With the Souths Bowls Club deck filled with lots of festive spirit and plenty of fruit cake, all the jingle ladies of the South Suburban Bowls Club came together to enjoy the most wine-derful time of the year at their annual ladies' Christmas breakup.
All the ladies enjoyed an afternoon of laughter and reminiscing on their 2024 bowls season. Some shared goals for 2025, with Rhonda Meng putting winning the open ladies singles in 2025 on her wish list.
From all the bowlers at South Suburban Bowls Club, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and safe New Year.

The ladies of South Suburban Bowls Club decked the halls and the greens at their annual Christmas breakup, celebrating the season with laughter, camaraderie, and a few festive goals for 2025. Photo supplied

‍

The Mackay Bridge Club celebrated another twelve months of fantastic card play with its Christmas break up last Saturday. A record 18 tables of members played bridge, with lots of laughter celebrating Christmas together. Partners also shared in the wonderful Christmas fare. A big thank you to Janelle and her helpers for providing a wonderful meal. Our Christmas raffle was extra special this year. Thank you to members for your donations and Debra Goodchild for her dedication to making this successful. President Frances Brown and members look forward to another wonderful year of card play and welcoming new members to learn the game of bridge. Lessons start in February 2025. Bridge is not just for older people, but for people of all ages. We have evening and Saturday play for people who work or attend school. President Frances extends warm wishes for a Happy Christmas and a safe New Year to all.
‍

‍
Karen and Susan, new bridge partners and friends
Joyce and Toni have been long-time bridge partners

Weekly Results
Monday 9 December 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
1st
Eric Goodchild / David Ting

2nd
Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris
2nd
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

3rd
Edward Kleise / Diane Stokes
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

Tuesday Evening 10 December 2024 –4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Patricia Garner / Annie Lynch
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
4th
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
Wednesday 11 December 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd
Sandy Patterson / Joy Brunette
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinun
4th
Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

Thursday Evening 12 December 2024 –5 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Patricia Garner / Mick King
3rd
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
4th
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
Friday 13 December 2024 – 7 Tables Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild

2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

3rd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Pamella Finger

Saturday 14 December 2024 – Christmas Breakup Section A - 9 Table Mitchell
N/S

E/W

1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown

2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

3rd
Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

4th
Sandy Ford/ Thelma Caruana
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill

Saturday 14 December 2024 – Christmas Breakup Section B
N/S

E/W

1st
Annette Howe / Susan Ross
1st
Noel Bugeia / Pamela Finger

2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Monica Darley / Simon Barnes

3rd
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
3rd
Victor Mason / Josie Cowley

4th
Sandy Patterson / Ann Whitmore
4th
Jan Harris / Joy Brunette

‍

‍

Sunday’s Fun Day Breakfast hosted by Club Manager Steve which included Breakfast and Bowls was a huge success with over 50 bowlers participating. The morning kicked off at 9.00am with a big breakfast and three games of bowls each having seven ends with players rotating for each game. Everybody enjoyed the morning and the club will host more in the future. The winners on the day were Neil and Maureen Blutcher and Peter Madden.
 
TODAY'S TIP

When playing short ends it’s imperative to slow yourself down, even as you are approaching the mat. Have a shorter backswing along with a slightly shorter step. Continue to slow yourself, stay down and still, follow through along the aiming line. Believe it or not, holding your breath may help during this procedure. Practice this, it will not happen automatically.

THE WOBBLER

To some degree, this is a very common fault, and depending on the pace of the green it may have a marked effect on the draw of the bowl. This is an inconsistent practice and each delivery will vary in line and length depending on the amount of wobble imparted on the bowl. The most common causes of this, is the turning of the hand on release and the placing of the hand around the side of the bowl and not underneath the bowl.
SIMPLE FIX. Grip the bowl with fingers under the bowl, have feet positioned parallel to the aiming line, deliver the bowl and follow through along the aiming line.
  
SOCIAL BOWLS RESULTS

Monday Winners: F Brown, L Howland, P Shepherd, R Legge.
Runners Up:         B Arnold, M Pierson, H Press, K Davis.
Thursday Winners: G Pembroke, A Brown.
Runners Up:        L Edwards, P Goldston
Friday Winners:    C Banney, L McDermott.
Runners Up:          K Struik, D Dungavell.
3rd Place:             J Little, G Sweeney.
Saturday Winners: G Ollett, P Cowling.
Second:                M MacKenzie, A Dillon.
Third: C Cromer, P Shepherd.
  
GOOSIES WAREHOUSE BOWLS 2024

Warehouse Bowls at North Mackay Bowls Club is played every Thursday night during the school terms making up four seasons of 10 weeks. Currently we have 16 teams competing every Thursday night during the QLD school terms.
Please contact the club if you want to nominate a team of four players or if you are a single player looking to join a team.

2024 season winners are:
Season 1 Low Rollers
Season 2 Flower Power
Season 3 Fish
Season 4 Plumbdingers

The 2024 Golden Goose award for the highest total of four season’s points goes to Low Rollers.

Goosies Warehouse Bowls’ first 10-week season starts on the 30th of January 2025 at 6.30pm till 9.00pm with a hot snack provided after each game. The cost per team is $60.00, includes three prizes totalling $160.00 and an $80.00 weekly jackpot that increases each week if not won.

Contributed by Doug Giddings
 

Sunday Fun Day Breakfast and Bowls at Goosies

‍

‍

Tuesday morning table tennis players celebrated the digital age at their annual breakup lunch at Harrup Park Country Club this week.

Fixture coordinator Steve Mathieson was praised for his efforts in taking over from Iris Grasso and Pam Joyce in a presentation by players Frank Caruana and Gerry Synnott.

“Full credit goes to Steve for taking over from Iris and Pam, which were big shoes to fill,” Frank said.

“Steve decided to computerise everything in line with the era – there were a few hiccups to begin with but Steve managed to get everything down pat eventually.

“I know how frustrating things can be when they don’t turn out how they are supposed to be. Well done Steve.”

Frank said many players were facing health issues, making it hard for Steve to juggle teams.

“On behalf of all of us, we appreciate what you do Steve to make things run smoothly.”

Frank also thanked Charlie Payne for doing a great job in promoting the sport of table tennis.

Steve has sponsored a new award for Annual 100% Club Inductees, for players who played every week throughout the seasons of 2024.

Coral Morgan, Branko Vucurovic and Judy Zahn were the initial inductees – proving that you just can’t get them off the tables!
By Charlie Payne

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures December 3, 2024:
Division 1:
Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) drew Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 7-all. John d Kevin -4, -6, 5, 6, 10.
Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Coral Morgan) drew Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-all. Delma d Charlie -10, -8, 2, 7, 6.
Division 2:
Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) d Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Thelma Caruana) 10-4. Gloria d Sharon 5, -7, 3, 7.
London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) d Rome Ralliers (Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 9-5. Cheryl d Glenda -7, 4, -9, 6, 14.
Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) d Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Trish Zamparutti) 8-6. Bryan d John 6, 5, -5, -10, 15.

Bryan and John had a close battle to finish off the season in Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures, Bryan up 6, 5, -5, -10, 15.Photo credit: Charlie Payne

Gerry Synnott and Frank Caruana with Tuesday morning fixtures coordinator Steve Mathieson and player Charlie Payne at the annual breakup lunch. Photos supplied

100% club inductees Coral Morgan, Branko Vucurovic and Judy Zahn with Tuesday morning fixtures coordinator Steve Mathieson

Players Cheryl Pearson, Myles and Glenda Dutton at the annual Tuesday morning fixtures lunch

‍

Aspiring athletes in Capricornia are scoring big, with Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry delivering $22,250 to support 40 local young sportspeople through the Local Sporting Champions program.

The Local Sporting Champions program, managed by Sport Australia, helps athletes, coaches, and officials aged 12-18 cover costs for eligible state, national, or international competitions.

Ms Landry emphasised the importance of the program for local families and the community.

"Local Sporting Champions gives young athletes in Capricornia the chance to compete at higher levels.

"This funding eases the financial burden on families by helping cover expenses like travel, accommodation, uniforms, and equipment.

"Sport is about more than competition; it's about keeping young people active, fostering social connections and building confidence,” Ms Landry said.

Local Sporting Champions continues to invest in the region’s bright future, ensuring young athletes can chase their dreams without barriers.

“Capricornia has a long and impressive track record of producing athletes like Anna and Kerrie Meares, Amy Hetzel, Daly Cherry-Evans and Jamie Dwyer.

“Programs such as the Local Sporting Champions helps to foster the next generation of athletes.

“I congratulate the successful recipients of the latest round of Local Sporting Champions and wish them all the best in their sporting endeavours.”

‍

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, has supported 40 local young athletes with $22,250 through the Local Sporting Champions program, helping them cover costs for state, national, and international competitions. Photo supplied

‍

It’s not long now until Queensland’s fastest swimmers battle it out at the 2024 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Championships! Mackay Cyclones have 11 swimmers attending over the next week from the 14-20 December. This also marks the first time eligible to attend, due to age, for two of the team’s younger 12-year-old swimmers, Dakota and Tamika. 
 
Competitors:

Audrey Bryan - Audrey will be competing in 7 events: 50 Freestyle, 100 Freestyle, 50 Breaststroke, 100 Breaststroke, 200 Breaststroke, 50 Butterfly and 50 Backstroke 

Ariah Corrigan - Ariah has 2 events: 100 Breaststroke and 200 Breastroke.

Maverick Curtis - Maverick will be competing in the 13 years 50 Freestyle.

Dakota Daniels - Dakota has a big list, consisting of 9 individual swims in her 12 years age group: 200 Freestyle, 100 Butterfly, 100 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 400 Individual Medley, 200 Individual Medley, 50 Freestyle, 200 Butterfly and 400 Freestyle. 

Anisa Helou - Anisa will compete in all 4, 50-meter events in the 15 years age group:  50 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 50 Breaststroke and 50 Backstroke.

Ehsan Helou - Ehsan has 7 events over the week: 100 Freestyle, 50 Freestyle, 200 Breaststroke, 50 Breaststroke, 100 Breaststroke, 50 Backstroke and 50 Butterfly.

Ava Kearns - Ava also has 7 events over the week: 200 Individual Medley, 50 Freestyle, 50 Backstroke, 50 Breaststroke, 100 Butterfly, 100 Freestyle and 50 Butterfly.

Tamika Ness - Tamika also has a whopping 10 events in the girls 12 years: 200 Breaststroke, 100 Butterfly, 100 Freestyle, 100 Breaststroke, 400 Individual Medley, 200 Individual Medley, 50 Backstroke, 50 Butterfly, 50 Breaststroke, and 100 Backstroke.

Zanthia Noon - Zanthia has 3 events in the 17 years age group: 50 Backstroke, 50 Breaststroke and 50 Butterfly. 

Jarek Taylor - Jarek will be competing in 6 events: 200 Backstroke, 50 Freestyle, 100 Backstroke, 100 Freestyle, 50 Backstroke and 50 Butterfly.

Vaughn Wyatt - Vaughn will be competing in 2 events: 100 Breaststroke and 200 Breaststroke.

‍

Eleven Mackay Cyclones swimmers, including first-time competitors Dakota and Tamika, are set to compete in multiple events at the 2024 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Championships from December 14-20. Photos supplied

‍

The QCCS Mackay Cutters are focused on a strong start to the 2025 Hostplus Cup season, eager to avoid the setbacks that plagued them last year. Losing early matches in 2024 left the team struggling to gain momentum, but with a renewed squad and strategic leadership, hopes are high for a resurgence.
Central to the club’s aspirations is the appointment of Adam Cuthbertson as head coach. A veteran of more than 300 games in the NRL and Super League, Cuthbertson brings extensive experience to the role, having coached successfully in the UK with Leeds Rhinos and Featherstone Rovers before returning to Australia. Over the past two years, he has served as Football Operations Coordinator for the Cutters, setting high standards for the playing group and establishing himself as a key figure in the organisation.
Cuthbertson’s coaching philosophy is influenced by top mentors such as Wayne Bennett, Des Hasler, and Brian McDermott, and he is committed to aligning the men’s and women’s pathways at the club.
“The Mackay region has a proud rugby league history, known for producing great talent and having a strong connection to the sport,” Cuthbertson said.
“My goal is to build on that legacy by developing a squad that competes at the highest level and reflects the values and spirit of our community. I’m committed to leading a program that will make our region proud and set the bar for excellence and dedication.”
Club CEO Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Cuthbertson’s leadership.
“Adam’s experience as a player and coach, combined with his dedication to the Cutters over the past two seasons, makes him the perfect fit to lead our team forward and oversee the club’s entire football program.
:We are confident that under his leadership, the Cutters will continue to grow and achieve new heights.”
Adding to the optimism is the signing of 21-year-old front-rower Sheldon Diaz from New Zealand. Diaz, who played with the Melbourne Storm Academy and their NSWRL Jersey Flegg Squad, is expected to bring fresh energy and skill to the forward pack.
The 2025 Hostplus Cup season begins with seven games scheduled for March 8-9, including the Cutters’ opening clash against the PNG Hunters, a team that reached the preliminary finals last year.

Hostplus Cup Round 1
Saturday, March 8:
Ipswich Jets v Townsville Blackhawks @ North Ipswich Reserve, 4pm         
Mackay Cutters v PNG Hunters @ BB Print Stadium, 5pm    
Burleigh Bears v Central Queensland Capras @ UAA Park, 5pm   
Tweed Seagulls v Wynnum Manly Seagulls @ Piggabeen Sports Complex, 5pm
Northern Pride v Brisbane Tigers @ Barlow Park, 5.30pm    
Souths Logan Magpies v Western Clydesdales @ Marsden State High School, 6pm    
Sunday, March 9:
Norths Devils v Redcliffe Dolphins @ Bishop Park, 2.10pm

‍

The North Mackay Sinkers are offering a special 13-month membership for 2025, giving new members the opportunity to join in December and enjoy a club dedicated to helping swimmers achieve their fitness goals in a supportive and enjoyable environment.

Members will receive free entry into the club’s new and returning member raffle, which features a prize valued at over $100. Financial members will also enjoy complimentary access to Wednesday club sessions, providing significant savings. New and returning members will be welcomed with a free swim cap upon signing up.

For those looking to take their swimming to the next level, the membership includes exclusive access to state, national, and international events specifically designed for Masters swimmers. Members can also participate in unique programs like the Vorgee e1000, Million Meters, and Lane Warrior activities, which keep swimmers motivated and engaged throughout the year.

The club provides early and guaranteed entry to its major events, including the February Short Course meet, the Balnagowan Open Water Swim, and the highly anticipated signature event at Whitehaven Beach in October. In 2025, an exciting new event is also set to be introduced, adding to the club’s dynamic calendar.

In addition to swimming, the club fosters a strong sense of community with an active social program. Activities like the Saturday “Jim Session” are a particular highlight, blending pool training with opportunities for members to relax and connect. A recent session featured a Secret Santa event, bringing laughter and fun to an already vibrant morning.

The North Mackay Sinkers also cater to non-swimmers or those unable to participate in swimming activities by offering a “dry” membership for just $20. This option allows individuals to take part in non-swim activities, including volunteering, social events, and committee or executive roles, ensuring everyone can be part of the club’s inclusive and welcoming environment.

Training sessions are held three times a week, including “Millie Monday” at the Memorial Pool at 5:15 pm, “Whiteboard Wednesday” at North Mackay State High School Pool at 5:15 pm, and the popular Saturday “Jim Session” at the Memorial Pool from 8:00 to 9:00 am, followed by treats and refreshments.

With the last swim of the year scheduled for Saturday, December 21, and the first 2025 session kicking off on January 4, the club invites anyone interested to join a supportive and progressive group that’s committed to helping members reach their swimming and fitness goals in a fun and inclusive way.

For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

Contributed by Dan Stampa

‍

Tania was happy to select the swim googles from the presents, but 3 “Thieving” Santas made sure possession changed hands

Paul’s gift was a good book but not on waterproof paper

Pierre swims hard enough to enjoy some post swim calories

The Saturday session drew some 16 swimmers who enjoyed music by Elena later in the session as the popular Mackay Aqua Fitness drew a large crowd and kicked on. Photos supplied.

‍

Results for week ending Saturday 7 December 2024

Monday 2 December 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st Mary Cruickshank - Ian Cruickshank 1st Marilin Robins - Mick Robins
2nd Barbara Tait - Margaret Lane                          2nd Diane Holewa - Max Holewa
3rd Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 3rd Monica Darley - Nancy Martin  

Tuesday 3 December 2024 –  5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy  
2nd Helen Van Den Broek - Tex Sheedy        
3rd Shirley Worland - Marilin Robins  
4th Diane Morgan - Sandra Morris

Wednesday 4 December 2024 –8 Table Howell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st    Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Sandy Patterson - Joy Brunette
2nd Janet Hansen - Alan Brown 2nd Anne Lutz - Gwen Liddell
3rd Lorna Shuttlewood - Tex Sheedy 3rd Geoff Taylor - Ted Cullinan
4th Monica Darley – Kath Poole

Thursday Evening 5 December 2024 – 5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Tex Sheedy - Diane Stokes
2nd Ian Cruickshank - Adrian Westcott
3rd Jan Harris - Susan Gibson
4th Frances Brown - Ann Whitmore

Friday 6 December 2024 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st
Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia
1st
Janelle Conroy - Pamela Finger
2nd

Antonia Tarradas - Graham Smith
2rd

Eric Goodchild - Sandy Patterson  

3rd
Griffin Bancroft - Diane Stokes
3rd
David Ting - Ming Ting

Saturday 7 December 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South                                                                        East/West
                                                                             
1st     Geoff Taylor - Marilin Robins          1st  Eric Goodchild –Debra Goodchild
2nd   Ming Ting - David Ting                               2nd  Tex Sheedy - Graham Smith
3rd   Patricia Garner - Susan Wright          3rd  Diane Stokes - Annie Lynch  
4th  Alan Brown - Frances Brown             4th  Sandy Patterson - Joy Brunette

Contributed by Robert Carless

Marie, Janet and Shelly put the finishing touches to this year’s Christmas tree. Photo supplied

‍

On Wednesday 27 November the Marian Ladies Bowls Club brought along their Share the Dignity Bags for the year, with a total of 20 bags to be given to charity.

The Marian Ladies have been doing this for the last six years to “help those who are needing help.” 

The ladies are now crocheting and knitting squares to create small blankets, which will be donated to aged care homes for wheelchair users during chilly days.

They have officially finished bowls for the year and are not playing again until around February next year, depending on the weather in early 2025.

Contributed by Lyn Jackson

‍

A Singles Winner Laurel Morrow, pictured with President Thelma Johnston
A Pairs Winners Judith Miller and Lyn Jackson with President Thelma Johnston
A Triples Winners Sue Austin, Judith Miller and Lyn Jackson with President Thelma Johnston
A Fours Winners Betty Matson, Annette Hansen, Sandra Zarb and Helen Pietzner with President Thelma Johnston. Photos supplied
Marian Ladies Bowls Club with the Share the Dignity bags they will donate to charity

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures December 3, 2024:

Division 1:

Azalea (Mark Sleeman, Barry Patterson, Janice Kent) d Barra (Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake, Trent Day) 6-5. Slee d Trent -6, -6, 6, 8, 11.

Andro (Allan Edwards, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Aqua (Neil Brown, Geoff Denman, Ian McKay) 8-3. Emma d Neil -9, 6, 4, 3.

Alfa (Vince Boeske, Goncalo Serra, Tony Bowman) d Corgi (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 7-4. Vince d Will -9, 4, -3, 2, 8.

Division 2:

Cockatoos (Craig VanDeKaa, Jye Callander, Matt West) d Cheetahs (Simon Hogan, Rymer Tabulo, Val Austin) 6-5. Simon/Ryber d Jye/Craig 12, -6, 11, -8, 7.

Cats (Tiffany Camilleri, George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang) d Bulldog (Delma Knight, Peter Goodson, David Symons) 6-5. Delma/Peter d Tiffany/George 10, 7, -4, -6, 10.

Ants (Daniel Warfield, Andrea Nicholson, Mark Stam) d Canaries (Leo Gilbert, Kade Wright, Duncan Treloar) 6-5. Andrea d Duncan 6, -9, 8, -17, 9.

‍

Andrea Nicholson had a close battle against Duncan Treloar, with one set going to 19. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

‍

Outstanding Mackay junior cricketers Myles Cochrane and George Fortescue are living the dream.

Most Friday nights or Saturday mornings in the summer months you’ll find the talented 17 year olds starring for the Magpies White X1 in the Mackay Cricket Association’s Junior Under 17s competition.

You’ll also find the emerging colts stepping up a class on Saturday afternoons with the Magpies’ all conquering first grade team in the Poole Cup limited overs series.

The promising all rounders are two of the best young propects in the Mackay region and continue to produce the goods with bat and ball in both the junior and senior ranks.

Last Friday the pair guided the Whites to an impressive win over third ranked Brothers Under 17s at Great Barrier Reef Arena to keep the Magpies entrenched in second spot on the ladder.

Sharing the new ball, skipper Cochrane snared 3-18 off five overs and Fortescue (2-20 off five) including the prize wicket of top Queensland schoolboy rep Jack Law for one to restrict Brothers to 5-118 off their 25 overs.

The duo then opened the batting and piled on 48 runs before Fortescue was caught by Hayden Morrow off the bowling of Connor Muller for 27.

Cochrane showed his class with the bat – compiling a superb 60 off fifty six balls that included six boundaries before he was brilliantly run out by the sharp Morrow after earlier adding 77 runs for the second wicket with Thomas Rourke (17).

The Whites were dismissed for 155 with promising Brothers all rounder Lachlan Ipson bagging 4-25 in an impressive five over spell.

Earlier Brothers number four Wesley Homewood cracked a magnificent unbeaten 60 off sixty one balls that featured seven boundaries – sharing a 98 run partnership for the third wicket with Ipson (37).

At the same venue the following day both Cochrane and Fortescue played key roles in the Magpies’ first grade triumph over Walkerston.

The pair claimed four wickets between them to help skittle the Roosters for a meagre total of 73 with Fortescue grabbing 2-13 off four overs and Cochrane (2-14) as the undefeated  Magpies booked a spot in the Poole Cup Grand Final.

In Under 15s action, emerging all rounder Cooper Newbery hammered an unbeaten 116 for Walkerston in their one day victory over Magpies White at George Gorrie Oval.

The talented skipper faced seventy five balls and smashed twenty boundaries in a super knock as the Roosters posted 6-159.

Newbery capped a stand out performance by snaring two wickets off four balls including star opener Henry Tully for 44 to help restrict the Magpies to 8-100.

He was supported by Jude Vella, who claimed 2-27 in a lively five over spell and quick Lawson Foster (1-9 off four).

‍

Mackay Magpies Cricket Club are the team to beat for the 2024-25 Mackay Cricket Association DBCT Poole Cup first grade title.

The runaway minor premiers demolished the third placed Walkerston Roosters last Saturday in a one day fixture at Great Barrier Reef Arena to preserve their unbeaten status.

In a reduced 25 overs per side clash, the Magpies chalked up a ninety-seven run victory and led the competition with 79 points – a staggering twenty nine points clear of second placed Pioneer Valley (50).

Both sides will clash in the final preliminary round this Saturday at Magpies Sports Ground with the Magpies having already booked a Cup Final berth on December 14.

Pioneer Valley are assured of second spot with the Roosters (40 points) and Souths Sharks (37 points) battling for the final top three spot.

The Valley will lock horns with either Walkerston or the Sharks in a Grand Final qualifier this Sunday at Great Barrier Reef Arena.

Sent in to bat, the Magpies posted 8-170 off their 25 overs with the experienced Adam Zurvas top scoring with a stylish 44.

Zurvas faced forty three balls and clouted four boundaries and shared an opening stand of 72 with representative all rounder Andrew Borg (25).

Prolific run scorer Jaxn Sign (30 off twenty one balls) and Wes Dyer (29 off twenty one balls with five boundaries) also made strong contributions with the bat for the Magpies.

Off spinner Josh Maher (3-15 off three overs) and right arm quick Scott Randles (3-33 off five) were the pick of the Roosters bowlers.

In reply, Walkerston were bundled out for 73 with Jakob Frerichs (17), Joel Block (16) and Max Campbell (10 not out) the only batsmen to reach double figures.

Magpies’ pace ace Andrew Borg (4-17 off nineteen deliveries), seventeen year old colts George Fortescue (2-13 off four) and Myles Cochrane (2-140) and off spinner Isaac Borg (1-9 off three) were the chief destroyers with the ball.

Pioneer Valley (5-158) had too many big guns for Brothers (8-155) at George Gorrie Oval.

Darryn Dyer (38 runs off thirty balls with five boundaries and a six), Cody Filewood (35 not out off thirty seven balls with four boundaries and Lane Kohler (33 off fifteen balls with four boundaries and two sixes) led the way for Valley after Dyer and Kohler produced an opening stand of 67.

A half century from Mitch Wadsworth (58 not off forty-four balls with six boundaries and two sixes) and a dashing 42 by sixteen year old whiz kid Jack Law off thirty five balls with seven boundaries were a feature of the Brothers’ innings.

Talented quicks Bailey Camilleri (3-24 off four) and Ben Schembri (2-24) spearheaded the Pioneer attack.
Norths Devils (9-163) upset Souths (149) in their one day clash at Jack Lancaster Oval.

A superb half century from Marcus Lamperd (73 off sixty eight balls with nine boundaries and a six) proved the highlight of the Devils innings with support from Peter Shepherd (29).

All rounder Cameron Keene top scored with 28 for the Sharks and snared 3-28 off five overs in a fine display.
He was supported by Charlie Sweeten (25 not out) with Devils’ trio Kerrod Tortora (3-24 off five), Luke Bryan (2-21 off five) and Aaron Durelli (2-30) leaving their mark.

‍

Hundreds of Moranbah school kids put their Phins up as the Dolphins brought their wellbeing team to Central Queensland schools. 
From touch footy drills to classroom sessions aimed at boosting self-esteem, Dolphins wellbeing and education team members visited three schools in November as part of Anglo American’s partnership with the NRL team.
The partnership focuses on improving education and sporting outcomes in Central Queensland, and the sessions at Moranbah State School, Moranbah State High School and Moranbah East State School provided kids the chance to learn new skills and build teamwork opportunities.
Dolphins game development manager Shane Morris said the regional trip was an important part of how the club operated throughout Queensland.
“Central Queensland is so important to the Dolphins because a lot of great footballers, and a lot of great people, come from this area,” he said.
“We’re investing in Central Queensland to give the kids the opportunity in their own back yard, that others may have on the coast.”
It was part of a wider Anglo American-led tour across the Bowen Basin, which spanned three days, six schools and 400 students.
Anglo American training superintendent Damon McGuire said the company was proud of its partnership with the Dolphins.
“We very much align with their values and passion, especially when it comes to the development of young talent within the regions,” he said.
“We seek to employ a significant proportion of our workforce locally. We think investing in local young people through apprenticeships and other pathways is something that will return a huge benefit both to ourselves as a mine operator and to the local community.”
 

Students from Moranbah State School, Moranbah State High School, and Moranbah East State School join in touch footy drills and wellbeing sessions during the Dolphins’ visit to Moranbah. Photos supplied: Anglo American

‍

The annual Hamilton Island Triathlon and Ocean Swim was a great success last month, attracting a diverse field of competitors. Despite early morning wet weather impacting the triathlon on Saturday, the Ocean Swim on Sunday enjoyed more settled conditions for the 750m and 2km swims.

Fourteen Sinkers made their way to Hamilton Island to participate in one of the swim distances, enjoying the moderate conditions off Catseye Beach. Several members, who also belong to other clubs, had already competed in the triathlon on Saturday and embraced the post-race festivities. Despite this, enthusiasm remained high, and all members took to the water on Sunday.

The Ocean Swim saw 138 competitors registered for the 2km distance and 91 for the 750m swim, with a total of 229 swimmers enjoying the stunning location alongside like-minded participants.

Sinkers members performed exceptionally well, with several securing podium finishes. In the 2km swim, Pierre Craven claimed 2nd place, Fiona Cheesman finished 3rd, Rachel Bidgood secured 2nd, and Jeanette Stewart achieved 3rd place in their respective categories. In the 750m event, Geoffrey Robinson and Christine Webb both took 1st place, while Sue Willett earned a strong 2nd place.

Cross-training across various clubs and disciplines proved beneficial for the team, showcasing their strength and versatility.
Mackay was also well represented throughout the weekend, with members of the Mackay Triathlon Club, Triactiv8, other local groups, and individuals delivering impressive performances across both days of events.

The Sinkers look forward to returning for the 2025 Ocean Swim and another fantastic weekend of competition and camaraderie.

Contributed by Dan Stampa

‍

2km Ocean Swim – Sinkers results
Age group
Gender
Name
Place
Time
Age place
50-59
Male

Pierre Craven
2nd
30:39
2/12
60-69

Brian Keogh
6th
42:37
6/9
30-39

Female

Pepper Carroll
12th
42:16
12/15
40-49

Natasha Mallise
8th
36:59
8/17

50-59

Fiona Cheesman
3rd
37:06
3/17

Alison Friswell
8th
39:06
8/17

Jenny Smith
9th
39:07
9/17
60-69
Female
Rachel Bidgood
2nd
43:19
2/4

Jeanette Stewart
3rd
50:02
3/4
750m Ocean Swim – Sinkers Results
Age group
Gender
Name
Place
Time
Age place
80 +
Male
Geoffrey Robinson
1st
22:28
1/1
50-59

Female
Christine Webb
1st
14:21
1/15

Clare Heal
4th
16:19
4/15
60-69

Sue Willett
2nd
18:27
2/6

Wendy Keogh
4th
20:13
4/6

‍

Swimmers prepare for the start of the main 2km race
Some competitive spirit between two Sinkers as Jenny Smith and Alison Friswell complete a final duel to cross the line
Brian Keogh completing his 2km ocean swim. Swimmers are never happy with any amount of running during an event!

‍

Mackay Surf Lifesaving competitors are gearing up to take on the best of the best at Sarina Beach this weekend for the North Barrier Branch Titles - the premier surf sports event for clubs stretching as far north as Ingham and as far south as Sarina. The Mackay team aims to build on recent successes at the North Aussie Champs and regional carnivals, setting their sights on claiming the Branch Championship title.
Mackay competitors, from U8s to Masters, will compete across a wide range of events, including beach flags, sprints, relays, endurance runs, wade races, surf swims, board races, ironman/ironwoman, surf ski, and Cameron and Taplin relays.
Mackay Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant, said that “Last year the surf club had a small but strong team of 20 competitors that ended up 3rd overall, a huge achievement when taking on teams 2 or 3 times bigger than your own.
“This year we have almost doubled our surf sports competitors,” he added.
“Our nippers, youth and masters competitors have been training extremely hard and are ready to take on this challenge.”

‍

Team Mackay – ready to take on the best in North Barrier Branch.  The team placed 3rd out of 7 regional clubs at last year’s championships.
The U9 Wade Relay Team showing they are small but strong at last year's Branch Champs.
Last year’s U15 “Dream Team” taking out all individual and team events at the regional North Barrier Branch Titles.  (L – R) Nate McKinnon, Bodie Mau, Zara Richardson and Molly Madden
Mackays’s Will Henry at front is hoping to lead the field this weekend. Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography

‍

A world-ranked ex-South American table tennis player will be passing on his talents to a new generation of Mackay players next year.
After five years of regular coaching camps in Mackay, coaches Bruno and Bec are retiring and the association is planning to engage 20-year-old Neycer Robalino to conduct training next year.
Neycer, who started playing when he was six, was nine when he joined the Ecuadorian national team in which he played until he was 19.
He has a collection of 125 medals and 25 trophies from his career in which he ranked 14th in Latin America in youth and 140th ranking in the world.
He has travelled to 18 countries and competed in world circuits throughout Latin America.
Bruno named Steve Whiting as his most improved player following his last training camp on the weekend.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

Coaches Bruno Levis and Neycer Robalino with Mackay Table Tennis president Janice Kent.

Neycer Robalino demonstrates a backhand at a coaching camp in Mackay.

Mackay Closed men's singles winner Mick Ruhl with the Jack Cooney Memorial Trophy. Mick won from Goncalo Serra Gagerio. Barry Patterson is presenting the trophy.

Mackay Closed women's open singles winner Emma Widdup and runner-up, daughter Lily Boland, with Barry Patterson. Photos supplied

AT THE TABLE

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night results November 26, 2024:

Division 1:

Alfa (Vince Boeske, Steve Whiting, Tony Bowman) d Barra (Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake, Trent Day) 7-4. Tony d Anne -14, 6, -11, 8, 9.

Andro (Graham Drury, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Azalea (Barry Patterson, Allan Robins, Mark Sleeman) 9-2. Mark d Graham 9, -11, 11, -9, 9.

Aqua (Ian McKay, Neil Brown, Geoff Denman) d Corgi (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 7-4. Geoff d Robbie 7, -9, -6, 6, 7.

Division 2:

Ants (Noreen Fredericksen, Andrea Nicholson, Mark Stam) d Cats (George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) 7-4. Noreen d YiLin 7, -5, -8, 7, 9.

Canaries (Leo Gilbert, Kade Wright, Daniel) d Bulldogs (David Symons, Delma Knight, Peter Goodson) 8-3. Kade d Bulldog -6, -3, 10, 10, 7.

Tigers (Ollie Hamelink, Doug Dungavell, Steve Mathieson) d Cheetahs (Simon Hogan, Rymer Tabulo, Val Austin) 6-5. Simon d Ollie -7, 7, -7, 6, 8.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures November 26, 2024:

Division 1:

Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) d Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 9-5. Coral d Kevin -9, 8, -9, 10, 4.

Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) drew Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-all. Charlie d Marie 7, -6, 8, -9, 5.

Division 2:

Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) d Rome Ralliers (Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 9-5. Josie d Bill 8, 12, 10.

Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) d Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) 11-3. Helen d Fred 6, -6, 7, -6, 7.

London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream) d Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Glkenda Brookes, Trish Zamparutti) 6-5. Bryan/Glenda d Ken/Kim -10, 4, 6, -10, 9.

‍

Mackay Contract Bridge Club
Results for week ending Saturday 30  November  2024
Monday 25 November 2024 –  7 Table Howell Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy
2nd Max Holewa - Diane Holewa                  
3rd Diane Stokes - Edward Kliese
4th Eric Goodchild - David Ting
5th  Janet Hansen - Diane Morgan  

Tuesday 26 November 2024 –  5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy - Geoff Taylor    
2nd Janet Hansen - Lorna Shuttlewood    
3rd Sandra Morris - Diane Morgan  
4th Helen Van Den Broek - Tex Sheedy  

Wednesday 27 November 2024 –7 Table Howell Green Points
1st    Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy
2nd David Ting - Ming Ting
3rd Tex Sheedy - Lorna Shuttlewood
4th Carmel Brown - Patrick Rasmussen
5th Jan Harris - Sandra Morris
6th Griffin Bancroft - Diane Stokes

Thursday Evening 28 November 2024 – 5 Table Howell Green Points
1st  Robert Carless - Ken Seaniger
2nd Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy
3rd Patricia Garner - Mick King

Friday 29 November 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st
Tex Sheedy - Janelle Conroy
1st
Christine Nice - Diane Cox
2nd
   
Debra Goodchild - Lorna Shuttlewood  
2rd

Monica Darley - Gwen Liddell  

3rd
Bill Pickering - Antonia Tarradas
3rd
Eric Goodchild - Sandy Patterson
4th
Ted Cullinan - Mary Rose Ramsden
4th
Lynne O'neill - Shelley Lewis

Saturday 30 November 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South                                                                                 East/West
1st     Mick King - Jan Harris                                        1st   Margaret Lane - Anne Lutz
2nd   Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless                        2nd  Ken Seaniger - Joy Robinson
2nd   Janet Hansen - Diane Morgan                      3rd  Lorna Shuttlewood - Susan  
4th  Debra Goodchild - Eric Goodchild                 4th  Faye Wright - Christine Nice
5th  Tex Sheedy - Adrian Westcott                        5th  Ted Cullinan - Mary Rose  
                                                                                                     Ramsden

Contributed by Robert Carless

Colleen and Christine ready for a Melbourne Cup Day 2024. Photo supplied

‍

‍

The Mackay City Ladies recently concluded a busy bowls season with their annual presentation day, marking the end of a year full of competition and camaraderie. The day began with some friendly competition on the green, followed by a delicious roast lunch, before the presentation of awards for the 2024 season.
The prestigious Val Aslette Memorial Trophy, awarded for consistency, was presented by Val's daughter, Anita, to one of the club’s younger bowlers, Emma Pash, in recognition of her outstanding performance.
The highly sought-after Robyn Beale Memorial Trophy sparked excitement as the competition came down to the wire. Using a comprehensive points system, Shirley Sturgeon and her daughter, Emma Pash, were tied at the top, earning them the honour of sharing the award. Both ladies were thrilled to receive this prestigious recognition, presented jointly by Robyn's husband, Michael and her family.

‍

Maria Atkins presents Grace Ryan with her Novice Trophy
Emma Pash being presented with her Consistency Trophy by Anita Aslette
Megan, Shane and Michael Beale present Emma and Shirley with the Robyn Beale Memorial Trophy for Club Champion Bowler. Photos supplied

‍

The competition season has wrapped up, and bowlers were recognised for their outstanding efforts. Clive Wales was named Men’s Bowler of the Year, while Champion Singles titles went to Chris Woo and Terry Clark. In the Pairs division, Nug Pratt and Dot Wise claimed victory, alongside the Trannore brothers, Wayne and Shane.

The Triples champions were Bev Svenson, Carmel Bell, and Chris Hall, with the 2 Bowls Triples title awarded to Peter Miller, Peter Madden, and Alan Dillon, and the 3 Bowls Triples title going to Alan Dillon, Eric Gattetley, and Kevin Dwyer.

In the Fours category, Lorna Bowers, Debbie Mackenzie, Coral Francis, and Phyllis Cooper secured the women’s title, while Alan Cooney, Gordon Dyer, Clive Wales, and Mick Walsh triumphed for the men.

B Singles winners were Debbie Mackenzie and Asko Helenius, while the B Pairs titles went to Hilary Jones-Rowan and Sue Hazledine, as well as Wayne and Shane Trannore. Kees Struik and Marie Bragg took home the Mixed Singles titles, and the Mixed Fours champions were Lidia McCarthy, Ray McCarthy, Jean Schmidtke, and Allan Leyson.

Special recognition goes to Wendy Sonter, who competed in the Champion of Champions event in Airlie Beach and achieved an impressive second-place finish.

Contributed by Helen Fleming 

‍

Bowler of the Year-3452 - Clive Wales
Mixed Fours-- Allan Leyson, Jean Schmidtke, Lidia McCarthy, Ray Mc Carthy
Ladies Singles Runner Up Lidia McCarthy and Winner Chris Woo
Pairs Nug Pratt (absent) Dot Wise
Single Terry Clark
Pairs Wayne and Shane Trannore
Triples - Chris Hall, Carmel Bell and Bev Svenson
B Singles Debbie Mackenzie
B Singles - Asko Helenius. Photos supplied

‍

On Wednesday, 20 November, the Marian Ladies Bowls Club presented a generous donation of $1,000 to the Trudy Crowley Foundation, further supporting its ongoing efforts to assist individuals affected by cancer. Earl Neilson, a representative of the Foundation, attended the event to provide an update on the charity’s initiatives.

This year, the Foundation has expanded its focus to include both men and women, continuing its commitment to raising awareness and providing support for those battling cancer.

The presentation was attended by Marian Ladies Bowls Club members Judith Miller and President Thelma Johnston, who joined Neilson for a photo in blue zinc as a symbol of their support to those impacted by cancer.

The donation will assist the Trudy Crowley Foundation in its mission to provide valuable resources and support to cancer patients in the Mackay region.

‍

Secretary Lyn Jackson, Judith Miller and President Thelma Johnston with Earl Neilson

Earl and Marian Ladies Bowls Club Secretary Lyn Jackson. Photos supplied

‍

By Hannah McNamara

For 13 years, Ann Putland has led the Disability Bowls program at Souths Suburban Bowls Club, dedicating her time and heart as a volunteer to transform lives one roll at a time. Every Friday at 9am, Ann has welcomed bowlers from all walks of life to a program tailored for those living with physical and mental challenges.

For Ann, it’s never been just about the game, but rather about building confidence, gaining friendships and helping people achieve far beyond what they thought was possible.

“It’s unbelievable what they can do…it’s just amazing,” Ann said, her voice still filled with admiration for the determination she’s witnessed over the years.

While some players enjoy a bit of healthy competition, the overarching spirit of the group is camaraderie. Smiles, laughter and fellowship fill the air, creating a safe and uplifting space for all.

Among the program’s many inspiring bowlers is Mr Donald Hargreaves, a blind gentleman who joined the group just over two years ago with his wife, Barbara.

Initially, Donald doubted he could play, convinced that bowling wasn’t an option for him…but with Ann’s patient coaching and encouragement, he discovered otherwise and has become quite the skilled player.

“It’s a bit frustrating at times, but I’m enjoying it,” Donald shared.

Donald’s story is just one of many that exemplify how Ann’s dedication has helped people in the community redefine their capabilities. From a man who bowls using a specially adapted skateboard after losing an arm and a leg, to individuals overcoming personal challenges to try something new, Ann has been their personal cheerleader, quietly celebrating every achievement.

Now, as Ann prepares to step down and focus on her own journey, the future of the program is uncertain, and her departure is bittersweet.

“I’ll miss the whole lot of them,” she says, her voice tinged with emotion.

“They are a group of their own, and they amaze me each week.”

The bonds Ann has built and the personal victories she has witnessed have been the most rewarding aspects of her time with the program.

‍

Ann Putland (pink shirt, centre front row) is resigning from coaching Disabilty Bowls at the South Suburban Bowls Club and will greatly miss the camaraderie shared within the group.

Mr Donald Hargreaves

Mr Robert Milburn

Ken Best, father of Lincoln Best

‍

The Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club recently travelled to Alva Beach, Ayr, to compete in the North Barrier Branch Champion Lifesaver Carnival. This challenging event assessed participants on their surf sports fitness, patient assessment, CPR skills, and theoretical knowledge through a detailed written exam.

Josh Grant, Mackay SLSC’s Director of Surf Sports, highlighted the significance of the competition.
“This competition is extremely important in developing the skills of our lifesavers,” he said.
“These are the youth who patrol our beaches and are there for the community to make going to the beach safe and enjoyable.  
“It is a very challenging multi-disciplined event that tests competitors in a number of different scenarios that could one day save someone’s life.”
The surf club’s lifesavers had some outstanding individual results with U17’s Nate McKinnon and Zara Richardson taking out 1st in Champion Lifesaver as well as 1st in First Aid.  U14’s Cadence McKinnon finished 1st with Isabella Grant coming in 2nd in Champion lifesaver, and as a team placed 2nd in the First Aid competition.
Mr Grant said, “The club is extremely proud to see our lifesavers excel at such an important event.  
“This was all thanks to the coaching of Cathy McKinnon and Stewart Richardson who will now lead the team heading into state and national titles for this important lifesaving competition.”

‍

Mackay SLSC Champion Lifesaver Team at Alva Beach, Ayr (L-R) Cadence McKinnon, Nate McKinnon, Isabella Grant and Zara Richardson
Start of the U14 Tube race
Lifesavers from Mackay to Townsville completing the theory examination, which tests their knowledge on the 500-page Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual
Zara Richardson completing the patient assessment and CPR component
U14’s Cadence and Isabella undertaking a scenario as part of the first aid competition, which they placed 2nd. Photos supplied

‍

The final Sunday afternoon races for November wrapped up last weekend for the Mackay Road Runners, leaving just four more races scheduled for January 2025. December will provide a much-needed time for rest and recovery before the 2025 programs begin. However, for those eager to stay active, a few dedicated runners will meet at 4:30pm every Sunday throughout December at Bluewater Quay (near Red Dog).

Everyone is welcome to join - no membership required, and there’s no cost involved. A small donation for a post-run drink is appreciated.

A huge congratulations goes out to all the runners and swimmers who’ve participated in the Biathlon Splash & Dash so far. Publicity Officer Janele Tilse shared, “It’s been great to see so many athletes supporting each other and having a great time.

“There have been some exceptional performances, and the mental and physical benefits are enormous.”

Stay tuned for the announcement of the Mackay Road Runners formal 2025 program in the coming weeks. Be sure to check out their website for a wide variety of weekly events, including social runs, handicap events, and both local and out-of-town activities. The Club’s AGM will be held in January 2025, and all are welcome to attend. Offers of assistance, big or small, are greatly appreciated, as all committee positions will be up for re-election.

Contributed by Janele Tilse

‍

Shane Coppin (left) and Carolyn Mapes (right) set a consistent pace on the track before the pool portion of the Biathlon Splash & Dash Series

9139 – Regular participants (left to right) Natasha Joynson, Jo Hughes, Brendan Bishop and Andrew Short welcome new attendee (2nd right)

9084 – Steven Hayles (right) and Andrew Flanagan look strong as they tackle as many laps of the 400-metre track for 30 minutes. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

‍

Monday 18 November 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek
2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
3rd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
4th
/ Susan Ross / Vicki Howard
Tuesday Evening 19 November 2024 –5Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Janet Hansen

2nd
Patrica Garner / Adrian Westcott
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

3rd
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
3rd
Christopher Meyers / Shirley Worland

Wednesday 20 November 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Andrew Canavan / Adrian Westcott

2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
2nd
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild

3rd
Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

4th
Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
4th
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

Thursday Evening 21 November 2024 –5 Tavle Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Adrian Westcott / Ian Cruickshank
1st
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

2nd
Lynne O’Neill / Frances Brown
2nd
Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger

3rd
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
3rd
Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor

Friday 22 November 2024 – 7 Tables Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Ming Ting / David Ting
1st
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

4th
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
4th
Mick King / Geoff Cowan

Saturday 23 November 2024 – 13 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
1st
Terry Sheedy / Christopher Meyers

2nd
Antonia Tarradas / Graeme
2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd
Christine Nice / Faye Wright
3rd
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

4th
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
4th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

5th
Mick Robins / Marilin Robins
5th
Sandra Morris / Ann Whitmore

‍

Del Ryan B Category Team Winners: Helen Van Den Broek, Jan Harris, Richard Wix, Mick King and President Frances Brown. Photo supplied

‍

The 2024 bowls year is just about completed…now’s the time to organise your competition teams and set your goals for next year. Setting goals is very important - it may be as simple as improving your game by approaching an experienced bowler or coach. For assistance it may take as little as 15 minutes. It may be your technique or stance requiring adjustment, or concentration level needs to improve. Improving your skill increases your outlook of the game and decreases the bad bowls delivered. Another important factor is to increase your knowledge of the games laws – you can find this information in books available from the bar.

Tip of the Day

Never leave shots sitting up for your opponent. Play their shot and try to improve the situation. It is better to go down one than a number.

Weekly events

Monday 8.30am starts 2 x 4 x 2 Pairs any Mix
Wednesday 1.00pm Start Ladies Bowls
Thursday 1.00pm Start 2 x 4 x 2 Pairs any mix
Friday 1.30pm Start 3 Bowl Pairs any mix
Saturday 1.00pm Start Men’s Pairs
In all team events single names on the side will be accepted. Phone the bowls club on 4942 3393 and leave your contact number with your name.

Playing out of turn
Law 29.1
If a player plays out of turn, the opposing skip can stop the bowl and return it. If the bowl has come to rest and not disturbed the head, the opposing skip must choose whether to leave the head as is, and bowl two bowls (to correct the order) or return the bowl.

If the Bowl Disturbs the Head

The opposing skip may leave the head as it is and have their team bowl two bowls; or replace the head to its former position; return the bowl and go back to the correct order of play; or if unable to do so declare a dead end.

Law 29.2
If a player delivers somebody else’s bowl, that bowl must be replaced with the players own bowl; if it is a toucher, the players own bowl must be marked as a toucher.

‍

A great time was had at the clubs Presentation Night. Photos supplied

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures November 19, 2024:

Division 1:

Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) drew Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) 7-all. Delma d Branko 7, -7, -10, 9, 13.

Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) d Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 10-4. Charlie d George 5, 6, -8, -3, 11.

Division 2:

Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Darryl Ross, Allison Day) drew London Loopers (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) 7-all. Darryl d Ken 8, -9, -5, 11, 4.

Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) d Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Thelma Caruana, Trish Zamparutti) 10-4. Josie d Ian -8, 8, 10, 7.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures November 19, 2024:

Division 1:

Alfa (Vince Boeske, Goncalo Serra, Tony Bowman) d Azalea (Barry Patterson, Allan Robins, Mark Sleeman) 9-2. Vince d Barry -9, 10, -9,  8.

Andro (Graham Drury, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Corgi (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 9-2. Graeme d Lily -1, 9, 8, -9, 8.

Aqua (Ian McKay, Andrew McSherry, Geoff Denman) d Barra (Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake, Trent Day) 6-5. Lee d Geoff -11, 9, 2, -8, 5.

Division 2:

Ants (Noreen Fredericksen, Andrea Nicholson, Mark Stam) d Bulldog (Delma Knight, Peter Goodson, David Symons) 7-4. Andrea d Delma -7, -6, 5, 6, 10.

Cats (Tiffany Camilleri, George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang) d Canaries (Leo Gilbert, Danial, Ishara Liyanagamage) 7-4. YiLin d Leo -9, -8, 7, 5, 5.

Cockatoos (Jye Callander, Matt West, Sion Hogan) d Tigers (Val Austin, Doug Dungavell, Steve Mathieson) 7-4.  Steve d Simon -8, 8, 6, -8, 8.

‍

Delma Knight plays in both the morning and night fixtures at Mackay Table Tennis

‍

The Whitsunday Swimming Club celebrated a standout weekend at the 51st GBR Meet hosted by the Mackay Swimming Academy at the ARC, bringing home their largest medal haul in years.

The team of 14 swimmers delivered incredible performances, with George leading the charge, earning five gold medals from his events. Newcomer Alissa made an impressive debut for the club, securing a gold and silver while smashing her personal bests. Other medal winners included Mae, Mia, Hayden, Leyton, Jayde, Alex, and Axel.

Ivy stole the spotlight with seven personal bests across seven swims, including an astonishing 34.6-second improvement in the 200m breaststroke and a 20.74-second gain in the 200m freestyle. Meanwhile, Emeilia swam her first meet as an under-7 WSC member, delivering two fantastic PBs.

Ti achieved four PBs while refining his diving skills, Chloe powered through nine events with four PBs, and Georgia dominated with PBs in four out of five swims, capping off her weekend by winning the Nike raffle prize.

Coach Jenny from Aquatic Rush received heartfelt thanks for her intensive training and support, with the results clearly reflecting her efforts. The camaraderie and team spirit among the swimmers were unmatched, making the Whitsunday Swimming Club’s presence known.

The club trains Monday to Friday from 3:30pm at Proserpine Swimming Pool. New members of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the WSC family. Visit the pool and find out how you can get involved!

Contributed with thanks to WSC President, Amanda Yuskan.

‍

MSA swimmers stole the show at the Mackay GBR Meet.
Winner are grinners! MSA medal recipients smiling with pride.
MSA team ready to dive into action.
MSA juniors made a splash at the Mackay GBR Meet.

‍

Mackay Tri Club is thrilled to welcome you to the Australia Day Aquathlon on January 26, 2025. This free, family-friendly event promises a fun and active way for people of all ages and fitness levels to celebrate the national holiday.

Supported by a National Australia Day Council grant and Triple M Mackay and Whitsundays, this year’s Aquathlon aims to bring participants together for a memorable day of fitness, camaraderie and fun!

With a heavy focus on enjoyment rather than competition, the event offers individuals and families an opportunity to enjoy the thrill of the race, connect with others, and make it the best Australia Day yet.

Mackay Tri Club President Stephanie Allen shared her excitement about the event, saying, “We’re excited to bring this free event to Mackay thanks to the support of the National Australia Day Council and Triple M.

“Australia Day is about unity, and our club believes in making sports accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

“The Aquathlon offers an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to come together, celebrate our country, and take part in a fun, healthy, and memorable event,” she added.

Australia Day presents a unique chance for the community to connect and, as the National Australia Day Council states, “We Are All in This Together.”

In addition to the event, participants can enjoy a free BBQ to round off the Australia Day festivities. The Aquathlon will not only celebrate Australia Day but will also mark 38 years of Mackay Tri Club’s dedication to bringing high-quality triathlon and multisport events to the region.

Mackay Tri Club has been a cornerstone of the Mackay community for 38 years, offering a range of multisport events for athletes of all levels, as well as free training for members and an affordable “Try Before You Buy” 8-week membership for new participants.

“To celebrate 38 years of our club is massive,” Stephanie said.

“As a not-for-profit, it’s run entirely by dedicated volunteers, from the president to our young juniors and their parents.”

In honour of this milestone, the club has introduced several new initiatives for 2025. This includes two newly certified Triathlon Australia volunteer coaches who will offer free group sessions focusing on beginner swim, bike, and run skills, as well as race transitions.

In addition, a women-only 6-week training program has been launched with the support of local businesses, leading up to the 25th annual Sonya Brazil Memorial Women’s Triathlon on February 23, 2025. The milestone event will honour past winners and bring together athletes for a special celebration.

Stephanie said, “In 2025, we have partnered with the Trudy Crowly Foundation for this race to raise vital funds for them and to also raise awareness of the club and sport to a wider audience.

“We are excited to see what the next 10 years hold and hope that the Aquathlon attracts some new faces to our sport and our club to carry us through the next 10 years,”

With limited spots available, Mackay Tri Club encourages early registration.

Register now at: https://triathlonaustralia.justgo.com/Workbench/i/r/public/EventsAndBookingsPublic/browse/?provider=167513

For more details, visit www.mackaytriclub.com.au or email info@mackaytriclub.com.au.

What: Mackay Tri Club’s Australia Day Aquathlon
When: January 26, 2025; Athlete Check-in 6.30am-Racing from 7.30am
Where: Pioneer Swim Centre

   • Event Details and Distances:
   • MINI KIDS (5-7 years): 50m Swim, 500m Run
   • MINI KIDS (7-9 years): 100m Swim, 1km Run
   • MINI KIDS (10-11 years): 150m Swim, 1.5km Run
   • ENTICER (12+): 2.5km Run, 300m Swim
   • SPRINT (13+): 2.5km Run, 300m Swim, 2.5km Run, 300m Swim

Mackay Tri Club invites you to their Australia Day Aquathlon that’s set to be an amazing day full of fitness, camaraderie and fun. Photos supplied

‍

Mackay cricket stars Dharmini Chauhan and Tracee Williamson are set to don the green and gold as part of the Women’s Indigenous Squad, showcasing their talent at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground this week.

Chauhan, from Magpies Cricket Club, and Williamson, representing Sarina Cricket Association and Pioneer Valley Cricket Club, are preparing for an unforgettable experience on one of cricket's grandest stages.

Earlier this week, the duo attended the National Indigenous Training Camp, immersing themselves in a week of high-intensity training, cultural exchange, and competitive matches against top-tier opponents.

“This is a phenomenal achievement for Dharmini and Tracee,” a Mackay Cricket Association spokesperson said.

“Their dedication and skill make our region incredibly proud, and we’re thrilled to see them represent not only Mackay but also Indigenous cricket on a national platform.”

Both players are eager to bring their A-game, honouring their heritage while inspiring the next generation of cricketers.

‍

Mackay Magpies continue to rule the roost in the 2024-25 Mackay Cricket Association Poole Cup first grade competition.

Having chalked up seven consecutive victories after seven rounds, the undefeated Magpies (65 points) have opened up a sizeable lead from second placed Walkerston (36 points).
An unbeaten 51 by number four Jaxn Sign piloted the premiership pacesetters to a seven wicket triumph over Norths Devils last
Saturday in their one day clash at Great Barrier Reef Arena.
Sign faced thirty seven balls and clobbered three sixes and four boundaries – sharing a third wicket partnership of 78 with Joseph Hackney (34) to help the Magpies (3-128) eclipse the Devils total of 127.
Conor Bryant (3-32 off eight overs) and Wesley Dyer (2-17 off eight) spearheaded the Magpies attack.
Walkerston (8-234) registered a pulsating fifteen run win over Brothers (219) at Jack Lancaster Oval.
Electing to bat first after winning the toss, the Roosters posted a huge tally with dashing half centuries from number three Luke Jackson (94) and Russell Deguara (54).
The capable Jackson faced 106 balls and smashed three sixes and nine boundaries while Deguara hit nine boundaries and a six from his 41 balls with the pair adding 82 runs for the fifth wicket.
Mitch Wadsworth (3-52) and Kobie Duvenhage (2-42) were the pick of the Brothers bowlers.

Wadsworth cracked 55 off forty seven balls and Duvenhage (38 off forty two balls) before Brothers were dismissed just short of their target in the 39th over.

Pace duo Chris McEldowney (4-32 off eight overs) and Nick Lotarski (2-37) and Scott Randles (2-20) made an impact with the ball for the Roosters.

Souths (5-181) recorded a five-wicket victory over Pioneer Valley (177) in their fixture at George Gorrie Oval.

Kellen Powell starred for the Sharks with an unbeaten 90 off ninety four balls.
The flamboyant number four clobbered eight sixes and four boundaries in a super knock to bring up a dominant win in the 38th over.

Sharks’ skipper Cameron Keene hit 32 runs and Andrew Morris (23) with Andrew McNichol grabbing 2-26 for the Valley.
Mahesh Rajaratne top scored for Pioneer Valley with a stylish 41 off thirty one balls including five boundaries and two sixes) plus solid contributions from teenager Haiden Mellifont (38 off fifty balls with five boundaries), McNichol (36 from twenty nine balls) and Zac Wilson (21 not out).

Harrison Holmes (2-17 off six), Keene (2-23) and quick Rocklyn Miller (2-39 off eight) shared the bowling honours for the Sharks.

‍

Rising schoolgirl cricketers Matilda Wiggins and Kiana Dunn continue to inspire their male counterparts in the Mackay Junior Cricket Association.

The talented duo showed why they are regarded two of the region’s outstanding prospects after cracking unbeaten half centuries in one day junior Under 15 mixed fixtures last weekend.

Kiana, an Australian Indoor Cricket representative, smashed 97 not out for Norths Devils in a thumping win over Walkerston Green at George Gorrie Oval.

Opening the batting she faced sixty nine balls and clouted fourteen boundaries in a magnificent knock – sharing a stand of 65 with fellow opener Edan Beel (35).

Matilda hit 67 for Brothers in her side’s one day loss to Magpies White at Roy Trevaskis Oval.

The Mackay-Whitsunday representative and Brothers skipper faced sixty two balls and hit ten boundaries as she and opener Reuben Beardmore (26 retired) played lone hands with the bat.

Despite her heroics, the Brothers line up fell twenty sevens short of their target after the Magpies had earlier posted 4-192 in the 25 overs per side fixture.

Beardmore snared 2-19 off five overs and Wiggins took the new ball where she troubled the Magpies batsmen with her swing bowling.

Both Matilda and Kiana have figured prominently in St Patricks College Mackay’s North Queensland Secondary Schools Twenty 20 trophy winning teams over the past two seasons. They were part of the St Patricks Senior Girls Cricket Team who were named StreetSmart Secondary Schools T20 State Champions in September with convincing wins over Atherton and Matthew Flinders College.

‍

St Patricks College were named as the 2024 T20 Queensland School Girls Champions

‍

The North Marine sponsored by Del Ryan Memorial Teams Congress was held in Mackay last weekend – which was a Red Point event. Twelve teams competed for the elusive Red Points. Winners of Section A, Team Brown - Frances and Alan Brown, Diane Morgan and Marilin Robins. Winners of Section B, Team King - Mick King, Richard Wix, Jan Harris and Helen Van Den Broek. Walkins won by Karen Cadwell / Noel Saunders and Mick King / Richard Wix.

Weekly Results
Monday 11 November 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Diane Stokes / Eddie Kliese

2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

3rd
Joy Block / Nancy Wix
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

Tuesday Evening 12 November 2024 –3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
John McGee / Mick King
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
Wednesday 13 November 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

2nd
Antonia Tarradas / Richard Wix
2nd
Diane Stokes / Joy Block

3rd
Marie McGuire / Nancy Wix
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

4th
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
4th
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

Thursday Evening 14 November 2024 –4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
4th
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
Friday 15 November 2024 – Del Ryan Memorial Walkins 9 Table Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Karen Cardwell / Noel Saunders
1st
Mick King / Richard Wix

2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd
Faye Wright / Christine Nice
3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

4th
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
4th
David Ting / Ming Ting

Saturday/Sunday 16/17 November 2024 – Del Ryan Memorial Teams 11 Table Mitchell Red Points
A
Team
Team Members
1st
Brown
Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Diane Morgan / Marilin Robins
2nd
Cameron
Don Camerson / Jan Randall / Adrian Lohmann / Malcolm Allan
3rd
Holewa
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa / Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

B

Team

Team Members
1st
King
Mick King / Richard Wix / Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek
2nd
Limmage
Frances Limmage / Mavis Anderson / Michelle Rau / Lee Chenoweth
3rd
Shuttlewood
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright / Faye Wright / Christine Nice

Contributed By Joy Block

‍

CMR Goosepond $10,000 Prize Winners
1st Place Winners: Wayne Hennesy, David Mckendry, Chris Woo and Terry Clark.
2ND Peter Blackburn 3RD Brendan Egan
4TH Jason Borg 5th Mick Walsh
6th Manny 7th Wayne Hendley
‍

‍
Round Winners
   1. Kees Struik
   2. Asko Helenius
   3. Brad Lindenberg
   4. Shane Spawn
   5. Steven Lane

Fun Times At Goosies - A Great Weekend Was Had By All

Left to right: Wayne Hennesy, David Mckendry,Chris Woo and Terry Clark.

‍

The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club celebrated a remarkable achievement, returning from Airlie Beach with the Club of the Year trophy for the second consecutive year.

Back in Mackay, President Lidia hosted a gathering to celebrate the victory with the club’s members. Individually, Debbie Mackenzie was recognised for her exceptional performance, winning the B Grade Singles, Champion of Champions trophy.

The club’s triumph was further solidified by the strong performances of its Pennant Sides.

Division 1, Division 2, and Division 3 all claimed victory in their respective competitions, while Division 4 finished as runners-up. The combined efforts of the entire club contributed to an outstanding year, showcasing their skill, teamwork, and dedication.

Group with President Lidia holding the Club of the Year Trophy.

Debbie Mackenzie with the Trophy for B Singles Champion of Champions.

Division 1

Division 2

Division 3

Division 4. Photos supplied

‍

One of the busiest families in the Mackay & District Rugby League Referees' Association (MDRLRA) marked a special milestone this year, showcasing their dedication to the sport and to refereeing.

The Reid family came together to officiate a junior rugby league match, with Scott Reid in the middle, his wife Les-Lee Reid on one sideline and their youngest son Cale, 16, on the other.

The Reids' commitment to refereeing began seven years ago when their eldest son Alex, who is no longer involved, first took up the whistle.

Scott followed a year later, with middle son Ryan also spending time as a match official.

Reflecting on the experience, MDRLRA treasurer Les-Lee Reid, the latest to take up on-field role after many years volunteering in support roles with the association, said it was a great experience to come together on the field for the first time.

"It was actually great, just being together as a family and supporting the association, I’d do it every weekend if we had to," she said.

“It was good just to have us all on one game to see how we all interact with each other.”

Les-Lee said she felt huge support from the members in getting on the field - after a few years of encouragement.

"We had a shortage one weekend and I thought 'Oh, stuff it, I may as well get out there and do it'," she said.

"Not just my boys but other members of the association have been trying to get me to do it for about four years saying 'Come on, get your shoes on and get out there'... and all of a sudden I was out there and I thought, this isn't as bad as I thought it was for all these years.

"Part of it is fitness, but it's also about helping control a game and helping it run smoothly.

"It's nice getting to know all the kids and them getting together and having fun and getting out there and officiating the game they love as well, and that's how we see it, as a family."

Les-Lee said refereeing was particularly valuable for her boys learning how to deal with the pressure of a fast-paced game and how to manage social situations.

"They've got a lot out of it in regard to how to deal with conflict, and their social skills in how to deal with different personalities and make (others) feel they're part of it, but keeping everyone in line," she said.

Retention of junior referees and ultimately moving those old enough into seniors is the focus for the association moving forward, but are hoping to see more older referees - 17 years and up - come forward to bolster the pool available for senior matches.

‍

Les-Lee Reid took the field alongside her husband Scott and their son Cale, marking a new chapter for the Reid family in rugby league officiating. Photos supplied

Les-Lee, Scott and referee from the GF women's local league Luke McCulloch

‍

Over forty athletes met at the Aquatic & Recreational Complex (ARC) to take part in the November section of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series Splash and Dash social Biathlon.  The event is being held for the first time this year as a great off-season, very informal training session hosted by Mackay Road Runners. Club Captain, Jim Ford is the man behind the plan, offering a unique switch up to the usual running-only format. 

The 30-minute run followed by the 30-minute swim has been an enjoyable shift in the program as evidenced by over forty competitors signing on each week.  Next Sunday will be the final one for November, however, will return for the final part of the biathlon series on the four Sundays in January 2025. The official start of the 2025 program will commence 16th February.
 
The Mackay Road Runners break in December will be well deserved by many hard-training athletes and volunteers who have had a successful and long 2024, however, most are still training vigorously for upcoming events such as the Hamilton Island Triathlon and the Malaysian Multisport 48-hour event this weekend. 

Publicity Officer Janelle Tilse acknowledged the runners’ efforts and said “All the best to anyone still training and competing in any events, big or small, it’s great to be moving and having fun doing it.
 
 “Mackay Road Runners will be celebrating its 50th birthday in 2026...and we look forward to celebrating with its members, families and the wider community.”

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

‍

(left to right) Carolyn Mapes, Jose Short, Tahnie Malagueno, Carmel Mahon, Dee McMurtrie and Todd Turner all in sync as they complete as many laps as possible in 30 minutes.
John Rae takes a well-earned breather as he completes a massive amount of laps in the 30min time limit.
Nikki Giles (right front) enjoys running laps with a few of her TriActiv8 crew at the Mackay Road Runners Shawn’s Summer Splash & Dash Biathlon Series.
Jose Short (left) and Carmel Mahon go stride for stride as they complete as many 400 metre laps as possible in the 30 minute time period.

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures November 12, 2024:

Division 1:

Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) d Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) 8-6. Branko d Pam -6, 3, 6, -7, 12.

Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson) d Code Crackers (Andrea Nicholson, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) 10-4. Veronica d Coral -9, -11, 9, 8, 1.

Division 2:

Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders) drew Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) 7-all. Frank d Gloria -7, -9, 4, 9, 9.

Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) drew London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) 7-all. Ken d Helen -8, 6, 8, -9, 12.

Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Trish Zamparutti) d Rome Ralliers (Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato, Thelma Caruana) 6-5. Ian d Bill -12, -9, 6, 7, 3.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures November 12, 2024:

‍

Division 1:

Alfa (Graham Brake, Steve, Tony Bowman) d Aqua (Neil Brown, Geoff Denman, Ian McKay) 6-5. Ian d Tony 7, 10, -6, -10, 7.

Andro (Janice Kent, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Barra (Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake, Trent Day) 8-3. Lee d Janice -9, -9, 9, 10, 8.

Corgi (Andrew, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) d Azalea (Mark Sleeman, Barry Patterson, Allan Robins) Barry/Allan d Lily/Will -5, 5, -8, 7, 8.

‍

Division 2:

Bulldog (Delma Knight, Peter Goodson, David Symons) d Tigers (Ollie Hamelink, Andrea Nicolson, Steve Mathieson) 7-4. David d Ollie 8, 7, -12, -9, 7.

Cockatoos (Craig VanDeKaa, Geoff, Matt West) d Cats (George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) 6-5. Geoff d YiLin -8, 9, 8, -9, 6.

Canaries (Leo Gilbert, Kade Wright, Ishara Lylanagamage) d Cheetahs (Daniel Gilbert, Val Austin) 9-2. Ishara d Val -10, 9, 19, -10, 8.

‍

Frank Caruana and Gloria Vella had an interesting battle, with Frank losing the first two sets, only to mount a sensational comeback to take the win 3 sets to 2. Photos supplied

‍

MIXED PAIRS FINAL

A hotly contested final on Saturday saw the team of Kees Struik and Marie Bragg defeat Nuggy Pratt (still playing like a champion) and Alan Cooney who was subbing for Tony Allsop in a seesawing battle. Marie Bragg should be very happy with her contribution towards the win.

Weekly Events

Monday 9.00am start 2 x 4 x 2 pairs

Wednesday Ladies bowls

Thursday 1.00pm 2 x 4 x 2 pairs any mix

Friday 2.30pm (this week only) 3 bowls pairs

Saturday 1.00pm normally pairs

CMR Goosies $10,000

This weekend will see the club conduct it’s biggest event of the year. It commences with a pair event at 2.30pm today, Friday with $500 prize money followed by a Calcutta starting at 6.30pm for the main event the CMR Goosies $10,000 carnival held on the weekend. Visiting bowling teams will travel from Townsville and Rockhampton and clubs in between. A good weekend of bowls is guaranteed. All results will be in the “Mackay Life” next week.

Social Bowls Results

Monday winners Ian Rowan, Greg Pemoruice

Lucky Draw M Rose, P Morgan

Wednesday winners B Mulhall, N Schmidke, I Comelli

R/up T Russell, B Trannore, D Gordon

Thursday winners V Meitzel, P Elgey

R/up L Kane, D Kane

Friday winners V Depinto, B Svenson

Lucky draw V Meitzel, A Helenius, S Trannore, M Walsh

Saturday winners J C/Master, P Dellaney

R/up S Trannore, S Lane

Tip of the week

Once you have picked your grass and intended line; stance and posture is correct; your brain and concentration takes over and controls touch and pace. Simply; think before you deliver your bowl.

‍

Left to right: A Cooney, T Allsop, N Pratt, K Struik, M Bragg

‍

‍

Mackay Road Runners Club is taking training to the next level with a splash of something new this season. Under the guidance of Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford, the off-season program now includes a swim leg—a first in the club’s history. Ford, who juggles his roles as Race Director and proud Grandad, is excited to introduce this fresh challenge to keep members on their toes during the off-season.

Shawn’s Summer Series, known for its unique format under Jim’s direction, has adapted this season to include multiple disciplines due to the extreme summer temperatures, evolving into a biathlon training session. To make the event as inclusive as possible, Jim incorporates specific age-based advantages into the track and lap tallies, encouraging wider participation.

The Biathlon Series takes place every Sunday in November at 4:30pm at the Aquatic & Recreational Complex (ARC) and will resume in January 2025. Participants are invited to gather at the ARC’s running track gates after paying a $4 entry fee at the pool kiosk. A gold coin donation is encouraged to support post-run and swim refreshments. Jim ensures a smooth start by having a sign-in book for participants to complete before the 4:30pm race briefing.

Last week’s event attracted a lively mix of new faces, families, and regulars, with attendees from groups like Nikki Giles’ TriActiv8, Mackay Road Runners, and Eimeo Surf Club enjoying the ARC’s fantastic outdoor facilities.

The Mackay Road Runners Committee recently held its 2025 calendar meeting, where they are finalising the schedule. The confirmed calendar is expected to be released shortly. Additionally, the Mackay Road Runners Annual General Meeting (AGM) is set for January 13, 2025, with notices to be posted on social media in the coming weeks.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

‍

Classy athletes, Kellie  Chappell (left) with Naomi Ballard (right) ready to start the run leg of the 2nd Shawn’s Summer Social Dash & Splash Biathlon Series at the Aquatic & Recreational Complex (ARC).

Todd Turner and Nikki Giles rack up the laps as they speed around the 400 metre track at the ARC.

Alana Knezevic and Carolyn Mapes enjoy the swim leg of the Biathlon.

Jim Ford (back to camera, front centre) instructs approximately 45 runners to complete as many laps in the 30 minute time limit before entering the pool leg of the Biathlon. Photos supplied

‍

The Mackay Whitsunday Cyclones Men’s representative team suffered back-to-back losses in the North Queensland Cricket Mens Open Zone championships at George Gorrie Oval last weekend.

But it was a different story for the Cyclones women's side, who emerged as champions in the inaugural 4-Zone competition, going undefeated over the weekend.

The women's team secured victories in all three of their matches, showcasing their dominance on the field. Their stellar performance was capped with several players being selected for the North Queensland side to face South Queensland in Gatton in the coming weeks.

Congratulations to Elisha Holdsworth, Meghan McCartney, Matilda Faulkner, Dharmini Chauhan, Aleisha Middleton, Kianna Dunn, and Taylah Schutt on their well-deserved selections. The team will be coached by Shane Dunn, representing the region with pride.

Special mention goes to Sam Vassallo from the men’s team, who also earned a spot in the North Queensland Open Men's team to compete against South Queensland in Townsville. These athletes will now aim for a place in the Queensland Country sides heading to the National Championships in the Barossa Valley in January.

In the men’s competition, dashing half centuries from Lachlan Ford (69 off seventy one balls) and Ryan Eaton (58 off sixty five balls) and a four wicket haul by paceman Kai Adami (4-26 off eight overs) steered North Queensland (7-241) to a decisive 94 run victory over the Cyclones (147).

In a top batting performance, Adam Camer (37) and Pierce Carrara (33 not out) also impressed for North Queensland with Adami, Ford (2-21 off six) and quick Travis Busch (2-26 off eight) impressive with the ball.

The Cyclones were best served by Cody Filewood (47 runs off seventy five balls) with four boundaries and a six, Luke Jackson (24) and experienced opener Sam Vassallo (23).

Lane Kohler snared 2-49 with the ball.

Central Queensland recorded a seven wicket victory over the Cyclones last Sunday to zoom into title calculations.

Mackay-Whitsunday won the toss and elected to bat but were bundled out for 156 in the forty fourth over after stand out bowling displays from Central Queensland ace Joe McGahan (3-43 off seven overs), Riley McDonald (3-24 off ten) and Logan Whitfield (2-24 off ten).

A superb century by vice captain Jeff Case proved the highlight as Central Queensland (3-158) chased down the winning target inside thirty one overs.

Case smashed an unbeaten 101 off one hundred balls in an epic knock that featured eleven boundaries and two sixes.

He shared an unbroken stand of 91 for the fourth wicket with number five Brent Hartley (25 not out) as Central Queensland won their third match after four rounds to consolidate top spot on twenty two competition points.

‍

The Mackay Whitsunday Cyclones Men's and Women's teams after a weekend of mixed results. The women’s side made history with an undefeated run to claim the inaugural 4-Zone Championship, while the men's team battled hard in their North Queensland Open Zone campaign

‍

The 2024 Pan Pacific Masters Games recently wrapped up on the Gold Coast, bringing together over 16,000 participants across 40+ sports from November 1st to 10th. The aquatic events, held from November 6th to 10th, kicked off with 800m and 1500m races and included a full range of strokes up to 400m over the following days. Representing the North Mackay Sinkers, a dedicated "sole sinker" made the journey south, actively participating in both swimming events and volunteering.

The Games concluded on November 10th with a series of ocean swims, hosted by the Mermaid Beach Surf Life Saving Club. Swimmers chose between 1km, 2.5km, and 4km distances, with a Sinkers member impressively securing 4th place in the 4km event for his age group. The next Pan Pacs are already scheduled for November 6th–15th, 2026, promising another dynamic lineup of sports, social activities, and live entertainment, including performances by bands like “Killer Queen” and Sneaky Sound System.

Adding to their regular training on November 9th, the North Mackay Sinkers welcomed Kylie from Untapped Exercise Physiology. Kylie not only joined members in the pool but also led a valuable discussion on integrating professional guidance into training routines. Her insights emphasized the benefits of upper body isometric and functional exercises before swimming, as well as incorporating resistance training and impact workouts. Several members underwent functional tests, leaving the group with actionable fitness tips.

Looking to dive into the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club? Masters Swimming Queensland offers programs for all skill levels, from beginners and recreational swimmers to competitive athletes in both pool and open water. The Sinkers invite those interested in a friendly and supportive swimming community to get in touch.

‍

Masters Swimming Qld hosted the pool events that attracted over 550 swimmers to attend from all over Australia and overseas

The Men’s 4km ocean swim gets underway in perfect conditions.

The calm conditions and Gold Coast city scape made for a great swim in 21-degree water.

The exercise physiology session with Kylie was well received and focussed on masters athletes. Photos supplied

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures November 5, 2024:

Division 1:

Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) drew Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) 7-all. Judy d Doug 5, -6, -9, 5, 10.

Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) d Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 8-6. John d Peter 11, -8, -9, 10, 7.

Division 2:

Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba) d Rome Ralliers (Louise Gould, Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 6-4.  John d Louise -12, -9, 8, 7, 8.

London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) d Berlin Blockers (Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) 11-3. Kim d Iris 7, -6, -5, 3, 9.

Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) d Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Trish Zamparutti) 7-3. Helen/Sharon d Bryan/Trish d Helen/Sharon -8, 7, 0, -10, 7.

‍

Kim Daffy defeated Iris Grasso in a close match, winning the fifth set 11-9

‍

Twenty-one members attended the Airlie Beach Congress (Red Points) on Friday 8th November. Mackay place getters were in Section A 2nd Janelle Conroy and Terry Sheedy, 3rd Diane and Max Holewa. Section B N/S 1st Monica Darley and Geoff Taylor, 2nd Noel Saunders and Mary Rose Ramsden. E/W 2nd Patricia Garner and Jan Harris. On the home front, Tuesday saw a fabulous day of Bridge, comradery and horse racing, with a Melbourne Cup luncheon. Winners for the day were N/S Diane Stokes and Terry Sheedy, E/W Joy and Thomas Block.

Weekly Results

Monday 4 November 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

3rd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 4th Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait

5th Sandy Patterson / Mary Rose Ramsden 6th Nancy Wix / Joy Block

Tuesday 5 November 2024 – Melbourne Cup 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Terry Sheedy / Diane Stokes 1st Joy Block / Thomas Block

2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Sandra Morris / Sandra Ford

3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 3rd Frances Brown / Alan Brown

4th Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

5th Errol Morris / Mick Robins 5th Julie O’Neill / Patricia Garner

Wednesday 6 November 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Joy Brunette / Don Poole 1st Jan Harris / Sandra Morris

2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders 3rd Victor Mason / Gwen Liddell

Friday 8 November 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 1st David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd Joyce Deguara / Gwen Liddell 2nd Jewel Schmidt / Susan Ross

Saturday 9 November 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd John McGee / Shirley Casey

3rd Mick King / Jan Harris 3rd Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

4th Monic Darley / Nancy Martin 4th Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch

5th Nancy Wix / Richard Wix 5th Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris

‍

Contributed by Joy Block

Twenty-two Mackay Players at Airlie Beach Congress

Melbourne Cup Day Winners Diane Cox, Terry Sheedy, Joy and Thomas Block. Photos supplied

‍

Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club recently hosted the 34th annual North Australian Titles, which saw over 1500+ lifesavers, water safety, carnival officials and spectators descend on Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach. The Mackay hosts did exceedingly well in the region, beating fellow clubs Eimeo and Sarina, as well as outperforming large clubs from Townsville, Arcadia and Picnic Bay SLSC’s.

The club had some outstanding achievements placing 4th overall, with the Juniors placing 2nd in their division as well the club taking out 1st place for the Handicap Trophy, meaning they were by aggregate the most improved club of the championships.  

Mackay SLSC Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said, “The club is very proud of our small but strong competition group, from the nippers in U11’s to our masters.

“To see our competitors take on the best of the best in regional Qld and achieve some great results, is a credit to the culture and commitment we have at our club.  

“The feedback I have received from visiting clubs is that they love coming here and competing at one of the best beaches in Queensland.  

“I would just like to thank all the clubs that made the effort and travelled to Mackay for the Nth Aussies, we hope to see you next year!

“It was very pleasing to see Hayden Tobin (U13), Cadence McKinnon (U14), Meliana Craig (U15) and Nate McKinnon (U17) selected for the Qld Country team based on their outstanding results,” Mr Grant said.  

“It’s a fantastic result to place with the best of the best of Northern Australia and regional Qld.  

“The club is going from strength to strength, and we are now preparing our lifesavers for Branch Titles at Sarina in a few weeks.”

‍

Mackay SLSC small but strong team get ready for day 3 at Nth Aussies

U17’s Zara Richardson & Molly Madden celebrating after taking out bronze in the Open female Nth Australian double ski race.

Mackay Harbour’s Kellan & Johnny (back) get ready for the action at Nth Aussies 2024.

Mackay’s All age beach relay team, comprising age groups from U11 to Masters took out 2nd place in North Australia.  Winners are grinners!

Captain of Mackay SLSC “Stingrays” Masters, Ben Madden, celebrates success in the 2km Beach Run.

‍

Mackay Christian College’s F1 in Schools teams have delivered an outstanding performance at the state finals, making a clean sweep across multiple categories. The event, which took place in Mackay, saw teams from across Queensland, including Townsville and the Gold Coast, come together for a thrilling showcase of innovation, engineering, and speed.

According to a representative from Mackay Christian College, the highlight of the competition was the impressive showing by Team Fusion, who achieved a perfect score of 80/80 in their submissions—a first in the five years the program has been running at the college.

“It’s an incredible achievement for our team,” the representative said. “Scoring 80 out of 80 is something we’ve never seen before, and it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students.”

On race day, the college’s teams excelled, with Team AEROjet, led by Ada and Kaitlyn, taking first place in the cadet category. Meanwhile, in the development division, Team Fusion not only clinched the top spot but also set a new record for the fastest lap in Queensland, breaking the previous time of 1.131 seconds with a new record of 1.125 seconds.

The knockout racing event saw further triumphs, as Team AEROjet secured the title of Knockout Champions, followed closely by Team Fusion. This remarkable performance earned the school the distinction of being the best racing team in Queensland across both the Cadet and Development divisions.

Awards Recap:

Team AEROjet:

• Best Engineered Car

• Grand Prix Champion

• Best Team Poster

• Overall Champions in the Cadet category

Team Fusion:

• Knockout Champions

• Best Engineering Award

• Best Reaction Time

• Grand Prix Champion

• Best Engineering CAD

• Fastest Lap Award

“This has been a fantastic competition, and our students have represented Mackay Christian College exceptionally well,” added the representative. “Their success wouldn’t have been possible without the support and guidance from our school community.”

Congratulations to all involved on their phenomenal achievements, which have put Mackay Christian College at the forefront of F1 in Schools racing in Queensland.

‍

A magnificent century by boom Mackay representative cricketer Jack Law was a feature of Under 17s action in the Mackay Junior Cricket Association last weekend.

The Brothers’ young gun peeled off a superb 106 not out off only fifty four balls to mastermind a dominant victory over the Proserpine Pitbulls in a one day fixture at Abbott Park.

Sixteen-year-old Law – already an established first grade cricketer with the Brothers club – demonstrated his power hitting by thumping nine sixes and nine boundaries during his memorable knock.

The St Patricks College schoolboy shared a second wicket union of 74 runs with fellow top grade rookie Lachlan Ipson (16) before adding another 71 runs in an unbroken third wicket stand with rising colt Zac Miles (11 not out) to help Brothers post 2-155 from their 20 overs.

Law was then seen at the Great Barrier Reef Arena as a substitute fielder for the Australian A team in the test match against India A.

Proserpine quick Kai McLoughlin snared 1-17 in a five over spell and Malaki Gabey (1-12).

In reply, the Pitbulls were reeling at 5-19 before Ky Porter (21) and McLoughlin (14) added twenty eight runs for the sixth wicket.

Jordan Lawn hit an unbeaten 11 as Brothers restricted the Pitbulls to 8-70 with Eeden Thompson (2-2), Wesley Homewood (2-2), Jamon Smith (2-30) and Connor Muller (1-11) sharing the bowling spoils.

Mackay Magpies White stayed cool under pressure to stave off a fierce challenge from Walkerston Roosters at the Magpies Sports Ground.

Inspired by a classy half century from opener Benjamin Meng and wicket doubles to George Fortescue, Noah Haebich and Rory Franklin, the Magpies (6-131) edged out the Roosters (8-122) to jump to the top of the table after four rounds.

Meng compiled an impressive 50 off 81 balls and shared an opening stand of 51 with talented skipper Myles Cochrane (23).

Marshall Maher (2-7) and Lachlan Newbery (2-26) toiled hard for the Roosters, who finished nine runs shy despite a top knock of 43 by Marcus Sammut and promising starts from Nate Jackson (16) and Tyler Morris (15).

‍

Jack Law had also scored 145 (113) earlier this season in September

‍

Twin centuries by Pioneer Valley hotshots Darren Dyer and Cody Filewood proved the highlight of one day action in Mackay Cricket Association’s Poole Cup first grade competition last weekend.

In a limited 40 overs masterclass, the dashing Dyer smashed a superb 156 and Filewood an unbeaten 102 in the Valley’s comprehensive win over Norths Devils at Mirani State High School oval.

Dyer destroyed the Devils’ attack – blasting an incredible twelve sixes and sixteen boundaries from the 76 balls he faced with number three Filewood hammering three sixes and nine boundaries to chalk up another century.

The pair added 189 runs for the second wicket and number six Mahesh Rajaratne (61) as the Valley amassed an imposing tally of 5-375.

Filewood backed up his batting heroics with a three wicket haul as Norths struggled in the run chase to be all out for 168.

Peter Shepherd (66) and opener Joshua Andrew (40) led the way for the Devils before Filewood (3-37 off nine overs) and Joel Bruun (3-24 off eight) left their mark with the ball.

Mackay Magpies consolidated their place at the top of the Poole Cup ladder with a three wicket victory over Brothers at the Magpies Sports Ground.

The undefeated Magpies (6-124) overcame a shaky run chase to sink their opponents (9-123) with number four Jaxn Sign cracking a quickfire 55 off forty nine balls that featured three sixes and five boundaries.

Pace duo Matthew Wicks (3-30 off nine) and Mitchell Wadsworth (2-28 off seven) grabbed key wickets for Brothers after David Manning (37) and Adam Vanderlinde (20) made contributions with the bat.

Magpies trio Isaac Borg (3-15 off eight), George Fortescue (2-25 off seven) and Myles Cochrane (2-27 off eight) found their bowling groove to set up the win.

Souths Sharks registered a five-wicket victory over Walkerston Roosters at Roy Trevaskis Oval to move into the top four.

A magnificent 130 not out off 108 balls by Sharks vice-captain Cameron Keene stole the show with the stylish number three in fine touch.

Keene smashed seven sixes and ten boundaries and was supported by Andrew Morris (33) and all rounder Floris Duvenhage (29 not out) as Souths (5-233) eclipsed the Roosters tally of 232.

Earlier Luke Jackson hit an unbeaten 89, Chris McEldowney (40), Sam Vassallo (37) and Etienne Pretorius (20) in Walkerston’s tally of 232.
Yash Kapoor (3-51), Rocklyn Miller (2-18 off five) and Duvenhage (2-31) were the pick of the Sharks bowlers.

‍

A batting masterclass from Cameron Keene led the Sharks to a 5-wicket victory over Walkerston in Round 5 of the DBCT Poole Cup

‍

The Mackay Cycling Club's Track Cycling Carnival  on November 2 delivered an action-packed day of racing, with competitors from across Queensland descending on the track for a night of adrenaline-pumping performances. Riders from Cairns to Rockhampton took to the velodrome, with events ranging from junior 1-lap sprints to the endurance-testing 30-lap points race and the ever-dramatic keirin.
The marquee event of the night, the Wright Family Shield wheelrace, saw Rockhampton’s Lewis Marshall execute a perfectly timed ride from the middle of the field to claim victory. Marshall held off the A-grade backmarkers with a powerful finish, crossing the line around 30 metres ahead of his nearest rival. Mackay’s own Peter Ransome, coming off a win in Townsville the previous week, fought hard to secure second place, edging out other backmarkers in a strong sprint to the line. Another local Mackay rider, Mitch Murray, completed the podium with an impressive third-place finish.
In the junior Wright Family Shield, rising star George Tucker stole the show. Starting from scratch, Tucker carved his way through the field with determination, taking the win in front of an enthusiastic crowd. Annalise Murray, also from Rockhampton, finished second and was later awarded Junior Rider of the Carnival for her standout performances.
The high-speed keirin, always a crowd favourite, lived up to its reputation. In this tactical race, riders tucked in behind the derny before launching into full throttle when the motorbike peeled off with two laps to go. Local veteran Hamish Wright made his move at 200 metres, holding off a surging Kyle Marwood to take a hard-earned victory. Cairns’ Josh Rainer rounded out the top three with a strong final lap.
As the night drew to a close, the club’s traditional lolly scramble capped off an exciting evening, much to the delight of the younger attendees.

‍

The a-grade riders bunch up in the elimination
Top cop from Mackay, Shane Edwards, in the wheelrace
Junior riders as young as 4 took to the track
George Tucker won the Wright Family Shield junior handicap wheelrace
Lewis Marshall from Rockhampton with the Wright Family Shield senior handicap wheelrace with Mackay taking out second and third with Pete Ransome and Mitch Murray respectively.
Hamish Wright won the invitational keirin with Kyle Marwood in second and Josh Rainer from Cairns in third

‍

After three weeks of play with three different partners, this year’s winner of the Presidents Trophy was Monica Darley. Monica played with Kath Poole, Joy Robinson and Ken Seaniger. The Novice Pairs competition was won by Carol and Ian Gaskell who performed consistently over the three-week competition. Special thanks to Geoff Taylor and Mick King who directed each competition.

Weekly Results
Monday 28 October 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Antonia Tarradas / Victor Mason
1st
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

3rd
Sandra Ford / Griffin Bancroft
3rd
Margaret Lane / Patricia Garner

Tuesday 29 October 2024 – Australia Restricted Pairs - 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
Joy Brunette / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
Wednesday 30 October 2024 – NWP Week 21 of 24 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
1st
Barbara Tait / Josie Cowley

2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Susan Wright / Bob Ellis

3rd
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
3rd
Frances Brown / Brown

Friday 1 November 2024 – 8 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
Mick King / Geoff Cowan

2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

3rd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

Saturday 2 November 2024 – Session Three Presidents Trophy - 12 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoff Taylor / Christine Nice
1st
Nancy Martin / Terry Sheedy

2nd
Max Holewa / Thelma Caruana
2nd
Diane Stokes / Sandra Morris

3rd
Monica Darley / Joy Robinson
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Kath Poole

Presidents Trophy Final Result – Red Points
1st
Monica Darley
2nd
Jan Harris
3rd
Patricia Garner
4th
Richard Wix
Final of Novice Pairs – Red Points
1st
Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell
2nd
Joy Block / Geoff Cowan
3rd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
4th
Anne Lutz / Diane Cox

Contributed By Joy Block

‍

Winners of Novice Pairs Ian and Carol Gaskell 2nd and 4th from left, with competitors
Monica Darley Presidents Trophy Winner

‍

Mackay will continue to see an influx of visitors on the 8th - 10th November with the hosting of the U14 Girls Indoor State Hockey Championships. The U14 Boys Championships were held in Mackay last weekend.

Pioneer State High School Hall in Andergrove has been the host venue for two weekends of indoor hockey action.

Mackay Hockey Association will be competing with two teams in each competition. 

The Championships present a great opportunity to showcase the state’s incredible hockey talent in a round robin competition, and are used as a selection opportunity for the Queensland Indoor U14 Hockey Teams. 
 
Mackay Hockey Association President Matt Murphy said, “On behalf of the Mackay Hockey Association, I would like to welcome Hockey Queensland Officials, competitors, their families and supporters to the 2024 Hockey Queensland Under 14 State Championships.
“The Mackay Hockey Association executive committee, volunteers and members hope that our hospitality will make this an enjoyable and memorable experience for all involved.
 
“Mackay has been well represented over the years at both State and National level and I am looking forward to watching the talent that will be on display, with hockey players showcasing their skills, sportsmanship and enthusiasm for the game, in the hope of winning this State Championship."
 
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay was excited to host the Indoor Hockey State Championships.

“This event serves as a platform for our budding athletes to sharpen their skills and compete against some of the best hockey players in their division in the state,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This tournament is more than a competition; it's a crucial stepping stone in the development of our young players, giving them the opportunity to hone their abilities and nurture their passion for the game,” he said.

“Good luck to all the players competing in these events, we trust this will be a fantastic tournament.

“Council is proud to support this event through our Invest Mackay Events Attraction Fund, which aims to attract visitors, generate positive economic results and foster community pride.”

U14 Boys State Championship Placings

Division 1: 
1.    Maryborough
2.    Mackay 1
3.    Brisbane 2 & Vipers
4.    Brisbane 1
5.    Toowoomba 1
6.    Rockhampton
7.    Townsville 1
Division 2:
1.    Cairns
2.    Ipswich
3.    Mackay 2
4.    Bundaberg
5.    Townsville 2
6.    Toowoomba 2

‍

The Mackay 1 U14 team came second in division 1 at the U14 Boys Indoor State Hockey Championships. Photo credit: Indoor Hockey Mackay

‍

The Mackay Road Runners express their gratitude to Club Captain and Race Director Jim Ford for expertly organising the first Shawn's Summer Social Biathlon Series for 2024.

With over thirty enthusiastic participants, the event created a “pleasurable and inclusive” atmosphere, showcasing athletes of various ages and abilities in the run/swim format, noted Publicity Officer Janelle Tilse.

“Thank you TriActiv8 members as well as the general public and Mackay Road Runners members who enjoyed the Aquatic Recreational Complex (ARC)'s amazing hospitality and internationally accredited facility,” said Tilse.

The team welcomes everyone to the biathlon series, where no membership or RSVP is needed. Participants can simply show up, pay a $4 entry fee at the pool kiosk, and register by 4:25pm.

A gold coin donation for post-event refreshments is appreciated.

Jim will brief attendees on the event format, with activities finishing by 5:45pm. The series continues through November and January, giving everyone a break in December.

For details on the 2025 season and event calendar, visit the Mackay Road Runners website. The Calendar Meeting is set for November 9, with the Annual General Meeting on January 13. Contact Janelle on 0400 99 7432 for any last-minute updates.

‍

Alana Knezevic and children Vivian and Harvey enjoy the first 2024 Shawn’s Summer Social Biathlon Series
8569 – Over thirty runners take on the first leg of the Biathlon Series as formatted by Jim Ford
8586 -  Adam Knezevic (left) and Stephen Hayles (right) with their very happy children after their relaxing swim. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

‍

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.

‍

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.

‍

Wayne and Shane Trannore

‍

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

‍

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

‍

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

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

Emerging Proserpine Pitbulls prospect Ben Valmadre has continued his purple form patch in the Mackay Junior Cricket Association.

The talented sixteen-year-old batsman chalked up back to back half centuries when he peeled off an unbeaten 67 last Saturday in the Pitbulls’ one day victory over Mackay Magpies Black in an Under 17s junior fixture at the Magpies Sports Ground.

It followed his classy knock of 53 in Proserpine Cricket Club’s first round win over Magpies White.

Valmadre is the Junior Pitbulls club and Under 17s team captain and regarded as one of the region’s most promising cricketers.

He faced sixty balls and clouted eight boundaries and shared a third wicket partnership of 55 with number four Ky Porter (22) as Proserpine posted a tally of 6-158 off their allotted 25 overs.

For the Blacks, Rohan Cherian (3-26 off five), Zac Pace (2-35) and Brodie Garnham (1-23) shone with the ball.
In reply the Magpies could only muster 7-118 with the stylish Ishan Rana top scoring with 52 off fifty one deliveries that included five boundaries.

Porter (1-9), Kai McLoughlin (1-12), Ben Altmann (1-15), Jacob Williams (1-16) and Jordan Lawn (1-19) were the wicket-takers for Proserpine.

The win lifts the undefeated Pitbulls to the top of the Under 17s ladder on 24 points – six points clear of second placed Magpies White who defeated Brothers/Pioneer Valley at George Gorrie Oval.

Noah Haebich top scored for the Magpies with 34 off twenty nine balls, an innings that featured four boundaries in a tally of 5-138.

He was supported by Rory Franklin (29 not out), opener Benjamin Meng (23) and Tom Rourke (20) with Connor Muller the pick of the Brothers bowlers grabbing 2-16 off five overs.

Rourke captured the prize wicket of teen sensation Jack Law, bowling the Queensland Schoolboys all rounder for two runs on the fifth ball he faced.

Zac Miles (26) and Cael Landt (21) led the way for Brothers/Pioneer Valley, who were restricted to 8-88 with Rourke (2-14 off four), Lachlan Anderson (2-5), George Fortescue (1-12) and Myles Cochrane (1-5 off four) spearheading the Magpies attack.

‍

Rising Proserpine Pitbulls batsman and skipper Ben Valmadre (centre) has opened the 2024-25 Mackay Junior Cricket season with back-to-back half centuries in the Under 17s competition. Ben is pictured with teammate Jacob Williams (left), who is the club’s second ever recipient of a baggy blue Pitbulls cap for ten years sterling service and inaugural recipient Darcy Milne

‍

Mackay Magpies first grade cricket team have shown  they will be a force to be reckoned with in the 2024-25 Mackay Cricket Association Poole Cup series.

The undefeated Magpies claimed bragging rights with a seven wicket victory over rivals Walkerston in their top of the table tussle last Saturday at the Magpies Sportsground.
Gun batsman Rhys McBride and swing merchant Andrew Borg proved the stand outs as the Magpies chalked up a fourth successive one day triumph to open up a nine point lead at the top of the competition table.

Borg bagged the figures of 4-24 in an electric eight over spell and all rounder Wes Dyer (2-20 off eight) to skittle the Roosters for 112 in the 40th over.

Luke Jackson (30 not out) and young gun Etienne Pretorius (26) held the Walkerston innings together against a potent Magpies bowling attack that also featured representative spinner Isaac Borg (1-19 off eight overs), Myles Cochrane (1-7 off three) and George Fortescue (1-17 off seven).

The Magpies (3-113) reached the winning target in the twenty second over with opening bat McBride (45 not out off fifty three balls) and Dyer (25 not out off forty deliveries) sharing an unbroken stand of 48 for the fourth wicket.

Batting at number four, Jaxn Sign contributed a handy knock of 23 off twenty two balls with two sixes and a boundary.

Walkerston paceman Adrian Young snared 2-25 in a lively four over spell as the Roosters slumped to their first loss of the season.

Third ranked Pioneer Valley registered a sixty run victory over Brothers at George Gorrie Oval.

Dion Krisanski-Kennedy top scored with a power-laden 80 off seventy six balls – hammering twelve boundaries and a six to help the Valley post a total of 168.

He was supported by Mason Kohler (26 not out) and number three Cody Filewood (18).

Brothers quick and skipper Mitchell Wadsworth grabbed 3-14 off eight overs with Taylor everson (2-4), Sam Lumby (2-30) and Connor Muller (2-61) each claiming wicket doubles.

Openers Toby O’Grady (24 runs off thirty three balls with five boundaries) and David Manning (19) gave Brothers a scorching start before the team was bundled out for 108.
Ben Schembri (3-22 off six) and Bailey Camilleri (3-26 off eight) picked up three wickets apiece for the Valley.
Souths Sharks (5-178) toppled Norths Devils (177) in their one day clash at Roy Trevaskis Oval.

An unbeaten 90 from star batsman Cameron Keene guided the Sharks to victory with support from Floris Duvenhage (22 not out), Muhammad Wahab (28) and Sanjay Patel (16).

The dashing Keene faced 90 deliveries and clobbered thirteen boundaries and a six – adding 87 runs for the sixth wicket in an unbroken stand with Duvenhage.
Earlier the Devils were dismissed for 177 with Joshua Andrew (57 runs off sixty six balls including ten boundaries), Brant Attard (31 off twenty one balls with three sixes and three boundaries) and Kai Higham (20) the pick of the batsmen.

Patel (3-10 off six overs), quick Harrison Holmes (3-31 off seven) and Shah Hussain (2-20 off four) were the pick of the Sharks bowlers while Kerrod Tortora (2-36) and Luke Bryan (2-31) impressed for the Devils.

‍

Mackay Cycling Club made a strong impression at the Townsville Cup on Wheels, with Peter Ransome stealing the spotlight by winning the main event. Competing in the combined handicap race known as the Cup on Wheels, Ransome navigated the challenging outdoor concrete velodrome—akin to the Anna Meares Velodrome in Brisbane—with skill and tenacity.
His ability to blend sprints with endurance paid off as he crossed the finish line first and also claimed the B-Grade Keirin trophy, showcasing the consistency that has marked his lengthy journey representing Mackay in cycling carnivals across Queensland.
In the A Grade, Hamish Wright put in a solid effort, narrowly missing the podium with some fourth-place finishes. The seasoned masters sprinter has had a period of time off the bike and is now using the carnival series to build towards the nationals in April, focusing on sharpening his speed and strategy.
In C Grade, David O’Connell and Luke Schatkowski showed resilience, each earning podium finishes in various races. Their performances highlighted the camaraderie and competitive spirit that make Mackay Cycling Club a close-knit community, where every rider, regardless of experience, is supported and encouraged.
The junior pair, Matthew and Max, brought enthusiasm to the track, pushing each other throughout the races and demonstrating the promising future of the Mackay Cycling Club.
The Townsville Cup on Wheels was a great showcase for the club, allowing riders of all levels to demonstrate their skills and passion for cycling. Ransome’s victory and the performances of all the Mackay cyclists left a lasting impression at the event.

‍

L-R: Max, Matthew, Hamish, Luke, David, and Peter celebrate their achievements at the Townsville Cup on Wheels, showcasing the camaraderie and spirit of the Mackay Cycling Club. Photos supplied
‍

Peter Ransome proudly stands on the top step of the podium, celebrating his victory at the Townsville Cup on Wheels, a testament to his hard work and dedication on the track

‍

PCYC Queensland’s Deadly 3s 2024 Basketball Tournament is more than just a friendly sporting competition. It’s an opportunity for indigenous Australians to meet new friends, reconnect with old friends, and share in a common passion to strengthen their communities.

This is the driving motivator for Athaliah Power (nee Henaway), who has been involved with Deadly 3s for five years.

“Deadly 3s and other PCYC programs are such a driving force behind bringing people together,” Athaliah said.

“There are lots of significant indigenous events out there, which is great, but programs like Deadly 3s gives us a chance to get together in a simpler context and enjoy the things we love in our lives, like playing basketball.

“We definitely need programs like these in our communities.”

Deadly 3s is an annual event showcasing the talent and spirit of young athletes from First Nations Communities from across North Queensland, in a 3X3 tournament made up of male and female divisions. Held as part of PCYC Queensland’s Indigenous Community Sport and Recreation Program, the Deadly 3s tournament is a highlight of the sporting calendar.

Athaliah originally became involved with Deadly 3s when she worked as a Sports and Recreation Officer for PCYC Mackay. Even though she has moved on to become a trainee health worker for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (ATSICH), she still marks Deadly 3s on her calendar.

“The other Mackay girls and I always look forward to Deadly 3s,” Athaliah said.

“One year I convinced one of my cousins to play, and she ended up bringing her family members from Kuranda to get involved.

“Deadly 3s is always a great opportunity to reunite, catch up and reconnect with loved ones, and then have a great time together playing against each other in a friendly competition.”

For years, Athaliah is looked upon as the team captain and responsible for assembling a team for the tournament. She often encourages her family and friends to come along and will put the word out to others in her community.

“When I know someone who might be available, I tell them that it’s a really fun experience,” Athaliah said.

“It’s bonding time, it’s competitive … whether you get to play or not, the event is always the perfect chance for everyone to catch up.

“Last year we had someone on the team who hadn’t played much basketball before, but it didn’t stop her from having such a good time that she was excited to return this year and is looking forward to future tournaments.”

Deadly 3s has given Athaliah more than just an opportunity to reconnect with friends and family, but also a chance to connect with other like-minded people.

“Seeing people from around Queensland makes it a worthwhile program. Sometimes you might start feeling like you’re stuck in your everyday routine and a little disconnected, but you come to Deadly 3s and you see people from Yarrabah, Palm Island, Townsville, up and down the coast – it’s a great chance for us all to come together and learn about each other’s communities,” she said.

Despite the sense of community that Deadly 3s gives her, Athaliah’s Mackay team won the tournament in 2023 and she is keen to take home the trophy again this year.

“There are lots of teams in the competition that will give us a good run, but we’re definitely looking to win it again. Winning put a fire in everyone’s belly and we’re keen to use that to continue our streak,” she said.

No matter the result, Athaliah cannot deny the significant contribution Deadly 3s has on the lives of those who participate.

Deadly 3s will be held at PCYC Edmonton this year on Saturday 2 November.

‍

L-R: Deb Power-Hegarty, Athaliah Henaway, Nikkaya Williams, Mariah Power

L-R: Mariah Power, Paige Steindl-Corrie, Athaliah Henaway, Kirsten Sutherland

‍

The Presidents Trophy is being hotly contested by forty-four players over three weeks. Each player plays with a different partner every week. After the second week it is anybody’s trophy. The Novice pairs competition after the second week is up for grabs as the leaders from last week, slipped down the ladder. This competition is still wide open.

Weekly Results
Monday 21 October 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd
Joy Block / Nancy Wix
2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson

3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
3rd
Vicki Howard / Jan Harris

Tuesday Evening 22 October 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Sandra Morris / Faye Wright
4th
Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
Thursday Evening 24 October 2024 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Jan Harris / Geoff Taylor
4th
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 25 October 2024 – 8 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
1st
Frances Brown / Alan Brown

2nd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole
3rd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

4th
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
4th
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

Saturday 26 October 2024 – Session Two Presidents Trophy - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoff Taylor / Robert Carless
1st
Monica Darley / Ken Seaniger

2nd
Tere Wotherspoon / Kathleen Clifford
2nd
Nancy Martin / Margaret Lane

3rd
Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill
3rd
Mick King / Patricia Garner

4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
4th
Alan Brown / Janelle Conroy

5th
Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette
5th
Faye Wright / Christine Nice

Sunday 27 October 2024 Week 2 of 3 Novice Pairs – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Faith Hutchinson / Diane Stokes
2nd
Anne Lutz / Diane Cox
3rd
Ann Whitmore / Sandy Patterson
4th
Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders

Contributed By Joy Block

‍

Cricket Australia (CA) has announced the 2025 National Indigenous Cricket Championships (NICC) will be held in Mackay from April 2-7, 2025. 
 
The decision to hold the Championships on Yuwibara Country in Mackay follows recent discussions with State and Territory Governments about the opportunity to collaborate with CA about hosting events and national tournaments over the next seven seasons. 
 
The NICC was held on Arrernte Country in Mparntwe, Alice Springs for eight years. This move aligns with CA’s new Reconciliation Action Plan and the aim to sustainably strengthen opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to play, attend and follow cricket. 
 
The 2025 Championships will be contested at Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park which has become a regular venue for international cricket, including two of the three CommBank Women’s T20Is between Australia and New Zealand played in September 2024 and the Men’s A-Series match between Australia and India later this month. 
 
Queensland Cricket’s support of the NICC will further strengthen their commitment to their own Reconciliation Action Plan as well as supporting existing programs including the Eddie Gilbert Program, Western Rivers Cup (Toowoomba), Stan Albert Sheild (Rockhampton), Rainforest Cup (Tully), Phillip Minniecon Cup (Cairns) and T20 Harmony Shield. 
 
This decision was made in close collaboration with NT Cricket, CA’s National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cricket Advisory Group and following feedback from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players who have expressed a desire to connect with country, cultures and communities in other regions.  
  
Joel Morrison Executive General Manager, Events & Operations said, “It is exciting that the National Indigenous Cricket Championships will be contested at Great Barrier Reef Arena for the first time this season. 
 
“We are grateful to the Queensland Government, Mackay Regional Council, Harrup Park and Queensland Cricket for their ongoing support in staging significant international and domestic cricket events such as this tournament in Mackay, which is fast becoming a regular feature on the Australian cricket calendar. 
 
“We would also like to express our thanks and gratitude to NT Cricket, the Imparja Cup and Alice Springs cricket communities, the Northern Territory Government and Alice Springs Town Council for the significant role they have played in growing the NICC since its inception, and greatly enhancing the tournament’s cultural significance and level of on-field competition.”

‍

Last year, the Queensland Indigenous women’s team were crowned champions of the 2023 National Indigenous Cricket Championships, going undefeated throughout the entire competition. Photos supplied

‍

Mackay put on a show over three exhilarating days as competitors gave it their all at the 2024 North Australian Surf Life Saving Championships. From pool events and beach sprints to relays, flags and thrilling water challenges like the Board, Surf, Ski, and Iron events, athletes showcased extraordinary skill, resilience, and sportsmanship. Competitors ranged from U11s to Masters, each bringing unmatched energy and skill to every event. With sunny skies and perfect conditions, Emu Park Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) claimed their third consecutive championship win, while Tannum Sands SLSC and Cairns SLSC secured second and third. 

Photo credit: The Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club

‍

Pioneer Valley young gun Ben Valmadre has opened the Mackay Junior Cricket season in style.

The talented sixteen-year-old cracked a majestic 53 in the Valley’s pulsating five-run victory over the Mackay Magpies White X1 in Under 17s action at Roy Trevaskis Oval.

Valmadre faced 54 deliveries and clouted six boundaries in Pioneer’s tally of 8-123 - adding 67 runs for the third wicket with promising number four Jacob Williams (22).

In reply the Magpies (8-118) fell agonisingly short despite top knocks from opener George Fortescue (41) and Thomas Rourke (26).

In the other fixture Walkerston (8-182) outclassed Magpies Black (8-93) at Cameron Oval.

The Roosters top order paved the way with rising number three Marcus Sammut peeling off an impressive 54 off 40 balls with eight boundaries plus a six.

Sammut was ably supported by opener Ayden Loader (37), Ricky Deguara (33 not out) and Ben Garner (25).

Soham Rana top scored for the Blacks with 24 runs off 33 balls while Cameron Johnson and Brodie Garnham each scored 20.

The Roosters attack found their rhythm with Marshall Maher (2-7), Israel Davies (2-24) and Tyler Morris (2-25) the chief destroyers.

Mackay Magpies White (7-149) downed the Blacks (6-136) in a tight contest at the Magpies Sports Ground.

Lachlan Anderson (39) and the promising Fortescue (33) led the way for the Whites with Rourke (2-1) and Fortescue (1-13 off four) applying the pressure with the ball.

All-rounder Rana turned in a fine bowling performance to finish with 4-24 off five overs with quick Zachary Pace nabbing 2-19 off 24 deliveries.

‍

Mackay Magpies and Walkerston Roosters remain the only undefeated teams after the early rounds of the 2024-25 Mackay Cricket Association Poole Cup first-grade series.

The Magpies top the table on 29 competition points – one clear of the Roosters (28) after both clubs posted three consecutive one day victories in a cracking start to a new campaign.

Classy knocks from opener Rhys McBride (54 not out) and Adam Zurvas (39) steered the Magpies (2-109) to a resounding eight wicket win over Norths Devils (106) in opening round action at Jack Lancaster Oval.

McBride cracked ten boundaries and a six and shared an 80-run second wicket partnership with the talented Zurvas.

The high flying Magpies followed it up with emphatic wins over Souths Sharks and Pioneer Valley to zoom into top spot.

Andrew Borg grabbed 5-10 in a stunning seven over spell to help skittle the Sharks for 121 before Jaxn Sign blasted 75 not out off 35 balls with twelve boundaries and three sixes as the Magpies (4-122) cruised to victory.

Unbeaten knocks from Conor Bryant (44 not out) and Lucas van der Merwe (40 not out) piloted the Magpies (6-145) to a four wicket victory over Pioneer Valley (144) in third round action at George Gorrie Oval.

Walkerston have proved just as impressive with dominant victories over Brothers, Pioneer Valley and Norths Devils.
Half centuries from Chris Mceldowney (82 not out), Jakob Frerichs (70) and Luke Jackson (62) lifted the Roosters (6-280) to a comprehensive win over Brothers (132) with paceman Mackenzie Ralphs snaring 3-38, Jackson (2-22) and Liam Newbery (2-37).

Young gun Etienne Pretorius smashed 144 off 103 balls as Walkerston (5-260) toppled Pioneer Valley (155) with the talented teenager thumping nine sixes and thirteen boundaries in a superb knock.

Pretorius shared a big opening stand with Joel McFarlane (46) before Adrian Young grabbed 6-30 off eight overs with the ball.

Tom Vandenberg (78 not out) and Luke Jackson (69) posted a sixth wicket union of 141 as the Roosters (6-237) defeated the Devils (9-141) with wicket doubles to Ralphs, Young and Mceldowney.

Queensland Under 16s schoolboy representative Jack Law cracked a power-laden 94 with fourteen boundaries and Cameron Tomerini (90 not out) for Brothers (4-248) in their loss to Norths (7-252).

The promising colts featured in a third wicket partnership of 130 before Chris Day (65) and Kerrod Tortora (44 not out) guided the Devils to victory.

‍

Mackay brothers James and Michael Mogford are making waves in the Transportable Shade Sheds SXS Championship, currently sitting in the number one spot with just one race remaining in the season. After finishing second in the 2023 Australian SXS Championship, they are determined to improve their standing at the upcoming Kalgoorlie Desert Race, taking place from October 24 to 27.
James takes the wheel while Michael navigates for the Moggy’s Racing team, which is also third overall in the Australian Offroad Championship. This position is particularly impressive, considering they’re competing against a range of sophisticated vehicles from other classes.
“It’s a huge deal for an SXS to be in third place, especially competing against Australia’s best driving cars,” James said.
The focus for the Mogfords is on their own class in the SXS Championship, even as they eye a potential outright win in the 2024 BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC).
“Our concentration is to ensure that we survive the race,” James said.
“We want to put it in a good position and get a podium finish.
James’s journey into SXS racing began with a background in off-road motorbike racing and go-karting. “They said, ‘with age comes a cage!’” he laughed. He decided to enter the sport after purchasing a vehicle and racing for the first time in 2022.
The season is made up of five races, with the Finke Desert Race recognised as the toughest.
“The logistics are challenging—it’s in Alice Springs, and you have to camp down at the finish line and race back the next day,” James explained.
“The biggest challenge with off-road racing is simply surviving the race, given the punishment the car endures.”
He knows the risks firsthand, having broken his collarbone last year due to the forces involved in rolling the car.
As they prepare for the Kalgoorlie Desert Race, James is a mix of excited and cautious.
“If we win this weekend, it means we’re Australian champions. But we want to survive the race too.”
Competing in such a harsh environment poses unique challenges, but the team is well-prepared.
Training involves utilising a test track on their property, where they spend significant time preparing their vehicle. Each race requires around 50 to 60 man-hours for preparation, a task handled by James, Michael, and their pit crew chief, Perry Hunn.
Looking to the future, James mentioned, “We’re hoping to have a new car ready for next season, similar to the one we have now but a newer model.”
Before heading into the final race of the season, James took a moment to thank their sponsors, acknowledging their critical support in pursuing the Australian title.  Platinum Sponsors: Transportable Shade Sheds Australia and Infrabuild Steel Centre Mackay – Duragal; Gold Sponsors: Metroll, Barrier Reef Pools, The Apex Group as well as silver and bronze sponsors.

‍

Photo credit: Terry Hill Photography

‍

This weekend will see Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club host more than 1,500 competitors and spectators from the Gold Coast up to Cairns, competing for the coveted title of Northern Australian Surf Lifesaving Champions for 2024.
Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said, “Our club are 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 and 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.”
Mr Grant added that 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 Qld and we 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 and the Surf Club Bistro & Restaurant upstairs for a delicious meal and cold beverage overlooking the best beach view in Mackay.
“We hope to see you at North Aussies 26 – 27th October, Harbour Beach, Mackay!”
‍

Contributed by Josh Grant

‍

Competitors hitting the surf at last year’s Nth Aussie’s. Photos supplied
Mackay’s Harbour Beach comes alive with surf action for the Nth Aussie’s
Mackay competitors Zara Richardson and Molly Madden are keen to defend their board rescue title from last year

‍

Another big week of play at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club. This week the play has consisted of The Presidents Trophy Week 1 of 3, Novice Pairs Week 1 of 3 and Week 20 of 24 of the Nation Wide Pairs. After the first week of the Presidents Trophy Patricia Garner, Mick King, Geoff Cowan and Mary Rose Ramsden are in the lead, with Geoff Cowan, Joy Block, Carol and Ian Gaskell leading in the Novice Pairs.

Weekly Results
Monday 14 October 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Antonia Tarradas / Victor Mason
1st
Nancy Martin / Monica Darley

2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Shelley Lewis

3rd
Joy Block / Nancy Wix
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

Tuesday Evening 15 October 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
John McGee / Mick King
4th
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
Wednesday 16 October 2024 – NWP Week 20 of 24 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Nancy Martin / Monica Darley
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
2nd
Vicki Howard / Jan Harris

3rd
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting

4th
Carmel Brown / Patrick Rasmussen
4th
Barbara Tait / Josie Cowley

Thursday Evening 17 October 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Patricia Garner / Mick King
2nd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
4th
Adrian Westcott / Faye Wright
Friday 18 October 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting
4th
Victor Mason / Josie Cowley
5th
Geoff Cowan / Mick King
6th
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
Saturday 19 October 2024 – Presidents Trophy - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Patricia Garner / Jan Harris
1st
Geoff Cowan / Mary Rose Ramsden

2nd
Andrew Canavan / Alan Brown
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Laura Howland

3rd
Vicki Howard / Rihard Wix
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th
Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
4th
Terry Sheedy / Christopher Meyers

5th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Christine Nice
5th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

Sunday 20 October 2024 Week 1 of 3 Novice Pairs – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell
1st
Joy Block / Geoff Cowan

2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
2nd
Adrian Westcott / Christopher Meyers

3rd
Clare Wallace / Susan Gibson
3rd
Anne Lutz / Diane Cox

Contributed by Joy Block

‍

Congratulations to Alan Brown who recently became a Club Director. Photo supplied

‍

Mackay is set to host a thrilling showcase of international cricket as the Australia A team faces India A in a 4-Day International Match at the Great Barrier Reef Arena from October 31st to November 3rd, 2024. This free event provides a unique opportunity for locals to witness world-class cricket in their own backyard.

The Australia A squad has just been announced and features an exciting mix of experienced players and emerging talent.

Amidst the Australia A squad is: Nathan McSweeney (c), Cameron Bancroft, Scott Boland, Jordan Buckingham, Cooper Connolly, Ollie Davies, Marcus Harris, Sam Konstas, Nathan McAndrew, Michael Neser, Todd Murphy, Fergus O’Neill, Jimmy Peirson, Josh Philippe, Corey Rocchiccioli, Mark Steketee and Beau Webster.

Led by captain Nathan McSweeney, the team promises four days of top-level competition, with seasoned pros like Scott Boland and rising stars such as Ollie Davies delivering an unforgettable cricketing experience.

“We’re thrilled to be welcoming Australia A and India A to the Great Barrier Reef Arena. This match is a fantastic opportunity for Mackay,” said Terry Doolan, Chairman of Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park.

“Our venue has given us the ability to attract top-level cricket these past few months and it’s been a privilege to show what the Great Barrier Reef Arena is capable of.”

Additionally, the timing of the match coincides with Diwali and on Saturday, November 2nd, we will be hosting a Diwali Festival following the cricket. With the India A team visiting during this festive occasion, we recognised it as the perfect opportunity to engage the local community.

This inaugural Diwali event is proudly endorsed by the Mackay Indian Association and will showcase performances, delicious food stalls, lights, fireworks and a vibrant atmosphere that brings everyone together in celebration.

This event further highlights the Great Barrier Reef Arena's status as a premier venue for international sports. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy thrilling cricket action right in the heart of Mackay.

‍

Australia A will face India A in an international cricket match at Mackay's Great Barrier Reef Arena, October 31 - November 3. Photo supplied

‍

Over the weekend, local runners took on the challenge of the Blackall 100, a gruelling 100km ultra marathon held at Mapleton on the Sunshine Coast. Among them was Paul Mackenzie, who participated for the third time and achieved a personal best time of 13 hours and 35 minutes. Other local athletes included Peter Shuttlewood, who finished in 21 hours and 22 minutes, and Matt Graves, who completed the course in 14 hours and 54 minutes.

The Blackall 100 is more than just an ultra-marathon; it’s a trail running festival featuring distances of 100km, 50km, and 21km. The race starts and finishes in Mapleton, taking runners through the stunning Sunshine Coast Great Walk. With generous cut-offs, the event encouraged participation from runners and walkers of all abilities, making it an inclusive celebration of endurance and determination in the heart of Queensland's natural beauty.

‍

Paul MacKenzie (left) with Mackay’s Mick Vivien.
Mackay Runners at the Blackall100 – Peter Shuttlewood (21hrs 22 mins); Matt Graves (14 hrs 54 mins) and Paul MacKenzie (13 hrs 35 mins). Photos supplied

‍

The Beetzsee Regatta Course in Brandenburg, Germany, boasts a storied legacy as a premier venue for significant rowing events. This year, it proudly hosted the 2024 World Rowing Masters Regatta from September 11 to 15, marking an impressive 50th Golden Jubilee. The event united over 4,843 rowers from around the globe, showcasing the course's ability to bring together a diverse array of talent and passion for the sport.

Known for its stunning natural scenery and modern facilities, the Beetzsee course has been a favourable venue for international rowing competitions for decades. Its tradition dates back to the early 20th century, and it has hosted a variety of prestigious events, including the Junior World Championships, U23 World Championships and European Championships.

This year’s regatta featured a challenging 1000m race, drawing participation from a remarkable 721 clubs worldwide. The atmosphere was electric as athletes of all ages, from 27 to 90, competed fiercely for medals, with a staggering 2,430 gold medals awarded across various categories.

Proudly representing Mackay, four dedicated members, Jane Deguara, Mick Wohlfahrt, Richard McGrath and Therese Clancy from the Mackay Rowing Club travelled to Germany to compete following their successes at the Australian States and National Championships.
Unfortunately, the weather conditions weren’t ideal, leading to several boats capsizing and causing difficulties, and as a result, a number of races had to be cancelled due to the dangerous rough water and undercurrents.

Despite the weather challenges, the Mackay rowers showcased incredible talent as Therese won Gold in her single race (F1X). She also teamed up with Jacqueline de Jong from Townsville to secure Gold in the Ladies Double F 2X event and in addition, she placed 2nd in three events: F4X, G4X, and G2X. Jane Deguara achieved a similar feat, finishing 2nd in three events: F4X, G4X, and G2X. In the mixed quad competition, Jane, Mick, Richard and Therese secured 5th place in the MIX F4X event.

Reflecting on the challenges and learning experiences from the competition, Therese said, “We gained and learnt a lot of valuable experience’s and had exposure to the art of rowing while competing at that level.”

Mackay Rowing Club is on the rise, offering an engaging social sport for the community. To support their growing membership, the club is seeking sponsorship for coaching and equipment. New members of all ages are welcome to join in, with a focus on enjoying the outdoors, enhancing skills and building camaraderie.

Contact 0417074350 for more information.

‍

Jane Deguara, Mick Wohlfahrt, Richard McGrath and Therese Clancy mixed quad MIX F4X placed 5th in their event.
‍

Therese Clancy from Mackay and Jacqueline de Jong from Townsville back on the pontoon, delighted with their gold medals at the World Masters Rowing Championships 2024 in Brandenberg Germany for the Ladies Double F 2X event
‍

Jane Deguarra and Therese Clancy second place in their double G2X. Photos supplied

‍

By Hannah McNamara

Dual Olympian Geoff Huegill hosted a series of clinics during his recent visit to Mackay, but his appearance at Pat Wright Swim School was particularly special. Having learned to swim at the age of six under Pat's guidance, Huegill reflected on the significant impact she had on his early development as an athlete. This personal connection added depth to the clinic, where he shared valuable insights and techniques with aspiring swimmers. By encouraging the next generation, he hopes to ignite their passion for the sport and help them reach their full potential.

Geoff Huegill returned to his hometown to conduct several swim clinics for club and regional swimmers, state and national competitors, as well as athletes participating in surf sports and open water swimming. Photo supplied by Pioneer Swimming Club

Olympian Geoff Huegill Leads Butterfly Clinic at Pat Wright Swim School

By Hannah McNamara

Australian swimming icon and dual Olympian Geoffrey Huegill recently visited the region to host a series of specialised swimming clinics.

During his visit to Mackay, Huegill's clinics catered to athletes of all levels, from club and regional swimmers to state and national competitors, as well as those involved in surf sports and open water swimming.

The champion swimmer visited Pat Wright Swim School on Sunday, October 13, to lead a clinic focused on butterfly technique, sprinting, speed, and overall skills development.

Pat Wright, of Pat Wright Swim School, shared her long-standing connection with Huegill and said he’s always “been a great asset,” to the swim community.

"We’ve been very friendly with Geoff since he was about six years of age… he swam with me and has always been part of the program.

“When he rang me and asked if I'd like to go with the butterfly clinic one weekend, I said, 'I'll have you any time,' so we came on board, organised it, and these are our results.

“We're very proud of Geoff Huegill and it's a pleasure to have him back again, because what he offers the children of today is something very special."

Huegill reminisced about his early swimming lessons with Pat and shared, "I did do swimming lessons with Pat, many, many moons ago, so it's nice to be back.

“Today's session was great and I had a lot of fun.

“Throughout my career, I’ve worked with some amazing coaches, sports psychologists, and physiologists, so to share what I've learned with these athletes is something I really enjoy."

He added, "The main thing was for everyone to have a laugh, a smile, and enjoy themselves so that when they step up behind the blocks, they can bring it all together and do a good job."

Ehsan Helou, a 16-year-old swimmer who participated in the clinic, found the session highly beneficial.

"I think Geoff really helped me pay attention to detail in my skills. He gave us plenty of time to rest, so I could perform everything at my maximum ability without worrying about fatigue, so that’s something that really stood out to me" he said.

Another participant, Vaughn Wyatt, enjoyed the clinic's focus on improving his butterfly technique.

"As a breaststroker, my weak spot is butterfly, so getting a different perspective on how to make my stroke more efficient and faster was really valuable. I loved the session," he shared.

Wyatt also acknowledged the significance of having Huegill in the region.

"It seems like he's really happy to be here,” he said, “And part of being regional is we have to embrace every bit of help and when we get someone as amazing as Jeff come through, it just skyrockets for us.”

As the summer approaches, both Pat and Geoff emphasise the importance of getting children involved in swimming, to gain both skill and passion for the sport that can propel them to international levels, beginning at the grassroots.

Australian swimming icon Geoff Huegill returns to his roots, inspiring the next generation of athletes through swim clinics. Photos by: Hannah McNamara, Mackay Swimming Academy and Pioneer Swimming Club

‍

The Mackay Indoor Pickleball Club caters to the community’s need for an active, friendly, and social sporting environment for all age groups. To celebrate World Pickleball Day, the club gathered for a group photo in their new shirts, followed by a social event at Harrup Park Country Club.

The club welcomes everyone to its indoor courts, where committee members ensure a warm and inviting atmosphere. Players proudly wear their club shirts, especially during post-game meet-ups for coffee or lunch at Harrup Park Cricket Club after the weekly Monday and Thursday sessions.

A key advantage of the Mackay Indoor Pickleball Club is its indoor facilities, guaranteeing play regardless of weather conditions. With Mackay’s hot summers, indoor play allows members to exercise comfortably. The club currently hosts games at Pioneer High School on Sunday mornings from 9:30–11:30 am, Mackay Basketball Stadium on Monday and Thursday mornings from 9:30–11:30 am, and PCYC on Tuesday evenings from 5:30–7:30 pm. With three venues, there are ample opportunities for members to play at their convenience.

It’s also an affordable fitness opportunity, individuals can join the club as social members for just $25 per year. Each session costs only $8 for members and $10 for visitors, offering two hours of play. Beginners are warmly welcomed, with the club providing mentoring and paddles until they’re ready to buy their own equipment. Senior players are encouraged to take breaks between games, ensuring everyone enjoys a comfortable experience.

Founded in 2021, the club has grown to over 100 members and regularly hosts visiting players from other clubs around Australia.

The Mackay Indoor Pickleball Club is perfect for those seeking an affordable, fun way to stay active and meet new people. With a flexible schedule, multiple venues, and a welcoming community, it’s a great way to get involved in one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.

New players are always welcome, so come along and give pickleball a try!

Visit Mackay Indoor Pickleball Association on Facebook for more information on membership and upcoming events.

‍

Mackay Indoor Pickleball Club members. Photo supplied

‍

It has been a busy month for the North Mackay Sinkers with their fantastic Whitehaven Beach swim followed by the MS Super Splash on Saturday, October 12th, and what a splash it was! 2024 marks the 9th Multiple Sclerosis fundraising event for the North Mackay Sinkers since 2015. It is the club’s major community event and provides an opportunity for members to support the Multiple Sclerosis Qld fundraising event while participating in their favourite sporting endeavour.
This year, the event was renamed the MS Super Splash and was an action-packed fundraising challenge.
The club enjoyed the support of 20 registered swimmers who participated at the Memorial Pool in the revised 8-hour format. A total of six teams and 70 participants combined to raise $20,830, an impressive $4,000 more than the 2023 event. The Sinkers raised a grand total of $11,449 this year alone in a 10-week campaign. Club members filled six of the top ten spots for individual fundraising, reflecting the strong support for this event. In addition to individual efforts, the club held a sausage sizzle, a battery drive, and other innovative activities that added to the total. To date, the club’s progressive total is $63,465 raised across nine years of involvement, with a new personal best tantalisingly close. Donations remain open for another month and can still be made by those wishing to contribute.
DMR Leisure hosted the day at the Memorial Swim Centre, with a fabulous band entertaining the crowd for hours before the day’s activities concluded with official presentations to the participating teams. Great efforts were made by all teams, which in addition to the Sinkers included DMR Leisure Pty Ltd, Muscle Garden, Mackay MS Super Splash lane, Polar Bears, and the Life in Motion Exercise Physiology Clinic teams.
Swimmers were entertained by activities including the Hour of Power, where the Sinkers swam 80 laps and secured second place. Other events included a 50m dash, a 200m duck relay, and a 1-hour duck relay. The Sinkers swam a total of 478 laps (24 km) at a more casual pace this year, content to let their fundraising take centre stage.
This marks the last fundraiser for the club in 2024, and combined with the Starlight Super Swim and Laps for Life, members have raised a collective $20,094 across the three events, marking a stellar year in community activities and fundraising.

‍

Team Sinkers, Coach Millie and MS Staff after the event
Just before the epic day of swimming and fundraising. L-R: Megan Taylor, Mayor Greg Williamson, MS Staff Bec and Heather, Dan Stampa
Hour of Power Sinkers relay team. L-R: Melissa Lysaught, Kylie Tomlin, Alison Friswell, Megan Taylor, Rachel Mundy, Jim Ford, Steve Burchill and Dan Stampa. Photos supplied

‍

The annual Blokart Regatta took place over the weekend, kicking off on Saturday with 28 karts on the picturesque Cape Hillsborough Beach.

Despite a few dropouts, the event saw a great turnout. The day began with threatening showers but turned out to be perfect for racing. Winds from the East South East at around 15 knots had most competitors using their 4M sails, while a few braved the 5.5s.

Ten races were held for the performance division, and nine for production. Sunday's racing conditions were more unpredictable, shifting from sunlight to rain and fluctuating wind speeds, challenging the sailors’ skills. Despite the variable conditions, the final races provided thrilling action, and it was a great weekend overall. 

Three previous world champions in the sport were present on the day, including Colin Skinner, Bryn Wooding and Bev Schultz.

Colin Skinner is the 2024 Australian Middleweight Blokart Champion and continues his legacy of elite competition, adding to his 2014 World Championship title.

Bryn Wooding earnt the champion title in both 2014 and 2022, and even played a key role in helping David Moore establish the Central Queensland club. Despite health challenges, Wooding remains passionate, enjoying the excitement and community surrounding Blokart racing.

Powerhouse female champion in the sport, Bev Schultz has been described by other competitors as a “natural talent”, competing in the lightweight production category. Among her accolades in previous competitions, Schultz says she loves the sport solely for the camaraderie and the opportunity to “beat the men.”

She said, “I love meeting up with people and I’m even starting to make friends around the world, it’s just brilliant and I love it.”

A first-time competitor in the performance kart division shared that he got involved because it looked like a lot of fun and seemed like something the kids can participate in as well.

The club encourages younger generations to get involved in the sport, highlighting how much fun it is. Children are welcome to participate, and competitors agree it’s a fantastic activity for the entire family. It offers an enjoyable way to learn new skills while making lasting friendships along the way.

Visit the Central Queensland Blokart Club on Facebook for more information

Previous World Champions Bryn Wooding, Colin Skinner and Bev Schultz
David Moore, Founder and Organiser of the Central Queensland Blokart Club. Photo Credit Hannah McNamara

Production Final Results:
Super Heavy Weights: Over 95kg
   1. Andrew Mentiplay

Heavy Weights: 82.5kg and up to 95.0km
   1. Daryl Skinner
   2. Peter Todd
   3. John Marshall

Middle Weights: 70kg and up to 82.5kg
   1. Colin Skinner
   2. Jim Walker
   3.
Light Weights: Under 70kg
   1. Ken Riley
   2. Bev Schultz
   3. Gary Cain

Performance Results:
Super Heavy Weights: Over 95kg
   1. Mark Hudson
   2. Paul Fletcher
   3. Eric Smith
   4. Ross Porz

Heavy Weights: 82.5kg and up to 95.0km
   1. Gavin Statham
   2. George Camilleri
   3. Rose Webster
   4. Dan Parfitt
   5. Coen Smith Jung
   6. Paul Ross

Middle Weights: 70kg and up to 82.5kg
   1. Tony Francis
   2. Gary Smith
   3. Brian Farley

Light Weights: Under 70kg
   1. Ian Musker
   2. Trevor Smith

‍

The Mixed Fours Final was wrapped up last week at North Mackay Bowls Club, with Skip Lidia McCarthy, Ray McCarthy, Jean Schmidtke, and Allan Leyson taking home the title. They faced off against Brenda Trannore, Ivy Giddings, Wayne Trannore, and Skip Doug Giddings in a well-fought match. Congratulations to the victors.

‍

Mixed Fours champions from North Mackay Bowls Club: Skip Lidia McCarthy, Ray McCarthy, Jean Schmidtke, and Allan Leyson. Photo supplied

‍

‍

David Ting and Eric Goodchild finished 12th out of 22 qualify pairs in the Intermediate Pairs final at the 2024 NZ Congress. They then combined with wives Ming Ting and Debra Goodchild to come 8 out of 26 teams after 8 rounds of the Restricted Teams event.

Weekly Results
Monday 07 October 2024 – 2024 Mackay Congress Teams
Teams

A Cat
1st
Cameron – Don Cameron / Jan Randall / Karin Le Roux / Adrian Lohmann

2nd
Holewa – Max Holewa / Diane Holewa / Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
B Cat
1st
Harris – Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek / Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2nd
Martin – Lydie Martin / Deb Breeze / Renata Feige / Neil Crawthorn
Tuesday Evening 8 October 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
John McGee / Mick King
2nd
Errol Morris / Mick Robins
3rd
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
4th
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
Wednesday 9 October 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
2nd
Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th
Joy Robertson / Robert Carless
5th
Mick King / Jan Harris
6th
Sue Meyer-Miller / Noel Saunders
Thursday Evening 10 October 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Jan Harris / Geoff Taylor
4th
Adrian Westcott / Sandra Morris
Friday 11 October 2024 – NWP Week 19 of 24 - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

2nd
Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix
2nd
Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill

3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole
3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

Saturday 12 October 2024 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoff Taylor / Ken Seaniger
1st
Frances Brown / Alan Brown

2nd
Errol Morris / Adrian Westcott
2nd
Faye Wright / Christine Nice

3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

4th
Mick King / Jan Harris
4th
Helen Van Den Broek / Susan Gibson

Contributed by Joy Block

‍

David, Ming, (PP Noel) Debra and Eric. Photo supplied

‍

The Mackay Sports Foundation proudly celebrated the first-ever recipients of its travel grants with a ceremony at Harrup Park.

A total of $10,900 was contributed in this round, with plans to continue supporting local athletes in their journey to achieve their dreams.

From a large pool of talented applicants, 21 sports stars were selected, representing a diverse range of sports. These athletes were invited to attend a certificate ceremony, followed by a light afternoon tea. Certificates were presented by representatives from Integral Engineering, Mayor Greg Williamson, and Harrup Park and Great Barrier Reef Arena Chairman, Terry Doolan.

The successful athletes received financial support to assist with their travel expenses, with $500 awarded to those attending national competitions and $700 to those competing internationally.

Applications for Round 2 of the travel grants are now open and will close on 1 March. To discover all the details and stay updated on these athletes’ journeys, visit the Mackay Sports Foundation website at www.harruppark.com.au/mackay-sports-foundation/

Recipients:

Elias Goss
QRSS Australian Football - School Sport Australia National Championships
Toby Rule
2024 Oceania Athletics Championships
Kasey McCahon
2024 Oceania Athletics Championships
Skye Vaughan
U16 North Womens State Team - National championships
Cooper Read Currie
2024 Foot Locker Under 16 National Championships
Nash William Novosel
QRSS School Sport Australia National Championships - Basketball (12yrs & under)
Finley Philbin
QRSS 12 years boys Basketball National Championships
Lachlan Davies
2024 Under 18 Hockey Australia National Championships
Lainey Grace Walker
QRSS School Sport Australia Games - U15 Hockey
Amali Paganoni
2024 Hockey Australia Women’s U18’s Indoor Championship
Aston Paganoni
Hockey Australia boys U15 Indoor Championship
Sangwani Chinula
QRSS 14-15 years Boys Rugby League MAROON Team National Championships
Donald Franks
National Youth Championships
Peter Schatkowski
National Youth Championships
Tristan Calicetto
National Youth Championships
Nate Addison McKinnon
2024 Australian Surf Lifesaving Championship
Audrey Mae Bryan
AGE Nationals Swimming
Ava Kearns
AGE Nationals Swimming
Vaughn Wyatt
AGE Nationals Swimming
Madison Malagueno
QRSS School Sports Australia Swimming Championships
Isabelle Daniel
QRSS School Sports Australia Swimming Championships

‍

Mackay Sports Foundation celebrated its first-ever travel grant recipients, awarding $10,900 to 21 talented athletes. Photo supplied

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures October 10, 2024:

Division 1:

Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Janice Kent, John McGee, Marie Taylor) d Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) 8-6. Branko d Doug 7, -2, 6, -5, 13.

Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) d Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 9-5. Tony d George 8, -9, -8, 11, 12.

Division 2:

Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) drew Berlin Blockers (Iris Grasso, Gloria Vella, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) 7-all. Madge d Allison 9, -9, -11, 4, 8.

London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) drew Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) 7-all Kim d Robyn 12, -8, 10, -9, 6.

Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Pam Keune, Trish Zamparutti) d Rome Ralliers (Cheryl Pearson, Thelma Caruana, Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 10-4. Pam d Cheryl A -8, 6, 4, -7, 8.

‍

BIRTHDAY GIRL: Sharon Muller cuts her birthday cake at Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

‍

Tuesday's social bowls welcomed a few visitors from Mackay, adding excitement to the afternoon games. The winners were I. Laird and T. Winter, who defeated K. Ellis and D. Walsh, while D. Retchless and Joe Paynting triumphed over Stumpy Adama. Gavin and Bron Tolcher, Robyn Stitt, and Mick Walsh had a draw with June Paynting, Mark Drummond, and Steve. Unfortunately, the jackpot remained untouched.

In the Men's Competition, the Fours Final saw a victory for Laurie Land, Barry Beel, Mark Drummond, and Allan Rolfe, who overcame Kevin Jewell, Graeme Read, Peter Hinschen, and Greg Colquhoun.

Sunday marked the farewell for visitors Joe and June Paynting. June ended her visit on a high note, being part of the winning team alongside Albi Vigar and Barry Beel, who won on a countback of ends after a draw with Sue Shearing, Penny Warren, and Mark Drummond. Other notable victories included Teresa Willshire, Jocelyn De Franciscis, and Allan Rolfe defeating Shane Dykstra, Robyn Stitt, and Joe Paynting, while Lindy Suann and Deb Retchless beat Toni Bowen and Jim Quod. The jackpot once again remained unclaimed.

Looking ahead, the club is planning a "Come and Try" afternoon on Saturday, 19th October. Keep an eye on the club's Facebook page for more details. Good luck to the ladies representing the club in the Northern Beaches Carnival in Mackay this week!
                                                                                                                 
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Sunday's winners Albi Vigar, Barry Beel and June Paynting, Photo supplied

‍

Eight Mackay veteran table tennis players were put through their paces with seven days of intense competition at the national veterans championship in Launceston.

Veteran players Vince Boeske, Donna Abbott, Andrea Nicholson, Noreen Fredericksen, Robbie Richards, Goncalo Serra Gageiro, Anne Sheridan and Janice Kent had been selected to represent Queensland at the Australian National Veterans tournament held from 14 – 21 September in Launceston.

The freezing temperatures did not deter these players from competing and producing some excellent games against tough competition from the other States and Territories.

Although no medals came home with our local players, Queensland certainly was a force to be reckoned with, with a sizeable quantity of gold, silver and bronze medals shared amongst our more seasoned players.

Congratulations to our local players on their selection to represent our state.

Weekly Club Results

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures October 1, 2024:

Division 1:

Barra (Graham Brake, Lee Brake, Trent Day) d Corgi (Will VanDeKaa, Robbie Richards, Lily Boland) 6-5. Robbie d Graham 10, 2, -6, -7, 13.

Aqua (Tim Shehan, Geoff Denman, Ian McKay) d Azalea (Mark Sleeman, Barry Patterson, Allan Robins) 9-2. Tim d Allan -8, 5, 4, -7, 8.

Andro (Graham Drury, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Alfa (Janice Kent, Tony Bowman, Vince Boeske) 9-2. Janice d Graham 13, -8, -9, 7, 10.

Division 2:

Cockatoos (Craig VanDeKaa, Jye Callander, Matt West) d Tigers (Val Austin, Steve Mathieson, Ollie Hamelink) 7-4. Ollie d Craig -5, -12, 7, -7, 14.

Canaries (Simon Hogan, Leo Gilbert, Kade Wright) d Cats (George Camilleri, JiLin Jiang, Josie Davis) 7-4. George d Kade 1, -9, -9, 7, 14.

Bulldog (David Symons, Delma Knight, Peter Goodson) d Ants (Andrea Nicholson, Mark Stam, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. Delma/Bulldog d Andrea/Mark -8, 9, -10, 6, 8.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures October 1, 2024:

Division 1:

Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) d Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) 8-6. Veronica d Coral 11, -6, -11, 5, 9.

Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) drew Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) 7-all. Marie d Kevin 7, -4, 9, -7, 9.

Division 2:

Tokyo Turners (Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day, John Hamelink) drew Rome Ralliers (Louise Gould, Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato, Bill Hey) 6-all. Cheryl d Frank 9, 7, -7, -8, 11.

Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) d London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Cheryl Pearson, Glenda Brookes) 8-6. Gloria d Cheryl -9, -12, 3, 7, 9.

Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Rob Morrison, Pam Keune, Trish Zamparutti) d Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Thelma Caruana) 9-3. Bryan d Thelma -8, 3, 3, 4.

‍

Donna Abbott and Janice Kent in action in the national veterans table tennis championships in Launceston.

‍

The Senior Netball Academy team from Mackay State High School recently embarked on an exciting sporting trip to New Zealand, where they competed in the International Netball Festival.

Accompanied by Miss Barons and Miss Robertson, the talented team participated in three competitive game days over the course of 11 days while exploring the scenic city of Christchurch and its surrounding areas.

The trip kicked off with a leisurely tour around Christchurch, allowing the team to soak in the local culture. At the festival's Welcome Dinner, they had the unique opportunity to meet other international teams and experience traditional Māori performances by local schoolchildren, providing a warm introduction to New Zealand's vibrant heritage.

In addition to their on-court action, the team visited Ferrymead Heritage Park, where they immersed themselves in history by dressing in period costumes. The group also explored the International Antarctic Centre, enjoying a thrilling Hagglund ride, a 4D theatre experience and even meeting adorable penguins and huskies.

After their initial game days, the team enjoyed some well-deserved relaxation, including a visit to hot pools and an adrenaline-filled bungy jump.

‍

From start to finish, the North Mackay Sinkers enjoyed the best that Whitehaven Beach and the Whitsundays had to offer, with so many smiles and great achievements both for the quicks and the first timers challenged by an open water swim (OWS).

The last Whitehaven beach OWS was in 2019 and it took the North Mackay Sinkers a few years to consider hosting the event themselves. In 2023 the idea gelled into an event to be co-hosted by the club, as well as Masters Swimming Qld to ensure its viability.

The uncertainty of weather before this event eased into a perfect day with light easterly breezes, a water temperature of 26 degrees and air temperature of 28 to make for perfect conditions. The excitement on the 30m transport vessel was high and the draw of the MS raffle, lucky swimmer prize and presentation of the pre-event raffle set the tone for the day.

Their swim ambassador was none other than Chloe McCardel, known as the Queen of the English Channel having crossed it a total of 44 times! Chloe generously gave her time to be in Airlie Beach to attend this swim before her week of engagements around Mackay. Chloe was able to mix with swimmers, conduct interviews, chat with the MC, participate as an official guest in the day’s activities as well as swim the 2k event.

The Sinkers swim committee for the event assisted and supported by MSQ and loads of club volunteers transitioned a thought into reality to deliver a quality event that is set to be a fixture on the MSQ and Sinkers calendar for years to come.

Some changes on the day saw the event move forward 30 minutes as swimmers were anxious to get into the day’s events without hesitation.

Over 100 swimmers that included event and water safety lined up for the new gun time. The 1km event was the first away at 1135am with some 40 plus participants and they were followed 10 minutes later by the 2km event with over 50 swimmers and the sight of the 100 swimmers and water safety on the 500m loop course was pleasing to see. Both starts were fast and clean with a sea of caps striking for the first turn buoy. Some club members gave up a swim to accompany some first time and returning swimmers to ease the way in the open water.

The returning swimmers that began as a trickle as the faster swimmers returned to the finish line soon gained momentum as the bulk of excited and exhausted swimmers streamed in. As the last swimmers approached the out of water finish, an arch of supporting finished swimmers and guests formed to welcome them back, and what a smile they had.

The event was designed by concept to welcome all swimmers into the joy of open water swimming and each and every competitor was presented a commemorative medal for their efforts.

The event awards were based on line honours for both Male and Female in both events for 1st, 2nd and 3rd.

Fantastic trophies were the order of the day and presented on the beach to smiling recipients.

The event was well attended by swimmers from near and far with a great mix of Masters and guests supported by event officials, volunteers and non-swimming guests.

Top Results:

1KM

Place Women Time Men Time

1st Kylie Smith 16:53 Ross Beaton 16:39

2nd Christina Scolaro 17:35 Steven Burchill 21:58

3rd Eloise Houghton 21:18 Arthur Douglas 22:24

2km

Place Women Time Men Time

1st Deanne Sanderson 29:52 Martin Banks 27:44

2nd Elizabeth Denyer 31:02 Billy Grogan 29:10

3rd Jane Eggins 31:14 Adrian Darveniza 29:13

Contributed By Dan Stampa

‍

The North Mackay Sinkers held a hugely successful and popular event last Sunday, Oct 6th at their Inaugural Whitehaven Beach open water swim. Check out their Facebook page online to view the latest updates and results. Photos supplied

‍

Last week, Labor announced a substantial commitment to the Mackay Hockey Association, pledging $1.5 Million to improve the region’s indoor sporting facilities.

This announcement nearly doubles the previous promise made by the LNP and is aimed at enhancing infrastructure and supporting the development of Mackay’s grassroots athletes, with a particular focus on fostering Olympian talent.

The fund has now been fully secured and is said to be a landmark investment in the region’s sporting future.

Labor Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan, expressed her enthusiasm for the funding and its potential impact on the local sporting community.

“We're very proud to announce that $1.5 million will go to this project,” Hassan said.

“I know the importance of this facility, and it is going to be a high-performance centre and a centre of excellence for our young athletes coming up."

Reflecting on her own experience, Hassan shared, “I know myself, I played on these hockey fields when I was a kid, which was a really long time ago…but it's just fantastic to see the opportunities that are now available to youth in our region.”

Hassan also highlighted the broader context of the government’s investment in youth sport, noting, “We know that our government has provided the sporting vouchers for our youth, so $200 to allow our children to be able to play sport, and now they are going to have a fantastic facility to play their hockey games at.”

The Mackay region has already produced an impressive eight Olympians, a feat that Hassan attributes to the community’s strong sporting culture.

“We know our region bats well above its weight where sport is concerned, and this is just another demonstration of that, so I'm really, really pleased to be able to announce this.”

Coach and spokesperson from the Mackay Hockey Association, Melissa Sorensen, also welcomed the news, calling it “an amazing commitment from Labor.”

Sorensen explained the transformative impact the funding would have on the association’s facilities.

“What this allows us to do is put a second field in, so we'll have a drop-in floor with the extra money that we're going to use as our contribution, and that will be multi-sport” she said.

The investment is seen as a critical boost to the region’s junior development programs, particularly with the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on the horizon.

Sorensen emphasised the association’s ambitions to build on its impressive record of producing Olympians, adding, “Junior development is huge in our region, and heading to 2032, we want to grow on the eight Olympians that we’ve already put through.”

‍

Labor Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan met with Melissa Sorensen from the Mackay Hockey Association to announce the $1.5 Million project.  Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

The Mackay Contract Bridge Club celebrated a successful weekend during the 2024 Mackay Contract Bridge Congress.

The event showcased impressive talent, with Don and Jan securing the title for A Grade Team Winners, alongside B Grade pairs winners Helen and Jan. In the Walk-ins category, Sandra Morris and Annie Lynch emerged victorious, with Terry and Janelle taking the runner-up position. The weekend was a fantastic display of camaraderie and skill amongst players in the region.

‍

A team winners and A cat pairs winners (centre Don and Jan) with act. president Noel Bugeia

B grade pairs winners Helen and Jan centre with act. president Noel (left) Janine and Rick (right)

Walk-ins winners (centre Sandra Morris and Annie Lynch) with Terry and Janelle runners up. Photos supplied

‍

The North Mackay Bowls Club’s ladies team claimed victory in the Division 1 Pennants in the Mackay District, showcasing their skills and determination. However, in a closely contested match against the Leichardt District champions, they were narrowly defeated by just 2 points. This result means the Leichardt Ladies will advance to the State playoffs at Club Tweed next month.

Despite the loss, the North Mackay ladies can be proud of their impressive performance throughout the competition.

‍

North Mackay and Leichardt District Ladies Bowls Teams together after a close Division 1 Pennant match, with Leichardt securing a narrow 2-point victory to advance to the State playoffs. Photo supplied

‍

Mackay Athletics Club made a strong showing at the Athletics North Queensland (ANQ) Championships held at the Townsville Sports Precinct from Friday, September 27 to Sunday, September 29. This year’s event was the largest on record, drawing 722 athletes from across Australia, with competitors ranging from Under 5 to Masters, and participating in a full program of track and field events.
Among Mackay’s standout performances was Toby Rule, who defended his title by going back-to-back in the prestigious Queensland Mile Championships. He stormed home in a time of 4 minutes, 35 seconds. Ayla Moon broke three middle-distance records, excelling in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m events. Damon Brown impressed with a third-place finish in the Hector Hogan 100-yard race and the speedster also took out the 100m men's final, while Mikayla Webb also placed third in the John Campbell Miles Memorial 100-yard race.
Mackay's contingent also included two para-athletes, Thomas Martin and Keira Caban, who competed in multiple events, each achieving personal bests throughout the competition.
The Mackay Athletics Club committee expressed immense pride in their junior, senior, and masters athletes for their personal bests, sportsmanship, and camaraderie displayed at the event. A special thanks was extended to the volunteer officials and the ANQ committee for organising a highly competitive and well-run event.
The Championships not only provided an opportunity for Mackay’s athletes to compete at a high level but also highlighted the spirit and dedication that continues to drive their success on the athletics field.

‍

Mackay Athletics Club athletes compete at the 2023 Athletics North Queensland Championships in Townsville. Photo credit: ANQ

‍

BB Print has thrown its support behind regional sport and entertainment by signing a major sponsorship deal.
Mackay Regional Council and BB Print Pty Ltd have signed off on a four-year agreement to cement the naming rights of Mackay’s 12,000-capacity stadium.
Mayor Greg Williamson said with naming rights of the Stadium Mackay expiring on August 18 this year, council invited tenders for the rights on June 14, 2024.
“It was tremendous to see BB Print once again step up and back our regional stadium and support our community and sporting teams,” Mayor Williamson said.
“BB Print has a long history of giving back to our community, so it was fantastic to see them submit the winning tender for the naming rights,” he said.
“This sponsorship demonstrates that their commitment to the Mackay region is unwavering.”
BB Print partner Gary Bye said tendering for the naming rights for another four years was a simple decision.
He said for them it was as straightforward as a local-born business offering local support.
“For us it’s important to have Stadium Mackay supported by a local business, rather than a national company with offices in capital cities,” Mr Bye said.
“We are also mad-keen football fans here at BB Print, so it’s a great way to get behind the Cutters and Rugby League in general,” he said.
Mr Bye said he was excited to see what the future held for BB Print Stadium Mackay.
“The Mackay Stadium master plan is an exciting prospect, and I really look forward to seeing the stadium expand,” he said.
Mayor Williamson said it was tremendous to have BB Print on board at this exciting time in the stadium’s development.
He said the master plan for BB Print Stadium Mackay envisaged a premier boutique stadium and rugby league precinct.
“If council can secure funding for the eastern stand, there’s capacity for an additional 6900 seats and that would be a game changer,” he said.
The BB Print Stadium Mackay is a 12,000-capacity venue comprising an international standard rectangular field and a 1500-seat grandstand and supporting facilities.
Since its opening in August 2011, the venue has hosted NRL matches, the Professional Bull Riding Series, was the venue for the 2012 North Queensland Games Opening Ceremony, hosted more than 10,000 fans to a Kiss Concert in 2013 and an evening with Sir Elton John in 2017.

‍

‍

Mayor Greg Williamson (left) and BB Print Directors Gary Bye and Anthony DeStefani celebrate BB Print’s coming on board once again as naming rights sponsor of Stadium Mackay. Photo supplied

‍

The Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Event was won by an elated Werner Van der Linde, despite the steamy and humid conditions at the Bluewater Lagoon Parklands. Nearly fifty competitors, supporters, and generous sponsors participated in the final handicap points race of the Mackay Road Runners’ 2024 formal program.

The Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Team, including Doctors George, Ryan, Matt, Alicia, and Onyx, joined members and day runners in competing for the prestigious 10km Trophy.

Participants were set off based on their official club handicap times, with the winner being the first male or female to cross the finish line. This format gave all competitors a fair chance to secure the coveted prize, with was a spectacular framed photo of local four-time Olympic legend Benita Willis, personally autographed, along with images of her wearing the Australian Athletics Team Uniform. The piece commemorates her gold medal win in the 2004 World Cross Country Championships in Brussels, Belgium.

Willis’ victory in the 8km event at the World Championships was an extraordinary accomplishment, especially given the strong competition from an unlimited contingent of world-class Ethiopian and Kenyan athletes. Though Benita has retired from competitive racing, she continues to play an active role in Australian athletics, contributing to various major event committees. As she prepares to welcome a new addition to her family later this year, she has even more precious moments to add to her collection.

Werner Van der Linde’s first-place finish was an outstanding achievement. Though he has only been with the club for a few years, he has steadily increased his running distances, training, and participation in various events, from trail running to road racing. Despite experiencing some injury setbacks, Werner has made a remarkable comeback, showing strength, competitiveness and consistency over the past year. Congratulations to Werner, a truly deserving recipient of the Mackay Spine Care Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy.
 
Contributed By Janelle Tilse

‍

The 2024 Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km handicap winner, Werner VanDerLinde (left) with Ryan and George (far right) from Spine Care Chiropractic
‍

Approximately fifty runners and supporters including Mackay Road Runners Life members celebrated the annual Mackay Spine Care Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy event
‍

David Isbister takes gold in the 5km handicap start event
‍

(left to right) Life Member Judy Zahn, Stuart Sprott and Life Member, Agnes Farmer enjoy catching up at the Mackay Road Runners Life Members Thank You Breakfast. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

‍

Blokart enthusiasts are gearing up for a "wheelie" exciting event as the 12th and 13th of October race days at Cape Hillsborough fast approach!

Competitors from across the country are fine-tuning their wind-powered rigs, racing against time and each other to take full advantage of the stunning coastal conditions of the Mackay region next month.

This exhilarating sport takes the principles of yacht racing and applies them to three-wheeled karts, propelled by the wind across the hard, sandy stretches of Cape Hillsborough Beach. It’s a rapidly growing sport and Central Queensland Blokart Club (CQBC) President and Founder David Moore is keen to see the competition really "take off."

The race weekend promises not only high-speed action but also a welcoming, social atmosphere as competitors and supporters gather at the beach. Racers are set to travel from as far as Victoria, as well as from Yeppoon, Mackay, Townsville and beyond, making the event a celebration of both competition and connection.

Many participants arrive days in advance, not just to test the local wind conditions and ensure their karts are in top shape for the competition…but also to enjoy of one of the region’s most serene natural gems: Cape Hillsborough.

The event will feature two classes of competition. In the production class, karts remain as they are from the factory, while in the performance class, racers can make modifications, such as upgrading to ultra-carbon parts for enhanced speed. In the production class, races are divided by driver weight to ensure a level playing field, making strategy and skill key to winning.

Races will begin on Saturday, weather permitting, with action kicking off around 9:30am and running until about 5pm. Spectators can enjoy a BBQ and cold drinks, adding to the festive atmosphere. Contestants will compete for trophies in their respective weight divisions, rather than prize money.

For David Moore, who has been passionate about blokarting for over 23 years, this event is a highlight of the year. He’s thrilled to welcome both newcomers and seasoned racers to Cape Hillsborough, where the beach will serve as the track and the wind as the engine for what promises to be a thrilling weekend.

Registrations close Friday 11th October. Late entry fees start from Friday 4th of October. Contact cqblokart@gmail.com for more information.

‍

Blokart racers are preparing to set sail on the 11th and 12th of October at Cape Hillsborough for the sought-after trophies, with competitors travelling from as far as Victoria for this renowned event. Photos supplied

‍

Four members have travelled to New Zealand to play in the 2024 New Zealand Bridge Congress. They will be competing in the pairs and team events. We wish them all the very best in a tough field of approximately 600 competitors.

Weekly Results
Monday 23 September 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Debra Goodchild / Geoff Taylor
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford
4th
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
5th
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
6th
Ming Ting / Pamela Finger
Tuesday Evening 24 September 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
4th
Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
Wednesday 25 September 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
Antonia Tarradas / Richard Wix
2nd
Errol Morris / Jan Harris

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

4th
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
4th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 26 September 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Richard Wix
4th
Mick King / Patricia Garner
Friday 27 September 2024 – NWP Week 18 of 24 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

3rd
Diane Cox / Christine Nice
3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

4th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Geoff Taylor
4th
Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

Saturday 28 September 2024 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoff Taylor / Chris Meyer
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2nd
Geoff Cowan / Vicki Howard
2nd
Mick King / Jan Harris

3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

4th
Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft
4th
Errol Morris / Adrian Westcott

Sunday 29 September 2024 – Novices and Mentors – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Karen Cadwell / Geoff Cowan
1st
Joy Block / Terry Sheedy

2nd
Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden
2nd
Shelley Lewis / Susan Ross

3rd
Mick King / Pam Cassidy
3rd
Adrian Westcott / Faye Wright

‍

David, Debra, Eric and Ming at the bridge table. Photo supplied

‍

The Rumble on the Reef Wakeboard Championships brought an electrifying showcase of talent to Mackay this week, with top athletes from around the world hitting the water at Wake House Australia. The three-day competition, part of the broader Rumble on the Reef Festival, drew competitors from across Australia, ranging from grassroots participants to professional-level riders.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, who attended the event, expressed pride in the calibre of talent on display.
"This year, we’re thrilled to welcome two of the world’s top wakeboarders: River Hedrick, the number one female feature rider from Atlanta, Georgia, and Gavin Stuckey, the world’s number one male feature rider,” he said.
"It’s River’s first time in Australia, and I’m proud that she’s here in Mackay to showcase her incredible talent."
As competitors took to the course, the atmosphere was electric, with fans cheering on both local and international athletes. The event offered a platform for emerging wakeboarders to share the stage with some of the sport’s biggest names.
“It’s a fantastic event,” Mayor Williamson added, “and I’m excited to see our community host such world-class athletes.”
The action-packed weekend cemented Mackay's reputation as a key destination for wakeboarding and extreme sports, with Wake House Australia providing the perfect backdrop for this high-octane competition.

Photos supplied

‍

Once a year Mackay Table Tennis players get to battle it out on the table at the Mackay Closed tournament.  
For the first time, this event was held over one day of intense play which tested not only the ability to play to a high standard but to endure the 12 hours of gameplay for some.  
Club president Janice Kent congratulated everyone for their participation. What other sport can you have players from the age of 9 years to 80+ years playing in the same tournament?
2024 Champions

‍
Womens Open Singles:
Emma Widdup
Mens Open Singles:
Michael Ruhl
O40 Womens Singles:
Emma Widdup
O50 Womens Singles:
Emma Widdup
O60 Womens Singles
Janice Kent
O70 Womens Singles
Judy Zahn
O80 Womens Singles
Pam Joyce
O30 Mens Singles
Goncalo Serra Gageiro
O40 Mens Singles
Michael Ruhl
O50 Mens Singles
Robbie Richards
O60 Mens Singles
Barry Patterson
O70 Mens Singles
Barry Patterson

Boys U15 Singles
YiLin Jiang
Boys U18 Singles
Trent Day
Girls U15 Singles
Saisha Palod
Girls U18 Singles
Lily Boland

Action from the Mackay Closed table tennis championship. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

‍

Eastern Swans, Moranbah Bulldogs and Bakers Creek Tigers shared the premiership spoils at this year’s AFL Mackay Grand Finals at Etwell Park earlier this month.

All three clubs captured championship doubles in the junior and senior divisions to share bragging rights.
The Swans stamped themselves a powerhouse by lifting the Senior Men’s Allied Cup and Under 12 Isuzu UTE Trophy while the Tigers are celebrating Grand Final triumphs in the Men’s Reserve Grade and Senior Women's ranks.

Moranbah proved a force to be reckoned with in the junior categories by claiming both the Under 14 Isuzu UTE Shield and Under 17 Cup titles.

The all-conquering Swans maintained their undefeated record in the Under 12s age group after toppling Mackay Magpies 4.4 (28) to 1.3 (9).

Eastern led 14-1 after the opening quarter and 20-8 with top performances by Beau McPherson, Connor Stephens, Cade Mateo, Will Brond and Harry Brodie.

Peter Maczkowiack booted two goals for the Swans with skipper McPherson and Stephens also among the scorers.
Tom Raison, Fraser Hosking, Millie Argent, Eliana Ness and Will Flanagan tried hard for the Magpies.

The Swans capped a memorable 2024 season by also winning the Senior Mens Allied Cup with a thumping 8.5 (53) to 2.7 (19) victory over North Mackay Saints.

Having lost only one match during the regular season, the powerful Eastern line up dominated from the outset and led 13-3, 32-15 and 45-18 at each change.

The Swans were best served by skipper Sam McCann, Ashley Watson, Riley Bibby, Tyron Wood, Ryan Haynes, David Manning, Michael Maltby, Tyler Hird, Rocky Miller, Chris Endres, Darcy Mealy and Jordan Ewart.

Moranbah trounced Eastern Swans 8.5 (53) to 0.3 (3) to snare the Under 14 Isuzu UTE Shield.

The Bulldogs led 6-2 after the opening quarter and 15-3 at the half-time interval before adding fourteen points in the third stanza.

Beau Thompson, Tom Sutton, Henry Pilcher, Lachlan Sutton and Kian Parish turned in skilful performances for Moranbah while skipper Hugh Brond, deputy Bodhi McGill, Jack Sibley, Romeo Elworthy and Haydn Faulkner impressed for the Swans.

The Bulldogs produced a spirited display to claim the Under 17s Isuzu UTE Cup with a thrilling 10.4 (64) to 9.8 (62) victory over North Mackay Saints.

Trailing 40-33 at the halftime break, the Moranbah Colts rallied to post five goals and edge out the Saints in a cracking contest.

Emerging forward and skipper Riley King booted four goals for the Bulldogs with teammates Max Jameljanenko (2), Riley Hodgkinson, Jordan Ewart, Tom Jaques and
Andrew Dyer also grabbing six-pointers.

North Mackay got value from Zahn Bugeja (4 goals), Cohen Frith (3), Koben Kulpinski (2), Lincoln Fisher, Lachlan Morgan and Elias Goss.

Bakers Creek men's reserve grade side captured the Mackay Cup with a hard-fought 7.5 (47) to 3.5 (23) triumph over North Mackay Saints.

The Saints led 7-2 at quarter-time before the Tigers held a 15-10 advantage at the half-time interval and 23-16 lead going into the final stanza.

John Vagg (4), Lincoln Nicholas (2) and Jason O’Shannessy posted goals for the strong-finishing Tigers.

Bakers Creek senior women's team turned giant killers to lift the Triple M Cup in sensational fashion with a shock 20-16 victory over the previously undefeated North Mackay Saints.

Minor premiers North Mackay led 16-0 at the half-time break and 16-8 inside the final quarter before the courageous Tigers mounted a late revival to snatch victory.
Indiana Bough and Megan Elard booted crucial goals for Bakers Creek in the final term to help pull off a stunning upset.

The gifted Saints produced top-class performances to dominate the senior women's competition this season – only to stumble at the final hurdle.

It was the Saints first loss of the season and a heartbreaking way to let the trophy slip from their grasp.
All credit to the stout-hearted Tigers who roared home with strong games from the mercurial Bough, Tanacha Saunders, Brooke Rowlands, Britaney Adams, Ebony Rix and Rhiannon Heisrath.

‍

Bakers Creek Tigers won the Triple M Cup 20-16 after North Mackay’s Saints had led 16-0 at half-time. Photo credit: Daniel McLean Photography

The Swans capped a memorable 2024 season by also winning the Senior Men’s Allied Cup with a thumping 8.5 (53) to 2.7 (19) victory over North Mackay Saints

‍

Host a holly jolly Christmas with a funding boost for local community groups!
Mackay Regional Council is encouraging not-for-profit groups to make this Christmas a “cracker”!
Council is looking to spread Christmas cheer across our region with the Christmas Grants program.
Community and not-for-profit groups and organisations can apply for up to $750 from a $10,000 funding pool.
Applications are open now and close at midnight on Friday, October 18.
Council is happy to support events like carols, concerts, fairs, parties and parades that involve local communities and are fully inclusive.
For more information, please contact Lara Russell on 1300 MACKAY or lodge an application at mackay.qld.gov.au/grants.

‍

The Mackay Aero Club was previously a recipient of a Christmas Grant to host a Christmas event. Photo supplied

‍

Noel Bugeia and Terry Sheedy have won the B4 Red Pt competition after a two-week event. The annual AGM has been held with a change of guard. Noel Bugeia stood down after three years of service as president, with Frances Brown as the new President. Many awards were given out to members at varying levels of achievement. Andrew Canavan was the best student this year, pictured with Anne Lutz. Congratulations Andrew!  

Weekly Results

Tuesday Evening 17 September 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Mick King / John McGee

Wednesday 18 September 2024 – Under & Over Team Event - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

Team

Team

1st
Cullinan
2nd
Sheedy

3rd
Mason
4th
Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 19 September 2024 – B4 Week Final - Red Points
1st
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Annie Lynch / Geoff Taylor
3rd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
4th
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
Friday 20 September 2024 – 7 Table Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Julie O’Neill / Diane Stokes
1st
Christine Nice / Diane Cox

2nd
Errol Morris / Debra Goodchild
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

3rd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

Contributed By Joy Block

‍

New President Frances Brown
Anne Lutz with Andrew Canavan. Photos supplied

‍

Papua New Guinea has claimed victory at the first-ever Pasifika Cup, held as part of Rumble on the Reef. This event marked a significant milestone in uniting Pacific Island skateboarding communities, showcasing a strong sense of connection and camaraderie among riders.

The atmosphere was electric, with a supportive crowd cheering on all participants. Taking the top spot on the podium was PNG’s Josh O'Loughlin, followed by Fiji in second place and the Solomon Islands in third.
In a remarkable show of generosity, Josh O'Loughlin donated his prize to Skate PNG, which includes complete skateboards and safety gear, supporting the development of skateboarding in the Pacific.
These riders are true pioneers in bringing skateboarding to the forefront of the Pacific Island community.

‍

Pasifika Cup podium. Photo source: Rumble on the Reef

‍

By Hannah McNamara

Ollies, kickflips, grinds and drop-ins were among the many impressive stunts and tricks displayed by our local skaters last Thursday afternoon at the Rumble Roadshow.

The event took place at Camilleri Street Skatepark in Blacks Beach, providing a safe space for some of Mackay’s youngest skaters to come together, skate, and learn. Participants had the chance to pick up top skateboarding tips and tricks, not only from experienced skaters but also from fellow enthusiasts who share a passion for the sport.

Staff member Andy from Toowoomba has travelled with Rumble On The Reef for the last five years and says that he loves coming to Mackay because the weather always puts on a good show.

He emphasised that events like Rumble bring people together.

“There’s always good vibes, good times, and the amount of people from all over Australia, such as WA, Melbourne and Adelaide etc, just shows that we all share a love for skateboards,” Andy said.

Australian Olympic Skateboarder, Haylie Powell was also on-board (figuratively and literally) at the event, mentoring and encouraging younger skaters as they experimented with new tricks and techniques.

Powell started competing in skateboarding events at just six years old, progressed to the international stage by 13, and most recently competed in the Olympics at 18.

Acquiring the travel jersey to the 2024 Paris Olympics is among her most treasured moments.

“Putting the travel jersey on when we were travelling to Paris just meant so much to me, it almost brought a tear to my eye honestly…I worked so have over the last four years, trying to get to where I am.

“I’m very honoured and grateful that I get to represent the green and gold,” she said.

Now, she encourages and coaches’ other young skaters, particularly girls, to follow in her footsteps.

“There’s a lot more girls skating now compared to when I was growing up, and especially younger girls which is really great to see.”

On the day, she taught a young skater how to pump down, carve, kick-turn and drop in.

This is Ms Powell’s fourth time in Mackay and she said that it’s good to be back here with everyone.

“Donny has done so much for the skate community here and I’m super grateful with how far skateboarding is going in Australia,” she said.

Donny Fraser is the Head of Development for Rumble On The Reef and has been a key figure in creating opportunities for young skaters in regional areas such as Mackay.

“It’s a really good way to activate these kinds of facilities in the region,” Fraser said, “And a lot of these guys weren’t booked in for the demo but they’ve come along anyway to bring that community spirit which is really cool.

“Events like the Rumble Roadshow cater for the whole audience, so not just people who can skate, but also for those who maybe just want to watch or have a go for the first time.

“Most of our skateboarders aren’t from big towns or cities, so it’s really important for us to provide this opportunity to a place like Mackay.”

‍

Skaters of all levels joined the Rumble on the Reef crew for an action-packed day at Blacks Beach. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

The Magpies Sporting Club Mackay has awarded its Time to Shine - Women in Sport Grant to local rugby union talent, Hula Day. Hula, an active member of both the Slade Point Rugby Union Women's team and the Mackay Stingers, regularly travels to Moranbah, Bowen, and Airlie Beach to compete.
In June, Hula represented the U18s CQ Bushrangers at the Queensland Country Rugby Union competition in Rockhampton, gaining valuable experience against some of the state's top athletes. Passionate about rugby union, Hula is not only a player but also a dedicated coach and umpire, regularly officiating junior games. She has completed several programs, including the Touch 7s referee smart tackle course and the Rugby 7s coaching skills program.
Her goal is to advance her refereeing skills with aspirations to officiate at games across Australia. Additionally, she coaches with Apex Athletics Academy and for Mackay Christian College.
The grant from Magpies Sporting Club will help Hula on her journey as she prepares to compete at the Global 7s competition in Auckland, where she’ll face players from around the world. The funding will assist with her travel and registration expenses.
“We are proud to support local talent like Hula, who is not only a fantastic athlete but also gives back to the community through coaching and refereeing,” said a Magpies representative.

‍

Hula Day accepts her Time to Shine grant from Magpies Sporting Club presented by Labor candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan. Photo supplied

‍