Action-packed grand final wrapsup wonderful winter netball season

Narrabri Netball Association’s winter competition came to a thrilling conclusion on Saturday, with four grand finals showcasing the skill, teamwork and spirit that have defined the 2026 season.

Layla Hamilton (Mavericks). Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

From close junior contests to a high-scoring A-grade decider, the action-packed grand final day at Narrabri Netball Courts provided a fitting finale to another successful winter competition.

Cheering for the Diamonds, Yemaya and Jovi McIlrick. Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

In the Junior Mixed 9/10 years grand final, Hutcheon & Pearce Swifts claimed a 6–2 victory over Diamonds.

The Junior Mixed 11/13 years decider proved to be one of the closest matches of the day, with Vast Diesel Services Firebirds narrowly defeating Ag Econ Thunderbirds, 21–19.

Lucia Quirk (Diamonds). Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

The senior grades also delivered plenty of excitement.

The Flames took out the A-grade grand final, defeating D&L Tyres Mavericks 50–44, while Electric Blues dominated the B-grade grand final, defeating Pink Ponies 61–26.

Jillian Cruckshank (Swifts). Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

Narrabri Netball Association president Nikki Connole said the grand final day marked the perfect way to finish another wonderful winter season.

“My heart is so full after watching our courts come alive this year,” she said.

Macie Ward (Swifts). Photo: Bruce Malcolm. RIGHT: Hannah Hall (Mavericks) throwing the ball to Edee Towns (Mavericks), with Ruby Currey (Flames) defending. Photo: Bruce Malcolm. BELOW LEFT: Celia Galagher (Mavericks) with the ball. Photo: Bruce Malcolm. BELOW RIGHT: Cheering for the Diamonds, Yemaya and Jovi McIlrick. Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

“The atmosphere, the friendships, the teamwork and the wonderful spirit shown across our competition have made me incredibly proud.

“Our grand final is now done and dusted, and what an amazing day it was – a perfect way to finish another wonderful winter season.”

Edee Towns (Mavericks) defends Demi Cruickshank (Flames), pictured far left is Ruby Currey. Photo: Bruce Malcolm. BELOW: Jillian Cruckshank (Swifts). Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

Nikki thanked the many people who contributed to the success of the competition throughout the year, including players, parents, coaches, umpires, committee members and volunteers.

Elsie Platt (Flames) and Penny Towns (Mavericks). Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

“To every player, parent, coach, umpire, committee member and volunteer – whether you helped every week or simply stepped in when we needed an extra hand – thank you,” she said.

Hannah Hall (Mavericks) throwing the ball to Edee Towns (Mavericks), with Ruby Currey (Flames) defending. Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

“Our competition simply couldn’t run without people willing to give their time and support.”

She also paid special tribute to the outgoing committee for their commitment and hard work behind the scenes.

Matilda Currey (Flames), Quinn Towns (Mavericks) and Lisa Currey (Flames). Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

“So much happens behind the scenes, and I am incredibly grateful for everything you have done for our association,” Nikki said.

“I’m so proud of our Narrabri netball community and excited to see what the next chapter brings.”

Celia Galagher (Mavericks) with the ball. Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

With the 2026 winter competition now wrapped up, the association has also held its annual general meeting, and a new committee will soon begin preparations to build on the success of another memorable season.