Sports

Mackay Bushwalkers Explore Cape Hillsborough

Mackay Bushwalkers Explore Cape Hillsborough

Recently, members of the Mackay Bushwalkers' Club were offered two very different walks on successive Sundays, both under the guidance of Ken Fihelly in the broad Cape Hillsborough area. Members were taken to places not usually frequented by visitors to the National Park, who often prefer to follow the popular walking tracks to the well-known lookouts. The first of these bushwalks traversed the western section of the park from Smalley's Beach nearly up to the plateau, passing under cliffs to a cave with a large overhang. Some steep rock scrambling was undertaken, but was rewarded with great views including that of the Native Pink Hibiscus patch, mostly still only buds. The journey back to the cars revealed gullies, dry creek beds and sections of rain forest. Towering palms, beautiful basket ferns, grass trees and lush grasslands, as well as a close encounter with a Ulysses butterfly were highlights of the day. A week later, Paradise Falls was reached after a journey offering large boulders, impressive rain forest and rugged cliffs, as well as thousands of Crow and Blue Tiger butterflies. Both walks showcased spectacular scenery to be admired whilst making the most of the outdoors in very sunny weather. The club's full program for the next month includes a variety of walks ranging from Mt Dalrymple to Homevale and Cathu, with some easier options available on the days of more challenging outings. For further information about the range of walks on offer to members over the next month and for information on how to become involved, phone 0429363929. Ian Brookes. Photo credit: Julie Ward

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Mackay Contract Bridge Results Club Welcomes New Country Director

Mackay Contract Bridge Results Club Welcomes New Country Director

BRIDGE The club is pleased to announce that Jan Harris, is the newly appointed Country Director. In the context of the card game bridge, a Country Director is an accredited official qualified to oversee and manage small regional or "country" bridge congresses. Jan received her Queensland Bridge Association Director’s Certificate from President Frances Brown. Bridge cannot be played without directors and is commendable that Club members like Jan step forward to fill these roles. Thank you, Jan! Frances and Jan Weekly Results Monday 8 June 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Monica Darley / Joy Block 2nd Vicki Howard / Susan Ross 3rd Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers 4th Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris Evening 9 June 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger 1st Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup 2nd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 3rd Ian Stephenson / Ann Whitmore 3rd Errol Morris / Mick Robins Wednesday 10 June 2026 – NWP Week 11 of 26 - 10 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Debbie Ludkin / Mick King 3rd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 4th Monica Darley / Helen Goldston 4th Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood 5th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 5th Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell Thursday Evening 11 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner – Green Points 1st Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott 2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 3rd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore 4th Simon Barnes / Martin Pearce Friday 12 June 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 2nd Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger 2nd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Diane Cox / Christine Nice 3rd Mick King / Geoff Cowan 4th Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 4th Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 5th Ming Ting / David Ting 5th Gillian McCallum / Rodney Miles Saturday 13 June 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Faye Wright / Janine Rodgers 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 2nd Joy Robinson / Terry Sheedy 2nd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright 4th Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris 4th Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch 5th Helen Van Den Breok / Joy Brunette Frances and Jan. Photo supplied 5th John Ludkin / Max Holewa

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Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results   9th June 2026

Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results 9th June 2026

Tuesday Night Fixtures Division 1: Canaries (Josh Brown, Lily Boland, YiLin Jiang) won 7-4 over Geese (Steve Whiting, Janice Kent, Lee Brake) with Lily come home strong against Steve (-9,7,-7,8,11). Cockatoos (Mick Ruhl, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) were to strong for Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake), Graeme won against Mark (-9,4,12,-4,3). Curlews (Barry Patterson, Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan) defeated Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Duncan Treloar, Allan Edwards), Anne and Geoff just edged out Trent and Duncan (-8,7,-10,8,8). Division 2: Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Parrots (George Camilleri, Delma Knight, Darryl Ross) 6-5, with Ollie coming back from 2 sets down to win close 5 sets against Darryl (=8,-11,8,7,7). Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Daniel Warfield, Noreen Fredericksen) won 8-3 against Kites (Ian McKay, Matt West), Ian got the better of Daniel (-4,5,7,-9,9). Galahs (Donna Abbott, Remy Zhan, Mark Stem) edged out Owls (Rod Mahumas, Ricky Zhan, Peter Goodson) 6-5, Peter snuck home over Mark (8,8,-8,-14,8). Division 3: Some great matches while the battle for the top positions in Division 3 continues. Logan, Dylan, Mark and Jeff all had great wins. Tuesday Morning Fixtures Division 1: Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) edged out (Orion Orbiters) John McGee, Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd), Doug and Andrea had a great battle with Doug winning (-3,7,-7,3,9). Astro Aces (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Sally Muir) tied 6-6 against Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Darryl Ross), Darryl got home over Sally (-7,-12,3,13,5). Division 2: Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Helen Ware, Veronica Needham) got home to win Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Marie Taylor), Veronica and Helen won close doubles match against Louise and Marie (8,-7,6,-6,9). Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) defeated Ninja Strikes (Pam Keune, Frank Caruana, Ken Best) 10-2, Coral made an epic come back to beat Frank in 5 sets (-10,-5,11,1,6). Division 3: Mongol Power (Cheryl Pearson, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) tied up 6-6 with Gladiator Grip (Allison Day, Madge Saunders, Sharon Muller), Laurie had a great win over Sharon (0,-7,-3,2,5). Aztec Warriors (Iris Grasso, Janelle Keune, Thelma Caruana) won 7-5 over Celtic Smash (David Muir, Myles Dutton, Trish Zamparutti), David and Myles had a great battle against Iris and Thelma (7,-5,-7,7,5). Contributed by Andrea Payne Photo supplied

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A Well-Earned Win In Ladies Singles Final At The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club

A Well-Earned Win In Ladies Singles Final At The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club

The Championship Singles Final was played at the club last Wednesday 10th June to a packed crowd of well-wishing supporters of both ladies. The game was between Lois Deguara and Maryann Bartolo two very talented club members. A great game was enjoyed by all the spectators who came to watch this very enjoyable game. The eventual winner was a very happy Maryann Bartolo, with Runner up Lois Deguara. Congratulations to you both on a super game. Contributed by Sue Hazledine . (L) Maryann Bartolo and (R) Lois Deguara. Photo supplied

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RHB Rect

Young Cannons Set Club Records

January 24, 2024

The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club hosted another successful Club Night on Wednesday night.  The Cannons commended two young members with new Club records. Lucas Korosec for setting a record for boys 7 years 50m Butterfly in a time of 54.30s. Eloise Chegwidden, aged 8 years, set a record for 50m Breaststroke in a time of 52.31sec. Congratulations, Eloise, and Lucas!  

Club Secretary, Giselle Burton presented Upgrade Certificates to Andie Reynolds, Connor Lee, Eloise Chegwidden, Eric Mulliss, Billie Jamieson, Murphy Jamieson, Maeve Dichiera, Harris Delac, Isabella Pisaniello, Jaylah Reddaway, Ella Maddock, and Stevie Lee.  

“The Swim of the Night” awards were presented to Tiana Bell, Declan Dichiera and Zach Trefz.  Chocolate Awards (for the best PBs) were presented to Tora Delac, Dylan Reynolds, and Alex Trefz.  Well done, swimmers!  

Top performers at Club Night with the most PBs were  Mackenzie Bennett, Harris Delac, Declan Dichiera, Lucas Korosec, Pippa Laguna, Connor Lee, Abiageal Maher, Kye Mitchell, Andie Reynolds, Alex Trefz and Zach Trefz.  

Special mentions: Celeste Orenshaw swam a fantastic 100m Butterfly in 1.46.20, a 19.01sec PB. Matilda Nicholes swam an excellent 400m Freestyle in a time of 6.05.15 which was a massive 33.37sec PB. Murphy Jamieson swam an impressive 50m Freestyle in under 50sec. Gracie Laguna swam a super 100m IM in a time of 2.02.6, taking close to 9sec off her best time. Tora Delac’s best swims were her 200m Freestyle and 200m Backstroke, taking over 3 sec off each.  

The Cannons would like to commend new swimmers for swimming extremely well at their first Club Night. The Cannons would like to welcome Ella Maddock, Ava Mitchell, Kye Mitchell, Jaylah Reddaway and Aston Pook and their families! The Cannons would like to thank all the wonderful parents for their assistance at Club Night!  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

Lucas Korosec

Eloise Chegwidden. Photos supplied

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Mackay Bowls Club

January 24, 2024

Australia Day Bowls at the Mackay Club will consist of two divisions of triples played during the afternoon, each consisting of two games of eleven ends starting at 1:00 pm. Division one will include bowlers, and division two will consist of two non-bowlers and one bowler. Prize money will be awarded to winners and runners-up in both divisions. Throughout the afternoon, a BBQ and Aussie food will be available. Bowlers and non-bowlers looking for an afternoon of fun and bowls are invited to come along to the Mackay Bowling Club.

Results: Tuesday - Social Day (12) Winners of Winners: Carol Savage and Brad Robertson Winner of Losers: Where Herwini and Niel Holt.

Thursday Scroungers (15) Winner: Niel Holt, Runner-up: Grant Edmonds.

Friday Ladies Mixed Social (10) All participants had a good afternoon.

Ladies Graded Pairs will be played on Saturday, January 27th, starting at 12:30 pm. Names should be submitted by Wednesday, January 24th. Men's Club Champion nominations close on Sunday, January 29th. Nomination forms are available on the notice board in the clubhouse.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Mackay Contract Bridge Club

January 24, 2024

Well done to Eric Goodchild and David Ting finishing second in the 500 - 750 Swiss Pairs division at Summer Festival of Bridge 2024 in Canberra. Well done also to Debra Goodchild and Ming Ting for finishing as solid sixteenth in their division.

While at home the Unders and Overs Teams event was held on Friday, with Team Stokes (Diane Stokes, Terrence Sheedy, Joy Block & Janelle Conroy), taking out first place, coming second Team Ross (Susan Ross, Richard Wix, Vicki Howard & Janine Rodgers).

Weekly Results

Monday 15 January 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points

NS

E/W

1st

Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy

1st

Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

2nd

Joy Block / Nancy Wix

2nd

Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

3rd

Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood

3rd

Diane Stokes / Edward Kliese

Tuesday Evening 16 January 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points

1st

Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris

2nd

Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

3rd

Richard Wix / Joy Block

4th

Diane Cox / Faye Wright

Wednesday 17 January 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

1st

Terry Sheedy / Eric Lievesley

2nd

Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell

2nd

Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd

Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell

3rd

Diane Stokes / Joy Block

4th

Frances Brown / Alan Brown

4th

Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

Thursday 18 January 2024 - 5 Table One Winner Green Points

1st

Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

2nd

Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

3rd

Griffin Bancroff / Diane Stokes

4th

Susan Ross / Jan Harris

Friday 19 January 2024 - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points Unders and Overs Teams

Team

1st

Stokes – Terrence Sheedy, Diane Stokes, Janelle Conroy, Joy Block

2nd

Ross – Richard Wix, Susan Ross, Janine Rodgers, Vicki Howard

3rd

McGuire – Marie McGuire, Geoff Cowan, Julie O’Neill, Jewel Schmidt

4th

Mayer-Miller – Kath Poole, Sue Mayer-Miller, Nancy Martin, Noel Saunders

Saturday 20 January 2024 – No results

Contributed by Joy Block

David, Ming, Pres. Noel, Debra and Eric

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Valley Cricketers Secure Grand Final Berth

January 24, 2024

Pioneer Valley have advanced to the Grand Final of the 2023-24 Mackay Cricket Association Twenty20 Division One Shootout competition.

The Valley secured top position on percentages after edging out second placed Norths in their final round clash at George Gorrie Oval last weekend.

In a low scoring tussle, Pioneer openers Mitch English (51 runs off 52 balls) and Cody Filewood (46) led the way against the Devils with a vital opening stand of 84 to help post a tally of 5-128.

Norths (9-103) fell short of their target with Kai Higham (23) and Mason Kohler (21) the only batsmen to hit their straps after the Devils were tottering at 4-34.

Bailey Camilleri (3-21) and Jade Filewood (2-17) were the pick of the Valley bowlers with Jason Butterworth (3-18) a stand out for Norths.

The Devils will now square off with Walkerston in a Grand Final qualifier on Friday February 2 at Great Barrier Reef Arena after the Roosters (5-157) eliminated the Magpies (9-133) from finals reckoning.

A superb knock of 96 not out by Mackay representative batsman Sam Vassallo inspired Walkerston to a rousing victory that wrapped up third spot on the table.

The experienced Vassallo faced 64 balls and smashed a six and twelve boundaries – sharing a crucial sixth wicket partnership of 79 with team mate Tom Vandenberg (26 not out) after the Roosters were 5-78.

Young gun Liam Newbery (4-29) shone with the ball with support from skipper Chris Mceldowney (2-13) and Nick Lotarski (2-34) as the Roosters collected regular scalps to keep the Magpies at bay.

Wes Dyer (22), Ben Zurvas (21), Rhys McBride (20) and Adam Zurvas (20) failed to capitalise on enterprising starts for the Magpies, who also got value from bowler Conor Bryant (2-29).

Brothers posted a resounding victory over Souths with skipper Matthew Wicks and club stalwart Michael Dunn in outstanding form with the bat.

Wicks slammed 74 off 46 balls with eleven boundaries and Dunn (60 not out) off 52 balls as the pair registered a productive opening stand of 120 to help Brothers amass 3-177.

Rocklyn Miller hit 26 as Souths were bundled out for 109 with Toby O’Grady (3-20) and Floris Duvenhage (3-32) the chief destroyers.

Winner of the Norths v Walkerston finals clash will line up against Pioneer Valley in the trophy decider on Saturday February 3 at Great Barrier Reef Arena.

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Sweat, Strides, And Solace

January 24, 2024

Amidst the stifling heat that clung to Mackay, the runners of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series found solace and support in an unexpected oasis. Dr. George Hannaford, from Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic at the Bucasia Shopping Centre, opened the doors of his air-conditioned clinic to over forty dedicated athletes. Dispelling the oppressive temperatures, the clinic provided a welcome respite for the runners before and after the challenging event.

The sweltering conditions failed to temper the competitive spirits as the runners tackled the intense heat with determination. In a showdown of youthful vigour, two junior runners, Luke Leven and Jarrod Mackie, set the pace in the fiercely contested 10km race. Their powerful performance and strategic support for each other dominated the field, showcasing their readiness for a promising running season in 2024. Meanwhile, reigning Mackay Road Runners Female Club Champion, Alana Knesevic, exhibited unwavering speed despite the off-season challenges and soaring temperatures.

The Bluewater Lagoon awaits the runners in the next leg of the series, commencing at 5:15 pm this Sunday. As the formal Mackay Road Runners calendar looms just three weeks away, the runners, including new faces and seasoned stalwarts like birthday celebrants David Isbister and Shane Barben, continue to push their limits.

Acknowledging the tireless efforts of Life Member Jim Ford and Andrew Short in course setup and coordination, the Shawn’s Summer Social Series approaches its conclusion. The final run, starting from the Memorial Pool car park, promises an exhilarating end to the series with random draw prizes and the refreshing touch of Zooper Doopers. Beyond the thrill of competition, the series aims to make a meaningful contribution, as excess funds will be donated to the Pancare Assoc in honour of Life Member and cherished athlete, Shawn Claydon, who succumbed to Pancreatic Cancer in August 2018. All are welcome to join, regardless of club membership, in celebrating community, resilience, and the spirit of running.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

Approximately forty runners met at the Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Clinic for the Shawn’s Summer Social Series #13 event from the Bucasia Shopping Centre complex

Dr George Hannaford from Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic generously donated a 50% discount voucher

Harvey and Vivian Knesevic are excited to run the 5km with Dad, Adam pushing them in the running pram

Jenny White and Geeta Ariana pace themselves in the 5km Shawn’s Summer Social Series

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Mackay's U12 Basketball Protégés Shine at Next Gen Camp

January 18, 2024

In a display of young talent and commitment, a group of athletes from Mackay Basketball's U12 division left an impressive imprint at the recent Next Gen Camp in Townsville. Congratulations to Marli Reid, Macey Egan, Audrey Walker, Harvey Geeves, Hunter Brown, Nash Novosel, Finley Philbin, Mitch Langham, Jack Taylor, and Onyx Wilson, the ten little legends who proudly represented Mackay.

The Next Gen Program, renowned for introducing young athletes to the Basketball Queensland training style and concepts, provided these budding talents with a weekend filled with skill-building drills and engaging games. The camp's focus on competition, 1-on-1 skills, and refining training habits showcased the dedication and enthusiasm of Mackay's U12 basketball stars.

The future looks promising for these U12 athletes, and the local sporting community eagerly anticipates the continued success of these rising stars on the basketball court.

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Power Hitting Kelly In Fine form With Cavalier 80 off 47 balls

January 18, 2024

Mackay Magpies Cricket Club remain in the Dixon Homes 2023-24 Twenty20 Division Two Shootout title mix.

The Magpies recently defeated Souths at the Magpies Showground to chalk up their fifth victory after six rounds and establish a six-point lead in the competition on 30 points from second placed Norths and Walkerston (24 points).

Ethan Morris top scored with 47 as the Magpies (5-98) eclipsed Souths (9-97) with fine bowling performances from Rory Franklin (3-19), Craig Randell (2-12) and young gun George Fortescue (2-21).

Walkerston (5-107) snapped the Magpies (8-92) unbeaten streak with an impressive victory at George Gorrie Oval.

Riley Jackson led the way for the Roosters with an unbeaten 58 off 54 balls with support from bowlers Noel Bickel (3-16) and Jordan Gray-Knight (2-12).

Jackson (39) also shone with the bat as Walkerston (1-117) slammed Brothers (8-116) at Roy Trevaskis Oval.

Lance Ryan (49 not out off 42 balls) and Joel McFarlane (15 not out), Scott Randles (2-18) and Jade Lees (2-23) also turned in top displays for the Roosters while Brothers were best served by power hitting opener and skipper Ian Kelly (32 off 20) with two sixes and three boundaries, Declan Mulherin (31) and Taylor Everson (19).

The flamboyant Kelly was at his destructive best as Brothers (4-194) toppled Norths (8-154) at Lancaster Oval – smashing a superb 80 off 47 balls.

In an entertaining knock that featured three sixes and eleven boundaries, Kelly combined with David Manning (38) for a second wicket stand of 113.

Other Brothers players to impress were Mitchell Casey (29 not out), Toby O’Grady (14 not out), Jamon Smith (3-23) and rising all rounder Jack Law (2-34).

Norths received value from Hakikat Singh Chauhan (37), Shawn Day (33) and Deane Cox (22).

Chauhan (37) and Jack Lyons (41 not out) guided the Devils (4-113) to a win over Sarina Spartans (111) with Cox (4-10), Aaron Durelli (3-13) and Jarryd Kallio (2-22) sharing the spoils with the ball.

David Pietzner (38), Ryan Pietzner (20) and Kobie Douvenhage (2-11) were the pick of the Spartans.

Pioneer Valley (4-171) registered an emphatic victory over Souths (51) at Cameron Oval with top performances from Cooper Spencer (55 not out) off 56 balls, Dean Zeller (51) off 26 balls and Brodie Martin (30).

Spencer and Zeller, who cracked two sixes and eight boundaries shared a fourth wicket union of 85 before Ben Schembri (3-7), Carlton Witherspoon (3-9) and Lachlan Altman (2-13) skitled their opponents in the 14th over.

The Valley (4-92) followed up with a six-wicket triumph over Pinnacle (89) with opening bat Spencer (33 not out), Russell Allen (31), Bennet Reginato (3-18), Altman (2-12) and Schembri (2-14) the stand outs.

Pinnacle (128) posted its first win of the season after sinking the Spartans (109) at Roy Trevaskis Oval.

John Fitzpatrick (31), Brendan Jenkin (23) and Michael McPherson (15), Damien Russell (3-6), Matt Boyd (2-13) and Brendan Prout (2-14) shone for Pinnacle while Sarina were best served by Russell Mortimer (24), Mason Procak (24), David Pietzner (23), Shaun Fisher (18 not out and 2-20), Hunter McMullen (3-21) and Tracee Williamson (2-24).

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Serve, Rally, and Have a Ball! MTA Presents Upcoming Fixture Season for Tennis and Pickleball

January 18, 2024

Get ready to swing into action as Mackay Tennis Association (located at Kippen St, right next to Harrup Park Country Club) invites you to embrace the thrill of tennis and pickleball in the upcoming 2024 fixture season. Whether you're an experienced player or just picking up a racket for the first time, there's something for everyone at the Mackay Tennis Association.

Tennis and Pickleball Come and Try Day:
Mark your calendars for Saturday, 27th January at 4 pm, as we kick off the season with a "Come and Try" day.  Join us for an afternoon of fun, camaraderie, and the opportunity to enjoy the fantastic sports of tennis and pickleball.

Wednesday Night Fixtures:
For those seeking a mid-week hit of tennis, our Wednesday night fixtures are set to begin on 31st January. Sign-on dates are scheduled for 17th and 24th January at 6 pm.  Current and new players are welcome to join this teams-based weekly competition.

Tuesday Ladies Fixtures:
Ladies, lace up your tennis shoes! Our Tuesday Ladies Fixtures commence on 13th February, with sign-on dates on 23rd, 30th January and 6th February, all at 9 am. It's a fantastic opportunity to showcase your skills, make new friends, and enjoy the competitive spirit of women's tennis.

Pickleball Social Sessions:
Join us every Wednesday and Thursday afternoon from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, and on Saturday afternoons from 4:30pm to 6:30pm for our lively Pickleball social sessions on our 6 marked pickleball courts. Whether you're a seasoned player or a curious beginner, these sessions offer a perfect blend of friendly competition and socializing.  Combining elements of tennis, table tennis and badminton, come along and experience Pickleball, one of the fastest growing sports in the world.

The Mackay Tennis Association is committed to providing a vibrant and inclusive sporting community for players of all ages and skill levels. Our upcoming fixture season promises to be filled with thrilling matches, new friendships and a whole lot of fun.  Don't miss out on the action – join us and be part of the tennis and pickleball excitement. It's time to hit the courts, make memories and serve up some unforgettable moments! See you there!

Jamie Duncan

Brett Walz and Gerard

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Join Mackay Bowls Club on Australia Day

January 18, 2024

On Sunday the greens at Mackay Bowls Club reopened to a great afternoon of Cut
Throat pairs Bowls.


The greens were full, with teams playing three games of eight ends. As teams
dropped out, two games of four ends were played.


Winners for the afternoon were:

Division 1 runners up: Lucky and Karina Dunn
Winners: Col Marks and Dot McNamara
Division 2 Runners up: Arthur Naylor, Toni Blucher, Brian Williams
Winners: Richard Bell, Julie Caban


Games will continue during the week.
Tuesday: Mixed social 3 bowl
Thursday: Scroungers
Friday: Social Mixed Bowls.

Australia Day: 26th January is afternoon Triples Social Bowls. A special day of bowls is with thanks to an Australia Day Grant from the Mackay Regional Council and More Air Mackay donating sponsorship. Bowlers and non-bowlers are invited to come along and celebrate Australia Day with us.

The day will start at 1.00pm.

Enjoy an afternoon of bowls and Aussie tucker.


Ladies graded pairs will be played on Saturday 27th starting 12.30pm. Names
in by Wednesday 24th.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Mackay Contract Bridge Club

January 18, 2024

Happy New to all from the Mackay Contract Bridge Club. We start the year with our Australia Day come and try day, with a free BBQ and a visit from the Major. February sees us welcome a new batch of beginners, information can be found on our Facebook page. We are very excited, this year the Mackay Bridge Club is hosting the Great Barrier Reef Congress on the long weekend in May, where we will be welcoming players from all over Queensland and Australia, so it’s a great year to get involved.

Weekly Results

Monday 8 January 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1st

Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

2nd

Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

3rd

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

4th

Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy

Tuesday Evening 9 January 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1st

Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd

Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor

3rd

Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

4th

Richard Wix / Mick King

Wednesday 10 January 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

1st

Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

2nd

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2nd

Frances Brown / Terrence Sheedy

3rd

Joy Brunette / Don Poole

3rd

Susan Wright / Bob Ellis

4th

Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th

Patrick Rasmussen / Carmel Brown

Thursday 11 January 2024 9 Table One Winner Green Points

1st

Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

2nd

Eric Lievesley / Griffin Bancroft

3rd

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

4th

Mick King / Patricia Garner

Friday 12 January 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

1st

Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

2nd

Terrence Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

2nd

Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

3rd

Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole

3rd

Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood

4th

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

4th

Christine Nice / Diane Cox

Saturday 13 January 2024 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch

1st

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2nd

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2nd

Terry Sheedy / Frances Brown

3rd

Mick King / Jan Harris

3rd

Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th

Joy Brunette / Helen Van De Breok

4th

Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson

5th

Geoff Taylor / Toni Large

5th

Margaret Lane / Anne Lutz

5th

Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

6th

Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

Contributed by Joy Block

Patricia Garner Life Master

Gail Gibbs, Shelly Lewis and Lynne O’Neill

Peter Cowling and Annette Howe

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Move It NQ Style

January 18, 2024

Whitsunday Regional Council has been awarded funding to host six fitness programs across the region for free.

As part of the North Queensland Sports Foundation, Move It NQ is aimed to support healthier and active lifestyles.

The six programs are:
1. Next Starts Sports Academy, hosting Ninja Squad out of Cannonvale.

2. Survivor Physiology, hosting a range of classes including body weight, boxercise, core, and cardio training out of Bowen.

3. Mindful Moves, with a zen and mediation sessions in Bowen.

4. 4 Element Fitness, holding a core session in Bowen.

5. Spark Life hosting ‘Healthy Bones Healthy Body’ session in Proserpine, and

6. Feet First, with two youth sessions in Proserpine.

Visit Whitsunday Regional Council website to find further information and for booking information.

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Netballers Rejoice! Courts Resealed For Upcoming Season

January 18, 2024

Whitsunday Regional Council have undertaken works to reseal and repaint lines on the Whitsunday Sportspark netball courts, just in time for the impending season.
The courts, in the Whitsunday Sportspark, see consistent use, particularly during the winter netball season.

Significant rainfall events during 2022 and 2023 caused the courts to fall into disrepair and hindered players.

In conjunction with the reseal, Council also completed minor drainage works, to improvement water movement, so as to keep the courts safe for netballs players during the season.

Whitsunday Netball Association is currently accepting registrations for the 2024 season, for all players, including Seniors, Juniors and Net Set Go, with Net Set Go set to return to the courts first in early February.

Register at: https://netballwhitsunday.wixsite.com/wna1/register

Photo: WRC

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Bowling The Weekend Away

January 18, 2024

Sunday Social Bowls:  P.Delic, W.Coles, Brett Lampard d B.Neal, R.Rodda, Steve Roome.

Keith Kirk, Gavin Charles d Sue Fox, Lee Welsted.  Ross Scanlon, Jane Gilbert, Wayne Crowhurst d P.Morrison, Ray Muir, S.Fuller.

Ryan’s Seafood held their Christmas party in January at the BBC.

Wednesday Social: A.Melic, Peter Bruce, Mark Drummond d Jake Melic, Ray Muir, Steve Roome.

Scroungers: Jane Gilbert, Tracey Roach, Gavin Charles, Mary Ellen Pratten.

Jane Gilbert was the winner.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

Ryan’s Seafood Christmas Party. Photo supplied

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On The Airlie Beach Lawns

January 18, 2024

We are going through our monsoonal weather so because our bowls green can't be covered we have to say our prayers so we can play but obviously we have heathens in our club because there was no play on Wednesday, I will have to help them find the way and the truth because today the sun shone all day and we had a strong field today for the winner’s prize which was super close.

Two winning teams won by eleven points with Warren Mills who has been back to his scintillating form with outstanding performance as skipper with Mario De Martini at lead and Mark Mawson at second that most times could just stand and applaud of his dominance.

However, Ladda Purdie with John Fielding continuing on his last year performances to win on a count back on ends won.

Whilst John Anderson won the Health Hub Award for the second time in 2 weeks.

Fiona Greener our bar manager does a fabulous performance as usual.

Men's A Division heats are progressing, and results will be published as the games are played

We are only a tiny club compared to all the other Mackay clubs, but the talent on display weekly is outstanding as this week's photo shows.

Our pocket rocket Carol Crosbie a Queensland champion, Margo Stanley our club coach, John Fielding Division 1 player, Shane Spann Division One skipper and another Queensland champion, Alan Pershouse, Division 1 player last year's A Grade Champion and Club Champion, and Betty Nicole one of the finest bowlers in our proud state.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

Photo supplied

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On The Proserpine Green

January 18, 2024

Paul Gray won the Tuesday monthly medal with a nett 65. Michael Cragg was runner up, with pin shots going to Scott Mason, Elspeth Scotford, and two to Ben Smith.

Jalen Jarvis had 40 stableford points to win Thursday's B division ahead of Mark Thompson on 39. Ryan Wilkes had 36 points to take out the A division from Craig McLean on 35. Pins went to John Roser and Jack Paroz.

Friday's Met run winner was Jack Pirlo with 21 points, from Chris Pirlo on 20.  The pins went to Michael Jarvis and Aaron Prosser.

Jackson Gray won the Allenbuild stableford competition on Saturday with 43 points; six points clear of the the B division runner up in Mason Johnson.  

Daniel O'Donnell edged out Warren Deighton on 38 points for the A division prize, while Pam Harrison won the ladies division with 33 points from Jill Farinelli on 28.  Pins went to Lance Lloyd, John Clark, Jill Farinelli and Tiina Randmae.

Darren Reynolds edged out Levi Holmes with 69 nett to win the Sunday stroke competition while Linda Wardroper edged out Anna Winterbourn on 77 nett for the ladies division. Pins went to Ned Davies, Paula McQuat, Darren Reynolds and Peta Thomas.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Club Pro Shop.

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