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.

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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.

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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.
 

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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.

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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.  
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Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

Pippa Laguna received an Upgrade Certificate. Photo supplied
Leo Mulliss received an Upgrade Certificate. Photo supplied

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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Val Austin and Coral Morgan

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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.

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A section winners Diane and Max with President Noel

C Section winners Sandy and Geoff with President Noel and Anne Lutz Convener

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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
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Contributed by Joy Block

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The upcoming 2024 AFL Mackay season is set to commence, kicking off on Saturday, April 20, with the debut of AFL Mackay’s "Gather Round" at Harrup Park. The inaugural round will feature eight football games across three competition grades, all held at the same venue.
Following the AFL's "Gather Round" in Adelaide, AFL Mackay is launching the "Regional Gather Round," marking the first time in Queensland community football history where a round will be played at a single venue for all senior grades.
Anticipation has been steadily building throughout the preseason, with all seven clubs primed to participate with five local Mackay clubs, along with teams from Moranbah Women and Whitsunday Men on the day.
The AFL Mackay Gather Round event will span across three ovals at Harrup Park, with the highlight being the Marquee Men’s match between the Mackay City Hawks and Mackay Magpies, taking place under the floodlights of the Great Barrier Reef Arena at 4:40 pm.

You can catch the action with a kick off at 11am, featuring the Triple M Women’s Cup, followed by the commencement of the Allied Senior Men’s matches at 12pm. Entry is FREE for all attendees, and convenient parking is available at Field 10 via Bridge Rd.

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The highly anticipated 2024 AFL Mackay season is set to kick off on Saturday, April 20th.  Image supplied.

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By Amanda Wright
History was made as the Mackay Cutters secured the title of the first-ever Harvey Norman Under 19 premiers. Hooker Paityne Johns emerged as the standout player of the match, steering her team to victory with sheer determination and skill.
Reflecting on the momentous win, Paityne expressed her exhaustion but overwhelming happiness at the team's triumph. She credited their success to a collective effort and a mindset focused on giving their best on the field.
"My mindset was to just play the best footy I can and the goal was to direct the girls and get us across the line," Paityne said.
Despite facing numerous challenges and injuries throughout the season, the Cutters rallied together, playing not just for themselves but for their absent teammates as well.
"With a number of injuries this season, we did it for the girls who couldn't be on the field," Paityne remarked.
The absence of their coach only fuelled their determination, as they dedicated their inaugural victory to him. Cutters U19 ladies captain Mersades Lawson beamed with pride as she praised her team's resilience and grit in clinching the Harvey Norman Under 19 grand final victory.
In the Hostplus Cup, the Mackay Cutters continued their winning streak with a commanding 52-14 triumph over the Western Clydesdales. Despite facing early challenges and a halftime deficit, the Cutters showcased their mettle, scoring an impressive eight tries to secure their highest points tally in a match.
Coach Michael Comerford commended his team's patience and composure, emphasising the importance of discipline in defence.
"Our attack in the first half was pretty good, it was just our discipline in defence costing us possession and field position," Comerford said, highlighting the team's areas for improvement.
Highlighting standout performances from halves Riley Dean and Kauri Aupouri-Puketapu, Comerford lauded their response after a disappointing showing in the previous week. "We challenged them during the week off the back of a performance we weren't happy with last week against the Blackhawks and they stood up and steered the ship," Comerford added.
The inclusion of Jaxon Purdue added to the team's success, with the 18-year-old halfback making a significant impact with his try-scoring prowess.
"We're very proud Jaxon has come through our junior pathways and had a really breakout couple of years," Comerford said.
In other games, the BMD Premiership squad ladies continued their dominance with a fifth consecutive win, overpowering the Western Clydesdales with a commanding 34-6 victory. Additionally, the U19 boys showcased their prowess in the Mal Meninga Cup, securing a convincing 34-16 win against the Western Clydesdales in Toowoomba.

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The Mackay Cutters took the Harvey Norman Under 19 Grand Final win
Hostplus Cup Round 5. Western Clydesdales v Mackay Cutters. Photo: Benny Hassum/QRL

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Nearly sixty runners enjoyed the perfect Sunday morning weather conditions as they traversed the scenic hills of Slade Point to Lamberts Beach for the five-kilometre and beyond to the Harbour North Wall for the ten-kilometre distance.
 
The Tim’s Chariots of Fire event was hosted by club treasurer, Tim Magoffin and the course was a beauty with plenty of varying terrain to keep runners alert and on their toes. The Slade Point and Lamberts Beach suburbs put on spectacular weather where it had South of the Bridge tourists wanting to crossover to take up residence...nearly!
 
Mick Vivian stole the show as he bolted from the gun and into the ten-kilometre course with no fear of rocky unsealed mountainous hills, steep tarmac roads, grassy slopes, sandy beaches and serious headwinds. Mick steamed over the course in a cracking time of 49 minutes 49 seconds ahead of first female and 2nd overall, Alana Knezevic (52:09). Alana set a serious pace from the get-go, splitting the boys with a sensationally slick race.  Second male Ashley Miles (53:32), George Hannaford (54:20), Brad Fraser (55:00), Michael Feenaghty (55:14); Shane Donnollan (55:35), Grant Holmstrom (56:05), Derek Woods (57:21), John Roe (58:17) and Oliver Rule (59:50) rounded out the top ten males with Craig McGahey (59:52) just outside by two seconds and Michael Scholer right on the hour.  Second female in the 10km Mel Esau scorched over the course finishing two minutes clear of third placed Jose Short, Rhian Massey, Tahnie Malageuno, Glynis Forse, Emily Hayles, Carmel Mahon, Jo Skinner and Judy Zahn.
 
Justin Rule made a welcome return to racing after clocking the fastest five-kilometre ahead of first female Teresa Hackney, followed by host Tim Magoffin who had to be back in time to put the kettle on. 
 
This Sunday’s President’s Run from Brendan’s Beach Road residence at Dolphin Heads will be the second annual running of the five-kilometre and ten-kilometre Bishops Beach Road Barnstormer. Many thanks to the Bishop family for their generous offer of another testing hilly run in an awesome location. Runners must be registered in with timekeeper by 6:50am at the latest for racing to start at 7am sharp. Non-members are most welcome to run for a $10 casual race day fee. 
 
Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Katrina, Glynis, Simon, Emma,  Rhiann, Judy and Geeta get set for the Tim’s Chariots of Fire event commencing from 16 Ocean Avenue, Slade Point.
Tahnie Malagueno heads a group of runners after a tricky grassy uphill section at Lamberts Beach Lookout.
Mick Vivian outclasses a talented field of 10km runners to be first male across the line.

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Mackay Cyclones Multiclass Athlete Izabella Wills launched herself into the Australian MC and made waves at the Age championships held on the Gold Coast recently, bringing home a swag of medals.

Izabella competed in six events initially, along with six in the finals, securing a medal in each one!

Izabella is now the New Australian champion for 2024 in the 50 Freestyle and 50 Butterfly. She also earnt four Silver medals in all her other events for the 100 Backstroke, 100 Freestyle, 200 Freestyle and 50 Backstroke.

Her coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier said, “working with Izabella has been one of the most rewarding experiences, not only from an athlete coach perspective but from a coach development side as well, the old adage ‘you are never too old to learn new things’ comes to mind.

“Izabella works very hard alongside all her cyclone team mates, it involves early morning starts whilst most of her friends are sleeping in, as well as good time management of schoolwork and studies,” she added.

‘Bell’, as she is fondly known, has a great support team around her and at the helm is her mum Lisa and Dad Joe.

Contributed By Alisha Ness

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Isabella Wills took home multiple medals at the Age championships held on the Gold Coast recently. Images Supplied

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