It was a busy week on the greens at Wangaratta Bowls Club, with strong turnouts and tightly contested matches across multiple days of competition.

On Monday, the self-selected triples event was taken out by the Irymple crew of Jenny Healey, France Wilmann, and Chris Healey, who defeated the trio of Aileen Dunn, John, and G. Coleman. Runners-up on the day were Denis Madeley, Dave Richardson, and R. Agg, who triumphed over Keron McKenzie, Mark McKenzie, and R. Barr-Kemp. The jackpot, however, remained elusive.

Tuesday saw six rinks in play, but it was rink 6 that produced the afternoon’s winners. Anne Fitzgerald, June Paynting, and Ron Hyde defeated Bron Tolcher, Greg McSwain, and David Madden in a strong showing. The jackpot—now a very tidy sum—still went unclaimed.

In club competition, the final of the Men’s A Pairs was held, with Mitch Wright and Wayne Crowhurst emerging victorious over Allan Rolfe and Mark Drummond in a well-fought match.

Sunday afternoon drew a full green of players. John Brakewell, Shirley Smith, and David Madden claimed the win over Karon McKenzie, Gavin Charles, and Mark Drummond. Runners-up were Ann Fitzgerald, Jan Dawson, Graeme Smith, and Joe Paynting, who defeated K. Halton, B. Downs, John Hayson, and Ron Symmons. Once again, the jackpot stayed intact.

The club has also been proudly hosting the North Queensland District Ladies Division Three Pennant this week. Our ladies have performed exceptionally well, and Monday’s match will determine the final winner. Results will be posted in next week’s report.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Winners from Monday France Wilmann, Jenny Healey, and Chris Healey. Photo supplied

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Seven Cannonvale Cannons swimmers were recently selected to attend the Swimming Queensland – North Queensland (SQ-NQ) Mobility, Movement and Strength Workshops held in Mackay and Townsville. Congratulations to Tyler Bennett, Zach Trefz, Tora Delac, Ruby Harland, and Roxy Groome who took part in the Mackay session, and to Nelson Malady and Jacob Bell who represented the club at the Townsville clinic.

These workshops focused on enhancing athletes’ mobility, strength, and technical movement skills through a combination of dryland training and physiotherapy screening. Delivered by a team of leading athletic development specialists and physiotherapists, including Samantha Mathers and Dion Walmsley of Fitter Futures, and Geordie Koest of Movement Improvement Rockhampton, the sessions emphasised the importance of good technique across all aspects of performance.

A key takeaway from the weekend was that executing movements with control and precision is just as critical on land as it is in the pool. Athletes received ongoing feedback on posture, stance, limb positioning, and core control, resulting in visible improvements in just a few repetitions.

These sessions are part of Swimming Queensland’s commitment to Long Term Athlete Development, encouraging clubs to work closely with physiotherapists and development coaches to support young swimmers' growth and performance.

The Cannonvale Cannons are proud to see their swimmers involved in this high-performance pathway and thank Swimming Queensland for the opportunity. These valuable experiences not only support technical improvement but help build the foundation for future success in the sport.

Well done to all swimmers who attended — your focus and commitment to continuous development are to be commended.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Swimming Queensland Workshop attendees in Mackay. Photo supplied

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After a quiet previous weekend, Whitsunday United roared back into action with a packed schedule of games across all levels.

On Friday night, the Division 2 men travelled to face Rangers and were determined to bounce back from an earlier loss. A hectic opening half-hour saw them take a 3-2 lead. Harry netted his first senior goal early in the second half to give Whitsunday some breathing room, but a late Rangers goal set up a tense finish. Down a player, Whitsunday dug deep to hold on for a gritty 4-3 win.

Division 1 controlled their match from the outset but struggled to convert chances. A first-half goal gave them the edge, though Rangers equalised with 15 minutes to go. A second yellow card for the Rangers keeper shifted the momentum, allowing Whitsunday to capitalise with two late goals and secure a 3-1 victory. Both teams are now well positioned for a strong second half of the season.

In junior action, the U13 Prem side defeated the Lions 6-3 in a high-energy game. Goals came from Mayson (2), Nelson (2), Alex D, and Remy. The team led 3-0 early but conceded twice before halftime. They pushed on with three more in the second half to seal the win.

The U13 FQPL boys faced a tough Rangers side at home and were outclassed in a 4-1 loss. Alex Draper provided a highlight with a brilliant strike from the left, while Dally impressed with a tireless display in midfield.

The U14s faced ladder-leaders Magpies and put up a spirited fight. Nick P made key saves, and Shannon’s goal kept things level at halftime. Despite solid midfield efforts from Finn and Tyson F, Magpies pulled ahead via a penalty and added a late goal to finish 3-1 winners.

Backing up for a second match, the U14s hosted Rangers Black and came away with a 2-0 win. Charlie opened the scoring in the 4th minute, and Kobe added a second early in the second half. The team dominated but couldn’t extend the lead despite multiple chances.

The U16 boys delivered a strong showing against third-placed City Brothers. Tyler C opened the scoring, followed by Jacob capitalising on a perfect through ball from Harry. Samuel F’s trademark long-range goal gave United a 3-0 halftime lead. Despite relentless second-half pressure, Whitsunday couldn’t add to the tally and conceded a late goal, finishing 3-1.

With the FQPL Women’s game postponed, it was left to the men to entertain the home crowd on Saturday night. The U23s played a disciplined and hard-fought 0-0 draw against City Brothers, with both sides creating chances in a highly competitive contest.

The FQPL Men capped the weekend with a commanding performance, scoring three first-half goals and adding a classy fourth after the break to defeat the talented City Brothers side. The result boosts their standing and puts them in touching distance of the top of the ladder.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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A happy U13 Squad after a great game against top of the table Lions. Photo supplied

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Football – Whitsunday United Football Club
Friday, 20 June
6:00 pm - Div 2 Men vs Mackay Wanderers FC at Wanderers Park
8:00 pm - Div 1 Men vs Mackay Wanderers FC at Wanderers Park

Saturday 21 June
9:30 am - U13 Div 1 vs Mackay Wanderers Roses at Whitsunday Sports Park
9:30 am - U14 vs Mackay Lions at Whitsunday Sports Park
11:00 am - U13 FQPL vs Dolphins FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
11:15 am - U15/16 vs Country United FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
5:00 pm - U23 Men vs Mackay Wanderers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
7:00 pm - Men vs Mackay Wanderers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park

AFL – Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 21 June
9:15am - Under 13s Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Sarina at Brewers Park, Sarina
9:15am - Under 15s Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Mackay Magpies at Magpies, Mackay
10:40am - Under 17s Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Moranbah Bulldogs at Stevenson Oval, Moranbah

Rugby Union – Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
Saturday 21 June
1:00pm – Reserve Grade vs Mackay City at Quarry Hill
3:30pm – Premier Grade vs Mackay City at Quarry Hill

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 23 June
Grand Final at Whitsunday Sports Park

Cricket – Airlie Beach Cricket Club
Contact airliebeachcc@yahoo.com.au for information about Airlie Beach Cricket Club

Netball – Whitsunday Netball Association
Contact netballwhitsunday@gmail.com for netball information

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Mackay Teacher Claims Back-To-Back World Titles

By Hannah McNamara

From the moment five-year-old Sarah Purnell saw Irish dancing on The Wiggles, something stirred deep in her bones ... a rhythm, a calling, a spark. That spark has now lit up the world stage three times over, with Sarah recently crowned Under 32 World Champion at the 2025 World Irish Dancing Championships in Liège, Belgium — an extraordinary back-to-back feat following her Under 30 victory last year.

“I’ve just won the Under 32 category at the World Championships… a back-to-back title win which was very exciting,” Sarah said.

“We were aiming for top three, but to get the win was absolutely a surprise.”

Dancing against the world’s best, Sarah entered the final rounds in second place. But it was her flawless traditional round and powerful solo that secured her the top spot.

“Round three – the traditional set – bumped me into first place and then my final solo sealed the win.”

What makes this triumph even more remarkable is that Sarah trains entirely in Mackay.

“We’re now a school of multiple world champions, based in Mackay.

“It’s amazing that we can literally train world champions right here.”

At Claddagh School of Irish Dance, Sarah is both a mentor and a marvel.

“As an assistant teacher now, seeing others improve is just as exciting as my own success.”

She trains up to 20 hours a week, balancing dance, gym, and recovery, which are all necessary due to her hypermobility syndrome.

“I injure really quickly… so recovery is crucial.”

This journey hasn’t been easy. In 2023, Sarah feared her dancing days were behind her, sidelined by degenerative arthritis and nerve damage in both feet. But thanks to over 150 prolotherapy injections from Pioneer Podiatry Mackay, she is now dancing pain-free for the first time in years.

“Being able to dance pain-free again… brings me so much joy – I couldn’t imagine my life any other way.”

Her dedication spans years of competition, from representing Mackay at local eisteddfods and being crowned a three-time undefeated Australian Champion, to inspiring students at Mackay State High School where she teaches.

And though her titles are many, her mission is humble.

“If I can do it at 30, from Mackay, then anyone can. It’s about finding joy and working hard, not just chasing titles.”

With unmatched resilience, Sarah isn’t just winning titles, she’s shaping what’s possible for regional dancers.

“My teacher Colette Shields opened up the longevity of Irish dancing for me…she made me believe I could keep going so I’d love to give a major shoutout to her.”

While she's looking to defend her three-time undefeated Australian Champion title again at the next one, her true passion lies in the joy of the dance, seeing improvement, and inspiring the next generation.

If you would like to explore the joy of Irish dance or simply take that first step, visit www.irishdancemackay.com

From a childhood spark watching Irish dance on The Wiggles, Mackay’s Sarah Purnell has triumphed as a three-time world champion—overcoming injury and training locally to inspire the next generation with her passion and resilience. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Beyond the spotlight of Belgium’s world championships, Sarah Purnell’s true victory lies in inspiring regional dancers and redefining what’s possible from Mackay’s dance floors. Photos supplied

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The Australia Wide Novice Pairs were played in May with 28 Novice players from Mackay competing. N/S winners were Mary Cruickshank and Geoff Cowan. E/W winners: Ted Cullinan and Susan Gibson.

Weekly Results

Monday 2 June 2025 –- 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Noel Bugeia / Geoffrey Patterson
3rd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 3rd Ming Ting / Pamela Finger
3rd Joy Block / Nancy Wix 4th Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

Tuesday Evening 3 June 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 1st Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy 2nd John McGee / Mick King
3rd Andrew Canavan / Debra Goodchild 3rd Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

Wednesday 4 June 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Bob Ranson / Kitty Ranson
3rd John Ludkin / Victor Mason 3rd Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
Thursday Evening 5 June 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 4th Francis Brown / Ann Whitmore

Friday 6 June 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Joyce Deguara / Toni Large 1st Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger
2nd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 2nd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
3rd Edward Kleise / Nancy Wix 3rd Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
4th Nancy Martin / Terry Sheedy 4th Christine Nice / Diane Cox

Saturday 7 June 2025 – 13 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 1st Terry Sheedy / Roland Taylor
2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Kitty Ranson / Bob Ranson
3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson 3rd Mick King / John McGee
4th Sandra Morris / Ann Whitmore 4th Alan Brown / Jayne Johnstone
5th Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 5th Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft
6th Lynne O’Neill / Geoff Cowan 6th Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

Contributed by Joy Block

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Geoff, Geoff Cowan & Mary Cruickshank, Anne
Geoff, Sue Gibson & Ted Cullinan & Anne. Photos supplied

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Cairns once again proved itself an ideal host city for the Great Barrier Reef Masters Games, held from May 29 to June 1, with over 220 swimmers taking part in three days of competitive pool events at the Tobruk Memorial Pool, followed by an open water swim at Lake Barrine.

This year’s swimming program concluded with a scenic open water event on the Atherton Tablelands, where 74 swimmers took on either a 1500 or 3000 metre course in the 24-degree waters of Lake Barrine.

Among the competitors were three representatives from the North Mackay Sinkers, a local masters swimming club known for its community spirit and dedication to personal improvement.

Geoffrey Robinson, the club’s most experienced competitor, led the way with a clean sweep of gold medals in all his events. He secured first place in the 50, 100, 200 and 400 metre freestyle events in the pool and added a fifth gold in the 1500 metre open water swim.

First-time competitor Melissa Lysaught delivered an impressive debut, winning five silver medals in the 50 and 100 metre freestyle, 50 and 100 metre backstroke, and 200 metre individual medley. She also took bronze in the butterfly and placed just outside the medals in breaststroke and the 200-metre freestyle. Lysaught rounded out her campaign with a silver in the 3-kilometre open water swim.

Club vice president Daniel Stampa added further to the medal tally, winning gold in the 50-metre breaststroke and 200 metre individual medley, and bronze in the 50-metre backstroke. He also secured multiple fourth-place finishes across freestyle and butterfly distances, and a silver in the 3-kilometre open water swim.

Club members are now preparing for the upcoming North Queensland Masters Championships, to be held in Townsville this September. Attention also turns to the club’s premier annual event, the Whitehaven Beach Open Water Swim, scheduled for Sunday, October 5 during the King’s Birthday long weekend. Members receive a discounted entry to the event.

Training continues throughout winter at the Memorial Pool in Mackay:
• Mondays and Wednesdays: 5:30–6:30pm
• Saturdays: 8:00–9:00am

New and returning swimmers are encouraged to come along and get involved.
For more information, visit the North Mackay Sinkers on social media or attend a training session.

Contributed by Dan Stampa

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Melissa Lysaught in Lane 8 at the start of the 200m mixed freestyle event

Geoff Robinson in the closest lane completes the tough 400m freestyle event and claims his first of 5 gold medal performances

The Sinkers representatives, Geoff, Mel and Dan, after the pool events concluded and looking forward to the Open water swim

After 4 days of competition, swimmers relaxed after the final events in Lake Barrine, a picture-perfect spot. Photos supplied

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It was a strong showing for Dunbar, with their players demonstrating a keen eye at the plate, drawing 11 walks to get on base. Tristan Hillier connected well with the bat, though was caught out by Dragons’ Lachlan Colless. Dragons’ powerhouses Connor Doolan and Noah Baxter made it on base three times each, both eventually crossing home. Boyd Baxter launched a centre-field home run, helping secure a 14-6 victory over Dunbar.

Heavy Iron Hawks dominated Dragons Ausgroup in a 14-6 win. Justin Locher was unstoppable, scoring four times including an automatic home run. Kane Reid wasn’t far behind, crossing home three times with a home run of his own. Sean Hudson impressed both at bat and on the mound, collecting three strikeouts, a catch, and two doubles. For the Dragons, Russell Councell and Alex Tassan scored two runs each, while Andrew Allen stood out with seven assisted outs and a catch.

Dragons A Men defeated Hells Angels 5-3, thanks to home runs by Jordan Doss and Jesse Miles, with Jesse also bringing in runners. Beau Nash fired off 10 strikeouts. Angels' Jaxon Maluga responded with 9Ks, while Jayden Love and AJ Tareeala executed a double play. Heinrich Ackerman crossed twice, including a big home run.

In a thrilling finish, Dragons Slayers edged Storm 18-17. Erin Boulding and Kym Lock led the charge with solid batting. Lock hit two doubles, while Zoe Adams and Lenine Millard crossed three times for Storm. Rhonda Hill took two catches.

Other Results:

Nth Jacklin Chaos def. Tyrepower 10-3
Get the Power def. Dunbar 14-6
Pink Hawks def. Dr Flies 10-5
Young Guns def. Fireballs 16-7
Dragons BCN def. Xtreeme 13-4
PM Diesel Hawks def. Xtreeme 11-5
Devils def. Custom Angels 8-7

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

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Dragons claimed multiple wins in a dynamic softball round, with standout performances, home runs, and close calls, including a nail-biting 18-17 victory by the Slayers over Storm. Photos supplied

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The Marian Bowls Club has once again demonstrated its generous community spirit, rallying together to support local charity Chances House with a thoughtful and timely donation.

After learning of the organisation’s needs, club members reached out directly to see how they could help.

“After a phone call direct to Chances we were advised what products/clothes were required and we then set out to provide a package for them,” said club secretary Lyn Jackson.

On Wednesday 4 June, the ladies welcomed a representative from Chances House to their afternoon tea. The visit gave members a deeper insight into the work being done in the community.

“What an eye opener,” Lyn said of the presentation.

Following the talk, the group got straight to work.

“After afternoon tea we helped pack 3 large plastic containers with warm clothing and then about 6 boxes of food,” Lyn added.

The visit was led by Ally Knowles from Chances House, pictured alongside Treasurer Judith Miller, Secretary Lyn Jackson, and President Thelma Johnston before the packing commenced.

In a time when many individuals and families are doing it tough, simple gestures like this remind us all of the power of giving. The Marian Bowls Club continues to be a shining example of how small groups can make a big difference in their local community.

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It’s been a jam-packed week at the Wangaratta Bowls Club, with local bowlers taking to the greens across multiple days of social and competition play.

Monday’s Self-Selected Triples saw Sugar Brunker, Graeme Read and Kennedy Whitton emerge as the winners after a solid win over Ron Hyde, Maureen Hyde and Alby Vigar. Runners-up for the day were Trish Webb, Bob and Leon Fox, who triumphed in their match against Eileen Dunn, Di Coleman and Geoff Coleman. The jackpot, however, remained elusive.

Tuesday’s social bowls winners were found on rink six, with Merle Elphinstone, Anne Fitzgerald, Louise Collins and Ron Hyde defeating Sue Shearing, Simon Fitzgerald, Lyn Madden and Dave Madden. Other match results included Judy Christie, Les Lee and Bob Dykstra defeating Graeme Smith, Irene Laird and Norm Dawson, while Kath Sheldon, John Hayson, Steve Bryant and Maureen Hyde secured a win over Shirley Smith, Robyn Stitt, Barry Downs and Marg Wilson. Once again, the jackpot did not go off.

In club competition, the final of the Men’s A Singles was played on Saturday and proved a thrilling contest. Ron Hyde secured a narrow victory over Wayne Crowhurst in what was described as another tightly contested final. In the Men’s Pairs, Mitch Wright and Wayne Crowhurst teamed up for a strong win against Steve Roome and Dave McDonald.

With an influx of visitors in town, Fun Friday returned in full spirit. Winners for the afternoon were Lynn and Ron, who defeated Jan and Cheryl. Runners-up Margaret Mitchell, Shirley Smith and Greg McShain enjoyed a win over Kay Hogan, Gary Wills and David Maddern.

Sunday social bowls drew a strong turnout with almost a full green in play. Judy, June Paynter, Alby Vigar and Reg Stevens took the win against Brett, Carole, Bob Lindsay and Terry Nash. Runners-up were Neale Crittenden, Lyn Madden and Pat Tracey, who defeated Louise Collins, Teresa Willshire and Bob Dykstra. The jackpot remained unclaimed.

There was also strong representation from the club at the Whitsunday 4’s Carnival in Airlie Beach, with congratulations going to France Wilmann, Dennis Donadelli, Denise Wallace and Penny Warren who finished as runners-up in the competition.

Adding to a successful week, three Wangaratta ladies – Denise Wallace, Penny Warren and Tiarna Rogers – have been selected to represent in the North Queensland District Northern Women’s Challenge, to be played in Townsville from July 15 to 17. Congratulations to all selected players.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Kennedy Whitton presenting prizes to Reg Stevens, Alby Vigar, June Paynter and Judy Christie. Photo supplied

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Football - Whitsunday United FC
Friday 13 June
6:00 PM – Div 2 Men vs Mackay Rangers FC at Eric Homan Park
8:00 PM – Div 1 Men vs Mackay Rangers FC at Eric Homan Park

Saturday 14 June
Bye – U13 Div 1
9:30 AM – U13 FQPL vs Mackay Lions at Whitsunday Sports Park
9:30 AM – U14 vs Magpies FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
11:15 AM – U15/16 vs City Brothers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
5:00 PM – U23 Men vs City Brothers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
7:00 PM – Men vs City Brothers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park

Sunday 15 June
Bye – U13 Div 1
10:00 AM – U13 FQPL vs Mackay Rangers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
11:30 AM – U14 vs Mackay Rangers FC U14 Black at Whitsunday Sports Park

AFL - Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 14th June
9:15 AM – U13s: Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Saints at Whitsunday Sports Park
10:40 AM – U15s: Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Saints at Whitsunday Sports Park
12:15 PM – U17s: Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Saints at Whitsunday Sports Park
1:50 PM - Senior Women vs Saints at Whitsunday Sports Park
3:20 PM - Senior Men  vs Saints at Whitsunday Sports Park

Rugby Union - Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
1:00pm - Reserve Grade vs Slade Point at Cathy Freeman Oval
2:30pm - Womens  vs Slade Point at Cathy Freeman Oval
3:30pm - Premier Grade vs Slade Point at Cathy Freeman Oval

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 16 June
Pre-lim finals fixtures at Whitsunday Sports Park

Cricket – Airlie Beach Cricket Club
Contact airliebeachcc@yahoo.com.au for information about Airlie Beach Cricket Club

Netball – Whitsunday Netball Association
Contact netballwhitsunday@gmail.com for netball information

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Young athletes from the Next Stars Sports Academy have made their mark at the Northern Region Schools Cross Country Championships held in Townsville on Tuesday 27th of May, with a string of outstanding performances. Among the standout results:

● Kayne Higgins – 1st place, Under 10 Boys
● Maeve Dichera – 1st place, Under 10 Girls
● Penelope Shields – 1st place, Under 11 Girls
● Jack Oberg – 2nd place, Under 13 Boys
● Declan Dichera – 7th place, Under 12 Boys
● Willow Kenny – 8th place, Under 11 Girls

Kayne, Maeve, Penelope and Jack have now earned selection in the Northern Region Schools Cross Country Team, and will compete in the Queensland Schools Cross Country Championships in Brisbane next month.

Next Stars Head Coach Tim Oberg praised the athletes not only for their results, but for their character:

“I am incredibly proud of all of our Next Stars athletes who competed in Townsville. Each of them gave their absolute best on the day and as a coach I can't ask for any more than that. More importantly, all of these kids embody the Next Stars ethos of hard work, positive attitude and determination.”

Next Stars Sports Academy continues to develop young athletes across the Whitsundays, focusing on inclusive coaching, confidence building and community connection through sport.

Contributed with thanks to Tim Oberg

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The sun was shining for Mental Health Round as Whitsunday Sea Eagles recognised the importance of starting conversations and being able to access appropriate support services with all players and their families. All gate takings will be donated to Headspace Whitsundays who concentrate their efforts in the youth area, whilst blue armbands started conversations around the grounds about player’s mental health and support available. New Sea Eagles guernseys were also revealed much to crowd and player delight with teams putting on some great displays of teamwork to christen the new kit.

Sea Eagles Senior Women had game of the day with a cracking come back in the last quarter against the reigning Premiers Bakers Creek Tigers to win by 4 points 32 – 28. Sea Eagles Senior Women achieved all they wanted and more with a long awaited win against Bakers Creek cementing their second place on the ladder and setting up an exciting year ahead.

Sea Eagles Senior Men took on Bakers Creek Tigers with a slow start allowing Bakers Creek to get the jump in the first quarter unable to claw it back with a 25 – 49 loss.

Sea Eagles Under 17s took the field with enthusiasm in front of the home crowd as a full team for the first time this season playing like they were there to win and smashing Bakers Creek Tigers 73 – 13(adj).

Sea Eagles Under 15s were eager to take on the Eastern Swans heading out there looking organised and team oriented. From the first bounce to the final siren Sea Eagles worked together with some tough opposition for the 53 – 32 win.

Sea Eagles Under 13s had a tough day out against the ladder leading Eastern Swans losing 20 – 55 after Swans took off in the second quarter.

Sea Eagles back up another home game this week Saturday 14th June. Juniors take on North Mackay Saints from 9:15am and Senior Men and Women against Eastern Swans from 1:50pm. Canteen open 9am, Bar open 1:50pm.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Whitsunday Sea Eagles U'13s Guernsey reveal. Photo credit: Cody Fowler

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Nine dedicated swimmers from the Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club travelled to Mackay over the weekend to compete in the Pioneer Short Course Transition Meet at the ARC. Representing the club were Ella Bounden, Jax Clayworth, Zane Clayworth, Evelyn Doherty, Thomas Ganter, Lucas Korosec, Ruby Lawson, Matilda Nicholes, and Celeste Orenshaw.

Several swimmers delivered standout performances, with Ella Bounden, Lucas Korosec, Ruby Lawson, Matilda Nicholes, and Celeste Orenshaw achieving personal bests in the majority of their events. A special mention goes to Ruby Lawson, who recorded PBs in all her events—an exceptional effort that reflects her hard work and determination.

The 100IM event also brought rewards for three of our athletes, with Jax Clayworth, Zane Clayworth, and Lucas Korosec each earning cash prizes for their impressive swims.

In other club news, coaches Mark Erickson and Raylene Rasmussen, along with swimmer Nelson Malady, travelled north to Townsville for the TOWSA Open Water Strand Swim. They were joined by former Cannonvale swimmer Jacob Bell, who now resides in Townsville where he is attending university.

Mark, Raylene, and Jacob all took on the challenging 4KM event, while Nelson competed in the 2KM swim. Congratulations to Jacob, who was the first swimmer to cross the finish line in the 4KM event—a remarkable achievement. This swim served as a pre-qualifying event for the upcoming Townsville to Magnetic Island swim, and we’re proud to report that all four Cannon representatives successfully met their qualifying times.

Well done to all our swimmers and coaches for representing the Cannonvale Cannons with pride and passion, both in the pool and out in open water.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Celeste Orenshaw at Pioneer Meet with Medals
Pioneer Swim Meet Athletes
Pioneer Swimmers
TOWSA Swimmers

Photos supplied

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It was a bumper week of bowls action at Airlie Beach as the first week of winter delivered packed greens, thrilling finishes, and a welcome return of the club’s much-loved June Carnival.

Tuesday afternoon saw over 40 players take to the green, including more than 20 social bowlers, while Ladies Pairs and Triples competitions continued to advance. One of the day’s most gripping moments came during the singles match between Betty Whitehorn and Ladda Purdie, with Whitehorn edging out the Thai favourite 25–24 in a stunning upset to book her place in the final.

Wednesday’s social bowls welcomed a strong contingent of visitors, with bowlers arriving from across the country. Players included Andrew Lloyd and Robin Smith (Club North Haven, NSW), Peter Downes (Victor Harbour, SA), Ettore Tiraboschi (Mareeba, QLD), Susan and Dermot Wilford (Picton, NSW), and Malcolm Townson (Glasshouse Mountains, Sunshine Coast). Club regulars Janet and Michael Jacometti also returned for the season. In a friendly but competitive afternoon, 24 bowlers competed in three games of triples, with the winning team comprising skipper Andrew Lloyd, lead Robyn Smith, and second Betty Whitehorn—rounding out a stellar week for Whitehorn.

Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls resumed with plenty of energy. Team results will be published in next week’s issue.

Friday welcomed participants from the Endeavour Foundation. John stepped onto the green for the first time and showed promise, while Michael and Cathy continued to make steady progress with their game.

The weekend brought the highlight of the week—the Whitsunday June Carnival. Sixteen teams travelled from across the state, with representatives from Townsville, Mackay, Wangaratta, and Noosa. Organiser Margo Stanley once again delivered an exceptional event, supported by Jill Spencer, Fiona Greener, Maureen Barnard, and a hard-working team of volunteers who kept bowlers well-fed and refreshed across the two-day competition.

After seven closely contested games, the final placings were announced. Third place went to F. Watson’s team from Townsville, while the talented Penny Warren and her team—France, Denise, and Joanne—claimed second in a remarkable showing. But it was the powerhouse team of Manny Isgro, Davey Peats (Queensland representative), Peter Knight, and Paul Foot who clinched the title yet again, marking their fourth or fifth carnival victory in what’s become a formidable streak.

To cap off the week, the club is celebrating the long-awaited commencement of the new cover over the greens, with construction set to begin Monday and expected to be completed within two weeks.

This week’s photo features the winning team alongside event organiser Margo Stanley: Manny Isgro, Peter Knight, Paul Foot, and Davey Peats—champions both on and off the green.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

The winning team and Margo Stanley organiser, Manny Isgro, Peter Knight, Paul Foot, and Davey Peats. Photo supplied