Proserpine Vets travelled to Collinsville last week and returned with some impressive results, particularly among the ladies, who claimed four of the top seven placings.

Leading the way was Robyn Whitham, who produced a brilliant 42 points to win the event. The victory follows on from her success at Home Hill last month, making her something of an “away” specialist. Runner-up was Karen Dwyer from Bowen on 37 points, while Proserpine’s own Tessa Aitken (36), Elspeth Scotford (35) and Tiina Randmae (32) also featured prominently in the rundown.

In the men’s competition, Home Hill’s Barry Duchnicz topped the field with 36 points, just edging out Bowen’s Les Gordon on countback. Proserpine players again held their own, with Gerald Lovell and John Strelec both carding 35 points to finish inside the top six, and Louis Neethling close behind on 33.

Pin shots were shared around on the day, with Leanne Alexander taking the ladies’ prize, while Colin Hounsell and John Strelec secured the men’s.

As always, the Collinsville volunteers added to the occasion with their marvellous hospitality and catering, which was a highlight for all who attended. The strong turnout and friendly atmosphere ensured another enjoyable outing for the Whitsunday veterans’ golfing community.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Robyn Whitham and Gerald Lovell. Photo supplied

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Who said, “There’s no place like home”? And while I never clicked my shiny red shoes, it’s certainly true—what a beautiful place we live in, and how lucky we are to call the best country in the world our own.

Many thanks to my dear friend Betty Whitehorn, who kept up the news so beautifully in my absence. My return has been filled with exciting updates and sensational memories for our little club here in paradise.

On Tuesday, 24 bowlers took to the greens, where we welcomed Janine and Jeff Orton from Victoria. The winning team with the highest margin was Glen O’Brien at lead, Els Van Soest at second, and our own little pocket rocket, Carol Crosbie, at skipper, who played some stunning, accurate bowls.

It was a similar story on Wednesday at social bowls, run by Mervyn Stewart, where Tony Kelly continued his scintillating form. Ably supported by lead David Meiklejohn and Alan Pershouse, Tony’s team scored a commanding 21-point win.

Saturday morning Scroungers saw six rinks in play. The final came down to Steve Heddles and Andy McDougall, with Andy continuing his dominance of the Saturday competition to take the win once again. Eric Barnard also bowled strongly to claim victory in the B Division.

On Sunday afternoon, 24 bowlers returned to the greens. Skipper Stacey Hadlow, fresh from a well-earned break from the rigours of cane cutting, teamed up with Bill Gordon and Els Van Soest to take out the day in grand style—well done, team!

Finally, a special mention must go to our ladies, who recently represented us as district champions. They travelled to Emerald for the zone finals to decide who would progress to the state championships. In a nail-biting contest, they were pipped at the post 19–17 by the Emerald ladies. We are, however, so proud of Joan McGrath’s team of lead Lyn Graham, Jill Spencer, and Ladda Purdie, who all turned in a wonderful performance.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Lyn Graham, Joan McGrath, Jill Spencer and Ladda Purdie. Photo supplied

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On Wednesday, two competition games were played. Senior Singles kicked off with an epic match between Sandy Daffara and Philip Brown. After 38 ends, Philip Brown narrowly claimed victory 25-24. The first game of the B Pairs was also played, with Alen Sanderson and Trevor Parsons defeating Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison 19-11. There were no Social Bowls on Wednesday, as many of our regular players were involved in competition games. Barry and John took the opportunity to have a roll-up instead.

Saturday saw the Final of the B Singles, with Harry Craig edging out Todd Leys 25-24 in what has been described as a fabulous game. Harry will now progress to the Champion of Champions at St Helens, scheduled for the weekend of September 20 and 21.

Sunday morning brought strong winds, making both competition games a real test of concentration. In Senior Singles, Philip Brown defeated Ken Watts 25-6. In B Pairs, Harry Craig and David Ling overcame Troy Campbell and Todd Leys 31-11.

Looking ahead, the Senior Singles Champion of Champions is scheduled for September 27-28. Several matches remain to be played beforehand. Trevor Parsons faces Vince Olsen, with the winner to play Luchie Gardel, followed by a match against Mike Harrison. On the other side of the draw, Bruce Uhe will play Bryan Davy, with the winner to meet Philip Brown. It would be ideal for the Trevor vs. Vince and Bruce vs. Bryan matches to be completed this week to allow the competition to finish on schedule.

In Social Bowls on Sunday afternoon, Heather Brown and Mike Harrison defeated visitor Snorkell (from Airlie Beach) and Philip Brown 28-15. Afternoon tea proved to be a turning point in what had been a very even game. John Anderson and Sandy Daffara also claimed a strong win, defeating Alen Sanderson and Henny Tattam 29-9.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Final of B Singles Runner Up Todd Leys, Winner Harry Craig. Photo supplied

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Last weekend, the Mackay Rowing Club hosted the second annual Head of the Pioneer 10-kilometre regatta at Pleystowe, bringing together crews from across the region for a challenging day on the water.

Despite strong winds that tested every competitor, the event was a celebration of skill, determination, and community spirit. Crews from Townsville, Ruway, Ju, and Helro joined Mackay’s own rowers for the rolling-start race, which began at the river’s weir, included a turnaround, and finished across the river near the club.

Club President Cameron Slack reflected on the appeal of rowing for locals.

“Rowing is a sport you can keep doing forever. Older members in our clubs, 60, 70, are going away to world championships, and having the opportunity to medal is pretty cool.”

Slack said the regatta also offered a rare chance for rowers from different towns to come together, compete, and enjoy the camaraderie.

“It’s just a great sport to be involved in, and it’s nice to see so many on the water.”

For many participants, rowing is about more than just competition. World Champion gold medalist Therese Clancy, who has been rowing since 2016, said she was encouraged to try the sport by a friend.

“I got hooked. It’s gentle on your body, and I’ve competed in Germany and at state nationals,” she said, reflecting on her journey in rowing.

“It’s been an amazing experience so far.”

Whitsunday Anglican School student Xavier Wheaton, a rower since 2020, described both the social and fitness benefits of the sport.

“I love rowing with friends… it’s such a great sport, and you can do it for a long time,” he said.

The race produced standout performances, with Mackay’s eight-person crew and Townsville’s double, Wayne and Mark, posting the fastest times. Despite the strong winds, the crews navigated the 10-kilometre course with determination, highlighting the skill and endurance required for competitive rowing.

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Last weekend, Mackay Rowing Club hosted the second annual Head of the Pioneer 10K regatta at Pleystowe. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Junior And Senior Softball Wrap-Up

Young Joey Ball and Rookieball players are buzzing with excitement as they prepare for their grand finals on Saturday, 6th September. It promises to be a fun-filled day, with trophy presentations to follow after the games at 11.30am.

Under 14

Dragons Get the Power proved too strong for Dragons Tyre Power, running away with an 11–1 victory.
Levi Counsell impressed with three at-bats, crossing home plate each time. Teammates Sienna Kitto and Chloe Mackenzie showed patience at the plate, picking up two walks each and also scoring twice.

For Tyre Power, Lachlan Mickle was the sole run scorer. Audrey Hartl, Eleanor Wallace, and Shanya Steven all reached base on walks but were unable to add to the tally. In the field, Shanya and Audrey both took important catches to help keep the scoreline down.

With the win, Get the Power secured their place in the grand final.

B Ladies

The Dragon Slayers finished the season in 6th place, while the Pink Hawks secured 5th after taking out their clash 17–9.

The Slayers rotated positions for fun in their final match. Casey Hayes impressed at shortstop, putting her body on the line, assisting with outs, and collecting two safe hits. Eli Oldham and Audra Pollard also hit safely, while Erin Boulding stood out with three hits, including a massive home run to left field.

For the Hawks, Krystal Ford delivered four safe hits and a catch, while Darcy Dorsett pitched superbly, allowing just one walk, assisting three outs, and taking a catch. Out in left field, Zoe Knight was kept busy by the Slayers’ bats.

Elsewhere, Dr Flies defeated Golden Oldies 14–10 to book a finals clash with Arch Angel.
For Dr Flies, Lynn Hamett, Tina Teale, and Sarah Jurg all crossed the plate three times each, while Hannah Wallace delivered three big hits to left field. Tina also took three catches in the field.

Golden Oldies fought hard, with Donna Reid, Alison Poyner, and Narida Bates all scoring twice. Pitcher Trish Bueithe did a great job on the mound, while Donna Reid and Linda Parry also took catches.

B Men

In the men’s division, Custom recorded an 11–5 victory over Hawks Heavy Iron.

Heavy Iron struggled to convert their big outfield hits, with substitutes Peyton Barrow and Kacee Shultz making key catches for Custom. Mitchell Robbins, Heath Taylor, and Justin Locher each picked up two base hits, while Taylor, Warren Bekker, and sub Jess Martin also took catches.

Custom’s Matt Ramsamy and Gary Cunningham both crossed the plate four times, with Cunningham adding a home run. Scott Single contributed three solid hits to right field, while Darren Frew and Cameron Corbett added catches to round out the win.

The Hawks Heavy Iron will now face Dragons Ausgroup in the final.

Game times  6th September

930am Rookieball  grand final
11am   joey ball    grand final
1130am      presentation
1230pm   u/14   Choas Angels   v Dunbar Angels    finals
230pm  Heavy Iron  v  Ausgroup      finals
230pm    Arch angels  v  Dr flies    finals
230pm   xtreem angel   v  BCN

Good luck to all teams playing this weekend.

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

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Local baseball teams gear up for grand finals this Saturday. Photos supplied

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The Annual Mackay Road Runners Shields Stampede 5km and 12km has been a mainstay on the local running calendar for more than 30 years. The historic event, generously hosted by club life members Wendy and Merv Shields from their Mount Pleasant residence, has long challenged competitors with its undulating, twisting course through Beaconsfield and Andergrove before the descent back to the Karl Langer Crescent finish line.

Wendy and Merv have played an integral role in the longevity of the Mackay Road Runners, not only through the Shields Stampede but also as sponsors of other events, including the prestigious Eungella King and Queen of the Mountain.

As always, the post-race afternoon tea was a highlight, with Wendy providing an array of delicious snacks alongside tea and coffee. Random draw prizes were also awarded in the lead-up to Father’s Day. Thanks went to Zamp for donating Strategic Media Partners merchandise, which was well received by winners, while other lucky competitors took home Father’s Day-themed gifts that may have saved them a trip to the shops.

On the course, excellent performances were delivered across both distances. In the 12km, spectators witnessed a thrilling sprint finish as father-and-son duo Justin and Toby Rule crossed the line together, with the photo finish giving Justin the victory by the narrowest of margins. Third overall and first female was Alana Knezevic, who set a blistering pace to claim gold for the women, finishing ahead of Ashley Miles and Clinton Mackie, all breaking the one-hour barrier.

In the 5km, Roscoe McDonnell was a clear winner, finishing five minutes ahead of second overall and first female Gail Mackie. Jo Hughes and Emma Johnson rounded out the top four.

The club also acknowledged the achievements of members competing outside the region, including at the Sydney Marathon and personal challenges such as the 4x4x48 Goggins Challenge. Standout Sydney performances included Paul Mackenzie (2:58:15), Corey Gould (3:33), Leon Sant (3:44) and Jeff Shaw (4:16).

Special recognition went to Andrew Short, who was instrumental in ensuring the Shields Stampede went ahead after last-minute Ergon repair works disrupted the usual course. Andrew swiftly re-mapped the route to create a safe 5km and 12km track, organised signage, and updated maps, before completing the 12km run himself and then collecting the signage afterwards. His ongoing dedication — including maintaining club equipment — was praised by members, who described him as a true club legend.

Next on the calendar, the Mackay Road Runners will assist the crew at the Botanic Gardens Parkrun on Lagoon Street, West Mackay, for the pre-Father’s Day Parkrun this Saturday at 7am. Volunteers are asked to arrive by 6.30am for briefing. The club will not host its own event next Sunday in recognition of Father’s Day.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Mackay Road Runners long-serving members (left to right) – Jan Smith, Judy Zahn and Wendy Shields.
Alana Knezevic  (left) and Alan Zamparutti get ready to race the 12km Shields Stampede.
Approx forty runners and supporters took part in the very popular annual Shields Stampede 5k & 12k.
Justin Rule (left) hits the tape by a whisker ahead of Toby Rule.
Emma Johnson and Jo Hughes catch up after the Shields Stampede 5km.
Carmel Mahon (centre) thanks timekeepers Julie Whibley (left) and Rohan Miles for their weekly efforts. Photo credit: Janelle TIlse

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The Mackay Cutters faced challenging encounters over the weekend, with both the women's and men's teams experiencing defeats.

At BB Print Stadium in Mackay, the BMD Premiership women's team narrowly lost to the Western Clydesdales, 16–18. Despite tries from M. Powell (28'), J. Kimber (55'), and C. Tanner (61'), and two successful conversions by Emily Bella, the Cutters couldn't secure the win. The Clydesdales responded with tries from K. Jackson (14'), K. Taylor (24'), and M. Prentice (47'), along with three conversions from R. Beardmore and Z. Cook.

Meanwhile, the Hostplus Cup men's team traveled to Redcliffe for round 23, where they suffered a 16–34 loss to the Dolphins. The Cutters struggled in the first half, trailing 0–20 at the break. However, they regrouped and matched the Dolphins in the second half, showcasing resilience despite the final scoreline.

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Mackay Meteorettes standout Unique Thompson has claimed the 2025 NBL1 North Women’s Most Valuable Player award after another dominant season. She also took home the titles of NBL1 North scoring champion and earned a spot on the All-Star First Team. Her meteoric impact was undeniable.

Thompson’s stat line was among the league’s most impressive. She led the conference in scoring with 23.2 points per game and grabbed a league-best 15.3 rebounds per game—a commanding double-double average. Her numbers made her an offensive and rebounding force unmatched across the NBL1 North.

Her standout performances were not limited to regular season stats. In a thrilling showdown against the Sunshine Coast Phoenix, Thompson delivered a 30-point, 13-rebound double-double to help seal a tight 92–89 win for the Meteorettes. That game, filled with lead changes and tension, showcased Thompson’s ability to elevate her game when it mattered most.

This MVP recognition further cements Thompson’s growing reputation—not just as a scoring machine, but as a leader and game-changer for Mackay. With her sights now set on the WNBL, this season will be remembered as a defining chapter in her rising basketball journey.

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MACKAY TABLE TENNIS FIXTURE RESULTS - 26th August 2025

Tuesday Evening Fixture

Division 1 – Fish (Mick Ruhl, Steven Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) 9-2. Great doubles match between Mick / Steven won over Barry / Vince 11-9 in 5th Set.

Bears (Goncalo Serra, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) defeated Birds (Trent Day, Emma Widdup, Anne Sheridan) 8-3 with Emma having a massive 5 Set match with Lee and she won 13-11.

Division 2 – Tigers (Allan Edwards, Geoff Cowan, Allan Robins) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Rymer Tabulo, Yilin Jiang) 9-2. Andrea came back from 2 sets down to win over Geoff 11-9 in 5 Sets.

Horses (Syed Animul Hossain, Donna Abbott, Ollie Hamelink) defeated Cows (Steve Mathieson, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) 6-5. Both doubles matches went to 5 Sets, Syed / Donna won against Graeme / Ian 11-8.

Dogs (Geoff Denman, Peter Goodson) defeated Cats (Duncan Treloar, Will VanDeKaa) 3-2. Geoff won very close 5 Sets over Duncan 12-10.

Division 3 – Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan, Melanie Theodore) defeated Stiga (Val Austin, Coral Morgan, Josie Davis) 7-4. Val / Coral winning massive 5 sets over Melanie / Samuel 11-9.

Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDeKaa, Marie Taylor) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown)   8-3. Marie defeating Liz 11-7 in the 5th Set.

Tuesday Morning Results

Division 1 – Wolf Pack (Steve Mathieson, Virginia Clayton, Pam Joyce) defeated Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 8-4 with Kevin sneaking through against Steve to win 5th Set 11-9.

Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Marie Taylor, Peter Goodson) defeated Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic), Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Branko / Noreen won in 5 Sets over Peter /Doug 11-5.

Tiger Paws (Allan Robins, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) defeated Lion Kings (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher) 9-3 with Veronica winning against Bryan 11-6 in the 5th Set.

Divison 2 – Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Ian Dodds) defeated Python Spin (Robyn Giles, Kim Daffy, Robyn Bushell) 9-3. Kim won tight 5 Sets against Ken 11-8.

Rhino Charge (Peter Taber, Josie Davis) defeated Panther Pace (Frank Caruana, Gerry Synnott) 7-2. Peter / Josie won against Frank / Gerry 12-10 in 4 Sets.

Division 3 – Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Allison Day) defeated Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Glenda Brooks) 5-4. Allison won in tight 5 Sets over Cheryl 11-8.

Spider Smashers and Iron Rallies played a round robin as there was only 3 players. Laurie defeated Madge over 11-5 in 5 Sets.

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Emma Widdup

Andrea Nicholson. Photos supplied

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On Monday 18 August and Wednesday 20 August the Marian ladies held their annual Master 4's.  This started with 15 teams - 60 ladies - on Monday with the top 4 teams going into Wednesday.  There were many very close games during the first day with lots of laughter and good sportsmanship shown.

The eventual winners were Airlie Beach from North Mackay in a great game of bowls.

Contributed by Lyn Jackson

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BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival Supports Lifesaving Local Organisations

This weekend, the Mackay community will once again come together in a powerful show of unity at this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival, with every pedal stroke helping to support two vital local organisations – BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

Kate Sommerville, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, highlighted BMA’s long-standing commitment to the Mackay community.

“Every rider at this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival reflects the strength and spirit of our community. Whether riding for rescue services, disability inclusion, or in honour of someone special, this event is about supporting causes that matter most in our region.

“When our industry thrives, so do the communities where we work. While it’s no secret that mining is under pressure from global market conditions and the Queensland Government’s unsustainable coal taxes, BMA remains deeply committed to Mackay and regional Queensland.”

Now celebrating its 15th year, the festival has become one of Mackay’s most loved community sporting events, attracting hundreds of cyclists of all ages and abilities to ride together while raising vital funds for BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

Registrations are still open, and proceeds from every entry directly benefit BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay, ensuring the event’s impact continues well beyond the ride weekend.

With rides ranging from family-friendly distances to longer endurance challenges, the event provides an opportunity for everyone aged 3yrs+ to get involved across 2 great days – whether on a bike (or if you’re 12 and under jump on your scooter instead), cheering from the sidelines, or simply showing support.

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This weekend, Mackay’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival unites the community, raising funds for BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay. Photos supplied

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With Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Twenty-two Mackay players competed in the Yeppoon Congress last Weekend. Frances and Alan Brown won the A Grade Pairs, with Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris winning the B Grade Pairs. Alan and Frances Brown joined by Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan also took out the A Grade Team event. B Grade Teams event was won by team Harris, Jan Harris, Helen Van Den Broek, Martin Pearce and Hilary Gunthorp. All players played extremely well in the Red point events.

Weekly Results

Monday 25 August 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
2nd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd Jennifier Cameron / Joy Hold 3rd Christine Fitzpatrick / Colleen Riddel

Tuesday Evening 26 August 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana 1st Christine Morrison / Glen Cocup
2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy

Wednesday 27 August 2025 – Australian Wide Open Pairs 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Eric Goodchild / David Ting 1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd Joy Block / Diane Stokes 2nd Geoff Taylor / Karen Cadwell
3rd Anne Howe / Susan Ross 3rd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
4th Geoffrey Patterson / Sandy Patterson 4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen

Thursday Evening 28 August 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

Friday 29 August 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
2nd Karen Cadwell / Gwen Liddell 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix 3rd Janine Rodgers / Adrian Westcott

Saturday 30 August 2025 –6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st David Ting / Ming Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers / Mick King
3rd Geoff Taylor / Karen Cadwell 4th Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

Contributed by Joy Block

Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris - Yeppoon B Grade Winning Pair

Mackay players celebrate after a winning weekend at Yeppoon. Photos suppl

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Mackay roared with the thrill of international cricket over the weekend, as the BKT Tyres ODI series between Australia and South Africa delivered both heartbreak and historic triumphs at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. Our coastal city proved it could host world-class sport, with fans witnessing performances that will be talked about amongst cricket fanatics for generations to come.

The series opened on Friday night, August 22, with a tense contest, as South Africa silenced the home crowd, clinching an 84-run victory to take a 2-0 lead. Choosing to bat first, the Proteas posted a competitive 277, anchored by Matthew Breetzke’s fluent 81 and Tristan Stubbs’ composed 74. Australia’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Xavier Bartlett continuing his impressive start in national colours, and leg-spinners Adam Zampa and Marnus Labuschagne claiming five between them.

Australia’s reply faltered early, slipping to 3-38, before Josh Inglis ignited the innings with a spirited 87 – his highest score at home. Yet, when Lungi Ngidi (5-42) removed Inglis, Australia’s momentum collapsed, and South Africa extended their remarkable run to five consecutive ODI series wins over the Aussies.

But Mackay’s cricket faithful had reason to cheer on Sunday, August 24, witnessing a performance for the ages. Australia amassed a record 2-431, their highest ODI total on home soil, with Travis Head (142), Mitchell Marsh (100), and Cameron Green (118 off 55 balls) all striking centuries – the first time in men’s ODI history Australia’s top three have achieved this feat. Green’s explosive maiden ton, featuring eight sixes, had the crowd on its feet, while Alex Carey added a brisk unbeaten 50.

South Africa never recovered, bowled out for just 155 in 25 overs. Youngster Cooper Connolly capped the night with a dream debut, claiming a maiden five-wicket haul (5-22). Australia’s 276-run triumph, their second-largest ODI victory, salvaged pride and offered Mackay spectators a front-row seat to cricketing history, even as South Africa secured the series 2-1.

Ahead of the clash, Cameron Green reflected on the team’s approach.

“I think we’ve all played enough cricket now and hopefully we can read the situation really well… I think we know that we like to play a pretty positive brand of cricket.”

On playing in Mackay, he added, “It’s lovely to be up here… The wicket looks like a beauty… and I think it’ll be a terrific game.”

Adrienne Young, CEO of Great Barrier Reef Arena, highlighted the broader significance of hosting international cricket.

“It’s the pathway we’re on to hopefully be a venue at the Olympics… I’m really passionate about Harrup Park, and the Great Barrier Reef Arena… to build this into an Olympic venue, grow cricket as a sport in the region, and help other sports develop facilities and community programs.”

On the importance of fostering regional sporting stars, Mr Young says, “You can’t be what you can’t see.”

“It’s just wonderful that there’ll be young boys and girls here who’ll be able to see not only players… but their icons right here in our region.”

While the weekend was a sell-out, Young acknowledged challenges, particularly in accommodation, noting plans are underway with regional stakeholders to ensure Mackay is ready for future international events.

Mackay’s cricketing weekend may have delivered both heartbreak and heroics, but the city’s rising stature on the global stage was undeniable. From record-breaking centuries to dream debuts, the Great Barrier Reef Arena proved that this regional hub is keen to host world-class cricket, and perhaps, one day, the Olympics.

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Mackay made history as the Great Barrier Reef Arena hosted Australia and South Africa in a thrilling ODI series, delivering heartbreak, heroics, and record-breaking moments. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay SLSC “Guardians of Harbour Beach since 1950” are kicking off the start of their season with a Sign On Day, Sunday the 31st of August from 9am – 11am at the surf club located at Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach.

The Surf Club is holding “come and try” days for the whole of September.  With surf education, fitness and beach skill activities, as well as a whole lot of fun being held from 8.45am each Sunday.

The Nipper’s family will provide stinger suits, boards and all other equipment needed to get involved.  Just bring your togs, sunscreen and a towel, plus Mum and Dad.

“We had a really fun season last year, it was great to see our nippers grow not only in numbers but also in their individual confidence in the surf and with learning about being a lifesaver” said Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports.

“Our parent helpers are fantastic as well, getting involved with their children and building our club culture.  It really is a family orientated and welcoming sport.”

Nippers is a surf development program catering for children aged from 5 – 14 years, after which they move into the Junior and Senior lifesaving ranks.  A typical Nippers morning will involve a structured warm-up and surf education such as signals, rescue techniques and reading the surf for rips or stingers (which we get very rarely), beach training such as flag / beach races and relays, then water-based activities that are age appropriate.  The morning finishes with a family sausage sizzle at the canteen where all nipper families catch up.

The club has a focus on developing skills from our youngest children up to our older teenagers and starts with play-based confidence and skill activities for the young ones which progresses to surf sports competition training for more advanced lifesavers.

If you or your family are interested in finding out more about being a nipper, come along and try!

If you would like any more information, please contact the Junior Activity Coordinator Lexie Schiffer on juniors@mackayslsc.com.au

"We hope to see you at the Beach!"

Contributed by Josh Grant

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Nippers is all about fun, friends, confidence and surf safety, with the Mackay Surf Club Nipper Family ready for another ripper season at Harbour Beach. Photos supplied

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District Champ Of Champ Triples

The District Champ of Champ Triples were played across two days at the Marian Bowls Club, beginning Wednesday, 13th August, with the final contested on Thursday, 14th August 2025.

The final saw Airlie Beach face off against North Mackay in a thrilling clash full of surprises, skill, and steady nerves. Heading into the last end it was anyone’s game, but Airlie Beach held firm to secure victory by just one point. Congratulations to all who took part in this district event, with special mention to Airlie Beach on their hard-fought win over a determined North Mackay side.

District Master Fours 2025

The District Master Fours followed at Marian Bowls Club, with semi-finals on Monday, 18th August, and the final on Wednesday, 20th August 2025.

Once again, the last match came down to Airlie Beach and North Mackay, showcasing a wealth of talent from across the region. The North Mackay ladies – Lois Deguara, Deb Mackenzie and Isla Comelli – were joined by St Helen’s bowler Joyce Bloomfield in a determined battle to the finish. However, Airlie Beach proved too strong in the closing ends, claiming victory.

Congratulations to Airlie Beach on their success, and to all competitors in the Master Fours who represented their clubs with pride.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Winners from Airlie Beach in blue, with Runners up from North Mackay: Nug Pratt,Marie Bragg,Val DePinto

Runners up: Deb Mackenzie, Lois Deguara, Isla Comelli, Joyce Bloomfield. Photos supplied

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