Sports

HOME GROWN: ZARA AIMING HIGH ON THE NETBALL COURT

HOME GROWN: ZARA AIMING HIGH ON THE NETBALL COURT

Big sporting dreams don’t always begin in big stadiums. For young Whitsunday netballer Zara Morrison, they began on local courts, playing the sport she loves and steadily challenging herself to take the next step. Zara has been playing netball since 2019, beginning in Sarina where she represented both club and representative teams until her family moved to the Whitsundays in 2024. She continued her development with the Whitsunday Netball Association and enjoyed a standout 2025 season when the WNA team competed in Mackay Netball Association competitions. The team went on to win the premiership, with Zara also recognised as Best and Fairest for her division. But rather than staying in her comfort zone, this year Zara decided she wanted to test herself at another level. She trialled for the Mackay Monarchs representative program and earned selection, while also juggling club netball in Mackay and the ladies season back home in the Whitsundays, where she was voted Players’ Player for her team. Her development hasn’t been limited to playing either. Zara has worked hard on her umpiring and this year achieved her C Badge at a Queensland state event, adding another dimension to her involvement in the sport. Her next goal is to continue improving within the Mackay representative pathway and work towards selection in State Titles teams over the next two years. Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said Zara’s story was another example of the talented young athletes developing across the region. “Zara has already achieved plenty, but what stands out is that she keeps looking for the next challenge and putting herself outside her comfort zone,” Mayor Collins said. “That willingness to have a crack, work hard and keep improving is exactly what our Home Grown campaign is about. “We want our young people to see that coming from a regional community doesn’t put a limit on how big you can dream.” While netball is not currently part of the Olympic program, there is hope within the sport that it could feature at a future Games, including Brisbane 2032. Mayor Collins said that possibility added another exciting dimension for young regional netballers growing up with a home Games on the horizon. “We don’t know what the Brisbane 2032 sporting program will ultimately look like, but how exciting would it be for young netballers across Queensland if their sport was part of it,” he said. “For us, 2032 is bigger than the few weeks of Olympic and Paralympic competition. “The opportunity is to use the Games to get more young people involved in sport, improve facilities and pathways and show kids across the Whitsundays what is possible. “Whether Zara’s journey ultimately takes her to State level, national competition or somewhere she hasn’t even imagined yet, she is already showing that big sporting ambitions can start right here at home.” Zara Morrison joins Council’s Home Grown: Future Olympians campaign celebrating young Whitsunday athletes, their families, coaches, clubs and volunteers who help turn sporting ambitions into opportunities. Because big sporting dreams don’t have to start on the Olympic stage. They can start right here in the Whitsundays.

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  Wangaratta Marks 70 Years On The Green

Wangaratta Marks 70 Years On The Green

Tuesday’s social bowls winners were Stumpy Adams, Skin Querro and Kevin Jewell, who defeated Neale Chittenden, Deb Retchless and Pat Tracey. The jackpot didn’t go off. The Mixed Fours final is on Saturday at 2pm, with Allan Rolfe, Penny Warren, Denise Wallace and Teresa Willshire facing Laurie Land, Deb Retchless, Linda Scells and Lindy Suann. Sunday saw Lindy Suann, Isobel Wheeler and Greg Colquhoun narrowly defeat Skin Querro, Sue Shearing and Pat Tracey. In another nail-biter, Gavin Charles and Fely Duncan defeated Jim Quod and Allan Rolfe. Alby Vigar, Neale Chittenden and Stuart Jeal defeated Bill Myers, Deb Retchless and Kevin Jewell. The jackpot remained unclaimed. This Sunday’s special afternoon tea celebrates our 70th anniversary. Please add your name to the sheet on the outside board if attending. Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren. Photo caption: Alby Vigar, Isobel Wheeler, Neale Chittenden and Lindy Suann. Photo supplied: Penny Warren *This photo needs to be align at the top of the split quarter page editorial, with the Wangarratta bowls Proserpine Sizzles Through Close Finishes It may still be spring, but summer feels close. Wednesday saw Alen Sanderson and Philip Brown defeat Arthur Griffith and Henny Tattam 10–2. Bruce Uhe and Sandy Daffara beat Graham Thropp and Mike Harrison 13–8. Graham and Mike then defeated Alen and Philip 14–4, while Bruce and Sandy beat Arthur and Henny 24–4. Sunday brought two close wins for Henny Tattam, Arthur Griffith and Sandy Daffara over Bruce Uhe, Trevor Parsons and Philip Brown, finishing 11–9 and 10–9. Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club.

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Medal Winners Take Dry Conditions in Their Stride

Medal Winners Take Dry Conditions in Their Stride

Contributed with thanks by John Roser. Jan Shuwalow and Craig McLean kept their October Monthly Medal rounds on track despite tight lies on the drying course. Shuwalow led the ladies with 64 nett, ahead of Robyn Whitham on 67. Anna Winterbourn also returned 67, followed by Paula McQuat on 69, Elspeth Scotford, Jacqui Wall and Kath Borer on 70, and Leanne Alexander on 71. McLean carded 65 nett, with Andrew Albergo runner-up on 68. Visitor David Kercheval also returned 68, Don Hope and John Oates 69, Peter Lindsay 70, Gary Scotford and Trevor Paroz 71, and John Strelec and Harro 72. McLean’s putter behaved, earning least-putts honours with 27. McQuat, Beryl Nosworthy and Whitham shared the ladies’ honours with 29. Tina Badenhorst claimed all three ladies’ A Grade pin shots, with Whitham and Allison McCarthy taking B Grade honours. Harro took two men’s A Grade pin shots and Gerald Lovell the other. Hope, Lindsay and Strelec claimed B Grade honours. Chip-ins came from Wall, Whitham, Borer, Tessa Aitken, Nosworthy, Scotford, Harro, Lindsay, Neil Cawthorne and Robert Sherwood. McCarthy and Barry Shuwalow received a ball each for the NAGAs. McLean also won the membership draw, while Vic Feldman won the raffle. Stableford was next on the calendar for October 13 Photo caption: Winners of the Oct Monthly Medal, Craig McLean and Jan Shuwalow. Photo supplied: John Roser

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Vicki And Joan Roll To Victory

Vicki And Joan Roll To Victory

After last weekend’s fantastic Men’s Fours carnival, this week the honours go to two of the most talented women in our little club, Vicki Spann and Joan McGrath, who each took out four titles. Firstly, Vicki’s brilliance was on display with a magnificent Ladies A Grade Singles performance, winning 25–9 over her nemesis Joan. It was Joan who teamed with Carol Crosbie to easily win the Ladies A Grade Pairs. The Ladies A Grade Fours went to Lyn Graham at lead, Vicki at second, Ladda Purdie at third and Joan skipping this talented team to victory. The Mixed Fours went to Vicki at lead, Joan at second, Harrison Quod at third and Shane Spann at skipper. The Ladies A Grade Triples went to Vicki at lead, Wendy Pomeroy at second and Joan skipping. We will now see how these two talented ladies go in the Champion of Champions events. Tuesday’s ladies social bowls was run brilliantly by Dawn Dowell, with the winning team being skipper Tony Whitehorn, lead little Ronnie W and second Dawn. There were also 26 bowlers vying for first prize, with skipper Rick Galea and pairs partner Graham Bradley taking home the winners’ prize. Finally, Sunday afternoon’s social bowls, well organised by assistant club manager Ruby Butler, saw skipper Warren Mills, Sue Dakin at second and visiting lead John McAdam, from Victoria’s Mulgrave Country Club, claim a close victory. Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson. Photo caption: Joan McGrath with Wendy Pomeroy and Vicki Spann on winning the Ladies A Triples Championship. Photo supplied: Mark Mawson

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Airlie Beach Bowls News

April 24, 2024

Tuesday afternoon saw the annual Alison Holmes Day, which was a huge success .

Third place went to Wendy Pomeroy’s team of Lyn Graham and Bev Taylor, second place went to Joan McGrath with Maureen Barnard and Elaine Kippen .

The winners of the day went to Margo Stanley’s team of Lane Telford and Alison Holmes, whilst Dawn Dowel took home the lucky door prize. 

Wednesday afternoon Jackpot bowls saw Andrew Butler’s team of Lu Rogan and Christine Lawson win.

Wednesday night Corporate Bowls competition commenced with big winners Rock Plumbing beating K Build 17-4.

Other winners were PRD, Battery Warehouse, Hadlow Racing and the Burrows Girls.

Saturday and Sunday saw the men’s B Pairs being played with the final between Noel Crosbie and Andy MCDougall against Mark Mawson with Arthur MCManus. Mark and Arthur were the winners 20-16 in a close game.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Bowen Bowls Competition Games

April 24, 2024

In the Club Pairs Gus and Ray defeated Kevin and Gordo.

During the Sunday Social: A. Delic, R. Gould, G. Charles defeated B. Neal, J. Gilbert, J. Wright.

K. Kirk, W. Coles, L. White defeated A. Williams, H. Jacobsen, M. Wright.

R. Scanlon, Glen. R, A. Peebles had a drawn game with I. Thatcher, Gordo, L. Welsted.

At the Wednesday Social: D. Tuttle, R. Stitt, G. Charles defeated ME. Pratten, R. Scanlon, K. Jewell.

E. Neylon, H. Jacobsen, S. Roome had a drawn game with P. Wilson, W. Coles, J. Gilbert.


Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

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A Busy Weekend For Prossie Bowls

April 24, 2024

On Saturday morning two Club Championship Singles games were played. Andrew Bell defeated Bryan Davy 25 - 14 and Scott Hamilton defeated Wayne Handley 25 - 22. 

On Saturday afternoon two short games of Social Bowls were played. Patricia Bownds and Andrew Bell defeated Alen Sanderson and Heather Brown 11 - 9; Jim Bownds, Philip Brown and Gavin Milne defeated Arthur Griffith, Barry Zillmann and Gavin Noonan 11 - 7.

On Sunday afternoon Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe and Sandy Daffara defeated John Anderson, Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison 19 - 18; Stanley Lawton, Peter Lawton and Heather Brown defeated Lee King, Arthur Griffith and Philip Brown 21 - 9.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

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Scott Hamilton and Wayne Handley following their very close Club Championship Singles game. Photo supplied

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Wangaratta Weekly Bowls

April 24, 2024

Results for social play on Tuesday: Deb Retchless, Sue Shearing, Geoff Danvers defeated Merle Elphinstone, Irene laird, Greg Colquhoun and Bron Tolcher, Gavin Charles, Lyn Danvers defeated Stumpy Adams, Robyn Stitt, Penny Warren.

Barefoot bowls: We had a few new players and also a visit from the Capricornia Tourers who were visiting Bowen for the week and took time out to visit and play at the club.  

Sunday afternoon, winners were Denise Wallace, Merle Elphinstone, Penny Warren defeated Jim Quod, Maureen Hyde, Graeme Read. Teresa Willshire, Kennedy Whitton defeated Alby Vigar, Marg Wilson. Bill Myers, Deb Retchless, Pat Tracey defeated Stumpy Adams, Laurie Land, Ron Hyde.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

The Capricornia Tourers at Barefoot Bowls on Friday Night. Photo supplied

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Premier League Darts Report

April 24, 2024

We start of this week’s Premier League action with the match between Kameron Reason and Naomi Mitchell. 

Although the 7-1 score line in favour of Kam would suggest total dominance in the tie, there were encouraging signs for Naomi who smashed her highest match average this season by almost 10 points.

That win for Kameron, in which he also scored his highest match average of the season, takes him in to second place on the premier league table.

It was a good day for Dom Friend who had back-to-back wins, a 7-2 over Art McMinn, which dropped Art down a place to third, and a 7-4 over win over Josh Fraser, which leapfrogged Dom a place above Josh on the table in alphabetical order only, both men’s stats are identical.

Arthur McMinn had the highest checkout of the day with a 94 peg, and that was closely followed by Joe Wilson’s 92 checkout in his 7 nil demolition of Hawkeye Rick. That loss leaving Rick firmly rooted at the foot of the table, but the win keeping Joe aloft at the top.

Last of all Jamie Maher defeated Jayden Lloyd by 7 legs to nil. That win is Jamie’s 3rd in a row now. 

Jayden has work to do to pick up his first win of the year.

The Anzac Plate is coming up on Sunday. We still have plenty of spots left and we’d love to see you there, contact the club via Facebook or text 0405411865 to enter.

J Wilson 10pts, 2. K Reason 7pts, 3. A McMinn 7pts, 4. J Maher 6pts, 5. D Friend 6pts, 6. J Fraser 6pts, 7. N Mitchell 2pts, 8. J Lloyd 0pts, 9. H Rick 0pts.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.

2024 Premier League players, L/R, J Fraser, J Lloyd, J Maher, J Wilson, D Friend, A McMinn, K Reason, N Mitchell and H Rick. Photo supplied

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Bowen Golf Report

April 24, 2024

On Wednesday, we played a single stableford for a club trophy. Ladies’ winner Grace Nott 38 points, runner up on a countback Carol O’Connell 35 points. Men’s winner on a countback Brendan Nott 40 points, runner up Mark Russell 40 points.
 
Saturday Results, sponsored by Glenn Merrick Constructions. Men's Winner Craig O'Meara 42 points, runner up Dylan Nott 39 points, 3rd Place on a countback Brendan Nott 38 points.  

Ladies' Winner Nell Riley 41 points, runner up Tracey Cousemacker 36 points, 3rd Place on a countback Pauline Martin 33 points.

Pin Shots to Nell Riley, Leanne Swan, Tracey Cousemacker, Julie Mawson, Nick Riley, Paul Burgis, Mark Russell, Benny Bon.

Marcus Yasso claimed the Car Wash voucher. Chocolate Chip-ins for Nell Riley and Meg Garrod. Eagle shots for Jonnie Smith, Kailan Batchelor, Ezra Miller, James Lockwood.
 
This weekend is a 2-ball aggregate Medley stableford sponsored by Jeff Day Plumbing.
 
Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

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Proserpine Gold Club Weekly Report

April 24, 2024

In Tuesday's stroke competition, Gary Scotford had a 66 nett to chase down Ryan Wilkes who had a one under par round for a 68 nett. Robyn Whitham edged out Heather Luvis, both with 68 nett. Pins went to Aaron Prosser, Gary Scotford, and two to Leanne Alexander.

Ann Gardel took out Wednesday's PDLAW monthly medal with a 77 nett, ahead of Tina Badenhorst on 78. Pins went to Tina Badenhorst and Heather Luvis.

Thursday's stableford A division winner was Scott Mason with 41 points, two ahead of Greg Walker. Ross Hammond edged out Warren Deighton for the B division; both with 39 points. Pins went to Sean Fogarty, Robert Webb, Jacob Nightingale and Ryan Wilkes.

Sam Blake edged out Mason Johnson on 23 points in Friday's Met run, with the pins going to Ben Smith and Kevin Gosney.

Saturday's Hayman Electrical stableford saw Martyn Goodey's 45 points easily beat the big field and be seven shots ahead of his men's B division runner up in Barry Mortimer.

Jacob Nightingale had 41 points to beat Ben Smith by a shot in the men's A division. Elspeth Scotford also had 41 points to win the ladies' division by three from Tiina Randmae. Pins went to Sean Fogarty, Steve Hickey, Ben Smith, Penny Wardroper, Tina Badenhorst and Elspeth Scotford.

Martyn Goodey made it two in a weekend with a great 63 nett in Sunday's stroke competition.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.

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March Monthly Medal

April 24, 2024

Twenty players competed in the postponed March MM last Sunday. Peter Fox had an outstanding game with a nett 66 and most players scored better than of recent times with the course still drying out. The cored greens on the back 9 made putting a little more erratic for some. 

LADIES A GRADE: 
Winner: Anna Winterbourn with nett 73 
Runner-up: Tiina Randmae with 77 
Longest Drive: Tiina Randmae 
 
LADIES B GRADE  
Winner: Robyn Whitham on a count back from 
Runner-up: Pam Casey 
Longest Drive: Pam Casey  
 
MEN’S A GRADE: 
Winner: Wayne Temby with nett 71 
Runner-up: Ritchie Atkins with 74 
Longest Drive: Aaron Watts 
 
MEN’S B GRADE  
Winner: Peter Fox with nett 66 - outstanding 
Runner-up: Wilf Herweg with nett 73 
Longest Drive: Don Cameron 
 
NTPs: 
For the ladies: Anna Winterbourn, Tiina Randmae and Pam Casey 
For the me : Don Cameron and Aaron Watts 
 
NAGAs: the honours went to Karen Rix and Leigh Jones
  
NEXT WEEK: 28/4/24 will be the April MM and least Putts
 
 
Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

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On The Whitsunday Green

April 24, 2024

The weekly 9-hole stableford saw Donna Henderson take first place with 27 points, second place with 22 points c/b was Josh Frederiksen and third place with 22 points was Matt Burke. 

Fridays 9-hole stableford saw Brad Low take out first place with 23 points c/b, second with 23 points was Eric Gruszczynski and third place was Craig Kennedy with 21 points.

This Sunday 28th April will be our 18-hole Monthly Medal, hope to see you all there.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.
 

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Local Leader Plays Well

April 24, 2024

Cannonvale resident and Head Coach at the Next Stars Sports Academy, Tim Oberg, has been joined by a four-time Paralympian, the Head of AFL Queensland and the President of the Royal Life Saving Society in signing onto help Australians Play Well as part of the nation’s first co-designed Sport Participation Strategy.

They are part of a 14-person group of experts announced as the Play Well Leadership Group that will oversee the implementation of the strategy and deliver on its vision that ‘everyone has a place in sport’.

Members met in Canberra at the AIS Campus for their first meeting earlier this month.

Mr Oberg, who also founded parkrun Australia, knows better than most the power of sport and community involvement.

When parkrun Australia started in 2011, it began as one event on the Gold Coast and grew to over 450 locations and more than one million participants across the Asia Pacific region.

“I believe that all children have the right to grow up in a healthy environment that allows them to play, have fun and achieve their full potential,” Oberg said.

Similar to the Project Steering Group that led the development of the strategy, the Play Well Leadership Group is made up of members that bring knowledge, expertise and insights from within and beyond the sport sector.

The group will work closely with State/Territory partners, sporting organisations and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) to bring the strategy to life.

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Cannons Prepare For Carnival

April 24, 2024

The Cannonvale Cannons are preparing to host their own swimming carnival this weekend.  The annual carnival is normally run in January, but this year the carnival was postponed due to the threat of a cyclone. The highlight of the swimming carnival is the Skins events where swimmers have an opportunity to win cash prizes.  
On Wednesday, 30 swimmers participated in the second last Club Night for the swim season.  Congratulations to Leo Mulliss, Matilda Nicholes and Pippa Laguna for achieving Club Upgrades. The Chocolate Awards were presented to Jack Ganter, Alex Trefz and Addie Sanders for their awesome PBs.  
Highlights from Club Night include Ehsan Helou swam extremely well, swimming PBs in all his events.  Ehsan’s sister, Anisa swam PBs in her 25m Freestyle and 25m Breaststroke.
The Breaststrokers were on fire on Wednesday night.  Zach Trefz smashed out an excellent 100m Breaststroke in a time of 1.37.42 which was a 16.08 second PB. Zach also swam a fantastic 100m Freestyle in 1.09.14 which was a 4.28 second PB. Don Algie swam 100m Breaststroke in a brilliant time of 1.36.58, a 4.26 second PB. Connor Lee, Leo Mulliss, Thomas Ganter and Sophie Palmero all swam very smooth Breaststroke to swim personal best times.  
Top Butterflyers who the coaches would like to commend include, Stella Mulliss, aged 5 years, for swimming 12m Butterfly in 32.57 seconds. Indi Smith swam an excellent time in her 100m Butterfly to achieve a 6.07 second PB. Jack Ganter, Pippa Laguna, Stevie Lee, Lily Maher, and Matilda Nicholes swam super Butterfly on Wednesday night.  
Congratulations to all the other swimmers who achieved PBs: Zane Clayworth, Maeve Dichiera, Eric Mulliss, Miranda Palmero, Andie Reynolds, Addie Sanders, and Levi Smith. The coaches would like to commend all the swimmers who participated at Club Night. The Cannons would like to thank all the wonderful parents who volunteer to officiate, set up and pack up Club Night.  
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Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

Pippa Laguna received an Upgrade Certificate. Photo supplied
Leo Mulliss received an Upgrade Certificate. Photo supplied

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Courtside Crater Magic

April 24, 2024

With hoops aplenty and defence as tight as a well-laced sneaker, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes orchestrated a symphony of basketball brilliance last Friday night, dribbling, dunking, and dazzling their way to victories.
In a thrilling clash against the Brisbane Capitals, the Meteors showcased their prowess, emerging victorious with a final score of 92 to 73. Todd Blanchfield led the charge with an impressive performance, contributing 21 points and 7 rebounds to the team's triumph. Isaac White also delivered a stellar performance with 19 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Jerron Jamerson added 15 points and 3 rebounds to seal the win.
Meanwhile, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes soared to success against the Brisbane Capitals in the NBL1 North encounter, securing a resounding victory with a final score of 84 to 71. Taylor Mole was the standout player for the Meteorettes, delivering a sensational performance with 30 points and 8 rebounds. Sam Haiby showcased her skills with 20 points, 5 assists, and 4 steals, while Chelsea Brook contributed 14 points and 5 rebounds to clinch the win for the team.
The passionate home crowd erupted in celebration as both teams showcased their dominance on the court, delivering a memorable night of basketball action.
Looking ahead, the excitement continues as the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes and Meteors gear up for their next games on Saturday night. The action-packed evening will see the Meteorettes take on the Rockhampton Cyclones at 6:30 pm, followed by the Meteors facing off against the Rockhampton Rockets at 8:30 pm in the Crater at McDonald’s Mackay Stadium.
The matchup against the Rockhampton Rockets and Cyclones always brings an extra level of excitement to the Crater. With both teams boasting strong rosters and a history of intense competition, the games between Mackay and Rockhampton are eagerly anticipated by fans on both sides. This rivalry adds an extra spark to the season, driving both teams to bring their A-game every time they meet on the court.

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Event Details:
   • Date: Saturday, April 27
   • Time:
       ◦ 6:30 pm: McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes vs. Rockhampton Cyclones
       ◦ 8:30 pm: McDonald’s Mackay Meteors vs. Rockhampton Rockets
   • Venue: McDonald’s Mackay Stadium, the Crater

Photo credit: Kieron Place Art & Photography

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Mackay Road Runners Tackle Dolphin Heads Precincts

April 24, 2024

Last Sunday, 66 participants graced the Beach Road Dolphin Heads precincts, surpassing the attendance of the previous week's Tim’s Chariots of Fire event at Slade Point, confirmed by the event organiser and the author. While some may contest this tally, it's worth noting that The Tilse’s Toddle two weeks earlier boasted numbers nearing the triple-digit mark, with Whibley’s Wander closely following suit.
One undeniable highlight was the hospitality of the Bishop’s Beach Road Barnstormer hosts, who generously opened their doors to accommodate the runners, offering a delightful morning of competition followed by a well-deserved post-run refreshment of a cuppa and sausage sizzle.
The Mackay Road Runners gratitude is extended to Julie, Brendan, Millie, Hughie, and all the neighbourhood kids and furry friends for contributing to the warmth and enjoyment of the occasion. It was said to be a beautiful morning filled with camaraderie and healthy competition!

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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Emily Hayles (left) and Mel Esau get in some quality racing at the Bishop’s Beach Road Barnstormer 10km.
Approximately sixty Mackay Road Runners’ members, casual day runners and supporters enjoyed a magnificent morning from a magnificent location at Beach Road, Dolphin Heads.
Craig Andrews (#107) completed a sensational 10km which included a spirited sprint to the finish line with his running peers.
Mackay Road Runners’ stalwart, Jan Smith (#5) and Alleny Gorrion (right) enjoyed a cruisey 5km with a pressure cooker finish.
The Bishop’s Beach Rd Barnstormer resident, Millie Bishop had no excuses to be late!
Dolphin Heads Beach Road Neighbourhood Watch had nothing on these kids as they supported runners in the two loop 5km/10km event.

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A Splash Of Success For Cyclones At Nationals

April 24, 2024

The Mackay cyclone swimmers surged into the National MC and Age Championships, held recently on the vibrant shores of the Gold Coast. Among the tide of competitors, two fresh qualifiers, Jarek Taylor and Ava Kearns, joined the seasoned attendees Max Vernon, Audrey Bryan and Vaughn Wyatt for their second year.
Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier said all the athletes swam well, and had a blast soaking up the atmosphere. Acknowledging the significant accomplishment of qualifying for such a prestigious level of competition, she said it was a particular delight to have six team members, including Izabella from the MC National age group, securing qualification, which was nothing short of fantastic.
The competition, characterised by its scale and speed, offers invaluable lessons for growth, not only for the athletes but also for the coaching staff, who seize the opportunity to collaborate with peers.
Yet, amidst the thrill of competition, it's essential to recognise the dedication it has taken for these athletes to reach this stage. Early mornings, meticulous time management balancing school, swimming, and friendships, all underscore the immense commitment required. Coach Pokarier emphasises that such dedication at a young age cultivates essential life skills, setting the foundation for success beyond the pool.
Reflecting on the broader impact of coaching, Alisha Ness from Mackay Cyclones proudly recounts witnessing former team member Ruby Boxall, now at Somerville House in Brisbane, clinching her first National gold medal in the 100 Backstroke. Witnessing such moments with their triumphant smiles as they surpass their own expectations can be described as truly ‘priceless’.

“This was a very proud moment for me,” Alisha remarked.

“Playing a part in all of my athlete’s journey, however big or small the achievement, the smile and excitement on their faces when they achieve something they believed they never could do is priceless.”

(Left to right) Audrey Bryan, Vaughn Wyatt, Jarek Taylor, Izabella Wills, Ava Kearns, Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier. Absent: Max Vernon. Image supplied

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AT THE TABLE

April 24, 2024

Coral Morgan celebrated her 83rd birthday this week – playing table tennis.

Coral’s daughter Delma Knight, who has played table tennis alongside her mum since she was a child, baked her a delicious cake which was enjoyed by the players at Tuesday morning fixtures.

Coral and Val Austin have been playing since the 70s, and they played out a huge battle on Tuesday, Coral winning -12, 7, -8, 11, 6.

Full details of fixtures including player standings are available at https://www.revolutionise.com.au/mackaytta/fixtures-results/

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures April 16, 2024:

Division 1:

Pumas (George Camilleri, Andrea Nicholson, Coral Morgan) d Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Doug Dungavell, Val Austin) 8-4. Coral d Val -12, 7, -8, 11, 6.

Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Tigers (Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, John McGee) 8-4. Branko d John 8, -7, -11, 7, 8.

Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Bryan Marshall) d Leopards (Charlie Payne, Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Pam d Steve 7, -6, -8, 8, 8.

Division 2:

Cyan (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Teal (Ken Best, Kim Daffy) 10-2. Ken d Louise -10, 4, 9, 6.

Aqua (Judi Hicks, Gloria Vella, Gerry Synnott) d Lime (Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba, John Hamelink) 8-4. Judi d John -7, 7, 7, -8, 12.

Division 3:

Sapphires (Josie Davis, Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) d Emeralds (Ian Dodds, Glenda Brookes, Trish Zamparuti) 7-5. Madge d Trish -5, -9, 7, 2, 6.

A new season of Tuesday night table tennis fixtures hit off this week. It’s always nice to see new and returning players enjoying the fixtures. It’s never too late to join, so give Donna Abbott a call 0400 769 560.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures April 16, 2024:

Division 1:

Brown (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Andrea Nicholson) d Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) 6-5. Vince d Donna -12, 6, -6, 4, 11.

Blue (Will VanDeKaa, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) d Red (Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker, George Camilleri) 8-3. Graeme d Will -9, 7, 6, -4, 8.
Purple (Tony Bowman, Duncan Treloar) d Green (Leo Gilbert) 6-2. Leo d Duncan 8, 6, -5, -9, 6.

Black (Mick Ruhl, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d White (Mark Sleeman, Andrew McHugh, Graham Brake) 6-5. Ishan d Graham 7, 7, -4, -4, 8.

Division 2:

Tan (Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo, Saisha Palod) d Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro, Mark Stam) 6-5. Jye d Mark 8, 6, -4, 1.

Lime (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) d Teal (Peter Goodson, Craig VanDeKaa) 7-2. Noreen/Simon d Craig/Peter 18, -3, -3, 5, 12.

Gold (Ollie Hamelink, Steve Mathieson, Rohit Bansod) d Cyan (Matt West, Val Austin, Leonie Patroni) 9-2. Ollie d Val 6, -8, 8, -9, 4.

Aqua (Judy Zahn, Delma Knight, Robbie Richards) d Grey (Doug Dungavell, Misha Palod, Kade Wright) 8-3. Kade d Judy 4, 7, -9, -9, 10.


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Val Austin and Coral Morgan

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