A Brisbane curling team has pursued its Olympic ambition after first taking up the sport at Boondall Iceworld, where the group began training on hockey ice.
Initial Steps at Boondall
The Curlews, a curling team formed in Brisbane, began their journey at Boondall Iceworld following a “Come and Try Curling” event. The venue provided an accessible starting point for the group despite relying on hockey ice, which differs significantly from dedicated curling surfaces. Australia currently has no purpose-built curling rink.
Team Members and Shared Goals
The team is composed of Boyd Kildey, Andrew Swain, Matthew Waterhouse, Cormac te Kloot, and Nick Stamatiou. Most are fathers with full-time jobs and have come to curling from diverse personal and professional backgrounds. The team shares the long-term goal of qualifying for the Winter Olympics, although they acknowledge this would require advancing through the national championships and Olympic trials.
Progress from State to National Level
The Curlews made an early impact in the Queensland Curling Association’s President’s Cup, coming back from a six-point deficit to level the grand final at 8–8. With no clear winner on countback, a replay was scheduled.
While they fell short of winning the state title, their showing contributed to their selection to represent Queensland at the 2025 Australian National Curling Championships in Naseby, New Zealand. Notably, two members, Cormac te Kloot and Nick Stamatiou, only met after being selected to join the team.
Challenges of Training Conditions
With no dedicated curling rinks in Australia, teams like the Curlews train on repurposed hockey ice at venues such as Boondall. This setup offers limited preparation time and affects consistency. In contrast, the competition venue in Naseby features the only dedicated curling rink in the Southern Hemisphere, offering vastly improved ice quality for serious play.
Individual Stories Behind the Team
Nick Stamatiou, a physiotherapist, turned to curling after a career-ending football injury, determined to pursue elite-level sport in a new field.
Cormac te Kloot, who works in national produce logistics, recalls receiving a “Most Improved” rugby award in school, with his name misspelled on the trophy. Andrew Swain, a rugby commentator, joined the effort while balancing media commitments.
Boyd Kildey works in commercial leasing, and Matthew Waterhouse manages operations at a Brisbane car dealership while also coaching junior sport.
Local Support for International Goals
Their travel to New Zealand was supported by sponsorship from Maynard Cattle Co., which contributed three cattle to be sold to raise funds. Proceeds from their sale helped cover the team’s travel expenses. This support reflects strong grassroots backing for their campaign.
Outlook for the Curlews
Although the Curlews did not advance to the men’s final at the 2025 national event, they remain committed to the sport. Their efforts continue with an eye on the long-term possibility of Olympic qualification. Boondall Iceworld, where their journey began, remains a key facility for curling development in Queensland.
Published 20-May-2025