Entire  SNQ Development Squad. Photo Supplied: Raylene Rasmussen

‍

Eleven Cannonvale Cannons swimmers were recognised for their outstanding performances last season after being selected for the Swimming North Queensland (SNQ) State and National Development Squad ONCORE and Stroke Refinement Clinic held in Mackay and Townsville over the weekend.  

‍

Representing the Cannons were Eloise Chegwidden, Thomas Ganter, Roxy Groom, Jax Clayworth, Ruby Harland, Alex Trefz, Tora Delac, Harris Delac, Miller Eaves, Charlie Doherty, and Hamilton Anflous.  

‍

The clinic was coordinated by Queensland coach Barry Prime, who engaged ONCORE Academy founder Jade Edmistone to deliver the specialist development program. A former Australian breaststroke swimmer, World Champion, and World Record holder, Edmistone shared her expertise with some of North Queensland's most promising young athletes.  

‍

‍

‍

Throughout the day, swimmers completed athletic development, body control and streamlining activities before taking part in an intensive in-water session focusing on the ONCORE program, underwater skills, stroke refinement and technical efficiency.  

‍

The Cannonvale Cannons were also proudly represented on the coaching team, with club coaches Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson assisting Swimming North Queensland coaches in delivering the technical stroke sessions. Their involvement highlights the quality of coaching available within the Cannons program and their ongoing commitment to swimmer development across the region.  

‍

Head Coach Mark Erickson said selection to the development squads reflected the swimmers' commitment and determination throughout the season.  

‍

"These opportunities expose our swimmers to world-class coaching and new training methods while reinforcing the importance of sound technique. They returned home with greater knowledge, confidence and motivation, and we're incredibly proud of how they represented both themselves and the Cannonvale Cannons."

‍

‍

The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club congratulates all eleven swimmers on their selection and thanks Swimming North Queensland for providing another outstanding development opportunity for the region's emerging talent.  

‍

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen  

‍

‍

Lighthouse walkers on their way back Photo supplied: Leanne Abernethy

‍

Low tides in July and August will mean it is possible to walk from the Bowen Mainland to the North Head Lighthouse five times this year.

It is only recommended that you take part in this walk when the tides are below 0.2metres.

‍

This year, that will occur on July 13, 14, 15 and again on August 11 and 12.

For many years, locals and visitors have been taking advantage of the low tides to walk across each year – but sometimes it is only low enough on one day of the year.

‍

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said there was always an influx of visitors to Bowen on the days when the tide is at its lowest.

“It is fantastic that there are five days when this is possible this year,” she said.

‍

‍

The lighthouse is one of the oldest in Queensland and is just one kilometre off the coast.

If you are taking part, please be aware of marine life and the natural environment.

‍

It is important to leave well before the tide is at its lowest – to give you enough time to return.

This is not a guided event – it is just a natural occurrence that people take advantage of, so all walkers take part at their own risk.

‍

The walkers start at Dalrymple Point, and it is recommended you wear reef shoes or an old pair of sneakers and that you take sunscreen, wear a hat and take some drinking water and a camera.

‍

Low tide times

*July 13 at 2.58pm

*July 14 at 3.45pm

*July 15 at 4.31pm

*August 11 at 2.48pm

*August 12 at 3.31pm

‍

‍

Steve Catalano and Peter Jefferies standing in the rain at their preferred location, Les Stagg Oval. Photo Credit: Zach Houtenville

‍

Whitsunday Regional Council's proposal to build a new basketball court in Proserpine has sparked debate, with the proposed location emerging as the key point of contention.  

First proposed in 2022, council sought community feedback on three possible locations for the court. Halpanel Park, Keith Johns Park and Les Stagg Oval. In July 2025, residents surrounding Halpanel Park were notified construction would begin, despite many saying they had received little to no prior consultation.  

‍

This led to a petition back in July 2025, and after enough signatures it was officially lodged to council. However, come this June, council again opened up the discussions, outlining the same three options as 2022. This has ignited yet another petition, this time by the residents surrounding Keith Johns Park just last Thursday.  

“It's really, really not an appropriate place,” said long-time Proserpine resident who started the Halpanel petition, Peter Jefferies.  

‍

"The views of others who aren't directly affected by the facility are useful, but the views of the key stakeholders who are being directly impacted need to be weighted."  

He, along with Keith Johns Park petition organiser Steve Catalano, said Halpanel and Keith Johns parks are too close to nearby homes, raising concerns over noise, parking and increased activity. Instead, they believe upgrading the existing basketball court at Les Stagg Oval would better complement the precinct's existing sporting facilities while minimising impacts on nearby residents.

‍

A spokesperson from Council stated that the three locations were chosen because they each present different opportunities and constraints, with factors such as accessibility, nearby land uses, existing sporting infrastructure and neighbourhood amenity all taken into account.

The pair don't question the value of a basketball court in Proserpine, but are querying the level of genuine community demand.  

‍

"A question of why we need another basketball court hasn't been answered adequately. Is it something that's been proposed by the council or is it the residents asking for it?” Steve said.  

While residents may have questions about the proposed locations, local basketball coach and Next Stars Sports Academy founder Tim Oberg said more public facilities play an important role in giving young people a place to be active, social and connected.  

‍

‍

“Having any sort of free facility removes a barrier to participation,” Tim said.  

“For families, particularly in this tough economic climate that we're in right now, not everyone can afford to pay for their children to have private coaching in a private facility.”

‍

Having spent the past decade growing basketball in the Whitsundays, Tim sees providing sporting infrastructure as one of local government's core responsibilities.

“Local councils have the ability to really impact local communities in a positive way through facilities, be it making new facilities available or upgrading existing facilities,” he said.

‍

“I believe it is a key job of the council to make sure our local communities are serviced with sporting facilities where appropriate.”

‍

The debate, he believes, extends well beyond Proserpine. With the Whitsundays among Australia's fastest-growing regions, Tim argues demand for basketball facilities is already outpacing supply.

“I was just at a conference on Friday, and they used basketball as an example, but if you look at the sort of demographic data and trends around Australia, there is a significant lack of basketball courts.

‍

“From a population point of view, there's just nowhere near enough facilities,” he said.  

A council representative said no decision has been made on the location of the basketball court, with the current consultation process aimed at understanding community views before councillors make a final decision.  

‍

Residents are being encouraged to provide feedback through an online survey, Council's Your Say platform and a community information stall in Proserpine.

‍

Council added that once all the final consultation has been assessed, and any additional feedback, a decision will be made in an open and transparent forum.  

‍

Photo source: Mackay basketball (Facebook)

‍

Mackay Basketball’s Holiday Hoops Camp has recorded its biggest turnout yet, with more than 140 young participants taking part across two days of basketball during the school holidays.

‍

The program, the second Holiday Hoops Camp held this year, proved a standout success and set a new participation record for the organisation’s holiday camp series.

‍

It was said that across the two days, the courts were filled with activity, with plenty of smiles, new friendships forming and a strong sense of enjoyment evident among participants.

‍

Mackay Basketball also acknowledged its coaching group, who volunteered their time to run the sessions. Coaches were recognised for their efforts in teaching, encouraging and supporting players throughout the camp, helping deliver a positive experience for all involved.

The Holiday Hoops Camp continues to be a popular feature on Mackay Basketball’s calendar, providing young players with the opportunity to spend time on court during the school holidays in a structured and supportive environment.

‍

This latest edition has now set a new benchmark for participation, with organisers describing the two-day event as an “unbelievable couple of days of hoops.”

With record numbers achieved, the program has again highlighted the strong level of engagement with basketball across the Mackay region, as local families continue to support opportunities for young players to get involved in the sport.

‍

The camp concluded after two full days of activity, marking another successful instalment of Mackay Basketball’s ongoing holiday program.

‍

Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club

‍

Mackay's Sinkers have continued to make waves in the pool, celebrating strong performances at both the Australian Pool Rescue Championships in Perth and the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler.

‍

Peter T delivered an outstanding result at the Australian Pool Rescue Championships, returning to competition for the first time in 12 months to finish second overall in the 45–60 years age group.

‍

Competing across the three-day championships, Peter claimed an impressive medal tally of one gold and four silver medals, marking a successful return after an extended break from competition.

‍

‍

Fellow Sinkers Nigel Dalton and Dan Stampa also impressed at the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler, producing a series of strong swims against a competitive field of 194 registered athletes.

‍

Nigel finished third in his age group, while Dan also secured third place in his respective age group.

‍

The pair briefly celebrated holding the Small Club Trophy before competition rules required the award to be presented to another club, with a minimum of three swimmers needed to qualify. With only two Sinkers competing, the trophy was officially handed to the Belgravia team during the Face-to-Face branch meeting.

‍

‍

Both Nigel and Dan enjoyed some extra success away from the pool, each winning prizes in the event's multi-draw.

‍

The club congratulated all swimmers on their performances and thanked Brisbane Southside Meet organisers for hosting another successful competition.

‍

Seven days of Bridge were played at the Mackay Bridge Club last week. This included two evenings, Saturday, and Sunday for Novice (beginners) and Mentors. Mackay Bridge club ensures that there are plenty of opportunities for working people who want to learn bridge to participate after their bridge lessons.  

‍

Four members played in the Townsville Congress, with Terry Sheedy and Janelle Conroy winning the A Section pairs. Diane and Max Holewa joined Terry and Janelle to win the Teams event.  

‍

Members of the club are travelling to Bowen to participate in the Bowen Pairs Congress this weekend. Bridge is a social game, which encourages friendship, partnerships, fun and sometimes travel. Don’t wait until you retire, join next year when lessons begin. For more information, watch this space or contact the club.

‍

Weekly Results  

‍

Monday 22 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st David Ting / Eric Goodchild

1^st Nancy Martin / Susan Ross

2^nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris

2^nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

3^rd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

3^rd Janice Mansfield / Debra Goodchild

4^th Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

4^th Sue Mayer-Miller / Karen Caldwell

‍

Tuesday Evening 23 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

2^nd Frances Brown / Rodney Miles

3^rd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger

4^th Helen Van Den Breok / Terry Sheedy

‍

Wednesday 24 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Joy Block / Diane Stokes

1^st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2^nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

3^rd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt

3^rd Terry Sheedy / Mick King

4^th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

4^th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

‍

Thursday 25 June 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st Mick King / Griffin Bancroft

2^nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

3^rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan

4^th Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott

‍

Friday 26 June 2026 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Geoff Cowan / Mick King

1^st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2^nd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait

2^nd David Ting / Ming Ting

3^rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

3^rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

‍

Saturday 27 June 2026 –- 13 Table Mitchell Red Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins  

1^st Alan Brown / Frances Brown

2^nd Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson

2^nd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden

3^rd Nancy Wix / Richard Wix

3^rd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner

4^th Gwen Liddell / Julie O’Neill

4^th Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell

5^th Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

5^th Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok

‍

Sunday 28 June 2026 – 7 Tables Green Points Novices and Mentors

N/S

E/W

1^st David Ting / Rodney Miles

1^st Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor

2^nd Susan Ross / Joy Hold

2^nd Colleen Riddel / Sue Mayer-Miller

3^rd Christine Fitzpatrick / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd Gillian McCallum / Ming Ting

4^th Neila Quintero / Martin Pearce

4^th Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin

‍

Contributed by Joy Block

‍

Damp unforgiving rains did not take the fun out of a social Mackay Road Runners event from Eimeo Surf Club.

‍

More than 20 runners turned out in challenging conditions at Eimeo Surf Club on the weekend, including the dedicated Mackay Tri Club members who, after completing their run, took to the ocean for a "little" 2km swim.

‍

The 5km and 10km courses featured plenty of challenging hills through the Blacks Beach, Dolphin Heads and Eimeo suburbs, providing an ideal hit-out for athletes preparing to taper ahead of the upcoming Gold Coast Running Festival and various Ironman events.

‍

‍

‍

Those who took shelter from the rain beneath the Surf Life Saving Control Watch Tower also enjoyed learning a few tricks of the trade about the delicate nature of the tummy, including checking that the milk is lactose free.

‍

A big thank you goes to Andrew Short for once again setting up a spectacular course. A legendary stalwart of the club, his ongoing contribution continues to be greatly appreciated.

‍

With a significant number of athletes away competing at out-of-town events, including the Gold Coast, Mackay Road Runners will instead host a social 5km and 10km run from Casu Jacks at Mackay Harbour this Sunday, starting at 7am.

‍

Participants are encouraged to bring along card or cash for breakfast, a cuppa and a chat, while celebrating the first run of the new financial year following 30 June 2026.

All members and non-members are welcome to attend for a $2 race day fee. Please arrive by 6.50am for registration, the course briefing and club notices.

‍

‍

‍

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

‍

Tri-ActiV8 has earned statewide recognition after taking home two major honours at the 2026 AusTriathlon Queensland State Awards on Saturday 27^th June, marking the first time the organisation has been recognised for its triathlon efforts within the Mackay and Isaac region.

‍

The local coaching organisation claimed the prestigious Coach of the Year award for Director and Head Coach Nikki Giles, while the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon was recognised as Club Event of the Year.

Nikki received the Coach of the Year honour in recognition of her outstanding commitment to building a positive, inclusive training culture where athletes at every level are empowered to develop skills and strive for personal bests.

‍

The award is open to accredited AusTriathlon coaches at affiliated clubs and squads who actively coach across all three disciplines: swim, cycle and run, and is determined through nominations from members, reflecting the impact coaches have on the athletes they support.

‍

The region's only female Performance Accredited AusTriathlon coach, Nikki has become a driving force behind the continued growth of triathlon across the Mackay and Isaac regions. Her passion for the sport extends beyond coaching, with a strong focus on creating a welcoming environment where athletes of all abilities feel encouraged to challenge themselves and achieve their goals.

‍

Under her leadership, Tri-ActiV8 has grown into a welcoming hub for triathletes of all abilities across the Mackay and Isaac regions.

‍

“This recognition means the world to me. Triathlon has given so much to our community in the Mackay and Isaac regions, and every single day I pour my heart into giving that back.  

‍

“Knowing that my athletes and our community felt moved to nominate me for this – that’s the real award.”

‍

“I am incredibly proud to represent this region and to be part of growing and strengthening the sport of triathlon here.  

“This belongs to every athlete who has trusted me with their journey,” Nikki said.

‍

Tri-ActiV8's celebrations continued with the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon receiving the Club Event of the Year award.

‍

The organisation has proudly event-managed the triathlon in partnership with Isaac Regional Council for the past three years, with the event becoming a signature fixture on the regional triathlon calendar.

‍

Held each January, the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon brings the community together while providing athletes across the Isaac region with a high-quality, professionally managed race experience. Tri-ActiV8 said its partnership with Isaac Regional Council has been central to the event's success and continued growth.

The organisation is proud of what the event represents, not only as a competition but as a celebration of community spirit and the power of sport to bring people together.

‍

Tri-ActiV8 said the two awards reflect the dedication, hard work and passion of everyone involved with the organisation, from its coaches and volunteers to its athletes and the communities it is privileged to serve, while also recognising the continued strength and growth of triathlon across the Mackay and Isaac regions.

‍

Tri-ActiV8 Director and Head Coach Nikki Giles was named Coach of the Year at the 2026 AusTriathlon Queensland State Awards. Photo supplied

‍

Mackay State High School’s Takiyah was named Girls Player of the Carnival and selected in the Queensland Merit Team at the QLD State Schools Cup Rugby League Carnival, alongside her sister Veanna who also earned merit selection. Photo source: Mackay SHS (Facebook)

‍

Mackay State High School student Takiyah has capped off an outstanding Queensland State Schools Cup Rugby League Carnival, earning the prestigious Girls Player of the Carnival award and selection in the Queensland Merit Team.

‍

‍

The Year 12 student was recognised for her performances throughout the carnival, with the honours reflecting her dedication and work ethic on the field.

Takiyah has been involved in rugby league for the past eight years and has represented Mackay State High School, Capricornia, the Mackay Cutters and the Australian Wanderers during her playing career.

‍

Now in her senior year, she has been a member of the school's Rugby League Academy since Year 7.

The carnival also proved to be a memorable occasion for the family, with Takiyah playing alongside her Year 11 sister, Veanna. Both sisters were selected in the Queensland Merit Team following their performances throughout the tournament.

‍

Mackay State High School congratulated Takiyah and Veanna on their achievements and thanked staff and Queensland Secondary Schools Cup organisers for delivering another successful carnival, with students enjoying the opportunity to represent their school on the state stage.

‍

Photo source: Rocky Trail Entertainment  

‍

Finch Hatton MTB Trails welcomed riders from across Australia last weekend as the Fox Superflow presented by Rocky Trail Entertainment’s returned for two days of gravity enduro racing.

‍

Held on Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28, the event showcased Rocky Trail's popular Fox Superflow format, giving riders aged 10 years and over the flexibility to complete multiple live-timed race runs across the weekend at their own pace. With relaxed transitions, no start orders and a festival-style event village, the race attracted ambitious riders, seasoned competitors and families alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere on and off the trails.

‍

Away from the racing, the weekend continued with an MTB Movie Night hosted at the Pioneer Valley Show Society Hall. Held after the Pump N Flow event, families and local residents gathered under the stars to enjoy an outdoor film while raising funds for Pioneer Futures through entry donations and food sales, including a sausage sizzle, popcorn and soft drinks.

‍

Supported by local sponsors, including Robyn Agius Area Specialist and Off Camber Automotive, the movie night provided the perfect community finale to a weekend that celebrated mountain biking, family fun and the growing appeal of the Finch Hatton MTB Trails.

‍

Ladies A Singles Final, with Fely Duncan who was defeated by Penny Warren. Photo supplied: Penny Warren.  

‍

Monday self-selected triples winners were Dave Madden Maree Nesbitt Joe Paynting defeating Skinny Querro Bouff Querro and Laurie Land. Runners Up Jack Stamp Graham Mc Swain and Bob Dykstra defeated Neil Chittenden Robin and Robyn Stitt. The jackpot didn’tgo off.

‍

On Tuesday Karen Halton, John Harding and Jill Gillies defeated Lindy Suann Robyn and Owen Swanton. Runners Up went to Brett Halton, Allan Gillies and John Hallas who defeated Wendy Bruce T and France Willman. The jackpot was won by Shirley Smith and Penny Warren defeating Graham Smith and Kevin Jewell.

‍

Fun Thursday winners were Jill Gillies Carol Bellingham and Owen Swanton who defeated Max Ritchie, Peter Crewe and Allan Gillies. Graham Smith was the only one for the afternoon with a resting toucher.

‍

Cub Competition: Only one competition was played this week. On Saturday the final of the Ladies A grade singles was won by Penny Warren who defeated Fely Duncan. Penny will represent Wangaratta in the NQ District Champion of Champions in Townsville 11 & 12 July.

‍

On Sunday afternoon it was great to see a full green. The winners came out on Rink 7 and they were Bill Myers Joe Paynting Ron Crawford and Bob Dykstra who defeated June Paynting Nay Hands Maureen Hyde and Glen Harvey. Runners Up were Brett Halton, Lorraine Knight, Geoff Davies and Penny Warren who defeated Neale Chittenden Teresa Willshire Gavin Charles and Allan Gillies.

‍

This Saturday we are hosting our annual Monster Cent Sale. There will be lots of prizes. The club will open around 12 noon for a 1.30pm start.

‍

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

After the Queenfish and Trevally rally was postponed due to bad weather, The Whitsunday Game Fish Club have decided to combine it with the Mackerel and Reef Fish Rally on July 11th & 12th based at the Marine Club in Altmann Ave. Cannonvale.

‍

“Anyone that enjoys fishing, we've got a category for everyone,” said Ash Matthews, president of the Whitsundays Game Fishing Club.  

‍

“As a game fishing club, we do focus on the sport and the game fishing side of things but this is our one event where we relax those rules and regulations.

‍

“For those that want to challenge themselves and want to fish the lighter line, chase records and stuff like that, we've got categories for that as well.”  

‍

‍

Thanks to major sponsors Whitsunday Powersports and Marine and Tackle World Airlie Beach this rally has over $5000 in cash and prizes on offer in various categories including $500 each for the heaviest Mackerel, Trevally, Queenfish, Red Emperor, Nannygai, Coral Trout and lots more.

‍

“So without those guys, obviously we can't get these things off the ground,” Ash said.  

‍

Club points will also be awarded to those fishing GFAA rules and there are many Club and State records vacant, especially in the Junior and Women's sections, check the  club records on the website.

‍

‍

The rally briefing and angler  registration is on Thursday 9th of July from 6pm at the club where all will be explained, along with a sausage sizzle, Dave's famous fun quiz and the very important Club's AGM and election of the committee to steer the club for the next 12 months so we would like to see as many members as possible in attendance and have your say in the clubs future.

"The trivia nights are always a hit, so it's really good for the kids and the grown-ups to be involved,” Ash said.  

‍

The rally is free to WGFC members and being the start of the new Club year, new members are more than welcome to join this family friendly Club.

‍

‍

Membership fees are $70 per adult and $20 per Junior under 16, and will give you free entry to all the club rallies (excluding the major tournament in October) for the next 12 months and various other functions run by the club.

This will be an action packed weekend and a good chance to accrue club points and top up the freezer, hope to see you there.

‍

Countbacks proved to be the deciding factor across several events at the Whitsunday Green Club this week, with close finishes highlighting another competitive round of golf.

‍

Mitchell McLean edged out Andrew Nooren to claim the weekly 9-Hole Stableford after both players finished on 22 points, while Edwina Pettiford secured third with 21 points on countback.

‍

Friday's 9-Hole Stableford produced a very tight contest, with Lorri Thynne also winning on countback after posting 22 points ahead of Ron Thynne. George Meharry rounded out the podium with 21 points.

‍

Sunday's 18-Hole Monthly belonged to Scott Smith, claiming the medal after producing an impressive nett 47 earned him a victory ahead of Mark Strobel and Mark Winter, who both carded nett 48. Michael Bond claimed nearest-to-the-pin on the 7th, while Tyson Flavel was closest on the 18th.  

‍

Contributed with thanks to Jon Miller.  

‍

Whitsunday Allstars athletes will swap cheer mats for the fairways as the community comes together for a 2-Ball Ambrose Golf Fundraiser at Proserpine Golf Club on Sunday 19^th July.

The event aims to raise funds to support local athletes competing at Regional, State, National and International events, helping families manage the growing costs associated with participation in competitive cheerleading.

‍

While competitive cheerleading is often misunderstood, organisers say the sport is one of the most physically demanding team sports young athletes can participate in, requiring a unique combination of strength, flexibility, endurance, skill and trust.

‍

“Competitive cheer combines stunting, tumbling, jumps, dance and choreography, with athletes working together to safely perform complex routines,” organisers said.

‍

“Our athletes train multiple times each week, developing strength, stamina, resilience, flexibility, teamwork and confidence. Every routine relies on trust between teammates and countless hours of practice to perform at their best when they step onto the competition floor.”

‍

As travel, accommodation, uniforms and competition expenses continue to rise, community fundraising plays a vital role in helping athletes access opportunities to compete and progress within the sport.

‍

Whitsunday Allstars Fundraising Inc. would also like to acknowledge and thank major sponsors Tassal and Whitsunday Regional Council for their generous support of the event. Their contribution, along with the support of local businesses and community members, is helping make the fundraiser possible and ensuring more funds can go directly towards supporting local athletes.

‍

The golf day is designed to be a fun and inclusive event, with golfers of all abilities encouraged to participate.

‍

The day will begin with a BBQ breakfast available from 7:15am before an 8:00am shotgun start. Lunch, raffles, a bake sale and novelty competitions will be available throughout the day, with a range of fantastic prizes on offer.

‍

Major raffle prizes include a fishing charter, Club Wyndham accommodation and a number of other great prizes donated by local businesses and supporters.

“We would love to see the community get behind these athletes,” organisers said.

‍

“Whether you register a team, purchase raffle tickets, donate a prize, sponsor the event or simply come along and enjoy the day, every contribution helps local athletes continue chasing their goals.”

‍

Entry is $25 per person, with all funds raised remaining local and supporting Whitsunday athletes.

‍

To register a team or enquire about sponsorship opportunities, email whitsundayallstarsfundraising@gmail.com.

‍

Year 8-9 Boys SKINS Finalists. Photo Supplied

‍

The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club welcomed more than 150 swimmers from across Queensland for the club's annual Winter Transition Meet, with competitors chasing medals, cash prizes and qualifying times ahead of the upcoming Queensland Short Course Championships.

‍

Home pool advantage certainly paid off for the Cannons, with the team producing an outstanding 264 personal best times from 389 races—an impressive success rate of almost 68 per cent.

Every cannon should be incredibly proud of their performances over the weekend. With so many outstanding swims, it is almost impossible to single out individual achievements, but a handful of performances deserve special recognition.

‍

Our younger swimmers led the charge, with the club's Under 12 athletes delivering exceptional performances throughout the weekend. Faithlyn Trotter, Miranda Palmero, Leo Mulliss, Cooper Konopka, Indigo Harland, Wilson Hounsell, Blaire Harland and Isla Johnston all impressed with confident racing and strong improvements.

‍

Alexander Trefz enjoyed one of the standout performances of the meet, recording personal bests in 14 of his 15 events, while Jax Clayworth dominated his age group by winning all 17 events he contested.

‍

The Cannons' 8-to-9-year-old boys were unstoppable in the crowd-favourite SKINS events, claiming five of the six final places in backstroke, butterfly and freestyle, while sweeping all six places in breaststroke.

‍

‍

A special congratulations goes to Eloise Chegwidden, who claimed victory in the Girls 10–12 Years Breaststroke SKINS before producing a remarkable final swim to break a 27-year-old Swimming North Queensland record after racing through four heats just 60 seconds apart.

‍

More than $4,000 in prize money and $2,000 worth of raffle prizes were awarded across the weekend, made possible through the incredible generosity of our sponsors. Their support continues to make our annual carnival one of the region's premier swimming events.

‍

Contributed with thanks by Jade Korosec.

‍