Sports

New Partnership Strengthens Cutters Care Initiative

New Partnership Strengthens Cutters Care Initiative

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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Sea Eagles Tame The Tigers

Sea Eagles Tame The Tigers

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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Mateship and Rivalry Shine In CQ Darby Clash

Mateship and Rivalry Shine In CQ Darby Clash

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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Club Championship Pairs Results - At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Club Championship Pairs Results - At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

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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Proserpine Bowls Report

August 24, 2023

A Big Week Of Bowls

As the weather cools down south, we are enjoying the company of regular yearly visitors.  

Welcome back to Carol and Nev Smith, Bob and Sharon Ross, and Ian and Yvonne Capp.

On Wednesday, we had two games of triples.  

John Anderson, Jim Bownds, and Philip Brown defeated Alen Sanderson, Pat Bownds, and Carol Smith 27 - 12.  

In the other game of triples, we started off with Harry Craig playing double lead, Barry Zillmann, and Heather Brown against Harry, Arthur Griffith, and Nev Smith.  

After smoko, this team morphed into a game of pairs with Harry going off to play an unscheduled game of B Singles, Heather leaving to mark that game and Josh Wilson stepping into the game.  

The conclusion was played as a game of pairs Josh Wilson and Barry Zillmann defeated Arthur Griffith and Nev Smith 28 - 27.

In the B Singles game Gavin Noonan got off to a flying start but bit by bit Harry Craig whittled that lead down.  

Both players playing tenaciously great bowls throughout the game.  

Gavin Noonan defeated Harry Craig 26 - 17.

On Saturday morning the Semi Finals of the Men's Club Championship Fours were played.  

Harry Craig, Marcus Craig, Isaac Elliott, and Toby Craig defeated Ken Watts, Kendall Watts, Gavin Noonan, and Brett Saroglia 29 - 10; Michael Kinnear, Luchie Gardel, Grahame Kinnear, and Barry Saroglia defeated Shane Kinnear, Todd Leys, Scott Hamilton, and Gavin Milne 28 - 13.  

On Saturday afternoon the Finals were played.  

Barry Saroglia's team defeated Toby Craig's team 27 - 11.

Sunday afternoon we played two games of triples in Social bowls.

Philip Brown played double second.

Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown, and Heather Brown defeated John Burnett, Philip Brown and Nev Smith 26 - 22; Ian Capp, Carol Smith and Sandy Daffara defeated Margie Burnett, Arthur Griffith, and Yvonne Capp 27 - 15.  

Great fun and intense competitiveness were evident on both rinks.


Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

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Wangaratta Bowls Report

August 24, 2023

Monday was back to normal last week with a full green of triples.

Winners for the afternoon were J Haysom, R Hayton, and K Armstrong who defeated R Stitt, S Shearing, and F Wilmann.

Runners Up were M Elphinstone, I Wheeler, and C Healey defeated R Blythe, M Blythe, and N Dawson.

The jackpot didn’t go off.  

Tuesday’s winners were Steve Jablowski, Leigh and Simon Fitzgerald who defeated Gwenda Lydom, Dianne Harris, and John Robinson.

Runners Up were Sher Pearson, Keith S/Collins, and Glenn Harvey who defeated Brenda Jablowski, Sue Shearing, and L Harris.  

The jackpot didn’t go off.  

We had five rinks playing on Fun Friday.

Winners for the afternoon were A Connolly, L Jackson, and R Mundy defeated R Murrell, L Knight, and M Nesbitt

J Blackwell, D Walker, and M Hyde defeated L Harris, B Bellingham, and K McKenzie.

Brian B, Jocelyn, and Ron defeated Judy C, Carol, and Jan.

J Robb, F May, and Jim Rom defeated Helen D, M Jackson, and V Ritchie.

Louise, Bob Mc, and Peter defeated G Howie, D Harris, and Leigh N.

The jackpot didn’t go off.

The Final of the Ladies A Singles was played on Tuesday morning.

In a great match Penny Warren narrowly defeated Denise Wallace.

Then on Sunday in Crooked Kitty Denise Wallace defeated Jocelyn Defranciscis.

Competition games have been called for the next month so please check the board for your next match.  

On Saturday afternoon the ladies held the annual Monster Cent Sale.

A record crowd attended the afternoon.

Thank you to them supporting us and to our many helpers and donors of prizes to make it a great success.

We are starting night Barefoot Bowls at the club on Friday 14 July commencing at 6pm.

So if you would like to try bowls and have a fun night this is your opportunity.  

The club will be buzzing this Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday when the North Qld District Club’s best ladies’ teams will take on our Wangaratta team of Robyn Stitt, Denise Wallace, Penny Warren, and Fely Duncan as they compete to win the prestigious Premier Cup.

Wangaratta won the cup at South Townsville in 2022 which entitled them to host the event at Wangaratta this year.                                                                              Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

A Singles Finalists - Runners Up Denise Wallace and Winner Penny Warren. Photo supplied

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Proserpine Golf Report

August 24, 2023

Winner of Wednesday's stableford, with a scorching 39 pts was Tessa Aitken with Tina Badenhorst hot on her heels with 38 pts, Kath Borer also back in form on 36 pts.

NTP's were won by Trish McNeill, Pam Casey, Penny Wardroper, and Elisa Nudelman.

Thursday's Division 1 winner was Wayne Temby on 40 pts on a countback from Blake Lovelock, and Brent Franke on 39 pts.

Nicola Apruzzese had a great round of 41 pts to edge out Laurie Dakin on 40 pts and John Roser on 38 pts in Division 2.

NTP's: Peter Elms, Brendan Spann, Laurie Dakin, and John Dodds.

Mata Browne scored well in the Met Run on Friday with 22 points, followed by Peta Thomas on 19pts ahead of Brent Daniels also on 19 pts.

Chris Pirlo was the only NTP winner.

The RGH Monthly Medal ladies winner continuing her good form was Kathyn Borer on an incredible 64 nett, great round!!

Diane Chard was in 2nd place on 71 nett and Trish McNeill 3rd on 73 nett.

NTP's went to Trish McNeill and Diane Chard.

Adam Tester keeps winning every time he shows up!

A fantastic score of 65 nett to win the Men's C Grade RGH Monthly Medal, Ross Hammond and Barry Mortimer in 2nd and 3rd place with 69 and 70 nett respectively.

A Grade was won by Scott Clarke with a 66 nett, Brad Fleet and Ryan Wilkes both on 68 nett for 2nd and 3rd place.

Another sub-par round for Ryan.

Clay Coles was in great form to win the B Grade RGH Monthly Medal on 67 nett, just ahead of Karl Kirkwood and Peter Faust, both on 68 nett.

NTP winners: Gary Scotford, Scott Clarke, John Clark, and Ryan Wilkes.

27 teams competed in The Mixed Scramble on Sunday, winners were Sean Fogerty, Ryan Wilkes, Mark Thompson, and Danny Goody with an excellent score of 53.5 nett, just ahead of Ryan Kenny, Jared Leaman, Adam Hooley, and Brett Richards on 54.125.

Ash Law, Tom MacLean, Aidan Sverdloff, and Josh Mansley were close behind in 3rd position on 54.375 nett.

First and second teams will now go on to compete in the Regional Finals in October.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Club Pro Shop.

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Veterans Golf Report

August 24, 2023

What a magnificent day for our 2023 Vet’s Open with a field of 47 players. Many thanks to our generous sponsors:

Fishi who sponsored all major the prizes and Fresh Fields who supplied the Overall Champions' prizes.  

The perfect weather conditions made for some excellent scoring as the winners demonstrated, and what a glorious day to be out there, lots of sunshine, no wind, it’s no wonder we all enjoy our golf so much.

Firstly the Snake: Mandy Patterson and Beryl Nosworthy for the ladies, Ross Tong and Neil Cawthorne for the men.

NTPs:

For the ladies: Elspeth Scotford and Jacqui Wall on the 2nd, Lyn Muller and Paula McQuat on the 13th, Tiina Randmae and Jacqui Wall on the 16th.

For the men: Barry Mortimer and Nic Apruzzese on the 2nd, Peter Fox and Peter Lewis on the 13th, Larry Muller and John Strelec on the 16th.

Nett Results:  

For the ladies : Jenny Hounsell (A) with a nett 80 and Tessa Aitken (B) with 78 were the runners up for the ladies, the winners were Tiina Randmae (A) with 67 and Kathryn Borer (B) with 76.

For the men: Runners up were Jim Cochrane (A) with nett 69 and Peter Lewis (B) with 73, the winners were John Wallace (A) with a nett 67 and Neil Cawthorne (B) with 72.

Gross Results:

For the ladies: Runners-up were Elspeth Scotford (A) with a gross score of 91, and Paula McQuat (B) who scored 111 off the stick. The winners were Mandy Patterson (A) with a gross score of 88 and Jacqui Wall (B) with 99 off the stick.

For the men: Runners-up were Michael Cragg with a gross score of 80 and Terry Duffy (B) and guest with 99 off the stick. The winners were Larry Muller (A) with a very impressive gross score of 77 and Billy Jesser (B) with 97 off the stick.

So our overall Champions for 2023 are:

Mandy Patterson and Larry Muller.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat.

Larry and Mandy being presented by our Club Captain Ken Granger. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Golf Report

August 24, 2023

Our weekly stableford 9-hole competition saw Tyson Flavel in first place with 20 pts, second Justin Butler with a 10 pt win and third Dee Norman with 5 pts.

Fridays 9-hole s/ford prawn run was won by Craig Kennedy with 25 pts, second David Wallace 24 pts and third Glenn Rees with 18 pts, great job gentlemen.

Sundays 18-hole s/ford saw first place awarded to Tyson Flavel with a beautiful 40 pts, second on 36 pts Marc Belke and third place saw David Wallace with a 35 c/b.

This Sunday 9th July with be our Club championships stroke.

Tee times are between 8.30am and 10.00am only, please call us to book a tee time.

07 49 46 1190 hope to see you all there.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Green Team.

Glenn Rees and Tyson Flavel. Photo supplied

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Cannons Go the Distance

August 24, 2023

This week, Cannonvale swimmers were given the opportunity to participate in a distance swim challenge.  

Swimmers in the challenge had to try and swim a target distance.  

The coaches would like to commend the following swimmers who turned up regularly and really tried hard to reach their target.  

Congratulations to:  

Lasers & Bullets:  Miller Eaves (3.1km) and Anton Bakx (3.6km)

Torpedoes:  Stevie Lee (11.5km), Connor Lee (10.2km), Koa Harland (8.76km), Harris Delac (7.66km), Evie Doherty (6.96km), Lucas and Jasper Korosec (3.86km)

Missiles, Cannons and Guns:  Jacob Bell (26km), Tora Delac (23.5km), Andie Reynolds (23.2km), Charlie Doherty (21.5km), Jy Parkinson (20km), Isaac Pisaniello (16km), Ehsan Helou (16km), Don Algie (15.5km), Dylan Reynolds (13.1km), Celeste Orenshaw (10.5km), Millie Groom (10km), Matilda Nicholes (8.6km), Holly Perrin (8.5km)  and  Isabella Pisaniello (7.2km)

As the swimmers had trained so well all week, coaches gave them the opportunity to play water polo on Friday afternoon.  

The Cannons would like commend swimmers selected for the SNQ State and National Development Squads.

Swimmers selected for the squad were invited to attend a SNQ Swim Clinic on Medleys.  

Tora Delac, Ehsan Helou, Jy Parkinson, Anisa Helou and Jacob Bell with coaches Ken Crittenden, Jarrod Keys and Mark Erickson thoroughly enjoyed the sessions held in Mackay on Saturday, while Holly Perrin attend the workshop in Townsville.  

Swimming Queensland Coach, Barry Prime and Guest Coach, Maxine Seear (Brisbane) facilitated an awesome session on medleys with the support of SNQ coaches.  

Congratulations to all the swimmers for their outstanding efforts!  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

Cannons SNQ State and National Development Squad swimmers

Swimmers on Friday afternoon with kick set. Photos supplied

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From The Table

August 24, 2023

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures June 20, 2023:

Division 1: (Final)

BMW (Emma Widdup, Ian McKay, Ivan Perkins) d Jaguar (Tim Sheehan, Barry Patterson) 9-2. Ian d Barry 9, -3, 8, -11, 11.

Leading player: Emma Widdup.

Division 2: (Final)

Isuzu (Steve Mathieson, Andrea Nicholson, Donna Abbott) d Nissan (Graeme Walker, Will VanDeKaa, Matthew West) 6-3. Donna d Matthew 9, -6, -10, 9, 5.

Leading player: Graeme Walker.

Division 3: (Final)

Holden (Tiffany Camilleri, Trent Day, John McGee) d Hyundai (Ollie Hamelink, Duncan Sheridan, Noreen Fredericksen) 6-5. Trent d Noreen -8, 2, 10, -7, 8.

Leading player: Trent Day.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures June 20, 2023:

Division 1:

Green (Charlie Payne, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) drew Yellow (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson) 6-all. Peter d Pam -9, 10, 9, -10, 6.

Red (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Kevin Abbott) d Blue (George Camilleri, John McGee, Don Boettcher) 9-3. Branko d George -10, 4, 7, -7, 4.

Division 2:

Orange (Helen Ware, Charles Hamlett, Gerry Synnott) d White (Cheryl Pearson, Marie Taylor, Kim Daffy) 9-3. Marie d Helen -10, 8, -7, 8, 11.

Purple (Iris Grasso, Ken Best, Judi Hicks) d Pink (Robyn Bushell, John Hamelink, Fred Saliba) 7-5. John d Iris -9, 7, -8, 11, 9.

Division 3:

Grey (Sharon Muller, Ian Dodds, Allison Day) d Tan (Cheryl Aprato, Thelma Caruana, Bill Hey) 10-2. Thelma d Allison -7, 5, -11, 11, 9.

Lime (Frank Caruana, Glenda Brooks, Myles Dutton) d Aqua (Trish Zamparuti, Robyn Giles, Glenda Dutton) 7-5. Myles d Trish 10, 6, 7.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

Emma Widdup led her team to victory in the finals of Tuesday night table tennis fixtures. Photo credit: Carlie Payne

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A Sunday Morning Farmers Gallop

August 24, 2023

With nearly forty runners and supporters, the annual Farmers Gallop 5km, 17km was a much quieter affair this year with the running of the Whitehaven Beach event on the same day.

Many thanks to hostess and the club’s first Life Member, Agnes Farmer, who has generously hosted this event since the very early days of the Mackay Road Runners.  

The handicap start event had stand-in timekeeper, Julie Whibley, in full control of the proceedings with Luke Leven graciously and patiently waiting for what seemed like hours being the highest handicapped runner.

Luke was very impressive especially running in his well-used 750-kilometre shoes, passing quite a few runners throughout the challenging course that took runners from North Mackay to Slade Point, Andergrove, Beaconsfield, Mt Pleasant before hitting the finishing tape back on Evans Avenue, North Mackay.  

Lily Leven took out the 5km in a very speedy time with her brand-new birthday running shoes.  

First male in the 5km Michael Feenaghty ran extremely well to run down most of the 5km field from his handicap start as well as finishing 2nd overall ahead of Darrin Pullen, Werner VanDerLinde and Andrew Short.  

Alleny Gorrion, who’s not competitive at all, sprinted to the finish line marginally ahead of hubby Ollie with John Couldrey, David Isbister, Juyd Zahn, Daniel Stampa and Stuart Sprott closing in fast.

In the 17km, Alex Couldrey easily accounted for the distance despite little preparation, to cross the line first based on his handicap start.  

Comeback kid Craig McGahey followed only 28 seconds in deficit to claim second on handicap ahead of an amazing 17km effort from Andrew Wallace.  

Fourth overall and first female, Lisa Burns sizzled over the undulating course based on her handicap start with Shane Donnollan and Robin Stinson coasting in ahead of Carmel Mahon, Luke Leven, Shane Barben, Jo Skinner and Emma Johnson.

This Sunday’s Cape Hillsborough Reef Forest Trail 5km and 9km commences at 7am from the parkland precincts opposite the resort.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

Awaiting his handicap start time, Shane Barben, fresh from last weekend’s Cairns Half Ironman easily completed the 17km Farmers Gallop

Lily Leven finishing her 5km event to amazing form from her handicap start

Mackay Road Runners Farmers Long Gallop hostess and the very first Life member of the club, Agnes Farmer with co-life Member, Judy Zahn catch up for a chat

Robin Stinson (right) takes a well deserved break after the 17km Farmers Gallop with fellow 17km runners Lisa Burns and Craig McGahey. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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Triple Netball Treat For St Patrick’s College

August 24, 2023

Netball Excellence classes are reaping plenty of dividends for the emerging talent at St Patrick’s College Mackay.

With the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball Championships in full swing down in Brisbane, the College has ushered in a new generation of exciting young prospects.

At the recent Mackay District Secondary Schools Netball Grand Finals, St Patrick’s came away with three of the four titles on offer – winning the Year 8A, 9/10A and Open A competitions against rivals Holy Spirit College and finishing runners up in the Year 7A category at the Mackay Netball Association courts.

Under the guidance of Di Bailey and Sally Redfern, the St Patrick’s Firebirds toppled Holy Spirit First VII 25-22 to clinch a fourth consecutive Open A premiership.

The team featured Queensland Secondary Schools goalkeeper Shaylah Pershouse, Australian Indigenous centre Ainsley Carey, Capricornia shooter Rebecca Symons, centre court ace Tenille Cotter, Francesca Vella, Bethany McPherson, Sophie Durelli, Ella McGill, Havana Abbott and Kira Battaia.

Di Bailey also coached the winning St Patrick’s 9/10A Vixens team that defeated Holy Spirit Dovetails 33-17 in the final.

The team included Skye Mole, Jala Brown, Mackenzie Maunder, Jayda Earl, Elizabeth Zurvas, Lacie Clarke, Tahlia Anderson, Mia Pastega, Kate O’Brien and Tayla Lucas.

St Patrick’s Cougars captured the 8A trophy after sinking Holy Spirit Angels 27-18 with promising shooter Alexis Sorbello and goal defender Georgia Elbourne turning in standout performances.

The team was coached by Karissa Giumelli and also featured Emmi Burgess, Hannah Brown, Chloe Giblett, Alyssa Battaia, Milla Considine, Alexis Kavanagh, Paige Lambropoulos and Gracie Danger.

Holy Spirit Lightning edged out St Patrick’s Rays by two goals to snare the 7A title.

Rachael Arlott’s Rays squad included Bridgette Culey, Maicy Brotherston, Maddisen Hocking, Storm Liddell, Sunny Hodder, Gracie Danger, Emmi Burgess, Hannah Brown and Sammy Simpson.

By Chris Karas

St Patrick’s College Open A netball side tuned up for this week’s Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball Championships by winning a fourth successive Mackay District Secondary Schools Netball Grand Final

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Rockets Pull Off Shock Win Over Meteors In Final-Second Thriller

August 24, 2023

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

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All Abilities Cutters Raise The Curtain And The Trophy In Townsville

August 24, 2023

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

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Bowlers Showcase Skills At District Tournament

August 24, 2023

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

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Finals Berths For St Patrick’s College Mackay Colts At QISSRL Carnival

August 24, 2023

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

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Mackay Bowls Club News

August 24, 2023

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

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Capras Overpower Cutters In Rocky

August 24, 2023

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

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