There are plenty of changes for Lismore when they travel to Lennox Head to take on the Trojans on Saturday.Lismore have been struggling for numbers in recent weeks, with Colts and Reserve Grade players often backing up to play two matches on the weekend.The club has made several changes to key positions for their match against Lennox.Cohen Cartwright moves from the wing to the second row to partner veteran Gavin Tulk, who returns after an extended break from the top grade.William Sivewright comes into the team at No.7 and evergreen back William Fairweather moves to fullback.In other matches, Casino will host Ballina and Wollongbar Alstonville will play Evans River at Lyle Park, Wollongbar.In the final match, Richmond Range will head north to Casuarina to play the Barbarians.All First Grade matches will kick off at 3:15pm.For Lismore, The Women's side will travel to Casuarina for their match, with Colts, reserve Grade and First Grade at Lennox Head.FIRST GRADE TEAM LISTSROUND SIXTEEN 17th August 2024Coopers FAR NORTH COAST RUGBY UNIONCasino: 1. Angus Langfield, 2. Anthony Butta, 3. Cameron Davis (c), 4. Vetari Tau, 5. Cory Townesend, 6. Connor Frame, 7. Joseph Brooks, 8. Emosi Tabusili, 9. Ben Collison, 10. Jayden Torrens, 11. Harold Torrens, 12. Bryce Spencer, 13. Jonathan Close, 14. Te Piti Korewha, 15. Hakeem TorrensCoach: Doug MurrayManager: Andrew GulliverVBallina: 1. Stan Lolohea, 2. Nathan Groves, 3. Brett Johnston, 4. Gerald McLarnon, 5. Harry Bungate, 6. Reece Noble, 7. Andrew Burke, 8. Pierce Bryers, 9. Stephen Paskins, 10. Elliott Bryers (c), 11. Emori Rairailevu, 12. Anthony Lolohea, 13. Tupou Lolohea, 14. Jacob Buckley, 15. Jack KindredCoach: Michael Greenhalgh Manager: Josh MagnusReferee: Matt ClaytonWollongbar Alstonville: 1. Ewen McQueen, 2. Austin Markwort, 3. Benji Tiatia, 4. Matt Scott, 5. Josh Galbraith, 6. Brenden Williams, 7. Wilson Lovokuro, 8. Joe Blyth, 9. Louis Hollman, 10. Ben Damen (c), 11. Bodi Smith, 12. Cooper Love, 13. Rory Collings, 14. Jaidyn Larrescy, 15. Sam KerryCoach: William JohnstonManager: Chris DuleyVEvans River: 1. Matt Francis, 2. Oliver Mason, 3. Oliver Clarke, 4. Harry Aleckson, 5. Ryan Duncan, 6. Sam Carey, 7. J F Beytell, 8. Max Pye, 9. Ben Morris, 10. Adam Armistead (c), 11. Michael Miskle, 12. Tama Williamson, 13. Jonathon Robinson, 14. Jack Semple, 15. Zane GaiterCoach: Luke CleaverManager: Adam GaiterReferee: Will Barnes Casuarina Beach: 1. Daniel Tilton, 2. Jem MacDonald, 3. Daniel Chugg, 4. Dan Raye (c), 5. James Munroe, 6. Mason Duke, 7. Kellan Murphy, 8. Mitch Planten, 9. Will Stacey, 10. Kai George, 11. Jessy Kemp, 12. Webb Lillis, 13. Levi Dangerfield, 14. Graham Dodge, 15. Sam VerenikiCoach: Geoff Townsend Manager: Stephen LowndesVRichmond Range: 1. Blake Birmingham (c), 2. Michael MacRae, 3. Duncan Ryan, 4. David Lane, 5. Jacob Lane, 6. Lachlan Thomas, 7. Ben Wheeler, 8. Hayden Pratt, 9. Vincent Quigley, 10. Matthew Sorrenti, 11. Cody Amos, 12. Paul Hewetson, 13. Nicholas Fuhrmann, 14. Hunter McMurtrie, 15. Bradon Gumbleton Coach: Alex GibbonManager: Shawn ButlerReferee: Rob WalkerLennox Head: 1. Joe Daley, 2. Ethan Jenkins, 3. Connor Blair, 4. Zayden Allen, 5. Luca Beasley-Kenk, 6. Jacob Kennedy, 7. Rhys Stratton, 8. Hayden Blair, 9. Atzin Jacobson, 10. Lachlan Miller, 11. Rory Kershaw, 12. Kane Creighton, 13. Oscar Linton-France, 14. Zac Alexander, 15. Ron Streater-MasonCoach: Scott JenkinsManager: Tony FisherVLismore: 1. Tate Bailey, 2. Max Smith, 3. Aggrey Leju, 4. Cohen Cartwright, 5. Gavin Tulk, 6. Noah Allen, 7. William Sivewright, 8. Andrew Clark, 9. Kyle Maluta, 10. Fraser Ruane, 11. Gus Leju, 12. Cody Johnston, 13. Adam Rodd, 14. Loui Rubbo, 15. William FairweatherCoach: Angus MacDougallManager: Stephen ClarkReferee: Lachlan Duley

Local hero and Sydney Thunder bowler Sammy-Jo Johnson will be joined by Thunder’s Tahlia Wilson and Sydney Sixers batter Kurtis Patterson, to travel to the state’s Far North and meet our state’s youngest cricketers and cricket lovers with one mission: to inspire everyone to play and love cricket.  The Country Blitz, Cricket NSW’s amazing annual regional engagement tour, will see players from the two Sydney clubs and the state’s premier cricket teams travel to schools and cricket grounds in communities across the State.This year, on 22 and 23 August, the 35 players are set to visit 12 Country NSW regions to meet children from over 40 schools in 37 towns, participate in 15 come-and-try days and cricket clinics across these regions and also attend 20 meet and greet events, which include media opportunities, and spending time with our wonderful volunteers.  Johnson, Wilson and Patterson are set to attend the Cricket NSW Foundation Indigenous Youth Program being held in Coraki on August 22 and meet with keen cricketers and volunteers at a sponsor event. On August 23, the three players will visit the school that Sammy-Jo Johnson attended. The visit to Coraki will take place between 10am -12pm at Windsor Park.The trio will visit Blue Hills College in Goonellabah at 9am on 23 August.CRICKET IS A SPORT FOR ALL! FIND A CLUB FOR YOU HEREThe tour ties in with Play Cricket Week that is being celebrated across Australia during the week, to mark the launch of the 2024/25 cricket season encouraging Australians to play #cricketanywhere.During the Country Blitz tour, there are Beach Blasts scheduled along our coastal towns, such as one on the Nobbys Beach in Newcastle and Terrigal on the Central Coast, while the state’s inland towns are organising Cricket Blast events and junior cricket matches where NSW’s youngest players will be able to play with their heroes and get an understanding of the game from the best in the sport.This year, a few of the players are visiting their old primary schools to inspire the children of their alma mater to play and love cricket. Breakers star Ebony Hoskin is scheduled to go to her primary school in Howlong, while Thunder player Matt Gilkes will visit his high school, Ulladulla High, in Shoalhaven. Newcastle, meanwhile, is eagerly waiting for local girl Sienna Eve, who is a new member of the Breakers Squad.Johnson, who is a local legend in Lismore, says that it’s a special feeling every year to go back to her childhood town for Country Blitz, and it’s even more special visiting her old school. She said:“This is where it all started. When I was growing up, going to the school, I would idolize Brett Lee and work towards being a high-performance bowler one day. I hope to inspire the next generation of cricketers from my hometown to believe anything is possible. “The people of Lismore been through so much in the last few years, battling floods and working through rebuilding after the damage. I feel happy to go back every time to see life is getting back to normal, and I always catch up with my local friends even while passing through town.”   Cricket NSW’s Chief Community Cricket Officer, Martin Gleeson, said Country Blitz is one of the most exciting times of the cricket pre-season each year. Gleeson said:“Country areas of NSW represent the heart and soul of the sport. Many of our elite players began their cricket journey in Country NSW and the Country Blitz provides a great opportunity for our players to support Country communities as they gear up the season.The Country Blitz activities put players in the community to inspire children to play the game, help clubs with their recruitment for the coming season and to meet and thank the many volunteers who are integral to the game’s success locally.“Through the Country Blitz, we want to inspire children living in regional NSW to pick up a bat and ball. Cricket is the lifeblood of Australia’s great sporting tradition, and through our efforts, Cricket NSW aims to help our children enjoy, love and learn the game.”

Far North Coast Rugby is closing in on Finals and there is still plenty to play for.Although the finalists in the First Grade competition look set, Casino and Richmond Range still have a mathematical chance of knocking out Byron Shire with just 3 rounds to play.Both sides had victories on the weekend, with the Casino Bulls defeating the SCU Gold Rats 29-7 and Richmond Range taking down Lismore 47-27, after leading 26-10 at halftime.Wollongbar Alstonville are all but assured of the Minor Premiership, currently leading the competition by 14 points.The Pioneers had a tough 20-17 win over Byron Shire, with second placed Casuarina defeating Lennox Head 41-12 in Round 16.In the rounds final match, Ballina had a close win over Evans River 29-24.FAR NORTH COAST RUGBY UNION Round 15 Results 10th August 2024First GradeBallina 29(Jacob Buckley 2, Pierce Bryers, Anthony Lolohea, Joel Staude tries, Pierce Bryers 2 conversions) d Evans River 24(Zane Gaiter 2, Jonathan Robinson tries, Michael Miskle 3 conversions, penalty goal)Half Time: Ballina 17 – Evans River 17Wollongbar Alstonville 20(Bodi Smith, Benl Damen tries, Bodi Smith 2 conversions, 2 penalty goals) d Byron Shire Rebels 17(Angus Wilbourn, Jye Connochie, Joel Faulkner tries, Will Latham conversion)Half Time: Byron Shire 17 – Wollongbar 7Richmond Range 47(Vincent Quigley 3, Matthew Sorrenti, Alex Gibbon, Hunter McMurtrie tries, Brandon Gumbleton 3, James Pankhurst 3 conversions) d Lismore 27(Rodney Pita 2, Andrew Jordan, Mitchell Cox, Aggrey Leju tries, Kyle Maluta conversion)Half Time: Range 26 – Lismore 10Casuarina Beach 41(Kai George 2, Jessy Kemp, Levi Dangerfield, Will Sullivan, Will Stacey, Lachlan Stacey, Kai George 3 conversions) d Lennox Head 12(Hayden Blair, Rory Kershaw tries, Lachlan Miller conversion)Half Time: Casuarina 26 – Lennox Head 0Casino 29(Hakeem Torrens 2, Ben Collison, Quinton Avery, Kalen Olive tries, Jayden Torrens 2 conversions) d SCU Gold Rats 7(Zack Byrne try, Oscar Galloway conversion)Half Time: Casino 12 – SCU 0Point Score – Wollongbar 71, Casuarina 57, Ballina 56, Byron Shire 48, Casino 37, Richmond Range 34, Evans 27, Lennox 22, Lismore 11, SCU 02nd GradeCasuarina 30 d Lennox Head 0Kyogle 50 d Lismore 14Wollongbar 38 d Byron Shire 7Mullumbimby 30 d Casino 0Ballina 36 d Evans River 17Point Score – Wollongbar 69, Ballina 45, Casuarina 42, Byron 39, Lismore 28, Kyogle 27, Yamba 22, Lennox 22, Mullumbimby 21, Casino 16, Evans River 15Women’sByron Shire 12 d Casuarina Beach 10Point Score – Casino 46, Casuarina 19, Lismore 18, Byron 15Under 18’sLennox Head 30 d Casuarina Beach 0Lismore 59 d Yamba 19Point Score – Lennox 26, Lismore 16, Casuarina 14, Yamba 11Next Week’s Round 16 Matches, Saturday 17th August1st GradeCasino v BallinaLennox Head v LismoreWollongbar Alstonville v Evans RiverByron Shire Rebels v SCU Gold Rats at YambaCasuarina Beach v Richmond Range 2nd GradeCasino v Ballina Lennox Head v LismoreWollongbar Alstonville v KyogleYamba v Byron Shire RebelsCasuarina Beach v MullumbimbyEvans River - ByeWomen’s 10’sCasuarina Beach v LismoreUnder 18’sLennox Head v LismoreYamba v Casuarina Beach

The Football Far North Coast Men's Premier League Point Score will go down to the wire, with several teams fighting it out in the final rounds.Heading into this weekends Round 17, the Goonellabah Hornets sit on top of the competition table, with 28 points, 1 point in front of South Lismore, who have a game in hand.Richmond Rovers are in third, again, just 1 point behind South Lismore and have an extra match to play on Goonellabah.Alstonville are in fourth place on 24 points with Bangalow closing in fifth position, but with 2 extra matches to play.The Bluedogs play South Lismore on Sunday at home, kicking off at 2:30pm and then play Ballina midweek on Tuesday at 8pm in Ballina.At this stage of the season, every match has a bearing on the final placings, with teams still playing mid week catch up matches due to the early season wet weather.In Women's Premier League, Byron Bay sit on 30 points, 7 points ahead of Alstonville, who are just 1 point ahead of Lennox Head who sit in third.Alstonville and Lennox Head have two extra matches to play to reduce the margin to Byron Bay.Richmond Rovers are in fourth spot on 14 points.Men's Premier League Played Points Goal Diff.Goonellabah Hornets 14 28 17South Lismore 13 27 16Richmond Rovers 13 26 13Alstonville 13 24 18Bangalow 12 23 18

The Northern United Dirawongs will host a must win clash against the Evans Head Bombers in the NRRRL on Sunday.The clash is a Round 5 match that was postponed due to wet weather earlier in the season, and now sees two of the top sides clash prior to finals.The Dirawongs have recently moved into sixth position, after a 32-16 victory over Casino last weekend.They currently hold the last Finals position over Mullumbimby with a superior For and Against to the Giants.Victory on Sunday will assure United of a finals spot.The Giants face second placed Cudgen on Sunday, in a tough assignment to put pressure on United.Evans Head are coming off a narrow 18-14 win over Bilambil last weekend and currently sit in third spot on the ladder.In big news for the home side, star fullback Hezekiah McKenzie has been named to return after several weeks out with injury.The First Grade match will kick off at Crozier Oval at the later time of 3:45pm, due to referee shortages in the region.This now means that Women's Tackle will start at 12:50pm and Reserve Grade take to the field at 2:15pm.Marist Brothers have a bye and will watch from the sidelines as they await their final ladder position.

The SCU Gold Rats have turned around a huge loss last weekend to match it with the Casino Bulls on Friday night.The Gold Rats came up against competition heavyweights Wollongbar Alstonville last weekend and the Pioneers showed no compassion for a depleted SCU, winning 119-0.The Gold Rats had just 6 days to turn it around, with a scheduled Friday night match at home against Casino.Without club stalwart Matt Anderson, who suffered a knee injury in last weeks loss, the Gold Rats but together a strong side for the clash, with a number of players no doubt heading north to watch the Wallabies take on South Africa on Saturday afternoon.Although going down 29-7, it wasn't until the last 20 minutes of the match that the Bulls gained any ascendency on the scoreboard.Zack Byrne crossed for the Rats only try, which was converted by Oscar Galloway.Lismore will head over the range to Mallanganee to take on Richmond Range at Don Guley Oval.Range sit just 3 positions ahead of the Greens on the competition ladder and have added gun halfback Vincent Quigley to the lineup who started the season with Mullumbimby.Lismore have made a number of changes to the side which went down to Evans River last weekend, with Andrew Clark moving from the wing to No. 8, Cody Johnston returns at inside centre and tall youngster Cohen Cartwright has been added to the wing.The match will kick off at 3:15pm, with Reserve Grade taking on Kyogle at 1:50pm and Colts tackling Yamba at 12:30pm.FIRST GRADE TEAM LISTSROUND FIFTEEN 9th & 10th August 2024Coopers FAR NORTH COAST RUGBY UNIONSCU: 1. Mitch Bird, 2. Kirk Taylor-Brown, 3. Jake Tindall, 4. James Olivieri, 5. Zack Byrne, 6. Harrison Beaumont-Kennedy, 7. Lachlan Wallace, 8. Xavier Salapo, 9. Kane Milton, 10. Darnell McLeod, 11. Caleb Capelli, 12. Josh Wilson (c), 13. Jay Presland, 14. Antwan Coldwell, 15. Cooper McDonaldCoach: Beth FuggleManager: Tim BreenVCasino: 1. Angus Langfield, 2. Anthony Butta, 3. Cameron Davis (c), 4. Vetari Tau, 5. Cory Townesend, 6. Connor Frame, 7. Joseph Brooks, 8. Emosi Tabusili, 9. Ben Collison, 10. Jayden Torrens, 11. Harold Torrens, 12. Bryce Spencer, 13. Quinton Avery, 14. Te Piti Korewha, 15. Hakeem TorrensCoach: Doug MurrayManager: Andrew GulliverReferee: Will BarnesByron Shire Rebels: 1. Jordan Elliott, 2. Angus Wilbourn (c), 3. Scott Gamble, 4. Will Aisake, 5. Darragh Lynch, 6. Will Seymour, 7. Sam Caldwell, 8. Benji Clarke, 9. TBA, 10. Joel Faulkner, 11. Simon Lemare, 12. Will Cane, 13. Oli Shakeshaft, 14. Ben Mitchell, 15. Will LathamCoach: Ben MacDougall Manager: Eddy BrownVWollongbar Alstonville: 1. Brandon Whitney, 2. Austin Markwort, 3. Benji Tiatia, 4. Matt Scott, 5. Josh Galbraith, 6. Brenden Williams, 7. Wilson Lovokuro, 8. Joe Blyth, 9. Zach Hyatt, 10. Ben Damen (c), 11. Ryley Conlan, 12. Daniel Damen, 13. Rory Collings, 14. Bodi Smith, 15. Sam KerryCoach: William JohnstonManager: Chris DuleyReferee: Lachlan Duley Evans River: 1. Matt Francis, 2. Oliver Mason, 3. Oliver Clarke, 4. Harry Aleckson, 5. Ryan Duncan, 6. Sam Carey, 7. J F Beytell, 8. Max Pye, 9. Ben Morris, 10. Adam Armistead (c), 11. Michael Miskle, 12. Tama Williamson, 13. Jonathon Robinson, 14. Jack Semple, 15. Zane GaiterCoach: Luke CleaverManager: Adam GaiterVBallina: 1. Brett Johnston, 2. Stan Lolohea, 3. Nathan Groves, 4. Gerald McLarnon, 5. Harry Bungate, 6. Reece Noble, 7. Andrew Burke, 8. Pierce Bryers, 9. Stephen Paskins, 10. Elliott Bryers (c), 11. Bronson Purcell, 12. Anthony Lolohea, 13. Carl Lolohea, 14. Emori Rairailevu, 15. Jack KindredCoach: Michael Greenhalgh Manager: Josh MagnusReferee: Peter CampbellRichmond Range: 1. Blake Birmingham (c), 2. Michael MacRae, 3. Duncan Ryan, 4. David Lane, 5. Jacob Lane, 6. Lachlan Thomas, 7. Ben Wheeler, 8. Hayden Pratt, 9. Vincent Quigley, 10. Matthew Sorrenti, 11. Cody Amos, 12. Paul Hewetson, 13. Nicholas Fuhrmann, 14. Hunter McMurtrie, 15. Bradon Gumbleton Coach: Alex GibbonManager: Shawn ButlerVLismore: 1. Tate Bailey, 2. Max Smith, 3. Aggrey Leju, 4. Andrew Jordan, 5. Mitchell Cox, 6. Noah Allen, 7. Calijha Craig, 8. Andrew Clark, 9. Kyle Maluta, 10. Fraser Ruane, 11. Gus Leju, 12. Cody Johnston, 13. Adam Rodd, 14. Cohen Cartwright, 15. Loui RubboCoach: Angus MacDougallManager: Stephen ClarkReferee: Graham CookLennox Head: 1. Joe Daley, 2. Ethan Jenkins, 3. Connor Blair, 4. Zayden Allen, 5. Luca Beasley-Kenk, 6. Brad McGoulrick, 7. Josh Thick, 8. Hayden Blair, 9. Atzin Jacobson, 10. Lachlan Miller, 11. Rory Kershaw, 12. Jorelle Yock, 13. Kane Creighton, 14. Zac Alexander, 15. Oscar Linton-FranceCoach: Scott JenkinsManager: Tony FisherVCasuarina Beach: 1. St Vincent Latailakepa, 2. Jem MacDonald, 3. Daniel Chugg, 4. Dan Raye (c), 5. James Munroe, 6. Mason Duke, 7. Kellan Murphy, 8. Mitch Planten, 9. Will Stacey, 10. Nathan Turpin, 11. Jessy Kemp, 12. Webb Lillis, 13. Levi Dangerfield, 14. Lachlan Stacey, 15. Kai GeorgeCoach: Geoff Townsend Manager: Stephen LowndesReferee: Will Barnes

It was a tough weekend for Lismore’s rugby sides in Round 14 of the FNC Rugby Union competition.Lismore went down to Evans River, 43-19, after trailing 31-7 at halftime. The Killer Whales were first to score after just 4 minutes, but Lismore hit straight back, 3 minutes later, with a try to Tait Bailey, converted by centre Braeden Williams to take an early 7-5 lead.The game was then dominated by Evans River Number 8 Agustin Aversa, who crossed for 5 tries in the 24 point win.With 4 rounds to go, several clubs are counting down the weeks until the 2024 FNC Rugby season comes to a conclusion.Consistent one sided scorelines have been been a part of the year so far with the For and Against numbers showing the real evidence.Officials from various clubs have their own ideas and solutions, and no doubt the answers are out there.Something needs to change.One thought is to follow a similar path to the NRRRL, who, several seasons ago introduced a Mercy Rule with a 60 point differential, the marker.This worked well for the code, with the competition breaking into two divisions come finals time, and the competitive nature remaining all the way through to the Grand Finals. This doesn’t allow for huge discrepancies in For and Against, as everyone is in the same boat.This would prevent what we currently see, with Wollongbar Alstonville having a +649 point differential at the top of the table and Lismore with a -508 and the Gold Rats -691 at the bottom end of the table. A 1340 point difference between the top and bottom.There was no winner in yesterday’s 119-0 scoreline in the Wollongbar Alstonville, SCU Gold Rats match. With players unavailable and several injuries throughout the match, SCU could not compete with the Pioneers, but do we need a 119-0 scoreline? Many say no, especially those in attendance.Putting a halt to one sided matches at a set score difference allows everyone to enjoy a game of rugby, enjoy a beverage and a chin wag after the match and hopefully minimise injuries late in the match when the scoreline blows out.It has nothing to do with the powerbrokers in Sydney not having a solution to these issues, we need to create our own solutions on the Far North Coast, or the sport will continue its decline.There are positive signs in the region, with the recent FNC Schools competition attracting record numbers. These numbers need to turn into junior registrations in 2025 and beyond, hold onto these student athletes and get them to bring some friends along.The FNC Reserve Grade competition has been a relatively close contest this season, and is exactly what players, supporters and rugby enthusiasts want to see.The undefeated Wollongbar Alstonville sit on top of the ladder with 13 wins, and a +460 differential, but the remaining sides from 2nd to 11th (last place) are separated by just 5 wins and not a great divide in For and Against.It is also great to see clubs like Richmond Range, SCU Gold Rats, Evans River and Lennox Head moving across from President's Cup last season and aspiring to build their clubs and succeed.It's not too long ago, that Lennox Head made the decision to play First Grade, big losses were the flavour to start their existence, but they were Premiers within the 3 years.It is the sport they play in heaven, let's not see it die.FAR NORTH COAST RUGBY UNION Round 14 Results 3rd August 2024First GradeBallina 55(Ben Robinson 2, Harry Bungate, Jack Kindred, Emori Rairailevu, Brett Johnston, Pierce Bryers, Anthony Lolohea, Stephen Paskins tries, Nick Brydon 3, Pierce Bryers 2 conversions) d Lennox Head 5(Atzin Jacobson Try)Half Time: Ballina 20 – Lennox Head 5Wollongbar Alstonville 119(Bodi Smith 4, Daniel Damen 2, Bill Johnston 2, Brenden Williams, Blake Henderson, Austin Markwort, Ben Shelley, Sam Kerry, Ben Damen, Zach Hyatt, Wiison Lovokuro, Thomas Parker, Joe Blyth, Nick Pennisi tries, Bodi Smith 7, Sam Kerry 2, Daniel Damen, Blake Henderson, Bill Johnston conversions) d SCU Gold Rats 0Half Time: Wollongbar 46 – SCU 0Evans River 43(Agustin Aversa 5, Ben Morris, Michael Miskle tries, Zane Gaiter 4 conversions) d Lismore 19(Max Smith, Tate Bailey tries, Penalty Try, Braeden Williams conversion)Half Time: Evans 31 – Lismore 7Casuarina Beach 40(Jessy Kemp 2, Dan Raye, Webb Lillis, Kai George, Levi Dangerfield, tries, Kai George 4, Webb Lillis conversions) d Byron Shire Rebels 19(Oliver Shakeshaft, Angus Wilbourn, Will Latham tries, Will Latham 2 conversions)Half Time: Casuarina 21 – Byron Shire 12Casino 31(Bryce Spencer, Vetari Tau, Daniel Cakaubivalu, Jone Quimivula, Hakeem Torrens tries, Jayden Torrens 3 conversions) d Richmond Range 29(Vincent Quigley 2, Paul Hewetson, Reece Manning, Hayden Pratt tries, Bradon Gumbleton, Daine Petty conversions)Half Time: Casino 19 – Range 12Point Score – Wollongbar 67, Casuarina 52, Ballina 51, Byron Shire 47, Casino 32, Richmond Range 29, Lennox 22, Evans 21, Lismore 10, SCU 02nd GradeBallina 26 d Lennox Head 0Evans River 17 d Lismore 12Wollongbar 27 d Mullumbimby 0Yamba 26 d Casino 17Casuarina 26 d Byron Shire 5Point Score – Wollongbar 64, Ballina 40, Byron 39, Casuarina 37, Lismore 28, Yamba 22, Lennox 22, Kyogle 22, Mullumbimby 16, Casino 16, Evans River 15Women’sCasino 33 d Lismore 17Casuarina 24 d Byron Shire 22Point Score – Casino 46, Lismore 18, Casuarina 18, Byron 11Under 18’sLismore 38 d Casuarina 12Point Score – Lennox 24, Casuarina 12, Yamba 11, Lismore 11Next Week’s Round 15 Matches, Friday 9th, Saturday 10th August1st GradeSCU Gold Rats v Casino – Friday 9th AugustLennox Head v Casuarina BeachEvans River v BallinaByron Shire Rebels v Wollongbar AlstonvilleLismore v Richmond Range at Kyogle2nd GradeMullumbimby v Casino at SCU – Friday 9thAugust Lennox Head v Casuarina BeachEvans River v BallinaKyogle v LismoreYamba v CasinoByron Shire Rebels v Wollongbar AlstonvilleYamba - ByeWomen’s 10’sByron Shire Rebels v Casuarina BeachUnder 18’sYamba v Lismore at KyogleLennox Head v Casuarina Beach

Marist Brothers and Northern United will play away games in Round 16 of the NRRRL competition on Sunday.Marist Brothers travel to Yamba to take on the Lower Clarence Magpies and will look to bounce back after a last start 22-18 loss to Ballina.Northern United will head west to Casino to play the tenth placed Cougars after a comfortable 40-14 victory over Murwillumbah last weekend.On recent form and ladder position, both sides go into the match as favourites, but recent rounds have seen several major upsets and both clubs will be out to secure the 2 points on the road to the finals.Brothers sit in fifth position, and need to win to stay in touch with the teams positioned from second to fourth, who are all just 2 points ahead. The Dirawongs sit 1 point outside the top six and will look for a win to put pressure on the sixth placed Byron Bay.United will look to their talented backline to overcome the Cougars, with young fullback Jakequan Roberts Welsh in good form, and the experience of Tyrone Roberts at five-eighth steering the ship.For the Rams, halfback Shallin Fuller is in superb form and will cherish the space that props Lochie Perren and James Durheim create.Reserve Grade matches will start at 1:15pm and U/18's at 12:00pm, however the Cougars have forfeited their match against Northern United's U/18's side.Both First Grade matches will kick off at 2:45pm.

Football Far North Coast have announced further details regarding the Miniroos junior games for the remainder of the season.The final round of the 2024 Miniroos season will be played on Saturday 31 August.The season has been a difficult one, with record numbers registering across the age divisions, but early season wet weather causing havoc with scheduling and ground availability. The weekend of the 31 August coincides with Week 1 of the Junior Grand Finals, with instances where parents may need to make a decision whether to attend a miniroos game, or to be at a junior grand final. FFNC has historically scheduled the miniroos season to conclude prior to the start of the junior grand finals series, however the decision made back in May, means that there is some over-lap in fixtures scheduled, this season.Individual clubs can, if they so choose, schedule additional games for their miniroos players, beyond 31 August, noting that the formal conclusion of the winter season, for ALL football, is Sunday 22 September.FFNC General Manager Steve Mackney gave thanks to clubs for the season, "Thanks to clubs that hosted a Gala Day in 2024 to provide an additional participation opportunity for miniroos players. The lingering wet weather at the start of this season, was frustrating and created much disappointment for the youngest players. The biggest Gala Day that is held in this region, will proceed this Sunday, when Alstonville FC host its event. We wish the club all the best and hope that the weather is favourable.""We take this opportunity to acknowledge the support of Newcastle Permanent Building Society and trust that the footballs distributed to every registered 5, 6 and 7 year old this season, provided plenty of enjoyment."

The Lismore Turf Club, in collaboration with prominent Lismore-based horse syndication business Viva Racing, is implementing significant enhancements for September’s Rodney Lees Cabinetmaking Lismore Cup Carnival.This year, the cup will be held on Friday, 27 September, the first time in the cup's history that it will be run on a Friday.In addition to this new schedule, the event will expand with the inaugural Viva Racing Lismore Cup Golf Day and Calcutta, set to tee off on Thursday, 26 September, at the Lismore Golf Club.Scott Jones, Secretary Manager of the Lismore Turf Club, said the move to a Friday is an exciting opportunity for the future of the Cup.“It allows us to expand our offerings and ensures minimal disruption to local businesses, making it easier for them to participate and support this iconic event,” he said.“Adding the Viva Racing Lismore Cup Golf Day and Calcutta to the calendar made perfect sense. We've always aimed to expand the Lismore Cup into a multi-day event to add value for our attendees and bring more economic benefits to Lismore. This year, we're especially eager to see the positive impact of these changes on our community.”This four-man Ambrose golf event promises an exciting afternoon of fun and competition. Participants can enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch while soaking up the lively atmosphere and excitement of the game. The event also offers the chance to win incredible prizes, including an impressive $200,000 for a hole-in-one on the 2nd hole.Whether you're an avid golfer or just looking for a great day out, this is a fantastic addition to the Lismore Cup carnival. Following the Golf Day, the excitement continues with the Lismore Cup Calcutta, hosted upstairs at the Lismore Golf Club. Each participating team will receive $200 worth of Calcutta tickets. This is the perfect way to get into the spirit of racing for the Cup the next day.Tickets to the Viva Racing Lismore Cup Golf Day and Calcutta cost $600 per team, with a maximum of 36 teams available. Each team entry includes four general entry tickets to the Rodney Lees Cabinetmaking Lismore Cup.For more information about the carnival, including event tickets, food and drink packages, the Viva Racing VIP marquee, and to register for the Viva Racing Lismore Cup Golf Day and Calcutta, visit www.lismoreturfclub.com.au.

Lismore will play host to the Evans River Killer Whales at Lismore Rugby Park on Saturday, with all four grades taking the field.The Colts will kick off the big day of rugby at 11:50am, when they take on Casuarina, before the Women play the Casino Bulls at 1pm.The big Family Fun Day will then see the high flying Reserve Grade side take on the Killer Whales at 1:50pm before First Grade at 3:15pm.A number of the younger players will manage their day, playing Colts and then backing up for either Reserve Grade or First Grade, with the club building a youthful squad for the future.The Family Fun Day will include giant lawn games, a jumping castle and snow cones and fairy floss to entertain the kids throughout the day.In other matches, SCU will host the Wollongbar Alstonville Pioneers, Byron Shire will take on Casuarina, in what should be a close encounter, Richmond Range and Casino will clash in the local derby and Lennox Head will host the Ballina Seahorses.FIRST GRADE TEAM LISTSROUND FOURTEEN 3rd August 2024Coopers FAR NORTH COAST RUGBY UNIONSCU: 1. Mitch Bird, 2. Kirk Taylor-Brown, 3. Xavier Salapo, 4. Jay Presland, 5. Josh Wilson (c), Harrison Beaumont-Kennedy, 7. Lachlan Wallace, 8. Zach Byrne, 9. Matt Anderson, 10. Jack Breen, 11. John Lobowa, 12. Jake Henry, 13. Darcy Smith, 14. Darnell McLeod, 15. Cooper McDonaldCoach: Beth FuggleManager: Tim BreenVWollongbar Alstonville: 1. Ewen McQueen, 2. Austin Markwort, 3. Benji Tiatia, 4. Matt Scott, 5. Josh Galbraith, 6. Blake Henderson, 7. Brenden Williams, 8. Joe Blyth, 9. Zach Hyatt, 10. Ben Damen (c), 11. Bailey Hurlock, 12. Daniel Damen, 13. Wilson Lovokuro, 14. Bodi Smith, 15. Sam KerryCoach: William JohnstonManager: Chris DuleyReferee: Lachlan Duley  Byron Shire Rebels: 1. Jordan Elliott, 2. Angus Wilbourn, 3. Scott Gamble, 4. Will Aisake, 5. Will Seymour, 6. Benji Clarke, 7. Darcy Woods, 8. Darragh Lynch, 9. Jude Ireland, 10. Joel Faulkner, 11. Simon Lemare, 12. Oli Shakeshaft, 13 Will Cane, 14. Ben Mitchell, 15. Will LathamCoach: Ben MacDougall Manager: Eddy BrownVCasuarina Beach: 1. Dan Raye (c), 2. Jem MacDonald, 3. Daniel Chugg, 4. Mitch Planten, 5. James Munroe, 6. Mason Duke, 7. Kellan Murphy, 8. Pat Williams, 9. Jacob Hall, 10. Harry Hall, 11. Jessy Kemp, 12. Nathan Turpin, 13. Levi Dangerfield, 14. Jesse Freier, 15. Kai GeorgeCoach: Geoff Townsend Manager: Stephen LowndesReferee: Rob WalkerLismore: 1. Aggrey Leju, 2. Cameron Bryant, 3. Tate Bailey, 4. Ben Briggs, 5. Andrew Jordan, 6. Noah Allen, 7. Max Smith, 8. Mitchell Cox, 9. Kyle Maluta, 10. Fraser Ruane, 11. Gus Leju, 12. Braeden Williams, 13. Calijha Craig, 14. Andrew Clark, 15. Loui RubboCoach: Angus MacDougallManager: Stephen ClarkVEvans River: 1. Ryan Duncan, 2. Oliver Mason, 3. Oliver Clarke, 4. Harry Aleckson, 5. Max Pye, 6. Sam Carey, 7. J F Beytell, 8. Agustin Aversa, 9. Ben Morris, 10. Adam Armistead (c), 11. Corey Trustum, 12. Tama Williamson, 13. Jonathon Robinson, 14. Jack Semple, 15. Zane GaiterCoach: Luke CleaverManager: Adam GaiterReferee: Graham CookRichmond Range: 1. Blake Birmingham (c), 2. Michael MacRae, 3. Duncan Ryan, 4. James Hewetson, 5. Jacob Lane, 6. Luke Benn, 7. Ben Wheeler, 8. Hayden Pratt, 9. Bradon Gumbleton, 10. Matthew Sorrenti, 11. Alex Gibbon, 12. Paul Hewetson, 13. Paul Hewetson, 14. Hunter McMurtrie, 15. Nicholas Fuhrmann Coach: Alex GibbonManager: Shawn ButlerVCasino: 1. Angus Langfield, 2. Anthony Butta, 3. Cameron Davis (c), 4. Vetari Tau, 5. Cory Townesend, 6. Connor Frame, 7. Joseph Brooks, 8. Emosi Tabusili, 9. Ben Collison, 10. Jayden Torrens, 11. Alex Mea, 12. Justin Zaiko, 13. Bryce Spencer, 14. Jonathon Close, 15. Nick BennCoach: Doug MurrayManager: Andrew GulliverReferee: Matt ClaytonLennox Head: 1. Brad McGoulrick, 2. Ethan Jenkins, 3. Connor Blair, 4. Zayden Allen, 5. Luca Beasley-Kenk, 6. Josh Thick, 7. Jacob Kennedy, 8. Hayden Blair, 9. Atzin Jacobson, 10. Oscar Linton-France, 11. Rory Kershaw, 12. Jorelle Yock, 13. Oscar Linton-France, 14. Tom Monteith, 15. Ronald Streater MasonCoach: Scott JenkinsManager: Tony FisherVBallina: 1. Brett Johnston, 2. Gerald McLarnon, 3. Nathan Groves, 4. Sam Pearce, 5. Harry Bungate, 6. Reece Noble, 7. Andrew Burke, 8. Pierce Bryers, 9. Stephen Paskins, 10. Elliott Bryers (c), 11. Bronson Purcell, 12. Anthony Lolohea, 13. Tupou Lolohea, 14. Emori Rairailevu, 15. Jack KindredCoach: Michael Greenhalgh Manager: Josh MagnusReferee: Will Barnes

A number of second half injuries crueler the chances of victory for the Lismore Rugby side on Saturday against Lennox Head.In a tight first half, the Lismore side trailed but just 9 points after an Adam Rodd try saw the Trojans lead 19-10 at the main break.But with a number of players backing up and injuries beginning to hit the home side, the Trojans were able to take advantage and run away victors 41-12.The Lismore Reserve Grade side edged out the Trojans in a hard fought encounter 18-17 to move into 5th spot on the ladder and the U/18's went down to ladder leaders Lennox 24-14.In other matches, the SCU Gold Rats forfeited to the Byron Shire Rebels, Ballina defeated Casino 39-12 and Casuarina overcame a stubborn Richmond Range 46-12.The reigning premiers the Wollongbar Alstonville Pioneers had a big win over Evans River 64-6.In next weekend's matches, Lismore will again host a home game at Lismore Rugby Park when they welcome Evans River in First and Reserve Grade.The Women's side will play Casino and the U/18's will take on Casuarina in a full day of rugby.FAR NORTH COAST RUGBY UNION Round 13 Results 27th July 2024First GradeBallina 39(Reuben Saric 2, Elliott Bryers 2, Tupou Lolohea 2, Nathan Groves tries, Pierce Bryers 2 conversions) d Casino 12(Cameron Davis, Cory Townesend tries, Jayden Torrens conversion)Half Time: Ballina 17 – Casino 7Wollongbar Alstonville 64(Bailey Hurlock 2, Bodi Smith, Matt Scott, Rory Collings, Daniel Damen, Wiison Lovokuro, Joe Blyth, James Vidler, Cooper Love tries, Bodi Smith 7 conversions) d Evans River6(Zane Gaiter 2 penalty goals)Half Time: Wollongbar 33 – Evans River 6Lennox Head 41(Atzin Jacobson 2, Nick Wilson, Brad McGoulrick, Rory Kershaw tries, Lachlan Miller 4 conversions) d Lismore 12(Adam Rodd try, Braeden Williams conversion, 2 penalty goals)Half Time: Lennox 19 – Lismore 10Casuarina Beach 46(Pat Williams 3, Kai George 3, Jem MacDonald 2 tries, Kai George 3 conversions) d Richmond Range 12(Matthew Sorrenti, Vincent Quigley tries, James Pankhurst conversion)Half Time: Casuarina 17 – Richmond Range 0Byron Shire Rebels 30 d SCU Gold Rats 0Point Score – Wollongbar 62, Byron Shire 47, Casuarina 47, Ballina 46, Richmond Range 27, Casino 27, Lennox 22, Evans 21, Lismore 10, SCU 02nd GradeBallina 59 d Casino 12Lismore 18 d Lennox Head 17Wollongbar 111 d Evans River 5Byron Shire 30 d Yamba 0Mullumbimby 48 d Kyogle 0Point Score – Wollongbar 59, Byron 39, Ballina 35, Casuarina 32, Lismore 27, Lennox 22, Kyogle 22, Yamba 17, Mullumbimby 16, Casino 16, Evans River 11Women’sCasino 29 d Byron Shire 7Point Score – Casino 41, Lismore 18, Casuarina 13, Byron 9Under 18’sLennox Head 24 d Lismore 14Point Score – Lennox 24, Casuarina 12, Yamba 11, Lismore 6Next Week’s Round 14 Matches, Saturday 3rd August1st GradeSCU Gold Rats v Wollongbar AlstonvilleLennox Head v BallinaLismore v Evans River Byron Shire Rebels v Casuarina BeachRichmond Range v Casino at Yamba2nd GradeWollongbar Alstonville v Mullumbimby at SCULennox Head v BallinaLismore v Evans River Yamba v CasinoByron Shire Rebels v Casuarina BeachKyogle - ByeWomen’s 10’sByron Shire Rebels v Casuarina BeachLismore v Casino Under 18’sLismore v Casuarina Beach

Tyrone Roberts and Desmond Ferguson have dominated for Northern United in their victory over Murwillumbah on Saturday.Roberts crossed for a double and had a hand in several other tries in toe 40-14 win over the Mustangs.Ferguson managed to convert 6 from 7 attempts to finish with 12 points.Other try scorers for the Dirawongs included Tayden Hickling, James Roberts, Denzel Dangerfield and Alistair Faulkner.The Dirawongs have steadied a mid season form slump and have been impressive in recent weeks.The organisational skills and experience of Tyrone Roberts and James Roberts have certainly helped since their return.Young fullback Jakequan Roberts Welsh had a strong game replacing Hezekiah McKenzie, who was injured in last week clash with the Rams.Northern United bounced back with a strong effort after a heart breaking last minute loss to Marist Brothers last weekend and stay in touch with the top 6, remaining in 7th spot.Reserve Grade had a narrow 26-22 win over the Mustangs who sat in 4th spot and the U/18's went down to the ladder leaders 32-18.Northern United will travel to Casino next week to take on the Cougars in another must win game

The Marist Brothers Rams will head east on Sunday to Kingsford Smith Park to take on the Ballina Seagulls.The side will be on the hunt for two competition points to consolidate their place in the Top 6.The Seagulls currently lead the NRRRL First Grade competition on 21 points, with the Rams in striking distance in fifth position on 18 points.The Rams are coming off an amazing come-from-behind win over Northern United last weekend at Crozier Field.Rams halfback Shallin Fuller and centre Mitchell Krause were again the heroes of the last minute victory.Jye Davis scored three tries in the 26-24 win and will be looking to continue the good form against the Rams arch rivals.The Seagulls had a high scoring 46-36 win over the Casino Cougars, and the Rams will be hoping the home sides defence continues to leak points.Reserve Grade will also be a close and hard fought encounter with just 1 point separating the two sides, with the Seagulls in fifth and the Rams in sixth.Luckily for both sides there is a 4 point buffer back to the next side.Again in U/18's, just one point separates the two clubs, with both struggling to make finals.The Ramettes have the advantage in the Ladies League Tag, currently sitting in second spot after just 1 loss for the season so far.They will take on a Seagulls side that are in sixth place at 10:50am on Sunday morning to kick off the day.Northern United will host Murwillumbah at Crozier Field on Sunday and will look to return to the winners list after the heartbreaking loss last week.The Dirawongs will be without exciting fullback Hezekiah McKenzie who suffered a serious injury last week.Both First Grade matches will start at 2:45pm.

Lismore will be looking for another win in front of a vocal crowd when they take on Lennox Head on Saturday in Far North Coast Rugby Union.The club will host their annual Ladies Day at Lismore Rugby Park and their promises to be large numbers in attendance.The Trojans sit just one place ahead of the Greens on the First Grade ladder and they will be looking to reduce the margin of 7 competition points this weekend.Lismore went down to Ballina last weekend, with the Trojans having a similar scoreline in their loss to Byron Shire.Noah Allen comes into the back row as the only major change to the young side.The Colts will kick off the day at 12:30pm, taking on the ladder leaders.The Reserve Grade match will be a tight affair, with Lismore sitting just 2 points ahead of Lennox on the table, in a congested mid table.Just 7 points separates 5 teams vying for the last of the Semi Finals spots, a position that Lismore has not been in, in a number of seasons.The Reserves will start at 1:50pm with First Grade kicking off at 3:15pm.FIRST GRADE TEAM LISTSROUND THIRTEEN 27th July 2024Coopers FAR NORTH COAST RUGBY UNIONEvans River: 1. Oliver Clarke, 2. Matthew Francis, 3. Max Pye, 4. Oliver Mason, 5. Scott Willis, 6. Sam Carey, 7. J F Beytell, 8. Agustin Aversa, 9. Ben Morris, 10. Adam Armistead (c), 11. Corey Trustum, 12. Tama Williamson, 13. Jonathon Robinson, 14. Jack Semple, 15. Zane GaiterCoach: Luke CleaverManager: Adam GaiterVWollongbar Alstonville: 1. Brandon Whitney, 2. Bill Johnston, 3. Benji Tiatia, 4. Matt Scott, 5. Tom Parker, 6. Brenden Williams, 7. Wilson Lovokuro, 8. Joe Blyth, 9. Zach Hyatt, 10. Ben Damen (c), 11. Bailey Hurlock, 12. Daniel Damen, 13. Rory Collings, 14. James Vidler, 15. Bodi SmithCoach: William JohnstonManager: Chris DuleyReferee: Will Barnes  Richmond Range: 1. Simon Skinner, 2. Michael MacRae, 3. Reece Manning (c), 4. James Hewetson, 5. Jacob Lane, 6. Luke Benn, 7. Ben Wheeler, 8. Alex Gibbon, 9. Bradon Gumbleton, 10. Matthew Sorrenti, 11. Nicholas Fuhrmann, 12. Daine Petty, 13. Paul Hewetson, 14. Hunter McMurtrie, 15. James PankhurstCoach: Alex GibbonManager: Shawn ButlerVCasuarina Beach: 1. Jem MacDonald, 2. Will Sullivan, 3. Daniel Tilton, 4. Dan Raye (c), 5. James Munroe, 6. Mason Duke, 7. Kellan Murphy, 8. Pat Williams, 9. Jacob Hall, 10. Harry Hall, 11. Lachlan Stacey, 12. Nathan Turpin, 13. Levi Dangerfield, 14. Jesse Frier, 15. Kai GeorgeCoach: Geoff Townsend Manager: Stephen LowndesReferee: Rob WalkerLismore: 1. Mitchell Fawcett, 2. Cameron Bryant, 3. Aggrey Leju, 4. Andrew Jordan, 5. Ben Briggs, 6. Noah Allen, 7. Max Smith, 8. Mitchell Cox, 9. Kyle Maluta, 10. Cody Johnston, 11. Loui Rubbo, 12. Braeden Williams, 13. Adam Rodd, 14. Gus Leju, 15. Fraser RuaneCoach: Angus MacDougallManager: Stephen ClarkVLennox Head: 1. Joseph Daley, 2. Ethan Jenkins, 3. Connor Blair, 4. Zayden Allen, 5. Luca Beasley-Kenk, 6. Brad McGourick, 7. Jacob Kennedy, 8. Hayden Blair, 9. Atzin Jacobson, 10. Lachlan Miller, 11. Rory Kershaw, 12. Jorelle Yock, 13. Nick Wilson, 14. Tom Montieth, 15. Oscar Linton-FranceCoach: Scott JenkinsManager: Tony FisherReferee: Lachlan DuleyBallina: 1. Brett Johnston, 2. Rory Bowen, 3. Nathan Groves, 4. Gerald McLarnon, 5. Harry Bungate, 6. Reece Noble, 7. Andrew Burke, 8. Pierce Bryers, 9. Stephen Paskins, 10. Elliott Bryers (c), 11. Tupou Lolohea, 12. Carl Lolohea, 13. Reuben Saric, 14. Emori Rairailevu, 15. Jack KindredCoach: Michael Greenhalgh Manager: Josh MagnusVCasino: 1. Angus Langfield, 2. Anthony Butta, 3. Cameron Davis (c), 4. Vetari Tau, 5. Cory Townesend, 6. Connor Frame, 7. Joseph Brooks, 8. Emosi Tabusili, 9. Ben Collison, 10. Jayden Torrens, 11. Alex Mea, 12. Justin Zaiko, 13. Bryce Spencer, 14. Jonathon Close, 15. Nick BennCoach: Doug MurrayManager: Andrew GulliverReferee: Matt Clayton

The 2024 NSW Women's Masters Hockey Championships have commenced in Goonellabah and Ballina.The Championships will take place across the two venues on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with teams from across the state descending in the Far North Coast.The competition caters for teams starting at O/35's, and increasing in 5 year increments, up to O/60's.Each age bracket is then broken into divisions if numbers permit.The Far North Coast Hockey Association has entered 5 teams across the various age groups.O/35's Division 1 and 2, O/45's Division 2, O/50's Division 1 and O/55's Division 1 will all represent the region.It is the first time the Championships have been held on the Far North Coast, with hosting being shared between the Goonellabah and Ballina Turf.The majority of finals will be played on Sunday, with bragging rights and medals up for grabs.The opening matches in Goonellabah saw Grafton take on Newcastle in the O/60's on Turf 2, with Grafton taking an early victory 3-0 after leading 1-0 at halftime.The Grafton side scored just after the break to stretch their lead to 2 before, netting a 3rd with 12 minutes remaining.The ladies from the Clarence dominated the time slot, with a comprehensive win in the O/45's on Turf 1 over Far North Coast.The home side were down 2-0 at halftime and things didn't get any better in the second half, with Grafton scoring 3 late goals, the last two goals in the final 4 minutes to take the win 5-0.Draws for the weekend are available at https://www.facebook.com/fnchockey

South Lismore continue to set the pace at the top of the Football Far North Coast Men's Premier League ladder after a tough double header across the weekend.The Celtics took on Alstonville on Saturday afternoon at home, with the match finishing in a 2-2 draw.The side backed up again on Sunday, travelling to Maclean to take on the Bobcats.Managing fatigue and recovery, the Celtics were able to come away with a solid 5-1 victory.The points from both matches allows Souths to stay 3 points ahead of Richmond Rovers, who played a mid week match on Tuesday night, defeating Alstonville 2-1.Bangalow and Goonellabah sit in third and fourth place respectively, after the Bluedogs had a big win over Mullumbimby Brunswick Valley 5-1 on Friday night.The Hornets defeated Byron Bay 3-2 on Saturday to stay 3 points ahead of Lennox Head, and in the top 4.Again this week the schedule is full, with matches on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday to catch up the multitude of games postponed due to the wet weather.Friday will see Villa host Byron Bay, with Souths and Goonellabah clashing on Saturday afternoon, before the Hornets back up again on Tuesday against Maclean at Weston Park, Goonellabah.In Women's Premier League, Byron Bay sit 5 points ahead of Lennox Head in the race to the Minor Premiership. Alstonville and Richmond Rovers round out the top 4.

A solid first half of rugby gave Lismore plenty of hope, when they took on Ballina at Quays Reserve on Saturday.The Greens travelled east to take on the Seahorses with a young side, looking to cause an upset on the premiership hopefuls.The Greens started well and in a strong defensive effort, held the home side to just two tries in the first stanza.A try to Loui Rubbo, converted by Harry Gillett gave the Greens hope, going into the break 15-7 down.Unfortunately for Lismore, they could not maintain the intensity for the final 40 minutes, with the Seahorses scoring six second half tries to take the match 46-7.In the other local match, the SCU Gold Rats again struggled against the top sides, with a 93-12 loss to Casuarina.Both sides are at home next week, with Lismore taking on Lennox Head and the Gold Rats hosting Byron Shire at Maurie Ryan Oval.FAR NORTH COAST RUGBY UNION Round 12 Results 20th July 2024First GradeBallina 46(Harry Bungate 2, Emori Rairailevu 2, Reuben Saric 2, Jacob Carr, Elliott Bryers tries, Pierce Bryers, Harry Bungate, Elliott Bryers conversions) d Lismore 7(Loui Rubbo try, Harry Gillett conversion)Half Time: Ballina 15 – Lismore 7Wollongbar Alstonville 45(Daniel Damen 3, Wiison Lovokuro, Joe Blyth, Bailey Hurlock, Thomas Parker tries, Sam Kerry 5 conversions) d Richmond Range 10(Alex Gibbon, Duncan Ryan tries)Half Time: Wollongbar 14 – Richmond Range 10Byron Shire Rebels 41(Darcy Woods, Scott Gamble, Will Latham, Darragh Lynch, Angus Wilbourn, Sam Caldwell, Amaury Festor tries, Steven Gilbert 3 conversions) d Lennox Head 10(Sean Parry, Connor Blair tries)Half Time: Byron Shire 17 – Lennox 5Casino 41(Jayden Torrens 2, Ben Collison, Jeremy Pau, Alea Mea, Harold Torrens, Kalen Olive tries, Jayden Torrens 3 conversions) d Evans River 29(Agustin Aversa 2, Ben Morris, Adam Armistead tries, Michael Miskle 3 conversions, penalty goal)Half Time: Casino 17 – Evans River 10Casuarina Beach 93(Levi Dangerfield 3, Kai George 2, Jessy Kemp 2, Samisoni Vereniki 2, Lachlan Stacey, Will Sullivan, Jacob Hall, William Stacey, Pat Williams, Harry Hall tries, Kai George 9 conversions) d SCU Gold Rats 12(Ben Miller, Darnell Heuston-McLeod tries, Matt Anderson Conversion)Half Time: Casuarina 31 – SCU 5 Point Score – Wollongbar 52, Casuarina 43, Byron Shire 42, Ballina 41, Richmond Range 27, Casino 27, Evans 21, Lennox 17, Lismore 10, SCU 02nd GradeWollongbar 57 d Kyogle 15Lismore 31 d Yamba 14Evans River 28 d Casino 24Casuarina 26 d Mullumbimby 5Byron Shire 30 d Lennox Head 0Point Score – Wollongbar 49, Byron 34, Casuarina 32, Ballina 30, Lismore 23, Kyogle 22, Lennox 21, Yamba 17, Casino 16, Evans River 11, Mullumbimby 11Women’sLismore 44 d Byron Shire 17Point Score – Casino 31, Lismore 18, Casuarina 13, Byron 9Under 18’sPoint Score – Lennox 19, Casuarina 12, Yamba 11, Lismore 6Next Week’s Round 13 Matches, Saturday 27th July1st GradeSCU Gold Rats v Byron Shire RebelsLismore v Lennox HeadEvans River v Wollongbar AlstonvilleBallina v CasinoRichmond Range v Casuarina Beach at Brunswick Heads 2nd GradeMullumbimby v Kyogle at Brunswick HeadsLismore v Lennox HeadEvans River v Wollongbar AlstonvilleBallina v CasinoYamba v Byron Shire at SCUCasuarina - ByeWomen’s 10’sByron Shire Rebels v Casino at SCUUnder 18’sLismore v Lennox Head

Three Far North Coast Rugby Union players have been named in the NSW Country Cockatoos squad.All three backline players have been a part of the Cockatoos side in previous years and know what it takes to play at the Australian Rugby Shield.Wollongbar Alstonville's Ben Damon has previously captained the side and has been a major part of the country side for many years.Alex Gibbon, who currently plays for Richmond Range and played his junior football at Wollongbar has again made the side after returning to the region after a stint in the Shute Shield in Sydney.The third member of the Far North Coast contingent is Vincent Quigley, who plays halfback for the Mullumbimby Moonshiners.The 2024 edition of the Australian Rugby Shield will be played from 2nd-6th October in Caloundra on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.In other Rugby news, the NSW Waratahs will be visiting the FNC region in August, with Charlie Gamble and Lalakai Foketi making appearances over a three day period.The pair will attend games in Bangalow and Lennox Head on Saturday 3 August, they will launch Trytag in Lismore on Sunday 4 August and then attend St Mary's College in Casino on Monday 5 August.The initiative by NSW Rugby Union will see Waratahs players head out to country regions to promote the game with local Development Officers.