Club Pairs : Lou Fordham and Helen Jacobsen defeated Ross Scanlon and Gavin Charles.

Sunday Social: Keith Kirk, Marion Tuttle and Ray Muir defeated A.Delic, Daryl Tuttle and Wendy Coles.

There was one game of Scroungers: Jane Gilbert defeated Lloyd White and Britt.
Winners for the afternoon were Jeff Tierney, R.Rodda and Ron Gould defeated A.Williams, Helen Jacobsen and Ross Scanlon.

Wednesday Social: Marion Tuttle, Jane Gilbert and Jeff Tierney defeated Mary Ellen Pratten and Steve Roome. Tony’s team defeated Dave’s team. Winners for the afternoon were Maureen Hyde, Gus Munro and Ron Gould.

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Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

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May Day Raffle Winners 1st prize Wayne Crowhurst, 2nd prize Herb Dalton (absent) and 3rd prize Sue Fox. Photo supplied

Wednesday Winners Maureen Hyde, Gus Munro and Ron Gould.

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The weather has been a bit of a handbrake on games progressing but with perseverance, progress is being made.

Wednesday afternoon's social bowls was cancelled.

On Saturday, Dale Haack defeated Ken Watts 26 - 3 and Sandy Daffara defeated Bruce Uhe 26 - 13 in Senior Singles. Gavin Noonan defeated Nathaniel Watts 26 – 4, Harry Craig defeated Todd Leys 25 - 19 in "B" Singles. Nathaniel Watts and Gavin Noonan defeated Alen Sanderson and Harry Craig 30 - 14 in "B" Pairs. Vince Olsen, Barry Saroglia (sub for Luchie Gardel) and Bryan Davy defeated Bruce Uhe, Barry Zillmann and Philip Brown 31 - 22 in 2 Bowl Triples.

Sunday afternoon the weather was perfect for a couple of games of Social Bowls. Stanley Lawton, Heather Brown and Peter Lawton defeated Simone Griffith, Heather Brown and Philip Brown 27 – 14. Arthur Griffith, Joan Atkinson (visitor from Innisfail) and Sandy Daffara defeated John Anderson, Mary Hedgelong and Mike Harrison 19 - 12.

Best wishes to all the players involved in the District teams for Mackay at next week's BQ State District Sides.

Pennants season is approaching quickly now with the first games being Saturday May 18 and Sunday May 19.  Both teams will be on away games on the Saturday and home games for the Sunday.

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Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

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On Tuesday, Robyn Stitt and Margaret Wilson defeated Irene Laird and Ron Hyde. Merle Elphinstone and Geoff Danvers defeated Sue Shearing and Maureen Hyde.. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Competition continued with Linda Scells, Denise Wallace and Penny Warren defeating Robyn Stitt, Tiarna Winter and Fely Duncan in the final of the Club Triples. Tiarna Winter defeated Jocelyn Defranciscis in the B Grade Singles final. In the men’s events Wayne Crowhurst defeated Ron Hyde in B grade singles and Alby Vigar and Ron Hyde defeated Lloyd White and Steve Roome in A Grade Pairs.

On Friday Bingo started with a keen crowd enjoying the morning. Friday night we welcomed barefoot bowlers learning the skills of bowling and enjoying a fun night.

Saturday afternoon, the OES ladies conducted their annual Cent Sale with plenty of prizes on offer.

Sunday afternoon social bowls winners were Laurie Land and Allan Rolfe who defeated Sue Shearing and Pat Tracey. Denise Wallace and Kennedy Whitton defeated Robyn Stitt and Geoff Danvers, Bill Myers, Isobel Wheeler and Mark Drummond defeated Toni Bowen, Maureen Hyde and Ron Hyde. Merle Elphinstone, Lyn Danvers and Barry Beel drew with Deb Retchless, Jocelyn Defranciscis and Penny Warren.. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Good luck to Denise Wallace and Penny Warren as they represent North Queensland in the State District competition this week at the Gold Coast. Twenty Districts will be represented Wednesday, Thursday and Friday with final pennant divisions decided Saturday.  

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Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

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Winners of club Triples: Penny Warren, Linda Scells & Denise Wallace.
B Grade Singles winner: Tiarna Winter

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This week in the Premier League, it was a great opportunity for two players, Dom Friend and Jamie Maher to make a charge on those at the top end of the league table.

Both men had two matches on the day, one of which was a head-to-head battle, but we’ll start with Jamie’s first match against Naomi Mitchell. 

Naomi had defeated Jamie in the group stages of the Anzac Plate last week, and here again she made him work hard in the early stages of this one. 

At 2/1 up, Jamie was looking every bit as uncomfortable as his darts were suggesting due to Naomi’s scoring pressure, and it could quite easily have been 2 apiece only for a cagey double 3 by Jamie to make it 3/1. From there on out though there was no mistaking the result as Jamie put the boot down, claiming a 7/1 win.

Dom had it much tougher in his first match of the day against Kam Reason who played very well in the contest, racking up 12 x 100’s and a 140, to really put the pressure on Dom.

Dom however was hitting big scores of his own, clocking up 9 x 100’s and 2 x 180’s. But neither player was able to capitalise fully in the match, and both would have to settle for a 6 all draw in the end.

Arthur McMinn was unplayable in his round 6 match against Josh Fraser, Josh was unable to lay a glove on Arthur, who’s doubling was quite simply flawless on the day. That win keeps Arthur in joint 2nd on the table on 9 points. A bit of work to do for Josh to find his early form again, but signs are encouraging for Arthur. 

Dom Friend started off slowly in the last game of the day against Jamie Maher, with Jamie out scoring Dom to jump out to a 3/1 lead. 

At 5/4 Jamie missed a specky attempt at a double double on the 20’s to tie the game, and Dom made him pay yet again, by hitting a 32 checkout to leave him one away from the match. Jamie fought hard to the end, but Dom won out eventually 7/4 in a thoroughly enjoyable match.

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Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.

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Jamie Maher in action hitting a 180 on Sunday at the Airlie Bowls Club.

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It was a quieter week at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club last week as the club held the Barrier Reef Congress 2024. Members transported tables, chairs, boards, welcome bags and more to 500 Pavilion Mackay Showgrounds in preparation for the Barrier Reef Congress.

Members cooked multitudes of biscuits, set up tables, covered windows from the sun and made sure all preparations were completed in time for the cards to start. Convener Diane Morgan has worked tirelessly for months to ensure the event was a success.

President of the Australian Bridge Federation, Allison Stralow shared her thoughts on the congress, after flying to the region from Perth, WA specifically to attend the four-day event.

“I flew over for this tournament, and I’ll be playing with the manager of the Queensland Bridge Association, Kim Ellaway,” Ms Stralow said.

“I’ve played the last three barrier reefs but this is my first visit to Mackay so I’m very excited, It’s absolutely beautiful and much greener than Western Australia at the moment.

“I just want to thank the mayor for his opening and all the support that businesses and people in Mackay have given to this tournament, it’s just wonderful to see the local community get behind bridge. “

A great weekend was had by all who attended from over Australia and New Zealand. Congratulations to the ten Mackay players who placed in the event in one or more sections.

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Weekly Results

Monday 29 April2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
4th
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
5th
Sandy Patterson / Geoff Cowan
6th
Anne Lutz / Diane Cox
Tuesday Evening 30 April 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janet Hansen / Janelle Conroy
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Ken Seaniger

2nd
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
2nd
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

3rd
Marilyn Wilson-Nicol / Griff Bancroft
3rd
Patrica Garner / Mick King

4th
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
4th
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

Wednesday 1 May 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

2nd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd
Terrence Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Joy Block / Geoff Cowan

4th
Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor
4th
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

5th
Carmel Brown / Patrick Rasmussen
5th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

BARRIER REEF CONGRESS 2024 MACKAY RESULTS
Barrier Reef Walk Ins
1st
Denise O’Regan & Kay Webber
2nd
Diane & Max Holewa (Mackay)
3rd
Lesley Fraser & Rick Gryg

Eric Parsons Open Pairs
1st
Sue Ingham & Michael Courtney
2nd
Lyn & Malcolm Carter
3rd
Mike Boecke & Simon Hinge

Barrier Reef Restricted Pairs
1st
Kate Gargan & Patricia Ottone
2nd
Melissa Preesley & Jane Gryg
3rd
Mary & Ian Cruickshank (Mackay)

Barrier Reef Novice Pairs
1st
Debbie Carol & Jacinta Lee
2nd
Sandy Patterson & Geoff Cowan (Mackay)
3rd
Joy Brunette & Linda Pridy (Mackay & Bowen)

John Brockwell Open Teams

Team
Players
1st
Whitaker
Duncan Badley / Paula Boughey / Ashley Back / Fred Whitaker
2nd
Reid
Lauren Morgan / Alex Goss / Jasmine Skeate / Jeremy Reid
3rd
Thomson
Leight Foran / Theo Mangos / Cathryn Herden / Matthew Thomson

Barrier Reef 300 Teams

Team
Players
1st
Cruickshank
Mary & Ian Cruickshank (Mackay) / Jan Van Riel / Sally Foster
2nd
Dudurovic
Rex Meadowcroft / Kathleen Clifford / Althea Crowley / Jacqui Dudurovic
3rd
Harris
Jan Harris / Ming Ting / David Ting (Mackay) Maria Setiyawan

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The 500 Pavilion was filled with smiles and camaraderie as participants from all around Australia and New Zealand gathered in Mackay for a four-day congress of Bridge.

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Kim Ellaway, Allison Stralow, Noel Bugeia and Richard Ward.

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The past weekend hosted the Prestige Fours event at the Mackay Bowling Club, where skilled bowlers from the Mackay district competed for the title.

In the final saw Wayne Handley Team of Cooper Whitestyles, Clint Vassie and Jason McMullen play against Jason Little, Trevor Kelly, Dave Maskell and Dave Pinkard with the winner going to Wayne Team.

Presige Fours Carnival Results:

Division 1 Winners Jason Mc Mullen, Cooper Whitestyles, Clint Vassie, Wayne
Handley
Division 1 Runners up:
Lason Little, Trevor Kelly, Dave Maskell, Dave Pinkard.
Division 2 Winners:
Doug Wootton, Les Rogers. Grant Edmonds, Bruce Bridger.
Division 2 Runners up:
Mitch Wrights, Ash Warland, Jason Wrights, Shane Spann.
Division 3 Winners:
BRAD Robertson, Den Croker, Joe Croker, Brian Williams.
Division 3 Runner Up:
Rob Turner, Andrew Butler, Bob Spees, Tony Whitehorn.
This weekend Club Championship Men's A Fours will be played over two days
starting 9am on Saturday 11th May
Men's Pennant starts on Saturday 18th May with three double headers in a row.
Tuesday Men's Triples results (13)
Winners of Winners:
G. Gibbs, W Herewini, M. D'Alessio
Winner of Losers:
A. Nayler, B. Jenner, P. Taffee.
Thursday Scroungers:
Joe Croker def Steve Cassidy 18-6
Ladies Ch/Ch Singles
Karina Dunn def E. Clements

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Contributed By Mike Irving

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Bowlers celebrate their victory at the Prestige Fours event, showcasing skill and camaraderie on the greens. Image supplied

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After a long-anticipated wait and numerous training sessions, the Masters Queensland State Championship was attended by 12 North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club Members.
This year’s State Championships event was delivered at the prestigious Brisbane Aquatic Centre in Chandler across four days of exhilarating swimming action, that took place from Thursday 18 April to Sunday 21 April 2024.
The Championships offered a wide range of events, spanning from 25m to 800m, with no event limits, ensuring there’s something for every swimmer. Currently no qualifying times are in place for these events allowing swimmers of various abilities to select and swim in favoured events. This was a timed final event with no heats with swimmers only common ground being a similar time, so heats are well seeded and include generally both men and women of various ages but similar capabilities and is all abilities. (Includes Multiclass)
Shorter distances were divided into male and female to provide direct competition for the first time at State Championships and proved to be very popular.
Regardless if members were seasoned swimmers or just looking to join in on the fun, all members participated in the racing, relays, and camaraderie. Chandler offers an unforgettable aquatic experience with precise AOE timing, a large electronic display that features reaction time, lap intervals and a final displayed result sorted to position that’s instantly visible in the pool for competitors.
On the medal front many Sinkers graced the podium in multiple events with a group total of 44 medals combined across individual and relay events. The club moved into 8th place on the final day of competition from over 50 clubs in what was a strong showing from Mackay. The large club award from last year was relinquished as some clubs were well represented and able to accumulate the points to take both overall and points per member categories.
The 2024 Championships were a well-run event that featured swimmers from around Australia and overseas and delivered 303 records broken at the event. These included 80 Australian, 199 Queensland, 2 Tasmanian, 6 Victorian and 16 New South Wales records tumbling as the event progressed.
The Championships had the Sinkers swimming well with many individual swimmers posting personal best times and placing well across the board. The event though was memorable for its team focus and support by members for all competitors. Swimmers’ comments include;
“My triumph was being here”
“Had a ball every swim and enjoyed the competition and friendship”
“They say swimming is an individual sport but not once did I feel like I was swimming alone over the four days. The cheering from the grandstands, pool deck support and sportsmanship makes me proud to be a part of this club.”
In addition to the swimming our team also hit some of the city highlights including the Storey Bridge Climb, Eat Street and Brisbane River tours to mention a few and thoroughly enjoyed the championships and all that Brisbane has to offer.
The Club has 4 swimmers heading to Darwin for the Masters Swimming Australia National Championships with both pool and open water swimming available 3 – 7 May 2024.
The club is now entering its “Winter” program with Mondays and Wednesdays at the Memorial Pool (5.30-6.30pm). Our regular Social Saturday swim is also at the Memorial from 8-9am. New members welcome.
For More information, email nthmkysinkers@gmail.com or phone 0413 805 156
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Contributed By Dan Stampa

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North Mackay Sinkers made a splash at the Queensland Masters State Championships
Sinkers State Group Photo
Nomi underwater
Team Sinkers. Images supplied

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Mackay Cutters’ trump card Emma Manzelmann has reached another milestone in her burgeoning rugby league career.

The crafty hooker is set to earn a slice of history after gaining selection in the Queensland Maroons Origin squad for the opening match of the interstate women's series against NSW on Thursday, May 16 at Suncorp Stadium.

Both the Blues and Maroons will contest a three-match Origin series this year for the first time and the durable number nine is determined to consolidate a spot in the star-studded Queensland lineup.

Manzelmann missed the Cutters’ dramatic 22-all draw with Brisbane Tigers in last Saturday’s Hostplus Cup-BMD Women's Premiership double header at BB Print Stadium but is ready to serve the Maroons in their quest for Origin glory.

Premiership pacesetters Mackay had to fight tooth and nail in the women's clash to salvage a point – nabbing two converted tries inside the final quarter to cap a spirited comeback.

The Tigers proved a thorn with their bustling defence and led for most of the match before Cutters’ hooker Alisha Foord and prop Lyrech Mara crashed over for second-half tries that were converted by five-eighth Kayla Shepherd.

Earlier the Tigers dominated the opening stanza and led 12-0 at the interval following tries by winger Melita Hicks and hooker Isabella Satui and two goals by five-eighth Akira Kelly.

Mackay bounced back after the break with dashing centre Jasmine Peters crossing twice in the space of three minutes before Tigers’ half-back India Seeto and the elusive Hicks scored quick four-pointers to give the visitors a 22-10 lead.

In the main game Brisbane Tigers won the field position battle to  post an impressive 24-12 triumph over the second-placed Cutters in Hostplus Cup.

Led by skilful half back Ryley Jacks, experienced NRL forward Chris McQueen and rugged prop Tristan Powell, the Tigers finished strongly with forward Jack Natapu and hooker Caleb Daunt grabbing crucial tries to seal a deserved victory.

The visitors led 8-0 at the break following an early converted try by centre Saimone Ahomana and a Jack Miers penalty goal after 26 minutes.

Mackay’s livewire fullback Rayden Burns crossed straight after the interval with half-back and skipper Riley Dean converting before Jacks extended his side’s lead to 12-6 by scoring the Tigers' second try.

Barnstorming prop Brandon Russell kept the Cutters in the hunt when he burst over to score a converted try in the 54th minute to level the scores.

A disappointed Dean was proud of Mackay’s overall defensive effort but felt his side failed to execute the game plan and didn’t nail down their opportunities.

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Mackay Cutters’ BMD Premiership Captain, Emma Manzelmann has been selected in the Queensland Maroons squad for Game 1 of State of Origin

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Over the weekend, spanning from Saturday, May 4 to Monday, May 6, the hotly contested Foley Shield tournament took place. Each day featured two games, where women’s and men’s teams from Mackay, Townsville, and Far North Queensland competed for the Foley Shield title. Selections for the Queensland Country Team were made based on performances during this weekend's matches.
Mackay Regional Mayor, Greg Williamson expressed the importance of not only having the Foley Shield in Mackay for local rugby enthusiasts, but also to show young players, both male and female, the foundation of Rugby League over the years.
“The Foley Shield is part of the trophy mechanisms that grew Rugby League in our region, so this is just absolutely outstanding to have it here in Mackay,” Mayor Williamson said.
As for the results, Townsville emerged victorious in both the men's and women's divisions of the XXXX Foley Shield, with the men's team securing a nail-biting win based on try countback. In a tense showdown at BB Print Stadium, Townsville, Cairns, and Mackay battled fiercely for the men's title.
The home side, Mackay, initially held the advantage, leading 22-8 midway through the second half. However, Townsville staged a remarkable comeback, with fullback Lennix Tovo's try offering hope before Christian Gale's crucial score secured the win in the 72nd minute. The sideline confusion turned to elation for the Matt Bowen-coached Townsville team, with prop Faron Morris describing the experience as nerve-wracking yet immensely gratifying.
Reflecting on the victory, Morris emphasised the significance of reclaiming the Foley Shield for Townsville, attributing the triumph to a collective effort and a determination to honour the shield's rich history while forging their own legacy. He also praised Townsville's women for their back-to-back titles and acknowledged their influence in motivating the men's team.
In the women's division, Townsville dominated with a 24-8 win over Mackay, showcasing resilience and teamwork to overcome a determined opponent. Hooker Mateeka Neilson highlighted the team's belief in each other and their commitment to disciplined defence as key factors in their success.
Individual accolades were also celebrated, with Ataliah Love and Marmin Barba of Mackay Sea Eagles earning women's and men's player of the carnival honours respectively. Looking ahead, the XXXX Foley Shield carnival is set to return to its traditional home in Townsville in 2025, promising continued excitement and competition in the years to come. Overall, Townsville's triumphs in both divisions underscored the region's depth of talent and the enduring spirit of rugby league in North Queensland.

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Results - XXXX Foley Shield
Men
Cairns 28 def Mackay 24
Marmin Barba wowed the home crowd with a hat-trick before Cairns mounted a spirited comeback, taking advantage of their opponent losing a man to the sin bin in the final 10 minutes. Fullback Lachlan Biondi-Odo scored the match winner in the 75th minute.
Townsville 22 def Cairns 18
Townsville dominated field position for much of the game and thwarted Cairns' last-tackle options with desperate defence to sneak away with a five-tries-to-three victory.
Mackay 22 def Townsville 18
*Townsville awarded the 2024 XXXX Foley Shield on a try countback (Townsville 9, Cairns 8, Mackay 8)
Women
Mackay 28 def Cairns 0
Melody Tass scored a hat-trick in a commanding victory.
Townsville 40 def Cairns 0
Townsville centre Gagie Mackie Namok and lock Jordii Mahendrarajah scored doubles as Cairns struggled to contain a rampact pack in the daytime heat.
Townsville 24 def Mackay 8
*Townsville wins the XXXX Foley Shield

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Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson announced the official Foley Shield event a few days prior to the highly-anticipated game. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mackay held a 22-8 lead after 42 minutes in front of their home crowd. Photo: Marty Strecker

Mackay started strongly against Townsville in the women's match on Monday. Photo: Marty Strecker

XXXX Foley Shield 2024. Townsville was awarded the men's competition on a try countback. Photo: Marty Strecker

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures April 30, 2024:

Division 1:

Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske) d Blue (Steven Whiting, Lee Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 6-5. Steven d Vince -8, -7, 4, 4, 16.

Red (Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker, George Camilleri) d Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) 10-1. Geoff d George 7, -5, -5, 3, 4.

White (Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) d Purple (Duncan Treloar, Emma Widdup, Tony Bowman) 6-5. Mark d Duncan -9, -6, 5, 4, 9.

Black (Mick Ruhl, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d Green (Leo Gilbert, Robbie Richards, Daniel Warfield) 8-3. Leo d Ishan -7, 4, -3, 6, 10.

Division 2:

Lime (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen, Anaya Reelh) d Tan (Saisha Palod, Jye Callander, Val Austin) 6-5. Simon d Jye -7, 4, 7, 8.

Teal (Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh, Craig VanDeKaa) d Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro, Mark Stam) 6-5. Niro d Peter -8, -13, 8, 8, 6.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) d Cyan (Leonie Patroni, Matt West, Trent Day) 6-5. Trent d YiLin -5, 7, 10, 11.

Grey (Doug Dungavell, Misha Palod, Kade Wright) d Gold (Ollie Hamelink, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) 6-5. Steve d Doug -5, -6, 9, 6, 10.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures April 30, 2024:

Division 1:

Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) drew Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) 6-all. Doug d Donna 8, 7, -9, -2, 7.

Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce) d Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) 6-5. George d Steve 9, -6, -10, 9, 6.

Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor) d Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Janice d Tony 17, 7, -1, -6, 9.

Division 2:

Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Robyn Bushell) d Magpies (Kim Daffy) 7-1. Kim d Judi 8, -15, -12, 9, 2.

Cockatoos (Kim Daffy, Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) d Doves (Louise Gould, Fred Saliba) 7-3. Gloria d Fred 5, -7, -6, 10, 8.

Division 3:

Squid (Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) drew Lobster (Tony Vella, Bill Hey) 5-all. Bill d Cheryl 6, -3, 7, -9, 9.

Crab (Pam Keune, Myles Dutton, Josie Davis) drew Prawn (Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes, Glenda Dutton) 6-all. Pam d Madge -11, 1, -11, 6, 8.
 

Supplied by Charlie Payne 

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Caption: Janice Kent
Caption: Tony Bowman

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Century Cricket Competitions have secured a three-year deal with the Mackay Regional Council to bring its hugely successful independent competition to North Queensland.

Century Cricket Group Chair Stuart Giles said that “Since their inception, Century Cricket’s Senior Competitions have been about showcasing talent.

“To be able to bring our competition to Great Barrier Reef Arena as a world class cricket stadium and not only continue to elevate our on-field competition, but to also showcase one of the most stunning tourist regions in Australia to our team owners, sponsors, players and supporters, is exceptionally exciting,” he added.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson announced that Mackay was the perfect location to host the Century Cricket competitions.

“We are pleased to support this event through our Invest Mackay Events and Conferences Attraction program, which is designed to bring sporting, cultural and commercial events to our region,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We expect these tournaments to draw a big crowd and we’re excited to showcase the Great Barrier Reef Arena, a first-class facility for players and spectators, as we cheer on our very own team, the Great Barrier Reef Rays,” he said.

“The weather in Mackay in August is fantastic for cricket and we look forward to welcoming some of the best national and international cricketers to our region.”

From 2024-2026, the national competition will see eight teams participate in a weekend-long senior competition as they play for a share in an $80,000 prize pool.

There will be representation in Mackay of teams from all three states that currently host Century Cricket Competitions; four teams from Queensland, three teams from South Australia and one team from Victoria.

Century Cricket Group Regional Executive Director Nick Fitzpatrick spoke on the future, with plans “to expand and invite other teams from other states and cities as the Century Cricket Competitions continue to roll out around the country in future years.”

Each franchise will pre-select six players to kick start their squad selection with the remaining six players to be picked at auction in Brisbane on Friday 7 June.

One of the teams joining the Mackay competition is the Great Barrier Reef Rays with former Australian international T20 bowler Ben Laughlin committed to playing for them after a stellar performance in last year’s senior competition in Brisbane.

The competition will run from 2 – 4 August and again follow the Century playing format, which was inspired by The Hundred in the UK; a concept that sees senior players step away from the traditional T20 format and compete in fast paced 100-ball innings featuring five-ball overs and far less changes of ends.

Senior players from anywhere in the country, and around the world, can nominate for the Mackay competition. Nominations are now open via the Century Cricket Competitions website.

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Left to right, Century Cricket Group Regional Executive Director Joel Hamilton, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park Sports Development & Facilities Manager Luke Kennedy and Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park Chair Terry Doolan. Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Congratulations to City Bowls Club on winning the prestigious Dr Williams’ Shield at the weekend. City defeated Seaforth, Souths Suburban and Pioneer Valley on their way to the final against North Mackay.
City’s last win in the Shield, which they have hosted for 68 years, was in 2008.

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Back row: Greg Peno, Joe Taylor, Ben Hall, Dave McKnight, Bruce Eaton, Gerry Bogart, Dennis Fredrickson, Jeff Neeve, Vince McSherry, Tony Connor, Sean Dolan
Front row: Warren Sturgeon, Paul McKay. Image Supplied

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Another exciting bowls event from the Ladies Section at North Mackay Bowls Club. The Annual Symons Shield was held at Northern Beaches Bowls Club with nine Clubs competing. The finalists were decided after some nail biting finishes – Souths Suburban played North Mackay.  It too came down to the last bowl and North Mackay Ladies were declared the winners by one point.  The event is held at the same Club each year on land donated by the Symons family.

The Ladies presenting the Shields are members of the Symons family, Daphne Goodson and June Critchley, who donated their land for the benefit of the Northern Beaches Bowls Club which hosts the event annually.

Contributed By Helen Fleming 

Symons Shield 2024 Winning Team-North Mackay bowls club ladies’ section.
Left to right: S Cuttriss, Marie Duck, Lois Deguara, Lidia McCarthy, Nug Pratt, Debbie Mackenzie, Lorna Bowers, Lorraine Lemke, Lorraine Silman. 

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Just over thirty runners kicked off amidst the sights and lively sounds of the Bluewater Quay before heading off onto the Forgan Smith Bridge for a very social 5k and 10km run. Runners had the option to do participate in anything between the 5km and 10km depending on where their current abilities were at, with some tackling an extra kilometre or two at Mt Bassett.
 
Ten-kilometre runner, Grant Holmstrom easily accounted for the Mt Bassett section of the event before storming home on the comparatively flat surface to be first across the line with fast-finishing Ashley Miles and Jim Ogilvie closing in for the minor placings.  Jose Short made ‘short’ work of the 10km as she skimmed over the course with big improver, Emily Hayles closing in for the silver podium position ahead of Carmel Mahon, Bernadine McKinnon, Geeta Ariani and Judy Zahn. 

Excellent efforts from 5km runners Julie Whibley, Andrew Wallace, Simon Henderson, Len Haworth, Kim Saron, Corey Gould, Dana Gould, Natasha Joynson, Kayla Waugh, Katrina Ogilvie, Neah Garciano and Sandra Henderson.  Jess and Ryan Everts did it the hard way as usual, but the kids were great, well done to them all.

Congratulations to all runners who were at out-of-town events including the Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon and Port Macquarie Ironman events.  The best of the many Mackay locals on Hamilton Island were Paul Mackenzie who scored an amazing 8th overall and 2nd in his age category, Thomas Wendt (2nd age), Sam Sticklan (1st in age), Sarah Manttan (2nd age), Dee Trannore (3rd age) and Paul Manttan (7th age).
 
This weekend’s Mackay Road Runners event will be held on Saturday morning from the Casu Jacks Café at the Mackay Marina, and the race will commence at 7am.  The Pre-Mother’s Day event is a 5km and 12km, along with Sunday, which is heralded as the most important day of the year!  

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Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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Just over thirty runners enjoyed the very social Bluewater Quay 5k and 10km
Dana Gould (right) enjoyed her first run with Mackay Road Runners newest member Corey Gould
Mackay Road Runners Life Member and champion runner, Judy Zahn made light work of the 10km. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
Race Director and Club Secretary, Julie Whibley (seated at left) had a great comeback 5km run with a huge contingent of local Mackay Road Runners members

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Mackay Brothers are proving a force to be reckoned with in the 2024 Northern Region Mackay & District Junior Rugby League A Grade competition.
The all-conquering Leprechauns have opened the season in ominous style with three consecutive victories under the coaching of Thomas Heggie and shape as the team to beat for this year’s title.
Having notched an incredible 24 tries to date, Heggie’s much vaunted charges boast a powerful forward pack and enterprising back division with attacking strike across the field.
Brothers have recorded thumping early round triumphs over Wests Tigers (54-18), Carlton Devils (44-10) and Sarina Crocodiles (36-0) and hope to extend their winning streak when the A Grade competition resumes this Saturday.
The Leprechauns travel to Shark Park to face the fourth-placed Souths Sharks, who have posted victories over Whitsunday Brahmans (56-4) and Mackay Magpies (24-18) and a 23-16 loss to Wests Tigers.
Talented Australian Universities fullback Kane Simon, centres Jayden Batchelor and Rydge Smith, elusive wingers Malachi Power and Matthew Skaife, utility Tyrese Parter and classy halves Luke Fletcher, Brad Campbell and Jedd Abbott have demonstrated their fleet-footed skills with a feast of tries.
Just as impressive are forwards Declan Laird, Josh Honan, Jack Hoffmann, Mason Simpson, Pat Vella, Ethan Sweet, lock Mason Thorpe and hooker Daniel Kelly who have laid the foundations with non-stop performances.
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MEANWHILE ladder leaders Wests Tigers maintained their undefeated record in the Under 17s division after a 24-12 victory over Sarina Crocodiles last Sunday at BB Print Stadium.
Crack centre Jt Brice grabbed a try double as the Tigers chalked up their third win of the season after five rounds to stay on top of the table with nine points that includes a 12-all draw with Brothers and a bye.
Brice made an early impact by nabbing four-pointers in the opening 24 minutes with talented fullback and skipper Mason Ryan-Ellul and Canberra Raiders contracted forward Mark Morrow also among the Tigers’ try scorers.
Back-rower Lachlan Starr booted four conversions to give Wests the edge while hooker Ryan John, Wilson James and five-eighth Brody Moore crossed for the Crocodiles.
Wests skittled Brahmans 44-6 and Souths Sharks 38-14 in the earlier rounds with Ryan-Ellul, centres Morrow and Brice, halves Joshua Toby and Talan Cottom and forwards Starr, Jake Reid, hooker Slade Kretschmar, Kereama Gartner and Jack Townsend in top form.
Second-placed Wanderers Roosters edged out Brahmans 10-6 at Proserpine Junior Sporting Complex while third-placed Brothers rolled Souths Sharks 18-10 at Leprechaun Park with tries to lock Bailey Kurylko, prop Justis Costigan, hooker Cooper Deguara and centre Jack Goodale.

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Brothers are leading the U19 ladder this season while the U17s are coming third after an 18-10 win over the Sharks last weekend. Photo credit: Ashlee Meredith

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