Sports

Grassroots AFL Kicking Big Goals Across The Region

Grassroots AFL Kicking Big Goals Across The Region

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

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Mackay Road Runners Tackle Variable Weather In Social Run

Mackay Road Runners Tackle Variable Weather In Social Run

Over 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

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Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Results 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

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Toby Rules The Track With Sub-Four Minute Milestone

Toby Rules The Track With Sub-Four Minute Milestone

By 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

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Better Built Sheds

Whitsunday United Weekly Football Report: August 24, 2024

September 4, 2024

It was an exciting week for Whitsunday United, with 8 out of 10 teams advancing to the finals next week.

Div 1 and Div 2 Men:
The Div 1 and Div 2 men played their final regular-season games against the Lions in Mackay on Friday night. The Div 2 team ended their season with a hard-fought 2-2 draw, showing promise for the future. The Div 1 men clinched a 2-1 victory, with a late header from Mike Downing, securing a spot in the finals against the Wanderers.

U13 Div 1:
The U13 Div 1 team had a fantastic game, defeating the Magpies 4-1. Jayce scored twice and was named Man of the Match, while Charlie, the season’s top scorer, added another goal. The team finished second and will face the Rangers in the semi-finals.

U14/15 Div 1:
The U14/15 Div 1 team ended their season with an 8-0 loss to Lions Green. Despite the defeat, the team showed resilience throughout the match.

U23 Women:
The U23 Women’s team had a strong weekend, winning 5-0 against both Rangers FC and Dolphins FC. Bre led the scoring across both matches, while the team’s solid defence secured their second-place finish for the season.

Premiers Ladies:
The Premiers Ladies finished their season with a 9-0 win over Rangers and a 3-0 victory against Dolphins. The team’s excellent performances secured them second place heading into the finals.

U23 Men and FQPL Men:
The U23 Men made a remarkable comeback, winning 4-3 against the Wanderers to secure fourth place. The FQPL Men ended their match with a draw, dropping them to third place on the ladder.

It has been a strong season for Whitsunday United, with many teams advancing to the finals. Best of luck to everyone next week!

Men’s Division 1 Premiership Winners in 2024. A huge season and well deserved. Photo supplied

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Veterans Golfing: Monthly Medal Results

September 5, 2024

Ladies' Results:
   • 1st Place: Elspeth Scotford - 75
   • 2nd Place: Paula McQuat - 76 C/B
   • Rundown: Lyn Muller, Tiina Randmae, Linda Wardroper, Kath Borer, Jenny Hounsell, and Heather Luvis.
Men's Results:
   • 1st Place: Craig McLean - 71
   • 2nd Place: Peter Browning - 72
   • Rundown: Wilf Herweg, Vic Feldman, Gary Scotford, Nic Apruzzese, Steve Mitchell, Trevor Paroz, John Oates, and Louis Neethling.
Nearest to the Pin (NTP):
   • Hole 5:
       ◦ A Grade: Gary & Elspeth
       ◦ B Grade: John O & Kath
   • Hole 9:
       ◦ A Grade: Colin & Tiina
       ◦ B Grade: John Strelec & Jan Shuwalow
   • Hole 13:
       ◦ A Grade: Vic & Elspeth
       ◦ B Grade: John S & Linda
Least Putts:
   • Lyn: 27
   • Craig & Peter L: 30
Looking ahead, the next competition will take place next Tuesday at Collinsville for the Interclub Competition.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

Elsbeth Scotford and Craig McLean

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Whitsunday Golf Club Championships

September 4, 2024

Club Champions 2024:
   • Ladies: Leanne Alexander
   • Men: Ryan Wilkes
Overall Results:
Ladies:

   • A Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Leanne Alexander
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Lyn Muller
       ◦ Nett Winner: Elspeth Scotford
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: Tina Badenhorst
   • B Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Toni Clauss
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Tiina Randmae
       ◦ Nett Winner: Heather Luvis
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: Anna Winterbourn
   • C Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Sherri Meade
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Rehab Hull
       ◦ Nett Winner: Pam Harrison
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: Robyn Whitham
Men:
   • A Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Ryan Wilkes
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Sean Fogarty
       ◦ Nett Winner: Lewis Tuck
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: Blake Lovelock
   • B Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Rod Wecker
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Brad Vloedmans
       ◦ Nett Winner: Billy O’Connor
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: George Meharry
   • C Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Ross Hammond
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Louis Neethling
       ◦ Nett Winner: Barry Mortimer
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: Tim Walton
Junior Champion: Blake Lovelock
Junior Runner-up: Levi Holmes
Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Sea Eagles Under 17s Through To Prelim

September 4, 2024

Sea Eagles fielded four teams in the AFLQ Mackay Elimination Finals on Sunday with Sea Eagles Under 17s making it through to take on the Saints in the coming Preliminary Final.

Remaining Sea Eagles teams fought hard but were unable to match the opposition and now round up their 2024 Season.

Sea Eagles Under 17s had some close moments throughout their match against Mackay City Hawks but were able to dig deep when it mattered to take out the win by two goals 61 – 49. With competition aggressive all year among the top three teams Coach Dean Armitage is confident the Sea Eagles team has what it takes as they prepare for the match this Saturday.

Sea Eagles Senior Men took on North Mackay Saints on their home turf in Mackay and were unfortunately unable to match the opposition throughout the game losing 29 – 79.

Sea Eagles Senior Women fought hard against Moranbah Bulldogs and saw plenty of the ball however could not come back from the early Moranbah take off. Sea Eagles outscored the Bulldogs through the second half but were unable to make up the initial first half deficit losing 16 – 27.

Young Sea Eagles Under 12s took on North Mackay Saints in an early match at Saints home ground losing 12 – 19. The game played out in the final quarter with 2 unanswered goals from the opposition providing them the slim lead they needed. Sea Eagles Under 12s have done a superb job coming together and progressing through the 2024 Season and Sea Eagles are proud of them making finals.

Sea Eagles Under 17s now take on North Mackay Saints in the Preliminary Final this Saturday at Rogers Oval in Mackay at 10:40am.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Sea Eagles.

The Under 17s team. Photo Credit: Kaz Morrison

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Inspiring The Next Generation: Junior Achievers Squad Trains in Mackay

September 4, 2024

Over the weekend, members of the Junior Achievers Squad headed to Mackay for a special training clinic hosted by Swimming North Queensland. This clinic provided an invaluable opportunity for young swimmers to refine their skills under the guidance of top coaches and train with junior swimmers from neighbouring clubs across Mackay in a non-competitive environment.

The Junior Achievers Program is designed to recognise, reward, and inspire junior swimmers on their journey toward becoming senior athletes. Each year, Swimming North Queensland releases criteria and standards that swimmers, coaches, and parents can use as benchmarks throughout the season.

Swimmers aged 9 to 13 who meet the set times qualify for recognition at gold, silver, bronze, or blue levels.

On Wednesday we hosted Club Night 3, with the following swimmers earning upgrades in their events: Tyler Bennet in the 200M IM, Eloise Chegwidden in the 100M Butterfly, Indigo Harland in the 25M Backstroke, River Shields in the 50M Backstroke, and Eric Hinrichsen in the 50M Butterfly, Backstroke, and Freestyle.

Congratulations to Tora Delac who was presented with her Club Record certificate for 50M Breaststroke in the 13-year-old category, showcasing the exceptional talent within the squad.

The coveted Chocolate Award resulted in a tie between Jasper Korosec and Stella Mulliss for the closest, while Miller Eaves took home the award for the biggest improvement. Miller Eaves also received the Coaches Award for his impressive performance in the 100M Freestyle.

Looking ahead to this coming weekend, the squad is excited to host Shaun Crow from Nudgee College Swimming Club for a special coaching clinic. Crow’s expertise is sure to provide further inspiration and skill development for our aspiring swimmers. This clinic is open to junior swimmers in the region for a small fee. Please email secretary@cannonvalecannons.com.au to register.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec.

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Marian Ladies Deliver Thrilling Master Fours Finale

August 29, 2024

The Marian Ladies Bowling Club's annual Master Fours event kicked off on Monday, 12 August, with less-than-ideal weather conditions. A heavy downpour greeted the 72 lady bowlers eager to start the three-day event, but despite the weather, the show went on. With true resilience, the first day’s matches were swiftly moved to South Suburban's covered facilities, allowing play to continue. A special thank you was extended to South Suburban for their generous accommodation.
Day two brought a welcome change in weather as the sun came out, allowing the competition to return to its original venue in Marian. Players hit the green with renewed energy, and the tournament progressed smoothly.
In a nail-biting finish, Northern Beaches secured the victory in the very last bowl of the final game. The match came down to the wire, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats until the final moment.
This year's event was proudly sponsored by Stephen Andrew, Member for Mirani, who was on hand to present the winners with their trophies.
The Marian Ladies Bowling Club is more than just a sports club—it's a place where friendships flourish. If you’re looking to be part of a tight-knit community where you’re more than just another number, the Marian Ladies would love to welcome you into the valley.

Winners: (Marian President) Thelma Johnston, Jenny Petersen, Sue Hunter, Betty Petersen, Ann Smith, Member for Mirani Stephen Andrew (Sponsor)

Runners Up: Thelma Johnston, Maryann Harrigan, Stephen Andrew, Charmayne Sleeman, Rhonda Meng, Jo Inch.

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Dolphins Outclass Cutters In high-Scoring Hostplus Cup Encounter

August 29, 2024

They started the Queensland Rugby League season full of promise but the Mackay Cutters have ended their 2024 Hostplus Cup campaign on a low.

In their final-round display the Cutters suffered a 46-28 loss to the third-ranked Redcliffe Dolphins last weekend at Kayo Stadium.

There’ll be no finals action for the Mackay team after finishing twelfth on the table on 22 points with eight wins and twelve losses.

Dolphins centre Steven Numambo and interchange hooker Harrison Graham both posted try doubles in a high-scoring tussle.

Numambo grabbed two quick tries in the space of three minutes as Redcliffe piled on the points in a dominant first-half display.

Mackay centre Josh Smith opened the scoring after nine minutes with a determined try before centre partner Semi Valemei added a second midway through the opening stanza.

The Dolphins responded with fine tries by centre Valynce Te Whare, winger William Dobson and crafty number nine Graham to establish a 28-12 lead at the half-time interval.

Graham and second rower Aublix Tawha extended Redcliffe’s lead with converted tries after the break as the Cutters struggled to stay in touch with the home side.

Mackay found a new lease of life during the second half when second rower Hugh Arthur and the capable Smith burst over for important tries.

But when five eighth Latrell Siegwalt strolled through the Cutters defensive line to nab the Dolphins' eighth and final try the writing was on the wall.

Siegwalt contributed a handy eighteen points for Redcliffe from a try and seven goals in a solid tune up for this year’s finals series.

The Cutters club can still reflect on a successful 2024 season in which the women brought home the BMD Premiership and inaugural Harvey Norman Under 19 championship titles.

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MSHS Football Academy Triumphs At NQ Futsal Championships

August 29, 2024

The Mackay State High School Football Academy recently stole the spotlight at the North Queensland Futsal Championships, delivering stellar performances across various age groups.
The U15 boys’ team emerged as a powerhouse, finishing the pool stage undefeated with decisive victories over Cairns SHS (7-3), Kirwan SHS (13-1), Bentley Park College (10-1), and Southern Cross Catholic College (14-3). Their winning streak continued in the grand final, where they dominated Cairns SHS with a 6-2 win. The standout team, featuring Braith Stannard, Seth Piper, Ramiro Lamadrid, Peter Schatkowski, Blake Potter, and Nayte Stannard, secured a spot in the National Championships in November.
The Open Boys team impressed everyone by finishing as runners-up, securing their place in the National Championships. Beyond their success, the diversity of Mackay State High's Football Academy was on full display. The U13 boys exhibited commendable effort and teamwork, reflecting the program's emphasis on developing young talent. The U15 girls’ team, with their remarkable improvement and determination, advanced to the semi-finals, showcasing the academy's commitment to fostering growth across all levels.
Football Academy Coordinator Michelle Radunz expressed her pride in the teams' performances.
"Competing at such a high level and achieving these results is a testament to their commitment and the strength of our academy. We have high aspirations for the future and aim to continue building on this success."
Head of Department HPE and Sporting Academies, Brett Watton, echoed these sentiments.
"The pride and excitement within our school community for the achievements of our football academy are immense,” he said.
“We are thrilled about the future and confident that our students will continue to excel both on and off the field. Mackay State High School is dedicated to fostering talent and providing opportunities for our athletes to shine."
With both the U15 and Open Boys teams qualifying for the National Championships in November, the future looks bright for these young athletes.
For anyone interested in more information on the MSHS football academy please contact Brett Watton via email at brwat1@eq.edu.au.

The champion U15 boys team
The open boys team finished as runners-up
U15 girls team
U13 boys team

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Grant Brings New Sporting Opportunities To Marian School

August 29, 2024

Marian State School has been awarded a $10,000 grant in sports equipment through Decathlon’s Playgrounds to Podiums initiative, marking a significant boost for the school’s sports program.

The school earned the silver grant for Queensland after a competitive application process, which is a move that promises to diversify the sports options available to students and nurture the next generation of athletes.

Marian State School is situated in a close-knit community where many parents work away in the mining sector, thus balancing work and children’s extracurricular activities has been a challenge.

Rebecca Just, a parent of two children at the school, shared her thoughts on the impact of the grant.

“We (the P&C) have been fundraising to upgrade our sports gear, so the Decathlon Silver grant has come at the perfect time.

“With this new sporting equipment, we hope to support local clubs to use our fields and courts for training so more kids can stay active and keep playing the sports they love.”

The Playgrounds to Podiums initiative is part of Decathlon’s broader mission to tackle barriers to sports participation in Australia. Research commissioned by Decathlon revealed that cost and accessibility are the biggest obstacles preventing primary-aged children from participating in sports, despite many of them dreaming of becoming elite athletes.

Romain Gravigny, CEO of Decathlon Australia, highlighted the importance of addressing these barriers and said, “Research revealed that 85 per cent of parents believe their children would participate in more sports if equipment was more accessible, indicating a clear need for support.

“We're thrilled to be able to build on the momentum from the recent international sporting event by providing equipment to primary school kids which will encourage enthusiasm for sports and will help nurture future athletes.”

Marian State School plans to introduce a wide range of sports through this grant, including archery, table tennis, volleyball and more. This boost in resources aims to encourage students to explore new activities and stay active, ensuring that the benefits of sports reach as many children as possible in the community.

Marian State School recently received $10,000 worth of equipment to introduce more sports and keep children active and engaged within the region. Photo supplied

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AT THE TABLE

August 29, 2024

The girls were victorious in the Tuesday morning annual championships at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre.
Janice Kent (division 1), Veronica Keioskie (division 2) and Veronica’s daughter Nadine Stream (division 3) won the three singles titles, shutting out the men.
Donna Abbott won the first game of the final, but Janice took the next three for the title.
Veronica defeated Don Boettcher in division 2, and Nadine beat Sharon Muller in division 3.
Janice teamed with Bryan Marshall to win the division 1 doubles title over Tony Bowman and Marie Taylor. Division 2 went to Don Boettcher and Nadine Stream over Veronica Keioskie and Ian Dodds, and division 3 was won by Frank Caruana and Allison Day over Bill Hey and Darryl Ross.
Caption: (Left to right) Winner Janice Kent and runner-up Donna Abbott with umpire Marie Taylor after the final of the Tuesday morning championship at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre. Photo supplied

Weekly Results
Mackay Table Tennis Association Tuesday night fixtures August 13, 2024:

Division 1:

Holden (Mark Sleeman, Robbie Richards, Lee Brake) d Ferrari (Steven Whiting, Janice Kent, Andrea Nicholson) 6-5. Lee d Steven 10, -6, -3, 12, 10.

Fiat (Donna Abbott, Emma Widdup, Allan Robins) d BMW (Barry Patterson, Geoff Denman, Tony Bowman) 6-5. Allan d Geoff -8, -14, 9, 12, 10.

Audi (Andrew McHugh, Lily Boland, Ian McKay) d Hyundai (Neil Brown, Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) 6-5. Andrew d Tim 8, -9, 1, -7, 9.

Honda (Graham Drury, Vince Boeske, Graham Brake) d Alpha (Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker, Delma Knight) 6-5. Graham B d Delma 7, -7, 3, -13, 4.

Division 2:

Rolls (Ishara Liyanagamage, Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson) d Mercedes (Will VanDeKaa, Darryl Ross, Judy Zahn) 6-5. Judy d Ishara 6, 6, -10, -12, 13.

Nissan (Noreen Fredericksen, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) d Mazda (George Camilleri, Rymer Tabulo, Craig VanDeKaa) 8-3. George d Trent 9, 11, -9, -5, 6.

Lexus (Duncan Treloar, Adrian Marsh, Anaya Reelh) d Suzuki (Matt West, Simon Hogan) 6-5. Duncan d Simon -6, -7, 3, 4, 2.

Jaguar (Leo Gilbert, Mark Stam, Val Austin) d Subaru (Tiffany Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) 6-5. Tiffany d Val 5, -11, 11, 11.

Graham Brake
Delma Knight. Photos supplied

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Mackay Contract Bridge Club

August 29, 2024

Twenty-three Mackay Contract Bridge players participated in the Yeppoon Pairs and Teams Congress on the weekend. Janet Hansen and Thelma Caruana won the A Grade pairs. Sandra Morris and Annie Lynch won the B Grade Pairs. Alan and Frances Brown came third in the A Grade Pairs. Team Holewa – Max and Di Holewa, Terrence Sheedy and Noel Bugeia came second in the A Grade Teams with Team Hutchinson – Faith Hutchinson, Dot Slater, Joy Block and Geoff Cowan coming second in the C Grade Teams.

Weekly Results
Wednesday 21 August 2024 2 of 3 weeks of the Anne Hird Memorial 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Jewel Schmidt / Monica Darley
1st
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Ming Ting
2nd
Joy Block / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Janice Mansfield / Noel Bugeia
3rd
David Ting / Vicki Howard
4th
Karen Cadwell / Kath Poole
4th
Eric Goodchild / Victor Mason
Thursday Evening 22 August 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

3rd
Jan Harris / Griffin Bancroft
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

Friday 23 August 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
1st
Ming Ting / David Ting

2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

Saturday 24 August 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Anne Lutz / Margaret Lane
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Simon Barnes
3rd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Ann Whitmore / Ken Seaniger
4th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
4th
Karen Cadwell / Noel Saunders
5th
Vicki Howard / Geoff Cowan
5th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

Contributed By Joy Block

Janet Hansen and Thelma Caruana Yeppoon Congress Open Pairs Winners
Geoff Cowan, Dorothy Slater, Faith Hutchinson and Joy Block Yeppoon Congress C Grade Teams Runners up
Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris Yeppoon Congress B Grade Pairs winners. Photos supplied

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Nippers Season About To Take To The Beach

August 29, 2024

Mackay SLSC “Guardians of Harbour Beach since 1950” is kicking off the start of its Nipper season with a Sign On Day, Sunday the 1st of September from 10am – 12noon at the surf club located at Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach.
The Surf Club is holding “come and try” days for all of September, with surf education, fitness and beach skill activities, as well as a whole lot of fun being held from 8.45am each Sunday.  The Nippers’ family will provide stinger suits, boards and all other equipment needed to get involved.  Just bring your togs, sunscreen and a towel and Mum and Dad!
Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports said, “We had a really fun season last year, it was great to see our nippers grow not only in numbers but also in their individual confidence in the surf and with learning about being a lifesaver,”
“Our parent helpers are fantastic as well, getting involved with their children and building our club culture.  It really is a family-orientated and welcoming sport.”
Josh said that Nippers is a surf development program catering for children aged from 5 – 14 years, after which they move into the junior and senior lifesaving ranks.  
“A typical Nippers morning will involve a structured warm-up and surf education such as signals, rescue techniques and reading the surf for rips or stingers (which we get very rarely), beach training such as flag / beach races and relays, then water-based activities that are age appropriate.  
“The morning finishes with a family sausage sizzle at the canteen where all nipper families catch up.
“The club has a focus on developing skills from our youngest children up to our older teenagers and starts with play-based confidence and skill activities for the young ones which progresses to surf sports competition training for more advanced lifesavers.”
If you would like any more information please contact the Junior Activity Coordinator Lexie Schiffer on juniors@mackayslsc.com.au
We hope to see you at the Beach!

Nippers brings confidence, teamwork and mateship to your children.

Mackay Nippers learning about surf safety from our dedicated volunteer patrolling members

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Ride, Cheer, And Celebrate At The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival

August 29, 2024

The highly anticipated 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival returns this weekend for two thrilling days on 31 August and 1 September, promising a vibrant mix of cycling, community spirit, and 2024 Paris Paralympics LIVE screen.

The festival will feature screenings of the Paralympics throughout the weekend, with a special focus on two Mackay Paralympians, Josh Nicholson and Brayden Foxley-Conolly, who are proudly representing Australia in Wheelchair Rugby. Both athletes are supported by Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay (DSRM), one of the festival’s key beneficiaries.

BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Director, Nikki Giles, expressed her excitement about the festival’s expanded format and the chance to showcase the Paralympics in such a meaningful way.

"This year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival is set to be an unforgettable weekend for the Mackay community. We are thrilled to be a Paralympics LIVE site, where we can gather to celebrate the incredible achievements of our Paralympians.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for Mackay, and we’re inviting everyone to be part of it, whether you are participating in our event or not, everybody is welcome."

In addition to the live Paralympics coverage, the festival will also feature a free screening of the classic film “Cool Runnings” at 4:30 pm on Saturday, 31 August. Families can enjoy food trucks, kids' activities, and a festive atmosphere as they take in the film and the live sports action.

Linda Murry, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s Hay Point Coal Terminal, highlighted BMA’s long-standing commitment to the Mackay community.

“This year’s event, coinciding with the 2024 Paris Paralympics, is an extraordinary opportunity to celebrate the resilience and achievements of our Paralympians with the entire community," she said.

Mayor Greg Williamson said all the stars had aligned to combine the Paralympic LIVE site with the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival.

“It’s tremendous that all the pieces have fallen into place – not only will the LIVE site provide a fantastic addition to the festival, but the Paralympic broadcast also aligns perfectly with one of the funding recipients - Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay,” Mayor Williamson said.

The Paralympics LIVE site will be open to the public between 1:00 pm and 6:00 pm on Saturday, 31 August, and from 6:30 am to 4:00 pm on Sunday, 1 September.

For the complete schedule of events, visit www.river2reefride.com.au

The entire Mackay community is encouraged to join in the celebration, cheer on our Paralympians, and be part of this unique and inspiring event. Photos credit: Deanne Woods and Marty Strecker

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Sladie Sand Dunes Challenge

August 29, 2024

Perfect weather conditions set the stage for the annual Sladie Sand Dunes three-loop course, hosted at the picturesque Lamberts Beach Esplanade. Runners tackled the challenging course, set amidst the serene nature reserve, under the expert supervision of Mackay Road Runners Vice President and Race Director, Mick Scholer. The team behind the event included course setup expert Andrew Short and timekeeping and registration professionals Beck Scholer, Julie Whibley, and Jo Hughes. Unfortunately, club President Brendan Bishop had to bow out due to illness, but the team’s dedication ensured a smooth and enjoyable race. A special thanks to Mick and Bec for introducing some new faces, Rocky and Gino, to the event, while Ashleigh Miles and his enthusiastic son, Max, embraced the challenge with gusto.
Paul MacKenzie once again displayed his prowess, securing first place on the technical off-road course. Runners faced soft sand, steep sandy and grassy hills, and the notorious stair-climbing section, testing their endurance and precision. Despite the tricky terrain of twists, turns, and ascents, most participants finished unscathed, though the unexpectedly humid conditions added an extra layer of difficulty, particularly in the sheltered areas of the parkland reserve.
Outstanding performances were delivered by Mick Vivian, Luke Leven, Teresa Hackney, Michael Feenaghty, Jose Short, Robin Stinson, John Couldrey, Mitch Evetts, Ashleigh Miles, Craig Robinson, Lily Leven, Natasha Joynson, Alan Zamparutti, Len Haworth, David Isbister, Carmel Mahon, Andrew Short, Werner VanDerLinde, Steve Oberg, Jenny White, and Jim Perkins, all of whom showed impressive stamina and determination throughout the course.
Photos and results supplied by Janelle Tilse

Jose Short (left) is congratulated by Mackay Road Runners Merchandising Officer, Jo Hughes for her bronze medal performance at the World Triathlon Multisport Championships
Craig Robinson, Ashleigh Miles and Max Miles are thrilled with their efforts in the Sladie Sand Dunes very testing trail running event
Len Haworth followed closely by David Isbister at the highest altitude point of the race

Over thirty runners bolted from the gate at the Lamberts Beach Sladie Sand Dunes challenging trail event

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Dive Into Paradise At The Whitehaven Beach Open Water Swim

August 29, 2024

The North Mackay Sinkers and Masters Swimming Qld are excited to host the return of an Open Water Swim to the fabulous Whitehaven beach this October 6.

This thrilling event is back after a five-year break and swimmers from across the region are gearing up for an unforgettable experience.

With a choice of 1km or 2km races, the swim offers both a challenge and a sense of adventure as excitement of the swim is matched by the breathtaking surroundings, making this race one to remember.

The last Whitehaven Beach swim was held in 2019, and its return has sparked a wave of enthusiasm.

With limited entries available, the demand is high and spots are filling up quickly.

Entry fee includes return fast ferry from Shute Harbour to and from Whitehaven beach, transfers ashore, a light lunch and a supervised, timed swim along with a commemorative medal to mark the return of the event.

Don't miss your chance to be part of this iconic swim, register now and make your mark in the crystal-clear waters of Whitehaven Beach!

To claim your spot, visit https://authcrm2.swimming.org.au or scan the QR code.

Register now for the Whitehaven Beach Swim via the QR code or byvisiting https://authcrm2.swimming.org.au. Photos supplied

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