
With Fitness Cartel Corporate Memberships Mackay businesses now have a game-changing way to invest in their employees’ health and wellbeing with Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program. Designed for organisations looking to prioritise fitness, health, and workplace wellness, these memberships give staff access to ultramodern facilities, expert-led classes, and personalised training support — all tailored to the needs of a busy workforce. Whether your team wants to lift, stretch, spin, or recover, Fitness Cartel has it covered. Members enjoy 24/7 access to all clubs, over 500 pieces of strength and cardio equipment, and dedicated zones for Reformer Pilates, functional training, and cycling. The Mackay location also features a fully equipped Wellness Centre, including hot rock saunas, hot and cold plunge pools, Normatec compression boots, red light therapy, and a range of post-workout recovery options to suit every need. Group fitness is a highlight for corporate members, with unlimited access to more than 100 classes per week across 4 different training studios inside the Mackay Club. Options range from Les Mills’ Body Combat, Body Pump, Body Balance And RPM, to yoga, Mat Pilates, Zumba, and functional training sessions. Virtual classes are also available 24/7, offering flexibility for early birds or night owls. For businesses with families on the team, Kids Cartel provides a safe, engaging crèche and playground, ensuring parents can focus on their workout while children enjoy supervised play. Employees can also enjoy the Cartel Café, offering nutritious meals and snacks to fuel their workouts, or browse the on-site nutrition and pro shop. Corporate packages at Fitness Cartel are designed to elevate workplace wellness programs. Beyond improving fitness levels, they promote team bonding, boost morale, and create a positive, healthy work culture. Monthly body scans, personal training sessions, and precision programming help staff track progress and achieve their health goals, making corporate wellness a practical and measurable benefit for businesses. “The Fitness Cartel Corporate Membership Program is all about empowering teams to reach their health and fitness goals, while giving employers an easy way to support workplace wellbeing,” said Mackay Co-Franchisee Cliff Forster. With multiple locations and more planned nationwide, employees have seamless access to premium fitness facilities no matter where they are. For Mackay businesses looking to invest in their teams, Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program offers the ultimate combination of fitness, recovery, and community, all under one roof. For more information or to arrange a corporate membership, contact Fitness Cartel Mackay at mackay@fitnesscartel.com.au or call (07) 4881 0365
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At North Mackay Bowls Club North Mackay Bowls club Presentation night was held on Saturday 29/11/2025, with many of our bowlers and significant others attending. Following a lovely dinner prepared by the super chefs at Goosies, the Ladies section held their presentation first, with many excited winners receiving certificates and renumeration. Results: Champ Pairs : Deb Mackenzie and Chris Woo Champ Triples : Nug Pratt, Val De Pinto, Marie Bragg Champ Fours : Lorna Bowers, Deb Mackenzie, Coral Francis, Donna Gordon B Pairs : Ann Smith ans Min Andrew Over 70’s : Lorna Bowers Graded 4’s Lorraine Silman, Doris Dodds, Helen Fleming, Min Andrew Graded 3 B Triples : Lois Deguara, Helen Fleming, Sue Roscoe Graded 2 B Triples : Donna Gordon, Carmel Bell, Hilary Jones-Rowan Consistency : Cheryl Corbett Division 1 Winning Pennant Team going on to play in Emerald ( Leichhardt District ) and then to Tweed Heads(Qld Division) Coming 4th in the State. Well done to all the ladies in the team. The Bowler of the Year award was presented to the player who claimed the Championship Singles, ‘B’ Singles and Under 70s Singles titles, with the honour bestowed on Brenda Trannore. Brenda graciously accepted the accolade, delivering a heartfelt speech in which she thanked those who had supported and guided her throughout her bowls journey, acknowledging the achievement as a significant milestone in both her life and her bowls career. Amazing and Well Done Brenda. The Mens Section had their 2025 Presentation next, with many of the bowlers happy with their performances on the green an in competitions, Pennant and away games. Results: Mixed Pairs : Neil Blucher and Lois Deguara Mixed Fours ; Pam Spencer, Ken Rix, Carmel Bell, Dave Mc Kendry B Singles : Eric Galletly, B Pairs : Eric Gallantly John Kennell Senior Singles : Geoff Ollett 2 B Triples : Andrew Coates, Clive Wales, Peter Blackburn. 3 B Triples : Shane Trannore, Wayne Trannore, Dave McKendry A Fours : Ben Crocker, Col Crocker, Ian Beveridge, Joe Crocker A Pairs : Mick Walsh and Steve Lane A Singles : Alan Cooney Club Person of the Year was voted in as a tie this year, and went to Wayne and Shane Trennore. It was a super evening for the Trannore name in bowls for our Club. Wayne Trannore responded on behalf of his brother Shane, also thanking those involved with the club and their fantastic award. Contributed by Sue Hazledine
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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club Results For Week Ending Saturday 13th December 2025 Monday 8th December 2025 – 6 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Jewel Schmidt - Janine Rodgers 2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 2nd Shirley Worland - Janice Mansfield 3rd Geoffrey Patterson - Noel Bugeia 3rd Jayne Johnstone - Clare Wallace Tuesday 9th December 2025 – 3 ½ Table Howell Green Points 1st Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia 2nd Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy 3rd Richard Wix - Tex Sheedy Wednesday 10th December 2025 –10 Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Martin Pearce - Sue Mayer-Miller 2nd Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 2nd Janet Hansen - Alan Brown 3rd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 3rd Gwen Liddell - Anne Lutz 4th Annette Howe - Diane Stokes 4th Mary Rose Ramsden - Patrick Rasmussen 5th Lorna Shuttlewood - Tex Sheedy 5th Sandy Patterson - Joy Hold Thursday Evening 11th December 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Joy Hold - Patricia Garner 1st Noel Bugeia - Tex Sheedy 2nd Geoff Taylor - Anne Lutz 2nd Martin Pearce - Simon Barnes Friday 12th December 2025 –7 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 1st David Ting - Ming Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix 2nd Julie O'neill - Ann Whitmore 3rd Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 3rd Christine Nice - Diane Cox 3rd Martin Pearce - Gwen Liddell Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section A (Christmas Party )– 8 Table Mitchell - Green Points North/South East/West 1st Victor Mason - Ann Whitmore 1st Marilin Robins - Mick Robins 2nd Geoff Taylor - Margaret Lane 2nd Faye Wright - Tex Sheedy 3rd Monica Darley - David Hird 3rd Diane Stokes - Annie Lynch 4th Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless 4th Noel Bugeia - Pamela Finger Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section B (Christmas Party)– 9 Table Mitchell - Green Points North/South East/West 1st Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 1st Janet Hansen - Thelma Caruana 2nd Ming Ting - David Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix 3rd Alan Brown - Frances Brown 3rd Susan Gibson - Karen Caldwell 4th Christopher Meyers - Sandy Patterson 4th Eric Goodchild - Debra Goodchild Contributed by Robert Carless
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With Mackay Road Runners With temperatures feeling closer to 35 degrees and no rain in sight, it was a very Mackay-style lead-up to Christmas at this week’s Bluewater Quay Social Run. Forget a white Christmas, runners were treated to hot, testing conditions during the afternoon’s 5km and 10km events. Race Director Andrew Short was thanked for delivering another successful run, despite the heat, with welcome relief provided by Zooper Doopers and Red Dog’s rehydration options, which were greatly appreciated by participants. The next Bluewater Quay social run, commencing at 4.30pm next Sunday, will be the final event before Christmas. Runners are encouraged to come along for a festive group photo and stay on for a Christmas drink afterwards. Some of the best photos may feature in this Mackay Life Newspaper and the Mackay Road Runners 2026 calendar, described humorously as a firefighter-style calendar, but with clothes. Congratulations were extended to all participants for their efforts in challenging conditions, with a reminder for runners to continue training and racing in such conditions to stay healthy and safe. “Thank you to Mackay & Whitsunday Life magazine for their awesome support of the Mackay Road Runners Club!”
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Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Men and Women kicked off their 2023 Season campaigns on Saturday with openers against Eastern Swans at Rogers Oval.
The first match of 2023 for the Sea Eagles Senior Women saw a different looking team with nine new players coming into the team - some moving up from Juniors and others new recruits.
After a relatively successful Preseason Carnival saw some wins on the board, the Sea Eagles Women showed what they are capable of this year, smashing the Eastern Swans 44–8 and opening their campaign for the cup in style.
Putting in some hard yards at preseason training is showing early rewards for the team coming together to work the ball forward and hit the scoreboard.
Sea Eagles Senior Men debuted eight players after a number of players moved in the off season.
The side’s first match up began in sluggish fashion with Eastern Swans getting the jump early putting a number of goals on the scoreboard.
Sea Eagles were able to work their way back into the game by the end of the second quarter leading to the Swans coming out again hard after half time to increase their lead.
Sea Eagles continued to gel and were able to reduce Swans lead to only 2 goals however were unable to make it over the line in the end losing 53–66.
With this weekend a bye and Easter to follow, Sea Eagles Seniors will resume their competition on April 15, with Senior Men travelling to the Hawks at Harrup Park and Senior Women heading out to Moranbah with Sea Eagles Under 17s to match the Bulldogs.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles
The Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Women won their first game in a comfortable 44-8 against Eastern Swans
Image: Lucia Bates

Tuesday’s Winners were Stumpy Adams, Laurie Land, and Kevin Jewel against Gwenda Lydom, Denise Wallace, and Penny Warren at Wangaratta Bowls Club.
Tracey Stanford, Deb Retchless, Robyn Stitt, and Marg Wilson joined the winner’s circle for the Tuesday competition, defeating Bron Tolcher, Merle Elphinstone, Sue Shearing, and Isobel Wheeler.
Club Competition Ladies handicapped consistency results went to Jocelyn Defranciscis, who defeated Robyn Stitt.
Ladies A Pairs: Denise Wallace and Penny Warren defeated Merle Elphinstone and Isobel Wheeler. And in the Men’s A Singles, Greg Colquhoun defeated Jason Wright.
Sunday social bowls resulted in the winners coming out on Rink 5: Merle Elphinstone, Penny Warren, and Kevin Jewell defeated Deb Retchless, Sue Shearing, and Kennedy Whitton.
Other results saw Robyn Stitt, Teresa Willshire, and Geoff Danvers defeat Irene Laird, Linda Scells, and Allan Rolfe. Roger Mumby, Isobel Wheeler, and Mark Drummond defeated Bill Myers, Lyn Danvers, and Kevin Daniels. Bron Tolcher, Laurie Land, and Greg Colquhoun defeated Lindy Suann, Graeme Read, and Pat Tracey.
On Saturday Bowen Bowling Board of Control second round of Men’s local pennant resulted in Bowen Bowls Club defeating Collinsville with three match wins eight rinks plus 90.
The final round will be played against Wangaratta in Collinsville in June.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren
Tuesday’s Winners were Stumpy Adams, Laurie Land, and Kevin Jewel against Gwenda Lydom, Denise Wallace, and Penny Warren at Wangaratta Bowls Club.Tracey Stanford, Deb Retchless, Robyn Stitt, and Marg Wilson joined the winner’s circle for the Tuesday competition, defeating Bron Tolcher, Merle Elphinstone, Sue Shearing, and Isobel Wheeler.

Returning to BB Print Stadium for the second week in a row, the Hostplus Cup Mackay Cutters were once again unable to capitalise on a close match, finishing off a huge day of local rugby league last Saturday.
The Townsville Blackhawks were off and racing early, with fullback Jodeci Baker-Tiraha scoring in the second minute.
The Cutters were quick to hit back after second rower Luke Webley crossed to even things up in the first 10 minutes.
It was to be the only first-half try for the home side, with Mckenzie Baker scoring in the 15th and Baker-Tiraha scoring his second in the 23rd, giving the visitors a 6-18 lead at half time.
The Blackhawks started their second half in a similar fashion, with tries in the 44th and 61st minutes to Mitchell Dunn and Robert Derby all but sealing the deal.
At 6-28, the seemingly insurmountable lead narrowed in the 67th minute as winger Jake Riley crossed for the home side’s second try.
Inspiring a late comeback, tries to Logen Dillon in the 71st minute and Hiale Roycroft in the 77th got the Cutters within striking distance but it was too little too late.
The Blackhawks hung on to win 22-28, handing the Cutters their third loss of the season, losing by six points or less two weeks in a row.
Meanwhile, the BMD Cutters travelled to Townsville on Saturday to take on the Burleigh Bears, suffering the first loss of their inaugural season.
The Bears showed their intent early, scoring twice in the first 11 minutes before Sareka Mooka scored for the Cutters in the 25th.
Tazmin Gray scored her second try for the Bears late in the first half, with the visitors hitting the sheds with a 4-16 lead.
The Bears piled on the tries in the second half, with a Caitlyn Ah Fook hat-trick helping them to a 34-4 lead with five minutes to go.
Two late consolation tries came to the Cutters thanks to Shannon Mato and Tahlulah Tillett, resulting in the Cutters going down 14-34.
Earlier in the day at BB Print Stadium, the Hastings Deering Colts Cutters went down to the Blackhawks 18-40, the Harvey Norman U19s went down 16-20, the Mal Meninga Cup squad went down 16-50 and the Cyril Connell Cup Cutters went down 4-24.
The Cutters return to BB Print Stadium this Saturday, with all six teams taking the field in a massive day of rugby league; gates open at 9:15am.
Last week was a winless one, with all six Cutters squads experiencing losses. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

Proserpine Bowls Club bowlers attended the annual Northern Challenge played at Northern Beaches in Mackay last weekend.
North Queensland came out overall winners with Mackay taking second and third place, with five Proserpine players taking roles in the Mackay teams.
Proserpine players Wayne Handley and Grahame Kinnear were selected to participate in District Sides at Coolum in May after their excellent performances.
On Wednesday, there were ten players for social bowls and Sandy Daffara and Bruce Uhe defeated Pat Bownds and Philip Brown 42-11; while John Anderson, Jim Bownds, and Warren Wilson defeated Alen Sanderson, Mike Harrison, and Barry Zillmann 29-10.
On Sunday, the club welcomed visitors from Capricorn Tourers Caravan Club for a game of Social Bowls – thanks to Bruce and Barbara Uhe for the work done in preparing food.
The participants had an absolutely fabulous day and will go away from our District with their game of bowls a highlight of their week in town.
Jenny Cox, George Baxter, and Jim Quod defeated Christine Hansen, Alen Sanderson, and Heather Brown, 19–15.
Michael Hong, Bev Burton and Philip Brown defeated Donny Wandery, Colleen McDonald and Yvonne Wilson 24-11.
Sonny Cox, John Anderson and Sandy Daffara defeated Gary Benney, Kay Hong, and Warren Wilson 24-8; and Marion Maxter, Mike Harrison, and Bruce Uhe defeated Mary Benney, Mike Harrison, and Mary Hedgelong, 23-10.
Pennants Season will begin soon. Available players may sign their name on the noticeboard sheet on at the club, or speak with Barry Saroglia.
The Singles game of Mike Harrison v Kendall Watts will be played on Wednesday starting at 4.00pm.
Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown
Capricornia Caravan Touring Club with Proserpine member Jim Quod at the Bowls Club on Social Bowls Sunday

Mackay State High School are the Mackay School Sport Girls Year 7/8 Rugby League champions for 2023.
The Milton Street school staved off a spirited challenge from St Patrick’s College in wet conditions to claim the title with a 20-6 Grand Final victory at the Mackay Junior League Fields.
Bolstered by the recruitment of ace playmaker Vitea Parter from St Patrick’s in recent weeks, the Mackay State High girls showed their class and power to bring home the trophy.
Under the coaching of talented Mackay Cutters utility Harry Thorpe, the St Patrick’s outfit finished the season on a strong note.
“The girls improved with each match and recorded some impressive victories during the competition,” revealed a proud Thorpe post-match.
“Highlight was the recent win over Mackay State High where the girls played smart football in a top team effort,” he said.
“Unfortunately, they couldn’t reproduce their best in the Grand Final but the girls tried valiantly in abysmal conditions against a very strong MSH side” Thorpe added.
The loss of Magpies rugby league star Parter, an outstanding all round sportswoman, on the eve of the finals was a savage blow to the St Patrick’s camp.
Coach Thorpe and manager Nicole Martin praised the efforts of promising hooker Jade Williams, hard working second rower Jess McLennan, fullback Jacqueline ‘Gee Gee” Walsh, centre Stella Cullen, winger Indy Jorgensen, centre and utility forward Chelsea Webb and strong running forward Brianna Renehan.
“They led the way with strong performances each week and showed that determination and a never-say-die attitude can take you a long way,” said Nicole.
“Our girls were brave against a powerful MSH team and thoroughly deserved a crack at the title” she added.
By Chris Karas
St Patrick’s College Girls Year 7/8 team Standing L-R Cleo Daly, Chloe Townsend, Chelsea Webb, Jess McLennan, Isla Linwood, Asher Grigg, Mia Pullen, Lilah Lewis, Rose Bradley; front Hannah Ness, Mia Hill, Indy Jorgensen, Brianna Renehan, Jade Williams, Layla Bungay, Zakayah Day, Stella Cullen, Jacqueline Walsh. Absent: Rihanna Andrew. Photo supplied

Tuesday afternoon Ladies Day at Airlie Beach Bowls Club hosted a spectacular display of bowls by Regina Aqualina, and Robin and John Brown in an impressive victory.
Wednesday afternoon Jackpot bowls had a huge winner in John Askew’s team of Tony Kelly and Eric Barnard.
The side were at their ultimate best time after time and commanding a 32-15 win for the prize mone, whilst Mario De Martini took home the Health Hub Award.
Wednesday night Business House Bowls: Hadlow Racing and Tuk Tuks finish on top and will play each other this week for their name on the trophy.
Thursday afternoon will see the final of the school’s three bowls triples with a sausage sizzle and prize giving to end the term.
Saturday morning was the return of Scroungers, and the first round winners Tony Whitehorn, Russell Jackson, Betty Whitehorn, and John Askew.
The semi-finals were between Tony and Betty Whitehorn, which Tony won. The second semi-final was between John and Russell, with Russell winning that contest, but the final belonged to Tony with a fantastic win. Margo Stanley won Group B.
Sunday afternoon had a big roll up and it was again the Tony Whitehorn show with an impressive victory with his talented team of Dawn Dowel and Lu Rogan.
Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Six of Mackay’s best young rugby league prospects will showcase their skills in coming weeks at one of the State’s best showpiece schoolboy tournaments.
Emerging St Patrick’s College colts in halfback Jaxon Purdue, hooker Xavier Kerrisk, fullback Will Shears, lock forward Kayne Smith, centre Tenzin Cantor and prop Tyler Shandiman are players to watch when they line up for the Capricornia 18yrs team at the Queensland School Sport State Championships in Townsville on May 22-23.
The tournament is the breeding ground for future NRL, State of Origin and Kangaroos stars and a stepping stone into the code’s highly competitive professional ranks.
Queensland Country Under 17s playmaker Purdue and classy number nine Kerrisk along with dashing custodian Shears and ball playing lock Smith are already contracted to the North Queensland Cowboys and have bright futures in the game.
Shears and Smith impressed Cowboys officials during a Young Guns pre-season camp in Townsville while Cantor and Shandiman add size and strength to a powerful and well drilled Capricornia representative squad that is tipped to figure in the State Championship play-offs.
All six are key players for Ian Schifilliti’s much vaunted St Patrick’s College Open Boys team that are strong contenders for this year’s Confraternity Shield and Aaron Payne Cup titles.
The super six are also trump cards for the Mackay Cutters Under 18s side that are currently entrenched in the top six of the Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup competition after five rounds.
Meanwhile five St Patrick’s College students feature in the Capricornia 14-15yrs rugby league representative squad that will also compete at the Queensland School Sport State Championships in Townsville on May 22-23.
Young guns Adam McSherry, George Gofton, Sam Anderson, Norm Campbell and Eli Cookson were selected after strong performances at schoolboy and Junior League level.
McSherry, a premiership winning five eighth with the Brothers Bulldogs, will skipper the Capricornia team.
By Chris Karas
St Patrick’s College Mackay rugby league stars l to r Xavier Kerrisk, Tyler Shandiman, Kayne Smith, Jaxon Purdue, Will Shears and Tenzin Cantor will represent Capricornia at the Queensland School Sport Rugby League State Championships in Townsville from May 22-23. Photo supplied

The first round of the three-round-three-person ambrose sponsored by Whitsunday Concrete Constructions and Proserpine Golf Club was played last weekend with 30 players forming teams to compete.
The winning team at Whitsunday Social Golf for round one on 61.5 nett was Darren Reyolds, Vicki Tuckm and Scott Vlismas.
Second place on 62.3 went to Jason Bourke, Pam Casey, and Clay Coles, and third place on 62.5 was Roger Vandenberg, Karen Rix, and Don Cameron.
Longest drivers were claimed by Darren Reynolds, Mark McDougall, Penny Wardroper, and Karen Rix.
Nearest the pins were Jason, Pam, Clay, Dave Hoy, Anna Winterbourn, Ron Jamieson, Karen, Roger, Don, Scott, Vicki, and Darren.
NAGA award went to Paul Nicol, Pauline Redpath, and Tiina Randmae.
Next Sunday will be the Club’s April monthly medal.
Contributed with thanks to Joanne Moynihan
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The weather was the winner last week at Proserpine Golf Club, defeating everyone on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
The Club managed to head back on the course on Friday for the 9-hole social competition where Paul Gray led the way, winning the Metropole Hotel Voucher on 20 points, and narrowly defeating Harry Milne on a countback.
Michael Cragg came in third with 19 points and the Club’s new member Karlene Lloyd carded an impressive 18 for fourth position.
Paul Gray and John Roser were the Nearest The Pin winners.
Kenny Todd and Conrad Werner edged out their nearest competitors by just one point on Saturday with 45 to take out the 4BBB stableford competition ahead of Mark Richards and Jill Farinelli on 44 pts.
Kelvin Stephens and Lewis Tuck in third position with close 43.
There were only 2x2 shots for the day - Brian Allen and Andrew Colborne - and the NTP winners were John Wallace, Tina Badenhorst, Paul Joice, and Trish McNeill.
Contributed with thanks to The Proserpine Golf Club Pro Shop Team

Ella Bounden is a name to watch in the world of swimming. At the young age of 13 years, she is already piquing interest and achieving goals one can only dream about.
Ella started swimming at six years old, always having swam with the Pioneer Swimming Club. Ella’s growth as an athlete and focus to her goals in the sport of swimming is phenomenal at such a young age.
She tells us her favourite coach to date is “Igor of course” – he has fostered this love and mentored a strong and formidable athlete. Ella tells us she loves how Igor can tailor training for each of the swimmers in the squad to ensure they are each being challenged every session.
Ella’s “pet” stroke is Backstroke – the 50 or 100 metre events. The 2022-2023 season has seen Ella break an extraordinary number of personal bests but also achieve qualifying times for State and National events! Ella swam at the December 2022 McDonald’s Queensland Championships, the February 2023 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Sprint Championships and now has qualified and will attend the 2023 Australian Age Championships in April. Ella’s next goal is to join the Junior World Championship Trials – watch out!
She tells us she looks up to Australian Swimmer, Isaac Cooper. He also loves Backstroke but she loves his determination to keep trying despite what gets thrown at him.
Ella is excited for Nationals in April – not just because it is Nationals, but because it is something different, exciting, and new to experience. The Pioneer Swimming Club has not had a swimmer qualify for nationals in a long time and she is excited to represent the club on this stage. The Club is certainly proud of her!
Ella is such a delight in our club – she is always happy, always smiling and always focused and eager to swim. She tells us she loves her club – “it is fun, inclusive and a great environment” but she also loves how the club is always doing something, be it training, club nights, carnivals, dinners and barbeques.
The Club looks forward to hearing Ella’s experience at Nationals and wish her the best of luck!
Contributed by Tahnie Malagueno
The moment Ella Bounden knew she made a national time
Ella at NQ Champs. Photos supplied

Wednesday’s competition at Bowen Golf Club was a single par event sponsored by the Club, with Ladies’ winner Kim Bennion on a comfortable +3.
Runner up for the women was Bonnie Kohlhase, 0, and Men’s winner on a countback was Paul Martin +2, followed by Kurt Bidgood, also +2.
Saturday’s competition was a 4BBB stroke event for the Men's double Matchplay qualifier with winners on 61 nett in the men’s Craig Newell and Michael Mawson.
Runners-up were Greg Fairs and Tom Wikander 62 nett.
Sunday was the ladies double Matchplay qualifier and winners with 63 nett were Jo Kukura and Julie Martin, while runners up were Meg and Claire Garrod, 64 nett.
Pin shots to Leanne Swan, Grace Nott, Annie Mason, and Julie May.
The Club will host another split round again this weekend: Men and Ladies will play a stroke event for the April Monthly medals; Ladies play on Saturday and Men on Sunday.
Both competitions are sponsored by Bowen Meat Supply and Bowen Golf club.
Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott
Bowen Golf Club’s Ladies’ 4BBB winners

The Cannonvale Cannons hosted their last weekly Club Night for the swim season last Wednesday, beginning the occasion with a presentation to its National Team representatives.
Swimmers Jacob Bell, Holly Perrin, Jy Parkinson, Ehsan and Anisa Helou, and coach Mark Erickson will represent the region in attending the Australian Age Championships and were presented with a special pack and shirt by the local swimming club.
The Cannons also extended their best wishes to Isabella Pisaniello, Ruby Harland, Don Algie, Jax Clayworth, Anis and Ehsan Helou, Remy Hedges, Holly Perrin, Jacob Bell, and Jy Parkinson in their selection for the North Queensland School Swim teams at the Queensland championships this week in Brisbane.
At the Club Night, Club Official Jane Delac presented Jax Clayworth and Ehsan Helou with Club Records.
Jax set records for 50-metre Butterfly - in 38.6 seconds - and the 100-metre IM in 1.29.55, while Ehsan set a record for 50-metre Breaststroke in a time of 34.06 seconds.
The Chocolate Awards for the best personal bests were presented to Bianca Anderson, Millie Groom, and Harris Delac.
Upgrade Certificates were presented to Evie Doherty, Roxy Groom, Declan Dichiera, Isaac Pisaniello, Stevie Lee, Jasper Korosec, Isabella Pisaniello, Zach Trefz, Zane Clayworth, Harry Crisp, Millie Groom, Abi Maher, and Anisa Helou.
Highlights from Club Night include - top performers achieving the most personal bestss: Bianca Anderson, Clare Anderson, Liam Filewood, Indi Smith, Isabella Pisaniello, Isaac Pisaniello, Connor Lee, Jack Ganter, Roxy Groom, Ehsan Helou, Lucas Korosec, Celeste Orenshaw, and Charlie Doherty.
Jax Clayworth swimming an excellent 200-metre IM in a time of 3.16.71 which was a 14.82 second personal best. Addie Sanders swam an awesome 25-metre Butterfly in a time of 25.62 seconds.
Roxy Groom swam an impressive time of 2.01.17 in her 100-metre Breaststroke and Connor Lee swam a 7.70 second personal best in his 50-metre Butterfly.
Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen
Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club swimmers Mark Ehsan, Holly Anisa, and Jacob will represent the region at the Australian Age Championships

This week 82 participants ran, jogged, and walked the five-kilometre waterfront course with new personal bests achieved by Lotte, Hudson, Kendell, Ian, Stephanie, Leighann, Melissa, Rosalyn, Emma, Michelle, Grant, and Elizabeth.
Jack and Kaitlyn completed their first parkrun and visitors Bethan, Ewan, Claire, Patrick, Ben, Michael, Leah, Zoe, Colleen, Juanita, and Michele.
Several milestones were celebrated; 25 parkruns as a volunteer for Sarah; 50 volunteers and 50 parkruns for Tail Walker Lynne; 100 parkruns for Stuart; 100 parkruns for Michael; and 100 parkruns for Sue.
The event was made possible thanks to RD Kara and her team of 14 fabulous volunteers: Nick, Kathryn, Andrea, Nathalie, Toma, Darlene, Ashley, Jolie, Aiden, Gus, Lynne, Dennis, Joanne and Emma.
Every Saturday Airlie Beach parkrun meets at 6:50am for a briefing at area D, Coral Sea Marina (adjacent to the top carpark). Parking is free in the lowest carpark till 9:30am if a parkrun barcode is placed on the dashboard. Post parkrun coffee and chat is held at My Rainbow Bakery & Cafe.
The best-kept secret about parkrun is that it’s not about running - it’s about bringing people together in public parks and open spaces across the world to have some fun in a friendly, social and supportive environment. You can walk or run the 5k course (pushing a pram or with one dog on a short lead if you want to!), lend a helping hand as a volunteer in a wide range of super-easy roles, or simply spectate and socialise on the sidelines.
There are no winners at parkrun and nobody comes last – the Tail walkers do. Regular participation is rewarded rather than performance, with ‘parkrun milestone shirts’ available to people to recognise their achievements in coming along.
Contributed with thanks to Airlie Beach parkrun
Most of the wonderful Airlie Beach parkrun volunteer team
Stuart completed his 100th parkrun last weekend

This week’s Airlie Beach Darts Premier League action began with a round three catch up match between Gary Robbie and Dom Friend.
Dom came flying out of the blocks, hitting a 180 and a few 140s in his 7/4 victory over Gary. Dom didn’t have it all his own way, though, as Gary lead the contest 3/1 during the early stages, showing positive signs for his season.
Both Gary and Dom featured again later in the day: Dom was held 6/6 with Andy Peel, whereas Gary’s day got worse, suffering a heavy 7/0 loss to Joe Wilson, who currently sits a point behind the league leader.
The round was closed out with an entertaining 6/6 draw between Arthur McMinn and Jamie Maher.
Arthur showed a lot of fight in that match, trailing 6/3 win before winning three legs on the trot to earn a valuable point.
Finally, Jamie Woods had a comfortable 7/1 win over Hawkeye Rick to go joint second on the table, equal with Joe and a point behind league leader Dom Friend.
The Premier League is sponsored by Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing, and Master Butchers Whitsunday. Thank you for supporting our club.
Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher
Round 4 Table
1. D Friend 7 pts
2. J Wilson 6 pts
3. J Woods 6 pts
4. S Rose 3 pts
5. A Peel 3 pts
6. A McMinn 3 pts
7. K Reason 3 pts
8. J Maher 3 pts
9. J Lloyd 2 pts
10. G Robbie 2 pts
11. H Rick 0 pts
2019 and 2022 league champions Andy Peel and Dom Friend doing battle at the Airlie Bowls Club on Sunday morning.

A strong south easterly wind, with gusts in excess of 25 knots, was the order of the day for the Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight race on Wednesday.
A number of boats in the 13-boat fleet chose to reef their sails to ensure a more comfortable race, while not sacrificing speed.
Treasure VIII (Rob Davis) again made a perfectly timed start to take out the Doyle Sails sponsored best start prize, maintaining good performance against the faster boats for much of the race.
Bobby’s Girl (Mark Beale) led the fleet around the first rounding mark, with QMS Ponyo (John Galloway) close behind.
Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) struggled in the strong conditions and fell away from the leaders, having a great battle against Treasure VIII, while the heavier boats, Wide Load (Shannan Hart) and Twister (Kevin Fogarty) performed best in the strong wind.
On corrected time, Twister took the honours over Wide Load and Treasure VIII.
Wobbly Boot (Craig Piccinelli) was too keen to get a good start, resulting in a recall and having to restart in the next race.
This allowed Shiraz (John Cable) to lead the fleet away, with Matchless (Terrence Stevens) close behind.
After a slow start, Wobbly Boot soon joined the action at the front of the fleet, making it a 3 way battle, with the lead constantly changing.
On the last leg of the course Wobbly Boot made a decisive move, hitting the front at the crucial time to take line honours from Matchless and Shiraz.
Further back, both Rossgo (Greg Hammon) and Masquerade (Tom Vujasinovic) missed the start, sailing in close formation to finish 4th and 5th, while Lama (Louie Tuck) followed them home.
On corrected time, Shiraz took the honours over Rossgo and Masquerade.
Contributed with thanks to Ross Chisholm
Greg Hammon’s boat Rossgo at full power in theWhitsunday Sailing Club Twilight Race on Wednesday