SOFTBALL

Young Mackay softball players recently came together at the Under 18 National Championships, sharing pitching strategies and game experiences while representing Queensland on the national stage.

Evie Grace was the only female athlete selected in both the Queensland Under 16 and Under 18 girls teams. She completed her tour of pitching and playing with second-place finishes in both grades, following hard-fought matches against New South Wales. On each occasion, Queensland went down by just one run in the final innings. Evie returns home with increased knowledge, improved gameplay skills and many new friendships, ready for the 2026 season.

Jaxon Maluga has also commenced his national championship journey with the Queensland Under 18 men’s team. Queensland dominated the competition to progress directly to the grand final, where they faced Western Australia after New South Wales was defeated by WA. Wearing number 37, Maluga pitched strongly throughout the entire grand final, helping Queensland defeat Western Australia 8–1 to claim gold and secure the Nox Bailey Shield.

Jaxon will now travel back to Redlands to compete in the Queensland Under 23 championships from 3 to 8 February, alongside teammate James Allen. Statistician Debbie Carey will be on hand to help guide the players during their games.

Local clubs are now gearing up for the 2026 season, with sign-on days scheduled at Theo Hansen Park, Beaconsfield. The Angels will hold sign-ons on 8 February from 9am to 2pm, Dragons on 15 February from 10am to 12 noon, and Hawks on 21 February from 9am to 3pm. All clubs welcome male and female players of all ages, whether new or returning.

Mackay Softball will also hold its Annual General Meeting on 9 February at 6pm at the club on Beaconsfield Road.

Contributed with thanks to Cheryl Martin.

Photos supplied

‍

On Wednesday 21 January, Opening Day was celebrated with plenty of fun and laughter, with many ladies in attendance from sister clubs across the district.

After several ends of bowls, players retired to the Amaroo Room to enjoy a scrumptious afternoon tea, beautifully presented by the talented staff at Goosies.

The winners of the day’s bowls were Min Andrew, Sylvia Maikler and Ann Smith. Runners-up were Betty Mulhall, Kath Remmenswall and Debbie Mackenzie. Lucky Card prizes were awarded to Carmel Bell, Pam McDermott and Wendy McGee.

A super cent sale followed and was keenly supported, with many prizes on offer and warmly received by the lucky winners.

Club President Hilary Jones-Rowan thanked everyone who attended the special Opening Day fun event and wished all members a wonderful year of bowling ahead.

Next Wednesday, ladies will be selected to play in the Club Selected Fours teams.

Happy Australia Day to all, and good bowling for 2026.

Contributed with thanks to Sue Hazledine

‍

President Hilary, Carmel, Pam and Wendy. Photos supplied
President Hilary with winners: Min, Ann and Sylvia.
President Hilary, Betty, Kath and Deb

‍

Airlie Beach parkrun #510 on 17 January 2026 saw 155 participants, including 80 females, 62 males, and 13 of unknown gender. Among them were 43 first-timers, with eight specifically noted: Donald, Connor, Graeham, Emily, Brian, Jessica, Summer, and Maddison. Volunteers included 16 dedicated locals, ensuring a smooth event.

Millie led the first finishers in 18:51, with Joe the first male in 20:07. Personal bests were achieved by Kurt, Ira Christian, Georgianna, Simon, Luca, Mark, Bronte, Jen, and Jayde. Milestones included 25th runs for Emile, Tammy, Daniella, a 50th for Tom, and 300th runs for Michael and Kara.

‍

A routine but well-executed marine assist was carried out on January 15 after a tinny broke down in Bluff Bay while crabbing, with three people on board.

The call for assistance came in at 10.20am, reporting the disabled vessel.

Rescue vessel WS31 was tasked to respond, with crew members quickly mobilising at Coral Sea Marina.

Following a comprehensive risk assessment, conditions were deemed ideal for the operation, with no wind, flat seas, minimal tidal movement and a short travel distance. WS31 departed shortly after, with the crew arriving on scene at 11.20am.

The operation proceeded smoothly, with the tinny secured and towed without incident to Whisper Bay. The vessel was safely dropped off at the end of the ramp finger, allowing those on board to return ashore.

WS31 then returned to Coral Sea Marina, where the vessel was refuelled, docked and washed down before the trip log was completed at 12.30pm.

Crew members Nat R and Ray L were involved in the assist, with Geoff S acting as skipper.

The job was completed efficiently and without complications, highlighting the importance of preparedness and favourable conditions when responding to marine incidents.

‍

After a great Christmas break, players were keen to get back on the green, although the warm weather has certainly set in.

Tuesday afternoon winners were Bron Tolcher, Shirley Jones and Cliff Querro, who defeated Stumpy Adams, Gordon Querro and Laurie Land. In the other game, Jocelyn De Franciscis, Marg Wilson and Mark Drummond defeated Lindy Suann, Deb Retchless and Linda Scells. The large jackpot, which has carried over from last year, still remains intact.

The ladies competition has now been called. Any queries can be directed to Games Director Linda Scells. Congratulations to Denise Wallace on her selection in the District side, which will compete in the Northern Women’s Challenge in Mackay in March.

On Sunday afternoon, two pairs games and one triples game were played. Winners were Jocelyn De Franciscis and Pat Tracey, who defeated Jim Quod and Stuart Jeal. The Sunday jackpot was also won in this game, with nine shots the difference. In the other matches, Deb Retchless and Gavin Charles defeated B Querro and T Willshire, while Skin Querro, Celly Jeal and Allan Rolfe defeated Toni Bowen, Alby Vigar and Fely Duncan.

This Saturday at 10am, the club will be reviewing its bylaws. All members are invited to attend.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

‍

Winners for Sunday Jocelyn De Franciscis and Pat Tracey. Photo supplied

‍

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Photos supplied

‍

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‍

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

‍

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

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

Weekly Results

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Joy Block

‍

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

‍

RUNNING

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

‍

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

‍

CARDS

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

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

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

‍

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

‍

SOFTBALL

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

‍

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

‍

PGC COMPETITION RESULTS - WEEK ENDING 11/1/2026

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

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

TUESDAY 6/1/26
PGC - Single Stableford

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COURSE CLOSED - WEATHER - CYCLONE WATCH

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

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

‍

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‍

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

‍

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Swimming Club

‍

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

‍

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

‍