When the St Patrick’s College Mackay boys and girls rugby league teams saddle up for their respective campaigns in 2023 they’ll both be motivated by a common desire.

Acquiring silverware has become second nature to this proud school with a rich sporting history, and after three runners up achievements this season the rugby league cohort will be athletes on a mission.

Bringing home the Confraternity Rugby League Shield trophies, NRL Schoolgirls and Schoolboys Cups plus the Aaron Payne Cup are top priorities for the College that has spawned Kangaroos internationals in Martin Bella, Wendell Sailor, Brett Dallas, Shannon Hegarty and Daly Cherry-Evans.

Under the guidance of newly appointed coaches Ian Schifilliti (Boys) and Jake Harney (Girls), the College will field powerful and exciting squads that should prove a force to be reckoned with in 2023.

Harney, a talented half back who had stints with Wynnum Manly U/20s and Sunshine Coast Falcons in the Queensland Hostplus Cup, has assembled a very strong girls combination – with eight members back on deck next season.

Outstanding hooker Paityne Johns is one of five Capricornia representative players returning to the College along with skilful locks Gracie Watt and Shaylee Hazledine and power running props Chelsea McLeod and Ciara Thomson.

They’ll be joined by classy fullback Trinity Grigg, a try scoring wizard with sharp footwork and the ability to create havoc from all parts of the field and Mercy College graduates Keely Pitt and Paige Mooney.

The inspirational Johns is a product of the Norths Devils club and rated one of the best number nines on the Queensland schools and Junior League scene.

A wily hooker with silky passing skills, warrior Paityne has turned in consistent performances in recent seasons with her ability to read a game, no-nonsense defence and spring-heeled runs from dummy half.

Johns and her teammates are determined to lift the second annual Girls Confraternity Rugby League Shield trophy at the 2023 Carnival in Brisbane.

It is all systems go for the mighty Mackay maidens who have next year’s Confraternity Games and NRL Schoolgirls Cup Division 1 trophies on the top of their wish lists.

St Patrick’s College impressed keen judges by reaching the Grand Final of this year’s inaugural Confraternity Rugby League Girls Carnival staged in Mackay.

Marymount College from Burleigh Waters defeated a courageous St Patrick’s side 18-10 in the Shield decider.

It is that taste of big match experience that will spur this impressive and hungry St Patrick’s outfit to great heights in 2023.

The girls are reaping the benefits of a tough pre-season campaign and remain in tip-top shape following extensive strength and conditioning and skills sessions.

Nucleus of the St Patrick’s team will feature in the Mackay Cutters Under 19 Harvey Norman Women’s squad for 2023.  

An appreciative Harney will be assisted by one of the region’s best young coaches in Wanderers JRLFC mentor Imogen Healy and Girls Rugby League co-ordinator Samantha Nutt.

The respected Healy guided the club to this year’s Mackay & District Junior League Under 16s Girls Grand Final where they were beaten 10-6 by Moranbah Miners.  

St Patrick’s College top grade rugby league coach Ian Schifilliti says he is “honoured and excited” to be taking over the reins from Michael Comerford, the newly appointed Mackay Cutters Head Coach, in 2023.

“It is a privilege to step into the shoes of Michael who has shaped the St Patrick’s Rugby League Academy into a real force,” said Ian.

“Our current group is brimming with talent - we have the nucleus of this year’s champion squad returning in hooker Xavier Kerrisk, half back Jaxon Purdue, fullback Will Shears, sharp backs Bailey Anderson, Tenzin Contor and Bailey Caruana.

“Add promising Mercy colts like Saxon Crofts, Hunter Harris, Reuben Saron, Javen Ramsamy, Hudson Smith, Kooper Shears, Cohen Jackson, Toby Woodall and Lachlan Whippy to the mix and you have the ingredients for a competitive outfit in 2023,” he declared.

By Chris Karas

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St Patrick’s College Mackay’s Rugby League Class of 2023 are hungry for success next season

Mackay Road Runners off-season informal 5km and 10km training events are held every Sunday afternoon at 5:30pm from a varying location around the city.  

The northside is currently the go, where nearly thirty runners tested themselves for a single 5km loop or two loops for 10 kilometres on Sunday.  

The course started from the very popular watering hole, The Grove on Andergrove Road with Race Director, Andrew Short in charge of the course description in lieu of the usual race director, Jim Ford.

With two weeks out from the big day, runners were still fully committed to their training regimes although sensibly reducing their distances and speeds to suit the dramatically and dangerously high temperatures at this time of year.

Speedsters Rodney Elworthy and Paul Mackenzie ran a leisurely 10km compared to their usual top pace efforts with Angus Jacobs, Mick Scholer and Joe Grech also taking a welcome reduction in pace to accommodate their current racing schedules.  

Carolyn Mapes sizzled in the 5km, relaxing easily into the festive season holiday mode as did Julie Whibley and Mel Esau.  

Jo Skinner, Carmel Mahon, Kim Saron, Jo Hughes, David Isbister, Derek Woods, Andrew Short and Andrew Wallace also held great form to complete their respective events whilst Andrew Whibley cruised along with his best friend.

This Sunday’s last run before Christmas commences at the Mackay North High School end of Valley Street, North Mackay at 5:30pm.  

Participants are welcome to add a touch of tinsel or sparkle to their usual running attire as there will be a Christmas photo, however, this is optional.  

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Jo Skinner very excited about completing the 5km in the very tropical conditions

Emma Johnson and Martin Lambert co-ordinated their outfits

Natasha is enjoying her new found love for running

Mick Scholer and Joe Grech pair up in the 10km event. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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Another year draws to a close at the ever-evolving Airlie Beach Bowls Club with few games left on the green for 2022.

Wednesday afternoon Social Bowls saw the pairs team of Graham Cowling and Andrew Butler take home the prize, with Betty Nicole winning the prestigious Health Hub award.

Wednesday night saw the final of Business House Bowls organised by Kate McDowall.

A draw between new team Airlie Splash of Colour and PRD - which went to a three bowl each team play off – was the surprise of the night, but the difference was PRD’s experience which proved the factor in their winning of another trophy.

New team KC s had their first win, showing off their major improvement.

Friday night was the club’s presentation night, with Manny Isgro’s outstanding achievements notably recognised.

Representing with the Men’s Division One team, whom we’re playing their first season in this division and were expected to come last, Manny led his side to a more than respectable second.

As well, other extraordinary feats were honoured, particularly those of Betty Nicole, whom was undergoing chemotherapy but still managed a performance that puts her amongst the club’s best bowlers.

Betty played well in driving her team to represent at the Australian titles – an achievement, even more so, taking into account that the “little pocket rocket” was not overawed by the team they faced, which featured bowlers with over 50 Australian caps to their names.

Club secretary Mark Mawson said the club is now the “Number one in North Queensland”, which shows the diligence from Chairman Ash Warland and our Vice Chairman Karen Jensen.

After the presentation, it was back to the green, with Sunday afternoon social bowls seeing Graham Cowling and Keith Bates comfortably winning the prize money.

The Club also drew a respectful remembrance to the players who passed on this year: Stewart Clanachan, Robert Lade, and Peter McGrath.

“They were all inspirational members and their contributions and memories will never be forgotten,” Mr Mawson said.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Betty Nicole and Carol Crosbie with their runners up medals after coming a gallant second at the Australian titles

Bowen Bowls Club was host to an excellent contingent of bowlers this week, starting with its Wednesday Social Bowls.

Mary Ellen Pratten, Peter Bruce, and Daryl Tuttle were first to join the winners’ circle, defeating the side of Peter Thomson, Allen Williams, and Doc Fordham.

Jill Brabon, Tracey Roach, and Jane Gilbert were up next, claiming a victory over Brett Lampard, Paula Welsted, Lou Fordham.

For Sunday Scroungers, the winners comprised a few familiar names: Peter Thomson, Jill Brabon, Brett Lampard, and Tracey Roach.

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Bowen Bowls Club’s Sunday Scroungers Winners Peter Thomson, Jill Brabon, Brett Lampard, and Tracey Roach

Tuesday’s game at Wangaratta Bowls Club resulted in a win for Penny Warren and Bron Tolcher who defeated Robyn Stitt and Irene Laird.

On Sunday afternoon, two triples and one pairs were played with winners for the afternoon Deb Retchless, Linda Scells, and John Turner who defeated Gary Kelly, Penny Warren, and Pat Tracey.  

Other games saw Toni Bowen, Marg Wilson, and Kennedy Whitton defeat Irene Laird, Robyn Stitt, and Sugar Brunker. While Denise Wallace and Fely Duncan defeated Greg Colquhoun and Allan Rolfe.

The Club’s Annual General Meeting was held on Sunday, with Chairperson of the Board for 2023 being Barry Beel.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren
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Sunday’s winners at Wangaratta Bowls Club, John Turner, Deb Retchless, and Linda Scells

Wednesday’s competition at Bowen Golf Club was the single stroke event for the December midweek monthly medal.

Ladies’ winner on a countback with a score of 71 nett was Gayle, followed by runner up Julie Martin, 71 nett.

Men’s winner was Kurt Gaudry with a 64 nett, and runner up was David Carus, 69 nett.

Saturday’s competition was an American Foursomes event for Peries IGA Christmas Hams -- Thank you to Peries IGA for their continued support.

Winners were Colin Shaw and Michael Brunker, 65.375 nett, runners up Clifford Querro and Doug Power 65.5.

Pin shots to Joshua Laurie and Grace Nott, with Dave Lydom and Dylan Nott both achieving OBP’s, and Dylan also winning the Car wash voucher.

This weekend’s competition is a 4BBB event for Christmas Seafood sponsored by Rynns Seafood.  The joker draw is back this Friday night and the jackpot sits at $1000.

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

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Mike Brunker, half of Saturday’s winning team at Bowen Golf Club

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Tuesday’s Competition at Proserpine Golf Club saw a small field of seven players topped by Brian Smith on 70 nett in the PGC Tuesday nett competition, followed by John Dodds on 74, and Michael Cragg on 75 nett.

Wednesday Competition: 14 players competed in the Wednesday Medal of Medals competition, won by Trish McNeill on a nett 67, followed by Tiina Randmae and Lyn Muller on 70 and 71 nett, respectively.

NTPs were wone by Trish McNeill, Viv Demartini, Tiina Randmae, and Sue Smith.

Thursday Competition: Of the 55 players on Thursday, 14 players were shooting it out for the Thursday Medal of Medals competition.

Division One MOM was won by Ritchie Atkins on a 69 nett, and Rees May was the winner of Division Two MOM on 72 nett.

In the daily stroke event, visitor Ben Rosenthal came in with a very tidy 67 nett, closely followed by Lew Tuck on 69 nett. The Division Two winner, also on 67 nett, was Jalen Jarvis, followed by Ben Raymant on 69 nett.

NTPs went to Sam Deicke, Conrad Werner, Trish McNeill and Paul Gray

Saturday Competition: 91 players played in the combined Saturday competition of Medal of Medals and a stroke event.

A handicap altering 62 nett saw Renae Maxwell not only break 100 for the first time, but also take home the 2022 Medal of Medal championship by a margin of five shots from her nearest competitor, Di Chard on 67 nett.

Some great scores by the ladies, not to mention the 68 netts by Elspeth Scotford, Reh Hull, and Penny Wardroper.

NTPs were won by Pauline Redpath and Di Chard.

The men’s competition was won by Marcus Heathcote on a nice 67 nett, edging out Ben Raymant on a countback.

Ben, however, was competing in the Men’s Medal of Medal Championships and managed to secure two honour board events in one day.

Ben also won his Graded Matchplay final against Dave Telford.

Sam Deicke continued his good form to take out third place also on a 67 nett, and the NTPs went to Mark Richards, Jon Miller, Sam Marschke, and Brian Allen.

All Honour Board trophies will be awarded on Turkey Day this Saturday.

Sunday Competition: A quiet Sunday after the Whitsunday Club’s Christmas party with eight players playing a Stableford event with Daniel O’Donnell winning with 39 pts ahead of Brian Allen on 36pts, and Darren Reynolds on 34pts.

Looking forward to seeing everyone at Turkey Day this Saturday for a 3 ball ambrose followed by the Annual Awards Presentation.

Contributed with thanks to The Proserpine Golf Club Pro Shop Team

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This weekly competition at Whitsunday Green was won by Tyson Flavel with a whopping 21 points.

Coming in second place was Glenn Rees on a very close 20 points, and wrapping up the week in third place was Terry Kimpton, taking home 19 points.

The Club’s Friday competition this week was won by Chris Bartlett with a 19-point win. Second place went to Glenn Rees, 18, and third this Friday was Kev Francke on 17.

On Sunday, Whitsunday Green’s 18-hole SKINS Competition was a tie between Jimmy Miller and Elise Hodgson, both on 10 points.

They had a playoff with Jimmy Miller taking the win with 10 skins -- third place was Tyson Flavel on nine.

Nearest to the pin on Sunday was Terry Kimpton with two points.

This Sunday is monthly medal 18-hole (Stroke) tee off at 10.00am.

To bring in the Christmas cheer, the Club will be having a Christmas celebration to follow this week’s final monthly medal.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green Golf Club

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Chris Bartlett was this week’s 19-point winner in the Friday Club competition at Whitsunday Green

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This week 93 people ran, jogged, and walked the course, of whom 18 were first timers and nine recorded new personal bests.

Well done to Ben, Robert, Van, Nadine, Declan, Warren, Jai, and Jessica on achieving new record runs, as well as Cassie for completing her 50th parkrun.

The event was made possible by 15 wonderful volunteers: Joanne, Nick, Nathalie, Daniel, Ken, Ronald, Wendy, Dennis, Laura, Lynne, Greg, Kara, Lilliana, Michael, and Susanne.

Upcoming special runs will see runners take part in a Christmas Eve parkrun, Christmas Day parkrun, New Year’s Eve parkrun, and a New Year’s Day parkrun – start those resolutions bright and early.

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 lower carpark till 9:30am if a parkrun barcode is placed on the dashboard. Post parkrun coffee and chat is held at My Rainbow Bakery, Shingley Beach.

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

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Airlie Beach park runners heading off on the run’s seventh anniversary

Plenty of park runners were out in force for the weekly event

The Airlie Beach parkrun travels across the coastal town’s boardwalks in a five-kilometre loop

Families gathered at Airlie Beach Swim School by Danielle over the weekend to celebrate their 10 years in business with a lively pool party.

Pool toys and inflatables saw children of all ages jump into the water for some fun.

Inside an enormous spread of food awaited and everyone enjoyed sharing the specially made celebration cake.

The pool party was completed with a visit from Santa who entertained the children and handed out some presents.

Over the past 10 years, this multi-award-winning swim school has seen hundreds of families pass through is pool, and Danielle says that she is honoured to teach such a vital skill to children across the Whitsundays.

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The Airlie Beach Swim School by Danielle team, Loretta Shand, owner Danielle Shea, Lynda Wendt and Lynda Shea-Davis.

Danielle Sea with the celebration cake

Families enjoyed a 10 year celebration pool party

The Cannonvale Cannons sent seven swimmers to participate at the seven-day long Queensland LC Championships in Brisbane, starting last weekend.

The Cannons fielded two relay teams at the championships: a Female 16 years and Under 200-metre Free team and an Open Mixed 200-metre Freestyle side.

Holly Perrin, Remy Hedges, Tora Delac, and Tiana Bell comprised the Female U16s, while Holly Perrin, Remy Hedges, Jy Parkinson, and Jacob Dewis represented in the Open grade.  

The swimmers did exceptionally, but most importantly enjoyed their relays.

Jy and Jacob doubled up as members of the North Queensland Male Medley relay team, finishing in second place – and chuffed with their silver medals.  

The Cannons look forward to hearing how the swimmers go with their individual events over the next few days.  

Meanwhile back at home, the Cannons hosted a very successful Christmas Club Night on Wednesday.

Over 44 swimmers participated in races and fun relays, enjoying the annual Christmas ice block relay and all the delicious yuletide food.  

Congratulations to Remy Hedges, Eloise Chegwidden, and Jy Parkinson for setting new Club Records.

The Cannons also commended Jack Ganter, Isabella Pisaniello, and Celeste Orenshaw on their Chocolate Awards for personal bests.

Giselle Burton presented Upgrade Certificates to Matilda Nicholes and Maeve Dichieria, with Giselle also presenting Remy Hedges with her State Shirt.  

Highlights from Club Night include: Miller Eaves and Murphy Jamieson swimming extremely well in their first Club Night.

Anisa Helou, Jasper Korosec, Indi Smith, and Levi Smith swimming personal best times in all their events.  

Eloise Chegwidden, aged seven, smashing out a super 50-metre Breaststroke in 56.41 seconds, followed by her brother, Harry, swimming a fantastic time of 16.35 seconds in his 12-metre Freestyle.

And finally, Piper Walker, aged seven, swam a fabulous 25-metre Freestyle in 27.43 seconds, cutting off an impeccable 11.08 seconds from her previous best.

Well done to all the swimmers and their families who got involved with the Christmas Club Night.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

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Jy Parkinson and Jacob Dewis aftertheir silver medal winning bout as part of the North Queensland Male Medleyrelay team

Jy andJacob in the North Queensland Male Medley team

The Cannonvale Cannon’s StateTeam for 2022

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The Whitsunday Triathlon Club held its annual Awards and Christmas Breakup in early December to honour the efforts of its athletes across the year.

The local club attracted over 30 attendees for its ceremony which celebrated the achievements of its triathletes who represented the Whitsundays in competitions as high-tiered as the World Championships in the United States.

Club President Michael Kimpton presented awards to members for their outstanding performances in all aspects of the sport and the administration of the triathlon club.

Recognition awards went to Gary Tebbatt, for his contribution as previous Club President for many years, as well as Julie Wheway, Zane Devine, Mark McConkey, and Greg Martin.

Particular mention was afforded to members Dan McDonnell, Alisha Rust, and Michael Kimpton, who received recognition awards for representing their country in World Events in the United States in Utah and Kona, as well as Roth in Bavaria.

Club Trophy awards went to Mark McConkey for Crash of the Year, Leigh Donkers for Volunteer of the Year, Joshua King for Most Improved Junior, and Robyn Carrigan for Most Improved Athlete.

Major awards were handed to Cassandra Carman, who was awarded Club Female Champion for performing admirably in her first full Ironman in Bavaria – a test of her ultimate stamina and perseverance.

Shane Bellert was awarded Club Male Champion for his remarkable results in the Sunshine Coast Half Ironman in September.

Shane, who improved his overall time by 45 minutes from the same event in 2019, was awarded for his “show of strength, determination, and endurance” according to Club President Michael Kimpton.

Mr Kimpton said it was also a chance to celebrate the Whitsunday Triathlon Club’s recent growth.

“We are creating a legacy of growing popularity alongside triathlons as a sport worldwide,” Mr Kimpton said.

“The club now boasts over 40 active members and we have received extremely generous donations from local businesses, especially for our juniors.”

The awards also recognised the excellent effort of two of the club’s established stars who competed amongst the 230 individual triathletes and 15 teams from around Australia on Hamilton Island for its annual triathlon.

Local Hamilton Island fireman and Airlie local Daniel McDonell completed the course in a blistering 1:05:40, finishing in top spot.

He wasn’t the only Whitsunday Triathlon Club member who finished on the podium however, with Alisha Rust, Julia Wheway, and Michael Kimpton placing in the top three in each of their respective age groups.

Mr Kimpton said this year had been an exceptional one for the club, who were going from strength to strength, and he couldn’t wait to see what the future held – especially for the club’s star athletes.

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Whitsunday Triathlon Club celebrated the achievements of its athletes at its annual end of year awards, especially Hamilton Island local Dan McDonell

The club was proud of the achievements across its growing club, and also took the chance to spread a bit of Christmas joy

The Mackay region’s annual sports expo is ushering in a new era in 2023.

Restricted to an online event since COVID-19 threw us a curve ball in 2020, 2023 will see this amazing event return to the MECC with a new naming rights sponsor – JET Maintenance Services.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the JET Maintenance Services Sports Expo and Sign-on would feature more than 100 interactive sport and recreation booths.

“We are also bringing back all the crowd-favourite events – the mascot race, live active zone demonstrations and all the prizes, like ‘nominate your favourite club’ and random draws,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Applications for a free booth at the event are currently open and we encourage local clubs, groups and organisations to get in quick to secure their spot,” he said.

“The JET Maintenance Services Sports Expo and Sign-on will run from 9am to 1pm, Sunday, February 12, 2023. In an effort to make this event more inclusive and accessible, we'll also have a low-sensory quiet hour from noon to 1pm.”

Booth registrations close midnight, December 11.

JET Group General Manager Shayne Ritchings said they were excited to partner with council to bring this important event to the community.

“Jet Group is a very proud local business, with a long history of sponsoring local sporting clubs,” Mr Ritchings said.

“Supporting the Sports Expo is a great opportunity for us to broaden our support of grass roots sports in the Mackay region,” he said.

“The benefits of playing sport and belonging to a club or team are extensive – not only is it great for fitness and mental health, but the social benefits and personal-development outcomes are huge.

“The JET Maintenance Services team are looking forward to coming along on the day and having a crack at as many different sports as we can.”

Other sponsors for the event include returning silver sponsor Harrup Park Country Club and media partners 4MK, Star 101.9 and Channel 7. For more information and to register your club or group for the expo, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/sportexpo

Image – Active Zone demonstration by Adrenalin Cheer and Dance at the 2022 Sports Expo

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Image: The parents of Pioneer Swim Club

Pioneer Swim Club is proud to be an all-age inclusive club.  

The parents of our swimmers are often found in the pool swimming laps whilst the kids train or even in the squad itself.

Recently at the last Club Night for the 2022 year, a number of our Pioneer Parents swam in a 50m freestyle hit out – Kylie Smith, Ben Miles, Trevor Seedwell, Ashlee Berridge, Tahnie Malagueno, Jodie Miles, Donna McIerney and Nadine Bee made their kids proud to see who would have bragging rights for the next 12 months.  

Ben Miles was crowned King of the Pioneer Pool, closely followed by Kylie Smith.  

Both Kylie and Ben were Dolphins as kids and are still seen swimming in the squad to this day.  

We are proud to boast that quite a few of our parents have a history with the club.

A parents versus kids relay was also enjoyed by the parents, kids and spectators at our last Club Night – it was a right hoot.

The trophy was claimed by Ben Miles, Donna McIerney, Trevor Seedwell and Ashlee Berridge.  

Another 2 parents’ teams were formed – Tahnie Malagueno, Jade Bounden, Jodie Miles and Kylie Smith being one team and Bianca Baker, Nadine Bee, Sarah Wardlaw and Sonja Smith the third.  

Many other parents are planning to take on the challenge next season after seeing the fun that transpired.  

All parents of the Pioneer Swim Club/ Squad are welcome to join a session – Igor will welcome you all.  

The kids enjoy seeing their parents give it a go - monkey see, monkey do right?

Any enquiries about our great club can be made to secretary@pioneerswimclub.com.au.

Contributed by Tahnie Malagueno

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Image: Members of the Marian Ladies Bowls Club created and donated 23 bags of essential items to Share the Dignity. Photo supplied

When they’re not gracing the greens, the ladies of the Marian Bowls Club have been busy collecting essential items for women in need.

Last week during their final day of bowls for the year, the group collectively filled bags for the Share the Dignity campaign.

Share the Dignity is a women's charity in Australia, that works to make a real difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or doing it tough. The organisation distributes period products to women, girls, and anyone who menstruates who needs support.

The Marian ladies contributed 23 bags, matching the 23 bags they also donated last year.

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