It was a weekend full of hot competition as one thousand touch football players and their families crowded Greg Duncan Touch Football Fields for the annual Bundaberg Cup.
In record-breaking attendance, Bundaberg Cup had 69 teams battle it out in the premiere touch football event.
Bundaberg Touch Football Association’s David Field said the annual Queensland Touch Football competition was a huge success.
“There were 69 registered teams, with one thousand-plus competitors on site,” David said.
“It was a huge effort from everyone, including our 70 referees who officiated 191 games over the two days.
“Bundaberg Cup is all about giving people an experience.
“The wonderful thing about it is that people can create a team with family and friends, or a group of mates – it’s not necessary for them to be attached to a club.”
David said the touch football fields were packed full of spectators watching the action from the sidelines as the temperature rose not only on the grounds but across the region.
According to Bureau of Meteorology at 7 am on Saturday the temperature at Bundaberg Airport was already 27.5 degrees, with a “feels like” of 33.2 degrees and 100 per cent humidity.
David said the players had felt the heat throughout the weekend.
“The heat and humidity were definitely factors,” he said.
“We took this into consideration and used our hot weather policy which allowed for longer break times between games.”
David said each year the annual competition had exceeded expectations and he thanked everyone for their support.
“We have a great volunteer group that ensures the success of the Bundaberg Cup,” he said.
“Bundaberg Cup is a well-supported event.”
The Queensland Touch Football Bundaberg Cup event has been supported by Bundaberg Regional Council since its inception with funding under a three-year partnership agreement which will see $60,000 in assistance delivered to the competition from 2022-24.
2023 Bundaberg Cup winners
U12 Girls
Champions: Wynnum Manly Touch
Runners up: Gladstone
U12 Boys
Champions: Last Minute
Runners up: Gladstone
U14 Girls
Champions: Rockhampton 14 Girls Red
Runners up: Bundy Maroons U14 Girls
U14 Boys
Champions: Rockhampton 14 Boys
Runners up: The Trotters
U16 Girls
Champions: Rockhampton 16 Girls
Runners up: Bundaberg Under 16 Girls
U16 Boys
Champions: Bolts
Runners up: Ruckrats
Mens Open
Champions: Young Bulls
Runners up: Mackay Thunder
Mixed Open
Champions: Coolum BlueFins
Runners up: Prince of Thieves
Social Mixed
Champions: Bolts
Runners up: Ruckrats
Social Men
Champions: Galaxy
Runners up: Ankle Bullies
