Dave Symons showed his trademark grit to edge out Tiffany Camilleri in a hard-fought battle on Tuesday night, prevailing 11-7, -8, -12, 6 in a thrilling Division 2 clash.

In Division 1, in the battle of the Council comms workmates, Mark Sleeman got one up over Lee Brake, however Lee came back with a great win over Robbie Richards. Mark’s team (Star Lords) victorious overall on the night, 7-4.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures March 4, 2025:

Division 1:
Star Lords (Geoff Cowan, Robbie Richards, Mark Sleeman) d Stellar Storms (Will VanDeKaa, Lee Brake, Barry Patterson) 7-4. Lee d Robbie -5, 1, 10, -6, 9.
Venus Voyagers (Graham Drury, Janice Kent, Graham Brake) d Ant Warriors (Doug Dungavell, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) 7-4. Doug d Graham 9, -7, 9, 9.
Ghost Spin (Allan Robins, Steven Whiting, Lily Boland) d Panther Prowler (Vince Boeske, Allan Edwards, Trent Day) 7-4. Lily d Vince 12, -7, 8, -9, 9.
Phoenix Fire (Andrew McHugh, Josh Brown, Andrea Nicholson) d Cosmic Sorcerer (Donna Abbott, Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan) 7-4. Andrew d Neil 8, -11, 9, -7, 8.

Division 2:
Pirate Plunge (Geoff Cowan, David Symons) d Celtic Smash (Tiffany Camilleri, Syed Zhang) 4-1. Bulldog d Tiffany 11, 7, -8, -12, 6.
Roman Legion (Niro Premachandra, Peter Goodson) d Zulu Spears (Darryl Ross, Rod Hamelink) 5-0.

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Dave Symons showed his trademark grit to edge out Tiffany Camilleri (pictured) in a hard-fought battle on Tuesday night, prevailing 11-7, -8, -12, 6 in a thrilling Division 2 clash

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The Mackay Cutters’ Hostplus Cup season opener against the PNG Hunters was postponed over the weekend due to Cyclone Alfred, which disrupted travel plans and forced the QRL to reschedule affected matches. While the senior side was sidelined, the Cutters’ junior teams took to the field against the CQ Capras, securing wins in the Harvey Norman U19s, Mal Meninga Cup, and Cyril Connell Cup. The Harvey Norman U17s struggled against a dominant Capras outfit.

Harvey Norman U19s – Cutters 28 def. Capras 12
The Cutters U19 women controlled the match from the outset, running in multiple tries to secure a 28-12 victory. Mackay’s forwards created momentum up the middle, allowing their backs to break through the Capras’ defensive line and convert their chances into points.

Harvey Norman U17s – Capras 28 def. Cutters 0
The U17s were unable to recover from a tough first half, trailing 16-0 at the break before the Capras piled on more points to claim a 28-0 win. Mackay struggled to gain attacking traction against a well-organised Capras side that dominated field position and possession.

Mal Meninga Cup – Cutters 28 def. Capras 18
A strong second-half performance secured the Cutters a 28-18 win in the Mal Meninga Cup. Leading 18-12 at halftime, Mackay tightened up its defence and capitalised on key attacking opportunities to shut down the Capras' comeback attempt.

Cyril Connell Cup – Cutters 26 def. Capras 16
The Cutters' Cyril Connell Cup side staged an impressive second-half turnaround to overcome a 10-16 deficit at the break, keeping the Capras scoreless in the final 35 minutes to secure a 26-16 victory. Improved defensive pressure and disciplined set completions proved the difference as Mackay controlled the tempo in the second half.

Upcoming Round – Cutters vs. Townsville Blackhawks

Mackay will head to Jack Manski Oval in Townsville this Sunday, March 16, for Round 5 clashes across all grades.

Harvey Norman U17s: 11:00 AM
Harvey Norman U19s: 12:20 PM
Cyril Connell Cup: 1:40 PM
Mal Meninga Cup: 3:00 PM
Hostplus Cup: 4:30 PM

Hostplus Cup Team List – Round 2

Matua Brown
Jimmy Ngutlik
Brenton Baira
Mahe Fonua
Semi Valemei
Raydan Burns (VC)
Ryan Rivett
Thomas Mikaele
Temple Kalepo
Jeremiah Matautia
Hugh Arthur
Hiale Roycroft (C)
John Radel
Xavier Kerrisk
Jed Bignell
Ross Bella
Josh Honan
Mitch Fogarty
Baden Robinson

The Cutters’ Hostplus Cup side will be eager to get its 2025 campaign underway, with a tough contest expected against the Blackhawks in Townsville.

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Sailability has started up again this February and they’re putting out the call for any sailor and their carer to come down to the Whitsunday Sailing Club and try out sailing on the beautiful Whitsunday waters. Sailability gives the joys of freedom on the waters to people with disabilities, teaching the basics of sailing, boat and water safety, and helping to discover positive interactions between participants and the ocean.

"It's just really exciting for them. Sometimes they'll go out for a couple of sails or in the motor boat. As soon as they know the barbecue is happening, the smell of the sausages, they want to come in and have some to eat." General Assistant Karen explained, saying its really up to the clients and how they would like to participate.

Sailability is run by volunteers from all over some staying short-term and others like Jenny have been there volunteering for 12yrs now. And with some clients coming all the way from Bowen to participate in their sailing program, they're calling for more volunteers and sponsors to help give their clients this wonderful experience.

For many of the volunteers its about giving back, "as volunteers, we feel so good that we've given them that experience and the rewards, you just see the smiles on their faces. It's just wonderful." says Karen, "We teach them how to sail. Some can sail themselves, but we still have the skipper with them. They're learning new things all the time."

For parents like Jennifer Graetz and her son Robbie, Sailabiliy provides them with a chance to socialise and feel normal, "as a parent, being able to be accepted the way that we have, it's just been incredible. These people are just beautiful people, and what they give to the community is a great opportunity. I don't even really know how to express in words what it is to Robbie and to our family."

If you would like to volunteer, there are many positions open, from vessel operators to administration, all help is welcomed, they provide training! If you or your partner have a disability or are physically challenged in any way, or are a carer of someone who is, reserve your spot with the team by calling: 0499 835 111 or inquiring on their website: www.sailabilitywhitsunday.org or Facebook page, and get some wind in your sails!

WHAT: Sailability Session
WHEN: Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month
WHERE: Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club
COST: $12 Per Participant, Volunteers FREE

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Jenny and Adrian (Volunteer Skipper & Ex-President of Sailability), in their green dingy finishing up after their sail. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton
Volunteers Chris and Grytsen on the motor boat ready for new passengers. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton
Adrian debriefing after his sail with Allen (Secretary of Sailability) and Cameron (a new Volunteer). Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

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Following heavy rainfall throughout February, it was a welcome change to see clear skies for our monthly shoot on Sunday, 23rd February. A total of 33 shooters participated, with competitors joining from Burdekin, Townsville, Silkwood, and Mackay/Sarina, alongside our local members, making for an exciting day of competition. Here are the amazing event results with the Trophy sponsored by Caruso Construction.

60T Medley Graded Trophy:
AA: A Ballarino 93/100
A: G Maltby 94/100
B: N Munro 92/100
C: D Hearn 83/100

20T DB Handicap:
1st: David Stitt 25/25
2nd: Glenn McHenry 24/25
3rd: B Bonanno 23/24

20T DB Continental:
AA: J Caruso 25/25
A: G Maltby 26/26
B: N Munro 20/20
B: Paton 18/20

Special congratulations to Colin Edgerton, our 2024 Shooter of the Year, with 15 points. We appreciate our sponsor, Caruso Construction, and all the volunteers who contributed to a successful day. Our next competition will be the 100 Target Day on Sunday 23rd March, sponsored by S&W Crane Hire

Contributed with thanks by Colin Edgerton, Shoot Secretary.

Shooter of the Year 2024 Colin Edgerton.

Ev 1 60T Medley: L-R Sylvia presenter, AA A Ballarino, A G Maltby, B N Munro, C D Hearn

Ev 3 20T Continental: AA J Caruso, A G Maltby, B N Munro, C B Paton

Ev 2 Handicap: 1st D Stitt, 2nd G McHenry, 3rd B Bonanno

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Despite the official end of summer last Tuesday, the weather didn’t reflect the change of season, though the course was looking great after recent rains. A strong turnout of 33 members contested the March Monthly Medal. Gerald Lovell claimed victory for the men with an impressive score of 68, while Jenny Hounsell triumphed for the women with a solid 69. Close behind her was her husband Colin, who finished on 70.

In the ladies' division, Lyn Muller took second place with 71, while Paula McQuat, Tiina Randmae, Elspeth Scotford, Heather Luvis, and Leanne Alexander earned spots in the rundown. For the men, Colin Hounsell, Gary Scotford, Laurie Dakin, Peter Fox, Trevor Peroz, Craig McLean, Neil Cawthorne, Peter Lindsay, and Nick Apruzzese made up the rundown.

Notable achievements included Jenny Hounsell, Jacqui Wall, Heather Luvis, Lyn Muller (in the hole #13), and Allison McCarthy earning pin shots, while Elspeth Scotford led the least putts category with 30. Chip-ins were shared by Vickie Wallace, Leanne Alexander, Trevor Peroz, John Roser, Neil Cawthorne, and Laurie Dakin.

In the draws, Allison McCarthy won the Membership Jackpot worth $40, Peter Lewis bagged the $50 Monthly Medal, and Alan Clinc claimed a $50 Fishi voucher in the weekly raffle. It was a fantastic day of competition, camaraderie, and celebration on the course.

Contributed with thanks by Paula McQuat

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The Whitsunday Swimming Club had 11 swimmers attend the 2025 NQ Championships in Townsville over the weekend. It was a long, hot, and exhausting few days, but all our swimmers returned home with terrific achievements, despite their tired bodies.

George was the standout, claiming NQ Champion for 12 years MC in the 50m Freestyle, Butterfly, Breaststroke, Backstroke, and 100m Freestyle. He was also awarded 12 years boys MC Age Champion.

Alex took home the NQ Champion title in the 17 years & over men’s 50m Butterfly, Breaststroke, and 100m Breaststroke.

Chloe secured a 2nd place finish in the 11 years girls 200IM, with an impressive 8.85-second PB.

Leyton earned 2nd place in the 12-year-old boys 200m and 100m Breaststroke, achieving a huge 6.84-second PB in the finals. He also claimed 3rd in the 50m Breaststroke.

Hayden swam a PB of 5.33 seconds in his 100m Freestyle and another 5.03-second PB in his 100m Breaststroke.

Jayde joined her brothers in the Breaststroke PB challenge, posting a 6.41-second PB in her 100m swim.

Axel swam a 2.83-second PB in his 100m Backstroke and broke his 50m Butterfly PB by 1.77 seconds.

Alissa swam all four of her events with PBs, with her biggest being an 11.26-second improvement in the 50m Butterfly.

Friday night saw Mia, Lochlan, and Amy join the team for the club relays.

Lochlan, Alex, Hayden, and Axel took 3rd place in the 11 & over men’s 400m Freestyle relay. Hayden, George, Leyton, and Axel also earned 3rd in the 8-14 years boys 200m Medley and 200m Freestyle relays.

A huge thank you to Coach Jenny for her support and guidance, helping our swimmers achieve their goals and represent the club with pride.

Whitsunday Swimming Club trains Monday – Thursday from 3.30pm at the Proserpine Swimming Pool. For more information, email: whitsundayfrogs@gmail.com.au or pop into the pool for a chat.

Contributed with thanks by Amanda Yuskan, WSC President

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The whole swim team and coaches at relay night
11's and over boys 400m freestyle relay team gets 3rd place
8-14yrs relay gets 3rd in the 200m medley

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club "Sweeties and Squires" (Ladies and Juniors) Family Fishing weekend is on 28th to 30th March and is shaping up to be a fantastic weekend. Participation is free to current members, and non members are more than welcome to join the Club and be part of this and future Club events. Membership is $70 per adult, and $35 for juniors under 16 years.

All Juniors competing will receive a free Shimano rod and reel and a bag of goodies as part of the Queensland Game Fishing Association's (G.F.A.A.) Kids2Fish Program!

Prizes will be awarded in the Ladies, Junior's boys and girls (11 to 16 years) and Small Fry's boys and girls (under 11 years) categories for a photo taken on a brag mat of their fish, caught using rod and reel only. All photos will go before a panel of judges and the winners will be judged on merit, not the size of their fish, whether released or kept for the dinner table. All rules will be explained in detail at the Registration and Briefing at the Marine Club in Altmann Avenue in Cannonvale on Friday 28th of March from 6pm where Juniors and Small Fry will be presented with their new free rod and reel.

This is a relaxed weekend and fishing starts at your leisure anytime after the Briefing. All participants need to be present at the Marine Club at 12 noon on Sunday 30th of March for the Presentation and some delicious food. This will be a great way to spend a fun weekend on the water for family and friends and The Whitsunday Game Fish Club would love to see new and old Members alike join in!

WHAT: The Whitsunday Game Fish Club "Sweeties and Squires" fishing competition
WHEN: Briefing - 6pm 28th of March & Prize Ceremony - 12pm of 30th March
WHERE: Whitsunday Marine Club, Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale

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Small Fry member, Kyle Matthews, with a nice coral trout
Junior member,  Kurt Martin, happy with his recent catch
Small Fry members, Kyle Matthews, with his recent catch
Squires getting fishing tips at the Club

How great is it to live in paradise? This week's bowls has certainly been filled with excitement.

Firstly, on Tuesday morning, in bowls, Carol Crosbie's team, with Hubble Noel at lead and Sandra Argo at second, triumphed over Joan McGrath’s team, which included Sue Dakin at lead and Dawn Dowell at second. Meanwhile, John Brown's team, with Mel Fennel at lead and husband Greg at second, drew with John Fielding's team of Sue Walker at lead and Gen Passfield.

Wednesday afternoon's Jackpot bowls were quieter than usual, likely due to the Open Men's Singles and the completion of last year's Mixed Pairs and Fours events. However, John Fielding's team of Phil O'Brien and Warren Williams proved the strongest on the day, with the jackpot remaining unclaimed.

In the Men's Singles first round, Russell Jackson, Alan Pershouse, Ash Warland, Bob McMahon, Shane Spann, Rick Galea, Harry Quod, Luke Kinnear, Arthur McManus, and Dennis Donnadelli all progressed to Round 2.

On Saturday morning, Scroungers saw first-round winners Margo Stanley, Andy McDougall, Tony Whitehorn, and Maureen Barnard play off for the final. Despite starting with a -5 score, Margo Stanley overwhelmed the competition to claim her second victory in this event, while Merve Stewart won B Division.

Sunday afternoon's Social Bowls saw Tony Whitehorn's team, with Bill Gordon in fine form and Sue Dakin proving too strong, dominate the field.

At the same time, the final game of the Mixed Fours was taking place between Andrew Butler's team (Dawn Dowell, Elaine Kippen, and Andy McDougall) and Shane Spann's team (Keith Bates, substituting for John Trembath, with Vicki Spann and Joan McGrath). In a spine-tingling match, Andrew Butler's team emerged victorious by just one point.

The Women and Girls come and try lawn bowls program, sponsored by the Queensland Government Sport and Rec is running on Thursday 13th March at 5pm -6pm.

Contributed with thanks by Mark Mawson

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Mixed Fours Finalists: Vicki Spann, Keith Bates, Joan McGrath, and Shane Spann.

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The Cannonvale Cannons wrapped up a big weekend of racing, starting with the annual Club Championships on Saturday. This highly anticipated event saw swimmers competing in five set races within their age group to battle for the Age Champion title. A season highlight, this event offered a real race-day setup while maintaining the supportive and spirited environment of club competition. Club Champs not only provide a platform for intense racing but also serve as one of the final opportunities for swimmers to qualify for end-of-year club trophies and records.

Coaches Mark Erickson and Ken Crittenden were left in awe by the exceptional performances across all age groups. Out of the 285 swims recorded on the day, a staggering 186 were personal bests—an incredible testament to the swimmers' dedication and consistent training over the past year. A special mention goes to the club’s younger swimmers, who fearlessly tackled distances they had never attempted before.

The club now looks ahead to the End-of-Year Presentation Night on May 3, where these remarkable achievements, amongst others from throughout the season will be celebrated.

The excitement continued on Sunday at the Whitsunday Short Course Transition Meet in Collinsville. This event marked a significant milestone as it was the first competition held at the newly renovated 25m short-course pool, replacing the former unique 33m length pool. Swimmers had the exciting opportunity to set brand-new pool records, and many Cannons rose to the occasion.

Congratulations to Charlie and Evie Doherty, Ruby and Koa Harland, Mackenzie Bennet, Andie and Dylan Reynolds, Eloise and Harry Chegwidden, Isaac and Isabella Pisaniello, and Miranda Palmero, who all claimed new pool records at the meet.

With such an outstanding weekend of racing, the Cannons continue to prove that hard work and dedication pay off as they prepare for the final events of the season.

Contributed with thanks by Jade Korosec, Vice President of the Cannonvale Cannons

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11 Year Girls place-getters for the 50M Breaststroke Event

The new Collinsville pool record holders

10 Year Boys place-getters for the 50M Breaststroke Event

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When most people think of visiting South Africa, they imagine spotting the local wildlife that includes the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo. But Micky Kimpton, race director of the Coral Sea Resort Marina Airlie Beach Triathlon, has something else in mind.

At 71 years, Micky is no stranger to a challenge. He’s about to take on his sixth Ironman triathlon in five years, and this time, his swim will have a much larger adversary than his fellow triathletes. He’s heading to Nelson Mandela Bay in South Africa next month, and while most competitors are focused on finishing the gruelling race, Micky has one more thing on his mind: adding a Great White Shark to his personal wildlife list.

"I figured, if I’m going to be swimming in open water, I may as well make it interesting," Micky says with his signature grin. "I’ve got the lions and leopards sorted in my bucket list. Now it’s time for something a little more... toothy."

The South African Ironman is no easy feat. It’s a brutal event that involves a 3.8 km swim, followed by a 180 km bike ride and a full 42.2 km marathon. The swim takes place in the chilly waters of Nelson Mandela Bay, a place renowned not only for its great swimming conditions, but also for its healthy population of Great White Sharks.

Micky has managed to add a little extra danger to the mix. "I’m hoping to add ‘shark-watching’ to my list of hobbies," he quips. "But don’t worry, I’ll stick to the official swim course and leave the wildlife to the experts."

Micky's not just doing this for fun. As the race director of the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival, Micky's been a driving force behind growing the event into one of the Whitsundays' premier races, and his passion for the sport is contagious. His philosophy? Age is just a number, and there’s no finish line for true dedication.

"Competing in these Ironman races has taught me patience, discipline, and the ability to laugh at myself when I’m swimming alongside a shark," he jokes. "But in all seriousness, it’s about showing that no matter how old you are, it’s never too late to push yourself."

“I also love giving back to the sport and as race director for this year’s 25th Anniversary the Coral Sea marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon will have a new bike course for all distances!

Whether Micky crosses the Ironman finish line with a medal around his neck or an "I survived a shark" badge, we know one thing for sure—his legend will only grow. It’s not just the triathlons he’s conquering; it’s also inspiring others to embrace their own challenges, whatever they may be.

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Micky at his first triathlon for 2024, 2XU Olympic distance Event in St.Kilda, Melbourne. Photo sourced: Michael Kimpton's Facebook page.

Micky, cycling during a triathlon. Michael Kimpton's Facebook page.

Micky Kimpton. Photo sourced: RMHC's home website.

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On Sunday, 9th March, the Whitsunday Swimming Club hosted a short course swim meet at the newly upgraded Collinsville Swimming Pool. This fantastic facility provides the swimming community with an excellent venue for short, fast racing.

In 2024, the Whitsunday Regional Council upgraded the pool from 33m to 25m in length. Certified as a short course pool by Swimming Australia, it will now serve as a premier location for short course meets across the entire Swimming North Queensland region.

A total of 21 swimmers from Whitsunday Swimming Club participated in the meet, racing their hearts out. There were personal bests, medals awarded, and even pool records set. The event saw a great mix of first-timers and seasoned swimmers, with plenty of cheering, laughter, and fun shared by both the swimmers and their families.

A big congratulations to swimmers Alex, Lochlan, Mia, Savanah, Hayden, Axel, Leyton, Chloe, Jayde, Ti, Jax, George, Summer, Jackson, Jack, Alissa, Emeilia, Mackenzie, and Georgia for their outstanding performances. Every swimmer went home with medals, ribbons, beaming smiles, and tired bodies.

Although Ivy was injured, she showed 100% team spirit, cheering her teammates on throughout the event. Coach Jenny proudly watched over her swimmers, celebrating their achievements.

A huge thank you to all the swimmers, families, neighboring clubs, and the pool management team at Aquatic Rush for making the day so memorable.

Whitsunday Swimming Club trains at the Proserpine Swimming Pool from Monday to Thursday, starting at 3:30 pm. New swimmers are always welcome.

Contributed with thanks by Amanda of the Whitsunday Swimming Club.

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The Whitsunday Swimming Club meet participants with their medals.
Racers on the block, ready to dive.

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Sunset Bay Outrigger Canoe Club had a stellar showing at the 2025 Sydney Harbour Challenge, taking on tough conditions over three days of intense racing against Australia’s best and international competitors.

The event kicked off on Friday with a 13km race on Sydney Harbour, where paddlers faced a dramatic ‘white-out’ as heavy rain reduced visibility. Despite the challenging conditions, the Sunset Bay Masters Mixed crew powered through, completing the course in an impressive 1 hour and 6 minutes, securing a silver medal in their division. The result was even more remarkable considering it was the first time this crew had paddled together.

On Saturday, Sunset Bay was represented by two strong Senior Masters Mixed crews in the 22km race outside the Sydney Harbour Heads. Battling demanding offshore conditions, both crews had an exhilarating finish, crossing the line just two seconds apart. With times of 1 hour 59 minutes 20 seconds and 1 hour 59 minutes 22 seconds, their performances would have placed them on the podium based on 2024 results. This time, they finished third and fourth in their division, earning a hard-fought bronze medal for Sunset Bay.

Later on Saturday, as winds intensified, the Golden Masters Men’s crew faced the most gruelling conditions of the weekend. After ‘huliing’ (capsizing) at the Heads, they persevered but were only able to complete 15km of the 22km course. With some paddlers in this crew over 70 years old, their determination on the water was truly inspirational.

Sunday saw Sunset Bay paddler Mark Bell take on the 18km OC1 downwind race in the Golden Masters Men’s division, finishing in fourth place. Summing up the challenge, he admitted, “It was a struggle out there today.”

The Sunsetters are now in training to compete in the North Qld zone regatta when they head to Airlie Beach on May long weekend.

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Sunset Bay Outrigger Canoe Club showcased incredible resilience and skill at the 2025 Sydney Harbour Challenge, securing silver and bronze medals while battling tough conditions over three days of intense racing. Photos supplied

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Last week was a rollercoaster for our young club—full of soaring highs, bittersweet farewells, and a Thursday night training session that looked more like a tactical masterclass than an amateur run-around.

Monday night saw a solid turnout of 14 players, proving once again that we’re more than just a collection of enthusiastic athletes—we’re a growing force. By Thursday, we had 17 eager bodies on the pitch, and if we keep this up, we might need to start taking reservations.

One thing is clear: our team is evolving. Gone are the days of relying on brute force (though some of our more “enthusiastic” tacklers might need reminding). We’re moving towards a game built on strategy, skill, and—dare I say it—actual technique! Our substitute rotations are smoother, our positional play is sharper, and the game is looking better than ever.

Of course, individual performances have been outstanding across the board, but if we had to highlight just one player, it’s Macca. He’s like a Swiss Army knife—useful in any position and always reliable. If we had three of him, we’d never lose a game.

We’ve also been getting great feedback from visitors, who’ve praised our club’s welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly vibe. It’s the kind of energy that keeps players coming back—and growing in numbers.

See you all Monday night. Until then, rest up, hydrate, and maybe practice a few goal celebrations—because we’re only getting better!

Contributed by Joel Sadleir

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The club had a big week of growth, strong turnouts, and tactical improvements, with standout performances and a welcoming atmosphere driving momentum forward. Photos supplied

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The Mackay Road Runners launched their first Club Championship race of the season in style, with nearly 80 runners taking to the streets of East Mackay from Queen’s Park. The event was a long-standing favourite among members, and was once again proudly sponsored by MAD Fitness Mackay.

No stranger to supporting the local running community, MAD Fitness Mackay has been a generous sponsor for several years, not only backing the Club Championship race but also donating a sought-after prize pack worth over $300 for the club’s annual Presentation Night.

Club President and Life Member Paul Tilse expressed his gratitude for the ongoing partnership, acknowledging MAD Fitness Mackay’s continued support as the 5km Club Championship sponsor for the second consecutive year.

The 5km race saw a strong field battle it out for top honours, with Paul Mackenzie and Alana Knezevic securing victory in the men’s and women’s divisions. Both champions walked away with a MAD Fitness Mackay gift bag valued at approximately $150. In addition to the winners’ prizes, MAD Fitness Mackay generously contributed cash and free gym passes to ten lucky random draw winners, while the club provided chocolates and lollies as minor prizes.

All runners also had the opportunity to accumulate crucial Club Championship points, both overall and in their age categories, with results contributing toward the end-of-season awards.

Despite humid conditions and little breeze, the event was a success, thanks to the dedication of the club’s volunteers. Special appreciation was extended to Patron Col Meng and his family for supplying icy Zooper Doopers at the finish line.

The club also acknowledged the behind-the-scenes efforts of the registration and timing team, as well as the setup and pack-down crew, whose work ensures smooth event execution. Members were encouraged to show their appreciation and lend a hand where possible, as these volunteers often give up their own runs to make each event possible.

Attention now turns to this Friday’s Mackay Marina Run Launch 5km, set to take place at 6pm from Bluewater Quay. Sponsored by Mackay Airport, this social twilight run is a highlight on the calendar, with 100% of proceeds benefiting the Mackay Branch of the Leukaemia Foundation.

With a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere, the event is perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy an active evening together. Registrations are $10 per person and must be completed online via the Mackay Marina Run website—no entries will be taken on the night.

As a result, the Mackay Road Runners will not hold their usual Sunday run this week, with members encouraged to get involved in this meaningful cause.

For more details on upcoming events, visit the Mackay Road Runners website or follow their social media pages.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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First Female, Alana Kenezevic takes gold in a sensational time in the 5km MAD Fitness Mackay Road Runners Club Champonship event.
9789 – Ashley Miles sprints to the finish line ahead of 2nd placed female Ashlee Scott.
9777 – MAD Fitness Mackay 5km Club Championship male winner, Paul Mackenzie.
9707 – Club legends, Jan Smith and Merv Shields are long time members as shown by their race bib #!
9877 – The MAD Fitness Mackay Team were awesome sponsors of the Mackay Road Runners 5km Club Championship event.
9854 – Ross and Leanne Connor easily complete the 5km Club Championship sponsored by MAD Fitness Mackay.
9727 – Stephen Hayles makes an early break at the start of the 5km MAD Fitness Mackay  championship event for Mackay Road Runners. Photos supplied

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Monday, 24 February 2025 – 5 Table Howell (Green Points)

1st: David Ting & Eric Goodchild
2nd: Jewel Schmidt & Janine Rodgers
3rd: Janelle Conroy & Tex Sheedy
4th: Jan Harris & Helen Van Den Broek
5th: Joy Block & Nancy Wix

Tuesday Evening, 25 February 2025 – 4.5 Table Howell (Green Points)

1st: Noel Bugeia & Eric Goodchild
2nd: Andrew Canavan & Jan Harris
3rd: Helen Van Den Broek & Tex Sheedy
4th: Shirley Worland & Simon Barnes

Wednesday, 26 February 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell (Green Points)

North/South
1st: Jan Harris & Sandra Morris
2nd: Janelle Conroy & Noel Bugeia
3rd: Joy Robinson & Robert Carless
4th: Ming Ting & David Ting

East/West
1st: Tex Sheedy & Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd: Janet Hansen & Alan Brown
3rd: Geoff Taylor & Ted Cullinan
4th: Geoffrey Patterson & Sandy Patterson

Thursday Evening, 27 February 2025 – 4 Table Howell (Green Points)

1st: Janine Rodgers & Janelle Conroy
2nd: Noel Bugeia & Tex Sheedy
3rd: Jan Harris & Frances Brown
4th: Shirley Worland & Adrian Westcott

Friday, 28 February 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell (Green Points)

North/South
1st: Tex Sheedy & Noel Bugeia
2nd: Joyce Deguara & Toni Large
3rd: Kath Poole & Nancy Martin
4th: Joy Robinson & Geoff Taylor

East/West
1st: Frances Brown & Alan Brown
2nd: Monica Darley & Gwen Liddell
3rd: David Ting & Ming Ting
4th: Janelle Conroy & Pamela Finger

Saturday, 1 March 2025 – 11 Table Mitchell (Green Points)

North/South
1st: Max Holewa & Max Holewa
2nd: Ted Cullinan & Noel Saunders
3rd: Tex Sheedy & Janine Rodgers
4th: Julie O'Neill & Griffin Bancroft
5th: Joy Robinson & Geoff Taylor

East/West
1st: Helen Van Den Broek & Joy Brunette
2nd: Frances Brown & Sandy Patterson
3rd: Lorna Shuttlewood & Susan Wright
4th: Janelle Conroy & Robert Carless
5th: Geoff Cowan & Annette Howe

Contributed by Robert Carless

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Faye, Marilin and Joy enjoying the 2024 Melbourne Cup day bridge. Photo supplied

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