A large crowd was present to enjoy a fantastic atmosphere, fine weather and competitive netball.

Club teams Woods Panthers and Western Jets, who have a strong presence in Adelaide competitions, entered teams in the three divisions.

Onkaparinga Academy brought along four competitive teams and the Southern Academy entered one 17s side.

Association teams of Great Southern, Mid Hills and Southern Hills each filled the three divisions.

Skills and stamina were put to the test by all players on court throughout the day and a grand final between the top two teams followed the completion of the minor round.

Great Southern appeared strong with representation in each division come grand final time.

The 13 & Under girls started well but Woods Panthers converted some early turnovers. Five goals down at half time the GSNA girls fought hard to stay with them but were unable to surpass them in the final half. Coach Deb Delderfield praised her girl's efforts throughout the game but the final score was 15 to 24.

The 15 & Under girls, coached by Wendy Crosby, were not pushed nearly as hard by their opposition, Mid Hills.

Although they tried hard to intercept and apply pressure the GSNA girls were superior through the centre court with great accuracy and won the grand final 24 to 15.

The most exciting grand final though was that played by the 17 & Under girls who had a goal for goal struggle with Woods Panthers throughout their game.

Great intercepts and turnovers made for a high standard of netball and when the horn sounded the game was drawn on 24 goals each.

Time on of seven minutes per end of pressure netball was then played, however once again the scores were tied 36 all.

By now all spectators had surrounded the court to cheer on the two teams and the atmosphere was electric with no team conceding defeat a further two minutes was to be played.

Goal for goal again, then suddenly a mid court turn over and Great Southern had the advantage, the final score being 38 to 40 with coach Michelle Glazbrook very relieved.

This carnival is named in memory of Jill May, a devoted netball identity from Yankalilla.

The May family presented trophies to the winners including the perpetual trophy awarded to the GSNA 17 & Under division winners.

This carnival, being one of the first for the season, gives GSNA team leaders and players a good indication as to the netball skills and talents of neighboring associations.

The GSNA thanks and congratulated all involved in the carnival including players, coaches, managers, parents and officials who helped to make the day rewarding and successful.

Thank you also to Strathalbyn St John Ambulance volunteers for their attendance and expertise.