Sport
22 November, 2025
Chieftans’ narrow loss
CAIRNS Chieftains have narrowly lost in the senior men’s final of the seventh edition of the Australasia Regional Gaelic Games in Cairns.
The seven-a-side tournament featured 20 men’s and women’s senior and intermediate Gaelic football, as well as hurling, bringing a festival of sport and Irish culture to North Queensland at Watson’s Oval, Manunda, last weekend.
The men’s senior final saw Gold Coast Gaels edge out hosts Cairns Chieftains by just two points in a thrilling, closely contested match.
In the women’s competition, Flinders O’Neills from South Australia overcame Gold Coast in another tight final.
Many of the senior games throughout the day were decided by narrow margins, highlighting the high level of competition.
Local teams made a strong showing, with Port Douglas’ Four Mile team competing valiantly, despite not advancing out of their group.
Some female players from Four Mile joined the Cairns Chieftains for the day, further demonstrating the tournament’s collaborative spirit.
Cairns Chieftains president Tom Burke said the event exceeded expectations:
“Really, really well. We had over 20 teams take part across men’s senior and intermediate football and hurling, as well as women’s senior and intermediate football and hurling. The standard was fantastic and the close matches made for an exciting day,” he said.
Mr Burke also thanked volunteers and organisers for their support.
“A big thank you from the Chieftains to everyone who helped on the day. The teams all gave a good showing of themselves.”
The tournament highlighted the continued growth of Gaelic football in regional Australia and the increasing involvement of players from diverse sporting backgrounds, including AFL.
Looking ahead, the Far North’s Gaelic football community will take a short break before preparing for the next regional tournament in Melbourne in February, known as Pearse’s Sevens. Several teams from Cairns hope to participate.
