By CASEY O’CONNOR
I AM pleased to report that I survived my recent trip to Fiji and more importantly my colleagues survived my assistance as a TA and general dog’s body. The high school of Naiyala now has ample running water for its needs and that of the local village, thanks to the efforts of the Stanthorpe Rotary Club.
Back enjoying the simple pleasures of reliable hot running water and the availability of cold beverages after a hard day, I am looking forward to the start of the Test series against the Windies.
The heady days of the ’80s and ’90s are etched in cricket folklore, and while this West Indian side is not expected to show much fight we might be surprised.
Many of us will recall marveling at that terrifying stare of Curtly Ambrose when he powered in to bowl. That same stare is now being cast over the current West Indian touring party and the man himself, who is their bowling consultant is apparently none too happy with the side’s embarrassing performance recently.
The once-fiercesome paceman believes the current crop of players have taken heed of his advice. I read where he jokingly said, “Well, I am bigger than most of them so they have to.”
Plenty of opposition batsmen from the halcyon days of the West Indies cricket would understand exactly what that means.
In truth, World Cricket needs the Windies – they may not ever return to those great days, but let’s hope they surprise us with some of that Caribbean spirit we all love.
After struggling to catch snippets of the Adelaide Day/Night Test and washing it down with warm beverages; I for one will be enjoying whatever this Test brings – from the comfort of my lounge chair which will not be too far from the mandatory cold drink.
– Casey
Five West Indian players to keep your eye on:-
Captain Jason Holder – As captain of this side surely he has the toughest job in World Cricket.
Is there a player in world cricket who has a tougher job than the West Indies captain? The second youngest Windies captain he is the 13th man to hold the job since 2000,
He leads what many rate as the most dysfunctional team in world cricket but does have the backing of the great Sir Vivian Richards.
A bowler by trade, he is also talented with the bat and will no doubt be asked to launch several rescue missions in the lower order. A thoughtful off-field manner belies a tenacious fighter.
Kraigg Brathwaite – another youngster from Barbados
Made his first-class debut aged 16 and was selected in the Test side at 18. An old-school opener who places a very high regard on his wicket.
The third youngest West Indian to score a double century, behind George Headley and Sir Garfield Sobers – lofty company indeed.
Darren Bravo – Bats left-handed, in much the same mould as Brian Lara. Moves the same, has the same flourish of the bat. Not quite at Lara’s lofty heights but not bad. A Test average of 41 says Bravo clearly belongs in the international arena.
Kemar Roach – made a name for himself in Australia in 2009 when he forced Ricky Ponting to retire hurt after striking him with a 146 km/h thunderbolt. Has not quite developed as many anticipated, but has 122 wickets at 28. Capable of reaching the high 140s when he is on song.
Jerome Taylor – One player who comes into this series with confidence. The Jamaican speedster claimed a career-best 6-47 against Australia in Kingston this year but received little support from his fellow bowlers. Debuted as an 18-year-old in 2003 but has seldom been a regular in the Windies XI.
TEXAS SUCCESS
All roads head to Texas this weekend for the Texas Cup race meeting. The annual race meeting swells the town numbers each year and the Cup this year has attracted 13 nominations.
Local trainer Rod Hilton will be hoping Casino Prince who was successful in a 1350 metre race at Doomben in August can step up and keep the Cup in town on Saturday.
Hilton who trains on the Texas track has horses nominated in four of the five events on the card.
The annual meeting is another example of the strength and importance of country racing and comes at a time when the industry is cloaked in uncertainty and turmoil.
The Queensland Government has just released the Racing Queensland’s Tracking Towards Sustainability report, which, when implemented, is likely to see substantial cuts to prizemoney in the state. Major stakeholders however see very little “Sustainability” in what the report has to offer.
To what extent our local race clubs will be really affected is yet to be announced.
President of the Stanthorpe Jockey Club Chips Brunckhorst said when contacted that he felt confident that clubs such as Stanthorpe and Texas who operate only one successful meeting a year would not be axed.
“We have received nothing official from Racing Queensland, but if you are to believe what has been released we could be facing some cuts in prizemoney.” Mr Brunckhorst said, adding that at a time when Racing Victoria and NSW were announcing increases in prizemoney it was a disappointing trend.
“Cuts in prizemoney even in city racing have a flow-on effect throughout the industry.”
Opposition leader and Member for Southern Downs Lawrenece Springborg has slammed the proposed changes, which will see funding for the popular and successful Showcase, Celebrate and Sustain Country Race Series scrapped. This series provided a real incentive for owners and trainers to bring gallopers to meetings like Warwick, Texas, Goondiwindi and Stanthorpe.
The report is just another slap in the face for an industry that is the third largest in the state. With the recent reshuffle of the Labor Government cabinet, racing is now faced with a new Racing Minister, who, by her own admission, knows nothing of the industry. Any wonder owners, trainers, jockeys, breeders and punters lack confidence in the future of racing in our state.
With the Magic Millions sale just around the corner, local breeders have expressed their concerns at what effect these recent announcements will have on the sale results.
For the time being though, a big crowd is expected in Texas. The Cup day meeting will showcase all that is good and positive about country racing which can be the lifeblood of the community and contribute in a very positive way to local economies.
A CHANCE TO MAKE CHRISTMAS A BREEZE
SPIN’S favourite author 4Ingredients Kim McCosker will be making a flying visit home to Stanthorpe on Thursday night to host a fund-raiser for Rotary Apple and Grape Young Ambassador Samantha Blaxland. In an evening that is not just for the girls, Kim will be showing us all how to have a “Stress Free” Christmas.
In what is sure to be an entertaining evening, there will be plenty of taste tests and fun and frivolity at Webster’s Function Room at the Central Hotel. Cost is $20 per person and includes a glass of champers on arrival.
Tickets are still available – hope to see you there. Call Perditta 0427 670 150 for bookings.
KING RULES RUMBLE
LAURIE King took out last week’s Red Rooster Rumble at the Warwick Golf Club. King headed a good field of 27 players, returning a fine score of 24 points. After a countback, Brian Davidson (20 points) was declared the runner-up was declared the runner. Balls in the rundown went to the usual suspects, Ross Kingston, Geoff Hinze, Alan Mathews and Brett Donovan all with 20 points. Nev Heard (19 points) picked up the last ball.
Hayden McNichol earned himself two cooked chooks for his shots at five and seven and Geoff Hinze took home dinner for his shot at the ninth. This week Rumblers will be playing the back nine.
COLLET COLLECTS MONTHLY MEDAL
THE Warwick Real Estate Monthly Medal was decided last Saturday. In Division One Peter Collett notched up a win with a score of nett 66.
Don Stewart carded a nett 64 in Second Division to earn a well-deserved win. New member Michael Hoskins finished in second place with a score of nett 66.
“Leftie” Shane McKenzie had the best gross with a nice score of 70 off the clubs. The best gross was the club’s best left hander Shane McKenzie with a nice score of 70 off the clubs. Rhys Farrell one of the club’s improving juniors had the best gross junior score (82).
The winners of the Medal of Medallist were also decided on Saturday. Dion Phillips took out Division One and Peter Millard Division Two.
Collecting balls in the run down were Gary Hankinson, Geoff Hinze, Brendon Jones and Jay Roberts (68), Eamon Cockram, Mal Galloway, Doug Rickert and Al Thornton (69).
The nearest the pins went to Gordon Kerr, Jay Roberts, Peter Collett, Trevor Rock, Brendon Jones and Greg Sellick. The club appreciates the continued support of Neil Carney and Warwick Real Estate.
Congratulations to Brendon Jones on winning the shootout on Sunday. It was this third win in the event. It is understood this may be a first. Runner-up was Greg Sellick.
This week, the club is hosting a single stableford competition sponsored by the Horse and Jockey Hotel. To check on available times or book your spot, call the pro shop on 4661 3664 or email: proshop@warwickgolfclub.com.au
THOMPSON TASTES SUCCESS
MEMBERS at the ‘Garra played for the December Monthly Medal and Putting competition last weekend. Andrew Thompson and Jamie Purcell finished the round tied in equal first place. Thompson was declared the winner after a countback and Simon Blair finished in third spot.
Thompson was also the only player to pick up pins during the round. He was successful at three and nine while Purcell held the Approach shot.
It was Thompson’s second win in the Monthly Medal in 2015 and that was enough to earn him the Medal of Medals honour for 2015.
This Saturday it’s Hamper Day (4BBB) at the ‘Garra, so come along and enjoy the day.
LOCKE A WINNER
MARG Locke is a regular player at Sporters each Sunday and last week she scored a good win in the weekly competition finishing ahead of runner-up Angelo Maugeri who also finished the round with the best gross. Run-downs went to Mark Lynam and Rod Steele. The Pin Shot on the 12th went to Paul Byrnes and Wattsy took the Pro Pin.
Marg Locke added to a winning day, walking away with a meat tray. Paul Byrnes collected the remaining meat tray.
A reminder to all Sporters – Sunday is a big day – the annual Christmas party. It is an early start – A sausage sizzle barbecue at 7am followed by the obligatory game of golf and then back to the clubhouse for a barbecue lunch and more drinks and a presentation or two. Partners are welcome – Out of bed and on the course early this weekend. Sausage sizzle brekky, then a game of golf.
As the holiday season approaches fast, only the Summit Bowls Club has become party central. Social bowls were played last Saturday, and only a handful of bowlers turned out after Friday night’s Christmas party.
Andy McGlashan and Rob Parker proved no match for Connor Parker and Keith Mungall defeated 25 – 10. The score line in the remaining game favoured the pairing of Brian Brown and Eliseo Zamprogno. They won their game against Attilio Zamprogno and Quinton Stanley 21-13.
The club’s Christmas party and early bowls was well supported with a turnout of over 80 people.
The club also hosted the Tractor Club’s festive night, and on Sunday the Lions Club of Stanthorpe celebrated their Christmas party with a luncheon and barefoot bowls day at the Bowls Club.
Around 50 Lions and their families enjoyed the day and some good bowlers were uncovered during the course of the day.
A very busy weekend for all the Summit volunteers and a big thank you for your efforts. Special thanks to Rob and Jo Parker; Gaye Wilmot; Phil Davis; Artie White; Ray Spiller for a huge job in feeding the pride of Lions and families.
Congratulations to the club’s recently elected office bearers for 2015/2016 led by new president Rob Parker; secretary Quinton Stanley and treasurer Graham Rubie.
A reminder of all upcoming events. This Saturday – social bowls; turkey triples 15 December at 12.30pm and a board meeting at 7pm that evening. On 22 January, nominations close for the SDMDBA Men’s Open Fours which will be held on 30 and 31 January. The SDMDBA Men’s Open Pairs have been set down for 20 and 21 February 2016.
OVER 40S GAME CANCELLED
THE annual Over 40s game against the Queensland Cricketers Club X11 has been cancelled. The visitors have been unable to raise a team.
DOUBLE HEADER FOR WANDERERS AND VALLEYS
Wanderers and Valleys padded up for back-to-back games last weekend in Stanthorpe.
On Friday night on the CF White Oval Valleys proved too strong in the shorter Twenty/20 format played under lights.
Batting first, Wanderers made a good start and had posted 100 runs for the loss of only two wickets at the 15 over mark. A strong bowling performance from the Valley’s attack spearheaded by Anthony Marino restricted Wanderers in the final five overs and they were only able to add 21 runs to the total. Adrian Hill did best with the bat, top scoring with 52 runs.
Valleys looked to be on their way to an easy win, but gave their supporters a few anxious moments after they also lost quick wickets after cruising to 100. In the end, Valleys proved too strong passing the required total in the 17th over with two wickets in hand.
In Saturday’s 40 over game, the result was reversed. Wanderers stocks were bolstered with the return to the side of Jamie Carnell. Several weeks out of the game did not appear to have any ill-effects on Carnell’s game, and he notched up 43 runs in a solid partnership alongside Lyndon McGrath (52). Wanderers eventually set their opponents a target of 178. It was not a bad score after some tight bowling from Wanderers early in the innings saw Valleys battle to put runs on the board.
Curtis Allen and Alistair Middleton were the best of the Valleys bowlers.
Valleys struggled from the outset in their run chase. Damian Anderson was the best of the Valleys batsmen, falling on 47 just shy of a half century as wickets tumbled around him. Wanderers Lyndon McGrath backed up his good batting performance to finish with five wickets for a miserly 15 runs as Valleys crumbled to be all out for 121 in only the 27th over. The comprehensive win was just the shot in the arm Wanderers needed and as well as the two points for their win they also picked up a bonus point to put them ahead of Valleys on the rankings table.
SOUTHS TOP THE TABLE
SOUTHS sit at the top of the Stanthorpe Cricket table after they upset rivals RSL last weekend. Souths Ben Staley was all class with the bat. In a match-winning performance, Staley finished not out 163 as his side posted a total of 267. Staley led the way and found plenty of support from Danny Folkers (69) and youngster Jordan Lanza (23) who is quickly gaining a reputation as a solid batsman.
RSL captain Luke Brady led the run chase and the game was in the balance until his dismissal for 103. Souths were able to dismiss RSL for 233. Despite only playing seven games Souths lead the field on the ladder three points clear of RSL who have also only played seven games. Wanderers have played nine games and are in third position on 17 points while Valleys have only 14 points but have only played six games. Tenterfield are languishing at the bottom of the table on four points.
SUCCESS HOURS IN THE MAKING
WARWICK student Zac Catterson reaped the rewards of hours of athletics training after clinching three medals at the recent Australian All Schools Athletics Championships. Catterson threw a personal best of 47.56m in the final of the javelin competition to win gold and the title of national champion. He also won a bronze medal in the shot put and silver in the discus competition. The three-day carnival features events for students aged under 14, under 16 and under 18 providing athletes with the opportunity to qualify for the IAAF World Junior Championships and introduces students to the rigours of an international standard of competition.
GOOD BAD OR EXTRAORDINARY
THE Warwick fixture game between Inglewood and Sovereign Animals on Saturday raised more questions than answers and has cricket followers scratching their heads – was it an extraordinary performance or a shocker of a wicket or an ordinary performance from both sides. Whichever, it was an amazing game.
Batting first in the Slade Park wicket, Inglewood was dismissed for only 21 runs. Yes 21 runs. Caleb King took six wickets for three runs as spectators scrambled for the record books. Glen Doyle backed up the performance with figures of 4/18.
Inglewood bowler Ted Callaghan had scorers and supporters hunting for those record books not long after when, in an impressive performance, took seven wickets for only 10 runs as Animals slumped to be all out for only 18 runs. There was no repeat of the score lines on Sunday as Maryvale posted a win over Colts at Slade.
