Kids Fishing Day at Lake Proserpine

Kids Fishing Day returns to the Lake Proserpine Holiday Park on Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This free community event is designed to get children of all ages outdoors and engaged with the environment.

Led by Mudskippa, the morning will feature hands-on workshops, casting activities, and essential water safety sessions. The event also offers a high-stakes incentive for young anglers: the legendary Golden Barra. Participants have the chance to win a $20,000 top prize, with two additional $7,500 Platinum prizes also available under the competition’s terms and conditions.
Families are encouraged to bring hats, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure for a morning that combines skill-building with the natural beauty of the Proserpine area.

Event Details
Kids Fishing Day
Date: Saturday, 4 July 2026 (9am - 12pm)
Location: Lake Proserpine Holiday Park
Cost: Free

Rugby Fever: Viking Cup 10s Expands to Three Days

In October, attention shifts to Airlie Beach for the Viking Cup 10s, North Queensland’s largest junior rugby carnival. The 2026 edition will be the most ambitious yet, expanding to a three-day format.

Scheduled from Thursday, October 1, to Saturday, October 3, the tournament will take place at Whitsunday Sportspark on Shute Harbour Road. The extended schedule allows families more time to combine on-field action with island adventures and the region’s famous beaches.

The carnival is free for spectators and provides a platform for junior players to showcase their skills in one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. Team registrations are being managed through the Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union.

Viking Cup 10s
Date: 1–3 October 2026 (12pm - 7pm daily)
Location: Whitsunday Sportspark, Airlie Beach
Cost: Free to spectate

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It was another exciting week of bowls for the club in paradise, with Christmas in the air and a promising New Year fast approaching.

Tuesday, December 16, saw 19 bowlers take to the greens in a highly competitive event, expertly organised by Lyn Graham. The standout performers were the team skippered by John Brown, who delivered a commanding 19-point victory. New lead bowler Alma Rose Mawson impressed with excellent form, while Gail Simms was also outstanding at second, as the team combined superbly for a convincing win.

Wednesday afternoon social bowls, well organised by Mervyn Stewart, again showcased strong performances across the field. The winning team was skippered by Andrew Butler, with Barry Wainwright producing a near-perfect display as lead. Joined by Glen O’Brien, the trio played inspired bowls to finish 14 points clear of the rest of the talented field.

Sunday afternoon saw 24 bowlers enjoy four highly competitive games. In one of the closest contests, Carol “Pocket Rocket” Crosbie delivered a brilliant final bowl to secure a two-point victory, supported by lead Mandy O’Brien, with Mark Mawson finishing a strong second overall.

Another tight match saw skipper Lyn Graham edge out the highly fancied Margo Stanley team by three points, with Alma Rose Mawson at lead and David Cleary at second both producing excellent bowls.

The biggest win of the day went to skipper Arthur McManus, alongside second Phil O’Brien and lead Andrew “Noel” Crosbie, who claimed an impressive 12-point victory in an outstanding team effort.

The club wishes all members and guests a very Merry Christmas and looks forward to making 2026 its most successful year yet.

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Betty Whitehorn winning the Airlie Beach Bowls Club Champion 2025 being presented by Mandy O’Brien representing her father Herb Sutcliffe with Chairman Steven Lawrie the 2025 Club. Photo supplied

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Proserpine Golf Club golfers wrapped up the final full week of competition before Christmas with strong fields, big scores and plenty of festive spirit across the course.

Before announcing the week’s winners, the club echoed its Patron’s Christmas message, wishing members a safe and happy festive season and looking forward to welcoming players back in the New Year.

Tuesday’s single stableford saw Tommy Gallagher take out the men’s event with an impressive 42 points, ahead of Tim Langford on 38. In the women’s field, Tina Badenhorst claimed victory with 39 points, with Tiina Randmae runner-up on 36. Nearest-the-pin honours went to Badenhorst on the 2nd and 13th, while Jon Miller collected the prizes on the 9th and 16th.

Elise Hodgson continued her good form on Wednesday, winning the women’s competition on a countback after posting 34 points. Tina Badenhorst finished runner-up. Chris Bartlett led the men’s field with 36 points, edging out Brad Fleet on 35. NTP winners were Di Chard (2nd), Tina Badenhorst (9th), Trish McNeill (13th) and Karen Oni (16th).

Thursday’s single stableford featured graded competition for the men. In A Grade, Norman Foster of Gladstone Golf Club claimed the win on a countback with 38 points, ahead of Greg Walker, while Perri Simpson finished third on 36. Nic Apruzzese dominated B Grade with a standout 42 points, followed by Rob Webb on 40 and Peter Fox on 37. Nearest-the-pin prizes went to Gary Scotford (2nd), Paul Carey (9th), George Meharry (13th) and Pascal Neunreuther (16th).

Friday’s nine-hole back-nine run, sponsored by the Metropole Hotel, was taken out by Di Chard with 21 points. Ben Smith finished runner-up on a countback with 20 points, while Nathan Sothman placed third. Chard also picked up the NTP on the 13th, with Edwina Pettiford claiming the 16th.

Saturday’s Haymans Electrical-sponsored single stableford delivered some of the week’s best scoring. Mick Kavanagh topped A Grade in the men’s event with an outstanding 43 points, ahead of Jason Whitney on 41 and Nathan Holohan on 40. John Wallace claimed B Grade honours with 38 points, while Brad Clements of Townsville Golf Club finished runner-up on a countback with 37, ahead of Troy Pettiford. Kavanagh won the NTP on the 2nd, with Clements taking the 9th.

In the women’s event, Sara Hagy secured victory with 41 points, narrowly ahead of Jenny Hounsell on 40. Trish McNeill finished third with 38 points, followed by Chorus Andrews on 37. Nearest-the-pin winners were Hagy (2nd), Di Chard (9th), Hounsell (13th) and McNeill (16th).

Sunday rounded out the week with a popular skins game, with Brad and Sidonie Fleet taking overall honours and collecting $1,025. In the Sunday stableford, Tim Frew led the men with 40 points, followed by Aaron Prosser on 38. Elise Hodgson capped off a strong week by winning the women’s event with 37 points, with Di Chard runner-up on 36. NTP prizes were claimed by Prosser (2nd), Scott Mason (13th) and Jake Murray (16th).

With Christmas now upon them, PGC members will take a short break before returning to the fairways in 2026.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Mackay Contract Bridge club’s Christmas party held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, proved to be a standout event, drawing record attendance and delivering plenty of festive fun. The evening was made possible through the hard work of organisers and the generosity of contributors, whose efforts ensured a memorable celebration. Appreciation was also extended to those who contributed to the 19 hampers, purchased tickets and donated additional prizes, helping make the night a resounding success and a highlight of the club’s social calendar.

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Photo source: Mackay Contract Bridge Club

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With Fitness Cartel Corporate Memberships

Mackay businesses now have a game-changing way to invest in their employees’ health and wellbeing with Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program. Designed for organisations looking to prioritise fitness, health, and workplace wellness, these memberships give staff access to ultramodern facilities, expert-led classes, and personalised training support — all tailored to the needs of a busy workforce.

Whether your team wants to lift, stretch, spin, or recover, Fitness Cartel has it covered.

Members enjoy 24/7 access to all clubs, over 500 pieces of strength and cardio equipment, and dedicated zones for Reformer Pilates, functional training, and cycling. The Mackay location also features a fully equipped Wellness Centre, including hot rock saunas, hot and cold plunge pools, Normatec compression boots, red light therapy, and a range of post-workout recovery options to suit every need.

Group fitness is a highlight for corporate members, with unlimited access to more than 100 classes per week across 4 different training studios inside the Mackay Club. Options range from Les Mills’ Body Combat, Body Pump, Body Balance And RPM, to yoga, Mat Pilates, Zumba, and functional training sessions. Virtual classes are also available 24/7, offering flexibility for early birds or night owls.

For businesses with families on the team, Kids Cartel provides a safe, engaging crèche and playground, ensuring parents can focus on their workout while children enjoy supervised play. Employees can also enjoy the Cartel Café, offering nutritious meals and snacks to fuel their workouts, or browse the on-site nutrition and pro shop.

Corporate packages at Fitness Cartel are designed to elevate workplace wellness programs.

Beyond improving fitness levels, they promote team bonding, boost morale, and create a positive, healthy work culture. Monthly body scans, personal training sessions, and precision programming help staff track progress and achieve their health goals, making corporate wellness a practical and measurable benefit for businesses.

“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,” said Mackay Co-Franchisee Cliff Forster.

With multiple locations and more planned nationwide, employees have seamless access to premium fitness facilities no matter where they are. For Mackay businesses looking to invest in their teams, Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program offers the ultimate combination of fitness, recovery, and community, all under one roof.

For more information or to arrange a corporate membership, contact Fitness Cartel Mackay at mackay@fitnesscartel.com.au or call (07) 4881 0365

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At North Mackay Bowls Club

North Mackay Bowls club Presentation night was held on Saturday 29/11/2025, with many of our bowlers and significant others attending.

Following a lovely dinner prepared by the super chefs at Goosies, the Ladies section held their presentation first, with many excited winners receiving certificates and renumeration.

Results:

Champ Pairs : Deb Mackenzie and Chris Woo
Champ Triples : Nug Pratt, Val De Pinto, Marie Bragg
Champ Fours : Lorna Bowers, Deb Mackenzie, Coral Francis, Donna Gordon
B Pairs : Ann Smith ans Min Andrew
Over 70’s : Lorna Bowers
Graded 4’s Lorraine Silman, Doris Dodds, Helen Fleming, Min Andrew
Graded 3 B Triples : Lois Deguara, Helen Fleming, Sue Roscoe
Graded 2 B Triples : Donna Gordon, Carmel Bell, Hilary Jones-Rowan
Consistency : Cheryl Corbett
Division 1 Winning Pennant Team going on to play in Emerald ( Leichhardt District ) and then to Tweed Heads(Qld Division) Coming 4th in the State.

Well done to all the ladies in the team.

The Bowler of the Year award was presented to the player who claimed the Championship Singles, ‘B’ Singles and Under 70s Singles titles, with the honour bestowed on Brenda Trannore.

Brenda graciously accepted the accolade, delivering a heartfelt speech in which she thanked those who had supported and guided her throughout her bowls journey, acknowledging the achievement as a significant milestone in both her life and her bowls career.

Amazing and Well Done Brenda.

The Mens Section had their 2025 Presentation next, with many of the bowlers happy with their performances on the green an in competitions, Pennant and away games.

Results:

Mixed Pairs : Neil Blucher and Lois Deguara
Mixed Fours ; Pam Spencer, Ken Rix, Carmel Bell, Dave Mc Kendry
B Singles : Eric Galletly,
B Pairs : Eric Gallantly John Kennell
Senior Singles : Geoff Ollett
2 B Triples : Andrew Coates, Clive Wales, Peter Blackburn.
3 B Triples : Shane Trannore, Wayne Trannore, Dave McKendry
A Fours : Ben Crocker, Col Crocker, Ian Beveridge, Joe Crocker
A Pairs : Mick Walsh and Steve Lane
A Singles : Alan Cooney

Club Person of the Year was voted in as a tie this year, and went to Wayne and Shane Trennore. It was a super evening for the Trannore name in bowls for our Club.

Wayne Trannore responded on behalf of his brother Shane, also thanking those involved with the club and their fantastic award.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Deb Mackenzie and Chris Woo

Deb Mackenzie,Donna Gordon, Coral Francis And Lorna Bowers.    

Brenda Trannore and Alan Cooney

Lois Deguara and Neil Blucher

Winning Division 2 Pennant Team

Alan Cooney and Ben Crocker.

Brenda Trannore.  

Shane and Wayne Trannore. Photos supplied

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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Results For Week Ending Saturday 13th December 2025

Monday 8th December 2025 – 6 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Jewel Schmidt - Janine Rodgers
2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild                       2nd Shirley Worland - Janice Mansfield
3rd Geoffrey Patterson - Noel Bugeia 3rd  Jayne Johnstone - Clare Wallace

Tuesday 9th December 2025 –  3 ½  Table Howell Green Points
1st Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia  
2nd Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy                    
3rd Richard Wix - Tex Sheedy

Wednesday 10th December 2025 –10 Table Mitchell  Green Points
North/South East/West
1st  Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Martin Pearce - Sue Mayer-Miller
2nd Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 2nd Janet Hansen - Alan Brown
3rd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 3rd Gwen Liddell - Anne Lutz
4th Annette Howe - Diane Stokes 4th Mary Rose Ramsden - Patrick Rasmussen
5th Lorna Shuttlewood - Tex Sheedy 5th Sandy Patterson - Joy Hold

Thursday Evening 11th December 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Joy Hold - Patricia Garner 1st Noel Bugeia - Tex Sheedy
2nd Geoff Taylor - Anne Lutz 2nd Martin Pearce - Simon Barnes

Friday 12th December 2025 –7 ½  Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st  Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 1st David Ting - Ming Ting
2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix            2nd Julie O'neill - Ann Whitmore
3rd Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 3rd Christine Nice - Diane Cox
3rd Martin Pearce - Gwen Liddell

Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section A (Christmas Party )– 8 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st  Victor Mason - Ann Whitmore 1st Marilin Robins - Mick Robins
2nd Geoff Taylor - Margaret Lane 2nd Faye Wright - Tex Sheedy
3rd Monica Darley - David Hird   3rd Diane Stokes - Annie Lynch
4th Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless 4th Noel Bugeia - Pamela Finger

Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section B (Christmas Party)– 9 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st  Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 1st Janet Hansen - Thelma Caruana
2nd Ming Ting - David Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix
3rd Alan Brown - Frances Brown   3rd Susan Gibson - Karen Caldwell
4th Christopher Meyers - Sandy Patterson 4th Eric Goodchild - Debra Goodchild

Contributed by Robert Carless

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Winners of Christmas Party days play Section B: L/R Thelma, Janet, Vic and Anne. Photo supplied

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With Mackay Road Runners

With temperatures feeling closer to 35 degrees and no rain in sight, it was a very Mackay-style lead-up to Christmas at this week’s Bluewater Quay Social Run. Forget a white Christmas, runners were treated to hot, testing conditions during the afternoon’s 5km and 10km events.

Race Director Andrew Short was thanked for delivering another successful run, despite the heat, with welcome relief provided by Zooper Doopers and Red Dog’s rehydration options, which were greatly appreciated by participants.

The next Bluewater Quay social run, commencing at 4.30pm next Sunday, will be the final event before Christmas. Runners are encouraged to come along for a festive group photo and stay on for a Christmas drink afterwards. Some of the best photos may feature in this Mackay Life Newspaper and the Mackay Road Runners 2026 calendar, described humorously as a firefighter-style calendar, but with clothes.

Congratulations were extended to all participants for their efforts in challenging conditions, with a reminder for runners to continue training and racing in such conditions to stay healthy and safe.

“Thank you to Mackay & Whitsunday Life magazine for their awesome support of the Mackay Road Runners Club!”

Craig Joynson with water spray bottle and Natasha Joynson tackle the Bluewater Quay social 5km run with ease.
Jo Hughes - “Are we there yet?”
Race Director Andrew Short makes light work of the Bluewater Quay social 10km.
Carmel Mahon and Stephen Oberg elated to cross the Bluewater Quay social 10km finish line.
It’s a thumbs up from everyone at the Bluewater Quay Social 5k, 10km (left to right) – Len Howarth, Derek Woods, Carmel Mahon, Jo Hughes, Stephen Oberg, David Isbister and Andrew Short. Photos supplied

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This week marks the end of a fantastic year of bowls at Proserpine Bowls Club.

On Wednesday, we mixed things up a bit for Social Bowls. Heather Brown, Alen Sanderson, and Henny Tattam defeated Heather Brown, Philip Brown, and Arthur Griffith 23–15. Meanwhile, Sandy Daffara and Barry Zillmann had a close win over Mike Harrison and John Anderson, 15–14.

On Sunday, we enjoyed a BBQ lunch before playing just six ends of bowls. Teams were drawn randomly, and Henny Tattam, Sandy Daffara, Philip Brown, and Mike Harrison recovered from an early 6-shot deficit to defeat Bruce Uhe, Arthur Griffith, Alen Sanderson, and John Anderson.

We wish all our members a safe and very Merry Christmas!

A reminder: if you wish to take advantage of the discount on Affiliation Fees, they must be paid before December 31.

Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Bowls Club

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With summer temperatures soaring and Christmas just around the corner, Proserpine Golf Club members enjoyed another busy week of competition, with strong fields and some impressive scoring across multiple events.

Tuesday, December 9 saw a Medley Stableford played in hot conditions. Di Chard claimed victory with a standout 40 points, ahead of runner-up Aaron Prosser on 36. Nearest the pin prizes went to Aaron Prosser (2nd), Paul Gray (9th) and Luke Wayth (13th).

The Wednesday Ladies Stableford on December 10, sponsored by Airllywood, delivered excellent results, with Karen Oni leading the way on 42 points. Jenny Hounsell finished second with 37 points, followed by Kathryn Borer on 35 points after a countback, and Leanne Alexander rounding out the field. Nearest the pin honours were shared by Sherri Meade, Di Dobbins (2nd), Karen Oni and Nicole Cooper (14th).

Men took to the course on Thursday, December 11 for a Stableford event. In A Grade, Luke Paroz secured the win on 38 points after a countback, with Jett Borghero runner-up. B Grade honours went to Bradley Wilkinson, also with 38 points on a countback, ahead of Greg Walker. Nearest the pin winners were Scott Mason (2nd), Brett Simpson (9th), Craig McLean (13th) and Laurie Dakin (16th).

The Friday 9-hole Back 9 Run, sponsored by the Metropole Hotel, saw Harry Milne take the win with 21 points. Edwina Pettiford finished runner-up on 20 points after a countback, with Fay Milne third. Brent Franke (2nd) and Chris Pirlo (9th) collected NTPs. The final Putt for Cash for 2025 attracted plenty of attention, with Adam Davies sinking his second putt to claim $250 from the $1250 pool.

A highlight of the week came on Saturday, December 13, when 132 players contested the popular Turkey Day 3-Ball Ambrose. Overall honours went to Don Cameron, Karen Rix and Roger Vandenberg, with full results to be released via the club’s Facebook page. The day also included presentations for the club’s major 2025 titles and a special moment recognising Nathan’s achievement in attaining professional golfer status.

The week concluded on Sunday, December 14 with a Stableford event. Aaron Prosser topped the men’s field with 39 points, ahead of Chris Bartlett on 38. In the ladies competition, Loretta Puttick claimed victory with 38 points, followed by Peta Thomas on 36. Nearest the pin prizes went to Darren Reynolds (2nd), Sherri Meade and Dean Barnard (9th), Mark McDougal (13th) and Scott Clarke (16th).

Another successful week wrapped up what has been a strong lead-in to the festive season at Proserpine Golf Club.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Two of the Rules of Running Middle Distance Squad athletes made their way down to Melbourne to compete at the 2025 Chemist Warehouse Australian Athletics All Schools Championships from the 4th–7th of December.

Millie Groom competed in the 3000m, placing 5th in Australia and achieving a huge 26-second PB. The following day she raced the 2000m Steeplechase, placing 6th in Australia with a 12-second PB.

Ayla Moon competed in the 400m, qualifying fastest and then winning the Gold Medal the next day; her second National title this year.

Within an hour she was back on the track for the 1500m final, holding her position and remaining in contention until the last 300m, finishing 9th in Australia.

On the final day of competition, Ayla ran the 800m and won the Silver Medal.

Ayla will now take a short rest before building into cross country season, balancing workload with LAQ States in March.

Millie will also have a short rest before shifting focus toward Triathlon States in February, then building into cross country season alongside the squad.

The squad has had a huge 2025 with success across both Cross Country and Track & Field — securing multiple medals, PBs, State and National titles. Many of our senior athletes were also selected for Regional, State, National and Athletics North Queensland representative teams, highlighting the depth and maturity of the program.

Looking ahead, 2026 will see the squad expand from three to four fully supported training squads, allowing even more athletes to join while maintaining high-quality, individualised programming. Coach Belinda Rule was also proudly awarded ANQ’s Coach of the Year for 2025.

Huge things are on the horizon for 2026, especially with the squad partnering with Momentum High Risk Training through amazing sponsorship opportunities.

Contributed by Belinda Rule

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Two Mackay middle-distance athletes delivered standout performances at the Australian All Schools Championships, with Millie Groom securing major PBs and Ayla Moon claiming gold and silver among her national results. Photo credit: Kylie Nyssen.

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Results for week ending Saturday 6th December 2025

Monday 1st December 2025 – 7 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st DAVID TING - ERIC GOODCHILD 1st GEOFF TAYLOR - GEOFFREY PATTERSON
2nd JAN HARRIS - JULIE O'NEILL 2nd DIANE HOLEWA - MAX HOLEWA
3rd BARBARA TAIT - MARGARET LANE 3rd JEWEL SCHMIDT - RICHARD WIX
4th DIANE STOKES - EDWARD KLIESE

Tuesday 2nd December 2025 – 4 ½ Table Howell Green Points
1st JOHN MCGEE - MICK KING 3rd ERIC GOODCHILD - NOEL BUGEIA
2nd ERROL MORRIS - MICK ROBINS 4th PATRICIA GARNER - ADRIAN WESTCOTT

Wednesday 3rd December 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st DAVID TING - ERIC GOODCHILD 1st SANDY PATTERSON - GEOFFREY PATTERSON
2nd MAX HOLEWA - DIANE HOLEWA 2nd MING TING - DEBRA GOODCHILD
3rd JOY ROBINSON - ROBERT CARLESS 3rd GWEN LIDDELL - ANNE LUTZ
4th MONICA DARLEY - FRANCES BROWN 4th JEWEL SCHMIDT - ALAN BROWN

Thursday Evening 4th December 2025 – 4 Table Howell Green Points
1st KEN SEANIGER - ROBERT CARLESS
2nd IAN CRUICKSHANK - ADRIAN WESTCOTT
3rd GEOFF TAYLOR - ANNE LUTZ
4TH MARY CRUICKSHANK - MICK KING

Friday 5 December 2025 –6 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st JANINE RODGERS - RICHARD WIX 1st VICTOR MASON - JOSIE CROWLEY
2nd TEX SHEEDY - NOEL BUGEIA 2nd MARTIN PEARCE - GWEN LIDDELL
3rd JOY ROBINSON - GEOFF TAYLOR 3rd MICK KING - GEOFF COWAN

Saturday 6th December 2025 – 10 ½ Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st JOY ROBINSON - KEN SEANIGER 1st FRANCES BROWN - ALAN BROWN
2nd RICHARD WIX - TEX SHEEDY 2nd MING TING - DAVID TING
3rd JANELLE CONROY - ROBERT CARLESS 3rd ERROL MORRIS - IAN GASKELL
4th LAURA HOWLAND - JANINE RODGERS 4th ANNE LUTZ - RODNEY MILES
5th ANNETTE HOWE - VICKI HOWARD 5th LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD - SUSAN WRIGHT

Contributed by Robert Carless

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President Francie Brown with the Martin Pearce and Sue Mayer-Miller winners of the 2025 Mackay Bridge Club Novice Pairs Championship. Photo supplied

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The November instalment of Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series wrapped up with thanks to Race Director Jim Ford, ahead of a well-earned break throughout December. The popular series will return on the first Sunday afternoon of January 2026, keeping the same time, place and format for athletes eager to restart their routine.

For those still keen to maintain fitness over the holiday period, Mackay Road Runners will continue meeting at 4.30pm each Sunday at Bluewater Quay for a casual 5km or 10km run , or any distance in between, with post-run hydration available for purchase at The Red Dog.

Runners are reminded to stay mindful of hydration before, during and after training or racing, particularly in the extreme weather currently affecting the region, to ensure optimal performance and recovery.

Social 5km Brings Festive Cheer To Bluewater Quay

A cheerful group of Mackay Road Runners, Natasha, Craig, Alex, Carmel, Andrew, David and Len, enjoyed a festive social 5km at Bluewater Quay as the club eases into December. The relaxed run came as Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series pauses for the month, ahead of its return to the ARC on the first Sunday afternoon of January 2026.

Runners made the most of the pre-Christmas atmosphere, enjoying the option of a 5km or 10km loop, a refreshment at The Red Dog, and even a quick photo in front of the Christmas tree before heading home to tackle weekend chores.

The club says it “loves this photo of our regular runners”.

Updates on the 2026 Mackay Road Runners calendar of events will be shared soon, as preparations continue for a milestone year.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

(left to right) Andrew, Rebecca and Chloe take in the ominous sky before they hit the track for 30 minutes in the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
(left ro right) Jose, Carolyn and Alana ease into the 30 minute track session as part of the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
Race Director & Mackay Road Runners Club Captain, Jim Ford supporting Adam Knezevic (right) as he completes as many laps as possible in the 30 minute track session.
Regular participants, Vivian and Harvey Knezevic enjoy the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.
Phoebe Short having a great time now she’s finished the 30 min pool section of Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
Andrew Flanagan maintains excellent form on the track before the swim portion of the Biathlon Series. Photos supplied

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North Mackay Ladies have had another amazing year on the bowling greens. Winning the Premier shield for the 5th year in succession, which is an amazing achievement for the club.

In the district, points are awarded to each club for Winners and Runners Up in the following categories.   Master Pairs, Symons Shield, Johnstone Shield, Pennants and District Champion of Champions.

The District Presentation for the shield was held recently and presented to our President Hilary Jones-Rowan.

Photographed are some of the Members of this great club with the Perpetual Trophy.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Photo supplied

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The recently formed Whitsundays Surf Life Saving Club hosted a Family Fun Day last weekend at Bowen Pool, and the event was both educational and entertaining.

Sunday’s event drew strong community interest, with Queensland Ambulance, local fire crews and Surf Life Saving Queensland offering demonstrations on CPR, stinger treatment and how to respond in emergencies.

A pool rescue display highlighted the importance of water awareness heading into the wet season, while rescue boards and games gave children a taste of what the nippers program will offer.

President of the Whitsundays Surf Life Saving Club Bernie Mackie said the goal is simple: safety, fun and community.

The club aims to revive the service once active in Bowen, now broadened to include Airlie Beach, Collinsville and Proserpine under the new name Whitsundays Surf Life Saving Club.

Bernie said the idea emerged from growing interest among new families moving into the area, many of whom are accustomed to surf life saving culture in southern Queensland.

"We've had a lot of interest and that's why we're starting to bring it back," said Bernie.

The club will begin with a nippers program launching in May, developed alongside Surf Life Saving Queensland. While the Whitsundays lack traditional surf, Bernie said that nippers is centred on ocean awareness, teamwork and giving young people a positive community connection.

“We know we don't have waves and surf here, but that's not what it's about," said Bernie.

"It's about community, building a network of people that have got the same interest and about the youth.

"We want the youth to get involved have some meaning to community."

The long-term vision is to create a fully operational surf life saving club offering programs for youth, Indigenous participants and masters competitors, as well as CPR, first-aid and rescue training. The region’s many beaches also make it ideal for activities such as board paddling, rescues and even surf boat involvement for those who have moved north with existing experience.

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Councillor John Finlay, members of the Whitsunday Surf Life Saving Club, and Councillor and Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright at the Family Fun Day in Bowen last Sunday. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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