
What a fantastic day out on the water for the second running of the Abell Point Yacht Club’s iconic Warri Cup Yacht Race in Airlie Beach last Sunday. The day broke bright and sunny with a perfect forecast top of 24 degrees and unlike the first attempt back in April, Sunday’s conditions were absolutely glorious. SSE winds of around 13–17 knots throughout the day created ideal racing conditions and the fleet certainly made the most of it. The boats got away cleanly through the start line in their 3 divisions before flying across towards Langford Reef, rounding the island and making their way back home in some spectacular sailing conditions. Division 1 Multihulls - First over the line was Fangarang, followed closely by Barefoot and G’Nome. On corrected time however, Trojan claimed the win, followed by G’Nome and Fangarang. Division 2 Mono’s with Spinnakers - Reignition came flying over the line with Smooth Criminal hot on their tail, followed by Treasure VIII. Corrected time honours went to Dragonfly, Treasure VIII and Keep on Running. Division 3 Monohulls non spinnakers - Major sponsor Peter Harrison of Quadrant Marine aboard his Fast 42 Awesome, was first back in with Fordplay right behind and Team Matchless following, but on corrected time the winners were Alwyn, Fordplay and Awesome. With blue skies, steady breeze and an outstanding fleet on the water, the Warri Cup well and truly delivered on its second attempt, showcasing not only some fantastic racing but also the wonderful camaraderie and spirit of the local sailing community. The Abell Point Yacht Club now looks forward to building on the success of this year’s event and welcoming everyone back again in 2027. Contributed with thanks to Abell Point Yatch Club Photo supplied
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TUESDAY 18/5/26 PGC - Stableford MEN : Winner : Simon Briley 36 points R/Up : Gary Scotford 35 points NTPs : Aaron Prosser (2nd), Luke Wayth (13th) LADIES : Winner : Rehab Hull 37 points R/Up : Robyn Whitham 30 points VETS : Stableford LADIES : Winner : Rehab Hull 37 points R/Up : Robyn Whitham 30 points 3rd : Linda Wardroper 29 points NTPs : Elspeth Scotford (x2), Linda Wardroper (x2), Rehab Hull MEN : Winner : Gary Scotford 35 points R/Up : Warren Deighton 34 points 3rd : Bill Brownlie 32 points (C/B) from Vic Feldman NTPs : Warren Deighton, Allen Roberts, John Roser, David Woods (x2), John Oates WEDNESDAY 20/5/26 PGC - Stableford LADIES : Winner : Toni Clauss 34 points R/Up : Tina Badenhorst 30 points (C/B) 3rd : Elspeth Scotford NTPs : Ann Gardel (9th), Elspeth Scotford (13th) THURSDAY 21/5/26 PGC - Stableford MEN : A Grade : Winner : Brent Daniels 40 points R/Up : Perri Simpson 36 points (C/B) 3rd : Mark Astley (Ballina GC) B Grade : Winner : John Roser 36 points R/Up : John Dodds 34 points (C/B) 3rd : Wilf Herweg NTPs : Gary Scotford (2nd & 9th), Ben Harrison (13th), Adam Hosie (16th) FRIDAY 22/5/26 Stableford 9 hole Run kindly sponsored by the Metropole Hotel : Back 9 Winner : Shirley Larsen 21 points R/up : Elise Hodgson 19 points 3rd Brent Franke (16th) NTPs : Brent Franke 18 points SATURDAY 23/5/26 Stableford : kindly sponsored by Haymans MEN : A Grade : Winner : Adam Hosie 39 points R/Up : Brent Franke 36 points (C/B) 3rd : Cory O’Shea B Grade : Winner : Kech Williams 38 points R/Up : Luke Andrews 37 points (C/B) 3rd : Steven Hall NTPs : Daniel O’Donnell (2nd), Rob Stanley (9th & 16th), Glenn Lee (13th) LADIES : Winner : Elspeth Scotford 41 points R/Up : Chorus Andrews 39 points 3rd : Rehab Hull 37 points NTPs : Sara Hagy (2nd), Peta Thomas (9th) SUNDAY 24/5/26 May MM kindly sponsored by KJC MEN : Winner : Logan Snow 64 nett R/Up : Aaron Prosser 69 nett NTPs :Brent Franke (9th) Aaron Prosser (13th), Jake Murray (16th) LADIES : Winner : Penny Wardroper 68 nett NTPs : Elise Hodgson (9th) * * * Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae
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Another huge week in paradise at our little bowls club, with Tuesday afternoon bowls seeing much excitement as Ladies’, Men’s A, B and Senior Singles moved into the last four, and all pairs, triples and fours nearing completion. Wednesday afternoon saw 20 bowlers vying for the winner’s prize, with two games of triples and two games of pairs. The biggest winning margin went to skipper Arthur McManus, with second Glen O’Brien and lead, new bowler Alma Rose Mawson, all playing like a team with outstanding results and an 11-point winning margin. Great effort. Wednesday night saw Business House bowls, brilliantly run by Bobby Spees and his wife Yvonne, a very special couple. Ten teams occupied five rinks, and once again, although in a new team, Cathy Russell leading Clearwater Catering achieved a brilliant win and remains unbeaten. All games were close, and everyone enjoyed the chicken burgers at the finish. Friday afternoon saw Christian College students thoroughly enjoying and improving their bowling skills, especially Elliana Langshore and Miranda Jackson. Although only in Year 8, they are showing fantastic potential. We will have exciting playoffs to determine who will represent the Whitsundays in the upcoming Queensland Schools Tournament. Division 1 and Division 4 played at home on Saturday, with Manny Isgro’s team winning 21–13, Joan McGrath’s team winning 21–13 also, and John Fielding’s team winning 29–17, giving Airlie a 71–43 victory against a very strong side and last season’s champions, Northern Beaches. Luke Kinnear, Andrew Butler, and Alan Pershouse all deserve special mention. The Division 4 team, led by skipper Des Ballance, with superb teamwork, won 25–16. However, David Dias and his team lost 9–30 to North Mackay. Division 2 lost to Mackay City, with Carol Crosbie’s team winning 24–20. Sunday pennants saw Division 1 away at Sarina Bowls Club, with John Fielding’s 21–20 win being the only winning rink. Division 2 against West Tigers lost, with only Ladda Purdie’s team drawing 17 all. West Tigers also played Division 4, and once again Des Ballance and his team were convincing winners 30–13, while David Dias’s team went down 20–19 in a last-bowl thriller. Division 4 is still leading the overall standings. This week’s photo shows the victorious Division 4 team, pictured from left: Tony Kelly, Sue Dakin, selector Warren Mills, Alma Rose Mawson, Mark Mawson, and David Dias proudly displaying the scoreboard. Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson
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Twenty nine players (9 ladies and 20 men) experienced a foggy start which then cleared to ideal golfing conditions. Congratulations to the ladies winner Rehab Hull and Gary Scotford for the men in the single Stableford event. We wish Heather a speedy recovery from her injury. A reminder that Wintersun entries are now open. RESULTS LADIES Winner: Rehab Hull with 37 points R/Up: Robyn Whitham with 30 points Rundown: Linda Wardroper (29), Elspeth Scotford (28) and Helen Deighton (26) MEN Winner: Gary Scotford with 35 points R/Up: Warren Deighton with 34 points Rundown: William Brownlie (32), Vic Feldman (32), John Oates, Louis Neethling and Peter Lindsay all on 31 points, Allen Roberts (30), David Woods (30) and Ken Granger (29) PIN SHOTS Ladies: A Grade - Elspeth Scotford (x2) B Grade - Linda Wardroper (x2) and Rehab Hull Men: A Grade - Warren Deighton, Allen Roberts and John Roser B Grade - David Woods (x2) and John Oates CHIP INS Linda Wardroper and Peter Lindsay NAGAs for a ball each Kath Borer and Neil Cawthorne DRAWS: MEMBERSHIP draw to Helen Deighton WEEKLY RAFFLE won by Kath Borer UPCOMING EVENTS: 26/5/26 - STABLEFORD 2/6/26 - JUNE 2026 Monthly Medal and count your putt Contributed with thanks to John Roser
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Mackay Meteors playoff hopes in the NBL1 North Basketball Conference took a savage blow last Saturday after a shock 69-68 loss to cellar dwellers Rockhampton Rockets at Bravus Arena.
Rockets forward Chier Maker was the hero after hitting the match-winning shot with two seconds left on the clock to secure a one-point triumph and second win of the season.
The loss could prove catastrophic for the Meteors who have now lost seven of their past ten matches and slip to seventh spot with eight wins in 2023.
In an absorbing contest, Mackay started strongly to lead 27-19 at quarter-time before the Rockets hit back to level at 34-all at the half time interval.
Scores were locked 50-all at the third break and remained tight until Maker’s spinning fadeaway jumper in the dying moments gave Rockhampton the edge in a thriller.
Maker finished with 17 points, six rebounds, two assists and two steals for the Rockets with support from Jarvis Summers (16 points, three rebounds and two assists), Malcolm Bernard (10 points, seven assists and six boards), Damian Prgomet (nine points, eight rebounds and three assists).
Mackay skipper Isaac White continued his stellar form with another 26 points, seven rebounds, six assists and three steals.
Talented guard Tyler Williams posted 17 points and six rebounds and Isaiah Lee eight points and four boards.
………………………………..
In the early game the Rockhampton Cyclones registered an 82-68 victory over the Meteorettes with gifted guard Lauren Heard the standout.
It was the Cyclones’ tenth win of the season and the Meteorettes ninth successive loss.
Heard was superb for Rockhampton contributing 23 points, five rebounds, five assists and five steals with Lara McSpadden adding 16 points, 11 rebounds, three assists and two steals, Elizajane Loader 17 points, three assists and three steals and Sam Bowman 13 points, 13 rebounds and six assists.
Mackay were best served by Davida Dale (16 points, six assists, six steals and four rebounds), Denesha Bobongie (13 points and four boards), Brittany Reeves (10 points, 10 rebounds and three assists) and Phoebe Holmes (10 points, two boards and two assists).
Denesha Bobongie scored 13 points for the Meteorettes against Rockhampton. Photo credit: Keiron Place Photography

Local athletes got their opportunity to play under the bright lights of Queensland Country Bank Stadium recently, as the Townsville Blackhawks and Mackay Cutters faced off for the inaugural Endeavour Foundation All Abilities Cup.
After weeks of training, the teams took to the field ahead of the North Queensland Cowboys v Penrith Panthers NRL fixture on Friday, June 16, the brilliant showcase of all abilities footy catching the eyes of players like Nathan Cleary and Mavrik Geyer who were all too happy to share some pointers.
The Mackay Cutters ended the game as victors, becoming the first team to have their name added to the perpetual trophy.
Cutters player Ryleigh Little celebrated his 14th birthday the day before the game and celebrated in style.
"He's been so excited that not only was he able to play, but he got to watch the Cowboys win with his dad," said Ryleigh’s mum Suzi Little.
"I don't think the smile has left his face, and Ryleigh is not a very touchy-feely kid, but he keeps coming up and hugging us and he's like, 'thank you', just thanking us for being able to do that with him.”
Ms Little said Ryleigh experiences level two autism, sensory processing disorder and anxiety disorder.
"For Ryleigh, his autism presents socially and emotionally,” she said.
“He never does well in a social situation, especially with lots of people, and that's something that's definitely changed with all abilities."
After struggling to maintain eye contact and playing as an individual when he was first introduced to the program, Rhiley has improved both skills to become the ultimate team player.
Ms Little said much of that attitude could be attributed to local rugby league royalty Martin Bella, who coached the players with respect and dignity.
"A lot of people will treat someone with a disability like a little child or they'll talk at them, not to them, but Marty will talk to them, and he holds them accountable for their behaviour," Ms Little said.
"He obviously praises their successes, but if they're doing the wrong thing, he will come down to them and he'll make them understand and realise that what they're doing isn't on.
"They get to learn and grow in that kind of environment where us everyday people, we get that, but our people with disabilities don't normally."
Congratulations to everyone involved!
The Mackay Cutters won the inaugural Endeavour Foundation All Abilities Cup in Townsville. Photo supplied: Mackay All Abilities Rugby League
Ryleigh Little and Robert Pethebridge after Mackay's win. Photo supplied: QRL
Penrith Panthers players Nathan Cleary and Mavrik Geyer watched on and interacted with the two teams. Photo supplied: Penrith Panthers

The Sarina Bowls Club was abuzz with excitement on Sunday, June 25th, as enthusiastic bowlers gathered to compete in the district's highly anticipated 8-a-side tournament. The unique format featured teams consisting of eight bowlers from the same club, engaging in thrilling mixed and pairs games.
Despite the participation of only three clubs in the district, the event did not lack in intensity or skill. Spectators were treated to an impressive display of bowls throughout the day, witnessing exceptional shots and strategic gameplay.
In the morning session, Sarina clashed with Airlie Beach, securing a well-deserved victory with a final score of 60-48. Later in the afternoon, Sarina faced off against Souths Suburban in an intense final match. The contest remained fiercely competitive, but it was Souths Suburban who emerged triumphant with a final score of 68-56, clinching the title.
Contributed by Rita Hughes

Queensland’s premier rugby league competition for Catholic and independent secondary schools has swung into action this week in Brisbane with the cream of the State’s emerging talent on show.
This year’s Confraternity Carnival hosts St Laurence’s College kicked off the QISSRL championships in style last Sunday at Suncorp Stadium - tossing Villanova College 26-16 in a curtain raiser to the Brisbane Broncos v Gold Coast Titans NRL derby.
St Patrick’s College Mackay opened their 2023 campaigns on an ominous note in the Boys and Girls divisions – each posting triple victories without conceding a point to top their respective pools.
Minus their Queensland Schoolboys representatives in half back Jaxon Purdue and boom hookers Xavier Kerrisk and Paityne Johns, the respective 2022 Grand Finalists skittled Marist College Ashgrove (10-0), St Augustines Cairns (20-0) and Rockhampton Grammar (20-0) in the Boys Division 1 championship while the powerful girl’s combination thumped Shalom College Bundaberg (24-0), St Joseph's Toowoomba (34-0) and Emmaus Jimboomba (38-0) to push their title claims.
Promising five eighth Bailey Venz turned in a skilful performance in St Patrick’s first round win over Marist College Ashgrove to earn the Player of the Match award.
Venz scored the opening try and created opportunities for team-mates with his crisp passing, turn of speed and tricky footwork.
Strong running back rower Jake Bryan and prop Darcy Clark also impressed with their high work rates with fullback Will Shears another stand out in the back division.
Skipper Clark produced a Player of the Match performance in the second-round drubbing of St Augustine’s.
The rising prop burst through tackles to score the only try of the first stanza and was supported by the versatile Shears, who sparked the attack when switched to half in the second half along with replacement fullback Hayden Cumming.
Winger Hunter Harris collected try doubles against St Augustines and Rockhampton Grammar while smart hooker Hudson Clark, utility Lachlan Starr, half back Nelson Fenlon, centre Tenzin Contor, prop Reece Morris and lock Kayne Smith also shone for the red, blue and whites.
Emerging halves Keely Pitt and Lily-May Carige engineered St Patrick’s three early victories in the Girls competition with their skilful passing and vision.
The Mackay forwards led by Capricornia representative props Ciara Thomson and Chelsea McLeod, lock Gracie Watt and utility hooker Shaylee Hazledine did the spadework with bumping runs and copybook defence.
Elusive winger Maddison Simon nabbed a hat trick of tries in the win over St Josephs – using her fleet footwork to launch many a raid and Player of the Match honours.
The powerful Thomson proved unstoppable against Jimboomba, creating havoc with her strong running and off loads in a best on ground performance.
Other St Patrick’s girls to shine included fullback Trinity Grigg, centre Ruby Lucas, Jada Cahill, Ella Webb, Eva Daly and Paige Mooney.
MEANWHILE Holy Spirit College Mackay advanced to the Boys Division 2 quarter finals after defeating Our Lady Southern Cross 20-16 and suffering losses to St Theresa’s (24-14) and St Colombans (28-18).
At the time of going to press, undefeated St Patrick’s were squaring off with Wynnum’s Iona College in a Division 1 Boys quarter final with the Mackay girls up against reigning champions Marymount College Burleigh Waters in the final eight.
By Chris Karas
Talented back rower Jake Bryan and representative prop Ciara Thomson have starred for St Patrick’s College Mackay at the Confraternity QISSRL Carnival in Brisbane
St Patrick's Mackay centre Tenzin Contor on the attack during this week's Confraternity QISSRL Carnival in Brisbane

Congratulations to Mona Townsend who turned 90.
Mona was awarded her Matriarch Badge last week.
Mona is still an active player with the Mackay Club in Carnivals, PaH’s and club competition.
Mona’s memorable moment was when she skippered the Club Championships Triples team which included the youngest, oldest and newest member of the club to success.
Mona is a tireless worker for the ladies section and is always there to assist in the running of raffles and cent sales, taking her turn as afternoon tea hostess and until recently held the committee position of Match Chair.
Congratulations to Erin Clements and Helen Truscott for their nail biting win in the ladies Champion of Champions.
Thanks to Glen Luck from Polymac for their sponsorship in the Men’s B4 Carnival.
This week saw the Ladies Pennants playing on Wednesday against City away, Thursday away to Souths Suburban in Morning, at Home against Arlie Beach on Friday Morn.
Friday afternoon U/65 Singles sees K. Dunn v K Robinson.
Saturday Club Competition continues with Ladies CH 3 Bowl Triples, E Clements, J Nelson, R Schatkowski v K Dunn, C Savage, K Burns.
Men’s Open 3 Bowl Triples B Faragher, R Bell, S Cassidy v D Currey, M Irving, M Coll.
Sunday 10am
Men’s B Grade Singles: T Casey v B Williams.
Men’s Senior Singles: S Cassidy v C Stevens; B Paskins v B Jenner; M Irving v T Mayfield.
Results:
Tuesday Social Play (31)
Winner of Winners
Peter Nelson, Col Stevens, B Williams
Winners of Losers
Julie Caban, Marie Mayfield, Dot McNamara
Thursday Scroungers
Dave Casey def Shane Makin, C Savage
Friday Social Play
Winners Julie Caban and Barry Jenner
Runners Up Helen Truscott, Peter Nelson, Janice Nelson
Contributed by Mike Irving
Mona Townsend and Helen Chiconi. Photo credit: Mike Irving

Rockhampton is one of the oldest cities in Queensland, famous for its history and culture and as the hometown of all time tennis great Rod Laver.
Last Saturday the city was a “graveyard” for visiting Mackay sporting teams as the Cutters rugby league and Meteors and Meteorettes basketball lineups all tasted defeats in the city of charming historical architecture.
At Browne Park, the Central Queensland Capras rallied with two late tries to eclipse the Cutters 30-22 in a hard-fought Hostplus Cup fixture.
Dashing wingers Bob Tenza and Brandon Roberts crossed for the seventh placed Capras to secure two valuable competition points and keep Mackay languishing near the bottom of the table.
It has become a common habit this season for Michael Comerford’s embattled charges with second half fade-outs proving costly.
The Cutters led 10-0 early following tries by talented winger Flynn Camilleri and prop Brandon Russell before the Capras responded with four pointers by front rower Bailey Butler and centre Cooper Marshall and a penalty goal on the stroke of half time by fullback Blake Moore.
Trailing 14-10 at the break, the Mackay side returned to the field with a vengeance and surged to a 22-14 lead after centres Dario Takitaki and Josh Smith darted over for tries in the space of eight minutes with half back Brandon Finnegan potting the extras.
A rampaging Butler grabbed a second try to bridge the gap before the Capras stormed home to notch their eighth win of the season.
CENTRAL Queensland staged a second half revival to sink Mackay 32-24 in the Hastings Deering Under 21 Colts competition.
The Cutters led 24-12 early in the second stanza following tries by winger Braydon Dunbar, prop Toby Sullivan, lock Blake Coombes and centre Toby Strecker and four conversions from fullback Alex Lawton.
But the Capras staged a stunning comeback with four tries to chalk up their second win of the season.
The Mackay Cutters lost to the Central Queensland Capras last weekend 22-30 at Browne Park. Photo Credit: LF Creative

The Mackay Bridge Club Championship Pairs was played over the last three weeks, with the same partner each week. This was a fiercely fought competition with Joy Robinson & Geoff Taylor prevailing as club Championship Pair 2023.
Monday 19 June 2023 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
2nd Monica Darley / Ted Cullinan
3rd David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd Thelma Caruana / Joy Robinson
3rd Marilin Robins / Margaret Jennings
Tuesday 20 June 2023 Evening 8 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terrence Sheedy
3rd Janelle Conroy / Eric Leivesley 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
Wednesday 21 June 2023 –10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd Marie McGuire / Nancy Wix
3rd Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
4th Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor
E/W
1st Eric Goodchild / David Ting
2nd Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley
3rd Janelle Conroy / Alan Brown
4th Robert Carless / Joy Robinson
Thursday Evening 22 June 2023 - 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Mick King / Ann Whitmore
3rd Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
4th Annie Lynch / Geoff Taylor
Friday 23 June 2023 – Mackay Club Pairs Championship 2023 – Week 3 of 3 - 9 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S
1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd Terrence Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole
4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
E/W
1st
2nd Diane Stokes / Anne Lutz
3rd Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
4th Geoffrey Patterson / Susan Wright
Mackay Bridge Club Pairs Championship 2023 Final
1st Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox
5th Terrence Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
7th Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell
2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
4th Diane Stokes / Anne Lutz
6th Geoffrey Patterson / Susan Wright
8th Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
Saturday 24 June 2023 – Nation Wide Pairs Week 12 of 23 - 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st Julie O’Neill / Margaret Lane
2nd Anne Lutz / Annie Lynch
3rd Ted Cullinan / Noel Saunders
4th Christine Nice / Faye Wright
5th Marie McGuire / Joyce Deguara
E/W
1st Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson
2nd Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
3rd Sandra Morris / Ann Whitmore
4th Laura Howland / Antonia Tarradas
5th Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
Sunday 25 June 2023 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st Dawn Field / Anne Lutz
2nd Susan Ross / Joyce Deguara
E/W
1st Ann Whitmore / Sandy Patterson
2nd Diane Stokes / Joy Block
Contributed by Joy Block

Mackay has cemented itself as Queensland’s regional skateboarding capital and the event that earnt our town the crown is returning in September.
FMS Rumble on the Reef is the largest skateboarding event in the southern hemisphere and brings skateboarders young and old, from amateurs to professionals, to the sugar city to shred the Sugar Bowl for a week of action.
Local business Field Mining Services (FMS) has once again signed on as naming rights partner for the event, confirming their support until 2025 in a move that Managing Director Donny Fraser said acknowledges the growth and solidifies local support for the sport.
“It’s starting to get a bit of structure like the other sports,” he said.
“Participation doubled over Covid and trying to build it has been very challenging but it’s people like them who allow us to take it to that next level.
“They’re really showing the community that they care by investing in sport, arts and music.”
Mr Fraser said the relationship between the tournament and the Mackay region has fundamentally changed skateboarding in Australia.
“Our sport owes a huge gratitude to Mackay for backing us to be able to create a future for our kids,” he said.”
“It’s the best place we could possibly ask for and the support from the city, the tourism industry, and the local community has been unmatched.”
The unique event promises a week of chaotic action, inviting locals to witness the future of Australian skateboarding across street and bowl events.
Rumble is a highlight on the skateboarding calendar, with plenty of competitors returning year after year including last year’s champion Rome Collyer and runner-up Daniel Woolley, most backing up from Olympic Games qualifying events.
“We’ve been doing this a long time so what we’re starting to see now is some of our juniors are now in the opens, guys like Daniel Woolley, I think we’ve seen him since the under 12s and he came second last year,” Mr Fraser said.
2023 will also be the second year Rumble welcomes representation from the Pacific Islands, with skaters from Fiji, the Solomon Islands and New Zealand making the trek and Papua New Guinea preparing a team for 2024.
Mr Fraser said the Oceania region performs well above its weight in professional sport and is developing a league to rival the biggest in the world.
“Bringing them here, having them learn, having them compete, it’s creating a presence that’s worth investing in,” Mr Fraser said.
“It’s a step in the right direction for those countries to show that they’re getting out there.”
Visit www.rumbleonthereef.com for more information.
WHAT: FMS Rumble on the Reef 2023
WHEN: Tuesday, September 19 to Saturday, September 23
WHERE: The Sugar Bowl, North Mackay
This is a free event.
L-R Last year’s FMS Rumble on the Reef champions Daniel Woolley, Rome Collyer and Dani Campbell. Photo supplied

We are blessed to live in Paradise especially in winter and with the cold weather presenting itself in NSW and Victoria.
We have welcomed Greg and Glenys Pepyat back from Victoria, Ken, and Cheryl Warner from Taralgon Victoria ELS Van Souest from Blue Hills Bowls Club Cranbourne East Victoria, as well as Hugh and June Shaw from Belmont NSW.
We wish them all a very happy stay.
Tuesday afternoon Social Bowls saw some great contests; however, it was the tenacious team of the highly improved and very lovely Maureen Barnard who teamed up with Ladda Purdie for an outstanding victory over the rest of the field with Jill Spencer a club favourite winning the prestigious Health Hub award.
Wednesday afternoon Social Bowls brilliantly organised by Merve Stewart and Rick Galea saw 22 bowlers competing for the top prize and it was Rick Galea with the popular Stacey Hadlow winners with a commanding 15-point win whilst the very wily Nick Fernbach took home the fantastic Health Hub award.
Thursday afternoon school finals saw each young bowler receive a trophy for their sterling efforts with a special mention to James Hou the Quip girls and Charlotte who all thoroughly deserved their trophies.
Margo Stanley has done a wonderful job with them all.
Saturday morning Scroungers returned for another season with the club's hard working and one of nature's gentlemen John Askew organised a big round.
First round winners were Russell and Di Jackson, Karen Jensen, Kevin John Trembath, and Andy McDougall into the semi-finals with the final being played by Kevin John Trembath and Karen Jensen with Karen proving too strong as was the first winner of the season, whilst Gary Kiff won the B Division prize.
Finally, Sunday afternoon had a huge turn up with 39 bowlers vying for the prize money great games on every rink with our chairman Ash Warland leading his capable team of Dawn Dowell and Michael Jacometti taking home the biscuits.
The Ladies Pennant teams continue their quest this week and we wish them all good luck.
Contributed to thanks to Mark Mawson.
Karen Jensen the big winner of Saturday Scroungers. Photo supplied

With the cooler weather down south, we are enjoying the company of many visitors who are enjoying travelling to our town and their game of bowls with us.
On Wednesday we had three games of social bowls played.
Philip Brown and Sandyi Daffara defeated Arthur Griffith 18 - 17 in one of those games of changing fortunes.
Jim Bownds, Pat Bownds, and Neville Smith defeated John Anderson, Pat Bownds, and Mike Harrison 25 - 17.
Sandra Ross, Bob Ross, and Heather Brown defeated Jan Botes, Bruce Uhe, and Carol Smith 31 - 11.
On Sunday in social bowls John Burnett, Arthur Griffith, and Heather Brown defeated Margy Burnett, Bob Ross, and Mike Harrison 31 - 12; John Anderson and Sandy Daffara defeated Alen Sanderson and Peter Lawton 25 - 20.
With our bowlers who have returned from their play in the Australian Open, we are so proud of how all of our members who participated flew the flag for Proserpine and showcased both their skills on the green and the relaxed friendliness that we all enjoy.
Special congratulations to Scott Kinnear and his director who brought home the ultimate prize for his part of the event with first place in the Vision Impaired Singles and Runner Up in the Vision Impaired Pairs.
Scott is truly having one of those years that we all dream about.
Club Championship Fours will be completed this weekend with the Semi Finals being played on Saturday morning and Finals Saturday Afternoon.
Semi Finals are Harry Craig, Isaac Elliott, Toby Craig and Marcus Craig versus Ken Watts, Kendall Watts, Gavin Noonan, and Brett Saroglia; Shane Kinnear, Todd Leys, Scott Hamilton, and Gavin Milne versus Michael Kinnear, Luchie Gardel, Grahame Kinnear, and Barry Saroglia.
Winners are eligible to play in the Champion of Champion Fours being held at Mackay Club on the weekend July 22, 23.
Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.
Director Shane Kinnear with Scott Kinnear Vision Impaired Singles Champion at the 2023 Australian Open held on the Gold Coast. Photo supplied

There was no social play on Monday as Wangaratta and Bowen Bowls Club hosted the North Queensland District Ladies Purple Pennant.
With two days of great bowls Gold City/Alligator Creek won overall with Jubilee (Townsville) coming second. The Wangaratta ladies put up a great performance and only went down in the last game to come in third with Brandon and BBC following.
Well done ladies.
On Tuesday, things got back to normal and everyone who watched the previous two days got into action themselves.
Winners came out on Rink 3.
They were Brenda Jablon, Simon Fitzgerald, and John Robinson who defeated Denis Walker, Alan Almond, and Penny Warren.
Runners Up were Kate Barry and Ron who defeated Jan Nick and Frank.
The jackpot didn’t go off.
Fun Friday is becoming a popular event.
Resting Touchers were awarded to K Almond, A Almond, Ron, and Lee.
Winners for the afternoon were V Schilling, A Almond, and M Hyde defeated D Schilling, K Almond, L Knight.
Marie, John, and Ron defeated Barry, Lee, and Greg.
Keith and Louise defeated Diane and Denis.
Dianne, Steve, and Lindsey defeated Shirley, Jan, Sharon.
The jackpot didn’t go off.
Winners for Sunday afternoon were Sherm Elliot, Isobel, and Graham who defeated France, Lizi, Merle, and Michael.
Runners Up for the mango were S Jablowski, L Barber, and A Rolfe defeated G Lydom, J Healey, and N Dawson.
I understand the jackpot did go off.
Congratulations to Robyn Stitt, Denise Wallace, Penny Warren and Fely Duncan who came into third prize money at the Cane Fire Fours at Ayr on the weekend.
Good luck and good bowling to our Men’s Dunn Cup team of Geoff Danvers, Allan Rolfe, Mark Drummond, and Greg Colquhoun playing next weekend at Alligator Creek in Townsville.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.
Wangaratta Ladies Purple Pennant teams. Pat Tracey, Isobel Wheeler, Irene Laird, Bron Tolcher, Lyn Danvers, Merle Elphinstone, Sue Shearing, Deb Retchless. Photo supplied

Wednesday’s competition was a single stableford event sponsored by Bowen Golf Club.
Ladies’ winner was Raewyn Glover 44pts, runner up Karon McKenzie 39pts.
Men’s winner Kaleb Brunker 41pts, runner up on a countback Kevin Cross 39pts.
Saturday's competition was a stableford event sponsored by P&O Meehan Menswear for the Men and Commonwealth Bank for the ladies.
Ladies winner was Denise Bianco 43pts, runner up on a countback Julie Mawson 38pts. Men’s winner Matthew Ruff 48pts, runner up Marcus Yasso 39pts.
Pin shots to Akeam Power, Xanthe Power, Alan Detry, Michael Tilden, Dylan Not with and IBP & the Car Wash Voucher, Grace Nott, Meg Garrod, Janice Bates, Robyn Slade with an OBP.
Coming Up:
This weekend's competition is a split round with the July Monthly Medals.
Men play on Saturday, ladies on Sunday.
Both competitions are sponsored by Queens Beach Motor Hotel & Bowen Meat and Supply.
Joker is worth $3500.
Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.
Saturday competition winners - Denise Bianco & Wendy Tracey (3rd) with Sarnie Eisemann representing CBA and Matthew Ruff with Pauline Martin representing P&O Meehans Menswear.
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Tuesday's stableford was a close game with Ross Tong coming out on top with 39 pts, followed by Nick Appruzzese and Adam Maggs both on 38pts.
NTP's: Ash Law and Sam Deicke.
Wednesday saw the ladies tee off in the afternoon for the Captains Day, Jenny Hounsell was the clear winner on 42 pts, Elspeth Scotford and Paula McQuat in the rundown with 34 pts each.
Long drives went to Trish McNeill and Rehab Hull, NTP's Jenny Hounsell, Marlene Gray, Elspeth Scotford and Jacqui Wall.
In the Men's Competition, Aaron Prosser was the winner on a countback from Nathan Holohan both on 37 pts.
Steve Kelly took out the Division 1 win on 40 pts on Thursday, Brendan Spann and Wayne Temby completing the podium.
John Dodds was too good in Division 2 with 39 pts, closely followed by Barry Mortimer and John Roser.
NTP's: Bob Ross, Dave Telford, Greg Walker, and Steve Kelly.
121 players turned out for the Annual BC Construction Day on Show Friday, Dave Dodds, Dave Hoy, and Roger Vandenberg ahead of the pack with a scorching 53.5 nett, followed by Sam Deicke, Brendan Spann, and Lew Tuck.
Ben Raymant, Finbar O'Flynn and Scott Lee were in 3rd place.
Long Drives were won by Toni Clauss and Ben Smith, NTP's: Chris Bartlett, Leve Homes, Nathan Holohan, Mick Kavanagh, Renae Maxwell, Dean Barnard, Lew Tuck and Anna Winterbourn.
The MBW Stableford winners were Rod Wecker, Mata Browne, and Jill Farinelli.
2nd place in the ladies was Rehab Hull followed by Kath Borer, Marlene Gray and Di Chard won the NTP's.
Division 1 Men's 2nd place getter was Brian Allan followed by Simon Dellla Santa, and Division 2 2nd place winner was Craig Smith, followed by Chris Brett.
The Men's NTP's were won by Tim Deffner, Larry Muller, Brodie Hodgson, and John Bissell.
Mata Browne continued his great form on Sunday to card a very impressive 43 points to edge out Theunis Venter Jnr on 42 points and Chris Pham on 41 pts.
All handicap reducing scores! NTP's: Ryan Wilkes, Jon Miller, and Trent Tetley-Bishop.
Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Golf Club Pro Shop.
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Our weekly 9-hole stableford saw Craig Kennedy take the win with 22 pts, second Sam Cartwright with 21 pts and third with 21 pts Michael Norman.
Jay Angel took the win with 18 pts on Fridays 9-hole stableford, second saw Tim Walton with a 16 c/b and third Lorri Thynne with 16 pts.
Sunday’s 18-hole monthly medal for June was a great turn out. First place we had Dean Barnard, second place Asher Ventham and third place went to Cory Belke.
Nearest the pin was Dean Barnard and Tyson Flavel.
This Sunday 2nd July will be 18-hole stableford tee off anytime.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green.
Tyson Flavel
Wayne Singleton, Asher Ventham, Deeray Fo’ou and Adam Singleton

With only four games scheduled last weekend, many sides got a chance to take a well-earned rest.
The Divisional men travelled down to Mackay on Friday to take on Country United.
First off the rank were Div2 and in a hard fought game, they had more than their share of opportunities and possession but just couldn’t capitalise.
In fact, despite having arguably the better of play, and having had a goal disallowed, they trailed 1-0 till the final minutes when Chris White smacked in a long-range ball for a well-deserved equaliser.
1-1 the final result.
Div 1 were disappointed not to get a better result against the young Country side that was full of running. The Whitsunday side controlled the ball well and played some great football but failed to convert opportunities to goals.
Some miracle long range goals from Country saw them run out winners, 3-0.
The Men’s U23’s had a match up with close rivals Mackay Rangers.
The Whitsunday’s side started the game trying to play their standard style – based on quick low passes, however, a bumpy pitch made it difficult to string passes together.
The home team, used to this ground played the long ball game and were rewarded when the bounce of the ball was misjudged by Rowan and with his attempts to recover a supposed penalty was conceded.
Rangers converted opening the scoring for the day.
Whitsundays applied pressure themselves and won a penalty of their own which was unfortunately put wide.
From this point the game because very physical as both sides tried to get on top.
Early in the second half, new recruit Agustine received a second yellow putting Whitsundays down to 10 men.
The situation became harder as Rangers scored again making the score 2-0.
However, the Whitsundays team came together and piled the pressure on even with a player less and pulled back a goal through debutant Nico.
The pressure was taking its toll on the Rangers side who struggled to keep possession.
The Whitsunday determination paid off with Jarrod Clarke scoring his first goal for the club making the final score 2-2.
A man down, 2 goals behind and zero subs.
An incredible fight back by the boys who left with a well-deserved point!
The Whitsunday Premier Men came up against a well organised Rangers side desperate to take a win and prove themselves contenders.
Early on Whitsunday’s struggled to play their free-flowing football on a rough field and were lucky not to be down at halftime as Luke pulled off a string of quality saves towards the end of the half.
A solid rev up at half time did the trick with Whitsundays dominating the first 15 minutes of the second half which finally saw a goal from the inform Tommy Torzsok.
Although Whitsundays went down to 10 men every player dug their heels in and grinded out an important 1-0 win before a few weeks off.
The win cements them in fourth spot on the ladder but with games in hand.
Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic.