Sport
17 April, 2026
Early warning to opponents
PORT Douglas Crocs and Centrals Trinity Beach Bulldogs have sent an early warning to rivals with commanding wins to open the AFL Cairns 2026 season.
The Crocs produced a dominant performance in the annual Good Friday clash in Port Douglas, defeating North Cairns Tigers 26.15 (171) to 5.5 (35).
After a disappointing end to the 2025 season, Port Douglas controlled the contest from the outset against an undermanned Tigers outfit missing many of their 2025 premiership-winning players.
Midfielders Jared Petrenko and Murphy Short led the way, combining for 83 disposals, while forward Kye Chappel booted seven goals.
For North Cairns, veteran Darcy Keast battled strongly in defence with 27 disposals, while Nate Lillie and Hudson Richardson showed promise.
Centrals Trinity Beach Bulldogs were equally impressive, defeating Cairns City Lions 25.11 (161) to 6.10 (46) at Holloways.
The Bulldogs, coming off last year’s grand final loss, made a statement under new coach David Stretton with a comprehensive display.
New recruits Kieran Lovell and Ryan Banks-Smith made immediate impacts with 47 touches and 27 disposals, respectively, while Connor Stackelberg kicked seven goals.
Josh Butland, last year’s Matthew Walsh medallist, added six goals in a potent forward performance.
Lions skipper Beau Flint competed strongly, while Eric Cox impressed with a Mark of the Year contender in the third quarter.
In the final match, South Cairns Cutters defeated Manunda Hawks 19.19 (133) to 3.1 (19) at Cazalys Stadium.
The Hawks entered the season with a new coach in Brad Johansen but struggled to contain the Cutters’ fast ball movement.
Alex Rogers led Manunda with 31 disposals, while South Cairns were driven by Jordy Harrington with 34 disposals and Jeremy Piercy with 31 touches, including 15 contested possessions and 10 clearances.
Tex Korewah and Tyson Whyte each kicked four goals in the convincing win.
The opening round results set the tone for the season, with several sides making strong early claims ahead of the coming weeks.
