A beautiful day out on Sunday, with some suffering from Coronation sleep deprivation, the scores tell the full story. Whitsunday golfers fielded 18 players on a course in much improved condition that is finally drying out after seven nights without rain. Some players didn’t do the course justice, but it’s about all the fun on the day. Numbers are still down with some players overseas enjoying the UK spring weather, the rest of us revelling in the first cool days of the Whitsundays “winter”.

LADIES :  

A GRADE :  

WINNER :  Tiina Randmae with nett 79 on a countback from

R/UP : Penny Wardroper

B GRADE

WINNER : Karen Rix with nett 71  

R/UP : Pam Casey with 76

BEST GROSS : Tina Cook

MEN :  

A GRADE :

WINNER : Jason Bourke with nett 66

R/UP : Darren Reynolds with 70

BEST GROSS : Jason Whitney  

MENS' B GRADE :  

WINNER : Mark McDougal with net 67

R/UP : Paul Nicol with 73

BEST GROSS : Don Cameron

NTPs :  

Ladies : Karen Rix  (12th), Tiina Randmae (16th) and Penny Wardroper (18th)  

Men : Ritchie Atkins (4th), Don Cameron (9th) and Clay Coles (13th).

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Longest Drives :

Men : Darren Reynolds and Don Cameron for the men, Ladies A did not make the fairway, unlike Karen Rix who did it for Ladies B.

Least Putts : Tiina Randmae with 31 and Geoff Harrison with 30.

NAGAs : Tina Cook and Wilf Herweg , drinks kindly sponsored by Aaron and Tracy Watts.

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The Guzzler’s Cup was won by Ladies A winner, so Tiina has a month of drinks, courtesy of the lady players.

Next week is a Stableford game, log in early - with social player numbers increasing and match plays in progress, let’s try to stay together as a group. So, fill in at least the 7 - 7.30am slots first and then move into the 7.30+ if required.

See you out there.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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PHOTO DETAILS, L to R : Pam Casey (R/up Ladies B), Mark McDougal (Winner Men’s B), Karen Rix (Winner Ladies B) , Paul Nicol (R/up Men’s B), Tiina Randmae (Winner Ladies A). Absent : Jason Bourke, Darren Reynolds, Penny Wardroper

NAGAs : Tina Cook and Wilf Herweg

34 players competed for our May Monthly Medal.  12 women and 22 men.

The course was still proving to be a challenge for some.

Hopefully no more rain.  

Trevor Paroz was the men's Monthly Medal winner with 69 followed by John Roser 71 on a countback from our newest member Michael Cragg.

Jenny Hounsell was the ladies’ winner with 73, Lyn Muller 76 and Paula McQuat 77.  

Pin shots went to Trevor Paroz and Wilf Herweg on 2, Vic Feldman and Wilf on 9.  

Tina Badenhorst and Beryl Nosworthy on 2, Tina again and Paula McQuat on 9 and Paula on 13.  

Next Tuesday we are off to Collinsville.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Trevor Paroz, the men’s Monthly Medal winner

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This week’s stableford 9-hole weekly competition was won by Michael Bond on 18 points, second place went to Glenn Rees with 17 points and third Dennis Moss on 15 c/b.

Our Friday 9-hole stableford prawn run was a great turnout with Glenn Rees taking first place with a 23-point win, second place was Jay Angel on 22 c/b and third we had Scott Morrissey on 22 points.

On Sunday we held the 18-hole Alternate shot foursome with a 50 net coming in first place was Glenn Rees & Robert Lodders, second on a 55 net Tyson Flavel and Rhys Bartholomew and third place Ben Doer & James Kontis on a 61 net.

Nearest the pin was Tyson Flavel and Rhys Bartholomew.

This Sunday will be our 18-hole stableford tee off anytime.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Green Golf Club

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Mackay Cutters have thrown down the gauntlet to BMD Womens Rugby League premiership pacesetters Souths Logan Magpies after a classic top-of-the-table clash in Townsville last weekend.

A last gasp try by centre Sera Koroi helped the undefeated Magpies snatch a 28-26 victory and open up a four point cushion on the competition ladder.

It was a cruel twist for the spirited Cutters who led 26-24 after talented winger Alicia Martin had crossed for a vital try with nine minutes remaining.

Just as Mackay looked set to inflict the first loss on Souths Logan this season, the strong running Koroi broke their hearts by bursting through to nab her second four pointer inside the final 60 seconds of play.

Led by enforcer prop Frieda Sue and Jillaroo forwards Brittany Breayley-Nati and Stephanie Hancock, the competition leaders justified their number one ranking.

Earlier the elusive Martin opened the scoring when she dashed over for her first try after six minutes with back rower Romy Teitzel potting the extras.

Strong running second rower Tyesha Mikaio responded for the Magpies with a 13th minute try before Teitzel extended the Cutters lead to eight points after grabbing her team’s second try with a powerful surge.

Souths Logan winger Kalisi Longopoa crossed nine minutes later as Mackay went to the break with a 12-8 advantage.

Three quick tries after the interval by talented fullback Evania Pelite, second rower Jasmine Fogavini and match winner Koroi turned the match for the Magpies.

They jumped to a 24-12 lead before the Cutters hit back in style with five eighth Alisha Foord, winger Lauren Moss and Martin all notching crucial tries to set up a thrilling finale.

Meanwhile, the Hunters recorded a hard fought 18-10 victory over Mackay Cutters in their Hostplus Cup fixture last Saturday at PNG Stadium in Port Moresby.

Hunters fullback Morea Morea and centre Benji Kot nabbed early tries to set up a 10-0 lead before quick stepping number four Josh Smith posted Mackay’s lone first half try after 27 minutes with Brandon Finnegan adding the conversion.

Back rower Julius Yakopa crashed over for the Hunters third try soon after to give the home side a 14-6 lead at the interval.

Dashing winger Flynn Camilleri kept the visitors in the hunt when he sliced through to score after 53 minutes before centre Rodrick Tai sealed victory for the Hunters with a determined late try.

Michael Comerford’s winless Cutters meet ninth placed Northern Pride this Saturday at Barlow Park Cairns at 5.30pm.

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Accomplished Mackay Magpies cricketer Adam Zurvas is reaping the dividends of a golden summer.

The 23 year old premiership winner is basking in the success of a memorable 2022-2023 campaign in the Mackay Cricket Association after chalking up a long list of meritorious achievements.

All rounder Adam scooped the pool at the Association’s recent Senior Awards Night at Harrup Park – picking up a swag of trophies to cap his finest season in the top grade.

The stylish batsman claimed three major honours when he took out Mackay Cricket’s A Grade Player of the Year award and Batting Aggregate and Average trophies for his 776 runs across all formats at 52.60.

Zurvas is only the third Magpies player to receive the prestigious Player of the Year award – replicating the deeds of former Australian Test paceman Ross Duncan and life member Dale Fortescue.

It certainly was a season to savour for the former St Patrick’s College Mackay student who described the honours as “the proudest moment of my life.”

“Taking the field each week with my brothers Ben and Liam and close mates was an absolute joy,” reflected Adam, who achieved his maiden A Grade century at the start of the season.

“Our recipe for success was simple – just go out and enjoy your cricket and appreciate your teammate’s contributions” he said.

Boasting a top score of 120 not out against Pioneer Valley, Adam was at his prolific best throughout the summer with a string of half centuries and chimed in with 17 wickets as a seam bowler.

But the classy run-maker nearly sat out the season and was coaxed into playing by leg-spinning team mate Finlay Wilson.

“Finlay convinced me to play after I seriously considered having another break from the game,” revealed Adam, who made limited appearances for the Magpies while completing his Civil Engineering degree at Townsville’s James Cook University – including a Twenty20 Shootout triumph.

Younger brother Ben, 20, is one of the competition’s best young keeper batsmen and finest leaders while 16 year old Liam is a batting all rounder on the rise.

Proudest couple at the Awards Night were Adam’s parents Brad and Julie – two of Magpies Cricket’s greatest stalwarts.

“Dad is my role model and coach and batting inspiration – I can’t thank him enough” said Adam.

Other major trophy winners for the Magpies were Ethan Morris (Mackay Second Grade Player of Year); John Magann (Mackay Second Grade Twenty20 Player of Year) and Brendan Whitby (Mackay Third Grade Player of Year & Batting Award).

By Chris Karas

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Mackay Cricketer of the Year Adam Zurvas displays his impressive trophy haul for season 2022-23

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Based in Brisbane, Circa, is a visionary contemporary acrobatic and circus show, that tests the limits of human movement and powerful performance.

On by Circa is the newest performance to the company’s repertoire, illuminating the haunting tale of a chance encounter, a single touch, an impossible connection, with eight strangers.

Set in the backdrop of an apartment block’s courtyard, the audience is swayed through the performance, following love, loss, and enchanting beauty.

Since 2004, Circa has established itself as a global leader in circus performing arts.

Circa performances have been hosted all over the globe, in over 40 different countries, to over 1.5 million people, with a many sell-out shows.

Productions offer a range of performances, including large scale opera, extreme choreographic sights, and intimate instrumentals.

A creation of Yaron Lifschitz, On by Circa speaks to natural circus artistry, with accompaniments from composition from Melbourne’s Jethro Woodward and lighting design from Paul Jackson.

In a bare performance, the extreme skill of acrobatics is put on full display, the performers becoming art themselves, establishing a striking intimacy that leave audiences feeling that they, alone, experienced the show.

“On by Circa explores the gift of weight that lies at the heart of acrobatics. The simple act of giving and accepting another’s mass is transformed into a profound mediation about beauty, loss, and trust,” Yaron Lifschitz said.

WHAT: On By Circa

WHERE: Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre

WHEN: Wednesday May 31, from 6.30pm

TICKETS: themecc.com.au

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Experience the acrobatic show of the year

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Deserved NBL1 North Triumph Over Pirates

FLAMBOYANT forward Denesha Bobongie stole the show as Mackay Meteorettes returned to the winners list in the NBL1 North Conference with an emphatic 71-55 victory South West Metro Pirates at Mackay Basketball Stadium last Saturday night.

Back on home boards after a tough triple-header road trip, the young Meteorettes found their rhythm and groove with Bobongie producing yet another masterclass performance.

Fresh off a three game winning streak, the Pirates had no answer to the Mackay magician who registered 18 points, 15 rebounds and four assists to propel the Meteorettes to a second win in six games.

The Pirates led 19-13 in the first quarter before the Mackay women rolled into action to lead 35-32 at the half time break and sealed victory with a 21-8 points blitz in the final period.

Other Meteorettes players to impress were import guard Davida Dale, who contributed 18 points, seven steals, six rebounds and four assists and forwards Madison MacDonald (11 points, two boards and two steals) and Ellie Collins (6 points, eight rebounds and two assists).

The Pirates were best served by forward Leah Scott (20pts, nine rebounds, two assists); guard Lulu Twidale (14pts, two rebounds and one assist) and forward Hannah Young (11pts, 14 rebounds, three assists and two steals).

South West Metro Pirates stunned the previously undefeated Meteors in the Mens fixture with a shock 97-87 victory over the competition leaders.

Led by dynamic forward Lamar Patterson (26pts, six rebounds, eight assists and four steals), the Pirates showed tenacity and skill to end

Mackay’s five match winning streak with a spirited triumph.

Patterson was the trump card as the Pirates led at all breaks and defended stoutly to stave off a late Meteors challenge.

He was supported by centre Ben Volkman (17pts, ten rebounds) and guard Kai Woodfall (16 points, two rebounds and three assists).

Star Mackay guards Isaac White (32 pts, four rebounds and assists and two steals) and Tyler Williams (20pts, six rebounds, four assists, three steals) led by example with strong performances.

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Photo credit: Kieron Place Art & Photography

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One of Australia’s most iconic sporting series is back, the Ashes, and you can join Star FM’s Scott van der Linden alongside four of Queensland’s greatest ever cricketers for the big day at Harrup Park in June.

Ian Healy, Michael Kasprowicz, Andy Bichel, and Wade Seccombe will spend the evening celebrating the history of the Ashes, sharing their thoughts on this year’s series on the eve of the first test match.

At 6.00pm, aired live from the Lancaster Rooms, guests will receive a two-course dinner, beer, wine, and soft drink while enjoying the company of these cricketers on Friday, June 16.

The panel includes cricket icon Ian Healy, who played 119 test’s and 168 One Day Internationals for Australia and is now beloved commentator for many years and he current sits on the Board of QLD cricket.  

He’s joined by Michael Kasprowicz – still the leading wicket taker ever to play for QLD.

Backing up Michael is Andy Bichel, one of the state’s greatest ever fast bowlers with 19 tests and 67 one day internationals to his name. He is currently the assistant coach of the QLD Bulls and Brisbane Heat.

And the final member, Wade Seccombe is one of Queensland’s best wicketkeepers and batsmen. He is currently the Coach of the QLD Bulls and Brisbane Heat.

Limited tickets (which include a two-course dinner, beer, wine, and soft drink) are available now - you won't want to miss it! Book today at http://bit.ly/3ZsMdUt

What: It’s The Ashes with Heals, Kaspa, Andy, & Wade

When: Friday, June 16, from 6.00pm to 10.00pm

Where: Harrup Park - Lancaster Rooms

Tickets: $170 per ticket or $1600 for a table of 10

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Three local athletes from NQ Altitude Pole Vaulters Squad qualified for Australian Athletics Nationals recently held in Brisbane.

Kasey McMahon, Senior Cairns athlete currently attending CQU Mackay and current member of Mackay Athletics Club, qualified for Open Nationals from her winning performance at ANQ Championships in Townsville.

Junior Athletes Kayce Hoani-Vincent (Mackay Athletics) and Liana Harrington (North Mackay Athletics) both qualified from winning Queensland Athletics State Championships in March which saw both girls take home gold becoming Queensland State Champions 2023, Kayce for U17s Girls and Liana U14s Girls.

Kayce, aged 16 years, continued competition with a season and personal best height 2.80m to secure 3rd place podium finish for U17s Girls.

Liana, aged 12 years performed just below her season and personal best of 2.10m to place equal 3rd, podium finish U14s Girls.

As the south season ends the north Queensland season begins, with all three athletes now focusing on training for upcoming competition in Townsville the Festival of Athletics in June and NQ Championships which will be hosted in Mackay in September.

NQ Altitude Pole Vaulters Squad trains at the Mackay ARC on Wednesday afternoons from 4pm to 5.30pm.

Any interested athletes are welcome to come to the track and check us out.

Contributed by Kirsti Hoani

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Kayce Hoani-Vincent, Kasey McMahon, Liana Harrington with Pole Vault Coach Paul Hallett

Kayce Hoani-Vincent

Liana Harrington. Photos supplied

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Whilst the majority of runners participating in the annual and very popular Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon, perfect running conditions greeted the local social Mackay event, although, it didn’t take runners long to raise a sweat, despite the cooler temperatures.  

The Mackay Road Runners held a very social 5km, 10km Bluewater Quay event where the course took runners out towards the Mackay Harbour for the 10km and 5km runners turning around at the BP Moss Marine Service Station.  

Excellent efforts came from Grant Holmstrom, Rod Elworthy, John Couldrey, Andrew Short, Simon Henderson, Ollie Gorrion, Shane Barben, Craig Andrews, Robinson Stinson, Stuart Sprott, Jan Smith, Toni Enright, Bernadine McKinnon, Andrew Wallace, Lauren Connor, Tia Gorrie, Leanne Connor, Kim Saron, Tahnie Malagueno, Carolyn Mapes and Stacey Robertson.  

Sensational running in the 10km by Abigail Sweeney who backed up well after taking gold in the 4km at the Mackay Athletics Carnival on Friday.  

Mackay Road Runners junior club member, Lily Leven was 2nd overall in the 4km but first in her age.

Excellent efforts also from Toby Rule who scored first in the 6km ahead of Luke Leven 3rd and Jared Mackie 4th.  

This Sunday’s 5th annual Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield incorporates the long standing Mackay Road Runners Forsyths Accounting Services 10km Club Championship to be held at 7am sharp from the Queen’s park carpark entrance, Shakespeare Street.

There is a 5km distance available and non members are most welcome to attend, however, only club members are eligible for the 10km Shield in honour of former champion club member, club treasurer and life member, Shawn Claydon who pass away five years ago on 30th August from Pancreatic Cancer.  

Entry fee will be $10 for the 5km and 10km with all proceeds donated by Mackay Road Runners to Pancare to assist in research and assistance for sufferers and their families.  

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Approximately forty runners enjoyed a very social 5k and 10km run from the Bluewater Quay precincts

L-R Carolyn Mapes, Tahnie Malagueno and Andrew Short tackle the 10km course from the Bluewater Quay

Carmel Mahon and Andrew Wallace set a great pace in the 10km event. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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Last Saturday, we welcomed 32 teams of lady bowlers from all over our district and beyond as far as Ayre and Bowen. Ladies President Lidia McCarthy welcomed everyone to the club for this inaugural event. After a very scrumptious morning tea, the ladies hit the rinks for the first of 3 X 16 end games. Lunch was a gastronomic event thanks to the Goosies Sport and Recreation Club, manager Ian Morris and his wonderful staff, returning to the rinks for the next two games and finishing around 4.30.

After all the results were calculated, the very excited winners were: Lorna Bowers and Lois Deguara from North Mackay club and Joyce Bloomfield from St Helen’s club. A very close second went to Fay Duncan’s team from Wangaratta club. 3rd place went to Doris Monroe’s team from Wests club. 4th place was a draw between Kathy Mathew’s and Betty Nicole’s teams.

Congratulation to all our winners and of course all the players. Many thanks to our sponsors for this event Minestaff, Gardian and Phillips Mortgage Choice Mackay. Hopefully this will be an annual event for our club. Many thanks to each and every one who helped to make this event the success that it was. Thanks to event sponsors Clint Zahmel and Ben Phillips for attending today and experiencing the talent we have in our district.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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North Mackay won the inaugural ladies event

Wangaratta placed second

Wests finished in third. Photos supplied: Sue Hazledine

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Last weekend saw the running of Prestige Fours at Mackay Bowling Club played over two days of the Long Weekend. All teams played on Saturday with the four top teams playing off on Sunday to see who will be in final. All other teams were divided into Divisions 2 and 3.

The final saw Bruce Bridges team of Doug Wotton, Grant Edmonds, Les Rodgers take on Wayne Hanley team of Cooper Whitestyles, Clint Vassie, Jason McMillan with Wayne Hanley team coming out winners for the carnival.

Division 2 Winners: Ash Warland team of Harry Quade, Shane Spann, Gavin Miline.

Division 3 Winners: Col Crocker team of Mick Coll, Ben Crocker, Joe Crucker.

A great weekend of Bowls was witnessed, and many friends made.

Anzac weekend Day Bowls was started with Brian Cuttriss saying the ode and a minute silence. A full green with thirty-Six players competing.

Winners of Winners: Arthur Naylor, Fuddy, Kees Struik.

Winners of Losers: Denise Mezzen, Peter Taaffe.

Scrounger on Thursday: Carol Savage def Gary Vogler.

This weekend, club competition returns before Pennant resume on May 13.

Ladies 2 Bowl Triples Carnival Monday May 8.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Cooper Whitestyles , Clint Vassie, Wayne Hanley and Jason McMillan. Photo credit: Mike Irving

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Sunday afternoon the Ladies A Grade Final was played between two of the best bowlers in the district. The lead fluctuated many times between Ladda Purdie and Betty Nicole.

With the end nearing and Ladda holding a 23 to 17 lead, Betty Nicole refused to give in and miraculously won 25-23 in a dramatic last end brilliant display.

A huge crowd was on hand and bowls was the winner of the day.

Saturday morning Scroungers resumed with a huge gathering ably organised by John Askew. It saw first round winners Betty Whitehorn, Tony Kelly, Mark Mawson, Neil Moore and John Matterson play.

Once again a high standard of bowls was on display and the final was played between Tony Kelly and John Matterson with Tony Kelly continuing his brilliant form and winning the prizes and accolades.

The Grand Final is to be played next Saturday morning with brilliant skills for all to see and all are welcome to view this exciting sporting game of skill.

Sunday afternoon social bowls was also an evenly matched contest with Neil Moore with Dawn Dowell at lead and in form Tony Kelly at second easily winning the prize money and the very popular John Brown winning the prestigious Health Hub award.

Luke Kinnear’s raffle is almost ready for ticket sales and the school’s competition is also nearly finalised and will begin soon.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Betty Nicole and Ladda Purdie after the final of the Ladies A Grade singles. Photo supplied

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Wednesday Social: Jan Randall, Robyn Stitt and Steve Roome defeated Eddy Neylon, Gavin Charles and Jeff Tierney.

Lorraine McCarthur, G Barber and Allen Williams defeated MaryEllen Pratten, Jane Gilbert and Peter Bruce.

Jill Brabon and Ian Best defeated L. Barber and Ron Gould.

Sunday Social: Peter Thomson, Gavin Charles and Lloyd White defeated Joan Edwards, Joseph and Jeff Tierney.

Lee Welsted, Colin Stereos, Jane Gilbert and Jason Wright defeated Wayne  Crowhurst, Eddy Neylon, Peter Bruce and Ron Gould.
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Winning Team: Jan Randall, Tracey Roach/ Tiarna Rogers and Steve Roome defeated Andy Peebles, Jill Brabon and Brett Lampard.

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No bowls were played on Wednesday to allow time for some maintenance works on the greens to be most effective. Thank you to those who gave up their time to assist with this work on the Tuesday, it seems to have already been taking effect on that problem weed.

On Sunday, thirteen players enjoyed an afternoon of Social bowls. We welcomed John and Margy Burnett who are taking up the sport socially, Lee King who came to test out the sport, Nathan Lee who will be returning to the sport after a break and all of our regular bowlers.

John Burnett, John Anderson and Heather Brown had a close battle with Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe and Nathan Lee with Heather's team winning this contest 22 - 17.  

On the other rink Barry Zillmann accepted the challenge of playing second for both teams. Margy Burnett, Barry Zillmann, Philip Brown and Sandy Daffara drew 18 all with Lee King, Barry Zillmann, Jim Quod and Mike Harrison.

Over this long weekend, some of our members played in events at clubs within our District. Wayne Handley in a team with Cooper Whitestyle, Jason McMullen and Clinton Vassie were the winners of the Mackay Prestige 4s.

We are all very proud of our members Grahame Kinnear, Wayne Handley and Martin Corr who will all be involved with District Sides this week in their player and team manager roles.  

We wish you all the best of luck, good bowls and a wonderful experience.  We are all looking forward to cheering along and experiencing this event along with you all.

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Winners of Mackay Prestige 4s Jason McMullen, Clinton Vassie, Wayne Handley and Cooper Whitestyles. Photo supplied

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