From the first bounce to the final siren, AFL is kicking big goals across the Mackay region, and there’s never been a better time to pull on the boots and join the action. Whether you’re five or fifty, footy fever is on the rise, with more families embracing the benefits of grassroots sport. Participation Lead Alex Brooks says the growth in 2025 has been phenomenal. “We’ve seen a massive uptake, especially in the 12-and-under space,” Brooks said. “That’s up 50 per cent year-to-date, wit
Read the full storyOver twenty Mackay Road Runners and supporters gathered at Bluewater Quay on Sunday afternoon for a social 5km and 11km run along Harbour Road, turning at Mt Bassett before returning to the start. Participants navigated a mix of sunshine, wind, clouds and rain, but handled the unpredictable weather with ease. With the club’s Race Director Andrew Short currently enjoying a well-earned break, the event was a relaxed affair. Andrew is taking on the internationally renowned London Marathon du
Read the full storyResults For Week Ending Sunday 13 April 025 Monday 7 April 2025 – 4.5 Table Howell Green Points 1st Janine Rodgers - Jewel Schmidt 3rd Monica Darley - Nancy Martin 2nd Gwen Liddell - Sandy Patterson 4th Diane Stokes - Edward Kliese Tuesday Evening 8 April 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Helen Van Den Broek - Tex Sheedy 1st Marilin Robins - Faye Wright 2nd John Mcgee - Mick King 4th Ken Seaniger - Geoff Taylor
Read the full storyBy Amanda Wright Mackay middle-distance runner Toby Rule has officially broken the four-minute barrier in the 1500m – and he’s done it in style. Competing at the Australian Athletics Championships in Perth last week, Toby shaved a huge four seconds off his previous best to cross the line in 3:59. It’s a golden milestone in any middle-distance runner’s career and a testament to the 18-year-old’s relentless training and passion for the sport. His sub-four-minute effort placed him 19th over
Read the full storyMackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures November 12, 2024:
Division 1:
Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) d Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) 8-6. Branko d Pam -6, 3, 6, -7, 12.
Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson) d Code Crackers (Andrea Nicholson, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) 10-4. Veronica d Coral -9, -11, 9, 8, 1.
Division 2:
Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders) drew Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) 7-all. Frank d Gloria -7, -9, 4, 9, 9.
Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) drew London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) 7-all. Ken d Helen -8, 6, 8, -9, 12.
Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Trish Zamparutti) d Rome Ralliers (Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato, Thelma Caruana) 6-5. Ian d Bill -12, -9, 6, 7, 3.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures November 12, 2024:
Division 1:
Alfa (Graham Brake, Steve, Tony Bowman) d Aqua (Neil Brown, Geoff Denman, Ian McKay) 6-5. Ian d Tony 7, 10, -6, -10, 7.
Andro (Janice Kent, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Barra (Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake, Trent Day) 8-3. Lee d Janice -9, -9, 9, 10, 8.
Corgi (Andrew, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) d Azalea (Mark Sleeman, Barry Patterson, Allan Robins) Barry/Allan d Lily/Will -5, 5, -8, 7, 8.
Division 2:
Bulldog (Delma Knight, Peter Goodson, David Symons) d Tigers (Ollie Hamelink, Andrea Nicolson, Steve Mathieson) 7-4. David d Ollie 8, 7, -12, -9, 7.
Cockatoos (Craig VanDeKaa, Geoff, Matt West) d Cats (George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) 6-5. Geoff d YiLin -8, 9, 8, -9, 6.
Canaries (Leo Gilbert, Kade Wright, Ishara Lylanagamage) d Cheetahs (Daniel Gilbert, Val Austin) 9-2. Ishara d Val -10, 9, 19, -10, 8.
Frank Caruana and Gloria Vella had an interesting battle, with Frank losing the first two sets, only to mount a sensational comeback to take the win 3 sets to 2. Photos supplied
MIXED PAIRS FINAL
A hotly contested final on Saturday saw the team of Kees Struik and Marie Bragg defeat Nuggy Pratt (still playing like a champion) and Alan Cooney who was subbing for Tony Allsop in a seesawing battle. Marie Bragg should be very happy with her contribution towards the win.
Weekly Events
Monday 9.00am start 2 x 4 x 2 pairs
Wednesday Ladies bowls
Thursday 1.00pm 2 x 4 x 2 pairs any mix
Friday 2.30pm (this week only) 3 bowls pairs
Saturday 1.00pm normally pairs
CMR Goosies $10,000
This weekend will see the club conduct it’s biggest event of the year. It commences with a pair event at 2.30pm today, Friday with $500 prize money followed by a Calcutta starting at 6.30pm for the main event the CMR Goosies $10,000 carnival held on the weekend. Visiting bowling teams will travel from Townsville and Rockhampton and clubs in between. A good weekend of bowls is guaranteed. All results will be in the “Mackay Life” next week.
Social Bowls Results
Monday winners Ian Rowan, Greg Pemoruice
Lucky Draw M Rose, P Morgan
Wednesday winners B Mulhall, N Schmidke, I Comelli
R/up T Russell, B Trannore, D Gordon
Thursday winners V Meitzel, P Elgey
R/up L Kane, D Kane
Friday winners V Depinto, B Svenson
Lucky draw V Meitzel, A Helenius, S Trannore, M Walsh
Saturday winners J C/Master, P Dellaney
R/up S Trannore, S Lane
Tip of the week
Once you have picked your grass and intended line; stance and posture is correct; your brain and concentration takes over and controls touch and pace. Simply; think before you deliver your bowl.
Left to right: A Cooney, T Allsop, N Pratt, K Struik, M Bragg
Mackay Road Runners Club is taking training to the next level with a splash of something new this season. Under the guidance of Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford, the off-season program now includes a swim leg—a first in the club’s history. Ford, who juggles his roles as Race Director and proud Grandad, is excited to introduce this fresh challenge to keep members on their toes during the off-season.
Shawn’s Summer Series, known for its unique format under Jim’s direction, has adapted this season to include multiple disciplines due to the extreme summer temperatures, evolving into a biathlon training session. To make the event as inclusive as possible, Jim incorporates specific age-based advantages into the track and lap tallies, encouraging wider participation.
The Biathlon Series takes place every Sunday in November at 4:30pm at the Aquatic & Recreational Complex (ARC) and will resume in January 2025. Participants are invited to gather at the ARC’s running track gates after paying a $4 entry fee at the pool kiosk. A gold coin donation is encouraged to support post-run and swim refreshments. Jim ensures a smooth start by having a sign-in book for participants to complete before the 4:30pm race briefing.
Last week’s event attracted a lively mix of new faces, families, and regulars, with attendees from groups like Nikki Giles’ TriActiv8, Mackay Road Runners, and Eimeo Surf Club enjoying the ARC’s fantastic outdoor facilities.
The Mackay Road Runners Committee recently held its 2025 calendar meeting, where they are finalising the schedule. The confirmed calendar is expected to be released shortly. Additionally, the Mackay Road Runners Annual General Meeting (AGM) is set for January 13, 2025, with notices to be posted on social media in the coming weeks.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Classy athletes, Kellie Chappell (left) with Naomi Ballard (right) ready to start the run leg of the 2nd Shawn’s Summer Social Dash & Splash Biathlon Series at the Aquatic & Recreational Complex (ARC).
Todd Turner and Nikki Giles rack up the laps as they speed around the 400 metre track at the ARC.
Alana Knezevic and Carolyn Mapes enjoy the swim leg of the Biathlon.
Jim Ford (back to camera, front centre) instructs approximately 45 runners to complete as many laps in the 30 minute time limit before entering the pool leg of the Biathlon. Photos supplied
The Mackay Whitsunday Cyclones Men’s representative team suffered back-to-back losses in the North Queensland Cricket Mens Open Zone championships at George Gorrie Oval last weekend.
But it was a different story for the Cyclones women's side, who emerged as champions in the inaugural 4-Zone competition, going undefeated over the weekend.
The women's team secured victories in all three of their matches, showcasing their dominance on the field. Their stellar performance was capped with several players being selected for the North Queensland side to face South Queensland in Gatton in the coming weeks.
Congratulations to Elisha Holdsworth, Meghan McCartney, Matilda Faulkner, Dharmini Chauhan, Aleisha Middleton, Kianna Dunn, and Taylah Schutt on their well-deserved selections. The team will be coached by Shane Dunn, representing the region with pride.
Special mention goes to Sam Vassallo from the men’s team, who also earned a spot in the North Queensland Open Men's team to compete against South Queensland in Townsville. These athletes will now aim for a place in the Queensland Country sides heading to the National Championships in the Barossa Valley in January.
In the men’s competition, dashing half centuries from Lachlan Ford (69 off seventy one balls) and Ryan Eaton (58 off sixty five balls) and a four wicket haul by paceman Kai Adami (4-26 off eight overs) steered North Queensland (7-241) to a decisive 94 run victory over the Cyclones (147).
In a top batting performance, Adam Camer (37) and Pierce Carrara (33 not out) also impressed for North Queensland with Adami, Ford (2-21 off six) and quick Travis Busch (2-26 off eight) impressive with the ball.
The Cyclones were best served by Cody Filewood (47 runs off seventy five balls) with four boundaries and a six, Luke Jackson (24) and experienced opener Sam Vassallo (23).
Lane Kohler snared 2-49 with the ball.
Central Queensland recorded a seven wicket victory over the Cyclones last Sunday to zoom into title calculations.
Mackay-Whitsunday won the toss and elected to bat but were bundled out for 156 in the forty fourth over after stand out bowling displays from Central Queensland ace Joe McGahan (3-43 off seven overs), Riley McDonald (3-24 off ten) and Logan Whitfield (2-24 off ten).
A superb century by vice captain Jeff Case proved the highlight as Central Queensland (3-158) chased down the winning target inside thirty one overs.
Case smashed an unbeaten 101 off one hundred balls in an epic knock that featured eleven boundaries and two sixes.
He shared an unbroken stand of 91 for the fourth wicket with number five Brent Hartley (25 not out) as Central Queensland won their third match after four rounds to consolidate top spot on twenty two competition points.
The Mackay Whitsunday Cyclones Men's and Women's teams after a weekend of mixed results. The women’s side made history with an undefeated run to claim the inaugural 4-Zone Championship, while the men's team battled hard in their North Queensland Open Zone campaign
The 2024 Pan Pacific Masters Games recently wrapped up on the Gold Coast, bringing together over 16,000 participants across 40+ sports from November 1st to 10th. The aquatic events, held from November 6th to 10th, kicked off with 800m and 1500m races and included a full range of strokes up to 400m over the following days. Representing the North Mackay Sinkers, a dedicated "sole sinker" made the journey south, actively participating in both swimming events and volunteering.
The Games concluded on November 10th with a series of ocean swims, hosted by the Mermaid Beach Surf Life Saving Club. Swimmers chose between 1km, 2.5km, and 4km distances, with a Sinkers member impressively securing 4th place in the 4km event for his age group. The next Pan Pacs are already scheduled for November 6th–15th, 2026, promising another dynamic lineup of sports, social activities, and live entertainment, including performances by bands like “Killer Queen” and Sneaky Sound System.
Adding to their regular training on November 9th, the North Mackay Sinkers welcomed Kylie from Untapped Exercise Physiology. Kylie not only joined members in the pool but also led a valuable discussion on integrating professional guidance into training routines. Her insights emphasized the benefits of upper body isometric and functional exercises before swimming, as well as incorporating resistance training and impact workouts. Several members underwent functional tests, leaving the group with actionable fitness tips.
Looking to dive into the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club? Masters Swimming Queensland offers programs for all skill levels, from beginners and recreational swimmers to competitive athletes in both pool and open water. The Sinkers invite those interested in a friendly and supportive swimming community to get in touch.
Masters Swimming Qld hosted the pool events that attracted over 550 swimmers to attend from all over Australia and overseas
The Men’s 4km ocean swim gets underway in perfect conditions.
The calm conditions and Gold Coast city scape made for a great swim in 21-degree water.
The exercise physiology session with Kylie was well received and focussed on masters athletes. Photos supplied
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures November 5, 2024:
Division 1:
Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) drew Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) 7-all. Judy d Doug 5, -6, -9, 5, 10.
Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) d Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 8-6. John d Peter 11, -8, -9, 10, 7.
Division 2:
Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba) d Rome Ralliers (Louise Gould, Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 6-4. John d Louise -12, -9, 8, 7, 8.
London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) d Berlin Blockers (Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) 11-3. Kim d Iris 7, -6, -5, 3, 9.
Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) d Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Trish Zamparutti) 7-3. Helen/Sharon d Bryan/Trish d Helen/Sharon -8, 7, 0, -10, 7.
Kim Daffy defeated Iris Grasso in a close match, winning the fifth set 11-9
Twenty-one members attended the Airlie Beach Congress (Red Points) on Friday 8th November. Mackay place getters were in Section A 2nd Janelle Conroy and Terry Sheedy, 3rd Diane and Max Holewa. Section B N/S 1st Monica Darley and Geoff Taylor, 2nd Noel Saunders and Mary Rose Ramsden. E/W 2nd Patricia Garner and Jan Harris. On the home front, Tuesday saw a fabulous day of Bridge, comradery and horse racing, with a Melbourne Cup luncheon. Winners for the day were N/S Diane Stokes and Terry Sheedy, E/W Joy and Thomas Block.
Weekly Results
Monday 4 November 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 4th Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
5th Sandy Patterson / Mary Rose Ramsden 6th Nancy Wix / Joy Block
Tuesday 5 November 2024 – Melbourne Cup 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Diane Stokes 1st Joy Block / Thomas Block
2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Sandra Morris / Sandra Ford
3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 3rd Frances Brown / Alan Brown
4th Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
5th Errol Morris / Mick Robins 5th Julie O’Neill / Patricia Garner
Wednesday 6 November 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Brunette / Don Poole 1st Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Monica Darley / Kath Poole
3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders 3rd Victor Mason / Gwen Liddell
Friday 8 November 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 1st David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd Joyce Deguara / Gwen Liddell 2nd Jewel Schmidt / Susan Ross
Saturday 9 November 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd John McGee / Shirley Casey
3rd Mick King / Jan Harris 3rd Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
4th Monic Darley / Nancy Martin 4th Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch
5th Nancy Wix / Richard Wix 5th Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris
Contributed by Joy Block
Twenty-two Mackay Players at Airlie Beach Congress
Melbourne Cup Day Winners Diane Cox, Terry Sheedy, Joy and Thomas Block. Photos supplied
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club recently hosted the 34th annual North Australian Titles, which saw over 1500+ lifesavers, water safety, carnival officials and spectators descend on Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach. The Mackay hosts did exceedingly well in the region, beating fellow clubs Eimeo and Sarina, as well as outperforming large clubs from Townsville, Arcadia and Picnic Bay SLSC’s.
The club had some outstanding achievements placing 4th overall, with the Juniors placing 2nd in their division as well the club taking out 1st place for the Handicap Trophy, meaning they were by aggregate the most improved club of the championships.
Mackay SLSC Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said, “The club is very proud of our small but strong competition group, from the nippers in U11’s to our masters.
“To see our competitors take on the best of the best in regional Qld and achieve some great results, is a credit to the culture and commitment we have at our club.
“The feedback I have received from visiting clubs is that they love coming here and competing at one of the best beaches in Queensland.
“I would just like to thank all the clubs that made the effort and travelled to Mackay for the Nth Aussies, we hope to see you next year!
“It was very pleasing to see Hayden Tobin (U13), Cadence McKinnon (U14), Meliana Craig (U15) and Nate McKinnon (U17) selected for the Qld Country team based on their outstanding results,” Mr Grant said.
“It’s a fantastic result to place with the best of the best of Northern Australia and regional Qld.
“The club is going from strength to strength, and we are now preparing our lifesavers for Branch Titles at Sarina in a few weeks.”
Mackay SLSC small but strong team get ready for day 3 at Nth Aussies
U17’s Zara Richardson & Molly Madden celebrating after taking out bronze in the Open female Nth Australian double ski race.
Mackay Harbour’s Kellan & Johnny (back) get ready for the action at Nth Aussies 2024.
Mackay’s All age beach relay team, comprising age groups from U11 to Masters took out 2nd place in North Australia. Winners are grinners!
Captain of Mackay SLSC “Stingrays” Masters, Ben Madden, celebrates success in the 2km Beach Run.
Mackay Christian College’s F1 in Schools teams have delivered an outstanding performance at the state finals, making a clean sweep across multiple categories. The event, which took place in Mackay, saw teams from across Queensland, including Townsville and the Gold Coast, come together for a thrilling showcase of innovation, engineering, and speed.
According to a representative from Mackay Christian College, the highlight of the competition was the impressive showing by Team Fusion, who achieved a perfect score of 80/80 in their submissions—a first in the five years the program has been running at the college.
“It’s an incredible achievement for our team,” the representative said. “Scoring 80 out of 80 is something we’ve never seen before, and it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students.”
On race day, the college’s teams excelled, with Team AEROjet, led by Ada and Kaitlyn, taking first place in the cadet category. Meanwhile, in the development division, Team Fusion not only clinched the top spot but also set a new record for the fastest lap in Queensland, breaking the previous time of 1.131 seconds with a new record of 1.125 seconds.
The knockout racing event saw further triumphs, as Team AEROjet secured the title of Knockout Champions, followed closely by Team Fusion. This remarkable performance earned the school the distinction of being the best racing team in Queensland across both the Cadet and Development divisions.
Awards Recap:
Team AEROjet:
• Best Engineered Car
• Grand Prix Champion
• Best Team Poster
• Overall Champions in the Cadet category
Team Fusion:
• Knockout Champions
• Best Engineering Award
• Best Reaction Time
• Grand Prix Champion
• Best Engineering CAD
• Fastest Lap Award
“This has been a fantastic competition, and our students have represented Mackay Christian College exceptionally well,” added the representative. “Their success wouldn’t have been possible without the support and guidance from our school community.”
Congratulations to all involved on their phenomenal achievements, which have put Mackay Christian College at the forefront of F1 in Schools racing in Queensland.
Twenty-eight players from the Bowen Bridge Club travelled to Airlie Beach to compete in a one-day Red Point competition hosted by the Airlie Beach Bridge Club.
Out of a strong field of 60 players, Bowen's representatives delivered outstanding performances. Impressively, 12 players from Bowen secured top-three placements across the two competition sections, showcasing their skill and teamwork.
The event was a resounding success, thanks to the excellent organization by the Airlie Beach Bridge Club. The Bowen players expressed their gratitude for the warm hospitality and a thoroughly enjoyable day of bridge.
Congratulations to all who participated and to the Airlie Beach Bridge Club for hosting such a memorable event!
Contributed with thanks to Lydie Martin
Photos supplied
The 2024 PBR Monster Energy Tour Grand Finals in Townsville delivered an unforgettable weekend of bull riding, with history made as 19-year-old Boston Leather became the first Rookie of the Year to also claim the Australian Championship title. Boston’s remarkable season earned him $90,000 in prize money, and he celebrated with his older brother, Macaulie Leather, who finished as the runner-up.
Despite scoring only one qualified ride—a solid 84.50 points on Cattle King Volatile (Dittmann Bucking Bulls)—Boston’s season-long dominance gave him a decisive edge, finishing 123.85 points ahead of second place. “I didn’t expect to be here, but I’m very grateful,” Boston said, reflecting on his extraordinary achievement.
The event was also a triumphant comeback for 23-year-old Macaulie, the 2023 Australian Champion, who missed part of the season due to injury. He returned in top form, securing four qualified rides over the weekend, including a championship-round high of 88 points on Revolver (Dunne Bucking Bulls), to win the event and clinch second place overall.
The Leather brothers made history as the first siblings to achieve consecutive championship titles in Australia.
The sold-out event, with over 10,000 fans, also celebrated standout performances from international riders and the bulls themselves. Mr. T (Dittmann Bucking Bulls) claimed YETI Bucking Bull of the Year, while Colin Fry (CF7 Bucking Bulls) was named Contractor of the Year.
PBR Australia looks ahead to 2025, promising another unforgettable season.
This past weekend, six dedicated Cannonvale Cannons swimmers braved the sweltering temperatures in the forties to compete at the Moranbah Highlanders Swim Meet. We extend a big thank you to the Harland and Chegwidden families, who proudly represented the Cannons.
Four of our talented swimmers achieved remarkable results, placing first in every event they entered. Eloise and Harry Chegwidden, along with Blaire and Tate Harland, displayed exceptional skill and determination with Ruby Harland also placing first in 8 of her ten events. Additionally, Koa Harland had an outstanding day, achieving personal bests (PBs) in all ten of her races—a fantastic accomplishment in such challenging conditions.
Back at our home pool, this week’s Club Night was particularly special as we welcomed representatives from our major sponsor, Tassal. Jo and Courtney, visiting from Tassal's head office in Tasmania, joined us for an exciting night of club racing. They enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere and had the honour of presenting awards and upgrades.
The presentations began with Jax Clayworth being recognized once again for his impressive achievement, as he broke his own 11 years 50m Butterfly Club Record. The following swimmers received upgrades for their progress and hard work: Isla Johnston, Indigo Harland, Harry Chegwidden, Miller Eaves, Ruby Lawson, Lily Maher, Eloise Chegwidden, and Harry Chegwidden.
Two of our talented swimmers, Tora Delac and Jacob Bell, were presented with Swimming Queensland Caps to celebrate their inclusion in the Bronze and Blue Development Squads. Tora was also awarded a towel in recognition of her place in the prestigious 2024 SNQ National Performance Squad.
This coming weekend, Cannonvale Cannons swimmers will head to Mackay to compete in the 51st GBR Long Course Transition meet, a highlight of the swimming circuit. We wish our swimmers the best of luck for another weekend of fierce competition.
Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec
Harlands: The Harland family with their medals and ribbons
Ruby and Elouise: Ruby Harland and Elouise Chegwidden had a strong day of swimming
SNQ Towel: SNQ Race Secretary Theresa Manning presenting Tora Della with her National Performance Squad Towel
Tassal1: Jo and Courtney from Tassal with this weeks upgraded swimmers
Tassal2: Thank you to Jo and Courtney for visiting us all the way from head office in Tasmania
Tora Jacob: Jacob Bell and Tora Delac with the Swimming Queensland Development Squad Caps.
Photos supplied
The Airlie Beach Bowls Club community has been bustling with activity, as members prepare for the completion of the club’s beautiful new hard cover. While the final assembly of the cover is scheduled for January, members are eagerly awaiting the resumption of regular bowls. Keep an eye out for announcements about the official return.
Wednesday Bowls at Proserpine
Wednesday afternoon bowls welcomed visiting Airlie bowlers Lou Rogan, Keith Bates, Tony and Betty Whitehorn, David Meiklejohn, Alan Pershouse, and Mark Mawson. Despite mixed results, all players displayed fine form and sportsmanship throughout the day.
Farewell to a Club Legend
The club received devastating news on Thursday with the passing of life member Herb Secomb, just weeks shy of his 98th birthday. Herb, who was admitted to an elderly care home only recently, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of dedication and achievement.
Herb and his wife, Mae, were made life members in 2023 in recognition of their exceptional contributions to the club. Joining in the early 1990s, Herb built an impressive record of championships and leadership:
• 1993: Men's A Pairs Champion
• 1999: Men's President
• 2002 & 2003: Men's Fours Champion
• 2000 & 2005: Senior Singles Champion
• 2005: Men's B Pairs Champion
• 2010: Men's B Singles Champion
• 2012: Mixed Triples Champion
• 2014: Men's 2-Bowl and 3-Bowl Triples Champion
Born on November 21, 1926, Herb passed away on November 7, 2024. Survived by his wife Mae, daughters Denise, Lee, and Mandy, and son Greg. Funeral details will be announced in due course.
Herb’s contributions to the club and his passion for bowls will be remembered forever. The members take comfort in the thought that Herb is now playing bowls in heaven.
Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson
Herb Secomb gone but never forgotten. Photo supplied
The Bowen Bowls Club (BBC) hosted its inaugural Open Fours tournament, attracting 16 regional teams to compete for a total prize pool of $4,760 across five games of 18 ends. The two-day event was a resounding success, with players and spectators alike praising the club’s efforts. The overwhelming enthusiasm has led to plans to make the competition an annual fixture, starting in 2025, with exact dates to be confirmed.
The tournament wasn’t just about fierce competition—it was also a celebration of community. Saturday’s games transitioned into a lively evening as local band “The Nessia Family,” led by Alicia, brought the house down with their music, adding to the event’s festive atmosphere.
Club President Lloyd White extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the event’s success.
The competition reached its peak during the nail-biting final hour. Congratulations to the top teams:
• First Place: Ash’s team (South Townsville)
• Second Place: Hawkins’ team (South Townsville)
• Third Place: Ando’s team (Cutheringa)
Bowen Bowls Club eagerly anticipates welcoming players back next year for another exciting event, promising more great bowls, camaraderie, and entertainment. The club thanks everyone involved for making the 2024 Open Fours an unforgettable success.
On Sunday 10th November Bowen Bowls club said farewell to Fay Stewart our longtime member and bar person who is moving to Townsville.
Contributed with thanks to Don Hogarth
Photos supplied
The Proserpine Bowls Club enjoyed a vibrant week of activities, starting on Wednesday with a well-attended afternoon of social bowls in preparation for the Memorial Day Carnival.
Players embraced the competitive yet friendly spirit, with notable results including:
• Alen Sanderson, Barry Zillmann, and Mike Harrison defeating Arthur Griffith, Dave Meiklejohn, and Sandy Daffara 26-13.
• Janine Schuurman (a visitor from Miles), Betty Whitehorn, and Heather Brown winning 18-13 against Keith Bates, Mary Hedgelong, and Tony Whitehorn.
• John Anderson, Bruce Uhe, Philip Brown, and Peter Lawton overcoming Lou Rogan, Bruce Uhe, Alan Pershouse, and Mark Mawson 17-11.
Saturday’s Memorial Day Carnival brought further excitement, with 12 teams competing fiercely. The winners, Ladda Purdie, Betty Nicolle, Warren Mills, and Manny Isgro, secured three wins (+16), narrowly edging out the second-placed team of Greg Kasper, Betty Petersen, Peter Petersen, and Andrew Bell (three wins, +15). In third place were Philip Brown, Heather Brown, Shane Kinnear, and Wayne Handley (two wins, +5), while Harry Craig, Amy Hart, Gavin Milne, and Barry Saroglia claimed fourth place (two wins, +4).
The club sincerely thanks sponsor Wilmar Sugar, participating teams, and members who contributed to the event’s success.
Upcoming Events
Nominations for Board positions close Sunday, November 10. Vacancies will be called for from the floor at the AGM on Sunday, November 24, at 10 a.m. Members are urged to attend, with a BBQ, prize presentations, and social bowls to follow.
Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club
Winners of Memorial Day, Betty Nicolle, Manny Isgro, Warren Mills (absent Ladda Purdie) with Proserpine Club Chairman Wayne Handley. Photo supplied