Touch Footy - Every Monday

Juniors Skill Sessions from 4.30pm

Juniors Games from 5pm

Seniors Games from 6pm - 8pm

Mixed Competition - Call 0408 643 012

Whitsunday Seas Eagles (AFL)

Venue: Zeolla Park ( Nth Mackay Saints)

Under 13 vs Saints at 8.00am

Under 15 vs Saints at 9.15am

Under 17 vs Saints at 10:15am

Venue: Magpies Sporting Club

Senior Women vs Magpies at 1:50pm

Senior Men play the Saints at 3.20pm

Proserpine Whitsunday Raiders (Rugby Union)

Venue: Col Leather Sporting Complex

Raiders Women vs Bowen Jennies at 2.30pm

Raiders Men vs Bowen Mudcrabs at 3.30pm

Whitsunday United Football Club (Soccer)

Venue: Country United Mackay

Div 2 Whitsunday United Men vs Country United Football Club at 6.00pm

Div 1 Whitsunday United Men vs Country United at 8.00pm

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It certainly felt like it was the Wetsundays this week again but Thursday it suddenly cleared and the lessons continued at 4 to 5 as did practice for all on Friday afternoon.

Saturday saw the B singles go through the early rounds with Arthur McManus, Ash Warland, Dennis Donnadelli, and Ted Cullen surprisingly being defeated, leaving the 4 semifinalists to play Sunday Morning.

Noel Crosbie v Steve Lawrie and Mervyn Stewart v Craig Kennedy from Business House bowls whom was a giant killer on Saturday and massive congratulations goes to him for reaching the semifinals.

Mervyn Stewart proved too strong for Craig as was Noel Crosbie defeating Steve Lawrie in a close game.

The final got to 17-16 before Noel got the upper hand and defeated a gallant Mervyn Stewart.

For Noel Crosbie whom defeated a star studded line up and at over 80 years of age proved that age is no barrier in lawn bowls and the whole club is so immensely proud of him especially his lovely wife Carol who was watching every moment with pride.

Whilst this was happening we had 20 bowlers turn up for Sunday Social bowls and the big winners of the day was skipper Harry Quod with Bill Gordon whom easily accounted for the rest of the field.

This week the A pairs is starting with the weekend finals concluding the proceedings.

Also the 10th May car boot sale if filling up fast bookings made with Fiona Greener at the club on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons on 07-4946-7656 or 0439-193-399.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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B Grade Champion Noel Crosbie. Photo supplied

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This past weekend marked the start of the 2025 AFL season at the Sea Eagles' home ground, after some weather-related cancellations the week before. Three of the five teams were out on the field, showing great promise for the season ahead.

The Sea Eagles U13s kicked things off in thrilling fashion, pulling off a nail-biter against Sarina. After trailing by 5 points in the last quarter, the team made a fantastic comeback to secure a 4-point win in their first game of the season.

The Sea Eagles Senior Women faced off against the competition leaders, the Saints, and while they were defeated by 74 points, the team, with many new players this year, is looking forward to seeing the squad grow and improve throughout the season under new Coach Matt Reddaway.

In a strong showing, the Sea Eagles Senior Men led from start to finish, comfortably defeating the Saints by over 4 goals. This was a fantastic result under the leadership of Coaches Jake Turner and Alex Rodgers.

With the season now in full swing, we’re calling on volunteers to help ensure that the Sea Eagles continue to thrive both on and off the field.

As a fully volunteer-run club, your support is crucial. We need help in the following areas:

Club Treasurer (or Assistant): Help with EFTs and float setups for home games. Experience with Xero is a bonus but not required.

Website Design/Maintenance: If you have web design skills, we’d love your help keeping our website updated.

Sports Media Assistant: Assist with collating results and writing media releases each Sunday.

Canteen Set-Up Supervisor: Oversee the canteen set-up at home games and supervise new volunteers.

If you’d like to be part of the Sea Eagles’ success this season, please reach out! Message us on Facebook or email whitseaeagles@outlook.com. Together, we can make 2025 a memorable year for the club!

Photo credit: Kylie Allen
Submission credit: Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Last Thursday, Outrigger Whitsunday members spent an enjoyable day at Shingley Beach with senior students from St Catherine’s Catholic College Proserpine. The purpose of the day was to introduce students to the sport of outrigger canoeing. Despite a very wet start for the first groups on the water, the weather quickly improved and the day turned out to be both rewarding and challenging for all involved.

Four six seater ocean canoes were in constant use and each crew consisted of four students and two club members. Senior coaches Michelle Lynes and Maree Mullett were on hand to provide initial instruction and safety briefings and then it was onto the water for some technique training and ultimately some racing.

The students without exception were quick to learn and some of the female crews proved that technique and good timing can be superior to brute strength.

The African proverb that it takes a whole village to raise a child was in evidence throughout the day with great interaction between club members and students. We were fortunate to only have one huli (canoe capsizing) but club member Tim Dodds quickly had his crew working together to recover and bail the canoe.

Congratulations to the eventual winning sprint crew of Noah Baxendell, Mason Andrews, Luke Austin and Sonny Telford assisted by club members Glen Bray and Paul Tobias. More importantly congratulations to all the senior students who challenged themselves to try something different and new.

Hopefully the importance of teamwork, self -confidence, resilience and hard work were some of the day’s outcomes. Thank you to all the club members and the college staff for making the day a memorable one for the students. Club members wish the students all the best as they complete the final years of their secondary education.

Contributed with thanks to Paul Tobias.

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Outrigger Whitsunday Members and St Catherine Catholic College Students. Photos: supplied.

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A Fun, Social Way To Spend Your Tuesday Evening

Picture this: It’s a dull, nothing Tuesday evening. You’re looking for something fun, a bit of healthy activity, and a chance to hang out with a few friends. You want some laughs, a few drinks, and tasty snacks – all under the stars. Sounds perfect, right? Well, Twilight Lawn Bowls at North Mackay Bowls Club (Goosies) is exactly what you need.

Ladies President, Hilary Jones Rowan, says, “Traditionally, when many working women think about lawn bowls, it’s mature ladies in white on bowling greens during the day…but Girls on the Green at Twilight is nothing like that.

“If you’ve ever played BBQ bowls as a social event, then you’ve got the right idea.”

Lawn bowls is the perfect low-impact activity for all fitness levels. It combines walking, stretching, and lunges, all while adding a bit of extra weight from the bowling ball.

No experience? No problem.

The only thing you need is a desire to play bowls and have fun.

“Goosies is dedicated to providing a great experience for women at Twilight Bowls. We keep the costs down, so you get more bang for your buck,” Hillary enthused.

$15 per player includes snacks after the game, a lucky ticket, and lucky card draws. There’s no need to buy a uniform or special shoes. Casual, comfortable clothing is all you need – shorts or long pants, barefoot, or flat-soled thongs, sandals, or sneakers. You can get your own team together, or the club will find one for you. Single names are also welcome.

Never played before? Don’t know which side of a bowl to use? Don’t worry – Goosies has got you covered. They provide the bowls that are just right for you.

Play starts at 6:00/6:30 pm and finishes around 8:30/9:00 pm (whichever start time suits most players).

Please note: The new season kicks off after the Easter break – no school holidays involved

For more information, or to register, contact Hilary Jones Rowan on 0434 246 232 or via email: ladies@northmackaybowlsclub.com.au

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Kicking goals and hitting boundaries, City Brothers Football Club and Mackay Cricket Club are in line for a $500,000 funding boost. The pledge, announced by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox last Monday, will see an elected Liberal National Government invest in facility upgrades to create a safer and more inclusive environment for players.

“This local club is a breeding ground for the next generation of professional players and has a long list of talented competitors in its membership,” said Mr Willcox.

“Currently the majority of games are played during the day in heat, due to poor field lighting.

“I am pleased to announce an elected Dutton Liberal National Government will commit $500,000 towards the upgrade of new field lighting, which will help the club members extend their hours of playing, and a new ticket booth at the front entrance.

“This upgrade will enhance the facilities, help attract new members, and lessen the need to fundraise for capital works at a time when families are doing it tough.

“The LNP is committed to supporting small regional clubs like the Mackay City Football Club to ensure they can continue to serve the community long into the future.”

Steve Calicetto, President of the Mackay City Football Club, said, “Upgrading these lights has been a top priority for the past several years.

“It will provide a huge boost to club morale and encourage greater participation.”

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The LNP has committed $500,000 to upgrade facilities at City Brothers Football Club and Mackay Cricket Club, enhancing safety, inclusivity, and player experience. Photo supplied

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Many Mackay Road Runners took a break from official timing duties over the weekend to enjoy a relaxed 5km and 10km social run from the Bluewater Quay. With blue skies and slightly more favourable temperatures, conditions were warm but ideal for running.

Congratulations to Mick Vivian, who clocked up 11km just getting to the event, and Ashley Miles, who completed the 10km course alongside Mick. The route followed a relatively flat stretch along Harbour Road toward Mackay Harbour, before ascending the Mt Bassett turnaround and returning to the start/finish line. Mick then took a short break before tackling the 11km journey back home.

Carmel Mahon was the first female across the line in the 10km, running alongside Werner VanderLinde, with both pacing each other perfectly. There were strong performances from veteran runners David Isbister and Len Howarth, as well as from track and field specialist Stephen Hayles.

Shane Barben and Kayla Waugh were the first male and female in the 5km, with Kayla enjoying a sprint in the final straight with assistance from four legged Toby.

Special thanks go to Race Director Andrew Short for his course briefing, registration support, and for taking part in the 10km himself.

This Sunday’s social event will be held at the same location with the same distances, starting at 4:30pm. All runners and supporters are welcome to stay afterwards for a beverage or two at the Red Dog to celebrate their efforts. These social events are a designated part of the club calendar during the school holiday period.

Runners are also reminded of Jim’s popular and very social one-hour free track training sessions every Wednesday at 5:30pm at the ARC (Aquatic & Recreation Complex), Ooralea. Please note there is a $4 entry fee to the facility. All are welcome!

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Kayla and Dave with Toby at the Mackay Road Runners Bluewater Quay social event

Shane and Trudi Barben

Approximately 20 runners and supporters took part in the very social Bluewater Quay 5 and 10km events

Mick Vivian and Ashley Miles share the 10km lead as they cross the finish line

First female Carmel Mahon and Werner Van der Linde easily pace out the 10km social run. Photos supplied

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In Tuesday night fixtures, the team of Goncalo Sierra, Graeme Walker and Ian McKay took out the division 1 final ahead of Andrew McHugh, Andrea Nicholson and Ian McKay.

Geoff Cowan, Saisha Palod and David Symons won division 2.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures March 25, 2025:

Division 1:

Phoenix Fire (Andrew McHugh, Josh Brown, Andrea Nicholson) d Panther Prowlers (Trent Day, Vince Boeske, Jacob Whelan) 7-4. Andrew d Trent 4, 13, 12.

Venus Voyagers (Janice Kent, Graham Brake, Graham Drury) d Stellar Stars (Will Van DeKaa, Lee Brake, Barry Patterson) 6-5. Graham D d Lee -5, 9, 9, -9, 15.

Cosmic Sorcerers (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Donna Abbott) d Ghost Spinners (Allan Robins, Geoff Denman, Lily Boland) 7-4. Anne d Allan -7, 10, 6, -7, 9.

Ant Warriors (Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) d Star Lords (Mark Sleeman, Vimal Chilukuri) 7-4. Ian d Robbie 6, -12, 7, -8, 6.

Division 2:

Pirate Plunge (David Symons, Geoff Cowan) d Zulu Spears (George Camilleri, Rod Hamelink) 6-5. David d Rod -4, 3, 6, 5.

Pharoah Aces (Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo, Sam) d Rebel Celts (Val Austin, Delmas Knight, Ollie Hamelink) 9-2. Sam/Jye d Ollie/Val -10, 9, 9, -18, 3.

Spartan Serve (JiLin Jiang, Mark Stam, Liz Burton) d Amazon Guards (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. YiLin d Simon 6,-7, -9, 7, 9.

Celtic Smash (Tiffany Camilleri, Seyed Zhang) d Roman Legion (Peter Goodson, Craig VanDeKaa) 4-1. Peter d Tiffany -6, 11, 6, -9, 2.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures March 25, 2025:

Division 1:

Venus Voyagers (Peter Goodson, Branko Vucurovic, Marie Taylor) d Solar Comets (Andrea Nicholson, Judy Zahn, Bryan Marshall) 9-3. Judy d Marie 7, 3, -9, -7, 10.

Saturn’s Rings (George Camilleri, Rhonda Payne, Coral Morgan) drew Luna Legends (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) 6-all. George/Rhonda d Donna/Pam -4, 6, -9, 8, 5.

Mars Pioneers (Delma Knight, Geoff Cowan, Kevin Abbott) d Rocket Stars (Allan Robins, John McGee, Veronica Shepherd) 9-3. Kev d Veronica 9, -7, 8, -7, 4.

Division 2:

Pluto Players (David Muir, Ron Johr, Gerry Synnott) d Neptune Navigators (Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) 7-5. Ron/Gerry d Gloria/Frank -9, 10, 9, 9.

Mercury Meteors (Ken Best, Helen Ware, Kim Daffy) d Jupiter Jets (Sally Muir, Kim Challender, Robyn Bushell) 9-3. Kim d Helen 8, 8, -5, -2, 7.

Division 3:

Green Lantern (Josie Davis, Laurie Bradshaw) drew Black Panther (Sharon Muller, Madge Saunders) 6-all. Madge d Josie -5, -6, 8, 11,10.

Wonder Warriors (Virginia Clayton, Allison Day) d Aqua Waves (Chris Collins, Thelma Caruana) 5-4. Thelma d Allison -5, -8, 8, 7, 6.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Graham Drury

Lee Brake. Photos supplied

In March this year, Mackay Cutters' manager of Wellbeing, Education & Change the Game Zach Schill was the first in the organisation to become qualified as a safeTALK trainer in the hopes he can train others to help prevent suicide in the community.

“I was honoured to do the Grapevine Group’s training because it makes me feel like I can make a difference,” Mr Schill said.

“And it can do the same for our players, their families and our greater rugby league community.”

The cost of suicide in Australia is estimated at $17 billion annually and it devastates thousands of families but knowing what to look out for can save lives.

Grapevine has already delivered suicide prevention training to over 6000 people in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions. As part of this program, Grapevine Group is offering a sponsorship opportunity for staff or organisational members to become qualified safeTALK trainers to then train colleagues, teammates or volunteers.

Mackay Cutters CEO Dave Roberts said the In-house safeTALK Trainer Program aligns closely with the Mackay Cutters’ Change the Game initiative.

“Mental health is important to the Mackay Cutters and we want to actively improve our community’s wellbeing,” Mr Roberts said.

“SafeTALK training is an excellent vehicle to do that, and I want to encourage other organisations to apply, and support their staff, players and volunteers to support each other.”

One organisation that has already implemented the program is the Mackay Regional Council.

“Our council successfully operates Grapevine Group’s in-house training regime and have trained over 500 of our staff,” said Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson.

“I am delighted the Mackay Mayor's Charity Balll funds are being channelled into this program.”

Grapevine Group received a donation from the Mackay region’s Mayor’s Charity Ball in 2024 and the 2025 fundraising donation means the group can continue its important work.

When it comes to suicide prevention, education is key says Grapevine Group Training Coordinator Edie Weiss.

“There are many benefits to undertaking the safeTALK training —it gives people an opportunity to learn vital skills that save lives, and it qualifies as professional development,” Ms Weiss said.

“Participants learn how to identify those experiencing thoughts of suicide, how to have a conversation and learn where to link people to professional support.”

Grapevine Group’s volunteer trainers are also available to present free safeTALK and safety toolbox talks on-site for local organisations.

Visit www.grapevinegroup.org.au to enquire and learn more.

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There was an excellent response to

Mackay City Bowling Club’s Come

and Try lawn bowls sessions, with

a sausage sizzle enjoyed following the first

Sunday and Monday events.

Participants had plenty of fun playing a

game and seeing who could get closest to

the jack.

Club members were on hand to assist and

demonstrate the basics of the game, making

it an enjoyable and welcoming experience

for newcomers.

Bowls were provided, and attendees came

dressed in comfortable clothing and flatsoled

footwear. There was no need for a

hat, as the facility is fully undercover.

Between 10 and 11 participants have

been attending each week on Monday afternoons

from 1 to 2.30pm. There is no

charge to play.

Anyone interested in joining this happy

group for fun and exercise is encouraged

to phone Janette on 0427 275 492.

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Mackay City Bowling Club’s Come and Try sessions have attracted strong weekly attendance, with newcomers

enjoying free games, friendly coaching, and a sausage sizzle under the club’s undercover facilities. Photo supplied

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Monday 31 March 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West

1st Edward Kliese - Diane Stokes 1st David Ting - Eric Goodchild

2nd Helen Van Den Broek - Jan Harris 2nd Tex Sheedy - Gwen Liddell

Tuesday Evening 01 April 2025 – 4.5 Table Howell Green Points

1st Simon Barnes - Martin Pearce

2nd John Mcgee - Mick King

3rd Geoff Taylor - Andrew Canavan

4th Tex Sheedy - Helen Van Den Broek

Wednesday 02 April 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points (Nation Wide Pairs)

North/South East/West

1st Lorna Shuttlewood - Tex Sheedy 1st Diane Holewa - Max Holewa

2nd Ted Cullinan - Geoff Taylor 2nd Jan Harris - Julie O'neill

3rd Joy Robinson - Robert Carless 3rd Gwen Liddell - Anne Lutz

4th Kath Poole - Monica Darley 4th Janet Hansen - Marilin Robins

Thursday Evening 03 April 2025 – 4.5 Table Howell Green Points

1st Jan Harris - Janine Rodger

2nd Frances Brown - Ann Whitmore

3rd Ken Seaniger - Tex Sheedy

4th Griffin Bancroft - Patricia Garner

Friday 04 April 2025 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West

1st Joy Robinson - Tex Sheedy 1st Diane Holewa - Max Holewa

2nd Sandy Patterson - Eric Goodchild 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix

3rd Gwen Liddell - Monica Darley 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood – Debra Goodchild

Saturday 05 April 2025 – 12 Table Whitsunday Zone Teams (Round 2) Gold Points

1st Janet Hansen - Marilin Robins - Adrian Westcott - Frances Brown Team

2nd Geoff Taylor - Martin Pearce - Mick King - Tex Sheedy Team

3rd Eric Goodchild - Debra Goodchild - Ming Ting - David Ting Team

4th Thelma Caruana - Patricia Garner - Ian Cruickshank - Mary Cruickshank Team

5th Nancy Martin - John Mcgee - Monica Darley - Gwen Liddell Team

6th Christine Nice - Faye Wright - Antonia Tarradas - Susan Wright Team

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Outrigger Whitsunday will be hosting one of the largest outrigger regattas in Queensland on Saturday 3rd of May, and Sunday 4th of May. The weekend will kick off with the Va’a Moana Hoe, a 20-kilometer marathon race from Shute Harbour to Lagoon Beach, with events continuing throughout the weekend at Lagoon Beach.

Tassal Aussie Seafood has generously agreed to be the major event sponsor. Club President Kim Dodds is thrilled with the preparations for the event, and race director Terry Kemp predicts some highly competitive and spirited racing.

Following the success of the “Come and Try” program held earlier this year, head coaches Michelle Lynes and Maree Mullett are excited to offer local novice paddlers their first authentic racing opportunity at Airlie Beach. Paddlers of all ages will be coming from near and far to compete, and all the local community is invited to come along and enjoy the spectacle.

Veteran paddler Glen Bray has been working closely with the committee to ensure the best possible program for both competitors and spectators alike. Save the date and join the outrigger racers for an oar-some weekend and a splashing good time!

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It was another challenging week for golf, with more rain and only one competition day. Unfortunately, the back 9 holes were still under water on Saturday, which made for a spectacular but unplayable sight. The end of March couldn’t come soon enough, and hopefully, we'll see a return to regular play soon.

It also seems likely that the first week of April may be lost to weather, but we’ll keep you updated on any changes to the April schedule. The Easter competition will also be a busy time, and we may need to reschedule all of the April Monthly Medals.

Tuesday, 25th March 2025 – PGC Single Stableford
In the Men's Competition, Craig McLean emerged as the winner with 37 points, while Brent Franke claimed the runner-up spot with 36 points. In the Ladies' Competition, Robyn Whitham took the win with 31 points, and Rehab Hull finished as the runner-up with 28 points. For the 2-shot winners, Scott Mason was recognised on the 2nd hole, and Gerald Lovell on the 9th hole. The NTP winners were Rehab Hull and Scott Mason, both achieving on the 2nd hole.

In the Vets' Single Stableford, Robyn Whitham won the Ladies' competition with 31 points, and Tiina Randmae took 3rd place with 29 points. For the NTPs in the Ladies' category, Tiina Randmae won three times, while Vickie Wallace, Robyn Whitham, and Rehab Hull each claimed a win. In the Men's competition, Craig McLean was the winner with 37 points, and John Roser finished as the runner-up with 36 points. For the Men's NTP winners, Craig McLean claimed three, John Oates got two, and the winners group on the 2nd hole included Barry Mortimer, Steve Mitchell, Phil Luckett, and Trevor Paroz.

Wednesday 26th - Sunday 30th March 2025 - No Competition, Course Closed

Fixtures for the week ending 6th April 2025 (weather dependent!):
Mon 31st March: Social Play
Tue 1st April: April Monthly Medal / Vets April Monthly Medal / Putts
Wed 2nd April: April Monthly Medal / Ladies Monthly Medal / Putts – sponsored by PD Law
Thu 3rd April: April Monthly Medal – sponsored by Venuesmart
Fri 4th April: Metropole 9-Hole Run / Putt for Cash ($600)
Sat 5th April: April Monthly Medal – sponsored by the Metropole Hotel
Sun 6th April: April Monthly Medal – sponsored by KJC

Contributed with thanks by Tiina Randmae

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New Event Date Announced!

The Whitsunday Game Fish Club's "Sweeties and Squires Fun Family Fishing Weekend" was postponed due to wet weather and is now rescheduled for the 11th-13th of April.

This relaxed weekend is a chance for ladies and kids to enjoy Australia's most popular sport, fishing! The rules are simple, fish anywhere using a rod and reel with Dads and boyfriends to act as crew.

Entry is free to all current W.G.F.C. members and new members are welcome to participate by joining the Club at the Briefing on night, Friday 11th April at 6:00pm at the Marine Club in Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale. Membership fees are $35 per Junior (under 16yo) and $70 per Adult, with all details explained at the Briefing.

All Juniors nominated for the Sweeties and Squires will receive a new Shimano Rod and Reel and a backpack full of goodies, and all the lady participants will receive a bottle of bubbles.

Fishing can start at your leisure anytime after the Briefing. Whether released or kept for dinner, the judges need a photo snapped of your caught fish, showing its length.

All competitors need to be at the Marine Club at 12noon on Sunday, 13th of April for the great prize presentation and to enjoy some delicious food. Prizes will be awarded in 3 categories; Ladies, Junior Male and Female (11yo to 16yo), and Small Fry Male and Female (5yo to 11yo). These will be decided on merit, not necessarily the biggest fish, so everyone has a chance to win!

The Whitsunday Game Fish Club invites everyone to join in on this fun family weekend. Whether you’re an experienced angler or new to fishing, this event offers something for all ages. Be sure to attend the Briefing and Registration on Friday, 11th of April at 6:00pm and get fishing!

WHAT: Sweeties and Squires Fun Family Fishing Weekend.
WHEN: Briefing at 6:00pm, 11th April | Prize Ceremony at 12:00pm, 13th April.
WHERE: Whitsunday Marine Club, Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale.

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Have you ever considered volunteering for VMR Whitsundays but felt like you didn’t have enough time or weren’t really a “boat person”? We’ve got the solution — become a Radio Room Operator!

As a Radio Room Operator, you will be an essential part of the VMR team, providing valuable communication support for boats in distress and assisting other emergency services. This role is ideal for individuals who want to help but may not have the time or experience to be on the water. It’s an important job, and it could be a perfect fit if you're looking for a way to contribute in a less time-intensive manner.

VMR Whitsundays Radio Base operates on weekends and public holidays, with Radio Operators only required to work one 5-hour shift per month. This is a flexible and manageable commitment, making it a great opportunity for anyone with a busy schedule. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the stunning views of the Whitsundays while you work!

To become a Radio Room Operator, you must hold a Marine Radio Certificate. Don’t worry if you don’t have this qualification yet as new volunteers can complete the training through VMR Whitsundays, fully preparing you for the role.

Even if you're not an operator, it's strongly encourage that everyone on a seafaring vessel has and knows how to work a VHF radio. Especially when boating around the islands and further afield in conditions where a mobile phone signal wont connect. VHF radio coverage is far superior to phone signals, and it can be a lifesaver in an emergency. It’s essential to understand how to properly use the VHF, including correct squelch control settings, so you don’t miss any critical transmissions. The emergency channels are 16 and 67, with repeaters on Whitsunday Island (81) and Hayman (82), which are monitored by bareboat companies during the day.

If you’re ready to be part of a dedicated team, learn new skills, and make a meaningful contribution to the community, VMR Whitsundays would love to have you onboard. Visit https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/ to get started on your volunteer journey today!

Contributed with thanks by Shane Newell, VMRW President.

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Benny operating the radio with a spectacular view of the Whitsunday waters. Photo sourced: VMR Whitsundays Facebook Page.

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