Cannonvale Cannons had a huge week to kick off 2026, with our annual Lapathon and the return of Club Nights bringing plenty of energy and celebration.

Our Lapathon, one of the club’s annual fundraising events, saw our swimmers rise to the challenge. A total of 26 swimmers took part, and together they swam an incredible 3,180 laps, that’s 79.5 kilometres! We are so proud of every swimmer who pushed themselves, raising funds for the club.

One of the most impressive parts of the event was seeing our junior swimmers complete their laps without using any gear from their bags. No fins, no pull buoys, just pure swimming from start to finish. Their commitment, resilience and positive attitudes were outstanding and a real credit to each of them.

The challenge didn’t stop there, with 17 adult swimmers joining in at the Sunday squad session. Together they swam an additional 48.5 kilometres, showing that the Cannons spirit runs strong at every age.

A huge thank you to the parents who helped make the day such a success. From counting laps and cooking breakfast to grabbing coffees and cheering on tired swimmers, your support makes all the difference.

We were also proud to deliver a Cannonvale Cannons club shirt to one of our much-loved sponsors, Hog’s Breath Cafe. The team will be framing and hanging the shirt shortly, and we encourage all locals to pop in and support this community-focused business.

This week also saw the return of Club Nights, and it was fantastic to see so many swimmers back on pool deck. Congratulations to Zavier Woolston and Faithlyn Trotter on receiving upgrades. Chocolate Awards went to Finn Temple and Penelope Shields.

Well done to everyone involved in another strong week for the Cannonvale Cannons.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Photos supplied

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Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie has issued proposed call-in notices for two Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects in the region, for the Capricorn BESS at Bouldercombe and the Pleystowe BESS at Pleystowe.

The move follows appeals lodged in the Planning and Environment Court by project proponents Potentia Energy and Trinasolar, after both Mackay and Rockhampton councils deferred the developments last year.

Those deferrals occurred just days before changes to the approval process for BESS projects came into effect. As a result, the companies were not required to resubmit their development applications to the State Assessment and Referral Agency under the updated rules.

Mackay Regional Council had earlier formally requested the Deputy Premier call in the Pleystowe BESS project, after the development was presented to council in November.

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, had written to the Deputy Premier requesting that both of these projects be called in to be properly assessed.

“The impacted communities had asked for these projects to be called in over concerns to how they would impact their quality of life if approved,” Mr Kelly said.

“Councils were restricted by planning schemes that had been written before BESS projects were being built, and weren’t able to properly consider these sorts of developments, so even if a community didn’t want it, there wasn’t a lot that councils could do.

“These call ins will give communities a chance to have their say, to be able to make their case as to why these projects should not be built so close to houses, and how this would impact the liveability of these areas, especially with other BESS projects going in right across the road for both of these.

“Neither of these developers properly consulted with the community, with those closest to the impacted projects not even being kept up to date as to what was going on, so even if they do get the go ahead, they’ve got a lot of work to do to actually build the social license in these communities.

“It’s now up to both the communities surrounding Bouldercombe and Pleystowe to have their say and make their submissions on whether or not the Deputy Premier should call these projects in, and if they need any help making a submission they can give my office a call and they’ll be more than happy to assist.”

Submissions for both Capricorn BESS and Pleystowe BESS close at 5PM on Thursday, the 5th of February 2026 and can be made to:

Deputy Premier
Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning
Minister for Industrial Relations
c/- Director, Improvement and Assessment Division
Planning Group
Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning

Email: ministerial.callin@dsdip.qld.gov.au
Post: PO Box 15009, CITY EAST QLD 4002

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Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP at Plystowe BEES site. Photo supplied

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Happy 2026 from all at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club. It has been a rough start to the year with a cyclone and rain up here in the North and tragedy, with most of Victoria burning and many losing their livelihoods. Our thoughts go out to everyone who is suffering.

We are a resilient country and to celebrate Australia and its diversity, the Mackay Contract Bridge Club will hold its annual Australia Day 2026 event. This is a free event sponsored by the Mackay Regional Council. We are very friendly bunch who enjoy fun and a good game of cards, so pop in and see what Bridge is all about. Morning tea and a traditional sausage sizzle will be provided. We begin lessons in February for new players.

Weekly Results

Monday 12 January 2026 - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
3rd Sandy Patterson / Andrew Canavan 3rd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
4th Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 4th Terry Sheedy / Geoff Patterson

Tuesday Evening 13 January 2026 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 2nd Geoff Taylor / Andrew Canavan 3rd Griffin Bancroft / Chris Meyers

Wednesday 14 January 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Frances Brown / Monica Darley 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris 3rd David Ting / Eric Goodchild
4th Joy Hold / Geoff Taylor 4th Diane Stokes / Mary Rose Ramsden

Thursday Evening 15 January 2026 – 3 Tables One Winner – Green Points
1st Janine Rodgers / Terry Sheedy 2nd Geoff Taylor / Anne Lutz 3rd Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott

Friday 16 January 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 1st Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd Terry Sheedy / Richard Wix 2nd Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
3rd Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix 3rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 4th Mick King / Geoff Cowan

Saturday 17 November 2025 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Frances Brown / Robert Carless 1st Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
2nd Jan Harris / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin
3rd Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood 3rd Vicki Howard / Janine Rodgers
4th Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 4th Julie O’Neill / Gwen Liddell
5th Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 5th Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
6th Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy 6th Richard Wix / Geoffrey Patterson

Contributed by Joy Block

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Celebrate community, connection and the spirit of Australia by joining the Mackay Contract Bridge Club’s free Australia Day event for fun, friendship, cards, morning tea and a classic sausage sizzle—all are warmly welcome! Photos supplied

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RUNNING

Many thanks to Race Director Jim Ford for his outstanding time and effort in organising the 2025/2026 Shawn’s Splash n Dash Biathlon Summer Series. The penultimate race of the series attracted more than 25 athletes of varying ages and abilities, with everyone rewarded for their efforts with icy Zooper Doopers after the event.

The final race in the series will be held next Sunday at 4:30pm at the ARC (Aquatic and Recreational Complex), followed by a mini presentation to announce the final points tally and crown the male and female champions. Due to the pool closing at 6pm, there will be a very brief thank you to all for their attendance and support. Mackay Road Runners hope everyone has enjoyed the series and congratulate Jim on another successful event.

The formal Mackay Road Runners calendar of events will commence on the 22nd of February with a 5km/10km run from the President’s residence at 24 Johnson Street, West Mackay. The Tilse Toddle has been a popular fixture on the program for many years, with post-run goodies provided to help participants refuel and rehydrate. All are welcome, and the full calendar will be available on the website very soon.

Many thanks to the incoming 2026 Mackay Road Runners Committee for once again volunteering their time and contributing to the club’s ongoing success as it moves into its 50th year. Watch this space for updates on the 50th Anniversary dinner to be held in April.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Todd Turner is the master of kicking up his heels as he celebrates his final lap of the track section of the Mackay Road Runners Splash n Dash off season Biathlon Series.
Alana Knezevic celebrates her birthday alongside Derek Woods with a scorching 6km run in the 30 minutes track session before hitting the pool for a well deserved swim.
James and Lauren Dunne relax after their super efforts on the track and in the pool.
Mums and Dads were urged on by their children at the track section of the Shawn’s Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.
Carolyn Mapes (left) enjoys a catchup with birthday girl, Alana Knezevic (right).
Ashley Miles and James Dunne lead a group of athletes as they complete the tough track section of the Biathlon Splash n Dash.
Carmel Mahon is happy with her efforts on the track in the testing conditions.
Excited Splash n Dash participants relax after their amazing efforts on the track and in the pool.
Jo Hughes and Andrew Short make light work of the 30 minute track portion of the Splash n Dash Biathlon event. Photos supplied

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CARDS

A friendly crowd gathered at the Senior Citizens Centre on Saturday afternoon for the first Cards session of 2026, enjoying an afternoon of games, laughter and catching up with friends.

The popular event held on the third Saturday of every month offers a relaxed and welcoming environment for locals to socialise and stay connected, with both new and returning players encouraged to take part.

Anyone interested in joining in for Cards or Bowls at the Senior Citizens Centre is invited to contact Val on 0408 075 877. New players are always warmly welcomed.

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Photo source: Mackay & District Senior Citizens' Association Inc.

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SOFTBALL

The 2026 National Softball Championships have begun, with the Under-16 girls recently competing in Mirrabooka, Perth. The team fought hard throughout the tournament to reach the Grand Final, where they came up against New South Wales. Unfortunately, they were unable to secure first position, but the girls are to be congratulated on their outstanding effort and determination. Evie Grace pitched strongly throughout the competition, supported by assistant coach Allan James, with the team giving their best right to the final game.

Evie will now have a couple of days’ rest before heading back into action, representing Queensland in the Under-18 Girls side in Blacktown, NSW, from 20 to 25 January. She is expected to return home just in time for the start of the school year.

Meanwhile, Jaxon Maluga will also take to the field in Blacktown, representing Queensland in the Under-18 Men’s team from 20 to 25 January, where he will pitch for the side. After a short break, he will join fellow teammate James Allan to compete in the Under-23 Queensland Men’s team at Redlands, Brisbane, from 3 to 8 February. The players will be supported by scorer and statistician Debbie Carey. The team will be hoping to build on the success of previous campaigns and bring home a strong result.

Adding to the local representation, Riley James will head to Hawker, ACT, to compete with the Queensland Patriots Open Men’s team at the National Championships from 3 to 8 March.

Mackay’s softball community is proud to see so many talented local players representing Queensland on the national stage and wishes them all the best in their upcoming competitions.

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

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Mackay softball stars Evie Grace, Jaxon Maluga, James Allan and Riley James represent Queensland at the 2026 National Championships across multiple age groups. Photos supplied

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PGC COMPETITION RESULTS - WEEK ENDING 11/1/2026

The weather was not a golfer’s friend this week but full points to those who turned up to play early in the week regardless. We have yet to assess the damage to the course, hopefully the worst of it is the quantity of water it has received, the Pro Shop will keep us informed.

Many congratulations to Jenny Hounsell who aced it on the 2nd this week. This means the ladies have scored a Hole in One on all Par 3s in recent months.

TUESDAY 6/1/26
PGC - Single Stableford

MEN :
Winner : Gregory Campbell (Darwin GC) - 39 points
R/Up : Cooper Nissen - 38 points

NTPs : Paul Gray (9th), Peter Lindsay (13th), John Bissell (16th)

LADIES :
Winner : Di Chard - 32 points
R/Up : Pauline Redpath - 31 points

NTPs : Jenny Hounsell had a wonderful HOLE IN ONE on the 2nd - well done Jenny - that completes the Par 3s for the ladies - an ace on each one.

WEDNESDAY 7/1/26
LADIES : Jan MM/Putts
Winner : Karen Oni - 74 nett (C/B)
R/Up : Pauline Redpath
3rd : Jenny Hounsell, - 75 nett

NTPs : Lyn Muller (2nd), Tiina Randmae ( 5th), Edwina Pettiford (9th)

PGC - Stroke
Winner : Levi Holmes - 71 nett
R/Up : Corey Stroud - 72 nett
3rd : George Steane - 73 nett

THURSDAY 8/1/26
Jan MM sponsored by Loot Pay : Front 9 twice

MEDLEY :
A Grade :
Winner : Ray Johannesen - 71 nett (C/B)
R/Up : John Roser

B Grade :
Winner : Peta Thomas - 71 nett (C/B)
R/Up : Gerald Lovell

NTPs : Paul Gray (2nd), Nathan Holohan (9th)

FRIDAY 9/1/26
9 hole Run sponsored by the Metropole Hotel - Front 9

Winner : Andrew Smart - 24 points
R/up : Jordan de Mamiel - 17 points (C/B)
From : Chris Pirlo, Ben Smith and Matthew Muller

NTPs : Matthew Muller (2nd), Andrew Mason (9th)

SATURDAY 10/1/26 (Cyclone Watch)
Single Stableford sponsored by Airlie Beach Hotel

COURSE CLOSED - WEATHER - CYCLONE WATCH

SUNDAY 11/1/26
PGC - Stableford
COURSE CLOSED - WEATHER - CYCLONE

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

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With 2026 upon us, there is no shortage of charity event fundraisers designed to help give back to the community. If you're a fitness freak or simply love your sport, here are some charity events designed to fundraise through physical activity.

Children's Cancer Institute - 86k for a Cure
VIP registrations are now open for the 86K for a Cure fundraiser hosted by the Children's Cancer Institute. The organisation invites you to conquer 86km this March for the 86 kids diagnosed with cancer every month in Australia. Signup for exclusive VIP registration includes entering the draw for 1 of 2 Apple watches as well as an official loyalty badge on the official fundraising page to recognise the support.

Laps for Life
Join Australia's much loved charity swimming community. By joining Laps for Life you can undertake a swimming challenge of 2km or 20km (or whatever suits you). It doesn't matter whether you are a beginner, an amateur or a pro, the swimming challenge presents an opportunity to raise vital funds to support youth mental health and suicide prevention.

International Women's Day - Fun Run
This International Women's Day, Sunday March 8th, the Townsville community is set to come together in support of women with breast cancer as they walk, jog or run laps of the Cluden Park Racecourse. Presented by Queensland X-Ray, the event will see supporters hit the track in their best attire to raise awareness and funds for Mater Chicks in Pink.

Mater Chicks in Pink is a charitable organisation dedicate to supporting women with breast cancer. Proceeds are used to help fund practical breast cancer support services.

Neuroendocrine Cancer Australia - March4Nets
For its third year, March4NETs will run throughout March 2026 to help raise awareness and improve the lives of Neuroendocrine Cancer patients around Australia.

Every dollar raised will go towards improving patient support provided by NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia and to fund improved outcomes for NETs.

Walk, run, or ride 30km, 50km, or 100km throughout March. This event promises to support an important cause through physical activity.

Charity fundraising and community support can be an active endevaour, which encourages physical exercise and sport activity. If you are someone keen on sport, or simply love to exercise, think about the ways you can use your passions or hobbies to give back to the community. These are just few of the many initiatives by which you can support important causes through physical activity.

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Laps for Life is one of several charities hosting sporting fundraisers in 2026. Photo source: Laps for Life

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George travelled to Brisbane in December to compete at the 2025 Queensland Championships, taking on some of the state’s strongest swimmers in a demanding, week-long program of events. What followed was an outstanding performance that showcased his growth, determination and consistency at championship level.

By the end of the week, George returned home as the Queensland Champion in the 12–14 years 400m MC Freestyle, delivering a standout swim and smashing his personal best by an impressive 3.93 seconds. The result was a reward for months of hard work and commitment in the pool.

He backed that performance up with another podium finish, claiming second place and a silver medal in the 12–14 years 100m MC Backstroke. Once again, George delivered under pressure, taking a further 3.76 seconds off his personal best in the event.

Across the championships, George competed in six events and achieved a personal best in every single one — a remarkable accomplishment that highlights his preparation, focus and resilience across multiple races.

George’s results are a testament to his dedication to training, his positive mindset, and his genuine passion for the sport of swimming. His performances at the Queensland Championships demonstrate what can be achieved through perseverance, discipline and a love of competition.

The Whitsunday Swimming Club is incredibly proud of George and his achievements and congratulates him on an exceptional championship campaign. With performances like these, the future looks bright, and the club eagerly looks forward to seeing what George will achieve in 2026.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Swimming Club

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What a week full of news it has been, beginning on Tuesday afternoon with social bowls expertly organised by Lyn Graham. A total of 22 bowlers took part, playing three games of triples and one game of pairs. The winning team was decided by the lowest winning margin, which went to Kathryn Remmeswaal and her team, who narrowly defeated Carol Crosbie’s side 24–22.

Wednesday afternoon social bowls saw the welcome return of Mervyn Stewart from holidays. All games were closely contested, except for one standout match led by Bob McMahon, who was absolutely brilliant and once again proved why he is regarded as one of the club’s best bowlers. Bob expertly steered Duncan Smith at lead and Robin Brown at second in a fantastic team performance.

Wednesday night Business House bowls will return after the school holidays. All are welcome to participate. Free coaching sessions are also available on Monday and Thursday afternoons from 4pm to 5pm, and everyone is welcome to attend.

As the weekend approached, so too did the weather, which unfortunately developed into a cyclone. As a result, Scroungers will not resume until next Saturday morning, starting at 9.30 am. Sunday afternoon social bowls was also cancelled, not due to the condition of the green, but because of the surrounding roads. After a night of tumultuous rain brought on by Cyclone Koji, hundreds of millimetres fell in a very short period, causing significant road damage and flooding.

Hopefully next week we will have much more bowling news to report, especially with the exciting State of Origin series beginning on the 16th of January. All are welcome to watch the action under the bright lights at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club.

This week’s photo features our Ladies Novice Champion, Melanie Fennell, receiving her award from Ladies President our very own “pocket rocket”, Carol Crosbie.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Ladies Novice Champion, Melanie Fennell, receiving her award from Ladies President, Carol Crosbie. Photo credit: Airlie Beach Bowls Club

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At Northern Beaches Community Hub

Residents visiting the Northern Beaches Community Hub can now enjoy easier access to sports and recreation, with a new high-tech locker system offering free use of sporting equipment.

The recently installed SportsBox lockers allow community members to borrow a basketball, futsal ball or netball at no cost, providing a simple way for locals to make the most of the hub’s indoor sports court.

Users simply need to download the SportsBox app and create an account. There are no sign-up fees or ongoing cost to borrowers.

Equipment in the smart lockers is free to use, but a credit or debit card must be added to accounts for instances where balls aren’t returned.

Since it was installed last month on December 19, there's already been hours of usage of the available equipment.

For more information about how to use the lockers use your favourite search engine to find SportsBox equipped by Decathlon.

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The newly installed SportsBox means you don't need to have your own gear to use the facilities at the Northern Beaches Community Hub. Photo supplied

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RUNNING

The 2026 Shawn’s Summer Social Splash n Dash Biathlon Series resumed last Sunday, getting underway at 4.30pm at the ARC (Aquatic & Recreational Complex) in Ooralea.

Club Captain and Race Director Jim Ford was thanked for generously donating his time to volunteer the free, informal social group training sessions held during the Mackay Road Runners Club off season. Mr Ford also offers free track training year-round at the ARC on Wednesdays at 5.30pm. No RSVP is required for either off-season social event, with participants asked to arrive 15 minutes prior to the session start, pay the ARC facility’s $5 entry fee at the Pool Kiosk, before receiving a briefing from Mr Ford on the training program criteria.

The formal Mackay Road Runners season will commence next month, with the official calendar still to be ratified at the club’s Annual General Meeting on Monday, 12 January, at 5.30pm. The AGM will be held in the North Queensland Bulk Ports meeting room at the Mackay Harbour Marina, with all welcome to attend.

The meeting will also see the election of the incoming 2026 committee, with the current 2025 executive stepping down and all positions becoming vacant and open for nominations and subsequent voting. Members unable to attend are welcome to submit input or a proxy vote.

For any queries, please contact the Club via the Secretary - secretary@mackayroadrunners.com or Janelle Tilse 0400 997432 publicityofficer@mackayroadrunners.com

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Over twenty runners and supporters braved the damp conditions for the resumption on the 2026 Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series hosted by Mackay Road Runners Club Captain and race Director, Jim Ford.

Todd Turner leads Andrew Flanagan ahead of a small group in the initial half of the 30 minute track running session.

David Isbister sensibly paced himself through the 100% humidity in the 30 minute track session.

Alana Knezevic sprints the 30 minute track session prior to the 30 minute pool portion of the Biathlon Series.

Multi tasking Race Director, Jim Ford bowling to the grandkids Vivian & Harvey whilst Mum & Dad, Alana & Adam run the track section of the Biathlon Series.

Talented athlete, Archer Flanagan looking forward to an awesome 2026. Photos supplied.

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The Mackay Table Tennis Association has completed its most significant facility upgrade in almost 50 years, installing full air-conditioning within their hall — a move President Janice Kent says clearly sets the sport apart from many others in the region.

The hall, which opened in 1971 and was last significantly expanded in 1975, has long been a staple of the Mackay sporting landscape.

Janice says the latest upgrade directly responds to conditions many athletes know all too well.

“In Mackay, heat isn’t an inconvenience — it’s often the deciding factor in whether people can safely participate in sport,” Janice said.

“A lot of sports still rely on outdoor venues, large fans or ventilation and hope that conditions are manageable. We’ve taken a different approach.”

The new system delivers consistent cooling across the entire facility, eliminating the uneven airflow and heat pockets common in many indoor venues.

“This isn’t partial air-conditioning or cooling in select areas,” Janice said.

“Every table, every session, every player benefits from the same conditions — juniors, seniors, social players and competition athletes alike.”

Janice said the difference is immediately noticeable when compared to non-air-conditioned sporting environments.

“When people are choosing how to stay active in Mackay, they’re weighing up comfort, safety and sustainability,” she said.

“Heat stress, dehydration and fatigue are real issues, especially in summer. We’ve removed that barrier entirely.”

She said the upgrade allows players to focus on performance and enjoyment rather than survival.

“People shouldn’t have to endure extreme conditions just to stay active,” Janice said.

“Sport should challenge you athletically — not thermally.”

Importantly, Janice emphasised that comfort doesn’t come at a premium price.

“Compared to many other sports, table tennis is very reasonably priced, and that’s by design,” she said.

“Affordability is one of our core values. We recognise that cost matters to families, retirees and anyone trying to stay active without stretching their budget.”

She said the combination of full air-conditioning and low participation costs is rare.

“In many sports, you’re paying more while still playing in heat,” Janice said.

“Here, you get a modern, climate-controlled facility at a cost that remains accessible.”

The upgrade also strengthens the club’s contribution to the broader Mackay community.

“This isn’t just about table tennis players,” Janice said.

“It’s about increasing access to sport for people who may not feel comfortable playing outdoors, or in venues without proper climate control.”

She said the benefits extend to seniors, juniors, people returning to exercise, and those managing health considerations.

“Air-conditioning makes sport safer, more inclusive and more sustainable,” she said.

“That matters in a growing regional city like Mackay.”

The club’s Patron, Nigel Dalton MP, Member for Mackay, has supported the milestone, recognising the importance of modern community sporting infrastructure.

“Facilities like this, play a key role in keeping people active year-round,” Janice said.

“We’re proud to offer something that genuinely improves participation rather than limiting it.”

As Mackay continues to grow, Janice believes the upgrade positions table tennis as a clear alternative to heat-exposed sports.

“We’re not competing on who can endure the toughest conditions,” she said.

“We’re offering a smarter, safer and more comfortable way to stay active — without out pricing to both existing and new members.

Supplied by Janice Kent

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Photo supplied

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Club Whitsunday will be celebrating their first birthday next weekend on Saturday, the 17th of January and they have a mystery prize up for offer.

Excitement is rising as the massive present in the foyer is wrapped up and remains a mystery, but General Manager of Club Whitsunday Josh Prowse said it's a prize that everybody will want and anybody can use.

To enter, you need to be a member of Club Whitsunday and start spending money at the club. Every $1 spent is one entry.

To win you must be there for the draw on Saturday the 17th of January, between 11am and 3pm.

Josh explains that it has been a busy year for Club Whitsunday, full of community connection, and he is very proud of what they have achieved.

With over 6500 members the club is thriving and is ticking all the boxes the community sports club was designed to tick. The support has been overwhelming and reinforces their commitment to giving back to the community and supporting grassroots sport.

During its first year Club Whitsunday has been home to a wide range of events, from small business networking activities to large-scale sporting fixtures.

Among the headline events was the Viking Cup, which delivered the biggest visitation in the history of the Club Whitsunday. Organisers estimate more than 1,000 people attended across the two-day event. The venue also successfully hosted the Rugby Union grand final, which was relocated from Mackay, and a significant win for the town.

Other major events included the Big Freeze, adding to what has been a landmark year of activity and growth for the facility and the community it serves.

Partnerships with local food suppliers have also played a key role, with raffles, promotions and collaborative advertising helping strengthen ties between the venue and the wider business community.

Upcoming events in 2026 are also set to draw in more and more visitors, first their birthday on the 17th of January will set the tone for the year to come, on 24th of January the North Queensland Cowboys will be doing a morning training session, and Australia Day celebrations will follow shortly after on the 26th. In August Club Whitsunday will also have their huge $20k giveaway!

It's going to be a huge year for Club Whitsunday, and the club is looking ahead to another year of community connection, major events and continued investment in local sport.

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The mystery prize will be given to one lucky member at the Club Whitsunday birthday celebrations next weekend. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Welcome by Coral Sea Marina CEO Kate Preston

We are delighted to welcome the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race back to Airlie Beach and Coral Sea Marina. This marks the fifth time we have had the privilege of hosting the Clipper Race fleet during the Australian leg of its global circumnavigation — and their continued return is a strong endorsement of both Coral Sea Marina and Airlie Beach, further cementing the Whitsundays as Australia’s premier sailing destination.

The energy and excitement this race brings to our marina and town is truly infectious, and we encourage the community to make the most of the events on offer throughout the stopover. From public open boat days to the Clipper Race Discovery Talk, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and experience the spirit of this remarkable event.

With the Whitsundays set to host sailing events for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Clipper Race’s return continues to shine an international spotlight on the region’s ability to deliver world-class sailing experiences. Supported by outstanding marina facilities, a vibrant coastal town atmosphere and a well-established marine tourism industry, we hope crew and supporters alike enjoy all that the region has to offer.

On behalf of the marina team and the wider Whitsunday boating community, we warmly welcome the fleet, race team and crew back to paradise.

Kate Preston
CEO – Coral Sea Marina

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The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is an extreme 40,000-nautical-mile ocean adventure that tests endurance in some of the world’s harshest conditions.

One of the race’s defining features is its accessibility. Applications are open to everyone, with no previous ocean sailing experience required before beginning the intensive training programme. Just as the ocean makes no distinctions based on age, gender or background, neither does the Clipper Race. Comprehensive training ensures every participant develops the skills and confidence needed to race safely on the open ocean.

During the race, crew members may encounter the powerful swells of the Roaring Forties, the isolation and icy conditions of the North Pacific, or the fast-paced Atlantic Trade Winds. Participants can choose to complete the full circumnavigation, combine multiple legs, or join for a single ocean crossing — each option offering an unforgettable adventure.

The Clipper Race is not for the faint-hearted. A full edition spans approximately 11 months, with around 220 days spent racing at sea, day and night, in all weather conditions. While stopovers between stages provide brief respite, crews are still responsible for essential tasks such as maintenance and restocking supplies.

The race consists of eight legs.

Leg 1 – Atlantic Trade Winds (UK to South America)
A demanding opening leg that launches the circumnavigation with Race Start celebrations, mixed conditions and an Atlantic crossing. Crews face shipping lanes, light winds, the doldrums and a milestone equator crossing before steadier trade winds carry them to South America.

Leg 2 – South Atlantic Challenge (South America to South Africa)
Fast, exhilarating racing with big swells and strong trade winds. Tactical decisions dominate as teams choose routes around the South Atlantic High, often leading to tight finishes and dramatic leaderboard changes.

Leg 3 – The Roaring Forties (South Africa to Western Australia)
A high-octane Southern Ocean leg featuring powerful westerlies, huge seas and raw natural beauty. Rounding the Cape of Good Hope and surfing at extreme speeds, this is one of the most respected and adrenaline-fuelled legs of the race.

Leg 4 – Australian Coast-to-Coast (West to East Australia)
One of the most diverse legs, spanning cold southern latitudes to tropical heat. Crews round Cape Leeuwin, race south of Tasmania, then tackle tactical sailing up Australia’s east coast—often while celebrating Christmas and New Year at sea.

Leg 5 – Asia Passage (East Australia to China)
A varied, multi-stage leg combining long ocean racing with short tactical sprints. Crews cross the equator again, endure intense heat, navigate busy shipping lanes and enjoy culturally rich stopovers across Asia.

Leg 6 – The Mighty Pacific (China to North America)
The longest and most extreme leg of the race, crossing the vast North Pacific. Crews face freezing temperatures, phenomenal seas, hurricane-force winds and record boat speeds, plus the milestone crossing of the International Date Line.

Leg 7 – Americas Coast-to-Coast (West to East North America)
A slow-burn, highly tactical leg marked by heat, light winds and endurance sailing. Highlights include wildlife encounters, the transit of the Panama Canal and classic Caribbean sailing conditions toward the US East Coast.

Leg 8 – Atlantic Homecoming (North America to UK)
The final push to the finish, where overall standings are often decided. Crews battle North Atlantic conditions before a last sprint home, culminating in emotional finish celebrations after completing the full circumnavigation.

Each participant is assigned to one of ten race teams, each made up of around 60 race crew members. Up to 22 crew can be on board at any one time, with everyone sharing duties under a structured watch system.

Through this journey, participants train to become ocean racers, experiencing the exhilaration of circumnavigating the globe aboard a 70-foot racing yacht. Free information packs are available, and interviews can be booked to begin the journey.

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RACE DISTANCE
40,000NM

LEGS
8

OCEAN CROSSINGS
6

RACE CREW
700+

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