King And Queen Crowned At 2024 River Swim

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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