There was plenty of competition on Monday with a full green of triples. Winners for the afternoon were France Wilman, Kevin and Fely Duncan who defeated John Breakwell, Jack Stamp and John Robinson.

Runners Up were S Symonds, J Healey and C Healey who defeated R Hein, L Fox and C Feast. Apparently three games had a score difference of 9 which was the jackpot number. These were R Hyde, M Hyde and N Dawson who defeated J Steele, R Hayton and K Armstrong. P Nesbitt, M Ritchie and P Howie defeated G Cornel, J Dawson and G Wills. R Agg, D Richards and S Roome defeated K Whitton, G Colquhoun and Sugar. Others: E Dunn, D Madeley and F Farrugia defeated S Farell, K Pedlar and I Best, L Danvers, L Knight and G Danvers defeated P Donohue, S Snow and C Frew.  

Rain put a dampener on Tuesday’s play. However, some dedicated players braved the showers for a game. Winners were M Nesbitt defeated Harris, S Fitzgerald who defeated Katie B Bellingham, J Paynting, Marg and Glenn defeated Ann and Denis, D Hallas. S Shearing and F Wilman defeated L Atkinson and M Jackson. J Hellas, Jan Carole and Kaos defeated Wixi Lee and Terri and Robin Karen Lindsay defeated Alby Jan and Michael. The jackpot didn’t go off. This Tuesday 11 July we are having Patroness Merle’s afternoon.

There was no other social bowls during the week owing to the North Qld District Ladies Premier Cup Competition. What a great event where ladies from Noorla, Macknade, Ingham, Alligator Creek, South Townsville, Suburban, Jubilee, Thuringowa, Cutheringa, Ayr, Bowen and Wangaratta battled it out for four days for bragging rights to the Cup. Townsville’s Suburban Club were overall winners who now hosts the 2024 event. Noorla club from the Ingham district came in second. Thanks to all the members and supporters who made it a great carnival.  

We are starting our Barefoot Bowls this Friday night 14 July for the winter. So, if you would like to have a game be at the club by 5.45pm or call ahead if you have a number of players. No experience necessary and we have plenty of bowls to use. Check out Wangaratta Bowl’s Facebook site or What’s on in Bowen. We would like to see you there.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

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Alligator Creek players Lesley Bates and Susan Hendy watching Kirsty Greig from South Townsville deliver the perfect bowl. Photo supplied

Ayr players Heather Jorgensen, Pam Power and Beryl Cornford with Wangaratta Player Penny Warren watching the head. Photo supplied

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We had a rain affected start to the week which didn't stop Ken Granger from playing and winning the Tuesday Stableford with 34 points, Louis Neethling in 2nd place also on 34.

61 players teed up on Thursday, Andrew Albergo in form to win Division 1 with 67 nett on a countback from David Telford.

Ryan Wilkes shooting a 4 under par round to claim 3rd place also on 67 nett. Peter Lindsay, 69 nett, beat Ash Morley-Hart on a countback to win Division 2, Chris Pham in 3rd place on 71 nett.

NTP's: Rob Ross, Rees May, Rob Webb and Scott Mason. Peta Thomas was the best in the Ladies Comp on 74 nett ahead of Tiina Randmae on a countback.

Karl Carton had a blistering 24 points to win the Friday 9 hole Met Run with 24 points, streets ahead of 2nd and 3rd placed Aaron Prosser and Nathan Holohan. Karl Carton and Brian Allen won the NTP's.

Tough conditions for the Allenbuild Saturday Ladies Stableford, Penny Wardroper playing well to win on 33 points, followed by Pam Harrison and Trish McNeill both on 32 points. NTPS: Robyn Whitham and Pam Harrison.

George Meharry is in a purple patch at the moment, winning the Men's Division 1 Saturday Allenbuild Stableford on 38 points, followed by Terry Handford and Steve Hickey both on 37 points.

Division 2 was taken out by Mick Hamilton on a countback from Ken Lovett on 35 points, and Corey Stroud in 3rd place on 34 points. NTP winners: Len Booroff, Jon Miller, Rod Wecker and Steve Hickey.

The Sunday Stableford was won by the consistent Ryan Wilkes on 35 points, on a countback from Adam Maggs, Michael Cragg in 3rd place on 34 points. NTP winners were Ryan Wilkes and Michael Cragg.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.

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10 teams contested the Whitsunday Golf Club (WGC) Foursomes championship (over 18 holes) in very cool conditions last Sunday, particularly cool for the early starters with a brisk cool breeze which blew up during the morning for the later starters on the last few holes. Not to be daunted though, the hardy WGC players kept their jumpers on and played through.

Starting with the NAGAs :

Tina Cook and Andy Albergo scored their NAGA drinks, many thanks to Aaron and Tracy Watts who have renewed their NAGA sponsorship.

Longest drives were won by Penny Wardroper and Elise Hodgson for the ladies, Wayne Temby and Gerald Lovell for the men.

NTPs: were won by Penny Wardroper and Dean Kercher on the 9th, Anna Winterbourn and Ron Jamieson on the 13th, Pam Casey and Mark McDougal on the 16th.

Overall results: 3rd place went to Linda Wardroper and Wayne Temby with nett 74, runners-up were Elise Hodgson and Gerald Lovell with 71.5, the winners were Tiina Randmae and Lewy Tuck with a score of 69.

Congratulations to everyone who participated, it's a fun format, and our golf is all about fun and laughter.

Next week, 16/7 will be the July MM and least putts. Please book in as early as possible on the timesheet so we play as a block.

Those who plan on joining the annual trip Magnetic Island 29/9 to 2/10, please let Joanne know asap so the motel booking can be secured and if you're sharing a room, who your roommate is. Also let Jo know if you are travelling up on the Thu 28/9 or any other variation in dates.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

L-R : Elise Hodgson, Gerald Lovell (runners-up), Tiina Randmae and Lewy Tuck (winners). Photo supplied

L-R: Andrew Albergo and Tina Cook. Photo supplied

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This week saw Asher Ventham take first place in our weekly 9-hole s/ford with 23 points, second Andrew Gomez on 21 points c/b and third Sam Cartwright with 21 points.

Fridays 9-hole s/ford competition saw Rhys Bartholomew first place with 21 points, second Glenn Rees with a 20 point c/b and third Deeray Fo’ou on 20 points.

On Sunday we held our 27-hole skins championships, and what a turnout! Our ladies club champion went to Dee Norman with a 93 NET, runner up saw Bree Harvey with a 95 NET. Great job ladies.

Our men’s club champion with a 71 NET went to Asher Ventham, runner up saw Andrew Gomez with a 77 NET.

Nearest the pin for ladies was Renae Maxwell and men Ben Doer. Best man off stick went to Dean Barnard with an 83 gross and for the ladies saw Bree Harvey with a 106 gross.

What an amazing day to be on the green and a terrific effort by all.

This Sunday, July 16 will be our Par Bisque 18-hole competition tee off at 10.00am.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green Golf Club.

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A twelve-month edict to lift the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Rugby League championship trophy has nearly come to fruition for the St Patrick’s College Mackay Girls team.

In another heart-breaking moment, the famous sporting nursery had to again settle for runners up medals after The Cathedral College Rockhampton were crowned Confraternity Carnival champions last Thursday after a thrilling 14-10 victory in the Shield decider at the St Laurence’s College grounds in Brisbane.

It was the St Patrick’s girls first loss and only points conceded during the tournament after stringing four wins on the trot.

The Cathedral side stunned Mackay with two early tries by fullback Zoe Robson and winger Cadence Lee and a conversion from classy half back and Player of the Carnival Caitlin Tanner.

When key prop Ciara Thomson left the field with a damaged knee, the Mackay team’s task became harder.

Trailing 10-0 the St Patrick’s girls staged a revival and levelled the scores after winger Hanna Humphries and utility hooker Shaylee Hazledine crossed for second half tries with Paige Mooney potting a goal.

St Patrick’s mounted plenty of pressure and came close to grabbing the lead, only to be repelled by gritty Cathedral defence.

In a tense finish, the livewire Tanner created the match-winning try for centre Mackayla Oakley with four minutes left on the clock.

Leading into the decider, the Mackay girls had conquered all with a dominant forward pack and skilful backline to remain undefeated.

But the loss revived the painful memories of last year’s Grand Final defeat at the hands of Burleigh Waters’ Marymount High in Mackay.

It was in the dressing rooms of BB Print Stadium following that devastating result that the St Patrick’s girls pledged to bring home the trophy in 2023.

With the nucleus of last year’s outfit back on deck they avenged that defeat by eliminating Marymount High 16-0 in a semi-final last Wednesday.

Watching on was St Patrick’s best player - star hooker Paityne Johns who was unavailable due to her commitments with the Queensland Schoolgirls representative team.

Capricornia props Ciara Thomson and Chelsea McLeod and promising lock Gracie Watt laid the foundations for success with their powerful running and ball skills and were rewarded with selection in the QISSRL Merit Team along with utility Shaylee Hazledine and centre Ruby Lucas.

Watt was also named St Patrick’s Player of the Carnival and Thomson the Player with Most Potential by tournament officials.

Play making halves Lily-May Carige and Keely Pitt turned in classy performances – providing snappy service to outside backs Trinity Grigg, Maddison Simon and the sharp Lucas who menaced opponents with their pace and footwork.

St Patrick’s coach Imogen Healy praised the efforts of all squad members and revealed that the championship tilt was built on the team’s superb defence.

“The girls combined well as a unit and hit their straps in the finals” beamed a proud Imogen.

“Unfortunately, we lost some key players through injury in the decider and conceded our only points against a strong Cathedral side,” said Healy.

“Ciara’s knee injury early in the final was a huge blow but the girls showed courage to fight back – we just couldn’t capitalise on some late scoring opportunities,” she added.

By Chris Karas

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St Patrick’s College Mackay’s talented Girls rugby league squad that were pipped 14-10 by The Cathedral College Rockhampton in a thrilling QISSRL Grand Final in Brisbane.

They are pictured with College Principal Janelle Agius

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Talented Duo Named In 2023 Confraternity Boys Merit Team

Emerging Mackay rugby league colts Bailey Anderson and Kayne Smith have gained selection in this year’s Confraternity Carnival Rugby League Boys Merit Team.

The promising duo were officially recognised for their standout performances at the 2023 Queensland Independent Secondary School championships in Brisbane where they guided heavyweights St Patrick’s College to the Division One Shield semi-finals.

Elusive winger Anderson and industrious forward Smith turned in top displays for an under-strength St Patrick’s side that toiled hard and soaked up pressure to reach the final four.

Minus their Queensland Schoolboys representative half Jaxon Purdue and hooker Xavier Kerrisk, the Mackay colts still managed to produce quality efforts throughout the tournament.

St Patrick’s bowed out in the semi-finals after a 10-4 loss to championship runners up Emmaus College Rockhampton in a hard-fought contest.

Emmaus led 4-0 following an early try from winger Slade McMeeken and extended their advantage when five eighth Clancy Hohn crossed in the 40th minute with half Isaac Walker adding the extras.

Tough centre Will Whippy put the Mackay boys back in contention with a fine try soon after – only for Emmaus to stave off a late challenge with sturdy defence.

St Brendan’s Yeppoon clinched a record-extending 14th Confraternity Shield title when they later toppled Emmaus 18-10 in the Grand Final.

Trailing 4-0 at the interval the Yeppoon boys bounced back with second half tries from prop Jake Peirce, half back Tommy Green, centre Anasta Tamwoy and winger Izaiah Waters with five eighth Tyler Melrose booting one conversion.

St Brendan’s talented quartet of playmaker Melrose, Peirce, centre Rydell Tyrrell and prop Carter Ford were named in the Confraternity Merit team along with Emmaus trio Hohn, fullback Seth Carpenter and front rower Baylee Meilland.

Anderson nabbed a brace of tries to spearhead St Patrick’s 18-6 quarter final victory over Iona College and also impressed in the play off with Marymount College for third/fourth spot.

The Burleigh Waters boys – led by powerhouse second rower and Player of the Carnival Cooper Bai, son of Papua New Guinea legend Marcus Bai – edged out Mackay 4-0 in an absorbing tussle.

Inspirational prop and skipper Darcy Clark was named St Patrick’s top gun along with hooker and Spirit Award recipient Hudson Clark in a powerful engine room that also featured the tireless Smith, Jake Bryan, Tyler Shandiman, Cohen Jackson and Diesel Costigan.

Rookie halves Bailey Venz and Nelson Fenlon, centres Whippy and Tenzin Contor, winger Hunter Harris and fullback Will Shears also left their mark.

St Patrick’s coach Ian Schifilitti praised the efforts of his competitive young squad that conceded just 20 points for the entire Carnival.

By Chris Karas

The only way is up – that is the new motto for the Mackay Cutters first grade rugby league team in this year’s Queensland Rugby League Hostplus Cup competition.

After tossing cellar-dwellers Ipswich Jets 36-20 last Sunday at North Ipswich Reserve to post their second win of the 2023 season, the Mackay men are bent on climbing up the ladder.

It was the club’s St Patrick’s College teaching connection that featured prominently in the win – with half back Brandon Finnegan, flying winger Flynn Camilleri and no-nonsense prop Josh Honan contributing with super performances under the guidance of team mentor Michael Comerford, the school’s former Sports Co-ordinator.

Finnegan orchestrated a rousing second half display as the Cutters outclassed the embattled Jets, who remain winless at the bottom of the table.

The 25-year-old playmaker nabbed a personal haul of 16 points from a try and six conversions to swell his season tally to 52 from twelve appearances.

In fleet footed utility back Camilleri the Cutters have a real find.

The local Brothers junior product used his blistering speed to grab a try double and thwart a mini Jets revival.

With eight tries from thirteen appearances this season, the future looks bright for the strong running flankman who has established himself in the top grade.

Mackay led 12-6 at the interval and took control with two quick tries in the second half by second rower Kobe Bone and the ever-alert Finnegan.

Ipswich hit back with tries from skipper and lock Rhys Jacks and five eighth Gerome Burns before Camilleri and Honan sealed victory for the visitors with valuable four pointers in the space of six minutes.

The Cutters enjoy their first bye of the season this weekend before travelling to Les Stagg Oval in Proserpine on Saturday July 15 to lock horns with competition leaders Souths Logan Magpies.

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Mackay trounced Ipswich 52-30 in the Hastings Deering Colts Under 21s fixture – running in nine tries to blitz their rivals.

Promising Cutters prop Toby Sullivan, winger Braydon Dunbar and fullback Kane Simon collected try doubles with half back Seth McGilvray, second rower Tyler Parrish and prop Robson Stevens also grabbing four pointers and five eighth Henri Stocks booting eight goals.

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The Ipswich Jets wearing a traditional design for Indigenous Appreciation Day, designed by Jet #595 Shar Walden. The Jets lost to the Cutters 36-20

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After a successful States campaign in April, four rowers from the Mackay Rowing Club travelled to Sydney to compete in the 2023 Australian Masters Rowing Championships at the start of June, again returning with a bevy of medals.

Jane Deguara, Therese Clancy, Richard McGrath and Mick Wohlfhart raced against the best in the country at the Championship held from June 1 to 4 Sydney International Regatta Centre.

Ms Deguara and Ms Clancy kicked off their campaign with a silver medal in a quad scull with two competitors from Brisbane, missing out on the gold medal by 0.7 seconds.

After the first day, however, Ms Deguara unfortunately fell ill.

“I had to pull out of my singles race, which was very disappointing,” she said.

Ms Clancy did plenty to fly the Mackay flag in her first national championship, winning gold for her age group in a highlight for the club.

“Therese did extremely well to win gold in her single race for Mackay,” Ms Deguara.

“We’re a small club, so that’s just amazing.”

Ms Clancy earned herself a second gold medal, teaming up with a woman from Townsville in a double scull.

Ms Deguara was determined to be well enough for her double race with Ms Clancy, saying it’s the one they really trained for.

“On the last day, we had a heat and a final and I honestly didn’t know if I’d be able to row but I had a go, and we won our heat and came second in the final,” she said.

“We were so happy with it, it was a really good effort.”

Using the rowing course built for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, Ms Deguara had no complaints about the competition or the facilities.

“It was absolutely amazing because everything was perfectly set out, launching and coming back, it’s just a beautiful facility,” she said.

“The competition is getting tougher every year, which is really nice to see.

“It’s like any sport, the masters are getting fitter and fitter in older age groups.”

Ms Deguara urges people of all ages to contact Mackay Rowing Club to find out more about getting involved.

“It’s such a good sport because it doesn’t hurt anything,” she said.

“It’s a really good sport for people who are getting old and who want to work hard at sport.

“Because of where we row on the river, there’s nothing that can hurt you and it’s very good for the mind.”

Find Mackay Rowing Club on Facebook for more information.

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Therese Clancy and Jane Deguara won a slew of medals at the Australian Masters Rowing Championships in June. Photo supplied: Mackay Rowing Club

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Sunday brought glorious weather – a perfect day for DIY with a snag and soft drink!

Pioneer Swimming Club spent their Sunday cooking and raising funds for our club at Bunnings, North Mackay. Our swimmers, Yasmin Seedwell, Zahli Herring, Junior Makamure and Team Captain, Stevie Brand assisted the Committee on the barbeque whilst many other swimmers and club members visited us throughout the day, including Coach Igor and his kids.

We were most grateful for the opportunity from Bunnings but also to local businesses, Bushman’s Bakery and Parkside Butchery for their generosity and support for this barbeque. The bread and sausages were enjoyed by all, some even coming back for seconds!

Contributed by Pioneer Swimming Club

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Pioneer Swimming Club hosted the sausage sizzle at Bunnings North Mackay over the weekend. Photos supplied

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Marian Ladies Bowls Club hosted a memorable event on Monday, June 12, with their annual Presidents at Home Day. The day kicked off with an exhilarating two-hour session of bowls, where the 68 enthusiastic ladies showcased their skills and sportsmanship. Following the exciting games, everyone gathered to indulge in lunch.

To add to the festivities, the club organised raffles and a Cent Sale, featuring an array of delightful prizes that sparked excitement and anticipation throughout the day. It was a fantastic opportunity for the members to showcase their generosity and support for the club.

The highlight of the day was the bowls. Julie Leech, Dee, Gwen Harberger, Shirley Haines, and Pat Bounds emerged as the champions, displaying their exceptional talent and strategic play. They were commended for their outstanding performance.

The event also recognised the runners-up, including Club President Kate Moohin, Leanne Lewis, Joyce Ditton, Henny Tattam, and Helen Pietzner, who exhibited remarkable sportsmanship and skill throughout the tournament.

Special mention goes to Thelma Johnston, who created a magnificent cake, adding a touch of sweetness to the day's celebrations.

Contributed by Lyn Jackson.

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Competition winners: (Left to right) Julie Leech, Dee, Gwen Harberger, Shirley Haines and Pat Bounds

Runners Up: (left to right) Club President Kate Moohin, Leanne Lewis, Joyce Ditton, Henny Tattam, Helen Pietzner

Thelma Johnston, Kate Moohin and MDLBA President Lyn Jackson

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The Ladies Pennants season has finished with Mackay Club beating Airlie Beach last Friday.

On Tuesday July 4, the Mackay Ladies were off to Sarina Club to try to retain the Johnson Shield which they won last year.

The Mackay Club Team is Singles Carol Savage, Pairs Dot McNamara (c) and Marie Mayfield, Fours  Denise Mezzen, Janice Nelson, Julie Caban and Robyn Schatkowski.

Ladies Champion of Champion Triples Semi-Final: Erin Clements, Janice Nelson, Robyn Schatkowski  def Karina Dunn, Carol Savage, Karli Burns.

Men’s Senior Singles continued on Sunday with Steve Cassidy def Col Stevens 25-16,  Barry Jenner def Barry Paskins 25-15, Trevor Mayfield def Mike Irving 25-14.

B Grade Singles: Brian Williams def Tom Casey 26-13

Tuesday Social 20 Players turned up to play and some close games were witnessed with winners Julie Caban, Marie Mayfield, Dot McNamara.

Winners of Losers: Albert Wicks, Alf Pagden, Mick D’Alessio.

Thursday Scroungers had six rinks with 19 players and Mick Coll def Peter Carter in the final.

Friday Social Paly was won by Janice Nelson, Wendy Pomeroy with Barry Jenner and Peter Nelson runner up.

Friday Afternoon July 7 Ladies Hosted Play and Mens B Pairs Peter Nelson, Col Stevens v L Dargin, T Casey.

Saturday Afternoon Men’s Open Pairs Doug Wootton, B Bridger v B Williams, J Crocker.

Men’s Open Triples G Collum, P Taaffe, R  Mroz v J Smith, R Casey, T Casey.

Sunday Morning Men’s Open Singles S Cassidy  v C Molloy.

Sunday Arvo Men’s Open Fours E Wynd, A Shepherd, D Wootton, B Bridger v D Currey, M Irving, M Coll, S Cassidy.

Everybody is invited to come down over the weekend to watch some good close bowls and enjoy the friendship of the club.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Club members said 'Goodbye' to Del Ryan this week and with family and friends joined in a celebration of her life. Del has been a member of the Mackay Contract Bridge Club since the 1970's. Del supported all our club events and had also worked as Providor. Club members will miss her smile, many jokes and support at the bridge table. Our condolences to the family. Rest in Peace Delores Fay Ryan.

Monday 26 June 2023 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points Eclectic for Monday in June Winners

1st Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy 1st Terrence Sheedy 4th Joy Robinson

2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Janelle Conroy 5th Monica Darley

3rd Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson 3rd Thelma Caruana 6th Davi Ting / Eric Goodchild

Tuesday 27 June 2023 Evening 4 Table One Winner Green Pts Eclectic for Tuesday Evening in June Winners

1st Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood 1st Sandra Morris 5th Terrence Sheedy

2nd Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 2nd Diane Morgan 6th Faye Wright

3rd Frances Brown / Gail Gibbs 3rd Eric Leivesley 7th Frances Brown

4th Janelle Conroy / Eric Leivesley 3rd Janelle Conroy 8th

Wednesday 28 June 2023 – NWP 13 of 23 Eclectic for Wednesday in June Winners

7 Table One Winner Green Pts

1st Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 8th Don Poole, Joy Brunette,

2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 3rd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 10th Joy Robinson

3rd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 5th Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor 11th Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley

4th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz 7th Janelle Conroy 13th Monica Darley / Kath Poole

5th Janelle Conroy / Janet Hansen

Thursday Evening 29 June 2023 - 3 Table Mitchell Green Points – Section 1

1st Peter Cowling / Alan Brown 1st Janice Mansfield / Robert Carless

2nd Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

Thursday Evening 29 June 2023 – 3 Table Mitchell Green Points – Section 2

1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 1st Janice Mansfield / Robert Carless

2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore 2nd Ken Seaniger / Louise Renton

Friday 30 June 2023 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole 2nd Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox 4th Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

5th Geoffrey Patterson / Susan Wright 6th Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

Saturday 1 July 2023 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson 1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown

2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Christine Nice / Faye Wright

3rd Marie McGuire / Joyce Deguara 3rd Diane Stokes / Joy Block

4th Geoff Taylor / Robert Carless 4th Monica Darley / Kath Poole

Contributed by Joy Block

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Mackay Meteors basketball team are building momentum towards the NBL1 North Conference finals.

Inspired by champion point guard Isaac White the Meteors blitzed the Sunshine Coast Phoenix 97-77 at Maroochydore Stadium to stay on track for the 2023 play-offs.

White continues to push his claims to be the competition’s Most Valuable Player after producing a superb 37-point triple-double on the road.

The Mackay skipper was best on court – menacing the Phoenix with a spectacular triple-double that included 37 points, 12 rebounds, 11 assists and seven steals on the night.

Both teams started strongly but it was the Meteors who established a 25-21 lead in the opening quarter before seizing the advantage with 36 points to 20 in the third stanza.

It was the Meteors ninth win of the season from 16 matches and keeps them in the hunt for a top eight finals berth.

Other Mackay players to shine were Isaiah Lee (15 points, six assists, four steals and three rebounds), Christian Maran (13 points, four boards and two assist) and guard Tyler Williams (12 points, six rebounds and two steals).

Key guard Max Kerle top-scored for Sunshine Coast with 21 points and four rebounds with Jamaal Robateau adding 20 points, four boards, four steals and three assists and Jonathan Janssen 19 points and three rebounds.

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Mackay Meteorettes returned to the winners list with an encouraging 100-93 triumph over the Sunshine Coast Phoenix.

The visitors dazzled from the outset to snap a nine-game losing streak – opening up a 30-14 lead and 56-35 advantage by the half time break.

Promising guard Courtney Virgo top scored for the Meteorettes with 21 points, three rebounds and three assists with the flamboyant Davida Dale contributing 20 points, nine assists, seven rebounds and five steals; Brittany Reeves posting 18 points and 10 boards, Phoebe Holmes 15 points, and Ellie Collins 12 points, eight rebounds and four assists.

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Action between the Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes against the Sunshine Coast Phoenix last weekend. Photo credit: Instagram @officialbibby

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Mackay Road Runners hosted a very challenging trail and cross country run which has been on the Club’s calendar for over twenty years.  

The popular but testing hilly off-road course has been a favourite for many runners training for strength, speed and endurance for some of their tougher goal events.  

Jen White, Crystal Hawkins and Leanne Connor had a sensational 5km outing, thoroughly enjoying the seriously undulating course as did Andrew Short and Dan Stampa.

First 9km runner Toby Rule was once again in great form to take out the longer distance 9km event over Justin Rule and Oliver Rule.  

Jose Short had a comparatively easy 9km run compared to her recent full Ironwoman Triathlon event in Cairns taking gold for the girls ahead of Carmel Mahon, Maddy Price and Lauren Connor.  

Well done to Werner Van Der Linde who convinced his workmates, Phil Roche, Blaze Hunter and Jack McDonald to join him in a ‘cruisey’ run in the iconic National Park precincts.  

Word has it that they will be lining up this Sunday at Netherdale to compete in the Eungella King of the Mountain as they have now done their mountain running training and are looking for something tougher.

The 6.4km Torque Tyres & Trailer Sales Cycle and M-Test running Open King of the Mountain event will commence at 8am with the Laura Pettifer Inspirational/Podiatry Mackay junior under 18 years runners’ 3.2km commencing half way up the hill.  

Congratulations to Gold Coast Marathon competitors across all events for 2km to 42.2km.  

Several local runners excelled in their respective events including talented endurance runner Paul Mackenzie who ran three events across the two-day running festival i.e. 5km (20 min 51 and 3rd in his age), 21.1k Half Marathon (1 hr 27 min 4 sec) and the marathon 42.2km (3 hrs 17 min 36 sec)

Alana Knesevic was also outstanding in her half marathon earning herself a personal best time of 1 hr 33 min.  

Millie and Hughie Bishop were ecstatic with their 4km and 2km respective achievements totally enjoying the atmosphere of the internationally recognised event which hosted record numbers in the half and full marathon event.

In other running news, Brenda Windsor who has currently raised $11,833 for Bravehearts will have lots of wonderful moments to share from the Bravehearts 7 marathons in 7 days in 7 states.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Mackay Road Runners member Werner Van Der Linde (2nd right) convinced his workmates Phil Roche, Blaze Hunter and Jack McDonald into doing a very challenging 9km beach/trail run

5km competitor, Leanne Connor has way too much energy as she conquers the final ascent before the finish line

Justin Rule place 2nd overall in the 9km Cape Hillsborough behind his son Toby

Jose Short made light work of the 9km hilly Cape Hillsborough National Park Reef Forest scenic route. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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With The Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

Set for the last weekend of July, the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival has already exceeded predicted registrations, with a record number of athletes taking on the course.

Taking place over both days of the weekend, the triathlon festival will begin with the junior triathlon, before moving to the Enticer, Sprint, and Olympic distances, with a Corporate Teams Event on Sunday.

In particular, the Olympic Distance event will be undertaken by industry professionals, including Whitsunday Triathlon Club ambassador Caleb Nobel, 2XU champion Jarrod Osborne, the youngest Ironman winner Tim Berkel, and Radka Kahlefeldt, who boasts more than 20 Ironman 70.3 wins across the globe.

Whitsunday Triathlon Club member Dan McDonnell, overall winner of the Cairns Ironman 70.3 last month, is keen to test his ability against the professionals.

Whitsunday Triathlon Club President and race director Mick Kimpton said Airlie Beach is one of the world’s most stunning destinations and promises participants a truly unforgettable triathlon experience with unparalleled views of the Coral Sea throughout every leg of the race.

“Whether you are a seasoned triathlete or a first-time rookie, this amazing event offers a unique opportunity to test your endurance, embrace the natural beauty of the Whitsundays, and create lasting memories as competitors swim, bike and run-in paradise,” Mick said.

“The athletes will start their journey with a captivating swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Coral Sea before transitioning to the bike leg, where they will be treated to awe-inspiring coastal views as they pedal along the scenic roads towards Shute Harbour while the run course on the Bicentennial Boardwalk which hugs the Coral Sea would have to be one of the most scenic anywhere in the world.”

Mick has represented Australia in multiple Triathlon Age Group Long Course events nationally and internationally and said the Airlie Beach Triathlon is not just a race, it is a celebration of community spirit and personal achievement for the competitors.

“The finishing straight red carpet is the highlight of every triathlon, and the locals are loud and proud so every finisher will be greeted by the cheers and applause of spectators, volunteers, and fellow athletes, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and support that epitomizes the Whitsunday Triathlon Club.”

WHAT: Coral Sea Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

WHEN: Saturday July 29 and Sunday July 30

REGISTRATION: airliebeachtriathlon.com.au

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Sporting professionals are taking on the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival this July

With three different adult events, there is a race for everyone. Photos supplied

We are well into the Winter at the moment and many bowlers from interstate and bowlers from New Zealand have travelled to our beautiful paradise to stay in the warmth of our beautiful weather.

We welcomed Pip and Steve Heddles from Arrowtown Bowls Clun in South Island New Zealand, Adrian Stoeckel from Willunga Bowls Club in Victoria, and Gary Horne from Werribee.

With last week's guests still here, we had extremely competitive matches played this week.

Starting on Tuesday afternoon bowls, we saw once again Ladda Purdie at her absolute best and with the very popular Lyn Graham and newcomer Phil Holden prove far too strong for the rest of the field.

Wednesday afternoon Social Jackpot bowls brilliantly organised by Merve Stewart saw again big fields and it was the pairs game with Rick Galea and Stacey Hadlow the big winners of the day, and Nik with the stick Fernbach for the second time take home the prestigious Health Hub award.

Saturday morning second round of Scroungers again superbly organised by John Askew saw first round winners Harry Quod, Tony Whitehorn, Warren Mills, John Askew, Col Morris and interstate visitor Adrian Stoekel, with the final being played by Warren Mills and Adrian Stoekel, with Warren Mills far too good on the day with Group B winner Steve Heddles from Arrowtown New Zealand.

Sunday afternoon social bowls saw again 36 bowlers turn out with some great bowling performances, but it was our Chairman whom showed every one of his extraordinary improvement this year, leading his team of Lyn Graham, with Ken Warner big winners of the day with Steve Heddles taking home the prestigious Health Hub award.

Saturday afternoon also saw the completion on the 2022 Mixed Fours with skipper Peter Barratt, Col Morris, Russell Jackson, and Henny Tattam finally crowned last year's winner s we'll done to all players.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Airlie Beach Bowls playing hard with locals and visitors alike. Photo supplied

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