Sports

At The Table MACKAY TABLE TENNIS FIXTURE RESULTS - 19TH MAY 2026

At The Table MACKAY TABLE TENNIS FIXTURE RESULTS - 19TH MAY 2026

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

Read the full story
Eimeo Beach Comes Alive For North Queensland Games Regatta

Eimeo Beach Comes Alive For North Queensland Games Regatta

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

Read the full story
Mackay Contract Bridge Results May 29th

Mackay Contract Bridge Results May 29th

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

Read the full story
MAGIC ROUND LOCKED IN UNTIL 2032 WITH TOURISM BOOST FOR REGIONAL QUEENSLAND

MAGIC ROUND LOCKED IN UNTIL 2032 WITH TOURISM BOOST FOR REGIONAL QUEENSLAND

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.

Read the full story
msr rec

Wangaratta Bowls

August 24, 2023

Tuesday’s game at Wangaratta Bowls Club resulted in a win for Penny Warren and Bron Tolcher who defeated Robyn Stitt and Irene Laird.

On Sunday afternoon, two triples and one pairs were played with winners for the afternoon Deb Retchless, Linda Scells, and John Turner who defeated Gary Kelly, Penny Warren, and Pat Tracey.  

Other games saw Toni Bowen, Marg Wilson, and Kennedy Whitton defeat Irene Laird, Robyn Stitt, and Sugar Brunker. While Denise Wallace and Fely Duncan defeated Greg Colquhoun and Allan Rolfe.

The Club’s Annual General Meeting was held on Sunday, with Chairperson of the Board for 2023 being Barry Beel.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Sunday’s winners at Wangaratta Bowls Club, John Turner, Deb Retchless, and Linda Scells

Read More

Bowen Golf News

August 24, 2023

Wednesday’s competition at Bowen Golf Club was the single stroke event for the December midweek monthly medal.

Ladies’ winner on a countback with a score of 71 nett was Gayle, followed by runner up Julie Martin, 71 nett.

Men’s winner was Kurt Gaudry with a 64 nett, and runner up was David Carus, 69 nett.

Saturday’s competition was an American Foursomes event for Peries IGA Christmas Hams -- Thank you to Peries IGA for their continued support.

Winners were Colin Shaw and Michael Brunker, 65.375 nett, runners up Clifford Querro and Doug Power 65.5.

Pin shots to Joshua Laurie and Grace Nott, with Dave Lydom and Dylan Nott both achieving OBP’s, and Dylan also winning the Car wash voucher.

This weekend’s competition is a 4BBB event for Christmas Seafood sponsored by Rynns Seafood.  The joker draw is back this Friday night and the jackpot sits at $1000.

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

Mike Brunker, half of Saturday’s winning team at Bowen Golf Club

Read More

Proserpine Golf Report

August 24, 2023

Tuesday’s Competition at Proserpine Golf Club saw a small field of seven players topped by Brian Smith on 70 nett in the PGC Tuesday nett competition, followed by John Dodds on 74, and Michael Cragg on 75 nett.

Wednesday Competition: 14 players competed in the Wednesday Medal of Medals competition, won by Trish McNeill on a nett 67, followed by Tiina Randmae and Lyn Muller on 70 and 71 nett, respectively.

NTPs were wone by Trish McNeill, Viv Demartini, Tiina Randmae, and Sue Smith.

Thursday Competition: Of the 55 players on Thursday, 14 players were shooting it out for the Thursday Medal of Medals competition.

Division One MOM was won by Ritchie Atkins on a 69 nett, and Rees May was the winner of Division Two MOM on 72 nett.

In the daily stroke event, visitor Ben Rosenthal came in with a very tidy 67 nett, closely followed by Lew Tuck on 69 nett. The Division Two winner, also on 67 nett, was Jalen Jarvis, followed by Ben Raymant on 69 nett.

NTPs went to Sam Deicke, Conrad Werner, Trish McNeill and Paul Gray

Saturday Competition: 91 players played in the combined Saturday competition of Medal of Medals and a stroke event.

A handicap altering 62 nett saw Renae Maxwell not only break 100 for the first time, but also take home the 2022 Medal of Medal championship by a margin of five shots from her nearest competitor, Di Chard on 67 nett.

Some great scores by the ladies, not to mention the 68 netts by Elspeth Scotford, Reh Hull, and Penny Wardroper.

NTPs were won by Pauline Redpath and Di Chard.

The men’s competition was won by Marcus Heathcote on a nice 67 nett, edging out Ben Raymant on a countback.

Ben, however, was competing in the Men’s Medal of Medal Championships and managed to secure two honour board events in one day.

Ben also won his Graded Matchplay final against Dave Telford.

Sam Deicke continued his good form to take out third place also on a 67 nett, and the NTPs went to Mark Richards, Jon Miller, Sam Marschke, and Brian Allen.

All Honour Board trophies will be awarded on Turkey Day this Saturday.

Sunday Competition: A quiet Sunday after the Whitsunday Club’s Christmas party with eight players playing a Stableford event with Daniel O’Donnell winning with 39 pts ahead of Brian Allen on 36pts, and Darren Reynolds on 34pts.

Looking forward to seeing everyone at Turkey Day this Saturday for a 3 ball ambrose followed by the Annual Awards Presentation.

Contributed with thanks to The Proserpine Golf Club Pro Shop Team

Read More

On The Whitsunday Green

August 24, 2023

This weekly competition at Whitsunday Green was won by Tyson Flavel with a whopping 21 points.

Coming in second place was Glenn Rees on a very close 20 points, and wrapping up the week in third place was Terry Kimpton, taking home 19 points.

The Club’s Friday competition this week was won by Chris Bartlett with a 19-point win. Second place went to Glenn Rees, 18, and third this Friday was Kev Francke on 17.

On Sunday, Whitsunday Green’s 18-hole SKINS Competition was a tie between Jimmy Miller and Elise Hodgson, both on 10 points.

They had a playoff with Jimmy Miller taking the win with 10 skins -- third place was Tyson Flavel on nine.

Nearest to the pin on Sunday was Terry Kimpton with two points.

This Sunday is monthly medal 18-hole (Stroke) tee off at 10.00am.

To bring in the Christmas cheer, the Club will be having a Christmas celebration to follow this week’s final monthly medal.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green Golf Club

Chris Bartlett was this week’s 19-point winner in the Friday Club competition at Whitsunday Green

Read More

Airlie Beach Parkrun

August 24, 2023

This week 93 people ran, jogged, and walked the course, of whom 18 were first timers and nine recorded new personal bests.

Well done to Ben, Robert, Van, Nadine, Declan, Warren, Jai, and Jessica on achieving new record runs, as well as Cassie for completing her 50th parkrun.

The event was made possible by 15 wonderful volunteers: Joanne, Nick, Nathalie, Daniel, Ken, Ronald, Wendy, Dennis, Laura, Lynne, Greg, Kara, Lilliana, Michael, and Susanne.

Upcoming special runs will see runners take part in a Christmas Eve parkrun, Christmas Day parkrun, New Year’s Eve parkrun, and a New Year’s Day parkrun – start those resolutions bright and early.

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 My Rainbow Bakery, Shingley Beach.

The best-kept secret about parkrun is that it’s not about running - it’s about bringing people together in public parks and open spaces across the world to have some fun in a friendly, social and supportive environment. You can walk or run the 5k course (pushing a pram or with one dog on a short lead if you want to!), lend a helping hand as a volunteer in a wide range of super-easy roles, or simply spectate and socialise on the sidelines.

There are no winners at parkrun and nobody comes last – the Tail walkers do. Regular participation is rewarded rather than performance, with ‘parkrun milestone shirts’ available to people to recognise their achievements in coming along.

Contributed with thanks to Airlie Beach parkrun

Airlie Beach park runners heading off on the run’s seventh anniversary

Plenty of park runners were out in force for the weekly event

The Airlie Beach parkrun travels across the coastal town’s boardwalks in a five-kilometre loop

Read More

Celebrating 10 Years!

August 24, 2023

Families gathered at Airlie Beach Swim School by Danielle over the weekend to celebrate their 10 years in business with a lively pool party.

Pool toys and inflatables saw children of all ages jump into the water for some fun.

Inside an enormous spread of food awaited and everyone enjoyed sharing the specially made celebration cake.

The pool party was completed with a visit from Santa who entertained the children and handed out some presents.

Over the past 10 years, this multi-award-winning swim school has seen hundreds of families pass through is pool, and Danielle says that she is honoured to teach such a vital skill to children across the Whitsundays.

The Airlie Beach Swim School by Danielle team, Loretta Shand, owner Danielle Shea, Lynda Wendt and Lynda Shea-Davis.

Danielle Sea with the celebration cake

Families enjoyed a 10 year celebration pool party

Read More

Cannonvale Cannons’ Great Start At Queensland Championships

August 24, 2023

The Cannonvale Cannons sent seven swimmers to participate at the seven-day long Queensland LC Championships in Brisbane, starting last weekend.

The Cannons fielded two relay teams at the championships: a Female 16 years and Under 200-metre Free team and an Open Mixed 200-metre Freestyle side.

Holly Perrin, Remy Hedges, Tora Delac, and Tiana Bell comprised the Female U16s, while Holly Perrin, Remy Hedges, Jy Parkinson, and Jacob Dewis represented in the Open grade.  

The swimmers did exceptionally, but most importantly enjoyed their relays.

Jy and Jacob doubled up as members of the North Queensland Male Medley relay team, finishing in second place – and chuffed with their silver medals.  

The Cannons look forward to hearing how the swimmers go with their individual events over the next few days.  

Meanwhile back at home, the Cannons hosted a very successful Christmas Club Night on Wednesday.

Over 44 swimmers participated in races and fun relays, enjoying the annual Christmas ice block relay and all the delicious yuletide food.  

Congratulations to Remy Hedges, Eloise Chegwidden, and Jy Parkinson for setting new Club Records.

The Cannons also commended Jack Ganter, Isabella Pisaniello, and Celeste Orenshaw on their Chocolate Awards for personal bests.

Giselle Burton presented Upgrade Certificates to Matilda Nicholes and Maeve Dichieria, with Giselle also presenting Remy Hedges with her State Shirt.  

Highlights from Club Night include: Miller Eaves and Murphy Jamieson swimming extremely well in their first Club Night.

Anisa Helou, Jasper Korosec, Indi Smith, and Levi Smith swimming personal best times in all their events.  

Eloise Chegwidden, aged seven, smashing out a super 50-metre Breaststroke in 56.41 seconds, followed by her brother, Harry, swimming a fantastic time of 16.35 seconds in his 12-metre Freestyle.

And finally, Piper Walker, aged seven, swam a fabulous 25-metre Freestyle in 27.43 seconds, cutting off an impeccable 11.08 seconds from her previous best.

Well done to all the swimmers and their families who got involved with the Christmas Club Night.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Jy Parkinson and Jacob Dewis aftertheir silver medal winning bout as part of the North Queensland Male Medleyrelay team

Jy andJacob in the North Queensland Male Medley team

The Cannonvale Cannon’s StateTeam for 2022

Read More

Whitsunday Triathlon Club’s Big, Blitzing Year

August 24, 2023

The Whitsunday Triathlon Club held its annual Awards and Christmas Breakup in early December to honour the efforts of its athletes across the year.

The local club attracted over 30 attendees for its ceremony which celebrated the achievements of its triathletes who represented the Whitsundays in competitions as high-tiered as the World Championships in the United States.

Club President Michael Kimpton presented awards to members for their outstanding performances in all aspects of the sport and the administration of the triathlon club.

Recognition awards went to Gary Tebbatt, for his contribution as previous Club President for many years, as well as Julie Wheway, Zane Devine, Mark McConkey, and Greg Martin.

Particular mention was afforded to members Dan McDonnell, Alisha Rust, and Michael Kimpton, who received recognition awards for representing their country in World Events in the United States in Utah and Kona, as well as Roth in Bavaria.

Club Trophy awards went to Mark McConkey for Crash of the Year, Leigh Donkers for Volunteer of the Year, Joshua King for Most Improved Junior, and Robyn Carrigan for Most Improved Athlete.

Major awards were handed to Cassandra Carman, who was awarded Club Female Champion for performing admirably in her first full Ironman in Bavaria – a test of her ultimate stamina and perseverance.

Shane Bellert was awarded Club Male Champion for his remarkable results in the Sunshine Coast Half Ironman in September.

Shane, who improved his overall time by 45 minutes from the same event in 2019, was awarded for his “show of strength, determination, and endurance” according to Club President Michael Kimpton.

Mr Kimpton said it was also a chance to celebrate the Whitsunday Triathlon Club’s recent growth.

“We are creating a legacy of growing popularity alongside triathlons as a sport worldwide,” Mr Kimpton said.

“The club now boasts over 40 active members and we have received extremely generous donations from local businesses, especially for our juniors.”

The awards also recognised the excellent effort of two of the club’s established stars who competed amongst the 230 individual triathletes and 15 teams from around Australia on Hamilton Island for its annual triathlon.

Local Hamilton Island fireman and Airlie local Daniel McDonell completed the course in a blistering 1:05:40, finishing in top spot.

He wasn’t the only Whitsunday Triathlon Club member who finished on the podium however, with Alisha Rust, Julia Wheway, and Michael Kimpton placing in the top three in each of their respective age groups.

Mr Kimpton said this year had been an exceptional one for the club, who were going from strength to strength, and he couldn’t wait to see what the future held – especially for the club’s star athletes.

Whitsunday Triathlon Club celebrated the achievements of its athletes at its annual end of year awards, especially Hamilton Island local Dan McDonell

The club was proud of the achievements across its growing club, and also took the chance to spread a bit of Christmas joy

Read More

Back At The MECC Sports Expo Returns With New Name

August 24, 2023

The Mackay region’s annual sports expo is ushering in a new era in 2023.

Restricted to an online event since COVID-19 threw us a curve ball in 2020, 2023 will see this amazing event return to the MECC with a new naming rights sponsor – JET Maintenance Services.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the JET Maintenance Services Sports Expo and Sign-on would feature more than 100 interactive sport and recreation booths.

“We are also bringing back all the crowd-favourite events – the mascot race, live active zone demonstrations and all the prizes, like ‘nominate your favourite club’ and random draws,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Applications for a free booth at the event are currently open and we encourage local clubs, groups and organisations to get in quick to secure their spot,” he said.

“The JET Maintenance Services Sports Expo and Sign-on will run from 9am to 1pm, Sunday, February 12, 2023. In an effort to make this event more inclusive and accessible, we'll also have a low-sensory quiet hour from noon to 1pm.”

Booth registrations close midnight, December 11.

JET Group General Manager Shayne Ritchings said they were excited to partner with council to bring this important event to the community.

“Jet Group is a very proud local business, with a long history of sponsoring local sporting clubs,” Mr Ritchings said.

“Supporting the Sports Expo is a great opportunity for us to broaden our support of grass roots sports in the Mackay region,” he said.

“The benefits of playing sport and belonging to a club or team are extensive – not only is it great for fitness and mental health, but the social benefits and personal-development outcomes are huge.

“The JET Maintenance Services team are looking forward to coming along on the day and having a crack at as many different sports as we can.”

Other sponsors for the event include returning silver sponsor Harrup Park Country Club and media partners 4MK, Star 101.9 and Channel 7. For more information and to register your club or group for the expo, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/sportexpo

Image – Active Zone demonstration by Adrenalin Cheer and Dance at the 2022 Sports Expo

Read More

The Parents Of Pioneer

August 24, 2023

Image: The parents of Pioneer Swim Club

Pioneer Swim Club is proud to be an all-age inclusive club.  

The parents of our swimmers are often found in the pool swimming laps whilst the kids train or even in the squad itself.

Recently at the last Club Night for the 2022 year, a number of our Pioneer Parents swam in a 50m freestyle hit out – Kylie Smith, Ben Miles, Trevor Seedwell, Ashlee Berridge, Tahnie Malagueno, Jodie Miles, Donna McIerney and Nadine Bee made their kids proud to see who would have bragging rights for the next 12 months.  

Ben Miles was crowned King of the Pioneer Pool, closely followed by Kylie Smith.  

Both Kylie and Ben were Dolphins as kids and are still seen swimming in the squad to this day.  

We are proud to boast that quite a few of our parents have a history with the club.

A parents versus kids relay was also enjoyed by the parents, kids and spectators at our last Club Night – it was a right hoot.

The trophy was claimed by Ben Miles, Donna McIerney, Trevor Seedwell and Ashlee Berridge.  

Another 2 parents’ teams were formed – Tahnie Malagueno, Jade Bounden, Jodie Miles and Kylie Smith being one team and Bianca Baker, Nadine Bee, Sarah Wardlaw and Sonja Smith the third.  

Many other parents are planning to take on the challenge next season after seeing the fun that transpired.  

All parents of the Pioneer Swim Club/ Squad are welcome to join a session – Igor will welcome you all.  

The kids enjoy seeing their parents give it a go - monkey see, monkey do right?

Any enquiries about our great club can be made to secretary@pioneerswimclub.com.au.

Contributed by Tahnie Malagueno

Read More

Charity From The Valley Green

August 24, 2023

Image: Members of the Marian Ladies Bowls Club created and donated 23 bags of essential items to Share the Dignity. Photo supplied

When they’re not gracing the greens, the ladies of the Marian Bowls Club have been busy collecting essential items for women in need.

Last week during their final day of bowls for the year, the group collectively filled bags for the Share the Dignity campaign.

Share the Dignity is a women's charity in Australia, that works to make a real difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or doing it tough. The organisation distributes period products to women, girls, and anyone who menstruates who needs support.

The Marian ladies contributed 23 bags, matching the 23 bags they also donated last year.

Read More

Magic Meg Knows How To Hit

August 24, 2023

Images:

Mackay's rising cricket all-rounder Meg McCartney, 17, captained the Queensland Schoolgirls representative team in 2022. Photos supplied

Batting: Meg McCartney shows her style at the batting crease

She started in Mackay & District Cricket Association’s Under 10 Boys competition and by the age of 13 was donning the pads and sharing the new ball for the Mackay/Whitsunday junior representative teams.

She can mix it with the finest male cricketers in the Mackay region, isn’t phased when facing extreme pace bowling and has even upstaged her father at the batting crease.

Meet talented 17-year-old all-rounder Meg McCartney – the Queensland Schoolgirls representative cricket captain with the poise, technique and potential to leave her mark on the women’s sporting scene.

Keen cricket judges have tipped a bright future for the teen sensation, who has turned in standout performances this season in both male and female competitions – showing her wares in the junior and senior ranks.

Meg, who has just completed her Higher School Certificate examinations at St Patrick’s College Mackay, recently linked with the Valleys Cricket Club in the Brisbane Women’s Premier League Cricket first grade competition where she will play alongside Australia’s World Cup-winning off spinner Jess Jonassen.

A product of the Mackay Brothers Cricket Club, young Meg picked up her first bat and cricket ball at the age of nine while participating in the Master Blaster events at Harrup Park for aspiring junior cricketers.

She started in Mackay & District Cricket Association’s Under 10 Boys competition and by the age of 13 was donning the pads and sharing the new ball for the Mackay/Whitsunday junior representative teams.

A prolific wicket taker with her sharp pace bowling and top order batter, Meg has progressed through to the senior men’s ranks and is now a permanent fixture in the Brothers second grade X1 where she plays alongside her experienced father Dean, a seasoned campaigner and club stalwart who is the current Girls Cricket Co-ordinator.

Both have enjoyed batting together in key moments with quicksilver Meg peeling off some big scores and keeping her dad on his toes while navigating quick singles or twos with her sharp running between the wickets.

Boasting a top score of 88 not out, the gun all-rounder led the Capricornia Schoolgirl representative teams from the age of 13 and last year captained the St Patrick’s/Mercy College senior women’s team to a Queensland Secondary Schools Twenty20 State Challenge title with superb batting and bowling displays.

Meg named Brothers Mackay Cricket Junior Development Co-ordinator Kim Evetts as being a huge influence on her career along with Club President Bradley Beardmore and school mentors Adam Knezevic and Chris Dunn.

Her leadership skills came to the fore this season when she captained the Queensland Schoolgirls cricket team in the annual Challenge series with NSW on the Sunshine Coast – leading the way with her tenacious batting and bulk wickets.

Meg will line up for North Queensland against South Queensland in a selection trial for the Queensland Country squad to compete at the National Country Cricket Championships in Canberra and was appointed vice captain of Brisbane Premier Cricket League franchise Western Power for the recent Twenty20 series where she gained valuable experience.

An opportunity to learn from international all-rounder Jess Jonassen inspired Meg to join the Valleys club for this summer’s Brisbane Premier Cricket League Women’s first grade competition.

It is another giant step towards realising her childhood dream of playing for the Queensland Fire one day in the Women’s National Cricket League limited overs series.

By Chris Karas

Read More

On The Greens At Goosies

August 24, 2023

The men’s and ladies’ bowls AGMs were held on Monday 28th November, resulting in an unchanged men’s executive. Duly elected were President Eric Galletly, Vice-president Wayne Trannore, Secretary Andrew Coates. The Games Director for the coming year is Ken Lane and Selectors are Alex Cameron, Mick Mackenzie and Clive Wales.

Tony Allsop, after serving for several years as the club’s Publicity Officer did not nominate this year. As there were no nominations, Ian Rowan will fill in for a short time.  This will be Tony’s last report.

RESULTS

Monday winners were Sheryl Cuttriss and Helen Fleming with Ann Smith and Isla Comelli next. Lucky draw winners were Jean Zamparutti and Michele Stockton.

Wednesday ladies’ day comp resulted in a win for Lorraine Silman and Hilary Jones-Rowan. Runners-up were C. Wallman and Ann Smith.

Thursday winners once again were Barry and Francis Lehmann, with Carmel Bell and Greg McLean in second spot. Greens Vouchers went to D. Wootton, Rick Dunn and Andrew Coates.

Friday’s big winners were Wayne Mietzel and Maryann Bartolo who took home $75 each. Winner’s card draw went to Lois Deguara and Robbo Hobbs, with Shirley Bartolo and Eric Galletly taking the loser’s prize.

Saturday men’s day was taken out by Eric Galletly and Kevin Dwyer with Ken Martin and Clive Wales runners-up. Shane Trannore and visitor Todd Hansen won the jackpot.

Contributed by Tony Allsop

Images: Tony began contributing North Mackay bowls news to newspapers in 2016, and later to Qld Bowler

The executive committee for this year is Andrew Coates, Secretary, Eric Galletly President and Games controller, Ken Lane. Absent is vice-president Wayne Trannore

Read More

Queensland Country Cricket Caps For Top Trio

August 24, 2023

Image: Mackay-Whitsunday representative cricket stars Sam Vassallo, Mason Kohler and Lane Kohler shape up as key players for Queensland Country at the 2023 National Country Cricket Championships in Canberra next month

Star Mackay-Whitsunday representative all-rounders Sam Vassallo, Mason Kohler and Lane Kohler will line up for the Queensland Country X1 at the upcoming National Country Cricket Championships in Canberra.

The talented trio (pictured) were chosen after top performances for North Queensland in the XXXX Cup 50 overs selection trial against South Queensland Country Cricket staged in Mackay.

Vassallo, a prolific opening batsman and classy wicket keeper from the Walkerston Cricket Club, has shone with the bat and behind the stumps this season and will make his debut in the Queensland Country side, along with the versatile Lane Kohler, a young quick and dashing batsman from the Norths club in the Mackay & District Cricket Association.

Lane will be joined by brother Mason Kohler – another Norths product – who returns to the State team as an opening tearaway bowler and capable batsman for the National titles that commence in early January.

 

Three of Mackay-Whitsunday’s most promising junior cricketers – Zane Newton, Jackson Evetts and Nick Beardmore – have gained selection in the North Queensland Cricket Association Under 18 representative squad to contest the Ron Bushby Shield in April 2023.

The team will be skippered by outstanding colt Matthew Wilkins, recipient of the Kev Maher Award for Player of the Under 18 Championships and one of four Cricket Far North players named in the team along with Gareth Thomas, Kobi Johnston and Seth McGinty.

Other squad members include Joshua Welsh (Central Queensland) and North Queensland reps Adam Camer, keeper John McLean, Ben Ramsbotham and Kai Adami.

By Chris Karas

Read More

Mackay Contract Bridge Club

August 24, 2023

Image: Happy 90th birthday to Nancy Wix

Terrence Sheedy and Janelle Conroy were our winners for the B4 Red Points competition played over the last two Mondays.

November saw consistent wins to Eric Goodchild, David Ting and Noel Bugeia.

Happy Birthday to Nancy Wix, Celebrating her 90th Birthday

RESULTS

Monday 28 November 22 – 6 Table One Winner B4 – Red Points

1st Eric Goodchild / David Ting

2nd Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy

3rd Joy Robinson / Thelma Caruana

4th Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

5th Marilin Robins / Margaret Jennings

B4 Results Red Points – Two weeks play

1st Terrence Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

2nd Eric Goodchild / David Ting

3rd Joy Robinson / Thelma Caruana

Tuesday Evening 29 November 22 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2nd Terrence Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

3rd Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia

Eclectic Winners for Tuesdays November

1st Noel Bugeia

2nd Eric Goodchild

3rd Helen Van Den Broek

4th Terrence Sheedy

5th Janet Hansen

Wednesday 30 November 22 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

1st Noel Bugeia / Doone Mitchell

2nd Antonia Tarradas/ Ian Cruickshank

3rd Joy Brunette / Don Poole

4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

E/W

1st Jan Harris / Sandra Morris

2nd Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd Eric Goodchild / David Ting

4th Janelle Conroy / Alan Brown

5th Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley

Wednesday Eclectic Winners for November 2022

1st David Ting

1st Eric Goodchild

3rd Janelle Conroy

3rd Alan Brown

3rd Terrence Sheedy

6th Eric Leivesley

7th Kath Poole

Thursday Evening 1 December 2022 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy

2nd Eric Goodchild / David Ting

3rd Joy Robinson / Thelma Caruana

Friday 2 December 22 – Nation Wide Pairs 6 Table One Winner Green Points

N/S

1st Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2nd Ming Ting / David Ting

3rd Monica Darley / Griffin Bancroft

4th Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole

E/W

1st Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

2nd Susan Wright / Janet Hansen

3rd Debra Goodchild / Lorna Shuttlewood

4th Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

Saturday 3 December 22 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

1st Geoff Taylor / Diane Morgan

2nd Mick King / Jan Harris

3rd Griffin Bancroft / Anne Lutz

4th Faye Wright / Christine Nice

5th Susan Wright / Annie Lynch

1st David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd Frances Brown / Alan Brown

3rd Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

4th Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson

5th Margaret Lane / Julie O’Neill

Read More

Your FREE Voice In Print

SARINA -  WALKERSTON – MIRANI – MARIAN – PAGET – OORALEA – MACKAY CITY – MACKAY NORTH – SLADE POINT – ANDERGROVE – BEACONSFIELD – NORTHERN BEACHES – FARLEIGH – MT OSSA – SEAFORTH – KUTTABUL - CALEN – BLOOMSBURY – PROSERPINE – CANNONVALE – AIRLIE BEACH – BOWEN – COLLINSVILLE – NEBO – MORANBAH

Locally Owned. Community Loved.