With the floods up north, Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay was asked to take its primary vessel up to Cardwell, towing another vessel from Bowen. This was to help transfer emergency services around the cut off roads. Here in the Whitsundays, we have been asked to provide backup with our larger vessel for the Mackay waters. It is a 4 hour trip each way to get down there, so we have made arrangements with our neighbour squadrons to protect Whitsunday waters if we are called away south.

Nearly half our rescue activations are medevacs, so while we use our larger VMR1 for Mackay, other means will have to be used to make these transfers. As our neighbours' vessels are either unsuitable or could never get here in time, we are sure Brisbane authorities would have these covered as medevacs from resorts are easier for them to service, those from vessels, not so much.

We were called out on a very "dirty" night recently to pick up a patient from a local resort. There was no chance of using a helicopter as it was impossible to see the island’s beacons, thus requiring a careful, instrument approach. It was quite dramatic having rock walls just appear out of nowhere, thank goodness for radar!

We are called on to take our excellent QAS paramedics to all manner of injuries and illnesses. Marine jelly stings with people in so much pain we have had to lock them in the cabin to stop them from jumping over board, heart attacks, seizures, broken bones and soft tissue injuries, just to name a few.

It is amazing what can go wrong for people on holiday. Recently, we had to do a 4-hour rescue because the boaties got frightened. They were only used to going out on a lake and the ocean waves came as a bit of a shock!

You think we’re kidding, don't you? 2024 was a very busy year for us, in fact, 274 activations were an all-time record for one year. Accordingly, we have placed an order with a local boat builder, Blacker Marine, to build our third vessel. It is a 10 metre, aluminium, enclosed flybridge cat with walk around decks. It will largely duplicate all the things our primary vessel can do, so we can handle two assists at the same time, which quite often happens.

Of course, we are looking for more volunteers to crew these vessels so if you’re interested, visit: vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer and sign up!

Contributed by Shane Newell, President VMRW.

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President Hilary Jones-Rowan graciously welcomed all bowlers present, along with Life Members Margaret Armitage and June Cousen, and invited guests from the region’s clubs.

The day began with a game of bowls featuring the usual 'closest to the spider' competition, with all attempts being close. Laughter filled the air across all the rinks. Following the game, attendees retired to the clubrooms for a delicious afternoon tea, complete with sandwiches and cake. This was followed by a very lucrative (for some) and enjoyable cent sale.

The lucky winners of the bowls competition were: Marion Delaney, Jean Schmidtke, and Chris Woo (skip).

Runners-up for the day were: Wendy Sonter, L. Tungate, and Lorraine Silman (skip).

Lucky Card winners were: Jenny Petersen, Judith Snow, and Lesley Baumgarten.

President Hilary warmly thanked everyone for attending and invited all to join for a cool refreshment in the bar area before departing for the day.

The club’s competitions began on Wednesday, January 29th, with the club Graded Fours starting at 12 noon.  

Lucky Winners Marion Delaney, Jean Schmidtke and Chris Woo. Photo supplied

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By Hannah McNamara

At 34, Dale Potter is one of Mackay’s most talented and dedicated athletes, excelling across multiple sports while exceeding his own limits in the Special Olympics community. What began as a way to make friends, gain confidence, and stay active turned into a new profound passion for Dale, who now leads others to do the same.

Mackay Fire Special Olympics is a welcoming space for athletes of all abilities, offering basketball, table tennis, ten-pin bowling, bocce, and powerlifting in a supportive environment.

Coach Kimberley Doyle, who has lovingly volunteered for over a decade, said “Special Olympics is for anyone with an intellectual disability and/or autism, but we exclude no one.

“We aim to make everyone feel welcome, even if someone has severe anxiety and struggles to participate in mainstream sport…Special Olympics is for them too.”

Coach Doyle said that Dale is heavily involved, not just in the game, but in supporting athletes who require additional assistance too.

After completing the Athlete Leadership Training at the Sunshine Coast in October 2024, Dale now dedicates 2.5 hours of his week to assisting juniors and C-grade players at Special Olympics Mackay Fire basketball training, all while playing in A-grade himself. As one of five athlete leaders on Mackay’s leadership team, he ensures that athletes’ voices are heard.

Dale also holds the bat in table tennis, helping with scoring at training sessions and competition games. In 2024, he represented the club at the 2024 Mackay Disability Expo and even had the privilege of speaking at the Accessible Active Living Seminar.

“We actively engage with athletes to give them the tools to build confidence and feel valued, and we focus on abilities - not the ‘D’ (disability) word,” Coach Doyle added.

“We want to break the stereotype that people with disabilities can’t compete.”

Dale’s passion for sports resulted in a slam-dunk at the North Queensland Games, where he not only competed in table tennis, ten-pin bowling, and basketball but also brought home multiple medals. His efforts have been recognised through the 2024 Queensland Community Achievement Awards, where he accepted the finalist certificate for Sports in the Community on behalf of Special Olympics Mackay Fire.

Before 2021, athletes had to travel to Brisbane to qualify, however, now, Special Olympics Mackay hosts local qualifying events, reducing costs and giving more locals the opportunity to get involved.

Dale’s passion for powerlifting is quite impressive, with daily training that includes up to 200 push-ups in preparation for competitions. In 2024, Dale represented the club at the Mackay Disability Expo and went on to participate in the Queensland State Games, where he won multiple medals, including gold in 3x3 basketball.

After earning top rankings in ten-pin bowling at the Queensland State Championships, Dale was selected for the Queensland Michael Cooke State Team to compete at the TBA Nationals in Perth in June 2025.

Additionally, he proudly represented Australia at the Special Olympics Asia Pacific Bocce and Bowling Invitational Games in India, returning with gold medals in both singles and team events, along with a silver in doubles.

As Dale trains for the upcoming games ahead, his focus is on pushing past his own limits, while advising others to “Just give it a go.”

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Dale Potter leads by example at Mackay Fire Special Olympics, inspiring athletes of all abilities to push their limits. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Dale Potter with Tegan O’Keeffe and Kathleen Hanson. Photo supplied

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Mackay Road Runners extends a big thank you to volunteers who helped with setup, spoke to prospective and existing members, and packed up at the MECC Sports Expo last weekend.

It was a lovely and very successful event filled with chatting, talking, laughing… and more talking! Special thanks to Julie Whibley (Secretary), Janelle Tilse (Publicity Officer), Club Captain Jim Ford, Assetkeeper Andrew Short, Merchandiser Jo Hughes, and Vice-President Len Howarth for their time and support throughout the weekend. The club is incredibly grateful for any assistance offered at any time.

The 2025 Mackay Road Runners committee welcomes you this Sunday, to come along for the 2025 season opener at 4pm (for a 4:30pm social racing start) at the North Mackay Bowls Club rear carpark. Please note the new meeting point from previous years.

In case of weather amendments or cancellations, please keep up to date via the Facebook page. All existing members should wear their race bib so the timekeepers can do a test run of the timing systems ahead of the first timed run next Sunday morning.
New members are also welcome!

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Mackay Road Runners Committee members, Len Howarth, Jo Hughes and Andrew Short volunteer at the 2025 Mackay Regional Council Sports Expo and Sign on.

Mackay Road Runners 2025 Executive Committee (back row) Julie Whibley (Secretary); Paul Tilse (President); Tim Magoffin (Treasurer); Brendan Bishop (outgoing President); Janelle Tilse (Publicity Officer).  Front row – Len Howarth (Vice-President); Jo Hughes (Merchandiser) and Andrew Short (Assetkeeper).

ackay Road Runners at the 2025 Mackay Regional Council Sports Expo and sign on – Julie Whibley (left) and Janelle Tilse (right). Photos supplied

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Mother Nature has caused disruption in the latter half of the junior cricket season, dashing the hopes of some young players hoping to make it to the big dance as they race towards the finals.

The minor premiers have been decided across all grades, with Proserpine leading the way in three of the four divisions, U12, U15 and U17s. In the U13 division, Souths claimed the top spot, while Magpies White took the honours in the U17 competition.

The semi-finals are set for this Saturday, 15th February, and with some good weather on the horizon, we hope the sun will shine brightly to ensure these exciting matchups can go ahead.

The girls' cricket season has seen a similar challenge, with rain disrupting the last two rounds, much to the disappointment of the players. Despite the setbacks, it's been fantastic to see so many new girls, many of whom are picking up a bat for the first time, join in the fun on Friday afternoons.

Souths have been dominant this season, securing the minor premiership ahead of PV Throwing Coconuts. Weather permitting, next Friday will see the semi-final take place, where the winner will earn the chance to face Souths in the grand final.

Our Master Blasters are also hoping for the rain to stay away so they can take to the field of GBRA for their penultimate round of Blaster cricket for the season.

Here’s to the sun coming out and a flurry of sixes being hit across the paddocks this weekend. Good luck to all teams playing off for spots in their respective Grand Finals.

Contributed by Mel Dwyer

Junior cricket teams battle for finals spots this weekend, with Proserpine and Souths leading their divisions despite weather setbacks. Good luck to all teams! Photo supplied

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Despite the recent unstable weather, a number of intrepid Sinkers arrived for normal Wednesday night training at the North Mackay State School pool. They found the choppy conditions suitable for open-water swimming training, and they braved the conditions to complete a full training session.

Once again, not to be deterred, even more, members turned up for the Saturday morning training session at the Memorial Pool held in similar conditions with, at times, horizontal rain.

The Sinkers Masters Swimming Club have a full and varied calendar for this year kicking off with the Moreton Bay event early February, the club’s own short course event on Saturday Feb 22nd, the Masters Australia National championships in April (Melbourne) followed by the Great Barrier Reef Games pool and Open Water swims in June. A number of regional and club events are available throughout Queensland to keep swimmers motivated.

Sink or Swim: Sinkers Masters embrace choppy conditions for open-water training. Photo supplied

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Softball Mackay is swinging into action for the 2025 season, with clubs now signing on players of all ages and experience levels. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or picking up a glove for the first time, there’s a place for you on the diamond!

Who Can Play?
Softball is a fantastic sport for boys and girls aged 5 and up, as well as men and women of all skill levels. No experience? No problem! All clubs provide full training, so you can learn the game in a fun and supportive environment.

Season Start Dates:
• Juniors: Saturday, 8th March
• Seniors: Saturday, 10th May

Softball Mackay is eager to grow its junior player base, with plenty of opportunities for kids aged 5 to 16 to get involved. Parents can also take advantage of Fair Play Vouchers to help with registration costs.

How to Join:
Mackay has three great clubs to choose from — pick the one closest to home and get in touch:
• Angels: Chubb – 0416 432 988
• Dragons: Maxine – 0439 376 887
• Hawks: Jessica – 0413 233 446

Save the Date: Mackay May Day Softball Carnival 2025
Expressions of interest are now open for the Mackay May Day Softball Carnival (3rd–5th May). We’re looking for A Men’s, A Women’s, and B Women’s teams—entries close 14th February. So far 7 B Women’s, 6 A Women’s and 6 A Men’s teams have registered from across Queensland.

For more details or to express your interest, message Softball Mackay. Don’t miss your chance to be part of another exciting season — see you on the field!

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An amazing thirty-two, Mackay novices and experienced players, attended the 2025 Gold Coast Congress last week. This congress attracts players from all over the world. Everyone enjoyed the week with some hard cards, lots of fun and time away enjoyed. Congratulations to David and Ming Ting who won the Bobby Richmond Championship Intermediate E Final. Well done to everyone who participated. The home front was a bit quieter but thanks to some wonderful dedicated people, members still enjoyed their weekly games of bridge.

Weekly Results

Monday 3 February 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Vicki Howard 1st Gwen Liddell / Sandy Patterson
2nd Antonia Tarradas / Vic Mason 2nd Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
3rd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait 3rd Diane Stokes / Eddie Kliese
Wednesday 5 February 2025 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Joy Block / Diane Stokes 2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
3rd Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz 4th Geoffrey Patterson / Sandy Patterson
Friday 7 February 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell 1st Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
2nd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Barbara Tait
3rd Joyce Deguara / Anne Lutz 3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox
Saturday 8 February 2025 –11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Faye Wright / Christine Nice
2nd Carmel Brown / Patrick Rasmussen 2nd Mick Robins / Marilin Robins
3rd Geoff Taylor / Andrew Canavan 3rd Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch
4th Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris 4th Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
5th Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 5th Shirley Worland / Joy Block

Contributed by Joy Block

Ming and David Ting Winners Gold Coast Congress Intermediate Bobby Richmond Championship

Gold Coast Congress Contingent 2025. Photos supplied

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The Airlie Beach Bowls Club held a mixed bowls competition on Tuesday morning, where they welcomed new members Mandy and Phil O’Brien. The winning team, each awarded chocolates, included Mandy O’Brien, Henny Tattam, and Betty Whitehorn. Unfortunately, due to persistent rain, no other games have been played since February 1st.
The framework for the dome cover over the lawn is now in place, signaling significant progress toward the project's completion. While delays have been unfortunate, the Dome Cover Committee has confirmed that these delays fall within the scope of the contract.
Weather permitting, social bowls will continue at times agreed upon by the bowling committees and coaching sessions will also continue from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Mondays and Thursdays.
Stay informed about any updates or changes by following the Airlie Beach Bowls Club's Facebook page and keep an eye on this space for details about a new six-week "Come and Try" program, starting on March 6th from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

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Photos and story contributed by Betty Whitehorn
New cover frame in place while a few games play below.

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We’ve had a good amount of rain over the past couple of weeks, which kept us off the green. However, Sunday was the first clear day, and many of our members were eager to get back to playing.
The winners of the day were Graeme Read and Gavin Charles, who narrowly defeated Laurie Land and Pat Tracey in a tightly contested match. In another game, Deb Retchless, Alby Vigar, and Allan Rolfe ended in a draw with Lindy Suann, Isobel Wheeler, and Kennedy Whitton. Unfortunately, the jackpot didn’t go off.
Nomination forms for both the Ladies’ and Men’s competitions are now available on the board outside the club house and we encourage everyone to consider nominating, as it's a great chance to compete. The closing date is February 18th, so be sure to get your nominations in before then!
Lastly, congratulations to Allan Rolfe, Mark Drummond, and Robyn Stitt for winning the BBC Australia Day Triples! It was a great accomplishment, and we’re all proud of their success. We look forward to seeing everyone back on the green soon!

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Photo and Story contributed Penny Warren
Sunday Winners: Graeme Read and Gavin Charles

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In a powerful demonstration of community spirit, the Airlie Beach Cricket Club (ABCC) is not only making strides to enhance local cricket infrastructure but also offering a helping hand to neighbouring clubs in need.
As part of the Australia Day weekend celebrations, ABCC collaborated with Club Whitsunday to promote cricket activities at their home base, the Sports Park, and raise supportive funds. This partnership was especially meaningful in light of the unfortunate theft of mowing equipment from the Proserpine Junior Cricket Club in late December. In response, ABCC organized meat tray raffles over the weekend to help replace the stolen equipment.
Stephen Logan, Treasurer of ABCC, expressed his gratitude: "This was a fantastic opportunity for ABCC to support Proserpine Junior Cricket in replacing their stolen equipment. We are incredibly thankful to Club Whitsunday, the club patrons, and all members of both ABCC and Proserpine Juniors for their generous support."
The fundraising efforts were met with overwhelming community support, raising a total of $3,427—a significant contribution that will go towards replacing the vital equipment for the Proserpine Jr Cricket Club.
The ABCC’s commitment to community collaboration and sportsmanship, nurturing young talent, and supporting fellow clubs highlights the importance of unity and teamwork. The Proserpine Jr Cricket Club, in particular, has expressed deep appreciation for the overwhelming generosity, with Club President Mike Hope saying, "We’ve just been really overwhelmed by the generosity from the community. Especially the sporting and cricket community."
Thanks to donations, raffles, and support from local businesses, the Proserpine Junior Cricket Club is now on its way to recovery. Their gratitude extends to local contributors like JL Slashing, who helped maintain the oval grass until a new lawnmower could be secured. This show of community support reinforces the strong bond between clubs and small local businesses in the Whitsunday region.
ABCC's proactive efforts continue to inspire, as they work towards providing better facilities and opportunities for the next generation of cricket players while standing alongside their fellow clubs in times of need.

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Stephen Logan, Mike Hope, Jess Hope, and Hannah Davies holding the cheque. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

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Outrigger Whitsunday has successfully wrapped up a spirited four-week "Come and Try" program, engaging and inspiring the local community. The initiative received an enthusiastic response from 36 participants, all eager to immerse themselves in the world of team paddling.
The journey began with an introduction to paddling techniques and canoes, progressing through stages of basic paddling and sprints. As participants honed their skills and built camaraderie, the program culminated in an exhilarating 11km paddle to Funnel Bay, winding through picturesque beaches. Four OC6 canoes glided together across the water, marking a memorable finale to the event.
Community support was evident throughout the program, highlighting the region's vibrant spirit and love for water sports. Outrigger Whitsunday's initiative has not only fostered a deeper connection among participants but also promises to inspire similar endeavours in the future.
Would you like to try out outrigging as well? You can message the club on Facebook or call Michelle Lynes at 0421 159 852.

Photo and story contributed by Michelle Lynes
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The sprint winners holding aloft their prize of 1st place pinapples.

Cannonvale Cannons swimmers delivered stellar performances at the 2025 Queensland Sprint Championships, held last weekend at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre. This high-energy competition focused on speed, with each swimmer limited to four 50-metre sprint events in their age group. Older competitors with qualifying times could also enter the open-age category, with congratulations going to Ella Bounden, who qualified in Backstroke and Butterfly at the Open level!
A strong 23-member squad represented the Cannons, including Charlie Doherty, Tyler Bennett, Nelson Malady, Jax Clayworth, Levi Smith, Declan Dichiera, Liam Filewood, Ruby Harland, Ruby Lawson, Evie Doherty, Indi Smith, Koa Harland, Andie Reynolds, Ella Bounden, Roxy Groom, Gracie Laguna, Millie Groom, Matilda Nicholes, Celeste Orenshaw, Addie Sanders, and Mackenzie Bennett.
The journey to Brisbane was not without its challenges. After weather caused all Friday flights from Proserpine to be cancelled, families scrambled to rearrange travel plans, many driving or booking alternative flights to ensure their swimmers competed. Unfortunately, the Trefz family were unable to make it out and our thoughts were with Zach and Alex who were both super keen to compete.
A special mention goes to our 10-year-old debutants—Liam Filewood, Levi Smith, Mackenzie Bennett, Evie Doherty, and Koa Harland—who competed in their first-ever state championship.
Several swimmers achieved personal bests (PBs) in every event, including Ruby Harland, Gracie Laguna, Celeste Orenshaw, Andie Reynolds, Indi Smith, Declan Dichiera, and Jax Clayworth.
Jax Clayworth delivered an exceptional performance on the state stage, proving himself as one of Queensland’s top young sprinters. Qualifying for two finals against the best in the state is no small feat, and Jax rose to the occasion with incredible swims.
In the 11-year-old 50m Breaststroke final, he powered through the competition to secure an impressive 5th place, and in the 50m Butterfly, he showcased his speed and technique to finish 6th in Queensland.
Congratulations to all swimmers for their outstanding efforts! Your determination made the Cannons proud!

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Story and Photos contributed by Jade Korosec
Our 10-Year-old debutants excited for their first state meet
Jax Clayworth with coaches Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson
The 2025 Queensland State Sprint Team

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On the Australia Day Holiday we responded to a call for help from one of our members at Gloucester Island. Their 5.5 metre half cabin had sunk and they were stranded on the beach in pouring rain. They were bailing it out at low tide, but would need a tow home. A lot of their gear had been lost, most tragically an esky full of liquid survival rations!
The tow was spectacular with waves breaking over VMR1, pounding rain and the half cabin threatening to sink again on the end of the tow line. The fishers had opted to stay on board of their vessel to bail as she was taking on rain and sea water.
The best tow speed we could do was 5 knots as the half cabin's bow kept dipping dangerously low into the waves. Our crew were on "tender hooks" every time the little boat disappeared in a wave trough and waited with baited breath to see if it would rise above the crest.
Well, it did every time, and after 5 hours the VMR1 re-entered Coral Sea Marina with some very tired but grateful fishermen, who did not have much to pay for the service because they were wisely members.
The day was not over for the VMR crew who still had to refuel, pack up and then attend an administrative meeting, not getting home until 9pm. Thanks to Skipper Ken, Bill, Donna and Rodney for completing the rescue.
Another recent VMR event was the honour bestowed on Ray Lewis, one of our Life Members, by Rotary Airlie Beach, being inducted as a Paul Harris Fellow. After 24 years of very active service in every leadership role we have, Ray is still going strong in the service of his community. He is a senior trainer, Search and Rescue Coordinator and very active skipper.
If you would like to join our squadron please visit our website, https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/

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Contributed by Shane Newell, President Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsundays.
Two of the VMR team take the tender out to the half cabin at low tide. Photo Supplied: Shane Newell
The half cabin on the tow line cresting a wave. Photo Supplied: Shane Newell

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Mackay's biggest sport and recreation sign-on event is only days away.

The Mackay Sport and Rec Expo will feature more than 100 clubs on display, creating a one-stop shop for sport and recreation opportunities.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was exciting to see so many local clubs get on board and support the annual expo.

“This year’s event will be action-packed, with a range of active zone activities and demonstrations throughout the day and all the usual prizes and competitions, such as nominate your favourite club and random draws,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The event is free to attend and will include more than 100 interactive booths, an active zone area in the south foyer, a demo zone in the north foyer and activities outside,” he said. 

“The outdoor activities will include a dog obedience demonstration, rugby league pass-the-ball activity, Scouts’ rope bridge, triathlon and wood chopping demonstrations.

“The event planning team is also excited about a drag car demonstration that will be available in the MECC carpark. 

“In an effort to make the event more inclusive and accessible, we'll also have a relaxed session at the start of the event. 

“The relaxed session is for people who appreciate a quieter environment. The doors to the MECC will be opened, lights turned down and sound levels kept to a minimum.

“Attendees are invited to nominate their favourite sport and recreation club at the event for a chance to win the club a $500 merchandise voucher, thanks to in-kind sponsor Brand Factor.

“One person who nominates their favourite club will also win a Brand Factor sports merchandise pack, valued at $100, and some Gold Coast Suns memorabilia.”

Harrup Park Country Club and its Great Barrier Reef Arena have again become bronze sponsors this year.

Other sponsors for the event include media partners Star 101.9, 4MK and 7 News Mackay.
The event will be held Sunday, 9th February, from 9am to 1pm, with Star 101.9 broadcasting live.

For more information, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/sportexpo

Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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