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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Proserpine Veterans Golf welcomed back Captain Gary and Elspeth after their overseas travels. It was a sweltering day for the 25 veteran golfers who participated in the November Monthly Medal and least putts competition, marking the final Monthly Medal event for the 2024 season. Despite the heat, there were some impressive performances, particularly from Paula McQuat and Peter Fox, while John Wallace and Peter Lindsay also posted strong scores. It’s remarkable how quickly the end of the competition year has approached.
In the ladies’ division, Paula McQuat emerged victorious with a remarkable 66 nett, followed by Anna Winterbourn as runner-up with a score of 74. The run-down included Tina Badenhorst and Leanne Alexander with 75 nett, and Kathryn Borer with 77 nett.
On the men’s side, Peter Fox delivered an excellent 67 nett to secure the win, while John Wallace finished as runner-up with 71 nett after a countback. The run-down saw John Oates with 71 nett, and Vic Feldman, Neil Cawthorne, and Craig McLean each with 72 nett. Warren Deighton, Barry Mortimer, and Nic Appruzzese completed the run-down with scores of 73 nett.
Pin shots were fiercely contested. In the ladies’ category, Paula McQuat claimed all three pin shots for B Grade on the 5th, 9th, and 16th holes, while the A graders saw Leanne Alexander take the 5th, Tiina Randmae the 9th, and Tina Badenhorst the 16th. For the men, John Wallace excelled in A Grade with pin shots on the 2nd and 13th holes, while Laurie Dakin secured the 7th. B Grade pin shots were claimed by Peter Lindsay on the 2nd, Neil Cawthorne on the 7th, and John Oates on the 13th.
Paula McQuat also stood out with the least putts for the ladies, while Craig McLean and Peter Lindsay shared the honor in the men’s division. Notable chip-ins came from Anna Winterbourn, Leanne Alexander, Laurie Dakin, and Peter Lindsay.
Looking ahead, the upcoming event on Tuesday, 19 November, is a 2-ball Ambrose, so participants are encouraged to team up with their partners and join in the fun.
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Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat.

Celebrated November Monthly Medal winner, Peter Fox.

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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 multipurpose 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 90,000 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 on 0448407715 or Lorraine on 0417 773 904.

Contributed with thanks to Lorraine Christiansen.

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A spectacular arrival! A drone photo of the new Gloucester Sport & Recreation Association courts.
A few Gloucester Pickleball members celebrating Halloween in style.
Pickleballers enjoying a game on the Montes Tennis Court.

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Mackay Tri Club is thrilled to welcome you to the Australia Day Aquathlon on January 26, 2025. This free, family-friendly event promises a fun and active way for people of all ages and fitness levels to celebrate the national holiday.

Supported by a National Australia Day Council grant and Triple M Mackay and Whitsundays, this year’s Aquathlon aims to bring participants together for a memorable day of fitness, camaraderie and fun!

With a heavy focus on enjoyment rather than competition, the event offers individuals and families an opportunity to enjoy the thrill of the race, connect with others, and make it the best Australia Day yet.

Mackay Tri Club President Stephanie Allen shared her excitement about the event, saying, “We’re excited to bring this free event to Mackay thanks to the support of the National Australia Day Council and Triple M.

“Australia Day is about unity, and our club believes in making sports accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

“The Aquathlon offers an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to come together, celebrate our country, and take part in a fun, healthy, and memorable event,” she added.

Australia Day presents a unique chance for the community to connect and, as the National Australia Day Council states, “We Are All in This Together.”

In addition to the event, participants can enjoy a free BBQ to round off the Australia Day festivities. The Aquathlon will not only celebrate Australia Day but will also mark 38 years of Mackay Tri Club’s dedication to bringing high-quality triathlon and multisport events to the region.

Mackay Tri Club has been a cornerstone of the Mackay community for 38 years, offering a range of multisport events for athletes of all levels, as well as free training for members and an affordable “Try Before You Buy” 8-week membership for new participants.

“To celebrate 38 years of our club is massive,” Stephanie said.

“As a not-for-profit, it’s run entirely by dedicated volunteers, from the president to our young juniors and their parents.”

In honour of this milestone, the club has introduced several new initiatives for 2025. This includes two newly certified Triathlon Australia volunteer coaches who will offer free group sessions focusing on beginner swim, bike, and run skills, as well as race transitions.

In addition, a women-only 6-week training program has been launched with the support of local businesses, leading up to the 25th annual Sonya Brazil Memorial Women’s Triathlon on February 23, 2025. The milestone event will honour past winners and bring together athletes for a special celebration.

Stephanie said, “In 2025, we have partnered with the Trudy Crowly Foundation for this race to raise vital funds for them and to also raise awareness of the club and sport to a wider audience.

“We are excited to see what the next 10 years hold and hope that the Aquathlon attracts some new faces to our sport and our club to carry us through the next 10 years,”

With limited spots available, Mackay Tri Club encourages early registration.

Register now at: https://triathlonaustralia.justgo.com/Workbench/i/r/public/EventsAndBookingsPublic/browse/?provider=167513

For more details, visit www.mackaytriclub.com.au or email info@mackaytriclub.com.au.

What: Mackay Tri Club’s Australia Day Aquathlon
When: January 26, 2025; Athlete Check-in 6.30am-Racing from 7.30am
Where: Pioneer Swim Centre

   • Event Details and Distances:
   • MINI KIDS (5-7 years): 50m Swim, 500m Run
   • MINI KIDS (7-9 years): 100m Swim, 1km Run
   • MINI KIDS (10-11 years): 150m Swim, 1.5km Run
   • ENTICER (12+): 2.5km Run, 300m Swim
   • SPRINT (13+): 2.5km Run, 300m Swim, 2.5km Run, 300m Swim

Mackay Tri Club invites you to their Australia Day Aquathlon that’s set to be an amazing day full of fitness, camaraderie and fun. Photos supplied

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Mackay cricket stars Dharmini Chauhan and Tracee Williamson are set to don the green and gold as part of the Women’s Indigenous Squad, showcasing their talent at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground this week.

Chauhan, from Magpies Cricket Club, and Williamson, representing Sarina Cricket Association and Pioneer Valley Cricket Club, are preparing for an unforgettable experience on one of cricket's grandest stages.

Earlier this week, the duo attended the National Indigenous Training Camp, immersing themselves in a week of high-intensity training, cultural exchange, and competitive matches against top-tier opponents.

“This is a phenomenal achievement for Dharmini and Tracee,” a Mackay Cricket Association spokesperson said.

“Their dedication and skill make our region incredibly proud, and we’re thrilled to see them represent not only Mackay but also Indigenous cricket on a national platform.”

Both players are eager to bring their A-game, honouring their heritage while inspiring the next generation of cricketers.

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Mackay Magpies continue to rule the roost in the 2024-25 Mackay Cricket Association Poole Cup first grade competition.

Having chalked up seven consecutive victories after seven rounds, the undefeated Magpies (65 points) have opened up a sizeable lead from second placed Walkerston (36 points).
An unbeaten 51 by number four Jaxn Sign piloted the premiership pacesetters to a seven wicket triumph over Norths Devils last
Saturday in their one day clash at Great Barrier Reef Arena.
Sign faced thirty seven balls and clobbered three sixes and four boundaries – sharing a third wicket partnership of 78 with Joseph Hackney (34) to help the Magpies (3-128) eclipse the Devils total of 127.
Conor Bryant (3-32 off eight overs) and Wesley Dyer (2-17 off eight) spearheaded the Magpies attack.
Walkerston (8-234) registered a pulsating fifteen run win over Brothers (219) at Jack Lancaster Oval.
Electing to bat first after winning the toss, the Roosters posted a huge tally with dashing half centuries from number three Luke Jackson (94) and Russell Deguara (54).
The capable Jackson faced 106 balls and smashed three sixes and nine boundaries while Deguara hit nine boundaries and a six from his 41 balls with the pair adding 82 runs for the fifth wicket.
Mitch Wadsworth (3-52) and Kobie Duvenhage (2-42) were the pick of the Brothers bowlers.

Wadsworth cracked 55 off forty seven balls and Duvenhage (38 off forty two balls) before Brothers were dismissed just short of their target in the 39th over.

Pace duo Chris McEldowney (4-32 off eight overs) and Nick Lotarski (2-37) and Scott Randles (2-20) made an impact with the ball for the Roosters.

Souths (5-181) recorded a five-wicket victory over Pioneer Valley (177) in their fixture at George Gorrie Oval.

Kellen Powell starred for the Sharks with an unbeaten 90 off ninety four balls.
The flamboyant number four clobbered eight sixes and four boundaries in a super knock to bring up a dominant win in the 38th over.

Sharks’ skipper Cameron Keene hit 32 runs and Andrew Morris (23) with Andrew McNichol grabbing 2-26 for the Valley.
Mahesh Rajaratne top scored for Pioneer Valley with a stylish 41 off thirty one balls including five boundaries and two sixes) plus solid contributions from teenager Haiden Mellifont (38 off fifty balls with five boundaries), McNichol (36 from twenty nine balls) and Zac Wilson (21 not out).

Harrison Holmes (2-17 off six), Keene (2-23) and quick Rocklyn Miller (2-39 off eight) shared the bowling honours for the Sharks.

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Rising schoolgirl cricketers Matilda Wiggins and Kiana Dunn continue to inspire their male counterparts in the Mackay Junior Cricket Association.

The talented duo showed why they are regarded two of the region’s outstanding prospects after cracking unbeaten half centuries in one day junior Under 15 mixed fixtures last weekend.

Kiana, an Australian Indoor Cricket representative, smashed 97 not out for Norths Devils in a thumping win over Walkerston Green at George Gorrie Oval.

Opening the batting she faced sixty nine balls and clouted fourteen boundaries in a magnificent knock – sharing a stand of 65 with fellow opener Edan Beel (35).

Matilda hit 67 for Brothers in her side’s one day loss to Magpies White at Roy Trevaskis Oval.

The Mackay-Whitsunday representative and Brothers skipper faced sixty two balls and hit ten boundaries as she and opener Reuben Beardmore (26 retired) played lone hands with the bat.

Despite her heroics, the Brothers line up fell twenty sevens short of their target after the Magpies had earlier posted 4-192 in the 25 overs per side fixture.

Beardmore snared 2-19 off five overs and Wiggins took the new ball where she troubled the Magpies batsmen with her swing bowling.

Both Matilda and Kiana have figured prominently in St Patricks College Mackay’s North Queensland Secondary Schools Twenty 20 trophy winning teams over the past two seasons. They were part of the St Patricks Senior Girls Cricket Team who were named StreetSmart Secondary Schools T20 State Champions in September with convincing wins over Atherton and Matthew Flinders College.

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St Patricks College were named as the 2024 T20 Queensland School Girls Champions

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The North Marine sponsored by Del Ryan Memorial Teams Congress was held in Mackay last weekend – which was a Red Point event. Twelve teams competed for the elusive Red Points. Winners of Section A, Team Brown - Frances and Alan Brown, Diane Morgan and Marilin Robins. Winners of Section B, Team King - Mick King, Richard Wix, Jan Harris and Helen Van Den Broek. Walkins won by Karen Cadwell / Noel Saunders and Mick King / Richard Wix.

Weekly Results
Monday 11 November 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Diane Stokes / Eddie Kliese

2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

3rd
Joy Block / Nancy Wix
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

Tuesday Evening 12 November 2024 –3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
John McGee / Mick King
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
Wednesday 13 November 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

2nd
Antonia Tarradas / Richard Wix
2nd
Diane Stokes / Joy Block

3rd
Marie McGuire / Nancy Wix
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

4th
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
4th
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

Thursday Evening 14 November 2024 –4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
4th
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
Friday 15 November 2024 – Del Ryan Memorial Walkins 9 Table Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Karen Cardwell / Noel Saunders
1st
Mick King / Richard Wix

2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd
Faye Wright / Christine Nice
3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

4th
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
4th
David Ting / Ming Ting

Saturday/Sunday 16/17 November 2024 – Del Ryan Memorial Teams 11 Table Mitchell Red Points
A
Team
Team Members
1st
Brown
Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Diane Morgan / Marilin Robins
2nd
Cameron
Don Camerson / Jan Randall / Adrian Lohmann / Malcolm Allan
3rd
Holewa
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa / Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

B

Team

Team Members
1st
King
Mick King / Richard Wix / Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek
2nd
Limmage
Frances Limmage / Mavis Anderson / Michelle Rau / Lee Chenoweth
3rd
Shuttlewood
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright / Faye Wright / Christine Nice

Contributed By Joy Block

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CMR Goosepond $10,000 Prize Winners
1st Place Winners: Wayne Hennesy, David Mckendry, Chris Woo and Terry Clark.
2ND Peter Blackburn 3RD Brendan Egan
4TH Jason Borg 5th Mick Walsh
6th Manny 7th Wayne Hendley
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Round Winners
   1. Kees Struik
   2. Asko Helenius
   3. Brad Lindenberg
   4. Shane Spawn
   5. Steven Lane

Fun Times At Goosies - A Great Weekend Was Had By All

Left to right: Wayne Hennesy, David Mckendry,Chris Woo and Terry Clark.

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The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club celebrated a remarkable achievement, returning from Airlie Beach with the Club of the Year trophy for the second consecutive year.

Back in Mackay, President Lidia hosted a gathering to celebrate the victory with the club’s members. Individually, Debbie Mackenzie was recognised for her exceptional performance, winning the B Grade Singles, Champion of Champions trophy.

The club’s triumph was further solidified by the strong performances of its Pennant Sides.

Division 1, Division 2, and Division 3 all claimed victory in their respective competitions, while Division 4 finished as runners-up. The combined efforts of the entire club contributed to an outstanding year, showcasing their skill, teamwork, and dedication.

Group with President Lidia holding the Club of the Year Trophy.

Debbie Mackenzie with the Trophy for B Singles Champion of Champions.

Division 1

Division 2

Division 3

Division 4. Photos supplied

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One of the busiest families in the Mackay & District Rugby League Referees' Association (MDRLRA) marked a special milestone this year, showcasing their dedication to the sport and to refereeing.

The Reid family came together to officiate a junior rugby league match, with Scott Reid in the middle, his wife Les-Lee Reid on one sideline and their youngest son Cale, 16, on the other.

The Reids' commitment to refereeing began seven years ago when their eldest son Alex, who is no longer involved, first took up the whistle.

Scott followed a year later, with middle son Ryan also spending time as a match official.

Reflecting on the experience, MDRLRA treasurer Les-Lee Reid, the latest to take up on-field role after many years volunteering in support roles with the association, said it was a great experience to come together on the field for the first time.

"It was actually great, just being together as a family and supporting the association, I’d do it every weekend if we had to," she said.

“It was good just to have us all on one game to see how we all interact with each other.”

Les-Lee said she felt huge support from the members in getting on the field - after a few years of encouragement.

"We had a shortage one weekend and I thought 'Oh, stuff it, I may as well get out there and do it'," she said.

"Not just my boys but other members of the association have been trying to get me to do it for about four years saying 'Come on, get your shoes on and get out there'... and all of a sudden I was out there and I thought, this isn't as bad as I thought it was for all these years.

"Part of it is fitness, but it's also about helping control a game and helping it run smoothly.

"It's nice getting to know all the kids and them getting together and having fun and getting out there and officiating the game they love as well, and that's how we see it, as a family."

Les-Lee said refereeing was particularly valuable for her boys learning how to deal with the pressure of a fast-paced game and how to manage social situations.

"They've got a lot out of it in regard to how to deal with conflict, and their social skills in how to deal with different personalities and make (others) feel they're part of it, but keeping everyone in line," she said.

Retention of junior referees and ultimately moving those old enough into seniors is the focus for the association moving forward, but are hoping to see more older referees - 17 years and up - come forward to bolster the pool available for senior matches.

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Les-Lee Reid took the field alongside her husband Scott and their son Cale, marking a new chapter for the Reid family in rugby league officiating. Photos supplied

Les-Lee, Scott and referee from the GF women's local league Luke McCulloch

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Over forty athletes met at the Aquatic & Recreational Complex (ARC) to take part in the November section of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series Splash and Dash social Biathlon.  The event is being held for the first time this year as a great off-season, very informal training session hosted by Mackay Road Runners. Club Captain, Jim Ford is the man behind the plan, offering a unique switch up to the usual running-only format. 

The 30-minute run followed by the 30-minute swim has been an enjoyable shift in the program as evidenced by over forty competitors signing on each week.  Next Sunday will be the final one for November, however, will return for the final part of the biathlon series on the four Sundays in January 2025. The official start of the 2025 program will commence 16th February.
 
The Mackay Road Runners break in December will be well deserved by many hard-training athletes and volunteers who have had a successful and long 2024, however, most are still training vigorously for upcoming events such as the Hamilton Island Triathlon and the Malaysian Multisport 48-hour event this weekend. 

Publicity Officer Janelle Tilse acknowledged the runners’ efforts and said “All the best to anyone still training and competing in any events, big or small, it’s great to be moving and having fun doing it.
 
 “Mackay Road Runners will be celebrating its 50th birthday in 2026...and we look forward to celebrating with its members, families and the wider community.”

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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(left to right) Carolyn Mapes, Jose Short, Tahnie Malagueno, Carmel Mahon, Dee McMurtrie and Todd Turner all in sync as they complete as many laps as possible in 30 minutes.
John Rae takes a well-earned breather as he completes a massive amount of laps in the 30min time limit.
Nikki Giles (right front) enjoys running laps with a few of her TriActiv8 crew at the Mackay Road Runners Shawn’s Summer Splash & Dash Biathlon Series.
Jose Short (left) and Carmel Mahon go stride for stride as they complete as many 400 metre laps as possible in the 30 minute time period.

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