Valleys the most
The Brethren who had taken the minor premiership after successful team after taking out the Under 12 final with a
winning 13 of their 16 games were first into the Grand 20-16 defeat of Wallabys and winning the Under 15 final
Final while Valleys and Wallabys fought out the major with a 24-20 defeat of Tannum Sands.
semi-final.
Tannum won the Under 17 final with a hard fought 20-
In a game that had the spectators glued to their seats, 16 victory over Brothers while mighty Calliope defeated
Valleys took the honours with a narrow 22-20 victory Brothers 22-10 in the Under 13 final.
due to the outstanding game played by David West who
scored two tries and kicked an important three goals. Wallabys Women’s team defeated Bundaberg Bears
34-8 in the inter-town competition between Gladstone,
The Grand Final was supposed to be a tight contest with Bundaberg and the Fraser Coast with Amy-Lee People
Brothers slight favourites but a 24-12 half-time lead to winning the Best Player Award.
Valleys turned into a 34-12 victory with David West again
outstanding with a try and five goals.

Others to score for Valleys in the big dance were D’Layni
Perham who scored a double while Shannon Chyoweth,
Datn Richards and James Cody also crossed the white
line.

The Division Two competition saw Valleys win the minor
premiership and advance to the Grand Final while
Brothers played Tannum Sands in the major semi-final.

Both teams crossed for five tries but the boot of Steven
Silvester got Brothers into the big game.

The Grand Final was no place for the faint-hearted Wallaby’s Player of the Final, Amy-Lee Pople with
with the scores locked at 8-8 after 40 minutes but the Gladstone President, Richard Duff.
second session was Valleys dominating the opening
exchanges to lead 18-8 through tries to Henry Tass and
Chris Kellow while Rance Coop kicked a goal. Brothers
scored a consolation try late in the game through Matthew
Holzheimer to narrow the gap to 18-12.

84 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

VALLEYS RLFC – 2019 GLADSTONE RUGBY LEAGUE DIVISION 2 PREMIERS – Back (L-R): Jed Griffiths, Spence Mariner, Jesse Mariner, Brenden Coughlan, Ben Emerick,
Josh Gravo, Ryan O’Conner Middle: Ambrose Coolwell (FAO), Henry Tass, Blake O’Dwyer, Rance Coop (capt), Jackson Hoyland, Chris Kellow, Ken Roeser, Jay Russel, Kane
Heisner Front: Drew Jones, Dallas Brown, Alec Schmakov, Adrian Trotter, Michael Ruge, Chris Johnson (coach)

VALLEYS UNDER 15 BOYS JRL – 2019 GLADSTONE JRL PREMIERS Back (L-R): Kyle O’Dwyer (Captain), Alex Davison, Albert Muanga, Corey Liaropolous, Diesel Costigan,
Logan Slade, Braith Smith, Lincon Baran, Aarana Grey, Chad Wright, Zac Claridge, Ethan Malone, Phil Slade (Trainer), Damien Smith (FAO) Front: Damien Offord, Nick Crane,
Liam Price, Bailey Smith, Jacob Baran, Hoani Harris Riley Powell-Phillips, Bronson Noble, Ethan Luhrs, Darrin Price (Coach)

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 85

TANNUM SANDS UNDER 17 BOYS JRL – 2019 GLADSTONE JRL PREMIERS – Hidden at back: John Eade (FAO), Les Nicholson (Trainer), Nathan Philips, Coby Granzien,
Liam Fenwick Back (L-R): Tyler Keogh-Paladin, Cameron Philips (Trainer), Benton Philips, Blair Potts (Coach), Tyson Newton, Julius Nicolson, Kalitoni People (Assistant Coach),
Clayton Box, Ferguson Comrie, Johan Botes, Kye McDermott, Wyatt Parry, Cooper Newitt, Aaron Menhinnit, Will Potts (President) Front: Billy Menhinnit, Fletcher Colless, Trev
Nay, Jacob Paoletti, Buz Wignell, Jake Gerhmann, Jacob Harvey, Adam James, Campbell Smith

CALLIOPE UNDER 13 BOYS JRL – 2019 GLADSTONE PREMIERS – Back (L-R): JR Roeser (coach), Braydon Goltz, Daniel French, Dylan Streeter, Hai Branford, Kahn Terry
Marshall, Riley Richards, Jadyn Hamilton, Jake Brown, Dane Embry ( Assistant Coach) Thomas Nightingale Front: Brayden Bowra, Kayden Bradford, Alex Lillyman, Will Redfern,
James MacGregor, Chayce Ind, Jadyn Johnston, Mason Brown Absent : Max Buchanan
86 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

VALLEYS UNDER 12 BOYS JRL – 2019 GLADSTONE GAME OF EXCELLENCE WINNERS Back (L-R): Gavin Marsh (Coach), Xaviar Rippingale-Dowling, Lucas Burston,
Marcus Uini Paulo, Justin Costigan, Levi Ferry, Riley Mariner, Jarvis Miller, Jackson Smith, Luke Brown, Mick Silvester (Trainer) Front (L-R): Kobi Amos, Chase McLauchlan,
Jaihden Silvseter, Lennox Henderson-Wilson, Nakeisha Row Row, Josiah McKeough, Navin Menon, Nathaniel Miller, Emmett Power, Deon Thompson

Action from Gladstone Junior Rugby League Grand Finals

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 87

MIGHTY ST GEORGE —

100 years on and St George played Mungindi in an “Old Boys” game.
PHOTO: Courtesy Majella Morris

IN THE 100-year history of St George Rugby League Football, more than 10,000
players are believed to have donned the white, red and black Saints jersey.

THREE Roma premierships in succession from 2007- said. "I had no idea, there was no way in the world I
2009 and five since they joined the Roma competition thought I was in it, but it is a really great honour.
back in 1958 when it was called the North West Rugby "I think I'm the youngest too. I love the game, the town,
League has seen the mighty Dragons compete at a high the side and I love football.”
level. Named winger for the iconic team, Robert Clevin travelled
back to St George to help celebrate the occasion.
Since 1997 the boys from close to the New South Wales "It is a great honour to be named in this side,” Clevin said.
border have appeared in 13 Grand Finals, winning five.
Several of the Team of the Century ‘Oldies” shaking hands.
A century on from the club's first game against Mungindi, PHOTO: Courtesy Majella Morris
former Saints returned to their home-town to join their
friends, family and club mates to reminisce and celebrate
the milestone birthday.

Balonne Shire Councillor Robyn Fuhrmeister said the
weekend had marked a great start to St George's tourism
season.

"It was a great kick to get more people in to come out, or
come back, to see our beautiful town,” Cr Fuhrmeister said.

"And that went straight back into our towns, even people
who stayed with family, they still came out here and that's
money back into our economy.”

Of the 10,000 who have run onto the field as a Saints
player, only a select few made the cut for the club's
exclusive team of the century.

Master Saints player Duane Anderson was named front
rower for the team of the century.

"In 100 years, there's been a lot of players,” Anderson

88 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

— 100 YEARS IN THE MAKING

TEAM OF THE CENTURY

Fullback: Mark Morris

Winger: Jeff Betts

Centre: Kevin McDonald

Centre: Barry Wright

Winger: Robert Clevin

Five-eighth: Lionel Jones

Halfback: Stan Howe (Captain)

Lock: Mick Kings

Second row: Doug Brown

Second Row: Peter Albeck

Front Row: Gerry Nixon

Hooker: David Cooper

Front row: Duane Anderson

Reserves: Harrold Littleton

Reserve: Kevin Kirby

Reserve: Herb Nowland

The “Team of the Century” Plaque to be hung in the St George Club House. Reserve: Ted Beaton
PHOTO: Courtesy Majella Morris

"I played here for a while before I left, and a lot of my "It has been a terrific weekend, it's going to be a shame to
friends are still out here, it's good to get back and visit see it finish up,” Jones said.
them.”
Ian Nowland, son of reserve Herb, said he had no idea
Some players named in the team of the century had died about his father's rugby league career until he received a
but family members were honoured to receive plaques and call late last year.
trophies to commemorate the role their late fathers and
grandfathers played in St George rugby league history. "Dad moved back to Brisbane and we never knew he had
played rugby league or cricket,” Nowland said. "But it is an
Peter Jones, the son of five-eighth Lionel Jones, enjoyed honour to be here to celebrate dad and the history of the
the event. game in this club.”

Sue-Ellen Cooper organised the St George Cheer-Squad.
PHOTO: Courtesy Majella Morris

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 89

PHOTOS: Courtesy on Skinn

BARCALDINE 100 YEARS

OF RUGBY LEAGUE

THE first rugby league game in Barcaldine was played on Barcaldine had imported a paid coach, Eric Frauenfelder,
4 May 1919 when Shamrocks played Natives. and the crowd went wild with delight when he guided the
home team to victory.
Barcaldine and Longreach met for their first game on
23 August 1919 at Barcaldine, the home-town winning A ball in Forester’s Hall and a victory procession
8-7, with Bill Mornet scoring the first points, while Jack of several hundred townspeople kept celebrations
McQuaid kicked the first goal. going for days while the Champion ran its largest
ever headlines – ‘Barcaldine Tastes Fruits of Victory.
Longreach arrived that day by train packed to capacity, the Longreach Sucks a Lemon’.
players being welcomed at Hawthorns Cafe which was
the custom in those days. The return game was played Longreach, however, refused to part with the cup, claiming
in Longreach four weeks later, Longreach winning 15-11. that Barcaldine had used a Brisbane player, W. McCook
Darby Devery, full back, scored two tries and captain under the name of Graham, and a protest to the Central
Mick O’Hanlon scored one and McQuaid kicked a goal Western Rugby League was upheld.
accounting for the visitors’ 11 points.
Barcaldine countered with a protest to Central Queensland
Barcaldine was the first western team to have a grass Rugby League which awarded the cup back to Barcaldine
playing field, and the first to have a timing clock at the as McCook had been cleared to play.
grounds. The clock was donated by A & K Jackson and
Pat and Clare Ogden at a cost of $800, installed on 20 Longreach then took the matter to Queensland Rugby
March 1975. League which upheld Barcaldine’s claim and the cup was
installed at the Town Hall to display the Solley Cup and
Solley Cup – Intertown rivalry became intense when other trophies.
the contest began for the H. S. Solley cup in 1920. The
competition towns were Barcaldine, Longreach and Emerald. Rugby League teams played for a J. Moscrip challenge
Winton and Blackall hadn’t fielded teams at that time. trophy in the central west from 1950.

The cup, presented by a businessman of Longreach, was The local donor, ‘Sonny’ Moscrip saw his cup won by
to be retained by the first town to win it three times. By Barcaldine in its first year and held in the town from 1962
1927 Barcaldine and Longreach had each won twice and to 1967.
excitement for the deciding fixture reached fever pitch.
Barcaldine won it again in 1983. The Barcaldine Rugby
Despite drought conditions, an enormous crowd gathered League team became the ‘Sand Goannas’, winning the
in Barcaldine. Cars brought visitors from Cloncurry, Moscrip trophy 17 times.
Hughenden, Winton and Clermont and a special train
from Longreach was packed by hundreds of spectators International games were played at the local grounds by
for the July match. visiting Kiwis in 1952 and a French team in 1955.

(Source: Barcaldine Centenary Rugby League Program, 1986)

REPRESENTING BARCALDINE TEAM OF THE CENTURY – (Left to Right): Harry Blucher, Heinz Blume, Geoffry Rafter, Glennie O’Toole (representing Odles O’Toole),
Gerry Fogarty, Shirley Jackson (representing Allan “Wacker” Jackson), Phil Mitchell, Pat Ogden, Graham Bashford, David Kerrigan, Col Harvey, Ian Williams, Pat Arthur

90 THE CROW FLIES HIGH 2019

BARCALDINE TEAM OF THE CENTURY
1 Henry Anderson, 2 Ian Williams, 3 Pat Arthur, 4 Eric Bowe, 5 Shane Woods, 6 Gerry Fogarty, 7 Eddie Martin,
8 Noel ‘Chips’ Harrington, 9 Alan ‘Boof’ Kempson, 10 David Colman, 11 Heinz Blume, 12 Colin Harvey, 13 Don Morgan,
14 Daniel Arthur, 15 David Kerrigan, 16 Harry Blucher, 17 Geoffrey Rafter, 18 Noel Bashford, 19 Lyal Balderson,

20 Owen ‘Darby’ Devery, Coach – Phil Mitchell, Referee – Allan ‘Wacker’ Jackson

BARCALDINE REPRESENTATIVE TEAM 1950 Moscrip Trophy Champions – Back (L-R): J. Teasdale (strapper), A. Scott, P. Maher, N. Innocend, G. McInnes, J.
Grant, W. Scott, J. Stewart Middle: J. Arthur, B. Jessberg, T. Sleeman, W. Gill (Coach), A. Whitfield, K. Boustead, T. Duffy, D. Alexander Front: N. Tighe, R. Burns

Trivia – Did you know that a Brisbane representative team played Central West Queensland in Barcaldine on the 29th July 1927 and that the
Western team led by former Australian fullback, Eric Frauenfelder took the honours, winning 33-3 at the Barcaldine Show Grounds.
The Brisbane team were not a second-string outfit with Queensland representatives Eric Harris, Paddy Crouch, Stan Ryan, Bill Kavanagh and
Ernie Riipinen while Ferguson, Ganley, W Price and G Thompson had played Bulimba Cup in 1926 and 1927.
Brisbane looked dangerous early but a dropped ball saw Smith score the first of his two first half tries to take the locals into half time at 10-0.
The forward exchanges were brutal and several players had to be assisted from the field on both sides. Smith, the Central West winger, scored
the first try of the second half to take the lead to 13-0 before W Thompson scored for Brisbane to narrow the gap to 13-3.
Ellem scored the next try for the western combination after good work from Frauenfelder and then, you guessed it, Smith scored again to take
the score to 23-3. In the closing stages Ellem and Pont crossed for tries late in the game to take the score to 33-3.
The Central West team was J Ellis, L Ellem, W Goodwin, N Pont, M Smith, E Frauenfelder (Captain), K Bowes, W Lennon, H Howard, A Dunn,
V Lawson, G Hansen and J Aitcheson.

QRL CENTRAL QUEENSLAND DIVISION 91