
Mackay Basketball’s Holiday Hoops Camp has recorded its biggest turnout yet, with more than 140 young participants taking part across two days of basketball during the school holidays. The program, the second Holiday Hoops Camp held this year, proved a standout success and set a new participation record for the organisation’s holiday camp series. It was said that across the two days, the courts were filled with activity, with plenty of smiles, new friendships forming and a strong sense of enjoyment evident among participants. Mackay Basketball also acknowledged its coaching group, who volunteered their time to run the sessions. Coaches were recognised for their efforts in teaching, encouraging and supporting players throughout the camp, helping deliver a positive experience for all involved. The Holiday Hoops Camp continues to be a popular feature on Mackay Basketball’s calendar, providing young players with the opportunity to spend time on court during the school holidays in a structured and supportive environment. This latest edition has now set a new benchmark for participation, with organisers describing the two-day event as an “unbelievable couple of days of hoops.” With record numbers achieved, the program has again highlighted the strong level of engagement with basketball across the Mackay region, as local families continue to support opportunities for young players to get involved in the sport. The camp concluded after two full days of activity, marking another successful instalment of Mackay Basketball’s ongoing holiday program. Photo source: Mackay basketball (Facebook)
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Mackay's Sinkers have continued to make waves in the pool, celebrating strong performances at both the Australian Pool Rescue Championships in Perth and the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler. Peter T delivered an outstanding result at the Australian Pool Rescue Championships, returning to competition for the first time in 12 months to finish second overall in the 45–60 years age group. Competing across the three-day championships, Peter claimed an impressive medal tally of one gold and four silver medals, marking a successful return after an extended break from competition. Fellow Sinkers Nigel Dalton and Dan Stampa also impressed at the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler, producing a series of strong swims against a competitive field of 194 registered athletes. Nigel finished third in his age group, while Dan also secured third place in his respective age group. The pair briefly celebrated holding the Small Club Trophy before competition rules required the award to be presented to another club, with a minimum of three swimmers needed to qualify. With only two Sinkers competing, the trophy was officially handed to the Belgravia team during the Face-to-Face branch meeting. Both Nigel and Dan enjoyed some extra success away from the pool, each winning prizes in the event's multi-draw. The club congratulated all swimmers on their performances and thanked Brisbane Southside Meet organisers for hosting another successful competition. Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club
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Seven days of Bridge were played at the Mackay Bridge Club last week. This included two evenings, Saturday, and Sunday for Novice (beginners) and Mentors. Mackay Bridge club ensures that there are plenty of opportunities for working people who want to learn bridge to participate after their bridge lessons. Four members played in the Townsville Congress, with Terry Sheedy and Janelle Conroy winning the A Section pairs. Diane and Max Holewa joined Terry and Janelle to win the Teams event. Members of the club are travelling to Bowen to participate in the Bowen Pairs Congress this weekend. Bridge is a social game, which encourages friendship, partnerships, fun and sometimes travel. Don’t wait until you retire, join next year when lessons begin. For more information, watch this space or contact the club. Weekly Results Monday 22 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Nancy Martin / Susan Ross 2nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris 2nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins 3rd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 3rd Janice Mansfield / Debra Goodchild 4th Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft 4th Sue Mayer-Miller / Karen Caldwell Tuesday Evening 23 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Frances Brown / Rodney Miles 3rd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger 4th Helen Van Den Breok / Terry Sheedy Wednesday 24 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Joy Block / Diane Stokes 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 3rd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt 3rd Terry Sheedy / Mick King 4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 4th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz Thursday 25 June 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Mick King / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 3rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 4th Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott Friday 26 June 2026 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Geoff Cowan / Mick King 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 2nd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting 3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole Saturday 27 June 2026 –- 13 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson 2nd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden 3rd Nancy Wix / Richard Wix 3rd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner 4th Gwen Liddell / Julie O’Neill 4th Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell 5th Monica Darley / Nancy Martin 5th Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok Sunday 28 June 2026 – 7 Tables Green Points Novices and Mentors N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Rodney Miles 1st Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor 2nd Susan Ross / Joy Hold 2nd Colleen Riddel / Sue Mayer-Miller 3rd Christine Fitzpatrick / Griffin Bancroft 3rd Gillian McCallum / Ming Ting 4th Neila Quintero / Martin Pearce 4th Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin Contributed by Joy Block
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More than 20 runners turned out in challenging conditions at Eimeo Surf Club on the weekend, including the dedicated Mackay Tri Club members who, after completing their run, took to the ocean for a "little" 2km swim. The 5km and 10km courses featured plenty of challenging hills through the Blacks Beach, Dolphin Heads and Eimeo suburbs, providing an ideal hit-out for athletes preparing to taper ahead of the upcoming Gold Coast Running Festival and various Ironman events. Those who took shelter from the rain beneath the Surf Life Saving Control Watch Tower also enjoyed learning a few tricks of the trade about the delicate nature of the tummy, including checking that the milk is lactose free. A big thank you goes to Andrew Short for once again setting up a spectacular course. A legendary stalwart of the club, his ongoing contribution continues to be greatly appreciated. With a significant number of athletes away competing at out-of-town events, including the Gold Coast, Mackay Road Runners will instead host a social 5km and 10km run from Casu Jacks at Mackay Harbour this Sunday, starting at 7am. Participants are encouraged to bring along card or cash for breakfast, a cuppa and a chat, while celebrating the first run of the new financial year following 30 June 2026. All members and non-members are welcome to attend for a $2 race day fee. Please arrive by 6.50am for registration, the course briefing and club notices. Contributed by Janelle Tilse 6939 – John, Mon and Stef enjoy the early morning training session from the Eimeo Surf Club. 6942 – Bharick, Brij and Jo were ecstatic with their efforts in the 5k/10km Eimeo Surf Club social run. 6943 – Clinton, Gail and Jose enjoy a taper run before their Gold Coast Marathon events next weekend. 6944 – Kate loved the wet running conditions at the Eimeo Surf Club event. 6936 – Ella made light work of the 10km Eimeo Surf Club social run. 6931 – Damp unforgiving rains did not take the fun out of a social Mackay Road Runners event from Eimeo Surf Club. 6921 – Big smiles from all runners at the Eimeo Surf Club 5k/10km social Mackay Road Runners event. Photos supplied
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Winners for Tuesday social bowls were Stumpy Adams, Robyn Stitt, and Steve Roome defeated Lindy Suann, Deb Retchless, and Mark Drummond. Jocelyn DeFranciscis. Merle Elphinstone, and Penny Warren defeated Bill Myers, Irene Laird, and Allan Rolfe. The jackpot didn’t go off.
On Sunday, 24 players braved the heat for a nice afternoon of bowls Thank goodness for the shade cover. Winners for the afternoon were Gwenda Lydom, Robyn Stitt, and Kevin Daniels who defeated Terry Blair, Jocelyn DeFranciscis, and Fely Duncan. Others were Merle Elphinstone, Jim Quod, and Pat Tracey narrowly defeated Bron Tolcher, Graeme Read, and Allan Rolfe.
In an even closer game Bill Myers, Deb Retchless, and Mark DeFranciscis drew with Lindy Suann, Penny Warren, and Sugar Brunker. Toni Bowen, Albi Vigar, and Mark Drummond defeated Stumpy Adams, Linda Scells and Barry Beel. The jackpot didn’t go off.
Congratulations to Denise Wallace and Penny Warren in being selected to represent the North Qld District Ladies in the State District Sides competition to be held at the Gold Coast in May.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.
Winners for Sunday: President Mark Drummond with Robyn Stitt and Gwenda Lydom. Absent Kevin Daniels. Photo supplied

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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).

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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