Sport
20 February, 2026
Highland Gold stuns Golf in midweek semi-final while Tartan bests Dunolly Blue
In one of the most stunning results in recent Goldfields Playing Area finals history, Highland Gold has eliminated Maryborough Golf with an electrifying semi-final victory.
Even with a staggering 72-point differential between themselves and last season’s runner-up during the regular season, Highland Gold refused to be intimidated on their way to shaking up the finals bracket, winning 58-50.
Kort Gay showcased Golf’s position as favourites by vanquishing Gregory Long 21-15. However, Dennis Prosser delivered a swift reply, handing Francis Smith only his fourth loss of the season with a 20-16 win.
Despite Prosser’s triumph, Golf still held the advantage, meaning Lowen Clarke, who had an even 3-3 record as skipper in the regular season, needed to overcome Graeme Orr, who boasted a 10-3 mark.
Under the magic of finals, the underdog bested the favourite, as Clarke overpowered Orr 23-13 to give Highland Gold a memorable victory.
They will attempt to continue their magical run in a preliminary final against Dunolly Blue after their sister team and reigning premiers Highland Tartan dispatched their old rivals in the double chance semi-final 74-46.
In a replica of the regular season finale meeting between these two teams, Highland Tartan were faultless in their pursuit of victory.
It started strongly for Tartan with Greg Shay thwarting Alan Weir 23-13. Chris Williams attempted to get Dunolly Blue back on track, but Garry Coburn proved too good, winning 26-24.
That allowed Harvey Pearce to put the icing on the cake with a commanding 25-9 victory against Tony Galofaro, booking Highland Tartan’s place in another Grand Final.
As attention turns to the midweek pennant preliminary final, the question on everyone’s minds will be whether lightning can strike twice for Highland Gold as they attempt to create an all Highland Grand Final.
Even with their semi-final defeat, Dunolly Blue will enter Tuesday’s massive contest as heavy favourites, having decimated their opponents in the regular season.
The powerhouses replicated their 101-30 demolition of Highland Gold in their season opener with an 84-33 victory in round eight.