Sport
23 October, 2026
Awards galore for netballers
THE newly-resurfaced courts at Bessie Spiller Netball Complex provided the perfect stage for Innisfail and District Netball Association’s grand final day, as players, families and supporters celebrated another successful season of competition, achievement and community spirit.
The season finale saw four thrilling grand finals played out on the club’s new playing surface, with teams battling for premiership honours across all divisions.
In the under-12 grand final, Sharks claimed a 26-20 victory over Spirit. Victoria De Silva capped off a standout season by being named both player of the final and best and fairest.
The under-16 division saw Pink Ladies dominate with a convincing 41-9 win over Blue Jays, with Viv Ungil earning player of the final honours.
One of the most exciting matches of the day came in the division two grand final, where Ravens edged out Girls Gone Bananas by a single goal, 19-18. Charlize Gee was recognised as player of the final after an outstanding performance.
In the division one decider, Diamonds secured a strong 48-31 victory over Ignite, with Estelle Setter earning player of the final honours.
Club life members Desley Winkleman, Denise Grainger, Ann Rule, Rose Fisher and Leisa Spinella presented trophies to premiers and runners-up following the matches.
Season awards were also announced. Weekly umpire votes throughout the season determine the best and fairest winners, recognising consistency and excellence across all grades.
Player of the year awards:
Under-12: Victoria De Silva
Under-16: Penny Blair
Division two: Sarah Bristol
Division one: Mya Tauli.
Other major award winners:
Rising star (under-12): Mia Dillon
AdvertisementHogan Family Umpire’s Award: Emma Horsford
Coach of the year: Olivia Walker
Annette Henrickson Memorial Junior Encouragement Award: Charlie Horsford
Bessie Spiller Memorial Junior Sportswoman of the Year: Lucy Moyle
Cheryl Bowie Memorial Senior Sportswoman of the Year: Annette Lyons
Amy Lawrence Junior Goaling Average Award: Lucy Moyle.
The association also celebrated representative honours achieved during the year.
Zali and Kate Walker earned selection in the Far North Flames Open team, while Lucy Moyle was selected in the Junior Flames squad. Arianna Nucifora represented Far North Flames at the under-16 state titles in Brisbane, alongside training partner Emily Quabba.
Club president Leisa Spinella said the association enjoyed another successful season despite weather disruptions.
“Despite a rain-interrupted season, we had a very successful year and I am very happy with participation in ‘Net Set Go’ and team numbers, with seven under-12 teams, six under-16 teams and nine senior teams. Each week we’ve had wonderful support from our canteen volunteers,” she said.
Spinella also highlighted the completion of the club’s new playing surfaces, made possible through the Australian Government’s $965,000 ‘Play Our Way’ grant secured with assistance from Netball Queensland, along with a $40,000 contribution from the association.
Looking ahead, the club hopes to secure further funding for a roof over the courts, improved grandstand shelters, shade sails and upgraded facilities.
The association acknowledged the efforts of committee members, players, coaches, managers, umpires, scorers, volunteers and supporters whose contributions made the season possible.