Millerick was crowned the women’s singles champion on Thursday, defeating reigning champion and two-time winner Kelsey Cottrell in an absolute thriller.
The Moama star wrote herself into the record books with an enthralling 21-19 triumph, unseating Queenslander Cottrell after a slow start to the finale on Thursday.
Cottrell shot to an early lead before Millerick nudged ahead in the eighth end, but scores sat tied 13-13 at the halfway point, setting up a big finish at Broadbeach Bowls Club.
The duo went shot-for-shot until Millerick earned a 20-18 lead in the penultimate end, with 21 the score required for victory.
Millerick’s clutch second shot on the tense final end proved the winner, cutting in front of Cottrell’s bowl to secure her first Australian Open singles title and $12,500 prize money.
Post-match, there wasn’t a dry eye in the Moama camp as an emotional Millerick spoke about her victory.
“This is amazing,” Millerick said.
“Where do I start, thank you everyone, thank you to the sponsors, without sponsors we wouldn’t be able to hold events.
“Thank you to Kelsey for a fantastic final, it’s always hard when you play against the best.
“Thank you to Moama Bowling Club, without them I wouldn’t be here.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported, thank you to my sister Bolivia, she has been there the whole time.
“Kevin (Anderson), I couldn’t have done it without you, you’ve been coaching me from the sides and it’s been amazing.
“Last but not least, I’d like to thank my family and Caitlyn. Caitlyn has supported me so far in this, she has helped me so much and I’ve gained so much experience from her.”
At the time of writing, Moama’s Olivia Cartwright was also in the running for a title, competing in the final of the women’s fours.
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