Sports

Record Turnout for Mackay Basketball Holiday Hoops Camp

Record Turnout for Mackay Basketball Holiday Hoops Camp

Mackay Basketball’s Holiday Hoops Camp has recorded its biggest turnout yet, with more than 140 young participants taking part across two days of basketball during the school holidays. The program, the second Holiday Hoops Camp held this year, proved a standout success and set a new participation record for the organisation’s holiday camp series. It was said that across the two days, the courts were filled with activity, with plenty of smiles, new friendships forming and a strong sense of enjoyment evident among participants. Mackay Basketball also acknowledged its coaching group, who volunteered their time to run the sessions. Coaches were recognised for their efforts in teaching, encouraging and supporting players throughout the camp, helping deliver a positive experience for all involved. The Holiday Hoops Camp continues to be a popular feature on Mackay Basketball’s calendar, providing young players with the opportunity to spend time on court during the school holidays in a structured and supportive environment. This latest edition has now set a new benchmark for participation, with organisers describing the two-day event as an “unbelievable couple of days of hoops.” With record numbers achieved, the program has again highlighted the strong level of engagement with basketball across the Mackay region, as local families continue to support opportunities for young players to get involved in the sport. The camp concluded after two full days of activity, marking another successful instalment of Mackay Basketball’s ongoing holiday program. Photo source: Mackay basketball (Facebook)

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Sinkers Shine At State And National Meets

Sinkers Shine At State And National Meets

Mackay's Sinkers have continued to make waves in the pool, celebrating strong performances at both the Australian Pool Rescue Championships in Perth and the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler. Peter T delivered an outstanding result at the Australian Pool Rescue Championships, returning to competition for the first time in 12 months to finish second overall in the 45–60 years age group. Competing across the three-day championships, Peter claimed an impressive medal tally of one gold and four silver medals, marking a successful return after an extended break from competition. Fellow Sinkers Nigel Dalton and Dan Stampa also impressed at the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler, producing a series of strong swims against a competitive field of 194 registered athletes. Nigel finished third in his age group, while Dan also secured third place in his respective age group. The pair briefly celebrated holding the Small Club Trophy before competition rules required the award to be presented to another club, with a minimum of three swimmers needed to qualify. With only two Sinkers competing, the trophy was officially handed to the Belgravia team during the Face-to-Face branch meeting. Both Nigel and Dan enjoyed some extra success away from the pool, each winning prizes in the event's multi-draw. The club congratulated all swimmers on their performances and thanked Brisbane Southside Meet organisers for hosting another successful competition. Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club

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Mackay Contract Bridge Results

Mackay Contract Bridge Results

Seven days of Bridge were played at the Mackay Bridge Club last week. This included two evenings, Saturday, and Sunday for Novice (beginners) and Mentors. Mackay Bridge club ensures that there are plenty of opportunities for working people who want to learn bridge to participate after their bridge lessons. Four members played in the Townsville Congress, with Terry Sheedy and Janelle Conroy winning the A Section pairs. Diane and Max Holewa joined Terry and Janelle to win the Teams event. Members of the club are travelling to Bowen to participate in the Bowen Pairs Congress this weekend. Bridge is a social game, which encourages friendship, partnerships, fun and sometimes travel. Don’t wait until you retire, join next year when lessons begin. For more information, watch this space or contact the club. Weekly Results Monday 22 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Nancy Martin / Susan Ross 2nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris 2nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins 3rd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 3rd Janice Mansfield / Debra Goodchild 4th Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft 4th Sue Mayer-Miller / Karen Caldwell Tuesday Evening 23 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Frances Brown / Rodney Miles 3rd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger 4th Helen Van Den Breok / Terry Sheedy Wednesday 24 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Joy Block / Diane Stokes 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 3rd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt 3rd Terry Sheedy / Mick King 4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 4th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz Thursday 25 June 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Mick King / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 3rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 4th Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott Friday 26 June 2026 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Geoff Cowan / Mick King 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 2nd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting 3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole Saturday 27 June 2026 –- 13 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson 2nd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden 3rd Nancy Wix / Richard Wix 3rd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner 4th Gwen Liddell / Julie O’Neill 4th Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell 5th Monica Darley / Nancy Martin 5th Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok Sunday 28 June 2026 – 7 Tables Green Points Novices and Mentors N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Rodney Miles 1st Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor 2nd Susan Ross / Joy Hold 2nd Colleen Riddel / Sue Mayer-Miller 3rd Christine Fitzpatrick / Griffin Bancroft 3rd Gillian McCallum / Ming Ting 4th Neila Quintero / Martin Pearce 4th Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin Contributed by Joy Block

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Runners Brave Wild Weather At Eimeo

Runners Brave Wild Weather At Eimeo

More than 20 runners turned out in challenging conditions at Eimeo Surf Club on the weekend, including the dedicated Mackay Tri Club members who, after completing their run, took to the ocean for a "little" 2km swim. The 5km and 10km courses featured plenty of challenging hills through the Blacks Beach, Dolphin Heads and Eimeo suburbs, providing an ideal hit-out for athletes preparing to taper ahead of the upcoming Gold Coast Running Festival and various Ironman events. Those who took shelter from the rain beneath the Surf Life Saving Control Watch Tower also enjoyed learning a few tricks of the trade about the delicate nature of the tummy, including checking that the milk is lactose free. A big thank you goes to Andrew Short for once again setting up a spectacular course. A legendary stalwart of the club, his ongoing contribution continues to be greatly appreciated. With a significant number of athletes away competing at out-of-town events, including the Gold Coast, Mackay Road Runners will instead host a social 5km and 10km run from Casu Jacks at Mackay Harbour this Sunday, starting at 7am. Participants are encouraged to bring along card or cash for breakfast, a cuppa and a chat, while celebrating the first run of the new financial year following 30 June 2026. All members and non-members are welcome to attend for a $2 race day fee. Please arrive by 6.50am for registration, the course briefing and club notices. Contributed by Janelle Tilse 6939 – John, Mon and Stef enjoy the early morning training session from the Eimeo Surf Club. 6942 – Bharick, Brij and Jo were ecstatic with their efforts in the 5k/10km Eimeo Surf Club social run. 6943 – Clinton, Gail and Jose enjoy a taper run before their Gold Coast Marathon events next weekend. 6944 – Kate loved the wet running conditions at the Eimeo Surf Club event. 6936 – Ella made light work of the 10km Eimeo Surf Club social run. 6931 – Damp unforgiving rains did not take the fun out of a social Mackay Road Runners event from Eimeo Surf Club. 6921 – Big smiles from all runners at the Eimeo Surf Club 5k/10km social Mackay Road Runners event. Photos supplied

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On The Whitsunday Green

August 24, 2023

Our weekly Friday stableford 9-hole comp was won by Jay Angel with 21 points, second place on 19 points was Andrew Gomez and third place went to Kendal Nash on 18 c/b. Great effort by all.

Sunday was our Monthly Medal for April. Taking the win was Billy O’Connor with an amazing 50 net, second place went to Marc Belke on 46 net and third on 52 net c/b was Glenn Rees.

Nearest the pin was Tyson Flavel and Dean Barnard. A great end to the month for all.

This Sunday, May 7 will be our 18 holes alternate shot foursome tee off at 10.00am.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green Club.

A very happy monthly medal winner Billy O’Connor. Photo supplied

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Huge Home Round For Whitsunday United

August 24, 2023

With six matches played at Whitsunday Sports Park there was plenty of Action.

The divisional Men travelled to Mackay on Friday night to play Lions U17 Squad and Sarina. Although a close tussle, the younger legs of the Mackay Squad proved telling with the end result 4-1 to Lions. In the Div1 game, the Whitsunday boys made Sarina work all the way to the end, losing 2-1 but with many players on their second game, it may have been a different outcome with some fresh legs on the bench.

Saturday at the Sportspark started with a great performance by the U13 Div1 team at their first home game. In hot conditions, their strong defence shut down many attacks from the Country United side earning a hard-won draw 0-0. This was a huge improvement from last round with goal keeper Jai outstanding in goals and Roy Milliken giving 100 per cent as always.

It was a different story for the U15 Premier squad against a rampant City Brothers side. Although holding them to a tight result last week, the Whitsunday side never hit their stride conceding 6 goals to 1 in a game that they will be disappointed in.

The Women continued their winning form in front of a big crowd. Unfortunately, Sarina travelled up to play with only 14 players between two squads. In a competitive Reserves game, Whitsunday proved too strong across the park, scoring a 5-0 win based on solid defence. The Sarina ladies ran out of legs and with all of them playing a second game, were no match for the Whitsunday Premier Women who ran away with the game. A brave effort by the visitors just to face the onslaught.

Our Premier Men’s Squads also returned to form, winning both games against the visiting Rangers Squads. Whitsunday Reserves started their game dominating the ball and looking to play from out the back. Whitsundays made the breakthrough with a fantastic long-range goal by Luke Swift. Rangers equalised minutes later. The second half was a similar story with Whitsundays having the majority of the ball scoring twice midway through the second half to come away with a 3-1 victory. Special mention to Jarrod Clarke whose energy and determination when coming on contributed massively to the team’s performance

The Premier Men got a very important win against Mackay Rangers to jump into the top 4 for the first time this season. It proved to be a topsy turvy game with both teams having positive spells in the game. Sam Reynolds made his first appearance for the season at centre back and put in a man of the match performance, which greatly helped the team going forward and defensively. Goals came from Tommy Torzsok, Harry Hodgen, Sam Blake and Axel Da Silva in a 4-3 win.

Another massive home round next week. Can’t wait!

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic.

U13 Div1 - great effort at their first home game. Photo supplied

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Twilight Racing

August 24, 2023

The wild weather last week has been and gone, but for the Whitsunday Sailing Club sailors, it was a very reduced fleet who ventured on the water on Wednesday afternoon for the club’s twilight race.  

Only eight boats accepted the challenge to compete in conditions which included violent rainstorms, minimal visibility and wind gusts in excess of 30 knots.

With only four boats on the starting line for the Division 2 start, there was plenty of space, with Bobby’s Girl (Mark Beale) leading the fleet away, maintaining that lead throughout the race.

At the windward mark, Bobby’s Girl held a comfortable lead over Reignition (Charles Wallis), with Smooth Criminal (Iyas Shaheen) and Wide Load (Shannan Hart) behind. The gybe mark got interesting when the fleet arrived with zero visibility and a strong squall.  

The first boats all chose to forego the gybe in favour of a granny turn, a new experience for many of the crew. Somehow the fleet managed to find the rounding marks and the finishing line, with Bobby’s Girl crossing the finish line almost six minutes ahead of Reignition, with Smooth Criminal a further two minutes back.  

On corrected time this lead was reduced to two minutes over Reignition, with Wide Load a further 20 seconds back.

Division 3 also saw four boats on the starting line, with Rossgo (Greg Hammon) leading the fleet away, despite a halyard failure shortly before the start.

After a slow start, Matchless (Terry Stevens) took the lead on the water, gradually pulling away from Shiraz (John Cable) and Rossgo.

After surviving the first lap, Lighthorse (Di Forster) called time and headed ashore, leaving the others to battle the elements.  

Matchless completed the course in 47 minutes, leading Shiraz home by five minutes with Rossgo a further two minutes back. On corrected time, Shiraz took the honours by 30 seconds over Matchless with Rossgo one minute off the pace.

The monthly prizes went to Bobby’s Girl and Matchless.

Races continue every Wednesday from 4:30pm, with limited crewing positions available. Those wishing to participate as crew need to be at the club by 2:30 pm (limited spots available).

Contributed with thanks to Ross Chisholm.

Bobby’s Girl looming out of the rain. Photo supplied

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Cannons Compete At QLD Water Polo Championships

August 24, 2023

The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club would like to commend Holly Perrin, Jacob Dewis, Jacob Bell and Jy Parkinson for being selected for the Northern Region Schools 13 – 19 years Water Polo teams.  

Jy had to pull out of the team due to injury, however, Holly and the two Jacobs travelled down to Brisbane last week to compete in the Queensland Schools’ Championships.  

All three said that the games were tough over four days, but thoroughly enjoyed championships.  

The NQ male team achieved 2nd place in the Plate (B) division and the NQ girls team achieved 3rd place in the Plate (B) division. Congratulations, Cannons! Apparently, they all played extremely well and improved so much over the four days.  

Meanwhile, back in Cannonvale, swimmers continue to train for a couple of winter carnivals and for the start of the triathlon and open water season. The Cannonvale Cannons will be hosting a Winter carnival this year in mid-June.

The Cannonvale Cannons are also looking forward to the Annual Presentation Night which will be held on May 13.  

This month, the coaches congratulated Tora Delac, Addie Sanders, and Roxy Groom for their excellent logbooks.  

Congratulations to the following swimmers who have successfully met the criteria to upgrade in training: Evie Doherty, Eloise Chegwidden, Billy Harris, and Maeve Dichieria.  

Miller Eaves and Lucas Zhang will be trialing training in the Bullets’ squad.

The top swim trainers last week were Harris Delac, Coren Farquhar, Bodhi Farquhar, Declan Dichiera, Andie Reynolds, Zach Trefz and Jax Clayworth. Well done, swimmers!

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

Jacob Dewis, Holly Perrin and Jacob Bell at the Qld  School Water Polo Championships. Photo supplied

The Northern Region Water Polo Team. Photo supplied

It’s all action at QLD Water Polo Chamos. Photo supplied

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Press From The Pickleball Court

August 24, 2023

Another Easter Celebration has come and gone but not for our Mackay Pickleballers; we celebrate every time we take the court. Such is the joy of playing this new code of sport for everyone.

How did Pickleball find its way to Mackay, you may well ask. From humble beginnings in 2018, by a small group of good friends, who discovered it being played on a southern holiday, had a go, and were immediately hooked. We thank you, Anne and Monica, for your insight, teachings and bringing this crazy, fun new code of sport to Mackay.

Pickleball is a “racquet and ball” sport with a perfect balance of court dimensions, rules, and equipment to afford all skill levels and age groups enjoyment and success on court.

The game is a combination of tactical shots, patience, and easy to learn strokes, which encourage an inclusive play environment with no need for modifications or adaptations to cater for gender, ability, or age differences. Pickleball is both fun and challenging with a combination of long rallies and a blend of soft and rapid-fire shots; where the best athlete must earn their points not purely by athleticism, power, and speed, but also through the use of positioning, patience, tactics, and touch.

Finally, pickleball provides connections, social, mental, and physical well-being benefits, which are just some of the reasons players are passionately embracing this sport at such a rapid rate.

Indoor Pickleball at PCYC Mackay is welcoming, accessible, and safe; while striving to be equitable, diverse and inclusive. It is guaranteed once you pick up that “Paddle” and hit the “wiffle” ball it will be difficult not to keep going. We have all you need to get started.

You can catch us for a low cost of $7 for two hours every Tuesday; 5:30pm – 7:30pm; Thursday; 12:00pm – 2:00pm; Sunday; 09:00am – 11:00am.

Contributed by Michelle Sheehan

Mackay Pickleball Easter celebrations. Photos supplied: Michelle Sheehan

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Sugar City Titles Up For Grabs

August 24, 2023

If you love the adrenaline of motor racing and the purr of a well-maintained two stroke engine, Mackay and District Kart Club have the event for you.

The club is preparing for one of their three big events of 2023, with the Sugar City Titles happening on Saturday, May 6 at their track in Palmyra.

“This is one of our biggest events for the year,” said Matt Smith, who currently fills the roles of Junior Vice President and Groundskeeper at the club.

At least 80 competitors from across north Queensland are expected to participate, some as young as six.

Racers will rev it out on the purpose-built concrete track, located at 21 Grants Road, Palmyra, with cane knives on the line as prizes.

Entry for spectators is free, with food, drinks, and plenty of action on offer on the day.

Mackay and District Kart Club is a not-for-profit club looking to spread the word about the exciting world of karting.

“We’re a family orientated club,” said Matt.

“We often get parents helping on race days.

“It’s good camaraderie – if someone breaks something, other people get in and help or lend their spares.”

To find out more about the club, the Sugar City Titles or to nominate, visit mackaykartclub.com or find Mackay and District Kart Club on Facebook.

The event is sponsored by Mr Energy, J&B Pest Control, Mills Painting, Global Mining Support, Red Hot Couriers, Easy Internet Services, TECS Equipment Repairs, Global Mining Support, Global Mining Support, Dicko's Engineering and M&P Services.

WHAT: Mackay and District Kart Club Sugar City Titles

WHEN: Saturday, May 6

WHERE: 21 Grants Road, Palmyra

Photo credit: Daniel McLean Photography

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Mackay Cyclones Take On Gold Coast Championship

August 24, 2023

Mackay’s own Cyclones swim team have been making waves, at the Australian Age Championships on the Gold Coast earlier this month.

The Australian Age Championships is one of the biggest events on the Swimming Australia calendar, with thousands of swimmers travelling to the Gold Coast to compete.

This 14-day event is a highlight on the Australian Swimming calendar, attracting some of Australia’s most elite Olympic and Paralympic swimmers, with young athletes who will become the next generation of swimming stars.

Being the highest level of competition domestically for athletes ages 18 years or under, the competition was engaging, each swimmer eager to perform to the best of their ability.

The Mackay swim team has a successful history of attending the Australian Age Championships, and 2023 is no different.

The Mackay swim team had six swimmers qualify for the competition, four of which had never attended a championship before, and were accompanied with their coach, Leigh-Anne Pokarier.

Izabella Wills and Mackenzie Neilsen attended the championships in 2022, with the National Team, and were joined for the 2023 competition with Vaughn Wyatt, Max Vernon, Audrey Bryan and Anneka O’Donnell, being newcomers to the mix.

Izabella competed first in a series of multi-class (MC) events.

Day one of the competition ended poorly, with Izabella’s 100 freestyle being delayed 30-minutes due to bad weather and lightening, however, she broke her previous personal best, with a 6.94 time, and taking 5th place.

Izabella also competed in the MC 400 freestyle, taking 32.05 seconds off her previous personal best and placing 4th overall.

In her final race, Izabella competed in the 50 freestyle, breaking her previous personal best and raking 7th place in Australia.

Second time National attendee, Mackenzie competed in the 14-year girls age group, for 50 butterfly, 100 butterfly and 200 butterfly.

She swam well and placed 7th overall in 200 butterfly and scrapped 3.50 seconds off her personal best time.

Mackenzie also qualified for the finals in 100 butterfly and placed 19th in Australia overall.

Newcomer Audrey qualified for three events, the 50 breaststroke, 50 butterfly and 50 freestyle in the 13-year old girl’s class, and gaining two personal bests.

2023 was also Anneka’s first experience of the championships. She competed in 50 breaststroke and 50 backstroke and is excited to compete in 2024.

The boys, Max and Vaughan, swam well. Max competed in the 50 backstroke, and Vaughan in the 100 breaststroke and 200 breaststroke.

Vaughan was successful in moving into the finals for 200 breaststroke and ranking 26th overall in Australia.

In a fierce competition, these swimmers performed excellently, with most new to the age championship competition and atmosphere.

The Mackay Cyclones take yet another team of accomplished youth swimmers to the Australian Age Championships. Photo supplied

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Wingless Sprint Car Driver Takes On National Title

August 24, 2023

Racing around the speedway at over 100km/h, Brett Hehir hopes to leave his mark on Australian wingless sprint car racing this weekend.

A fiend for the speedway, Brett made the transition from go karting to wingless racing around two years ago when a friend introduced it to him, giving him the “speedway bug”.

Two years and countless races later, Brett is competing in his first Australian Wingless Sprint Championship at the Archerfield Speedway this weekend where he hopes to prove himself amongst the best in the country.

“Hopefully we have a good weekend, finish all our races and finish up the front,” Brett said.

“It’s going to be a lot of competition and a big ask to get to the final.”

The Australian Titles got underway yesterday, Thursday, April 27, with a practise day followed by scrutineering and Calcutta on Friday, heats Saturday and Sunday being the main race day.

Brett will be competing against over 70 other drivers from all over the country, but he’s come prepared; just four weeks earlier, Brett was part of the Easter Trail, including Queensland State Titles in Maryborough, where he placed 12th in the state, a race in Archerfield to prepare for the big dance and a race in Toowoomba.

He also won the Wingless class of “Thunder in Canefields” in Mareeba last year, setting the track lap record.

Brett loves the competitive nature of the race.

“It’s pretty close racing and everyone’s pretty much got the same car,” he said.

“It comes down to your car setup and your driving ability, because everyone’s engines are the same,” added his wife, Nicole.

“It’s probably a cheaper way to get into the speedway if you wanted to get into it,” said Brett.

Not one to overprepare, Brett said he’s nervous but excited for the big race this weekend.

“I just rock up and have a go,” he said.

“But there’s a lot of work on the car to get it right.

“If you do 99% of it in the shed at home, when you get to the track you can just relax.”

As the season comes to an end, Brett’s future races will depend on his work roster, but after ticking Australian Titles off the list, his wingless sprint car journey will be far from over.

Brett Hehir is competing in his first Australian Wingless Sprint Championship in Archerfield this weekend. Photo supplied: Nicole Hehir

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Courageous Ky Claims Top Ranking In Professional

August 24, 2023

Rodeo Cowboys Ranks With Major US Bull Riding Win

MACKAY native Ky Hamilton has registered the biggest win of his professional bull riding career after picking up $67,750 for claiming the prestigious RodeoHouston Bull Riding title in the United States.

The 23-year-old Hamilton – who grew up in the Sugar capital and attended Mercy College – capped an impressive performance with a 90.5-point ride on his bull Bad Memory in a special ride-off with Josh Frost and Creek Young to seal the top prize.

It was a double celebration for Ky with the Houston triumph rocketing him to the number one ranking in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association – a position he last held during his rookie year in 2020.

The teak-tough Hamilton delivered one of the best rides of his career in front of a boisterous crowd of nearly 75,000 in his second attempt at the major Rodeo in Texas.

“It is a huge event and one of the biggest paying rodeos we get to go to, so to win it is very special,” a proud Hamilton told Mackay and Whitsunday Life.

“I think the bigger the stage the more comfortable I feel. I don’t know why that is. Growing up that’s all I ever wanted to do, was ride a big event and win big events and win world titles.”

The Rodeo Houston win follows Ky’s superb victory this year at the La Fiesta De Los Vaqueros in Tucson, Arizona for a second time.

“Bad Memory was kind of steep and kind of moving forward, trying to get me back,” said Ky of his winning ride.

“Out of nowhere, her just started pushing back.”

Hamilton dominated throughout the rodeo by winning the Go-Round in all six performances he was entered in. It started with a clean sweep of his Super Series before he went onto clinch Semi Final 2 as well as both rounds on Championship Sunday.

Ky finished RodeoHouston 6-for7 with an average score of 87.3 points inside NRG Stadium.

The top 15 money earners qualify for the National Finals Rodeo with Hamilton finishing fourth, 8th and fourth in the past three finals held in Las Vegas.

A courageous Ky has certainly come a long way since moving to the United States on a Bull Riding scholarship back in 2018 and turning professional two years later, finishing fourth in the Bull Riding world standings in 2022.

This season Hamilton has amassed $101,842 in prizemoney and leads Josh Frost, who finished runner up in Houston, by about $12,000.

Top ranked professional bull rider Ky Hamilton demonstrates his winning ride on Bad Memory scoring 90.5 at the RodeoHouston

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North Mackay Ladies Bowls News

August 24, 2023

Wednesday 20/4/23 winners were Sue Roscoe, Pam Louis, Donna Gordon.

Runners up in a pairs game were Sue Hazledine and Daphne Offield.

Currently we are playing in our Championship Singles and B Singles both of which are very close to the finals. Our Goosepond Ladies 3 Bowl Triples was held at the club on Wednesday the 26/4 with teams from all around the district attending. Thanks to the many clubs who are participating in this exciting event, and good luck to all.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Mackay Bowls Club News

August 24, 2023

The Ladies section travelled to Northern Beaches last Tuesday for the Symons Shield and were just pipped by Sarina Club in the Semi-Final. No Tuesday Social at the Club due to rainy weather. Thursday Scroungers was played with 15 players with Whare Herewini def Karina Dunn in the final.

A weekend of Men’s Pennants was played with home and away games with wins to all our teams.

Saturday Division 2 v Marian away

Aggregate score Mackay 66 to Marians 37. Result 5 points to 1.

Division 4 v City at Home

Aggregate score Mackay 40 to City 41. Results 0.5 to 4.5.

Division 6 v Sarina

Mackay 48 to Sarina 36 Resuts 6 points to 0

Sunday Division 2 v Wests Tigers at Home

Aggregate Score Mackay 94 Wests Tigers 42 Results 6 points to 0

Division 4: v Seaforth away

Aggregate Score Mackay 46 to Seaforth 25 Results 5 POINTS TO 0

Division 6 at Home

Aggregate Score 48 to RSL 31 Results 4 points to 1.

This Weekend sees the playing of the Prestige Fours with 16 Teams competing over two days.

Come on down to the club and watch some exciting bowling from members all over the district.

Friday Social Day from 1pm. The ladies are hosting and inviting all members and visitors to join them in social Bowls.

Contributed by Mike Irving

Mackay & Wests pennants Div 2

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Meteors Zoom To Top Of NBL1 North

August 24, 2023

Table After Triple Road Triumphs

Champion Mackay Meteors point guard Isaac White has secured a two year deal with the Brisbane Bullets for NBL24.

The prolific points-scoring maestro – who has lit up the NBL1 North Conference with superb performances on court in the early rounds – is a major gain for the Bullets who finished ninth and failed to qualify for the 2022-23 NBL Finals.

White was at his mercurial best during the Mackay team’s arduous triple header road trip last week – steering the undefeated Meteors to impressive wins over Brisbane Capitals (96-90), Northside Wizards (93-78) and Southern Districts Spartans (100-90) and top of the standings after five rounds.

The high energy guard posted 36 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals against the Capitals last Friday night with support from Tyler Williams (22pts, five rebounds, four assists and two steals) and Christian Maran (10pts, five boards, five assists and three steals).

White backed it up with classy performances against the Wizards (26pts, eight rebounds, three assists and steals) and Spartans (40pts, eight rebounds and assists and one steal) over the weekend as the all-conquering Meteors zoomed into top spot.

Dynamic guard Williams capped three solid games with 17pts, five boards, four steals and two assists against the Wizards and 18pts, five rebounds, three assists and five steals against the Spartans.

Other Meteors to shine were forward Shane Temara (17pts, eight rebounds and three assists) and guard Isaiah Lee (16pts, six rebounds, eight assists and two steals).

Meanwhile, the Mackay Meteorettes struggled to produce their best in a gruelling schedule - crashing to 37 point losses to the Capitals (92-55) and Wizards (99-62) and Spartans (76-63).

Talented forward Ellie Collins turned in consistent performances with 10pts and two assists against the Capitals; 16pts, five rebounds and three steals against the Wizards and 15pts, eight rebounds, two assists and a steal against the Spartans with support from centre Charli Bliss and guards Phoebe Holmes and Davida Dale.

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Pioneer Dolphins Celebrated At Season-Ender Presentation Night

August 24, 2023

Last weekend, the Pioneer Swimming Club held its season-ender Presentation Night at Goosies Sport & Recreation Club. A phenomenal number of members and their families attended to celebrate their achievements the past season.

There were too many awards to name but highlights of the night were:

1. Overall Highest Points was awarded to Annaliese Miles – this award is provided to the member who obtains the most accumulative points over the season at our weekly Club Nights (points are received for attendance but also for the largest personal bests each week).

2. President’s Award was awarded to Joleigh Strydom – this award was bestowed on Joleigh because she displays kindness and respect towards others; is a great role model in the squad; tries her best and shows good sportsmanship; encourages others and takes on advice and feedback with a positive attitude and smile on her face.

3. Outstanding Swimmer for the Season was awarded to Jade Bounden – Jade received this award acknowledging her qualification for and attendance at Nationals, medalling twice at State level competitions and for her outstanding performance throughout the season.

4. Coach’s Awards were given to the swimmers who displayed great commitment to the sport, made outstanding performances throughout the season, received State medals and/ or qualified for National level competitions. Coach Igor presented these awards to Alex Moss, Madison Malagueno, Ella Bounden and Jade Bounden.

5. Encouragement awards were also given to Abigail Mawire, Joleigh Strydom and Zahli Herring.  

Congratulations to all our swimmers!

We could not have held this event without the help of our fantastic sponsors such as Greenman Property Services who assisted financially for the function costs; Spotlight who provided all the decorations for the evening – the room looked amazing; and Bonny Cakes who went above and beyond in making a stunning and delicious cake and cupcakes. We thank each of you immensely for your generous support!

Contributed by Pioneer Swimming Club

Coaches' Award presented to Jade Bouden, Madison Malagueno, Alex Moss and Ella Bounden

Highest Points Intermediate Boys presented to Jackson Birch, Henry Porter & Elliott Shillington

Our juniors Maxim Demin and Rex Traeger ready to present Coach Igor his gift from the club

Party time. Photos supplied by Pioneer Swimming Club

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Rampaging Cutters Blitz Devils But Woes

August 24, 2023

Continue For Mackay In Hostplus Cup

Norths Devils rugby league coach Dave Elliott had reason to smile after a successful homecoming to Mackay last weekend in the QRL Hostplus Cup.

It was a pleasant “reunion” for Elliott as he masterminded a thumping 42-16 victory against his out of touch ex-charges who slumped to a sixth successive loss.

The reigning premiers produced a second half points spree as they overpowered the listless Cutters through their powerful and dominant forward pack.

Elliott was Head Coach of Mackay last season, his capable assistant Michael Comerford taking over the Cutters’ coaching reins and enduring a horror start to the 2023 campaign without a win after six rounds.

The Cutters jumped to an early 8-0 lead following neat tries by sharp utility back Flynn Camilleri before Devils hooker Zakaria McGuire fooled the defence to score after 24 minutes.

An Adam Cook penalty goal soon after gave Mackay a 10-6 advantage – but it was shortlived with Norths wingers Tony Tumusa and Jonathon Reuben crossing for converted tries to give the visitors an 18-10 lead at the break.

There was no stopping the Devils after the interval as lock forward Liam Horne, Cook Islands international Moses Noovao-McGreal, prop Viko Puluvea and former Indigenous All Stars hooker Kieran Moseley all nabbed tries within 23 minutes with half back Bryce Donovan potting six goals to establish a resounding victory.

Meanwhile, the Mackay Cutters chalked up their fifth win of the season in the BMD Womens premiership after slamming Norths Devils 28-6 to maintain second spot on the ladder.

The Cutters were in a menacing mood in the first half as they put on a five try blitz to open up a commanding 22-0 lead at the half time break.

Elusive winger Katie Green (2), centre China Polata and halves Alicia Martin and Tahlulah Tillett all grabbed tries with hooker and skipper Emma Manzelmann landing one conversion.

The crafty Manzelmann scored the Cutters lone try of the second half to keep the pressure on premiership pacesetters Souths Logan Magpies, who remain undefeated on 12 points.

Mackay Colts opened their Under 21s campaign with a crushing 50-32 victory over Norths Devils in the curtain raiser.

The young Cutters produced a superb second half display to skittle the Devils with a nine try rout in blustery conditions.

Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

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Mackay Contract Bridge Weekly Results

August 24, 2023

Monday 17 April 2023 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points

1st Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia

2nd Marilin Robins / Margaret Jennings

3rd Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane

4th Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes

1st Terrence Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd David Ting / Ming Ting

3rd Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

3rd Debbie Ludkin / Sandy Patterson

Tuesday Evening 18 April 2023 - 5 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Lorna Shuttlewood /

2nd Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan

5th Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

2nd Mick Robins / Diane Cox

4th Janine Rodgers / Nancy Wix

Wednesday 19 April Unders and Overs – 9 Table Green Points

N/S

1st Louise Renton / Anne Lutz

2nd Janice Mansfield / Barbara Tait

3rd Elrae Trueman / Terrence Sheedy

4th Diane Stokes / Nancy Wix

E/W

1st Joy Brunette / Joy Block

2nd Monica Darley / Ian Gaskell

3rd David Ting / Sandra Morris

4th Josie Cowley / Vicki Howard

Friday 14 April 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Pts

N/S

1st Noel Bugeia / Terrence Sheedy

2nd Vic Mason / Josie Cowley

3rd Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

4th Noel Saunders / Mary Cruickshank

E/W

1st Ming Ting / David / Ting

2nd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

2nd Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

4th Diane Stokes / Marie McGuire

Saturday 15 April 2023 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Pts

N/S

1st Monica Darley/ Kath Poole

2nd Mary Rose Ramsden / Geoff Taylor

3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

4th Antonia Tarradas / Faye Wright

5th Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell

E/W

1st David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

3rd Mick King / Jan Harris

4th Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Saunders

5th Margaret Lane / Julie O’Neill

Contributed by Joy Block

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