TABLE TENNIS

The Mackay Open table tennis championships brought out some of the best competition seen for years by players throughout the state.

Players from Cairns to the Gold Coast competed over three days at a packed Mackay Table Tennis Centre in what visitors and local players described as the best tournament of the season so far.

Shanith Jayamaha of Brisbane won the men’s open singles ahead of Townsville’s Olav Dahl, with Mackay’s Vimal Chilukuri and Goncalo Serra Gagiero runners-up.

In a youthful women’s final, Lin Zhu of South East Queensland took out the women’s open title from Townsville’s Taliesha Gaeta.

Vimal and Goncalo won the men’s open doubles, and Goncalo made it a double by teaming with Taleisha to win the mixed doubles.

Other Mackay medalists were:

• U1000 singles Trent Day bronze, U800 singles Trent Day gold, Yilin Jiang, Niro Premachandra bronze.
• U1200 doubles: Neil and Josh Brown gold, Anne Sheridan, Janice Kent silver, Steve Whiting (M) Marshall Muller (T); Sisca Fran (T) and Tony Bowman (M) bronze.
• O19 mixed singles: Vimal Chilukuri silver.
• O30 men’s singles: Zhan Yang bronze.
• O30 women’s singles: Andrea Nicholson bronze.
• 065 women’s singles: Janice Kent silver.
• O70 women’s singles: Val Austin silver.
• O75 women’s singles: Pam Joyce gold, Iris Grasso silver.
• O80 men’s singles: Graham Drury silver, Peter Goodson bronze.
• O80 women’s singles: Pam Joyce gold, Coral Morgan silver.
• U21 and 19 girls singles: Lily Boland silver.
• U17 girls singles: Lily Boland bronze.
• U15 boys singles: Yilin Jiang, Ollie Hamelink bronze.
• Junior development singles: Remy Zahn gold, Logan Brown silver.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures June 3, 2025 RESULTS:

Division 1:

Data Dashers (Josh Brown, Barry Patterson) d Code Crackers (Emma Widdup, Lee Brake) 5-4. Barry d Lee -12, 10, 13, 9.

Tech Titans (Ivan Perkins, Neil Brown, Geoff Denman) d Byte Bouncers (Anne Sheridan, Graham Brake, Daniel Warfield) 7-4. Graham d Neil 6, -5, -9, 11, 9.

Pixel Paddles (Goncalo Serra, Robbie Richards, Trent Day) d App Attackers (Andrea Nicholson, Steve Whiting, Janice Kent) 9-2. Goncalo/Trent d Steve/Andrea -11, 7, -16,10, 8.

Nano Nets (Andrew McHugh, YiLin Jiang) d Pixel Players (Lily Boland, Jacob Whelan) 5-4. YiLin d Jacob 5, 5, 13.

Division 2:

Cloud Chasers (Rod Hamelink, Syed Aminul Hossain) d Giga Gamers (Ross de Boer, Peter Goodson, Liz Burton) 7-4. Syed d Peter -5, 7, 3, 9.

Turbo Techs (Val Austin, Steve Mathieson, Jye Callander) d Quantum Quick (Mark Sleeman, Logan Brown, Ollie Hamelink) 6-5. Mark d Jye 8, -5, 10, -7, 4.

Mega Movers (Craig VanDaKaa, Duncan Treloar, Mark Stam) d Robo Rallies (Will VanDeKaa, Noreen Fredericksen, Tiffany Camilleri) 6-5. Duncan d Will 6, 7, -4, -14, 6.

Circuit Cyclers (Darryl Ross, Simon Hogan, David Symons) d Stream Strikers (Melanie Theodore,  George Camilleri) 6-2.

There were hard-fought matches in Tuesday morning fixtures last week. Division 2 had two 6-all matches, with Josie just edging out Madge -6, 4, 7, -6, 9.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning results June 3, 2025:

Division 1:

Ghost Spin (George Camilleri, Branko Vucurovic, Darryl Ross) d Cosmic Sourcerers (Delma Knight, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) 7-5. George/Darryl d Delma/Coral 10, -10, 10, -10, 4.

Phoenix Fire (Donna Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Noreen Fredericksen) d Panther Prowlers (Doug Dungavell, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 7-5.  Donna d Doug 7, 11, -9, -9, 9.

Star Lords (Tony Bowman, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) d Ant Warriors (Geoff Denman, Judy Zahn, Don Boettcher) 7-5. Peter d Judy -4, 6, -9, 5, 3.

Division 2:

Eclipse Spin (Helen Ware, Ian Dodds, Virginia Clayton) d Nova Smashers (Marie Taylor, Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) 9-3. Ian d Frank 7, -8, -9, 3, 11.

Orion Orbiters (Ross DeBoer, Kim Daffy, Robyn Bushell) d Astro Aces (Iris Grasso, John Hamelink, Chris Collins) 8-4. Chris d Kim -9, 7, -3, 6, 10.

Division 3:

Captain Spins (Josie Davis, Sharon Muller, Trish Zamparutti) drew Bat Serves (Kim Challender, Madge Saunders, Ron Johr) 6-all. Josie d Madge -6, 4, 7, -6, 9,

Spider Smashers (Gerry Synnott, Cheryl Pearson, Thelma Caruana) drew Iron Rallies (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Laurie Bradshaw) 6-all. Cheryl d Allison -5, 2, -6, 7, 6.

For more results, visit www.revolutionise.com.au/mackaytta/fixtures-results

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Vimal Chilukuri has his eyes on the ball as he serves in the Mackay Open table tennis championships.

Will VanDeKaa

Duncan Treloar. Photos supplied

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RUNNING

The annual Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon 10km Memorial Shield Club Championship was held last Sunday morning in damp but favourable running conditions, drawing nearly forty competitors and a supportive crowd. Despite the wet weather, spirits remained high with The Rolling Coffee Bean and da Sausage vendors providing refreshments and a lively atmosphere.

Now in its seventh year under Forsyths Accounting as major sponsor, the memorial event honours the late Shawn Claydon, a much-loved member of the Mackay Road Runners Club who passed away in August 2018 following a short illness. The race awards a perpetual shield to the first male and female to cross the line from a scratch start. Forsyths Partner Nicole White and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, who has opened the event every year since its inception, officially started the race in Shawn’s memory and in support of Pancreatic Cancer research (Pancare).

The 2025 Memorial Shield saw a strong field, with Toby Rule claiming the men’s title in a fast 35 minutes and 41 seconds, finishing ahead of Mick Vivian, who was less than two minutes behind. Alana Knezevic took out the women’s title for the second consecutive year, finishing third overall in 42 minutes and 18 seconds, ahead of Carolyn Mapes and Jose Short.

Other standout performers included Justin Rule, Shane Donnollan, Michael Feenaghty, Ashley Miles, Levi Wallace, Brad Kelleher, Clinton Mackie, Derek Woods, Max Miles, Carmel Mahon, Tahnie Malagueno, Robin Stinson, Andrew Short, Scott McIntosh, Judy Zahn, Jan Smith, and Ollie Gorrion.

In the 5km event, top honours went to Teresa Hackney and Ross Connor, followed by Leanne Connor, John Couldrey, David Isbister, Kayla Waugh, Fran March, and Stuart Sprott.

Special thanks were extended to Jim Ford, Life Member and Club Captain, for his heartfelt tribute to Shawn Claydon, reflecting on their close friendship and shared love of running.

The Claydon family, Jeff and Sharon, were also acknowledged for their ongoing support. All race day entry fees, raffle proceeds, and sponsorships will be donated to Pancare, with over $1,000 raised—continuing Shawn’s legacy with community spirit and purpose.

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Mackay Road Runners Club Championship Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield Club Championship special guests (left to right) Ms Sharon Stewart-Harris, Mr Jeff Stewart-Harris, Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Mr. Greg Williamson, Club Captain and Mackay Road Runners Life Member, Mr Jim Ford, Bonny Claydon (seated), Forsyths, Nicole White & Sarah Damen and Mr John Claydon.

Runners and supporters at the Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield & Club Championship annual event (left to right) – Fran March, Jo Hughes, Alleny Gorrion, Jan Smith, Ollie Gorrion, Stuart Sprott and Kayla Waugh.

Major sponsor Forsyths Accounting, Nicole White (centre) proudly congratulates winners of the 10km perpetual trophy as well as the 5km winners (left to right) Alana Knezevic (10km 1st), Toby Rule (10km 1st), Ross Connor (5km 1st), Sarah (Forsyths) accepting Teresa Hackney’s  5km 1st female trophy in her absence.

Scott McIntosh made a welcome return to racing the 10km Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial Shield. Photos and words by Janelle Tilse

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Australian captain Alyssa Healy and vice-captain Tahlia McGrath will feature in the upcoming Australia A series to be played against India A across Queensland in August.

National selectors have named three separate squads for the series that will feature a trio of T20s in Mackay as well as three 50-over matches and a four-day clash in Brisbane.

Current and future stars of Australian and Indian cricket will go head-to-head across the multi-format series as part of an ongoing four-year agreement between the two nations.

Healy and McGrath will be joined by Australian fast-bowlers Kim Garth and Darcie Brown, with the quartet to use the series as preparation for the ICC Women’s World Cup to be played in India in October, while Tess Flintoff, the latest addition to the national contract list, will be looking to impress selectors and push for a maiden call-up to the world-champion side.

Queenslander Charli Knott will further add to her leadership credentials by captaining the T20 and four-day sides, with McGrath to take the reins in the 50-over format.

Australian Women’s Team assistants Dan Marsh (T20 and 50-over) and Gavan Twining (four-day) have been named head coaches, with Scott Prestwidge their assistant.

National Selector, Shawn Flegler said the Australia A program has been instrumental in developing the next generation of Australian players.

“We have a similar agreement with England which allows us to provide opportunities for players the National selectors have identified as having the potential to play for Australia, to play against quality opposition and in variety of conditions.

“Given its timing, this series also provides those Australian players not involved in The Hundred valuable gametime ahead of the World Cup and the squads will no doubt benefit from their experience.

“Developing future leaders is also hugely important and we’re pleased that Charli will take the reins as she did last year, with support from senior players Nicole Faltum and Tahlia Wilson.”

Great Barrier Reef Arena Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Young said, “We’re extremely proud to welcome back Australia A and India A to the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

"Hosting these T20 matches is not only a testament to the quality of our venue but also to the strength of regional sport.

"These matches will inspire the next generation of female athletes and showcase our commitment to being a world-class home for elite and inclusive cricket in regional Australia.”

Women’s Australia A v India A Series

7 August: First T20, 6pm, Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay
9 August: Second T20, 6pm, Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay
10 August: Third T20, 6pm, Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay

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Tahlia McGrath and Alyssa Healy batting together during a practice match against a Mumbai in 2023. Photo source: Cricket Australia

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Last Saturday twenty-four pairs competed for the Mackay Club Pairs Championship. This competition was over four sessions, with seven boards per session. This was a well-supported event with novices and experienced players playing the same cards. This 2025 Mackay Club Championship Pair was Noel Bugeia and Terry Sheedy, with Diane Morgan and Janet Hansen a close second. The club extends a heartfelt thanks to director Geoff Taylor.

Weekly Results

Monday 9 June 2025 –- 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W

1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
2nd Ming Ting / Pamela Finger 2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
4th Gwen Liddell / Andrew Canavan 4th Eric Goodchild / David Ting
Tuesday Evening 10 June 2025 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st John McGee / Mick King 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
5th Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 6th Joy Hold / Diane Morgan

Wednesday 11 June 2025 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W

1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood 1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
3rd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 3rd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller 4th Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
5th David Ting / Eric Goodchild 5th Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley

Thursday Evening 12 June 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W

1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
2nd Patricia Garner / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

Friday 13 June 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W

1st Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 2nd Eric Goodchild / David Ting
3rd Edward Kleise / Nancy Wix 3rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 4th Richard Wix / Janine Rodgers

Saturday 14 June 2025 – Mackay Club Championship Pairs – 24 Pairs One Winner Red Points

1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 4th Alan Brown / Frances Brown
5th Gwen Liddell / Barbara Tait 6th Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

Contributed by Joy Block

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Club championship pairs Noel and Terry. Photo supplied

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TABLE TENNIS

Players from across Queensland brought fast-paced action and fierce competition to the Mackay Table Tennis Centre for the annual Mackay Open earlier this month. With medals on the line and talent on display, the event drew a strong crowd of spectators and players alike. Organisers from the Mackay Table Tennis Association thanked all participants as they look forward to welcoming them back in 2026.

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Top Talent Recognised At Annual Presentations

Mackay Basketball recently honoured its rising stars at the U16 Presentations, celebrating outstanding performances across several teams.

Meteors:
• MVP: Parker Coleman
• Coaches Award: Will DiFilipo
• Best Defensive: Jackson Pendleton

Meteorettes:
• MVP: Pyiper Redgard
• Coaches Award: Riley Albert
• Best Defensive: Lisa Lelliot

Comets:
• MVP: Jimmy Turner
• Coaches Award: Jesse Coomber
• Best Defensive: Winston Sutton

Comettes:
• MVP: Montana Wicks
• Coaches Award: Asha Sullivan
• Best Defensive: April Howell

Stars:
• MVP: Hudson Currie
• Coaches Award: Harrison Leigh
• Best Defensive: Harry Fatnowna

Starettes:
• MVP: Ellyana Pianeda
• Coaches Award: Heidi Randell
• Best Defensive: Patience Palframan

Astros:
• MVP: Hugo Scriven
• Coaches Award: Noah Ahwang
• Best Defensive: Barry Matchett

A special mention was also given to U16 Queensland North representatives Sam Osbourne, Zane Reid, and Harrison Bell, along with all U16 SPP (State Performance Program) athletes, for their dedication and achievements on and off the court.

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Mackay Basketball honoured its U16 standouts with team awards and special mentions for Queensland reps and SPP athletes. Photo source: Mackay Basketball

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Budding BMX talent Ged Rafferty has been recognised with the Mackay BMX Club’s President’s Award, celebrating his consistent effort and determination on the track. Aged 7 and competing in the sprocket class, Ged has impressed with his commitment to racing and hard pedalling right to the finish line.

As part of the award, Ged received a $50 bistro voucher to the Goosies Sports and Recreation Club – a gesture to reward his rising star power and encourage continued passion for the sport.

Well done, Ged!

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Seven-year-old BMX rider Ged Rafferty has earned the Mackay BMX Club’s President’s Award for his standout effort and determination on the track. Photo source: Mackay and BMX District Club

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The Mackay Stingers Dragon Boat Club braved icy conditions last weekend, hitting the water at Mackay Harbour despite a biting temperature of 5°C.

The dedicated crew proved that paddlers from Tropical North Queensland are made of tough stuff, trading warm beds for early morning training on the water.

The session showcased the team’s commitment and camaraderie, reinforcing their reputation for resilience and spirit. With calm seas and a golden sunrise over the harbour, the Stingers paddled in paradise, undaunted by the chill and united by a shared passion for the sport.

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Mackay Stingers swapped warm beds for icy paddles, proving even 5°C can’t cool their fiery tropical spirit. Photo source: Mackay Stingers Dragon Boat Club

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It was a busy week on the greens at Wangaratta Bowls Club, with strong turnouts and tightly contested matches across multiple days of competition.

On Monday, the self-selected triples event was taken out by the Irymple crew of Jenny Healey, France Wilmann, and Chris Healey, who defeated the trio of Aileen Dunn, John, and G. Coleman. Runners-up on the day were Denis Madeley, Dave Richardson, and R. Agg, who triumphed over Keron McKenzie, Mark McKenzie, and R. Barr-Kemp. The jackpot, however, remained elusive.

Tuesday saw six rinks in play, but it was rink 6 that produced the afternoon’s winners. Anne Fitzgerald, June Paynting, and Ron Hyde defeated Bron Tolcher, Greg McSwain, and David Madden in a strong showing. The jackpot—now a very tidy sum—still went unclaimed.

In club competition, the final of the Men’s A Pairs was held, with Mitch Wright and Wayne Crowhurst emerging victorious over Allan Rolfe and Mark Drummond in a well-fought match.

Sunday afternoon drew a full green of players. John Brakewell, Shirley Smith, and David Madden claimed the win over Karon McKenzie, Gavin Charles, and Mark Drummond. Runners-up were Ann Fitzgerald, Jan Dawson, Graeme Smith, and Joe Paynting, who defeated K. Halton, B. Downs, John Hayson, and Ron Symmons. Once again, the jackpot stayed intact.

The club has also been proudly hosting the North Queensland District Ladies Division Three Pennant this week. Our ladies have performed exceptionally well, and Monday’s match will determine the final winner. Results will be posted in next week’s report.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Winners from Monday France Wilmann, Jenny Healey, and Chris Healey. Photo supplied

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Seven Cannonvale Cannons swimmers were recently selected to attend the Swimming Queensland – North Queensland (SQ-NQ) Mobility, Movement and Strength Workshops held in Mackay and Townsville. Congratulations to Tyler Bennett, Zach Trefz, Tora Delac, Ruby Harland, and Roxy Groome who took part in the Mackay session, and to Nelson Malady and Jacob Bell who represented the club at the Townsville clinic.

These workshops focused on enhancing athletes’ mobility, strength, and technical movement skills through a combination of dryland training and physiotherapy screening. Delivered by a team of leading athletic development specialists and physiotherapists, including Samantha Mathers and Dion Walmsley of Fitter Futures, and Geordie Koest of Movement Improvement Rockhampton, the sessions emphasised the importance of good technique across all aspects of performance.

A key takeaway from the weekend was that executing movements with control and precision is just as critical on land as it is in the pool. Athletes received ongoing feedback on posture, stance, limb positioning, and core control, resulting in visible improvements in just a few repetitions.

These sessions are part of Swimming Queensland’s commitment to Long Term Athlete Development, encouraging clubs to work closely with physiotherapists and development coaches to support young swimmers' growth and performance.

The Cannonvale Cannons are proud to see their swimmers involved in this high-performance pathway and thank Swimming Queensland for the opportunity. These valuable experiences not only support technical improvement but help build the foundation for future success in the sport.

Well done to all swimmers who attended — your focus and commitment to continuous development are to be commended.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Swimming Queensland Workshop attendees in Mackay. Photo supplied

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After a quiet previous weekend, Whitsunday United roared back into action with a packed schedule of games across all levels.

On Friday night, the Division 2 men travelled to face Rangers and were determined to bounce back from an earlier loss. A hectic opening half-hour saw them take a 3-2 lead. Harry netted his first senior goal early in the second half to give Whitsunday some breathing room, but a late Rangers goal set up a tense finish. Down a player, Whitsunday dug deep to hold on for a gritty 4-3 win.

Division 1 controlled their match from the outset but struggled to convert chances. A first-half goal gave them the edge, though Rangers equalised with 15 minutes to go. A second yellow card for the Rangers keeper shifted the momentum, allowing Whitsunday to capitalise with two late goals and secure a 3-1 victory. Both teams are now well positioned for a strong second half of the season.

In junior action, the U13 Prem side defeated the Lions 6-3 in a high-energy game. Goals came from Mayson (2), Nelson (2), Alex D, and Remy. The team led 3-0 early but conceded twice before halftime. They pushed on with three more in the second half to seal the win.

The U13 FQPL boys faced a tough Rangers side at home and were outclassed in a 4-1 loss. Alex Draper provided a highlight with a brilliant strike from the left, while Dally impressed with a tireless display in midfield.

The U14s faced ladder-leaders Magpies and put up a spirited fight. Nick P made key saves, and Shannon’s goal kept things level at halftime. Despite solid midfield efforts from Finn and Tyson F, Magpies pulled ahead via a penalty and added a late goal to finish 3-1 winners.

Backing up for a second match, the U14s hosted Rangers Black and came away with a 2-0 win. Charlie opened the scoring in the 4th minute, and Kobe added a second early in the second half. The team dominated but couldn’t extend the lead despite multiple chances.

The U16 boys delivered a strong showing against third-placed City Brothers. Tyler C opened the scoring, followed by Jacob capitalising on a perfect through ball from Harry. Samuel F’s trademark long-range goal gave United a 3-0 halftime lead. Despite relentless second-half pressure, Whitsunday couldn’t add to the tally and conceded a late goal, finishing 3-1.

With the FQPL Women’s game postponed, it was left to the men to entertain the home crowd on Saturday night. The U23s played a disciplined and hard-fought 0-0 draw against City Brothers, with both sides creating chances in a highly competitive contest.

The FQPL Men capped the weekend with a commanding performance, scoring three first-half goals and adding a classy fourth after the break to defeat the talented City Brothers side. The result boosts their standing and puts them in touching distance of the top of the ladder.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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A happy U13 Squad after a great game against top of the table Lions. Photo supplied

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Football – Whitsunday United Football Club
Friday, 20 June
6:00 pm - Div 2 Men vs Mackay Wanderers FC at Wanderers Park
8:00 pm - Div 1 Men vs Mackay Wanderers FC at Wanderers Park

Saturday 21 June
9:30 am - U13 Div 1 vs Mackay Wanderers Roses at Whitsunday Sports Park
9:30 am - U14 vs Mackay Lions at Whitsunday Sports Park
11:00 am - U13 FQPL vs Dolphins FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
11:15 am - U15/16 vs Country United FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
5:00 pm - U23 Men vs Mackay Wanderers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
7:00 pm - Men vs Mackay Wanderers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park

AFL – Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 21 June
9:15am - Under 13s Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Sarina at Brewers Park, Sarina
9:15am - Under 15s Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Mackay Magpies at Magpies, Mackay
10:40am - Under 17s Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Moranbah Bulldogs at Stevenson Oval, Moranbah

Rugby Union – Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
Saturday 21 June
1:00pm – Reserve Grade vs Mackay City at Quarry Hill
3:30pm – Premier Grade vs Mackay City at Quarry Hill

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 23 June
Grand Final at Whitsunday Sports Park

Cricket – Airlie Beach Cricket Club
Contact airliebeachcc@yahoo.com.au for information about Airlie Beach Cricket Club

Netball – Whitsunday Netball Association
Contact netballwhitsunday@gmail.com for netball information

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Mackay Teacher Claims Back-To-Back World Titles

By Hannah McNamara

From the moment five-year-old Sarah Purnell saw Irish dancing on The Wiggles, something stirred deep in her bones ... a rhythm, a calling, a spark. That spark has now lit up the world stage three times over, with Sarah recently crowned Under 32 World Champion at the 2025 World Irish Dancing Championships in Liège, Belgium — an extraordinary back-to-back feat following her Under 30 victory last year.

“I’ve just won the Under 32 category at the World Championships… a back-to-back title win which was very exciting,” Sarah said.

“We were aiming for top three, but to get the win was absolutely a surprise.”

Dancing against the world’s best, Sarah entered the final rounds in second place. But it was her flawless traditional round and powerful solo that secured her the top spot.

“Round three – the traditional set – bumped me into first place and then my final solo sealed the win.”

What makes this triumph even more remarkable is that Sarah trains entirely in Mackay.

“We’re now a school of multiple world champions, based in Mackay.

“It’s amazing that we can literally train world champions right here.”

At Claddagh School of Irish Dance, Sarah is both a mentor and a marvel.

“As an assistant teacher now, seeing others improve is just as exciting as my own success.”

She trains up to 20 hours a week, balancing dance, gym, and recovery, which are all necessary due to her hypermobility syndrome.

“I injure really quickly… so recovery is crucial.”

This journey hasn’t been easy. In 2023, Sarah feared her dancing days were behind her, sidelined by degenerative arthritis and nerve damage in both feet. But thanks to over 150 prolotherapy injections from Pioneer Podiatry Mackay, she is now dancing pain-free for the first time in years.

“Being able to dance pain-free again… brings me so much joy – I couldn’t imagine my life any other way.”

Her dedication spans years of competition, from representing Mackay at local eisteddfods and being crowned a three-time undefeated Australian Champion, to inspiring students at Mackay State High School where she teaches.

And though her titles are many, her mission is humble.

“If I can do it at 30, from Mackay, then anyone can. It’s about finding joy and working hard, not just chasing titles.”

With unmatched resilience, Sarah isn’t just winning titles, she’s shaping what’s possible for regional dancers.

“My teacher Colette Shields opened up the longevity of Irish dancing for me…she made me believe I could keep going so I’d love to give a major shoutout to her.”

While she's looking to defend her three-time undefeated Australian Champion title again at the next one, her true passion lies in the joy of the dance, seeing improvement, and inspiring the next generation.

If you would like to explore the joy of Irish dance or simply take that first step, visit www.irishdancemackay.com

From a childhood spark watching Irish dance on The Wiggles, Mackay’s Sarah Purnell has triumphed as a three-time world champion—overcoming injury and training locally to inspire the next generation with her passion and resilience. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Beyond the spotlight of Belgium’s world championships, Sarah Purnell’s true victory lies in inspiring regional dancers and redefining what’s possible from Mackay’s dance floors. Photos supplied

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The Australia Wide Novice Pairs were played in May with 28 Novice players from Mackay competing. N/S winners were Mary Cruickshank and Geoff Cowan. E/W winners: Ted Cullinan and Susan Gibson.

Weekly Results

Monday 2 June 2025 –- 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Noel Bugeia / Geoffrey Patterson
3rd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 3rd Ming Ting / Pamela Finger
3rd Joy Block / Nancy Wix 4th Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

Tuesday Evening 3 June 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 1st Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy 2nd John McGee / Mick King
3rd Andrew Canavan / Debra Goodchild 3rd Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

Wednesday 4 June 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Bob Ranson / Kitty Ranson
3rd John Ludkin / Victor Mason 3rd Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
Thursday Evening 5 June 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 4th Francis Brown / Ann Whitmore

Friday 6 June 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Joyce Deguara / Toni Large 1st Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger
2nd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 2nd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
3rd Edward Kleise / Nancy Wix 3rd Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
4th Nancy Martin / Terry Sheedy 4th Christine Nice / Diane Cox

Saturday 7 June 2025 – 13 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 1st Terry Sheedy / Roland Taylor
2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Kitty Ranson / Bob Ranson
3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson 3rd Mick King / John McGee
4th Sandra Morris / Ann Whitmore 4th Alan Brown / Jayne Johnstone
5th Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 5th Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft
6th Lynne O’Neill / Geoff Cowan 6th Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

Contributed by Joy Block

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Geoff, Geoff Cowan & Mary Cruickshank, Anne
Geoff, Sue Gibson & Ted Cullinan & Anne. Photos supplied

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Cairns once again proved itself an ideal host city for the Great Barrier Reef Masters Games, held from May 29 to June 1, with over 220 swimmers taking part in three days of competitive pool events at the Tobruk Memorial Pool, followed by an open water swim at Lake Barrine.

This year’s swimming program concluded with a scenic open water event on the Atherton Tablelands, where 74 swimmers took on either a 1500 or 3000 metre course in the 24-degree waters of Lake Barrine.

Among the competitors were three representatives from the North Mackay Sinkers, a local masters swimming club known for its community spirit and dedication to personal improvement.

Geoffrey Robinson, the club’s most experienced competitor, led the way with a clean sweep of gold medals in all his events. He secured first place in the 50, 100, 200 and 400 metre freestyle events in the pool and added a fifth gold in the 1500 metre open water swim.

First-time competitor Melissa Lysaught delivered an impressive debut, winning five silver medals in the 50 and 100 metre freestyle, 50 and 100 metre backstroke, and 200 metre individual medley. She also took bronze in the butterfly and placed just outside the medals in breaststroke and the 200-metre freestyle. Lysaught rounded out her campaign with a silver in the 3-kilometre open water swim.

Club vice president Daniel Stampa added further to the medal tally, winning gold in the 50-metre breaststroke and 200 metre individual medley, and bronze in the 50-metre backstroke. He also secured multiple fourth-place finishes across freestyle and butterfly distances, and a silver in the 3-kilometre open water swim.

Club members are now preparing for the upcoming North Queensland Masters Championships, to be held in Townsville this September. Attention also turns to the club’s premier annual event, the Whitehaven Beach Open Water Swim, scheduled for Sunday, October 5 during the King’s Birthday long weekend. Members receive a discounted entry to the event.

Training continues throughout winter at the Memorial Pool in Mackay:
• Mondays and Wednesdays: 5:30–6:30pm
• Saturdays: 8:00–9:00am

New and returning swimmers are encouraged to come along and get involved.
For more information, visit the North Mackay Sinkers on social media or attend a training session.

Contributed by Dan Stampa

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Melissa Lysaught in Lane 8 at the start of the 200m mixed freestyle event

Geoff Robinson in the closest lane completes the tough 400m freestyle event and claims his first of 5 gold medal performances

The Sinkers representatives, Geoff, Mel and Dan, after the pool events concluded and looking forward to the Open water swim

After 4 days of competition, swimmers relaxed after the final events in Lake Barrine, a picture-perfect spot. Photos supplied

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