
Mackay Cutters have confirmed Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months, strengthening the club’s youth education, wellbeing and leadership programs across the Mackay and Isaac regions. The partnership was launched last Friday at Moranbah State School, where Cutters Wellbeing and Education Manager Jack, alongside club staff and Stanmore leadership representatives, delivered a Cutters Care session to Year 5/6 Sports Boost students. “We’re proud to welcome Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months,” the club said. The program will continue to focus on helping young people build confidence, resilience and positive connections through sport and education-based initiatives. “Together, we'll continue delivering education, wellbeing and leadership programs to young people throughout the Mackay and Isaac regions, helping them build confidence, resilience and positive connections.” The Cutters said they look forward to continuing meaningful community impact and providing opportunities for young people to learn, grow and thrive through the partnership. Photo source: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)
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The Whitsunday Sea Eagles made the trip to Bakers Creek on the weekend to take on the North Mackay Saints and the Bakers Creek Tigers, with all teams showcasing plenty of determination and competitive spirit throughout the day. The Under 13s were first into action against the Saints and produced a strong performance. After a hard-fought opening three quarters, the Sea Eagles trailed by just two points heading into the final term, keeping themselves firmly in the contest. Despite their efforts, the Saints managed to pull away late, with the match finishing 20-39. The Under 15s continued their impressive season with another dominant victory over the Saints. Controlling the game from start to finish, the Sea Eagles piled on 12 goals and 15 behinds while keeping their opponents to just two goals. Their teamwork, skill, and relentless pressure were on full display as they secured another convincing win 72-12 and further strengthened their position as one of the competition's top teams. The women's side faced a tough challenge against the Bakers Creek Tigers. The Sea Eagles fought hard and matched the Tigers aggression and determination, keeping the margin within three goals throughout the game. The players fought hard at every contest and never stopped competing. However, fatigue began to take its toll in the final quarter, allowing the Tigers to kick four late goals and extend the final margin to 0-43. The senior men's match provided plenty of excitement for supporters. The Sea Eagles burst out the gates in the opening quarter, dominating early play to establish a 15-0 lead at the first break. Carrying that momentum throughout the day, the men continued to work hard around the ground and were rewarded with a strong 52-25 victory over the Tigers. It was a complete team performance and a fitting way to finish a successful day for the club. Get down to The Nest this Saturday 27th June for Sponsor Appreciation Day and cheer on your Whitsunday Sea Eagles as they take on the Moranbah Bulldogs, Swagpies, and Magpies in a huge day of footy action. The junior fixtures kick off from 10:40am, showcasing the club's rising stars, before the senior teams take centre stage in what promises to be an exciting evening of football, with the Senior Women starting at 3:20pm and the Senior Men finishing under lights. Bring the family, wear your Sea Eagles colours, and get behind your local teams as they battle it out on home turf. We can't wait to see you at The Nest! Contributed by the Whitsunday Sea Eagles: Georgia Whitton
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The Mackay Softball Association has reflected on another competitive CQ Darby against Softball Rockhampton, with strong performances and continued rivalry highlighted across the weekend. Rockhampton arrived ready to play, producing a dominant display at the plate and taking victory in both games of the series. “The Rocky boys came ready to play, swinging the bats well and taking the win in both games,” the association said. Despite the results, Mackay praised the standard of competition and the spirit in which the games were played, with both clubs continuing to build on a long-standing regional rivalry. The association also acknowledged the contribution of Murray, thanking him “for all his help, guidance and support in coaching both teams throughout the weekend”. Off the field, community and hospitality remained a key feature of the event, with Jodie recognised for preparing meals for the visiting side. “Thank you to our own Jodie for feeding our the Rocky boys delicious pulled pork rolls,” the association said. The CQ Darby continues to be a highlight on the calendar for both regions, with Mackay Softball noting the blend of rivalry and mateship that defines the fixture. “These weekends are always a highlight on the calendar, and we love the rivalry, mateship and quality softball that comes with them.” The team is now looking ahead to the next meeting between the two clubs, with both sides eager for another competitive weekend of softball in Central Queensland. Photo source: Mackay Softball Association Incorporated (Facebook)
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Twenty-six Pairs competed in the Qualifying Championship Club Pairs on Saturday morning, with the top fourteen pairs then progressing to the Club Championship Pairs after lunch. Congratulations to Janine Rodgers and Nancy Martin who were the outright winners with 61.86 percent. Although Janine and Nancy are both very experienced players, however, this current partnership is a relatively new one. Well done ladies! Many hands of cards were played on the day and lots of delicious food eaten. Mackay Bridge Club is a very social and friendly club. Weekly Results Monday 15th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris 3rd Monica Darley / Joy Block 3rd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins Evening 15th June 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Janelle Conroy / Andrew Canavan 2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore Wednesday 17th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 1st Terry Sheedy / Mick King 2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Faith Hutchinson / John Hunt 3rd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown Thursday 18th June 2026 – Show Day - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Mick King / Griffin Bancroft Friday 19th June 2026 –- Week 12 of 26 NWP - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor 2nd Geoff Cowan / Mick King 2nd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole 3rd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait 3rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson Saturday 20th June 2026 – Club Championship Qualifying - 13 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 1st Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy 2nd Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 3rd Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin 3rd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok 4th Susan Ross / Geoff Cowan 4th Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 5th Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris 5th Ann Whitmore / Joy Block Saturday 20th June 2026 Club Championship Pairs Final – 7 Table Howe 1st Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin 2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 3rd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 4th Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless Contributed by Joy Block Nancy and Janine. Photo supplied
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Triples Finalised
This weekend Michael Kinnear competed in the Champion of Champion Singles at North Mackay.
Michael, a previous winner of this event, was defeated by Graeme Blackburn from Wests Tigers.
Peter Blackburn from Souths Suburban went on to win the event with Bruce Archer from Sarina being the runner up.
On Sunday the Men's Club Championship Triples were finalised.
In the Semi Finals Harry Craig, Scott Hamilton (subbing for Isaac Elliott), and Jonathan Bye defeated Philip Brown (subbing for Warren Wilson), Bruce Uhe and Barry Zillmann 32 – 5.
Dale Haack, Shane Kinnear, and Wayne Handley defeated Kendall Watts, Gavin Noonan and Luchie Gardel 23 - 16.
Sunday afternoon the Finals were played.
Dale Haack, Shane Kinnear, and Wayne Handley defeated Harry Craig, Scott Hamilton, and Jonathan Bye 27 - 17.
Wayne's team will now play Champion of Champions at Souths Suburban on September 9 and 10.
In Social bowls.
On Wednesday we had visitors from Victoria join us for a game of bowls.
Alen Sanderson, Christina B and Philip Brown defeated Arthur Griffith, John Anderson, and Pat Bownds 27 – 19.
Jim Bownds, Bruce Uhe, and Barry Zillmann defeated Lee King, Jim Chedwick, and Sandy Daffara 22 - 16.
On Sunday we had a visitor from Port Pirie South Australia.
John Anderson and Peter Lawton defeated John Burnett and Arthur Griffith 27 - 18; Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown and Sandy Daffara defeated Lee King, Hugh Paterson and Kendall Watts 22 - 12.
Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

We have great news to report.
The Wangaratta pairs team of Denise Wallace and Penny Warren played in the Nth Qld District Championships this past week.
After convincingly winning their section with three out of three wins and an aggregate of 25, they continued their good form during the week defeating teams in the quarter and semi-finals to reach the final on Saturday morning.
They continued on playing well to defeat the Thuringowa team of Jacinta Wallace and Bernadette Hay.
Winners for Monday afternoon triples were R Hayton, R Barr-Kemp, and K Armstrong who defeated J Steele, J Dawson, and G Wills.
On Tuesday winners were Dianne Hallis, Irene Laird, and Keith Armstrong who defeated Joe Verden, Keith S/Collins, and Lindsay Harris.
Winners for our Fun Friday afternoon were L Knight, C Bellingham, and B Bellingham who defeated A Vigar, C Heinrich, and A Pearson.
Sunday winners to claim the Crab trophy came out on Rink 2.
They were P Breakwell, H Donoghue, I Wheeler, and P Donoghue who defeated T Crozier, M Harvey, M Chappel, and A Rolfe.
There will be no Barefoot bowls this Friday due to a private function.
This Saturday Wangaratta will host the annual Combined Shield so if you have time come down to watch some good bowls.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.
Winners Of NQ Ladies District Championship Pairs - Denise Wallace & Penny Warren. Photo supplied

Only 3 matches to report on this week, and just 1 match remaining between Dom Friend and Art McMinn before we finish off the league season, and kick into finals action.
Jamie Maher finished the league season strongly with a 7/2 victory over Andy Peel to end his campaign in 4th place.
It was an even game in the scoring department, but where Andy struggled finding his doubles, Jamie was clinical.
It’s been a tough season for Andy who finished the season in 8th place, but it’s a finals spot, and anything can happen in finals, especially when you are a previous champion.
Joe Wilson secured 2nd place in the league with a 7/2 win over Jayden Lloyd.
That will set up a mouth-watering clash with the defending Champion Dom Friend in the first week of finals, as Dom cannot improve on his current position of 3rd place.
Jayden will finish his season off by playing in the consolation finals series after finishing just outside the top 8, in 9th place.
Joining Jayden in the Hetlock Cup will be the debutant Hawkeye Rick after finishing his season with a 1 win and 18 loss record, one of which came at the hands of Jamie Woods this Sunday at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club by a scoreline of 7/1.
Rick showing steady improvement throughout the year and will be better for it going into next season.
That win over Rick means that Jamie Woods yet again claimed this year’s league title, but only by the finest of margins, courtesy of a better leg difference over Joe Wilson.
Unlucky to Joe, but a fantastic season regardless, and a big congratulations to Woodsy from everyone at the club, it’s a richly deserved league victory!
Thank you to our sponsors Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing Airlie Beach, and Master Butchers Whitsunday & MBW On the Barbie.
Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.
L/R Jamie Maher and Andy Peel just before locking horns in the Premier League on Sunday morning. Photo supplied
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Highlight of the week was the hole in one by Trevor Nosworthy on Hole 2. Great way to start the round!
Jan Shuwalow beat all players on Tuesday with 39 points, Elspeth Scotford was runner-up and also secured the NTP.
Karl Kirkwood won the Men's competition with 38 pts, ahead of Col Hounsell.
NTP winners: Paul Gray, Peter Krause, and Barry Mortimer.
Elspeth continued her good form on Wednesday to take out the Airllywood Stableford ahead of Ann Gardel and Jan Shuwalow.
NTP's went to Rehab Hull and Ann Gardel.
The Thursday Division 1 winner was Ash Morley-Hart on 37 pts, ahead of Brian Allen also on 37 and Jon Miller on 36pts in 3rd place.
Joe Taylor topped the podium in Division 2 with 37 pts, also a countback with Ben Doer in 2nd place.
David Telford claimed 3rd place with 35pts.
NTP winners: Trevor Nosworthy (hole in one) Jon Miller, Yoko Fitton, and Fraser Simpson.
Jack Pirlo edged out Karlene Lloyd on a countback to win the Friday Met Run, and David Lloyd was the only NTP winner.
After the Club's AGM players headed out for the Saturday Stableford, Paula McQuat leading the ladies in with 38 pts, followed by Penny Wardroper on 35, and Nicole Cooper claiming 3rd place.
Dean Barnard was the winner of the men's competition with 39pts, on a countback from Adam Hagy and John Bissell in 3rd place with 37 pts.
NTP winners: Dean Barnard, Trish McNeill x 2, Brad Vloedmans, Mel Patullo and Mandy Patterson.
Don Cameron played well on Sunday to win the men's competition with 39 pts, with Terry Kimpton securing 2nd place on 35 pts. Robyn Whitham won the ladies with a scorching 40 pts, and Elise Hodgson was in 2nd place with 36 pts.
NTP winners: Nathan Holohan, Chris Bartlett, Scott Vlismas, Ben Raymant, Pauline Redpath and Diane Chard.
Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Pro Shop Team.

In his address to the members at Saturday’s AGM President Phil Batty said that the Proserpine Golf Club has yielded remarkable achievements and successes throughout the 2022- 2023 financial year.
It has been filled with significant milestones and growth in player numbers, events, and online social media presence, but most importantly, significant financial stability.
Throughout the year the club’s consistent performance has exceeded all budget expectations.
“We have experienced a 51 per cent increase in revenue from $792,000 to $1.198 million, and a 645 per cent increase in Profit Increase from $27,000 to $205,000,” he said.
“In addition to the excellent financial result, we have paid out early all the outstanding equipment loans to clear the balance sheet of liabilities,” he continued.
The organisational benefit of a good result is that the club has tentatively secured financial support from our bankers to fund the purchase of equipment to take the course to another level.
The board is currently evaluating and investigating the purchase of a new fairway mower, rough areas mower and greens mower.
We have recently purchased a sand spreader which is already having a marked impact on the greens and course generally.
The Club has recently ordered ten new Yamaha buggies and traded six from our current fleet of buggies to increase the number of buggies from 20 to 23.
Membership and participation are the backbone of Proserpine Golf Club, and I am pleased to say that this financial year saw over 120 new members. That’s an increase in membership to over 400 members, many of whom came from the incentive program in December where new entrants to golf were introduced by current members with the three-month trial.
“Looking ahead, we are excited to build upon our accomplishments and continue to explore new avenues for growth, enhancing our digital presence and developing creative ways to engage our members and the community,” Mr. Batty concluded.
Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.
President of Proserpine Golf Club, Phil Batty. Photo supplied

This week’s stableford 9-hole competition saw Edwina Pettiford in first place with 22 pts c/b, second place was Jack Hayes Williams with 22 pts and third with 20 pts was Josh Quin.
Fridays 9-hole stableford saw Elise Hodgson in first place with 24 pts, second place on 19 pts was Andrew Gomez and third place with 18 pts was Craig Kennedy. Great job by all.
On Sunday we held our 18-hole skins competition which saw Billy Blacker take the win with 13 skins, second place with 12 skins was Brad Low and third place with 9 skins was Josh Barnard.
Nearest the pin were Craig Kennedy and Dean Barnard.
This Sunday 27th August will be our monthly medal tee off at 10.00am, hope to see you all there.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Green Golf Course.
Pictured: Andrew Gomez

The coveted Viking Cup 10s is back on the calendar for the Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union club, with the competition already heating up.
Since its inception in 2012, the Viking Cup has welcomed many a player, and the club is expecting a massive increase in players and registrations for the 2023 carnival.
“It has evolved into what it is now, and it is regarded at the premier rugby event in our region,” explained Tim Oberg, the President of the Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union Club.
“We’ve extended our reach down to south Queensland, with hopes to expand the competition.”
This thrilling one day comp has been expanded for 2023, taking place Friday evening and into Saturday, for two huge days of eager and exciting rugby union.
With mixed teams for children under 6s to under 12s, and gendered teams from 13 to 18, the competition is great for any player eager to give the sport a go.
“Now is the time to test out the sport in a fun day of rugby,” Tim said.
While also being aligned with the school holidays, the club has advantageously positioned the Cup to entice out-of-towners for a unique rugby carnival opportunity, in the heart of holiday central.
“We’re welcoming teams from Mackay, Emerald, and Townsville and excited to see more teams from further south, and even from interstate in future years,” said Tim.
“And hot on the heels of the Matildas at the World Cup, we are keen to have more girls get into the sport and in the Cup.”
To register or find out more about the Viking Cup, visit www.wjru.club/viking-cup
WHAT: Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union Viking Cup 10s
WHERE: Whitsunday Sportspark
WHEN: Friday 29 September and Saturday 30 September
The Whitsunday Rugby Union teams training to take on the competition. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Congratulations to Jy Parkinson and Jacob Bell for being selected for the Queensland School Team. Both boys will be travelling to Sydney this week to compete in the Australian School Sport Swimming Championships with Qld Team Manager, Kate Thomson.
The Cannons would also like to congratulate Jy for being named the Queensland Team Captain! Good Luck, Queensland!
On Wednesday, the Cannons hosted another successful Club Night.
All the swimmers were very excited with their new Club Shirt.
Congratulations to Jax Clayworth on receiving the Chocolate Award for the biggest PB.
Jax was also awarded the Swim of The Night award for his 200m IM.
The Cannons also presented Isaac Pisaniello with a Chocolate Award for swimming closest to his best time.
The Cannons would like to welcome new swimmers and their families.
Gage Cotton, Anton Bakx, Mo Bakx, Noah Maltby, and Eric Mulliss all swam extremely well in their races.
Top Performers on Wednesday night were Isaac Pisaniello, Indi Smith, Tora Delac, and Harris Delac. They swam terrific times in all their events.
Highlights include Trace Quick swimming a 5sec PB in his Butterfly event.
Thomas Ganter swam excellent times in his 25m Freestyle and 25m Breaststroke.
Surprisingly, Jacob Bell swam just under 38sec (37.99s) in his 50m Breaststroke to earn a personal best time.
Levi Smith swam a very smooth 25m Butterfly in 21.36sec.
One of Celeste Orenshaw’s best swims was her 50m Butterfly which she swam in 47.25sec, over 2 sec PB.
Matilda Nicholes, Miller Eaves, Liam Filewood, Addie Sanders, and Charlie Doherty all swam brilliant Freestyle to earn personal best times.
Congratulations to all the swimmers who participated on Wednesday night and a big thank you to the coaches and parents for all their support!
Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.
Cannonvale Cannons Club Night Aug 2023
Jy and Jacob in Qld Shirts. Photos supplied

Division 1:
Joola (Andrew McHugh, Geoff Denman, Janice Kent) d Andro (George Camilleri, Robbie Richards, Barry Patterson) 7-4. Andrew d Barry -6, -4, 5, 2, 11.
Tibhar (Vince Boeske, Steven Whiting, Tim Shehan) d Radak (Mick Ruhl, Graham Brake) 7-4. Steven/Vince d Graham/Mick -16, -10, 5, 8, 7.
Butterfly (Neil Brown, Allan Edwards, Graeme Walker) d Donic (Ivan Perkins, Anne Sheridan, Ian McKay) 6-5. Neil d Ivan -20, 5, -9, 5, 10.
Division 2:
Stiga (Tony Bowman, Donna Abbott, Leo Gilbert) d Yasaka (Noreen Fredericksen, Andrea Nicholson, Peter Goodson) 10-1. Peter d Donna -8, 7, -3, 12, 9.
Victas (Steve Crocker, Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson) d Nittaku (Will VanDeKaa, John McGee) 8-3. John d Steve 9, 8, -10, -9, 4.
Xiom (Duncan Sheridan, Duncan Treloar, Ishan Rana) d Geow (Amanda Wright, Matthew West, Trent Day) 7-4. Duncan d Matthew -10, 4, 6, -9, 5.
Division 3:
Gamma (Mark Stam, Craig VanDeKaa) d Zeta (David Symons, Bill Hey) 5-4. Dave d Craig -6, 5, 3, 4.
Delta (Saisha Palod, Aarnav Reelh, Val Austin) d Beta (Simon Hogan, Kade Wright, Nehmat Dhalwal) 6-5. Kade d Val 8, -7, 7, -9, 3.
Alpha (Rymer Tabulo, Misha Palod, Ollie Hamelink) d Epsilon (Anaya Reelh, Jye Callander, Virginia Clayton) 7-4. Ollie d Anaya 11, 6, -6, -9, 8.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures August 8, 2023:
Division 1:
Blue (George Camilleri, John McGee, Don Boettcher) d Green (Charlie Payne, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-5. George d Charlie -8, 9, 5, -11, 9.
Red (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Kevin Abbott) d Yellow (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Bryan Marshall) 7-5. Donna d Branko 9, -9, -6, 10, 8.
Division 2:
Purple (Iris Grasso, Michael Ibbotson, Judi Hicks) d White (Marie Taylor, Kim Daffy) 7-5. Marie/Kim d Iris/Judi -7, 9, 7, -5, 11.
Orange (Helen Ware, Louise Gould, Gerry Synnott) d Pink (Robyn Bushell, John Hamelink) 8-4. John d Gerry -8, 9, 12, -14, 7.
Division 3:
Grey (John Pratt, Ian Dodds, Allison Day) d Lime (Cheryl Pearson, Carmel Cristaldi, Myles Dutton) 9-3. Ian d Cheryl 3, -3, -2, 5, 4.
Tan (Cheryl Aprato, Madge Saunders, Bill Hey) d Aqua (Pam Keune, Val Hazeldene, Glenda Dutton) 8-4. Pam/Glenda d Cheryl/Bill -8, -8, 9, 12, 6.
Contributed by Charlie Payne
Cheryl Pearson hits out in Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

The Great Barrier Reef Rays, the premier cricket team representing Mackay and North Queensland, proudly celebrated a noteworthy weekend at the Century Cricket competition. In the Rays inaugural year, they made it all the way to the grand final, although were not able to come away with the championship. Despite not securing the win in the finale, the team achieved significant milestones and garnered popularity amongst fans.
Century Cricket Group is a privately owned cricket company co-founded by successful healthcare businessman Stuart Giles, Australian cricket great Ian Healy and world-renowned commentator Mark Nicholas, alongside cricket entrepreneurs and founders of the Australian Cricket Institute Nick Fitzpatrick and Joel Hamilton. The competition featured elite players such as NSW captain, Dan Hughes, Nick Larking of the Melbourne Stars, former Australian Fast Bowler Ben Laughlin and a host of other first-class players. The Rays' participation illuminates the vast potential and the promise of cricketing talent from the North.
With 7 players from Mackay and another three hailing from North Queensland there was considerable representation showing their ability at the competition.
A club representative said, “We were honoured to have the dynamism of former Australian Fast Bowler Ben Laughlin, the expertise of Melbourne Star Nick Larkin, and some emerging stars from Brisbane in our team, including the competition's leading run-scorer, Angus Lovell.
“The opportunity to play with these elite professionals was invaluable for our North QLD men.”
Their inclusion offered invaluable experiences for the Northern players, enhancing their exposure and learning.
“While we may not have clinched the win in the final, our Mackay and North QLD team went above and beyond, shattering expectations.
“The Rays have illuminated a genuine pathway for our boys from the North, giving them the chance to showcase their prowess alongside some of the best in the state and across Australia - and boy, did they rise to the occasion.”
The Rays owe a significant part of their success to their dedicated coach, Adam Knezevic. A local legend himself, Knezevic's guidance hints at a bright future for the Rays, cementing its reputation as a developmental pathway for emerging talent.
The Rays played six games over three days against the Gold Coast Waveriders, Northern Brisbane Kings, Southern QLD Rockets, Moreton Bay Magic and Darling Downs Dingos.
The Great Barrier Reef Rays made it to the grand final in their inaugural year playing in the Century Cricket competition

Up to 150 Mackay children now have access to a free netball program thanks to Woolworths Pick Fresh Play Fresh Netball Grants.
Mackay Netball Association was one of 11 community netball clubs in Australia to receive grants from Woolworths in an initiative providing young netballers with improved facilities and encouraging healthy habits.
The $8,000 grant is being used to provide a six-week Woolworths NetSetGO program to up to 150 kids aged between five and ten.
Children will also be provided with fresh fruit, healthy snacks and customised equipment.
Mackay Netball Association Secretary Jenny Moohin said the program teaches netball basics including ball skills, gameplay and fine motor skills.
“A lot of kids come to the program, and they haven’t been playing with balls, so it’s really important that we provide them with these opportunities to develop those skills,” she said.
“Not everyone can afford it, so this is like a ‘come and try’ kind of thing to give those kids the opportunity to see if they like netball for free,” added Operations Manager Sharon Sutherland.
Ms Moohin and Ms Sutherland agreed on the strength of netball in the region and said grants, sponsorship and community support are integral in keeping the sport growing.
“We really need to be able to develop the association to be able to offer come and try days and that sort of thing for free,” said Ms Moohin.
“All of our coaches in the program will be volunteers, they’ll give up their time, but if you don’t have the young ones coming through, you’re not going to grow your association.
“Our NetSetGO program also gives us an opportunity to bring our junior coaches through and get them to help with the program, so it’s very important to teach kids to volunteer and they do, they love it.”
To find out more about Mackay Netball Association’s programs, visit mackaynetball.com or find Mackay Netball Association – MNA on Facebook.
Mackay Netball Association is providing a free netball program thanks to a grant from Woolworths. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Social bowls results for August 9th, the winning team consisted of Betty Mulhall, Wendy McGee, and Doris Dodds. The runners-up were Carmel O’Loughlin, Lesley Baumgarten, and Daphne Offield.
In the 'Champion of Champion' 4’s final, held last week, it was the ‘battle of the North’ with Northern Beaches facing off against North Mackay. The North Mackay Ladies from Goosies Sport and Recreation Club emerged as the victors in this year's competition. Congratulations to North Mackay for the win.
Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine
Happy winners from left: Chris Hall, Michele Stockton, Nuggie Pratt, Marie Bragg

When Chris Breckell filled in for a touch football team over 20 years ago, he unknowingly embarked on a volunteer journey that saw him fill roles such as Player, Vice President, Canteen Assistant, Coach, and Referee with Mackay Touch.
The humble volunteer was named NRL Touch Football’s Volunteer of the Month and shared the story of his journey, starting all those years ago.
“Once I started to get involved in the club and people heard I was an accountant, I was approached to join the board, and I’m still involved now, 20 years later,” Chris said.
Chris shared kudos with his wife Annette who also invests a lot of time and effort into Mackay Touch, the couple personifying what Touch Football is about: inclusiveness, fun and friendship.
It’s the social element of touch that Chris loves best, as he gets to watch mums, dads and kids all join in.
“It’s wonderful to see the joy the sport can bring to a family and the memories they’ll have forever,” he said.
“It’s a testament to the inclusiveness and enjoyment the sport provides.
“I always remind the kids not to forget the 3-letter word ‘fun’.
“Whether they win or lose, it’s about having fun and making friendships with those you play with.”
Chris also has some impressive coaching accolades to his name, leading his team to the U9 North Queensland Junior championship before going back-to-back a year later with the same group of boys in the U10.
“It was great to see the boys stick together over the years and that happened through the bond and friendships they created,” he said.
“It’s worth all the time and effort when you see the kids having fun and creating new friendships.”
As Volunteer of the Month, Chris is now in the running for Volunteer of the Year, and he already has plans for the $5,000 paint project prize.
“The clubhouse needs a new facelift so I would put the paint towards that,” he said.
“It’s a great club and we’re fighting hard to keep it that way!”
Mackay Touch Volunteer Chris Breckell. Photo supplied: NRL Touch Football

Makenzie Weale is a young rugby league prop forward in a big hurry.
The Mackay Cutters powerhouse is making every post a winner in the early rounds of the NRLW premiership with the new North Queensland Cowboys franchise.
Weale produced a strong performance as the Cowboys snatched a 16-12 victory over the Wests Tigers last Saturday at Brisbane’s Totally Workwear Stadium.
The West Mitchelton Panthers junior ran for 161 metres, made two line-breaks and four tackle busts and scored a crucial try after the interval to keep the Cowboys in the hunt.
Leading the way with her bullocking runs and jarring defence, the tireless Weale was one of four Mackay recruits to help conjure up the Cowboys second win of the season after four rounds.
Weale was joined by Cutters’ colleagues in centre Jasmine Peters, utility ace China Polata and five eighth Tahlulah Tillett as the quartet combined to secure two valuable competition points.
Trailing 12-10, the Cowboys grabbed the lead in the dying seconds after Indigenous All Stars teammates Tillett and Peters combined for the match-winning try.
Wests Tigers set up a 10-4 half time lead with tries by skipper Kezie Apps and winger Josie Lenaz after the elusive Polata had earlier posted her maiden NRLW try.
A rampaging Weale helped level the scores with a determined try before Tigers fullback Pauline Piliae-Rasabale gave her side the lead with a penalty goal.
The Cowboys return to Townsville to host the Cronulla Sharks this Saturday.
Makenzie Weale

Mackay Cutters have bolstered their Hostplus Cup stocks for 2024 with the signing of former Tonga international centre Mahe Fonua.
The power-running outside back has secured a two-year deal with the Cutters after successful stints in the English Super League with Hull FC and the Castleford Tigers.
Fonua, who played six Tests with Tonga, made his NRL debut with the Melbourne Storm and spent two seasons with the Wests Tigers before carving out a decorated career in the United Kingdom.
He won back-to-back Challenge Cups with Hull FC in his first spell in Super League before returning to the club for a second stint after two years at Wests Tigers.
Fonua has chalked up 71 NRL games – including 21 matches with Wests Tigers - and made 131 Super League appearances during an impressive career to date.
His experience and leadership will be invaluable to the Cutters’ young squad as they continue to build for the future.
In Hostplus Cup action last weekend the Cutters pushed the second placed Burleigh Bears all the way during a 24-10 loss at UAA Park on the Gold Coast.
The Bears jumped to an early 14-0 lead following tries by winger Dante Lusio, second rower Jacob Alick and centre Sami Sauiluma before utility forward Sean Mullaney nabbed a four pointer for the visitors.
Elusive back Flynn Camilleri kept Mackay in the hunt when he dashed over to score after the interval with Brandon Finnegan adding the extras.
Burleigh sealed victory with second half tries to Sauiluma and centre Kea Pere to stay one point behind competition leaders Souths Logan Magpies (34).
Mackay Colts played strongly to roll the Central Queensland Capras 30-22.