With the Souths Bowls Club deck filled with lots of festive spirit and plenty of fruit cake, all the jingle ladies of the South Suburban Bowls Club came together to enjoy the most wine-derful time of the year at their annual ladies' Christmas breakup.
All the ladies enjoyed an afternoon of laughter and reminiscing on their 2024 bowls season. Some shared goals for 2025, with Rhonda Meng putting winning the open ladies singles in 2025 on her wish list.
From all the bowlers at South Suburban Bowls Club, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and safe New Year.

The ladies of South Suburban Bowls Club decked the halls and the greens at their annual Christmas breakup, celebrating the season with laughter, camaraderie, and a few festive goals for 2025. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Bridge Club celebrated another twelve months of fantastic card play with its Christmas break up last Saturday. A record 18 tables of members played bridge, with lots of laughter celebrating Christmas together. Partners also shared in the wonderful Christmas fare. A big thank you to Janelle and her helpers for providing a wonderful meal. Our Christmas raffle was extra special this year. Thank you to members for your donations and Debra Goodchild for her dedication to making this successful. President Frances Brown and members look forward to another wonderful year of card play and welcoming new members to learn the game of bridge. Lessons start in February 2025. Bridge is not just for older people, but for people of all ages. We have evening and Saturday play for people who work or attend school. President Frances extends warm wishes for a Happy Christmas and a safe New Year to all.
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Karen and Susan, new bridge partners and friends
Joyce and Toni have been long-time bridge partners

Weekly Results
Monday 9 December 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
1st
Eric Goodchild / David Ting

2nd
Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris
2nd
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

3rd
Edward Kleise / Diane Stokes
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

Tuesday Evening 10 December 2024 –4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Patricia Garner / Annie Lynch
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
4th
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
Wednesday 11 December 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd
Sandy Patterson / Joy Brunette
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinun
4th
Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

Thursday Evening 12 December 2024 –5 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Patricia Garner / Mick King
3rd
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
4th
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
Friday 13 December 2024 – 7 Tables Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild

2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

3rd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Pamella Finger

Saturday 14 December 2024 – Christmas Breakup Section A - 9 Table Mitchell
N/S

E/W

1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown

2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

3rd
Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

4th
Sandy Ford/ Thelma Caruana
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill

Saturday 14 December 2024 – Christmas Breakup Section B
N/S

E/W

1st
Annette Howe / Susan Ross
1st
Noel Bugeia / Pamela Finger

2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Monica Darley / Simon Barnes

3rd
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
3rd
Victor Mason / Josie Cowley

4th
Sandy Patterson / Ann Whitmore
4th
Jan Harris / Joy Brunette

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Sunday’s Fun Day Breakfast hosted by Club Manager Steve which included Breakfast and Bowls was a huge success with over 50 bowlers participating. The morning kicked off at 9.00am with a big breakfast and three games of bowls each having seven ends with players rotating for each game. Everybody enjoyed the morning and the club will host more in the future. The winners on the day were Neil and Maureen Blutcher and Peter Madden.
 
TODAY'S TIP

When playing short ends it’s imperative to slow yourself down, even as you are approaching the mat. Have a shorter backswing along with a slightly shorter step. Continue to slow yourself, stay down and still, follow through along the aiming line. Believe it or not, holding your breath may help during this procedure. Practice this, it will not happen automatically.

THE WOBBLER

To some degree, this is a very common fault, and depending on the pace of the green it may have a marked effect on the draw of the bowl. This is an inconsistent practice and each delivery will vary in line and length depending on the amount of wobble imparted on the bowl. The most common causes of this, is the turning of the hand on release and the placing of the hand around the side of the bowl and not underneath the bowl.
SIMPLE FIX. Grip the bowl with fingers under the bowl, have feet positioned parallel to the aiming line, deliver the bowl and follow through along the aiming line.
  
SOCIAL BOWLS RESULTS

Monday Winners: F Brown, L Howland, P Shepherd, R Legge.
Runners Up:         B Arnold, M Pierson, H Press, K Davis.
Thursday Winners: G Pembroke, A Brown.
Runners Up:        L Edwards, P Goldston
Friday Winners:    C Banney, L McDermott.
Runners Up:          K Struik, D Dungavell.
3rd Place:             J Little, G Sweeney.
Saturday Winners: G Ollett, P Cowling.
Second:                M MacKenzie, A Dillon.
Third: C Cromer, P Shepherd.
  
GOOSIES WAREHOUSE BOWLS 2024

Warehouse Bowls at North Mackay Bowls Club is played every Thursday night during the school terms making up four seasons of 10 weeks. Currently we have 16 teams competing every Thursday night during the QLD school terms.
Please contact the club if you want to nominate a team of four players or if you are a single player looking to join a team.

2024 season winners are:
Season 1 Low Rollers
Season 2 Flower Power
Season 3 Fish
Season 4 Plumbdingers

The 2024 Golden Goose award for the highest total of four season’s points goes to Low Rollers.

Goosies Warehouse Bowls’ first 10-week season starts on the 30th of January 2025 at 6.30pm till 9.00pm with a hot snack provided after each game. The cost per team is $60.00, includes three prizes totalling $160.00 and an $80.00 weekly jackpot that increases each week if not won.

Contributed by Doug Giddings
 

Sunday Fun Day Breakfast and Bowls at Goosies

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Tuesday morning table tennis players celebrated the digital age at their annual breakup lunch at Harrup Park Country Club this week.

Fixture coordinator Steve Mathieson was praised for his efforts in taking over from Iris Grasso and Pam Joyce in a presentation by players Frank Caruana and Gerry Synnott.

“Full credit goes to Steve for taking over from Iris and Pam, which were big shoes to fill,” Frank said.

“Steve decided to computerise everything in line with the era – there were a few hiccups to begin with but Steve managed to get everything down pat eventually.

“I know how frustrating things can be when they don’t turn out how they are supposed to be. Well done Steve.”

Frank said many players were facing health issues, making it hard for Steve to juggle teams.

“On behalf of all of us, we appreciate what you do Steve to make things run smoothly.”

Frank also thanked Charlie Payne for doing a great job in promoting the sport of table tennis.

Steve has sponsored a new award for Annual 100% Club Inductees, for players who played every week throughout the seasons of 2024.

Coral Morgan, Branko Vucurovic and Judy Zahn were the initial inductees – proving that you just can’t get them off the tables!
By Charlie Payne

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures December 3, 2024:
Division 1:
Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) drew Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 7-all. John d Kevin -4, -6, 5, 6, 10.
Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Coral Morgan) drew Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-all. Delma d Charlie -10, -8, 2, 7, 6.
Division 2:
Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) d Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Thelma Caruana) 10-4. Gloria d Sharon 5, -7, 3, 7.
London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) d Rome Ralliers (Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 9-5. Cheryl d Glenda -7, 4, -9, 6, 14.
Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) d Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Trish Zamparutti) 8-6. Bryan d John 6, 5, -5, -10, 15.

Bryan and John had a close battle to finish off the season in Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures, Bryan up 6, 5, -5, -10, 15.Photo credit: Charlie Payne

Gerry Synnott and Frank Caruana with Tuesday morning fixtures coordinator Steve Mathieson and player Charlie Payne at the annual breakup lunch. Photos supplied

100% club inductees Coral Morgan, Branko Vucurovic and Judy Zahn with Tuesday morning fixtures coordinator Steve Mathieson

Players Cheryl Pearson, Myles and Glenda Dutton at the annual Tuesday morning fixtures lunch

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It’s been another busy and exciting week at Airlie Beach Bowls Club, where the competitive spirit and camaraderie continue to shine through. The week kicked off on Tuesday morning with three strong games of bowls. Carol Crosbie, with lead Maureen Barnard, came out on top, defeating Margo Stanley and lead Lane Telford, who finished in third place. Second place went to skipper John Brown, alongside 2024 Novice Champion Dawn Dowell. The winners of the day were Henny Tattam, who returned from South Africa, and Betty Whitehorn at lead, who triumphed over Tony Whitehorn and Bev Taylor.

Wednesday afternoon brought more exciting matchups, with Rick Galea and lead David Meiklejohn, along with Arthur McManus, defeating Tony Whitehorn, Duncan Smith, and John Askew in a close contest. Meanwhile, John Fielding, with lead Dennis Donnadelli and Ted Cullen, was in great form, easily overcoming John Trembath, lead Mark Mawson, and Noel Crosbie.

Saturday morning saw the final Scroungers competition of the year, with John Askew, Tony Whitehorn, and Cath Remeswaal taking the first-round wins. John Askew was crowned the A Grade winner, while Andy McDougall triumphed in the B Grade final.

The evening then brought the much-anticipated presentation night, where the Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Team awards, as well as the singles awards, were presented. One outstanding achievement that stood out was the team of John Fielding, Russell Jackson, and skipper Manny Isgro winning the Two Bowl Triples for the fifth consecutive year. Russell and Manny also won in 2018 and 2019, setting a record that will be difficult to beat. Their smiles say it all – congratulations on an incredible performance!

Sunday afternoon brought another round of highly competitive social bowls. The club was delighted to welcome Mark Winter and his partner Jenny Lim from Bahama Bowls Club in Bundaberg, as well as Greg Colquhoun and former President Kevin Jewell. The club also welcomed new full member Jeff, who is sure to be an integral part of the team in the upcoming year.

Looking ahead, Scroungers will return on Monday 13th January, and lessons will continue on Mondays and Thursdays between 4 and 5pm throughout the holiday season.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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John Fielding, Manny Isgro and Russell Jackson 

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The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club capped off their 2024 season with outstanding achievements, creative activities, and festive fun, marking the end of a remarkable year.
The season’s finale featured major upgrades for swimmers, including Liam Filewood and Zane Clayworth advancing to the 100m Butterfly, Miller Eaves to the 200m Freestyle, and several others achieving new event milestones. These advancements highlight the dedication and progress of the team.

Several club records were also shattered, with exceptional performances from Jax Clayworth (11-year boys 200m Butterfly), Eloise Chegwidden (9-year girls 50m Breaststroke and 100m Individual Medley), and Harry Chegwidden, who set his first-ever club record in the 7-year boys 25m Backstroke.

Swimmers who participated in the "Design Our Next Club Shirt" initiative were rewarded with Boost Juice vouchers for their creativity. Thanks to Boost Juice for supporting this fun activity as the club looks forward to unveiling the new 2025 design.

The Christmas-themed club night brought families together for the much-loved parent/child relays, providing a festive and light-hearted close to the season. The evening also honoured the Queensland State Long Course team, presenting swimmers with their team shirts ahead of their journey to Brisbane to compete in the Queensland Championships.

Congratulations to all swimmers, parents, and supporters for a fantastic 2024 season. Good luck to our state team, and here’s to more successes in the new year!

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec.

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Tora Delac and Ruby Lawson took out the Christmas Fashions on the Pool Deck
Christmas Best Dressed duo Addie Sanders and Maeve Dichiera
Jasper and Lucas Korosec were awarded for their Christmas outfits
The club thanked their creative cannons for contributing to the Design a Club Shirt activity
Two new club records for Eloise Chegwidden
Harry Chegwidden with his first Cannons Club Record
Good luck to the State Team swimmers in Brisbane this weekend

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The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club had an exciting start to the 2024 Queensland Swimming Championships in Brisbane last week, with 11 swimmers and two dedicated coaches making the journey to compete.

The championships kicked off on Saturday with the club and regional relays. For the first time in a while, the Cannons were able to nominate club relay teams, allowing Alex Trefz and Harris Delac the opportunity to swim in this prestigious event. Swimmers Tiana Bell, Tyler Bennett, Ella Bounden, Tora Delac, Isaac Pisaniello, Isabella Pisaniello, and Zach Trefz took part in three club relays, while Harris Delac, Jacob Bell, and Alex Trefz competed in one relay. Coaches Mark Erickson and Ken Crittenden were proud of the team’s performance, commending the swimmers on their warm-up, positive attitude, and efforts in the relays.

A highlight of the event was the selection of eight Cannons swimmers for the regional relay teams, representing Swimming North Queensland (SNQ). Tora Delac, Ella Bounden, Tiana Bell, Isabella Pisaniello (reserve), Isaac Pisaniello, Zach Trefz, Tyler Bennett, and Jacob Bell swam together in these regional relays and represented SNQ with pride. A special thank you goes to Mark Erickson for coaching the male relay teams and Theresa Manning for managing the SNQ relays.

The week continued with individual events, and on Sunday, Tyler Bennett, aged 13, competed in his 100m Freestyle, swimming a remarkable personal best time of 1:02.68, shaving off 1.19 seconds from his previous best. Well done, Tyler!

The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club extends its congratulations to all the swimmers on their relay results and wishes them the best of luck in their individual races throughout the championships. A big thank you goes to all the parents, coaches, and supporters for their continued dedication and efforts in making this trip possible. Stay tuned for more updates as the Cannons continue to compete at the Queensland Championships.

Contributed with thanks to President Raylene Rasmussen.

Cannonvale Cannons are performing exceptionally at the 2024 QLD Swimming Championships

The Proserpine Veterans Golf Club celebrated its annual breakup in style at the Midge Point Tavern, marking the end of another fantastic year. Attendees enjoyed exceptional food and outstanding service, making the event a memorable success.

The highlight of the day was the final presentation of awards for the year, with several players recognised for their outstanding achievements. Tiina Randmae had a remarkable season, almost sweeping the awards by claiming Golfer of the Year, the Monthly Medalist, and the Most Chip Ins. Adding to her streak of good fortune, she also won the lucky door prize!

Gary Scotford, though unable to attend, was celebrated as a Monthly Medalist and joint Golfer of the Year. Other winners included John Roser, who excelled with the Most Chip Ins, and Barry Mortimer, who was awarded for having the Least Putts. Meanwhile, Tessa Aitken and Peter Lindsay took home the NAGA honours.

The club expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making 2024 such a successful year. With a warm spirit of camaraderie, the Proserpine Veterans Golf Club sends its members and supporters a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, looking forward to another great season ahead.

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Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat.

Tessa Aitken, Barry Mortimer, Tiina Randmae, and Peter Lindsay

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Aspiring athletes in Capricornia are scoring big, with Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry delivering $22,250 to support 40 local young sportspeople through the Local Sporting Champions program.

The Local Sporting Champions program, managed by Sport Australia, helps athletes, coaches, and officials aged 12-18 cover costs for eligible state, national, or international competitions.

Ms Landry emphasised the importance of the program for local families and the community.

"Local Sporting Champions gives young athletes in Capricornia the chance to compete at higher levels.

"This funding eases the financial burden on families by helping cover expenses like travel, accommodation, uniforms, and equipment.

"Sport is about more than competition; it's about keeping young people active, fostering social connections and building confidence,” Ms Landry said.

Local Sporting Champions continues to invest in the region’s bright future, ensuring young athletes can chase their dreams without barriers.

“Capricornia has a long and impressive track record of producing athletes like Anna and Kerrie Meares, Amy Hetzel, Daly Cherry-Evans and Jamie Dwyer.

“Programs such as the Local Sporting Champions helps to foster the next generation of athletes.

“I congratulate the successful recipients of the latest round of Local Sporting Champions and wish them all the best in their sporting endeavours.”

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Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, has supported 40 local young athletes with $22,250 through the Local Sporting Champions program, helping them cover costs for state, national, and international competitions. Photo supplied

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It’s not long now until Queensland’s fastest swimmers battle it out at the 2024 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Championships! Mackay Cyclones have 11 swimmers attending over the next week from the 14-20 December. This also marks the first time eligible to attend, due to age, for two of the team’s younger 12-year-old swimmers, Dakota and Tamika. 
 
Competitors:

Audrey Bryan - Audrey will be competing in 7 events: 50 Freestyle, 100 Freestyle, 50 Breaststroke, 100 Breaststroke, 200 Breaststroke, 50 Butterfly and 50 Backstroke 

Ariah Corrigan - Ariah has 2 events: 100 Breaststroke and 200 Breastroke.

Maverick Curtis - Maverick will be competing in the 13 years 50 Freestyle.

Dakota Daniels - Dakota has a big list, consisting of 9 individual swims in her 12 years age group: 200 Freestyle, 100 Butterfly, 100 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 400 Individual Medley, 200 Individual Medley, 50 Freestyle, 200 Butterfly and 400 Freestyle. 

Anisa Helou - Anisa will compete in all 4, 50-meter events in the 15 years age group:  50 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 50 Breaststroke and 50 Backstroke.

Ehsan Helou - Ehsan has 7 events over the week: 100 Freestyle, 50 Freestyle, 200 Breaststroke, 50 Breaststroke, 100 Breaststroke, 50 Backstroke and 50 Butterfly.

Ava Kearns - Ava also has 7 events over the week: 200 Individual Medley, 50 Freestyle, 50 Backstroke, 50 Breaststroke, 100 Butterfly, 100 Freestyle and 50 Butterfly.

Tamika Ness - Tamika also has a whopping 10 events in the girls 12 years: 200 Breaststroke, 100 Butterfly, 100 Freestyle, 100 Breaststroke, 400 Individual Medley, 200 Individual Medley, 50 Backstroke, 50 Butterfly, 50 Breaststroke, and 100 Backstroke.

Zanthia Noon - Zanthia has 3 events in the 17 years age group: 50 Backstroke, 50 Breaststroke and 50 Butterfly. 

Jarek Taylor - Jarek will be competing in 6 events: 200 Backstroke, 50 Freestyle, 100 Backstroke, 100 Freestyle, 50 Backstroke and 50 Butterfly.

Vaughn Wyatt - Vaughn will be competing in 2 events: 100 Breaststroke and 200 Breaststroke.

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Eleven Mackay Cyclones swimmers, including first-time competitors Dakota and Tamika, are set to compete in multiple events at the 2024 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Championships from December 14-20. Photos supplied

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The QCCS Mackay Cutters are focused on a strong start to the 2025 Hostplus Cup season, eager to avoid the setbacks that plagued them last year. Losing early matches in 2024 left the team struggling to gain momentum, but with a renewed squad and strategic leadership, hopes are high for a resurgence.
Central to the club’s aspirations is the appointment of Adam Cuthbertson as head coach. A veteran of more than 300 games in the NRL and Super League, Cuthbertson brings extensive experience to the role, having coached successfully in the UK with Leeds Rhinos and Featherstone Rovers before returning to Australia. Over the past two years, he has served as Football Operations Coordinator for the Cutters, setting high standards for the playing group and establishing himself as a key figure in the organisation.
Cuthbertson’s coaching philosophy is influenced by top mentors such as Wayne Bennett, Des Hasler, and Brian McDermott, and he is committed to aligning the men’s and women’s pathways at the club.
“The Mackay region has a proud rugby league history, known for producing great talent and having a strong connection to the sport,” Cuthbertson said.
“My goal is to build on that legacy by developing a squad that competes at the highest level and reflects the values and spirit of our community. I’m committed to leading a program that will make our region proud and set the bar for excellence and dedication.”
Club CEO Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Cuthbertson’s leadership.
“Adam’s experience as a player and coach, combined with his dedication to the Cutters over the past two seasons, makes him the perfect fit to lead our team forward and oversee the club’s entire football program.
:We are confident that under his leadership, the Cutters will continue to grow and achieve new heights.”
Adding to the optimism is the signing of 21-year-old front-rower Sheldon Diaz from New Zealand. Diaz, who played with the Melbourne Storm Academy and their NSWRL Jersey Flegg Squad, is expected to bring fresh energy and skill to the forward pack.
The 2025 Hostplus Cup season begins with seven games scheduled for March 8-9, including the Cutters’ opening clash against the PNG Hunters, a team that reached the preliminary finals last year.

Hostplus Cup Round 1
Saturday, March 8:
Ipswich Jets v Townsville Blackhawks @ North Ipswich Reserve, 4pm         
Mackay Cutters v PNG Hunters @ BB Print Stadium, 5pm    
Burleigh Bears v Central Queensland Capras @ UAA Park, 5pm   
Tweed Seagulls v Wynnum Manly Seagulls @ Piggabeen Sports Complex, 5pm
Northern Pride v Brisbane Tigers @ Barlow Park, 5.30pm    
Souths Logan Magpies v Western Clydesdales @ Marsden State High School, 6pm    
Sunday, March 9:
Norths Devils v Redcliffe Dolphins @ Bishop Park, 2.10pm

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The North Mackay Sinkers are offering a special 13-month membership for 2025, giving new members the opportunity to join in December and enjoy a club dedicated to helping swimmers achieve their fitness goals in a supportive and enjoyable environment.

Members will receive free entry into the club’s new and returning member raffle, which features a prize valued at over $100. Financial members will also enjoy complimentary access to Wednesday club sessions, providing significant savings. New and returning members will be welcomed with a free swim cap upon signing up.

For those looking to take their swimming to the next level, the membership includes exclusive access to state, national, and international events specifically designed for Masters swimmers. Members can also participate in unique programs like the Vorgee e1000, Million Meters, and Lane Warrior activities, which keep swimmers motivated and engaged throughout the year.

The club provides early and guaranteed entry to its major events, including the February Short Course meet, the Balnagowan Open Water Swim, and the highly anticipated signature event at Whitehaven Beach in October. In 2025, an exciting new event is also set to be introduced, adding to the club’s dynamic calendar.

In addition to swimming, the club fosters a strong sense of community with an active social program. Activities like the Saturday “Jim Session” are a particular highlight, blending pool training with opportunities for members to relax and connect. A recent session featured a Secret Santa event, bringing laughter and fun to an already vibrant morning.

The North Mackay Sinkers also cater to non-swimmers or those unable to participate in swimming activities by offering a “dry” membership for just $20. This option allows individuals to take part in non-swim activities, including volunteering, social events, and committee or executive roles, ensuring everyone can be part of the club’s inclusive and welcoming environment.

Training sessions are held three times a week, including “Millie Monday” at the Memorial Pool at 5:15 pm, “Whiteboard Wednesday” at North Mackay State High School Pool at 5:15 pm, and the popular Saturday “Jim Session” at the Memorial Pool from 8:00 to 9:00 am, followed by treats and refreshments.

With the last swim of the year scheduled for Saturday, December 21, and the first 2025 session kicking off on January 4, the club invites anyone interested to join a supportive and progressive group that’s committed to helping members reach their swimming and fitness goals in a fun and inclusive way.

For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

Contributed by Dan Stampa

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Tania was happy to select the swim googles from the presents, but 3 “Thieving” Santas made sure possession changed hands

Paul’s gift was a good book but not on waterproof paper

Pierre swims hard enough to enjoy some post swim calories

The Saturday session drew some 16 swimmers who enjoyed music by Elena later in the session as the popular Mackay Aqua Fitness drew a large crowd and kicked on. Photos supplied.

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Results for week ending Saturday 7 December 2024

Monday 2 December 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st Mary Cruickshank - Ian Cruickshank 1st Marilin Robins - Mick Robins
2nd Barbara Tait - Margaret Lane                          2nd Diane Holewa - Max Holewa
3rd Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 3rd Monica Darley - Nancy Martin  

Tuesday 3 December 2024 –  5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy  
2nd Helen Van Den Broek - Tex Sheedy        
3rd Shirley Worland - Marilin Robins  
4th Diane Morgan - Sandra Morris

Wednesday 4 December 2024 –8 Table Howell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st    Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Sandy Patterson - Joy Brunette
2nd Janet Hansen - Alan Brown 2nd Anne Lutz - Gwen Liddell
3rd Lorna Shuttlewood - Tex Sheedy 3rd Geoff Taylor - Ted Cullinan
4th Monica Darley – Kath Poole

Thursday Evening 5 December 2024 – 5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Tex Sheedy - Diane Stokes
2nd Ian Cruickshank - Adrian Westcott
3rd Jan Harris - Susan Gibson
4th Frances Brown - Ann Whitmore

Friday 6 December 2024 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st
Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia
1st
Janelle Conroy - Pamela Finger
2nd

Antonia Tarradas - Graham Smith
2rd

Eric Goodchild - Sandy Patterson  

3rd
Griffin Bancroft - Diane Stokes
3rd
David Ting - Ming Ting

Saturday 7 December 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South                                                                        East/West
                                                                             
1st     Geoff Taylor - Marilin Robins          1st  Eric Goodchild –Debra Goodchild
2nd   Ming Ting - David Ting                               2nd  Tex Sheedy - Graham Smith
3rd   Patricia Garner - Susan Wright          3rd  Diane Stokes - Annie Lynch  
4th  Alan Brown - Frances Brown             4th  Sandy Patterson - Joy Brunette

Contributed by Robert Carless

Marie, Janet and Shelly put the finishing touches to this year’s Christmas tree. Photo supplied

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On Wednesday 27 November the Marian Ladies Bowls Club brought along their Share the Dignity Bags for the year, with a total of 20 bags to be given to charity.

The Marian Ladies have been doing this for the last six years to “help those who are needing help.” 

The ladies are now crocheting and knitting squares to create small blankets, which will be donated to aged care homes for wheelchair users during chilly days.

They have officially finished bowls for the year and are not playing again until around February next year, depending on the weather in early 2025.

Contributed by Lyn Jackson

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A Singles Winner Laurel Morrow, pictured with President Thelma Johnston
A Pairs Winners Judith Miller and Lyn Jackson with President Thelma Johnston
A Triples Winners Sue Austin, Judith Miller and Lyn Jackson with President Thelma Johnston
A Fours Winners Betty Matson, Annette Hansen, Sandra Zarb and Helen Pietzner with President Thelma Johnston. Photos supplied
Marian Ladies Bowls Club with the Share the Dignity bags they will donate to charity

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures December 3, 2024:

Division 1:

Azalea (Mark Sleeman, Barry Patterson, Janice Kent) d Barra (Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake, Trent Day) 6-5. Slee d Trent -6, -6, 6, 8, 11.

Andro (Allan Edwards, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Aqua (Neil Brown, Geoff Denman, Ian McKay) 8-3. Emma d Neil -9, 6, 4, 3.

Alfa (Vince Boeske, Goncalo Serra, Tony Bowman) d Corgi (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 7-4. Vince d Will -9, 4, -3, 2, 8.

Division 2:

Cockatoos (Craig VanDeKaa, Jye Callander, Matt West) d Cheetahs (Simon Hogan, Rymer Tabulo, Val Austin) 6-5. Simon/Ryber d Jye/Craig 12, -6, 11, -8, 7.

Cats (Tiffany Camilleri, George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang) d Bulldog (Delma Knight, Peter Goodson, David Symons) 6-5. Delma/Peter d Tiffany/George 10, 7, -4, -6, 10.

Ants (Daniel Warfield, Andrea Nicholson, Mark Stam) d Canaries (Leo Gilbert, Kade Wright, Duncan Treloar) 6-5. Andrea d Duncan 6, -9, 8, -17, 9.

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Andrea Nicholson had a close battle against Duncan Treloar, with one set going to 19. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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