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Proserpine/Whitsunday Junior Brahmans ready to rush the field. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
Proserpine was swept up in footy madness as the 18th annual Paul Bowman Challenge drew 82 junior rugby league teams from across Queensland.
The event attracted teams from as far south as the Gold Coast and Brisbane, north to Cairns and west to Mount Isa, Longreach and Charleville, with Warwick taking the title of the furthest-travelled team. Across two action-packed days, players enjoyed plenty of footy, friendly cross team banter and even a relaxed evening under the tents.
Partnered by former North Queensland Cowboy Paul Bowman, the weekend was a testament to the years of success since its inception.
“We’re extremely thankful, and I’m proud of how big the tournament is,” Paul said.
“I think it’s pretty much at capacity now, just with the fields and accommodation in Proserpine, Airlie Beach and the surrounding areas.
“If we can keep it at this size moving forward, it’ll be awesome.”
The young players received a special visit from North Queensland Cowboys stars Jake Clifford and Braidon Burns, while Lily Peacock and Kai O’Donnell also returned home for the event to sign autographs and share some footy advice.
“It's actually really nostalgic seeing all the young kids running around, especially in the Brahman’s shirt,” Lily said.
“It feels like yesterday that I was down here running around as a little 10-year-old with the boys.”
See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/footy-pandemonium-takes-over-proserpine
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