The Whitsunday Swimming Club had 11 swimmers attend the 2025 NQ Championships in Townsville over the weekend. It was a long, hot, and exhausting few days, but all our swimmers returned home with terrific achievements, despite their tired bodies.

George was the standout, claiming NQ Champion for 12 years MC in the 50m Freestyle, Butterfly, Breaststroke, Backstroke, and 100m Freestyle. He was also awarded 12 years boys MC Age Champion.

Alex took home the NQ Champion title in the 17 years & over men’s 50m Butterfly, Breaststroke, and 100m Breaststroke.

Chloe secured a 2nd place finish in the 11 years girls 200IM, with an impressive 8.85-second PB.

Leyton earned 2nd place in the 12-year-old boys 200m and 100m Breaststroke, achieving a huge 6.84-second PB in the finals. He also claimed 3rd in the 50m Breaststroke.

Hayden swam a PB of 5.33 seconds in his 100m Freestyle and another 5.03-second PB in his 100m Breaststroke.

Jayde joined her brothers in the Breaststroke PB challenge, posting a 6.41-second PB in her 100m swim.

Axel swam a 2.83-second PB in his 100m Backstroke and broke his 50m Butterfly PB by 1.77 seconds.

Alissa swam all four of her events with PBs, with her biggest being an 11.26-second improvement in the 50m Butterfly.

Friday night saw Mia, Lochlan, and Amy join the team for the club relays.

Lochlan, Alex, Hayden, and Axel took 3rd place in the 11 & over men’s 400m Freestyle relay. Hayden, George, Leyton, and Axel also earned 3rd in the 8-14 years boys 200m Medley and 200m Freestyle relays.

A huge thank you to Coach Jenny for her support and guidance, helping our swimmers achieve their goals and represent the club with pride.

Whitsunday Swimming Club trains Monday – Thursday from 3.30pm at the Proserpine Swimming Pool. For more information, email: whitsundayfrogs@gmail.com.au or pop into the pool for a chat.

Contributed with thanks by Amanda Yuskan, WSC President

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The whole swim team and coaches at relay night
11's and over boys 400m freestyle relay team gets 3rd place
8-14yrs relay gets 3rd in the 200m medley

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club "Sweeties and Squires" (Ladies and Juniors) Family Fishing weekend is on 28th to 30th March and is shaping up to be a fantastic weekend. Participation is free to current members, and non members are more than welcome to join the Club and be part of this and future Club events. Membership is $70 per adult, and $35 for juniors under 16 years.

All Juniors competing will receive a free Shimano rod and reel and a bag of goodies as part of the Queensland Game Fishing Association's (G.F.A.A.) Kids2Fish Program!

Prizes will be awarded in the Ladies, Junior's boys and girls (11 to 16 years) and Small Fry's boys and girls (under 11 years) categories for a photo taken on a brag mat of their fish, caught using rod and reel only. All photos will go before a panel of judges and the winners will be judged on merit, not the size of their fish, whether released or kept for the dinner table. All rules will be explained in detail at the Registration and Briefing at the Marine Club in Altmann Avenue in Cannonvale on Friday 28th of March from 6pm where Juniors and Small Fry will be presented with their new free rod and reel.

This is a relaxed weekend and fishing starts at your leisure anytime after the Briefing. All participants need to be present at the Marine Club at 12 noon on Sunday 30th of March for the Presentation and some delicious food. This will be a great way to spend a fun weekend on the water for family and friends and The Whitsunday Game Fish Club would love to see new and old Members alike join in!

WHAT: The Whitsunday Game Fish Club "Sweeties and Squires" fishing competition
WHEN: Briefing - 6pm 28th of March & Prize Ceremony - 12pm of 30th March
WHERE: Whitsunday Marine Club, Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale

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Small Fry member, Kyle Matthews, with a nice coral trout
Junior member,  Kurt Martin, happy with his recent catch
Small Fry members, Kyle Matthews, with his recent catch
Squires getting fishing tips at the Club

How great is it to live in paradise? This week's bowls has certainly been filled with excitement.

Firstly, on Tuesday morning, in bowls, Carol Crosbie's team, with Hubble Noel at lead and Sandra Argo at second, triumphed over Joan McGrath’s team, which included Sue Dakin at lead and Dawn Dowell at second. Meanwhile, John Brown's team, with Mel Fennel at lead and husband Greg at second, drew with John Fielding's team of Sue Walker at lead and Gen Passfield.

Wednesday afternoon's Jackpot bowls were quieter than usual, likely due to the Open Men's Singles and the completion of last year's Mixed Pairs and Fours events. However, John Fielding's team of Phil O'Brien and Warren Williams proved the strongest on the day, with the jackpot remaining unclaimed.

In the Men's Singles first round, Russell Jackson, Alan Pershouse, Ash Warland, Bob McMahon, Shane Spann, Rick Galea, Harry Quod, Luke Kinnear, Arthur McManus, and Dennis Donnadelli all progressed to Round 2.

On Saturday morning, Scroungers saw first-round winners Margo Stanley, Andy McDougall, Tony Whitehorn, and Maureen Barnard play off for the final. Despite starting with a -5 score, Margo Stanley overwhelmed the competition to claim her second victory in this event, while Merve Stewart won B Division.

Sunday afternoon's Social Bowls saw Tony Whitehorn's team, with Bill Gordon in fine form and Sue Dakin proving too strong, dominate the field.

At the same time, the final game of the Mixed Fours was taking place between Andrew Butler's team (Dawn Dowell, Elaine Kippen, and Andy McDougall) and Shane Spann's team (Keith Bates, substituting for John Trembath, with Vicki Spann and Joan McGrath). In a spine-tingling match, Andrew Butler's team emerged victorious by just one point.

The Women and Girls come and try lawn bowls program, sponsored by the Queensland Government Sport and Rec is running on Thursday 13th March at 5pm -6pm.

Contributed with thanks by Mark Mawson

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Mixed Fours Finalists: Vicki Spann, Keith Bates, Joan McGrath, and Shane Spann.

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The Cannonvale Cannons wrapped up a big weekend of racing, starting with the annual Club Championships on Saturday. This highly anticipated event saw swimmers competing in five set races within their age group to battle for the Age Champion title. A season highlight, this event offered a real race-day setup while maintaining the supportive and spirited environment of club competition. Club Champs not only provide a platform for intense racing but also serve as one of the final opportunities for swimmers to qualify for end-of-year club trophies and records.

Coaches Mark Erickson and Ken Crittenden were left in awe by the exceptional performances across all age groups. Out of the 285 swims recorded on the day, a staggering 186 were personal bests—an incredible testament to the swimmers' dedication and consistent training over the past year. A special mention goes to the club’s younger swimmers, who fearlessly tackled distances they had never attempted before.

The club now looks ahead to the End-of-Year Presentation Night on May 3, where these remarkable achievements, amongst others from throughout the season will be celebrated.

The excitement continued on Sunday at the Whitsunday Short Course Transition Meet in Collinsville. This event marked a significant milestone as it was the first competition held at the newly renovated 25m short-course pool, replacing the former unique 33m length pool. Swimmers had the exciting opportunity to set brand-new pool records, and many Cannons rose to the occasion.

Congratulations to Charlie and Evie Doherty, Ruby and Koa Harland, Mackenzie Bennet, Andie and Dylan Reynolds, Eloise and Harry Chegwidden, Isaac and Isabella Pisaniello, and Miranda Palmero, who all claimed new pool records at the meet.

With such an outstanding weekend of racing, the Cannons continue to prove that hard work and dedication pay off as they prepare for the final events of the season.

Contributed with thanks by Jade Korosec, Vice President of the Cannonvale Cannons

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11 Year Girls place-getters for the 50M Breaststroke Event

The new Collinsville pool record holders

10 Year Boys place-getters for the 50M Breaststroke Event

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When most people think of visiting South Africa, they imagine spotting the local wildlife that includes the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo. But Micky Kimpton, race director of the Coral Sea Resort Marina Airlie Beach Triathlon, has something else in mind.

At 71 years, Micky is no stranger to a challenge. He’s about to take on his sixth Ironman triathlon in five years, and this time, his swim will have a much larger adversary than his fellow triathletes. He’s heading to Nelson Mandela Bay in South Africa next month, and while most competitors are focused on finishing the gruelling race, Micky has one more thing on his mind: adding a Great White Shark to his personal wildlife list.

"I figured, if I’m going to be swimming in open water, I may as well make it interesting," Micky says with his signature grin. "I’ve got the lions and leopards sorted in my bucket list. Now it’s time for something a little more... toothy."

The South African Ironman is no easy feat. It’s a brutal event that involves a 3.8 km swim, followed by a 180 km bike ride and a full 42.2 km marathon. The swim takes place in the chilly waters of Nelson Mandela Bay, a place renowned not only for its great swimming conditions, but also for its healthy population of Great White Sharks.

Micky has managed to add a little extra danger to the mix. "I’m hoping to add ‘shark-watching’ to my list of hobbies," he quips. "But don’t worry, I’ll stick to the official swim course and leave the wildlife to the experts."

Micky's not just doing this for fun. As the race director of the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival, Micky's been a driving force behind growing the event into one of the Whitsundays' premier races, and his passion for the sport is contagious. His philosophy? Age is just a number, and there’s no finish line for true dedication.

"Competing in these Ironman races has taught me patience, discipline, and the ability to laugh at myself when I’m swimming alongside a shark," he jokes. "But in all seriousness, it’s about showing that no matter how old you are, it’s never too late to push yourself."

“I also love giving back to the sport and as race director for this year’s 25th Anniversary the Coral Sea marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon will have a new bike course for all distances!

Whether Micky crosses the Ironman finish line with a medal around his neck or an "I survived a shark" badge, we know one thing for sure—his legend will only grow. It’s not just the triathlons he’s conquering; it’s also inspiring others to embrace their own challenges, whatever they may be.

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Micky at his first triathlon for 2024, 2XU Olympic distance Event in St.Kilda, Melbourne. Photo sourced: Michael Kimpton's Facebook page.

Micky, cycling during a triathlon. Michael Kimpton's Facebook page.

Micky Kimpton. Photo sourced: RMHC's home website.

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On Sunday, 9th March, the Whitsunday Swimming Club hosted a short course swim meet at the newly upgraded Collinsville Swimming Pool. This fantastic facility provides the swimming community with an excellent venue for short, fast racing.

In 2024, the Whitsunday Regional Council upgraded the pool from 33m to 25m in length. Certified as a short course pool by Swimming Australia, it will now serve as a premier location for short course meets across the entire Swimming North Queensland region.

A total of 21 swimmers from Whitsunday Swimming Club participated in the meet, racing their hearts out. There were personal bests, medals awarded, and even pool records set. The event saw a great mix of first-timers and seasoned swimmers, with plenty of cheering, laughter, and fun shared by both the swimmers and their families.

A big congratulations to swimmers Alex, Lochlan, Mia, Savanah, Hayden, Axel, Leyton, Chloe, Jayde, Ti, Jax, George, Summer, Jackson, Jack, Alissa, Emeilia, Mackenzie, and Georgia for their outstanding performances. Every swimmer went home with medals, ribbons, beaming smiles, and tired bodies.

Although Ivy was injured, she showed 100% team spirit, cheering her teammates on throughout the event. Coach Jenny proudly watched over her swimmers, celebrating their achievements.

A huge thank you to all the swimmers, families, neighboring clubs, and the pool management team at Aquatic Rush for making the day so memorable.

Whitsunday Swimming Club trains at the Proserpine Swimming Pool from Monday to Thursday, starting at 3:30 pm. New swimmers are always welcome.

Contributed with thanks by Amanda of the Whitsunday Swimming Club.

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The Whitsunday Swimming Club meet participants with their medals.
Racers on the block, ready to dive.

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Sunset Bay Outrigger Canoe Club had a stellar showing at the 2025 Sydney Harbour Challenge, taking on tough conditions over three days of intense racing against Australia’s best and international competitors.

The event kicked off on Friday with a 13km race on Sydney Harbour, where paddlers faced a dramatic ‘white-out’ as heavy rain reduced visibility. Despite the challenging conditions, the Sunset Bay Masters Mixed crew powered through, completing the course in an impressive 1 hour and 6 minutes, securing a silver medal in their division. The result was even more remarkable considering it was the first time this crew had paddled together.

On Saturday, Sunset Bay was represented by two strong Senior Masters Mixed crews in the 22km race outside the Sydney Harbour Heads. Battling demanding offshore conditions, both crews had an exhilarating finish, crossing the line just two seconds apart. With times of 1 hour 59 minutes 20 seconds and 1 hour 59 minutes 22 seconds, their performances would have placed them on the podium based on 2024 results. This time, they finished third and fourth in their division, earning a hard-fought bronze medal for Sunset Bay.

Later on Saturday, as winds intensified, the Golden Masters Men’s crew faced the most gruelling conditions of the weekend. After ‘huliing’ (capsizing) at the Heads, they persevered but were only able to complete 15km of the 22km course. With some paddlers in this crew over 70 years old, their determination on the water was truly inspirational.

Sunday saw Sunset Bay paddler Mark Bell take on the 18km OC1 downwind race in the Golden Masters Men’s division, finishing in fourth place. Summing up the challenge, he admitted, “It was a struggle out there today.”

The Sunsetters are now in training to compete in the North Qld zone regatta when they head to Airlie Beach on May long weekend.

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Sunset Bay Outrigger Canoe Club showcased incredible resilience and skill at the 2025 Sydney Harbour Challenge, securing silver and bronze medals while battling tough conditions over three days of intense racing. Photos supplied

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Last week was a rollercoaster for our young club—full of soaring highs, bittersweet farewells, and a Thursday night training session that looked more like a tactical masterclass than an amateur run-around.

Monday night saw a solid turnout of 14 players, proving once again that we’re more than just a collection of enthusiastic athletes—we’re a growing force. By Thursday, we had 17 eager bodies on the pitch, and if we keep this up, we might need to start taking reservations.

One thing is clear: our team is evolving. Gone are the days of relying on brute force (though some of our more “enthusiastic” tacklers might need reminding). We’re moving towards a game built on strategy, skill, and—dare I say it—actual technique! Our substitute rotations are smoother, our positional play is sharper, and the game is looking better than ever.

Of course, individual performances have been outstanding across the board, but if we had to highlight just one player, it’s Macca. He’s like a Swiss Army knife—useful in any position and always reliable. If we had three of him, we’d never lose a game.

We’ve also been getting great feedback from visitors, who’ve praised our club’s welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly vibe. It’s the kind of energy that keeps players coming back—and growing in numbers.

See you all Monday night. Until then, rest up, hydrate, and maybe practice a few goal celebrations—because we’re only getting better!

Contributed by Joel Sadleir

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The club had a big week of growth, strong turnouts, and tactical improvements, with standout performances and a welcoming atmosphere driving momentum forward. Photos supplied

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The Mackay Road Runners launched their first Club Championship race of the season in style, with nearly 80 runners taking to the streets of East Mackay from Queen’s Park. The event was a long-standing favourite among members, and was once again proudly sponsored by MAD Fitness Mackay.

No stranger to supporting the local running community, MAD Fitness Mackay has been a generous sponsor for several years, not only backing the Club Championship race but also donating a sought-after prize pack worth over $300 for the club’s annual Presentation Night.

Club President and Life Member Paul Tilse expressed his gratitude for the ongoing partnership, acknowledging MAD Fitness Mackay’s continued support as the 5km Club Championship sponsor for the second consecutive year.

The 5km race saw a strong field battle it out for top honours, with Paul Mackenzie and Alana Knezevic securing victory in the men’s and women’s divisions. Both champions walked away with a MAD Fitness Mackay gift bag valued at approximately $150. In addition to the winners’ prizes, MAD Fitness Mackay generously contributed cash and free gym passes to ten lucky random draw winners, while the club provided chocolates and lollies as minor prizes.

All runners also had the opportunity to accumulate crucial Club Championship points, both overall and in their age categories, with results contributing toward the end-of-season awards.

Despite humid conditions and little breeze, the event was a success, thanks to the dedication of the club’s volunteers. Special appreciation was extended to Patron Col Meng and his family for supplying icy Zooper Doopers at the finish line.

The club also acknowledged the behind-the-scenes efforts of the registration and timing team, as well as the setup and pack-down crew, whose work ensures smooth event execution. Members were encouraged to show their appreciation and lend a hand where possible, as these volunteers often give up their own runs to make each event possible.

Attention now turns to this Friday’s Mackay Marina Run Launch 5km, set to take place at 6pm from Bluewater Quay. Sponsored by Mackay Airport, this social twilight run is a highlight on the calendar, with 100% of proceeds benefiting the Mackay Branch of the Leukaemia Foundation.

With a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere, the event is perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy an active evening together. Registrations are $10 per person and must be completed online via the Mackay Marina Run website—no entries will be taken on the night.

As a result, the Mackay Road Runners will not hold their usual Sunday run this week, with members encouraged to get involved in this meaningful cause.

For more details on upcoming events, visit the Mackay Road Runners website or follow their social media pages.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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First Female, Alana Kenezevic takes gold in a sensational time in the 5km MAD Fitness Mackay Road Runners Club Champonship event.
9789 – Ashley Miles sprints to the finish line ahead of 2nd placed female Ashlee Scott.
9777 – MAD Fitness Mackay 5km Club Championship male winner, Paul Mackenzie.
9707 – Club legends, Jan Smith and Merv Shields are long time members as shown by their race bib #!
9877 – The MAD Fitness Mackay Team were awesome sponsors of the Mackay Road Runners 5km Club Championship event.
9854 – Ross and Leanne Connor easily complete the 5km Club Championship sponsored by MAD Fitness Mackay.
9727 – Stephen Hayles makes an early break at the start of the 5km MAD Fitness Mackay  championship event for Mackay Road Runners. Photos supplied

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Monday, 24 February 2025 – 5 Table Howell (Green Points)

1st: David Ting & Eric Goodchild
2nd: Jewel Schmidt & Janine Rodgers
3rd: Janelle Conroy & Tex Sheedy
4th: Jan Harris & Helen Van Den Broek
5th: Joy Block & Nancy Wix

Tuesday Evening, 25 February 2025 – 4.5 Table Howell (Green Points)

1st: Noel Bugeia & Eric Goodchild
2nd: Andrew Canavan & Jan Harris
3rd: Helen Van Den Broek & Tex Sheedy
4th: Shirley Worland & Simon Barnes

Wednesday, 26 February 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell (Green Points)

North/South
1st: Jan Harris & Sandra Morris
2nd: Janelle Conroy & Noel Bugeia
3rd: Joy Robinson & Robert Carless
4th: Ming Ting & David Ting

East/West
1st: Tex Sheedy & Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd: Janet Hansen & Alan Brown
3rd: Geoff Taylor & Ted Cullinan
4th: Geoffrey Patterson & Sandy Patterson

Thursday Evening, 27 February 2025 – 4 Table Howell (Green Points)

1st: Janine Rodgers & Janelle Conroy
2nd: Noel Bugeia & Tex Sheedy
3rd: Jan Harris & Frances Brown
4th: Shirley Worland & Adrian Westcott

Friday, 28 February 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell (Green Points)

North/South
1st: Tex Sheedy & Noel Bugeia
2nd: Joyce Deguara & Toni Large
3rd: Kath Poole & Nancy Martin
4th: Joy Robinson & Geoff Taylor

East/West
1st: Frances Brown & Alan Brown
2nd: Monica Darley & Gwen Liddell
3rd: David Ting & Ming Ting
4th: Janelle Conroy & Pamela Finger

Saturday, 1 March 2025 – 11 Table Mitchell (Green Points)

North/South
1st: Max Holewa & Max Holewa
2nd: Ted Cullinan & Noel Saunders
3rd: Tex Sheedy & Janine Rodgers
4th: Julie O'Neill & Griffin Bancroft
5th: Joy Robinson & Geoff Taylor

East/West
1st: Helen Van Den Broek & Joy Brunette
2nd: Frances Brown & Sandy Patterson
3rd: Lorna Shuttlewood & Susan Wright
4th: Janelle Conroy & Robert Carless
5th: Geoff Cowan & Annette Howe

Contributed by Robert Carless

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Faye, Marilin and Joy enjoying the 2024 Melbourne Cup day bridge. Photo supplied

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After a soggy finish to the Junior Cricket season and the cancellation of last week's scheduled Grand Finals, the sun finally shone on Saturday morning. Four Proserpine teams faced early starts as they hit the highway, heading down to compete against rival teams in each grade for the coveted premiership titles.
This achievement in itself is a testament to the strength of the country club, which continues to punch above its weight in the regional cricket scene.

U12s: Pitbulls Fall Short Against Sarina Spartans

In the U12s, the Proserpine Pitbulls took on the Sarina Spartans, who immediately seized the upper hand by winning the toss and choosing to send Proserpine in to bat on a wet outfield. Despite a hard-fought battle, the Spartans emerged victorious, clinching their first-ever junior premiership. McKennan Jeffs was named Player of the Final for his standout performance in all areas of the game.

U13s: Souths Prove Too Strong for Proserpine

The U13s headed to Walkerston, where Souths faced off against Proserpine. Souths saved their best cricket for last, putting on an outstanding team performance to come out on top. They chased down the total without losing a wicket, with Beau McPherson earning Player of the Match for his contributions with both the bat and ball.

U15s: Proserpine Falls Just Short in Thrilling Encounter

The U15s saw minor premiers Proserpine take on Norths in what turned out to be the closest game of the day. In a thrilling contest that could have gone either way, Proserpine’s never-give-up attitude almost saw them steal a win, but they fell just six runs short of the target. Keagon Roets was named Player of the Match for his exceptional knock.

U17s: A Fitting End to Junior Cricket

The highlight of the day came in the U17s, where the boys and girls played their final game of junior cricket. Walkerston got off to a flying start, with both opening batters notching up quick half-centuries. The team continued to build momentum, posting an impressive total of 184 runs, a formidable target for Proserpine to chase down.

Proserpine started well, with the top four batters making valuable contributions. However, as the innings progressed, wickets began to fall, and Walkerston ultimately claimed victory by 33 runs. Player of the Match Ben Garner with a top score of 64 and taking 2 wickets.

The day ended on a heart-warming note as Walkerston received the U17 trophy, named in honour of Hazel Weeks, a club stalwart who has been involved with Walkerston Cricket Club for over 50 years. Hazel beamed with pride as she congratulated her club’s team and handed over the trophy—one of the biggest smiles we’ve ever seen.

Season Ends, Winter Whack Awaits

With the season wrapping up, the kids are already looking forward to Winter Whack. A huge shoutout goes to all the volunteers, parents, and caregivers who make it possible for the kids to play each week. You are the unsung heroes of the game, and we thank you for your dedication and support.

Contributed by Mel Dwyer

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At The Table

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday Morning Fixtures, February 25, 2025:

Division 1:

Mars Pioneers (Delma Knight, Kevin Abbott) d Saturn’s Rings (Charlie Payne, Coral Morgan) 6-3.

Luna Legends (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) d Venus Voyagers (Peter Goodson, Branko Vucurovic, Marie Taylor) 8-4. Noreen d Peter -4, 10, 5, -8, 8.

Rocket Stars (Allan Robins, John McGee, Veronica Shepherd) d Solar Comets (Doug Dungavell, Judy Zahn, Bryan Marshall) 7-5. Judy d John -9, -7, 10, 3, 7.

Division 2:

Mercury Meteors (Ken Best, Helen Ware, Kim Daffy) d Neptune Navigators (John Hamelink, Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) 9-3. Helen d John 8, -4, -8, 8, 6.

Pluto Players (Farryl Ross, Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott) d Jupiter Jets (Don Boettcher, Kim Challender, Robyn Bushell) 7-5. Jerry d Kim -9, -10, 5, 10, 9.

Division 3:

Aqua Waves (Chris Collins, Thelma Caruana) d Green Lantern (Laurie Bradshaw, Trish Zamparuti) 7-2. Chris d Laurie 9, -5, -8, 8, 9.

Wonder Warriors (Virginia Clayton, John Pratt, Glenda Brookes) d Black Panthers (Sharon Muller, Madge Saunders, Carmel Cristaldi) 11-1. Sharon d Glenda -10, -8, 4, 12, 11.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures, February 25, 2025:

Division 1:

Star Lords (Vimal Chilukuri, Robbie Richards, Mark Sleeman) d Cosmic Sorcerer (Donna Abbott, Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan) 6-5. Anne d Mark 7, 4, -9, -7, 7.

Ant Warriors (Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) d Stellar Storms (Duncan Treloar, Lee Brake, Barry Patterson) 10-1. Graeme d Barry 10, -8, -11, 11, 11.

Venus Voyagers (Graham Drury, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) d Panther Prowlers (Vince Boeske, Allan Edwards, Trent Day) 10-1. Geoff d Trent 4, -11, -10, 6, 11.

Ghost Spin (Allan Robins, Steven Whiting, Lily Boland) d Phoenix Fire (Andrew McHugh, Josh Brown, Andrea Nicholson) 6-5. Allan d Andrea 8, 8, -9, -10, 9.

Division 2:

Pirate Plunge (Geoff Cowan, Saisha Palod, David Symons) d Spartan Serve (Liz Burton, YiLin Jiang, Mark Stam) 7-4. YiLin d Geoff 9, 10, -7, -8, 11.

Celtic Smash (Tiffany Camilleri, Syed Zhang) d Zulu Spears (Darryl Ross, Rod Hamelink) 7-2. Tiffany d Darryl -7, 7, 14, -9, 9.

Roman Legion (Logan Brown, Niro Premachandra, Peter Goodson) d Rebel Celts (Delma Knight, Ollie Hamelink, Val Austin) 6-5. Peter d Ollie 7, -11, -9, 10, 3.

Pharaoh Aces (Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo, Misha Palod) d Amazon Guards (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. Simon d Rymer 10, 6, -10, -5, 9.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Anne Sheridan

Mark Sleeman. Photos supplied

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Mackay Surf Club nippers and youth members recently took on a gruelling 4-day training camp for Hell Week 2025 – an annual training event for the surf sports group which prepares them for the up-and-coming State and National Surf Lifesaving Titles. The 15 athletes ranged from U10 – U17 and their hard work and commitment towards the Surf Club should be commended.

The program was designed to challenge participants both mentally and physically. Over 7 sessions as well as 6 difficult team challenges the team amassed an impressive 42km in running, swimming and boarding, not to mention the amount of resistance exercises they were subjected too!

“The week was not only a good opportunity to get our champions in top shape for states and nationals but also put into action the importance of what it means to be a lifesaver – for themselves, our club and our community,” said Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports.

“We were also joined by NQBP representatives who are our youth development sponsors via their community benefit fund, to do some media about the training week and future plans for youth development.

“They were very impressed by the group’s effort.

“We wish our surf lifesavers all the best at states and nationals.”

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Day 1 of Hell Week – time for some resistance exercises

The winning group in one of the tough challenges – capture the flag.

The group working as part of a team in the challenge named “Mass rescue”.  As the name suggests teams had to rescue multiple people at once using a variety of equipment.

The team taking a quick break to do some media with NQBP representatives, who are assisting the club with youth development training & retention.

Mackay’s team members getting ready for their final challenge called IRB, which involved the group working together to rescue patients and secure equipment in a number of scenarios. Photos supplied

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Despite a grey, wet, and windy start, with a tropical low looming, the Sinkers Fun in Feb meet went ahead at the Mackay North State High School pool. Once again, wild weather couldn’t stop the Masters swimmers from coming together.

Set-up crews bravely faced the conditions, setting up gazebos, tables, lane ropes, and flags in preparation for the 11 am warm-up. The early arrival of more volunteers ensured the final touches were added just in time as swimmers were welcomed with registration, a raffle, and a free lucky swimmer draw.

The 2025 event saw 44 registrations, with a strong showing from Sinkers members, many of whom were new to Masters swimming. Entries also came from other Masters clubs, including Mackay Swimming Academy, Long Tan Legends, Hervey Bay Humpbacks, and several guests from the Mackay Water Polo and Triathlon Clubs.

Designed as a friendly, fun meet, the event offered new swimmers the chance to experience races in a supportive environment. Judging from the smiles and positive feedback, that goal was certainly achieved.

In a fun twist, a "visiting crocodile" lined up on the blocks, though no one entered that race!

Notably, place-getters in each age group were given the opportunity to select a prize from a pool of chocolates, adding to the event's light-hearted atmosphere.

As in previous years, JB from the Rats of Tobruk club served as the main official, with support from Peter Nowlan (QNS). The team from the Pioneer Swimming Club "Dolphins" once again provided semi-automatic timing to ensure smooth officiating.

Many first-time volunteers from the Sinkers and their friends took on roles such as chief timekeeper, timekeepers, marshals, and announcers to keep the events running smoothly.

All strokes and distances from 25 to 200 meters were offered, and it was great to see new members experiencing an event under race conditions, albeit in a fun and forgiving environment.

The day concluded with an exhibition relay, where makeshift teams competed, followed by the raffle and age group announcements.

And what's a swim meet without an after-party? Nearly 40 swimmers and partners regrouped at the Mt. Pleasant Tavern, sporting 1960s tie-dye outfits. It was a great day followed by a fun and entertaining evening to cap off the 2025 Sinkers Fun in Feb event.

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The Sinkers Fun in Feb meet overcame wild weather, including a tropical low, with 44 swimmers enjoying a fun and friendly event, complete with a "visiting crocodile" twist, chocolate prizes, and an after-party in 1960s tie-dye. Photos supplied

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Softball in Mackay is booming, with young athletes making a significant impact on the national stage. Rising stars like 14-year-old Evie Grace, who recently competed with the Queensland development squad in New Zealand, are hitting the ground running on their path to success.

“It’s good to get to know girls from other countries and get to know more people in Queensland,” Evie shared, adding that the experience involved “a lot of hard work” but she enjoyed building friendships along the way.

Evie’s team placed second at nationals in Perth and she’s now looking forward to the next challenge.

“I’m looking forward to doing Perth again,” she said, also sharing her excitement for being selected as a reserve for the U15 World Cup in Italy.

16-year-old Jackson Maluga is another standout softball star.

“I’ve been playing it since I was basically born,” Jackson said, reflecting on his journey to multiple Queensland and Australian teams over the years.

Jackson’s proudest achievement was pitching for both the under-16 and under-18 teams, winning nationals a week apart. His dedication to the sport is clear as he trains six days a week, with professional aspirations in sight.

Meanwhile, 12-year-old Connor Doolan is one of the youngest to make the Queensland team and advises other young players to “follow what you want, and don’t give up.”

Coach Murray Rivers, with over 50 test matches of experience coaching Queensland and Australian teams, speaks highly of the young talent emerging in Mackay.

“I see some amazing young talent here,” Murray said, highlighting players like Evie, who worked hard to become the best pitcher in her league.

He describes softball as a quick, physical sport that demands athletes be in peak condition.

His advice for newcomers is to "Just come down and have a watch first—it’s a great game, and you'll want to give it a try."

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Rising stars Evie Grace (14), Jackson Maluga (16), and Connor Doolan (12) are among a growing group of softball athletes in the region aiming to make their mark on the international stage. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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