Cannonvale Cannons swimmers delivered stellar performances at the 2025 Queensland Sprint Championships, held last weekend at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre. This high-energy competition focused on speed, with each swimmer limited to four 50-metre sprint events in their age group. Older competitors with qualifying times could also enter the open-age category, with congratulations going to Ella Bounden, who qualified in Backstroke and Butterfly at the Open level!
A strong 23-member squad represented the Cannons, including Charlie Doherty, Tyler Bennett, Nelson Malady, Jax Clayworth, Levi Smith, Declan Dichiera, Liam Filewood, Ruby Harland, Ruby Lawson, Evie Doherty, Indi Smith, Koa Harland, Andie Reynolds, Ella Bounden, Roxy Groom, Gracie Laguna, Millie Groom, Matilda Nicholes, Celeste Orenshaw, Addie Sanders, and Mackenzie Bennett.
The journey to Brisbane was not without its challenges. After weather caused all Friday flights from Proserpine to be cancelled, families scrambled to rearrange travel plans, many driving or booking alternative flights to ensure their swimmers competed. Unfortunately, the Trefz family were unable to make it out and our thoughts were with Zach and Alex who were both super keen to compete.
A special mention goes to our 10-year-old debutants—Liam Filewood, Levi Smith, Mackenzie Bennett, Evie Doherty, and Koa Harland—who competed in their first-ever state championship.
Several swimmers achieved personal bests (PBs) in every event, including Ruby Harland, Gracie Laguna, Celeste Orenshaw, Andie Reynolds, Indi Smith, Declan Dichiera, and Jax Clayworth.
Jax Clayworth delivered an exceptional performance on the state stage, proving himself as one of Queensland’s top young sprinters. Qualifying for two finals against the best in the state is no small feat, and Jax rose to the occasion with incredible swims.
In the 11-year-old 50m Breaststroke final, he powered through the competition to secure an impressive 5th place, and in the 50m Butterfly, he showcased his speed and technique to finish 6th in Queensland.
Congratulations to all swimmers for their outstanding efforts! Your determination made the Cannons proud!

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Story and Photos contributed by Jade Korosec
Our 10-Year-old debutants excited for their first state meet
Jax Clayworth with coaches Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson
The 2025 Queensland State Sprint Team

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On the Australia Day Holiday we responded to a call for help from one of our members at Gloucester Island. Their 5.5 metre half cabin had sunk and they were stranded on the beach in pouring rain. They were bailing it out at low tide, but would need a tow home. A lot of their gear had been lost, most tragically an esky full of liquid survival rations!
The tow was spectacular with waves breaking over VMR1, pounding rain and the half cabin threatening to sink again on the end of the tow line. The fishers had opted to stay on board of their vessel to bail as she was taking on rain and sea water.
The best tow speed we could do was 5 knots as the half cabin's bow kept dipping dangerously low into the waves. Our crew were on "tender hooks" every time the little boat disappeared in a wave trough and waited with baited breath to see if it would rise above the crest.
Well, it did every time, and after 5 hours the VMR1 re-entered Coral Sea Marina with some very tired but grateful fishermen, who did not have much to pay for the service because they were wisely members.
The day was not over for the VMR crew who still had to refuel, pack up and then attend an administrative meeting, not getting home until 9pm. Thanks to Skipper Ken, Bill, Donna and Rodney for completing the rescue.
Another recent VMR event was the honour bestowed on Ray Lewis, one of our Life Members, by Rotary Airlie Beach, being inducted as a Paul Harris Fellow. After 24 years of very active service in every leadership role we have, Ray is still going strong in the service of his community. He is a senior trainer, Search and Rescue Coordinator and very active skipper.
If you would like to join our squadron please visit our website, https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/

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Contributed by Shane Newell, President Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsundays.
Two of the VMR team take the tender out to the half cabin at low tide. Photo Supplied: Shane Newell
The half cabin on the tow line cresting a wave. Photo Supplied: Shane Newell

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Mackay's biggest sport and recreation sign-on event is only days away.

The Mackay Sport and Rec Expo will feature more than 100 clubs on display, creating a one-stop shop for sport and recreation opportunities.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was exciting to see so many local clubs get on board and support the annual expo.

“This year’s event will be action-packed, with a range of active zone activities and demonstrations throughout the day and all the usual prizes and competitions, such as nominate your favourite club and random draws,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The event is free to attend and will include more than 100 interactive booths, an active zone area in the south foyer, a demo zone in the north foyer and activities outside,” he said. 

“The outdoor activities will include a dog obedience demonstration, rugby league pass-the-ball activity, Scouts’ rope bridge, triathlon and wood chopping demonstrations.

“The event planning team is also excited about a drag car demonstration that will be available in the MECC carpark. 

“In an effort to make the event more inclusive and accessible, we'll also have a relaxed session at the start of the event. 

“The relaxed session is for people who appreciate a quieter environment. The doors to the MECC will be opened, lights turned down and sound levels kept to a minimum.

“Attendees are invited to nominate their favourite sport and recreation club at the event for a chance to win the club a $500 merchandise voucher, thanks to in-kind sponsor Brand Factor.

“One person who nominates their favourite club will also win a Brand Factor sports merchandise pack, valued at $100, and some Gold Coast Suns memorabilia.”

Harrup Park Country Club and its Great Barrier Reef Arena have again become bronze sponsors this year.

Other sponsors for the event include media partners Star 101.9, 4MK and 7 News Mackay.
The event will be held Sunday, 9th February, from 9am to 1pm, with Star 101.9 broadcasting live.

For more information, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/sportexpo

Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Gymnastics in Mackay has flourished over the past two decades, becoming a cornerstone of the community's commitment to health, fitness, and personal development. Leading this movement is Mackay Gymnastics Inc., a dynamic club that has been serving the region since 2005. The club offers a wide array of programs tailored to individuals of all ages and abilities, ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of movement.
One of the standout features of Mackay Gymnastics is its inclusivity. The club caters to participants from as young as four months to those over 80 years old. Programs range from Baby Gym and Kindergym to adult gymnastics, ensuring that age is no barrier to participation. Additionally, the GymAbility program is specifically designed to accommodate all levels of physical and mental ability, highlighting the club's dedication to accessibility.
The club's philosophy, "Gymnastics for All," is evident in its diverse offerings. Recreational classes are available for those who enjoy gymnastics without the pressure of competition, including disciplines such as Women's and Men's Gymnastics, Acrobatics, Trampoline, and Free G. For those seeking a more competitive edge, there are structured programs that provide rigorous training and opportunities to compete at various levels.
mackaygymnastics.org.au

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All you have to do is “just start”- and the North Queensland Sports Foundation (NQSF) is here to help you do exactly that! Thinking about joining a local sporting club, hosting your own event, or just looking for new ways to get active? The Mackay Sport & Rec Expo is your chance to connect with the organisation that’s been driving grassroots sports across North Queensland for over 40 years.

Founded in 1983 following the success of the Brisbane Commonwealth Games, NQSF was established to encourage and promote sport and active recreation across the region. Today, it continues to champion local clubs and athletes through initiatives like the biennial North Queensland Games, the NQ Sportstar Awards, and the Move It NQ program, which has injected between $2.5–$3 million into local sports clubs and activity providers since 2018.

More than just an event organiser, NQSF also plays a crucial role in advocating for regional athletes, breaking down barriers to sports participation in remote areas, and reinvesting revenue directly back into its community-driven initiatives.

“Next year, we’re bringing the NQ Games back to Mackay for the first time since 2018,” said NQSF Chief Executive Officer Alexander Fisher.

“We’re a non-profit organisation, so any revenue we earn goes directly back into our events portfolio.”

Mr. Fisher emphasised the often-overlooked social and emotional benefits of sports involvement, encouraging community members to consider volunteer roles for personal growth and stronger local connections.

“Being involved in a sports club or community obviously can have physical health benefits, but we’ve overlooked the social and emotional wellbeing benefits for so long!

“If you’re looking for growth, you can even try applying for a volunteer board or committee position – they’re nowhere near as frightening as you think and you’ll be more connected to your local community.”

Attendees will also get a sneak peek at the re-launch of the free Move It NQ app in March, designed to list nearly every sports club and recreation activity across North Queensland.

If you're passionate about sport - whether as an athlete, volunteer, or supporter - this expo is your chance to get involved.

Expressions of interest for the 2026 NQ Games are now open!

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As the highly anticipated barramundi season kicks off, fishing enthusiasts, families, and holidaymakers across the country are invited to gear up for Mackay Isaac’s Lucky Catch and Snap fishing competition, set to take place from April 5 to April 26, 2025, across the breathtaking Mackay Isaac region.

Mackay Isaac Tourism Interim CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris said Mackay Isaac’s Lucky Catch and Snap has established itself as a significant fishing event in Queensland.

“In just two years, it is the largest fishing event in the Central and North Queensland region and second only to the Boyne Tannum Hookup in scale,” Mr Stewart-Harris said. 

“At its core, Lucky Catch and Snap is an adventure that celebrates the thrill of fishing in our region while offering anglers of all skill levels the chance to win a share of an incredible $10,000 Lucky Fish jackpot.

“In 2022, we saw over 1,000 total participants with 782 direct registrations in the event submitting over 2,000 catches in the Lucky Catch and Snap app.

“The competition, which now falls over the Easter school holidays, is expected to attract visitors from across Australia, boosting tourism and showcasing the natural beauty of the Mackay Isaac Region. 

“Unlike some of our neighbouring regions, the Mackay Isaac region is fortunate to have access to coastal, estuary and dam fishing locations teeming with barramundi, threadfin salmon, and more, providing the opportunity to target many species all year around. 

“We did a soft launch of the competition earlier in the month into Southeast Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria and we’ve already seen a strong uptake in registrations from keen anglers, mostly from across Queensland but also into New South Wales.

“With Barra Season opening tomorrow (1st February), there’s a real buzz around the region so it’s timely to launch Lucky Catch and Snap locally today”.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the Lucky Catch and Snap fishing competition is the perfect opportunity for visitors to ‘reel in’ a new adventure.

“Our region is Australia’s premier recreational fishing destination, offering everything from iconic barramundi in our dams, to hard-hitting offshore deep-sea fish like tuna and Mackerel,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Held in the April school holidays; Lucky Catch and Snap introduces a whole new generation to the thrill of fishing but also invites visitors to our region to experience what we have for themselves”.

Isaac Regional Councillor Viv Coleman said fishing is more than just a pastime in the Mackay Isaac region — it’s a major lifestyle attraction.

“Camping, boating, and fishing are at the heart of Mackay Isaac life, and we’re inviting everyone to experience the magic of our backyard with a rod and reel,” Cr Coleman said.

“From the breathtaking coastal gems of St Lawrence, Clairview and Carmila to the outback paradise of Theresa Creek Dam near Clermont, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone — and a great chance to land your catch of the day.

“A massive shoutout to the Clermont Fish Stocking Group for their incredible efforts over the last 20-odd years. Thanks to their dedication, Theresa Creek Dam has become a go-to destination for freshwater fishing enthusiasts.”

Lucky Catch and Snap Details

The Lucky Catch and Snap competition features the exciting Lucky Fish draw, where participants could reel in cash prizes starting at $500 and jackpotted by $500 daily, reaching a maximum of $10,000. 

Each day, anglers are encouraged to fish in one the 20 pre-promoted destinations across the region. Each day at 6pm, a random draw will determine:
-  A fish species available at that location
- A specific length for the selected species.
Catch a fish that matches all three criteria and register it via the Lucky Catch and Snap app to claim the prize!

Key Event Dates:
- Open Day: April 5 at Theresa Creek Dam
- Closing Day: April 26 at Kinchant Dam
For more information, visit www.luckycatchandsnap.com.au or follow @luckycatchandsnap on social media.

Lucky Catch and Snap is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.

Mackay Isaac Tourism Interim CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris encourages locals to join the Lucky Catch and Snap fishing competition in Mackay Isaac from April 5-26, 2025, for a chance to win a share of the $10,000 jackpot. Photo supplied

A Clever Deal: The Fun of Learning Bridge

If you’re looking for a game that challenges the mind, fosters real connections, and is just plain fun, Bridge is calling your name. Often described as a gym workout for the brain, this time-honoured card game blends strategy, problem-solving, and teamwork, making it both an entertaining and mentally stimulating pursuit. And the best part? You don’t have to be a card shark to dive in.

Whether your schedule favours a morning start on Tuesday, February 11th at 9:00 AM or an evening session on Wednesday, February 12th at 6:30 PM, there’s a lesson time to suit you. Over six weeks, experienced teachers will guide you through the fundamentals, followed by supervised play sessions to build confidence.

More than just a game, Bridge is a doorway to meaningful social interactions. The Mackay Contract Bridge Club isn’t just about the cards—it’s about camaraderie, travel, and laughter. Members compete in tournaments across Queensland and the whole of Australia and enjoy friendly weekly competitions here in Mackay. Studies even suggest that engaging the mind in strategic games like Bridge can boost immunity—making this not just a smart choice but a healthy one too!

For just $35, this course offers unbeatable value, plus a $5 discount with the presentation of a promotional sheet or this advertisement. Sessions are held at 414 Shakespeare Street.

Ready to challenge yourself? Get ready to deal yourself into the world’s most captivating card game!

Contact Francie at 0402 437 919 or email bridgemackay@gmail.com

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Visitor Lia getting some insight into the fabulous game of bridge on Australia Day from Jan Harris, Sandra Morris, Julie O’Neill and Tricia Garner. Photo supplied

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Due to recent excessive rain, the Central QLD Blokart Club has announced the postponement of the "Come and Try" days. The heavy rain has caused water to leach from the sand dunes behind the beach, creating a "sand trap" that bogs down the Blokarts. As the water can take a couple of weeks to disperse after a rain event, the decision has been made to reschedule the event.

The Central QLD Blokart Club sincerely apologises for any inconvenience, stating, "We at Central QLD Blokart Club apologise…but Mother Nature has the last say.”

Those eager to “Come and Try” can join in on the fun in March.

The club is currently preparing for the Capricornia Blokart Club’s event at Mulambin Beach from February 21st to 23rd.

Rescheduled Dates:
8th March - Cape Hillsborough Beach from 11:00am
9th March - Bucasia Beach (Starboard Circuit entrance) from 1:00pm (weather permitting)

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Last Saturday, Rugby Park in Rockhampton hosted a thrilling junior rugby trial featuring the Mackay Cutters junior squads competing against the CQ Capras. The event highlighted up-and-coming talent across four key teams: the Mal Meninga Cup, Cyril Connell Cup, and Harvey Norman U19s.

With teams eager to make their mark, the day provided an exciting glimpse into the future of rugby league in the region.

Before the game kicked off, enthusiasm and optimism were abundant. Marco Peters, Head of Women’s Pathways and BMD Head Coach, expressed excitement for the event, particularly regarding the progress within the women’s squads. He noted that changes in the 17s program had brought in new coaching leadership, adding to the overall excitement.

Peters highlighted the team’s progress, especially with the 17s, who had transitioned from an academy program last year to now entering a crucial preseason phase.

"They’re all just excited…to play a bit of footy," he enthused.

With nearly half of the 30-strong squad being promoted from junior ranks, the focus was on competing with and without the ball, with skills set to develop as the season progressed.

The opportunity for team bonding during the road trip was also noted as key to their growth.

Andrew Battaia, Head Coach of the Mal Meninga Cup and Head of Pathways, shared his thoughts on the preparations leading up to the trial. He expressed satisfaction with the squad's progress, having managed to train through a mix of dry weather and rain, working on team shapes and structures.

"Both sides are looking pretty good," Battaia commented, referring to the 17s and 19s squads.

With the inclusion of Cowboys-allocated players, Battaia was confident in the strength of his squad and made special mention of the hooker of the team, whom he described as a work-horse on the field.

While the weather posed challenges, with conditions shifting from overcast skies to wet and slushy field conditions, both teams adapted and played on.

"The weather definitely affected us," Battaia noted.

However, the teams did well to adjust to the wet footy conditions, something Battaia stressed as an important lesson.

"Defence has been a real focus for us."

The Junior Trial Day saw mixed results across the squads, with some strong performances despite the weather conditions. In the Mal Meninga Cup, Mackay secured a solid 24-16 win, showcasing promising individual performances.

"The 17 boys had a really good win, a lot of really good individual performances," said Battaia post-game.

In the Cyril Connell Cup, the Cutters also came out on top with a 20-8 victory, reflecting the depth of talent coming through the ranks.

In the women’s Harvey Norman U19s, the game ended in a 4-4 draw, a hard-fought battle in challenging conditions. Battaia reflected positively on the performance, remarking that while the 17 girls suffered an 18-0 loss, they had “probably blown a few of the cobwebs out,” marking it as a learning opportunity.

Looking ahead, he emphasised the importance of continued focus on defence, structures, and adjusting to the conditions, as the teams gear up for a great season ahead.

Final Results From The Junior Trial Day:
Mal Meninga Cup: 16-24 (win)
Cyril Connell Cup: 8-20 (win)
Harvey Norman U19’s: 4-4 (draw)
Harvey Norman U17’s: 18-0 (loss)

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Head Coach of the Mal Meninga Cup and Head of Pathways Andrew Battaia and Head of Women’s Pathways and BMD Head Coach Marco Peters praised the effort across all teams, highlighting strong individual performances, key learnings, and the importance of adapting to tough conditions.

Head Coach of the Mal Meninga Cup and Head of Pathways Andrew Battaia

Head of Women’s Pathways and BMD Head Coach Marco Peters. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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With the Sinkers Masters Swimming Club in full swing for 2025, members are swimming in numbers in preparation for upcoming events. The long weekend provided plenty of opportunities for members to engage in club activities and broader community events.

Friday 24th marked the first club night with 17 attendees, learning the finer skills of race starts, turns, and finishes. Members were offered 2 x 25m, 1 x 50m, and a single 100m event to test their skills and fitness. Many learned that to race fast, the same intensity must be applied to training sessions to build the fitness for a race environment, regardless of the level of performance.

Saturday 25th was a super Saturday, with members attending Memorial Pool to participate in the E1000 program, a series of 62 swims in a calendar year. The Saturday choice was a 30-minute freestyle swim to earn points and move into contention for the State and National E1000 trophies.

Additionally, club executives had out-of-water activities to attend at the MRC Australia Day awards, where the club was nominated in the Community Group category. The club was recognised and awarded the category based on its community involvement and initiatives. Members were honoured to be considered, and it reflected well on the club’s efforts.

On Sunday 26th, Australia Day, the Mackay Tri Club held an aquathlon at Pioneer Pool and Goose Ponds Track. Members participated in the run-swim formula, securing podium places in a number of events, and enjoyed the most Aussie of all traditions – a snag on bread with sauce and onions, of course!

For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

Friday night Club night, timing of events provides a great base to build on. The 25m event is always fast and furious.
The ever-popular Social Saturday Jim Session drew some 30 swimmers with many swimming the E1000 30-minute event.
Club executive and members with the Community Group Award from the MRC Australia Day awards.
Back row L – R: Megan Taylor, Geoff Robinson, Rachel Mundy, Alison Dravitzki, Millie Volpe and Sue Dalton
Front row L – R:  Pierre Craven, Dan Stampa and Nigel Dalton. Photos supplied‍

The Mackay Triathlon Club hosted a great Australia day event with a sponsored aquathlon. The Sinkers not known for their running prowess managed to place well!

Submitted by
Dan Stampa
Vice President
North Mackay Sinkers
Masters Swimming Club
0413 805 156
26.01.2025

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A strongly-contested doubles tournament hit off the 2025 year for Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning players.

Winners were George Camilleri in Division 1 with 153 points and John Hamelink in Division 2 with 152 points.

It’s an unusual competition in which players rotate partners and play first to 31 while keeping track of their total scores.

The morning finished with presentations by fixtures organiser Steve Mathieson to winning team members from the last season of 2024 along with other awards.

Division 1 went to the Nano Nets team of Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Veronica Shepherd and Peter Goodson, and Division 2 to Sydney Slammers (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller and Darryl Ross).

Don Boettcher was presented with medals from the Mackay Closed in which he was division 2 singles runner-up and division 2 doubles winner.

A new season of Tuesday morning fixtures has started. The fixtures are open to players of all standards and ages. Call Steve on 0418 700 236 for more information.

Tuesday morning fixtures doubles tournament winners George Camilleri and John Hamelink with organiser Steve Mathieson. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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The Bruce Highway is no stranger to headlines, often making news for its much-needed upgrades. But this week, it’s in the spotlight for a very different reason.
While not typically known as a prime fishing destination in the Whitsundays, the highway unexpectedly became a hotspot for local angler Kent Rasmussen. Amid the recent floods, Kent saw an opportunity he couldn’t resist, making light of the situation as he cast his line.
Although the highway is prone to flooding during the wet season, Kent, who has been fishing in these waters since he was nine, is no stranger to the changes in the landscape. On this particular outing, he managed to hook a remarkable catch—a Barramundi weighing around 10kg, in floodwaters that were barely a metre deep.
Kent, along with his friends, regularly reels in Barramundi and carp in the area, but the size of this particular fish was a pleasant surprise.

“I was surprised I caught one that big!” Kent stated.
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Throughout the day, every cast seemed to bring in a fish around 60cm in length, making for an exceptionally productive outing. Despite the impressive catch, Kent decided to release the Barramundi back into the water, choosing conservation over keeping it.
Community members quickly took to Facebook to celebrate Kent Rasmussen's victory:
“Great Fish!” exclaimed Stuart Jenkin.
“Now that's fishing!” added Joanne Amor.
However, many others voiced concerns, with some mentioning the possibility of crocodiles lurking in the area, urging Kent to stay safe while fishing there.
Kent’s impressive fishing success is certainly a highlight, but the recent flooding raises important questions about its potential impact on the region's wildlife.
While Kent's rare catch is impressive, it also highlights how floodwaters can significantly disrupt fish populations. The altered environments can affect habitats, reduce oxygen levels, and change food availability due to increased organic matter. On the flip side, floods can also offer short-term benefits for some fish species. They may introduce new food sources or even serve as temporary nursery grounds for young fish, depending on the flood's severity and the species in question.
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Kent Rasmussen with the 10kg Barra he caught in the highway floods. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Bowen Polocrosse Club is celebrating its 36th year and is always excited to welcome new players of all ages. Whether you’re a first-time rider, an experienced equestrian, or someone returning to the sport, they’re here to help you have a great time on the field at their Fun Day on March 1st.
Polocrosse – the thrilling Aussie sport that combines the best of polo, lacrosse, and netball. Played on horseback by both men and women, this outdoor team sport is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure that brings together skill, speed, and strategy.
In polocrosse, each player uses a unique cane stick, designed with a net head to catch, carry, and pass a thick, rubber ball. The ball itself is around the size of a softball and can be bounced, picked up off the ground, and tossed towards the goal.
What makes polocrosse stand out even more is how it’s a family-oriented sport. The game’s inclusive nature means families can play together, in fact, it’s not uncommon to see players in their 60’s and 70’s out on the field versing their grandchildren, making polocrosse a lifelong passion for all ages.
Want to give it a go? Join the Bowen Polocrosse Club for Fun Day on 1st March! Whatever your horse-riding skill level, or just curious about this thrilling sport, this is your chance to come and try polocrosse. Expect fun games and prizes, sausage sizzle lunch, free camping and amenities, barrels, bending, and more – with a Polo-X Twist!
Remember to bring your own horse, helmets and appropriate riding gear. For more information, email bowenpolox@outlook.com or call Jess Russell at 0429 181 002.
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WHAT: Bowen Polocrosse Club Fun Day
WHEN: March 1st, from 9am
WHERE: Bowen Polocrosse Grounds, Woodlands Road

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Come try out polocrosse this March 1st! Photos Supplied: Ellisa Hunter

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Ryan Donnelly, a fourth-generation wood chopper, is carving his name into the annals of Australia's wood chopping history. As a proud representative of Queensland’s Under 21’s team at the prestigious Royal Sydney Show in 2025, Ryan's 2024 season has been nothing short of a triumph in the competitive world of wood chopping. Starting at the Biloela Callide Valley in May, Ryan's journey took him to events across Queensland, from Pioneer Valley to Mackay, and all the way up to Cairns.
The Donnelly family's deep connection to the sport goes back decades, with Ryan’s father, Graeme, reintegrating himself into the sport to pass on his knowledge and expertise to his son, who began wood chopping in 2018. Ryan’s rise within the sport is a testament to both his natural talent and the unwavering support from his father, who also serves as his coach and mentor, along with his colleagues, friends and teammates in the Queensland Axemen’s Association.
The Association, along with the newly established Mackay and District Wood Chopping Association (MAD), have been instrumental in fostering local talent like Ryan. MAD, formed in 2022, was created with the mission of giving both children and adults the chance to train locally and remain connected to the sport, especially when it comes to entering shows.
Ryan’s accomplishments in 2024 alone are nothing short of impressive. At the Mackay Show, he won the Gordon Argent Memorial 12-inch Standing Block title for the second time since 2022, adding to his B Grade Championship win in the 280mm Standing Block. He also triumphed in the 280mm Combo Relay, where his father chopped the Standing Block, and Ryan teamed up for the Underhanded chop. His third-place finish in the Parent/Child Relay Underhand Chop was yet another nod to the strong family ties that fuel his passion for the sport.
At the Proserpine Show, Ryan’s dominance continued as he scooped up the Points Trophy, which came with a Husqvarna chainsaw prize, thanks to the sponsorship from Proserpine Machinery Service. He took home first-place finishes in the Darren Johnston Memorial 250mm Standing Block, Tree Felling, and 280mm Underhand events. In a remarkable achievement for any competitor, he also came first in the 300mm Underhand competition.
Ryan’s skills weren’t just confined to his home region with great success at the Cairns Show, where he won the coveted Harry Hooper Memorial Trophy for Highest Points. A win in the 12-inch Standing Block, 12-inch Underhand, and 10-inch Standing Block events solidified his top wood-chopping reputation.
For his mum, Judi Worrall, seeing her son achieve these successes fills her with joy. “I am incredibly proud of my son’s achievements,” she says. “Ryan learns so much from other competitors on the circuit and makes long-lasting friendships.”

As Ryan heads into the 2025 season, all eyes will be on him at the Royal Sydney Show, where he will represent Queensland’s Under 21’s team. The future looks bright for this young athlete, whose love for the sport continues to drive him toward new challenges. Wood chopping has long been a sport that celebrates tradition, strength, and camaraderie, and with rising stars like Ryan Donnelly, its future is in very capable hands.

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Contributed with thanks by Judi Worrall
Ryan and the Queensland Axemen’s Association. Photo Supplied: Judi Worrall
Ryan competing in the Cairn’s Show. Photo Supplied: Judi Worrall
Ryan competing in the Tree Felling Competition. Photo Supplied: Judi Worrall

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Whilst we all yearn for the overhead cover to be completed on our bowls green, we lament on the damage done caused by firstly the heat associated with North Queensland weather and now the cyclonic conditions have saturated the carpet and no play was possible this week and with fingers crossed we are all praying that the system dissipates as soon as possible and all stay safe.

With no games to report on, the club wants to acknowledge the fantastic assistance and proof that anything is possible, no matter the to attain success. This applies to a wonderful couple, married of 27 years, Russel and Diane Jackson who are absolute superstars providing us all with inspiration.

Russell has never let his deafness be a disability and has achieved wonderful success in disability games, winning Deaf Bowler for Queensland in 1923 and 1924, as well as pairs success with Noel Crosbie. Russell has won the 2021 Men's A Division Singles, the 2019/2020 B Division Pairs, and the 2019 Open Men's Triples. From 2018 to 2024, he was part of the Men's Open 2-Bowl Triples team, a fantastic feat. He was also the 2019 to 2021 Men's Open Fours champion and the 2019 Mixed Triples champion.
Diane Jackson is the Ladies Secretary of our club, and although she suffers from hereditary Spastic Paraplegia, a very rare condition that caused her medical discharge after 27 years in the RAAF, she has excelled. She progressed from Supply Clerk to Health and Safety Chemical Projects Manager and performed admirably in the Armed Forces Olympic Games, winning 2 Gold Medals in 2024. Di has also won the 2018 Novice Ladies Singles Championship and the 2023 B Division Pairs Championship. She is truly a legend in our club.

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Di Jackson and her winning medals. Photo and Story Supplied by Mark Mawson

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