Teams from the Mackay Monarchs have returned from the Senior State Age Netball Championships in Townsville after four days of strong competition and warm conditions.

Mackay Netball Association congratulated players for their efforts on court, noting the teams played impressive netball and created lasting memories during the tournament.

Final placings for SSA 2026 were:
• 15 Maroon – Championship Division – 18th
• 15 Blue – Division 3 – 5th
• 16 Maroon – Division 3 – 7th
• 18 Maroon – Division 3 – 4^th

Sponsors Back Monarchs Campaign

Mackay Netball Association has thanked the sponsors who supported the Mackay Monarchs during their 2026 Senior State Age Netball Championships campaign.

Local businesses played an important role in helping the teams travel and compete, with support provided by:

• Fitness Cartel Mackay
• Pool Professionals Mackay
• Diggers Landscape Supplies
• FMS Group
• Focus on Flooring Xtra - Mackay
• Mackay Turf Club
• Ablecut Concrete Cutting & Coring Mackay
• Aury Australia
• Mayzier Transport
• Devcon

Photo source: Mackay Netball Association – MNA

The highly anticipated 2026 North Queensland Games are now just around the corner and are set to energise the region over the May Day long weekend.

Celebrating its 42^nd year, the event will be hosting 40+ sports, predominantly in Mackay, but also the Whitsundays and Isaac regions. Athletes of all ages are welcome to attend.

The North Queensland Sports Foundation has developed these games around mass participation and inclusivity. Athletes of all ages and abilities are encouraged to take part and build confidence and community connection. Organisers also anticipate economic benefits to be brought by the event, after previous North Queensland Games saw thousands of athletes and visitors flock to the region to participate and show their support.

A primary goal of the games this year is to sow seeds amongst young athletes ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, giving belief that their Olympic journey can start right here in Mackay.

Natalie Cook will be joining the 2026 North Queensland Games as an ambassador, having competed in the North Queensland Games early in her sporting journey before going on to win an Olympic gold medal in volleyball. Her story shows what is possible when opportunity meets hard work and community support.

Mackay’s own, former boxing world champion Liam Paro, will also be returning as an ambassador.

“The North Queensland Games were a big part of my journey when I was younger, so it’s pretty special to now come back and be part of it as an ambassador,” Liam Paro Said.

“I’m proud to be from Mackay and even prouder to be leading the torch in 2026. Regional clubs are where it all starts, and I’m passionate about shining a light on the talent we have here. If I can inspire even one young athlete to dream bigger and take that step onto the world stage, then that’s what it’s all about.”

The 2026 North Queensland Games will officially kick off with an Opening Ceremony on Friday 1 May at Harrup Park, Mackay, which the organisation claims will “bring the community together for a vibrant celebration of sport, culture and regional pride.”

“The free, family-friendly event will feature a dynamic program of entertainment and experiences, including community stalls, food trucks, amusements and interactive activities for all ages,” they shared.

“A highlight of the evening will be the traditional March of Athletes, where clubs and competitors from across North Queensland will come together in a powerful display of unity and regional spirit.

“The ceremony will also include the official lighting of the Games torch, marking the beginning of the 2026 Games, followed by a spectacular fireworks display and some live entertainment to close out the night.”

What? The NQ Games Opening Ceremony
When? Friday 1st May, 5pm Doors Open
Where? Harrup Park, Mackay

1. The NQ Games will bring together athletes of all ages across 40+ sports. Photo source: Facebook
2. Liam Paro receiving the Pride of the Region award from Mayor Greg Williamson at the Media Launch of the 2026 games. Photo supplied

‍

Students at Mackay State High School recently took part in a practical learning session as Year 8 AEA students began preparing for upcoming reef-based STEM projects.

Held at the school’s memorial pool, the session introduced students to essential snorkelling skills, helping build confidence and capability ahead of their fieldwork on the reef, where they will collect real-world data. The activity encouraged teamwork, enthusiasm and a willingness to step outside comfort zones while developing skills that connect directly to classroom learning.

Photo source: Mackay State High School

Monday 6 April 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Ming Ting / David Ting

1^st

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd

Annie Lynch / Faye Wright

3^rd

Janine Rodgers / Jennifer Cameron

4^th

Thelma Caruana / Joy Block

4^th

Joy Hold / Rod Miles

5^th

Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice

5^th

Diane Morgan / Madonna Graham

Tuesday Evening 7 April 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

1^st

Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Lorna Shuttlewood / Janet Hansen

2^nd

Adrian Westcott / Sandy Patterson

3^rd

Vicki Howard / Richard Wix

3^rd

Mary Cruickshank / Ian Cruickshank

Wednesday 8 April 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

1^st

Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Ming Ting / David Ting

2^nd

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

3^rd

Alan Brown / Janet Hansen

4^th

Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

4^th

Geoff Taylor / Ian Vary

Thursday Evening 9 April 2026 – 5 Table One Winner – Green Points

1^st

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Mick King / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers

Friday 10 April 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

1^st

Ming Ting / David Ting

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

3^rd

Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson

3^rd

Diane Cox / Christine Nice

4^th

Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor

4^th

Geoff Cowan / Mary Cruickshank

Saturday 11 April 2026 –Section A - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Monica Darley / Shirley Worland

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

2^nd

Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris

2^nd

Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

3^rd

Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

3^rd

Mary Cruickshank / Ian Cruickshank

Saturday 11 April 2026 – Section B - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Marilyn Robins / Faye Wright

1^st

Adrian Westcott / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2^nd

Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice

3^rd

Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson

3^rd

Janine Rodgers / Karen Caldwell

Contributed with thanks to Joy Block

Photo supplied

‍

Participants from Mackay Parkrun celebrated several milestone achievements late last month, recognising both volunteers and runners for their dedication.

Len Howarth marked an impressive 50 volunteer milestone, while Trent Rankin, Olivia Broadley and Jacob Attiwill each celebrated their 50th finish milestones.

Mackay parkrun is a free, timed 5km run or walk held at 7am every Saturday morning, organised by the community, for the community.

Photo source: Mackay Parkrun

The Club Championship Mixed Pairs Final was played on Saturday, April 11 at North Mackay Bowls Club.

Players in the final were Daphne Offield and Dave McKendry, who faced Donna Gordon and Chris Banney.

It was another great final for the club, featuring some special shots, several congested heads around the jack, and precision bowling that made it a superb match.

Daphne and Dave were the eventual winners and were thrilled with the result, while Donna and Chris were valiant in defeat.

Congratulations to everyone who competed in this great event, and of course to the very happy winners.

Contributed with thank to Sue Hazledine

(L) Chris Banney, Donna Gordon, Dave McKendry and Daphne Offield. Photo credit: Donna Gordon

‍

The sun shone bright over the greens as the Mackay Ladies Bowling Club celebrated its 33rd birthday. President Marie welcomed 52 members and district bowlers to the club. The atmosphere was bursting with laughter, color, and a touch of friendly competition.

Newer members joined in the fun, eager to make their own memories. The friendly birthday tournament saw playful rivalries reignited, with cheers and good-natured teasing echoing across the rinks. After the game bowlers enjoyed the lunch provided by the Mackay club ladies

As the cake was cut by  President Marie and MDLBA President Lorraine  The guests joined in singing “Happy Birthday.”

The Mackay Ladies Bowling Club’s 33rd birthday was a tribute to the spirit of camaraderie, community, and love for the game that keeps the club’s heart beating strong.

During the festivities the MACKAY Bowling Club Board committee presented a $7000 cheque to the St Helens bowling Club to help them with their flood repairs. The money was raised by having bowls, raffles and a few large donations from members and patrons of the club.  Many thanks to all.

Contributed with thanks to Robyn Schatkowski

President Lorraine and President Marie cutting cake

M Mayfield J Jorgensen(Makay Club) Rose Condon and Helen Strachan (st Helen’s Club) Photos supplied

‍

Over thirty members of the Mackay Road Runners and their families enjoyed a perfect Sunday afternoon with a social 5km and 10km run/walk starting from the Magpies Sporting Complex carpark precincts.

Despite the humidity and slightly higher temperatures, runners found the well-marked, slightly undulating course through the Gooseponds and beyond a challenging change of pace following the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations the previous night.

The club now looks ahead to the annual Construct Health Physiotherapy 3km Club Championship next Sunday morning, starting at 7am from Queen’s Park at the Shakespeare Street carpark entrance.

Thank you to Construct Health Physiotherapy for your continued support, which is greatly appreciated.

Both members and non-members are welcome to take part; however, to accrue Club Championship points, participants must be a club member.

Contributed with thanks to Janelle Tilse

‍

‍

Students at Whitsunday Anglican School took to the course for the annual Junior School Cross Country, with runners embracing both the challenge and fun of the day in a lively atmosphere of encouragement and school spirit.

Year 12 students supported the event by running alongside and cheering on younger competitors, while staff, facilities crews and families helped create a strong sense of community from the sidelines.

Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School

Sue and Ian Cordell – (Club Members), Kieran Rundle – (Gravity Fitness Owner), Sigrid Eitler and Dianne Jackson – (Parabench Competitors)

‍

‍

The Whitsundays is set to take centre stage in the world of para-sport, with Whitsunday Weightlifting Club hosting a Parabench Development Competition as part of the 2026 North Queensland Games — the largest multi-sport competition in regional Australia.

The event is scheduled for Saturday 2^nd May at St Catherine’s Catholic College with the competition starting at 10am. It is open to all competitors of all abilities and experience levels. Parabench is part of Powerlifting Australia and provides training and strength development and optional competition opportunities.  

‍

The competition is a welcoming entry point into para powerlifting and is catered towards anyone with a lower limb disability who would like to attempt bench pressing in a supported, competitive environment.

"This is about breaking down barriers and showing people what's possible," said Leanne Knox, founder and Head Coach of Whitsunday Weightlifting Club.  

"We want anyone who has ever been curious about the sport to come along, give it a go, and discover just how capable they are. You don't need experience — you just need to show up. It is a fantastic opportunity for all people with any disability to see what's possible.”

‍

The club is encouraging the local community to cheer on the region’s best para-athletes as they compete in their local area.

The NQ Games runs from 1–4 May 2026 across the Mackay, Whitsundays and Isaac regions, celebrating its 42nd year and featuring more than 40 sports.

For enquiries about the Parabench Development Competition, contact Whitsunday Weightlifting Club on 0411 199 427 or on social media.

‍

WHAT: Parabench Development Competition  

WHEN: Saturday 2^nd May, 10am

WHERE: St Catherine’s College

‍

On Tuesday, S Jones, D Retchless and M Hyde defeated B Myers, S Querro and A Vigar. In the other game A Nailand and R Hyde defeated S Adams and B Querro. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Club Competition for the week. In the Men’s A Singles A Rolfe defeated G Read.

Ladies B Grade singles. T Bowen defeated C Jeal, Crooked Kitty D Wallace defeated P Warren.

Ladies Fours. L Suann, S Jones, D Retchless and M Hyde defeated L Scells, P Tracey, D Wallace and P Warren.

Winners for Sunday afternoon were Bill Myers, D Retchless and G Read defeating A Nailand, M Hyde and P Tracey.

Other games: T Bowen, S Querro and R Hyde defeated C Jeal, A Vigar and G Charles. L Suann and P Warren defeated T Blair and S Jeal. The jackpot didn’t go off.

It is not long now until our Winter Bingo starts. Get ready for Friday 1st May at the club for a 9.30 start. Check Facebook for further details.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

1 - Sunday's Winners Deb Retchless and Graeme Read.

Proserpine Bowls Club Report

On Wednesday, 8 players enjoyed games of pairs in Social bowls.  Bruce Uhe and Barry Zillmann defeated Alen Sanderson and Trevor Parsons 28 - 13;  Henny Tattam and Mike Harrison defeated Arthur Griffith and Philip Brown 24 - 11.

As so many people had family commitments during the weekend, we didn't have any social bowls on Sunday.

Looking forward to a bit drier time in the weather so that we can get on to working our way through the competition games.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

‍

It’s time to celebrate for the Whitsunday Sea Eagles as they enter an exciting new chapter, with years of hard work culminating in the installation of new lights for the AFL oval at Whitsunday Sportspark.

For years the Whitsunday Sea Eagles have shown up week in, week out training and playing in semi-darkness, while continuing to build the strong and successful club we see today.

“This is a huge milestone for our Club, and we couldn’t be prouder of our Committee and volunteers. The time and effort they’ve poured in behind the scenes truly shows their passion for creating something special and lasting for our community” said Whitsunday Sea Eagles President Chris Morrison said.

Excited by the return of night footy to the Whitsunday Sportspark, the Sea Eagles will host a special ANZAC Day fixture against Moranbah to be played under lights for the first time.

At approximately 5:30pm between the Women’s and Men’s matches the Last Post will be played - providing a moment to pause, reflect, and honour the significance of the day - before the Men’s game kicks off under lights at 6:00pm.

Saturday 25 April – Whitsunday Sportspark AFL Oval

• 10:40am U16 Girls – Moranbah Bulldogs v Mackay Magpies
• 11:55am U13s – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs
• 1:15pm U15s – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs
• 2:40pm U17s – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs
• 4:10pm Senior Women – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs
• Approx 5:30pm – Last Post
• 6:00pm Senior Men – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

Captions

Photo credit: Musco Lighting Australia

‍

The March 2026 Monthly Medal was played on Tuesday March 31^st – finally! Blustery conditions and sandy greens greeted the 10 ladies and 19 men. Congratulations to ladies winner Leanne Alexander (becoming a habit) and David Woods for the men.

Welcome to new members Norman Foster, Steven Stewart and Michael Stewart.

RESULTS

LADIES

Winner: Leanne Alexander with 73 nett

R/Up: Tiina Randmae also with 73 nett on a count back

Rundown: Tina Badenhorst (74), Paula McQuat and Kath Borer both with 75 points

MEN

Winner: David Woods with a creditable 67 nett

R/Up: John Oates with 68 nett

Rundown:  Colin Hounsell (71), Gary Scotford (72), Steven Stewart (73), Craig McLean (birthday boy), John Roser, Neil Cawthorne, Louis Neethling and Norman Foster all with 75 nett

PIN SHOTS

Ladies: A Grade - Tina Badenhorst (x2) and Elspeth Scotford

             B Grade - Tina Randmae (x2) and Paula McQuat

Men: A Grade - Ken Granger, Gary Scotford and Nick Apruzzese

          B Grade - David Woods (x2) and Peter Lindsay

LEAST PUTTS

Elspeth Scotford 28 putts and Barry Mortimer 28 putts

CHIP INS

No chip ins

NAGAs

For a ball each, Jenny Hounsell and John Strelec

DRAWS:

MEMBERSHIP jackpots to $30 next week

RAFFLE $50 to Ken Granger

UPCOMING EVENTS:

TUE 7/4/26 - APRIL 2026 MONTHLY MEDAL

TUE 14/4/26 - HOME HILL WHITSUNDAY GROUP

DITTY

Our Vets President now knows that a fancy car may cost you both time and money!

1- Monthly medal winners, David Woods and Leanne Alexander

‍

Starting on Tuesday afternoon, play was run by Lyn Graham, where skipper David Bradley, with lead Gail Simms and second Dawn Dowell, were the winners of the day.

Wednesday afternoon social bowls saw a fantastic performance from Bob Spees as skipper. He was absolutely unstoppable, with Rick Brunell, arguably the best lead in the club, and Ian Passfield, a new bowler who is going places fast as he improves each week. He will no doubt be a very valuable asset to our little club in the future. Their winning score was 25–14.

Saturday morning saw the resumption of Scroungers, with all players vying for a place in the final. First-round winners were Tony Whitehorn, who won his way into the final in a tiebreaker, and Russell Jackson, who was the victor in the A Division. The B Division was won by Dennis Donadelli, beating Margo Stanley, which is a very difficult achievement. Congratulations to all.

Sunday afternoon social bowls saw 18 bowlers competing for the prize, and it was wonderful to welcome back ex-President Peter Barrett, our Life Member Paul Osborne, and Mrs Alma Rose Mawson after three months in the Philippines.

John rolled the dice, which came up number 3, meaning the prize was for the biggest winning margin. This was won by the team of skipper Peter Barrett, with the relentless “Wild Bill” Gordon at lead and Bowen’s finest, Don Hogarth, at second, who won 25–15.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Captions
Skipper Peter Barrett, lead Bill Gordon, and Don Hogarth at second.

Photo supplied

‍

The Whitsundays announced itself as a serious player on the Queensland grappling circuit on Saturday 28 March, with the inaugural Escape Submission Grappling Series, presented by Fleming Painters, held in Cannonvale.

Over 110 competitors from nine Queensland clubs took to the mats across 230 Gi and no Gi divisions, with male and female categories running across all age groups and belt-rankings  – from five-year-olds finding their feet to 45-year-olds who clearly have no intention of slowing down. Bouts were run as one-on-one, three and five minute rounds, with some high level QLD black belts showcasing their skills and stamina with 10 minute superfights.

Escape Jiu Jitsu Head Coach Danny Johns said the first competition was a resounding success.

"Escape Jiu Jitsu is a new club, and to host a competition of this size within ten weeks of opening our doors has been incredible. Thank you to our members, competitors, volunteers, families and sponsors for making today happen," Mr Johns said.

Athletes travelled from Cairns, Mackay, Moranbah and Townsville to compete — a field that speaks to the appetite for quality regional competition across Queensland. Among them were Australian National No Gi/ Pan Pacific No Gi Black Belt champion Ethan Cannon and Australian National Gi and no Gi champion purple belt Melissa Patrick plus highly decorated black belts Christian Merino and Brody Maguire, whose participation signals that the home of Jiu Jitsu in the Whitsundays is Escape Jiu Jitsu.

Newly formed team, Escape Jiu Jitsu saw 28 Whitsundays locals aged from 7 to 41 years on the mats, many for the first time.

Competition results:

Gold medals

5

Silver medals

8

Bronze medals

20

Total competitors

33

Planning for the next competition is underway with dates and entries announced in the coming months.

‍