Emeralds Hurling & Camogie completed a memorable Queensland championship double at Willawong on Saturday 26 July in an afternoon where teams braved torrential rain.
Hurling
Facing off against Gold Coast Gaels in extremely challenging conditions, the Emeralds hurlers overcame a slow start and an early second-half deficit to claim their eighth championship title with a well-earned 3-point victory.
Brian Hogan opened the scoring with two superb points from difficult angles, while Brendan Long struck a trademark goal to swing momentum before halftime. Brian added a ‘65 to send Emeralds in with a narrow lead at the break, 1-5 to 0-6.
Eoin Hourigan breaking out of defence during the 2025 Queensland hurling championship final against Gold Coast Gaels at Willawong on Saturday 26 July. Photo credit: Agnew Edits
The Gaels edged ahead early in the second half, but Emeralds responded with composure, producing crucial scores to level the game, before Peter “Petesy” Gilsenan made a significant impact off the bench, setting up a point and scoring two himself to secure the win.
Emeralds’ defence stood strong, with the goalkeeper Conor Keane making two vital saves and the full-back line showing great resilience. The half-back line was immense, while the midfielders covered every blade of grass and the half-forward line led the scoring charge.
Declan Cheasty was named man of the match for an outstanding performance out of position.
Result
Emeralds 1-12 – 0-12 Gold Coast Gaels
Seamus Sullivan, former President of Queensland GFHA, presenting the hurling championship trophy to Emeralds co-captains Brian Hogan and Declan Cheasty following their win over Gold Coast Gaels at Willawong on Saturday 26 July. Photo credit: Agnew Edits
Camogie
The Emeralds got off to a strong start, dominating possession and setting the tone over Na Fianna. Midfielder Aoibhín Carr was instrumental early on, calm and collected whilst dictating the pace of the game.
The second half saw the Emeralds push on with increased intensity during the rain, thunder and lightning. Ally Ryan, a key defender playing a vital part in preventing Na Fianna scores. Na Fianna maintained the intensity throughout the 60 minutes with constant pressure on the Emeralds players.
Aisling Rock of Emeralds shoots for a score during the 2025 Queensland camogie championship final against Na Fianna at Willawong on Saturday 26 July. Photo credit: Agnew Edits
Phenomenal scores from Karen Gaffney, Katie Nelly and Leanne Donnelly kept the scoreboard ticking for Emeralds. Support play, hard work and perseverance sealed the victory for the Emeralds, finishing the 2025 season undefeated in the Queensland camogie league and championship campaigns.
Result
Emeralds 5-7 – 2-2 Na Fianna
Emeralds camogie captain Emma Scullion lifting the championship trophy following their victory over Na Fianna at Willawong on Saturday 26 July. Photo credit: Agnew Edits
Live streamed coverage of both finals is available on the Emeralds GAA Facebook page.
