Ten-year-old rising star Eloise Chegwidden has taken the Queensland swimming scene by storm, claiming two state titles in just two months and cementing her status as one of the region’s most exciting young athletes.

Representing the Cannonvale Cannons Swim Club and training at the Cannonvale Swim Centre, Eloise first made waves in February at the Hancock Prospecting Queensland Sprint Championships in Brisbane. Competing on debut at the event, she powered her way to gold and the title of “Queensland Champion” in the 10-year-old girls 50m breaststroke—an impressive achievement against some of the state’s best young swimmers.

She followed up that performance in March as a member of the Northern Region Swim Team at the Queensland Representative School Sports State Swimming Championships, also held in Brisbane, where she delivered another standout swim. Competing in the 11-year-old girls 50m breaststroke, Eloise claimed gold—going one better than her silver medal in the same event last year.

In a breakthrough performance, Eloise clocked a personal best time of 39.75 seconds, breaking the 40-second barrier for the first time and highlighting her rapid progression in the pool.

A Year 6 student at St Catherine’s Catholic College, Eloise’s dedication to training and competition is clearly paying off. Her recent success has earned her selection to represent both her school and the state of Queensland at the School Sport Australia National Swimming Championships in Melbourne this November, where she will compete against the nation’s best young swimmers.

CAPTIONS:

1. Young Cannonvale swimmer, Eloise Chegwidden, has claimed two state titles in standout season! Photo supplied
2. Chegwidden’s rising talents have earned her national selection after stellar performances. Photo supplied

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More than 30 runners took part in the annual Easter Sunday five- and ten-kilometre social run, beginning at the Zambrero City Restaurant on Gordon Street.

The event, held every Easter Sunday afternoon, is sponsored and hosted by Zambrero City Restaurant owner Peter Quinn, along with his family and staff. Runners enjoyed breezy conditions as they travelled through the city centre streets from the Gordon Street restaurant toward the Cathy Freeman Trail for an out and back five- or ten-kilometre social run.

A highlight of the afternoon was the random prize draw, with ten restaurant vouchers donated by Zambrero. Additional prizes included 20 Easter eggs donated by the Hayles family and Tim Tams donated by Mackay Road Runners.

Prize winners were pleased with their rewards, with many participants staying on for dinner and drinks to celebrate their efforts and the Easter weekend while enjoying the range of food options available at Zambrero.

Thanks were extended to Peter Quinn and the Zambrero team for their continued support and hospitality.

Next Saturday evening, runners and supporters will celebrate the club’s 50th birthday with a special gala dinner at the Mackay Marina Mantra from 5.30 pm. Participants have been thanked for booking and prepaying to reserve their seats.

Anyone with memorabilia is encouraged to share items for viewing on the night. Limited edition 50th anniversary coasters will also be available for purchase from next Saturday night onwards for six dollars each or four for twenty dollars, with coasters remaining available after the dinner for those unable to attend.

Free Wednesday track training continues at the ARC Aquatic and Recreational Complex at 5.30 pm with Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford and Alana Knezevic. The ARC charges a five-dollar entry fee to the track, payable at the pool kiosk, however the training provided by the qualified coaches is voluntary and free.

The sessions are open to both members and non-members of Mackay Road Runners.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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5599 – Mackay Road Runners annual Zambrero Burrito Bolt 5/10km Easter Sunday afternoon social event was well supported by over 30runners.

5593 – Zambrero City Restaurant’s amazing staff hosted the annual Mackay Road Runners Zambrero Burrito Bolt 5/10km on Easter Sunday afternoon.

5589 – The Hayles family ran the 5km Zambrero Burrito Bolt and donated yummy Easter Eggs for random draw prizes at the post run celebrations.

5686 – The Easter Bunny arrived to all the good boys and girls on Easter Sunday including little Phoebe. Photos supplied

5611 – Zambrero Burrito Bolt Easter Sunday social run Course Director, Andrew Short takes to the streets after prepping runners for the 5/10km run.

5667 – Gail and Clinton Mackie enjoy the Zambrero Burrito Bolt social run prior to their Marathon goal event in Hobart next weekend.

5650 – Colin Hardy clocks a respectable 5km Zambrero Burrito Bolt on Easter Sunday afternoon.

5654 – Alana Knezevic and Ryan Evetts ran a tough, flat and fast 10km Zambrero Burrito Bolt on Easter Sunday afternoon.

5681 – Jo Skinner and Fran March enjoy a post run catch up at the annual Zambrero Burrito Bolt social 5/10km on Easter Sunday afternoon.

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The under-12 boys basketball team from Whitsunday Anglican School has celebrated a strong finish to the season, claiming a convincing grand final victory last weekend.

The team defeated the Renegades Tigers 26–10 to secure the championship title, capping off a season marked by teamwork and determination.

Atlas, Xander and Tai led the side on the court, providing strong leadership throughout the match. Archie, Alex and Nash were instrumental in defence, helping to limit the opposition’s scoring opportunities and maintain control of the game.

School representatives praised the players’ efforts and the teamwork displayed during the final.

Acknowledgement was also given to head coach Olena Teteruk and assistant coach Matthew Hiskens for their guidance and support throughout the season.

Families and supporters were also recognised for their encouragement, which helped drive the team’s positive season.

The grand final win marks a proud achievement for the young players and the school community.

Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School

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The District Master Pairs Final was played on Wednesday, April 1 at the North Mackay Bowls Club, featuring Flo Ruggeri and Ivy Giddings from the City Club Mackay Bowls Club against Val DePinto and Lorna Bowers from the North Mackay Bowls Club.

The match showcased impressive bowling from all four players, with the contest remaining neck and neck until the final bowl. Across the 21 ends played, spectators witnessed several tight heads and a number of precise bowl shots as both teams battled for the title.

In the end, there could only be one winner, with the North Mackay pair managing to keep their margin just ahead to secure the victory.

Congratulations were extended to all the ladies who participated in what proved to be a great district event.

(L-R) Flo Ruggeri, Ivy Giddings, Heather Brown (MDLBA), Val DePinto and Lorna Bowers. Photo supplied

Contributed by Sue Hazledine.

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The North Mackay Sinkers proved they’re more than just swimmers on Sunday morning, stepping out of the pool and onto bikes and running shoes for the Mackay Triathlon Club’s Teams Relay event at Mirani. Seven Sinkers competed across three teams, embracing an event designed to bring friends, clubs, and community groups together in the spirit of fun, fitness, and friendly competition.

Two full Sinkers teams lined up, while a third composite team delivered a standout performance, claiming second place in the Sprint distance. The relay format — where teams of two or three complete the swim, bike, and run legs collectively — proved a perfect match for the Sinkers’ supportive, teamfirst culture.

Theresa, Arthur and Sue combined strongly, with Theresa powering home the final 4 km run. Arthur’s 20 km cycling leg was described as “scenic,” and he was reportedly humming I Want to Ride My Bicycle as he rolled into transition. In the men’s Sprint category, Pierre teamed up with Glenn Borg and Andrew Burston to secure another second place, marking their second outing as a team after last year’s Triathlon Festival.

Not to be outdone the second full team of Dan, Sandy and Jeanette performed well with a strong performance during the morning earning their post event treats.

The Sinkers extend a big thankyou to Stephanie and the Mackay Triathlon Club crew for another wellrun and welcoming event. It was a fantastic morning of fitness, fun, and teamwork.

Contributed by Dan Stampa

Seven Sinkers took on the Mackay Triathlon Club Teams Relay at Mirani, trading their usual lanes for bikes and running shoes.

Arthur Douglas bolstered his team with a strong leg on the bike, his other passion. Photos supplied

The clubs Under & Over’s Teams event was a great success last month with 14 tables (56 players) participating. Congratulations to all the Winners! This is a great event which gives novices an opportunity to play with and against more experienced players.

Weekly Results

Monday 30 March 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin

1^st

Geoffry Patterson / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Monica Darley / Joy Block

3^rd

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

3^rd

Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane

4^th

Eddie Kliese / Diane Stokes

4^th

Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek

Tuesday Evening 31 March 2026 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia

1^st

Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

2^nd

Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott

2^nd

Frances Brown / Alan Brown

Wednesday 1 April 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Alan Brown / Janet Hansen

1^st

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

2^nd

Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait

2^nd

Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

3^rd

Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

3^rd

Diane Stokes / Joy Block

4^th

Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4^th

Geoffrey Patterson / Sandy Patterson

Thursday Evening 2 April 2026 – 4 Tables One Winner – Green Points

1^st

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Martin Pearce / Jenny Cameron

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers

Friday 3 April 2026 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Terry Sheedy / Joy Block

2^nd

Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor

3^rd

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

4^th

Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

5^th

Rodney Miles / Gillian McCallum

6^th

Diane Cox / Christine Nice

Saturday 4 April 2026 –11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

1^st

Geoff Cowan / Janine Rodgers

2^nd

Griffin Bancroft / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Richard Wix / Vicki Howard

3^rd

Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

3^rd

Sandra Morris / Errol Morris

4^th

Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

4^th

Christine Nice / May Rose Ramsden

5^th

Julie O’Neill / Gwen Liddell

5^th

Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan

Contributed by Joy Block

Section B – Janine, Laura, Rick & Sue

Section A – Lorna, Joy (seated) & Jean, Ann Whitmore absent. Photos supplied

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Bakers Creek Tigers AFL Club are back on the field tomorrow, marking the start of another exciting season.

Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has proudly supported the Bakers Creek Tigers AFL Club as a sponsor since 2023. This year, the sponsorship has been renewed for a further three years.

Bakers Creek Tigers will again take the field across women’s and men’s teams, providing locally inclusive programs, keeping sport accessible for families across the region.

Bakers Creek AFL Club President Col Joy has been an integral part of the Bakers Creek Tigers Football Family for five decades, contributing as a premiership player, sponsor and life member and now stepping into his new role as Club president.

Col said that Community Bank Sarina’s sponsorship has “allowed our Club to invest in new training equipment and upgrades to facilities, ensuring the Club remains inclusive and accessible for all in our community”.  

“The continued growth across our women’s and men’s teams show what’s possible when a community comes together and we value the continued support of Community Bank Sarina,” Mr Joy said.

Community Bank Sarina’s renewed sponsorship of the Bakers Creek Tigers will continue to support the delivery of its programs, creating pathways for players of all ages and experience levels, from juniors through to senior teams.

The ongoing support contributes to strengthening community connections, with the Club providing an environment where families, players and volunteers can come together both on and off the field.

As the 2026 season gets underway, local supporters are encouraged to watch and cheer on their local teams and celebrate the role local sport plays in bringing people together across the region.

For more information on this year’s season, visit @bakerscreek.tigersafl on Facebook.

To see how Community Bank Sarina continues to support local groups and initiatives that make a lasting difference in the community, visit Community Bank Sarina on Facebook.

Image 1: Senior Women’s 2025 Premier Winners

Image 2: Senior Women’s pre-season training. Photos supplied

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Cannonvale Cannons swimmers have achieved outstanding success, with 15 athletes selected to represent North Queensland at the Queensland Representative School Sport Championships in Brisbane.

Selection in the North Queensland team is a significant achievement, with the region spanning from Proserpine to Ingham and west to Charters Towers. Competing outside of club swimming, this pathway brings together the very best school-aged swimmers across the region.

The 13–19 years team featured Jax Clayworth, Hamilton Anflous, Tyler Bennett, Thomas Ganter, Tora Delac, Celeste Orenshaw and Roxanne Groom. Coach Kate and committee member Jane Delac also supported the team as managers, while Tora Delac was named Team Captain, an honour reflecting her leadership and commitment.

Jax Clayworth delivered a standout performance, claiming silver in the 200m Butterfly and bronze in both the 400m Freestyle and 400m Individual Medley, along with two additional top ten finishes. Thomas Ganter secured a top ten placing in the 200m IM, while Roxanne Groom placed 8th in the 200m Breaststroke.

In the 10–12 years division, Lucas Korosec, Miller Eaves, Mackenzie Bennett, Eloise Chegwidden, Maeve Dichiera, Zane Clayworth, Alex Trefz and Harris Delac all represented the region with pride.

Eloise Chegwidden was crowned Queensland State Champion in the 50m Breaststroke, swimming a personal best 39.75. Lucas Korosec achieved personal bests in 10 of his 11 events, earning bronze in the 50m Backstroke and three top ten finishes. Miller Eaves impressed with a 15-second personal best in the 200m IM.

The Cannons also celebrate recent North Queensland Age Champions: Miller Eaves (10 years), Eloise Chegwidden (10 years), Jax Clayworth (12 years) and Tora Delac (15 years).

A fantastic achievement and a strong finish to the season, with only the 2026 Australia Age Championships in April remaining on the calendar.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Captions

1 - 15 Cannonvale Cannons swimmers have been selected to represent North Queensland. Photo supplied

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The days may be getting shorter, but the standard of bowling at the club continues to improve each week.

Tuesday afternoon saw 20 bowlers competing, with Lyn Graham and Sue Dakin taking out the winners’ prize. Stacey Hadlow and Sue Walker claimed second place after an entertaining and skilful session.

On Wednesday (25/3), 17 bowlers took to the green in a day superbly run by Mervyn Stewart. The standout team was Warren Mills, lead Duncan Smith, and second Terry Clarke, who delivered an impressive 27–10 victory.

Wednesday night Corporate Bowls continues to be dominated by “Girl Power,” with Maureen Barnard, Gail Simms, Sue Dakin, and skipper Cathy Russell remaining unbeaten after eight straight wins. Flame Tree, represented by Craig Kennedy, Brendan Rock, and Ben Dooland, sit in second place. A new competition will begin after schools return in April.

The Men’s Pairs over the weekend produced outstanding performances. In a thrilling final, Manny Isgro and Luke Kinnear defeated Harry Quad and Andy McDougall 19–16 in a match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

In the Ladies Fours final, Elaine Kippen’s team—Sandra Argo, Dawn Dowell, and Kathryn Remmeswaal—played strongly, but Joan McGrath, Lyn Graham, Vicki Spann, and Ladda Purdie proved too consistent and claimed victory.

Scroungers Round 5 will be held on Easter Saturday (9:30 am start), with Social Bowls on Easter Sunday at 1 pm (names in by 12:30 pm). Don’t forget: Tradies vs Non-Tradies begins in June.

Captions

Skipper Joan McGrath with lead Lyn Graham , Vicki Spann, Ladda Purdie who relentlessly wore down their competitors for an outstanding performance of skilful bowls

Photo supplied

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On Tuesday a single Stableford competition was played in difficult soggy conditions which was reflected in the low point scoring.

Congratulations to the ladies winner Leanne Alexander (second week in a row) and Craig McLean (runner up last week) for the men.

RESULTS

LADIES

Winner: Leanne Alexander 29 points

R/Up: Elspeth Scotford with 26 points

Rundown: Lyn Muller (26), Heather Luvis (25) and Paula McQuat (23)

MEN

Winner: Craig McClean 30 points

R/Up: John Roser with 29 points

Rundown:  Mark Richards also with 29 points on a count back, Louis Neethling, John Oates and John Wallace all with 27 points

PIN SHOTS

Ladies: A Grade - Lyn Muller, Elspeth Scotford and Heather Luvis

             B Grade - Tiina Randmae and Paula McQuat

Men: A Grade - John Roser and Craig McClean

          B Grade - Barry Mortimer and John Oates

CHIP INS

Trevor Peroz, Barry Mortimer and Vic Feldman (x2)

NAGAs

For a ball each Jenny Hounsell and Wilf Herweg

DRAWS:

MEMBERSHIP jackpots to $20 next week

WEEKLY RAFFLE $50 to Robyn Whitham

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Next week 31/3/26 - MARCH 2026 Monthly Medal and count your putts

DITTY

There are 3 roads to ruin: gambling and golf. The most pleasant, the quickest but the surest is with golf

Contributed with thanks to John Roser.

1 – Winners, Craig McLean and Leanne Alexander

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On Tuesday afternoon the elusive jackpot that has been accumulating from last year finally went off in the game between Lindy Suann Robyn Stitt and Alby Vigar who defeated Stumpy Adams Sue Shearing and Ron Hyde. In the other game it couldn’t have been any closer with a draw between Bron Tolcher Shirley Jones and Maureen Hyde against Andy Nayland Skin Querro and Deb Retchless.  

Club Competition is now underway. In the Men’s A Singles A Rolfe defeated S Jeal and K Daniels defeated M Drummond. Consistency for the Ladies C Jeal defeated T Willshire and L Scells defeated M Hyde.

Winners for Sunday afternoon were Gordon Querro Maureen Hyde and Kennedy Whitton defeated Toni Bowen Cliff Queero and Pat Tracey, In the other games Andy Nayland Ron Hyde Greg Colquhoun defeated Penny Warren Alby Vigar and Allan Rolfe and Teresa Willshire Gavin Charles and Kevin Daniels drew with Deb Rethchless Graeme Read and Stuart Jeal. The jackpot number did come out but players decided to build up the bank.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

1 - President Deb Retchless with Stumpy Adams, Sue Shearing, Ron Hyde, Alby Vigar and Lindy Suann.

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Local businesses and community members are being invited to support the 3rd Annual Broken Ballerina and AGIS Charity Golf Day, with a limited number of sponsorship opportunities still available.

The annual event raises vital funds for Broken Ballerina Inc, a local not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting victim survivors of domestic and family violence within the community.

Organisers say the charity golf day continues to grow each year, bringing the community together for a meaningful cause while raising awareness and support for those impacted by domestic and family violence.

Local businesses interested in supporting the event through sponsorship are encouraged to get involved while opportunities remain.

The community’s support will help ensure the continued success of the event and the important work Broken Ballerina Inc carries out across the region.

For information about available sponsorship packages, email pete@brokenballerina-inc.com.au.

Last year’s Broken Ballerina Charity Golf Day was a resounding success, bringing the community together on the greens to raise vital funds and awareness for local victim survivors of domestic and family violence. Photo source: Broken Ballerina Inc

Nearly 40 runners took on the challenging hills and undulating course around Slade Point and Lambert’s Beach on Sunday morning for the annual Tim’s Chariots of Fire 5km and 16km events.

Perfect running conditions greeted competitors, with hosts Tim and Sandra opening their home for the start and finish location, offering impressive coastal views. Runners and supporters also enjoyed a sausage sizzle, tea and coffee, Zooper Doopers and even a post run swim in the pool.

New club runner Ryan Murray delivered an outstanding performance to win the 16km race, finishing ahead of Clinton Mackie, Levi Wallace and Shane Donnollan. Rhiann Massey was the first female home and fifth overall, followed by Mel Esau, Emily Hayles and Carmel Mahon. Other strong performances came from Leon Sant, Roscoe McDonnell, Ashley Miles, Stephen Oberg, Jeremy Taylor and Wayne Huntley.

In the 5km event, Justin Rule powered to victory despite the hilly course. Jose Short finished second overall and was the first female across the line, followed by Werner VanDerLinde and Rebecca Malcolm. Ross Connor, Lauren Connor, Jo Hughes, David Isbister, Andrew Short, Leanne Connor, Natasha Joynson, Craig Joynson, Fran March and Stuart Sprott also completed the course.

Thanks were extended to Andrew Short, David Isbister and Len Howarth for setting up the course, along with Tim for clearing sections of the track. Timekeeper and registrar Rohan Miles and Julie Whibley managed results, with Julie also assisting as a course marshal.

Next Sunday’s Easter social run will be held at Zambrero City, corner Gregory and Gordon Streets, sponsored by Peter Quinn and family. All runners are welcome, with a $2 race day fee for members and casual participants.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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5466 – Ryan Murray warming up in front of the spectacular Slade Point backdrop at Tim’s Chariots of Fire 16km.

5462 – Rhiann Massey and Clinton Mackie with Rules of Running Coach, Belinda Rule at Tim’s Chariots of Fire 5k/16k.

5475 – You will see alot of these singlets running around worn by Mackay Road Runners celebrating the Club’s 50^th Anniversary.

5483 – Tim’s Chariots of Fire 5km competitors getting ready at the start line.

5547 – Mel Rich was in fine form in the 16km Tim’s Chariots of Fire.

5510 – Leanne Connor and Andrew Short enjoy a quick catch up during the 5km after the final ascent was completed. Photos supplied

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Members of Sunset Bay Outriggers made the nine-hour road trip north to begin their campaign in the North Queensland Zone Grand Prix outrigger regatta series.

The opening event was hosted by The Dam Outrigger Canoe Club at Tinaroo Dam on Saturday, March 14, attracting around 180 paddlers from across the region.

Despite a mix of sun, rain and muddy conditions, Sunset Bay paddlers produced strong results, collecting numerous medals across OC6, OC2 and OC1 events.

Attention now turns to the next round of the series, which will be hosted by Sunset Bay at Eimeo Beach over the May 2 to 3 long weekend. The regatta will be held alongside the North Queensland Games, which are being staged in Mackay.

The event will also provide valuable preparation for paddlers aiming to compete at the internationally recognised Hamilton Island Cup and the IVF World Sprints in Singapore this August.

The club is currently seeking volunteers and sponsors to help deliver the regatta locally. Anyone able to assist can contact Renee on 0412 448 805 or speak with Deb on 0413 804 688 about sponsorship opportunities.

Photos supplied

The Mackay Cricket Association Junior Grand Finals were held on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th February 2026, showcasing the region’s rising cricket talent.

Walkerston Cricket Club claimed the Vic Clarendon U12 Trophy, with Isabelle Blackburn named Player of the Final. Pinnacle Cricket Club were crowned Lindsey Perry U13 premiers, with McKenna Jeffs (Sarina Cricket Association) earning Player of the Final honours. Souths Cricket Club took out the Hird Family U14 Trophy, with Pete Maczkowiack recognised for his grand final performance.

In the girls’ competition, Pioneer Valley ‘Fire’ Cricket Club lifted the Heat Girls Trophy, with Ava Woodward named Player of the Final. Walkerston Cricket Club also claimed the Under 15 Trophy, where Flynn Ryan was awarded Player of the Final. Proserpine Junior Cricket Association completed the list of champions, winning the Hazel Weeks Under 17 Trophy, with Matthew Logan recognised for his outstanding performance.

Congratulations to all junior grand final winners and Players of the Final across the 2025/26 season for their skill, sportsmanship, and dedication.

Photos supplied