The Dan Ryder Ray White Townsville Senior Competition has officially kicked off for the 2026 season, delivering an exciting opening round packed with action, intensity, and standout performances across the region.
Brothers vs Teachers West
The headline clash of the weekend saw a highly anticipated 1st Grade Grand Final rematch between Brothers and Teachers. Despite both sides missing key players, the match lived up to expectations early, with Brothers wasting no time asserting their dominance. A quick opening try, sparked by fullback Sam Warner and finished by centre Iowani Cavuilati, set the tone for the game.
Teachers worked hard to build momentum and threatened the line on multiple occasions, but a resilient Brothers defensive effort kept them scoreless throughout the match. Brothers capitalised on their opportunities, with Cavuilati crossing early before tries followed from Jeremy Morton, Louka Demopolous (2), Zach Toigo, Joshua Sherrington, and Ethan Coope. The kicking duties were shared between Matty Rauch, who added two conversions and a penalty goal, and Harrison Keir with two conversions. Brothers ran away convincing winners, defeating Teachers 46–0 at full time.
Burdekin vs North Ward
In Game 2, Burdekin hosted North Ward in their first home game of the season, with the visiting side looking to spoil the occasion. Both teams started strongly in what was a physical and competitive contest, but it was Burdekin who made the most of their attacking opportunities.
North Ward showed promising structure in attack, with tries coming from Callum Ricca, prop Jeremy Pullen, and centre Alex Roubicek, along with a conversion from Manua Babia. However, Burdekin’s attacking firepower proved too strong. Akuila Doidoi led the charge with two tries, supported by Sakiusa Dreunimolea, Kelevi Ralulu, and Laitia Raqina, who also crossed twice. Jayce Gallego was outstanding with the boot, converting five tries and adding a penalty goal in an impressive kicking display.
Burdekin secured a strong 43–17 victory over North Ward, capping off a successful opening home game and an exciting start to the 2026 season.
Brothers vs Teachers West
The opening clash saw Brothers take on Teachers West in a highly anticipated rematch. Both sides came in with strong numbers, setting the stage for a physical contest in tough conditions. Brothers struck early, with their backline creating opportunities that led to a try for Elisabeth Matters, converted by Emma Hannigan.
Teachers West had multiple chances to respond, capitalising on errors from Brothers, but were unable to convert pressure into points, largely due to a resolute Brothers defensive line. Raelene Pearson eventually broke through for Teachers West, crossing for two tries, with Amanda Baker adding a conversion.
As the heat began to take its toll, fatigue set in and Brothers made the most of it. Amelia Lockie, Bella Canning, and Siena Tabacchi—who crossed twice—extended the lead, with Hannigan and Keely Munro adding the extras. Brothers ran out convincing 33–12 winners to start their season strongly.
Western Suburbs vs North Ward
In Game 2, North Ward faced Western Suburbs in a match that began at a slower pace, with both teams playing 10-a-side rugby. The sides were locked at 7–all early, but as the game wore on and the heat intensified, North Ward struggled with limited numbers.
Jameekah Howard crossed for North Ward’s lone try and added the conversion, but Western Suburbs took control of the game. Jaidah Setiu opened the floodgates, while Ellie Jenkins delivered a standout performance on the wing, scoring five tries. Mareikura Hills and Dana Leviston also added their names to the scoresheet, with Crystal Lee Walsh contributing two conversions. Western Suburbs secured a dominant 44–7 victory.
Charters Towers vs Burdekin
The final match of the round featured regional rivals Charters Towers and Burdekin in a closely fought encounter. The Bulls made the trip to Burdekin for their first home game of the season, and both teams delivered a high-quality contest.
Burdekin crossed through Amanda Brown, Zyanne Bartlett, and Imogen Snow, with Caitlin Holmes converting all three tries. Charters Towers responded with tries to Lani Cashion (2) and Tenisha Solomon, along with a conversion from Aaliyah Bulmer. A crucial penalty try also proved decisive. Charters Towers won the closely contested match over Burdekin 24–21 in a thrilling finish.
Round 1 of the TDRU Women’s Competition has set the tone for what promises to be an exciting and competitive 2026 season.
Brothers vs Teachers West
The 2nd Grade competition also delivered a thrilling Grand Final rematch, with Brothers taking on Teachers West in a tightly contested encounter that went right down to the wire.
Teachers West came out firing, showcasing a dominant brand of rugby early, led by their powerful forward pack. Lock Luke Madsen opened the scoring, with Jaxson Macdonald-Piner adding the conversion. Momentum continued to swing their way with further tries from Clinton Drane and Hayden Purvis, while Cam Smallwood added the extras.
Brothers, however, refused to back down and began to build their way back into the contest. Showing strong attacking intent, they capitalised on key opportunities with tries to Harrison Keir and Joshua Morton. Isaac Sheen added a crucial conversion, narrowing the gap and setting up an exciting finish.
In the closing stages, Connor Sexton crossed for what would be a vital try for Brothers. With the pressure on, Isaac Sheen stepped up to take the conversion attempt that would level the scores — and delivered.
At full time, the scoreboard read 19–all, capping off a gripping contest and one of the most exciting matches of the opening round.
1st Grade:
Brothers vs Burdekin - Casalegno Field Ayr, 6:00pm
Teachers West vs North Ward - Field 1 Mike Carney Toyota Park, 4:30pm
Women's:
Brothers vs Charters Towers - Field 2 Mike Carney Toyota Park, 3:10pm
Teachers West vs North Ward - Field 1 Mike Carney Toyota Park, 2:00pm
Burdekin vs Western Suburbs - Casalegno Field Ayr, 3:30pm
2nd Grade:
Brothers vs Charters Towers - Field 2 Mike Carney Toyota Park, 2:00pm
Teachers West vs North Ward - Field 1 Mike Carney Toyota Park, 3:10pm
Burdekin vs Ingham - Casalegno Field Ayr, 4:40pm
