WUFC Women’s Team. Photo Supplied

‍

Whitsunday United FC's senior sides returned from Mackay with valuable points on Friday night, highlighted by a determined 4-2 victory for the Division 1 Men over Country United despite playing much of the second half with 10 men.

The Division 1 Men overcame recent player absences to produce another impressive performance. Darren Reynolds opened the scoring after weaving through several defenders before Hayden Vanderdrift doubled the lead. A defensive lapse allowed Country United to reduce the margin to 2-1 before halftime.

An early second-half red card threatened to derail Whitsunday's momentum, but the visitors responded brilliantly. Sam Reynolds converted from the penalty spot before Kristian Mulholland produced a composed chip over the goalkeeper to extend the lead to 4-1. Country United managed a late consolation goal, but Whitsunday defended resolutely to secure the 4-2 win and remain firmly in the hunt for the league title.

The Division 2 Men battled to a hard-earned 0-0 draw in a closely contested encounter. Neither side created many clear-cut opportunities in the opening half, but Whitsunday controlled much of the second period without finding the breakthrough. The point keeps the side well placed near the top of the competition heading into the final rounds.

On Saturday, the Premier Women faced a difficult assignment against second-placed Magpies, going down 6-0. Goalkeeper Dani Hanns impressed on debut between the posts with several outstanding saves, while Alexis Ripps provided a strong attacking outlet and Taigen Marks and Karlee Goodin worked tirelessly in midfield. Robyn Dean also made several important saves after taking over in goals during the second half as Whitsunday showed plenty of determination despite the result.

The youth teams all had a BYE week this weekend and Men’s U23 and Prem Men’s games were postponed until later in the season.

‍

Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O'Keefe.

‍

Despite another week of turbulent weather, golfers continued to hit the fairways at Proserpine Golf Club, with strong fields and scores setting the tone ahead of a busy championship season.

‍

With the club's Open Championships and the annual Vets' Wintersun event fast approaching, members are being encouraged to sign-up early as preparations ramp up for one of the busiest time on the golfing calendar.

‍

Tuesday's Stableford competition saw Jon Miller claim the top of the podium on countback with 38 points, matching the winning men's score of John Oates. Blake Gee finished runner-up in the men's division, while Sidonie Fleet impressed in the ladies' competition with an outstanding 40-point round ahead of Robyn Whitham with 34.

‍

The Vets competition also attracted five visiting players, with Whitham backing up her earlier performance to win the ladies' event on 34 points. Oates carried his flow into the vets comp, winning the men's division with 38 points, ahead of Nic Apruzzese.

‍

Wednesday belonged to Lyn Muller, who carded 40 points masterclass to claim the ladies' Stableford, narrowly edging Jenny Hounsell on 39 points.

‍

Despite wet weather disrupting Thursday's Stroke competition, Jason Bourke edged Terry Handford by a single point to claim A Grade honours, 35 points to 34, while Tommy Gallagher produced a strong 38-point round to win B Grade ahead of Laurie Dakin on 36. Nearest-to-the-pin honours went to Gavin Kerwand (2nd), Caleb Zagami (9th), Steven Clare (13th) and Andy Oliver (16th)  

‍

Friday's nine-hole Stableford, proudly sponsored by the Metropole Hotel, was won by Sherri Meade with 20 points, just ahead of Brad Fleet on 19. Steve Clare continued to get nearest to the pin recognition, again on 13, clearly his lucky hole.

‍

Saturday's Haymans-sponsored Stableford produced some of the week's best scores. Barry Mortimer stole the show with an impressive 41 points to win B Grade, while Mark Muscat topped A Grade with 37 points after a closely contested round. In the ladies' event, Noelene Spurway claimed victory with 36 points, ahead of Lyn Muller and Anna Winterbourn.

‍

The week's competition concluded on Sunday, with Ben Chapman taking out the men's Stableford on 38 points from Larry Muller, while Paula McQuat finished as the leading lady with 34 points and an impressive seventh overall finish.

‍

(From Left to Right) Tony Kelly, Maureen Barnard, skipper Des Ballance, Mark Mawson, skipper David Dias, Rene Thommen, and in front our brilliant little ladies Alma Rose Mawson with Mandy O'Brien. Photo Supplied  

‍

Firstly, a correction: the successful President at Home day and the winning team actually was Northern Beaches, second were our girls from Airlie Beach, and third was South Suburban, so apologies to all!

‍

This week our carpet was thoroughly cleaned, so no bowls Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday.  

‍

However, Wednesday morning's school’s playoff determined who would represent Mackay and the Whitsundays at the state championships. After five rounds, Year 8 Whitsundays Christian College students Oliver Webb and Pazel Davis claimed victory, defeating Elliana Langshore and Miranda Jackson in a closely contested final.  

‍

Their performances impressed Bowls Queensland enough to earn all four players the final places in the Queensland Schools competition at Pine Rivers Bowls Club on August 19^th-20^th.  

‍

Wednesday afternoon social bowls run by Mervyn Stewart saw 26 bowlers vying for first place, and it was the highest winning margin, with visitor Ian from Geelong Bowls Club teaming up with Lyn Graham and Maureen Barnard in a wonderful performance.

‍

Pennants concluded over the weekend with Rounds 9 and 10. Division 1 finished fifth overall, with South Suburban once again proving the benchmark in North Queensland.

‍

Division 2 finished last overall but ended the season with a fantastic final-round win. Special mention goes to Carol Crosbie for her exceptional performance, along with Ted Cullen, Tony Whitehorn, Glen O'Brien, Betty Whitehorn and Noel Crosbie.

‍

Division 4 exceeded expectations, fighting back from six points down in the closing ends before producing a perfect final bowl to secure a thrilling 42-41 win over West Tigers and finish first on 12 points.  

‍

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.  

‍

The Whitsunday Brahmans Rugby League Club Ladies Day is set to take place at home in Proserpine on 11^th July. Photo supplied

‍

The Whitsunday Brahmans Rugby League Club is preparing to celebrate the incredible women who help make the club what it is, with Ladies Day set to take place at home in Proserpine on 11^th July.

‍

While players often take centre stage on game day, the Brahmans know that behind every successful club is an army of dedicated women whose commitment, passion and hard work keep the wheels turning week after week.

‍

From club president Lisa Milne, whose leadership and dedication continue to guide the club forward, to the managers, first aiders, canteen volunteers and committee members who give countless hours of their time, the contribution of women throughout the club cannot be overstated.

The day will also recognise the wives and girlfriends who spend their weekends supporting from the sidelines, the mums and nans who have cheered generations of Brahmans players, and the daughters who grow up around the game, spending long afternoons at the footy while creating lifelong memories with their families and club community.

‍

Of course, the club's women's team will be front and centre in the celebrations. Their commitment, determination and growing influence within the game continue to inspire the next generation of female rugby league players across the Whitsundays.

‍

‍

Ladies Day is an opportunity for the entire Brahmans family to come together and acknowledge the women who often work tirelessly behind the scenes without seeking recognition. Whether it's serving meals in the canteen, taping players before games, organising events, washing jerseys, running water, or simply being there to support their loved ones, every contribution plays an important role in the success of the club.

The Brahmans invite the community to join them for a fantastic day of rugby league, celebration and appreciation at home in Proserpine on 11^th July.

‍

General admission tickets are available for $9, with seniors able to attend for just $5. Children receive free entry.

For those looking to make the occasion even more special, VIP Ladies Day tickets are on sale now and are expected to be in high demand which include drinks & food packages.

‍

The Whitsunday Brahmans encourage everyone to get behind this special event and help celebrate the women who truly are the heart and soul of the club.

For more information head to the Whitsunday Brahmans social media pages.  

‍

Contributed with thanks to Amanda Bourke.  

‍

Georgia Whitton. Photo supplied.

‍

The Nest came alive over the weekend as the Whitsunday Sea Eagles hosted an action-packed day of football, with supporters treated to everything from dominant junior performances to thrilling twilight clashes featuring the club's senior sides.

‍

The Under 15s stole the show with an outstanding 94–34 victory over the Moranbah Bulldogs, producing one of their most complete performances of the season. Their teamwork, selfless ball movement, and relentless pressure proved the difference, with every player contributing to an impressive win that reflected the group's commitment to one another and their determination on the field.

‍

‍

The Under 17s also impressed in what many described as their best performance of the year. In a fiercely contested battle against the Moranbah Bulldogs, the Sea Eagles matched their opponents at every contest, displaying heart, resilience, and an unwavering desire to secure their first win. In heartbreaking fashion, however, the Bulldogs kicked the winning goal in the final seconds to claim victory by a single point. Final score 53-54.

‍

The club was also proud to host the Moranbah Bulldogs and Mackay Magpies under-16 girls' fixture, showcasing the continued growth of female football across the region.

‍

As the sun set, attention turned to the senior competitions. The senior women's side made a bright start, kicking an early goal and remaining competitive throughout the contest. Despite their relentless effort and determination, the visitors finished strongly to claim an 11-50 victory.

‍

The day's finale belonged to the senior men, who delivered a thrilling five-point win in front of an energetic home crowd. Locked in a tight contest all afternoon, the Sea Eagles lifted after halftime and fought hard until the final siren. A late goal secured a memorable 54–49 victory, sending supporters home celebrating after an unforgettable day of football at The Nest.

‍

Get back down to The Nest this Saturday, the 4th of July, for another day of action-packed home games in Round 13 of the Whitsunday Sea Eagles' footy season!

‍

Contributed with thanks by Georgia Whitton

‍

Sabian Nuttall, Diane Jackson and Jai Dennison. Photo Credit: Zach Houtenville.  

‍

Between backyards and long drives to Townsville to the beginnings of a local sporting community, archers in the Whitsundays are hoping a new initiative will give them a place to train, compete and chase their dreams closer to home.

‍

For archers Jai Dennison, Sabian Nuttall and Diane Jackson, their passion for archery has never been in question.  

‍

‍

Jai discovered archery through the Queensland Academy of Sport's Youth 2032 program, an initiative designed to develop the state's next generation of athletes ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Games.

Sabian was inspired to pick up a bow after watching the Olympic competition in Paris, progressing from a local come-and-try session in Melbourne, to competing at national events.  

‍

‍

Para-athlete Diane Jackson found archery through the Future Green and Gold project and has since trained with Australia's assistant national para-archery coach.  

‍

Despite taking different paths into archery, all three have faced the same challenge of finding somewhere close to home to train, instead relying on regular trips to Townsville or, in Diane's case, practicing from a target set up in her own backyard.  

‍

“My husband has set up a target in my backyard so I can shoot 20 metres but the para-archery is 70 metres for a recurve bow,” said Whitsundays para-archer Diane Jackson.  

‍

“I'm restricted with that at the moment because we don't have the space to do that.”  

This has taken a toll on the talented athletes, making the drive to pursue their sport more challenging.  

‍

“For about six months I haven't really been able to shoot and I lost a bit of interest,” shared Sabian Nuttall.  

‍

“You need somewhere to shoot to stay passionate.”  

‍

Behind the scenes, Club Whitsunday Sports and Events Coordinator, as well as Whitsundays Sportpark treasurer, Alita De Brincat has been working to bring the region's archers together, with the aim of laying the foundations for a local archery community.

While the sport is still in its early stages, the Whitsunday Sports Park has begun providing access for athletes to train when fields are available.  

‍

‍

"No one wants to be on the road all the time, and we are really happy to have these guys here, already achieving where they want to be, it's just a no-brainer for us," Alita said.

‍

“The first stepping stone is that this is open for these guys to start training and start building on what they're doing.”

‍

The hope is to continue growing participation, establishing a committee and eventually introducing more programs for people of all ages and abilities.

‍

"The key is to get people around and training and build up on the go, we already have a community of archery people here, and we are looking forward to building on that” Alita said.  

‍

Competing in his 8th Airlie Beach Race Week, local apprentice sailmaker Jesse Frisch will return this year as a skipper and co-owner of his own sports boat, chasing an even stronger result in his second year at the helm.  

‍

The annual regatta is set to challenge and bring together some of Airlie Beach’s most experienced sailors. For Jesse Frisch, the race has become an annual event.  

‍

“Yeah, it’s very exciting,” Jesse said.  

“I’m just hoping everything gets put together right and everything goes well for the week.”  

‍

Jesse was first introduced to sailing at the age of nine by his father, before competing in his first regatta two years later, an experience that hasn’t seen him miss a race week since.  

‍

That passion soon extended beyond the water. Jesse began volunteering sailmaking at Ullmans Sails’ Whitsunday loft at 13 before starting a school-based apprenticeship at 16, where he turned his love of the sport into a career.

‍

‍

Having stepped into a skipper role last year, Jesse said the responsibility of leading the crew has given him a new appreciation for the sport, with communication and preparation becoming just as important as performance on the water.

After battling challenging conditions in last year's regatta, the team has spent months repairing the boat, building new sails and preparing for another campaign. With a more experienced crew returning this year, Jesse is hopeful they can build on last year's result.

‍

“Very windy regatta and very challenging conditions,” Jesse said.

‍

“Just trying to keep the boat upright was the biggest part of the boat regatta.

‍

“We came out with a pretty good result, but this year, hopefully we can take it a step further.”  

‍

What: Airlie Beach Race Week

Where: Airlie Beach, Whitsundays Sailing Club  

When: August 6th to 13th, 2026

‍

Reid Martin has already represented Australia internationally in Thailand and Turkey and will soon compete at the 2026 IODA Asian and Oceania Championships in Sri Lanka. Photo supplied

‍

He's 12. He's represented Australia three times. Is he our next home grown Olympic champion?

Whitsundays sailing sensation Reid Martin is taking on the world's best after earning selection in the Australian Optimist Sailing Team for a third consecutive year.  

‍

His inspiring journey launches The Home Grown: Future Olympians campaign, a new monthly series proudly presented by Whitsunday Regional Council in partnership with by Whitsunday Life Newspaper.  

‍

Let’s celebrate the incredible local athletes proving you don't have to grow up in a capital city to compete on the world stage!

‍

Home Grown: Future Olympians – Reid Martin

‍

For most young athletes, getting to training might mean a short drive across town.

For Reid Martin, it often means travelling thousands of kilometres.

‍

At just 12 years old, the talented Whitsunday sailor has already represented Australia internationally in Thailand and Turkey and will next compete at the 2026 IODA Asian and Oceania Championships in Sri Lanka after earning selection in the Australian Optimist Sailing Team for a third consecutive year.

It is a remarkable achievement for any young athlete, but even more impressive given the challenges of pursuing elite sailing from regional Queensland.

‍

While many of Australia's top junior sailors live close to major sailing clubs and training centres in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, Reid and his family regularly travel vast distances to access the same opportunities. From state championships and national regattas to training camps and development programs, competing at the highest level requires significant commitment, sacrifice and determination.

‍

Since stepping into a boat at just seven years old, Reid has established himself as one of Australia's leading young sailors, collecting podium finishes at state and national events across the country.

‍

Alongside him every step of the way has been his younger brother Rory, who shares the same passion for sailing and is rapidly making a name for himself on the water. Together, the brothers proudly represent not just their clubs, but the entire Whitsunday region.

This year alone, Reid's schedule includes NSW and Queensland State Championships, Youth Week events, Sail Airlie, Sail Brisbane, national training camps and the Australian Championships in Melbourne, adding thousands more kilometres to an already impressive sailing journey.

‍

‍

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said Reid and Rory embodied everything that was special about regional sport.

‍

"What Reid and Rory are achieving is nothing short of remarkable. These young men are competing against athletes who often have world-class facilities and coaching on their doorstep, yet they continue to prove that talent, determination and hard work can come from anywhere — including the Whitsundays," Mayor Collins said.

‍

As the Whitsundays continues its push to become the home of Olympic and Paralympic sailing in 2032, Mayor Collins said stories like Reid and Rory's highlighted why investment in regional sporting infrastructure matters.

‍

"The Whitsundays has already produced athletes capable of competing on the world stage. Imagine what our young people could achieve with the right legacy infrastructure and training opportunities delivered through the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Reid and Rory are exactly why we're fighting so hard to secure that legacy for future generations."

‍

For Reid, the focus remains simple — keep learning, keep improving and keep chasing the next challenge.

For the Whitsundays, his journey is a reminder that Olympic and Paralympic dreams don't start in major cities or on international podiums.

‍

They start at local sailing clubs, with supportive families, dedicated communities and young people willing to dream big.

‍

And right now, two of those dreams are being pursued by Reid and Rory Martin, right here in the Whitsundays.

‍

Photo source: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)  

‍

‍

Mackay Cutters have confirmed Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months, strengthening the club’s youth education, wellbeing and leadership programs across the Mackay and Isaac regions.

‍

‍

The partnership was launched last Friday at Moranbah State School, where Cutters Wellbeing and Education Manager Jack, alongside club staff and Stanmore leadership representatives, delivered a Cutters Care session to Year 5/6 Sports Boost students.

‍

‍

“We’re proud to welcome Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months,” the club said.

‍

The program will continue to focus on helping young people build confidence, resilience and positive connections through sport and education-based initiatives.

‍

‍

“Together, we'll continue delivering education, wellbeing and leadership programs to young people throughout the Mackay and Isaac regions, helping them build confidence, resilience and positive connections.”

‍

‍

The Cutters said they look forward to continuing meaningful community impact and providing opportunities for young people to learn, grow and thrive through the partnership.

‍

‍

The Whitsunday Sea Eagles made the trip to Bakers Creek on the weekend to take on the North Mackay Saints and the Bakers Creek Tigers, with all teams showcasing plenty of determination and competitive spirit throughout the day.

‍

The Under 13s were first into action against the Saints and produced a strong performance. After a hard-fought opening three quarters, the Sea Eagles trailed by just two points heading into the final term, keeping themselves firmly in the contest. Despite their efforts, the Saints managed to pull away late, with the match finishing 20-39.  

‍

‍

The Under 15s continued their impressive season with another dominant victory over the Saints. Controlling the game from start to finish, the Sea Eagles piled on 12 goals and 15 behinds while keeping their opponents to just two goals. Their teamwork, skill, and relentless pressure were on full display as they secured another convincing win 72-12 and further strengthened their position as one of the competition's top teams.

‍

The women's side faced a tough challenge against the Bakers Creek Tigers. The Sea Eagles fought hard and matched the Tigers aggression and determination, keeping the margin within three goals throughout the game. The players fought hard at every contest and never stopped competing. However, fatigue began to take its toll in the final quarter, allowing the Tigers to kick four late goals and extend the final margin to 0-43.

The senior men's match provided plenty of excitement for supporters. The Sea Eagles burst out the gates in the opening quarter, dominating early play to establish a 15-0 lead at the first break. Carrying that momentum throughout the day, the men continued to work hard around the ground and were rewarded with a strong 52-25 victory over the Tigers. It was a complete team performance and a fitting way to finish a successful day for the club.

‍

Get down to The Nest this Saturday 27th June for Sponsor Appreciation Day and cheer on your Whitsunday Sea Eagles as they take on the Moranbah Bulldogs, Swagpies, and Magpies in a huge day of footy action.

‍

‍

The junior fixtures kick off from 10:40am, showcasing the club's rising stars, before the senior teams take centre stage in what promises to be an exciting evening of football, with the Senior Women starting at 3:20pm and the Senior Men finishing under lights.

‍

Bring the family, wear your Sea Eagles colours, and get behind your local teams as they battle it out on home turf. We can't wait to see you at The Nest!

‍

Contributed by the Whitsunday Sea Eagles: Georgia Whitton

‍

Photo source: Mackay Softball Association Incorporated (Facebook)

‍

‍

The Mackay Softball Association has reflected on another competitive CQ Darby against Softball Rockhampton, with strong performances and continued rivalry highlighted across the weekend.

‍

Rockhampton arrived ready to play, producing a dominant display at the plate and taking victory in both games of the series.

‍

“The Rocky boys came ready to play, swinging the bats well and taking the win in both games,” the association said.

‍

Despite the results, Mackay praised the standard of competition and the spirit in which the games were played, with both clubs continuing to build on a long-standing regional rivalry.

‍

The association also acknowledged the contribution of Murray, thanking him “for all his help, guidance and support in coaching both teams throughout the weekend”.

‍

Off the field, community and hospitality remained a key feature of the event, with Jodie recognised for preparing meals for the visiting side.

‍

“Thank you to our own Jodie for feeding our the Rocky boys delicious pulled pork rolls,” the association said.

‍

The CQ Darby continues to be a highlight on the calendar for both regions, with Mackay Softball noting the blend of rivalry and mateship that defines the fixture.

“These weekends are always a highlight on the calendar, and we love the rivalry, mateship and quality softball that comes with them.”

‍

The team is now looking ahead to the next meeting between the two clubs, with both sides eager for another competitive weekend of softball in Central Queensland.

‍

‍

Nancy and Janine. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Twenty-six Pairs competed in the Qualifying Championship Club Pairs on Saturday morning, with the top fourteen pairs then progressing to the Club Championship Pairs after lunch.  

Congratulations to Janine Rodgers and Nancy Martin who were the outright winners with 61.86 percent. Although Janine and Nancy are both very experienced players, however, this current partnership is a relatively new one.  

Well done ladies! Many hands of cards were played on the day and lots of delicious food eaten. Mackay Bridge Club is a very social and friendly club.

‍

Weekly Results

Monday 15^th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st David Ting / Eric Goodchild

1^st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2^nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

2^nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris

3^rd Monica Darley / Joy Block

3^rd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

Evening 15^th June 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

1^st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

2^nd Janelle Conroy / Andrew Canavan

2^nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

Wednesday 17^th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

1^st Terry Sheedy / Mick King

2^nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

2^nd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

3^rd Faith Hutchinson / John Hunt

3^rd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

Thursday 18^th June 2026 – Show Day - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Alan Brown / Frances Brown

1^st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild

2^nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

3^rd Ming Ting / David Ting

3^rd Mick King / Griffin Bancroft

Friday 19^th June 2026 –- Week 12 of 26 NWP - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

1^st Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor

2^nd Geoff Cowan / Mick King

2^nd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

3^rd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait

3^rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson

Saturday 20^th June 2026 – Club Championship Qualifying - 13 Table Mitchell Red Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

1^st Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy

2^nd Alan Brown / Frances Brown

2^nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3^rd Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin

3^rd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok

4^th Susan Ross / Geoff Cowan

4^th Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott

5^th Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris

5^th Ann Whitmore / Joy Block

Saturday 20^th June 2026 Club Championship Pairs Final – 7 Table Howe

1^st Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin

2^nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3^rd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

4^th Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

Contributed by Joy Block

‍

More than 100 riders will contest Queensland state titles across three days of time trial, road race and criterium action from 3–5 July, as the Mackay region hosts the 2026 Queensland Road State Championships.

‍

Presented by AusCycling Queensland and delivered locally by Mackay Cycling Club volunteers, the championships will bring together Queensland’s leading junior, elite, masters and para-cyclists to compete across Mirani, Sarina and Mackay Kart Club at Palmyra.

A total of 109 riders are currently entered across the weekend, spanning categories from under-9 through to elite, masters and para divisions. Entries remain open until 11:59pm on Monday 29 June, with final start lists and event timings to be confirmed after closure.

‍

Riders will contest three disciplines: an individual time trial in Mirani, road races in Sarina and at the Mackay Kart Club, and a criterium held at the Mackay Kart Club circuit, which will also provide the most accessible viewing experience for spectators.

The action begins Friday 3 July with the individual time trial at Mirani, with sign-on from 8.00am and the first rider off at 9.01am. Riders will compete against the clock over distances ranging from 4km for U9 and U11 categories through to 32km for U23 and elite competitors.

‍

On Saturday 4 July, road racing continues in Sarina for senior, junior and masters categories from 7.30am, with events expected to conclude in the afternoon. U9, U11 and U13 riders will also compete at the Mackay Kart Club from 7.00am.

‍

The weekend concludes Sunday 5 July with the criterium at Mackay Kart Club, 21 Grants Road, Palmyra. Racing begins at 7.30am, with the elite and U19 men’s race scheduled for 2.50pm.

The championship field includes a strong mix of emerging talent and experienced competitors.

‍

Former professional road cyclist and Beijing 2008 Olympian Glen Chadwick will line up in the field, bringing international experience to the event.

Rockhampton’s George Tucker, a national track title holder and Queensland representative, will compete in the Under 19 category as one of Central Queensland’s most promising riders.

‍

Mackay’s Max Teague enters the U15 Men’s division following a standout season, having claimed the 2026 Australian U15 Men’s XCC title, gold in the Junior Team Relay at the Australian Mountain Bike Championships, and bronze in the 2025 Queensland U15 road race.

‍

Local representation also includes Elite riders Zac Schwarzrock and Brittany Roberts, Mackay junior Matthew Schatkowski, Cairns U19 rider Chloe Buckley, Townsville’s Nicholas Dixon-Grover, and a strong contingent of developing cyclists from across regional Queensland.

‍

Mackay Cycling Club committee member Kyle Marwood said the event was a proud moment for the local cycling community.

‍

“Hosting a Queensland state championship is a huge opportunity for Mackay and the wider region. We have riders coming from across the state, but it is also a chance for our local juniors to race on home ground and see what a championship-level event looks like.

‍

“To have riders such as Glen Chadwick, George Tucker and Max Teague on the start list makes it a special weekend, but the event is just as much about the volunteers, families, clubs and local businesses who have helped make it happen.”

Spectators are welcome across all three days, with the Mackay Kart Club offering the best viewing opportunities on Saturday’s junior races and throughout Sunday’s criterium program.  

‍

Motorists in Mirani and Sarina are advised to allow extra travel time, follow signage and comply with traffic controller directions, with full traffic management details to be released ahead of race weekend.

‍

The event is expected to draw riders, support crews, officials and families from across Queensland, delivering a major boost for regional sport while showcasing Mackay as a key cycling destination.

‍

Photo source: Mackay Basketball  

‍

‍

Mackay Basketball has celebrated its U16 representative players and teams following the conclusion of the season, recognising individual achievements across the Meteors, Meteorettes, Comets, Comettes, Stars and Starettes squads.

‍

‍

Award recipients included:

‍

Meteors

MVP: Jimmy Turner

Best Defensive: Winston Sutton

Coach's Award: Finley Philbin

‍

Meteorettes

MVP: Harvey Geeves

Best Defensive: Pyiper Redgard

Coach's Award: Indy Jorgensen

‍

Comets

MVP: Hudson Currie

Best Defensive: Tom Balingall

Coach's Award: Eddie Hardwick

‍

Comettes

MVP: Magenta Newland

Best Defensive: Summer Jo Young

Coach's Award: Sibella Mayer

‍

Stars

MVP: Beau Slaughter

Best Defensive: Barry Matchett

Coach's Award: Tyler O'Neill

‍

Starettes

MVP: Tanatsa Kuveya

Best Defensive: Abi Hobbs

Coach's Award: Emma Russell

‍

Congratulations were also extended to the U16 athletes selected to represent Queensland North at the upcoming National Championships: Winston Sutton, Jimmy Turner, Hayden Bone, Finley Philbin, Indy Jorgensen, Pyiper Redgard, Harvey Geeves, MarliReid, Mercy Osborne, Ellie Marsh and Sammy Simpson.

‍

A special thank you was also given to NBL1 player Khobie De Haan for presenting the awards.

‍

‍

‍

See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/u16-representative-players-celebrated-at-season-presentations

A field of more than 150 players helped make Friday's Show Day 3-Ball Ambrose a tremendous success, seeing some impressive scoring and plenty of laughs despite the afternoon drizzle.  

‍

The local Show Day public holiday, sponsored by BC contribution’s Andrew Colborne, attracted a strong field of competition. Winners Chris Elms, Andrew Scotford & Simon Dobbins claimed victory with a remarkable 53.167. They narrowly edged out Runner-ups Ben Synak, Nicky Ryan & Caitlyn Daly, who weren’t too far behind with a modest 53.333. Sid and Brad Fleet joined Jon Miller in third place, while Jacob Dewis, Bryce Fraser and Brendon Russell rounded out the top four.  

‍

Away from the Show Day festivities, there was no shortage of strong performances across the PCG’s regular competitions.

‍

Visiting golfer Raymond Foster from Gladstone Golf Club set the tone early in the week, winning Tuesday's men's Stableford with 37 points ahead of John Grosskreutz, who also claimed the nearest-the-pin prize on the 9th hole. John was able to bring it back on Wednesday though, scoring first with 33 points over a very close second by Nic Apruzzese with 32.  

‍

In the ladies and veterans competitions, Lyn Muller enjoyed a particularly successful week, winning Tuesday's Vets Stableford on a countback from Tina Badenhorst before backing it up with victory in Wednesday's ladies competition ahead of Di Dobbins.  

‍

Thursday's Stableford saw Clay Coles edge out Ash Law in A Grade, while William Brownlie took B Grade honours from Tyson Griffiths. Andrew Albergo produced one of the standout individual performances of the week, claiming three nearest-the-pin prizes on the 2nd, 9th and 13th holes.  

‍

Saturday's Stableford sponsored by Master Butchers Whitsundays produced more strong performances, with Michael Ward edging out John Bissell to win A Grade, while Barry Mortimer's 38 points secured B Grade honours ahead of Bradley Wilkinson. In the ladiescompetition, Tiina Randmae finished one shot clear of Di Chard to claim victory.

‍

The week concluded with Sunday's Stableford competition, where Andrew Mason produced an unbelievable 40-point round to claim the men's title ahead of Sam Keating and Nissen Cooper. Sara Hagy won the ladies event with 36 points over Paula McQuat to cap off another busy and successful week of golf at Proserpine Golf Club.  

‍

Contributed with thanks by Tiina Randmae

‍