A TOTAL of 12 cricket teams travelled from Weipa, Hughenden, Townsville and everywhere in between to compete for the coveted Reedybrook Ashes recently, raising a swag of money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service along the way and most importantly, having a whole lot of fun.

Described by RFDS Base Manager, Mike Lacy as their signature north Queensland fund raising event, the Ashes has gone from strength to strength since it was kicked off by the Harriman family in 1982.

With its fishing competition for the kids, live music and toad race on Saturday night, and Sunday’s big auction, the annual weekend offered so much more than cricket.

Whether it’s camping on the beautiful Burdekin, swimming, socialising or just spending time with family and friends, there was something for everyone at Reedybrook.

The 2008 ashes weekend grossed $45,000 for charity this year, slightly down on its 25th anniversary total of $50,000 last year.

Local team and 2007 Champion team, Gum Flats hung onto the ashes this year to keep runners up Balfes Creek out of the winning spot.

*Full story in this week’s North Queensland Register, out Thursday.