
Mackay Cutters have confirmed Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months, strengthening the club’s youth education, wellbeing and leadership programs across the Mackay and Isaac regions. The partnership was launched last Friday at Moranbah State School, where Cutters Wellbeing and Education Manager Jack, alongside club staff and Stanmore leadership representatives, delivered a Cutters Care session to Year 5/6 Sports Boost students. “We’re proud to welcome Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months,” the club said. The program will continue to focus on helping young people build confidence, resilience and positive connections through sport and education-based initiatives. “Together, we'll continue delivering education, wellbeing and leadership programs to young people throughout the Mackay and Isaac regions, helping them build confidence, resilience and positive connections.” The Cutters said they look forward to continuing meaningful community impact and providing opportunities for young people to learn, grow and thrive through the partnership. Photo source: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)
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The Whitsunday Sea Eagles made the trip to Bakers Creek on the weekend to take on the North Mackay Saints and the Bakers Creek Tigers, with all teams showcasing plenty of determination and competitive spirit throughout the day. The Under 13s were first into action against the Saints and produced a strong performance. After a hard-fought opening three quarters, the Sea Eagles trailed by just two points heading into the final term, keeping themselves firmly in the contest. Despite their efforts, the Saints managed to pull away late, with the match finishing 20-39. The Under 15s continued their impressive season with another dominant victory over the Saints. Controlling the game from start to finish, the Sea Eagles piled on 12 goals and 15 behinds while keeping their opponents to just two goals. Their teamwork, skill, and relentless pressure were on full display as they secured another convincing win 72-12 and further strengthened their position as one of the competition's top teams. The women's side faced a tough challenge against the Bakers Creek Tigers. The Sea Eagles fought hard and matched the Tigers aggression and determination, keeping the margin within three goals throughout the game. The players fought hard at every contest and never stopped competing. However, fatigue began to take its toll in the final quarter, allowing the Tigers to kick four late goals and extend the final margin to 0-43. The senior men's match provided plenty of excitement for supporters. The Sea Eagles burst out the gates in the opening quarter, dominating early play to establish a 15-0 lead at the first break. Carrying that momentum throughout the day, the men continued to work hard around the ground and were rewarded with a strong 52-25 victory over the Tigers. It was a complete team performance and a fitting way to finish a successful day for the club. Get down to The Nest this Saturday 27th June for Sponsor Appreciation Day and cheer on your Whitsunday Sea Eagles as they take on the Moranbah Bulldogs, Swagpies, and Magpies in a huge day of footy action. The junior fixtures kick off from 10:40am, showcasing the club's rising stars, before the senior teams take centre stage in what promises to be an exciting evening of football, with the Senior Women starting at 3:20pm and the Senior Men finishing under lights. Bring the family, wear your Sea Eagles colours, and get behind your local teams as they battle it out on home turf. We can't wait to see you at The Nest! Contributed by the Whitsunday Sea Eagles: Georgia Whitton
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The Mackay Softball Association has reflected on another competitive CQ Darby against Softball Rockhampton, with strong performances and continued rivalry highlighted across the weekend. Rockhampton arrived ready to play, producing a dominant display at the plate and taking victory in both games of the series. “The Rocky boys came ready to play, swinging the bats well and taking the win in both games,” the association said. Despite the results, Mackay praised the standard of competition and the spirit in which the games were played, with both clubs continuing to build on a long-standing regional rivalry. The association also acknowledged the contribution of Murray, thanking him “for all his help, guidance and support in coaching both teams throughout the weekend”. Off the field, community and hospitality remained a key feature of the event, with Jodie recognised for preparing meals for the visiting side. “Thank you to our own Jodie for feeding our the Rocky boys delicious pulled pork rolls,” the association said. The CQ Darby continues to be a highlight on the calendar for both regions, with Mackay Softball noting the blend of rivalry and mateship that defines the fixture. “These weekends are always a highlight on the calendar, and we love the rivalry, mateship and quality softball that comes with them.” The team is now looking ahead to the next meeting between the two clubs, with both sides eager for another competitive weekend of softball in Central Queensland. Photo source: Mackay Softball Association Incorporated (Facebook)
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Twenty-six Pairs competed in the Qualifying Championship Club Pairs on Saturday morning, with the top fourteen pairs then progressing to the Club Championship Pairs after lunch. Congratulations to Janine Rodgers and Nancy Martin who were the outright winners with 61.86 percent. Although Janine and Nancy are both very experienced players, however, this current partnership is a relatively new one. Well done ladies! Many hands of cards were played on the day and lots of delicious food eaten. Mackay Bridge Club is a very social and friendly club. Weekly Results Monday 15th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris 3rd Monica Darley / Joy Block 3rd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins Evening 15th June 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Janelle Conroy / Andrew Canavan 2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore Wednesday 17th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 1st Terry Sheedy / Mick King 2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Faith Hutchinson / John Hunt 3rd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown Thursday 18th June 2026 – Show Day - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Mick King / Griffin Bancroft Friday 19th June 2026 –- Week 12 of 26 NWP - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor 2nd Geoff Cowan / Mick King 2nd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole 3rd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait 3rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson Saturday 20th June 2026 – Club Championship Qualifying - 13 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 1st Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy 2nd Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 3rd Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin 3rd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok 4th Susan Ross / Geoff Cowan 4th Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 5th Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris 5th Ann Whitmore / Joy Block Saturday 20th June 2026 Club Championship Pairs Final – 7 Table Howe 1st Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin 2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 3rd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 4th Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless Contributed by Joy Block Nancy and Janine. Photo supplied
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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.

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

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

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.
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
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.

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

Tuesday afternoon was Ladies Day where Tony Kelly and Dawn Dowel were far too strong for the rest of the field.
Wednesday afternoon Jackpot bowls saw another strong field with a win by Andrew Butler as skipper, David Meiklejohn at lead and Mark Mawson at second.
The weekend saw the Men’s A Pairs Competition with Manny Isgro and Tim Taylor win 25-16 over Russell Jackson and John Fielding.
Sunday afternoon Social Bowls saw Henny Tattam, Lu Rogan and Robin Brown go home with the money as lowest score winners.
Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

Club Singles: Gus Munro defeated Steve Roome.
Sunday Social: Ian Thatcher, Glen R, Lloyd White defeated Keith Kirk, Jane Gilbert, Steve Roome. Ross Scanlon, Wendy Coles, Gavin Charles defeated Daryl Tuttle, L. Kruger, Ron Gould.
Wednesday Social: Ray Muir, Jane Gilbert, Steve Roome defeated Ian Thatcher, Gordo, Doc Fordham. Glen R., Kevin Daniels defeated MaryEllen Pratten, Daryl Tuttle. Ron Gould, Lou Fordham, Kevin defeated Tracey Roach, Gavin Charles, Lloyd White .
Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

On Wednesday we had 11 players for Social Bowls. Lee King, Philip Brown and Heather Brown defeated Alen Sanderson, Barry Zillmann and Peter Lawton 19 - 18. Mary Hedgelong, Arthur Griffith and Sandy Daffara defeated John Anderson, Arthur Griffith and Bruce Uhe 25 - 14.
On Sunday we finished just before a sprinkling of rain. John Anderson, Arthur Griffith, Philip Brown and Sandy Daffara defeated John Anderson, Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe and Heather Brown 26 - 12.
Saturday, April 20 will be Presentation Day with a BBQ Lunch and Social Bowls in the afternoon. For catering purposes, it would be appreciated if those intending to attend could send a message.
Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

Results of the Ladies club competition: B singles Jocelyn Defranciscis defeated Pat Tracey, A singles Jocelyn Defranciscis defeated Gwenda Lydom, Fely Duncan defeated Teresa Willshire, Denise Wallace defeated Robyn Stitt.
Winners for Sunday afternoon social bowls were Denise Wallace, Greg Colquhoun defeated Robyn Stitt, Pat Tracey. Jim Quod, Mark Drummond defeated Laurie Land Graeme Read, Teresa Willshire, Merle Elphinstone Deb Retchless, A Vigar defeated Bill Myers, Isobel Wheeler, Allan Rolfe.
Barefoot Bowls are on this Friday night.
WRC Come and Try event is on Sunday morning at 10am at Bowen Foreshore.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren