Mackay Surf Lifesaving competitors recently headed to Sarina Beach for the North Barrier Branch Titles - the premier surf sports event - for seven regional lifesaving clubs as North as Ingham and as South as Sarina.  The Mackay team excelled by finishing a very close 2nd place to Townsville’s Arcadia SLSC.

“We are very impressed with the results of our surf sports athletes leading into states and nationals,” said Josh Grant the Mackay Director of Surf Sports.

“After analysing our results, it was awesome to see we were the club with the most gold medals overall and had a fairly small contingent yet excelled against all odds.”

Mackay Surf Club, now has a small but strong team ready to take on the upcoming state and national surf lifesaving titles in surf sports, champion lifesaver and surf boat events.

Contributed by Josh Grant

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Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club team that took out 2nd place at the North Barrier Branch Champs in Sarina.
Mackay’s U11 team enjoying being a part of the surf lifesaving movement .
U10 competitors at the start of the surf race.  This event involves a 288m surf swim for some of our youngest lifesavers.
Mackay Surf Club’s All Age Beach Relay – involves masters competitors down to U8 competitors
U14 Board race branch champion for another year running, Jo Madden. Photos supplied

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Health professionals in the frontline of the fight against breast cancer will hit the streets of Mackay next month for the Mater Chicks in Pink International Women’s Day Fun Run, presented by Queensland X-Ray.

While 23,000 people take part in the main Brisbane CBD event on Sunday 9 March, Mackay will hold its own fund-raising 5km fun run, starting and finishing at the Bucasia Beach playground.

This year walkers and runners from Mater Private Hospital Mackay will be lining up with Queensland X-Ray Mackay staff and members of the city’s Lazy Runners Club.

The International Women’s Day Fun Run is held by Mater Foundation, which is hoping to raise more than $1.8 million this year. The funds will be used to support Mater’s breast cancer services, purchase new equipment and fund life-saving breast cancer research.

“Mater’s Mackay team is joining Queensland X-Ray staff for this event, bringing together dozens of health workers who support women – and men – with breast cancer every day,” said Hazel Douglas, Assistant Director of Clinical Services at Mater Private Hospital Mackay.

“More than 20,000 patients a year are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Australia and this is our way of showing our support for them and their families.”

Mater is one of the leading centres for breast cancer treatment in Queensland, with one in four patients state-wide being treated at a Mater hospital.

Around 300 patients underwent breast surgery at Mater Private Hospital Mackay last year.

Although registrations for the 2025 fun run have now closed, Mackay residents can still make a difference by donating at fundraise.mater.org.au/fundraisers/matermackaychicksinpink.

Supporters are also welcome to cheer on the participants at Bucasia Beach at 6.30am on 9 March.

Ms Douglas said the Mater team was hoping to raise $2000.

“Every dollar we raise helps women fighting breast cancer,” Ms Douglas said.

“It’s an amazing cause and we’re so grateful for the community support we’ve received so far.”

WHAT: Mater Chicks in Pink International Women’s Day Fun Run
WHERE: Bucasia Beach
WHEN: Sunday 9th March at 6.30am

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Mater Private Hospital Mackay fun runners (from left) Fiona Lynch (Dietitian), Belinda King (Enrolled Nurse), Elly Engstrom (St Paul’s ward Nurse Unit Manager) and Louise Mullaney (Mission Integration Manager). Photo supplied

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At the last Whitsunday Regional Council meeting the members proposed making a bid for hosting Ramped Up in Airlie Beach this year. Ramped Up and other sporting events like it are a big drive for the Whitsundays, and the motion was unanimous, with a resounding yes to try and get it to return. Hosting open sporting events like Ramped Up are not just about thrills and spills, they're also part of a larger effort by the Whitsunday Regional Council to drive the local economy.
Ramped Up, sponsored by Pacific Action Sport, is a two-day skating competition and festival featuring both professional and amateur skaters showing off their best tricks and routines. Coming to the Whitsundays, Ramped Up is focused on growing the sport of skateboarding in the community and to highlight the talent that is already present in the local scene.
The festival was a big crowd pleaser last year with thousands turning out to see the halfpipe in action. With live bands and food vendors to ensure there's something for everyone and food and entertainment all around, it was a sight shred to. For those making the trip to the Whitsundays for the event, camping options were available, so you could stay close to the action and enjoy the full experience of the festival.
The council is eager to bring major events like these to the Whitsunday area, offering an opportunity for visitors and locals alike to experience world-class skateboarding and boost the local economy. The time is ripe with the sport becoming recognized at an Olympic level, to increase participation, attract spectators, and most importantly, continue growing the sport for the community's benefit. The passion, skill, and enthusiasm are already here with the local PCYC even offering classes, the locals want it back again!
Whether you're a skateboarder, spectator, or simply someone who loves great music and good vibes, know that your local council has agreed to get the ball rolling on the bid to bring spectacular sports events like Ramped Up to one of Australia’s most iconic tourism destinations here in the Whitsundays.

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The Cannons hosted another enjoyable Club Night on Wednesday night. It was “fast and furious” as it was a Sprint Distance Club event, so swimmers could only race in 12m or 25m events.
Congratulations to all the swimmers who set new Club Records: Harry Chegwidden (7 years) 100m Breaststroke in 2:07.20, Lucas Korosec (8 years) 200m IM in 3:27.58, Eloise Chegwidden (9 years) 400m Freestyle in 6:44.23 and 200m Breaststroke in 3:51.12, Miller Eaves (9 years) 200m Breaststroke in 3:50.05, and Jax Clayworth (11 years) 50m Butterfly in 32.98 and 1500m Freestyle in 19:37.65.
The Chocolate Awards were presented to Isabella Pisaniello for her massive 104.41-second PB in the 400m IM. Thomas Ganter also received a Chocolate Award for his “closest to best” time. Coaches’ Awards were presented to Indi Smith for her Club Night swims and to Miller Eaves for his 200m Butterfly during Distance Club Night. And Upgrade Certificates were presented to Zavier Woolston, Gracie Laguna, Faithlyn Trotter, and Liam Filewood.
Wonderful to see all the young swimmers shine in the shorter distances on Wednesday. Gracie Crichton (8 years) swam a terrific 25m Backstroke with a 2-second PB. Maeve Dichiera swam fantastic times in her 25m Freestyle and 25m Butterfly. Liam Filewood and Hazel Smith were in fine form, swimming 3 PBs each.
Stella Mulliss (6 years) swam a very smooth 12m Breaststroke in a time of 26.61s. Sunny Robertson (6 years) swam an excellent 12m Freestyle in a time of 21.18s. Brothers Asher and Reid Springbett, and Zavier and Caleb Woolston, continue to get stronger and faster each week. A special mention goes to Ruby Lawson, who swam extremely well, achieving PBs in all her swims.
Well done to all the swimmers who participated on Wednesday night! A big thank you to all the wonderful parents and volunteers who assisted.
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Contributed with thanks by Raylene Rasmussen.

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Tuesday's social bowls saw Stumpy Adams and Penny Warren claim victory over Deb Retchless and Margaret Wilson in a tight contest. Despite their efforts, the elusive jackpot remains unclaimed, continuing to grow into a tidy sum.
On Sunday, the club hosted the annual Opening Day Triples, which was well attended by teams from Alligator Creek, Ayr, Airlie Beach, and Collinsville. It was a fantastic opportunity to catch up with friends and fellow bowlers. The event featured two games of fifteen ends, with the team of Sugar Brunker, Anthony Bull, and Gary Cooper emerging as the overall winners with the highest combined score.
The runners-up were Dave Hathaway, Margaret Wilson, and Greg Duncan, who put in a strong performance throughout the day. A special sportsmanship award for the lowest overall score went to the team of Kim Lucal, Gavin Charles, and Kaye Cooper, recognising their good spirits and competitive nature despite the tough competition. It was a great opening day for the sport and community.
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President Margaret Wilson (Wangaratta) with Winners Anthony Bull (Ayr) and Gary Cooper (Alligator Ck), along with President Mark Drummond.
President Margaret Wilson (Wangaratta) with Runners-Up Dave Hathaway (Collinsville) and Greg Duncan (Alligator Ck) with President Mark Drummond (Wangaratta).
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Contributed with thanks by Penny Warren.

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What a wonderful week of bowling at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club! To beat the heat, start times varied throughout the week. On Tuesday, bowls began at 9am, with Sue Dakin, Henny Tattam, and Carol Crosbie claiming victory with a close win of 16-15 over Gail Simms, Lyn Graham, and Tony Whitehorn.
Wednesday’s social bowls started at 2pm, with 18 players competing across three rinks. The winning team, with the highest margin, was Alan Pershouse, Stacey Hadlow, and Russell Jackson, who defeated Wayne Tippett, Vicki Spann, and Ted Cullen.
On Friday evening, members and friends gathered at the club, enjoying the new kitchen menu, which has sparked keen interest among all.
Unfortunately, Saturday's scroungers event was cancelled due to rain, leaving the green unplayable. Thanks to John Askew for inspecting and updating members on the green’s status.
Sunday's social bowls saw a dominant performance by Lu Rogan, Dawn Dowell, and Alan Pershouse, who defeated Mel, Greg, and Arthur 24-12. Tony Kelly and John Brown skipped close games, with John’s team narrowly defeating Tony’s team 19-18. The Mixed Triples Final for 2024 was also played, with Betty Whitehorn, Ladda Purdie, and Tony Whitehorn defeating Elaine Hadlow, Stacey Hadlow, and Warren Mills 24-16.
The club’s Men’s Open Fours competition for 2025 is set to start at 9am on Saturday, 1st March, with round two in the afternoon. The third round is scheduled for 9am on Sunday, 2nd March, followed by the Men’s Open Fours Final for 2024 at 1pm.
The Women and Girls "Come and Try Lawn Bowls" program, funded by a grant from the Queensland Government Sport and Recreation, will recommence on Thursday, 6th March, at 5pm–6pm at 2503 Shute Harbour Road, Jubilee Pocket, we hope to see all keen players there!

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Winners of the 2024 Mixed Tripples Final: Ladda Purdie, Tony Whitehorn and Betty Whitehorn. Photo Credit: Lyn Graham.
Contributed with thanks by Betty Whitehorn.

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The unpredictable weather has once again played the leading role in our recent golfing events. While competition has been significantly impacted, we managed to get in some play, albeit much less than usual. This disruption has thrown our calendar into disarray, forcing us to reschedule events for March, subject to further weather conditions. Despite the challenges, a few competitions took place last week, and we are pleased to announce the results of the games that did go ahead.
On Wednesday, February 19th, 17 players participated in the PGC Stableford competition. Adam Davies emerged as the men’s winner with a solid 40 points, followed by Gary Scotford with 34 points. In the ladies’ category, Lyn Muller took the top spot with 31 points, just ahead of Elspeth Scotford with 30.
Thursday, February 20th saw another round of the PGC Single Stableford, where Nic Apruzzese claimed victory in A Grade with 37 points, edging out Matthew Muller. In B Grade, Mitchell Whitton led with an impressive 41 points, with James Devery taking second place with 38.
Friday, February 21st featured the Metropole Run, a front 9 event, where Tom O’Brien scored 21 points to secure the win. Jared Leaman followed as runner-up with 20 points.
Sadly, the weather forced the cancellation of the competition on Saturday, February 22nd, with no play taking place and the course was also closed on Sunday.
Looking ahead, we are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming fixtures for the week ending March 2nd, with plans for social play, stroke and stableford events, and the Metropole 9-hole run on the calendar. However, all events remain dependent on weather conditions and as always, full results can be found on Golflink, and we’ll continue to keep our fingers crossed for better weather moving forward!

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The course in 2023, when similar weather hit the area like that of this year.
Contributed with thanks by Tinna Randmae

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A strong turnout of over fifty runners and supporters gathered on Sunday afternoon for the Mackay Road Runners Gooseponds social season opener. The event featured a loop course through the picturesque Gooseponds parklands, situated behind the North Mackay Bowls Club.

The newly appointed Club President for 2025, Paul Tilse, welcomed the enthusiastic crowd of runners, walkers, and families to the first official club run on the 2025 calendar. Tilse extended a heartfelt thanks to outgoing President Brendan Bishop, acknowledging his exceptional service and dedication to the club. Bishop was on hand, as helpful as ever, alongside his son Hughie, assisting with the setup for the opening run.

Before cutting the ribbon to officially open the 2025 season, Club Patron Col Meng praised Mackay Road Runners for their ongoing commitment to fostering a strong running community. He also expressed gratitude to the committee and dedicated volunteers who ensure the weekly events run smoothly. Meng’s weekly donation of icy cold Zooper Doopers was once again a hit, giving runners that extra boost to cross the finish line.

Runners are reminded that Mackay Road Runners Club Captain, Jim Ford, continues to offer free track training sessions every Wednesday at 5.30pm at the Aquatic and Recreational Complex (ARC). These sessions are open to everyone, regardless of membership or running experience. Whether an individual's sport is crossfit, swimming, cycling, cricket, squash, or golf, a track session can prove to be a valuable addition to any training regime. Participants only need to pay the $4 entry fee at the pool kiosk before heading to the track for an hour of well-planned drills aimed at enhancing endurance and athletic performance.

Looking ahead, this Sunday marks the first handicap points event of the year - the Rural View 5km/10km run. The race starts at 6.30am from the Wallman’s Road cul-de-sac in Eimeo. With parking expected to be limited, runners are advised to park across Bucasia Road at the shopping centre and cross with care. Registration closes 10 minutes before the start to allow timekeepers to prepare, so runners must check in promptly.

Members are reminded to wear their updated race bibs with timing chips attached to the front, ensuring accurate recording of race times. Casual runners are always welcome to join for a $10 race day fee.

Safety remains a top priority. Runners should adhere to all course briefings and follow instructions from the Race Director and course officials. Proper pre- and post-run nutrition is vital, especially given the region’s challenging weather conditions this time of year.

With the season off to a strong start, Mackay Road Runners are looking forward to a fantastic year on the roads, trails, and track.

_Contributed by Janelle Tilse _

Caption: Mackay Road Runners launched their 2025 season with a well-attended gooseponds opener, welcoming new leadership and setting the pace for a promising year ahead. Photo source: Mackay Road Runners (Facebook)

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It was an exciting weekend of rugby league action last weekend, as the Mackay Cutters made a strong showing in their Host Plus Cup (HPC) trial match against the CQ Capras, securing a 28-24 win in a closely contested affair at BB Print Stadium, Mackay. The match served as an important test for both teams as they prepared for the upcoming season.

The games kicked off with the first try of the day by the Harvey Norman U17's, setting the tone for a competitive outing. The Cyril Connell Cup boys had a strong first half, with their hard work paying off in a 38-12 victory. The Mal Meninga Cup boys followed suit with an impressive 38-14 win, while the Harvey Norman U19's triumphed 30-10. The Mackay Cutters girls showed determination as they fought for every minute, emerging victorious with a 16-4 win.

Before the game, both teams were eager to showcase their progress.

Andrew Battaia, Head Coach of the Mal Meninga Cup and Head of Pathways, spoke highly of the local talent, saying, “It’s very pleasing to see local players stepping up and fitting seamlessly into the senior team.”

He added, “A lot of the boys that I’ve had through the Cyril Connell and Mal Meninga Cup programs are now progressing into Host Plus Cup level and we’ve got a lot of good outside backs, and good young second-rowers, so we’re feeling pretty confident."

Meanwhile, Adam Cuthbertson, the 2025 Hostplus Cup Head Coach, also expressed confidence in his squad's physical condition.

“They’re looking very healthy, looking very athletic, which is very promising for us.

"It's been really good ... a couple of genuine opportunities for some of our players that have been training really well during the preseason to go put their best foot forward up with the NRL.

“These guys have impressed by their application on the field week-in, week-out with us."

Overall, it was a highly successful weekend for the Mackay Cutters, with dominant victories across all four matches, showcasing their depth and talent from the junior ranks through to the senior squads.

Results:

- Host Plus Cup: Cutters 28 | Capras 24

- Harvey Norman U17's (Girls): Cutters 16 | Capras 4

- Cyril Connell Cup: Cutters 38 | Capras 12

- Harvey Norman U19's: Cutters 30 | Capras 10

- Mal Meninga Cup: Cutters 38 | Capras 14

Caption: The Mackay Cutters enjoyed a successful weekend, securing dominant victories across all four matches in the Host Plus Cup (HPC) trial and Juniors Round 1, showcasing their talent and depth from juniors to seniors. Photo source: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)

Caption: Andrew Battaia, Head Coach of the Mal Meninga Cup and Head of Pathways

Caption: Adam Cuthbertson, 2025 Hostplus Cup Head Coach. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Last Saturday, the aquatic team experienced an electrifying evening filled with energy and camaraderie in what can only be described as a feeding frenzy of Mackerels.

The night kicked off with a fun and energetic game of 'Piggy in the Middle,' which set a positive tone for the night. It was particularly heart-warming to see Stella and Mikayla return after their first session last week, where they quickly integrated into the group, adding to the spirit of unity.

The atmosphere was exciting as the team engaged in an exhilarating 5 V 4 game that showcased the talent and teamwork of the players. The intensity of the match was palpable and kept everyone literally gasping for breath.

During halftime, participants transitioned into a focused drills and skills session, emphasising essential techniques such as turns, figure 8's, and bear crawls. Talented coaches, Cam and Elsie, led the session with impressive demonstrations that not only highlighted their skills but also inspired younger players to push past their limits.

Ultimately, the highlight of the night was undoubtedly Jack’s return. After taking a break for footy season, he made a remarkable re-entry, showcasing his refined skills and agility as he effortlessly navigated the pool, leaving the rest of the team scrambling to keep up. His performance was both impressive and humbling, reminding them all of the competitive spirit that drives the clubs training.

As they wrap up another exciting week, the club looks forward to seeing everyone back in the pool this Monday for more fun and growth!

Contributed by Joel Sadleir

Caption: Last Saturday, the underwater hockey team had an action-packed night full of energy, skill-building, and teamwork, with Jack’s return being the highlight of the evening. Photos supplied

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Division 1:

Stellar Storm (Will VanDeKaa, Lee Brake, Barry Patterson) d Cosmic Sorcerers (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Donna Abbott) 7-4. Will d Donna 9, 4, -7, -5, 9.

Ghost Spin (Steven Whiting, Lily Boland, Allan Robins) d Venus Voyager (Graham Drury, Janice Kent, Graham Brake) 8-3. Janice d Allan -10, 10, -9, 5, 8.

Ant Warriors (Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) d Panther Prowlers (Trent Day, Vince Boeske, Allan Edwards) 7-4. Graeme d Trent 7, 7, -9, -6, 11.

Phoenix Fire (Andrea Nicholson, Andrew McHugh, Josh Brown) d Star Lords (Geoff Denman, Robbie Richards, Mark Sleeman). Robbie/Mark d Andrea/Andrew 9, 8, -11, 24.

Division 2:

Celtic Smash (Tiffany Camilleri, Doug Dungavell, Syed Aminul Hossain) d Spartan Serve (YiLin Jiang, Mark Stam, Liz Burton) 7-4. Tiffany d Mark -2, -3, 8, 7, 7.

Roman Legion (Craig VanDeKaa, Niro Premachandra, Peter Goodson) d Amazon Guard (Noreen Fredericksen, Nehmat Dhaliwal) 8-3. Peter/Craig d Noreen/Nehmat 9, 4, -6, -9, 8.

Rebel Celts (Val Austin, Delma Knight, Ollie Hamelink) d Zulu Spears (Deniel Warfield, Darryl Ross, Rod Hamelink) 8-3. Darryl d Val 4, -7, 8, -9, 9.

Pirate Plunge (Geoff Cowan, Saisha Palod, David Symons) d Pharoah Aces (Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo) 9-2. Saisha d Jye 3, 6, -12, -6, 11.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures January 28, 2025 (round 1):

Division 1:

Venus Voyager (Graham Drury, Janice Kent, Graham Brake) d Stellar Storms (Lee Brake, Barry Patterson, Will VanDeKaa) 6-5. Lee d Dad 12, -5, -7, 8, 8.

Ghost Spin (Geoff Denman, Josh Brown, Allan Robins) d Cosmic Sorcerers (Donna Abbott, Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan) 6-5. Geoff d Neil -5, -3, 8, 10, 9.

Phoenix Fire (Andrea Nicholson, Andrew McHugh, Evan Luo) d Panther Prowlers (Vince Boeske, Allan Edwards, Trent Day) 9-2. Andrea d Vince -1, -8, 9, 10, 12.

Ant Warriors (Ian McKay, Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker) d Star Lords (Vimal Chilukuri, Robbie Richards, Mark Sleeman) 7-4.

Division 2:

Celtic Smash (Steve Mathieson, Daniel Warfield, Tiffany Camilleri) d Roman Legion (Craig VanDeKaa, Niro Premachandra, Peter Goodson) 6-5. Steve d Peter 6, -9, 4, -8, 12.

Spartan Serve (Mark Stam, Liz Burton) d Amazon Guard (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Noreen Fredericksen) 5-4. Nehmat/Noreen d Liz/Mark 5, 9, -6, -11, 7.

Pharoah Aces (Misha Palod, Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo) d Rebal Cats (Delma Knight, Ollie Hamelink, Val Austin) Rymer/Jye d Ollie/Delma - 9, 5, 2, -10, 4.

Pirate Plunge (Geoff Cowan, Saisha Palod, David Symons) d Zulu Spears (Rod Hamelink, George Camilleri, Darryl Ross) 7-4. George d Geoff 8, -6, 8, 8.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures February 11, 2025 (round 1):

Venus Voyagers (Andrea Nicholson, Branko Vucurovic, Marie Taylor) d Saturn’s Rings (Rhonda Payne, Charlie Payne, Coral Morgan) 8-4. Branko d Charlie -8, 6, 5, -8, 10.

Solar Comets (Doug Dungavell, Judy Zahn, Bryan Marshall) d Mars Pioneers (Delma Knight, Kevin Abbott) 8-4. Kevin d Bryan 10, -10, 10, -15, 8.

Luna Legends (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) d Rocket Stars (Allan Robins, John McGee, Veronica Shepherd) 8-4. Noreen d Veronica -9, -4, 8, 7, 6.

Division 2:

Pluto Players (Darryl Ross, Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott) d Neptune Navigators (John Hamelink, Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) 7-5. Frank d Darryl -6, 10, -6, 4, 10.

Jupiter Jets (Don Boettcher, Kim Challender, Louise Gould) d Mercury Meteor (Ken Best, Helen Ware, Kim Daffy) 7-5. Kim D d Kim C -3, 9, 7, -8, 11.

Division 3:

Green Lantern (Ian Dodds, Laurie Bradshaw) drew Black Panther (Sharon Muller, Madge Saunders) 6-all. Sharon d Ian -6, -7, 8, 9, 9.

Wonder Warriors (Virginia Clayton, Allison Day, Glenda Brookes) d Aqua Waves (Pam Keune, Thelma Caruana) 7-5. Pam d Allison -10, -9, 8, 4, 10.

Caption: Graeme Walker

Caption: Trent Day. Photo supplied.

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On February 5, 16 teams competed in the Club Graded 3 Bowl Triples, each playing three exciting games. The competition was fierce, with all teams giving their best effort.

Congratulations to the winning team of Sue Roscoe, Helen Fleming, and Lois Deguara, who took home the title after a strong performance throughout the day. Runners-up were Jan Comelli, Shirley Bartolo, and Lorraine Lemke, with Sue Hazledine, Pam Spencer, and Marie Duck finishing in third place.

Only a few rinks of social games were held the following week on February 12. The winners were Sue Roscoe, Jenny Van Tilburg, and Kirstine Robinson, while the runners-up were Wendy Sonter and Coral Francis.

The first round of the Championship Fours also took place, with 4 winning teams advancing to play on Thursday against the remaining 4 teams.

Next Wednesday, February 19, will feature the semi-finals, and the very exciting final will take place on Thursday, February 20.

A representative from the North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club congratulated the participants and wished them all the best for the next round.

“Well done to all participants for their hard work and dedication! Best of luck to all teams and players in the upcoming rounds.”

_Contributed by Sue Hazledine _

Caption: Social winners: Kirstine Robinson, Jenny VanTilburg, Sue Roscoe

Caption: Lorraine Lemke, Shirley Bartolo, Pres Hilary, Jan Comelli

Caption: Lois Deguara, Sue Roscoe, President Hilary, Helen Fleming. Photos supplied

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The Masters Qld Swimming (MSQ) Lane Warriors Program is a unique fitness challenge designed to track and celebrate every metre swum, whether it’s a brief session in the pool or an open water endurance effort. Since its launch in 2011, the program has encouraged swimmers to log their swimming distances throughout the calendar year, promoting a sense of achievement and healthy competition.

Swimmers are encouraged to record the distance swum each day, regardless of whether they are training, swimming laps, or using pool accessories like flippers or kickboards - every metre counts!

An Excel spreadsheet is provided to participants, which automatically tallies their total distance over the year. At the end of each year, clubs submit their members' swimming records. Participants are then grouped into three age categories, with the top five swimmers in each category receiving certificates to recognise their dedication and performance.

In the 2024 challenge, North Mackay Sinkers made waves with their impressive performance. With 10 dedicated swimmers, the club secured second place for the average distance swum per swimmer, reaching 372,350 meters. They also claimed second place for the total combined distance of 3,723,503 meters.

Standout individual performances included Pierre Craven, who topped his age group, alongside notable efforts from Naomi McGilvray, Dee McMurtrie, Nigel Dalton, Chris Webb, Rachel Mundy, and Sally Irwin. Dan Stampa and Sue Willett also delivered strong results in their respective age groups.

Collectively, the participating clubs covered a staggering 18,491 kilometres, averaging an impressive 188.6 kilometres per swimmer.

While the Sinkers' commitment to distance swimming is remarkable, the club also knows how to mix fitness with fun. They are hosting a Fun Day on Saturday, February 22, at the North Mackay High School pool on Valley Street. The short course event will feature 25m to 200m races in all strokes. Warm-up begins at 11am, with racing starting at noon.

Additionally, the Sinkers gather after their Saturday morning training sessions at the Memorial Pool for a social morning tea, provided by one of their members.

New members are always encouraged to join the club and experience the camaraderie and fitness benefits that come with being a part of the North Mackay Sinkers.

Caption: North Mackay Sinkers secured second place in the 2024 lane warriors challenge, swimming an impressive combined distance of 3.7 million meters while celebrating both fitness and community spirit. Photo supplied

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The 2025 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Youth Art Competition is set to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent of high school students across the Mackay, Whitsunday, and Isaac regions. With last year’s winning design worn by over 500 cyclists, anticipation is building to see which school will take out the top prize this year.

Last year’s champion, Moranbah State High School student Naiya Luczynski, produced a stunning jersey design that continues to be worn by riders across the region.

Will Moranbah State High School students defend their title in 2025, or will Sarina State High School - last year’s runner-up - go one better to claim first place?

Perhaps another school will rise to the challenge and take out the win!

BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Manager Nikki Giles said the competition has proven to be an incredible platform for young artists to gain recognition.

“The talent we have in our local high schools is outstanding. It’s inspiring to see young artists have their work showcased on such a large scale.

“Last year’s winning jersey was not only a highlight of the event but continues to be worn in the cycling community.

“We can’t wait to see which school will create this year’s winning design.”

The 2024 winning artist, Naiya Luczynski reflected on her experience.

“Winning the 2024 Youth Artist Competition was an amazing experience.

“Seeing my design on over 500 riders at the event on 1st September was unforgettable, it was such a proud moment!

“I can’t wait to see what the next artist creates for 2025. It’s such a special opportunity to have your art showcased in such a big way.”

The 2025 winner will receive a $500 cash prize, with $250 awarded to second place and $100 for third place. In addition to the prize money, the winning design will be worn by hundreds of cyclists at this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride on 7th September 2025, giving the young artist an incredible portfolio opportunity.

Artists can download the jersey design template directly from the competition page on the BMA River 2 Reef Ride website at www.river2reefride.com.au. All of the terms and conditions can be found on the competition page.

Entries close on 3 March 2025.

Caption: 2024 artist Naiya Luczynski from Moranbah State High School in her winning design at last year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride. Photo supplied.

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Mackay’s softball scene is witnessing some incredible talent on the international stage, after local athletes Evie Grace and Miley Barrow recently headed to Wellington, New Zealand as Junior Pathway Players.

These softball stars are set to showcase their skills against top representative teams, highlighting the awesome opportunities softball provides to players of all ages in Mackay. With minimal equipment required - often just a pair of soccer boots - softball remains one of the most affordable and accessible sports in the region.

Cheryl Martin has been a long-time member of the Mackay softball community, dedicating over 35 years to the sport, yet she still finds joy in watching the next generation of players progress.

“Just watching the kids grow, from juniors to seniors - that’s what keeps me involved,” she says.

“Now, my grandkids are part of the game, and it’s so rewarding to see them improve.”

Parents and grandparents are also encouraged to get involved - whether it’s learning to score, volunteering in the canteen, or becoming an umpire.

“It’s a real family sport, with great opportunity,” says Cheryl.

“You form lifelong friendships…Some of the players I started with when I was 12, I still run into today.”

With training, coaching clinics, and opportunities to progress to higher levels at an affordable price, Softball is the sport of choice for those seeking fun, family-friendly competition and personal growth.

Caption: Evie Grace

Caption: Miley Barrow. Photos supplied

(Group photos) Caption: Mackay girls Miley and Evie travelled to Wellington, New Zealand, to proudly represent Mackay on the softball field. Photo source: Softball Queensland

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