28 July 2010 - Emily Cantwell

It was that time again. Yes it was the Queensland Schools Orienteering Carnival. This year 80 keen students took part.  The Carnival was held on the Southern Downs in granite terrain.

The first event, the Sprint, was run through the surrounds of Leslie Dam Recreation Centre. Excellent courses set by the Burrill sisters Grace and Lilian were won by Trent Blinco (Snr Boys), Heather Muir (Snr Girls), Max Neumann (Jnr Boys) , Heather Burridge(Jnr Girls), Tom Ronnfeldt (Men 13), Winnie Oakhill (Women 13).

Later that day all teams took to the challenging relay courses that were set by Ruth Burrill. The technical terrain of the Sandy Creek map proved difficult for many competitors but despite this the afternoon turned out to be an enjoyable time for all competitors. The Brisbane West teams showed their strength in winning four out of the six relays with Brisbane North winning the remaining two.

The individual event on Sunday was held at Wilmott's Waterholes. The courses, set by Oliver Crosato, were fast, over terrain not so steep or technical as in the relay event. However, not having as much detail on the map and the faster running made relocation more difficult if required! Winners on the day were Winnie Oakhill (W13), Simeon Burrill (M13), Heather Burridge (Jnr Girls), Max Neumann (Jnr Boys), Heather Muir (Snr Girls) and Harry Mee (Snr Boys).

Other results and full details can be viewed at Results

From the performances of the competitors sixteen were selected to represent Queensland in the Australian Schools Carnival which will be held in South Australia later this year. Eight reserves were also selected of whom the four first reserves will travel with the team.  Joan Sheldon and Doug Wilson are the Team Managers and Fiona Calabro the Team Coach.

Many thanks to all those who put in so much of their time and effort to make this a great event.