
With Fitness Cartel Corporate Memberships Mackay businesses now have a game-changing way to invest in their employees’ health and wellbeing with Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program. Designed for organisations looking to prioritise fitness, health, and workplace wellness, these memberships give staff access to ultramodern facilities, expert-led classes, and personalised training support — all tailored to the needs of a busy workforce. Whether your team wants to lift, stretch, spin, or recover, Fitness Cartel has it covered. Members enjoy 24/7 access to all clubs, over 500 pieces of strength and cardio equipment, and dedicated zones for Reformer Pilates, functional training, and cycling. The Mackay location also features a fully equipped Wellness Centre, including hot rock saunas, hot and cold plunge pools, Normatec compression boots, red light therapy, and a range of post-workout recovery options to suit every need. Group fitness is a highlight for corporate members, with unlimited access to more than 100 classes per week across 4 different training studios inside the Mackay Club. Options range from Les Mills’ Body Combat, Body Pump, Body Balance And RPM, to yoga, Mat Pilates, Zumba, and functional training sessions. Virtual classes are also available 24/7, offering flexibility for early birds or night owls. For businesses with families on the team, Kids Cartel provides a safe, engaging crèche and playground, ensuring parents can focus on their workout while children enjoy supervised play. Employees can also enjoy the Cartel Café, offering nutritious meals and snacks to fuel their workouts, or browse the on-site nutrition and pro shop. Corporate packages at Fitness Cartel are designed to elevate workplace wellness programs. Beyond improving fitness levels, they promote team bonding, boost morale, and create a positive, healthy work culture. Monthly body scans, personal training sessions, and precision programming help staff track progress and achieve their health goals, making corporate wellness a practical and measurable benefit for businesses. “The Fitness Cartel Corporate Membership Program is all about empowering teams to reach their health and fitness goals, while giving employers an easy way to support workplace wellbeing,” said Mackay Co-Franchisee Cliff Forster. With multiple locations and more planned nationwide, employees have seamless access to premium fitness facilities no matter where they are. For Mackay businesses looking to invest in their teams, Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program offers the ultimate combination of fitness, recovery, and community, all under one roof. For more information or to arrange a corporate membership, contact Fitness Cartel Mackay at mackay@fitnesscartel.com.au or call (07) 4881 0365
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At North Mackay Bowls Club North Mackay Bowls club Presentation night was held on Saturday 29/11/2025, with many of our bowlers and significant others attending. Following a lovely dinner prepared by the super chefs at Goosies, the Ladies section held their presentation first, with many excited winners receiving certificates and renumeration. Results: Champ Pairs : Deb Mackenzie and Chris Woo Champ Triples : Nug Pratt, Val De Pinto, Marie Bragg Champ Fours : Lorna Bowers, Deb Mackenzie, Coral Francis, Donna Gordon B Pairs : Ann Smith ans Min Andrew Over 70’s : Lorna Bowers Graded 4’s Lorraine Silman, Doris Dodds, Helen Fleming, Min Andrew Graded 3 B Triples : Lois Deguara, Helen Fleming, Sue Roscoe Graded 2 B Triples : Donna Gordon, Carmel Bell, Hilary Jones-Rowan Consistency : Cheryl Corbett Division 1 Winning Pennant Team going on to play in Emerald ( Leichhardt District ) and then to Tweed Heads(Qld Division) Coming 4th in the State. Well done to all the ladies in the team. The Bowler of the Year award was presented to the player who claimed the Championship Singles, ‘B’ Singles and Under 70s Singles titles, with the honour bestowed on Brenda Trannore. Brenda graciously accepted the accolade, delivering a heartfelt speech in which she thanked those who had supported and guided her throughout her bowls journey, acknowledging the achievement as a significant milestone in both her life and her bowls career. Amazing and Well Done Brenda. The Mens Section had their 2025 Presentation next, with many of the bowlers happy with their performances on the green an in competitions, Pennant and away games. Results: Mixed Pairs : Neil Blucher and Lois Deguara Mixed Fours ; Pam Spencer, Ken Rix, Carmel Bell, Dave Mc Kendry B Singles : Eric Galletly, B Pairs : Eric Gallantly John Kennell Senior Singles : Geoff Ollett 2 B Triples : Andrew Coates, Clive Wales, Peter Blackburn. 3 B Triples : Shane Trannore, Wayne Trannore, Dave McKendry A Fours : Ben Crocker, Col Crocker, Ian Beveridge, Joe Crocker A Pairs : Mick Walsh and Steve Lane A Singles : Alan Cooney Club Person of the Year was voted in as a tie this year, and went to Wayne and Shane Trennore. It was a super evening for the Trannore name in bowls for our Club. Wayne Trannore responded on behalf of his brother Shane, also thanking those involved with the club and their fantastic award. Contributed by Sue Hazledine
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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club Results For Week Ending Saturday 13th December 2025 Monday 8th December 2025 – 6 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Jewel Schmidt - Janine Rodgers 2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 2nd Shirley Worland - Janice Mansfield 3rd Geoffrey Patterson - Noel Bugeia 3rd Jayne Johnstone - Clare Wallace Tuesday 9th December 2025 – 3 ½ Table Howell Green Points 1st Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia 2nd Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy 3rd Richard Wix - Tex Sheedy Wednesday 10th December 2025 –10 Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Martin Pearce - Sue Mayer-Miller 2nd Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 2nd Janet Hansen - Alan Brown 3rd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 3rd Gwen Liddell - Anne Lutz 4th Annette Howe - Diane Stokes 4th Mary Rose Ramsden - Patrick Rasmussen 5th Lorna Shuttlewood - Tex Sheedy 5th Sandy Patterson - Joy Hold Thursday Evening 11th December 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Joy Hold - Patricia Garner 1st Noel Bugeia - Tex Sheedy 2nd Geoff Taylor - Anne Lutz 2nd Martin Pearce - Simon Barnes Friday 12th December 2025 –7 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 1st David Ting - Ming Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix 2nd Julie O'neill - Ann Whitmore 3rd Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 3rd Christine Nice - Diane Cox 3rd Martin Pearce - Gwen Liddell Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section A (Christmas Party )– 8 Table Mitchell - Green Points North/South East/West 1st Victor Mason - Ann Whitmore 1st Marilin Robins - Mick Robins 2nd Geoff Taylor - Margaret Lane 2nd Faye Wright - Tex Sheedy 3rd Monica Darley - David Hird 3rd Diane Stokes - Annie Lynch 4th Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless 4th Noel Bugeia - Pamela Finger Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section B (Christmas Party)– 9 Table Mitchell - Green Points North/South East/West 1st Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 1st Janet Hansen - Thelma Caruana 2nd Ming Ting - David Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix 3rd Alan Brown - Frances Brown 3rd Susan Gibson - Karen Caldwell 4th Christopher Meyers - Sandy Patterson 4th Eric Goodchild - Debra Goodchild Contributed by Robert Carless
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With Mackay Road Runners With temperatures feeling closer to 35 degrees and no rain in sight, it was a very Mackay-style lead-up to Christmas at this week’s Bluewater Quay Social Run. Forget a white Christmas, runners were treated to hot, testing conditions during the afternoon’s 5km and 10km events. Race Director Andrew Short was thanked for delivering another successful run, despite the heat, with welcome relief provided by Zooper Doopers and Red Dog’s rehydration options, which were greatly appreciated by participants. The next Bluewater Quay social run, commencing at 4.30pm next Sunday, will be the final event before Christmas. Runners are encouraged to come along for a festive group photo and stay on for a Christmas drink afterwards. Some of the best photos may feature in this Mackay Life Newspaper and the Mackay Road Runners 2026 calendar, described humorously as a firefighter-style calendar, but with clothes. Congratulations were extended to all participants for their efforts in challenging conditions, with a reminder for runners to continue training and racing in such conditions to stay healthy and safe. “Thank you to Mackay & Whitsunday Life magazine for their awesome support of the Mackay Road Runners Club!”
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Albert Wicks, 93, is Mackay Bowls Club’s oldest active member. Albert regularly plays social Triples on Tuesday using his original bowls with only a walking stick for balance.
Besides being a past committee member, Albert’s pervious bowling achievements include Club Pairs and Triples Championships, Senior Singles Champion as well as District Finalist in Pairs and Triples. Alberts experience and knowledge is invaluable for all bowlers, especially at Annual General Meetings.
Ross Dunstan competed in Men's Champion of Champions at North Mackay last weekend, giving it his best.
The Cattle Creek Shield will be played this weekend at Marian and Gargett Clubs.
Team 1: T Mayfield, B Crocker, R Casey, J Smith.
Team 2: N Wilson, G Edmonds, C Marks, P Carter.
Team 3: R Dunstan, R Blanchard, B Robertson, B Jenner.
Team 4: B Bridger, E Roberts, A Gibson, T Hollows.
Tuesday Bowls welcomed visitors Carol and Hugh from Port Pirie, Colin from Bendigo and Ned from Ballarat joining local bowlers.
Winner of Winners: Leanne Jenner, Barry Jenner, Peter Taaffe.
Winner of Losers: Julie Caban, Karina Dunn, Marie Mayfield.
Thursday Scroungers: Carol Savage def Mike Irving, Geoff Jolley.
Friday Social Play
Winners: Kirstine Robinson, Janice Nelson.
Runners Up: Peter Nelson, Erin Clements.
Close games were witnessed in Club Championships last weekend, continuing this weekend with Ladies Consistency Singles being played on Friday Afternoon; Ladies 2 Bowl Triples on Saturday Afternoon; Ladies U/65 Singles Sunday Morning; and Ladies 2 Bowl Triples, Men's Open Triples and Men's B Pairs on Sunday Afternoon.
Contributed by Mike Irving
Bowler Albert Wicks proves age is no barrier at 93 years old. Photo credit: Mike Irving

North Queensland Cowboys bound half back Jaxon Purdue demonstrated his class as rugby league powerhouse St Patrick’s College completed a unique championship double last week in Townsville.
The famous Mackay sporting nursery unveiled several Cowboys’ stars of the future when they slammed Kirwan State High 32-10 to lift the Aaron Payne Cup premiership trophy at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
Played as a curtain raiser to the NRL clash between the Cowboys and Cronulla Sharks, the St Patrick’s colts proved too strong for their rivals with playmaker Purdue showing local supporters his array of skills in a taste of things to come.
Purdue’s outstanding display earned him the Player of the Grand Final and Most Valuable Player of the competition awards and capped a memorable 24 hours for the college.
The previous day, St Patrick’s toppled Ignatius Park College 24-10 to clinch the Cowboys Challenge Shield at the Mackay Junior League Fields.
Both St Patrick’s teams etched their names in the record books by winning the prestigious North Queensland schoolboy competitions undefeated.
Ian Schifilliti’s first grade charges overcame an injury crisis to regain the Cup with Queensland Schoolboys reps Purdue and hooker Xavier Kerrisk leading the charge.
Cowboys fans would have marvelled at the performance of Purdue, who scored two of St Patrick’s six tries and created others to show why he is regarded one of the best young prospects in the State.
The talented half - along with the crafty Kerrisk, centre Will Shears and lock forward Kayne Smith - is contracted to the Cowboys and ready to take the leap into professional ranks in 2024.
Elusive winger Bailey Anderson also collected a try double with five eighth Bailey Venz and lock Kayne Smith grabbing four pointers as the St Patrick’s juggernaut dominated from the outset.
Goalkicking winger Hunter Harris completed the rout with three conversions.
Rising fullback Hayden Cumming, centres Shears and Tenzin Contor and wingers Anderson and Harris capitalised on the slick service from halves Purdue and Venz to launch many an attacking raid.
In the engine room it was young props Cohen Jackson and Tyler Shandiman, back rowers Diesel Costigan, Harrison Considine and lock forward Smith that paved the way with non-stop displays.
Coach Schifilliti saluted the efforts of his all-conquering unit, heaping special praise on interchange players Hudson Clark, Reece Morris, Will Whippy, Darcy Daly, Javen Ramsamy and Jake Bryan.
“This Grand Final victory means so much to the boys who have put in hours of hard toil to reclaim the trophy,” revealed Schifilliti.
“It was a magnificent team effort and a title triumph so thoroughly deserved,” he added.
The proud mentor also praised his coaching staff in Assistant Chad Buckby and trainers Shane Mau, Will Gilbert and Patrick Daly.
“Everyone contributed to this incredible Cup win” concluded Schifilliti.
St Patrick’s will now focus on winning the 2023 Queensland State Championship and square off with Emmaus College Rockhampton in a challenge that doubles as a National Schoolboys Cup State semi-final in Mackay this week.
Winner of this clash advances to the State Championship Final to play the winner of the Allan Langer Trophy showdown between Palm Beach-Currumbin State High and Ipswich State High for the Phil Hall Cup.
St Patrick’s College have regained the Cowboys Challenge Shield after toppling rivals Ignatius Park Townsville 24-10 in the 2023 trophy decider staged at the Mackay Junior League Fields.
Talented hooker and skipper Cooper Deguara was named the official Player of the Grand Final for his tireless two try effort in a mighty performance from the undefeated champions.
For coach Tom Gaviglio it was a deserved premiership in his first year at the helm - with the Shield triumph erasing the memories of last season’s heart breaking after-the-bell loss to Kirwan State High.
Emerging forwards Mark Morrow, Ryan John, Caleb O’Brien and Declan Grady turned in superb performances along with fullback Hamish Donohue, half back Adam McSherry, five eighth Cooper Cavell, centre Norm Campbell and winger Trae Cora.
Key moment in the match was John’s classic try-saving tackle on a flying Ignatius Park fullback Lincoln Baker with the Mackay boys leading 18-10.
St Patrick’s lost Queensland Under 15 Schoolboys prop Sam Anderson early in the match with a damaged knee but led 14-0 at the break following tries by Deguara, a rampaging Morrow and prop Kereama Gartner.
Utility Billy Cruden scored after the break to extend St Patrick’s lead before Ignatius Park hit back with two quick tries.
Deguara sealed victory with a smart try to cap a best-on-ground display.
St Patrick’s will now meet Dolphins Cup champions Emmaus College Rockhampton in a Queensland Regional Grand Final challenge.
By Chris Karas
St Patrick's College players and officials celebrate their Aaron Payne Cup rugby league championship triumph at Queensland Country Bank Stadium
St Patrick's and Queensland Schoolboys half back Jaxon Purdue received the official Player of the Grand Final and the competition's Most Valuable Player awards for his superb performances in 2023. Photo credit: Michelle Bettini
Mackay Cutters Head Coach Michael Comerford with St Patrick’s hooker and Player of the Grand Final Cooper Deguara (left) and boom forward Mark Morrow
Jubilant St Patrick’s College players and officials celebrate their Cowboys Challenge premiership win over Ignatius Park College

The North Queensland Sportstar Awards nominations will close at midnight on Friday September 1.
With 11 categories to nominate into, and more than $18,000 up for grabs, there is something for every sports star, recognising achievements of individuals and players who put their very best into their sport.
North Queensland Sports Foundation director and Mackay Regional Council councillor Laurence Bonaventura said the planning committee has been pleased with the response so far.
“We’ve received a good response from the North Queensland region with almost 100 nominations received to date,” Cr Bonaventura said.
“There are some key areas though where we are still chasing more nominations, including the team sports categories, service to sport and senior sporting categories,” he said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for our local sporting heroes to be recognised in their hometown, so I encourage everyone to take the time to nominate Mackay region individuals and teams who have performed exceptionally at their sport.”
The 11 categories include:
• NQ Sportstar of the Year.
• NQ Rural and Remote Sportstar of the Year.
• Junior Sportstar of the Year.
• NQ Junior Rural and Remote Sportstar of the Year.
• Athlete with Disability Sportstar of the Year.
• Sports Team of the Year.
• Junior Sports Team of the Year.
• Masters Sportstar of the Year.
• Volunteer of the Year.
• NQ Service to Sport.
• Sporting Excellence Award.

On the weekend of August 11-13, the Mackay Cyclones had nine athletes compete at the 2023 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Short Course Championships in Brisbane.
Over the course of the championships, the club achieved 26 top 10 spots, 50 out of 54 personal bests, five gold medals, three silver medals and two bronze.
Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club was given a ranking of 38th out of the 113 clubs in Queensland for the event.
It was some of the best results for the competing kids who trained hard in the lead up to these championships, their hard work achieving them some huge personal bests.
Coach of Mackay Cyclones Leigh-Anne Pokarier said all athletes stepped up to "next level racing ", as personal best times were not just beaten, they were smashed.
The team culminated everything that was worked on leading into the state event and put it on display to perfection.
Competing at the championships was Max Vernon, 15, 14-year-olds Jarek Taylor, Vaughn Wyatt, Mackenzie Neilson, Anneka O'Donnell and Izabella Wills, 12-year-olds Kaiden Neilsen and Jessica Britton and Dakota Daniel, 11.
Prior to the event, Izabella Wills had been informed of her selection for the Matt Levy Inclusive Futures Scholarship, one of five prestigious scholarships meaning she has been identified as a future talent for the Paralympic pathway.
Izabella Wills - S10 Multiclass swimmer
5 x Gold Medals (50m and 100m backstroke and 50m, 100m and 200m freestyle)
Kaiden Neilsen
1 x Silver Medal (400m freestyle, breaking the North Queensland record)
2 x Bronze Medals (200m freestyle, 200m individual medley)
Top 10 finishes in 200m backstroke (4th), 100m butterfly (5th), 100m backstroke (7th) and 50m backstroke (10th)
Mackenzie Neilsen
1 x Silver Medal (200m butterfly)
Top 10 finishes in 100m butterfly (5th) and 200m individual medley (9th)
Dakota Daniel (at her first ever state short course meet)
1 x Silver Medal (200m individual medley)
Top 10 finishes in 100m freestyle (6th), 400m freestyle (7th), 50m freestyle (8th), 100m butterfly (9th) and 200m freestyle (9th)
Jarek Taylor
Top 10 finishes in 200m backstroke (9th), 100m backstroke (10th) and 50m backstroke (10th)
Vaughn Wyatt
Top 10 finishes in 200m breaststroke (8th)
Contributed by Alisha Ness
Back row L-R Anneka O’Donnell, Max Vernon, Vaughn Wyatt, Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier, Front row L-R Jessica Britton, Mackenzie Neilsen, Dakota Daniel, Kaiden Neilsen, Izabella Wills
Kaiden Neilsen
Mackenzie Neilsen
Dakota Daniel
Izabella Wills

Division 1:
Tibhar (Steven Whiting, Tim Sheehan, Vince Boeske) d Donic (Tony Bowman, Anne Sheridan, Ian McKay) 8-3. Tim d Ian 2, -9, -9, 4, 5.
Radak (Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake, Graham Brake) d Joola (Janice Kent, Andrew McHugh, Geoff Denman) 7-4. Mick d Andrew -10, 7, -9, 7, 10.
Butterfly (Emma Widdup, Allan Edwards, Graeme Walker) d Andro (George Camilleri, Robbie Richards, Barry Patterson) 8-3. Allan d George 6, 8, -7, 11.
Division 2:
Xiom (Duncan Sheridan, Duncan Treloar, Ishan Rana) d Victas (Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson, Steve Crocker) 7-4. Duncan T d Mark 8, 6, -14, -7, 6.
Stiga (Tony Bowman, Donna Abbott) d Nittaku (Will VenDeKaa, John McGee) 7-2. Tony d Will -6, -10, 7, 11, 8.
Gewo (Lily Boland, Matthew West, Trent Day) d Yasaka (Noreen Fredericksen, Andrea Nicholson, Peter Goodson) 9-2. Matthew d Peter -9, 7, 3, -6, 8.
Division 3:
Epsilon (Anaya Reelh, Jye Callander, Virginia Clayton) d Delta (Aarnav Reelh, Val Austin, Pawan Goti) 6-5. Anaya d Pawan -10, 3, -12, 8, 11.
Beta (Simoin Hogan, Nehmat Dhaliwal) drew Gamma (Craig VanDeKaa, Mark Stam) 4-all. Nahmat d Craig 7, 7, -10, -7, 7.
Alpha (Rymer Tabulo, Ollie Hamelink) d Zeta (Dave Symons, Bill Hey) 5-4. Rymer/Ollie d Bill/David -19, -6, 3, 7, 8.
Division 1:
Green (Charlie Payne, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) d Yellow (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Bryan Marshall) 7-5. Charlie/Pam d Donna/Peter 8, -3, 6, -12, 11.
Blue (George Camilleri, John McGee, Don Boettcher) d Red (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Kevin Abbott) 7-5. Steve d John -9, -9, 3, 5, 5.
Division 2:
Orange (Helen Ware, Cheryl Pearson, Gerry Synnott) d White (Kim Challender, Michael Ibbotson, Kim Daffy) 7-5. Kim C d Gerry -8, 12, 1, 12.
Purple (Iris Grasso, Ken Best, Judi Hicks) d Pink (Robyn Bushell, John Hamelink, Fred Saliba) 7-5. Ken d Robyn 8, 6, -9, -10, 5.
Division 3:
Tan (Madge Saunders, Bill Hey) d Grey (Ian Dodds, Allison Day) 5-4. Ian d Madge -9, -9, 11, 4, 9.
Aqua (Pam Keune, Glenda Dutton) d Lime (Carmel Cristaldi, Myles Dutton) 7-3. Glenda d Carmel 3, -3, 4, 5.
Contributed by Charlie Payne
DOUBLE TROUBLE: Kim Daffy and Marie Taylor in doubles action at Tuesday morning Mackay Table Tennis fixtures. Photo credit: Charlie Payne
Coral Morgan wanted another avenue for people of all ages to play table tennis in a friendly, non-competitive environment, so she instigated the Friday morning social session at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre several years ago.
Coral is pictured fourth from left in front, with her daughter Delma Knight behind, and the happy group at last week’s session.
The session is open to players of all ages and standards, and equipment is available.
Coral is a life member of Mackay Table Tennis and has been involved in the sport for many years.
Drop in on a Friday morning and give it a try, you’ll enjoy it.
Contributed by Charlie Payne
Friday morning social table tennis players. Photo supplied

Social ladies bowls results for August 16, the winning team consisted of Helen Fleming, Bev McDonald and Carmel Bell.
Runners up were Sue Roscoe, Jan Comelli, and Doris Dodds.
Thursday had three finals played on the rinks at Goosies Sport and Recreation Club with some very exciting and closely contested games. The Under 70’s game was between Hilary Jones-Rowan and Donna Gordon.
Both ladies were keen on the green, but Hilary took out the win.
The final of the clubs Consistency Competition was very exciting to watch between Lois Deguara and Nuggy Pratt.
Very consistent bowls were needed to win this event and both ladies showed their prowess.
Lois Deguara was the eventual winner.
Contributed by Suanne Hazledine
Under 70’s L-R Winner Hilary Jones-Rowan and Donna Gordon
Over 70’s L-R Marie Duck and winner Pat O’Neill
Consistency L-R winner Lois Deguara and Nuggy Pratt. Photos supplied

The racetrack came alive with thoroughbred competition and good-natured rivalry over the weekend with the annual Ben Bolt Cup.
Over 450 people came along for a fabulous day out, which featured five horse races.
Entertainment was as exciting on the track as it was off the track, with a host of activities that brought attendees together.
Many of the men participated in the tomato cart races while the women competed in the pumpkin races and the children enjoyed the hobby horse racing.
The next event on the Bowen Turf Club Calendar is the TAB Race Meet on Thursday, September 14, followed by the biggest showcase of the year – the Bowen Cup – which is due to take place on Saturday, October 14.
Results from the Ben Bolt Cup:
Race 1 - Maiden Plate 1000 metres
Lesotho Diamond
Time: 59.10 seconds
Margins: 3 lengths x 3/4 length
Race 2 - Filby's Motors
QTIS Benchmark 55 Handicap 1000m
Cudyado
Time: 58.54 seconds
Margins: neck x 1 length
Race 3 - Pilcher's Concrete
Benchmark 45 Handicap 1280m
Lightheadedness
Time: 1 minute 17.83 seconds
Margins: 1 1/4 lengths x 3/4 length
Race 4 - Hillery Group
Open Handicap 1280m
Valley of Dreams
Time: 1 minute 15.75 seconds
Margins: 1/2 neck x 1 length
Race 5 - Burdekin Vet Services
Ben Bolt Cup
Benchmark 65 Handicap 1470m
Higher Love
Time: 1 minute 28.60 seconds
Margins: neck x nose
Winner of the Ben Bolt Cup
Winner of Race 4
Winner of Race 3
Winner of Race 2
Photo credit: Saskia Photography

The annual Stonka Fishing Challenge 2023 was a huge success over the weekend, with hard competition and fantastic community spirit on show.
Featuring competitors across the region, and of any age and ability, the catches were impressive and triumphant for all.
Aside from the on-water comp, the event saw a wide variety of food stalls, bars, and live music at host venue Cape Gloucester Resort, as well as the tug-o-war and many other activities.
During the event, $12,000 in donations were gathered for the Leukaemia House in Townsville.
Fierce competition at the annual Stonka Fishing Challenge. Photo credit: Facebook

As the days get longer and warmer and another spring is approaching our little club has had some amazing success and some wonderful events.
Last Tuesday we celebrated the life of our club patron Thelma Porter who died at the ripe old age of 105.
Thelma loved her bowls and played up to when she reached 100 years old and could've played on, and on Tuesday we all celebrated her long and full life with an event a wonderful turnout and her daughter Lane Telford put up the prize money for the first three winning teams.
Third place went to the team of Betty Whitehorn at skipper, with Eva McMahon whom returned to visit the club again and played brilliantly at second with Mark Mawson at lead.
Second best team on the day was ably led by skipper Tony Kelly whom with recently returned from her overseas tour and Maureen Barnard with Di Jackson.
Whilst the winners of the tournament were Tony Whitehorn at skipper with Lane Telford at second making her mother proud and the most impressive performance of the cheeky Dawn Dowell at lead, whilst Mark Mawson took home the prestigious Health Hub award. A great day was had by all.
The final of the Mens A Open singles was also played and it was Alan Pershouse with a fantastic exhibition of draw bowls beat a gallant Harry Quad in a nail biter and thus a new king was crowned, well done Alan.
Saturday morning Scroungers saw first round winners Betty Whitehorn, Karen Jensen, Ted Cullen and John Matterson, with Betty and John playing for the Round 7 prize in a close match it was John Matterson who took home the prize, with Mark Mawson the Group B winner.
Next Sunday afternoon will be the inaugural Memorial Day to celebrate the life of recently departed Nik Fernbach
Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.
The winning team from Tuesdays Thelma Porter day Tony Whitehorn with Dawn Dowel and Lane Telford. Photo supplied

Triples Finalised
This weekend Michael Kinnear competed in the Champion of Champion Singles at North Mackay.
Michael, a previous winner of this event, was defeated by Graeme Blackburn from Wests Tigers.
Peter Blackburn from Souths Suburban went on to win the event with Bruce Archer from Sarina being the runner up.
On Sunday the Men's Club Championship Triples were finalised.
In the Semi Finals Harry Craig, Scott Hamilton (subbing for Isaac Elliott), and Jonathan Bye defeated Philip Brown (subbing for Warren Wilson), Bruce Uhe and Barry Zillmann 32 – 5.
Dale Haack, Shane Kinnear, and Wayne Handley defeated Kendall Watts, Gavin Noonan and Luchie Gardel 23 - 16.
Sunday afternoon the Finals were played.
Dale Haack, Shane Kinnear, and Wayne Handley defeated Harry Craig, Scott Hamilton, and Jonathan Bye 27 - 17.
Wayne's team will now play Champion of Champions at Souths Suburban on September 9 and 10.
In Social bowls.
On Wednesday we had visitors from Victoria join us for a game of bowls.
Alen Sanderson, Christina B and Philip Brown defeated Arthur Griffith, John Anderson, and Pat Bownds 27 – 19.
Jim Bownds, Bruce Uhe, and Barry Zillmann defeated Lee King, Jim Chedwick, and Sandy Daffara 22 - 16.
On Sunday we had a visitor from Port Pirie South Australia.
John Anderson and Peter Lawton defeated John Burnett and Arthur Griffith 27 - 18; Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown and Sandy Daffara defeated Lee King, Hugh Paterson and Kendall Watts 22 - 12.
Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

We have great news to report.
The Wangaratta pairs team of Denise Wallace and Penny Warren played in the Nth Qld District Championships this past week.
After convincingly winning their section with three out of three wins and an aggregate of 25, they continued their good form during the week defeating teams in the quarter and semi-finals to reach the final on Saturday morning.
They continued on playing well to defeat the Thuringowa team of Jacinta Wallace and Bernadette Hay.
Winners for Monday afternoon triples were R Hayton, R Barr-Kemp, and K Armstrong who defeated J Steele, J Dawson, and G Wills.
On Tuesday winners were Dianne Hallis, Irene Laird, and Keith Armstrong who defeated Joe Verden, Keith S/Collins, and Lindsay Harris.
Winners for our Fun Friday afternoon were L Knight, C Bellingham, and B Bellingham who defeated A Vigar, C Heinrich, and A Pearson.
Sunday winners to claim the Crab trophy came out on Rink 2.
They were P Breakwell, H Donoghue, I Wheeler, and P Donoghue who defeated T Crozier, M Harvey, M Chappel, and A Rolfe.
There will be no Barefoot bowls this Friday due to a private function.
This Saturday Wangaratta will host the annual Combined Shield so if you have time come down to watch some good bowls.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.
Winners Of NQ Ladies District Championship Pairs - Denise Wallace & Penny Warren. Photo supplied

Only 3 matches to report on this week, and just 1 match remaining between Dom Friend and Art McMinn before we finish off the league season, and kick into finals action.
Jamie Maher finished the league season strongly with a 7/2 victory over Andy Peel to end his campaign in 4th place.
It was an even game in the scoring department, but where Andy struggled finding his doubles, Jamie was clinical.
It’s been a tough season for Andy who finished the season in 8th place, but it’s a finals spot, and anything can happen in finals, especially when you are a previous champion.
Joe Wilson secured 2nd place in the league with a 7/2 win over Jayden Lloyd.
That will set up a mouth-watering clash with the defending Champion Dom Friend in the first week of finals, as Dom cannot improve on his current position of 3rd place.
Jayden will finish his season off by playing in the consolation finals series after finishing just outside the top 8, in 9th place.
Joining Jayden in the Hetlock Cup will be the debutant Hawkeye Rick after finishing his season with a 1 win and 18 loss record, one of which came at the hands of Jamie Woods this Sunday at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club by a scoreline of 7/1.
Rick showing steady improvement throughout the year and will be better for it going into next season.
That win over Rick means that Jamie Woods yet again claimed this year’s league title, but only by the finest of margins, courtesy of a better leg difference over Joe Wilson.
Unlucky to Joe, but a fantastic season regardless, and a big congratulations to Woodsy from everyone at the club, it’s a richly deserved league victory!
Thank you to our sponsors Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing Airlie Beach, and Master Butchers Whitsunday & MBW On the Barbie.
Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.
L/R Jamie Maher and Andy Peel just before locking horns in the Premier League on Sunday morning. Photo supplied
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Highlight of the week was the hole in one by Trevor Nosworthy on Hole 2. Great way to start the round!
Jan Shuwalow beat all players on Tuesday with 39 points, Elspeth Scotford was runner-up and also secured the NTP.
Karl Kirkwood won the Men's competition with 38 pts, ahead of Col Hounsell.
NTP winners: Paul Gray, Peter Krause, and Barry Mortimer.
Elspeth continued her good form on Wednesday to take out the Airllywood Stableford ahead of Ann Gardel and Jan Shuwalow.
NTP's went to Rehab Hull and Ann Gardel.
The Thursday Division 1 winner was Ash Morley-Hart on 37 pts, ahead of Brian Allen also on 37 and Jon Miller on 36pts in 3rd place.
Joe Taylor topped the podium in Division 2 with 37 pts, also a countback with Ben Doer in 2nd place.
David Telford claimed 3rd place with 35pts.
NTP winners: Trevor Nosworthy (hole in one) Jon Miller, Yoko Fitton, and Fraser Simpson.
Jack Pirlo edged out Karlene Lloyd on a countback to win the Friday Met Run, and David Lloyd was the only NTP winner.
After the Club's AGM players headed out for the Saturday Stableford, Paula McQuat leading the ladies in with 38 pts, followed by Penny Wardroper on 35, and Nicole Cooper claiming 3rd place.
Dean Barnard was the winner of the men's competition with 39pts, on a countback from Adam Hagy and John Bissell in 3rd place with 37 pts.
NTP winners: Dean Barnard, Trish McNeill x 2, Brad Vloedmans, Mel Patullo and Mandy Patterson.
Don Cameron played well on Sunday to win the men's competition with 39 pts, with Terry Kimpton securing 2nd place on 35 pts. Robyn Whitham won the ladies with a scorching 40 pts, and Elise Hodgson was in 2nd place with 36 pts.
NTP winners: Nathan Holohan, Chris Bartlett, Scott Vlismas, Ben Raymant, Pauline Redpath and Diane Chard.
Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Pro Shop Team.

In his address to the members at Saturday’s AGM President Phil Batty said that the Proserpine Golf Club has yielded remarkable achievements and successes throughout the 2022- 2023 financial year.
It has been filled with significant milestones and growth in player numbers, events, and online social media presence, but most importantly, significant financial stability.
Throughout the year the club’s consistent performance has exceeded all budget expectations.
“We have experienced a 51 per cent increase in revenue from $792,000 to $1.198 million, and a 645 per cent increase in Profit Increase from $27,000 to $205,000,” he said.
“In addition to the excellent financial result, we have paid out early all the outstanding equipment loans to clear the balance sheet of liabilities,” he continued.
The organisational benefit of a good result is that the club has tentatively secured financial support from our bankers to fund the purchase of equipment to take the course to another level.
The board is currently evaluating and investigating the purchase of a new fairway mower, rough areas mower and greens mower.
We have recently purchased a sand spreader which is already having a marked impact on the greens and course generally.
The Club has recently ordered ten new Yamaha buggies and traded six from our current fleet of buggies to increase the number of buggies from 20 to 23.
Membership and participation are the backbone of Proserpine Golf Club, and I am pleased to say that this financial year saw over 120 new members. That’s an increase in membership to over 400 members, many of whom came from the incentive program in December where new entrants to golf were introduced by current members with the three-month trial.
“Looking ahead, we are excited to build upon our accomplishments and continue to explore new avenues for growth, enhancing our digital presence and developing creative ways to engage our members and the community,” Mr. Batty concluded.
Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.
President of Proserpine Golf Club, Phil Batty. Photo supplied

This week’s stableford 9-hole competition saw Edwina Pettiford in first place with 22 pts c/b, second place was Jack Hayes Williams with 22 pts and third with 20 pts was Josh Quin.
Fridays 9-hole stableford saw Elise Hodgson in first place with 24 pts, second place on 19 pts was Andrew Gomez and third place with 18 pts was Craig Kennedy. Great job by all.
On Sunday we held our 18-hole skins competition which saw Billy Blacker take the win with 13 skins, second place with 12 skins was Brad Low and third place with 9 skins was Josh Barnard.
Nearest the pin were Craig Kennedy and Dean Barnard.
This Sunday 27th August will be our monthly medal tee off at 10.00am, hope to see you all there.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Green Golf Course.
Pictured: Andrew Gomez