Sports

Wangaratta Bowls Club News

Wangaratta Bowls Club News

On Tuesday, S Jones, D Retchless and M Hyde defeated B Myers, S Querro and A Vigar. In the other game A Nailand and R Hyde defeated S Adams and B Querro. The jackpot didn’t go off. Club Competition for the week. In the Men’s A Singles A Rolfe defeated G Read. Ladies B Grade singles. T Bowen defeated C Jeal, Crooked Kitty D Wallace defeated P Warren. Ladies Fours. L Suann, S Jones, D Retchless and M Hyde defeated L Scells, P Tracey, D Wallace and P Warren. Winners for Sunday afternoon were Bill Myers, D Retchless and G Read defeating A Nailand, M Hyde and P Tracey. Other games: T Bowen, S Querro and R Hyde defeated C Jeal, A Vigar and G Charles. L Suann and P Warren defeated T Blair and S Jeal. The jackpot didn’t go off. It is not long now until our Winter Bingo starts. Get ready for Friday 1st May at the club for a 9.30 start. Check Facebook for further details. Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren 1 - Sunday's Winners Deb Retchless and Graeme Read. Proserpine Bowls Club Report On Wednesday, 8 players enjoyed games of pairs in Social bowls. Bruce Uhe and Barry Zillmann defeated Alen Sanderson and Trevor Parsons 28 - 13; Henny Tattam and Mike Harrison defeated Arthur Griffith and Philip Brown 24 - 11. As so many people had family commitments during the weekend, we didn't have any social bowls on Sunday. Looking forward to a bit drier time in the weather so that we can get on to working our way through the competition games. Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club


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Whitsunday Sea Eagles Light Up the Sportspark

Whitsunday Sea Eagles Light Up the Sportspark

It’s time to celebrate for the Whitsunday Sea Eagles as they enter an exciting new chapter, with years of hard work culminating in the installation of new lights for the AFL oval at Whitsunday Sportspark. For years the Whitsunday Sea Eagles have shown up week in, week out training and playing in semi-darkness, while continuing to build the strong and successful club we see today. “This is a huge milestone for our Club, and we couldn’t be prouder of our Committee and volunteers. The time and effort they’ve poured in behind the scenes truly shows their passion for creating something special and lasting for our community” said Whitsunday Sea Eagles President Chris Morrison said. Excited by the return of night footy to the Whitsunday Sportspark, the Sea Eagles will host a special ANZAC Day fixture against Moranbah to be played under lights for the first time. At approximately 5:30pm between the Women’s and Men’s matches the Last Post will be played - providing a moment to pause, reflect, and honour the significance of the day - before the Men’s game kicks off under lights at 6:00pm. Saturday 25 April – Whitsunday Sportspark AFL Oval 10:40am U16 Girls – Moranbah Bulldogs v Mackay Magpies 11:55am U13s – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs 1:15pm U15s – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs 2:40pm U17s – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs 4:10pm Senior Women – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs Approx 5:30pm – Last Post 6:00pm Senior Men – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles Captions Photo credit: Musco Lighting Australia

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Proserpine Golf Club Vets Results

Proserpine Golf Club Vets Results

The March 2026 Monthly Medal was played on Tuesday March 31st – finally! Blustery conditions and sandy greens greeted the 10 ladies and 19 men. Congratulations to ladies winner Leanne Alexander (becoming a habit) and David Woods for the men. Welcome to new members Norman Foster, Steven Stewart and Michael Stewart. RESULTS LADIES Winner: Leanne Alexander with 73 nett R/Up: Tiina Randmae also with 73 nett on a count back Rundown: Tina Badenhorst (74), Paula McQuat and Kath Borer both with 75 points MEN Winner: David Woods with a creditable 67 nett R/Up: John Oates with 68 nett Rundown: Colin Hounsell (71), Gary Scotford (72), Steven Stewart (73), Craig McLean (birthday boy), John Roser, Neil Cawthorne, Louis Neethling and Norman Foster all with 75 nett PIN SHOTS Ladies: A Grade - Tina Badenhorst (x2) and Elspeth Scotford B Grade - Tina Randmae (x2) and Paula McQuat Men: A Grade - Ken Granger, Gary Scotford and Nick Apruzzese B Grade - David Woods (x2) and Peter Lindsay LEAST PUTTS Elspeth Scotford 28 putts and Barry Mortimer 28 putts CHIP INS No chip ins NAGAs For a ball each, Jenny Hounsell and John Strelec DRAWS: MEMBERSHIP jackpots to $30 next week RAFFLE $50 to Ken Granger UPCOMING EVENTS: TUE 7/4/26 - APRIL 2026 MONTHLY MEDAL TUE 14/4/26 - HOME HILL WHITSUNDAY GROUP DITTY Our Vets President now knows that a fancy car may cost you both time and money! 1- Monthly medal winners, David Woods and Leanne Alexander

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Airlie Beach Bowls Club Weekly News

Airlie Beach Bowls Club Weekly News

Starting on Tuesday afternoon, play was run by Lyn Graham, where skipper David Bradley, with lead Gail Simms and second Dawn Dowell, were the winners of the day. Wednesday afternoon social bowls saw a fantastic performance from Bob Spees as skipper. He was absolutely unstoppable, with Rick Brunell, arguably the best lead in the club, and Ian Passfield, a new bowler who is going places fast as he improves each week. He will no doubt be a very valuable asset to our little club in the future. Their winning score was 25–14. Saturday morning saw the resumption of Scroungers, with all players vying for a place in the final. First-round winners were Tony Whitehorn, who won his way into the final in a tiebreaker, and Russell Jackson, who was the victor in the A Division. The B Division was won by Dennis Donadelli, beating Margo Stanley, which is a very difficult achievement. Congratulations to all. Sunday afternoon social bowls saw 18 bowlers competing for the prize, and it was wonderful to welcome back ex-President Peter Barrett, our Life Member Paul Osborne, and Mrs Alma Rose Mawson after three months in the Philippines. John rolled the dice, which came up number 3, meaning the prize was for the biggest winning margin. This was won by the team of skipper Peter Barrett, with the relentless “Wild Bill” Gordon at lead and Bowen’s finest, Don Hogarth, at second, who won 25–15. Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson Captions
Skipper Peter Barrett, lead Bill Gordon, and Don Hogarth at second. Photo supplied

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Woolworths Happy Easter

Junior Grand Finals Celebrate Season’s Top Performers

April 1, 2026

The Mackay Cricket Association Junior Grand Finals were held on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th February 2026, showcasing the region’s rising cricket talent.

Walkerston Cricket Club claimed the Vic Clarendon U12 Trophy, with Isabelle Blackburn named Player of the Final. Pinnacle Cricket Club were crowned Lindsey Perry U13 premiers, with McKenna Jeffs (Sarina Cricket Association) earning Player of the Final honours. Souths Cricket Club took out the Hird Family U14 Trophy, with Pete Maczkowiack recognised for his grand final performance.

In the girls’ competition, Pioneer Valley ‘Fire’ Cricket Club lifted the Heat Girls Trophy, with Ava Woodward named Player of the Final. Walkerston Cricket Club also claimed the Under 15 Trophy, where Flynn Ryan was awarded Player of the Final. Proserpine Junior Cricket Association completed the list of champions, winning the Hazel Weeks Under 17 Trophy, with Matthew Logan recognised for his outstanding performance.

Congratulations to all junior grand final winners and Players of the Final across the 2025/26 season for their skill, sportsmanship, and dedication.

Photos supplied

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Mackay Contract Bridge Results

April 1, 2026

The 2026 lessons have begun with an enrolment of around 28 students. The Contract Bridge Fundamentals lessons are being led by dedicated instructors Diane Morgan and Diane Cox, with assistance from Club Members over two sessions being offered on Tuesdays. Alongside these lessons, a group of volunteer Members are facilitating Supervised sessions to mentor novice players and help them progress in the game.

Weekly Results

Monday 23 March 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points NWP’s Week 6 of 26

N/S

E/W

1st

Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

1st

Geoffry Patterson / Noel Bugeia

2nd

Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek

2nd

Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin

3rd

Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt

3rd

Monica Darley / Lynn Viegel

4th

Frances Brown / Diane Morgan

4th

Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

Tuesday Evening 24 March 2026 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points

1st

Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy

2nd

Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia / Noel Bugeia

Wednesday 25 March 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild

1st

Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

2nd

Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

2nd

Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

3rd

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

3rd

Geoffrey Patterson / Sandy Patterson

4th

Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

4th

Frances Brown / Janet Hansen

Thursday Evening 26 March 2026 – 4 Tables One Winner – Green Points

1st

Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers

2nd

Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill

3rd

Griffin Bancroft / Mick King

Friday 27 March 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Monica Darley / Barbara Tait

1st

Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

2nd

Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild

2nd

Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell

3rd

Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe

3rd

Terry Sheedy / Chris Nice

4th

Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix

4th

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

Saturday 28 March 2026 GNOT Round 2 – 10 Team Mitchell Gold Points

Section A

Team

Members

1st

Sheedy

Roland Taylor / Lynne O’Neill, Terry Sheedy, Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd

Martin

Margaret Lane, Geoff Taylor, Nancy Martin, Ken Seaniger

3rd

Ting

Ming Ting, David Ting, Eric Goodchild, Debra Goodchild

4th

Morgan

Marilin Robins, Diane Morgan, Janet Hansen, Alan Brown

Sunday 29 March –Novice & Mentors Mitchell Green Points

N/S

Section A – 6 Table

E/W

1st

Griffin Bancroft / Ann Whitmore

1st

Rodney Miles / Gillian McCallum

2nd

Joy Hold / Terry Sheedy

2nd

Anne Lutz / Ian Vary

3rd

Janice Mansfield / Martin Pearce

3rd

Christina Brady / Patricia Wong

N/S

Section B – 4 Table

E/W

1st

Alan Brown / Danny Adams

1st

Alison Pighills / Chelsea Presley

2nd

Diane Stokes / Michelle Hall

2nd

Pamela Armstrong / Ming Ting

Contributed by Joy Block

Photos supplied

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Competition Matches Commence At Proserpine Bowls

April 1, 2026

Proserpine Bowls Club is advising members that draws are done and have been sent out to all for all the club competitions except for the ladies, mixed pairs and the B Triples and Fours.

The B Pairs started on Sunday with a hotly contested game for the first round.  Jonathan Levett and David Ling defeated Kendall Watts and Trevor Parsons in a close game 23 - 21.  The other game to be played in this competition is Alen Sanderson and Mike Harrison v Vince Olsen and Todd Leys.

In social bowls on Wednesday Henny Tattam and Trevor Parsons defeated Alen Sanderson and Philip Brown 33 -21;  Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison defeated Arthur Griffith and Barry Zillman 21-13.

On Sunday Arthur Griffith and Mike Harrison defeated Henny Tattam and Bruce Uhe 24 -17;  Louisa (visitor from Germany), Alen Sanderson and Heather Brown defeated Kiara (visitor from Germany), Alen and Philip Brown 25 - 16.

The are no Barefoot Bowls available this Friday with it being Good Friday.  There will be social bowls available as usual on Wednesday and Sunday afternoon.

The club is wishing all a safe and happy Easter.

Players who have competition commitments this year are encouraged to look at every opportunity to mutually agree about starting to progress the competition.  We all know how hard it is to get times suitable for all the competition to take place on the same day.  Relieve some of the stress by organising possible dates and run them by our Games Director to organise green preparation and availability.

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Mackay Contract Bridge Results

March 27, 2026

Saturday saw a very close competition for East/West with only 15.85% between top and bottom place. Three pairs finished equal fifth. Errol Morris, Ian Gaskell, Martin Pearce, Patricia Garner, Richard Wix & Terry Sheedy all finished with 49.42%.

Weekly Results

Monday 16 March 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

1st

Geoffry Patterson / Noel Bugeia

2nd

Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes

2nd

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

3rd

Sue Mayer-Miller / Karen Caldwell

3rd

Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin

4th

Joy Block / Thelma Caruana

4th

Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell

Tuesday Evening 17 March 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

1st

Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

2nd

Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

2nd

Vicki Howard / Richard Wix

Wednesday 18 March 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Geoff Taylor / Noel Bugeia

1st

Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

2nd

Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

2nd

Alan Brown / Janet Hansen

3rd

Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

3rd

Joy Block / Diane Stokes

4th

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

4th

Andrew Canavan / Kath Poole

Thursday Evening 19 March 2026 – 5 Tables One Winner – Green Points

1st

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2nd

Annie Lyncg / Sandra Morris

3rd

Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers

Friday 20 March 2026 – 14 Table Mitchell Green Points Unders and Over Team Event

Section A

Team

Members

1st

Shuttlewood

Lorna Shuttlewood, Joy Robinson, Jean Penridge, Ann Whitmore

2nd

Ramsden

Mary Rose Ramsden, Chris Nice, Monica Darley, Diane Cox

3rd

Mayer-Miller

Sue Mayer-Miller, Noel Bugeia, Janelle Conroy, Pamela Finger

Section B

Team

Members

1st

Ross

Sue Ross, Janine Rodgers, Richard Wix, Laura Howland

2nd

Brown

Annette Howe, Jewel Schmidt, Alan Brown, Frances Brown

3rd

Sheedy

Terry Sheedy, Rodney Miles, Julie O’Neill, Clare Wallace

Saturday 21 March – 13 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Marilin Robins / Diane Morgan

1st

Frances Brown / Alan Brown

2nd

Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice

2nd

Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd

Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

3rd

Julie O’Neill / Ann Lutz

4th

Eric Goodchild / Annette Howe

4th

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

5th

Diane Cox / Geoff Taylor

5th

Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell

6th

Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

5th

Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner

7th

Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes

5th

Richard Wix / Terry Sheedy

Contributed by Joy Block

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Whitsundays Show Grit in Hard-Fought Opening Round Against Mackay Lions

March 26, 2026

Whitsunday United FC (WUFC) men delivered a spirited set of performances in their opening round clashes against Mackay Lions, with a mix of results and valuable lessons on the road.

The U23s controlled proceedings from the outset, dominating possession and moving the ball confidently. Despite creating several chances, they were unable to break the deadlock, settling for a 0–0 draw. A clean sheet away from home, with several players making their debuts, provides a promising foundation as they begin their title defence.

In the Premier fixture, WUFC made a fast start against the reigning champions. Premier debutant Aaron Kinsella opened his account from the penalty spot after Reef Peel was brought down, before doubling the lead soon after with a composed finish from another Peel assist. Lions responded strongly in the second half, levelling the match before briefly taking the lead. However, Whitsundays showed resilience, with Max O’Keefe firing home to secure an entertaining 3–3 draw.

Division 1 Men showed plenty of attacking promise despite a 4–3 loss. Goals from Sam Reynolds, Rale Mudford and Nathan Sothmann highlighted their quality, but defensive lapses and fatigue allowed Lions to edge a closely contested encounter.

Division 2 Men produced a disciplined performance to claim a 2–0 win. Phil McAllister and Sam Watson both found the net in the first half, capitalising on their chances, while the side managed the game well after the break to deny Lions any momentum.

Across all grades, WUFC showed encouraging signs heading into the season.

Caption

Aaron Kinsella

Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach Bowls Club Weekly News

March 26, 2026

It has been another fantastic week, with both Ladies’ and Men’s competitions in full swing. In the Men’s B Singles, Phil O’Brien, David “Choc” Cleary, Des Balance and Mark Mawson have all progressed through to the third round.

Tuesday afternoon’s Social Bowls saw skipper Noel Crosbie, alongside Glen O’Brien, claim the winners’ prize, while John Askew and Robin Brown took home second place in what was a very entertaining afternoon.

The results of the Ladies Fours semi-finals will be published in the next issue.

The biggest winning margin of the day went to the team led by Tony Whitehorn, assisted by lead David Meiklejohn and second Dennis Donadelli, with the entire team contributing strongly.

Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls saw a seventh consecutive win, with Cathy Russell’s team getting stronger each week. Two teams are now equal second on 15 points, with around 40 bowlers taking part.

Saturday morning saw eight teams competing in the 2 Bowl Triples, with semi-finals played in the afternoon. The matchups featured Andrew Butler, Steve Lawrie and Andy McDougall against Manny Isgro, Russell Jackson and John Fielding, while Bob Spees, Glen O’Brien and Warren Wilson faced Des Balance, David Cleary and Mark Mawson.

Sunday’s final saw eight-time winners Manny Isgro, Russell Jackson and John Fielding deliver a clinical performance, completely outclassing Des Balance, Mark Mawson and David Cleary to underline their dominance in the Men’s 2 Bowl Triples.

Sunday afternoon Social Bowls, run by Lyn Graham, saw Stacey Hadlow and his team emerge as winners in another highly competitive session.

Congratulations to Manny Isgro, Russell Jackson and John Fielding on their magnificent winning performance.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Captions

Manny Isgro, Russell Jackson and John Fielding

Photo supplied

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Proserpine Vets Golf Results

March 26, 2026

Last Tuesday a single Stableford competition was played and thanks to the diligent ground staff the full 18 holes were available. Congratulations to the ladies winner Leanne Alexander and Gary Scotford for the men.

RESULTS

LADIES

Winner: Leanne Alexander 31 points

R/Up: Heather Luvis with 28 points

Rundown: Tind Badenhorst (26), Tiina Randmae (25), Linda Wardroper (25) and Vickie Wallace (21)

MEN

Winner: Gary Scotford 32 points

R/Up: Craig McLean with 31 points

Rundown:  John Oates (30), Ken Granger (29), Jim Sherrington (28), John Wallace, John Roser and Colin Hounsell all with 25 points, Barry Mortimer (24) and Vic Feldman (23)

PIN SHOTS

Ladies: A Grade - Heather Luvis (x2) and Leanne Alexander

             B Grade - Linda Wardroper, Allison McCarthy and Robyn Whitham

Men: A Grade - Gary Scotford

          B Grade - John Oates and Louis Neethling

CHIP INS

Leanne Alexander and John Roser

NAGAs

for a ball each Kath Borer and Trevor Peroz

DRAWS:

MEMBERSHIP JACKPOT $10 to Louis Neethling

WEEKLY RAFFLE $50 to Allison McCarthy

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Next week 24/3/26 - MARCH 2026 Monthly Medal and count your putts

DITTY

In golf as in life it's the follow through that makes a difference

Contributed with thanks to John Roser

1 – Stableford Winners, Gary Scotford and Leanne Alexander

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Wangaratta Bowls Club Results

March 26, 2026

Winners for Tuesday were Bron Tolcher Skin Querro and Deb Retchless who defeated Stumpy Adams Alby Vigar and Shirley Jones. In the other game Tracy Stanford and Stuart Jeal defeated Robyn Stitt and Laurie Land. The jackpot did not go off.

Sunday's play resulted in a win for Lindy Suann Gavin Charles and Pat Tracey defeating Bill Myers Deb Retchless and Kennedy Whitton. The elusive jackpot went off in the game between Graeme Read and Allan Rolfe who defeated Sue Shearing and Stuart Jeal. In the other games Alby Vigar and Fely Duncan defeated Skin Querro and Greg Colquhoun. Bron Tolcher Ron Hyde and Mark Drummond defeated Toni Bowen Maureen Hyde and Kevin Daniels.

Denise is off this week playing for the district in the Northern Women's Challenge in Mackay. Wishing Denise and the rest of the North Qld Ladies the best of luck as they defend their title.


Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

1 -  Sundays winners: Gavin Charles, Pat Tracey and Lindy Suann.

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Road Runners Return Strong For 5km Club Championship

March 26, 2026

The Mackay Road Runners’ 5km Club Championship successfully returned last Sunday after being rescheduled due to inclement weather, with strong support from long-time sponsor MAD Fitness Mackay. Participants and volunteers were rewarded with post-run refreshments and random draw prizes, courtesy of sponsors Erin and Andrew.

In a competitive field of approximately 70 runners, Nick Rewald claimed overall victory in 19 minutes 27 seconds, finishing ahead of Liam Mumford. On-form Alana Knezevic was the first female across the line and an impressive second overall in 20:13. Lily Leven secured silver in the women’s standings, followed by Carmel Mahon, while Chris Spiteri delivered a strong performance to place third in the men’s division.

Runners also competed for valuable age-category points toward end-of-year championship honours, with standout efforts from both new and returning members.

Attention now turns to this Sunday’s Tim’s Chariots of Fire 5km and 16km events, starting at 6.30am from Ocean Avenue, Slade Point, with all members and non-members encouraged to attend.

Contributed with thanks to Janelle Tilse

5404 – Mackay Road Runners long standing members, Sandy Strong (#10) and Jose Eisemann (#13) catch up at the MAD Fitness Mackay 5km Club Championship at Queens Park.

5316 – Ready to race the MAD Fitness Mackay 5km Club Championship are (left to right) Lauren Connor, Ross Connor and Scott McIntosh.

5318 – Good mates Lily Leven (left) and Milly Bishop warm up for the Mackay Road Runners MAD Fitness Mackay 5km Club Championship at Queen’s Park.

5345 – Stephen Oberg racing the MAD Fitness Mackay 5km Club Championship at Queen’s Park.

5449 – First female and male in the MAD Fitness Mackay 5km Club Championship, Alana Knezevic and Nick Rewald.

5451 – MAD Fitness Mackay team sponsored the Mackay Road Runners 5km Club Championship – thank you Erin & Andrew (far left, 2nd left in back row). Photos supplied

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Max Teague Crowned U15 Australian MTB National Champion

March 26, 2026

Local rider Max Teague has achieved outstanding success at the 2026 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships held in Mt Buller, Victoria.

Set against stunning landscapes, the Championships delivered five days of elite racing across Downhill, Cross Country Olympic, Short Track and Team Relay disciplines.

Max excelled and delivered a standout performance across multiple events, beginning with a dominant ride in the Junior Team Relay (XCR), where his team secured victory in convincing fashion.

He backed this up with an exceptional performance in the U15 Men’s Short Course Cross Country (XCC), where he claimed the win and earned the title of Australian National Champion.

Max next competed in the U15 Men’s Olympic Cross Country (XCO) event, taking home the silver with an excellent performance, making the Mackay & District MTB Club proud.

Max’s journey into cycling began at an early age in Germany, where his love for speed and adventure was born. Over the years, that passion evolved into a serious dedication to racing, as he developed a deep love for the challenges and thrills that come with competing at a high level.

Looking ahead, Max dreams big—he’d love to win gold at the 2032 Olympics in XC MTB.

According to sponsors Mackay Cycles: “With his dedication and relentless drive, there’s no telling how far he’ll go.”

“We recognise the dedication, preparation and support behind Max’s success, including his family, coaches and the broader cycling community,” they shared.

“His achievements reflect the strength of junior cycling development and the growing presence of regional athletes on the national stage.”

1 – Max claims the win in the U15 XCC event.
2 – The team secured victory in the Junior Team Relay.

3- Max takes to the podium.

4 – The U15 winner crosses the finish line

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3 Million Metre Man

March 26, 2026

The North Mackay Sinkers are pleased to acknowledge club member Pierre Craven on achieving an exceptional milestone in the Vorgee Million Metres Program. Pierre has officially surpassed 3 million metres, completing this remarkable distance in just three years.

This achievement reflects an extraordinary level of commitment to regular training and longterm participation in Masters swimming. Averaging one million metres per year and over in some years, Pierre has demonstrated the consistency, discipline, and personal drive that underpin the Million Metres Program and the broader values of Masters Swimming.

Pierre’s biggest year to date in 2025 saw some 1,234,000 metres completed. That’s over 23km a week and, over 100km each month of 2025. No easy feat, and contributed to his rapid progression through the program.

A Significant Contribution to the Spirit of Masters Swimming

Pierre is widely regarded within the club for his steady work ethic and positive presence at training. His approach exemplifies the Masters ethos of sustained fitness, personal challenge, and community engagement. His progress through the Million Metres levels provides a strong example for swimmers across Queensland who are pursuing their own longdistance goals.

Recognition of a Major Milestone

Reaching the 3 Million Metres level is a distinguished accomplishment within the national program, earning formal recognition from Masters Swimming Australia. Pierre’s achievement adds to the North Mackay Sinkers’ growing record of participation in the Million Metres Program and highlights the club’s culture of dedication and continuous improvement.

The Sinkers congratulate Pierre on this outstanding milestone and acknowledges the commitment required to reach it. His achievement is a testament to perseverance and a valuable contribution to the Masters swimming community in Queensland.

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North Mackay Ladies Bowls Match Delivers Excitement On The Green

March 19, 2026


On Wednesday 11 March, the club hosted a truly exciting game of bowls, filled with ups and downs, tension, and some brilliant shots from all the ladies on the green.

Brenda Trannore and Wendy Sonter faced off against the more experienced duo of Nuggy Pratt and Lorraine Lemke. Despite the nerves, Trannore and Sonter kept their composure, executing their shots with precision and ultimately claiming a well-deserved victory.

The match was one of the best seen on the greens, with nearly every end showing a tightly contested head and exceptional bowling from all players.

Congratulations to Brenda, Wendy, Nuggy and Lorraine on a game that had everyone at the club on the edge of their seats.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

Championship Pairs Winners Brenda Trannore and Wendy Sonter.

Championship Pairs Runners Up Nug Pratt and Lorraine Lemke. Photos supplied

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Stand out Performance at Rockhampton Congress Howe Team Fantastic

March 19, 2026

Thirteen players from Mackay attended the Rockhampton Congress last weekend competing in Pairs and Team events. First and second in Section A Teams were Mackay’s Bugeia and Sheedy teams, however, the stand out performance of the weekend was team Howe!

The Howe team not only won the Section C Teams event, but finished fifth overall out of twenty teams. This feat outperformed many seasoned Section A and B teams. The Howe team consisted of experienced players, Noel Saunders and Martin Pearce, along with Annette Howe and Jewel Schmidt to create the successful winning combination. Annette and Jewel are new to the game and their dedication and knowledge gained in only two years of play is to be commended. Well done team!

Mackay Contract Bridge Weekly Results

Monday 9 March 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

1st

Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

2nd

Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

2nd

Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin

3rd

Joy Block / Thelma Caruana

3rd

Patrick Rasmussen / Mary Rose Ramsden

Tuesday Evening 10 March 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

1st

Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner

2nd

Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd

Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

Wednesday 11 March 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait

1st

Eric Goodchild / David Ting

2nd

Monica Darley / Kath Poole

2nd

Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

3rd

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

3rd

Victor Mason / John Ludkin

4th

Alan Brown / Janet Hansen

4th

Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

5th

Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild

5th

Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

Thursday Evening 12 March 2026 – 4 Tables One Winner – Green Points

1st

Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill

2nd

Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes

3rd

Lynne O’Neill / Sue Gibson

Friday 13 March 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy

1st

Pamela Finger / Janelle Conroy

2nd

Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor

2nd

Helen Van Den Broek / Karen Caldwell

3rd

Geoff Cowan / Mick King

3rd

Ming Ting / David Ting

4th

Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

4th

Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore

5th

Gillian McCallum / Rod Miles

5th

Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

Saturday 14 March – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

Open Section

E/W

1st

Margaret Lane / Adrian Westcott

1st

Geoff Cowan / Vicki Howar

2nd

Janine Rodgers / Lynne O’Neill

2nd

Anne Lutz / Ian Vary

3rd

Ming Ting / David Ting

3rd

Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild

4th

Andrew Canavan / Simon Barnes

4th

Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

Contributed by Joy Block

CAPTION: Noel, Annette, Jewel and Martin. Photos supplied

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Marian Ladies Bowls Club Celebrates New Life Members

March 19, 2026

On Wednesday 25 February the ladies at Marian Bowls Club put on an afternoon tea to celebrate three new members being given Life Membership. It was a lovely afternoon for all, with family members also attending.  

Sue Austin joined the Club in 1991 and was asked to take on the position of Games Controller virtually on joining.  Sue did this job for 35 years, and whilst she has stood down from this position to be Assistant Games Controller, Sue is still active at the Club despite health issues over the past year.

Lorraine Hamilton joined the Club in 1980 as a very young player.  During her time with the Club she has taken on positions as President (twice) and Senior Vice President, Selector and Assistant Treasurer. She is always available to help wherever needed as well as being an active bowler.

Katie Moohin joined the Club in 1998.  During her 28 years with the Club she has been President (twice), Selector and also a major Sponsor for many years of the Master 4's competition held at the Club; a major fundraiser event with bowlers coming from the whole district to participate.

Contributed with thanks to Lyn Jackson.

1- New life members, Lorraine Hamilton, Sue Austin & Katie Moohin. Photo supplied

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Checkmate! St Pat’s Students Claims Top Division At Interschool Chess

March 19, 2026

Earlier this month, over 50 St Patrick’s College students competed at the Mackay Whitsunday Interschool Chess Competition, one of the region’s largest tournaments with more than 150 players.

Top Division Champions, Team 1, comprised Elijah J, Wenlock G, Pascoe G, and Woodley G, with Elijah also achieving a tie for 3rd place individually.

A representative from St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay said, “We are incredibly proud of all students who represented the College.”

Photo source: St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay

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