AFL Masters’ national success drives new innovations
TOWNSVILLE’S AFL Masters have proved you’re never too old to pick up a Sherrin, with a huge North Queensland representation reaping the rewards at the AFL Masters National Carnival in Adelaide earlier this year.
Twelve Queensland players, three coaches, two umpires and a team manager made the trek south to the
City of Churches, with six of the Townsville contingent receiving All Australian honours.
Andy Pethybridge (Over 45), Tony Burke (Over 55), David Lindsay (Over 65) and Ian Blakey (Over 65) were recognised among Australia’s best players, while Katrina and Murray Orr were selected as All Australia umpires in the goal umpire category.
AFL Masters Townsville treasurer Noeleen James also performed a team manager role at the carnival, adding more involvement from the North Queensland group.
Now back in Townsville, the AFL old boys are riding the momentum of their success with a new club trailer funded through the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, allowing them to run more training and events.
Blazoned with the Townsville Sharks emblem and a stack of local supporters’ logos, and with PVC goalposts strapped to the roof like surfboards, the trailer is decked out with a BBQ, fridge, sink and everything else needed for a great day of footy.
AFL Masters Townsville is focused on football for fun, and welcomes players over 33 of all genders, with their oldest player aged 74. They attend seven Country Queensland carnivals over the year to keep players active, connected and prepared for the annual National Carnival.
AFL Masters Townsville co-ordinate five of the carnivals in country Queensland, and their new trailer – custombuilt by local business Bartel Trailers – will allow them to put on even better events.
The club is about to pause training for Christmas, but will recommence in February, with anyone interested in participating welcome to join.