“It’s really nice for Moree to host the carnival,” Moree and District Netball Association grants and sponsorship officer Dimity Boydell said.

“Over the last couple of years, the club wasn’t allowed to hold them because of the state of our facilities. But since the facilities went from pretty much nothing to what it is today, not only have we been able to host the day, but the club’s numbers have also grown.”

Upgrades to the netball courts at Ron Harborne Oval finished in March earlier this year. The installation of a raised viewing platform, toilet block and a new multi-purpose canteen and office was brought about due to a generous $64, 000 grant from Holden.

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“There was a lot of positive comments coming back from other clubs. They commended us on the facilities and how well the day was run,” Boydell said.

To top off a successful day, Boydell said the Moree netball teams also played exceptionally well on the Sunday. 

Four Moree teams were spread across the U12s, 13/14s and Opens divisions and played five, 30 minute games against teams from Warren, Walgett, Inverell, Mungindi, Narrabri and Coonabarabran.

“Moree All Age Carnival allows netball players to experience a bit of competition leading up to the regional league. It also gives the junior players around the region something competitive to travel to,” Boydell said.

Moree Diamonds took the win in the Opens division. Inverell claimed the top spot for the 13/14s and Warren secured the win in the U12s.

Regardless of score, Dimity said the teams showed many strong points.

“Moree teams have done a lot of training, even before the season started. Seniors train hard twice a week, and that’s really improved their fitness levels.”

Boydell added the games also highlighted weaknesses.

“A bit of ball skills let some of the teams down. We need to concentrate more on that aspect and also tactical plays.

“But overall, the consensus was that all the teams have improved and grown as netball since the beginning of the season.”

Boydell added it was also an opportunity for the junior netball players to mix with the seniors.

“It’s been good for junior players to see the quality of other clubs. It allows them to push forward and know what kind of competition is out there.”

Boydell thanked the sponsors Landmark Mobas Batteries, Thrift Electrical, Post Office Hotel, Reados Meats, Moree Bakehouse, Muggletons Cranes, Compressed Air Light and Power and Virgil Smith Electrical staff.

“Without these guys, the club wouldn’t have been able to run a successful weekend. Also, the sponsors have been a great support to help get equipment down to the courts, purchase new balls and safety equipment.”