Tuesday's Winners Margaret Harvey, Jill Gillies, May Hand. Photo supplied: Penny Warren.  

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It was another big week for the club this week with plenty of play on the green, as well as holding a very successful monster cent sale on Saturday. The ladies came to the fore and produced a large array of raffle prizes to win for our record crowd who attended. Thank you to all involved.

On Monday, self-selected triple winners were Maureen Hyde, Gavin Charles, and Ron Hyde, defeating France Wilmann, Jenny Healey, and Chris Healey. Runners-up were Gary Willis R. Barr-Kemp and Jim Steele, who defeated Mark Drummond, Alby Vigar, and Allan Rolfe. The jackpot didn’t go off.  

On Tuesday Margaret Harvey, May Hand and Jill Gillies were the victors against L. Davies, P. Cochrane, and Bob Dykstra. Runners-up were Angela Tisler, Col Parker, and Robyn Crawford, defeating Bron Tolcher, Lorraine Knight, and Sharon Fead. The jackpot also stayed intact for another week.  

Fun Thursday winners were Carole Levi and Angela, defeating Debra, Mary, and Ron B. Runners-up were Viv Boskma, France Wilmann, and Robin Skeep. Resting touchers went to Lorraine and Lyn.

On Sunday afternoon our winners came out on Rink 4, and they were Karen H., Robin S., and Debbie G., who defeated Angela Tisler, David S., and Max R. Runners-up and jackpot winners were in the game between Larry Crawford, Col. Parker, and Ron Hyde, defeating June Paynting, Laurie Land, and Wayne Byrne.

This weekend our Club Champion Ladies will be playing in the District Champion of Champions at Thuringowa in all events with Linda Scells in B singles, Penny Warren in A singles, Penny Warren and Denise Wallace in A pairs, and Sue Shearing, Teresa Willshire, Robyn Stitt, and Fely Duncan in Club fours. Best wishes, ladies.

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Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

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Some competition games were played in B singles. David Ling defeated Arthur Griffith 27 - 4 on June 23; Todd Leys defeated Mike Harrison 25 - 17 on July 4; and David Ling defeated Trevor Parsons 27 - 5 in the first of the semifinals on July 1.  

This leaves us almost complete in the Club B singles competition, with the semifinal between Jonathan Levett and Todd Leys to be played, and the winner coming up against David Ling.

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In catch up of social bowls Dave Wilson (visitor from Victoria) Arthur Griffith and Sandy Daffara defeated Alen Sanderson, Kathy (visitor) and Bruce Ueh 30 - 12;  Alen Sanderson, Barry Zillmann and Mike Harrison drew with Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith and Dale Haack 19 all;  Cathy (visitor), Henny Tattam and Bruce Uhe defeated Graham Thropp, Dave Wilson and Bob Ross (visitor from Eden) 19 - 14, John Anderson, Shirley Thomas (visitor from Victoria), Henny Tattam and Arthur Griffith defeated Alen Sanderson, Dave Wilson, Peter O'Loghlin (visitor from Victoria) and Bruce Uhe 21 - 17.

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In social bowls this week. On Wednesday Graham Thropp, Bob Ross, and Mike Harrison defeated Bruce Uhe, Dave Wilson, and Sandy Daffara after a draw of 16 all on the 19th end, 20 - 16. Jente (a visitor from the Netherlands), Shirley, and Heather Brown defeated Jente, Peter, and Philip Brown 20 - 19.  

On Sunday Alen Sanderson, Trevor Parsons, and Gavin Noonan defeated Mary Hedgelong, Bruce Uhe, and Mike Harrison 24 - 14; Graham Thropp, Bob Ross, and Sandy Daffara defeated Dave Wilson, Philip Brown, and Mark Holmes 26 - 23.

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Competition games being played this weekend are Club Championship Fours on Saturday, July 11, with semi-finals at a 9.30am start. Dale Haack, David Ling, Jonathan Bye, and Andrew Bell versus Gavin Noonan, Mark Holmes, Shane Kinnear, and Michael Kinnear. The final is a 1.30 pm start with the winners of the morning game to play Harry Craig, Marcus Craig, Toby Craig, and Nathan Harriott.  

Contributed with thanks to the Secretary of Proserpine Bowls Club.

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Proserpine Tyrepower pumping up the team

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The Whitsundays' U14 PPP netball team are taking on the Gold Coast, where they're taking part in four days of Junior State Age competition against some of Queensland's best young talent.

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After months of training and preparation, the tournament is an exciting opportunity for the squad to test their skills, gain valuable experience and proudly represent the region on the state stage.

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Their journey has been made possible thanks to the support of local businesses including Whitsundays family dental, Proserpine Tyrepower and Greater Whitsunday Vet Services, whose generosity has helped the team travel and compete.

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The entire Whitsundays community is cheering them on and wishing them every success.

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WUFC team. Photo supplied: Joscelyn O’Keefe.  

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All Whitsunday United FC youth and men’s teams had BYE weekend so, the Women’s Premier team were the only squad with a scheduled home fixture.

WUFC Women faced a tough challenge against league leaders Mackay Lions, conceding in the opening attack before regrouping through a series of positional changes.

The reshuffle helped the side regain its defensive structure, with determined efforts across the park restricting Lions to a 4–0 lead at half-time.

Alexis Ripps and Hayley Ast worked tirelessly throughout, applying constant pressure and covering plenty of ground, while Deb Savy put in a strong defensive performance to limit her direct opponent's influence.  

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Despite the scoreboard, WUFC continued to battle hard after the break, showing resilience and commitment against a quality opposition.  

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Fatigue eventually took its toll in the closing stages, with Mackay Lions capitalising in the final 10 minutes to add several late goals and seal a 10–0 victory.

While the result was disappointing, Whitsunday's determination and willingness to compete against the competition's benchmark side provided positives to build on in the weeks ahead.

Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O’Keefe.

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B Pairs 2026 champions Arthur McManus and Steve Lawrie.

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Another great week for our little club in paradise, which started on Wednesday due to our green being thoroughly cleaned and evened, and 30 bowlers turned out, and the biggest winning team was skippered by Ted Cullen with Tony Lennie second and Rick Brunell leading as comfortable winners; second overall was the team of skipper "Take the Money" Tony Whitehorn, ably assisted by Alan Pershouse and lead Keith Bates.

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Thursday afternoon saw the Christian College teams of Pazel Davis and Ollie Webb with Miranda Jackson coming from Bowen to practice with Elliana Langshore, and they're certainly developing into a team, and with practice will only improve their skills.

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Friday morning saw the return of the Endeavour Foundation group, and it's so pleasing to see Michael and Cathy improving, and Deon is finally bowling well too, making huge strides in concentration and understanding of what is required to become a good lawn bowler. I'm so proud of their progress, and thanks to Alma Rose Mawson for her assistance.

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Friday night saw the Tradies versus Non-Tradies competition begin, and six teams played, and the second leg will be the Non-Tradies team, and the third leg will be the finals. Results will be published in this exciting competition created by John Brown, our previouschairman.

Saturday and Sunday saw the B Division pairs, with the final game played Sunday morning and the prolific B Pairs champion fresh from his 60th birthday celebrations. Arthur McManus, this time teaming up with new chairman Steve Lawrie, won an exciting tussle against Mervyn Stewart and Denis Donnadelli in a great game going down in the last two ends, 22-17. This is Arthur's 3rd straight B Pairs win.

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Sunday afternoon social bowls saw 19 bowlers vying for the prize, and we welcomed Ronald and Julie Orchard from Moffra Bowls Club in Victoria as well as Sue Blakey from Stawell Bowls Club in Victoria. Sue turned out to be a real Stawell Gift in being the winner of the day with Maureen Barnard, who is also in hot form, and the dice rolled by club manager Fiona Greener was a 5, which meant the lowest winning margin was 27-20. Congratulations, girls.  

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Other winning teams were skipper Ron Orchard with lead Alma Rose Mawson and second Mark Mawson, 25-15. Tony Whitehorn easily won his game, with Julie Orchard and Sue Dakin at second, slowly recovering from a terrible bout of flu, winning 25-8.

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Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Photo credit: Kylie Allen.

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On Saturday, the Whitsunday Sea Eagles were back on home turf at The Nest, where players, supporters, and volunteers came together for another fantastic day of football. Taking on three opposition clubs, the Sea Eagles continued their strong form and celebrated victories in three of the four matches played. The day was capped off with a sunset BBQ following the senior men's game, providing the perfect opportunity for the competing clubs to come together and celebrate another successful weekend of football in the region.

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The Under 13s took on the Mackay Magpies in a nail-biting contest. After a slow scoring first half, the young Sea Eagles lifted their intensity and fought their way back into the game. Despite their determined effort, they fell just short, going down by three points with a final score of 25–28.

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The Under 15s battled the North Mackay Saints in an impressive display of selfless team football. Maintaining a steady lead throughout the match, the Sea Eagles stuck to their game plan and were rewarded with the club's first win of the day, defeating the Saints 47–39.

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The senior women's side celebrated a well-earned victory over the Moranbah Bulldogs. After an evenly contested first half, the Sea Eagles dug deep and came out firing in the third quarter, slotting three unanswered goals to take control of the match. Their strong finish secured a convincing 19-point win over the Bulldogs.

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The senior men's team also took on the Moranbah Bulldogs in a thrilling contest. Trailing for much of the game, the Sea Eagles refused to give in and shifted into top gear in the final quarter, booting five goals to turn the match in their favour. The impressive comeback secured a 16-point victory, finishing with a final score of 89–73 and keeping their finals hopes alive.

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Get around your club this Saturday 11th July where the Sea Eagles are back down at The Nest! Games start from 10:40am with the juniors and 1:50pm for the seniors, see you there!

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Contributed by Whitsunday Sea Eagles - Georgia Whitton

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Entire  SNQ Development Squad. Photo Supplied: Raylene Rasmussen

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Eleven Cannonvale Cannons swimmers were recognised for their outstanding performances last season after being selected for the Swimming North Queensland (SNQ) State and National Development Squad ONCORE and Stroke Refinement Clinic held in Mackay and Townsville over the weekend.  

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Representing the Cannons were Eloise Chegwidden, Thomas Ganter, Roxy Groom, Jax Clayworth, Ruby Harland, Alex Trefz, Tora Delac, Harris Delac, Miller Eaves, Charlie Doherty, and Hamilton Anflous.  

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The clinic was coordinated by Queensland coach Barry Prime, who engaged ONCORE Academy founder Jade Edmistone to deliver the specialist development program. A former Australian breaststroke swimmer, World Champion, and World Record holder, Edmistone shared her expertise with some of North Queensland's most promising young athletes.  

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Throughout the day, swimmers completed athletic development, body control and streamlining activities before taking part in an intensive in-water session focusing on the ONCORE program, underwater skills, stroke refinement and technical efficiency.  

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The Cannonvale Cannons were also proudly represented on the coaching team, with club coaches Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson assisting Swimming North Queensland coaches in delivering the technical stroke sessions. Their involvement highlights the quality of coaching available within the Cannons program and their ongoing commitment to swimmer development across the region.  

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Head Coach Mark Erickson said selection to the development squads reflected the swimmers' commitment and determination throughout the season.  

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"These opportunities expose our swimmers to world-class coaching and new training methods while reinforcing the importance of sound technique. They returned home with greater knowledge, confidence and motivation, and we're incredibly proud of how they represented both themselves and the Cannonvale Cannons."

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The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club congratulates all eleven swimmers on their selection and thanks Swimming North Queensland for providing another outstanding development opportunity for the region's emerging talent.  

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Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen  

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Lighthouse walkers on their way back Photo supplied: Leanne Abernethy

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Low tides in July and August will mean it is possible to walk from the Bowen Mainland to the North Head Lighthouse five times this year.

It is only recommended that you take part in this walk when the tides are below 0.2metres.

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This year, that will occur on July 13, 14, 15 and again on August 11 and 12.

For many years, locals and visitors have been taking advantage of the low tides to walk across each year – but sometimes it is only low enough on one day of the year.

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Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said there was always an influx of visitors to Bowen on the days when the tide is at its lowest.

“It is fantastic that there are five days when this is possible this year,” she said.

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The lighthouse is one of the oldest in Queensland and is just one kilometre off the coast.

If you are taking part, please be aware of marine life and the natural environment.

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It is important to leave well before the tide is at its lowest – to give you enough time to return.

This is not a guided event – it is just a natural occurrence that people take advantage of, so all walkers take part at their own risk.

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The walkers start at Dalrymple Point, and it is recommended you wear reef shoes or an old pair of sneakers and that you take sunscreen, wear a hat and take some drinking water and a camera.

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Low tide times

*July 13 at 2.58pm

*July 14 at 3.45pm

*July 15 at 4.31pm

*August 11 at 2.48pm

*August 12 at 3.31pm

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Steve Catalano and Peter Jefferies standing in the rain at their preferred location, Les Stagg Oval. Photo Credit: Zach Houtenville

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Whitsunday Regional Council's proposal to build a new basketball court in Proserpine has sparked debate, with the proposed location emerging as the key point of contention.  

First proposed in 2022, council sought community feedback on three possible locations for the court. Halpanel Park, Keith Johns Park and Les Stagg Oval. In July 2025, residents surrounding Halpanel Park were notified construction would begin, despite many saying they had received little to no prior consultation.  

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This led to a petition back in July 2025, and after enough signatures it was officially lodged to council. However, come this June, council again opened up the discussions, outlining the same three options as 2022. This has ignited yet another petition, this time by the residents surrounding Keith Johns Park just last Thursday.  

“It's really, really not an appropriate place,” said long-time Proserpine resident who started the Halpanel petition, Peter Jefferies.  

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"The views of others who aren't directly affected by the facility are useful, but the views of the key stakeholders who are being directly impacted need to be weighted."  

He, along with Keith Johns Park petition organiser Steve Catalano, said Halpanel and Keith Johns parks are too close to nearby homes, raising concerns over noise, parking and increased activity. Instead, they believe upgrading the existing basketball court at Les Stagg Oval would better complement the precinct's existing sporting facilities while minimising impacts on nearby residents.

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A spokesperson from Council stated that the three locations were chosen because they each present different opportunities and constraints, with factors such as accessibility, nearby land uses, existing sporting infrastructure and neighbourhood amenity all taken into account.

The pair don't question the value of a basketball court in Proserpine, but are querying the level of genuine community demand.  

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"A question of why we need another basketball court hasn't been answered adequately. Is it something that's been proposed by the council or is it the residents asking for it?” Steve said.  

While residents may have questions about the proposed locations, local basketball coach and Next Stars Sports Academy founder Tim Oberg said more public facilities play an important role in giving young people a place to be active, social and connected.  

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“Having any sort of free facility removes a barrier to participation,” Tim said.  

“For families, particularly in this tough economic climate that we're in right now, not everyone can afford to pay for their children to have private coaching in a private facility.”

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Having spent the past decade growing basketball in the Whitsundays, Tim sees providing sporting infrastructure as one of local government's core responsibilities.

“Local councils have the ability to really impact local communities in a positive way through facilities, be it making new facilities available or upgrading existing facilities,” he said.

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“I believe it is a key job of the council to make sure our local communities are serviced with sporting facilities where appropriate.”

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The debate, he believes, extends well beyond Proserpine. With the Whitsundays among Australia's fastest-growing regions, Tim argues demand for basketball facilities is already outpacing supply.

“I was just at a conference on Friday, and they used basketball as an example, but if you look at the sort of demographic data and trends around Australia, there is a significant lack of basketball courts.

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“From a population point of view, there's just nowhere near enough facilities,” he said.  

A council representative said no decision has been made on the location of the basketball court, with the current consultation process aimed at understanding community views before councillors make a final decision.  

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Residents are being encouraged to provide feedback through an online survey, Council's Your Say platform and a community information stall in Proserpine.

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Council added that once all the final consultation has been assessed, and any additional feedback, a decision will be made in an open and transparent forum.  

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Photo source: Mackay basketball (Facebook)

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Mackay Basketball’s Holiday Hoops Camp has recorded its biggest turnout yet, with more than 140 young participants taking part across two days of basketball during the school holidays.

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The program, the second Holiday Hoops Camp held this year, proved a standout success and set a new participation record for the organisation’s holiday camp series.

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It was said that across the two days, the courts were filled with activity, with plenty of smiles, new friendships forming and a strong sense of enjoyment evident among participants.

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Mackay Basketball also acknowledged its coaching group, who volunteered their time to run the sessions. Coaches were recognised for their efforts in teaching, encouraging and supporting players throughout the camp, helping deliver a positive experience for all involved.

The Holiday Hoops Camp continues to be a popular feature on Mackay Basketball’s calendar, providing young players with the opportunity to spend time on court during the school holidays in a structured and supportive environment.

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This latest edition has now set a new benchmark for participation, with organisers describing the two-day event as an “unbelievable couple of days of hoops.”

With record numbers achieved, the program has again highlighted the strong level of engagement with basketball across the Mackay region, as local families continue to support opportunities for young players to get involved in the sport.

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The camp concluded after two full days of activity, marking another successful instalment of Mackay Basketball’s ongoing holiday program.

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Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club

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Mackay's Sinkers have continued to make waves in the pool, celebrating strong performances at both the Australian Pool Rescue Championships in Perth and the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler.

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Peter T delivered an outstanding result at the Australian Pool Rescue Championships, returning to competition for the first time in 12 months to finish second overall in the 45–60 years age group.

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Competing across the three-day championships, Peter claimed an impressive medal tally of one gold and four silver medals, marking a successful return after an extended break from competition.

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Fellow Sinkers Nigel Dalton and Dan Stampa also impressed at the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler, producing a series of strong swims against a competitive field of 194 registered athletes.

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Nigel finished third in his age group, while Dan also secured third place in his respective age group.

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The pair briefly celebrated holding the Small Club Trophy before competition rules required the award to be presented to another club, with a minimum of three swimmers needed to qualify. With only two Sinkers competing, the trophy was officially handed to the Belgravia team during the Face-to-Face branch meeting.

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Both Nigel and Dan enjoyed some extra success away from the pool, each winning prizes in the event's multi-draw.

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The club congratulated all swimmers on their performances and thanked Brisbane Southside Meet organisers for hosting another successful competition.

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Seven days of Bridge were played at the Mackay Bridge Club last week. This included two evenings, Saturday, and Sunday for Novice (beginners) and Mentors. Mackay Bridge club ensures that there are plenty of opportunities for working people who want to learn bridge to participate after their bridge lessons.  

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Four members played in the Townsville Congress, with Terry Sheedy and Janelle Conroy winning the A Section pairs. Diane and Max Holewa joined Terry and Janelle to win the Teams event.  

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Members of the club are travelling to Bowen to participate in the Bowen Pairs Congress this weekend. Bridge is a social game, which encourages friendship, partnerships, fun and sometimes travel. Don’t wait until you retire, join next year when lessons begin. For more information, watch this space or contact the club.

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Weekly Results  

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Monday 22 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st David Ting / Eric Goodchild

1^st Nancy Martin / Susan Ross

2^nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris

2^nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

3^rd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

3^rd Janice Mansfield / Debra Goodchild

4^th Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

4^th Sue Mayer-Miller / Karen Caldwell

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Tuesday Evening 23 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

2^nd Frances Brown / Rodney Miles

3^rd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger

4^th Helen Van Den Breok / Terry Sheedy

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Wednesday 24 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Joy Block / Diane Stokes

1^st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2^nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

3^rd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt

3^rd Terry Sheedy / Mick King

4^th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

4^th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

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Thursday 25 June 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st Mick King / Griffin Bancroft

2^nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

3^rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan

4^th Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott

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Friday 26 June 2026 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Geoff Cowan / Mick King

1^st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2^nd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait

2^nd David Ting / Ming Ting

3^rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

3^rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

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Saturday 27 June 2026 –- 13 Table Mitchell Red Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins  

1^st Alan Brown / Frances Brown

2^nd Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson

2^nd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden

3^rd Nancy Wix / Richard Wix

3^rd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner

4^th Gwen Liddell / Julie O’Neill

4^th Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell

5^th Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

5^th Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok

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Sunday 28 June 2026 – 7 Tables Green Points Novices and Mentors

N/S

E/W

1^st David Ting / Rodney Miles

1^st Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor

2^nd Susan Ross / Joy Hold

2^nd Colleen Riddel / Sue Mayer-Miller

3^rd Christine Fitzpatrick / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd Gillian McCallum / Ming Ting

4^th Neila Quintero / Martin Pearce

4^th Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin

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Contributed by Joy Block

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Damp unforgiving rains did not take the fun out of a social Mackay Road Runners event from Eimeo Surf Club.

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More than 20 runners turned out in challenging conditions at Eimeo Surf Club on the weekend, including the dedicated Mackay Tri Club members who, after completing their run, took to the ocean for a "little" 2km swim.

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The 5km and 10km courses featured plenty of challenging hills through the Blacks Beach, Dolphin Heads and Eimeo suburbs, providing an ideal hit-out for athletes preparing to taper ahead of the upcoming Gold Coast Running Festival and various Ironman events.

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Those who took shelter from the rain beneath the Surf Life Saving Control Watch Tower also enjoyed learning a few tricks of the trade about the delicate nature of the tummy, including checking that the milk is lactose free.

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A big thank you goes to Andrew Short for once again setting up a spectacular course. A legendary stalwart of the club, his ongoing contribution continues to be greatly appreciated.

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With a significant number of athletes away competing at out-of-town events, including the Gold Coast, Mackay Road Runners will instead host a social 5km and 10km run from Casu Jacks at Mackay Harbour this Sunday, starting at 7am.

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Participants are encouraged to bring along card or cash for breakfast, a cuppa and a chat, while celebrating the first run of the new financial year following 30 June 2026.

All members and non-members are welcome to attend for a $2 race day fee. Please arrive by 6.50am for registration, the course briefing and club notices.

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Tri-ActiV8 has earned statewide recognition after taking home two major honours at the 2026 AusTriathlon Queensland State Awards on Saturday 27^th June, marking the first time the organisation has been recognised for its triathlon efforts within the Mackay and Isaac region.

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The local coaching organisation claimed the prestigious Coach of the Year award for Director and Head Coach Nikki Giles, while the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon was recognised as Club Event of the Year.

Nikki received the Coach of the Year honour in recognition of her outstanding commitment to building a positive, inclusive training culture where athletes at every level are empowered to develop skills and strive for personal bests.

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The award is open to accredited AusTriathlon coaches at affiliated clubs and squads who actively coach across all three disciplines: swim, cycle and run, and is determined through nominations from members, reflecting the impact coaches have on the athletes they support.

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The region's only female Performance Accredited AusTriathlon coach, Nikki has become a driving force behind the continued growth of triathlon across the Mackay and Isaac regions. Her passion for the sport extends beyond coaching, with a strong focus on creating a welcoming environment where athletes of all abilities feel encouraged to challenge themselves and achieve their goals.

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Under her leadership, Tri-ActiV8 has grown into a welcoming hub for triathletes of all abilities across the Mackay and Isaac regions.

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“This recognition means the world to me. Triathlon has given so much to our community in the Mackay and Isaac regions, and every single day I pour my heart into giving that back.  

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“Knowing that my athletes and our community felt moved to nominate me for this – that’s the real award.”

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“I am incredibly proud to represent this region and to be part of growing and strengthening the sport of triathlon here.  

“This belongs to every athlete who has trusted me with their journey,” Nikki said.

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Tri-ActiV8's celebrations continued with the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon receiving the Club Event of the Year award.

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The organisation has proudly event-managed the triathlon in partnership with Isaac Regional Council for the past three years, with the event becoming a signature fixture on the regional triathlon calendar.

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Held each January, the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon brings the community together while providing athletes across the Isaac region with a high-quality, professionally managed race experience. Tri-ActiV8 said its partnership with Isaac Regional Council has been central to the event's success and continued growth.

The organisation is proud of what the event represents, not only as a competition but as a celebration of community spirit and the power of sport to bring people together.

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Tri-ActiV8 said the two awards reflect the dedication, hard work and passion of everyone involved with the organisation, from its coaches and volunteers to its athletes and the communities it is privileged to serve, while also recognising the continued strength and growth of triathlon across the Mackay and Isaac regions.

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Tri-ActiV8 Director and Head Coach Nikki Giles was named Coach of the Year at the 2026 AusTriathlon Queensland State Awards. Photo supplied

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Mackay State High School’s Takiyah was named Girls Player of the Carnival and selected in the Queensland Merit Team at the QLD State Schools Cup Rugby League Carnival, alongside her sister Veanna who also earned merit selection. Photo source: Mackay SHS (Facebook)

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Mackay State High School student Takiyah has capped off an outstanding Queensland State Schools Cup Rugby League Carnival, earning the prestigious Girls Player of the Carnival award and selection in the Queensland Merit Team.

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The Year 12 student was recognised for her performances throughout the carnival, with the honours reflecting her dedication and work ethic on the field.

Takiyah has been involved in rugby league for the past eight years and has represented Mackay State High School, Capricornia, the Mackay Cutters and the Australian Wanderers during her playing career.

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Now in her senior year, she has been a member of the school's Rugby League Academy since Year 7.

The carnival also proved to be a memorable occasion for the family, with Takiyah playing alongside her Year 11 sister, Veanna. Both sisters were selected in the Queensland Merit Team following their performances throughout the tournament.

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Mackay State High School congratulated Takiyah and Veanna on their achievements and thanked staff and Queensland Secondary Schools Cup organisers for delivering another successful carnival, with students enjoying the opportunity to represent their school on the state stage.

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