Sport
22 May, 2026
Codes give plenty of action
Rugby league ROUND seven of the Cairns District Rugby League delivered another entertaining weekend of action across the women’s, reserve grade and A-grade competitions, with several teams making strong statements as the season gathers momentum.
In the women’s competition, the Kangaroos held on in a thriller to defeat Yarrabah 14-12 in one of the closest contests of the round.
Southern Suburbs produced the most dominant performance, running in a remarkable 68-4 victory over Mossman with an explosive attacking display.
Innisfail also continued their strong form, defeating Atherton 20-4 through disciplined defence and consistent pressure across the park.
Reserve grade featured several physical encounters, with Southern Suburbs maintaining their winning form after defeating Mossman 26-8.
Mareeba edged out Yarrabah 28-20 in a high-scoring battle, while Tully proved too strong for Ivanhoes with a 32-18 win.
Kangaroos secured a hard-fought 16-12 victory over Cairns Brothers in another tightly contested clash and Innisfail impressed with a commanding 42-12 performance against Atherton.
A-grade once again showcased the strength and depth of the competition, with attacking football on display throughout the round.
Southern Suburbs continued their impressive season with a convincing 54-16 victory over Mossman, piling on points through fast-paced attack and strong finishing out wide.
Mareeba also produced an outstanding offensive performance in their 42-28 win against Yarrabah.
Ivanhoes claimed one of the most important victories of the weekend, narrowly defeating Tully 22-18 in a contest that went down to the final stages.
Cairns Brothers overcame Kangaroos 24-12 through a composed and disciplined performance, while Innisfail rounded out the round with a strong 26-6 victory over Atherton.
Rugby union
ROUND five of the Far North Queensland Rugby Union seasons delivered plenty of excitement across both reserves and senior grades, with standout performances highlighting the competitive spirit of the league.
In the reserves, the Cairns Penrhyn Sharks continued their impressive form with a hard-fought 29-17 victory over the JCU Mariners.
The Sharks showcased their physicality, taking control in the second half after an evenly matched opening 40 minutes.
Despite a spirited fightback from the Mariners, Cairns’ disciplined defence and clinical finishing proved decisive.
Meanwhile, the Tablelands Reds edged out Barron Trinity in a nail-biting contest, securing a 29-26 win.
The match swung back and forth, with both sides trading momentum in an enthralling display of attacking rugby.
In the end, the Reds’ composure under pressure earned them the crucial points, keeping them firmly in the top spot in the reserves table.
The senior grade delivered no less drama. The JCU Mariners bounced back from their reserves’ defeat with a commanding 40-22 win over the Northern Beaches Mudcrabs.
The Mariners dominated from start to finish, combining sharp attack with resolute defence. Their forwards laid a solid platform, allowing the backs to exploit gaps and put the Mudcrabs under constant pressure.
Mariners captain Liam Duncan said “it’s always great to come away with a win out of a top of the table clash.”
The Mariners remain undefeated.
In a similarly high-scoring affair, Barron Trinity overcame Port Douglas Reef Raiders 33-21 in a game that showcased the resilience and skill of both sides.
Trinity’s structure and discipline to accompany their well-timed bursts of speed proved the difference, while the Raiders fought valiantly but ultimately couldn’t close the gap.
Round five has set up an intriguing mid-season phase, with top teams asserting heir dominance and others still searching for consistency.
As the season progresses, fans can expect plenty more intensity, with each clash offering its own blend of strategy, strength, and spectacle.
Basketball
THE Cairns junior basketball season got off to a flying start on Saturday, with the association’s courts buzzing with action as close to 50 games were played across multiple divisions.
The season opener marked an exciting expansion for the sport locally, with all six clubs entering more teams than last year, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for basketball in the region.
The six clubs – Redlynch, Phoenix, All Stars, Timberwolves, Northern Beaches Heat and Edge Hill – brought a mix of returning talent and fresh faces, ensuring competitive and entertaining matches throughout the day.
From fast-paced under-10 games to highly competitive under-14 contests, family and friends were treated to a full showcase of junior talent.
An association spokesman said “the intensity and sportsmanship on display really highlighted the commitment of both players and coaches to develop the next generation of Cairns basketballers, it’s amazing to see.”
Cairns Basketball also saw a jump in participation in their Mini Marlins and Mini Dolphins group, which is for 4–7-year-olds starting their basketball journey.
League officials expressed delight at the increase in team entries, noting that more than ever, young athletes were eager to participate and compete.
“It’s fantastic to see so many kids getting involved,” said a Cairns Basketball representative.
“The growth we’ve seen this season shows just how much the sport is thriving in our region.”
