Sport
22 August, 2026
Guard of honour for para bowls gold medallist
Women’s bowls IT was a memorable day for Innisfail ladies on 12 August, beginning with a special moment at South Johnstone Bowls Club, where local Commonwealth Games Glasgow para bowls gold medallist Louise Hoskins was honoured with a guard of honour.
Innisfail bowlers joined South Johnstone and Edmonton players as Channel 9 filmed Hoskins for an upcoming A Current Affair segment, a proud start to a day of celebrations.
The ladies then headed back to Innisfail Bowls Club for their annual Patroness Day, sponsored by patroness Audrey Rackley and her family. Around 25 bowlers played 14 ends before enjoying a delicious afternoon tea supplied by members.
Ms Rackley presented prizes to the winning team and runners up, with players expressing their appreciation for her ongoing support. The winning team of Daphne Kirkman, Christine Pascoe, Maisie Smith and Carol McRobbie dominated with a 25-4 victory over Bev Anderson, Ann Rule, Catrina Cook and Cheryl Higgins.
In a close contest, Helen Paterson, Diana O’Brien, Margaret Johnston and Lyn Stevenson claimed the runners up spot with a thrilling 12-10 win against Marilyn Allen, Dell Steve, Dian Catelan and Kath O’Brien.
The Innisfail ladies annual general meeting takes place today, Wednesday 19 August, where the 2026-2027 committee will be inducted, followed by an afternoon of social bowls.
The ladies are also looking forward to their annual day.
Men’s bowls
THIRTY club members and visitors made the most of Innisfail’s glorious winter sunshine on 13 August, turning out for a lively afternoon of Thursday social bowls in ideal conditions.
Competitive matches produced plenty of highlights, with the team skipped by Jim Martinod, alongside Sam Pagano and Rob Croatto, finishing strongly to claim victory with a score of 28.
They edged out the trio of Sam Micale, Steve Stoter and Gary Role, who finished on 24.
The $113 jackpot went off, with Snow Clark and his two teammates taking home the prize money.
The club continues to welcome new members and visitors to its popular Thursday social bowls. Names are required by 12.30pm for a 1pm start.
The $15 entry includes two 12-end games, smoko and a jackpot draw offering great value and a friendly afternoon of bowls, camaraderie and community connection.