SUNNY SIDE Forget AFL – Coast footy teams hitting top gear OF LIFE COMING LIGHTNING UP ROSES TAKE TITLE WINNING WHINCUP

BACKFLIP PAYING OFF SUPER NETBALL VICTORY GOLD Coast’s AFL club might be mired in another season of poor results, but our grassroots game is on the surge.

Southport Sharks on Saturday capped a remarkable rise from the NEAFL cellar 12 months ago to claim the minor premiership.

In the QAFL, Broadbeach, Palm Beach Currumbin and Surfers Paradise fill three of the five playoff spots and lead the chase for glory.

AUSSIE RULES NEWS: Pages 34-35

DRIVEN ROUND THE BEND

Picture: RICHARD GOSLING/JERAD WILLIAMS Barbarians player Kayne Blen goes on a charge against the Alleygators. While (inset) Ethan Roberts does the same for Tweed Heads in rugby league.