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.

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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.

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

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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

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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
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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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(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.

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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:

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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

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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

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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

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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).

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

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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.

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

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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.

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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

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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

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

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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

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

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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.

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The “B” C/C’s Pairs

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

Upcoming Events

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

Friday 5th November 2.30pm start time

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

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

Wednesday Ladies Bowls

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

Social Bowls Results

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

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

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

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

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

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Wayne and Shane Trannore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures October 22, 2024:

Division 1:

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

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

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

Division 2:

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

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

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

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

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures October 22, 2024:

Division 1:

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

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

Division 2:

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

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

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

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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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
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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

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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.

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

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

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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

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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.”

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Photo credit: Terry Hill Photography

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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!”
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Contributed by Josh Grant

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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

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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

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

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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.

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

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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.

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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

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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.

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Jane Deguara, Mick Wohlfahrt, Richard McGrath and Therese Clancy mixed quad MIX F4X placed 5th in their event.
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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
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Jane Deguarra and Therese Clancy second place in their double G2X. Photos supplied

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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

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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.

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Mackay Indoor Pickleball Club members. Photo supplied

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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.

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

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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

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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.

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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.”

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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Mackay Athletics Club athletes compete at the 2023 Athletics North Queensland Championships in Townsville. Photo credit: ANQ

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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

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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

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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
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(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

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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.

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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

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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

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David, Debra, Eric and Ming at the bridge table. Photo supplied

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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The Mackay Aero Club was previously a recipient of a Christmas Grant to host a Christmas event. Photo supplied

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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

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New President Frances Brown
Anne Lutz with Andrew Canavan. Photos supplied

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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.

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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.”

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Skaters of all levels joined the Rumble on the Reef crew for an action-packed day at Blacks Beach. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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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.

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Hula Day accepts her Time to Shine grant from Magpies Sporting Club presented by Labor candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan. Photo supplied

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Multisporters converged on Mackay last weekend for Mackay’s Triathlon Festival. Held on the 21st and 22nd of September, it featured ocean swims, a kid’s triathlon and multiple race formats including triathlon, duathlon, aquabike and aquathlon.

More than 170 entries were recorded across two days, marking a fantastic increase from the past two years. More than 50 participants took part in the ocean swims, with a strong showing from the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club.

The Mini Kids race attracted 11 young athletes, while Sunday’s races drew in over 110 competitors. The new transition location was a hit, providing ample space for bikes, sponsor tents, and vendors.

RESULTS:

Triathlon Standard Males:
1.
25
Hamlyn, Jason
40-49
00:27:14
01:01:18
00:40:41
02:10:30
2.
35
Seymour, Christian
60+
00:27:34
01:04:12
00:39:57
02:13:13
3.
37
Harris, Samuel
30-39
00:26:09
01:07:10
00:40:58
02:15:05

Triathlon Standard Females:
1.
48
Walker, Jody
40-49
00:30:26
01:09:31
00:46:16
02:27:38
2.
8
Brond, Jane
40-49
00:33:34
01:09:01
00:47:58
02:32:17
3.
21
Ballard, Naomi
40-49
00:33:35
01:12:56
00:50:04
02:38:22

Triathlon Standard Teams:
1.
34
The Dancing Queens
TEAM
00:30:29
01:11:48
00:46:22
02:29:27
2.
31
LifeInMotion Exercise PhysTEAM
TEAM
00:28:57
01:18:02
00:47:08
02:35:01
3.
47
Walz Trend Inc
TEAM
00:30:32
01:03:33
01:08:54
02:43:5

Triathlon Sprint Male:
1.
103
Williams, Joshua
20-29
00:16:56
00:35:04
00:21:41
01:14:33
2.
127
Rule, Oliver
16-19
00:20:15
00:36:16
00:20:33
01:18:33
3.
105
Thomas, John
14-15
00:16:51
00:38:45
00:23:24
01:20:0

Triathlon Sprint Female:
1.
123
Bolton, Harper
16-19
00:18:03
00:36:59
00:25:32
01:21:42
2.
118
Spicer, Claudia
14-15
00:18:50
00:42:23
00:25:12
01:27:07
3.
133
Cahill, Isabelle
14-15
00:21:01
00:39:22
00:30:58
01:32:27

Triathlon Sprint Teams:
1.
110
Puddlejumpers
TEAM
00:18:07
00:35:15
00:20:09
01:14:17
2.
124
Pilot Run
TEAM
00:22:54
00:37:38
00:23:35
01:24:46
3.
106
Team Bagley
TEAM
00:20:19
00:40:18
00:24:20
01:25:59

For results and further information, visit Mackay Triathlon Festival on Facebook or www.mackaytriclub.com.au/mackay-multisport-festival/

Photo credit: Jess Stennett & Deanne Woods

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The Pratt Cup stands as one of the most prestigious bowls events in the Mackay district, with a rich history spanning 98 years. Open to all clubs in the region, this esteemed competition invites teams from all across the district to take part.

This year it was played at several local clubs and involved teams of seven, with a format including singles, pairs and fours. The North Mackay Bowls Club team consisted of Terry Clark playing singles, brothers Wayne (skip) and Shane Trannore (lead) playing pairs, and the fours players were Peter Miller lead, Tony Allsop second, Steve Lane third and Dave McKendry skip.

The competition was played last weekend on the 14th and 15th of September with two games played each day.

The final between Souths/Suburban and North Mackay was held at Souths club on their immaculate grass greens. It was televised via the MMDBA link and attracted many viewers. Spectators included members of both Souths and North Mackay clubs.

It was a close final, with Terry Clark winning the singles first. The fours teams had a very close game, and it went right down to the last end, with North Mackay getting up. At this stage the pairs game was abandoned as North Mackay had won two of the three games.

North Mackay last won the cup in 1979, and the club has gone forward in the last few years, increasing the membership and fielding a first division Pennants team.

Congratulations boys!

Contributed by Tony Allsop

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North Mackay team, from left: Wayne Trannore, Terry Clark, Dave McKendry holding the cup, Peter Miller, Shane Trannore, Tony Allsop and Steve Lane. Photo supplied

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By Hannah McNamara

Young netball stars, aged 6 to 17, showcased their skills at the Sarina Showgrounds last Monday during a special clinic led by Queensland Firebirds coaches Lara Dunkley and Ruby Bakewell-Doran. The young players' enthusiasm and passion for netball shone through as they learned from the well-respected Firebirds athletes.

This opportunity was made possible by Aurizon, the principal partner of the Queensland Firebirds, as part of their commitment to bringing the sport to regional communities like Sarina, Toowoomba, and Rockhampton. The partnership aims to give regional players the same opportunities to develop their passion and skills as those in larger cities.

Sarina Netball Association President, Lauren Stanger, emphasised the importance of clinics like this for the local community, stating, "You can see the smiles on the kids' faces…they're very excited.

“It’s just amazing, and we can’t thank Aurizon enough for making this happen.

“To have 120 kids here is just great and I’m sure we’ll have many saying they want to be Firebirds players when they’re older, so it’s really inspirational for them."

The clinics provided not only a chance to improve netball skills but also an opportunity to form new friendships while being coached by professional players from the Queensland Firebirds.

Mark Maguire, Principal Advisor of Brand and Sponsorship at Aurizon emphasised that “it’s great for us to be able to bring firebirds up to places where we have our people working on the ground, and give back to the community.

“The firebirds are a big hit all across Queensland, and Sarina is one of our biggest depots so it’s great to be able to support this local Netball Association and do some great work with the Firebirds.”

Queensland Firebird Mid-Court player Lara Dunkley also shared her thoughts on the experience.

“I think it’s an incredible opportunity not just for us but for the young athletes here in Sarina.

“I know being a country girl myself, you never get these experiences, so for us to be able to come up here is just incredible, and we just love sharing our passion for the sport in the community, especially in the regional areas.

“This is why we love netball, because it’s an incredible game and we just want to keep growing the sport.”

She added, “North Queensland is very special to us so we want to give as much back to everyone who supports us and we’re just so grateful.

“The turn out was amazing…we had a super fun time and the girls had a variety of different skills to work on, we had defence, agility and passing skills and like I said to the girls at the start, ‘it’s all about having fun’.”

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Queensland Firebirds coaches Lara Dunkley and Ruby Bakewell-Doran paid Sarina netballers a visit last Monday at a sold-out clinic, aiming to give regional athletes the opportunity to enhance their netball skills and build confidence on the court. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Rumble on the Reef is set to deliver a record-breaking event for its 7th annual competition this weekend, cementing its place as one of the most significant skateboarding events in Australia.

The competition commences today, (Friday, 20th September), with the Sugarbowl Arena reserved for qualifying rounds across multiple divisions, including 9 and under, 12 and under, 16 and under, and men’s and women’s pro categories. These skaters will battle for spots in the championship finals, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown on Saturday.

Saturday, 21st September, is the biggest day of skateboarding, with campaigning focused on breaking national attendance records for a domestic competition. The day includes The Pasifika Cup, Social Division, Junior Championships, Men’s and Women’s Pro National Championships as part of the competition. In addition to the fierce competition, the arena will be buzzing with food trucks, live bands and a fully licensed area.

Adding to the excitement, Olympian Haylie Powell will be present, offering coaching sessions and skateboarding demonstrations, inspiring the next generation of athletes.

Donny Fraser, Head of Development for Rumble On The Reef, emphasises the event's significant economic impact on regional towns like Mackay.

“We really aim to be able to support regional towns,” Mr Fraser said.

“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.

“We want to put Mackay on the map and we want to break that record and have the biggest skateboard attendance in Australia for a domestic event.”

Rumble on the Reef has transformed the region into a mecca for skateboarding, with its combination of grassroots support, world-class competition and community engagement.

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Witness history as Rumble On The Reef brings high-flying tricks and epic wins to Mackay. Join the crowd and catch all the action this weekend! Photo supplied

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The Masters Swimming Queensland 2024 North Queensland Championships, hosted in collaboration with Townsville’s Long Tan Legends Masters swimming club, provided a fantastic opportunity for swimmers to compete in a high-level pool event.  
 
The championship attracted 78 swimmers from 22 clubs, with participants travelling from as far south as Tasmania. Revived after several years, the competition is now set to become a regular fixture on the Masters swimming calendar. 
 
The Sinkers swim club delivered an exceptional showing, with seven swimmers participating in various events ranging from 50 to 800 meters, along with several relays. Their impressive efforts earned the club second place overall, with many members achieving podium finishes within their age groups. 
 
Sue McBride won gold in the 50m and 100m breaststroke events, adding a silver in the 50m freestyle and a bronze in the 100m freestyle to her tally. Sue Dalton claimed gold in the 100m breaststroke, silver in the 50m butterfly and 50m breaststroke, and bronze in the 50m backstroke. She also placed fourth in the 100m freestyle and sixth in the 50m freestyle. Rachel Mundy earned silver in the 200m freestyle, bronze in the 100m backstroke, 100m freestyle, and 50m butterfly, while finishing fourth in both the 50m freestyle and backstroke. 
 
Geoff Hamilton had a standout performance, winning gold in the 50m and 100m freestyle as well as the 100m breaststroke. Dan Stampa took home gold in the 400m freestyle, silver in the 50m freestyle, bronze in the 50m butterfly and 200m freestyle, and finished fourth in the 100m freestyle.  
 
Nigel Dalton achieved an incredible clean sweep, securing gold in all six of his events: the 50m, 100m, 200m, and 800m backstroke, as well as the 200m and 800m freestyle. Nigel was also awarded swimmer of the meet for the championships. 
 
In the relay events, the mixed medley team of Rachel Mundy, Sue Dalton, Pierre Craven, and Nigel Dalton claimed gold in the 200m medley for the 200-239 age group and took silver in the 200m mixed freestyle. The men’s relay team of Pierre Craven, Nigel Dalton, Geoff Hamilton, and Dan Stampa secured silver in the medley and bronze in the freestyle events for the 240-279 age group. 
 

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Nigel Dalton receiving his trophy for the swimmer of the meet. 
The mixed Medley relay team that closed out some strong competition to take the gold medal. L – R: Pierre Craven, Rachel Mundy, Sue Dalton and Nigel Dalton 
The Sinkers after a successful meet. L - R Geoff Hamilton, Dan Stampa, Sue Dalton, Nigel Dalton, Sue McBride, Pierre Craven & Rachel Mundy. Photos supplied 

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Members Terry Sheedy and Janelle Conroy competed in the Magnetic Island Teams Congress, winning the walk-in pairs and coming second in the Category A Teams event, with Tony Lusk and Sandy Long from Cairns. On the home front David Ting and Eric Goodchild N/S, along with Noel Bugeia and Terry Sheedy E/W are leading the B4 Red Pt competition after weeks 1 of 2 of the event.

Weekly Results

Monday 9 September 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd
Joy Block / Nancy Wix
3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
4th
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
5th
Antonia Tarradas / Victor Mason
6th
Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane
Tuesday Evening 10 September 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan
2nd
Diane Stokes / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Andrew Canavan / Christopher Meyers
4th
John McGee / Mick King
Wednesday 11 September 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting
2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Sandra Morris / Jan Harris
3rd
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
4th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
Thursday Evening 12 September 2024 – B4 Week 1 of 2 - Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy

2nd
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
2nd
Mick King / Patricia Garner

Friday 13 September 2024 - 9 Table Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden

2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

3rd
Sue Meyer-Miller / Noel Saunders
3rd
Christine Nice / Diane Cox

4th
Joyce Deguara / Anne Lutz
4th
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore

Saturday 14 September 2024 - 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
1st
Terry Sheedy / Christopher Meyers

2nd
Diane Stokes / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch

3rd
Richard Wix / Nancy Wix
3rd
Marilin Robins / Christine Nice

4th
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
4th
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

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Magnetic Island Cat A Teams Runners up Tony Lusk, Sandy Long, Janelle Conroy and Terry Sheedy
Noel Bugeia & Terry Sheedy
David Ting and Eric Goodchild. Photos supplied

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The parkrun scene saw an incredible milestone recently as the original Bushy Park parkrun celebrated its 1000th event!

In a record-breaking turnout, 6,204 participants attended, which was 2.5 times the amount of their previous attendance record. This staggering number highlighted the global appeal of parkrun.

In Mackay, the local Botanic Gardens parkrun is gearing up for a significant milestone of its own, with the 400th just around the corner. Scheduled for this Saturday, September 21, the event promises to be a special occasion, with hopes of seeing many familiar faces, both past and present, to celebrate.

In previous weeks, parkrun recognised multiple individual achievements, including Dorothy Oates, who reached the impressive milestone of completing 250 parkruns. Surrounded by a proud group of supporters, Dorothy’s achievement was celebrated by the entire parkrun community.

Other parkrun champions were honoured for their milestones, including Jay Pee Policher for his 50 Finish Milestone.

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Dorothy Oates reached the 250 finishes milestone
Fifty finish Milestone for Jay Pee Policher. Photo credit: Mackay parkrun

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The Annual Shields Stampede was once again a great success with over 35  runners and supporters taking part in the event. 

Life Members Wendy and Merv Shields generously hosted the historic Shields Stampede from their home, with a special thanks to Mackay Road Runners Vice-President Mick Scholer, who stepped in for President Brendan Bishop, who was away enjoying Magnetic Island. The event took runners through some of North Mackay’s most challenging and undulating suburbs, starting at Mt Pleasant and passing through Beaconsfield and Andergrove before returning to the finish line.

Darrin Pullen and Emily Green were the first male and female finishers in the 5km event, followed by Jo Hughes and Andrew Short in second place.

Toby Rule dominated the 12km race with a remarkable 49:59 finish, narrowly edging out international ultra-marathoner Paul MacKenzie by just 19 seconds. Mel Esau claimed first place in the women’s 12km race, maintaining excellent form to beat Emily Hayles by just over a minute, with Glynis Forse following closely in third.

Exceptional performances were also seen from Jared Mackie, Brad Fraser, Tim Dalton, George Hannaford, Steven Hayles, Clinton Mackie, Colin Hardy, Jan Smith, Len Haworth, and Stuart Sprott.

This Sunday’s social run at Eungella promises stunning scenic loops along the region’s best trails, starting at 8am from the Chalet. Runners should park at the community grounds to the right of the Chalet. The 6km, 12km, and 18km distances are open to both Club Members and non-members.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Shields Stampede hostess, Mackay Road Runners Life Member, Wendy Shields (left) with fellow Life Member, Agnes Farmer enjoy a chat after a big night out celebrating Agnes’s 84th  birthday
Paul MacKenzie completes the 12km with ease after a big weekend of serious altitude mountain running (176 kms) in Europe and then onto Airlie Beach’s Whitsunday Trail Fest 56km
Toby Rule smashes the 12km Shields Stampede one second under fifty minutes. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures September 3, 2024:

Division 1:

Hyuandi (Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan) d Holden (Mark Sleeman, Robbie Richards, Lee Brake) 8-3. Anne d Robbie -10, 8, -5, 9, 11.

Fiat (Donna Abbott, Emma Widdup, Allan Robins) d Honda (Vince Boeske, Graham Brake, Neil Brown) 6-5. Allan d Vince 11, -5, -8, 7, 5.

Audi (Ian McKay, Andrew McHugh, Lily Boland) d Ferrari (Steven Whiting, Janice Kent, Andrea Nicholson) 9-2. Steven d Lily -11, 7, -8, 4, 17.

BMW (Barry Patterson, Geoff Denman, Tony Bowman) d Alpha (Delma Knight, Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker) 6-5. Mick d Barry -5, -5, 6, 8, 7.

Division 2:

Suzunk (Matt West, Simon Hogan, Saisha Palod) d Rolls (Ishara Lilanagamage, Niro Premachandra, Peter Goodson) 8-3. Matt d Niro 6, -4, 9, -9, 11.

Nissan (Noreen Fredericksen, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) d Subaru (Steve Mathieson, David Symons, Tiffany Camilleri) 6-5. Steve d Noreen 4, -10, -8, 6, 8.

Lexus (Anaya Reelh, Duncan Treloar, Kade Wright) d Mercedes (Will VanDeKaa, Ollie Hamelink) 6-5. Kade d Ollie 6, -6, 6, -11, 11.

Mazda (George Camilleri, Rymer Tabulo, Craig VanDeKaa) d Jaguar (Nehmat Dahaliwal, Leo Gilbert, Mark Stam) 6-5. Leo d Rymer 9, -9, 6, -4, 4.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures September 10, 2024:

Division 1:

Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) d Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) 8-6. Doug d George -9, -5, 5, 12, 5.

Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) d Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Janice Kent, John McGee, Marie Taylor) 8-6. Janice d Tony -6, -11, 4, 11, 7.

Division 2:

Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Don Boettcher, Thelma Caruana) d Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) 10-4. Josie d Robyn -9, 11, -7, 5, 9.

London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream) drew Rome Ralliers (Gerry Synnott, Louise Gould, Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 7-all. Gerry/Louise d Ken/Kim 9, 11, -9, -10, 9.

Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Pem Keune, Charles Hamlett) d Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) 8-6. Frank d Charles 9, -2, -7, 6, 12.

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Frank Caruana (pictured) had a close match against Charles Hamlett, with Frank winning with 12 points in the fifth set. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

Charles Hamlett

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Australia’s champion women cricketers are currently preparing for a series of T20 matches at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena (GBRA) to kick off the new summer season of cricket.
The two T20 matches at GBRA between Australia and New Zealand will be played next week, on Thursday 19 and Sunday 22 September. The season openers will be vital preparation for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup to be staged in Bangladesh in October.
The Australian women are the reigning T20 World Cup Champions, having won the last three editions of the event stretching back to 2018. Overall they have won six of the eight ICC T20 Championships staged since their establishment in 2009.
Star international Beth Mooney said the Australian women’s team was thrilled to be returning to Mackay.

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Australia’s star cricketers, including Beth Mooney (centre), return to Mackay's Great Barrier Reef Arena for an exciting T20 series against New Zealand, gearing up for the Women's T20 World Cup. Photo supplied

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Cricket Fever Hits Mackay
AUSTRALIA VS NEW ZEALAND WOMEN’S T20 SERIES

Australia’s champion women cricketers are gearing up for the highly anticipated T20 matches at Great Barrier Reef Arena (GBRA) in Mackay as they prepare to defend their title at the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh.
With two key matches against New Zealand on the 19th and 22nd of September, these season openers serve as crucial preparation for the reigning T20 World Cup champions, who have dominated the tournament with six wins out of eight since 2009.
Star international Beth Mooney expressed the team's excitement about returning to Mackay.

“Great Barrier Reef Arena has created some fantastic memories for me and the team, particularly from the one day international series victory against India just a few years back,” Mooney said.
“It’s a great venue, the crowds are brilliant and the atmosphere really helps to lift our performance.
“I can’t wait to kick off the new season with these two games against New Zealand, they will be hard fought and we are looking forward to bringing our best game to Mackay in September.
“It will be the perfect lead-in to our T20 World Cup campaign and I have no doubt that everyone will be switched on and raring to play.”
Mooney has enjoyed significant success at the venue, including a score of 125 not out to see Australia home in a last ball One Day thriller against India in 2021.
She has long since attracted a legion of admirers in Mackay through her WBBL exploits in the regional Queensland centre. In her time with the Brisbane Heat, Mooney made a feast of runs to cement her reputation as a local favourite.
Great Barrier Reef Arena was officially opened in May 2023 and made possible through the combined investment of the Federal and Queensland Governments.
Plans are currently well advanced for Stage 2 of the Arena, which comprises a major regional multisport training and event centre, including purpose-built facilities for athletes of all abilities.
‍

Tickets for both the Great Barrier Reef Arena games are available for purchase online now through Cricket Australia.

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Beth Mooney and Australia’s top women cricketers are back at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena, ready to face New Zealand in a thrilling T20 series ahead of the Women's T20 World Cup. Photos supplied

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Sarina Crocodiles are the newly crowned Mackay & District Junior League A Grade champions for 2024.

Lightning struck twice for the Crocodiles after toppling premiership favourites Mackay Brothers 16-14 in last Saturday’s Grand Final showdown at the Junior League Fields.

It followed Sarina’s spirited 24-18 victory over the Leprechauns in the major semi-final.

Brothers won thirteen of their fourteen matches during the regular season - losing just one match against Mackay Magpies to wrap up the minor premiership.

Sarina opened the scoring after three minutes with a Mitch Fogarty try that was converted by fullback Zane McKellar.

Elusive three quarter Jayden Batchelor returned serve with a 16th minute try before centre partner Rydge Smith booted a penalty goal to lock the scores at 6-all at the half-time break.

Australian Universities winger Kane Simon scooted over for a try after the interval to give Brothers a 10-6 lead before Sarina piled on two quick tries for a 16-10 advantage.

Brothers winger Matthew Skaife bridged the gap when he scored in the 68th minute with goal kicker Smith failing to convert.
The Leprechauns are celebrating an A Grade Womens premiership triumph after skittling the Mackay Magpies 20-0.

Dashing winger Nali Hine and talented fullback Madi Westecott nabbed try doubles with Westecott and lock Cassie Adlam landing conversions in a dominant performance.

Brothers were best served by classy halves Imogen Healy and Mersades Lawson, prop Montanah Best, back rowers Ebony Temple and Shaylee Hazledine, hooker Lara Hutchinson and the powerful Adlam and Westecott.

Moranbah Miners clinched the Reserve Grade Mens premiership after trouncing Brothers 52-20.

The Miners ran in ten tries in a high scoring encounter with second rowers Oakland Stowers and Dylan Paterson, fullback Hayden Bell, winger Cameron White, interchange players Ilai Faamita, Mitchell Chadwick, David Butler and prop Jamie Maliko all crossing for four-pointers.

Moranbah half back Shannon Rupapere booted four goals and Maliko (two) to complete the rout.

Brothers fullback Assan Munro and second rower Joshua Borg scored tries with five eighth Alex Lawton potting two conversions.

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The Sarina Crocodiles celebrate their thrilling 16-14 victory over Mackay Brothers, securing the 2024 Mackay & District Junior League A Grade Championship. Photo credit: Jessica Wilson Photography

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In its very first season in use, it hasn't taken long for the Score Assist to impact a game, with Maddy Guerin's match-winner coming in dramatic style. With the goal umpire unsure whether Daisy D'Arcy had touched it before or after the line, umpires conferred before going upstairs to the system that makes use of ball tracking technology. With no replay or communication for the players, spectators or viewers to see or hear, only once the signal for a goal was given did everyone know the result.
D'Arcy's ball use a cut above the rest
With players struggling in the hot and windy conditions to hit targets, the ball use of SUN Daisy D'Arcy was a step above. D'Arcy, playing at half-back, had 16 kicks in her 25 disposals, gaining a match-high 546m at 76 per cent efficiency. Her laser pass for Jamie Stanton's second-quarter goal was a feature.
GOLD COAST             2.0       4.5       4.6       5.8 (38)
CARLTON      2.2       4.4       4.7       5.9 (39)
GOALS
Gold Coast: Whitfort, Davies, Bohanna, Stanton, Dupuy
Carlton: Skepper, Anthony, Austin, B.Moody, Guerin
BEST 
Gold Coast: Darcy, Rowbottom, Single, Whitfort, Barwick, Bohanna
Carlton: Hill, McKay, Sherar, Finn, Cordner, Guerin
INJURIES
Gold Coast: Whitfort (knee)
Carlton: C.Moody (neck)
Reports: Nil

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A hard-fought AFLW clash at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena, where Carlton edged out the Gold Coast SUNS by a single point. Fans enjoyed mingling with players after the intense game. Photo credit: Gold Coast SUNS

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A dramatic late goal to Maddy Guerin has seen Carlton snatch its first victory of the AFLW season, hanging on by a solitary point against Gold Coast in Mackay on Sunday.
With her team trailing by four points and less than two minutes remaining, Guerin received a handball from Darcy Vescio and sent her right foot snap goalward from 25m.
SUN Daisy D'Arcy leapt high on the line to touch the ball, but following an official score review - which is being used in the AFLW for the first time this season - the Blues were awarded the go-ahead goal.
Gold Coast had a late chance to snatch victory, but Lucy Single's hurried snap sailed just wide with 15 seconds remaining to leave the score 5.9 (39) to 5.8 (38) to the Blues.
The result leaves the SUNS 0-2 following two home matches and well behind their pursuit of playing a second consecutive finals series.
The Blues hit the front deep into the final term as Madeleine Guerin’s slick effort is ticked off by new smart ball technology
In hot and blustery conditions at Great Barrier Reef Arena, the teams traded blows all day in a physical contest.
Mimi Hill was superb for the victors with her outside dash leading to 23 disposals, while Abbie Mackay played a second terrific game in succession to finish with 22.
Gold Coast trailed by a point at the final break and following Jac Dupuy's excellent set shot, looked like taking victory before Guerin's late heroics.
Charlie Rowbottom was colossal for the SUNS, finishing with 35 disposals, 10 marks and 10 tackles.
Her defensive intent and bone-rattling tackling was a feature.
Daisy D'Arcy (25) had claims as one of the best players afield with her excellent ball use, while Claudia Whitfort (20) overcame a knee scare at half-time to be a solid contributor.
With a flukey wind swirling and switching directions, the teams played out a see-sawing and entertaining first half.
The Blues, kicking with the prevailing wind early on, got on the board first with goals to Keeley Skepper and Marianna Anthony before the SUNS found a foothold in the game.
Whitfort opened their account with a clever finish from the right forward pocket and when Darcie Davies showed good skill below her knees to gather and snap, the hosts trailed by two points at the first change.
Again, it would be two goals apiece in the second term, with Jamie Stanton's goal a highlight.
Rowbottom won the ball at half-forward, swatted off her Carlton opponent like a pesky fly, then gave a handball to D'arcy who lasered a kick to Stanton for an open goal.
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By Michael Whiting – AFL Media

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From a young age, Kristen had an interest in athletics and gymnastics, but it wasn’t until around the age of 10 when she developed a passion for the sport. Since then, she has been mountain biking for just over six years but only started racing competitively around three years ago.

Kristen said it wasn’t until August last year when she ventured into the world of cross duathlon - a sport that combines trail running and mountain biking.

Now in her final year of schooling at St Patrick's College, Kristen recently represented Australia at the World Triathlon Age Group Multisport World Championships in Townsville, where she competed in the Cross Duathlon event.

She claims that she won the title of national champion “by accident.”

“In 2023 I competed at the national championships in Townsville for cross duathlon and I ended up sort of…by accident…becoming the national champion at my first ever duathlon race, and then that led to my selection into the Australian team to compete at the world championships this year,” she said.

As she wore green and gold, Kristen prevailed in the 6 km trail run and 20 km mountain bike ride before finishing with another 3 km trail run, earning her the honourable title of 2024 World Champion for the 18-19 years Cross Duathlon.

Kristen recalled the feeling of victory and said “it was a surprise but I put a lot of hard work, training and a lot of discipline into it.

“I’m really happy to come away with a win, and the race was super hard as well so it was a big achievement to just finish.”

This incredible accomplishment not only marks Kristen's success on the international stage but also secures her a spot on the Australian team, where she will have the opportunity to defend her title in 2025 at the World Championships in Pontevedra, Spain.

With success, comes challenges, which Kristen says it’s been hard trying to manage school studies with a training regimen that includes mountain biking, running and gym sessions as well as balancing a social life.

Despite this, Kristen says that her involvement with the Athlete Development Program at 21 Laps has helped significantly where Dean and his team have provided valuable support. Her riding coach from Brisbane, John Russell from JRsgymandbike, has also been instrumental in helping her balance her fitness goals

Kristen credits her training team and coach for guiding her to success, saying, "It was hard, but it really paid off."

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Kristen Rowlands, 17, celebrates her remarkable achievement as the 2024 World Champion for the 18-19 years Cross Duathlon after a gruelling event in Townsville. Photo supplied

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The Makay Barometer Pairs competition was played over two days, with 18 pairs competing for coveted Red points.
Section A Winners: Nany Martin and Monica Darley, Section B Winners: Janine Rodgers and Richard Wix, with Section C Winners: Ted Cullinan and Noel Saunders.

Weekly Results

Mackay Barometer Pairs Winners after two days – Red points

A
1st
Nancy Martin / Monica Darley
2nd
Ann Whitmore / Patricia Garner
B
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd
Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft
C
1st
Ted Cullinan / Noel Saunders
2nd
Anne Lutz / Sandy Patterson
Wednesday 4 September 2024 – NWP Week 17 of 24 - 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Alan Brown / Janet Hansen
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan
5th
Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell
6th
Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
Thursday Evening 5 September 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

2nd
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

Friday 6 September 2024 - 6 Table Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
1st
Christine Nice / Diane Cox

2nd
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

3rd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

Saturday 7 September 2024 - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd
Mick King / Jan Harris
2nd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

3rd
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Patricia Garner / Ian Gaskell

4th
Joyce Deguara / Toni Large
4th
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

Contributed by Joy Block

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Janelle Conroy with Barometer Pairs A Winners Nancy Martin and Monica Darley
Janelle Conroy with Barometer Pairs B Winners Janine Rodgers and Richard Wix
Barometer Pairs C Winners Ted Cullinan and Noel Saunders. Photos supplied

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The North Mackay Sinkers have participated in the MS Super Splash great fundraiser for nine years now, raising over $56,000 across all events. The Mackay community is encouraged to get involved by registering a team from a club or group to enjoy a great day out at the fantastic Memorial Swimming Centre and for those without a team, an adoptive team can be arranged.

The MS Super Splash is an action-packed fundraising challenge held in various locations across Queensland, supporting people living with MS. In teams of at least four people, participants take on a team swimming relay while raising vital funds to provide services and support for over 5,500 Queenslanders living with MS and other neurological conditions.

Teams decide their distance and swim style - whether swimming one lap or 100 laps, the focus is on getting involved and making a difference. Outside of the pool, the day is packed with activities, music and fun, bringing communities together to raise essential funds for Queenslanders living with MS.

Current registered teams include the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club, Muscle Garden, DMR Leisure, and the Polar Bears, who have collectively raised $5,145 with five weeks left until the event. The all-teams goal is $30,000, and generous donations are welcome to help boost efforts - all donations are tax-deductible.

Individuals and teams can register or donate online at MS Super Splash : Mackay and the Whitsundays MS Super Splash

Want to know more? Phone Cameron on 0417 409 388 or email cameron.hope@msqld.org.au
For club and Membership Enquiries, email prs.nthmkysinkers@gmail.com or phone 0413 805 156

What: MS Super Splash
When: Saturday October 12th (8am to 4pm)  
Where: Memorial Swim Centre
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Contributed by Dan Stampa

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A new season of Tuesday morning Mackay Table Tennis fixtures started this week, with a four-a-side format. The best match was in division 2 where Toyota Turners and Sydney Slam (great names!) drew 7-all. There were five five-game matches, the closest between Robyn and John, Robyn up -9, -9, 7, 6, 10.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures August 27, 2024:

Division 1:

Hyundai (Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) d Honda (Vince Boeske, Graham Brake) 7-2. Tim d Vince 6, -7, 4, -7, 11.

Fiat (Donna Abbott, Emma Widdup, Geoff Cowan) d Holden (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Mark Sleeman) 7-4. Donna d Lee -5, 12, -10, 10, 8.

BMW (Tony Bowman, Barry Patterson, Neil Brown) d Ferrari (Steven Whiting, Janice Kent, Andrea Nicholson) 7-4. Steven d Neil 13, -7, -5, 8, 8.

Alpha (Delma Knight, Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker) d Audi (Andrew McHugh, Lily Boland, Ian McKay) 7-4. Graeme d Ian 7, -7, 11, -10, 5.

Division 2:

Subaru (Tiffany Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) d Suzuki (Matt West, Josie Davis) 9-2. Steve d Matt -9, -5, 5, 7, 9.

Nissan (Noreen Fredericksen, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) d Rolls (Niro Premachandra, Peter Goodson, Lshara Liyanagamage) 6-5. Niro d YiLin -10, 3, -7, 7, 9.

Mercedes (Will VanDeKaa, Darryl Ross, Val Austin) d Mazda (Craig VanDeKaa, George Camilleri, Rymer Tabulo) 6-5. Will d Rymer -12, 10, 12, -6, 5.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures September 3, 2024:

Division 1:

Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) d Code Crackers (Janice Kent, Steve Mathieson, Noreen Fredericksen) 9-5. John/Marie d Noreen/Coral) 9, -6, 8, -8, 12.

Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson) d Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 9-2. Peter d Judy -7, -9, 6, 9, 10.

Division 2:

Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) d Rome Ralliers (Gerry Synnott, Louise Gould, Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 9-5. Josie d Cheryl 11, -10, -5, 9, 11.

Toyota Turners (John Hamleink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) drew Sydney Slam (Helen Ware,  Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) 7-all. Robyn d John -9, -9, 7, 6, 10.

Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Pam Keune,  Trish Zamparuti) d London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) 9-5. Ian d Kim -8, -9, 7, 12, 8.

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Neil Brown
Steven Whiting. Photos supplied

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The 2024 Mackay Triathlon Festival is fast approaching and is set to be one of the region’s biggest sporting events, drawing athletes from across Queensland and beyond. Participants from Airlie Beach, Bowen, Townsville, Cairns, Rockhampton, Brisbane, and even Victoria are expected to attend, boosting Mackay’s profile as a sports tourism destination.

Spanning two days, the festival will feature 16 events and over $11,000 in cash prizes, with an additional $5,000 in sponsored prizes from local businesses. The festival caters to everyone, from first-timers to seasoned triathletes.

The event kicks off on Saturday, September 21st, with an ocean swim starting at 2pm.

Categories include 500-metre, 1-kilometre, and 2-kilometre open water events.

The Mini Kids Triathlon follows at 3pm offering a fun introduction to the sport around the surf club parks and pathways.

The excitement continues on Sunday, September 22nd, starting at 6.30am.

Triathlons at the festival feature various distances, including the enticer distance (300-metre swim, 10-kilometre bike ride, and 2-kilometre run), sprint distance (750-metre swim, 20-kilometre bike ride, and 5-kilometre run), and Olympic distance (1,500-metre swim, 40-kilometre bike ride, and 10-kilometre run).

Duathlons combine running and cycling, with distances ranging from the enticer (2-kilometre run, 10-kilometre bike ride, 2-kilometre run) to the Olympic distance (5-kilometre run, 40-kilometre bike ride, 10-kilometre run).

Aquabike events focus on swimming and biking, offering another variation for athletes seeking a swim-bike challenge without the running component.

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The Mackay Triathlon Festival 2024 promises a weekend of excitement with over $11,000 in prizes. Photo supplied

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Mackay State High School showcased its basketball prowess, winning two titles at the recent Mackay Interschool Basketball Tournament, which brought together schools from across the region. The school's Open Boys and Junior Girls teams emerged victorious, demonstrating skill, teamwork, and determination.
The Open Boys, coached by Mr Stuart Watkins, began their campaign with a commanding win against Sarina State High School, setting the tone for the tournament. Their second game against Northern Beaches State High School proved to be a tougher challenge, with the boys having to regroup after a quick start from their opponents. However, a well-timed timeout helped them regain control, resulting in a fantastic team win.
The final round game saw the boys cruise to another victory, this time against Carlisle, securing their spot in the grand final against Northern Beaches SHS, their toughest competition. Determined to avoid a repeat of their earlier close call, the team started strong and maintained their lead from start to finish to win 62-48.
Standout performers in the grand final included Andrew Llelliot, whose offensive prowess proved too much for any defender, and Eligh Kingston, who excelled on both ends of the floor. Kingston not only neutralised the opposition's biggest threat but also directed the team’s offence from the point guard position. Youngster Brodie McBean and team captain Riley Armstrong also delivered consistently strong performances, with both players stepping up in the grand final. The future looks bright for the team, with McBean and sixth man Miles Pendleton poised to take on bigger roles next year as the team farewells its graduating seniors.
Mr Watkins praised his team's efforts, saying, "The boys showed incredible resilience and teamwork throughout the tournament. Every player stepped up when it mattered most, and it was great to see the senior boys finish their school careers on a high note."
The Junior Girls, coached by Mr Tyreeq Salleh Meadows, had an equally impressive run in the tournament. Throughout the round games, the team displayed dominance, cruising to comfortable victories. Experienced guards Lani Minster and Tannum Kingston were instrumental on both ends of the floor, showcasing their all-around skills. They were ably supported by forward Lisa Lelliot, who was a force on the boards and solid in defence, while Addison Armstrong contributed key shots that helped secure the wins.
In the grand final, the Junior Girls continued their winning form, defeating their opponents 46-28. Mr Salleh Meadows was particularly impressed with the team’s performance, stating, "Our girls played with great energy and focus. The way they moved the ball and worked together was outstanding, and it’s exciting to think about what they can achieve in the future."
Mr. Brett Watton, Head of HPE and Sporting Academies, hinted at the potential for basketball to become a more prominent feature at the school.
"These wins are a testament to the hard work of our students and coaches. With the level of talent and passion we've seen, it might be time to seriously consider basketball as one of our Sporting Academies in the future.
“It's clear that Mackay State High has what it takes to succeed on and off the court."

Mackay State High School open boys team
Mackay State High School junior girls team

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Tuesday morning Mackay Table Tennis players warmed up for another season of fixtures with a doubles tournament.
Janice Kent carried all before her to win the first division with 151 points, Don Boettcher winning division 2 with 155 points.
The tournament was first to 31, five matches with partners swapping randomly and was strongly competed by a good turnout of players, who especially enjoyed the ‘bring a plate’ spread at the end of play.
A new season of fixtures is starting, and if you haven’t nominated or would like to join, contact Steve Mathieson ASAP on 0418 700 236.
Last season’s division one was won by Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce and John McGee) with Janice Kent leading player, losing only one match all season.
Division two went to Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink and Kim Daffy) with Veronica Shepherd leading player.
Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey and Nadine Stream won division 3, Pam Keune leading player.

Janice Kent and Don Boettcher were winners of the Mackay Table Tennis doubles tournament

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures August 20, 2024.

Division 1:

Ferrari (Steven Whiting, Janice Kent, Andrea Nicholson) d Honda (Graham Dury, Vince Boeske, Graham Brake) 6-5. Vince d Andrea -9, 6, -10, 8, 5.

Holden (Mark Sleeman, Robbie Richards, Lee Brake) d BMW (Barry Patterson, Geoff Denman, Tony Bowman) 7-4. Robbie d Barry -6, 5, 8, -8, 5.

Fiat (Donna Abbott, Emma Widdup, Allan Robins) d Audi (Andrew McHugh, Lily Boland, Ian McKay) 6-5. Lily d Donna 9, -10, 7, -8, 6.

Alpha (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Geoff Cowan) d Hyuandi (Allan Edwards, Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) 7-4. Anne d Geoff 12, -5, -7, 11, 5.

Division 2:

Subaru (Tiffany Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) d Mercedes (Will VanDeKaa, Judy Zahn, Darryl Ross) 6-5. Bulldog d Judy -4, -8, 8, 6, 5.

Mazda (George Camilleri, Adrian Marsh, Craig VanDeKaa) d Rolls (Ollie Hamelink, Saisha Palod, Peter Goodson) 6-5. Saisha d Adrian -7, 13, 3, -2, 11.

Lexus (Duncan Treloar, Kade Wright, Anaya Reelh) d Nissan (Noren Fredericksen, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) 6-5. YiLin d Kade 11, -7, 8, 10.

Suzuki (Misha Palod, Matt West, Simon Hogan) d Jaguar (Leo Gilbert, Mark Stam, Nehmat Dhaliwal) 6-5. Simon/Misha d Mark/Nehmat  -10, 10, 10, 9.

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Lily Boland had a great victory over Donna Abbott winning in the fifth set, 10-6. Photos supplied

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In a thrilling display of skill and determination, the Slade Point women’s rugby union team won Mackay’s inaugural Women’s Rugby 7s Grand Final at BB Print Stadium.

Capping off a remarkable season for women’s rugby in the region, a star player for Slade Point, Hula Day, has been playing different codes of rugby for seven years, starting in 2018 before switching to rugby union in 2020.

Her versatility on the field has seen her excel in various positions, from flanker in 15s to playing as a hooker or second row in 10s and 7s. Despite the challenges, her love for the game and the sense of community it brings has kept her motivated.

“I really just like the team and the community,” she said, reflecting on her journey in the sport.

Among her many achievements, Hula was named the Best Forward for Slade Point Rugby Team. Earlier this year, she played in the junior 15s competition, earning a spot on the Central Queensland team and traveling to Rockhampton to trial for Queensland Country.

Currently, Hula is trailing for the 7s Central Queensland team. She recently competed in Rockhampton and will play again in Mackay on September 7th, and if successful, she will advance to the next level and compete in Brisbane.

Coach of the Slade Point Rugby Union Women’s team Kelvin Clulee praised the team’s hard-fought victory, noting the toughness of their final match.

“It was a scrappy game, but there was some great tackling,” he said.

“The Slade Point girls just managed to find a way through a really tough defence to win the game by one try.”

Coach Clulee emphasised the importance of camaraderie and teamwork in rugby, highlighting how these qualities helped the team succeed. He also stressed the significance of girls and women in the region getting involved in rugby, as it opens pathways to representative programs, potentially leading to playing for Queensland Country or even Australia in the future.

“We’re always looking for new players, from under 9s all the way up to women’s,” he said.

“Get involved and have some fun, it’s a really good bunch of people, and we’ll be looking for more players next year.”

Hula is also currently fundraising for her upcoming trip to Auckland, New Zealand, in mid-December, where she will compete in the Global Women’s 7s for the Rugby Skills Academy.

She has already raised a total of $600, and will be continuing her fundraising efforts through meat raffles, sausage sizzles and other events at junior rugby games. Additional support from the community is welcomed to help cover the financial costs of travelling overseas.

The Global Youth 7s is a prestigious event and four players from Mackay, including Hula, will be representing the region. Competing against teams from around the world, this tournament could be a stepping stone toward bigger opportunities, including the possibility of playing for Australia and even making it to the Olympics.

“We’re so proud of these kids that are going over there to compete,” Coach Clulee added.

“This can be a springboard into the Australian team, which could potentially lead to the Olympics, which is really cool.”

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8-year-old Charlotte Haire with Hula Day
The Slade Point Women's Rugby 7s team recently celebrated their hard-fought victory in Mackay's first Women's 7s Grand Final at BB Print Stadium. Photos supplied

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AFLW is making its exciting return to Mackay as the Gold Coast Suns take on Carlton at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. The region is thrilled to welcome back Mackay’s very own Lauren Bella, Alana Gee and Wallis Randell, who will all be showcasing their skills in front of a local crowd.
This match is a significant event for the region, bringing two traveling teams to North Queensland. Carlton, a renowned team from Victoria, will clash with the Gold Coast Suns, representing Queensland’s vibrant Gold Coast. It’s a rare and exciting opportunity for local fans to experience top-tier AFLW action right in their backyard.
In addition to the on-field excitement, this event offers a fantastic opportunity for the next generation of fans. With free entry for kids under 18, the match provides young people with access to quality sporting entertainment and the chance to be inspired by elite athletes. It’s a unique opportunity for families to engage with the sport and for young fans to witness the highest level of women’s football.
Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, expressed his enthusiasm about the event and said, "Bringing AFLW back to Mackay, especially with local stars like Lauren Bella, Alana Gee and Wallis Randell, is a special moment for our community.
“We’re looking forward to an incredible day of footy."
Terry Doolan, Chairman of Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, added, "Hosting the Suns and Carlton in Mackay underlines our commitment to delivering top-tier sport to the region.
“This event is more than just a game; it’s about community, pride and giving young people a chance to see what they can aspire to."
Harrup Park added that the Mackay Regional Council continue to be a driver for the success of major events in our region and without their ongoing support these events would not happen.

What Gold Coasts Suns v Carlton
When: September 8th, 1:05pm
Where: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Harrup Park, Mackay

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Last week was a massive week for the Mackay Bridge Club with the playing of the Australian Wide-Open Pairs, the final week of the Anne Hird Memorial, the Mackay Barometer Pairs Walk-in and the Mackay Barometer Pairs competition, which was played over two days. Winners of the Australian Wide Open Pairs N/S were Janelle Conroy and Terry Sheedy with Janine Rodgers and Richard Wix winning E/W.

After three weeks of play with three different overs, Joy Block took out this year’s Anne Hird Memorial. Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris won N/S, and Susan Wright and Geoff Patterson E/W were winners of The Mackay Barometer Pairs Walk Ins. Results for Mackay Barometer Pairs will be published next week.

Weekly Results
Monday 26 August 2024 – Australian Wide Open Pairs 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

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

2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

3rd
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

4th
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
4th
Geoff Taylor / Andrew Canavan

Tuesday Evening 27 August 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
1st
Terry Sheedy / Joy Block

3rd
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th
Shelley Lewis / Sue Mayer-Miller

4th
Andrew Westcott / Patricia Garner
4th
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

Wednesday 28 August 2024 - 3 of 3 weeks of the Anne Hird Memorial 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Joy Block / Janelle Conroy
1st
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
2nd
Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Vicki Howard / Ming Ting
3rd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Susan Wright
3rd
Jan Harris / Bob Ellis
4th
Jewel Schmidt / Sandra Morris
4th
Terry Sheedy / Annette Howe
Anne Hird Memorial - Results after 3 weeks of play with 3 different overs
1st
Joy Block
2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd
Sandy Patterson
4th
Susan Ross
Thursday Evening 29 August 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers

3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott
4th
Geoff Taylor / Christopher Meyers

5th
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
6th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

Friday 30 August 2024 – Mackay Barometer Pairs Walk-ins 8 Table Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
1st
Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson

2nd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
2nd
David Ting / Ming Ting

3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
3rd
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood

4th
Anne Lutz / Karen Caldwell
4th
Geoff Cowan / Joy Block

Contributed by Joy Block

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MBPairs Walkins N/S Winners Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris
MBPairs Walkins E/W winners Geoff Patterson and Susan Wright
Anne Hird winner Joy Block, with David Hird (Anne's husband), Janelle Conroy and Terry Sheedy. Photos supplied

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Walkerston Wanderers Rugby League Club are celebrating a premiership quadrella in the Mackay & District Junior League.

The Roosters underlined their depth of junior talent by annexing the Boys Under 15 and Under 16 premiership titles and the Girls Under 16 and Under 18 trophies in Grand final action at BB Print Stadium last weekend.
It is a tremendous feat by the Wanderers club that remained undefeated in both the Under 15 and Girls Under 16 years divisions.

Trent Peno’s all-conquering Under 15s capped a memorable campaign with an emphatic 30-10 Grand Final victory over Mackay Wests Tigers.

Classy halves Darcy Cabassi and Isaac McFarlane spearheaded the win with top performances after promising forwards  Nate Faulkner, Tom Mulherin, Amos Grigg, Connor Peno, Quinn Douglas and hooker Harrison Gordon laid the foundations with strong games.
Cabassi used his swerve and deft footwork to nab two of the Roosters’ six tries with playmaker McFarlane booting three goals.

Lock forward and skipper Nate Harding, hooker Marik Srsen and centre Zac Hansen impressed for the Tigers.
Impact forward Faulkner proved an inspiration as the Roosters won all fourteen matches played during the 2024 season.

Nate and elder sister Cianna created some type of record by both captaining their respective Wanderers teams to undefeated titles.

Talented lock Cianna was best on ground in the Roosters’ 32-6 Grand Final triumph over Souths Sharks last Friday night – bagging two tries and four goals for a personal tally of sixteen points.

Sharp centre Zoe Ziegeler and power running prop Theresa Malayta also grabbed try doubles as Duncan Watt’s enterprising Roosters asserted their supremacy.
Other players to impress were halves Ruby Watt and Keeley Logan, hooker Jade Williams and forwards Kelsi Hazledine, Matilda Clark, Jaylynn Matheson-Hone, Jayda Earl and Sophie Searle.

Wanderers clinched the Under 16s Boys trophy with an 18-8 Grand Final victory over Mackay Magpies.
Rugged prop Sam Dodgson, five eighth Koby Daly and winger Aidan Marteene scored tries for the Roosters with lock Caleb O’Brien adding three conversions.

Dodgson, skipper O’Brien, number seven Bekem Van Kerkwyk and back rowers Dominic Sorbello and Sam Anderson, a former Queensland Schoolboys Under 15s rep, led the way for Wanderers.

Wanderers young gun Paige Mooney capped a stellar season by guiding her club to an Under 18 Girls premiership.

Mooney, a rising half back, demonstrated her skills and vision as the Roosters edged out Souths Sharks 10-6 in the title decider.

The Junior League premiership was the fourth piece of silverware acquired by Mooney in 2024 after earlier lifting the Confraternity Shield and Secondary Schools trophies with St Patrick’s College Mackay and the inaugural Under 19 Harvey Norman championship with the Mackay Cutters.

Wanderers’ centre Ella Webb and fullback Ava Wheeler scored tries and hooker Jaymie Clancy potted a conversion with Sharks’ half Jaccoa Keyssecker crossing for the Sharks.

It was another trophy for Roosters super coach Imogen Healy but a bitter blow for Danny Contor’s talented Souths squad that finished the preliminary rounds undefeated.
Wanderers won both finals clashes against the Sharks by narrow margins: 4-2 in the major semi-final and by four points in the trophy decider.

Mackay Magpies brought home the Under 13s Boys and Under 14s Boys premiership titles.

The Magpies edged out Souths Sharks 10-8 in the Under 13s and rolled the Sarina Crocodiles 32-22 in Under 14s for a deserved double.

Wests Tigers collected the Under 14 Girls trophy after toppling Proserpine Brahmans 14-10 before capturing
the Under 17 Boys title with an 18-8 triumph over Brothers Bulldogs.

Canberra Raiders signing Mark Morrow starred with centre partner Mason Ryan-Ellul and forwards Lachlan Starr, Jack Townsend, Jackson Aslette and hooker Slade Kretschmar.

Souths tossed Brahmans 32-14 in the Under 13 Boys Plate Final with Wests Tigers securing the Under 14 Plate with a 36-18 win over Wanderers.

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Four of Mackay’s dedicated rowers are about to embark on a thrilling journey to compete in the Masters World Championship Rowing event at the Beetzsee regatta course in Germany, from September 11th to 15th.

This natural regatta course situated in Brandenburg, boasts 320,000 square metres of surface area and offers eight lanes for rowing and nine lanes for canoe racing. The event will see between 4,000 and 5,000 athletes competing, and the Mackay rowers are ready to make their mark.

The team includes Jane Deguara, Mick Wohlfahrt, Richard McGrath and Therese Clancy, all of whom have been training rigorously since November 2023. Their training regimen consists of river rowing four times a week, daily gym sessions and a weekly rest day. Ice baths, rehabilitation and programs from the Mackay Rowing Club have also been essential to keeping their bodies in top form.

This level of dedication has earned them remarkable success in previous national and state events, where they brought home a total of 16 medals, including half a dozen golds.

For Therese Clancy, who has been rowing for seven years, the early morning training sessions are a particular highlight.

“At 5am, it’s like heaven,” she says, describing the serenity of the water, the chirping birds, and the fish swimming nearby.

“It’s just such a magical time of day to be on the water.”

This will be Thereses’ first time competing overseas and she’s excited but cautious about the upcoming trip. While they’ve done well at nationals and state levels, Therese is aware that conditions could be different in Germany.

Rowing in both mixed and single-gender teams, the group has excelled in various categories.

Therese herself has won gold in a single race, a double with a fellow rower from Townsville, and in a quad with her teammates, including Jane. Their journey has been one of hard work, but as Therese says, it’s all been “great fun.”

The team relies on grants and self-funding to support their efforts and encourage any sponsors to contribute, especially in replacing boats. Mackay Rowing Club is welcoming support from anyone interested in helping these talented athletes.

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Left to Right- Jane Deguara, Mick Wohlfahrt, Richard McGrath, Therese Clancy.
Photo supplied

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Division 1:

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

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

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

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

Division 2:

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

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

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

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

Graham Brake
Delma Knight. Photos supplied

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