Sports

Mackay Swimmers Recognised With National Scholarships And Strong Championship Results

Mackay Swimmers Recognised With National Scholarships And Strong Championship Results

SWIMMING Three rising talents from Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club have made waves on the national stage, earning recognition both in and out of the pool. Dakota Hull, Ava Seawright, and Isabelle Sharpe recently returned from the 2024 National Short Course Championships with impressive results, while fellow Cyclone Anisa Helou has been named as one of just 18 recipients of the prestigious Hancock Prospecting Patron Scholarship. The scholarship program, awarded to swimmers aged 13–18, prov

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Teams Gear Up for Finals

Teams Gear Up for Finals

SOFTBALL With just one or two weeks remaining in the season, teams are preparing for finals, with the grand final set for 13th September. The B Ladies will kick off their finals campaign next weekend on 30th August. Another tied game for the U14 teams ended in a 6-all draw between Dragons Get the Power and Angels North Jacklin Chaos. The young players have made remarkable progress since the start of the season. Dragons’ Connor Doolan got on base twice and scored each time, while Boyd Bax

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Young Mackay Cricketers Brush Up Skills As International Cricket Arrives

Young Mackay Cricketers Brush Up Skills As International Cricket Arrives

CRICKET As international cricket prepares to tee off in Mackay, local U20 cricketers are sharpening their skills and soaking up the excitement. Marcus Sammut, aged 17, reflected on the upcoming Australia vs South Africa matches, saying, “It’s really good—especially for a regional area. This hasn’t happened in Mackay before, which is awesome.” He added, “It’s inspiring to see how hard Mackay players train. We’ve got great facilities here, and hosting games like Australia vs South Africa

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Mackay BMX Riders Shine At Queensland State Series In Cairns

Mackay BMX Riders Shine At Queensland State Series In Cairns

BMX Mackay riders were in fine form at last weekend’s R7 & R8 of the Queensland State Series, held at the Cairns BMX Club. Competitors from across the region tested their speed and skill on the challenging track, with Mackay’s young riders producing some standout performances and claiming multiple top finishes. Round 8 Results: 11 Girls Lilly Bolger – F16:8 1st | 118:6 1st | 73:3 1st | 28:1 1st 12 Girls Ruby Soke – F17:4 1st | 119:8 1st | 74:5 2nd | 29:1 1st 13 Boys Max

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Mackay Christian College

Action-Packed Week At Airlie Beach Bowls Club

May 30, 2025

As the final week of autumn draws to a close, the local bowls scene has been in full swing, with both men’s and women’s competitions producing great results and promising talent.

Tuesday’s social bowls offered up some fantastic matches, with Tony Whitehorn leading his team alongside Sue Dakin and Di Dobbins to a strong second-place finish. But it was newcomers Des Ballance, playing lead, and skip Gail Simms who claimed top honours. Simms’ continued improvement was on full display, leading her team to an easy victory.

A highlight of the week was the final of the Ladies Fours, where Joan McGrath’s side turned in an outstanding performance. With Lyn Graham leading, Jill Spencer at second, and the ever-energetic “Thai princess” Ladda Purdie in third, the team demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork. Congratulations to this dynamic quartet on a well-deserved win.

Wednesday’s social bowls drew a solid crowd of 20 players. Among them, Rick Galea and Bill Gordon stood out, delivering an overwhelming win. Their synergy on the green earned them hearty congratulations from all in attendance.

Friday morning welcomed the Endeavour Foundation participants, with Jett and Michael enjoying their continued development under the guidance of David Meiklejohn. Kathy is also making steady progress, while newcomer Deon took to the green for the first time with help from Betty Whitehorn.

That afternoon, 20 students from Christian College hit the greens for an introduction to lawn bowls. With several promising talents among them, all eyes now turn to the upcoming inter-school matches, where Christian College will face St Catherine’s College and Proserpine High School for a spot in the Queensland Schools Competition.

The weekend saw the club's Division One, Three, Five, and Six sides in action across the region, with mixed results reported. Full details of team positions and ladders will be available in next week’s report.

As the cooler months approach, local bowlers are heating up the greens with enthusiasm and talent—setting the stage for an exciting winter of competition ahead.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Wangaratta Bowls

June 5, 2025

With the arrival of visiting bowlers marking the change of season, Monday’s self-selected triples kicked off with some competitive matches and strong performances.

While the green wasn’t full, the games delivered plenty of action. Merle Elphinstone, Isobel Wheeler, and Robyn Stitt emerged victorious against Sugar Brunker, Graeme Read, and Kennedy Whitton. Other matches saw Maureen and Rob Hyde defeat Frank Farrugia, Bob Dykstra, and Neil Chittenden, while Joe Paynting and Neil Chittenden claimed a win over Alby Vigar and Dennis Maddely.

Tuesday’s winners were decided on rink four, where Jack Stamp, Gavin Charles, and Bob Dykstra overcame Maree Brunker, Steve Roome, and Dennis Maddely.
Elsewhere, John Hayson, George Tartaglia, and Maureen Hyde defeated Neil Chittenden, Graham Smith, and Jenny Lonie. Andy and Gwenda Lydom, along with Greg Pemroke and Ron Hyde, also notched a win over Merle Elphinstone, Shirley Smith, Sue Shearing, and Andrew Lonie.
The jackpot continues to roll over for another week, keeping anticipation high for the next round.

Tuesday afternoon's final of the Mixed Triples was a crowd-pleaser. Allan Rolfe’s team—joined by Laurie Land and Penny Warren—held an early lead but saw it slip away with six consecutive ends lost, levelling the match by the final end. In a nail-biting finish, bowl-for-bowl, Rolfe’s team regained the upper hand to defeat Robyn Stitt, Margaret Wilson, and Mark Drummond by two shots.

Sunday saw four triples matches and one pairs game played. Winners of the day were Maree Brunker, Jim Steele, and Kennedy Whitton, who triumphed over John Hayson, Isobel Wheeler, and Pat Tracey.

The Men’s District Purple Pennant will be played this weekend across Wangaratta and BBC. Best of luck to all our local bowlers taking part—spectators are encouraged to head down and support the teams and enjoy some top-tier competition.

The season is in full swing, and with visitors joining the greens, the competition is only getting better.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Proserpine Golfers Enjoy Top Scores In Perfect Conditions

May 30, 2025

Favourable autumn weather brought out the best in Proserpine Golf Club members during the week ending May 25, with improved conditions leading to excellent scores across multiple competitions.

Tuesday’s Stableford saw Jon Miller top the leaderboard with a strong 39 points. Peter Lindsay claimed runner-up on a countback from Tim Langford, both finishing with 37. Nearest-the-pins went to Bernie Drake on the 2nd and Jon Miller on the 13th. Meanwhile, the veterans were away competing at Emu Park and Yeppoon Golf Clubs.

In Wednesday’s ladies’ stroke round, Nicole Cooper stood out with a brilliant 63 nett, comfortably ahead of Di Dobbins (72) and Pauline Redpath (76). Cooper also claimed NTPs on the 2nd and 13th, while Di Chard took the other NTP on the 2nd.

Thursday’s Stableford featured visiting player Timothy Duncan from National GC winning A Grade with 38 points. Michael Ward (36) edged out Allen Roberts on countback. B Grade honours went to Jim Sherrington (37), followed by John Dodds (36) and Joe Marschke (34). NTPs were awarded to Geoff Harrison (2nd), Tom O’Brien (9th), Ryan Wilkes (13th), and Ray Johannesen (16th).

Friday’s Metropole Hotel 9-hole run on the back nine saw Brent Franke win with 21 points. Mark McDougal took runner-up on countback from Troy Smith. Despite the win, Franke missed out on the “Putt for Cash” prize.

Saturday’s Stableford had Brian Allen take A Grade with 40 points. In B Grade, Scott Dwyer claimed the win on countback from John Dodds. Sara Hagy was the standout in the ladies' field with 37 points.

Sunday’s Monthly Medal, sponsored by KJC, went to Billy O’Connor (66 nett) and Di Chard (72 nett), both winning on countback in tight contests.

A big week of competition awaits, with more Stableford events and the June Monthly Medal set to be contested.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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May Day Fours Carnival Rolls In With A Full Green With The Mackay City Ladies Bowling Club

May 22, 2025

The City Ladies held another fantastic weekend of bowls over the May Day weekend. Each day had a full green, with Ladies Fours on Saturday and Mixed Fours on Sunday.

The Marie Gravino Shield was won by Shirley Sturgeon, Anna Knight, Emma Pash and Dawn Field on Saturday. The shield was donated by Marie’s family in her honour. She was a long-time member of the Ladies Club, and held the position of Junior Vice for several years.

On Sunday, the Mixed Team winners were R. Harris, P. Rintoul, R. Rintoul and Jo Inch.

Proud winners of the Marie Gravino Shield, Dawn, Emma, Shirley and Anna

The Ladies' President Judy presenting Rob’s winning Mixed Team with their prize money

Maria presenting one of the lucky prize winners, Nola, with a meat tray

Di and Mike kept a close eye on keeping the scoreboard up to date for the two days. Photos supplied

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Aces All Round At Mackay Bridge

May 22, 2025

Well Done to Mackay Club members Ian and Mary Cruickshank who were members of the Reil Team to take out third place in the restricted team event at the Barrier Reef Congress. Saturday saw the playing of the third GNOT event with members vying for coveted Gold Points. Fourteen teams competed, with team Bugeia the ultimate winners of the day.

Weekly Results
Monday 12 May 2025 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Pamela Finger / Ming Ting
3rd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait 3rd Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

Tuesday Evening 13 May 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 2nd Terry Sheedy / Ken Seaniger
3rd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 4th Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

Wednesday 14 May 2025 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Geoff Taylor / Karen Caldwell
3rd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 3rd Griffin Bancroft / Andrew Canavan
4th Christine Fitzpatrick / Noel Saunders 4th Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

Thursday Evening 15 May 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Martin Pearce / Chris Meyers 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
3rd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 4th Lynne O’Neill / Sue Mayer-Miller

Friday 16 2025 – Remembrance Day Pairs Week 1 of 3 - 13 Table Mitchell Red Points

N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Richard Wix / Janine Rodgers
3rd Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild 3rd Frances Brown / Alan Brown
4th Susan Ross / Diane Cox 4th Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
5th Barbara Tait / Janelle Conroy 5th Lorna Shuttlewood / Faye Wright
6th Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 6th Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

Saturday 17 May 2025 –GNOT - Round 3 - 14 Team Gold Points

Team Players
1st Bugeia Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
2nd Goodchild Debra Goodchild/ Ming Ting / David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd Shuttlewood Lorna Shuttlewood / Faye Wright / Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Brown Alan Brown / Frances Brown / Diane Morgan / Marlin Robins
5th Lutz Anne Lutz / Margaret Lane / Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

Contribued by Joy Block

Mary (left) and Ian (second from the right). Photo supplied

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Harvest Triples Brings Sunshine After Rain Delays

May 22, 2025

After two rain-soaked postponements, the sun finally smiled on the Marian Ladies Bowls Club as they hosted their much-anticipated annual Harvest Triples on Monday, 12 May 2025.

With a full green of 16 teams, players were eager to hit the turf and enjoy two spirited games of bowls. Laughter, friendly competition, and fine form were all in abundance throughout the day.

Alongside the on-green action, visitors also enjoyed a popular cent sale and browsed a delightful selection of plants and handmade crafts, ensuring no one went home empty-handed.

Congratulations to the day’s top teams:

• 1st Place: Leanne Jenner, Marie Mayfield, and Dot McNamara
• 2nd Place: Jan Flanagan, Bertha Archer, and BB Smith
• 3rd Place: Heather Jones, Robyn Large, and Penny Roots

Contributed by Lyn Jackson

First place winners: Leanne Jenner, Marie Mayfield, and Dot McNamara

Second place winners: Jan Flanagan, Bertha Archer, and BB Smith

Third place winners: Heather Jones, Robyn Large, and Penny Roots. Photos supplied

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Farmers Keep Galloping In 49th Annual Run

May 22, 2025

Last Sunday, more than 40 runners and supporters took to the streets for the annual Farmer’s Long Gallop, featuring 5km and 17km courses that started from the Evans Avenue North residence of long-time supporter, Agnes Farmer.

Agnes and her late husband Fred hosted the event from the club’s very first year, and following Fred’s passing from multiple myeloma 12 years ago, Agnes continued the tradition. A self-confessed non-morning person, she had now hosted the run an incredible 49 times, still managing to provide post-race refreshments with a warm smile and generous spirit.

Club President and Life Member Paul Tilse officially welcomed the runners and thanked Agnes before issuing directions for both courses. The 5km event followed a straightforward out-and-back route via Palmer Street to Harbour Road, while the more demanding 17km route wound through Slade Point, Andergrove and Beaconsfield, before linking to Norris Road in Mt Pleasant and concluding with the scenic Gooseponds pathways.

Andrew Short set up the course in the early hours of the morning, with support at the start line from Len Howarth. Timekeepers Julie Whibley and Rohan Miles were once again instrumental in ensuring smooth results, published online within the hour after the last runner crossed the finish line.

In the 17km event, Toby Rule led a high-quality field, with strong competition from John Rae and the much-improved Craig Robinson, closely followed by Shane Donnollan, Levi Wallace, and Clinton Mackie.

Alana Knezevic claimed first place in the women’s field and 6th overall with a determined come-from-behind finish, edging out Rhiann Massey and Carolyn Mapes. Wayne Huntley impressed, backing up from a tough Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon effort just weeks earlier, and finished only four minutes behind a fast-closing Phil Roche.

In the 5km race, Michael Feenaghty surged to the front and crossed the line first, with Roscoe McDonnell in second and Darrin Pullen rounding out the top three. Other strong performances came from Daniel Stampa, Craig Joynson, and Ross Connor.

Gail Mackie took gold in the women’s division, finishing ahead of Lauren Connor, Mel Esau, Natasha Joynson, Leanne Connor, Kayla Waugh, and Kim Saron.

Club legends Judy Zahn (17k), Jan Smith, Len Howarth, and Stuart Sprott were all praised for their gritty and determined performances, showcasing the heart and endurance that continue to inspire fellow members.

The club’s attention now turns to this Sunday’s Grove 10km Handicap Trophy, starting at 7am from The Grove Tavern precincts in Andergrove. Runners must begin on their official club handicap time to be eligible for the trophy, with the first runner across the finish line – regardless of gender – crowned the 2025 Champion.

Reigning champion Craig Robinson was in excellent form and set to contest the title once again. With only a handful of runners ever having won it twice, history could well be made.

All members were reminded to wear their official numbers and check in with timekeepers no later than 6:50am. Non-members were welcome to join for a $10 casual day fee, though only members are eligible for the coveted trophy.

Approximately forty runners enjoyed the Farmer’s Long Gallop 5k and 17k annual historical event

Amy Houston (left) with Farmer’s Long Gallop Hostess and Life Member, Agnes Farmer

Mel Rich (left) and Emily Hayles were ready for the annual 5k and 17k Farmers Long Gallop

Clinton Mackie, Levi Wallace, Leon Sant and Craig Joynson are ready for the Farmer’s Long Gallop in perfect running conditions

Champion veteran and Life Member, Judy Zahn, with the Club’s 49-year-old logo banner hand-made by Agnes Farmer. Photos and words by Janelle Tilse

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Girls Just Wanna Have Fun - On The Green!

May 22, 2025

The North Mackay Ladies Bowls club radiated with colour, laughter and plenty of flair as the club hosted its first-ever “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” Dress-Up 3 Bowl Triples Fun Day.

Club President Hilary Jones-Rowan, donning full Dolly Parton attire, warmly welcomed fellow bowlers before play commenced with one game of 18 ends, followed by a light lunch shared among the teams.

Adding to the day’s spirited atmosphere, players showcased their costumes in a lively parade before judges Dorothy Wise, Jan Borg and Club Manager Steve Lancaster. The judging panel made their decision swiftly, acknowledging the impressive creativity on display.

Best Dressed Teams:

First place went to The Busty Babes — Chris Woo, Bev Svenson and Chris Hall.

Second place was awarded to The 80’s Rockers — Boy George (Phyllis Cooper), Cindy Lauper (June Stockwell) and Dolly Parton (Hilary Jones-Rowan).

On the Green Results:

The game winners for the day were The Angelic Ladies — Helen Fleming, Kirstine Robinson and Lorraine Silman.

Runners-up were The Marilyn Monroes — Donna Gordon, Coral Francis and Deb Mackenzie.

President Hilary concluded the event by thanking everyone who participated in the day, highlighting the camaraderie and the creative effort shown by all. Her Dolly Parton persona added an extra layer of charm and humour, as she applauded each team’s spirit and style.

Feedback from the day was overwhelmingly positive, with one common remark heard among bowlers: “Let’s do this again soon — it was so much fun.”

The club now looks ahead to more community-building events, with plenty of good bowling and great laughs still to come.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine.

80’s Rock Stars : Phyllis Cooper, June Stockwell, Hilary Jones-Rowan

Busty Babes: Chris Woo, Bev Svenson, Chris Hall

Game day winners: Helen Fleming, Kirstine Robinson, Lorraine Silman, President Hilary, Deb Mackenzie, Coral Francis and Donna Gordon. Photos supplied

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Softball Returns To The Diamond In Style

May 22, 2025

The sun was shining, and the softball fields were buzzing with energy as the season kicked off with a full day of games across all age divisions. The action began with Under 14s, followed by Joey Ball and Rookieball. After a short lunch break, the senior teams took to the diamond for their first official games of the season, many featuring a mix of fresh faces and seasoned players returning to the sport.

One such team, Angels Golden Oldies, made their mark early, defeating Young Guns 14–7. The experienced squad reminded the younger players that speed isn't everything, but rather that game knowledge can be the deciding factor.

Linda Parry, Sharon Cunningham, Tanya Bakker, and Ally Poyner each earned two walks to get on base. Tanya Bakker, along with Trish Buthke and Nirada, crossed home plate twice each, with Poyner also taking a catch.

The Young Guns showed plenty of promise, with Cooper Maluga – returning after a few years’ break – pitching a strong game and taking two catches. Boyd Baxter provided solid support on the mound, while Mackenzie Rumpf crossed home plate twice to contribute valuable runs.

Dragons Ausgroup proved too strong for Hawks Heavy Diesel, taking the win 23–10. Alex Tassen had a standout performance, launching a three-base hit to centre field and crossing home plate four times. Grant Grace matched the effort with four runs of his own, including a home run. Defensively, Grant, Russell Counsell, and Chris Mickle all took catches. For Heavy Diesel, Jack Deller stood out by scoring three runs, with Tyson Reid adding two more. Reid and Heath Taylor each took a catch.

North Jacklin Pink Hawks defeated Angels Fireballs 20–6 in a dominant display. Every player in the Pink Hawks line-up crossed home plate three times, with Darcy Dowsett and Angela Baker each crossing four times. Dowsett and Mel Reid also contributed with catches.
For Fireballs, Kim Elsworthy crossed home twice, while Kate Wood demonstrated discipline at the plate, drawing three walks. Newcomers Emma James and Kelly Tapim impressed both with the bat and in the field.

In the Under 14 division, Dragons Get the Power secured a 10–5 win over Angels Dunbar. Boyd Baxter and Levi Counsell both scored twice and pitched effectively, with Baxter notching five strikeouts. Lachie Colless delivered a strong two-base hit. For Dunbar, Zac Hargraves took the game’s only catch, while both Zac and Peyton Rodenque reached base on walks.

Results:

Get the Power -  Dunbar 10 - 5
Tyre power -  North Jacklin Chaos 7 all

North Jacklin Pink - Fireballs  20 - 6
Golden oldies Angels - young guns 14 -7
Arch Angels- Dragons Slayers  23  - 3
Storm - Dragons Flies   19 -2

Ausgroup -  Heavy Iron  23 - 10
Dragons Devils - Custom Angels  15 - 10

Bcn Dragons  - Xtreeme  3 - 4

Hells Angels - Dragons  11 - 1
Hells Angels - Allstars  9 - 0

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Sinkers Launch Into May With Endurance And Heart

May 23, 2025

The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club made a splash on Saturday, May 17, kicking off the day with dedication, stamina, and community spirit. The morning began bright and early with a special endurance session at 7am.

Following that, the club’s popular 8am “Jim Session” offered a second challenge for many, all leading up to a heartfelt cause. In partnership with DMR Leisure, the Sinkers hosted a swimmer’s take on Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea at the Memorial Pool – raising vital funds for the Cancer Council.

The morning showcased not only athletic prowess but also the unity of a club swimming for both health and hope.

Upcoming Sinkers Winter Sessions, May – August (Inc):

• Mondays (Coached) – 515pm for 530-630pm swim and
• Wednesdays (Whiteboard) – 515pm for 530-630pm swim
• Saturdays (Whiteboard) – 8 am to 9am for the famous Jim Session.

All swims based at the Memorial Swim Centre.

Swimmers gathered after the endurance swim for this photo opportunity before commencing session 2 at 8am with Jim’s 3.2k program. Photos supplied

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Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea

May 22, 2025

Not content with a morning of epic swims members welcomed the Sinkers and DMR Leisure’s swimmer version of Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea and helped to raise funds for the Cancer Council.

Event planning was in high gear, thanks to the club Secretary, who ensured plenty of action with games and a best hat competition. Stunning tea cups were available for purchase, and an impressive multi-sponsored raffle prize—valued at $550—added extra excitement to the fundraising efforts.

Of course, no morning tea is complete without delicious food, and the club delivered in style! Swimmers, family members, and guests indulged in home-baked delights, including savory croissants, egg and bacon pie, muffins, slices, and much more.

The day had begun with a serious effort in the pool, kicking off at 7am with an endurance program, followed by another 60 minutes at 8am – a 3.2k "Jim Session" that pushed some swimmers all the way to 6k in total. But any calories burned in the water were undoubtedly replaced during their morning tea from 9:30am to 11:30am.

Held under the shade of the majestic rain tree, the event welcomed attendees for a gold coin donation and offered the chance to win raffle prizes, including a wheelbarrow, vouchers, towels, and much more—prompting some generous giving in support of the Cancer Council fundraiser.

As the final raffle tickets were drawn and the tablecloths packed away, the inaugural DMR Leisure & Sinkers "Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea" proved to be a resounding success, raising over $2,000 for a worthy cause.

With almost 1 in 2 Australians diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, this fundraising event contributes to the Cancer Council of Australia’s vital research efforts—working toward a cure and making a meaningful difference for those impacted.

The Sinkers extend their thanks to Coach Millie from DMR Leisure for her exceptional community efforts, financial support, and, of course, for providing those delicious bacon and egg pies plus croissants.

A huge thank you from the club also goes to the Memorial Pool staff, pool patrons, and generous donors—including their raffle prize sponsors: Bunnings, Mt. Pleasant Tavern, Dan Murphy’s, Rebel, and the incredible club members.

You can learn more at www.biggestmorningtea.com.au.

The delightful treats on offer were popular amongst swimmers and guests alike.

It was a family affair with a great community vibe for a relaxed morning of treats and socialising.

A great swimmer at arms, Lesley kept us on track with games and fines for the indiscretions of no hats and other tea party high jinks. The Wheelbarrow of prizes on display. Photos supplied

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Endurance Ignited

May 23, 2025

The Endurance 1000 annual program consists of a number of distances and strokes, which start with 400m and progress to 1-hour swims, for the keen there are 63 swims in the program.

On Saturday, a baker’s dozen of swimmers fronted at 7am for events ranging from 400m to 60-minute swims, recording either times or distances against the event. Swimmers earn points for the club in a State and National competition during the calendar year. It was also the first time for some swimmers to challenge themselves with a 60-minute swim earning top points as they club eye’s the annual club trophy award held by a southern club for over a decade.

Points are awarded and the ultimate goal is to encourage swimmers to achieve maximum points in all events in a calendar year. Improved endurance and swimming with purpose are an added value.

The majority of swimmers than regrouped for a second session at 8am as they swum towards the Biggest Morning Tea completing over 6km individual swims in the process.

For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

Contributed By Dan Stampa

Sally McGlashan approaches the turn in her 30 minute continuous swim completing 1500m in the allocated time.

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Perfect Conditions And Stellar Performances

May 22, 2025

At The 2025 Eimeo Triathlon

The 2025 Eimeo Triathlon delivered a picture-perfect morning of racing, with calm waters and clear skies welcoming competitors to the first open water event of the year. The club’s new swim markers, funded by a Mackay Regional Council grant, added a professional touch.
A low tide added difficulty with a longer beach run to transition, but spirits remained high, and the pace was fierce.

Local favourite Jody Walker dominated the Sprint Distance once again, claiming top female honours for the third straight year and securing her name on the Laura Petiffer Perpetual Trophy. A stellar effort from a local legend.

First-timer Charlie Mabb, a new Mackay Triathlon Club member, impressed by winning the Enticer Distance on debut. His commitment to training proved key, showing that hard work pays off.

The men’s Sprint race brought fierce competition. John Thomas led out of the water, but was overtaken by Ben Croker, who surged ahead with a powerful bike leg and strong run to take first. Tim Ffrost made a welcome return to racing, finishing third.

This year’s event saw the largest Eimeo field in four years, highlighting the sport’s local growth and the club’s positive momentum. From first-timers to seasoned racers, the atmosphere was electric.

Thanks go to the Mackay Triathlon Club committee, early-morning volunteers, and the Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club for making the event a safe and successful celebration of community, competition, and the joy of triathlon.

Sprint Distance – Male Results:
1st – Ben Croker
2nd – John Thomas
3rd – Tim Ffrost

Sprint Distance – Female Results:
1st – Jody Walker
2nd – Naomi Ballard
3rd – Keltie Davies

Visit www.mackaytriclub.com.au for more information on results and upcoming events.

The 2025 Eimeo Triathlon served up sunshine, strong performances, and record numbers in a high-energy start to the open water racing season. Photo source: Mackay Triathlon Club

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Lake Proserpine Prepares For An Action Packed June

May 30, 2025

The picturesque Lake Proserpine Campground will host two distinctly different yet equally exciting events this month, drawing hundreds of locals and visitors to this incredible lakefront location.

On Thursday 12 June, the Queensland Music Festival’s Reef Sundowner will bring a relaxed evening of soulful performances to the lakeside, followed by the high-energy, Barra and Boots Music Festival, on Saturday 21 June.

Both events are family-friendly and attendees can expect a laid-back country vibe.

Reef Sundowner
The Reef Sundowner is a free ticketed event running from 5pm to 10pm. The evening features a stellar line-up of live music, including First Nations artists Harold Bowen and Adi Thomas, local favourite David Flower, and headline act Those Folk – a soulful Americana folk duo.

You’ll find a great range of food from local favourites like I’m the Pizza Guy, Bauies Smokin Meats, and Rilo Ice Cream and Fruit Smoothies, while a jumping castle will keep the kids smiling.

As the main stage winds down, the night shifts into a mellow fireside music session – the perfect way to wind down under the stars. Camping is not only encouraged, but also part of the experience so book a site for the night, pitch your tent or park your van and soak up the relaxed lakeside atmosphere at your own pace.

Barra & Boots
Barra and Boots is a ticketed country music festival, exclusive to weekend campers and Saturday day visitors. The main event runs from 12pm to 10pm on Saturday 21 June, with a huge line-up of Australian country music talent including Michael Ward, Rusty Pick Ups, Bonnie Kellett, Paul Costa, Josh Setterfield, Christie Lamb – and headliners Amber Lawrence and the Sunny Cowgirls.

Camping tickets are almost sold out, but day passes with return bus transfers are still available. There’ll be great food all day from Hernan’s Way Pizza, Bauies Smokin Meats, and Rilo Ice Cream and Fruit Smoothies so get your friends and family together and enjoy the country atmosphere.

WHAT: Reef Sundowner
WHEN: Thursday 12 June (5pm – 10pm)
WHERE: Lake Proserpine
TICKETS: Free!!!!
Register at qldmusictrails.com

WHAT: Barra & Boots Music Festival
WHEN: Saturday 21 June (12pm – 10pm)
WHERE: Lake Proserpine
TICKETS: GA ($160 + booking fee), Youth 11-17 ($49.95 + booking fee), Child 6-11 ($24.95 + booking fee), Children 0-5 (FREE)
Book your tickets and camping at regfest.com.au

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Cannonvale Cannons Celebrate A Stellar Season

May 30, 2025

Club Medal & Level Achievements

In Part Two of our end-of-season wrap-up, we shine a light on the swimmers who reached important performance milestones throughout the season. These awards are based on official qualifying times achieved in our home pool at Club Nights, Club Championships, or Cannons-hosted Carnivals – and they represent dedication, determination, and consistent improvement.

First up, we celebrated recipients of the Club Medal, awarded to swimmers who have achieved up to four qualifying times from the Level 1 table. Congratulations to:

  • Jax Eaves
  • Millie Groom
  • Murphy Jamieson
  • Leo Mulliss
  • Lennox Wild
  • Dylan Reynolds

Next, we proudly acknowledged our Level 1 Trophy swimmers – those who achieved five or more qualifying times from the Level 1 table:

  • Tiana Bell
  • Tyler Bennett
  • Charlie Doherty
  • Roxy Groom
  • Jasper Korosec
  • Gracie Laguna
  • Ruby Lawson
  • Nelson Malady
  • Matilda Nicholes
  • Sophie Palmero
  • Addie Sanders
  • Indi Smith

We then celebrated a very special group of swimmers who reached the Level 2 Trophy by achieving three qualifying times from the Level 2 table:

  • Ella Bounden
  • Zach Trefz
  • Alex Trefz
  • Levi Smith
  • Andie Reynolds
  • Isabella Pisaniello
  • Isaac Pisaniello
  • Celeste Orenshaw
  • Eric Mulliss
  • Lucas Korosec
  • Billie Jamieson
  • Ruby Harland
  • Koa Harland
  • Thomas Ganter
  • Liam Filewood
  • Miller Eaves
  • Evie Doherty
  • Declan Dichiera
  • Maeve Dichiera
  • Harris Delac
  • Zane Clayworth
  • Jax Clayworth
  • Eloise Chegwidden
  • Harry Chegwidden
  • Mackenzie Bennett
  • Don Algie

Finally, we recognised our Level 3 Trophy recipients – those who achieved two qualifying times from the Level 3 table:

  • Tora Delac
  • Jacob Bell

Each of these achievements reflects the spirit of the Cannonvale Cannons – pushing limits, supporting each other, and striving for personal bests. Well done to all our swimmers!

Stay tuned for Part Three in next week’s edition as we wrap up the season with our special awards and major club trophies.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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