This year, Mackay Regional Council is asking residents to be prepared for all natural disasters – not just cyclones.

On Saturday, November 4, council will hold Disaster Ready Saturday at Caneland Central from 9am to 1pm, outside Target.

Mayor Greg Williamson said more and more we were faced with the threat of bushfires, floods, storms and extreme heat, as well as cyclones.

“We’ve changed the name of this event from previous years as natural disasters can happen to anyone, anywhere,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It’s crucial that, as a community, each and every one of us takes the time to prepare our homes, properties and families,” he said.

“Disaster season is already rearing its head in our region, with active fires at Koumala and Farleigh and the first cyclone of the season forming near Vanuatu.

“Disasters, such as floods, fires and cyclones, require different methods of action and preparedness.

“People need to have a number of survival plans in place to know what they are going to do in the event of a disaster striking.”

Mayor Williamson said even though the name had changed, Disaster Ready Saturday would still feature a diverse range of emergency experts and agencies for residents to speak with.

“Council’s Emergency Management Team, State Emergency Services, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, Queensland Police Service, Mackay Hospital and Health Service, RACQ CQ Rescue, Red Cross and more, will all be available,” Mayor Williamson said.

“And just like previous years, hundreds of bags filled with vital emergency information will be handed out as part of this community event,” he said.

Anyone who attends Disaster Ready Saturday can go into the draw to win a Honda generator thanks to Mackay Outdoor Power Centre. Simply fill out a quick survey on the day, or online at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/disaster-ready from Monday (October 30), to win.

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Hundreds of emergency bags were handed out at last year’s Disaster Ready Day

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Businesses looking to leverage off the exciting Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails can learn more at workshops being held in November.

Council is hosting two Bike Ready Business Workshops, at Finch Hatton and Mackay, to assist businesses in learning about the significant opportunities the trails will offer.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the workshops would be co-hosted by award-winning destination and marketing specialists, Destination Marketing Store (DMS) and Swell Design.

“DMS and Swell have been working hard to develop an amazing brand and marketing strategy that will bring our new mountain bike trails to life, not just here in Mackay but around the world,” Mayor Williamson said.

“These free workshops will offer the opportunity for local businesses to learn firsthand how they can tap into that brand by creating ride ready products, packages and offers,” he said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses – and not just those in Finch Hatton and the Pioneer Valley, but in Mackay as well – to learn how they can extend their offerings to incorporate this major destination experience.

“Many visitors to the trails will come into Mackay first and then travel to the Valley. There are many peripheral businesses, such as bike shops, car hire and accommodation, that can leverage off the branding to connect with the trails.”

The workshops will cover:

• Key elements of the brand strategy.

• Creative elements and marketing plan.

• Practical examples of how to leverage the brand.

• Importance of collaboration and partnerships.

• Creating ride ready products, packages and offers.

The Finch Hatton workshop will be held on Monday, November 13, from 11am to 12.30pm at the Finch Hatton RSL. To register go to https://bit.ly/46ywRSL

The Mackay workshop will be held on Tuesday, November 14, from 9am to 10.30am at Harrup Park Country Club. To register go to https://bit.ly/3PUZUsB

Online registration is required by Sunday, November 5 and spots are limited.

For more information contact Mackay Regional Council Senior Economic Development Officer, Grier Williamson, on 4961 9099 or email grier.williamson@mackay.qld.gov.au.

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Turning the first sod at the Finch Hatton Trailhead for Stage 1 of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails

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The Pioneer Swimming Club travelled to Proserpine last Saturday, for the Whitsunday Swimming Club Transition Meet.  Quite the contingent of Dolphins enjoyed the small but mighty event.

This small country carnival sure packed a lot into the day.  Highlights for our swimmers included receiving a token rubber duck if a swimmer won their heat, mystery relays where swimmers from all clubs were randomly chosen to form teams in a hotly contested relay, a candy shop for the sweet tooth amongst us and the mouthwatering snow cones to enjoy and cool down with in the increasing heat.

Our swimmers did not disappoint with the medal tally and personal bests achieved.  Many left with quite the loot and massive smiles to boot!  We can’t thank Whitsunday Swimming Club enough for hosting such a great meet.

Contributed by Pioneer Swim Club

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The Pioneer Swim Club at the Whitsunday Swimming Club Transition Meet

Ella Bounden

Zahli Herring

Yasmin Seedwell

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Fans of popular American television sitcom My Three Sons that aired in the 1960s would remember notable actor Fred McMurray and the fortunes of his kids Mike, Robbie and Chip.

Wind the clock forward five decades and Mackay couple Teresa and Phil Simon are proud of the rugby league achievements of three of their off-spring Kane, Kai and Nate.

Originally hailing from the Sarina Crocodiles, the Simon trio have established themselves in the Mackay Junior League with the Walkerston Wanderers and Mackay Cutters Pathways Program.

Nineteen-year-old Kai, a talented utility back, has signed with the North Queensland Cowboys and will soon be based in Townsville while promising fullback Nate,13, shows enormous potential in the junior ranks.

All eyes are on 21-year-old Kane who has starred for the touring Australia Universities rugby league team against New Zealand across the Tasman.

The emerging fullback was named best on ground and Players’ Player after Australia’s 42-16 victory over the Kiwis in the first test match at Rotorua last week.

Kane has demonstrated his dynamic attacking skills - scoring two of his team’s eight tries and creating another to help the Aussies draw first blood in the three-match series at Puketawhero Park.

Australia clinched the series when they toppled the Kiwis 38-4 in the second test last Sunday with Simon capping another strong game by nabbing a try in the corner.

A naturally gifted sportsman who has also excelled in AFL and cricket, the fleet-footed custodian is a fierce competitor on the rugby league field and strong defender.

It is Kane’s second stint in the Australian Universities team after also shining for Queensland and the green and golds against the Australian Army, Police and Defence Force teams last season in Sydney.

The versatile Simon was identified as a bright prospect in the Cutters and Cowboys Academy squads and last year received the Mackay Colts Players’ Player Award.

A former Capricornia schoolboys centre, Kane recovered from a broken collarbone as a 16-year-old and had a stint with the Brothers Bulldogs while leaving his mark in the Cutters’ Mal Meninga Cup and Colts ranks.

He fielded an offer to join the Redcliffe Dolphins in the Queensland Cup but opted to stay in Mackay and serve his league apprenticeship.

Another highlight of the New Zealand trip was visiting Fairfield Public School in Hamilton where the Australian players conducted a coaching clinic and organised fun rugby league skill-based games.

For Kane the opportunity to travel across the Tasman with the Australian squad was made possible through the generous support of local sponsors such as the Mackay Cutters, Ryan McGovern of Independent Mining Solutions, Frank Attard from Key Solutions Group, Gardian Real Estate, Andrew Titlow of Powertrain Components Australia, Brothers Rugby League plus Paul and Roberta Morris from Morris Builders.

“I really appreciate the support of my sponsors and feel privileged to wear the green and gold,” a proud Simon told Mackay and Whitsunday Life.

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Mackay’s Kane Simon starred for the Australian Universities rugby league team in their Test series triumph over New Zealand in Rotorua last week

Australian Universities fullback and emerging Mackay Cutters colt Kane Simon crosses for one of his two tries in the first test win over the Kiwis. Simon was named best on ground and also received the Players’ Player award

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Victorian master blaster Matt Short came to Mackay and conquered last week with a blistering ton at Great Barrier Reef Arena.

The 27-year-old opener from Ballarat demonstrated his batting power in the Bushrangers’ 19-run victory over Queensland in the Marsh Cup limited overs series – peeling off a superb 134 to earn the Player of the Match award.

A swashbuckling Short showed why he has earned five international caps for Australia in white ball cricket with a cracking century against the Queensland Bulls in a gripping one-day contest.

He faced one hundred balls and smashed an impressive thirteen boundaries and six towering sixes as the Bushrangers amassed a hefty 6-349 off 50 overs.

Short combined with Tom Rogers (42 runs off 62 balls) for an opening stand of 127 before adding 61 runs for the second wicket with Marcus Harris (20) and a third wicket union of 44 with skipper Peter Handscomb (21).

Other Victorian batsmen to shine were Jon Merlo who registered an unbeaten 54 off 38 balls and Sam Harper (47 off 34).

Pick of the Queensland bowlers were Jack Wildermuth (3-72) and quick Gurinder Sandhu (2-48).

In reply the Bulls fell agonisingly short after posting 330 – thanks to dashing knocks by centurion Matt Renshaw (102 off 68), Ben McDermott (86 off 82) and the flamboyant Max Bryant (62 off 60).

At one stage the Queensland side were 1-212 and firming as winners with Renshaw and McDermott in full cry.

They shared a massive second wicket partnership of 175 with international Renshaw notching fifteen boundaries and a six and McDermott thumping two sixes and eight fours.

But the Bulls were denied victory despite a last-ditch effort from hot shot Bryant who was last man dismissed in the 49th over when caught by Todd Murphy off the bowling of Will Sutherland.

Spinner Murphy, who bagged seven wickets in his Test debut against India in Nagpur earlier this year, snared 3-45 off ten overs in a fine display.

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A handshake between captains before the final Marsh Cup game at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay. Photo credit: Queensland Cricket

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In a huge recruiting coup, Chelsea Brook has put pen to paper and will return to the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes for the 2024 NBL1 North Season.

25-year-old Brook is the first NBL1 roster signing for the Meteorettes and makes her way back to North

Queensland following a two-year stint with the Darwin Salties. In her second season in the Northern Territory,

Brook averaged 15 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists. Across 51 career NBL1 games she’s averaged an

impressive 16 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists per outing.

Mackay locals will be familiar with the star power forward following her stellar 2021 season in the red and black,

where Brook was recognised with Most Valuable Player and Players’ Player honours. The former Australian

representative becoming a fan favourite at the Crater on the back of her physical play and long-range shooting.

McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes Head Coach Jamiey Doevendans was elated with the announcement of Brook as his first player signing for 2024.

“Signing Chelsea to our McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes is extremely exciting for both the team and the

community.

“Chelsea is a natural leader and has a very high basketball I.Q.

“She can shoot the ball at a high clip which will help spread the floor and has the ability to defend multiple

positions.

“I believe she’ll make an immediate impact on our team culture and be a positive mentor for all our young athletes.”

Brook also shared her delight about her Mackay return.

“I’m excited to be back with the Meteorettes and pumped to be playing with a new group of girls and having the opportunity to reconnect with the Mackay community.

“I’m also thrilled at the opportunity to be working with Jamiey again and can’t wait for the season to start.”

Brook will relocate to Mackay in early 2024 in time for the commencement of pre-season training.

More NBL1 player announcements are expected in the coming weeks.

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Chelsea Brook in action for the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes in 2021. Photo credit: Kieron Place

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures October 17, 2023:

Division 1:

Foxtrot (Tony Bowman, Tim Sheehan, Geoff Denman) d Echo (Steven Whiting, Graham Brake, Mark Sleeman) 8-3. Geoff d Steven -8, 3, 6, -10, 8.

Charlie (Anne Sheridan, Robbie Richards, Graeme Walker) d Delta (Ian McKay, Barry Patterson, Lee Brake) Graeme d Lee 6, 7, -7, -4, 12.

Bravo (Neil Brown, Emma Widdup, Vince Boeske) d Alpha (Mick Ruhl, Janice Kent, Allan Edwards) 6-5. Neil d Janice -8, 6, 10, -14, 6.

Division 2:

November (Andrea Nicholson, Will VanDeKaa, Mark Stam) d Mike (Steve Mathieson, Matthew West, Val Austin) 7-6. Andrea d Steve -11, -10, 6, 8, 10.

Lima (Donna Abbott, Geoff Cowan, Ollie Hamelink, YiLin Jiang) d Kilo (Trent Day, Craig VanDeKaa) 11-2. Geoff d Trent -1, 9, 8, -6, 9.

India (Delma Knight, Rymer Tabulo, Amanda Wright) d Juliet (Lily Boland, Peter Goodson, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-6. Delma d Noreen -9, 8, 5, 8.

Golf (George Camilleri, David Symons, Jye Callander) d Hotel (Daniel Warfield, Simon Hogan) 8-3. Bulldog d Simon 8, -8, 10, 9.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures October 10, 2023:

Division 1:

Bream (Doug Dungavell, Pam Joyce, Iris Grasso) d Tuna (Tony Bowman, John McGee, Cheryl Pearson) 7-5. Iris d Cheryl -9, -13, 5, 7, 10.

Cod (George Camilleri, Val Austin, Kevin Abbott) drew Perch (Andrea Nicholson, Peter Goodson, Judi Hicks) 6-all. George d Andrea 7, -6, 6, -4, 8.

Trout (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Fredericksen, Bryan Marshall) drew Barra (Steve Mathieson, Delma Knight, Helen Ware) 6-all. Bryan d Helen -10, -10, 6, 7, 9.

Division 2:

Scallop (Gerry Synnott, Steve Blackshaw) d Squid (Louise Gould, Sharon Muller) 6-3. Gerry d Sharon -9, -9, 8, 4, 4.

Mussell (Kim Challender, Fred Saliba, Allison Day) d Pawn (Pam Keune, Cheryl Aprato, Marie Taylor) 8-4. Marie d Fred 8, -3, 8, -7, 6.

Lobster (Marie Taylor, Ian Dodds, Jodie Davis) d Crab (John Hamelink, Glenda Brookes, Bill Hey) 9-3. John d Ian -9, 9, -9, 6, 11.

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Mackay Table Tennis life member Coral Morgan made a return to Tuesday morning fixtures this week. Great to see a legend back in action. Photo: Charlie Payne

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The Mackay Bowls Club's Ladies Section recently hosted a thrilling 3 Bowl Triples Carnival, showcasing the skills and camaraderie that make lawn bowls a beloved sport. The event, which featured all rinks in play, was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Barry and Leanne Jenner of Sheds n Homes.

The competition was spirited, and the victory went to the team of Carol Savage, Sue Hunter, and Karina Dunn, who secured the championship title. Second place was claimed by Ros White, Rita Hughes, and Leanne McGough, with Anne Smith, Betty Petersen, and Jayne Johnstone taking third place.

Looking ahead, the club's Annual Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, November 19th, at 10:30 am. Members are encouraged to participate in discussions and contribute to the club's activities.

In other club news, the B Pairs Champion of Champion event took place, featuring Mick Coll and Steve Cassidy, who reached the semi-finals before narrowly missing out. The South Suburban team emerged as victors.

The club is now gearing up for the Champion of Champion 2 Bowl Triples event at the Pioneer Valley Club, where K Tranberg, J Wallace, and N Wilson will represent Mackay Bowls Club.

Additionally, the Tuesday Social Bowls event brought together 24 participants, with Robin Schatkowski, Whare Herewini, and Barry Paskins securing the Winner of Winners title. Albert Wicks, Brian Martin, and Brian Williams were recognized as the Winner of Losers.

Thursday Scroungers saw Kees Struik face off against Grant Edmonds in a spirited contest.

Lastly, the Mackay Bowls Club thanked Bruce and his team for their efforts in preparing the green for the Laser Level, ensuring that the club's members can enjoy top-notch facilities. The green will be closed for approximately six weeks.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Carol Savage, Sue Hunter, Karina Dunn. Photo supplied

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This weekend will see Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club host over one thousand competitors and spectators from the Gold Coast up to Cairns, competing for the coveted title of Northern Australian Surf Lifesaving Champions for 2023.

Director of Surf Sports Josh Grant stated, “Our club is extremely proud to be the host of this prestigious surf lifesaving event that we have successfully hosted since 1991.

“This is a huge drawcard for lifesavers to take on the best of the best in the North. It is absolutely awesome to see the Harbour Beach action packed with surf sports over the whole weekend.

“This should provide some really good entertainment for those watching from the beach, so come along and get involved in the action.

“Mackay Surf Club has a really competitive contingent this year with nippers, youth and masters competing in a range of beach, surf, board, ski and surf boat events. The whole club is really looking forward to seeing how our surf sports squad and lifesavers go after hitting the surf for the last few months in preparation.”

Club President Brendan Smith said, “We are really excited to be hosting the North Aussie Championships again and want to thank our planning committee, dedicated workforce, water safety, patrol members and officials, sponsors, volunteers, parents and most importantly our competitors from across the state for making this great weekend possible.

“This is a true testament of what surf lifesaving is about in regional Queensland and would encourage members of the Mackay community to come and support the volunteers that keep your beaches safe.”

There will be a canteen running downstairs in the Beach Kiosk which will be open for anyone wanting a quick feed on the run. Find the Surf Club Bistro and Restaurant upstairs for a delicious meal and cold beverage, overlooking the best beach view in Mackay.

Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club hope to see you on 28th and 29th October at Harbour Beach, Mackay.

Contributed by Josh Grant

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Competitors getting ready for events at last years' event

Lifesavers starting the 1km and 2km beach runs on Harbour Beach

Champion Club Emu Park celebrating taking out the North Aussie Championships for 2022. Photo credit: Carl Stanojevic – Mackay Seen

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‘Queensland State Champions’

Champion of Champions 4’s competition was conducted this past weekend on 21st and 22nd October at South’s Suburban Bowls Club.

Teams from Toowoomba, Gold Coast, Townsville and Mackay all vied for the coveted trophy in both the Men’s and Ladies Competition.

Knockout games were played on Saturday, with the semi-finals played on Sunday morning.

The two teams in first and second place played off in the afternoon, with North Mackay and Townsville vying for the honour of the trophy.

North Mackay were the eventual winners after a hard fought game, with all contestants playing amazing bowls in the best of weather conditions.

Even after four games of intense bowls over the weekend, the ladies were extremely excited and elated.

Congratulations to the winning ladies: Marie Bragg (Lead), Chrissy Hall (Second), Michele Stockton (Third) and Nuggy Pratt (Skip).

This week, the Social Wednesday Winners were Hilary Jones-Rowan, Gloria Sam, Donna Gordon and Debbie Mackenzie.

Runners up were Brenda Trannore, Marie Duck and Lois Deguara.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine.

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Champion winners Marie Bragg, Michele Stockton, Chrissy Hall and Nuggy Pratt

Photo supplied

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The Mackay Contract Bridge Club congratulated members rising through the Master Categories. Life Master Patricia Garner, Silver National Debra Goodchild, Bronze Local Sandy Patterson and Club Masters Joy Block and Vicky Howard.

WEEKLY RESULTS

Monday 16 October 2023 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

1st Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia

2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild

3rd Edward Kleise / Diane Stokes

E/W

1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

3rd Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

Tuesday Evening 17 October 2023 – 5 Table One Winner Mitchell Green Points

1st Helen Van Den Broek / Terrence Sheedy

2nd Lynne O’Neill / Simon Barnes

3rd Diane Cox / Faye Wright

4th Janelle Conroy / Eric Leivesley

Wednesday 18 October 2023 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

1st Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell

2nd Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley

3rd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

4th Marie McGuire / Nancy Wix

E/W

1st Monica Darley / Kath Poole

2nd Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

3rd Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan

4th Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait

Thursday Evening 19 October 2023 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2nd Patricia Garner / Mick King

3rd Griff Bancroft / Eric Leivesley

4th Susan Gibson / Karen Caldwell

Friday 20 October 2023 – NWP 20 of 23 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

1st Terrence Sheedy / Christine Nice

2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole

3rd Kath Poole / Nancy Martin

4th Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

E/W

1st Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson

2nd Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

3rd Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan

Saturday 21 October 2023 – Presidents Cup Week 2 of 3 - 11 Table Mitchell Red Points

N/S

1st Christine Nice / Marilin Robins

2nd Diane Holewa / Mick King

3rd Eric Goodchild / Terrence Sheedy

4th Mary Cruickshank / Noel Saunders

5th Annie Lynch / Diane Stokes

E/W

1st Helen Van Den Broek / Kath Poole

2nd Max Holewa / Jan Harris

3rd Frances Brown / Anne Lutz

4th Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill

5th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

Sunday 22 October 2023 – Novice Pairs Week 2 of 3 – 6 Table One Winner Red Points

1st Sandy Patterson / Geoff Cowan

2nd Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden

3rd Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell 4th Mary Cruickshank / Noel Saunders

5th Ann Whitmore / Annie Lynch 6th Joy Block / Diane Stokes

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Patrica Garner Debra Goodchild, Sandy Patterson and Joy Block

Geoff Taylor and Vicki Howard

Photos supplied

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Over sixty attendees enjoyed the 2023 Annual Mackay Road Runners Awards Evening at The Grove last week, with ecstatic recipients, friends and families celebrating in style and good humour alongside a presentation of awards and prizes.

Club Patron, Mr Col Meng was on-hand to present the awards, receiving several awards on behalf of his talented grandchildren, Luke and Lily who were unable to attend.

Club President, Tim Magoffin presented a cheque to Christine and Barry Comben of the Mackay Branch of Leukaemia Foundation Australia. A sensational donation of over $121,000 was received, from funds raised through the 2023 BMA Mackay Marina Run.

By far, the biggest annual amount raised since the inception of the event in 2008, with the event progressing very successfully ever since under the guidance of the committee, headed by Founders Sandy and Chris Strong. This brings the total amount raised for the Leukaemia Foundation to nearly $600,000 across the life span of the event.  

Another major highlight of the evening was Club Captain, Jim Ford receiving the honour of becoming the tenth Mackay Road Runners Life Member.

Since Jim arrived in the area nearly twenty years ago, he immediately joined the Club and began a life-long, dedicated relationship with the legendary local club that is nearing its fiftieth birthday.  

Jim does an amazing amount of work behind-the-scenes, also volunteering his time to liaise the Wednesday afternoon track sessions every week throughout the entire year. In addition, Jim also captains the off-season Shawn’s Summer Series from October to February.

These two events are not the only thing Jim’s contribution and leadership are known for, he is also available to assist at many functions where the club requires volunteers. He’s a very busy person outside of the club with work and family commitments, however amazingly still makes the time and effort to support the Mackay Road Runners.

Congratulations to Jim, a very well-deserved recipient of the Mackay Road Runners Life Membership Club.

Major highlights of the Awards evening, as well as age category awards for runners from ages 12 to over 70.

Junior Female Club Champion – Lily Leven (1st), Abigail Sweeney (2nd) and Millie Bishop (3rd)

Junior Male Club Champion – Luke Leven (1st), Toby Rule (2nd) and Jared Mackie (3rd)

Podiatry Mackay Junior Encourage Award – Walker Murray

Overall Open Female Club Champion –  Alana Knezevic (1st), Carolyn Mapes (2nd) and Teresa Hackney (3rd)

Overall Open Male Club Champion - Paul Mackenzie (1st), Oliver Rule (2nd) and Mick Vivian (3rd)

Overall Handicap Points Champion – Grant Holmstrom (1st), Joe Grech (2nd) and Luke Leven (3rd)

The Col & Rhonda Club Person of the Year – Julie Whibley

Life Membership Award – Jim Ford

Andergrove 10km Handicap Champion – Oliver Rule

Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Club Championship – Tahnie Malagueno (Female) and Oliver Rule (Male)

Benita Willis Handicap 10km – Oliver Rule

Most Supportive – Helen Leven

Most Committed – Carmel Mahon

Most Improved – Luke Leven

Encouragement – Natasha Joynson

Eungella King & Queen of the Mountain – Alana Knezevic (Female) and Cristian Smith (Male)

Lucky Door Prize – Paul Tilse

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The Mackay Branch of Leukaemia Foundation Australia's Christine Comben, and Barry Comben accept cheque from Mackay Road Runners President Tim Magoffin

Third place Female Junior Club Champion, Millie Bishop presented her award by Club Patron, Col Meng

Mackay Road Runners Over 70yrs Club Champions David Isbister and Stuart Sprott receive their age category awards from Club Patron, Mr Col Meng (centre).

Mr Jim Ford receives Life Membership congratulated by current Life Members (left to right) – Judy Zahn, Jim, Janelle Tilse, Paul Tilse, Wendy Shields and Merv Shields

Open Male Club Champion Paul Mackenzie (left) accepts major prize from Club Patron Col Meng and 2nd placegetter Oliver Rule (Toby Rule standing in for his brother Oliver)

Open Female Club Champion, Alana Knezevic’s 1st prize collected by her Dad, Jim Ford (left) with 2nd place Carolyn Mapes and 3rd place Teresa Hackney, presented by Vice President Brendan Bishop.

Encouragement Award recipient, Natasha Joynson received from Vice President, Brendan Bishop

Grant Holmstrom (left), winner of Overall Handicap Points Championship Trophy with second place Joe Grech (right) and Vice President, Brendan Bishop.

Photos supplied

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The regions Swimming clubs have met for the Whitsunday Swimming Club LC Carnival.

Jampacked with heats, fantastic swims, beaten personal bests, and a great community effort and dedication, the final carnival served as a great reminder of the community that gathers for such standout events.

Joined with Pioneer Swimming Club, Mirani Swimming Club, Lightning Swimming Club, and so many more, the day was only aided by clear weather and perfect temperatures.

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Photos Supplied

This weekend, the Mackay District Men's Champion of Champion B Pairs was played at Proserpine.  

The speed of the green surprised a few of the competitors.  

Many thanks to those who put so many hours and so much effort into its preparation.

Our representatives - Gavin Noonan and Todd Leys were defeated in the second round by the Northern Beaches team who were runners up in the event.  

Winner of this year's event were Bede Roebuck and Ron Horsfall from Souths Suburban.

Also many thanks to those who contributed to the functioning of the event at our club.  

All commented on the hospitality of our club and the services that we provided to make the event such a success.

On Wednesday Sandy Daffara, Philip Brown and John Burnett defeated Arthur Griffith, Peter Lawton, and Mike Harrison 24 - 18 in Social Bowls and on Sunday Bruce Uhe, Philip Brown and Mike Harrison defeated Sandy Daffara, Margie Burnett and John Burnett 24 - 12.

Best wishes for good games to our 2 Bowl Triples Representatives Shane Kinnear, Scott Hamilton and Wayne Handley who will be competing in Champion of Champions at Pioneer Valley next weekend.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

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Sunday Social Bowls Seated left to right Bruce Uhe and Margie Burnett, Standing Philip Brown. Photo supplied

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On Tuesday, winners were Bron Tolcher, Merle Elphinstone, and Robyn Stitt defeated Stumpy Adams, Isobel Wheeler, and Deb Retchless.

The jackpot didn’t go off.

Last week we had our Come and Try afternoon.

How great it was to see 18 learners take to the green.

Members gave them a brief demonstration and then they were out on the green.

Within half an hour they were showing their style getting close to jack.

Then they played a game to test out their skills.

Thanks to those that came and members who helped.

We hope you enjoyed the afternoon and you are welcome back any time.

Club Competition is slowly progressing. We have competitions called on the board for mixed and Singles Sets.

It is only a month before presentation day so we hope they all finished before the big day. Our Monster Raffle to help send our Pennant Sides to Tweed Heads is still selling. If we could have tickets in by next Sunday.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

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Come and Try Day 2023

Winners Sunday 22 October 23. Photos supplied

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