On Monday 21st April, 10 of our swimmers & their families assisted with placing Australian Flags on the graves of fallen men & women at the Proserpine cemetery in preparation for ANZAC Day.

This experience was both humbling & moving for all involved. With over 400 flags placed, it was a big community effort & rewarding to give back to the community that supports us.

On ANZAC Day, six dedicated swimmers & their families came together to proudly march at the Proserpine ANZAC Day march. Ti & Savanah held the banner proudly throughout the main street march, with Savanah & Jack proudly laying a wreath on behalf of the swimming club at the cenotaph.

A big thank you to Savanah, Ti, Georgia, Jack, Mackenzie, Savannah, George, Ivy, Lochlan, Hayden, Leyton, Jayde and families for giving your time for this very important part of our country’s history.

The Whitsunday Swimming Club is proud to give back to our supportive community.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Swimming Club

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The Outrigger Whitsunday Regatta returns to Lagoon Beach on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 May, with a full weekend of exciting ocean and sprint races ahead.

The event opens with the VA-A Moana Hoe marathon from Shute Harbour to Airlie Beach, sponsored by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, featuring 16 OC6 canoes and 17 small craft. Local paddlers James Middleton, Charlie Preen, Bernie Mackie and Paul Tobias will join two athletes from Port Douglas for the Outrigger Whitsunday crew.

Strong local hopes in the OC1 race include Stephen and Michelle Lynes and Maree Mullet, all eyeing a downhill wind-assisted run. Promising juniors Jai Dennison, Cody and Dean Lassau will team up with paddlers from Mission Beach and Port Douglas in the Open Men’s 12km race.

Linda Davis from the Capricorn Coast, preparing for the World Ski Titles, will race in several events.

Junior races begin Saturday at 12.45pm, with early events sponsored by the Airlie Beach Lions Club. All races are now fully sponsored thanks to support from local businesses including Tassal Seafoods, Bendigo Bank, Magnums, Airlie Beach Hotel, and more.

Sunday’s program starts at 6.45am, with senior sprint races from 9.30am. The final race is at 3.30pm, followed by presentations at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

Food vans, great viewing spots, and top-level paddling make this a must-see local event. Everyone is welcome!

Contributed with thanks to  Paul Tobias

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Friday 2nd May

Football
Whitsunday United
6pm – Div 2 Men vs Sarina Saints
8pm – Div 1 Men vs Magpies

Saturday 3rd May

AFL
Whitsunday Sea Eagles
9:15am - U’13’s vs Moranbah
10:40am – U’15’s vs Moranbah
12:15pm – U’17’s vs Moranbah
1:50pm – Senior Women vs Moranbah
3:20pm – Senior Men vs Hawks

Rugby Union
Raiders – BYE

Monday 5th May
Whitsunday Touch

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A new youth basketball program in Mackay will provide over 130 young Australian South Sea Islanders with the opportunity to develop their skills and strengthen community ties, thanks to funding from the Queensland Government’s Strengthening Multicultural Queensland (SMQ) program.

The Queensland Police-Citizens Youth Welfare Association (PCYC) Mackay will receive over $46,000 as part of a broader $1.9 million investment in 26 multicultural community-led projects across the state.

The two-year program aims to break down social barriers, encourage cultural exchange, and strengthen community connections through the universal language of sport.

Minister for Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson said the grants are designed to support projects that foster inclusion and positive engagement.

“Not only have these recipients demonstrated leadership in strengthening community cohesion, but also practical ways for people from varied cultural backgrounds to be actively involved in the Queensland economy and way of life,” she said.

Building on this sentiment, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton described the initiative as a “tremendous opportunity” for local youth.

“$46,000 will be put towards facilitating a basketball training regime for young people aged 15 to 25,” Mr Dalton said.

“Sport is so important for not only youth development, but for fostering social cohesion, promoting inclusivity, and building bridges between those from diverse backgrounds, increasing positive social and health outcomes.”

He said the program would promote multiculturalism, fitness, and inclusion while building teams that could compete locally and beyond.

“The wider benefits will be that the youngsters, hopefully, will go on to form teams that can compete in competitions. Some of those competitions will be local, and some may be further afield.

“The funding will also allow them to get uniforms, any equipment they need for training, and maybe even bring in some specialist coaches.”

First Nations Coordinator at PCYC Mackay, Patrick Thaiday, said the program aligns closely with what local families have cherished for generations.

“Basketball is something they’ve connected with from an early age.

“I remember playing basketball with family—it’s a great way to unite the community,” Mr Thaiday said.

“Without something like this, there wouldn’t be many opportunities for these kids to come together.”

Mr Dalton further noted that this program would strengthen a vital community.

“The South Sea Islander community is an important part of our local area.

“The Australian Bureau of Statistics suggests there are about four to five thousand South Islanders in Queensland, and around three and a half to four thousand of those live right here in Mackay.

“About 30% of all South Islanders in Queensland are under 25 or 30 years old.

“So we’ve got a large number of young people who are really keen to get out there, show their sporting prowess, and hopefully progress into a fantastic basketball career.”

To explore the full list of projects and learn more, visit www.tatsipca.qld.gov.au/smq-program.

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A new youth basketball program in Mackay, funded by the Queensland Government’s Strengthening Multicultural Queensland (SMQ) program, will support over 130 young South Sea Islanders in developing their skills and building community ties through sport. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay’s newest entertainment hotspot has officially opened its doors — and it’s already proving to be a hole-in-one with locals.

X-Golf Mackay is a $1.5 million indoor golf and sports precinct bringing the latest in simulation technology, top-notch hospitality, and a cool, comfortable atmosphere to the city’s northern beaches. The 500sqm facility, located at the HomeCo Centre beside Bunnings on Mackay-Bucasia Road, is the first of its kind in the region.

Roy and Mary Boase, the dynamic couple behind the venture, have relocated from Rockhampton and are already enjoying life in Mackay’s northern beaches, getting to know the locals who’ve quickly embraced the space as their new go-to hangout.

“We’ve had such a great response already,” Roy said.

“Groups of mates, families, couples — they’re loving the chance to have a swing without sweating it out on the course.”

The venue employs eight local staff and features six ultra-realistic golf simulators offering everything from driving range runs to full rounds on over 50 of the world’s most famous courses, including Roy’s personal favourite — the Old Course at St Andrews in Scotland.

“The thing I love about X-Golf is it bridges the gap between traditional clubs and those looking to get started in the game,” he said.

“The golfing underdog will be warmly welcomed, which is how I got into it.”

Roy admits he first discovered just how true-to-life the simulators were when he played a round and scored just as badly as he does on an actual course.

“I realised how accurate X-Golf sims were when I first played and my results were as bad as when I’m on the course,” he laughed.

Engineered by two Australian brothers with partnerships in Korea, the simulators use a combination of high-resolution cameras, infrared lasers and impact sensors to capture detailed data from each shot, from ball speed and launch angle to spin rate and club path.

But it’s not just for the pros.

The facility’s relaxed layout and lounge-style comfort make it an easy entry point for first-timers and a great spot for anyone to have a swing, regardless of skill level. And there’s more than just golf on offer.

The venue also boasts a full bar and kitchen dishing up cold tap beers, fresh pizzas and loaded sliders. There’s a pool table, comfy couches, big-screen TVs airing all the latest sporting action, and a vibe that has Mackay talking.

Editor of Mackay Life, Amanda Wright, couldn’t resist the swing of things.

“I was super impressed by the technology — the automatic ball tee-up is genius,” she said.

“It’s so easy to use, and the food is amazing.

“I’ll definitely be back with friends — maybe even sneak in a hit on my lunch break!”

Behind the bar, Roy is quickly earning a reputation for shaking up a mean cocktail.

“I make a pretty good fruit tingle,” he said with a grin — and according to customers, the drinks have been a big hit.

“The atmosphere’s been fantastic,” Roy added.

“Music, banter, cold beers and great food — what more could you want?”

Mary, a former registered nurse, said the heart behind X-Golf Mackay is all about community.

“We’re enjoying the opportunity to bring something family-oriented to Mackay,” she said.

“There’s been such wonderful feedback from the community already and we’re hoping to build on those relationships by working with local clubs, businesses and schools.”

Competitive players can also join in X-Golf Mackay’s annual X-League – Australia’s largest indoor golf league – with plenty of room for private group bookings, team functions and celebrations.

To tee up your own X-Golf experience, visit www.xgolf.com.au/locations/mackay-qld.

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Inside Mackay’s newest entertainment hub — X-Golf Mackay — where owners Roy and Mary Boase have teed up a high-tech golfing experience with top-notch hospitality and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Photo credit: Photos by Nell

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The 2024 MSA National Championships were a splash hit for the Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club, who dove into five days of fierce competition and camaraderie at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre from April 8–12. After sending six swimmers to Darwin in 2023, the Sinkers turned up the heat this year with a team of nine, joining over 700 swimmers from across Australia and overseas for one of the biggest meets on the masters calendar.

Day One: Strong Start in the 800m and a Warm Welcome

The championships kicked off with a full day of 800m freestyle heats — a test of stamina and strategy. Six Sinkers hit the water, clocking impressive personal bests and setting the tone for a stellar week. Geoff Robinson, the club’s most seasoned swimmer, swam his way to a silver medal. The evening’s welcome event provided a relaxed and social atmosphere — the perfect launchpad for the competition ahead.

Day Two: Medal Haul and Team Triumphs

Day Two saw the Sinkers haul in an impressive string of medals. Geoff Robinson struck gold in the 100m freestyle, Nigel Dalton powered to gold in the 100m backstroke, and both Megan Taylor and Sue Dalton secured bronze in the 200m breaststroke. The team then capped off the day with a bronze in the 240+ age group mixed medley 200m relay, alongside more personal bests across individual events.

Day Three: Tough Races and Relay Power

Thursday brought on the grueling 400m individual medley — conquered bravely by Pierre, who posted a personal best and a fourth-place finish. The mixed 4x100m freestyle relay team delivered a slick swim under their nominated time, clinching bronze, while the women’s 4x50m medley relay team surged to a strong fourth. Nigel added to the medal tally with bronze in the 200m backstroke, and other members impressed with standout swims in the 50m freestyle and butterfly.

Day Four: Endurance Pays Off

Day Four began with the 400m freestyle, with several Sinkers chasing points for the Vorgee Endurance Program. Geoff Robinson bagged another silver, while Nigel added a silver in the 50m backstroke, and Sue clocked silver in the 100m breaststroke. More PBs rolled in as the club contested the mixed 400m medley relay and the women’s 200m freestyle relay with grit and grace.

Day Five: Big Finishes and Celebrations

The final day saw swimmers hit the blocks early for the ever-popular 200m freestyle, with Sinkers members turning in strong performances and more PBs. Highlights included silver in the women’s 4x100m medley relay and a solid showing in the mixed 4x50m freestyle relay. Geoff earned silver in the 200m freestyle, and Sue added to her tally with silver in the 50m breaststroke.

Final Results: A Club Effort Worth Celebrating

After five days of high-energy competition, the Sinkers secured a brilliant 18th place out of 118 clubs — a fantastic result from months of dedicated training. In total, the team racked up 2 gold, 6 silver, and 3 bronze medals in individual events, plus 1 silver and 3 bronze in relays.

The championships wrapped up with a lively presentation night and DJ-fuelled celebrations. A special shoutout goes to coach Millie from DMR Leisure at the Mackay Memorial Swimming Centre, whose poolside advice and nutritious snacks kept the team fuelled and focused.

With the GBR Masters Games in May and the NQ MSQ Championships in September on the horizon, the Sinkers are back in training — and already buzzing for the 2026 MSA Nationals, set to be hosted right here in Queensland at the Chandler pool complex.

Contributed by Dan Stampa

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Geoff Robinson in the 80-84 years 800m freestyle event claimed Silver in the first of his 4 podium placings.

Megan Taylor swam a great 200m breaststroke to claim a bronze. (Ratty the Mascot whispering his advice)

The Mixed 4 x 100m freestyle relay team of (L – R) Nigel Dalton, Sue Dalton, Megan Taylor and Dan Stampa

claimed a bronze in the 240 age group.

Helen Burgess gets ready for an individual event, the 50m backstroke.

The Sinkers Women’s 4 x 100m Medley relay team managed a great silver with (l – R) Megan Taylor, Sue Dalton, Lesley Thorpe and Dee McMurtrie. Photos supplied

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Mackay Surf Lifesavers recently headed to the Aussie Titles on the Gold Coast to take on the best in the country and came out winners in the Champion Lifesaver event, proving that Mackay’s volunteer lifesavers are some of the best in the country.

Mackay’s very own Nate McKinnon took out 1st place in the U17’s becoming a record three-time national champion. Cadence McKinnon took out her first U14 national championship after dominating state titles for a number of years. Isabella Grant finished a gallant 6th in the U14 Champion Lifesaver event, after some challenges crept her way on the day.

Mackay SLSC Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said, “We are so very proud of what our lifesavers have achieved at a national level.

“Our coaching team have worked extremely hard to get our lifesavers to achieve at this elite level, and we’re a small but strong club, who are up against massive clubs with huge financial budgets to spend on their athletes.

“We do it out of love for our sport, commitment to our youth and the community, and this is what makes us strong, this is our club culture.

“Mackay will always punch above its weight when it comes to big lifesaving events.”

The Champion lifesaver event is very unique, and is something that epitomises what it means to be a lifesaver.

The physical element involves a beach sprint, board race, surf race and tube race with flippers. All events are held over the standard distance applicable for each race. Points are awarded out of 10, depending on where you finish. First place receives 10 points, 2nd place 9, 3rd 8 points and so on down to 1 point.

The practical element involves two separate components – performing a simulated assessment and resuscitation on a live patient and resuscitation on a manikin. Points are deducted for errors made with 20 points awarded for each component if no errors occur.

The theoretical element involves undertaking an exam paper consisting of 40 multiple choice questions. The questions are based on the current training manual, which has about 600 pages to learn. Each correct answer scores a point.

“It is extremely nerve racking when waiting for final results, as the ultimate winner is the person who scores the highest combined points after completing all three elements,” said Mr Grant.

“A perfect score is 120.

“It was happy days for Mackay Surf Club, and we were all very proud and extremely happy with what our club had achieved.”

Contributed by Josh Grant

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Mackay’s Aussie Champions on the podium at nationals.

Mackay’s Champion Lifesaver team at Nationals: (L-R) Isabella Grant U14, Cadence McKinnon U14, Cathy McKinnon (Coach) and Nate McKinnon U17.

Mackay’s U14 Champion Lifesavers ready to take on the tube race.

U17 National Champion, Nate McKinnon making flying start to the individual surf board race.

U14’s Bella & Cadence get ready for the surf board race in challenging conditions. Photos supplied

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Stadium Funding Pledged Ahead Of Election

BB Print Stadium Mackay is set for a game-changing upgrade, with a $1.5 million pledge from the Coalition promising new female changerooms, upgraded lighting, and major facility enhancements if elected.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox made the announcement with club representative, describing the funding pledge as an exciting time for the regional sporting club.

“BB Print Stadium will be transformed into a sports environment that local players and families deserve in Regional Queensland,” Mr Willcox said.

“We know BB Print Stadium is already extremely popular and the LNP supports growing and enhancing this fantastic sports venue.”

“The LNP’s $1.5 million commitment will include two separate female change rooms, upgraded field lighting, and other improvements…which is just a great announcement for both junior and senior players.

“We couldn’t be more proud to be involved in this announcement and we wish all junior and senior leagues every success in the future,” Mr Willcox enthused.

Shadow Minister for Infastructure Senator Bridget McKenzie travelled from Victoria to announce the funding on Mackay’s BB Print Stadium grounds and said, “As a former physical ed teacher, my area of research is in the protective capacity of sport on young women as they grow.

“It’s not just about physical health benefits, its about social benefits as well.

“Improving amenities at stadiums like this are import to both grow the game and support better training for athletes,” Senator McKenzie said.

“This investment by the Coalition underscores our commitment to delivering quality, inclusive sporting infrastructure that meets the needs of a growing and important regional community.”

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson also welcomed the election pledge for BB Print Stadium, which is managed by council.

“Well, one and a half million dollars to this rugby league precinct is very welcome.

“About 5,000 people use this facility every weekend… it has hosted a range of major events, from KISS and Elton John concerts to bull riding and monster trucks and NRL finals.

“We know that rugby league is fast growing as a female sport, so the lack of female change rooms has been a very painful form of recite for a long time.

“But it’s not just female change rooms, its electrical upgrades, lighting upgrades and a range of facility upgrades that will happen with this $1.5 million announced.”

Mackay Cutters Chairman Steve Dowden said, “The funding reflects the continued growth of female participation in the sport and the importance of providing equal access to quality amenities.”

Rugby League Mackay and District Chairman Dan Ross also noted that, “With over 4,000 registered players across the district, this funding will have a lasting impact on the rugby league community at every level – from grassroots juniors to elite athletes.

“We sincerely thank the LNP for their support and investment in the future of rugby league in Mackay.

“We look forward to seeing the positive impact this commitment will have on the players, volunteers, families, and fans who make up the heart of rugby league in Mackay.”

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The Coalition has pledged $1.5 million to upgrade BB Print Stadium Mackay with new female changerooms, improved lighting, and enhanced facilities, supporting the growth of rugby league at all levels across the region. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox with local women and girls in rugby league. Photo supplied

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Runners and supporters gathered in strong numbers on Easter Sunday for the annual Burrito Bolt – a 5km and 10km social run hosted by Mackay Road Runners. The event started and finished in the Mackay City Centre, with runners enjoying cloudy, overcast conditions as they followed scenic riverside trails.

The 10km course took participants along the Catherine Freeman Trail and through to the West Mackay parklands before a turnaround near Lansdowne Road, while the 5km runners turned just beneath the Ron Camm Bridge. Both events drew a mix of seasoned runners and enthusiastic newcomers, with a fantastic atmosphere of encouragement throughout.

Post-run celebrations were lively, with a handful of lucky participants taking home Zambrero vouchers in random prize draws – a sweet reward for their Easter Sunday efforts. There was plenty of genuine camaraderie on course, with runners cheering each other on toward their goals.

Strong performances came from Brendan Ridep-Morris, who completed his longest ever distance in the 10km event, running side-by-side with partner Bethany Varley. Fran March also impressed, continuing her steady climb in distance as she targets the 10km mark in coming events.

Thanks to all volunteers and timekeepers who helped the event run smoothly.

This Sunday’s run – the Tilse Toddle – kicks off at 4pm from 24 Johnson Street, West Mackay. Runners are reminded to arrive early and be signed in with race bibs by 3:50pm.

New runners are always welcome to join the fun and fitness.

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And they’re off and racing in the 5km and 10km Mackay Road Runners Easter Sunday Zambrero’s Burrito Bolt. Photo credit: Janelle TIlse

The Easter Bunny, Maddy, Mackenzie and Hughie thank sponsor, Zambrero’s Peter Quinn for the awesome Easter Sunday Burrito Bolt 5k and 10km social event

Carolyn Mapes and Tahnie Malagueno loved the atmosphere

Fifteen lucky and happy recipients of the Zambrero’s Burrito Bolt random draw prizes donated by Zambrero’s restaurant’s Peter Quinn

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Mackay Table Tennis Association joined the global celebration of World Table Tennis Day on April 23, honouring the sport’s rich history and its growing presence in our region.

World Table Tennis Day pays tribute to Ivor Montagu, the Englishman who founded the International Table Tennis Federation and organised the first world championships in 1926. What began in England as a light-hearted after-dinner pastime using dining tables and books for nets has since become a serious international sport. It spread quickly across Europe and Asia in the early 1900s, with China, Japan, and Korea now home to millions of players.

Closer to home, Mackay’s love affair with table tennis dates back to 1937, when the local association was formally established. That same year, 235 entries poured in from towns throughout the district for a tournament—proof that the game had already captured hearts across the region.

Over the decades, Mackay Table Tennis has moved through many venues—from Britannia Hall to the Buffalo Club—before settling at its current home on Bridge Road. Officially opened by Mayor Sir Albert Abbott in 1971, the purpose-built centre boasts 10 courts, the largest facility of its kind outside Brisbane, and is widely regarded as one of the best in the state.

Globally, table tennis boasts an estimated 350 million players, with 40 million playing competitively and around 200,000 in Australia alone. Mackay currently has 127 active members, ranging from seven years old to an impressive 87.

Recognised as the world’s best brain sport, table tennis offers a unique blend of mental stimulation, physical activity, and social connection. Scientific research supports its benefits for concentration, hand-eye coordination, tactical thinking, and overall brain health.

Whether you're chasing titles or simply looking for fun and friendship, Mackay Table Tennis has something for everyone. Weekly fixtures run on Tuesday mornings and evenings, with social sessions on Thursday evenings, Friday and Sunday mornings. Junior coaching is offered every Wednesday from 4:30pm to 6pm, and a world-ranked coach visits monthly for advanced training.

No matter your age, skill level or sporting goals, Mackay Table Tennis welcomes all. If you’re new in town, keen to try a new all-weather activity, or want to expand your social circle, now is the perfect time to get involved.

For more information, visit mackaytta.com, call (07) 4957 6103, or follow the club on Facebook.

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From pint-sized prodigies to seasoned stalwarts — Mackay Table Tennis players Remy Zhan, Barry Patterson, Emma Widdup and Rymer Tabulo show how the sport brings generations together. Barry has been hitting winners since the 1960s, while little Remy is just getting started. Emma remains one of the club’s top talents, and Rymer is now stepping up to support the committee off the court, too. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Results for week ending Saturday 19 April 025

Monday 14 April 2025 – 4.5 Table Howell Green Points

1st JANINE RODGERS - RICHARD WIX 3rd PAMELA FINGER - MING TING

2nd MONICA DARLEY - DIANE STOKES 4th NOEL BUGEIA - GEOFFREY PATTERSON

Tuesday Evening 15 April 2025 – 4 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West

1st ERROL MORRIS - PATRICIA GARNER 1st SANDRA MORRIS - DIANE MORGAN

2nd GLEN COCUP - TEX SHEEDY 2nd JANELLE CONROY - CHRISTINE MORRISON

Wednesday 16 April 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West

1st JOSIE CROWLEY - BARBARA TAIT 1st TEX SHEEDY - LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD

2nd MAX HOLEWA - DIANE HOLEWA 2nd MONICA DARLEY - NANCY MARTIN

3rd JAN HARRIS - ANDREW CANAVAN 3rd GEOFFREY PATTERSON - SANDY PATTERSON

Thursday Evening 17 April 2025 – 4 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West

1st MARTIN PEARCE - DIANE STOKES 1st KEN SEANIGER - ROBERT CARLESS

2nd JAN HARRIS - ANDREW CANAVAN 2nd GRIFFIN BANCROFT - PATRICIA GARNER

Friday 18 April 2025 –4.5 Table Howell Green Points

North/South

1st SANDY PATTERSON - TED CULLINAN

2nd GEOFF COWAN - MICK KING

=3rd TEX SHEEDY - JANELLE CONROY

=3rd KEN SEANIGER - ROBERT CARLESS

Saturday 19 April 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West

1st MONICA DARLEY - CHRISTINE NICE 1st SANDRA MORRIS - ANNIE LYNCH

2nd MING TING - DAVID TING =2nd JANELLE CONROY - ROBERT CARLESS

3rd ALAN BROWN - FRANCES BROWN =2nd JOHN MCGEE - MICK KING

Contributed by Robert Carless

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Mackay Contract Bridge Club President Francie Brown presents prizes to Annie Lynch and Diane Stokes for their 1st place Category C, Mackay Barometer Pairs Congress played earlier this month. Photo supplied

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Miles Woods, or ‘Milo’ to friends, is the dynamic founder and president of Whitsunday Blokart Club, where his passion for performance Blokart land sailing has turned calm, breezy beaches into adrenaline pumping raceways. Since purchasing his first Blokart in April 2019, Milo has menaced his competition on a heart-thumping journey of speed, camaraderie and triumphs that have made him stick out like a sore thumb in Queensland’s and Australia’s land sailing scene.

Milo’s love of Blokarting was set alight in the flames of 2019 Mid-Winter Bash in Mulumbin, where the art of the blokart and the community surrounding it had hooked him instantaneously. Now a regular on the Queensland circuit he has accumulated an impressive number of wins. Milo carved out his territory on the international Blokarting scene, claiming his first title in the Performance Heavyweight Division at Lake Ivanpah, the Mecca of land sailing in the United States.

On the domestic front, he dominated the Southeast Queensland 2.5 hour Marathon in Woodgate, finishing 5 kilometres ahead in second place. His grandest victory however, came at the 2025 Australian National Championships in Waratah Bay, Victoria. In the face of challenging light winds and soft sand, Milo captured a one-point lead by winning all six races on the final day of competition, earning the Middleweight Title.

“Life isn’t about how many breaths we take. It’s about how many things we do that take or breath away” said Milo, capturing the essence of his love for Blokarting.

With decades of experience racing windsurfers, Hobie cats, and yachts, Milo brings a wealth of knowledge to his sport. His ‘Blokart’ grin is infectious, and he is always eager to share tips with newcomers to the sport. Blokarting was invented in New Zealand in 1999 and has swiftly gained global popularity, with over 16,000 Blokarts manufactured and shipped worldwide as of 2024. This made Milo’s achievement in the National Championships even more sweet as he cheerfully declared that he “ smoked” the New Zealand team, beating them at their own game.

As club president, Milo aims to nurture a  growing sport that welcomes families and thrill-seekers alike. Whether mentoring novices or racing at world-class events, he’s committed to making land sailing a Whitsunday staple.

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Blowkart lined up on the beach. Photo Supplied.
Miles Woods, Founder and President of Whitsunday Blokart Club, Current Australian National Champion.

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Tour de Cure’s is heading north for eight unforgettable days of cycling through Queensland. From Airlie Beach to Port Douglas, 190 riders and support crew will travel more than 1,000 kilometres across some of North Queensland’s most scenic and lesser-travelled roads.

This isn’t just a ride, it’s a powerful movement to help cure cancer. Tour de Cure is a cancer-agnostic organisation, meaning funds raised support a wide range of cancer research, support services, and prevention projects. The fundraising goal for Signature Tour 2025 is $2 million, and has $902,870 already raised!

Along the route, the team will engage with local communities, meet ambassadors from regional cancer charities, and visit schools to speak with children about healthy, happy living.

Founded in 2007, Tour de Cure began with a vision to improve health outcomes for Australians. To date, the organisation has raised over $145 million, funded 1,198 cancer projects, educated 250,000 children, and contributed to 185 cancer research breakthroughs. Recognising the challenges faced by rural Australians, the Tour makes a lasting impact in each town it visits. Every night, $10,000 is donated to local cancer support projects, with funds presented at community dinners held throughout the tour. These donations go directly to grassroots services that make a real difference in the lives of local families.

Life Publishing Group will be able to cover this amazing tour as it begins in Airlie Beach, travels to Bowen, where-in after a day it will reach the sister-paper in Hinchinbrook as it rolls through Ingham.

If you would like to cheer the cyclist along their route, see the tour information below. (These dates and meeting locations are subject to change but what's currently planned for the schedule). If you would like to donate, you can do so online:signaturetour.tourdecure.com.au/donate

Day 1 - Airlie Beach to Bowen
Friday, 30 May 2025. 146km, 594m elevation.
Riders depart Airlie Beach Foreshore from 6am- 9am. The team will stop at Dingo Bay mid-morning. Finishes at Grays Beach, Bowen between 2-3pm.

Day 2 - Bowen to Townsville
Saturday, 31 May 2025. 'Journey' 157km (bus uplift to finish) 'Classic/Challenge' 209km, 761m elevation.

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Tour de Cure departs from Airlie Beach and roles through Bowen this May. Photo supplied

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The 2025 Australian Speedway Sidecar Championship, held over Easter weekend (April 19-20) at Bowen Speedway, exhilarated the Whitsundays, galvanising  Bowen as a hub of motorsport. Promoted by the NQ Speedway Riders & Supporters Club, this momentous event drew swathes of people to the granite-based track at Bowen Showgrounds, revived in 2019 after decades of history since 1927. For Bowen, a coastal gem of the Whitsundays, hosting this national championship was a triumph, magnifying local pride and boosting tourism. The event showcased the region’s ability to stage world-class spectacles, putting Bowen on the map alongside its stunning beaches and vibrant community spirit.

The championship was a tempestuous rollercoaster of highs and lows, with fierce rivalries and heart-stopping action. Mark Plaisted and passenger Ben Pitt, from Adelaide, captured the title in a thrilling final, overcoming tricky track conditions that varied across rounds. Mark credited his team and praised Mike Zahlen’s bike for their edge in the competition. Meanwhile, Justin Plaisted, brother of Mark and also from Adelaide, battled back from an early exclusion to secure fourth place, showcasing heart and resilience. “Once you make the finals, anything can happen,” Justin noted, reflecting the event’s unpredictability. Crashes punctuated the races, with sidecars,1000cc beasts with no brakes, skidding on tight turns, spraying dirt pebbles onto the roaring crowd, amplifying the raw intensity of the sport.

The atmosphere was electric, fuelled by the speed and screaming sound of sidecar engines hitting 100+ km/h, their engines snarling and fuel fumes pervading through the air. Spectators, from toddlers to grandparents, felt the adrenaline as riders and passengers leaned into curves, mere inches from the ground. The crowd’s cheers swelled to a crescendo  with each pass, dirt flecks dusting their faces, creating a visceral connection to the action. Bowen’s supportive audience, praised by both Plaisted brothers, turned the Showgrounds into a cauldron of excitement, with families soaking in the family-friendly vibe. “The Bowen crowd was awesome, really behind us”, Mark noted, appreciating the enthusiastic turnout.

Food stalls added to the festive spirit, offering hot dogs, chips, burgers, and a range of beverages, including alcoholic for crowd members looking to spice up their night. These stalls, buzzing with activity, kept fans fueled as they mingled, swapped race predictions, and cheered for heroes like defending champions Darrin Treloar and Blake Cox, who pushed the leaders hard. The event’s inclusivity shone, with junior sidecar support races inspiring young fans and free pit access before 6 pm letting kids meet their idols. Mark, a sidecar racer since age 10, had a message for aspiring juniors, “Stick with it, from junior Speedway to chasing your dreams like I did.”

For Bowen and the Whitsundays, the championship was more than a race, it was a celebration of community, grit, and adrenaline. From Mark’s victory to Justin’s comeback, the highs and lows enchanted all, leaving families with memories of roaring engines, flying dirt, and shared joy, ensuring Bowen Speedway’s legacy burns bright.

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Racers doing a lap around the prior to races. Photo Credit: Munir Kilic.
Racers lining up for the finals . Photo Credit: Munir Kilic.
Racers battling out in the finals. Photo Credit: Munir Kilic.
Champion Mark Plaisted and Passenger Ben Pitt: Munir Kilic
Mark Plaisted and Ben Pitt on the podium. Photo Credit: Munir Kilic.

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Just a short time from entries opening for Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW) 2025, keen competitors started committing to the fun event and with 60 entries received to-date, it is a good start to what is sure to be another great week of racing and where fun doesn’t set with the sun from 7-14 August.

Entries have been received across the various classes. Looking healthy at this early stage is the Trailable Yachts & Sports Boats division and the boats are coming from far and wide.

New to Airlie Beach Race Week is a VX-One division. Terry Archer said, “This is a light and fast one-design boat and a number from Victoria have said they will be here, throwing down the gauntlet to those from other states to come and join them."

“The VX’s are gaining in status among the newer sports boat designs in the country. We feel they will be a great addition to our event and the Whitsundays offer the type of conditions they sail best in.”

A fun social program is also a magnet for ABRW. Live Music and food stalls at the Whitsunday Sailing Club nightly, a Long Late Lunch for those ashore, not to mention all the other delights on offer in the region, both on the water and shoreside. So much to see and do, why wouldn’t you want to join in?

No matter what type of boat you sail, there is a division for all at Airlie Beach Race Week, so go online now to enter and see Notice of Race: https://www.abrw.com.au/

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Photo credit: Andrea Francolini

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