
Tuesday Morning Fixtures Division 1: Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall, Ross DeBoer) defeated Orion Orbiters (Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd, John McGee) 7-5, Veronica came back in the 5th set to outlast Bryan (2,4,-11,-8,8). Astro Aces (George Camileri, Peter Goodson, Sally Muir) won against Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight) 7-5, the doubles was super close Branko and Delma came home strong defeating George and Peter (-14,3,-8,9,9). Division 2: Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Robyn Bushell, Coral Morgan) won over Ninja Strikes (Frank Caruana, Pam Kuene, Chris Collins) 7-5, Coral only just came out on top against Pam (9,-10,6,-19,10). Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Josie Davis) tied up 6-6 with Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Gloria Vella, Helen Ware), Kim defeated Gloria (-8,7,6,5). Division 3: Aztec Warriors (Kim Challendar, Janelle Kuene, Glenda Brookes) defeated Celtic Smash (David Muir, Trish Zamparutti, Myles Dutton) 10-2, David got up against Janelle (3,-9,-7,4,5). Mongol Power (Gerry Synnott, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) came home strong against Gladiator Grip (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Madge Saunders) 8-4, Allison outlasted Gerry in close 5 sets (-7,4,-5,9,6). Tuesday Night Fixtures Division 1: Cockatoos (Mick Ruhl, Mark Sleeman, Neil Brown) took down Canaries (Josh Brown, Lily Boland, Yilin Jiang) 7-4, Yilin came back against Mark (6,-7,6,-11,8), Geese (Steve Whiting, Lee Brake, Janice Kent) won 6-5 against Curlews (Barry Patterson, Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan), Janice outlasted Anne with a close battle (-7,9,-5,6,4). Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Allan Edwards) defeated Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graham Brake) 6-3, with no 5 set matches, Emma defeated Trent in close 4 sets (-10,5,10,7). Division 2: Kites (Syed Hossain, Matt West, Simon Hogan) won against Owls (Ricky Zhan, Rod Mahumas, Peter Goodson) 6-5, Simon beat Peter in close battle (-10,9,9,-7,5). Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Daniel Warfield, John McGee) defeated Parrots (George Camilleri, Liz Burton, Delma Knight) 7-4, Will came back against George in the 5th set to win (6,-4,7,-7,9). Galahs (Donna Abbott, Mark Stam, Remy Zhan) overcome Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) 7-4, Andrea came from behind to win a very close battle with Mark (-4,-11,6,7,9). Division 3: This week Tiffany, Jeff, Craig, Abbas and Dylan all had very good wins to stay in the hunt for the top 4 positions. Contributed by Andrea Payne 1. Kim Daffy 2. Gloria Vella. Photos supplied
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More than 140 outrigger paddlers converged on Eimeo Beach earlier this month as the North Queensland Games brought high-energy racing and strong community spirit to Mackay’s coastline. Hosted by Sunset Bay Outrigger Canoe Club over the weekend of May 2-4, the regatta marked the club’s first major hosting role in eight years, with volunteers and members working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the event ran smoothly. Despite uncertain weather leading into the weekend, conditions eased just in time, allowing all scheduled races to be completed with only minor course adjustments. The headline event, the Eimeo Beach Challenge, launched the weekend in spectacular fashion, with 15 OC6 crews taking on the gruelling 22-kilometre course from North Wall Beach, around One Tree Island and back to Eimeo Beach. The Open Men’s crew from Coconuts Outrigger Canoe Club claimed line honours in an unlimited canoe weighing 90 kilograms, crossing the finish line in an impressive one hour and 59 minutes. Local crews also delivered standout performances on home waters. Sunset Bay’s Master Men secured fifth place overall in a time of 2 hours and 18 minutes, earning gold in the Master Men division. One of the biggest highlights of the race came from Sunset Bay’s Master Women crew, who powered home eighth overall in 2 hours and 30 minutes to become the first women’s crew across the line. Competitors and supporters gathered at Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club following Saturday’s racing for presentations and dinner, with medals presented by North Queensland Games Chair Councillor Rhonda Coghlan. Sunday celebrations continued at Northern Beaches Bowls Club after another full day of competition. Organisers described the weekend as a major success, crediting generous sponsors, volunteers and supporters both on and off the water. Local photographer Kia Millen and family business PaddleLifeTV captured the action across the weekend, with race highlights available online. Following the successful regatta, Sunset Bay thanked volunteers with a community barbecue and is now turning its focus toward the internationally renowned Hamilton Island Cup in June. More than 140 paddlers hit the water at Eimeo Beach for the North Queensland Games regatta, with local crews, volunteers and supporters helping deliver a successful weekend of outrigger racing hosted by Sunset Bay Outrigger Canoe Club. Photos supplied
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Week three of the Whitsunday Zone GNOT (Grand National Open Teams) event was played in Mackay last Saturday. Ten teams competed in the third round. Once the three weeks scores are collated, the top eight teams will play off in August to see who advances to the Final in Brisbane later in the year. Weekly Results Monday 18 May 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 1st Joy Hold / Ian Vary 2nd Patrick Rasmussen / Mary Rose Ramsden 2nd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 3rd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 3rd Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers Tuesday Evening 19 May 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia 1st Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers 2nd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger 2nd Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek 3rd Vicki Howard / Richard Wix 3rd Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner Wednesday 20 May 2026 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood 2nd Robert Carless / Joy Robinson 2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Sandy Patterson 3rd Geoff Taylor / Ian Vary 3rd Patrick Rasmussen / Mary Rose Ramsden 4th Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 4th John Hunt / Simon Barnes Thursday Evening 21 May 2026 – 4 Table One Winner – Green Points 1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 2nd Susan Gibson / Lynne O’Neill 3rd Mick Robins / Marilin Robins Friday 22 May 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd Mick King / Geoff Cowan 1st Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana 3rd Joy Robinson / Debbie Ludkin 3rd Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson 4th Karen Caldwell / Sue Mayer-Miller 4th Ming Ting / David Ting 5th Joyce Deguara / Shirley Worland 5th Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden Saturday 23 May 2026 – Week 3 of GNOT - 10 Table Mitchell Gold Points Team Players 1st Conroy Janelle Conroy / Roland Taylor / Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood 2nd Brown Alan Brown / Janet Hansen / Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 3rd Goodchild Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild / Ming Ting / David Ting 4th Taylor Geoff Taylor / Ken Seaniger / Nancy Martin / Margaret Lane 5th Lynch Annie Lynch / Joy Brunette / Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix Contributed by Joy Block Martin & Noel Novice Winners Novice Pairs Sandra, Helen, Annie & Jan Restricted Team runners up. Photos supplied
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The Government has announced that NRL Magic Round in secured in Queensland until 2032, with Mackay expected to benefit from a major push to grow regional tourism and community engagement around the event. The long-term agreement between the Queensland Government, the Australian Rugby League Commission and Brisbane City Council will expand Magic Round into a week-long festival of footy from 2027, featuring more matches, regional activations and tourism showcases across the state. As part of the new deal, a regional footy festival and junior carnival will be introduced, alongside live site activations in regional Queensland communities during Magic Round festivities. Premier David Crisafulli said the agreement would ensure communities across Queensland shared in the benefits of the major sporting event. “Lock it in to 2032 - Magic Round is staying in Queensland exactly where it belongs,” Premier Crisafulli said. “We are only just getting started on what Magic Round can be in Queensland – this new deal means it will be bigger, it will be better and we’ll make sure every corner of Queensland gets a chance to share in the magic.” The Government said the expanded event would not only strengthen Queensland’s reputation as Australia’s sporting capital but also encourage visitors to explore more regional destinations across the state. Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the initiative aligned with the Government’s Destination 2045 tourism strategy. “The Government’s Destination 2045 strategy is about turning major events into longer stays that deliver more for local businesses and communities and NRL Magic Round delivers exactly that,” Minister Powell said. “We want visitors to come for the footy, but stay for everything else Queensland has to offer, exploring more, staying longer, and supporting jobs across the State.” Australian Rugby League Commission Chair Peter V'landys said the expanded Magic Round concept would help showcase Queensland’s tourism destinations to national and international audiences. “Our focus is to expand on that impact by creating new experiences, showcasing some of the best tourism locations in the world, lifting visitation, creating regional junior football carnivals and building a calendar of industry, media and business events that add long-term value to the State,” he said. The expanded Magic Round festival is expected to begin from 2027.
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The final Mackay Road Runners Shawn’s Summer Social Series was held in appallingly humid conditions from the Memorial Pool car park last weekend.
The 5km and 10km course options were as usual adaptable for runners should they choose to reduce their distances.
Many runners chose to take walk breaks and shorten their original distance intentions due to the extreme temperatures that were not helped by warm northerly breezes.
Race Director Jim Ford is to be congratulated on great course options with varying twists and turns to make it interesting.
The Mackay Road Runners Club are so grateful for Jim’s expertise along with Alana Knesevic’s support in making sure the Shawn’s Summer Social off season series is held every Sunday afternoon with awesome freezing Zooper Doopers, the favourite part after the race.
Thank you to Jim and Alana, Adam, Vivian and Harvey for making this happen.
The gold coin donations from each run are put towards post run refreshments and end of year presentations.
Thanks to Jim and Alana as well as Andrew Short, Jo Hughes and Julie Whibley for assisting in a myriad of jobs including course selections, merchandise and reminder notices sent out each and every week.
This Sunday will be a very busy day with the Mackay Road Runners Club being present at the fantastic Mackay Sport Expo at the MECC from 9am to 1pm, then off to the first formal run on the 2023 Mackay Road Runners program in the afternoon.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Image 1: L-R Shawn Claydon’s parents John and Bonnie Claydon and sister and brother-in-law Sharon and Jeff Stewart-Harris were special guests at the final 2022/23 series event
Image 2: L-R Helen Leven, Jo Hughes, Tam Wanstall, Emma Johnson and Kim Saron always enjoy a chat, prerace, post race and anytime in between. Photos credit: Janelle Tilse

THE JET Maintenance Services Sports Expo and Sign-on will return to the MECC this weekend for the first time since 2020.
More than 80 local clubs will be on display, creating a one-stop-shop of sport and recreation opportunities.
Mayor Greg Williamson said it was exciting to be back at the MECC after COVID-19 caused the event to go online only for the past two years.
“The 2023 event will be action packed, with the crowd favourite mascot race, active zone demonstrations and all the usual prizes and competitions, such as nominate your favourite club and random draws,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The expo will include dozens of interactive booths, two active zone areas in the north foyer and south foyer and interactive activities outside,” he said.
“Some of the outdoor activities near the north foyer will include a scouts’ rope bridge and fastest-serve tennis.
“In an effort to make the event more inclusive and accessible, we'll also have a relaxed session, quiet-hour, from noon to 1pm.
“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.
“JET Maintenance Services is our naming rights sponsor for the first time this year and to celebrate they are giving away $1000 to one of the clubs.”
Those attending are encouraged to nominate their favourite club at the event for a chance to win.
One person who nominated their favourite club will also win an EvaKool Icebox esky, valued at $99, thanks to in-kind sponsor Brand Factor.
Harrup Park Country Club and its Great Barrier Reef Arena have come onboard again this year as sponsor of the active zone in the MECC plenary halls.
Other sponsors for the event include media partners 4MK, Star 101.9 and Channel 7 and in-kind sponsor Brand Factor.
The event will be held Sunday, February 12, from 9am to 1pm, with Star 101.9 broadcasting live.
For more information, visit the JET Maintenance Services Sports Expo and Sign-on page on council's website.
Image: Active Zone demonstration by Queensland Taekwondo Academy at the 2022 Sports Expo

There is a whole world out there that you are not aware of: the one of highland and Irish dancing available at Ceilidh Dance Studio Mackay.
Some might be familiar with the jig or stepdance where an Irish dancer, clothed in ornate, shimmering outfits, hops athletically to the fiddle with arms pinned to their sides, legs working.
But many will not know its variants or relatives, the Celtic forms distinct from each other like the Scottish highland dance where arms are raised, or the old style, or the reel, the slip jig, light jig.
At Ceilidh Dance Studio, students can learn the ways of these traditional dances, taking home with them the benefits of being taught the art of physical excellence, competitive spirit, stamina, and strength – forming lifelong friendships while they do it.
The Mackay studio is offering its first two lessons free. Come along to the Mackay Sports Expo this weekend to find out more about the world of Ceilidh.
Image: What is a Ceilidh (pronounced ˈkeɪli)? There’s no place better to find that out than Ceilidh Dance Studio Mackay

You wouldn’t expect parkrun records to be set in the warm Mackay summer heat, but that’s exactly what happened last weekend.
Jared Havemann joined his fellow runners for the weekly social run through Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, blitzing the course in 16:27, the fastest time in Mackay parkrun’s history.
He was only the third person to join the Sub 17 Men’s club, alongside Julian Picot and Jade Bidgood earlier in January, with a previous best time of 16:43.
He then surpassed Jade’s previous best time of 16:29 by two seconds, eclipsing his own personal best by 16 seconds to claim the new record of 16:27.
“Whilst parkrun isn’t a ‘race’, it is absolutely awe inspiring to see the drive that these individuals have,” Mackay parkrun wrote on Facebook.
“It also proves that your name needs to start with the letter ‘J’ to join this club . . . your move Justin Rule.”
Image: Jared Havemann broke the Mackay parkrun course record

Running onto Suncorp Stadium in a Brisbane Broncos jumper has always been a childhood dream for promising Mackay rugby league half back Adam McSherry.
The outstanding 14-year-old schoolboy prospect has taken a giant step towards realising that goal after securing a three-year contract with his beloved Broncos club.
Linking up with one of the highest profile sporting organisations in the country has given young McSherry a massive confidence boost in the lead up to this year’s Secondary Schools and Mackay & District Junior League competitions.
The future looks bright for the St Patrick’s College Year 10 student who is keen to push his claims for selection in the Capricornia and Queensland Under 15 representative rugby league teams this season.
He joins rising St Patrick’s College forward Cohen Jackson – a Maroons Under 15s rep in 2022 – on the Broncos books after also attracting interest from the North Queensland Cowboys.
Adam has unfinished business with St Patrick’s this campaign after a heart breaking Grand Final loss to Townsville’s Kirwan State High in the Cowboys Challenge Shield competition last season.
Having kicked a late penalty goal to give his Mercy College side the lead with 40 seconds left on the clock, Adam and teammates could only look on in horror as the Kirwan colts posted a try after the full-time bell to snatch an incredible victory.
“That loss still hurts and the team is determined to make amends and bring home the trophy this year,” revealed Adam, who will spearhead a powerful St Patrick’s squad during the 2023 Shield series.
With some of the finest rugby league talent in the Mackay region jostling for spots in Tom Gaviglio’s Cowboys Challenge squad, the St Patrick’s young guns shape as one of the teams to beat for this year’s title.
As chief playmaker the classy McSherry will use his vision, turn of speed, strength and passing and kicking skills to inspire teammates and with the spring-heeled number seven calling the shots, you can expect some enterprising football from the much-vaunted junior St Patrick’s outfit.
A Brothers Bulldogs junior product, Adam will saddle up for his tenth season with the club in 2023 where he has enjoyed tremendous success.
He starred in the Bulldogs’ Under 9 Paul Bowman Cup and Under 11 Laurie Spina Shield and Under 13 Nate Myles Cup winning sides that defeated Centrals Townsville in the final and figured in a semi-final loss to Gladstone Wallabies in the Under 10 Gordon Tallis Cup.
Adam has also featured prominently in Brothers’ recent Under 13 and Under 15 premiership victories in the Mackay & District Junior League.
The talented half turned in a best on ground performance in the 24-20 triumph over Wanderers in the Under 13s Grand Final and showed his maturity and skill last season to help engineer a 30-20 win over Wests Tigers in the Under 15s decider.
Adam described last year’s premiership success as “a very special moment.”
“I decided to test myself and play a year above my age group and really enjoyed the challenge,” quipped Adam.
‘Lining up against older opponents can be a tough task but I just played my natural game and learnt so much from my teammates along the way,” he said.
A highlight was capturing both the Under 13 Nate Myles Cup and Mackay Junior League premiership in 2021 as well as finishing the region’s top try scorer with 32 tries.
When asked to name the people that had influenced his rugby league career to date, Adam praised the efforts of his parents Stacey and Paul.
“My dad coaches at Brothers and has taught me the finer points while mum offers encouragement and advice whenever I play,” said Adam.
“I really appreciate their support,” he added.
By Chris Karas
Image: Rugby league playmaker Adam McSherry demonstrates his attacking skills for the Brothers Bulldogs against Wanderers in the Mackay & District Junior League

It is stated that 3.5 billion people are football fans.
Fans of The World Game, The Beautiful Game, what in Australia we call soccer -- the largest sport on the globe; in fact, we are floating on an enormous football itself. It is the “sport of sports”, the most popular pastime, our most enduring as a species.
It has everything: displays of tactical brilliance, astounding athleticism, and suspense. More than one could ask for in a viewing experience, and even greater from a playing perspective.
The Whitsundays is home to its own football team: the “Tangerines”, better known as Whitsunday United Football Club. A club going from strength to strength, fielding several senior men, women, and youth teams from under 13 to under 16.
The favourite sport for kids across the world for its ease that belies its depth, like an iceberg – “Football is simple, but it’s difficult to play simply” - the only objective is to score more than the opposition.
It is not a strange thing to say that most people, once they’ve tried football, fall in love with it.
At the local team, that is no different. You will find devotees of the sport that have fallen in love with both the team and the sport – whether they be new to it or returning.
And even better, Whitsunday United are the reigning Champions of the Region in their men’s division and is already on the recruitment drive for this year.
The men’s team training has already begun, as well as some of its junior teams, and they’ll be soon joined by the Senior Women.
Home games are played at the Whitsunday Sports Park on Saturdays throughout the day, with away matches in Mackay.
The men’s and women’s squads work over two teams, with one premier division team and reserve grade. For players of all levels, there’s a place at Whitsunday United, with coaches more than accommodating for those new or returning to the game.
Aside from the fitness, the competitive nature, and the fun of the sport, Whitsunday United have an exceptionally welcoming culture – one that encompasses each of their teams and the administration of the club.
There’s nothing like football, and there’s nothing like Whitsunday United.
Follow the Whitsunday United Instagram and Facebook pages for updates on training schedules, gamedays, and more.

The Whitsunday Sports Expo kicks off this weekend at Whitsunday PCYC, inviting locals to come along and find out about junior and adult sporting opportunities in the region.
With over 30 team and individual sports on show at the Whitsunday Sportspark, there’s no better opportunity to find your passion, keep fit, or meet a community of likeminded people.
Sport can be a support system for life, providing friendship, competition, exercise, and drive. For kids, it presents them with a gamified version of skills development, of teamwork, and with the opportunity to make lifelong friends – or even potentially make a career of it!
For adults, sport holds the same opportunities: camaraderie, keying into your ambition, and the all-important exercise – which we might not always find the time for.
Australia, and Queensland in particular, are sport mad – and for good reason. Whether your sport of choice be one of individual development (karate, weightlifting, swimming), where your goal is to be the best you every day, or team oriented (football, rugby, netball, and more). There’s plenty to pick from and to start kicking goals.
Chairman of the Whitsunday Sportspark, Justin Butler, said that its time to get active and get healthy – “get amongst your community”.
“Find out more about the amazing local sports we have available here in this area. Joining a club is a positive step for any family and a great way to start the new year,” Justin said.
Sports from across the entire spectrum will be on display at the Whitsunday Sports Expo this weekend – come and have a kick, ride a trail bike, explore a sailing bit, or tee off!
WHAT: Whitsunday Sports Expo
WHEN: Saturday, February 4 from 9am to 1pm
WHERE: Whitsunday Sportspark

The Cannonvale Cannons had 42 swimmers participate in last week’s Club Night, and a further 19 competing across the state at the Mirani LC Transition Meet and three others at Townsville Brothers’ carnival.
Congratulations to swimmers who set 19 new Club Records, including Jacob Bell, Jy Parkinson, Remy Hedges, Eloise Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, and Don Algie.
Tora Delac was presented with the Swim Star Award and congratulations are extended to Sophie Fletcher and Charlie Doherty for winning the Chocolate Awards.
Upgrade certificates were presented to Andie Reynolds, Dylan Reynolds, Zach Trefz, Alex Trefz, Alessa Penglase-Fortunato, Billie Jamieson, and Murphy Jamieson.
The three Harland sisters swam extremely well in Townsville over the weekend. Indigo Harland, aged six, performed excellently in her 25-metre Backstroke and 25-metre Freestyle.
Eight-year-old Koa was very excited with her three blue ribbons, claiming them for a first in her 50-metre Butterfly, 50-metre Breaststroke, and 50-metre Backstroke.
Ruby, aged 10, was impressive, too, swimming personal bests in all her races and finishing second in her 50-metre Breaststroke.
Club Coaches Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson would like to commend all the swimmers who competed at Mirani on Saturday: “Birthday Boy” Don Algie, Eloise Chegwidden, Harry Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Zane Clayworth, Harris Delac, Tora Delac, Declan Dichiera, Maeve Dichiera, Jack Ganter, Thomas Ganter, Nelson Malady, Celeste Orenshaw, Isaac Pisaniello, Isabella Pisaniello, Adelaide Sanders, Indianna Smith, and Alex and Zach Trefz.
A further congratulations to Jax Clayworth, Nelson Malady, Isaac Pisaniello, Don Algie, Thomas Ganter, and Tora Delac for swimming so well in their Skins event.
The club extends its thanks to the wonderful parents and volunteers who assisted with officiating and managing the team.

The Port Denison Gun Club had a fantastic turn out for its first shoot of the year with 39 competitors battling it out on the day.
Shooters travelled from as far as Sarina, Mackay, Townsville, Silkwood, and Burdekin to join local members.
Event One: 10 Pr Double Rise AA: R Gough, J Rossato 19/20, A Zarb 15/20: A: M Zabala 19/20, K Zarb, C Edgerton 17/20; B: G McHenry 17/20, D Stitt 16/20, G Maltby 15/20; C: D Rossato, G Dalton 16/20, T Bartlett 15/20.
Event Two: 20T DB AA: S Steele, R Gough, J Furini, J Rossato, T Caruso, T Coco 20/20; A: a Vassalini, A Lord 20/20, M Populin, M Zabala, K Zarb, C Edgerton, G Maltby 19/20; B: R Zarb, J Schneider 19/20, G Dalton 18/20; C: B Bonanno, C Dent, N Kirkman, W Rossato.
Event Three: 20T SB AA: J Furini, T Caruso, L Dodd, R Gough 19/20; A: D Stitt 20/20, G McHenry, A Lord 19/20;B: J Kinnonmonth 19/20, R Zarb, G Dalton 17/20; B: N Kirkman 19/20, T Bartlett 18/20, D Dent 16/20.
Event Four: 20T Pointscore AA: T Coco 60/60, A Lemphers, L Dodd, R Gough, J Rossato 59/60; A: K Zarb 60/60, G McHenry, B Gall, D Stitt, C Edgerton 59/60; B: R Zarb 54/60, J Schneider 53/60, J Kinnonmonth 50/60; C: W Rossato, J Coleman 56/60, B Bonnano 55/60.
Event Five: 20T Handicap 1st M Zabala, 2nd A Lord, 3rd B Gall Overall in Each Grade – Bowen Engineering Trophy AA: J Rossato 134/140, A: A Lord 143/154, B: J Schneider, C: B Bonanno, Jun: D Rossato, Lad: A Vassalini, Vet: T Coco.
The club extended its thanks to all who helped at the working bee or on the day. Kerry for a lovely morning tea and lunch.
Port Denison Gun Club will be hosting a Practice Day on Saturday, January 28, and Saturday, February 11 at 2.00pm. Clay Target shooting. The club’s next shoot will be held on Sunday, February 26 at 9am.
Contributed with thanks to Cheryl Edgerton
Images:
Port Denison Gun Club handicap winners B Gall, A Lord, and M Zabala
Overall winners T Coco, B Bonanno, J Schneider, A Love, J Rossato, and D Rossato
The Club’s ‘Shooter of the Year’, Greg Maltby

This week 49 committed people ran, jogged, and walked the five-kilometre waterfront course in the rain at Airlie Beach parkrun.
Special mentions from this week go to Michala and Angela, who completed their first parkruns. As well, Josh, Chris, and Isla recorded new personal bests.
The event was made possible by run director Dan and his team of 17 dedicated volunteers: Peter, Nick, Kara, Suzi, Wade, Paige (photographer), Charlie (photographer), Wendy, Ron, Susanne, Shane, Laura, Louise, Jarrod, Lynne, and Dennis.
Next week at Airlie Beach parkrun, the kids will be taking over. Under adult supervision youngsters will be the volunteers that make parkrun happen.
As well, Airlie Beach parkrun will be at the PCYC sports expo from 9-1pm next week, with volunteers on hand to answer questions.
On Saturday, February 18, Airlie Beach parkrun will be conducting a Pride-themed day, which will promote the inclusivity of all at parkrun, especially the LBQT+ community.
The date aligns with WorldPride day and will be supported by parkrun and Proud2Play. All participants and volunteers on the day are encouraged to participate by wearing rainbow themed sportswear.
Airlie Beach parkrun started on 5th December 2015. Since then 4,540 participants have completed 23,560 parkruns covering a total distance of 117,800 km, including 2,710 new Personal Bests. A total of 376 individuals have volunteered 3,410 times.
Every Saturday Airlie Beach parkrun meets at 6:50am for a briefing at area D, Coral Sea Marina (adjacent to the top carpark). Parking is free in the lower carpark till 9:30am if a parkrun barcode is placed on the dashboard. Post parkrun coffee and chat is held at Bohemian Raw and Berry & Maple Patisserie.
Contributed with thanks to Airlie Beach parkrun
Images:
Rain, hail, or sun, the Airlie Beach parkrun goes on!
Plenty of runners braved the conditions to enjoy the five-kilometre waterfront course in Airlie Beach

The region’s T20 Premiers Colts took on Valleys while Canecutters faced off against Warriors in the cricket season’s 40-over A Side competition last weekend.
Valleys were off to a slow start having opted to bat first after winning the toss. Roy Blain (1/17) made the early breakthrough with Ricky Parslow (13) gloving legside delivery through to the keeper.
Jackson Riley (1/25) added his name to the wicket column shortly after to see Valleys looking somewhat shaky at 2/35 after 8 overs. Brad Wilkinson (30) steadied the ship with hard hitting Machlin Turner (46) to put Valleys back on the front foot.
The pair combined for a 57-run partnership before Michael Pettiford (4/48) caused all sorts of problems for Valleys middle order.
Mace Bennett (29) added some later order hitting before Nathaniel Kleinert (1/22), Ben Altmann (1/7) and Lachy Altmann (1/0) combined to mop up the lower order to see Valleys bowled out for 140.
The Colts struggled in their run chase as Machlin Turner (4/20), despite having 5 dropped catches off his bowling, combined with Ricky Parslow (3/20) to wreak havoc with Ricky at one stage having every fielder on the ground in the slips cordon.
Michael Pettiford (48) and Ben Valmadre (37) tried their best to see Colts over the line, however it wasn’t to be as Tony Hinschen (3/8) quickly ran through the tail to see Colts all out for 115.
In the other match, Warriors won the toss and elected to bat and never managed to get their innings going. Youngsters Darcy Milne (2/23) and Donny Pettiford (0/21) more than matched it with their older counterparts to start the bowling onslaught.
Not to be outshone by his son, Scott Milne (3/9) combined with fellow old timer Craig Brown (4/16) to send Warriors players back to the shed in quick succession. Josh Large (41) was the only player to show any form with the bat as Warriors were bundled out for 99 runs.
Liam Davies (39) and Darcy Milne (28) were out to make light work of the total, with the pair putting on 60 runs in the opening partnership before Craig Valmadre (2/14), rolling the arm over for the first time in a number of years, sent both opening batsman on their way.
Dan Leschke (1/6) managed to add his name to the wicket column before Canecutters got over the line with a comfortable seven wicket win.
This Saturday will see Warriors taking on The Colts and Valleys to meet Canecutters.
Games are set to get underway at 12.30pm. Any new or returning players can contact Dale Mengel (0410 895 191) or Craig Brown (4945 1983) for further information.
Contributed with thanks to Dale Mengel

What better time is there to dip your toes in the water than when you’re a kid?
When you’re young, it is easier to learn something new – an irrefutable fact. When they're little, human beings are like sponges; there’s no better time than that of flowering youth to get in the water and soak it in.
The award-winning Airlie Beach Swim School by Danielle is the place by the pool for bubs and kids to dive in and have their first experience with water.
The Whitsundays’ premier swimming school is host to a team of professionals - who provide some of the finest swimming classes in the region – to ensure anyone can enjoy the waters that the Whitsundays offers.
Owner and founder Danielle Shea leads the team with her ethos that every child and adult should know how to swim: “Not only is it an important skill, but it allows them to experience the region to its fullest.”
“Not every family has a pool, but every family will visit the lagoon or the beach and spend birthday parties in the water. And living in Australia, it’s surrounded by it – every child should learn to swim,” Danielle said.
But, The Swim Australia Teacher of the Year for 2020 said that it’s never too late to learn or to even just enjoy the benefits of swimming.
“It’s the number one survival skill that anyone should learn, especially living here in the Whitsundays when you’re surrounded by water,” she said.
“We have everything from mums and bub classes where we guide them through the journey of learning how to swim, as well as juniors and adults, including Aqua Fit and Hydrotherapy.”
The school takes the development of its students – no matter their age – seriously, giving them the confidence to spread their flippers and swim, especially when it comes to introducing first-timers to the wonders of the water.
The team of experts at Airlie Beach Swim School is there to guide you to becoming your best swimmer, with safety at the heart of all their training.
If you would like to learn how to swim, or join up for Aqua Fit or Hydrotherapy, check out https://airliebeachswimschool.com.au/
Image: Airlie Beach Swim School by Danielle teaches every age group from four months old the importance, and wonders, of swimming

Wednesday’s competition at Bowen Golf Club was a single stableford event with ladies’ winner Jo Kukura, 39 points, and runner up Lisa Raisbeck, 38.
Men’s winner was Brendan Nott, 39 points, runner up was Clifford Querro, 38 points.
On Australia Day, Bowen Golf Club hosted 100 players for its annual ‘Aussie Day ambrose’. With perfect weather, it was no wonder the golfers enjoyed the day.
The Club extended its congratulations to winners Joshua Laurie and Vince Hargraves, as well as runners-up Julie and Michael Mawson.
No competition was held at the club on Saturday due to rain.
This weekend’s competition is a single stroke event for the February Monthly medals sponsored by Bowen Meat Supply and Bowen Golf club.
Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott
Image: The Australia Day ambrose winners and runners-up at Bowen Golf Club

A great afternoon of play last Tuesday at Wangaratta Bowls Club, with results heading Laurie Land and Greg Colquhoun’s way to start off the week.
The pair defeated Sue Shearing and Mark Drummond to win the afternoon, and the other games were full of the same intensity and excitement.
Rodney Mumby, Isobel Wheeler, and Graeme Read defeated Bron Tolcher, Deb Retchless, and Penny Warren, while Nadine Land, Irene Laird, and Linda Smith defeated Terry Blair, Margaret Wilson, and Mark Drummond.
The final game of Tuesday was between the team of Gwenda Lydom, Lyn Danvers, and Steve Roome against Merle Elphinstone, Robyn Stitt, and Geoff Danvers, with the former side winning.
Sunday’s winners came out on Rink 3: Therese Willshire, Sue Shearing, and Mark Drummond, who defeated Lindy Suann, Kent Moriarty, and Fely Duncan.
Other games comprised of the winning team Denise Wallace, Linda Scells, and Greg Colquhoun defeating Rod Mumby, Isobel Wheeler, and Sugar Brunker.
Bill Myers, Penny Warren, and Allan Rolfe defeated Jocelyn DeFrancise, Kevin Baxter, and Mark DeFrancise. While Deb Retchless, Robyn Stitt, amd Geoff Danvers defeated Gwenda Lydom, Graeme Read, and Pat Tracey to round out the results.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren
Image: Sunday's Winners at Wangaratta Bowls Club, Therese Willshire, Mark Drummond, and Sue Shearing

Sunday at Proserpine Bowls Club was a return to play with 13 players taking advantage of the green being open again – and there was some good bowls played, too.
Ken and Kendall Watts proved too strong, defeating Alen Sanderson and Heather Brown in an 18-10 win.
Following up that win was Bruce Uhe with his own, playing double lead in a game between the team of himself, Mary Hedgelong, and Peter Lawton and the side comprised of Bruce, Mike Harrison, and Philip Brown, 17 – 13.
Airlie Beach visitor Carol Crosbie and Barry Zillmann defeated the South Australian Mark Fuller and Sandy Daffara, 22 - 11.
Nominations are now open for all club Competitions at Proserpine, with nominations closing at the end of February. Competition to start early March.
Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown