Wet weather put rather a dampener on this past week with no Social Bowls on Wednesday.

This meant that we had a bumper turn out for Sunday's Social Bowls.  

We had visitors from Belmont NSW, Swan Hill Victoria, Eden in NSW, Airlie Beach and Sale in Victoria.

Bill Howell, Carol Crosbie, Bob Ross and Betty Nicolle defeated Arthur Griffith, Barry Zillmann, Caroll Smith and Nev Smith 33 - 19; Lee King, Bruce Uhe and Heather Brown defeated John Burnett, Philip Brown and Peter Warner 21 - 19;  Col, John Anderson and Sandy Daffara defeated Alen Sanderson, Peter Lawton and Cheryl Howell 19 - 16.

Champion of Champion Ladies Singles that was to be played at St Helens was postponed until August 10 and 11.

Best wishes for good bowls to Isaac Elliott and Andrew Bell who will be playing Champion of Champion Pairs at Marian this coming weekend.

Champion of Champion Ladies Pairs is to be played at Proserpine this week.  

Thanks to all who have worked so hard in preparing the green for this event.  

It is unfortunate that last week brought rain and we are now hoping that the weather cooperates this week.  

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

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There has been a lot happening this week in the world of bowls at Wangaratta.  

On Tuesday winners were Bron Tolcher, Bruce Thomson, Brian Cassick and John Middleton whi defeated Keith Collins, Ann Kayser, Jo Paynting and June Walsh. Runners Up were Roger Mumby, Brian Bellingham and Terrie Crozier who defeated Alan Pearson, Jan Dawson and Terry Nash. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Then on Thursday, Men’s President and Green Keeper Mark hosted his special afternoon sponsored by Queens Beach Tourist Village with a full green. Thanks also to Le Sorelle and Arabon Seafoods who gave a donation.

Winners for the afternoon were Gary, Denise, Wallace, Glen and Linda Smith who defeated Bruce, John, Lauire and Sugar Brunker. Runners Up were V Richie, K S/Collins, B Russo and P Donoghue who defeated T Roach, H Donoghue, L Danvers and J Paynting.  

Winners for our Fun Friday afternoon were J Dawson and P Donoghue who defeated J Breakwell and A Vigar. K S/Collins and M Nesbitt defeated B Jackson and M Hyde, M McKezie, M Mead and J Middleton defeated R Dunell, H Donoghue and O Watson, C Cassidy, L S/Collins and C Taylor defeated L Knight, J Velden and K Baxter, Tracy, Ken and Karon defeated Robyn, Chris and Jim. Resting touchers went to Ken M, Robyn, M Nesbitt, and J Dawson. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Sunday winners came out on Rink 8. They were C Cassidy, M Loughhead, N Barlee and V Palmer who defeated C Bellingham, M Middleton, K Aykens and K Moriarty. Runners Up K Baxter, L Knight, I Wheeler, R Hyde who defeated P Breakwell, L Palmer, G Harvey and A Rolfe. The jackpot went off in the game between A Kayser, D Harris, T Crozier and F Wilman who defeated M Nesbitt, H Donoghue, P Madden and Pat Tracey.

Although not winning, our ladies put on a stirling performance at the District Champion of Champions at Alligator Creek on the week. Fely Duncan and Robyn Stitt were runners up in the A pairs. The winners being Noorla players Carla Pizzi and Carmen Mugica.  Penny Warren was defeated narrowly by Carmen Mugica in the A Singles. Teresa Willshire played B Singles with 2 wins which will continue for a result in 2 weeks. Well done ladies representing the club.

We are playing for the Pat and Neil Tracey trophy this Sunday with self-selected triples which I am sure will be a great afternoon.                                                                     Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

Winners of the Men's Presidents Day:  Gary, Denise, Glen, Linda with President Mak Drummond

Runners Up District Champion of Champion A Pairs: Robyn Stitt, Fely Duncan. Photos supplied

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Wednesday’s competition was a single stableford event sponsored by Bowen Golf Club.  

Ladies’ winner on a countback was Julie May 32 points, runner up Leanne Swan 32 points. Men’s winner Perry Layton 36 points, runner up Chris Jackson 35 points.

Saturday's competition was the Men’s August Monthly medal. Winner on a countback was Jeff Jackson 70 nett, runner up Michael Mawson 70 nett.

Sunday was the ladies August Monthly Medal. Winner was Karon McKenzie 73 nett, runner up on a countback Penny Stewart 75 nett. Both competitions were kindly sponsored by Bowen Meat Supply and Queens Beach Motor Hotel.

This weekend's competition will be played on Sunday and will be a single stableford event sponsored by Bowen Golf Club.  

Don't forget to check the club's Facebook page for this week’s dinner specials. Takeaways still available. Please call the club if you wish to book a table or place a takeaway order. Joker is worth $4000.  

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

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August Men’s Monthly Medal winners. Photo supplied

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22 Whitsunday Golf Club members turned up to play a Single Stableford competition last Sunday, and while the course was still fairly wet, enthusiasm was as hot as ever.

Ladies A Grade:

Winner: Tiina Randmae with 32 points

Runner-up: Penny Wardroper with 23 points

Longest Drive: Tiina Randmae

Ladies B Grade:

Winner: Sally Little with 32 points on a countback from

Runner-up: Pam Casey

Longest Drive: Elise Hodgson

Men’s A Grade:

Winner: John Clark with 28 points on a countback from

Runner-up: Geoff Harrison

Longest Drive: Geoff Harrison

Men’s B Grade:

Winner: Wilf Herweg with a cracking 38 points - handicap gone!

Runner-up: Jalen Jarvis with 33 points

Longest Drive: David Hoy

NTPs:

Ladies A Grade : nobody on the 6th

Ladies B Grade: Karen Rix on the 16th

Ladies All In: Pam Casey and Penny Wardroper, both in the hole for 2 - nice birdies

Men’s A Grade: Jason Whitney on the 9th

Men’s B Grade: Don Cameron on the 16th

Men’s All In: nobody on the 13th

NAGAs: the honours went to Linda Wardroper and Wayne Temby.

Next week there is no WGC competition because of the PGC Opens but Sunday 13/8 will be the August MM and Least Putts.

Don’t forget to get your names in early so we can play in a block.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

L-R : Tiina Randmae (Ladies A winner), Wilf Herweg (Men’s B winner), Sally Little (Ladies B winner), Geoff Harrison (Men’s A winner). Photo supplied

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This week’s 9-hole stableford saw Jimmy Millar come first place with 19 points, second was Terry Kimpton with 18 points and third place saw Michael Bond on a 17 point c/b.

Friday’s stableford was a great effort from all. Taking first place was Craig Kennedy with 21 points, second with a 20 point c/b was Ryan Kenny and third Glenn Rees with 20 points. Great job gentlemen.

Sunday’s monthly medal was a great turnout which saw Justyn Durbin take the win with a 46 NET, second was Danny York with a 49 NET c/b and third place Tyson Flavel with a 49 NET.

Nearest the pin were John Shannon and Ben Doer.

This Sunday, August 6 will be an 18-hole stableford. tee off anytime.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green Golf Club.

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Justyn Durbin. Photo supplied

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The weather gods weren't kind for the running of the Whitsunday Game Fish Club's "Mackerel Muster" held last weekend.

15 to 20 knots south-easters greeted teams on both days, with Aileen Harris on "Lascar II", weighing the only Spanish Mackerel of 14.35kgs, after losing several others to sharks.  

Aileen took home $300 First Prize (one for the girls). Other teams had stories of lost mackerel and bi-catch of barracuda and queenfish.

On Sunday evening the Club held its AGM and saw Ashley Matthews elected as President, Justin Butler as Vice President, Steve Obst as Secretary, with Stacey Gerhart as Treasurer and Ashley Moore the Weighmaster.

Now its full steam ahead for the "Ben Doolin Builders Light Tackle Tournament" from 19 - 22 October, which has fast become one of the best tournaments on the coast, and one not to be missed.  

Now is the time to start organising your team for this fun event.

Contributed with thanks to Dianne Anderson.

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Aileen’s Winning Spanish Mackerel. Photo supplied

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Over the weekend, six Cannons travelled to Townsville to compete in the 2023 Gardens Short Course Transition Meet while some Cannons stayed home and participated in the Whitsunday Triathlon events.  

On Sunday morning, it was great to see club families, volunteers and Coach Kenny helping with the Cannons’ BBQ at the triathlon.  

Highlights from Gardens: Don Algie, aged 10 years competed in 11 events. Don medalled in nine events and set 5PBs. One of Don’s best swims was his 50 metre Breaststroke which he swam in a super time of 44.82 seconds which earnt him 1st place.  

Jack Ganter, aged 14 years set 7 PBs out of his eight events. Jack’s best swim was his 100 metre Butterfly which he swam in an excellent time of 1.33.21 which was a 13.39 second PB (and 1st place).

Jack’s brother, Thomas aged 11 years, also swam 7PBs. Thomas swam fantastic times in his 100 metre IM and 200 metre Freestyle which earnt him 1st place.  

Anisa Helou, aged 14 years, swam extremely well to earn 5PBs and top placings. Anisa’s best swim was her 100 metre IM which she swam a 5.46 second PB.  

Ehsan Helou, aged 15 years, had a very successful meet achieving PBs and top placings in all his races. Ehsan swam super Freestyle – swimming the 50 metre Freestyle in 26.28 seconds, 100 metre Freestyle in 58.42 seconds and 200 metre Freestyle in 2.16.38.  

Jasper Korosec, aged 10, thoroughly enjoyed his racing on Saturday. His best swim was his 100 metre IM in a time of 1.53.62 (a 1.07 second PB and 2nd place).  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

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The Cannonvale Cannons competed at the Gardens in Townsville. Photo supplied

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The summer schedule at Great Barrier Reef is filling up with Queensland Cricket confirming three matches will be staged in Mackay in the 2023-24 season.

The recently upgraded venue will host the WBBL Brisbane Heat in the Weber Women’s Big Bash League for the sixth time while the Queensland Bulls return to the region for the first time since the 2015-16 season.

The Heat will come up against the reigning title holders Adelaide Strikers for a Saturday night showdown on Saturday, November 11.

The Strikers eliminated the Heat in last season’s preliminary final, ensuring November’s match to be a thriller.

In keeping with Queensland Cricket’s ongoing commitment to bringing top level cricket to regional centres, the Queensland Bulls will make a return to Mackay, playing a Marsh Sheffield Shield game and Marsh One Day match against Victoria in October.

The Sheffield Shield game will run from October 14-17 October and the One Dayer will be played on October 19.

Prior to the arrival of the Bulls and the Heat, Mackay will host one-day and four-day matches featuring Australia A and New Zealand A from September 4.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said it was a massive coup for the region to be able to host so many top class cricket matches at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

“This venue has gone from strength to strength, and it will be tremendous to be able to showcase it, and our region, to international audiences,” he said.

“Mackay crowds love their cricket, and I have no doubt they will be out in force to support our elite Queensland and Australian teams.

“It really is fantastic to see the young fans able to interact with their sporting heroes and see them in action in their hometown.

Acting Queensland Cricket CEO Liam Hibbert said the return of the WBBL and re-introduction of domestic men’s cricket to the Mackay-Whitsunday region would continue to help with growing the game.

“The support for cricket from the areas remains strong and we are very pleased to partner again with the Mackay Regional Council, Harrup Park and Mackay Cricket Association to bring top class matches and teams to Great Barrier Reef Arena,’’ he said.

Tickets for Weber WBBL|09 matches will be available on August 24.

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The WBBL Brisbane Heat and the Queensland Bulls will return to Mackay late this year. Photo supplied: Great Barrier Reef Arena

Queensland Rugby League’s girl of the moment Emily Bella is still the same athlete from Mackay with dreams of playing in the NRLW series.

The talented playmaker captured the imagination of the sporting public earlier this month when she figured prominently in the Maroons’ Under 19 Girls Origin triumph over NSW at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium.

A cousin of former Queensland and Kangaroos Test prop Martin Bella, young Emily is already following in the steps of her famous relative who was renowned for his punishing defence and bulldozing runs.

Blooded in her debut Origin clash as an interchange hooker, the versatile Bella played a key role in Queensland’s spirited 20-14 victory over the Under 19 Blues – nabbing a vital solo try and booting two goals to cap a superb display.

With the Maroons trailing 10-4 at the break, Queensland coach Deanna Turner introduced the crafty Bella into the match at the 36th minute mark.

And the Mackay Cutters product made a huge impact after quicksilver fullback Destiny Mino-Sinapati dashed over to score for the Maroons and bridge the gap to two points.

It was Emily’s explosive running from dummy half that turned the match for Queensland – bursting through tackles to post the Maroons third try and convert for a 14-10 lead before instigating another for centre and Cutters’ club mate Libby Surha soon after.

Coach Turner was full of praise for her charges, claiming “they just kept on turning up for each other and delivered in the second half.”

The victory over NSW is a career highlight and she experienced the feat with her Mackay colleagues Libby Surha and Lily Peacock.

19-year-old Emily, a graduate of St Patrick’s College Mackay, has always shown enormous potential as a half back or five eighth with organisational skills.

She played her junior rugby league with the Sarina Crocodiles and Walkerston Wanderers and tuned up for the Under 19s Origin with some A Grade matches for the Brothers club.

During her rise through the Cutters’ junior ranks, Bella has always been a strong defender with a sound kicking game and the ability to steer her team around the park.

She represented Queensland Country Under 17s before forcing her way into the Cutters’ Harvey Norman Under 19s squad these past three seasons.

Growing up, Emily was always inspired by her cousin Martin’s achievements that include 21 State of Origins, nine tests and 235 first grade games.

A broken finger prevented Emily from featuring in Mackay’s BMD Women’s premiership campaign earlier this year but the classy half has an immediate goal – to earn an NRLW contract with the North Queensland Cowboys.

As a devoted Cowboys supporter, she would love nothing more than to pull on a navy, grey, yellow and white jumper and mix it with the best players in the Queensland women’s ranks.

By Chris Karas

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Talented Mackay Cutters trio Libby Surha, Emily Bella and Lily Peacock hold the Under 19s Women’s Origin shield aloft after helping Queensland defeat NSW at Kayo Stadium

Emily Bella celebrates her U/19s Origin triumph with her mother Shaunagh and members of the Bella family clan

Mackay Tennis Association's Centenary Celebrations Serve Up Thrilling Success

The Mackay Tennis Association recently concluded a successful season one of tennis fixtures, showcasing increased player participation in both Division 1 and Division 2. Season one saw some excellent tennis played across the divisions, with team ‘Wanderers’ (Ranjan, Chris, Naveen, Kunal, and Hayden) emerging as Division 2 champions, narrowly defeating the ‘Invincibles’ (John, Auston, Demi, and Brian) to claim outright victory. In Division 1, team ‘Djokovic’ (Brett, Darryl, Justin, Jess, and Lexie) claimed the title, with team ‘Kyrgios’ (Jamie, Adam, Barry, Jenny, and Bree) a close runner-up.

Tennis action continues at the Mackay Tennis Association, with season two kicking off this week. MTA encourages new players eager to participate in the competition to contact the club and get involved.

An upcoming highlight for the club is the Centenary Dinner, to be held on Saturday, 9th September. The event will take place on ‘centre court,’ providing a unique and memorable experience for attendees. Tickets for the centenary dinner are available for purchase at the club or through the association's Facebook page. The dinner promises to be a memorable night, with special guests including local tennis legend Nicole Pratt and Rob Barty (father of Aussie former world number one Ash Barty), adding a touch of star power to the festivities.

Adding to the excitement of the centenary dinner, an auction of exclusive tennis memorabilia will be held. Collectors and fans alike will have the chance to bid on rackets used by legendary players such as Rod Laver, Nicole Pratt, Sam Stosur, and Daria Saville.

Additionally, a signed and framed playing shirt from Ash Barty’s successful 2022 Australian Open campaign will be among the items up for auction.

As the association embarks on its centenary celebrations, it invites the community to join in the festivities. Secure your tickets for the centenary dinner and immerse yourself in a century of tennis excellence. Don't miss this unique opportunity to be a part of Mackay Tennis Association's remarkable journey. For more information, please contact mackaytennis@hotmail.com.

Contributed by Wes Rose

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Division 1 winners

Division 2 winners

Division 1 runners-up

Division 2 runners-up

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Meteors superstar Isaac White has experienced a bittersweet week in the world of basketball.

Just days after being named in the NBL1 All-League First Team and one of three finalists for the Most Valuable Player award, a disappointed White could only watch in despair from the sidelines as the Meteors crashed out of the North Conference title race after a 94-72 quarter final loss to South West Metro Pirates in Brisbane.

White – still recovering from a torn quad – missed the sudden-death fixture against the Pirates who now square off with reigning premiers Gold Coast Rollers in a semifinal this weekend.

The Meteors were robbed of their biggest weapon when champion guard White was ruled out, making it a tough assignment for his Mackay teammates.

White was a standout in 2023 and led the League in points per game (32.7) and steals per game (2.72) – producing stellar performances each week to pilot his team to a top eight berth.

Mackay trailed by four points at quarter-time and led 39-37 at the main break before the Pirates staged a second half revival.

Christian Maran top-scored for Mackay with 16 points, three rebounds and two assists with Tyler Williams contributing 15 points, five boards and five assists, Amarco Doyle (11 points and eight rebounds) and DJ Baptiste (10 points and seven boards).

White praised the efforts of Head Coach Joel Khalu, his teammates and the Meteors program, describing it as “super professional.”

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Isaac White (left) was named in the NBL1 All-League First Team at the Basketball Queensland NBL1 presentation event and led the League in points per game (32.7) and steals per game (2.72)

Mackay's Talented Trio Impresses At QISSN Carnival

Netball and natural talent go hand in hand for talented Mackay prospects Shaylah Pershouse, Rebecca Symons and Jayden Samson.

The emerging trio underlined their potential with top performances for St Patrick’s College at the recent CQ University Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball Championships in Brisbane.

Goal shooter Symons was named St Patrick’s Most Valuable Player after helping her school finish 16th overall from 48 teams across six divisions.

Outstanding 15-year-old goalkeeper Pershouse showed a maturity that far belied her years with inspirational defensive displays throughout the tournament to earn a spot in the 2023 QISSN Carnival Rising Stars Girls Team.

It was a deserved honour for young Shaylah who will represent Queensland Schoolgirls at the SchoolSport Australia 15 years and under National Netball Championships in Jolimont, Western Australia from July 29 to August 4.

With coaches Di Bailey and Sally Redfern at the helm, the St Patrick’s combination held their own against some of the best senior netball schoolgirl outfits in the State.

Just as impressive in the Boys Division 2 ranks was the spring-heeled Samson, who spearheaded the St Patrick’s attack with his crisp passing and vision and turn of speed in mid court.

With the athletic Jayden leading the way, St Patrick’s finished a creditable fifth in their second Carnival appearance under the guidance of Nina Gaviglio and Phil Dreghorn.

As a just reward, Samson was later named in the QISSN Carnival Rising Stars Boys Team at the conclusion of the championships.

By Chris Karas

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Netball trump cards Rebecca Symons, Jayden Samson and Shaylah Pershouse shone at this year’s QISSN Carnival in Brisbane. Rebecca was named St Patrick’s College MVP while Jayden and Shaylah were named in the Rising Stars Boys and Girls Merit teams

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As Meteors Bow Out Of NBL1 North Championship Race

Meteors superstar Isaac White has experienced a bittersweet week in the world of basketball.

Just days after being named in the NBL1 All-League First Team and one of three finalists for the Most Valuable Player award, a disappointed White could only watch in despair from the sidelines as the Meteors crashed out of the North Conference title race after a 94-72 quarter final loss to South West Metro Pirates in Brisbane.

White – still recovering from a torn quad – missed the sudden-death fixture against the Pirates who now square off with reigning premiers Gold Coast Rollers in a semifinal this weekend.

The Meteors were robbed of their biggest weapon when champion guard White was ruled out, making it a tough assignment for his Mackay teammates.

White was a standout in 2023 and led the League in points per game (32.7) and steals per game (2.72) – producing stellar performances each week to pilot his team to a top eight berth.

Mackay trailed by four points at quarter-time and led 39-37 at the main break before the Pirates staged a second half revival.

Christian Maran top-scored for Mackay with 16 points, three rebounds and two assists with Tyler Williams contributing 15 points, five boards and five assists, Amarco Doyle (11 points and eight rebounds) and DJ Baptiste (10 points and seven boards).

White praised the efforts of Head Coach Joel Khalu, his teammates and the Meteors program, describing it as “super professional.”

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Isaac White (left) was named in the NBL1 All-League First Team at the Basketball Queensland NBL1 presentation event and led the League in points per game (32.7) and steals per game (2.72)

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Mackay Table Tennis players are looking good in the club’s new uniform.

Newly designed shirts and coats came into use this year, and the club is encouraging players to switch to the new look.

The shirts must be worn for representative matches, and players are encouraged to wear them during fixture play.

They can be ordered at the canteen.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Kim Daffy and Marie Taylor have their eyes on the ball during a doubles match in Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Mackay Cutters’ inspirational rugby league leader Emma Manzelmann grabbed a slice of history on her debut with North Queensland Cowboys in the 2023 NRLW premiership.

Lining up for the new Cowboys franchise, the dynamic hooker nabbed the club’s first ever try during a 16-6 loss to the Gold Coast Titans in last weekend’s NRLW season opener at Cbus Super Stadium.

It took Manzelmann only six minutes to give the Cowboys an early 6-0 lead when she burst through the middle to dash over and score in an absorbing tussle with skipper Kirra Dibb adding the extras.

The talented number nine was one of five Cutters players to take the field in NRLW action along with classy utility back China Polata, centre Jasmine Peters and hard-working prop Makenzie Weale.

A sixth player – skilful five eighth Tahlulah Tillett – was ruled out of the clash with a hand injury.

Powerful Cutters’ lock Shannon Mato proved a standout for the Gold Coast side – running strongly at prop with an impressive 15 hit ups for 156 metres in a non-stop display.

Spearheaded by emerging fullback Evania Pelite, the Titans produced a gritty second half showing to claim a deserved first up victory over the Cowboys.

The dashing Pelite ran for 248 metres, made 15 tackle breaks, scored a vital second half try and pulled off a try saving tackle on Cowboys forward Shania Power in a rollicking best on ground performance.

Gold Coast winger Mino-Sinapati responded with a try on debut after a Stephanie Hancock offload as the Cowboys led 6-4 at the half time interval.

Despite the loss of Queensland Origin five eighth Fuimaono with a suspected ankle injury, the Titans rose to the challenge with back rower Zara Canfield sealing victory for the home side with a late try under the posts.

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