
The 2026 Whitsunday Zone Teams was held on Saturday and Sunday with 12 teams competing. Team Sheedy finished in top place, without losing a game all weekend. Team members Terry Sheedy, Max Holewa, Diane Holewa and Noel Bugeia. Well done to all who competed! The last week of 3 Fridays Remembrance Pairs was played on Friday. This event is to remember and reflect on our members who are no longer with us for one reason or another. The outright winner was Terry Sheedy, followed by Janelle Conroy. Weekly Results Monday 1 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Vicki Howard / Laura Howland 3rd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 3rd Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor Tuesday Evening 2 June 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 1st Helen Van Den Breok / Terry Sheedy 2nd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger 2nd Vicki Howard / Richard Wix Wednesday 3 June 2026 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 2nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 3rd Monica Darley / Kath Poole 3rd Susan Wright / Bob Ellis Thursday Evening 4 June 2026 – 4 Table One Winner – Green Points 1st Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 3rd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 4th Griffin Bancroft / Mick King Friday 5 June 2026 –- Week 3 of the Remembrance Pairs - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Monica Darley / Kath Poole 1st Griffin Bancroft / Ann Whitmore 2nd Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor 2nd Janet Hansen / Thelma / Caruana 3rd Karen Caldwell / Gwen Liddell 3rd Ming Ting / Helen Van Den Breok Final Results of Remembrance Pairs after 3 Weeks with 3 different Partners, One Winner – Red Points 1st Terry Sheedy 2nd Janelle Conroy Saturday 6 June 2026 – Whitsunday Zone Teams 2026 – 12 Team Red Points Team Players 1st Sheedy Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia / Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd Conroy Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Harris Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill / Faye Wright / Marilin Robins Whits. Zone Team Winners – Noel Bugeia, Diane Holewa, Max Holewa and Terry Sheedy 2- Remembrance Pairs 1st Terry, 2nd Janelle
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Tuesday Night Fixtures Division 1: Canaries (Josh Brown, Lily Boland, YiLin Jiang) won 6-5 over Curlews (Barry Patterson, Geoff Cowan, Anne Sheridan), with YiLin just overcoming Anne in a very close five-set match (6, -11, 10, -5, 8). Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake) defeated Geese (Steve Whiting, Janice Kent, Donna Abbott) 6-5, with Donna coming home strongly against Graham B (9, -6, -8, 9, 7). Cockatoos (Mick Ruhl, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) were too strong for Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Allan Edwards, Graham Drury), winning 8-3. Allan snuck home against Mark in an extremely close battle (-9, 3, -9, 8, 9). Division 2: Galahs (Remy Zhan, Mark Stam) were too strong for Doves (Daniel Warfield, Noreen Fredrickson), winning 4-1. Remy played extremely well to defeat Daniel in five sets (-10, 4, -8, 7, 9). Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Owls (Rod Mahumas, Ricky Zhan, Peter Goodson) 8-3. Rachel came back from two sets down against Peter to win a close match (-10, -10, 6, 6, 9). Parrots (George Camilleri, Delma Knight, Liz Burton) won a close battle 6-5 against Kites (Ian McKay, Matt West, Darryl Ross), with Matt getting the better of Delma (-7, 10, -6, 8, 6). Division 3: Some great matches were played as the battle for the top positions in Division 3 continues. Jason, Dylan, Tiffany and Jeff all recorded impressive wins. Tuesday Morning Fixtures Division 1: Astro Aces (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Sally Muir) just got home 7-5 over Orion Orbiters (John McGee, Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd). George edged out Andrea in a thrilling five-set battle (-9, 5, -9, 11, 13). Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Darryl Ross) won 7-5 against Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall), with Branko securing a good win over Doug in a close five-set contest (-5, 8, -6, 9, 9). Division 2: Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Helen Ware, Veronica Needham) got home to defeat Ninja Strikes (Pam Keune, Frank Caruana, Chris Collins). Helen won a close battle against Chris (12, 6, -9, -7, 10). Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Josie Davis) defeated Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Robyn Bushell, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Louise fought back against Robyn to win in five sets (-8, -7, 7, 7, 8). Division 3: Aztec Warriors (Kim Challender, Janelle Keune, Glenda Brookes) defeated Mongol Power (Gerry Synnott, Laurie Bradshaw, Thelma Caruana) 9-3. Janelle recorded a strong five-set win over Laurie (-7, 6, 4, -3, 8). Gladiator Grip (Allison Day, Iris Grasso, Sharon Muller) tied 6-6 with Celtic Smash (Marie Taylor, Cheryl Pearson, Trish Zamparutti). Allison had a good win against Trish in five sets (-13, 9, 4, -9, 7). 1. Remy Zhan 2. Daniel Warfield
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Two talented swimmers from the Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club are set to represent Mackay on the national stage after qualifying for the 2026 Australian Swimming Trials in Sydney from June 8th–13th. Ehsan Helou and Audrey Bryan have both achieved qualifying times in the highly competitive 50-metre breaststroke event and will take to the pool on Day Three of the meet, June 10th, against many of Australia’s top swimmers. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the pair and reflects years of dedication, perseverance and hard work in the pool. Cyclones coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier praised the swimmers for the resilience they have shown throughout their journeys to reach the elite level. “These athletes understand better than most the highs and lows that come with elite sport — the setbacks, challenges and moments of disappointment,” she said. “But their qualification is proof that persistence, resilience and hard work do pay off when everything finally comes together.” The success of Helou and Bryan also reflects the commitment of Pokarier, whose passion for developing young swimmers has helped build a strong culture of resilience, discipline and belief within the Cyclones squad. The club described the qualification as a significant milestone and said the entire Cyclones community was proud of both athletes. The Australian Swimming Trials are among the country’s premier events, with swimmers competing for national selection and representative honours. For Helou and Bryan, qualifying alone places them among the nation’s best breaststroke swimmers and caps off a strong long-course season for the Mackay Cyclones squad. Their success is also proving an inspiration for younger swimmers within the club, demonstrating what can be achieved through resilience, commitment and belief. As the countdown to Sydney begins, the Mackay swimming community will be proudly cheering on two of its own.
Read the full storyThank you Race Director Andrew Short for co-ordinating a great social North Mackay Adventure 5k and 10k run from the Bluewater Quay this afternoon for over 30 runners/walkers/spectators. Excellent performances came from runners across both events including Alana Knezevic, Shane Donnollan, David Isbister, Steve Oberg, Carmel Mahon, Jo Hughes, Fran March, Bianca Miles, Craig Johnson, Natasha Joynson, Jess Evetts, John Couldrey, Stuart Sprott, David Isbister and Andrew Short. June 7th saw a spectacular BMA Mackay Marina Run, with best wishes to everyone involved from the Sponsors, athletes, volunteers and supporters. A big thank you to every single person for being part of this magnificent must do event hosted by the awesome Mackay Marina Run committee and wider community. 6604 – Shane Donnollan (centre)bolts from the gun at the Bluewater Quay North Mackay Adventure 5k and 10km social run event. 6606 –Stephen Oberg (centre) sets a steady pace early in the 10km after running 4km to get to the start line. 6618 – David Isbister’s all smiles as he nears the 5km finish line. 6621 – Bianca Miles (left) and Fran March run in sync in the final 400 metres of the 5km to the finish line. 6648 – Alana Knezevic (left) and Jess Evetts ecstatic with their 10km efforts. 6658 – Some of the Mackay Road Runners who completed the North Mackay Adventure 5k and 10km run from the Bluewater Quay :- Back row (left to right) Carmel Mahon, Jess Evetts, Alana Knezevic, Jo Hughes and (front row left to right) Stuart Sprott, Steve Oberg, John Couldrey. Contributed with thanks to Mackay Road Runners.
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In the Club Pairs Gus and Ray defeated Kevin and Gordo.
During the Sunday Social: A. Delic, R. Gould, G. Charles defeated B. Neal, J. Gilbert, J. Wright.
K. Kirk, W. Coles, L. White defeated A. Williams, H. Jacobsen, M. Wright.
R. Scanlon, Glen. R, A. Peebles had a drawn game with I. Thatcher, Gordo, L. Welsted.
At the Wednesday Social: D. Tuttle, R. Stitt, G. Charles defeated ME. Pratten, R. Scanlon, K. Jewell.
E. Neylon, H. Jacobsen, S. Roome had a drawn game with P. Wilson, W. Coles, J. Gilbert.
Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.
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On Saturday morning two Club Championship Singles games were played. Andrew Bell defeated Bryan Davy 25 - 14 and Scott Hamilton defeated Wayne Handley 25 - 22.
On Saturday afternoon two short games of Social Bowls were played. Patricia Bownds and Andrew Bell defeated Alen Sanderson and Heather Brown 11 - 9; Jim Bownds, Philip Brown and Gavin Milne defeated Arthur Griffith, Barry Zillmann and Gavin Noonan 11 - 7.
On Sunday afternoon Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe and Sandy Daffara defeated John Anderson, Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison 19 - 18; Stanley Lawton, Peter Lawton and Heather Brown defeated Lee King, Arthur Griffith and Philip Brown 21 - 9.
Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.
Scott Hamilton and Wayne Handley following their very close Club Championship Singles game. Photo supplied

Results for social play on Tuesday: Deb Retchless, Sue Shearing, Geoff Danvers defeated Merle Elphinstone, Irene laird, Greg Colquhoun and Bron Tolcher, Gavin Charles, Lyn Danvers defeated Stumpy Adams, Robyn Stitt, Penny Warren.
Barefoot bowls: We had a few new players and also a visit from the Capricornia Tourers who were visiting Bowen for the week and took time out to visit and play at the club.
Sunday afternoon, winners were Denise Wallace, Merle Elphinstone, Penny Warren defeated Jim Quod, Maureen Hyde, Graeme Read. Teresa Willshire, Kennedy Whitton defeated Alby Vigar, Marg Wilson. Bill Myers, Deb Retchless, Pat Tracey defeated Stumpy Adams, Laurie Land, Ron Hyde.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren
The Capricornia Tourers at Barefoot Bowls on Friday Night. Photo supplied

We start of this week’s Premier League action with the match between Kameron Reason and Naomi Mitchell.
Although the 7-1 score line in favour of Kam would suggest total dominance in the tie, there were encouraging signs for Naomi who smashed her highest match average this season by almost 10 points.
That win for Kameron, in which he also scored his highest match average of the season, takes him in to second place on the premier league table.
It was a good day for Dom Friend who had back-to-back wins, a 7-2 over Art McMinn, which dropped Art down a place to third, and a 7-4 over win over Josh Fraser, which leapfrogged Dom a place above Josh on the table in alphabetical order only, both men’s stats are identical.
Arthur McMinn had the highest checkout of the day with a 94 peg, and that was closely followed by Joe Wilson’s 92 checkout in his 7 nil demolition of Hawkeye Rick. That loss leaving Rick firmly rooted at the foot of the table, but the win keeping Joe aloft at the top.
Last of all Jamie Maher defeated Jayden Lloyd by 7 legs to nil. That win is Jamie’s 3rd in a row now.
Jayden has work to do to pick up his first win of the year.
The Anzac Plate is coming up on Sunday. We still have plenty of spots left and we’d love to see you there, contact the club via Facebook or text 0405411865 to enter.
J Wilson 10pts, 2. K Reason 7pts, 3. A McMinn 7pts, 4. J Maher 6pts, 5. D Friend 6pts, 6. J Fraser 6pts, 7. N Mitchell 2pts, 8. J Lloyd 0pts, 9. H Rick 0pts.
Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.
2024 Premier League players, L/R, J Fraser, J Lloyd, J Maher, J Wilson, D Friend, A McMinn, K Reason, N Mitchell and H Rick. Photo supplied

On Wednesday, we played a single stableford for a club trophy. Ladies’ winner Grace Nott 38 points, runner up on a countback Carol O’Connell 35 points. Men’s winner on a countback Brendan Nott 40 points, runner up Mark Russell 40 points.
Saturday Results, sponsored by Glenn Merrick Constructions. Men's Winner Craig O'Meara 42 points, runner up Dylan Nott 39 points, 3rd Place on a countback Brendan Nott 38 points.
Ladies' Winner Nell Riley 41 points, runner up Tracey Cousemacker 36 points, 3rd Place on a countback Pauline Martin 33 points.
Pin Shots to Nell Riley, Leanne Swan, Tracey Cousemacker, Julie Mawson, Nick Riley, Paul Burgis, Mark Russell, Benny Bon.
Marcus Yasso claimed the Car Wash voucher. Chocolate Chip-ins for Nell Riley and Meg Garrod. Eagle shots for Jonnie Smith, Kailan Batchelor, Ezra Miller, James Lockwood.
This weekend is a 2-ball aggregate Medley stableford sponsored by Jeff Day Plumbing.
Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

In Tuesday's stroke competition, Gary Scotford had a 66 nett to chase down Ryan Wilkes who had a one under par round for a 68 nett. Robyn Whitham edged out Heather Luvis, both with 68 nett. Pins went to Aaron Prosser, Gary Scotford, and two to Leanne Alexander.
Ann Gardel took out Wednesday's PDLAW monthly medal with a 77 nett, ahead of Tina Badenhorst on 78. Pins went to Tina Badenhorst and Heather Luvis.
Thursday's stableford A division winner was Scott Mason with 41 points, two ahead of Greg Walker. Ross Hammond edged out Warren Deighton for the B division; both with 39 points. Pins went to Sean Fogarty, Robert Webb, Jacob Nightingale and Ryan Wilkes.
Sam Blake edged out Mason Johnson on 23 points in Friday's Met run, with the pins going to Ben Smith and Kevin Gosney.
Saturday's Hayman Electrical stableford saw Martyn Goodey's 45 points easily beat the big field and be seven shots ahead of his men's B division runner up in Barry Mortimer.
Jacob Nightingale had 41 points to beat Ben Smith by a shot in the men's A division. Elspeth Scotford also had 41 points to win the ladies' division by three from Tiina Randmae. Pins went to Sean Fogarty, Steve Hickey, Ben Smith, Penny Wardroper, Tina Badenhorst and Elspeth Scotford.
Martyn Goodey made it two in a weekend with a great 63 nett in Sunday's stroke competition.
Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.

Twenty players competed in the postponed March MM last Sunday. Peter Fox had an outstanding game with a nett 66 and most players scored better than of recent times with the course still drying out. The cored greens on the back 9 made putting a little more erratic for some.
LADIES A GRADE:
Winner: Anna Winterbourn with nett 73
Runner-up: Tiina Randmae with 77
Longest Drive: Tiina Randmae
LADIES B GRADE
Winner: Robyn Whitham on a count back from
Runner-up: Pam Casey
Longest Drive: Pam Casey
MEN’S A GRADE:
Winner: Wayne Temby with nett 71
Runner-up: Ritchie Atkins with 74
Longest Drive: Aaron Watts
MEN’S B GRADE
Winner: Peter Fox with nett 66 - outstanding
Runner-up: Wilf Herweg with nett 73
Longest Drive: Don Cameron
NTPs:
For the ladies: Anna Winterbourn, Tiina Randmae and Pam Casey
For the me : Don Cameron and Aaron Watts
NAGAs: the honours went to Karen Rix and Leigh Jones
NEXT WEEK: 28/4/24 will be the April MM and least Putts
Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.
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The weekly 9-hole stableford saw Donna Henderson take first place with 27 points, second place with 22 points c/b was Josh Frederiksen and third place with 22 points was Matt Burke.
Fridays 9-hole stableford saw Brad Low take out first place with 23 points c/b, second with 23 points was Eric Gruszczynski and third place was Craig Kennedy with 21 points.
This Sunday 28th April will be our 18-hole Monthly Medal, hope to see you all there.
Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.

Cannonvale resident and Head Coach at the Next Stars Sports Academy, Tim Oberg, has been joined by a four-time Paralympian, the Head of AFL Queensland and the President of the Royal Life Saving Society in signing onto help Australians Play Well as part of the nation’s first co-designed Sport Participation Strategy.
They are part of a 14-person group of experts announced as the Play Well Leadership Group that will oversee the implementation of the strategy and deliver on its vision that ‘everyone has a place in sport’.
Members met in Canberra at the AIS Campus for their first meeting earlier this month.
Mr Oberg, who also founded parkrun Australia, knows better than most the power of sport and community involvement.
When parkrun Australia started in 2011, it began as one event on the Gold Coast and grew to over 450 locations and more than one million participants across the Asia Pacific region.
“I believe that all children have the right to grow up in a healthy environment that allows them to play, have fun and achieve their full potential,” Oberg said.
Similar to the Project Steering Group that led the development of the strategy, the Play Well Leadership Group is made up of members that bring knowledge, expertise and insights from within and beyond the sport sector.
The group will work closely with State/Territory partners, sporting organisations and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) to bring the strategy to life.

The Cannonvale Cannons are preparing to host their own swimming carnival this weekend. The annual carnival is normally run in January, but this year the carnival was postponed due to the threat of a cyclone. The highlight of the swimming carnival is the Skins events where swimmers have an opportunity to win cash prizes.
On Wednesday, 30 swimmers participated in the second last Club Night for the swim season. Congratulations to Leo Mulliss, Matilda Nicholes and Pippa Laguna for achieving Club Upgrades. The Chocolate Awards were presented to Jack Ganter, Alex Trefz and Addie Sanders for their awesome PBs.
Highlights from Club Night include Ehsan Helou swam extremely well, swimming PBs in all his events. Ehsan’s sister, Anisa swam PBs in her 25m Freestyle and 25m Breaststroke.
The Breaststrokers were on fire on Wednesday night. Zach Trefz smashed out an excellent 100m Breaststroke in a time of 1.37.42 which was a 16.08 second PB. Zach also swam a fantastic 100m Freestyle in 1.09.14 which was a 4.28 second PB. Don Algie swam 100m Breaststroke in a brilliant time of 1.36.58, a 4.26 second PB. Connor Lee, Leo Mulliss, Thomas Ganter and Sophie Palmero all swam very smooth Breaststroke to swim personal best times.
Top Butterflyers who the coaches would like to commend include, Stella Mulliss, aged 5 years, for swimming 12m Butterfly in 32.57 seconds. Indi Smith swam an excellent time in her 100m Butterfly to achieve a 6.07 second PB. Jack Ganter, Pippa Laguna, Stevie Lee, Lily Maher, and Matilda Nicholes swam super Butterfly on Wednesday night.
Congratulations to all the other swimmers who achieved PBs: Zane Clayworth, Maeve Dichiera, Eric Mulliss, Miranda Palmero, Andie Reynolds, Addie Sanders, and Levi Smith. The coaches would like to commend all the swimmers who participated at Club Night. The Cannons would like to thank all the wonderful parents who volunteer to officiate, set up and pack up Club Night.
Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.
Pippa Laguna received an Upgrade Certificate. Photo supplied
Leo Mulliss received an Upgrade Certificate. Photo supplied

With hoops aplenty and defence as tight as a well-laced sneaker, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes orchestrated a symphony of basketball brilliance last Friday night, dribbling, dunking, and dazzling their way to victories.
In a thrilling clash against the Brisbane Capitals, the Meteors showcased their prowess, emerging victorious with a final score of 92 to 73. Todd Blanchfield led the charge with an impressive performance, contributing 21 points and 7 rebounds to the team's triumph. Isaac White also delivered a stellar performance with 19 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Jerron Jamerson added 15 points and 3 rebounds to seal the win.
Meanwhile, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes soared to success against the Brisbane Capitals in the NBL1 North encounter, securing a resounding victory with a final score of 84 to 71. Taylor Mole was the standout player for the Meteorettes, delivering a sensational performance with 30 points and 8 rebounds. Sam Haiby showcased her skills with 20 points, 5 assists, and 4 steals, while Chelsea Brook contributed 14 points and 5 rebounds to clinch the win for the team.
The passionate home crowd erupted in celebration as both teams showcased their dominance on the court, delivering a memorable night of basketball action.
Looking ahead, the excitement continues as the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes and Meteors gear up for their next games on Saturday night. The action-packed evening will see the Meteorettes take on the Rockhampton Cyclones at 6:30 pm, followed by the Meteors facing off against the Rockhampton Rockets at 8:30 pm in the Crater at McDonald’s Mackay Stadium.
The matchup against the Rockhampton Rockets and Cyclones always brings an extra level of excitement to the Crater. With both teams boasting strong rosters and a history of intense competition, the games between Mackay and Rockhampton are eagerly anticipated by fans on both sides. This rivalry adds an extra spark to the season, driving both teams to bring their A-game every time they meet on the court.
Event Details:
• Date: Saturday, April 27
• Time:
◦ 6:30 pm: McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes vs. Rockhampton Cyclones
◦ 8:30 pm: McDonald’s Mackay Meteors vs. Rockhampton Rockets
• Venue: McDonald’s Mackay Stadium, the Crater
Photo credit: Kieron Place Art & Photography

Last Sunday, 66 participants graced the Beach Road Dolphin Heads precincts, surpassing the attendance of the previous week's Tim’s Chariots of Fire event at Slade Point, confirmed by the event organiser and the author. While some may contest this tally, it's worth noting that The Tilse’s Toddle two weeks earlier boasted numbers nearing the triple-digit mark, with Whibley’s Wander closely following suit.
One undeniable highlight was the hospitality of the Bishop’s Beach Road Barnstormer hosts, who generously opened their doors to accommodate the runners, offering a delightful morning of competition followed by a well-deserved post-run refreshment of a cuppa and sausage sizzle.
The Mackay Road Runners gratitude is extended to Julie, Brendan, Millie, Hughie, and all the neighbourhood kids and furry friends for contributing to the warmth and enjoyment of the occasion. It was said to be a beautiful morning filled with camaraderie and healthy competition!
Contributed By Janelle Tilse
Emily Hayles (left) and Mel Esau get in some quality racing at the Bishop’s Beach Road Barnstormer 10km.
Approximately sixty Mackay Road Runners’ members, casual day runners and supporters enjoyed a magnificent morning from a magnificent location at Beach Road, Dolphin Heads.
Craig Andrews (#107) completed a sensational 10km which included a spirited sprint to the finish line with his running peers.
Mackay Road Runners’ stalwart, Jan Smith (#5) and Alleny Gorrion (right) enjoyed a cruisey 5km with a pressure cooker finish.
The Bishop’s Beach Rd Barnstormer resident, Millie Bishop had no excuses to be late!
Dolphin Heads Beach Road Neighbourhood Watch had nothing on these kids as they supported runners in the two loop 5km/10km event.

The Mackay cyclone swimmers surged into the National MC and Age Championships, held recently on the vibrant shores of the Gold Coast. Among the tide of competitors, two fresh qualifiers, Jarek Taylor and Ava Kearns, joined the seasoned attendees Max Vernon, Audrey Bryan and Vaughn Wyatt for their second year.
Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier said all the athletes swam well, and had a blast soaking up the atmosphere. Acknowledging the significant accomplishment of qualifying for such a prestigious level of competition, she said it was a particular delight to have six team members, including Izabella from the MC National age group, securing qualification, which was nothing short of fantastic.
The competition, characterised by its scale and speed, offers invaluable lessons for growth, not only for the athletes but also for the coaching staff, who seize the opportunity to collaborate with peers.
Yet, amidst the thrill of competition, it's essential to recognise the dedication it has taken for these athletes to reach this stage. Early mornings, meticulous time management balancing school, swimming, and friendships, all underscore the immense commitment required. Coach Pokarier emphasises that such dedication at a young age cultivates essential life skills, setting the foundation for success beyond the pool.
Reflecting on the broader impact of coaching, Alisha Ness from Mackay Cyclones proudly recounts witnessing former team member Ruby Boxall, now at Somerville House in Brisbane, clinching her first National gold medal in the 100 Backstroke. Witnessing such moments with their triumphant smiles as they surpass their own expectations can be described as truly ‘priceless’.
“This was a very proud moment for me,” Alisha remarked.
“Playing a part in all of my athlete’s journey, however big or small the achievement, the smile and excitement on their faces when they achieve something they believed they never could do is priceless.”
(Left to right) Audrey Bryan, Vaughn Wyatt, Jarek Taylor, Izabella Wills, Ava Kearns, Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier. Absent: Max Vernon. Image supplied

Coral Morgan celebrated her 83rd birthday this week – playing table tennis.
Coral’s daughter Delma Knight, who has played table tennis alongside her mum since she was a child, baked her a delicious cake which was enjoyed by the players at Tuesday morning fixtures.
Coral and Val Austin have been playing since the 70s, and they played out a huge battle on Tuesday, Coral winning -12, 7, -8, 11, 6.
Full details of fixtures including player standings are available at https://www.revolutionise.com.au/mackaytta/fixtures-results/
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures April 16, 2024:
Division 1:
Pumas (George Camilleri, Andrea Nicholson, Coral Morgan) d Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Doug Dungavell, Val Austin) 8-4. Coral d Val -12, 7, -8, 11, 6.
Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Tigers (Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, John McGee) 8-4. Branko d John 8, -7, -11, 7, 8.
Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Bryan Marshall) d Leopards (Charlie Payne, Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Pam d Steve 7, -6, -8, 8, 8.
Division 2:
Cyan (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Teal (Ken Best, Kim Daffy) 10-2. Ken d Louise -10, 4, 9, 6.
Aqua (Judi Hicks, Gloria Vella, Gerry Synnott) d Lime (Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba, John Hamelink) 8-4. Judi d John -7, 7, 7, -8, 12.
Division 3:
Sapphires (Josie Davis, Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) d Emeralds (Ian Dodds, Glenda Brookes, Trish Zamparuti) 7-5. Madge d Trish -5, -9, 7, 2, 6.
A new season of Tuesday night table tennis fixtures hit off this week. It’s always nice to see new and returning players enjoying the fixtures. It’s never too late to join, so give Donna Abbott a call 0400 769 560.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures April 16, 2024:
Division 1:
Brown (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Andrea Nicholson) d Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) 6-5. Vince d Donna -12, 6, -6, 4, 11.
Blue (Will VanDeKaa, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) d Red (Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker, George Camilleri) 8-3. Graeme d Will -9, 7, 6, -4, 8.
Purple (Tony Bowman, Duncan Treloar) d Green (Leo Gilbert) 6-2. Leo d Duncan 8, 6, -5, -9, 6.
Black (Mick Ruhl, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d White (Mark Sleeman, Andrew McHugh, Graham Brake) 6-5. Ishan d Graham 7, 7, -4, -4, 8.
Division 2:
Tan (Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo, Saisha Palod) d Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro, Mark Stam) 6-5. Jye d Mark 8, 6, -4, 1.
Lime (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) d Teal (Peter Goodson, Craig VanDeKaa) 7-2. Noreen/Simon d Craig/Peter 18, -3, -3, 5, 12.
Gold (Ollie Hamelink, Steve Mathieson, Rohit Bansod) d Cyan (Matt West, Val Austin, Leonie Patroni) 9-2. Ollie d Val 6, -8, 8, -9, 4.
Aqua (Judy Zahn, Delma Knight, Robbie Richards) d Grey (Doug Dungavell, Misha Palod, Kade Wright) 8-3. Kade d Judy 4, 7, -9, -9, 10.
Val Austin and Coral Morgan

The Mackay Champion Pairs was played on Saturday 13th April, with thirty pairs entered. This was a great attendance with players attending from Bowen and Airlie Beach as well as local players. Sixty players played across A, B and C grades. Max and Diane Holewa won A section with Robert Carless and Janelle Conroy runners up. Jan Harris and Mick King won the B section with Ming Ting and Debra Goodchild runners up. Sandy Patterson and Geoff Cowan won C Section with Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris runners up.
A section winners Diane and Max with President Noel
C Section winners Sandy and Geoff with President Noel and Anne Lutz Convener
Weekly Results
Monday 15 April 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Josie Cowley
2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
3rd
Joy Block / Nancy Wix
4th
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
5th
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
6th
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
Tuesday Evening 16 April 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
1st
Geoff Taylor / Frances Brown
2nd
Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Annette Howe
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Simon Barnes / Errol Morris
3rd
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
Wednesday 17 April 2024 – Unders and Overs 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Sandy Patterson / Ian Cruickshank
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Joy Brunette
2nd
Joy Block / Janet Hansen
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan
3rd
Karen Caldwell / Alan Brown
3rd
Geoffrey Patterson / Susan Ross
4th
Geoff Cowan / Nancy Wix
4th
Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
5th
Sue Meyer-Miller / Kath Poole
5th
Gwen Liddell / Errol Morris
Thursday Evening 18 April 2024 –5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janet Hansen / Janelle Conroy
1st
Susan Ross / Jan Harris
2nd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
2nd
Patricia Garner / Mick King
Friday 19 April 2024 - 9 Table Green Points
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Julie O’Neill / Joy Block
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting
4th
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
4th
Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
Saturday 20 April 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janette Hansen / Diane Morgan
1st
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Geoffrey Patterson / Terrence Sheedy
2nd
Nancy Martin / Ken Seaniger
3rd
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
3rd
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
4th
Ted Cullinan / Noel Saunders
4th
David Ting / Ming Ting
5th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
5th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
5th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
Contributed by Joy Block