Sports

Wangaratta Bowls 15th May

Wangaratta Bowls 15th May

Tuesday’s winners were Ray Muir, Maureen Hyde and Deb Retchless defeated Neale Chittenden, Joe Cukela and Bill Price. Gus Murray, Barry Donn and Dennis Madeley defeated John Hayson, Skin Querro and Laurie Land. Stumpy Adams, Sue Shearing and Shirley Jones defeated Bron Tolcher, Isabel Wheeler and Boof Querro. The jackpot didn’t go off. Club Competition for the week: Men’s Open Single Final was won by Allan Rolfe who defeated Ron Hyde. Men’s Open Pairs: Mark Drummond Allan Rolfe defeated Laurie Land and Kevin Daniels. Men’s B Singles Final: N Chittenden defeated Kevin Baxter. Ladies B Singles Deb Retchless defeated Lindy Suann. Sunday’s Mother Day afternoon winners were: John Hayson and Lorraine Knight who defeated Skin Querro and Laurie Land. Boof Qurerro and Wheeler K Jewell defeated Celly Jeal, Deb Retchless and Kennedy Whitton. Eileen Dunn, Maureen Hyde and Greg Colquhoun defeated Bill Myers, Gavin Charles and Allan Rolfe. Lindy Suann, Sue Shearing and Graeme Read defeated Alex Beaumont, Shirly Jones and Stuart Jeal who also won the Jackpot. Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren Winners John Hayson and Lorraine Knight with Men's President Graeme Read Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach Bowls Club News 15th May

Airlie Beach Bowls Club News 15th May

The week started on Tuesday with the continuation of Women’s Pairs and social bowls, which saw skipper David Bradley with lead Regan Maher become the pairs winners of the day. Wednesday afternoon social bowls had 28 participants, and the highest score of the day went to the team of skipper Noel Crosbie with lead Mervyn Stewart, who won 32–19 over skipper Phil O'Brien and Desmond Ballance. Wednesday night Business House Bowls saw about 30 bowlers attend, run by Bob and Yvonne Spees, with results to be announced next week. Friday afternoon saw the arrival of 16 bowlers from the Christian College, and what a talented group they are. Mr Richardson, Aishmeen Sandhu, and Shaniah Saremo are an awesome pairs team and could become very successful future representative bowlers if they choose to pursue the sport. Cooper Wilde is also a very talented sportsman and a fantastic asset to the school. Special mention must also go to Ryan Clark and Elliana Langshore, who could develop into excellent bowlers if they continue to apply themselves and build their skills. This program will give all the students valuable lessons in teamwork and demonstrate what sport can do for classroom development and success in understanding subjects that may have previously seemed difficult. We look forward to continuing to work with the students. Saturday morning Scroungers saw the last spot for the afternoon finals up for grabs, and John Matterson, who has just returned to the club after major heart surgery, proved he is still a very good bowler by winning the final spot against Andy McDougall and Tony Whitehorn. The previous winners lined up for the final: Des Ballance, Maureen Barnard, David Cleary, Alan Pershouse, John Askew, Betty and Tony Whitehorn, Dennis Donadelli, and, to everyone’s surprise and delight, John Matterson. He continued his brilliant form, winning the coveted trophy in the final. Sunday afternoon’s social bowls saw two games of pairs and one game of triples. Liz and Arthur McManus teamed up with Des Ballance and won 26–15 over Stacey Hadlow’s team of Lou Rogan and Alma Rose Mawson. However, the winners of the day, with the lowest winning margin drawn out by Club Manager Fiona Greener, were the team of “Take the Money Tony” Whitehorn with Dawn Dowell, who won 21–20 over skipper Margo Stanley and Brett Simpson. The men’s singles in A Grade, B Grade, and Seniors have now reached the semi-finals, with results to be published soon. Men’s and Women’s Pennants also commence this weekend. Free lessons continue on Monday and Thursday afternoons from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm, and all are welcome. John Askew presents John Matterson with his Scroungers Trophy after his well-deserved win. Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson John Matterson receiving the trophy after his well-deserved victory. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Weightlifting Club Delivers Successful Parabench Competition at NQ Games 2026

Whitsunday Weightlifting Club Delivers Successful Parabench Competition at NQ Games 2026

Whitsunday Weightlifting Club wrapped up a successful Parabench Development Competition last weekend as part of the 2026 North Queensland Games, with four athletes competing across the age and ability spectrum in what proved to be an inspiring day of sport at St Catherines Catholic College in Proserpine. Held on Saturday 2 May and run in partnership with Para Powerlifting Australia, the event drew competitors from across the region — from Townsville to Mackay — ranging in age from 21 to 64 years. The standard of lifting impressed all in attendance, with athletes at very different stages of their para-sport journey each delivering standout performances. Taking out first place in the women's division was Australian representative Trish Wallace from Townsville, who benched an impressive 64kg. Local para-athlete Di Jackson claimed second place with a 33kg lift, while first-time competitor Sigrid Eitler took third with 30kg — a remarkable debut on the competition platform. In the men's division, Mackay athlete Bryce Jackson took first place with a 62kg bench. Club founder, president and head coach Leanne Knox said the day exceeded expectations. "Although it was a small competition, it helped raise awareness of our club's capacity to train people with all kinds of disabilities," she said. "There is a place for everyone in our club." Knox is encouraging anyone living with movement limitations or other disabilities — as well as carers — to reach out and explore how strength training can benefit their physical, mental and social wellness. The club also celebrated a significant equipment milestone, with a specialist bench built thanks to local business Airlie Sail and Shade (Paul Mitchell) and club member Ian Cordell, alongside a bench received through the Para Uplift Program via the Australian Institute of Sport. With competitors eyeing national and international competition, the future looks bright for para-sport in the Whitsundays. To find out more, contact Whitsunday Weightlifting Club on 0411 199 427. Competition results: Female 1st: Trish Wallace - 64kg bench 2nd - Di Jackson - 33 kg bench 3rd Sigrid Eitler - 30 kg bench Male 1st Bryce Jackson - 62 kg bench. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Weightlifting Club Competitors and volunteers after a successful competition. Photo supplied

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Goals, Grit and Dominance: WUFC Delivers Strong Weekend Results

Goals, Grit and Dominance: WUFC Delivers Strong Weekend Results

U13 Prem pushed Magpies FC in a physical contest, with Connor Miller scoring early before a late goal flurry saw Magpies claim a 4-1 win. Meanwhile, the U13 Div 1 side celebrated its first victory of the season, defeating Country United 5-1 behind a brace from Oakley Wilson and strong team performances throughout, particular in the back line. U14/15 Prem side dominated Mackay Lions with a clinical attacking display, highlighted by a Shannon Matthews goal and Eli Wallis double in a commanding 4-1 win. Meanwhile, U14/15 Div 1 suffered late heartbreak, with Wanderers Red snatching a 2-1 victory despite strong performances from Alex Draper and keeper Jackson Paroz. Men’s Div 2 ground out a hard-fought 1-0 win against Country United after Jared Leaman capitalised on a late goalkeeping error, while Division 1 stayed patient to secure a physical 2-0 victory, with Sam Reynolds and Ian Wilson on target against a stubborn Country United outfit. Whitsunday United’s Women’s Prem team battled hard against Wanderers FC, with Michelle Sothmann opening the scoring in a competitive clash before Wanderers FC secured a 3-1 win. Strong performances from Nicole Wilkinson, Keely Salter and Bre Campbell highlighted the team’s determination ahead of next week’s matchup against Country United. WUFC’s U23s delivered a dominant 11-0 win over Magpies FC, with Aaron Kinsella scoring four goals and two apiece for Finlay Farrell, Seb Shand and Pepe Perea. An impressive clean sheet for goalkeeper Josh Healey. The Premier Men followed with a commanding 4-1 victory against Magpies FC, highlighted by Ethan Rose’s penalty and a Reef Peel hat-trick in a fast, physical clash. Goal Keeper - Josh Healey Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O’Keefe

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msr rec

On The Whitsunday Green

August 24, 2023

This week’s Friday 9-hole stableford competition at Whitsunday Green Golf Club was won by Michael Bond with a 21 point on a countback.

Michael was followed in second place by Dee Norman on 21 countback, and third went to Tim Harris with 21 points.

On Sunday it was the Club’s 18-hole skins competition -- and a very warm one at that.

Taking first place was Robert Lodders with seven Skins, second and third place was a tie between Michael Bond and Jake Day – both with six Skins.

Nearest the pin was Glenn Scott and Marc Belke.

And catching up readers on the Club’s 4 ball better ball on February 19: Cory Belke and Jack Hayes-Williams with a NET 41.5 against experienced adult players.

This Sunday will be 18-hole 4 ball better ball tee off at 10.00am.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green Golf Club

Cory Belke and Jack Hayes were the winners of the Whitsunday Green Golf Club’s recent 4 ball better ball

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Proserpine Veterans Golf

August 24, 2023

Proserpine Veterans Golf Club hosted  27 players, 10 ladies and 17 men for its March Monthly Medal last weekend.

Winner for the men was Steve Mitchell with 71 points on a countback from Ken Granger, also 71, with John Roser 72 on a countback from Colin Hounsell, 72 too.  

The Ladies Monthly Medal winner was Lyn Muller, 73 points, followed by Leanne Alexander, 74, and Tiina Randmae, 75.

Pin Shots went to Wilf Herweg, 2nd and 18th, Phill Luckett, 13th, Lyn Muller and Tiina Randmae 2nd, Leanne Alexander and Paula McQuat, 13th, and Mandy Patterson on the 18th.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Proserpine Golf Report

August 24, 2023

Proserpine Golf Club’s Tuesday Stableford was won by Heather Luvis on 71 nett, on a countback from Ken Granger and Ross Tong.

Diane Chard won the nearest the pin (NTP).

Wednesday Competition: 15 ladies played in the Wednesday Stableford, with Toni Clauss shooting a very impressive 40 points to win the Airllywood voucher.

Heather Luvis, on a score that would have won any other day, on 38 points was in second place, and Tiina Randmae with 36 points in third.

Lyn Muller, Trish McNeill, and Pauline Redpath (twice) were the winners of the pin shots.

Adam Maggs won the Wednesday Men’s Competition with 35 points and Ryan Wilkes in second place on 33 points.

Thursday Competition: Simon Della Santa was the winner of the Division One, Thursday Stableford with 39 points, followed by Michael Cragg on 36, and Brad Fleet on 35.

Harry Milne was the clear winner of Division Two also on 39 points, with Len Borooff in second place with 32 points and Trevor Paroz 3rd with 31 points.

NTP’s: James Devery, Yoko Fitton and Jacob Nightingale x 2

Saturday Competition: 78 players competed in the Allenbuild Stableford, and new club member Jordyn Albergo won the ladies with 45 points.

She was followed by Lyn Muller on 36 points and Diane Chard on 31 pts.

NTP’s Lyn Muller and Trish McNeill.

Adam Maggs was in form to win the Men’s competition with 37 points, ahead of Nathan Holmes and Jackson Gray, both on 36 points.

NTP’s: Ken Granger, Larry Muller, Brett Norris, and John Clark

Sunday Competition: Darren Reynolds was ahead of the field on Sunday with a very nice 41 points, closely followed by Thomas MacLean on 39 points. Aaron Prosser in third place with 36 points.

Anna Winterbourn narrowly defeated Peta Thomas on a countback with 33 points, and Pauline Redpath in third place on 31 points.

NTP’s: Aaron Prosser, Thomas MacLean, Jacob Nightingale, Karl Kirkwood, Pauline Redpath, Peta Thomas

Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Golf Club Pro Shop

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Bowen Golf News

August 24, 2023

Wednesday’s competition at Bowen Bowls Club was a single stableford event sponsored by the Club.

Ladies’ winner on a countback was Lynelle Riley, 37 points, runner up Morag Parker, 37 also. Men’s winner on a countback was Kailan Batchelor, 37 points, with runner up John Courtney, who rounded out the 37-score quartet.

Saturday’s competition was the Men's monthly medal and qualifier for single match play.

Winner on a countback was Marcus Yasso, 66 nett, runner up Brett Richards, 66.  

Sunday was the ladies monthly medal and single match play qualifier.  Winner on a countback was Jo Kukura, 69 nett, runner up Sarnie Eisemann, 69 nett.

Pin shots to Pauline Martin twice, and Grace Nott and Julie Mawson once.

This weekend’s competition is a 4BBB stableford event for the Easter turkeys.  

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott

Ladies March monthly medal winner Jo Kukara and runner up Sarnie Esiemann

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Airlie Beach Darts

August 24, 2023

Round Two of the Airlie Beach Darts Club 2023 season kicked off with the annual Champion of Champions fixture at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club.

This year the fixture featured two worthy champions: Dom Friend and Jamie Woods.

The standard was high for so early in the season, with both players hitting high checkouts and scoring heavily throughout. Dom managed to take an early lead, which he would never relinquish, running out a 7/3 winner.

Dom backed that win up with a second win of the day, this time a 7/0 win over Hawkeye Rick, which leaves Rick bottom of the ladder after two weeks.

Kameron Reason inflicted an impressive 7/4 win over Andy Peel, and Jamie Woods bounced back in style after that defeat to Dom with a 7/1 win over Arthur McMinn.

Finally, the round was finished off with Joe Wilson recording his first win of the year with a 7/3 win over Jamie Maher.

The members Jackpot wasn’t won, and will be $180 next week.

The Premier League is sponsored by Mika Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Tattooing, and Master Butchers Whitsunday.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher

Dom Friend in action at the Airlie Bowls Club for the Airlie Beach Darts Club Round Two fixture on Sunday morning

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Wangaratta Bowls

August 24, 2023

Tuesday’s winners at Wangaratta Bowls Club were Lindy Suann and Michael Parra, who defeated Deb Retchless and Sugar Brunker.

Other winners were Stumpy Adams and Kevin Jewell against Bron Tolcher and Terry Feaks.

Congratulations to the Wangaratta Team of Merle Elphinstone, Isobel Wheeler, Robyn Stitt, Lyn Danvers, and Margaret Wilson in gaining fourth place at the Bowen Bowls Club Fours carnival last weekend.

Competition is now in full swing with games to be played Saturday and Sunday.

Ladies’ handicap consistency results: Bron Tolcher defeated Margaret Wilson, Teresa Willshire defeated Denise Wallace, Penny Warren defeated Irene Laird.

Round 1 of Club Fours results: Denise Wallace, Teresa Willshire, Linda Scells, and Penny Warren defeated Robyn Stitt, Lyn Danvers, Margaret Wilson, and Fely Duncan.

Round 1 of Men’s Club Fours: Bill Myers, Greg Colquhoun, Peter Hinschen, and Geoff Danvers defeated Laurie Land, Kent Moriarty, Mark Drummond, and Allan Rolfe.

Sunday social bowls resulted in the winners coming out on Rink 3, with Merle Elpohinstone, Penny Warren, and Geoff Danvers winning against the team of Gwenda Lydom, Isobel Wheeler, and Sugar Brunker.

Other games saw Barry Beel and Mark Drummond defeat Terry Blair and Kevin Jewell, while Gary Goodwin and Laurie Land defeated Wanda Goodwin and Deb Retchless.

In the final game of the weekend, Rod Mumby, Linda Scells, and Allan Rolfe joined the winner’s circle, beating the team of Bron Tolcher, Sue Shearing, and Pat Tracey.  

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Wangaratta Bowls Club Sunday winners Club President Mark Drummond, Geoff Danvers, and Penny Warren

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Proserpine Bowls Club News

August 24, 2023

Proserpine Bowls Club had an eventful week on the rinks starting with pairs on the first rink with Bruce Uhe and Heather Brown defeating Warren Wilson and Sandy Daffara, 10-7 in the first half.  

Warren and Heather defeated Bruce and Sandy in the second half, 7-0, and on the other rink, Alen Sanderson and Noel Hale played Mary Hedgelong and Peter Lawton, then Mary and Noel played Alen and Peter.

On Saturday afternoon there was a good showing for a Men's Social bowls afternoon and Presentation Day.

The Club thanked its sponsors for last year's competition, Gardels Solar and Electrical and Anything Environmental.  

In very hot conditions there were four games of triples played.

On Sunday Proserpine Bowls Club hosted a game of Triples between Heather Brown, Sandy Daffara, and Jim Quod’s team and Mike Harrison, Peter Lawton, and Bruce Uhe. The game ended 28-8 in Ms Browns’ team’s favour.

Clubman Scott Kinnear is playing in the International Blind Bowlers Association team on the Gold Coast, and currently holds medal positions in both events entered.

Nominations have now closed for the Club Championship Singles, Pairs, and Fours and players will be advised soon on the draw and scheduled playing times.  

It is asked that players make themselves available to play when drawn, with weeks’ worth of notice to be given of drawn games.

Club selectors will begin selecting Pennants teams for the upcoming Pennants Season, and at present has nominated for Division 1 and Division 5.  

This will require 20 players over five weekends: April 15/16; April 22/23; May 13/14; May 20/21; and May 27/28.  

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

Proserpine Bowls Club Bowler of the Year 2022Wayne Handley

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Bowen Bowls Club

August 24, 2023

The Bowen Bowls Club held a successful Ladies Fours Carnival last week with the teams on the green displaying some beguiling bowls.

Fourth place went to the team of Margaret Wilson, Merle Elphinstone, Robyn Stitt, and Lyn Danvers, just shy behind third placed side of Wanda Goodwin, Linda Erickson, and Kay O’Sullivan.

In the final between the teams of Florence Keft, Gail Meng, Rhonda Meng, and Ahondi Ray, and Betty Nicolle, Margo Stanley, Ladda Purdie, and Betty Whitehorn, the latter came out the victors.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards

Bowen Bowls Club Ladies’ Fours Carnival winners Betty Nicolle, Margo Stanley, Ladda Purdie, and Betty Whitehorn with Lee from sponsors S&W Crane Hire

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Airlie Beach Bowls Club

August 24, 2023

On Tuesday afternoon at Airlie Beach Bowls Club Col Morris was at his best alongside Di Dobbins, with the pair claiming the win against Tony Whitehorn and Dawn Dowell, 21-15.

Wednesday afternoon Jackpot bowls was witness to a runaway victory by Tony Kelly and Ladda Purdie – who showed everyone why she’s the fourth best ladies bowler in Queensland.

They defeated the visiting bowler Dale Henry who had teamed with Mark Mawson 28-9.

Wednesday night Business House Bowls had fantastic performances with Whitsunday Gold Coffee team defeating last season’s finalists PRD in a nail biting last end victory 9-8. Other victories to Lara Hadlow’s racing team and Tuk Tuks

Saturday morning saw the return of Scroungers and first round winners Margo Stanley, Andy McDougall, Russell Jackson, and John Askew go into the final with And McDougall playing superbly to beat Russell in the final to secure another victory, with Tony Whitehorn for the third time winning the B Grade prize money.

Sunday afternoon social bowls saw John Trembath, Lu Rogan, and Keith Bates at lead effortlessly win 22-13 over Lynne Skeen’s team of Paul Tobias and Elaine Hadlow.

Whilst this was going on in Mackay at South Suburban’s club the final of the area’s Mixed Pairs Championship was underway with Shane and Vicky Spann pulling off a wonderful last end victory 23-22 with three points on the last end to claim an astonishing victory.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Airlie Beach Bowls Club members Lu Rogan, John Trembath, and Keith Bates after their amazing victory on Sunday afternoon

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From The Table

August 24, 2023

Tuesday morning fixture results March 7, 2023

Division 1:

Pelicans (Charlie Payne, Branko Vucurovic, John McGee, Veronica Shepherd) d Magpies (George Camilleri, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen) 10-4. John d Noreen 8, -9, 7, -9, 8.

Cockatoos (Tony Bowman, Steve Mathieson, Peter Goodson, Don Boettcher) d Doves (Michael Ibbotson, Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott, Coral Morgan) 10-4. Don d Kevin 8, -2, 7, -11, 5.

Division 2:

Parrots (Bryan Marshall, Judi Hicks, Marie Taylor) d Owls (Kim Challender, Robyn Bushell, Helen Ware) 7-5. Helen d Marie 5, -3, 10, -2, 5.

Ibis (Iris Grasso, Louise Gould, Fred Saliba) d Kookaburras (John Hamelink, Ken Best) 9-3. Ken d Louise -8, 5, 9, -13, 4.

Division 3:

Eagles (Sharon Muller, Frank Caruana, Glenda Dutton) d Storks (Madge Saunders, Thelma Caruana, Allison Day) 8-4. Sharon d Thelma -8, 7, -6, 8, 3.

Hawks (Gloria Vella, Pam Keune) d Pigeons (Bill Hey, Myles Dutton) 7-3. Pam d Bill 6, -11, 5, 8.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures March 7, 2023:

Division 1:

Donic (Andrew McHugh, Barry Patterson, Graham Drury) d Victas (Daniel Warfield, Anne Sheridan, Steven Whiting) 11-0. Graham d Steven -4, -3, 2, 9, 8.

Tibhar (Allan Edwards, Mick Ruhl, Vince Boeske) d Joola (Emma Widdup, Robbie Richards) 7-4. Robbie d Allan 4, -8, -10, 9, 8.

Division 2:

Yasaka (Ian McKay, Duncan Sheridan, Peter Goodson, Lily Boland) d Stiga (Aanav Reelh, Tony Bowman, Steve Mathieson, Matthew West) 11-3. Peter d Aanav -5, 6, 4, -4, 9.

Andro (Janice Kent, Graeme Walker, Mark Sleeman, Will VanDeKaa) d Radak (Ishan Rana, Andrea Nicholson, George Camilleri, Delma Knight) 10-4. Janice d George -4, 5, -11, 9, 9.

Division 3:

Butterfly (Val Austin, Trent Day, Virginia Clayton) d Xiom (Donna Abbott, Craig VanDeKaa, Ollie Hamelink) 10-1. Donna d Val 8, -7, 4, 8.

Gewo (Noreen Fredericksen, John McGee, Tiffany Camilleri) d Nittaku (Jye Callander, Duncan Sheridan, Steve Crocker) 10-1. Noreen d Steve -15, 7, 8, -3, 9.

Pam Joyce and Don Boettcher in action in Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures. Photo: Charlie Payne

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Dynamic Duo Jaxon And Xavier To Spearhead St Patrick’s League Campaign

August 24, 2023

A six-year bond between two of the finest rugby league prospects in Mackay has blossomed into an enterprising combination for St Patrick’s College whiz kids Xavier Kerrisk and Jaxon Purdue.

Saddling up for their final season at the College, the dynamic duo are hungry for success in 2023 and eager to bring home more silverware.

It is shaping as a busy campaign for the Queensland Country Under 17 representatives who will spearhead a powerful St Patrick’s College first grade outfit in the various schoolboys competitions this year.

Kerrisk, a skilful hooker in the Emerging Maroons Under 18s squad, and classy half back Purdue are both trump cards in new coach Ian Schifilliti’s top grade side that shapes as a force to be reckoned with.

Both 17-year-old colts have signed scholarship deals with the North Queensland Cowboys and remain an integral part of the club’s Development Program.

After impressing officials at a Cowboys pre-season camp before Christmas both players are eager to show their wares in top company.

Xavier and Jaxon were recently named in the Capricornia 18yrs representative squad to compete at the Queensland School Sport State Championships in Townsville on May 22-23.

The pair will be joined by St Patrick’s teammates in lock Kayne Smith, fullback Will Shears, centre Tenzin Cantor and prop Tyler Shandiman.

Ever since they first teamed up at Mercy College as fresh-faced 13-year-olds the duo have shared an uncanny bond on the football field that has yielded plenty of success.

Purdue and Kerrisk quickly formed a lethal spine combination as playmaker and hooker with dashing fullback Shears to help the College lift the Cowboys Challenge Shield premiership trophy in 2021.

Last year they left their mark as St Patrick’s reached the final of the prestigious Confraternity Shield and Aaron Payne Cup competitions – turning in clever performances to underline their enormous potential.

As a just reward the pair were selected in the 2022 Confraternity Rugby League Merit Team along with centre Kai Simon and lock forward Henry Thorpe with St Patrick’s current Sports Co-ordinator Mercy campus Matthew Paul named Honorary Coach in recognition of his 20 years of sterling service to schoolboy rugby league.

Both Purdue and Kerrisk began their careers as six-year-olds with their respective Norths Devils and Walkerston Wanderers JRL clubs and after 12 consecutive seasons service will focus on their schoolboy commitments in 2023.

The pair have each appeared in three Mackay & District Junior League Grand Finals with Jaxon celebrating a premiership triumph in Under 16s and Xavier collecting two championship medals in Under 14s and Under 17s.

They are also key players for the Mackay Cutters Under 18s team in the Mal Meninga Cup series and have featured prominently in the team’s early round victories over Northern Pride (24-4) and Central Capras (36-24) and last Saturday’s narrow 24-20 loss to the Townsville Blackhawks at Jack Manski Oval.

Ball playing skipper Purdue has sparked the attack while livewire Kerrisk has grabbed six tries in three games with his sharp bursts from dummy half.

By Chris Karas

Great mates Jaxon Purdue and Xavier Kerrisk will again form a crack combination for St Patrick's College on the rugby league field this season

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Records Sunk With Depth Of Talent In The Pool

August 24, 2023

Schoolboy swim sensations Ethan Banks, Kaiden Neilsen and Mia Bradford were in a record breaking mood at the recent St Patrick’s College Swimming Carnival staged at the Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Complex.

Seventeen-year-old Banks stole the show by smashing four existing records on the day to cap a memorable championship meet.

The outstanding prospect was crowned Year 12 Boys Champion after setting new records for the 50m freestyle (28.81 sec); 50m backstroke (34.63 sec); 50m breaststroke (38.78 sec) and 50m butterfly (32.06 sec).

Superfish Kaiden produced mighty performances in the pool to clinch the Year 7 Boys Champion trophy.

The versatile 12-year-old broke three records on the day after capturing the 50m freestyle (30.93 sec); 50m breaststroke (41.21 sec) and 50m butterfly (36.65 sec) titles.

There was also plenty of joy for Kaiden’s elder sister Mackenzie Neilsen, who was named Year 9 Girls champion after powerful performances in the freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke and butterfly events.

Madam Butterfly Mia dominated her age group – scooping the pool with record-breaking victories in the 50m freestyle (29.5 sec); 50m backstroke (35.75 sec); 50m breaststroke (43.38 sec) and 50m butterfly (33.25 sec) to earn the tag of Year 11 Girls Champion.

It was Mia’s fourth successive record in the 50m freestyle event. Her leading times of 29.69 sec (Year 8 – 2020); 28.31 sec (Year 9 – 2021) and 28.13 sec (Year 10- 2022) still stand today in the College record books.

Promising 13-year-old swimmer Audrey Bryan made it back-to-back Age Champion titles when named Year 8 Girls champion following her initial success as a Year 7 student in 2022.

Last year Audrey dominated her age group – creating new Aquatic records for the 50m freestyle (28.25 sec); 50m backstroke (36.60sec); 50m breaststroke (39.38 sec) and 50m butterfly (32.60sec).

It was a proud moment for the Noon family when siblings Wyatt Noon (Year 8 Boys Champion); Zanthia Noon (Year 10 Girls Champion) and Amelia Noon (Year 12 Girls Champion) achieved a unique treble.

There was double reason for Amelia to celebrate when she posted new records for Year 12 girl swimmers in the 50m backstroke (44.31 sec) and 50m butterfly (43.35 sec).

Karli Davis, 17, set a new Year 12 Girls record for the 50m freestyle (36.69 sec) and 17 year old Lillian Keeble for the 50m Breaststroke (48.72 sec).

16-year-old Jack Henderson followed in the footsteps of his famous brother Tom by claiming the Year 11 Boys Champion crown after setting new records for the 50m freestyle (29.16 sec) and 50m breaststroke (39.93 sec).

Brodie Carlill, 15, also collected a record double in the Year 11 Boys 50m backstroke (35.22 sec) and 50m butterfly (34.68 sec).

Other Age champions included Isabelle Miles (Year 7 Girls); Rourke Bagley (Year 9 Boys) and Declan Grady (Year 10 Boys).

By Chris Karas

St Patrick's College Age Swimming champions pictured l  to r: Matthew Paul (Sports Coordinator Mercy Campus; Year 7 Girls Isabelle Miles, Year 7 Boys Kaiden Neilsen, Year 8 Girls Audrey Bryan, Year 9 Girls Mackenzie Neilsen, Year 8 Boys Wyatt Noon; Year 9 Boys Rourke Bagley, Year 10 Girls Zanthia Noon and Year 10 Boys Declan Grady

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Mackay Bowling Club News

August 24, 2023

Saturday afternoon saw the Mackay Bowling Club play Wests Tigers for the Tigers Head Challenge  with 52 players competing In Triples and Fours with Mackay Club coming out eventual winners.

A good afternoon of bowls was had by all, and some friendships made.

This weekend the Marian Shield is played at Marian and Gargett. Teams to represent Mackay Club are Glen Luck, Greg Thompson, Jim Wallace and Barry Paskins; Kevin Tranberg, Mick Coll, Peter Molloy and Noel Wilson; Brian Williams, Colin Marks, Joe Crocker and Ross Dunstan; Chris Molloy, Tony Hollows, Trevor Mayfield and Bruce Bridger.

Tuesday Social Play (22)

Winners of Winners: Robyn Schatkowski, Eddie Roberts

Winners of Losers: Arthur Naylor, Col Stevens, Brian Williams

Thursday Scroungers (12)

Kees Struik def Katrina Robinson

Friday Social Play

Col Stevens, Denise Mezzen def Robyn Schatkowski, Liz McIntosh.

Carol Savage, Barry Jenner def Perer Carter, Karina Dunn

Ladies Championships Results

Leanne Jenner, Julie Caban def Dot McNamara, Marie Mayfield.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club Results

August 24, 2023

Wednesday March 8

Winners of our social games today were: Lesley Baumgarten, Narell Schmidtke and Lorraine Lemke.

Runners up were: Jan Comelli and Jean Zamparutti.

Wednesday was also the final in our B pairs competition with Lyn Tennant and Helen Goldston playing Pam Louis and Helen Fleming.

It was anyone’s game to the last end, it was a very exciting game to watch.

The ladies went end for end and showed some lovely shots.

Our eventual winners were Lyn Tennant and Helen Goldston.

Congrats ladies and you all played lovely bowls.

It also happened to be International Women’s Day, and a lovely raffle was conducted with lucky winners Narell Schmidtke and Neddy Thomsen taking home the spoils.

Championship Singles and B Singles competitions are now underway.

Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine

Helen Goldston and Lyn Tennant

Helen Fleming and Pam Louis

Narell Schmidtke and Neddy Thomsen

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Mixed Results As Cutters Kick Off Season

August 24, 2023

After a positive preseason, the BMD Premiership and Hostplus Cup Mackay Cutters travelled to Brisbane over the weekend to take on the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in Wynnum.

The Cutters made their highly anticipated BMD Premiership debut, defeating the Seagulls 30-8 in their first game together.

They completed a dominant first half 14-0 up thanks to tries from Alicia Martin, Zoe Cook, Shannon Mato and Samara Luta.

Luta crossed for her double early in the second half with Katie Green finishing the job with a try in the 57th to finish the game 30-8.

Coach Marco Peters told Queensland Rugby League he couldn't be prouder of the team.

"The girls just competed, which is what we wanted," he said.

"Effort was there all the way through.

“Good to be one from one.

"That was our first real game together... we'll get that cohesion going from now.”

The Hostplus Cup Cutters then took to the field, hoping to follow on from a strong end to their 2022 season.

The Seagulls scored early with Delouise Hoeter crossing in the eighth minute, followed by Cutters centre Flynn Camilleri opening the visitors’ account in the 24th.

With a Seagulls try and penalty goal late in the first half, the home side hit the sheds with a 14-6 lead.

After a relatively close start to the match, it was one way traffic throughout the second half.

Five unanswered tries, including one in the first minute of the second half, saw the home side run away to a 44-6 victory.

Also on Saturday, three junior Cutters squads travelled to Townsville to take on the Townsville Blackhawks in round four of the Cyril Connell Challenge, Mal Meninga Cup and Harvey Norman U19s.

The teams again returned to Mackay with mixed results, with the Cyril Connell Challenge Cutters going down 18-10, The Man Meninga Cup Cutters losing a close one 24-20 and the U19s girls walking away 24-18 victors.

All five teams return to BB Print Stadium this weekend for the first home game of the season, with gates opening at 10:00am.

The BMD Premiership Cutters started their inaugural season with a win while the Hostplus Cup Cutters went down in Wynnum. Photos supplied

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