Another successful Island of Origin carnival was held recently over three days hosted by the Dhadhin Geai Warriors at Joe Mairu Memorial Oval on Badu Island.
This year's event attracted six teams which included Saam Karem Beizam, Goemu Bau Raiders, Stallions, Pagga Panthers, Kulkau Balaya and Badu United.
Players travelled from Cairns and all over the Torres Straits by plane and boat to take part in the popular tournament in the Torres Strait.
Many families and spectators flocked to the venue for a display of top level rugby league action which saw mixed results with big wins, some close scores and a low scoring draw.
Six games were played on the first day which saw each team play twice, while there were nine games on the second day and each team played three games.
Over the two days Badu United, coached by Thomas Loban, won all but one of their games, with their only loss to Goemu Bau Raiders, who they met in the grand final.
In the first semi final, Goemu Bau Raiders had a convincing 32 - 4 win over Pagga Panthers.
Badu United registered a 22 -12 victory over the Stallions in the second semi final which earned them a spot in the grand final against Goemu Bau Raiders.
Despite a field goal by Goemu Bau Raiders, Badu United snatched a thrilling one point victory in the grand final with a penalty kick proving the difference between the two sides.
Full results
Day 1
Badu United 28 def Saam Karem Beizam 4
Goemu Bau Raiders 18 def Stallions 10
Pagga Panthers 34 def Kulkau Balaya 6
Goemu Bau Raiders 34 def Saam Karem Beizam 10
Stallions 12 def Pagga Panthers 10
Badu United 40 def Kulkau Balaya 0
Day 2
Goemu Bau Raiders 16 def Pagga Panthers 8
Badu United 22 def Stallions 12
Kulkau Balaya 6 draw Saam Karem Beizam 6
Goemu Bau Raiders 26 def Badu United 6
Stallions 42 def Kulkau Balaya 12
Pagga Panthers 42 def Saam Karem Beiazam 4
Goemu Bau Raiders 54 def Kulkau Balaya 4
Stallions 14 def Saam Karem Beizam 12
Badu United 12 def Pagga Panthers 6
A special thanks to George Morseau and all the volunteers who worked hard behind the scenes to ensure the carnival ran smoothly.
