The 2024 bowls year is just about completed…now’s the time to organise your competition teams and set your goals for next year. Setting goals is very important - it may be as simple as improving your game by approaching an experienced bowler or coach. For assistance it may take as little as 15 minutes. It may be your technique or stance requiring adjustment, or concentration level needs to improve. Improving your skill increases your outlook of the game and decreases the bad bowls delivered. Another important factor is to increase your knowledge of the games laws – you can find this information in books available from the bar.

Tip of the Day

Never leave shots sitting up for your opponent. Play their shot and try to improve the situation. It is better to go down one than a number.

Weekly events

Monday 8.30am starts 2 x 4 x 2 Pairs any Mix
Wednesday 1.00pm Start Ladies Bowls
Thursday 1.00pm Start 2 x 4 x 2 Pairs any mix
Friday 1.30pm Start 3 Bowl Pairs any mix
Saturday 1.00pm Start Men’s Pairs
In all team events single names on the side will be accepted. Phone the bowls club on 4942 3393 and leave your contact number with your name.

Playing out of turn
Law 29.1
If a player plays out of turn, the opposing skip can stop the bowl and return it. If the bowl has come to rest and not disturbed the head, the opposing skip must choose whether to leave the head as is, and bowl two bowls (to correct the order) or return the bowl.

If the Bowl Disturbs the Head

The opposing skip may leave the head as it is and have their team bowl two bowls; or replace the head to its former position; return the bowl and go back to the correct order of play; or if unable to do so declare a dead end.

Law 29.2
If a player delivers somebody else’s bowl, that bowl must be replaced with the players own bowl; if it is a toucher, the players own bowl must be marked as a toucher.

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A great time was had at the clubs Presentation Night. Photos supplied

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures November 19, 2024:

Division 1:

Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) drew Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) 7-all. Delma d Branko 7, -7, -10, 9, 13.

Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) d Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 10-4. Charlie d George 5, 6, -8, -3, 11.

Division 2:

Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Darryl Ross, Allison Day) drew London Loopers (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) 7-all. Darryl d Ken 8, -9, -5, 11, 4.

Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) d Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Thelma Caruana, Trish Zamparutti) 10-4. Josie d Ian -8, 8, 10, 7.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures November 19, 2024:

Division 1:

Alfa (Vince Boeske, Goncalo Serra, Tony Bowman) d Azalea (Barry Patterson, Allan Robins, Mark Sleeman) 9-2. Vince d Barry -9, 10, -9,  8.

Andro (Graham Drury, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Corgi (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 9-2. Graeme d Lily -1, 9, 8, -9, 8.

Aqua (Ian McKay, Andrew McSherry, Geoff Denman) d Barra (Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake, Trent Day) 6-5. Lee d Geoff -11, 9, 2, -8, 5.

Division 2:

Ants (Noreen Fredericksen, Andrea Nicholson, Mark Stam) d Bulldog (Delma Knight, Peter Goodson, David Symons) 7-4. Andrea d Delma -7, -6, 5, 6, 10.

Cats (Tiffany Camilleri, George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang) d Canaries (Leo Gilbert, Danial, Ishara Liyanagamage) 7-4. YiLin d Leo -9, -8, 7, 5, 5.

Cockatoos (Jye Callander, Matt West, Sion Hogan) d Tigers (Val Austin, Doug Dungavell, Steve Mathieson) 7-4.  Steve d Simon -8, 8, 6, -8, 8.

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Delma Knight plays in both the morning and night fixtures at Mackay Table Tennis

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The Whitsunday Junior Raiders Rugby Union Club gathered in style last week to celebrate a standout season at their End of Year Awards Night. Held at Whitsunday Sports Park, the event was a heartfelt tribute to the players, coaches, volunteers, and supporters who made 2024 a season to remember.

Club President Tim Oberg took the opportunity to reflect on the dedication and growth of the players throughout the year.

“I’m so proud of the way our players have conducted themselves this season,” shared Tim.

Not only have they improved as rugby players, but they have grown as young people who we hope will go on to make positive contributions to our community outside of sport.”

The evening showcased the remarkable achievements of players at all levels, celebrating their efforts in scoring tries, making tackles, and showing exceptional sportsmanship. Coaches and team managers were also recognised for their commitment and leadership, which has played a crucial role in guiding players both on and off the field.

The club also took a moment to express its deep appreciation for the volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes - from setting up fields to running the canteen. A special thanks was given to the club’s generous sponsors - Whitsunday Prosocial Support Services, Green Energy Technologies, BK Constructions, and SMP Whitsundays - for their continued support throughout the season.

Families and supporters, described as the "heart of the club," were celebrated for their unwavering enthusiasm and encouragement, which fuelled the team’s spirit, no matter the weather.

As the 2024 season draws to a close, the Whitsunday Junior Raiders are already looking forward to an even stronger 2025 season. The club wishes all members and supporters a healthy and active off-season.

Contributed with thanks to Tim Oberg.

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Whitsunday’s junior rugby stars celebrated a winning season last week.
Many young athletes gathered to conclude an awesome season at Whitsunday Sports Park.
Whitsunday Junior Raiders Rugby Union Club President, Tim Oberg spoke proudly about the young talents of many players.
The Junior Raiders closed out the 2024 season with a bang!
Many Junior Raiders were celebrated and commended for their performances over the 2024 season.

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On Tuesday, 19 November, the Proserpine Veterans Golf Club hosted a fun-filled day on the course with a 2-ball Ambrose competition, with one team playing as a 3-person group. Despite the hot weather, 33 enthusiastic players took to the course, each required to use a minimum of six drives per player. The camaraderie and competitive spirit were high, as everyone enjoyed the challenge.

A special prize was awarded to the 3-ball team, recognising the slight advantage of having an additional player on their side. The rest of the field played in the standard 2-ball category.

Results:
   • 3-Ball Team Winners: Allison McKenzie, Allan Clinch, and Phil Luckett
   • 2-Ball Teams:
       ◦ Winners: Jenny and Colin Hounsell with a 65.25 nett
       ◦ Runners-Up: Leanne Alexander and Trevor Paroz with 66.25 nett
   • Run Down (in order of score):
       ◦ 68.25: Elspeth and Gary Scotford
       ◦ 68.75: Vickie and John Wallace
       ◦ 69.50: Kathryn Borer and John Roser, Linda and Penny Wardroper
       ◦ 69.75: Paula McQuat and Peter Fox
       ◦ 70.25: Craig McLean and Barry Mortimer
       ◦ 70.50: Nic Apruzzese and Laurie Dakin
       ◦ 71.25: Helen and Warren Deighton
Pin Shots (closest to the hole):
   • 2nd: Craig McLean and Barry Mortimer, Peter Lindsay and Vic Feldman – both teams were in the hole for 2
   • 9th: Linda and Penny Wardroper – in the hole for 2
   • 13th: Peter Lindsay and Vic Feldman
   • 16th: Leanne Alexander and Trevor Paroz

Chip-Ins: A special mention goes to Helen and Warren Deighton, who scored the only chip-in of the day.

Next Tuesday, 26 November, the Veterans will compete in a Stableford competition, followed by the Annual General Meeting (AGM). It's set to be another great day of golf and camaraderie!

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat.

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Jenny and Colin Hounsell were the celebrated victors of the 2 Ball Team competition!

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The Wangaratta Bowls Club has had another fantastic week of bowls, with both exciting social games and important updates for the future of the club.

Tuesday Social Bowls saw some thrilling competition, with Stumpy Adams, Margaret Wilson, and Penny Warren emerging victorious over Merle Elphinstone, Sue Shearing, Linda Smith, and Mark Drummond. In another exciting match, Geoff Danvers and Lyn Danvers defeated Greg Colquhoun in a competitive showdown. Unfortunately, the jackpot didn't go off, leaving anticipation building for the next round.

On Sunday morning, members gathered for their respective Annual General Meetings (AGMs), where they discussed the direction and future of the club. A big congratulations to those who accepted executive positions. Mark Drummond will continue as the Men’s President, and Margaret Wilson will take the lead as Ladies’ President. These experienced leaders are sure to steer the club toward another successful year. The Board AGM is set for Sunday, 8 December 9am at the clubhouse.

After a wonderful lunch following the AGM, only a few stayed behind for a game of bowls. Jim Quod and Kevin Daniels took home the win on Rink 3, defeating Lindy Suann and Alby Vigar. In another close match, Merle Elphinstone, Teresa Willshire, and Dot Slater narrowly defeated Toni Bowen, Laurie Land, and Penny Warren. The jackpot once again didn’t go off, adding to the excitement for the next game.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

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Sunday saw plenty of action at the Wangaratta Bowls Club!

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The Airlie Beach Bowls Club is thrilled to announce that it is back in full swing, with bowls starting up again (weather permitting, of course) as the club prepares for the completion of its roof in January 2025.

Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a newcomer looking to get involved, the club offers a fantastic environment where members can enjoy free coaching, socialising, and competitive play. It’s the perfect place to meet lifelong friends and challenge yourself to see just how good you can be.

For those interested in improving their game or simply giving it a try, free coaching is available every Monday and Thursday from 4pm to 5pm. Everyone is welcome, whether you're new to the sport or just want to refine your skills. For more information, you can contact Mark Mawson at 0432 341 285 or Margo Stanley at 0412 469 989.

If you're looking for some mid-week fun, be sure to check out Business House Bowls on Wednesday nights. This popular event attracts a large crowd each week, so gather your mates or work colleagues and join the fun. Bob and Yvonne Spees will be on hand to welcome you and your team starting at 6pm.

Sundays at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club are just as exciting. Sunday afternoon bowls saw a competitive roll-up recently, with players battling it out for the win. Under the leadership of new A Grader Andy McDougall, with assistance from lead Betty Whitehorn and Arthur McManus, the team took home the winners’ prize in what was a thrilling competition.

Whether you’re looking to join a team, improve your skills, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of a great group of people, the Airlie Beach Bowls Club has something for everyone!

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Airlie Beach Bowls Club members enjoyed bowling under the magnificent dome cover framework on the weekend.

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The Whitsunday Brahmans events committee is thrilled to reflect on the success of their recent Ladies Day celebration, held at the club’s final home game of the season. The event, which combined rugby league action with community spirit, was a memorable occasion for everyone involved.

From the very beginning, the day was filled with excitement and good vibes. Guests were treated to a selection of platters, fun games, and music, all set against the backdrop of four thrilling rugby league games. The atmosphere was electric, with fans enjoying not only the sports but also the lively company and the strong sense of camaraderie that defines the Brahmans community.

One of the highlights of the evening was the A Grade Pink Jersey Auction, where jerseys worn by the players were auctioned off to raise money for the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, an organisation dedicated to supporting women and families in need. Thanks to the generosity of those in attendance, the auction raised over $3,500, which will go directly to supporting the centre’s vital work in the community.

The Brahmans committee was proud to bring together such a successful event, which not only celebrated the women of the club but also raised significant funds for an important local cause. The event was a true testament to the power of community, showing how the club, its supporters, and the broader Whitsunday region can come together for a common goal.

Contributed with thanks to Sarah Milne.

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The Whitsunday Brahmans events committee celebrated a successful day, donating $3,500 to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre.

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An enthusiastic group of picklers from the Hydeaway Bay and Cape Gloucester areas are thrilled to have the addition of two dedicated pickleball courts (and a third marked on a multi purpose court) at their Gloucester Sport and Recreation Association facility in Hydeaway Bay.
With the generosity of residents, grants from the Whitsundays Council and the Association’s enthusiastic backing, it has taken over 4 years of planning and building to provide the only purpose built pickleball courts outside of S.E. Qld.
Pickleball has only been in Australia since 2016. A combination of tennis, table tennis and badminton, pickleball has the attraction of being easy to learn, very social, inclusive and attractive to all age levels.  Originally from the US, Pickleball is now being played in all the Australian States and currently there are 15,000 Pickleball Australia Association (PAA) members. In Queensland alone, there are over 30 affiliated clubs.
The Whitsundays is certainly not behind the times with pickleball now being played in Cannonvale, Bowen, Proserpine, Hydeaway Bay and two locations in Mackay. Session times are available almost every day of the week, both daytime & evening. Bookings are available through the OpenSport App.
The latest survey conducted by the Australian Sports Commission has revealed a significant surge in pickleball participation across Australia. (The AusPlay survey, a comprehensive national population tracking initiative monitors participation in over 600 sports & activities). The latest data indicates that a remarkable 90,00 Australians aged 15 years  and older have engaged in pickleball in the past year. That’s an impressive number for pickleball considering its short history in Australia. This figure far exceeds previous estimates, highlighting the rapid and widespread growth of pickleball among people of all ages, with accessibility, it’s social nature and health benefits all contributing to this figure.
The Gloucester Sport & Recreation Association together with the Gloucester Pickleball Club would like to welcome you to the official opening of their pickleball courts on Saturday afternoon 30th November from 2:30 to 5pm. You will enjoy a pickleball demonstration game, a “Come & Try” session, open play as well as a fundraising raffle and refreshments in the clubhouse.
For enquiries, contact Ian  M:0448407715 or Lorraine M:0417 773 904.

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The Proserpine Bowls Club recently held its final social game of the year, which counted towards the Social Participation Prize. Despite some early rain, the club’s well-maintained green recovered quickly, allowing the games to proceed. The teams were drawn through a blind selection due to the tight competition at the top of the rankings. Sandy Daffara, Mike Harrison, and Heather Brown triumphed with a 25-10 win over Philip Brown, Bruce Uhe, and John Anderson.

On Sunday morning, 22 members attended the club's Annual General Meeting (AGM), with 8 members sending their apologies. During the meeting, reports were presented by the Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Presidents, Greens Director, and Providores, all of which were well-received.

The AGM also saw the election of Michael Harrison as the new Chairperson, while Gavin Milne was appointed Games Coordinator. Other positions remained unchanged, with Geoff Hunter continuing as Deputy Chairperson, Heather Brown as Secretary, and Jonathan Bye as Treasurer. The Presidents are now Heather Brown and Scott Hamilton, and Dale Haack continues as Bar Coordinator, with Bruce Uhe as Kitchen Coordinator. Andrew Bell remains the Greens Director, and Heather Brown also continues in the role of Media Officer. Todd Leys and Gavin Milne will serve as Selectors.

The club took a moment to thank Wayne Handley for his leadership as Chairperson, especially as he prepares to move to Mackay for work. Wayne’s long-standing involvement with the club will continue, and he will remain connected to the Proserpine Bowls Club. The club also expressed gratitude to Barry Saroglia for his dedication while serving as the Games Coordinator.

In the afternoon, the Prize Presentation was held, recognizing the outstanding performances throughout the year. Michael Kinnear took home the Men’s Singles title, with Shane Kinnear as the runner-up, while Heather Brown claimed the Ladies’ Singles trophy, with Patricia Bownds as the runner-up. The Men’s Pairs championship went to Jonathan Bye and Wayne Handley, with David Ling and Andrew Bell finishing as runners-up. In the Men’s Triples, Dale Haack, Shane Kinnear, and Wayne Handley came out on top, while Harry Craig, Scott Hamilton, and Jonathan Bye were the runners-up. The Men’s Fours were claimed by Shane Kinnear, Todd Leys, Scott Hamilton, and Gavin Milne, while Harry Craig, Marcus Craig, Toby Craig, and Nathan Harriott took second place.

The 2 Bowl Triples was won by Shane Kinnear, Scott Hamilton, and Wayne Handley, with Todd Leys, Jonathan Bye, and Gavin Milne finishing in second. Gavin Milne claimed the B Singles title, with David Ling as the runner-up, and Mike Harrison won the Senior Singles, defeating Bryan Davy in the final. In the B Pairs, Nathaniel Watts and Gavin Milne finished in first place, while Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison were runners-up. The B Triples were claimed by Bruce Uhe, Mike Harrison, and David Ling, while Arthur Griffith, Peter Lawton, and Gavin Noonan came second.

The 2024 Bowlers of the Year were awarded to Shane Kinnear and Heather Brown for their exceptional performances throughout the year.
The Social Participation Prizes, sponsored by Andrew Sloot from Fender Geophysics, were also presented. Andrew, who traveled from Sydney to present the awards, handed out prizes to the monthly winners, Mary Hedgelong, John Anderson, and Alen Sanderson. The prize for fourth place was shared between Arthur Griffith and Sandy Daffara, while Bruce Uhe claimed third, Philip Brown took second, and Heather Brown won first place.

Looking ahead, social bowls will continue every Wednesday and Sunday at 2:30pm, with a 3pm start, weather permitting. The club is also preparing for a number of end-of-year functions, and members are encouraged to volunteer and assist when possible, to ensure these events are successful.

Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Bowls Club Secretary.

2024 Bowler of the Year, Shane Kinnear.

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Over the weekend, Proserpine Golf Club hosted a successful charity event to support the fight against breast and prostate cancer. The day was filled with great golf, fun activities, and a delicious BBQ, all while raising vital funds for cancer research and awareness. The event aimed to make a meaningful impact in the battle against two of the most prevalent cancers affecting millions of men and women worldwide.

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The Whitsunday Triathlon Club was represented by two Champions at the Hamilton Island Triathlon on the weekend with both Zane Devine and Julia Wheway performing exceptionally. Due to the wet conditions and safety, the cycle component was cancelled and instead the Event became a Run, Swim, Run! Still extremely challenging on a very hilly run in humid conditions and choppy ocean. 

The standout performance was from Zane Devine, who this year completed year 11. Zane in his impressive Club triathlon suit blitzed the course and came 13th out of 170 athletes and just 12 minutes behind the winner, triathlon Olympian from France, Luke Willian. Zane comfortably finished first in his age group 14 to 19. In July Zane finished on the Podium at the most prestigious multi-sport event in Regional Queensland, the award-winning Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon. At this Event the competition was fierce with the best triathletes in Australia competing. He is also a regular winner at the Airlie Beach parkrun with a personal best that keeps improving each week. He was yet again a podium winner at the local Whitsunday Trailfest. Zane is a fully motivated individual with a wise head on his shoulders and comfortably copes with both his academic and sporting aspirations. Zane has a wonderful sporting future ahead of him, as his body becomes accustomed to the three multi-sport disciplines of running, open water swimming and cycling. Zane has a Professional triathlon coach based out of the Sunny Coast which has helped him to continue to improve, but in saying that, the support and encouragement he receives from his parents Greg and Janiel is absolutely remarkable, he is a very lucky guy! Greg and Janiel are stalwarts of the Club and say the sky's the limit for Zane is his future pursuits! 

Julia Wheway, the current Whitsunday Triathlon Club Female Champion, finished on the podium in 3rd position with a tough field in her Age Group 50 to 59. In 2023 Julia smashed the course and achieved her best result on Hamilton Island, first in her Age Group and beating a regular champion on the International World Championship stage, Megan Moa. During the journey Julia has impressed with many great performances. Julia is a legend of the sport of Triathlon losing count of the number of triathlons she has competed in over her journey. Julia has competed in many Half Ironman Events consisting of a 1.9km swim, 90km cycle and 21.1km run, a real test of the mind, stamina, endurance and will power! Julia has high expectations for 2025 but at the moment a little time to sit back and 'smell the Roses' before training starts again.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Triathlon President, Michael Kimpton.

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All smiles as Zane Devine crossing the finish line at the Hamilton Island Triathlon!
Julia Wheway celebrated finishing third on the podium at the Hamilton Island Triathlon.

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North Queensland Marathon Champion Liv Compton has been named the 2024 Recreational Runner of the Year by Athletics North Queensland, earning recognition for her outstanding achievements over the past year.  

A proud member of the Whitsunday Running Club, Liv’s year began with an impressive performance at the 24-hour Australian Championships in Canberra, where she covered an astounding 201.5 kilometres to secure third place.  

Her remarkable accomplishments continued as she claimed victory in the North Queensland Cross Country Championship 6km at Galbraith Park, the Mackay Marina Half Marathon, the Airlie Beach Marathon, and the Whitsunday Trail Festival 28km.  

Liv also demonstrated her versatility with second place finishes in the Hamilton Island Hill Half Marathon and the Whitehaven Beach Half Marathon. A regular participant in parkrun, she incorporates the 5km event into her training program, boasting a personal best time of 18 minutes and 57 seconds.  

Looking ahead, Liv’s next big challenge is the Coast to Kosci Ultramarathon, a grueling 240km race from Eden to Charlotte Pass, culminating in a summit of Mt Kosciuszko.  

“Liv is a very versatile athlete who can perform well over virtually any distance. She is very dedicated to her sport and trains hard, so this award is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her achievements,” said Whitsunday Running Club President Tim McQuoid-Mason.  

Congratulations to Liv on an incredible year and best wishes for her upcoming ultramarathon adventure!

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Running Club President, Tim McQuoid-Mason.

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The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club had a spectacular weekend at the 51st GBR Long Course Transition Meet in Mackay. Thirty-five swimmers made the trip to compete at the Mackay Aquatic & Recreation Centre, a FINA-approved 50m pool that sets the stage for elite performances. This meet, a favourite among the Cannons, marked their final regional carnival before the Queensland Long Course Championships in December.

It was a weekend of remarkable achievements with medals, personal bests (PBs), and qualifying times for State and School events. Among the standout performers based on PBs were Eloise Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Zane Clayworth, Tora Delac, Declan Dichiera, Charlie Doherty, Evelyn Doherty, Jax Eaves, Roxanne Groom, Jasper Korosec, Lucas Korosec, Stella Mulliss, and Adelaide Sanders.

A special congratulations goes to Don Algie, Ella Bounden, Eloise and Harry Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Tora Delac, Charlie Doherty, Miller Eaves, and Lucas Korosec, who medalled in all their age events.

Back at home, the excitement continued with a lively club night. Upgrade certificates were awarded to Alex Trefz, Miller Eaves, and Kye Mitchell, while Isla Johnson earned the Coaches Award for swim of the night. The coveted Chocolate Awards went to Jax Clayworth, who shaved over 30 seconds off his 200m freestyle, and Roxy Groom and Ruby Harland, both clocking 0.02-second improvements.

With many new families joining the Cannons, club nights have never been more vibrant. Why not come and give it a try? Your first night is free! Club Nights run on Wednesdays at the Cannonvale pool, with warm-up at 5pm and racing from 6pm.

The Cannons are now preparing for the Queensland Long Course Championships next month, ready to make waves on the state stage.

Contributed with thanks to Vice President, Jade Korosec.

Zane Clayworth and Lucas Korosec both enjoyed a great weekend of racing.
Winners of the raffle draw, Haylee Eaves and Hayley Doherty.
Jasper Korosec, Don Algie, Charlie Doherty and Thomas Ganter ready to race the 200 Meter Breastroke Event - all four boys medalled in their respective age groups of this event.
The Cannons team ready to compete.

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The Whitsunday Swimming Club celebrated a standout weekend at the 51st GBR Meet hosted by the Mackay Swimming Academy at the ARC, bringing home their largest medal haul in years.

The team of 14 swimmers delivered incredible performances, with George leading the charge, earning five gold medals from his events. Newcomer Alissa made an impressive debut for the club, securing a gold and silver while smashing her personal bests. Other medal winners included Mae, Mia, Hayden, Leyton, Jayde, Alex, and Axel.

Ivy stole the spotlight with seven personal bests across seven swims, including an astonishing 34.6-second improvement in the 200m breaststroke and a 20.74-second gain in the 200m freestyle. Meanwhile, Emeilia swam her first meet as an under-7 WSC member, delivering two fantastic PBs.

Ti achieved four PBs while refining his diving skills, Chloe powered through nine events with four PBs, and Georgia dominated with PBs in four out of five swims, capping off her weekend by winning the Nike raffle prize.

Coach Jenny from Aquatic Rush received heartfelt thanks for her intensive training and support, with the results clearly reflecting her efforts. The camaraderie and team spirit among the swimmers were unmatched, making the Whitsunday Swimming Club’s presence known.

The club trains Monday to Friday from 3:30pm at Proserpine Swimming Pool. New members of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the WSC family. Visit the pool and find out how you can get involved!

Contributed with thanks to WSC President, Amanda Yuskan.

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MSA swimmers stole the show at the Mackay GBR Meet.
Winner are grinners! MSA medal recipients smiling with pride.
MSA team ready to dive into action.
MSA juniors made a splash at the Mackay GBR Meet.

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The Airlie Beach Bowls Club is experiencing some exciting changes, with the impressive framework now in place over the green, making quite the statement for passersby on Shute Harbour Road. The construction delays have slowed the process, but the much-anticipated waterproof cover will soon be fitted, completing the new addition.
Despite these delays, social bowls and Saturday scroungers have resumed their regular time slots. For those interested in booking for social events, please contact the club directly. This week’s scroungers winners were (A) Dennis Donadelli and (B) Merv Stewart.
A special moment was observed as life member Mae Secomb and her daughter Lea attended the flag-lowering ceremony in tribute to the late Herb Secomb. Herb’s funeral will be held at 10am on Tuesday, 19 November, at St. Martin’s Church, Cannonvale, with a wake following at the Bowls Club.
On Monday, 11 November, the club hosted a catered luncheon for 80 ladies, where district trophies were presented. Among the awardees, the North Mackay ladies took home pennant badges for their success in Division 1, 2, and 3, while St. Helen’s Division 4 ladies were also recognised. In the individual competitions, Airlie Beach’s Dawn Dowell received the trophy for winning the Novice Champion of Champions singles competition. Debbie Mackenzie from North Mackay claimed the Champion of Champions B Singles trophy, while Mona Townsend collected the Champion of Champions Fours trophy on behalf of Mackay Club ladies who couldn’t attend. Team Vicki Spann, Jill Spencer, and Ladda Purdie were presented with the Champion of Champions Triples trophy. Carol Crosbie of Airlie Beach received the Champion of Champions Pairs trophy for the third consecutive year, having won the title alongside Joan McGrath. Sarina’s Leanne McGeough was awarded the Champion of Champions Singles trophy, and Ladda Purdie was recognized as “Player of the Year,” receiving a standing ovation for her inspiring acceptance speech. Lydia McCarthy, president of North Mackay ladies, proudly accepted the Premier Shield on behalf of her team.
The club continues to make strides in both social and competitive bowls, fostering a sense of community and sporting achievement.
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Contributed with thanks to Betty Whitehorn.

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Ladda Purdie was celebrated as MDLBA Player of the Year!

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