By CASEY O’CONNOR
IT HAS been another funny week in sport. Some of it not all humorous, although that can’t be said for the induction of cricket’s master of political incorrectness Jeff Thompson into Cricket’s Hall of Fame along with Queensland and Australian wicket keeper the late Wally Grout.
Thommo did not hold back reminding us all that he is still one of the most colourful blokes to have played the game and what cricket in the 70s was really like. The man himself is the first to admit he would be in trouble these days. Never mind Warnie, the Twittersphere (whatever that is) would go into melt down if it had to deal with Thommo.
Daughter of legendary wicket keeper Wally Grout was far more dignified as she accepted the honour on behalf of her late father. As an A Grade Umpire in Brisbane for many years Nelma Grout had plenty to do with Thommo during his playing days. There would have been some interesting back stage reminiscing between the pair according to well those in the know.
It pains me to mention it, but again, yes again we are on the cusp of a new rugby league season and we have players acting like fools.
The NRL and QRL spend untold dollars to educate these privileged brats on their responsibilities to the game their clubs, fans, families and themselves. Despite their best efforts, it seems that every year we have a rerun of the same behaviour. So Mitchell Pearce is off to rehab. Great is that supposed to satisfy the public?
Perhaps, he and the emerging Orgin players who now find themselves in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons should take a leaf out of Dave Warner’s book.
It was refreshing to hear a sportsman at the top of his game admit that had he not changed his ways, he would not have the career he does today. Warner attributes much of that to his wife, former iron woman Candice Falzon and fatherhood but at the end of the day it must be the individual’s own decision to change – that is a place Mitchell Pearce must find for himself.
Meanwhile, on the tennis court – the champions of that game continue to lead the way in sportsmanship and good grace. More Djokovic, Murray, Federer, Kerber and Williams please.
I wonder if there is any chance we get through the Auckland Nines without another footballer disgracing the game?
-Casey
BACK NINE NO PROBLEM FOR BOEKHOLT
THERE was a familiar trend in Saturday’s Stableford event at the Stanthorpe Golf Club. A number of players throughout the day scored strongly on the front nine, but stumbled on the home run. There were no such difficulties for eventual winner Darryl Boekholt who returned a solid 20 points on the opening nine and finished strongly with 24 points on the back nine to shut out all probable contenders with his score of 44 points.
Rod Werner also put together a good round – 23 points on the front nine had him well placed early, was one of a number who faltered on the back nine coming home with 19 points and had to be content with the runners-up spot.
Trish Fittock took out the ladies event with a score of 37 points. Filling the runners- up spot was Hannah Reeves with a score of 35 points. The event was sponsored by Len Leigh.
Ian Harvey collected the pin at 3/12 and Matt Waterworth had best tee shot at 17. Kay Webb held the ladies pin at 3/12 and Hannah Reeves had the best approach at 17. Pro-pins went to Dylan Barraclough at 1/10 and Ron Batterham at 9/18. David Giannini, visiting from Tenterfield Golf Club, collected the remaining pro-pin at 5/14 with a second shot that left him with a very short putt for a birdie.
In the run down, a ball each to Luke Reardon, Mick O’Brien, Fred Wharton and Keith Green for the men and Rachael Hendry and Linda Kelly for the ladies.
This Saturday is the February monthly medal and putting competition sponsored by Dixon Homes- Wes Smith Building. Time sheet is on the board with tee off from 11.30am.
The Stanthorpe golfing fraternity was shocked by the news of the sudden death of popular member David Townsend following a recent car accident. He was a long standing member of the golf club and over many years was heavily involved in a variety of sports. David will be sorely missed by many and the members of the Stanthorpe golf club join with the broader sporting community in expressing their sympathy to the Townsend family.
CHANGING OF THE GUARD
IT IS believed there will be a changing of the guard at Wimbledon this year. Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, is apparently set to take the reins as patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, hosts of Wimbledon.
According to British newspapers the popular Duchess will assume the role from the upcoming European summer as the Queen steps down from the position after 64 years. The Duchess is an avid tennis fan, and is a regular in the royal box with Prince William and her family during the Wimbledon Championships. The Duchess accepted an honourary membership to the prestigious club in 2013.
CELEBRATIONS WOODENBONG STYLE
IT IS well known in all cricketing circles that if you give my old mate Lew Cooper OAM a charitable cause to support and a cricket match to arrange, he is a happy man. Cooper still lives and breathes cricket and remains president of the Wanderers Queensland Club Inc. and chairman of The Lord’s Taverners’ (Queensland). One of the major aims of both clubs is to raise funds that help communities and kids in many towns, giving a hand up to the young, less privileged, disabled and disadvantaged children. In many cases, giving them a sporting chance and supporting cricket at the grassroots level.
On Australia Day, Woodenbong children were delighted to be offered a cricket coaching clinic which was arranged by Cooper and Adam Gilchrist’s father Stan Gilchrist (chairman of the Lord’s Taverners Northern NSW).
Cricketers Adrian Schooth, Jarad Seiffert and Gary Rossington joined local volunteers Ray Smith and Travis Musicka for the clinic, giving the children a glimpse of what they could achieve in their future and inspiring a future love of the game. Aspiring cricketers could blossom from the experience – stranger things have happened.
For several years, Woodenbong has hosted an Australia Day ‘City VS Country’ cricket. This year there was the added input of the visiting coaches playing with the locals, and putting to trial the new cricket equipment purchased by Woodenbong Progress Association for this ‘major’ local ritual. Honours on the day went the way of “Country”.
Lew Cooper who you could say goes under the mantra of “Never let a chance go by” arrived armed not only with a fabulous bunch of caring cricketers but also a bat signed by the “Brisbane Heat”, thanks to Geoff Cockerill, CEO of Queensland Cricket.
The ensuing fund-raising raffle was drawn at the Woodenbong Hotel during the Australia Day celebrations and resulted in $800 being raised for the Woodenbong Rural Fire Brigade and Woodenbong Public Hall Trust.
Cooper who is also patron of the Queensland Seniors Cricket for over 60s and 70s announced seven teams will this year be vying for The Cooper Finlay Cup to be held in Coffs Harbour on 22 and 23 March.
WALLANGARRA WIN TO WILLIAMS
KEVIN Williams carded a nett 65 to win the stroke event in Wallangarra last Saturday. Williams finished two shots clear of runner-up Peter Butler with Steven Hampstead one shot back in third place.
Tony Murphy picked up the pin shot at the third while the ninth and the second to Steven Hampstead. Gary Sutcliffe hit one dead on 15 but somehow missed the putt. He missed the putt somehow. Hampstead also won the jackpot the fourth hole. As it is the first weekend of the new month, play this week will be for the February Monthly Medal. A reminder to all members of the Wallangarra club that the AGM will be held following the game on 27 February.
MALLET MEMBERS ON THE GREEN
ALL members of the Stanthorpe Croquet Club are reminded that the annual general meeting will be held on Wednesday 10 February at 11.30am at the club.
While members were digesting the news that the AGM is just around the corner, those involved in Association Croquet took to the green with Grace Howard and Effie Russell taking on Pat Schnoor and Val Shepherd in a game that resulted in a 16-all draw. Grace had a break of three in the game while Russell had two breaks of two.
Carol Verwey and Joy Newman teamed up to play Heather Widderick and Jenny Tunbridge. Their score of 17 was not good enough to beat their opponents’ 22 points. Jenny played well and had one break of four in her game.
Andrea Denkewitz played a singles game against Margaret Dickenson, notching up a 19-15 win with breaks of three and two in her game.
All players still looked a little rusty after the holiday break and some are carrying injuries.
There was almost a full contingent of players on deck for Hoop Runners Golf Croquet.
Two groups of four played doubles, swapping teams in the second game.
In a very close game, Val Fancourt and Teresa Pyne (13) won their match against Shirley Evans and Elaine Brown (12). Three players each scored six hoops. Pyne top scored with seven hoops to break the deadlock.
The second grouping saw another tough game. In the end, it was a 13-12 win to Bill Golding and Liz Ellway who played Judy Lock and Shirley Page. Judy is showing a great liking for the game and top scored with 10 hoops in this match.
Following the break, Ellway and Lock took on Val Fancourt and Elaine Brown but found the competition tough and were defeated 12-5. Evans and Golding also proved a formidable pairing in their game against Teresa Pyne and Shirley Page winning the encounter 9-5.
WIN FOR WALSH
ANOTHER big field turned out for the ever popular Sporters event in Stanthorpe last Sunday. John Walsh took the winning honours relegating Clarky to the “Bridesmaid’s spot.”
The run-downs went to Gary Kirby and Aaron Simmers. Hannah Reeves had the Best Gross and also collected the Pro Pin. Terry Byrnes held the pin shot on the third.
All was not lost for Owen McPaul and Angelo Doorley who each took home a meat tray. Sporters tee off again this Sunday at the normal time of 8am and 8.30am. A reminder that visitors are always welcome to join in the Sunday fun. Golfing alert – The Maureen Bates Memorial Day is coming up soon.
FEARLESS OR A LITTLE CRAZY
IF YOU are an adrenalin junkie and love a live action sports show like no other, then you should be booking an early bird ticket to the Bike and Bulls show at the Toowoomba Showground on 20 February.
Bikes and Bulls the ultimate showdown between Aussie FMX and Hall Rodeo combines two of the dangerous sports in the world into one action-packed, high adrenaline live show.
Some of Australia’s top Cowboys will battle some of the toughest bulls in the country, while some of the biggest names in Australian freestyle from Team from Aussie FMX turn themselves upside down over the top of the bull ring.
The cowboys turn up the heat with a crazy tandem bull ride, only to see it try to be outdone by the FMX boys – two person one bike tandem back flip plus other ridiculous shenanigans.
In addition to being fearless, I am sure it helps if you are just a little crazy.
Rides, food, bar, meet and greet, fireworks, big screen, Aussie the kangaroo doing a backflip and riding a 750kg bucking bull, backflips, front flip, tandem backflip, tandem Bull Ride and more – should be enough of an adrenaline rush for anyone.
LEAGUE APPETIZER
LEAGUE lovers will be served up an appetizer to the 2016 season this weekend when the Auckland Nines get underway on Saturday.
The 16 NRL have been split into four pools for the knockout round robin competition with plenty of $$$ on offer again for the winning club.
Pool A (WAIHEKE) includes the Roosters, Rabbitohs, Eels and Melbourne Storm.
In Pool B (RANGITOTO) there are the Knights, NQ Cowboys, Panthers and Tigers. Pool C (HUNUA) includes the Warriors, Bulldogs Sea Eagles and Broncos and Pool D (PIHA) – the Dragons, Raiders, Sharks and Titans.
Nines Rugby League much like the Big Bash in cricket might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it is certainly an entertaining spectacle and brings a different skill set to the field.
Adding to the entertainment factor, the competition is set to be even more exciting, with a new rule encouraging attacking play.
The NRL has confirmed a ‘free play’ advantage rule will be in play.
The rule allows an extended advantage for a team after their opposition makes a mistake, which it’s hoped will encourage teams to take on high-risk plays in an attempt to score a try in the advantage period.
The rule also allows teams to kick the ball in an attacking manner on a turnover, knowing they will still get the ball back if the opposition recovers it.
Watch out for some confused players, announcers and spectators alike – If you are confused spare a thought for the refs.
While the Bunnies will be out to defend their 2015 Nines Title, the Sharks will be playing without Valentine Holmes after he blotted his copy book. The Roosters too will be without Mitchell Pearce another league star in the sin bin for appalling behaviour.
The Cowboys dual captains Turhston and Scott have been corralled and are in cotton wool as the club prepares for the World Club Challenge against the Leeds Rhinos on 21 February in Headingley at Carnegie Stadium.
2016 Auckland Nines match schedule
Day 1
Time (AEDT) Match
12:30 PM Roosters vs Rabbitohs
12:55 PM Eels vs Storm
1:20 PM Knights vs Cowboys
1:45 PM Panthers vs Tigers
2:20 PM Warriors vs Bulldogs
2:45 PM Sea Eagles vs Broncos
3:10 PM Dragons vs Raiders
3:35 PM Sharks vs Titans
4:25 PM Roosters vs Eels
4:50 PM Rabbitohs vs Storm
5:15 PM Knights vs Panthers
5:40 PM Cowboys vs Tigers
6:15 PM Warriors vs Sea Eagles
6:40 PM Bulldogs vs Broncos
7:05 PM Dragons vs Sharks
7:30 PM Raiders vs Titans
Day 2
Time (AEDT) Match
10:35 AM Roosters vs Storm
11:00 AM Rabbitohs vs Eels
11:25 AM Knights vs Tigers
11:50 AM Cowboys vs Panthers
12:15 PM Bulldogs vs Sea Eagles
12:40 PM Warriors vs Broncos
1:05 PM Dragons vs Titans
1:30 PM Raiders vs Sharks
1:55 PM Quarter final 1
2:20 PM Quarter final 2
3:05 PM Quarter final 3
3:30 PM Quarter final 4
4:40 PM Semi-final: Winner QF1 vs QF2
5:05 PM Seem final: Winner QF3 vs QF4
4:40 PM Grand final
GOOD START TO 2016
LOCAL trainer Mick Hemmings got 2016 off to a great start for local connections of Trust No One on Saturday at Allman Park when the four-year-old won the opening event of the four-race programme.
It was only the gelding’s fifth race start, and he revelled in the conditions. The Allman Park track was rated a heavy 10 at the start of the meeting. Jockey Taylor Williams had no hesitation in taking the horse to the front and despite his big weight, he led all the way to win by just under half a length from Shez Our Destiny and Heza Chumley a further 2.8 lengths away in third place.
The gelding was transferred to Hemmings five months ago and the trainer is confident the gelding will comfortably get 1200metres and will be looking for a suitable race over the distance at future Warwick meetings.
The track was upgraded to heavy eight prior to the running of the second event the Class B XXXX Gold Handicap over the 1100 metre journey.
Melody O’Brien guided the Stephen Neylon galloper Brazen Jake to a comfortable two-length win over To Be King and favourite Jetty Betty.
Apprentice jockey Hannah Phillips was successful on the Ben Park trained Chosen Court in the Class 2 Hahn 3.5 Hcp (C2) over 1100m. The six-year-old Choisir mare started at the good odds of $7.00 after finishing fourth at her last start in Goondiwindi.
Rain forced the abandonment of the fourth and final event. The Warwick Turf club holds their next meeting on 10 February – A TAB Meeting.
WHEATVALE TOO GOOD AGAINST ROOS
WHEATVALE set the Inglewood Roos a hefty target of 250 in their game last weekend on the back of a fine innings from Carter Billborough.
Billborough, one of the emerging talents of Warwick cricket, scored his first century in the game before being dismissed for 101.
His impressive innings included nine fours and a six. After coming to the wicket with the score at 1/20 Billborough built good partnerships with Will Dearden and Paul Cantwell.
Despite a solid start to their innings, Inglewood found the Wheatvale bowling attack tough and were dismissed for 142. Best of the bowling brigade was Jack Breen who finished with three wickets for 24 runs. Jono Colls and Craig Cantwell were also among the wicket takers.
PLAY ABOANDONED
RAIN intervened in two of the Warwick fixture games last weekend. In the game between Railway Hotel Rascals and Warwick Hotel Colts, rain forced the stoppage of play but not before Rascal’s Jake Christensen produced an outstanding spell of spin bowling which saw him take career best figures of 5/46 from eight overs.
Colts were desperate for a win to bolster their finals chances and looked to have every chance when they posted 241 from their 40 overs.
Unfortunately, only two balls were bowled before the heavens opened and play was forced to be abandoned.
The weather gods also had a big say in the game between Allora and Maryvale Condamine at Allora. Allora were set a target of 200 after some good batting performances from openers Will Gordon (51) and Jordon Siebenhausen (49).
After nine overs Allora were well behind the required run rate.
