With a vibrant sporting community at its heart, Whitsunday Touch Footy regularly sees over 200 people compete at the Whitsunday Sportspark every week on a Monday during the season.

Whether you're a seasoned touch player or a novice eager to learn, the club welcomes everyone with open arms and is known for its diversity of players.

One such individual is local mum of two, Aimee Mitchell, who picked up the sport again last year after more than a 10-year hiatus.

Aimee played Touch Footy when she was at high school and continued on and off before she had children.

Getting back on the field was a big step for her, but one she says she is very glad to have made.

“Everyone was so welcoming, encouraging and friendly,” she said.

“It had been such a long time since I played but there were no great expectations to be a pro player and the referees were great in explaining the rules.

“I went along initially because a work colleague said they were looking for more female players and it was great to hear that young families are welcome, with kids welcome to the club.”

Touch Footy is not just a sport; it's an opportunity to be part of a close-knit community and enjoy the beauty of the Whitsundays while staying active.

The seasons run from February to June and July to November and anyone age seven and up is welcome to join.

There is a family grade where mixed ages and family groups can play together and A, B, C, and junior grades offering something for everyone.

Membership is between $60 and $120 per season depending on your age and there are no away games, every match is played right here in the region.

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To dream the impossible dream, to run where the brave dare do not go, to live the unliveable moment, to reach the unreachable star .... is what happened at our little club this week because we received a million-dollar grant to build a hard cover for our bowls club, largely due to our vice chair lady Karen Jenson, Col Morris, our chairman Ask Warland and others, but the impossible dream came true.

How unbelievable is that, and everyone is singing, and watching the Man of Lamancha.

Congratulations to all concerned. It still hasn't sunk in to all our members.

There was no bowls on Wednesday because of the cyclone that did damage to our brothers and sisters north of Townsville but not to Mackay and the Whitsunday's, although the islands got a bit of a hiding, no real damage was felt. Airlie Beach had minimal wind, but we must always be prepared for the worst. 

Bowls resumed on Sunday, and we had 20 bowlers all vying for the prize, however skipper Ted Cullen was having nothing to do with the other teams and with John Anderson at lead and Jill Spencer at second won on the day with an outstanding display of bowls whilst Jill Spencer capped off the day with the prestigious Health Hub Award so generously supplied by Hayley the manager of this fantastic shop.

This week will see the return of Business House Bowls now ably organised by Bobby Spees with his lovely wife and also Scroungers on Saturday morning will resume with Russell Jackson warming the seat whilst John Askew is gallivanting around the world.

Special mention must go to Fiona Greener who does an absolute outstanding job under enormous pressure and is such an extremely competent young lady.

Monday and Thursdays at 4 pm is for all school children, or adults to come for free lessons at no cost.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Skipped Ted Cullen, with Jill Spencer and John Anderson. Photo supplied

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Sunday Social Bowls winners were Andy Peebles, Lloyd White, Steve Roome.

Scroungers: winners were Lee Welsted and Ron Gould.

Wednesday Social: Keith Kirk, W. Coles, Jason Wright defeated Ross Scanlon, Wayne Crowhurst, Brett Lampard. Robin Stitt, Gavin Charles, Mark Drummond defeated Tracey Roach, Kennedy Whitton, Ray Muir, T. Winter, Jeff Tierney defeated MaryEllen Pratten, Ron Gould, Steve Roome All for this week. Joan.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

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Lee Welsted and Ron Gould. Photo supplied

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Winners for Tuesday social bowls were Merle Elphinstone, Lyn Danvers and Greg Colquhoun who defeated Stumpy Adams, Sue Shearing and Robyn Stitt. Irene Laird and Geoff Danvers drew with Deb Retchless, Mark Drummond and Jason Wright. The jackpot didn’t go off.  

Unfortunately, Cyclone Kirrily put a dampener on our Australia Day night bowls and we had to cancel. However on Sunday, we were back.

Winners for the afternoon were Fely Duncan, Alby Vigar and Allan Rolfe who defeated Robyn Stitt, Deb Retchless and Sugar Brunker. Others were Terry Blair, Penny Warren and Kennedy Whitton who defeated Jocelyn Defranciscis, Isobel Wheeler and Mark Drummond. Merle Elphinstone, Kevin Daniels and Pat Tracey defeated Stumpy Adams, Graeme Read and Mark Defranciscis. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

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Sunday’s winners. Photo contributed

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The Airlie Beach Darts Club held its inaugural Australia Day Champions Cup on Sunday morning, where there were a lot of new faces which was great to see.

The Champions Cup is one of seven scheduled one day competitions this year, which are new to the club, and are geared towards offering people the chance to take up darts for the first time, or for those who want to reacquaint themselves with the game.

We had 16 participants to begin with on Sunday, but by the end of the day, that number would be down to one. 

Mick McCormick and Jack Todd had easy passage through to the Quarters, and not too far behind them was Kam Reason and Art McMinn. Jamie Maher and John Barry had it a little harder, with both their games going the distance to last leg deciders.

Naomi Mitchell and Jamie Maher sailed through their quarter final match ups by 5/1 scorelines, while Jack Todd and Dom Friend had to sweat it out a little, both recording narrow 5/4 sudden death wins. 

In the semis, Jamie Maher had his best match of the day recording a 6/1 win over Naomi Mitchell, while in the other semi-final, Jack Todd calmly dispatched the 2023 Xmas Open finalist Dom Friend in fine fashion by 6 legs to 2.

The final was a close and tense battle between Jamie Maher and Jack Todd, Jamie was scoring heavily but struggled on the outer ring, while Jack didn’t squander his chances, and finished his doubling with great success. The final score line was 7/4 to the well-deserved champion Jack Todd.

The Celtic Cup is the next one-day event on St Patrick’s Day, Sunday March 17th. For anyone interest in taking part, you can find us on Facebook @airliebeachdartsclub, or contact us on 0405411865.

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Jack Todd claiming $150 prize money and taking out the inaugural Australia Day Champions Cup. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club had their sweeties and Squires fun fishing day last Saturday with some great on prizes on hand.

New club member Charlie won champion junior female on her very first fishing trip in a boat and mum Chantelle was runner-up female angler .

Stacey Cramner was the overall female winner.

Kane Bird was the champion junior male angler just ahead of tied runners-up Shannon and Reece Mathews, under 11 years old.

Champion Male winner was Kyle Matthews.

Shannon had a lovely Coral Trout bitten in half by a large Mackerel in Shute Harbour. While Kane had a 30-minute battle with something big which he lost.

A great day was had by all and a very big thanks to Jack and the friendly staff at Anaconda Cannonvale for their continued support of the club.

The club's next outing is the Barra-Bash at Lake Proserpine March 22-24 based at Camp Kanga, check WGFC Facebook page for more details.

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore.

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Champion Junior Female

Under 11 Champ, Kyle Matthews

Champion junior male, Kane Bird

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While we may have started with 20 members on the timesheet, some early heavy-ish showers resulted some early starters who withdrew and we ended up with 16 players in the comp. The course showed some effects of the overnight rain but having escaped TC Kirrily, we were lucky enough to play a Stableford even with reduced numbers. There were a few soggy spots but some of managed to avoid them, some of us didn’t. Most scores were pretty ordinary, but some were pretty good.

LADIES A GRADE:

Winner and Longest Drive: Tiina Randmae

Runner-up: Karen Rix

LADIES B GRADE:

Winner and Longest Drive: Pam Casey

Runner-up: Tina Cook

MEN’S A GRADE:

Winner: Andrew Albergo with an excellent 40 points

Runner-up: Darren Reynolds with 36 points

Longest Drive: Ritchie Atkins

MEN’S B GRADE:

Winner: Wilf Herweg with 32 points on a count back

Runner-up and Longest Drive: Don Cameron

NTP:

For the ladies: Tiina Randmae and Karen Rix

For the men: Darren Reynolds and Andrew Albergo

NEXT WEEK: will be the Feb MM/Least Putts. It may be the new timeslot of 6.30 - 7.30am. So, log in as soon as possible to keep the group together, remember that the timeslot is protected till Close of Business on Tuesday, Wed morning the whole timesheet will be open to all players.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

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Presentation time. Photo supplied

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At the weekly 9-hole stableford Donna Henderson took first place with 20 points c/b, second place with 20 points c/b was Ryan Kenny and third place with 20 points c/b Sean Fogarty. 

Friday’s weekly 9-hole stableford saw James Matthews in first place with 20 points, second with 19 points was Tony Spurway and third place was Morgan Vanderwyk with 18 points.

On Friday we also held our Australia day 18-hole stableford. The heat and minimal winds didn’t stop Scott Hayes -Williams taking first place with 30 points, second with 29 points was Scott Morrissey and third place with 28 points was James Millar. Terrific job by all. 

Sunday, we held our 18-hole Monthly Medal and what a scorcher of a day. First place saw Glenn Rees with a 50 NETT, second place was Brock Brindle with a 51 NETT and third place was Shane Brindle with a 53 NETT c/b.  Nearest the pin was Glenn Rees and Scott Dwyer. 

This Sunday 4th Feb will be 18-hole stableford tee off anytime.

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Pip Runciman, Deanna Norman and Donna Henderson. Photo supplied

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Built on the foundation of connection, encouragement and fun, the Cannonvale Kyokushin Karate Club continues to flourish and grow, and is excited to welcome new students into their 2024 classes.

Established over 17 years ago, Cannonvale Kyokushin Karate Club, sees the growth and development of all students in their journey to the traditional Japanese martial art of Kyokushin Karate.

“It’s incredibly beneficial to the body,” explained Sensei Belinda Woodham.

“Just a small number of the benefits include increasing strength, flexibility, coordination, and general fitness.”

With training days being Tuesday and Thursday evenings, students are able to develop their skills in an encouraging and supportive environment, where everyone looks out for each other.

“Learning self-defence skills sees improvement across the body and mind, including improvement of your concentration and boosting your self-confidence,” explained Sensei Belinda.

“And everyone in our close-knit karate family of friends always encourages each other to try their best with their training.

“Karate training is a life skill and a way of life. Our club is very family orientated and caters for men, women, and children of all age groups six-years and above,” she said.

“2024 year is a perfect time to come along and try karate classes, whether you are a beginner or a martial artist who is returning to club training. 

“We are planning on having this term a number of separate beginner classes to ease new students into training at a beginner level pace.”

To learn more about Cannonvale Kyokushin Karate Club, see Sensei Belinda or another club member at their booth at the Sports Expo this Saturday.

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Benefits Of Karate

   • Concentration

   • Self-confidence

   • Strength

   • Flexibility

   • Coordination

   • General Fitness

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Join the team at Cannonvale Kyokushin Karate Club

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Brand new to Airlie Beach, Jane Streeter is excited to launch Rolldance Skate School for those in the Airlie Beach catchment to share in her love of skating.

The concept for the new school began with Jane volunteering at the PCYC Bowen Friday night skating night, where she would help children get on the rink and develop their skills.

“After the thousandth time hearing ‘wow, how do you do that?’,” Jane explained.

“I figured it was time to start teaching proper classes! I taught for the past two terms up in Bowen and am now super excited to be starting classes closer to home in Airlie.”

Designed for children from ages eight and above, Rolldance Skate School prepares children with all the necessary skills and techniques to get on their wheels, to feel confident in their movements, and be able to get into the rink and stay safe.

But she doesn’t stop there, with adults welcome to accompany their children in classes.

“In fact, parents can join the class for free when they enrol their child,” she explained.

Beginning from the middle of February, Jane is able to offer kids and adults skating classes, all run from the Cannnonvale State School Hall.

“It’s such a fantastic family activity!”

Primarily focusing on foundational skills, Jane promotes the fun and recreational aspect of the sport, with plans to host skating nights and fun disco-skating for kids to get into the rink after gaining confidence with their moves.

Skating is a hugely beneficial sport, exercising and moving the entire body.

“Skating is just fun!” Jane explained.

“And, a bonus, it’s an amazing whole-body workout.”

“And there are so many ways to skate, that there’s something that can suit everyone: locally, we have access to trails, roller-discos, dance-skating, and park skating. We focus on providing the foundational skills and the community for you to be able to choose your own skating adventure.”

To get started, Jane encourages everyone to just put the skates on and get a feel for the wheels.

You can meet Jane in person at the Whitsunday Sports Expo this weekend.

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A total of 34 swimmers participated at Club Night last week and Lucas Korosec aged 7 years set three new Club Records. Lucas set a record for 50 metres Freestyle in 45.9 seconds, 50 metre Backstroke in 59.56 seconds and 100 metre IM in 1.50.2.  

Club Secretary Giselle Burton presented Upgrade Certificates to Eloise Chegwidden, Miller Eaves, Penelope Shields, Ella Holmes, Lucas Korosec, Connor Lee, Dylan Reynolds, Jaylah Reddaway and Declan Dichieria.  

Top performers on Wednesday night:  Don Algie (4 PBs), Jax Clayworth (4 PBs), Miller Eaves (3 PBs), Andie Reynolds (3 PBs), Declan Dichiera (2 PBs), Maeve Dichiera (2 PBs), Jack Ganter (2 PBs), Connor Lee (2 PBs), Ky Mitchell (2 PBs), Eric Mulliss (2PBs), River Shields (2 PBs) and Addie Sanders (2PBs).  

Top Swims: Don Algie swam an excellent time in his 100 metre, taking 6.73 seconds off his previous best time. Eloise Chegwidden’s best swim was her 100 metre Breaststroke which she swam in 1.55.71. Bonnie Crichton aged 5 years swam a super 12 metre Freestyle in 22.05 seconds.  Harris Delac took over 11.8 seconds off his 100 metre Backstroke time.  

Declan Dichiera swam extremely well in his 100 metre Butterfly. Declan took 17.5 seconds off his previous best time. Sisters, Abiageal and Lily Maher both swam a brilliant 100 metre IM taking over 7 seconds off their times. Matilda Nicholes also swam an awesome 100 metres IM in a time of 1.38.16.  Celeste Orenshaw swam a very smooth 50 metre Breaststroke in a time of 50.27 seconds, a 3.27 seconds PB.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

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Riley Mercieca won Tuesday's stableford competition with 41 points; by a shot from Danny Goody. Pins went to Ryan Kenny, Jim Cochran, Heather Luvis and Michael Miller.

Over 100 players competed, post cyclone Kirrily, in Friday's ambrose event won by Sean Fogarty and Ryan Wilkes with a net 59.5. David Telford and Sam Deicke had net 60 as runners up.

Pins went to Sam Deicke, Matt Conen, Ritchie Atkins, Sean Fogarty, and Patrick Camm. Ryan Wilkes and Tiina Badenhorst won the long drives.

Theunis Venter Jnr had 40 points to win Saturday's event with Vic Feldman his B division runner up on 34 points. Tony Chapple won the A division with 37 points by a shot from Brian Allen.

Tiina Randmae edged out Helen Deighton with 28 points as the ladies winner. Pins went to Lance Lloyd, John Clark, Dean Kercher, Blake Lovelock, Heather Luvis and Diane Chard.

Andrew Albergo edged out Brad Fleet with 40 points to win the Sunday competition. The leading ladies were Tiina Randmae and Peta Thomas with 27 points. Pins went to Scott Vlismas, Tiina Randmae, Jacqueline Wall, Brad Fleet and Andrew Albergo.

Contributed with thanks to Pro Shop Proserpine Golf Club.

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Welcome to Whitsunday Touch, where passion and fun collide on the shores of the magnificent Whitsunday Islands!  

A Journey Back to 1974 

Our name, the 74's, pays homage to both the breathtaking archipelago that surrounds us and our humble beginnings. The Whitsundays, with its 74 enchanting islands, serves as our playground and inspiration. We are fortunate to call this natural wonderland home, and we celebrate its beauty through our club's identity. 

In 1974, a small group of passionate individuals came together with a common desire: to play footy for the sheer joy of it. They laid the foundation for what would become a vibrant and inclusive touch football community in the Whitsundays. Today, our club stands as a testament to their vision, the welcoming Whitsunday vibe where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together.   

What We Offer 

Whether you're a seasoned touch player or a novice eager to learn, our club welcomes everyone with open arms. We offer a variety of programs and events designed to cater to players of all skill levels, from social to competitive games. 

Why You Should Join 

Touch footy on Monday nights is a great way to start the week, offering the chance to catch up with your teams and have a cold drink afterwards. It's not just a sport; it's an opportunity to be part of a close-knit community and enjoy the beauty of the Whitsundays while staying active. 

Footy for fun is what we are about at Whitsunday Touch! 

Calling all beginners and those who've never played before – we're here to teach you the ropes of footy!  

Join our welcoming club. No experience needed – just enthusiasm and a desire to have fun on the field. Join us today!

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The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is gaining momentum for its 24th annual event on July 27 and 28 this year with the attendance of former superstar swimmer Susie O’Neill and the “voice of triathlons” Pete Murray now locked in.

Whitsunday Triathlon Club President Michael Kimpton said this year’s festival will be a triathlon weekend like no other appealing to both seasoned competitors and the local senior and junior triathletes and swimmers.

“The 2024 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon is a race like no other and now every finisher will be rewarded with a triathlon finishing line experience like no other with both Susie and Pete to cheer everyone home,” he said.

“Come along and watch incredible athletes chase down personal best times or enter with your family and enjoy watching your children get involved with this amazing community event.

“With an enticer, a sprint and the flagship standard distance triathlons plus a range of swimming events, there is a race option for everyone including the first timer, age grouper, seasoned professional and teams,” Kimpton said.

“The children’s event was extremely popular last year with proud parents watching on as the youngsters swam across the Airlie Beach Lagoon, dash to their bikes and then complete the triathlon with a sprint to the finish line.”

Joining Susie and Pete as ambassadors for our event are Radka Kahlefeldt, ex-Olympic triathlete and Commonwealth Gold medallist and Caleb Noble who placed second last year in World Challenge series along with Australia triathlon legend Nick Croft.

The 2024 Triathlon Festival will culminate in the closing Banquet of Champions night again this year at the Coral Sea Marina Ballroom on the 28 July, so make sure you ‘Save the Date’.

Let's make the 2024 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon an event to remember.

If you would like to find out more about participating in the 2024 Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival make sure you look out for the team at the Sports Expo next weekend or visit the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/AirlieBeachTriathlonFestival

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Over the past 30 years Cannonvale Swim Centre has evolved from a small club to a vibrant community that proudly represents 120 members and welcomes more than 200 swimmers to regular training sessions.

The Swim Centre is home to the Cannonvale Cannons, a thriving club which has recently seen three of its members qualify for national competition.

In the beginning, the Club wanted to offer Cannonvale residents a local place to swim and train, this has now evolved and countless children head straight to the pool after school.

“They love the social thing and usually have a bit of afternoon tea before they get in the pool,” explains Raylene Rasmussen, Club Secretary.

“A lot of people think that swimming is just going up and down the black lines, but you’re always talking to people in the lanes and little groups love getting together.”

Cannonvale Swim Centre offers classes and training for all ages, five and up.

Non-swimmers are more than welcome and one-on-one classes are offered for adults who would like to learn to swim.

Those interested in joining the club can choose from a wide range of options that can suit almost any lifestyle.

From a once weekly lesson to training up to five times a week for those looking to compete – you can attend as little or as often as you like.

Cannonvale Cannons also attend regular carnivals and tournaments, from Townsville to Brisbane and sometimes even interstate.

If you would like to find out more about Cannonvale Swim Centre and the options on offer, make sure you come and say hi to the team at the Sports Expo.

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