The 2024 volleyball season at Mackay State High School has been one of remarkable achievements, crowned by the senior boys' team securing a thrilling grand final victory. Their success has not only marked the culmination of their hard work this year but also the beginning of a new chapter, with the school announcing the launch of a dedicated Volleyball Academy in 2025.

The interschool season kicked off in Term 2 with the first junior competition in several years, where Mackay SHS fielded both boys' and girls' teams. The junior boys narrowly missed out on a finals berth, but their development throughout the season was impressive, given many were new to the sport.

By Term 3, the senior boys' and girls' teams were ready to take on the competition. These athletes, who have been training year-round, showed immense dedication, and the senior boys emerged as the team to beat, ultimately claiming the grand final title. Their victory was a result of hard work, discipline, and a growing love for volleyball.

Reflecting on the team’s stellar performance, Brett Watton, Head of HPE and Sporting Academies, said: “It’s been an incredible season for our volleyball teams.

“The senior boys showed tremendous resilience and commitment, and their grand final win is a fitting reward for all their effort. They've set the standard for future teams."

Mackay SHS is now building on this success with the exciting announcement of a Volleyball Academy, set to launch in 2025.

“Given the outstanding performance of our volleyball teams over the past few years, we’re proud to introduce the Mackay SHS Volleyball Academy next year.

“This will provide students with more specialised training, support, and opportunities to compete at a higher level," Watton added.

Head coach Téa Vella, who has been instrumental in the team’s growth, also praised the players’ progress.

“What started as a group of students eager to learn the sport has grown into a skilled and cohesive team. Their passion for volleyball and their determination to improve have been key to their success this season. I couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve accomplished," Vella said.

Mackay SHS’s volleyball program reflects the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, with many of its players coming from migrant backgrounds, enriching the team’s dynamic.

“It’s amazing to see our school’s multicultural community represented on the court. Their success shows the strength of bringing together students from all walks of life,” Vella added.

As the 2024 volleyball season wraps up with this remarkable grand final win, the future looks even brighter for Mackay State High School, with the upcoming Volleyball Academy set to elevate the program to new heights.

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An unusual result in the men’s competition this year. Wayne and Shane Trannore competed in both the A and B Grade Club Pairs and won both events. An amazing result and we wonder if this has ever been achieved before. They then competed in both C/C’s, the A Grade down to Vince McSherry and Gary Higgins from City Club who eventually went on to win the event. In the B C/C’s held on the weekend, they made it to the semi finals and lost to R Ross and Ray Walker in a close game. A great effort by these two bowlers considering they have only been bowling for a short time.

The “B” C/C’s Pairs

In the semi finals the Seaforth team of Kevin Ross and Ray Walker Def North Mackay 20/16 and Sths Suburban Def Wests Alex and Darryl Cowan 20/18. Bede Roebuck and S Lurton from Souths went on to win the championship in another close game for the weekend 23/21. Congratulations to all of the bowlers for a top weekend of bowls.

Upcoming Events

Mixed Pairs Final
Saturday 9th November 1.00pm start
N Pratt, K Struik
T Alsop, M Bragg

Friday 5th November 2.30pm start time

Goosies 3 Bowl Pairs
Followed by the L.M.R Goosies 10,000
Calcutta Draw at 6.30pm
Tickets available from the bar

Weekly Events
Monday morning 8.30am start
2x4x2 Pairs any mix

Wednesday Ladies Bowls

Thursday 2 x 4 x 2 Pairs 1.00pm start
Friday 3 Bowl Pairs 1.30pm start
Saturday Men’s Bowls normally Pairs

Social Bowls Results

Wednesday
Winners W McGee and B McDonald. J Zamparutti.
Runners up
S Roscoe, B Woodward, L McCarthy

Thursday
Winners M and D Walsh
Runners up
R Legge, C Hall
Green
Voucher D Kane, T McCrystal, R Evans
Raffle R Evans

Friday P Miller, A Cooney
Runner up R Evans, D Evans
3rd I Lomelli, L Deguara

Saturday R McCarthy, Kev Dwyer
Runner up P Madden, B Hall

Today’s Tip
Don’t turn your back on the bad bowls, watch them finish for correction. It’s the good bowl that doesn’t need watching.

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Wayne and Shane Trannore

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The annual Balnagowan river swim hosted by the North Mackay Sinkers was a resounding success, drawing in 40 enthusiastic competitors. Swimmers from Townsvile and other regions joined local swimmers for this annual event held each November on the first Sunday.
The day dawned with warm cloudy conditions as site and course set up was completed in time for the 6:15am registration. Numbers grew to over 60 participants, including swimmers, enthusiastic volunteers and supportive spectators.
Safety was a priority, with early race briefings for volunteers covering potential course issues and emergency procedures to ensure swimmer safety. This was quickly followed by a briefing for all swimmers regarding the course, delivered by all-day MC Nigel Dalton.
Race 1, the 5km event, began promptly at 7:10am, and was kicked off by the new club president, Rachel. It was a somewhat gruelling 5km tussle amongst 10 registered swimmers vying for the coveted crown of King and Queen of the river awards for 2024. Great perpetual trophies were offered for the first-time last year and swimmers were keen to add their name to the trophy base.
Following the main event, Race 2, the 2.5km swim began at 7:15am with many considering it a more reasonable distance. The shorter distance of the event saw competitors start at a great pace as individuals headed to the first turning buoy in pursuit of the 5k swimmers and line honours in this event.
Race 3, the 1.25km swim drew the largest field of 20 competitors, offering an accessible distance for those new to open water swimming, including swimmers using aids like fins. This popular event, known for its quick pace started at 7:20am, just 10 minutes behind the 5km race. Swimmers completed a single loop, setting off at a moderate pace, and while they didn’t catch up with the 2.5km and 5km leaders, they enjoyed a fantastic swim in the very popular Mackay location.
The Club thanks Tri-ActiV8 for water safety support, Nikki and her volunteer team, DMR Leisure Mackay Memorial Swimming Centre for podium medals, Millie for preparing competitors, Mackay Rowing Club and Mackay Canoe Club for facilities and assistance, and all club volunteers and officials who made the event a success.
Next year’s event is scheduled for Sunday, 2nd of November, 2025
The club is now preparing for its next swim at Cats Eye beach on Hamilton Island as the annual event approaches on Sunday, November 24.

5 km Results
Place
Male
Female
First
Ryno Bornman (01:27.04)
Jane Eggins (01:34:08)
Second
Greg Born (01:28:42)
Sam Sticklan (01:36:15)
Third
Pierre Craven (01:28:58)
Sarah Shuttlewood (01:40:07)

2.5 km Results
Place
Male
Female
First
Peter Shannon (01:24:22)
Karlee Hayden (00:50:01)
Second
No place
Katelan Reddacliff (00:53:20)
Third
No place
Jane Brond (00:56:20)

1.25 km Results
Place
Male
Female
First
Peter Benson (00:25:00)
Megan Taylor (00:23:51)
Second
Paul Arvidson (00:26:37)
Lucy Guye (00:26.56)
Third
Geoff Hamilton (00:28:41)
Rebecca Cassanovas (00:28.31)

Ryno Bornman the 2024 “King of the River” with Sinkers club President Rachel Mundy.
Jane Eggins the 2024 “Queen of the River” with Sinkers club President Rachel Mundy.
Twenty keen swimmers prepare for the 1.25km start
The Balnagowan section of the pioneer river is a favourite with locals and visitors, hosting many different activities. Photos supplied

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They say nothing in life is easy, and the recent experiences at our local bowls club certainly prove that. The much-anticipated installation of a new cover has faced a series of unexpected challenges, from mix-ups in delivery to construction mishaps.

While the cover arrived in the wrong colour scheme—multiple shades of grey—Dulux has stepped up, promising fresh paint and painters to start work this week. To add to the obstacles, the cover was mistakenly sent to a different address and, after being opened and run over by trucks, had to be repacked and sent back. A replacement cover is now on its way, though it may take a few months to arrive from overseas.

Meanwhile, the club has had to deal with a temporary power outage and a water supply replacement. Despite these setbacks, the spirit of the club remains strong. Members have adapted by playing bowls at other venues, with Alan Pershouse, David Meiklejohn, and Mark Mawson performing admirably over at Proserpine. Club events, such as Friday night gatherings led by Fiona Greener, have continued to thrive, drawing many members together.

A big thanks goes out to volunteers like Warren Mills and Bob Spees, who have taken on the challenging task of trench digging, and to Andrew Butler, whose dedication has been instrumental in keeping the project moving forward. The community effort and determination displayed by the club members highlight the resilience and teamwork that will see these projects through to completion.

Ongoing work at Airlie Beach Bowls Club, Photo supplied

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Sunday Social Games
October has been a lively month for the club's Sunday Social matches, with plenty of competitive spirit on display:
   • October 13: I. Thatcher, A. Williams, and J. Gilbert triumphed over R. Muir, R. Gould, and T. White, while D. McDonald and S. Roome defeated K. Moriaty and D. Kroll.
   • October 20: Tracey, Jill, and Tiarna emerged victorious against Gordo, Jane, and Kev. Ron and Margo secured a win over Meurisse. Dave’s team came out on top against Lyn’s team.
   • October 27: Dave, Kev D, and Steve defeated Ron, Jane, and Helen. Ian, Brett, and Lloyd played a close match, resulting in a draw with Marion, Ray, and Crowie.

Wednesday Social Games
The Wednesday Social matches have also seen great participation and competitive games:
   • October 23: Ian, Eddy, Robyn, and Jane defeated MaryEllen, Marion, Ron, and Gavin.
   • October 30: Tracey, Tiarna, and Helen bested Ian, Jane, and Mark, while Bev, Ray, and Dave took the win against Eddy, Alby, and Ron.

Several games were recorded without specific dates, showcasing more friendly but competitive matchups:
   • Ron and Jason defeated Gavin and Jane.
   • Ian, A. Vigar, and Dave secured a win against Robyn, Ray, and Helen.
   • Maryellen, Marion, and Steve triumphed over Robyn, Don, and Gav.

The social games continue to bring club members together, adding camaraderie and healthy competition to each week. Looking forward to more matches and memorable moments on the green!

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards

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On Wednesday, as 14 players gathered for a spirited afternoon of social bowls. In the day’s first match, Jim Bownds, Mary Hedgelong, Alan Pershouse, and Mike Harrison emerged victorious over a visiting player from Japan, Miyu, alongside Arthur Griffith, Philip Brown, and Heather Brown, with a final score of 23-18. In another closely contested game, Alen Sanderson, Dave Meiklejohn, and Mark Mawson defeated Pat Bownds, Barry Zillmann, and Sandy Daffara 21-17.

On Friday night, 32 players celebrated the final Barefoot Bowls event of the year under the lights. The club extends its gratitude to all members and participants who supported this popular event throughout the season. The club will announce next year’s start date in due course, and a special thanks goes out to the dedicated members who made this event such a success each month.

Saturday saw Gavin Milne and Nathaniel Watts representing the club in the Champion of Champion B Pairs competition held at North Mackay. They faced a tough Souths Suburban team, featuring Bede Roebuck and substitute Sam Lurton, and ultimately fell 14-24. Souths Suburban advanced to the final against Seaforth, though the final result was not available at press time.

Sunday afternoon's games brought more exciting matchups, with nine players taking to the green. Arthur Griffith and Philip Brown had a strong showing, defeating Alen Sanderson and Sandy Daffara 31-13. In a game filled with remarkable shots, Mike Harrison, John Anderson, and Heather Brown narrowly bested Mike Harrison, Mary Hedgelong, and Peter Lawton, 23-19.

Looking ahead, social bowls will continue on Wednesday afternoons. However, there will be no social bowls on Sunday, November 10, as the club will host its Memorial Day Carnival on Saturday, November 9.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Tuesday Social Bowls Tuesday’s social games saw strong competition, with Merle Elphinstone, Stumpy Adams, and Geoff Danvers defeating Bron Tolcher, Sue Shearing, and Gavin Charles. In another match, Barry Lee and Penny Warren overcame Cecila Lee and Robyn Stitt. Barry and Cecila, visiting from North Mackay Bowls Club, took the opportunity to test out the Bowen greens, adding an extra touch of camaraderie to the day. The jackpot, however, remains unclaimed and will roll over to next week.

Successful "Come and Try" Afternoon On Saturday, the club hosted a "Come and Try" session that drew an enthusiastic crowd of learners eager to test their skills. By the end of the afternoon, newcomers were impressively drawing close to the jack, with some lucky “Wangaratta wicks” helping them along. The day concluded with a delightful afternoon tea, which proved as popular as the on-green action.

Sunday Games Welcoming Airlie Beach Guests With the Airlie Beach green temporarily unavailable, Wangaratta was pleased to host visiting players. The afternoon’s games were tightly contested, with Lyn Graham and Betty Whitehorn clinching a win in a close match, narrowly defeating Jim Quod and Penny Warren on the final end. Jocelyn Defranciscis and Tony Whitehorn also had a close match against Toni Bowen and Alby Vigar. In another game, Merle Elphinstone, Isobel Wheeler, and Kevin Jewell triumphed over Lindy Suann, Deb Retchless, and Graeme Read. The jackpot once again went unclaimed, keeping excitement high for the upcoming week.

                                                                                                                         
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Last Tuesday, Proserpine Veterans Golf Club made their way to Bowen for the concluding round of the Whitsunday Veterans competition. A strong showing of 60 players, including 43 men and 13 women, participated in the event. Despite lower player numbers, the competition moved along swiftly, allowing for an enjoyable pace of play. Following nine holes, players were treated to a delicious lunch, a highlight as always.

The course presented a fresh challenge with its well-maintained greens and a stiff ocean breeze that tested players’ skill, particularly on exposed greens that played superfast.

Competition Results
For the ladies, three Proserpine players earned spots in the rundown: Leanne Alexander with 32 points, Tiina Randmae with 31 points, and Jenny Hounsell with 25 points.

In the men’s division, Laurie Daiken took second place with 38 points, closely followed by Colin Hounsell in fourth, also on 38 points. Vic Feldman rounded out the field, finishing 12th with 34 points.

AGM and Club of the Year Honors
Technical delays postponed the day's results presentation, giving way to the annual AGM before results were announced. The AGM proved to be a highlight as PGC Vets celebrated another milestone, securing the Club of the Year title for 2024.
Individual awards also recognized standout players:
   • Men's Golfer of the Year: Gary Pappalardo of HH with an impressive 249 points, with Barry Mortimer securing third place, narrowly missing the lead by just four points.
   • Ladies' Golfer of the Year: Tiina Randmae claimed the title with 229 points, edging out Anne McGowan who finished second, only four points behind.

Looking Ahead
Up next for the Proserpine Vets is a festive Melbourne Cup Day event on November 5, featuring a Stableford competition, followed by lunch and the big race, complete with traditional sweeps.

Congratulations to all players for their achievements and a memorable season.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

Tiina Randmae Golfer of the Year

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The final Monthly Medal (MM) of the year saw a modest turnout at Whitsunday Golf Club, with eight players hitting the course for this last event. Despite the low numbers, players were treated to ideal conditions with a cool breeze. The sandy greens presented a challenge, testing the players’ putting skills and accuracy on a course known for its tricky greens.

Standout Performances
Anna Winterbourn stole the show with an impressive performance, carding a 91 off the stick and finishing with a nett 66. Her strong play earned her the title of Ladies' Winner, and she also claimed the Longest Drive. In the men's division, Ron Jamieson came close with a solid nett 69, just edging out Mark McDougal, who posted a respectable nett 70.

Results Recap
Ladies Division:
   • Winner: Anna Winterbourn (66 nett)
   • Runner-up: Tiina Randmae
   • Longest Drive: Anna Winterbourn

Men’s A Grade:
   • Winner: Mata Browne (77 nett)

Men’s B Grade:
   • Winner: Ron Jamieson (69 nett)
   • Runner-up: Mark McDougal (70 nett)
   • Longest Drive: Ron Jamieson

NTPs (Nearest the Pin):
   • Anna Winterbourn on the 5th and 18th holes
   • David Hoy on the 7th
   • Ron Jamieson on the 18th
The NAGA (Not a Golfer's Award) went to George Meharry for the day.

Looking Ahead
Next week, the club will host the 2024 WGC Club Championship and the prestigious Medal of Medals. Members are encouraged to sign up between 7 and 8 a.m. for a grouped start. Congratulations to all players on a well-played MM finale, and good luck to everyone competing in the championship!

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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This year Lily Peacock has achieved all of her sporting goals that she had set herself.

She has played every game of the NRL W season, played in the State of Origin, played in the Australian team and also won Rookie of the Year.

Nathan Peacock, Lily’s dad, said making the Australia team came as no surprise to him.

“It was no surprise, because literally, everything she said she was going to do that year, she did. But to sit back on the lounge and watch her out there singing the Australian national anthem was just something else,” he said.

Lily’s mother Linda has similar praise.

“We know how much heart and soul that Lil's got. She's a Peacock,” she said.

“We've been brought up like that. Whatever you put your mind to, and whatever your heart wants, it's yours if you really want it.

“So, for Lils (Lily) it has been football, and she's grabbed it with both hands but also wants to give back, which I love. I know that she's going to definitely be a mentor for the younger girls.”

Women’s sport has been a challenge in the past, but Lily says the timing of her career has come at a great time, and that she is now part of the next generation.

“I'm so grateful that I have had the opportunities to come through and also hats off to Mum and Dad for putting in all the work, and also driving me back and forth,” said Lily.

“I’ve wanted to be involved with the younger girls as well.

“We have got a pretty awesome pathway up in Townsville, and we're doing a development camp to help with selections, and hopefully we can get our next development players to be from Townsville, local girls.

“So we are putting in a lot of effort there into building the younger girls so they have more of an opportunity to get in.”

Lily started her Rugby journey playing Union, but as time went on and with her dad’s influence she has shifted towards League.

With the rate of growth in women’s sport and her progress in the game already Lily Peacock will be a name that all young sports players can look up to in the future.

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It was a challenging week for putting at PGC, though some players managed to shine despite the tricky conditions. Members and social players are reminded to play with efficiency, courtesy, and consideration for their fellow competitors at all times.

Tuesday, 29/10/24
PGC - Single Stableford
   • Men's Winner: John Strelec (38 points)
       ◦ Runner-Up: John Oates (37 points)
   • Ladies' Winner: Anna Winterbourn (35 points)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Genia Sarafian (34 points)
Rundown:
   • 35 points: Ken Granger, Scott Mason, Aaron Prosser
   • 34 points: Louis Neethling
Special Mentions:
   • 2 Shot Winner: John Oates (9th)
   • NTPs: Kev Cooper (2nd), Lyn Muller (9th), John Strelec (13th), Ken Granger (16th)
VETS - Whitsunday Group Stableford at Bowen GC
PGC celebrated an impressive achievement with the club being named Club of the Year 2024. Tiina Randmae earned the title of Lady Golfer of the Year, and Barry Mortimer finished just four points behind in the men’s division, which was won by Gary Pappalardo of Home Hill.

Wednesday, 30/10/24
Ladies - Single Stableford
   • Winner: Toni Clauss (42 points)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Di Chard (40 points)
Rundown:
Jenny Hounsell and Genia Sarafian (37 points)
NTPs: Toni Clauss (2nd), Tina Badenhorst (9th), Anna Winterbourn (13th), Jan Shuwalow (16th)
Thursday, 31/10/24
PGC - Single Stableford
   • A Grade:
       ◦ Winner: Brendan Spann (43 points)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Scott Mason (40 points)
       ◦ 3rd Place: Matthew Muller (39 points)
   • B Grade:
       ◦ Winner: Peter Lindsay (42 points)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Genia Sarafian (41 points)
       ◦ 3rd Place: Ken Granger (40 points)
Rundown:
40 points: Benn Ryan
39 points: Lloyd Kingston
38 points: Peter Elms, Logan Devery
37 points: Nic Apruzzese, Adam Tester
36 points: Blake Davis, Laurie Dakin
Special Mentions:
   • 2 Shot Winners: Rob Stanley, Gavin Kerwand (13th), Simon Della Santa (16th)
   • NTPs: Gavin Kerwand (2nd), Michael Cragg (9th), Jacob Nightingale (13th), Laurie Dakin (16th)

Friday, 1/11/24
Metropole Run - 9 Holes (Front 9)
   • Winner: Brendan Spann (24 points on a countback)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Brody Thompson
Rundown:
23 points: Karlene Lloyd
22 points: Carwyn Moon
NTPs: Carwyn Moon (2nd), Timothy Duncan (9th)
Saturday, 2/11/24
PGC - RGH November Monthly Medal
   • Overall Winner: Rob Stanley (67 nett)
Grades:
   • A Grade:
       ◦ Winner: Rob Stanley (67 nett)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Brendan Spann (69 nett)
   • B Grade:
       ◦ Winner: Cory O'Shea (68 nett on a countback)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Steve Hickey
   • C Grade:
       ◦ Winner: Ken Granger (67 nett)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Jim Cochrane (68 nett)
Rundown:
68 nett: Phil Luckett
69 nett: John Roser, Kristian Mulholland, Craig Smith, Luke Hansen
70 nett: Laurie Dakin
Best Gross Scores: Rob Stanley (A), Cory O'Shea (B), Ken Granger (C)
Special Mentions:
   • 2 Shot Winners: Mata Browne (2nd), Cory O'Shea (9th and 13th), Rob Stanley (13th), Simon Wilmot (13th), Jim Cochrane (16th)
   • NTPs: Mata Browne (2nd), Cory O'Shea (9th, 13th), Di Chard (2nd), Sheree Hasson (9th)
Ladies:
   • Winner: Di Chard (69 nett)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Rehab Hull (71 nett)
Rundown:
73 nett: Ann Gardel, Heather Luvis, Jill Farinelli
Special Mentions:
   • 2 Shot Winners: Rehab Hull (13th), Toni Clauss (16th)

Sunday, 3/11/24
PGC - November Monthly Medal
   • Men’s Winner: Ryan Kenny (66 nett on a countback)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Aaron Prosser
   • Ladies’ Winner: Anna Winterbourn (66 nett)
Rundown:
68 nett: Leo Louis
69 nett: Ryan Wilkes, Ron Jamieson, Danny York, Mark Thompson
70 nett: Mark McDougal
Special Mentions:
   • 2 Shot Winners: Patrick Camm (9th), John Clark (16th)
   • NTPs: Anna Winterbourn (2nd), Aaron Prosser (9th), Danny York (13th), John Clark (16th)

Congratulations to all participants and winners in what was an action-packed week at PGC!

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Club

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Over the weekend, 21 swimmers from Cannonvale Cannons Swim Club made their mark at the Gardens Open Long Course Preparation Meet in Townsville, joining over 330 swimmers from Cairns to Mackay. This bustling event was filled with standout performances and personal bests.

One of the meet's highlights was the 8-10 years boys 200m Freestyle Relay, where Zane Clayworth, Alex Trefz, Harris Delac, and Eric Mulliss clinched the bronze medal.

Individual successes abounded, with Elouise Chegwidden medalling in all her events, joined by Jacob Bell, who also impressed with a full set of top placings across his individual races. Additional congratulations go to Zachary and Alex Trefz, Jax Clayworth, Charlie Doherty, and Tyler Bennett, who medalled in the majority of their events.
In terms of personal bests (PBs), Leo and Eric Mulliss, Matilda Nicholes, Isabella Pisaniello, Ruby Lawson, Charlie Doherty, Addie Saunders, Ella Bounden, Jax Clayworth, Tyler Bennett, and the Trefz brothers demonstrated incredible progress by achieving PBs in most of their races. Among the meet’s notable achievements, Tora Delac qualified for the 2025 Nationals with her outstanding swim in the 50m Freestyle —a tremendous milestone in her swimming career.

Several Cannons also secured Long Course times for the upcoming state titles, including Zach Trefz, Tyler Bennett, Nelson Malady, Isabella Pisaniello, Ella Bounden, and Jacob Bell. Well done to these swimmers, we can’t wait to see what you achieve in December at the Queensland Long Course Championships.

Wrapping up an outstanding weekend, Jax Clayworth and Eloise Chegwidden received certificates for breaking North Queensland records. Jax is now the North Queensland record holder in the 100m Butterfly and Elouise holds the title for the 25m Breaststroke.

Congratulations to all Cannons swimmers for an inspiring weekend of achievements!

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Team Cannons ready to compete amongst 330 swimmers

Elouise Chegwidden broke the 25m Breastroke NQ record, and then beat her own record again

Jax Clayworth hold the title of fastest 9yr old boy to swim 100m Fly in North Queensland

The 8 - 10 year boys 200m Freestyle Relay team who secured third place
Photos supplied

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Kona, Hawaii is the birthplace of the iconic Race that started in 1978.

The Ironman World Championship has become a highly prestigious and gruelling endurance competition that triathletes around the World aspire to compete in. Athletes describe the race as brutal and challenging, but they are all up for the challenge. It is the World Cup of Ironman events and the best of the best participate in a number of age group categories.

The event starts with a 3.8km swim which begins at the Kailua Kona Pier in Town. This year before the start of the race there was a red alert for jellyfish, many of us got stung which was quite painful. There were medics spraying vinegar in transition after the swim. The race then continues with a gruelling 180km bike ride with competitors heading north through extremely hot lava fields with high wind gusts and scorching hot temperatures. Once back in Kona, the marathon run portion of the race begins. The 42.2km marathon course takes you back out of town and return also suffering in the hot and humid condition.

The final moments going through the finish arch are filled with intense emotions, passion and is spectacle unlike anything else. The awaiting crowd are there to cheer every competitor home!

My long day 14 hours and 31 minutes at the office was very rewarding as I eclipsed my time from 2022 by 8 minutes. I was the second Australian home and 13th overall in the World in my age category 70 to 74. Gruelling but so fulfilling to see that finish line!

The event was made super special with Val volunteering all day and officially awarding me my stunning finishers medal.

I dedicated the race to the Ronald McDonald House Charity. I must thank everyone who donated for their generosity. Google Michael Kimpton Fundraiser, RMHC if you would like to make a donation to this needy cause. To date I have raised over $8,000 which is quite remarkable.

Contributed with thanks to Michael Kimpton

Photos supplied

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October has been an exciting month for North Mackay Sinkers, packed with training sessions and upcoming events as members prepare for the annual Balnagowan Swim on Sunday, November 3rd.

The Balnagowan Open Water Swim offers 1.25k, 2.5k, and 5k swim options, welcoming everyone from beginner swimmers to experienced distance competitors. Registrations are open online until noon on Saturday, November 2nd, with same-day registration available (although pre-registration helps with event planning). The loop course is ideal for spectators and water safety, as the club trials its Race Results electronic timing system for the second time. Novice swimmers joining the 1.25k event can also wear swim aids if desired.

In partnership with Mackay Water Polo Club, North Mackay Sinkers also hosted a “come and try” session on Wednesday evening. After a warm-up of 400m, participants joined in skill-building drills, followed by a fun, engaging game. The Water Polo players brought both patience and expertise, making it a memorable experience that participants hope to repeat in the future.

Saturday morning sessions remain a welcoming entry point to the club, with multiple lanes accommodating swimmers of various abilities. On October 26th, the session coincided with the State Election and drew over 20 swimmers to the popular “Jim Session.” Participants swam between 1,800m and 3k, with time for friendly chats in the shallow end. Open to all fitness levels, these social sessions are followed by a post-swim coffee and treats enjoyed by members.

October 26th also marked “World Swim Day,” a global event that highlights the many health benefits of swimming. To celebrate, the club held a spirited relay race with a pull buoy as the “baton.”

Masters Swimming Queensland welcomes swimmers of all levels, from recreational to competitive, across pool and open water settings. Programs are designed to be supportive, fun, and inclusive.

For club and membership inquiries, email prs.nthmkysinkers@gmail.com or call 0413 805 156. For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

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North Mackay Sinkers embrace a friendly, inclusive spirit, welcoming swimmers of all levels for fun, fitness, and camaraderie as they train together for the upcoming Balnagowan Open Water Swim. Photos supplied

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures October 22, 2024:

Division 1:

Corgi (Will VanDeKaa, Robbie Richards, Lily Boland) d Aqua (Duncan Treloar, Geoff Denman, Ian McKay) 9-2. Will d Duncan 7, -12, -13, 11, 7.

Andro (Emma Widdup, Allan Edwards, Graham Drury) d Azalea (Mark Sleeman, Barry Patterson, Allan Robins) 7-4. Allan d Mark -9, 7, 9, -7, 8.

Alfa (Goncalo Serra, Tony Bowman, Vince Boeske) d Barry (Trent Day, Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake) 8-3. Vince d Anne 5, -9, 6, -6, 9.

Division 2:

Cats (George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) d Cheetahs (Josie Davis, Simon Hogan, Rymer Tabulo) 7-4. Tiffany d Josie 5, -8, 10, 9.

Bulldog (Delma Knight, Peter Goodson, David Symons) d Cockatoos (Craig VanDeKaa, Jye Callander, Matt West) 7-4. Matt d Bulldog 6, -6, -5, 6, 5.

Ants (Andrea Nicholson, Mark Stam, Noreen Fredericksen) d Tigers (Ollie Hamelink, Doug Dungavell, Steve Mathieson) 8-3. Noreen d Doug -5, 5, -10, 5, 7.

Caption: Noreen Fredericksen beat Doug Dungavell in a close tussle, with Noreen winning 11-7 in the 5th. Photos supplied

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures October 22, 2024:

Division 1:

Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) d Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) 9-5. Pam d Branko 5, -10, -9, 8, 10.

Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) d Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) 10-4. Doug d Tony -10, 7, -5, 9.

Division 2:

Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) d Rome Ralliers (Cheryl Pearson, Thelma Caruana, Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 11-3. Bill/Cheryl d Madge/Josie 3, 8, -9, -6, 9.

Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana) d Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) 7-4. John d Helen 6, -5, -7, 9, 9.

London Loopers (Ken Best, Kim Daffy) d Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Trish Zamparutti) 5-4. Ken/Kim d Bryan/Ian -10, 6, -4, 5, 10.

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Noreen Fredericksen beat Doug Dungavell in a close tussle, with Noreen winning 11-7 in the 5th. Photos supplied

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