Phil O’Brien receiving the team’s awards Photo supplied

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We are so privileged to live in the Whitsundays, with all the magic in the air living in Paradise.

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However, on ANZAC Day we reflect on how lucky we really are. We are grateful for members of our little bowls club who are proud to do their little part for our community and the mourn many people that died to keep our country safe.

A busy week started on Tuesday where the first place went to the team of skipper Mark Mawson with second Di Dobbins and lead Sue Walker -- 26-12. Second place went to the pairs team of Tony ( take the money) Whitehorn with Dawn Dowell -- 23-18.

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Wednesday afternoon Social Bowls saw 20 bowlers vying for first prize and this time Tony Whitehorn took the money with a first-class display with pairs partner Alan Pershouse -- 36-19 .

After the games, a dice roll determined that the lowest winning score would take the prize. This went to the team skipped by Phil O’Brien, with Tony Kelly as second—who delivered a particularly strong performance—and Sue Dakin at lead. They secured a 23–7 win.  

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There was also an A Division singles match between Warren Mills and John Fielding, with John narrowly winning 25–24 in a highly competitive and accurate game.

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Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Andie Reynolds at Whitsunday SC Meet

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Cannonvale Cannons swimmers made a powerful statement at the Whitsunday Short Course Transition Meet in Collinsville last weekend, with a small but mighty team of six delivering exceptional results.

With the Collinsville pool recently converted from 33 metres to a 25-metre format, this marked only the second official meet in its new configuration. The change has opened the door for a host of new pool records, and the Cannons were quick to make their mark.

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Five of the six Cannons swimmers claimed pool records across the weekend, led by an outstanding performance from Harry Chegwidden. Competing in the 8 years boys age group, Harry secured an incredible eight pool records across all 25m and 50m strokes – Freestyle, Backstroke, Breaststroke and Butterfly.

Eloise Chegwidden was equally impressive in the 10 years girls division, achieving nine pool records. Her results spanned all 25m and 50m events, along with the 100m Individual Medley, showcasing her versatility across all strokes.

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Mackenzie Bennett (11 years girls) added to the tally with multiple records in the 25m and 50m Freestyle and Butterfly, 50m Backstroke, and 100m Individual Medley. Andie Reynolds (13 years girls) also made her mark, breaking records in the 50m Breaststroke, 100m Freestyle and 100m Individual Medley, while Dylan Reynolds (16 years girls) claimed a new record in the 25m Butterfly.

In an impressive display of dominance, Eloise Chegwidden, Harry Chegwidden, Tyler Bennett, Mackenzie Bennett and Andie Reynolds each secured first place in every event they entered.

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Looking ahead, a larger contingent of Cannons swimmers will travel to Mackay this week to compete in the North Queensland Games, the largest multi-sport competition in regional Australia. The club looks forward to building on this strong momentum.

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Photos supplied

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The ANZAC Team Photo supplied

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Proserpine Whitsunday Rugby Union Club Women's A Grade team produced a commanding display on Saturday, defeating Moranbah Bulls 48-5 at Leprechaun Park during the special ANZAC Round clash.

The reigning 2025 premiers showed exactly why they remain the benchmark of the competition, crossing repeatedly in an impressive attacking performance.  Chelsie Jury starred with four tries, while Shirley Luke added a double. Emily Guthrie and Lily Sainsbury also added tries, with Shakaya Costello converting four attempts to complete a polished team effort.

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The Bulls showed determination throughout the contest, with Aroha Heta scoring their sole try of the match, and their first points of the season.

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Following two rounds of the Access Hire Women's A Grade Competition, the Whitsundays now sit on top of the ladder with 10 competition points and have made an early statement as one of the teams to beat this season.

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Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Rugby Union Club

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🏉Touch Whitsunday District U12 Trials

Friday, 1 May⋅9:00am – 3:00pm

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Whitsunday District trial with Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville Approx 85 students trialling with the Whitsunday District team

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⚽FOOTBALL Fixtures 3 Games Saturday, 2 May

3:00 PM    Whitsunday United FC Women    Country United FC Women 

5:00 PM    Whitsunday United FC U23 Men    City Brothers FC U23 Men 

7:00 PM    Whitsunday United FC Men    City Brothers FC Men

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🏉 AFL Saturday 2nd May 2026

Games from 12:15pm

Whitsunday United Eagles v Bakers Creek

Women 12:15pm

Men 1:50pm

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🏉Whitsunday Touch Monday 4^th May

Rookies 4:30 pm

Seniors 6pm, 6:50pm, 7:40pm

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Photo supplied

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ANZAC Day at the Brahmans’ home ground was something special this year, as the club hosted its first-ever ANZAC Round.

From the custom jerseys honouring Proserpine’s history to the moving ceremony led by Proserpine RSL President Dave, it was a day to remember. The crowd joined in for the Australian and New Zealand national anthems, while the sound of bagpipes and the bugle echoed across Les Stagg Oval.

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A record crowd packed the grounds, creating an electric atmosphere as the Brahmans faced the always tough Mackay Brothers.

The Under 20s showed plenty of effort but were outmatched by a fast and well-drilled Brothers side, going down 42-0. Despite the result, strong defensive efforts from local Braith Tetley and NZ import Somè Wulf, kept the team fighting. Coach Zach Hoffman will no doubt have the side ready to respond against Sarina.

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Reserve Grade delivered one of their best performances in recent years, pushing Brothers all the way in a narrow 20–12 loss. Captain Kuta Pollard and Lochie Wake were standouts in a game that had the crowd fully engaged and roaring. 

A Grade directly followed the ANZAC ceremony and matched the occasion with a high-quality contest. Facing last year’s grand finalists, the Brahmans went down 20–12 in a thrilling game. Early pressure from Brothers proved costly, but Darcy Turner’s try sparked the home side and set the tone for the rest of the game, where the Men battled hard for their local supporters. Setting a standard for the season ahead.

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Off the field, the club also celebrated selection honours ahead of the upcoming Foley Shield this weekend, Head coach Harley Bateup has been named assistant coach under Kane Linnett, while local women’s footy standout Eddy Cates will assist with the women’s side. Several Brahmans players are also expected to earn representative selection.

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The Brahmans now turn their attention to Round 3, travelling to face the Sarina Crocs on Sunday, May 10, with the Under 20s kicking off at 10am, followed by a very hotly anticipated Brahmans A Grade Women’s season opener at 11:30am and then senior men’s fixtures to end the day.

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Contributed with thanks to Mandy Bateup 

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Photo Credit: Kylie Allen – Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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The Whitsunday Sea Eagles had the honour of hosting the 2026 ANZAC Day Round against the Moranbah Bulldogs, and what a special day it was. From commemorative ANZAC Gurnsey’s to a moving recitation of The Ode and live performance of the Last Post, the atmosphere was truly memorable. Playing under brand new lights in an epic late-afternoon clash only added to the occasion, making it a day to remember.

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The Sea Eagles fully embraced the ANZAC spirit, playing with pride and purpose to honour the occasion. With the largest crowd turnout in the Club’s history and four wins from five games, the day was an outstanding success.  

The U13s set the tone early, bringing intense pressure and effort in a great contest. A dominant second quarter saw the Sea Eagles pile on five goals in five minutes while keeping the Bulldogs scoreless, securing a 53–28 win.

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The U15s followed on from last week with another impressive performance, playing with intensity and backing each other all game. Holding the Bulldogs scoreless in the second and fourth quarters, they proved their strength as a team, finishing with a convincing 70–12 victory.

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The U17s team, despite an unfortunate loss, fought hard all day and displayed the ANZAC spirit in their efforts right to the end. With a final score of 38-70, they now focus on their next game and continue to work hard as team during the week.

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The Senior Women celebrated their first win of the season in a great afternoon clash on their home deck. The Women were fierce at the contest all game, not once letting their effort drop and were determined to claim the win. Fighting with pride and spirit until the very end, the Women claimed victory with a final score of 33-19.  

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The Senior Men held the honour of playing an epic nighttime game under the Clubs brand new lights. With a roaring crowd and the ANZAC message at the forefront of their minds, the Men did not disappoint. From the opening bounce they were hungry for the ball and driven towards getting the win for the hometown crowd. Wrapping up an amazing day, the final score was a dominant 73-22 win at home.  

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Contributed with thanks to Georgia Whitton

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In years gone by, the Mackay Seniors Tournament has been a smashing success! Photo source: Mackay Tennis Association

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Tennis players across the region are being invited to dust off their racquets, with entries now officially open for the Mackay Seniors Tournament in May.

Hosted by the Mackay Tennis Association, the two-day event will take place on 23 and 24 May at the club’s South Mackay courts.

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The tournament is open to players aged 30 and over, with a range of divisions catering to different age groups and skill levels. Competitors will have the opportunity to take part in singles, doubles and mixed doubles events across the weekend.

Set to be played on hardcourts at the association’s Kippen Street venue, the competition forms part of the 2026 Masters Queensland circuit, attracting both local players and visiting competitors.

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Entries are open until 17 May, with players encouraged to register online through Tennis Australia via tournaments.tennis.com.au/tournament/F27EA788-3947-4B74-9928-EB94A64D82E4.

Organisers say the tournament is a great chance for players to enjoy competitive tennis in a social and welcoming environment, while also showcasing the strength of the sport in the Mackay region.

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What: Mackay Seniors Tournament

When: 23 and 24 May

Where: Mackay Tennis Association

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A long-standing member of the Mackay golfing community has been recognised for more than three decades of commitment, with William “Bill” Eccles awarded Life Membership at the Mackay Golf Club.

Bill has been part of the club for an impressive 34 years, earning a reputation as a dedicated and passionate member whose contributions have extended well beyond the fairways.

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The Mackay Golf Club acknowledged Bill’s unwavering support over the years, noting his impact both on and off the course in helping shape the club into what it is today.

The Life Membership honour is one of the club’s highest recognitions, awarded to individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the organisation and its community.

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Fellow members have been encouraged to join in congratulating Bill on the milestone, celebrating not only his years of service but the role he has played in fostering a strong and welcoming club culture.

As he takes on this new honour, the club looks forward to many more rounds and shared moments with one of its most valued members.

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Mackay Contract Bridge Results

Recognition is extended to members who have attained a higher level of Masterpoints earned and to the Novice recipients of our March Incentive Awards.

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Mackay Road Runners Club Championship 3km Construct Health Physio’s Emerson, Nick and Sarah were on hand to run and present the winners’ prizes.

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The Mackay Road Runners’ 3km Club Championship delivered an exciting display of speed and endurance at Queens Park, with strong performances across both senior and junior divisions.

The club extended its thanks to Construct Health Physio for once again sponsoring the annual event. The clinic generously donated vouchers for the first two male and female finishers, as well as an additional random draw voucher for a gap-free in-clinic appointment. The draw prize was won by Graeme Harris.

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Nick Rewald claimed first place in an impressive time of 10 minutes and 36 seconds, backing up his performance after recording a personal best in the 5km Parkrun the previous day. Demonstrating strong sportsmanship, Rewald passed on his prize to the next male placegetter.

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Damian Rutland secured second place, sprinting home in a fast 10 minutes and 50 seconds. He finished just six seconds ahead of former Mackay Road Runners Club Champion Liam Mumford, who took third place.

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In the women’s division, Alana Knezevic continued her strong form, finishing first female and fourth overall. Lily Leven followed in second place after a fast-finishing effort, while Gail Mackie rounded out the podium shortly after achieving a personal best at the Hobart Half Marathon two weeks earlier.

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Several junior runners also impressed, with Ollie Dalglish, Isabelle Hayles, Oscar Hayles and Harry Sleeman performing strongly against experienced senior competitors.

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Other runners taking part in the event included Phoebe Short, Gail McKee, Craig Joynson, Emily Green, Jose Short, Roscoe McDonnell, Ashley Miles, Merv Shields, Bianca Miles, David Isbister, Stuart Sprott, Jan Smith, Ross Connor, Andrew Short, Leanne Connor, Lauren Connor, Natasha Joynson, Carmel Mahon and Andrew Wallace.

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The club’s next social run will take place this Sunday from the Mackay Surf Club, starting at 4.30pm. Participants can choose distances ranging from 5km to 10km, or anything in between. All runners are reminded to register with race directors before the run and check back in upon completion. A $2 race day fee applies to both members and non-members, including juniors and seniors.

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Wednesday track training, usually held at the Mackay Aquatic & Recreation Complex at 5.30pm, may be affected this week due to track maintenance. Participants are encouraged to check directly with the complex for confirmation.

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There are fundraising events that raise money, and then there are those rare efforts that raise something deeper—awareness, connection, and a sense of shared humanity. Naomi McGilvray’s Oh Dam! 24hour swim sits firmly in the latter category.

What began as a personal tribute has grown into a powerful act of advocacy. Swimming in honour of her Grandma and Aunty Patty, and in ongoing support of Aunty Ollie and her motherinlaw, Joanne, Naomi’s effort is rooted in love, memory, and the hope for a future where dementia no longer steals moments, relationships, and independence. Her message is simple but resonant: “I’m raising funds for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s… but I need your help.”  

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The response from the community has been nothing short of extraordinary. Donations have poured in from friends, family, colleagues, and complete strangers—each contribution a small testament to the impact Naomi has made. From heartfelt messages of encouragement to playful puns (“What a dam good swim!”), the support reflects the warmth and admiration she inspires. Her fundraising total has soared well beyond her initial goal, a clear sign that her cause has struck a chord far wider than she ever expected.  

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But beyond the numbers lies the true heart of this challenge. A 24hour swim is not simply a physical test—it is a mental and emotional marathon. It demands resilience, discipline, and a willingness to confront fatigue in all its forms. Naomi’s willingness to take on such a demanding challenge speaks to her character: determined, compassionate, and quietly courageous.

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Her effort also shines a light on the essential work of Dementia Australia, whose services—counselling, support groups, education, and training—provide lifelines for families navigating the complexities of dementia. Every dollar Naomi raises helps ensure these supports remain available to those who need them most.  

In a world often overwhelmed by noise, Naomi’s swim is a reminder that meaningful change often begins with one person deciding to act. One swimmer. One dam. One day. And yet, the ripple effect is unmistakable.

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Her journey is a testament to what community looks like when it rallies behind a cause that touches so many lives. It is a reminder that while dementia can take much, it cannot diminish the power of love, memory, or collective action.

Naomi’s Oh Dam! challenge is more than a fundraiser—it is a story of heart, hope, and the extraordinary things ordinary people can achieve when they choose to make a difference.

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Contributed with thanks to Dan Stampa

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Happy winners Val DePinto, Donna Gordon and Deb Mackenzie.

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The Club Championship Triples Final was played last Thursday morning, delivering a thrilling contest that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

Both teams began cautiously, with careful play and strategic shot selection. Several excellent deliveries and well-placed bowls created tight heads around the jack, highlighting the skill and precision of the competitors.

As the match progressed, neither side could gain a decisive advantage. After 21 ends the teams were locked together at 24 points each, forcing a dramatic decider that could have gone either way.

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In the end, victory went to the delighted team of Val DePinto, Donna Gordon and Deb Mackenzie.

Finishing gallantly as runners-up were Marie Bragg, Jean Schmidtke and Lidia McCarthy, who fought hard throughout the closely contested match.

It was a game full of momentum swings and impressive play, making it a wonderful contest for those in attendance. Congratulations to all the ladies who competed in this terrific club event.

Contributed with thanks to Sue Hazledine 

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In a workforce landscape increasingly defined by pressure, performance and retention, Mackay businesses are being asked to look beyond traditional incentives and reconsider a more fundamental driver of success: the health of their people.

Fitness Cartel Health Clubs Mackay is positioning itself as a practical, modern response to that challenge, offering corporate membership packages designed to strengthen staff wellbeing while directly supporting workplace performance.

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Fundamentally, organisations that prioritise staff wellbeing are strengthening their long-term performance and stability. When energy levels lift, stress is managed better, and recovery is supported, the flow-on effect is felt in productivity, decision-making and attendance, with fewer sick days and a clearer headspace on the job.

Corporate memberships may also be tax deductible as a business expense, delivering an added level of practicality for employers looking to align wellbeing with operational value.

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Providing staff with access to a structured, premium wellness environment is increasingly being recognised not as an optional extra, but as a workforce strategy. The benefits extend across mental health, stress management, workplace culture, morale, focus and overall staff retention.

The Mackay facility reflects this shift with a 24/7 training environment built for real-world schedules. Members have access to more than 500 pieces of strength and cardio equipment, alongside dedicated training zones designed for functional movement, recovery and performance-based training.

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Group fitness remains a key driver of engagement, with classes running across multiple studios each week. From high-intensity sessions, to yoga, pilates, cycling and functional training, staff can move between disciplines that match both workload and lifestyle demands.

Beyond the gym floor, the facility introduces a greater layer of recovery that surpasses all other traditional fitness offerings. The integrated wellness centre includes hyperbaric therapy, red light therapy, compression boots, massage chairs, cold plunge pools, a 38-degree magnesium bath, sauna access and so much more. These tools are increasingly used to support physical recovery, reduce fatigue and improve mental clarity.

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Additional features such as Kids Cartel childcare facilities, an on-site café and lounge area also offer support for working parents, making health and fitness more accessible in the rhythm of everyday life.

Fitness Cartel Mackay Co-Franchisee Clifford Forster said, “The Fitness Cartel Corporate Membership Program is all about empowering teams to reach their health and fitness goals, while giving employers an easy way to support workplace wellbeing.”

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As businesses, both big and small, across the region continue to navigate workforce challenges, corporate wellness is increasingly being viewed as a long-term investment in stability and performance.

The opportunity now sits clearly in front of Mackay employers to build stronger teams, not just through skills and systems, but through health, energy and recovery.

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For more information or to arrange a tailored corporate membership package that best suits you, contact Clifford Forster on 0422 486 277 or email cliff@fitnesscartel.com.au.

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NOW is the time to invest in your team, invest in their health, and invest in your business!

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Sunday’s winners Greg Colquhoun and Ron Hyde Photo supplied

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Tuesday’s winners were Neil Chittenden and Allan Rolfe who defeated Stumpy Adams and Ron Hyde. In the other game Skin Querro and Robyn Stitt defeated Sue Shearing and Laurie Land. The jackpot didn’t go off.

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Club Competition for the week: Ladies Triples, Sue Shearing, Robyn Stitt  and Fely Duncan defeated Lindy Suann, Shirley Jones and Maureen Hyde.

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On Sunday afternoon two pairs and one triples were played. Winners for the afternoon were Greg Colquhoun and Ron Hyde who defeated Maureen Hyde and Kevin Jewell. Other games Toni Bowen and Penny Warren defeated Skin Querro and Pat Tracey. Shirley Jones Teresa Willshire and Kennedy Whitton defeated Bill Myers Deb Retchless and Stuart Jeal. The jackpot didn’t go off.

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Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Last Sunday's Social Bowls presented exciting compeition.  Arthur Griffith, Henny Tattam and Heather Brown defeated Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown and Mike Harrison 28 - 19.  

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On Tuesday afternoon a game of Club Championship Singles was played.  Thanks to the players and marker for making their time to play this so as to progress the competition.  David Ling defeated Nathan Harriott 25 - 19.

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There were no Social bowls on Wednesday due to rain.

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On Sunday, in Social bowls Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith, Philip Brown and Heather Brown defeated Mary Hedgelong, Henny Tattam, Trevor Parsons and Mike Harrison 22 - 16.

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It had been arranged that Trevor Parsons was to play a Club Championship Singles game on Sunday but due to player unavailability, Marcus forfeited this year to allow the competition to progress.

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Reminder to all, it is really appreciated if all names of players coming to Social Bowls are in by 1pm.  When players arrive at the last minute without notice, it means that the draw for play has to be redone.

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Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Bowls Club

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