Sports

Mackay Netballers Bring Home Sportsmanship Honours From NZ

Mackay Netballers Bring Home Sportsmanship Honours From NZ

Two Mackay State High School netball teams have returned from an international competition in New Zealand with both sides recognised for their outstanding sportsmanship. The teams travelled across the school holidays to compete in the International Netball Festival, where both received the Sportsmanship Award, voted on by umpires after every game. A representative from Mackay State High School said both teams finished with an impressive 23 points, reflecting the way players conducted themselves both on and off the court. The representative said the players consistently demonstrated the school's values of Respect, Resilience and Pride, with umpires approaching coaches throughout the competition to commend the girls on their conduct. “The umpires kept coming up to coaches to tell us how much of a pleasure our girls were to umpire, how polite, fair, and kind they are and we couldn’t think of a better impact or legacy for our girls to have,” the representative said. Finals day saw the two Mackay teams face each other once again, with Purple narrowly taking the win over Pink. Purple went on to secure another hard-fought victory to finish fifth overall, while Pink narrowly lost its final match to finish seventh. The school also paid tribute to its departing Year 12 players, recognising their efforts throughout the tournament and their contribution to the academy. “To our departing Year 12s — what a way to finish! You gave absolutely everything on the court and played your hearts out. We could not have asked for a better group of girls to lead our academy this year,” the representative said. The school congratulated every player on their dedication, commitment, sportsmanship and positive attitude throughout the trip, with Miss Nixon, Miss Allen and Mr O’Brien expressing their pride in the way the students conducted themselves and represented the school. Photo source: Mackay SHS

Read the full story
Mackay Runner Claims Benita Willis Trophy

Mackay Runner Claims Benita Willis Trophy

Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse RUNNING The annual Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy was run and won in warm conditions from Bluewater Lagoon on Sunday morning. Runners competed for the prestigious trophy based on their official handicap times, with the first male or female runner across the finish line taking home the title. Jared Mackie claimed the 2026 championship after producing an impressive run, overtaking the field despite starting from a relatively high handicap. Mackie, who was described as a deserving winner, had overcome a serious injury earlier this year and worked hard to return to running. He was also recognised for his support of fellow runners, particularly within his Rules of Running training group, where he stepped into the coaching role while the group's main coach was seriously ill for several months. Last year's winner, Max Miles, also put in a consistent performance to finish second behind Mackie. In the 5km event, Craig Malcolm took the win ahead of Natasha Joynson and Craig Joynson, with fellow club member Jo Hughes also delivering a strong performance. Other notable performances came from junior 10km runner Harry Sleeman, Chloe Malcolm, Phoebe Short, Scott Sleeman and Gem Wender. The event was sponsored by Spine Care Chiropractic, led by George Hannaford, who has supported the annual event for several years and continues to support the club and wider community. The Benita Willis event marked the final formal event on the Mackay Road Runners' 2026 calendar, with next Sunday's mystery run to be held as a social event ahead of the club's Awards and Presentation Night on October 24th. Meanwhile, the club's informal off-season program will begin on the first Sunday afternoon in November, with the Shawn's Splash and Dash Social Summer Series starting at 4.30pm at the Aquatic and Recreation Complex (ARC). The series will include 30 minutes on the track followed by 30 minutes in the pool. Entry to the facility is $5, payable at the pool kiosk before accessing the track. A gold coin donation towards post-run and swim Zooper Doopers would also be appreciated, with the social sessions open to everyone, including non-members. 8417 – 2026 Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10k Handicap Trophy winner Jared Mackie with his parents Gail and Clinton Mackie 8419 – Over 60 competitors and supporters enjoying the event which had a post run sausage sizzle, cash & vouchers donated by Spine Care Chiropractic. 8210 – Alan Zamparutti and Tim Magoffin 8416 – Jared Mackie with last year’s winner, Max Miles (and was 2nd this year – very consistent) 8224 – Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10k Handicap Trophy & 5km runners (left to right) Chloe Malcolm, Bec Malcolm, Craig Malcolm (5k winner) and Levi Wallace 8219 – David Isbister, Ollie Gorrion and Stuart Sprott catch up prior to racing the Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10k Handicap Trophy + 5k 8413 – Timekeeper, Rohan Miles (left) with competitors, Max Miles (front) and Ashley Miles (rear) 8274 – Majella Sleeman and Lucas Sleeman cheering on family members Scott and Harry running in the 10km event. 8397 – Highest handicapped runner in the 10k, Justin Rule set a sizzling pace in the warm conditions. Photos supplied by Mackay Road Runners

Read the full story
Mackay Players Make Their Mark At Australian Pickleball Championships

Mackay Players Make Their Mark At Australian Pickleball Championships

Seven Mackay pickleball players took to the courts at the Australian Pickleball Championships on the Gold Coast from September 29th to October 4th, joining more than 1,300 players from across Australia. Jess Brass, Bec Labbett, Brett Walz, Chris Barbour, Jamie Duncan, Rob Vella and Troy Debondi all competed across a range of singles and doubles divisions throughout the tournament. Brass had a standout week, claiming gold in the 19+ Women’s Singles 4.0+ division and silver in the 19+ and Open Women’s Skinny Singles 3.5 and above division. Labbett also secured a podium finish, winning bronze alongside doubles partner Carollyn Darby in the Split Age Women’s Doubles 4.5-4.99 division. Walz competed in Men’s Singles and Men’s Doubles, while Barbour contested Men’s Singles, Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles. Duncan competed in Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles, with Vella taking part in Men’s Singles and Men’s Doubles. Debondi competed across Men’s Singles, Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles. The championships attracted 1,338 registered players and, according to Pickleball Australia, were the largest pickleball tournament in the Southern Hemisphere. Pickleball Mackay President Brett Walz said it was great to see so many players from around Australia competing in the tournament. “It was a highlight to see players from Mackay winning medals at the event.” Seven Mackay pickleball players competed at the Australian Pickleball Championships on the Gold Coast, with Jess Brass and Bec Labbett bringing home three medals. Photo source: Pickleball Mackay ‍

Read the full story
MACKAY TABLE TENNIS FIXTURE RESULTS

MACKAY TABLE TENNIS FIXTURE RESULTS

Welcome to Season 4 and to our new players. Our Evening Fixtures has begun and if you are interested in coming for a hit our Centre is open for Social play on Thursday (5:30pm-8pm), Friday and Sunday (8:30am-12noon), please check our website for further details. Tuesday Evening Fixtures Division 1: Master Servers (Steve Whiting, Robbie Richards, Will VanDeKaa) snuck home 6-5 against Lords of the Pings (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan), Steve came back to outlast Anne in close 5 sets (2,7,-6,-6,6). Return Ruters (Emma Widdup, Graham Brake, Syed Hossain) won 7-4 Net Gains (Barry Patterson, Janice Kent, Duncan Treloar), Janice won a marathon over Graham B (6,-9,-7,8,12). Smash Masters (Trent Day, Donna Abbott, Mark Sleeman) had a close win 6-5 over Lob Legends (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Tony Bowman), Josh came back in 5th set against Donna to win ((-4,4,8,-9,10). One Hit Wonders (Geoff Cowan, Yilin Jiang) One Hit Wonders (Geoff Cowan, Yilin Jiang) defeated King Pong (Geoff Denman, Graeme Walker) 3-2, with both teams missing there top players, it was the battle the Geoff’s but Geoff D overcome Geoff C (-2,-6,10,10,9). Division 2: Better Call Pong (Dilini Ranasinghe, Liz Burton, Lachlan Loy) got home against Lobstoppers (Rod Mahumas, Logan Brown) 7-4, Logan came back after loosing first set against Liz to win in 4 sets (-9,9,7,9). Ping It On (George Camilleri, Jeff Binnington, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Miss Hits (Delma Knight, Tiffany Camilleri, Mark Bowerman) 7-4, Delma was lucky to get home against Rachel in 5 sets (6,-10,-7,6,9). The Soft Serves (David Symons, Noreen Fredericksen, Mark Stam) defeated Spin Masters (Ricky Zhan, Ollie Hamelink) 7-4, Ollie was to strong for Noreen winning in 5 sets (-6,-4,9,6,10). Racket Scientists (Ian McKay, Peter Goodson, Collin Yuis) Racket Scientists (Ian McKay, Peter Goodson, Collin Yuis) won over Serve Squad (Simon Hogan, Daniel Warfield, Craig VanDeKaa) 9-2, with no 5 set matches Ian had a close match against Daniel (-8,8,8,13). Tuesday Morning Fixtures will be starting next week. Ollie Hamelink. Photo supplied

Read the full story
Health Busters

Suns Triumph Over Essendon in AFLW Showdown

November 10, 2023

The Gold Coast Suns touched down to a welcoming party at Mackay Airport on the 2nd of November to battle it out against the Essendon Bombers in Round 10 of the AFLW, with the Friday night showdown played at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

Four players from the Gold Coast Suns are local to our region, including star ruck, Lauren Bella.

Lauren commented on the opportunity, “I look at it really fondly, so grateful for the opportunity to be able to play in front of my family and friends.

“I think it’s also really important to bring football to rural towns. We’ve always had a good crowd come out to support us.”

Head Coach Cameron Joyce stated, “We’re trying to keep our preparation very much the same as previous weeks, if we focus too much on the outcome and what may happen, we’ll lose focus on how we play the game.”

“Every time we play I think we get a bit of a competitive advantage on the opposition.

“In terms of the region, being able to rub shoulders with the community, kids coming down to watch the girls train will only help [with] girls’ participation playing AFL in the region.”

The Suns recorded a 14-point victory in Mackay on Friday night at the Great Barrier Reef Arena, with the final score 6.3 (39) to 2.7 (25).

1,700 ecstatic local spectators filled the stands. With Brisbane’s Gabba stadium set to be demolished and replaced, Mackay has the opportunity to welcome more national and international sporting events than ever before, furthering a boost to tourism in our region.

Chief Executive Officer of Mackay Isaac Tourism, Al Grundy welcomed the Gold Coast Suns, commenting on their arrival, “Any huge event such as the AFLW and the Gold Coast Suns arriving in our region is something that we really look forward to.

“From a tourism and development perspective, huge names coming to the region showcase what Mackay can do, showcases that we are absolutely on point when it comes to events. Most importantly, it puts our ‘Mackay-Isaac’ brand out there across Australia.”

With the tourism industry on a growth target towards the 2032 Olympic Games, our region is set to accomplish $860 million in 2023 for overnight visitors expenditure.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson was also happy to welcome the Gold Coast Suns, stating, “This is the third consecutive season the Gold Coast Suns have been here to kick off a match in Mackay, and we’re really pleased to see them back.

“Mackay Regional Council has invested in this pathway program for our young people, the relationship the AFLW has with our region right now is second-to-none.”

‍

Bess Keaney, Al Grundy, Tara Bohanna, Claudia Whitfort, Lauren Bella, Greg Williamson and Jacqui Dupuy in front of the welcoming archway at Mackay Airport

Photo credit: Sinead Porter

The Gold Coast Suns celebrated a 39-25 victory over Essendon at the Great Barrier Reef Arena last week. Photo credit: Gold Coast Suns

Read More

Newcomer Monckton Impresses Mackay Road Runners

November 10, 2023

Catherine McAuley College was a great starting point for the second Mackay Shawn’s Summer Social Series 5k and 10k events, seeing perfect running conditions and a keen crowd of families, newbies and regular runners take up the challenge.

A great effort by the Evetts and Knezevic families, pushing their children in double prams for what was an awesomely tough training session.

Paul Mackenzie continued his sizzling form, as did Alana Knezevic, Luke Leven, Rodney Elworthy, Riley Matsen, Grant Holmstrom, Darrin Pullen, Lily Leven, Hayden Connor, Max Scotton, Daniel Scotton, Lauren Connor, Andrew Wallace and newcomer sprint queen, Julia Monckton.

This Sunday, the Shawn’s Summer Social Series event commences at 5:15pm from Mackay Netball Courts on Casey Street, heading towards the Ocean International and Illawong Beach.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

‍

Max Scotton, Dan Scotton and Darrin Pullen before the 5km event

Front runners (L-R) Paul Mackenzie, Grant Holmstrom and Riley Matsen, ready for a sprint start in the 10km event

Natasha Joynson, Kim Saron and Jo Hughes always enjoy a chat before and after a run

Photos supplied

Read More

Mackay Contract Bridge Club

November 10, 2023

Weekly Results (ending 5th November)

30th October – 4 Table Howell Green Points

1st – David Ting and Eric Goodchild

2nd – Geoff Cowan and Sandy Patterson

3rd – Edward Kliese and Diane Stokes

31st October 2023 – 4 Table Howell Green Points

1st – Eric Goodchild and Noel Bugeia

2nd – Debra Goodchild and Ian Cruickshank

3rd – Marilin Robins and Faye Wright

31st October – Australia-Wide Restricted Pairs 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South

1st - Carmel Brown and Mary Rose Ramsden

2nd - Joy Block and Diane Stokes

3rd - Susan Wright and Helen van den Broek

East/West

1st - Ian Cruickshank and Mary Cruickshank

2nd - Louise Renton and Griffin Bancroft

3rd - Geoff Cowan and Sandy Patterson

1st November 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South

1st - Frances Brown and Alan Brown

2nd - Ros Scott and Jan Harris

3rd - Janelle Conroy and Noel Bugeia

East/West

1st - Monica Darley and Sandy Patterson

2nd - Joy Robinson and Robert Carless

3rd - Diane Holewa and Max Holewa

2nd November – 4 Table Howell Green Points

1st  - Tex Sheedy and Janelle Conroy

2nd - Susan Ross and Jan Harris

3rd – Frances Brown and Ann Whitmore

3rd November 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South

1st – Diane Cox and Christine Nice

2nd – Helen van den Broek and Don Poole

3rd – Tex Sheedy and Noel Bugeia

East/West

1st – Julie O’Neill and Ann Whitmore

2nd – Janelle Conroy and Pamela Finger

3rd – Diane Stokes and Marie McGuire

4th November – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South

1st - Max Holewa and Diane Holewa

2nd – Susan Wright and Lorna Shuttlewood

3rd - Joy Brunette and Helen van den Broek

East/West

1st – Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan

2nd - Ken Seaniger and Joy Robinson

3rd - Tex Sheedy and Diane Cox

Contributed by Robert Carless

‍

Francie Brown, winner of the President's Shield with her partners Janelle Conroy, Alan Brown and Anne Lutz

Photo supplied

Read More

Mackay Cutters Secure Star Signing

November 10, 2023

The Mackay Cutters have secured a high-quality signing for the 2024 and 2025 seasons, with former NRL and Super League player Kenny Edwards.

Edwards is a skilful back-rower who has played 70 games for the Parramatta Eels, before heading to the UK Super League where he played a further 116 games for Catalans Dragons, Huddersfield Giants and the Castleford Tigers.

His signature to the Cutters, along with Tongan international centre Mahe Fonua and playmaker Riley Dean is set to make a strong impact on the club for the upcoming seasons.

Edwards brings an abundance of experience to the team, with a connection stemming back to his time with the Huddersfield Giants, where current head of football, Kim Williams was the Academy coach.

Williams mentioned how necessary it is to get a senior leader into the playing group, which he believes is a role that Edwards is determined to fill.

The 34-year-old has been searching for an opportunity to move back to Australia, and with a keen eye on developing the next generation, Edwards is ready to make an impact on the field himself.

His experience and leadership will be highly valued amongst the Cutters and the team looks forward to welcoming him into the 2024 NRL season.

‍

A first look at Kenny Edwards donning the colours for Mackay Cutters

Photo credit: Mackay Cutters

Read More

The Ballerz of Bowen Taking On Melbourne

November 10, 2023

The boys of Bowen Ballerz have been busy prepping themselves for the trip of a lifetime.

Taking the time to perfect their skills, tighten their friendships and hone their sportsmanship, the boys of the Under 12s Bowen State School Basketball Team will be heading to Melbourne in January 2024, to be a part of the Eltham Dandenong Junior Basketball Tournament.

The inception of the team started earlier this year, with Leigh Dunn, Bowen State School teacher and now basketball coach realising that students wanted to play basketball, but the school didn’t have a team.

“We just wanted to give them the opportunity to trial and do something special from the start,” Leigh explained.

“I have a friend in Melbourne who suggested we go to Melbourne and play in the Eltham Dandenong Junior Basketball Tournament. It’s one of the biggest tournaments in Australia and it’s a great opportunity for the kids.”

For most of the boys on the team, basketball is their summer sport, playing rugby league in the cooler months.

For Declan Gaffney, a bit of a natural born player, he is “very excited” to participate in the tournament.

“I started playing and just got better and better,” he said.

Levi Nicol is “10 out of 10 excited” for the tournament, but he’s more excited to go surfing in Melbourne.

Bayley Bates just wanted to get involved and is looking forward to playing against other youth teams from across Australia.

“We will travel as a team to Melbourne. This will be the first time some of the boys have been on a plane so it’s very exciting,” Leigh explained.

The boys will also have two days outside of the tournament to experience Melbourne, visit key sites and watch an NBL game. Leigh has established a modest Go Fund Me page, to aid in the financial cost of this trip.

Scan the QR Code to donate to the boys’ trip.

Read More

Cannons Shine in Townsville

November 10, 2023

Over the weekend, 18 Cannons travelled to Townsville to compete in Gardens Open LC Preparation Meet. Coaches, Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson were very proud of all the swimmers and their achievements.  

The highlights include medals in the relay swims and swimmers achieving PBs, state or national qualifying times. The Cannons’ 8 – 11 year Male 200m Freestyle team came 3rd, the Male 11 year and over 200m Freestyle team came 2nd  and the Mixed 11 year and over Medley team came 2nd.  

Other highlights include: Jacob Bell swimming a cracking time in his 200m Butterfly, taking 14.81s off his previous best and earning a silver medal. Eloise Chegwidden won all her events and achieve A grade times. Ehsan Helou swam PBs in all his events.  

Ehsan and teammates, Noah Maltby and Remy Hedges all swam impressive 50m and 200m Breaststroke times. Ehsan’s sister, Anisa medaled in three individual events. Ehsan, Anisa and Remy have achieved state qualifying times. Ehsan has also achieved national qualifying times.    

Don Algie had a very successful Sunday, swimming 5PBs and taking out a gold medal for his 100m Breaststroke. Matilda Nicholes and Isaac Pisaniello swam PBs and won medals for the Backstroke events. Jax Clayworth, Harris Delac and Tora Delac swam PBs and won medals for most of their events.  

Mae Carter-Attwood, Zane Clayworth, Isabella Pisaniello also performed extremely well and swam personal best times. Isabella won a bronze medal for her 100m Butterfly which she swam in a time of 1.26.84. Eric Mulliss swam an excellent 50m Freestyle in 45.39sec. Addie Sander was super excited with her state qualifying time of 50.32sec in the 50m Breaststroke (a 4.52sec PB). Holly Perrin thoroughly enjoyed all events especially the 200m Medley Relay.  

Congratulations to all the swimmers!  A big thank you to all the wonderful parents for assisting with officiating and managing the team.  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

‍

200m 8 - 11 year Freestyle Relay team – Harris, Eric, Jax and Don

Cannons team photo

Mixed Medley Relay team with silver medals – Noah, Jacob, Holly and Anisa

Silver medal relay team 200m Freestyle male team – Isaac, Noah, Ehsan and Jacob

Read More

Triples Thrive At Weekly Bowls

November 10, 2023

On Tuesday afternoon Col Moms as skipper with Michael Jacometti at second and Tess Walker at lead made a nail biting one point victory over the rest of the field and it was Tess Walker who took home the prestigious Health Hub award as well.

On Wednesday afternoon Jackpot Bowls saw the team of skipper John Askew, ably assisted by John Brown going through a purple patch with great bowling and Eric Barnard at lead beat all comers with a fantastic team performance whilst Merve Stewart took home the prestigious Health Hub award.

Whilst this was happening the mixed triples final was being held. Graham Cowling as skipper ably assisted by lead Keith Bates and Lyn Graham took a well-deserved victory.

Saturday morning Scroungers also saw a small field of very talented players arrive with first round winners Andy McDougall, Col Morris and Warren Mills fight out the final with Andy McDougall in superb form taking out the win again with John Askew tipping out Mark Mawson to win the Group B match.

Sunday afternoon Social bowls also saw some fantastic performances with Graham Cowling his team of lead Paul Osborne and John Brown at second with a comfortable win over the rest of the field, whilst Karen Jenson took home the prestigious Health Hub award.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

‍

Mixed triples champions Keith Bates, Lyn Graham, and Graham Cowling. Photo supplied

Read More

Prossie Bowls Heats Up

November 10, 2023

The weather is heating up as we come towards the end of the year's play.

On Wednesday in Social bowls Lee King, Philip Brown and Heather Brown defeated John Anderson, Philip Brown and Mike Harrison 23 - 16; Arthur Griffith, Bruce Uhe and Peter Lawton defeated Jim Bownds, Pat Bownds and Sandy Daffara 20 - 17.

On Sunday in social bowls John Anderson and Bruce Uhe defeated Lee King and Heather Brown 25 - 24; Philip Brown, Barry Zillmann and Sandy Daffara defeated Arthur Griffith, Barry Zillmann and Mike Harrison 21 - 17.

We have our Memorial Day Carnival coming up on Saturday, November 11. This is always a great day of fabulous competition where we honour those who have contributed to the character of the club through their past membership. Wilmar Sugar are once again our major sponsor and we thank them for their continued support of this event.

The time for introducing summertime hours is approaching. From Wednesday November 15, Social Bowls will begin with a 2.30pm start. We will have afternoon tea before going out on the green and then will play straight through. Names in by 2.15pm please. These summertime hours will apply to both Wednesday and Sunday Social bowls.

Reminder that Membership Affiliation Fees are due at the end of this month.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

Read More

It’s Tee-rific!

November 10, 2023

On Wednesday, men, and ladies played a single stroke event for the November midweek monthly medals sponsored by Bowen Golf Club.  

Ladies’ winner was Janice Bates 66 nett, runner up on a countback Elona Lynch 67nett.  

Men’s winner on a countback Robert Byles 64 nett, runner up Kevin Clark 64 nett.

On Saturday we played a single stroke event for the November Monthly medals sponsored by QB Motor Hotel and Bowen Golf club.

Ladies’ winner was Jo Kukura 69 nett, 2nd on a countback Ruth Dunn 70 nett, 3rd Tracey Cousemacker 70 nett.  

Men’s winner was Jeff Day 68 nett, 2nd on a countback Marcus Yasso 69 nett, 3rd Allan Cooper 69 nett.  

Pin shots to Lester Keller, Paul Burgis, Paul Martin, Wayne Sheahan, Brad Fleet, Lisa Raisbeck, Robyn Slade, Bonnie Kohlhase, Wendy Tracey.

COMING UP

This weekend is a single stableford for most and Medal of Medals for those that qualified throughout the year.  

Joker is worth $5400.  

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

‍

November Monthly medal winners – Jo Kukura and Jeff Day. Photo supplied

Read More

Monthly Medal Sees 93 Players Compete

November 10, 2023

Tuesday's stableford saw Jalen Jarvis with a very tidy 44 pts win by four shots from Peter Lindsay with Leanne Alexander on 38 pts and Tiina Randmae on 37 pts the leading ladies.

NTP’s were won by: Brian Smith, Tiina Randmae and Brad Fleet

The PD Law Monthly Medal on Wednesday saw Brenda Cowan with a sensational 58 beat Robyn Whitham on 67. NTP’s were won by Toni Clauss, Brenda Cowan, Trish McNeill and Rehab Hull.

Thursday's Venue Smart Monthly Medal saw Rob Stanley shoot 2 under par to take out the A grade division with 63 nett from Warren Deighton on 67nett. Chris Pham had a great score of 62 to win the B division from Jim Sherrington with 63. Pin shots went to Warren Deighton, Adam Davies, Rob Stanley and Jacob Nightingale.

A large group of Golf Club sponsors treated their colleagues to food, beverages and golf on Friday afternoon with Ron Jamieson's group being declared the winners.

The Met competition was won by Ross Tong on 21 from Shane Van Poelgeest with Chris Pirlo winning the pin shot.

Saturday 93 players enjoyed the green fairways in the RGH Monthly Medal that saw Tony Chapple streets ahead in the men's field with a nett 61 and thereby win the C grade nett and gross, with John Dodds runner up on 67nett.

Scott Clarke with 68 won the A grade nett by one shot from David O'Connor with Ryan Wilkes shooting 3 under par for the gross prize. With 65nett, Andrew Mau won the B grade by three shots from Rod Wecker who also won the gross prize. Pins went to Rob Stanley, Scott Dwyer, David O’Connor, and Ryan Wilkes.

Marlene Gray with 66 nett won the ladies' division by 7 shots from Tiina Randmae. Brenda and Jill Farinelli won the pin shots.

Sunday's KJC Diesel Monthly Medal male winners were David Hoy from Ben Doer on 67nett, while Peta Thomas with 68 nett beat Pamela Casey by one shot. Pins went to Ryan Wilkes x 3, Anna Winterbourn, Tiina Randmae and Ben Doer.

Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.

Read More

21 Golfers Compete In Monthly Medals

November 10, 2023

It was a very warm day on Prossie golf course last Sunday when 21 Whitsunday Golf Club players contested the November Monthly Medals and least putts, the last chance to qualify for the Medal of Medals for 2023. We will welcome our returning members who have been overseas to contest the WGC championships, to be played over the next two Sundays.

So the winners for the Nov MM were :

LADIES A GRADE:

Winner: Penny Wardroper with a very nice 70 nett

Runner-up: Pauline Redpath with 71

Longest Drive: Robyn Whitham

LADIES B GRADE:

Winner: Pam Casey with an even nicer 69 nett

Runner-up: Linda Wardroper with 70

Longest Drive: Joanne Moynihan

MEN’S A GRADE:

Winner: Darren Reynolds with 70 nett

Runner-up: Clay Coles with 74

Longest Drive: Jason Bourke

MEN’S B GRADE

Winner: David Hoy with an outstanding 67 nett

Runner-up: Leigh Jones with 69 - a winning score on any other day

Longest Drive: David Hoy

NTPs:

For the ladies: Penny Wardroper, Pam Casey and Linda Wardroper

For the men: Clay Coles, Ron Jamieson and Darren Reynolds

LEAST PUTTS: Well done to Linda Wardroper and Wilf Herweg.

NAGAs: The honours went to Robyn Whitham and George Meharry, each will enjoy a drink, courtesy of Aaron and Tracy Watts.

NEXT WEEK: 12/11 will be Round 1 of the WGC Club Championships, Round 2 will be the following week 19/11, to be followed by Medal of Medals 2023 on the 26/11.

Regardless of what grade you were in when you won your MM, you will be playing in the grade relevant to your handicap on the day of MOM.

Pauline will be sending out the list of eligible players for the 2023 MOM, the rest of the players will compete in the stroke competition as normal.

The December MM/Putts will be played on 5/12 which will carry forward to the MOM for 2024.    

So, get your names in early to play between 7 and 8 am so we can play as a block.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

‍

L> R :  Pam Casey (B grade ladies’ winner), Darren Reynolds (A grade men’s winner), Penny Wardroper ( A grade ladies’ winner) and David Hoy ( B grade men’s winner).

Read More

On The Whitsunday Green

November 10, 2023

This week 9-hole stableford saw Jack Hayes-Williams in first place on 26 pts, second place with 23 pts c/b Jake Cremor and third place with a 23 pt c/b Rob Lodders.

Fridays 9-hole stableford saw David Wallace take first place with 23 pts, second with 21 pts c/b Scott Hayes -Williams and third place with 21 pt c/b Kev Franke.

Sundays 18-hole stableford was a great turn out and even better for our first-place winner, who not only won by 48 pts but scored a hole in one on the 3rd hole, great job Alan Clinch. Second place with 43 pts c/b David Wallace and third place with 43 pts c/b Dean Barnard. Nearest the pin was Dean Barnard.

This Sunday will be skins 18-hole tee off 9 am – 10am.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.

‍

Pictured: Alan Clinch

Read More

WHITSUNDAY GOLF CLUB

November 10, 2023

It was a very warm day on Prossie golf course last Sunday when 21 Whitsunday Golf Club players contested the November Monthly Medals and least putts, the last chance to qualify for the Medal of Medals for 2023. We will welcome our returning members who have been overseas to contest the WGC championships, to be played over the next 2 Sundays.

So the winners for the Nov MM were :

LADIES A GRADE :

Winner : Penny Wardroper with a very nice 70 nett

Runner-up : Pauline Redpath with 71

Longest Drive : Robyn Whitham

LADIES B GRADE :

Winner : Pam Casey with an even nicer 69 nett

Runner-up : Linda Wardroper with 70

Longest Drive : Joanne Moynihan

MEN’S A GRADE :

Winner : Darren Reynolds with 70 nett

Runner-up : Clay Coles with 74

Longest Drive : Jason Bourke

MEN’S B GRADE

Winner : David Hoy with an outstanding 67 nett

Runner-up : Leigh Jones with 69 - a winning score on any other day

Longest Drive : David Hoy

NTPs :

For the ladies : Penny Wardroper, Pam Casey and Linda Wardroper

For the men : Clay Coles, Ron Jamieson and Darren Reynolds

LEAST PUTTS : well done to Linda Wardroper and Wilf Herweg.

NAGAs : the honours went to Robyn Whitham and George Meharry, each will enjoy a drink, courtesy of Aaron and Tracy Watts.

RAFFLE : Pam Casey won the meat tray raffle, a winning day for Pam.

NEXT WEEK : 12/11 will be Round 1 of the WGC Club Championships, Round 2 will be the following week 19/11, to be followed by Medal of Medals 2023 on the 26/11.

Regardless of what grade you were in when you won your MM, you will be playing in the grade relevant to your handicap on the day of MOM.

Pauline will be sending out the list of eligible players for the 2023 MOM, the rest of the players will compete in the stroke competition as normal.

The December MM/Putts will be played on 5/12 which will carry forward to the MOM for 2024.    

So, get your names in early to play between 7 and 8 am so we can play as a block.

‍

L> R :  Pam Casey (B grade ladies’ winner), Darren Reynolds (A grade men’s winner), Penny Wardroper ( A grade ladies’ winner) and David Hoy ( B grade men’s winner).

Read More

Junior Referees Funded For Local Touch Footy Club

November 10, 2023

Whitsunday Touch is one of only 22 touch football clubs from across Australia to be granted a portion of $100,000 grant pool, gifted from meal delivery service, DoorDash, as part of their community minded Footy Dash program.

A partnership between DoorDash and Touch Football Australia, Footy Cash is an annual grant-based program to help fund community touch footy clubs across Australia.

Whitsunday Touch put forward an application for funding months ago, and recently were informed of the club’s success.

“The application process was simple,” President of Whitsunday Touch, Alita DeBrincat explained.

“We’ve been working hard to build our referees and our juniors to take up referee positions.”

Whitsunday Touch was awarded $3,566, which was been allocated for a new 6x3 metre branded marquee, 12 referee uniforms and nine Level 1 referee courses.

“Our juniors have been quick to take up referee training. This funding allows us to keep promoting the junior referee training, build our club, and share that footy is fun. It’s just awesome.”

Currently, Whitsunday Touch has 220 enrolled players, with the youngest being 8 years old in the family grade competitions, all the way to A Grade competition.

“Our senior competition starts at 13 years old, so bringing in the family grade allows players from years 8 to play with their parents,” Alita explained.

“We’re trying to promote that touch is one of the only sports you can play with your entire family.”

The club has also been busy promoting their female junior players, encouraging female youth to get involved in the sport.

‍

Whitsunday Touch has been granted a portion of funding to promote Junior Referees. Photo supplied

Read More

Ton-up Jack Earns Player Of The Carnival

November 2, 2023

Mackay’s emerging cricket all-rounder Jack Law has been named Player of the North Queensland Cricket Alliance Under 15 Championships.

The talented Brothers junior produced stand out performances with bat and ball to help the Mackay-Whitsunday team finish second overall at the recent representative carnival staged at Harrup Park.

All conquering North Queensland claimed the title, winning all three matches with Townsville young gun Hunter Brischetto leading the way.

Playing on his home turf, the promising Law topped the run-scoring with knocks of 52, 46 and 104 - ahead of the rising Brischetto (104 retired and 53 retired) and Mackay-Whitsunday teammate Corey Stroud (40 and 101 not out).

Under the guidance of coach Shane Dunn and manager Ian Ballantyne, the Mackay-Whitsunday X1 suffered a first up loss to North Queensland before posting victories over Central Queensland and Far North.

A highlight for Law was cracking a magnificent 104 in the final round against Far North where he faced 95 balls and smashed four sixes and twelve boundaries.

Selectors will name rep squads in coming weeks to compete at the Stage 2 State Challenge in Mackay during December.

Round 1: NORTH QUEENSLAND 8-217 (Hunter Brischetto 53 retired, Henry Jesberg 38, Jason Caswell 26, Zac Hayes 24, Lachlan Petterson 20, Isaac Talbot 17 not out, Brayden Manttan 3-16, Jack Law 2-26) d MACKAY-WHITSUNDAY 7-155 (J Law 52, Corey Stroud 40, H Brischetto 3-8).

Round 2: MACKAY-WHITSUNDAY 3-231 (C Stroud 101 not out, J Law 46, Cooper Boyce 24, Ishan Rana 23 not out) d CENTRAL QUEENSLAND 6-228 (Henry Lau 56 not out, John Mulville 52, Axel Amos 30, Riley Roser 24, Connor Muller 3-34, C Stroud 2-45).

Round 3: MACKAY-WHITSUNDAY 8-218 (J Law 104, I Rana 39, Ayden Loader 38, Kade Corby 4-34, Harvey Rees 2-22) d FAR NORTH 8-166 (Kalan Wilson 85, Archie Ferguson 44, J Law 2-16, I Rana 2-17, Donovan Pettiford 2-22, Zac Pace 2-37).

‍

Mackay junior representative cricketer Jack Law receives his Player of the North Queensland Cricket Alliance Under 15 Championships award from Queensland Cricket’s Luke Kennedy

‍

Read More

Your FREE Voice In Print

SARINA -  WALKERSTON – MIRANI – MARIAN – PAGET – OORALEA – MACKAY CITY – MACKAY NORTH – SLADE POINT – ANDERGROVE – BEACONSFIELD – NORTHERN BEACHES – FARLEIGH – MT OSSA – SEAFORTH – KUTTABUL - CALEN – BLOOMSBURY – PROSERPINE – CANNONVALE – AIRLIE BEACH – BOWEN – COLLINSVILLE – NEBO – MORANBAH

Locally Owned. Community Loved.