The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club has been nominated for the Mackay Regional Council Australia Day awards. The club has been nominated in the community group award and is proud to be included in the 17 groups nominated in this section that are providing services to residents in the Mackay Regional Council area.
This section recognises an organisation, group or sporting association for its outstanding contribution and dedication towards improving, promoting and/or protecting the lives of residents in the Mackay Regional Council area.
More than 115 nominations were received for 102 amazing Mackay region residents and groups for the 2025 Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Awards. All award winners and nominees will be recognised at a special awards ceremony at the MECC on Saturday, January 25, 2025.

Masters Swimming Australia National Swim Series 
This series boasts a mix of Long and Short Course meets across Australia. The series comprised of nine events in 2024, including the National Championships with one nominated meet from each of the Masters Swimming Branches and an extra one from Queensland and WA. It rewards members’ participation and performance in any of the Meets, with members needing to swim a minimum two meets to be eligible for prizes.  
In 2024 Sinkers Members Daniel Stampa placed 7th and Nigel Dalton placed 13th out of over 70 swimmers Nationally - showing that persistent performance across events will most definitely pay off!

Save these Dates! (all swimmers 18+ masters and non-masters)
Saturday February 22nd - Sinkers February Short course event, open now
Saturday October 5th – The blue-ribbon Whitehaven Open Water Swim is back for the king’s birthday weekend. Entries open mid-year.
Sunday November 2nd – King & Queen of the river, 1.25, 2.5 and 5k swims
For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

Contributed by Dan Stampa

The Masters Australia Swim Series recognises performance and attendance. Dan Stampa placed 7th of 70 Australia wide. Photo supplied

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Due to heavy rain and ongoing delays in the installation of the new hard-cover roof, there was no news from the club last week. However, we're eagerly awaiting its arrival and are currently in limbo.
This week, Tuesday morning’s Ladies Bowls saw four exciting pairs games. The standout performers were Tony Whitehorn and Sue Walker, who emerged as the dominant winners of the day.
On Wednesday afternoon, 18 bowlers participated in the Jackpot Bowls. The winning team, featuring skipper John Fielding, second John Brown, and lead David Meiklejohn, claimed the winners’ prize, though the jackpot was not won.
Saturday’s Scroungers event featured a thrilling first-round win for Margo Stanley and Cath Remmerswaal. In a close final, Margo narrowly triumphed by a single point over a gallant Cath, who is still in her first season of lawn bowls. The B Grade final was claimed by Tony Whitehorn.
Sunday’s social bowls saw Rick Galea in exceptional form, partnering with Arthur McManus to secure a commanding victory.
Special mention must go to Tony and Betty Whitehorn, who have become an integral part of the club. Originally from South Australia, they moved to Airlie Beach eight years ago. Their combined achievements include multiple championships in mixed and open events, with Betty winning the 2017 Ladies B Singles, 2018 Ladies A Grade, and 2019 Mixed Triples, among many others. Together, they inspire newcomers and contribute immensely to the club’s vibrant community.
The attached photo captures one of their many victorious moments at the club.
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Contributed with thanks to Airlie Beach Bowls Club

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The Cannonvale Cannons Swim Club made an energetic return to weekly club nights this week. Congratulations to Evie Doherty, Zane Clayworth, Roxy Groom, and Asher Springbett for delivering great performances and achieving notable personal best times during the evening’s races.
A sincere thank you goes out to the dedicated swimmers who devoted their time over the weekend to sell tickets for the club’s annual mega community raffle at Whitsunday Plaza. Their efforts were rewarded with vouchers generously provided by Boost Juice.
The club also extends its gratitude to the local community for their unwavering support in purchasing tickets. Special acknowledgment goes to the many businesses that have generously contributed to creating the impressive pool of prizes—this support ensures the success of the initiative. The club eagerly anticipates announcing the winners at the upcoming Summer Carnival on January 25th and 26th.
On Saturday, 25 Cannons swimmers participated in the Mirani Long Course Transition Meet, which turned out to be a fantastic day of racing. Congratulations to Roxanne Groom, Matilda Nicholes, and Celeste Orenshaw for earning A Grade upgrades, a testament to their hard work and commitment to training over the holidays.
A highlight of the Mirani meet was the Dash for Cash events, where the top six 50m Freestyle swimmers vied for cash prizes. Congratulations to the Cannons’ qualifiers: Lucas Korosec, Miller Eaves, Jax Clayworth, Isaac Pisaniello, Andie Reynolds, Isabella Pisaniello, Tora Delac, and Charlie Doherty. Special applause goes to Tora, Charlie, Jax, and Isaac for placing in their age groups and securing cash prizes.
Standout performances of the day came from Harry Chegwidden and Lucas Korosec, who dominated their events, clinching first place in all their races with superb personal bests. Zane Clayworth dazzled in the 50m Fly, shaving an impressive 3.74 seconds off his time to earn gold, while Roxanne Groom displayed consistency by achieving personal bests in all her events.
Congratulations to all the swimmers for their hard work and achievements this week!

Contributed with thanks to Cannonvale Cannons.

Our dedicated swimmers who helped sell tickets for our annual mega community raffle at Whitsunday Plaza.
Team Cannons ready to race at Mirani Long Course Transition Meet
Our Dash for Cash qualifiers Isabella Pisaniello, Andie Reynolds, Miller Eaves, Lucas Korosec, Tora Delac, Isaac Pisaniello, Charlie Doherty and Jax Clayworth.

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Outrigger Whitsunday recently asked the question - Why Do We Paddle? on their Facebook page as a part of the Come & Try program to be held on Saturday 11th.  Organisers were excited to welcome 36 members of the community keen to see what outrigger canoeing was all about.
Club President, Kim Dodds, greeted the new paddlers giving an overview of the sport and what to expect in the morning’s program.
“What a great start to the New Year!” Kim has stated. “Our ‘Come & Try’ day was a huge success. We had an amazing turnout from our community and got to meet new people”. Paddlers took to the water in 4 OC6 canoes, followed by a get together and BBQ.
If you would like to give outrigger paddling a go, just contact the club on its Facebook page or contact Kim on 0428 173 651 or Michelle Lynes 0421 159 852

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Come and Try day at Outrigger Whitsundays

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Last Saturday was the first parkrun of 2025, and it was a memorable one, with many new faces joining for the first time. Many participated in the event, kicking off the year with energy and enthusiasm.

This event also marked the conclusion of the five park runs held over the past 15 days, which has been an exciting challenge for all involved. With each event, participants have clocked "Miles and Miles" of distance, all of which would not have been possible without the dedication of the volunteers. Their support and hard work are what make these extra events a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Milestone Thursday also brought some special achievements to celebrate. During the event, two participants reached significant milestones: Max Ramsamy achieved the 50 finishes milestone and Isabelle Hayles reached the 10 Junior finishes milestone.

For those reaching milestones, it’s important to let your Run Director know before or after the event so they can help celebrate your achievements. Here’s to many more milestones in 2025!

New PB Wall:
Pete Torrisi
Alexis Howell
Trent Rankin
Mason Fenech
Marilyn Bennett
Kadin Liles
Susan Peterson
Tracey Preston
Nicholas Kerruish
Carissa Mansfield
Rebel Bertram
Swarna Shashi Bhaskara
Allan Edwards

About: Mackay parkrun is a free, timed, 5km run / walk put on by the community for the community at 7am every Saturday morning in Mackay.

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Isabelle Hayles
Max Ramsamy. Photo source: Mackay Parkrun (Facebook)

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The Mackay Cutters are gearing up for an exciting 2025 Hostplus Cup season with a revitalised squad, fresh talent, and a new coaching and management team bringing renewed energy to their premiership aspirations. With a mix of returning favourites, high-profile signings, and promising young talent, the Cutters are ready to make their mark.
The squad boasts a range of key re-signings, including 2024 Player of the Year John Radel, who returns for his second season in the Hostplus Cup squad. Fan favourites Raydan Burns and Hiale Roycroft are also back, with Burns heading into his fifth season as a Cutter and Roycroft building on a milestone year after achieving his 50th club appearance in 2024. Playmakers Bayley Gill and Mitch Fogarty, along with powerhouse second-rower Tom McNulty, are set to provide stability and leadership to the team.
Adding to the excitement are several high-profile recruits, including Elie El-Zakhem, who joins from the UK’s Betfred Super League, and Sheldon Diaz, a front-rower from the Melbourne Storm Academy. Ethan Coco, Luke Pietzner, and Gus Rangihuna return to the Cutters after stints with other clubs, bringing valuable experience and a deep connection to the sugar city.
Off the field, the Cutters have bolstered their coaching lineup with Marco Peters taking the reins of the BMD Premiership Squad, Matt Sanders leading the Harvey Norman U19's Squad, Imogen Healy guiding the Harvey Norman U17's Squad, Andy Battaia at the helm of the Mal Meninga Cup Squad, and Brett Watton overseeing the Cyril Connell Cup Squad.
Supporting the team’s holistic development is Zach Schill in his new role as Wellbeing, Education, and Change the Game Manager, while Steve Jackson steps into the position of Hostplus Cup Team Manager, ensuring the team is primed for success on and off the field.
With a squad that combines experience, fresh talent, and a commitment to developing pathways for future stars, the Cutters are poised to make 2025 a season to remember. As Head Coach Marco Peters said, “This is a team built not just for competition but for connection—on and off the field. The 2025 Cutters are about representing Mackay with pride and chasing the ultimate prize.”
The Mackay Cutters are ready to ignite the season, backed by a passionate community and a shared determination to bring the premiership home.

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Rain or shine, the team is putting in the hard yards, climbing hills and building grit for a massive 2025 season ahead. Photo source: Mackay Cutters

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Happy New Year from the Mackay Bridge Club. We have our Mackay Regional Council and Mackay & Whitsunday Life sponsored Australia Day Sausage Sizzle on Sunday 26 January at 414 Shakespeare Street. Everyone is welcome, so come along and see how fun Bridge is…and bring a friend or two. Beginners’ lessons start at 6.30pm, 12 February 2025.

Weekly Results
Monday 30 December 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
3rd
Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
Friday 3 January 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd
Joy Robinson / Joyce Deguara
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Pamella Finger

Saturday 4 January 2025 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Christine Nice
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd
Shirley Worland / Joy Block
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill

4th
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
4th
Margaret Lane / Anne Lutz

5th
Annette Howe / Geoff Cowan
5th
Jan Harris / Monica Darley

By Joy Block

First year players Karen Caldwell and Susan Gibson
First year players Sue Meyer-Miller and Shelly Lewis

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Competition Bowls

Men’s bowlers are reminded to submit their teams for this year’s club competition. Most nomination sheets are now on the notice board, with entries for the Open Fours and Open Pairs closing tomorrow at 3pm. Bowlers without teams can simply add their names to the single-player column, and efforts will be made to accommodate everyone.

The lady bowlers will kick off their season with Opening Day and Past Presidents’ Day on Wednesday, January 22, commencing at 1pm. This will be followed by the Graded Fours and Graded Triples on January 29 and February 5.

The men’s Opening Day is scheduled for this Saturday, January 11, with competition starting the following weekend. The Open Fours and Pairs matches will take place on Saturday 18, and Sunday, 19.

Warehouse bowls will begin on Thursday night, January 30, at 6.30pm. If you’re interested in playing, contact Asko Helenius on 0401 990 622.

Weekly Results

Monday
Winners: Kees Struik, Doug Giddings, Jan Brady, Ray Harris, June Stockwell
R/up: Sue Beale, Geoff Olett, Phil French, Peter Hamlink
Thursday
Winners: Alan Dillon, Mick Mackenzie
R/up: John Mackay, Lloyd Ogilvie, Darrin Addie, Noel James
Friday
Winners: Allan Cooney, Tony Allsop
R/up: Maureen Blucher, Neil Blucher
Third Place: Mick Walsh, Mick Mackenzie

Weekly Events

Monday: 8.30am Start - 2x4x2 Pairs
Wednesday, January 22: Ladies Opening Day
Thursday: 1pm Start - 2x4x2 Pairs
Friday: 1.30 Start - 3 Bowl Pairs
Saturday: 1pm Start - Presidents Opening Day
 
Tip Of The Week
It is far better to choose a shot that will provide 2,3, or 4 chances of success in preference to choosing a shot that offers only one chance of success. Again, I say think before choosing.   

Contributed by Doug Giddings

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Harry Hayes, a local rising star in the dance world, had the incredible opportunity to work with ballet legend Rian Thompson at the Mackay FAME Talent School studio earlier this week. Rian, who was visiting family in Mackay, created a brand-new classical solo for Harry, just five days before his upcoming competition.
For Harry, the chance to work alongside such an accomplished professional was a dream come true. Rian, born in Mackay and now a First Company Artist with Queensland Ballet, has a wealth of experience and knowledge to offer. He began his own dance journey at the age of four with Theatre Arts Mackay and has since made a name for himself in the professional ballet world, performing in numerous prestigious roles.
Harry, who has been training relentlessly, was thrilled to receive personalised guidance from Rian, especially as he gets ready for his next competition. Having the chance to collaborate with a male dancer of Rian’s calibre is a rare opportunity, and it’s clear that Harry was inspired by Rian’s passion and expertise.
Rian’s advice to aspiring dancers is simple yet profound: “Be yourself.”
They are words that Harry will surely carry with him as he takes to the stage in the coming days. With a mentor like Rian, Harry is bound to soar to new heights in his dance career.

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Harry Hayes and Rian Thompson share a moment in the studio, perfecting a classical solo just days before Harry's competition. Photo source: Mackay Fame Talent School
Rian Thompson in action, showcasing his incredible skill and passion for dance. Photo source: Queensland Ballet

Mackay Cycling Club competitors Peter Ransome and David O’Connell delivered strong performances at the Queensland Masters Track Cycling Titles, held at the Anna Meares Velodrome in Brisbane. Both competed in the Masters events, while young club member Matt Schatkowski represented Mackay in the Juniors.
Peter Ransome, competing in his age category in the Masters division, achieved a career highlight with a dominant display across multiple events. Ransom claimed a gold medal in the Keirin, a fast-paced, tactical race that requires exceptional sprinting ability. He also secured three silver medals in the Scratch, Elimination, and Points Races, proving his versatility and endurance in both short and long-distance formats.
Ransome’s success comes on the heels of his recent triumph at the Townsville Cup on Wheels, where he won the B-Grade Keirin trophy and dominated the combined handicap race, claiming the main event title.
David O’Connell, another seasoned competitor for Mackay Cycling Club, also had a strong showing at the State Championships. O’Connell earned a silver medal in the Keirin and a bronze in the Points Race, showcasing his versatility and tactical acumen against a competitive Masters field.
In the Junior division, Mackay’s U15 rider Matt Schatkowski faced a steep learning curve in his first state-level competition on an indoor velodrome. Despite adapting well in early races, a crash on the second night cut his campaign short. Despite this setback, the experience gained against a highly competitive field will serve as a valuable stepping stone in his development as a rider.

Peter Ransome (left) and David O’Connell display their medals at the Anna Meares Velodrome, celebrating a successful campaign at the Queensland Masters Track Cycling Titles

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The Whitsundays is known for its gorgeous waters that encourage many sailors to visit and sail year in and year out. One such sailor who has lived in Airlie Beach his whole life is Leo Rodriguez.
Leo recently took part in the Sydney to Hobart Race, with his crew of 14 and they placed 3rd in their division and 9th overall. Having competed in the Sydney to Hobart Race six times, Leo is one of the most experienced crew members and was chosen to help man the boat along with the core team because of his experience and friendship with the owners.
The vessel Leo competed in is called, "Jay-Bird", and is locally registered at the Whitsunday Sailing Club where it is owned by husband and wife team, Ian and Anika Thomson.
At the culmination of the race, Anika won the prestigious Jane Tate Memorial trophy. This trophy is awarded to the first female skipper to finish the race and impressively Anika has now won the trophy three times in a row. There has been a large push for women’s involvement in sailing as it can be perceived as primarily a male-dominant sport, but happily there were roughly 150 female competitors and this years’ event.
Leo explained how the race was particularly challenging this year due to the relentless sea conditions.
Jay-Bird and her crew faced continuous strong winds which were between 25-40 knots and huge waves on choppy seas. The team even achieved a top speed of 30 knots battling against unfavourable southern fronts as Leo reports the weather just got wetter and colder after departing Sydney. He even remarked at one point a huge wave crashed over the boat. But, despite the disagreeable conditions, overall, it was a memorable race.
During the event. Jay-Bird was pushed to her limits by the crew and finished with satisfying results in her division. The IRC-1 Division is for 52ft, fixed keel boats and when they crossed the line with a finishing time of 2 days, 20 hours and 16 minutes fans cheered and raised cardboard cut-outs of birds to show their support.
As a racing boat and a cruiser, Jay-Bird was built to handle the tough Tasman Sea with the expertise of her fantastic crew.
When asked if he would do the race again Leo said “I never say never. I have no plans on doing another race. (But) If I'm asked, I'd certainly consider it again.”
For now, he and the other crewmembers are enjoying their good results and calm, warm waters of the cruisy Whitsundays.

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Crew of the Ocean Crusaders Jay-Bird after finishing the race. Photo Supplied: Leo Rodriguez

Ocean Crusaders Jay-Bird as she sails into port with the help of a guide boat. Photo Credit: Wendell Teodor for @sailorgirlHQ
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Anika Thomson won the prestigious Jane Tate Memorial Trophy at the Sydney to Hobart for the third year in a row for being the first woman to cross the finsh line. Photo sourced: Facebook

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On Saturday at 8am the Whitsunday branch of the Australian Outrigger Canoe Racing Association is hosting a 4week beginner ‘Come & Try’ challenge. Anyone who is an aspiring paddler of any level or a current member is invited to join them at the Shingley Beach for the challenge and Members Sign-On Day. The event is open to everyone 14 and above who is wanting to try out their racing skills and have a friendly competition or just to try out something new. Whatever your level is, this is your chance to get your arms moving and paddle in paradise on the wonderfully blue Whitsunday waters.
As this event is for all levels, do not worry if you don’t know how to hold a paddle or turnover a tipped canoe, Club Outriggers will be happy to teach you before you head out onto the water. You and your team will be supported the entire way through your wet and wild day.
After all the fun on the water at around 10:30am, Club Outriggers Whitsunday will also be providing a free breakfast barbeque to fill you up after your morning on the water. Where you can socialise with your fellow new outriggers and discuss techniques and plan your next morning on the waves.
For your health and safety please bring a hat, sunscreen, sun protective shirt, sunglasses, and your own water bottle for hydration. For your enjoyment and comfort, Outriggers Whitsunday recommend wearing leggings or long boardshorts, no bikini bottoms or budgie smugglers, practical swimwear is highly encouraged, and a smile to truly enjoy your time on the waves.
If you made a New Years resolution to get fit or try something new this year, then why not pick up a paddle and challenge yourself with a fun new activity like outriggers canoeing? Canoeing is great exercise that helps strengthen your muscles and core, it also can improve your posture and joint flexibility. And there is nothing more stress relieving than a warm ocean breeze or the sound of the waves as you also build up your endurance while having a great time. The beginners challenge runs for 4weeks so you have plenty of time to practice and improve your techniques.
The Club Outriggers Whitsunday hopes to see you down there at the beach Saturday morning, making new friends and reaping the benefits of your time making waves. Their motto is: Why do we paddle? For the challenge! We live on the edge and when the world turns upside-down, we come up smiling.
For and enrolment form to participate in the event please call either Kim at 0428 173 651 or Glen at 0407 465 550. Both of them will be happy to help get you signed up and sorted before your amazing day in the water with them this Saturday at 8am.
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WHAT: Outrigger canoe beginner's event
WHERE: Shingley Beach, Shingley Drive, Cannonvale.
WHEN: Saturday 11th at 8am

Photo Sourced: Outrigger Whitsunday Facebook, 2011 Open Women’s Sprint Crew racing with their 6 women team.
Photo Sourced: Outrigger Whitsunday Facebook, 2024 Club Outrigger members enjoy the view after a morning of paddling.
Photo Sourced: Outrigger Whitsunday Facebook, local team cheers after finishing their race.

At the end of 2024, the Cannonvale Cannons hosted a fantastic Christmas Club Night and wished the State Team all the best at Qld LC Championships.  At the start of Christmas Club Night, Giselle Burton presented Tyler Bennett with an Upgrade Certificate and Harry Chegwidden with the Coaches’ Award.  Congratulations to Harry Chegwidden and Jax Clayworth for setting new Club Records.  Harry set a record for 7 years 25m Backstroke in a time of 23.01sec.  Jax Clayworth aged 11 years set a new 200m Butterfly record in a time of 2.57.71.  
During the Christmas Club Night, Harris Delac, Indiana De-Lisle, Jax Eaves, Miller Eaves, Roxy Groom, Mackenzie Bennett, Tyler Bennett, Ella Bounden, Harry Chegwidden, Bonnie Crichton, Sophie Palmero, Isabella Pisaniello, Addie Sanders, River Shields, Hazel Smith, Asher Springbett, Reid Springbett, Billie Jamieson, Lucas Korosec, Pippa Laguna, Ruby Lawson, Kye Mitchell, and Stella Mulliss swam extremely well and achieved personal best times. Well done swimmers!  
The coaches, Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson are very excited about the start of 2025.  The coaches have been working with swimmers on their goals and developing plans for the season.  There are lots of district carnivals coming up in the next two months and swimmers are training so they can achieve their best at these events.  The coaches would like to commend the following senior swimmers for training consistently during the first week of January:  Jax Clayworth, Zane Clayworth, Andie Reynolds, Ruby Harland, Koa Harland, Tora Delac, Harris Delac, Charlie Doherty, Evie Doherty, Declan Dichiera, Roxy Groom, Millie Groom, Matilda Nicholes, Celeste Orenshaw, Nelson Malady, Zach Trefz, Maeve Dichiera, Lucas Korosec, Eloise Chegwidden, and Eric Mulliss.  
The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club will be resuming Club Nights from Wednesday, 8th January 2025.  New swimmers (and their families) are welcome to come and try swimming with the Cannons.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

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On the 4th of January the Whitsunday’s Volunteer Marine Rescue was tasked to respond to an EPIRB activation out near Round Head. Communication attempts were not possible as the vessel had no radio or mobile and the responders headed out for the rescue fearing the worst.
Around 9:30pm the team of VMR1 headed out to the coordinates that placed the distressed boat close to the shore. Its location was exposed to the 17 knot easterlies and some pushy waves, so the crew wondered if it was just going to be the beacon that they would find. With the lack of communication their main concerns where the condition of the boat and the health of its occupants, so VMR1 brought QAS paramedics with them just in case.
When they rounded Round Head, they breathed relief at the sight of the navigation lights bobbing up and down, horizontally placed and swinging side to side. This indicated the boat was above water and floating, not listing as they feared. Surmising the vessel was anchored and likely fine, the VMR1 crew sent out their tender to check if the people were ok too.
As the water was not deep enough for the larger VMR1, crewmates M and Rodney were dispatched in the tender boat to bring back anyone who may need treatment. The waters were too rough for the QAS to go themselves safely but fortunately there was only one on board.
The man was fine, just new to his position as a boat owner and captain. He had not prepared for his evening of fishing and had no working radio or navigation gear on the boat, or a mobile phone on his person. The EPIRB was triggered when he tried to call for help as his boat was pushed onto the rocks and washed over by the rough waves. The man was able to get his motor up and running and ultimately helped himself off the rocks to safer waters. He told the VMR1 crew that he was fine now and would motor back to his home port in the morning.
Once an EPIRB is set off, it must be located and switched off, having a radio or mobile phone will let rescue services like the VMR Whitsundays find you faster and provide you with better help if they know the situation for the rescue or if it’s a false alarm. So, advice to all water-goers: make sure you have some form of communication with you when you head out to sea, otherwise don’t go. Good work team of the VMR1- Rodney, M, Donna and skipper Shane!
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Photo Sourced: VMR Whitsunday Facebook
VMR1 responding to the EPIRB distress call.
Skipper Shane navigating to the distress coordinates.

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Local artist Andrew Doyle, a proud Iman and Kaku-Yalanji man, has won the 2025 Indigenous Jersey Design Competition with the Mackay Cutters. Andrew grew up playing rugby league in Mackay, and his artwork honours both his cultural heritage and his deep connection to the sport.

“The story behind my artwork is a bit of history,” said Andrew.

The design features blue and maroon stripes at the top, representing the Mackay Cutters’ 2013 premiership-winning jersey. The bottom half of the artwork recalls the Mackay Sea Eagles teams of 1992 and 1993, when the club won back-to-back state league titles.

“The middle stripes represent the old coming into the new - both generations having success and coming together as a club and community.

The three circle designs at the top of the piece symbolise the Mackay Junior Rugby League grounds before the construction of BB Print Stadium, with each circle representing a field: Field One, Field Two, and the main field, where everyone aspired to play. The two additional circles represent the mod fields that were once located before the carpark.

Three sea eagle tracks are incorporated into the artwork to pay tribute to the Mackay Sea Eagles teams, past and present. These tracks symbolise the club’s rich history, with the number three representing the titles won in 1992, 1993, and the Mackay Cutters’ 2013 premiership win.

“The footprints going across the artwork represent not only my own journey but the journey of my children and the journey of rugby league for us,” Andrew added.

“With my children growing up in the same area that I did, walking the same route to trainings, games on Saturday and Wednesday school footy, and playing where I grew up playing.

“I had the privilege to represent the Mackay Sea Eagles on a number of occasions but never got to play for the Mackay Cutters.

“My daughter has been part of the Mackay Cutters system for a number of years now and she gets to represent them and our family…so the footprints are of me and my children walking the same journey and me passing my knowledge on to them.”

A representative from Mackay cutters said “We would like to congratulate local artist Andrew Doyle, his artwork has been selected as the design for the Mackay Cutters 2025 Indigenous Jersey thanks to INDCO.”

INDCO aims to represent and empower diverse groups of people to work in their chosen field. They are a quality provider of fabrication services and specialised and skilled labour hire, diversifying in a broad number of industries such as mining, civil and construction, agriculture, transport and environmental rehabilitation.

Stay tuned for the reveal of Andrew’s artwork on the Mackay Cutters’ 2025 Indigenous Jersey.

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Pictured left to right: David Roberts, Andrew Doyle, Ben Orme. Photo source: Mackay Cutters

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