Sports

Mackay Road Runners Hit The Trails

Mackay Road Runners Hit The Trails

Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse Thankyou Race Director Tim Magoffin for organising an excellent social 6k & 19km trail run at Eungella this morning with his very able assistant Andrew Short. Andrew then proceeded to notch another successful trail run under his already full belt. Eungella once again showed its spectacular weather with ALOT of early morning fog and low clouds, an excellent environment to run with some like-minded individuals and then finish off with an enjoyable post run brekky at the awesome Chalet (Thank you Tony & Tess and staff’s hospitality). Ryan Murray was scintillating over the technically difficult 19km, scorching over the course in spectacular form to claim first place. Ryan has shown exceptional talent over hilly terrain recently and today was no different. Second placed Levi Wallace was also in superb form despite the unexpected early start to collect his passengers upon leaving Mackay this morning. Craig McGahey's bronze medal performance showed what a class act he is and has been for several years. Brave efforts from Jo Skinner in the 19km displayed her toughness as a competitor after an unfortunate trip up on the track. Rhiann Massey's 6km trail run at this location was a first for her and thoroughly enjoyable experience after a successful marathon on the Sunny Coast recently. Fran March placed 2nd behind her in a super effort from the Chalet to Sky Window and return. Scott McIntosh's 6km golden performance was on show after the long trek from home to get to the start line by 7am. All runners and volunteers need to be congratulated for supporting each other including vital water aid station attendants, Paul Tilse, Jo Hughes, Alex Murray and Phoebe. See you at the final handicap run on the formal calendar next Sunday morning at the Bluewater Lagoon. The annual Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy & 5km is one of the most prestigious events on the Mackay Road Runners Calendar, honouring a four time Olympian and Mackay local girl, who was and still is a very humble and exceptional athlete. Members must start on their official handicap to be eligible for the chance to be in line for the coveted 10km perpetual trophy. All non members are always very welcome to participate for a casual day fee however, will not be eligible for the major 10km perpetual trophy prize as they have no formal club handicap. All participants and volunteers are invited to stay for a post run sausage sizzle and random draws donated by Spine Care Chiropractic. Enjoy this great event to close the 2026 running program with the major finale to be at the Presentation/Awards Night at the Southern Suburbs Bowls Club on 24th October. 8156 – Runners take to the trails from the Eungella Chalet towards Sky Window and Broken River and return. 8166 – First placed 19km competitor, Ryan Murray heading towards the hydration station at Broken River. 8191 – Runners and volunteers take in the view (left to right) Jo Hughes, Jo Skinner, Levi Wallace, Rhiann Massey, Franch March, Andrew Short and Phoebe (in front). 8199 – Craig McGahey is elated after completing the 19km Eungella social trail run. 8177 – Levi Wallace enjoys the spectacular Eungella trails on his way to 2nd place in the 19km.

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Mackay Contract Bridge Results

Mackay Contract Bridge Results

Contributed with thanks by Joy Block The Whitsunday Zone Team members from Mackay - Noel Bugeia, Janelle Conroy, Terry Sheedy and Lorna Shuttlewood performed well in the 2026 Grand National Open Teams qualifying and will represent the Whitsunday Zone in Brisbane competing in the non-metropolitan Grand final next week. Well done! The Del Ryan Walk In’s on Friday was won by Diane Morgan and Del’s daughter Janet Hansen. Diane and Janet have played together for many years and are a prolific pair at the bridge table. Weekly Results Monday 28th September 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Joy Hold / Rob Miles 2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft 3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson 3rd Jan Harris / Louise Renton Tuesday Evening 29th September 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Diane Stokes / Marin Pearce 1st Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy 2nd Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia 2nd Ian Afflix / Terry Sheedy 3rd John McGee / Mick King 3rd Janine Rodgers / Andrew Canavan Wednesday 30th September 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points 1st Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 1st Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy 2nd Monica Darley / Francie Brown 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 3rd Jan Harris / Geoff Taylor 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy 4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 4th Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller Thursday Evening 1st October 2026 –-9 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor 3rd Ian Afflick / Terry Sheedy Friday 2nd October 2026 –- Del Ryan Walkins7 Table Mitchell Green Points 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan 3rd Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor 4th Monicia Darley / Griffin Bancroft 1 - Noel, Janelle, Terry & Lorna 2- Diane and Janet. Photos supplied

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Ladies’ Bowls: Under 73 and Over 73 Finals

Ladies’ Bowls: Under 73 and Over 73 Finals

Contributed with thanks by Sue Hazledine Recently we held the Under and Over 73’s Finals. The under 73 Final was between Brenda Trannore and Wendy Sonter. Great bowls by both ladies at every end, with determination and great positioning around the Jack. The eventual winner was Brenda Trannore for 2026. In the Over 73’s Ann Smith was up against Sue Hazledine. This game was also played end for end for most of the game and some lovely shots were played by both ladies. With Ann Smith the winner of today’s very close encounter. Well done to our winners and to all the ladies who competed in all the games leading up to today’s final. 1- (L) Wenday Sonter and winner Brenda Trannore 2- (L) Winner Ann Smith and Sue Hazledine. Photos supplied

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Blokarts Hit Bucasia Beach For Midweek Sailing

Blokarts Hit Bucasia Beach For Midweek Sailing

Three blokarts and a kite buggy from the Central Queensland Blokart Club made the most of ideal conditions at Bucasia Beach ffor a midweek sail. An east-southeasterly wind of around 18 knots and a suitable tide created plenty of action, with gusts strong enough to require some quick sheet rope releases. All three blokarts were running three-metre sails, reaching a top speed of 64km/h, with some exciting turns at the northern end of the beach. Sandy’s kite buggy also put on a show, manoeuvring up and down the beach while avoiding the three blokarts. Thankfully, there were no unexpected trips into the ocean to test the water temperature. The afternoon was a welcome change after the club’s previous Sunday outing was hampered by a lack of breeze, making for an enjoyable session on the sand. Photo source: Central Queensland Blokart Club

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 Whitsunday Women Shine In ‘Women In Football Week’

May 21, 2026

WUFC Women Photo supplied

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Women in Football Week started on a high for Whitsunday United, with the Women’s Premier side securing a dominant 5–2 away win over Country United. Sarah Chilton struck twice early to set the tone before Michelle Sothmann extended the lead to 3–0 in the opening stages. Country United responded before the break and applied pressure through the middle stages, but Whitsunday remained composed defensively. In the second half, Alexis Ripps scored her first goal of the season before Vaneesha Robertson sealed the result with a long-range free kick into the top corner.

 

The U14 Premiers also enjoyed a thrilling victory against Magpies FC. Sam Hazelton opened the scoring before Shannon Matthews added another. Nick Moranino converted from the spot to make it 3–0 before Harley Hetherington restored a three-goal lead just before halftime for a 4–1 advantage. Eli Wallis struck twice early in the second half to push the margin to 6–1, but Magpies fought back with four unanswered goals. Whitsunday’s teamwork held strong to secure an important 6–5 win.

 

The U13 Premiers capitalised on a strong first half performance, with goals to Jack Reynolds, Mayson McDowall, Liam Keyte and Finlay Moss. Strong defensive efforts from Addie Sanders, Tommie Spratt, Jace Hickey and goalkeeper Kye Land ensured another clean sheet.

 

The U13 Division 1 side drew 1–1 with City Brothers, with Charlie Monroe scoring early before City Brothers equalised in the second half. Summah Gomes was strong in goal, Elaina Hanns impressed with the throw-ins and Kahta Sulter dominated the midfield, whilst Evan Stokes and Harry Melville remained consistently strong in defence.

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Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O’Keefe

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Sir Doug Nicholls Indigenous Round in the AFL

May 21, 2026

Smoking Ceremony Photos supplied

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On Saturday the Whitsunday Sea Eagles travelled down to Harrup Park to take on the Moranbah Bulldogs and the Mackay City Hawks in the Sir Doug Nicholls Indigenous Round. Wearing the Ngaro inspired Indigenous Round Guernsey designed by Leo Gabey in collaboration with Shirtfront Solutions, the Under 17s, Senior Women and Senior Men’s teams took the field in style.  

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The Under 17s started off strong, dominating the first quarter as they held front position and hit the scoreboard. Ending the first quarter strongly with an 8-14 score. From there on the players were put under a lot of pressure in their defensive fifty. They worked hard to lock the ball down but unfortunately the Bulldogs got away from them in the second quarter.  The Sea Eagles pushed on but couldn’t hit the scoreboard, with a final score of 15-50.  

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After two weeks off the Senior Women were keen to take the field. Despite their low numbers they were ready for a fight, bringing plenty of energy and determination from the opening bounce. They competed hard all day, putting their bodies on the line and working tirelessly for one another across the ground. Their pressure around the contest and willingness to never give up showed great character, with the team continuing to battle right until the final siren. Despite a final score of 7-62, the players were proud of their efforts and proud to represent in the Indigenous Guernsey.  

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Leo Gabey with the Ngaro insipred guernsey Photos supplied

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The Senior Men came out ready to take on an undefeated Hawks lineup. They ended the first quarter level at 14-14 and needed to lift in the second quarter. Utilising the wind and showcasing their potential as a team the Sea Eagles scored three goals to take the lead at the end of the second and they went into second half hungry for the win. Despite staying in front and demonstrating their talent as a team, the Hawks managed to score a last-minute goal putting them ahead by 4. Final score 63-67.  

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This weekend the Sea Eagles travel out to Moranbah to take on the Moranbah Bulldogs. See you there cheering on your local teams!  

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Cannonvale Cannons Impress At NQ Games

May 21, 2026

Andie Reynolds with medals Photo supplied

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The North Queensland Games celebrated its 42nd year over the weekend, hosting more than 40 sports across the Mackay, Whitsundays and Isaac regions and welcoming athletes of all ages to compete in one of regional Queensland’s largest multi-sport events. Twenty-seven swimmers from the Cannonvale Cannons proudly represented the region at the Mackay swimming carnival, with the club recording the largest team attendance at the meet.

The Cannons produced an outstanding performance in the pool, with many swimmers achieving personal best times and strong results across the meet. A special congratulations goes to Harris Delac, Roxanne Groom, Blaire Harland, Indigo Harland, Joshua Ketchup, Stella Mulliss, Andie Reynolds, Faithlyn Trotter, Caleb Woolston, Lily Woolston and Zavier Woolston for recording either substantial personal best improvements or an impressive number of PBs across the day.

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The one-day carnival schedule was demanding, with several Cannons swimmers committing to a full suite of events. Competing in eight races or more in a single day is a significant physical and mental challenge, making the efforts of Roxanne Groom, Miller Eaves, Koa and Ruby Harland, Lucas Korosec, Andie Reynolds, Celeste Orenshaw and Jax Clayworth especially commendable.

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The club also celebrated several dominant performances in the pool. Congratulations to Eloise Chegwidden, Harry Chegwidden and Wilson Hounsell, who each placed first in every event they entered across the carnival.

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The Cannonvale Cannons continue to demonstrate fantastic depth, sportsmanship and team spirit at regional competitions, with the NQ Games Swimming meet another strong showing for the club. This weekend the club will celebrate the success of its swimmers over the 2025 / 2026 season with their annual end of season presentation night.

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Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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 A Grade Brahmans Beat Moranbah Minors in Historic Win

May 21, 2026

Photo credit: Patricia Wiggins

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It’s never an easy trip whether it’s Moranbah coming to Prossy or vice versa, and this time it was the Brahmans heading to Daryl Bourke Oval for another huge day of rugby league.

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The Under 20s kicked off the day against a strong Miners outfit. It was a tough opening half for the Brahmans boys as they searched for rhythm, but a halftime rev-up from coach Zach Hoffmann sparked improvement in the second half.

Local youngster Darcy Tetley again impressed, scoring two tries and kicking two conversions in another standout performance. While Moranbah claimed the win 40-22, the Brahmans showed plenty of positive signs as the season continues to build.

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With the women’s competition on a full-comp bye, Reserve Grade took the field next. Despite limited player availability, the Brahmans still produced a competitive side packed with local talent.

The contest remained try-for-try for much of the game before Moranbah managed to break away late. Byron Taylor made a huge impact across multiple positions and crossed for two tries to help keep the scoreline close.

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The Brahmans eventually fell 32-16 but walked away proud of their effort against one of the competition’s toughest sides.

As the weather cooled for the 7pm A Grade clash, the Brahmans arrived ready to make a statement against the 2025 minor premiers. New coach Harley Bateup had been warned about the challenge of facing Moranbah on their home turf, but the Brahmans were determined to rise to the occasion.

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The two sides traded tries throughout a brutal contest, with Adam Clydesdale leading from hooker and finishing with two tries. Local favourite Lachlan Garrels also crossed twice as the Brahmans piled on six tries for the night.

Moranbah managed only three in reply as the Brahmans powered their way to a historic 32-16 victory.

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The win marks the club’s first victory in Moranbah in almost a decade, breaking another long-standing drought for the Whitsundays club.

Back-to-back wins now have the Brahmans building momentum ahead of one of the biggest clashes of the season against competition favourites Souths Sharks.

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The Brahmans return home this Sunday, May 17, for what the club is calling the “Games of the Round” at Whitsunday Sports Park. Under 20s, Reserve Grade and A Grade are all confirmed, with the women’s draw still to be announced.

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The headline clash will see the mighty Brahmans take on an all-star Souths Sharks side coached by former NRL star Ben Barba.

VIP tickets are available through Whitsunday Sports Park, with fans encouraged to head to Airlie Beach to catch former NRL names including Adam Clydesdale, Sam Kasiano and Mahe Fonua in action.

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Contributed with thanks to Mandy Bateup. 

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PGC COMPETITION RESULTS - WEEK ENDING 17/5/2026

June 3, 2026

Advance warning  -

Sunday 7/6 : Get ready - it’s the 4somes Club Ch‘ships

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AND NOW FOR THE RESULTS : WEEK ENDING Sun 17/5/26

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TUESDAY 12/5/26

PGC - Stableford

MEN :

Winner : Louis Neethling 33 points(C/B)

R/Up : Allen Roberts

NTPs : Kev Cooper (2nd), John Grosskreutz (13th & 16th)

LADIES :

Winner : Tiina Randmae 29 points

VETS :

played a Stableford game @ C’ville with the Whitsunday Group

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WEDNESDAY 13/5/26

Stableford

LADIES :

Winner : Leanne Alexander 34 points (C/B)

R/Up : Heather Luvis

NTPs : Robyn Whitham (2nd), Leanne Alexander (13th)

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THURSDAY 14/5/26

PGC - Stableford

MEN :

A Grade :

Winner : George Steane 40 points

R/Up : Adam Hosie 34 points

B Grade :

Winner : Bradley Wilkinson 36 points

R/Up : Bailey Hayward 34 points

NTPs : Blake Gee (2nd), Ray Johannesen (9th), Adam Hosie (13th), Ryan Kenny (16th)

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FRIDAY 15/5/26

9 hole Run sponsored by the Metropole Hotel : Front 9

Winner : Paul Skinner 20 points

R/up : Jack Pirlo 18 points (C/B)

3rd : Wil Bernett

NTPs : Sara Hagy (2nd), Jonathon Kellaris (9th)

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SATURDAY 16/5/26

March MM - kindly sponsored by the Metropole Hotel

Overall Winner : Jayden Lloyd 68 nett

MEN :

A Grade :

Winner : Jayden Lloyd 68 nett

R/Up : Gavin Kerwand 70 nett

B Grade :

Winner : Ben Bullock 69 nett

R/Up : Jake Cremor 71 nett

C Grade :

Winner : Ross Hammond 70 nett (C/B)

R/Up : Barry Mortimer

NTPs : Rob Stanley (2nd), Owen Clarke (9th), Brent Franke (13th), Ross Hammond (16th)

LADIES

Winner : Sara Hagy 74 nett (C/B)

R/Up : Toni Clauss

3rd : Trish McNeill 77 nett

NTPs : Sara Hagy (2nd & 9th)

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SUNDAY 17/5/26

PGC- Stableford

MEN :

Winner : Greg Puttick 33 points

R/Up: Clay Coles 32 points (C/B)

3rd : Dean Barnard

NTPs : Daniel O’Donnell & Paula McQuat (2nd), Jason Bourke (16th)

 

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Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Whitsunday Sportspark Fixtures May 22nd

June 3, 2026

FRIDAY 22 MAY – ⚽ Whitsunday United FC Night Fixtures v City Brothers
• 6:00pm – Div 2 Men
• 8:00pm – Div 1 Men

 

SATURDAY 23 MAY – ⚽ Whitsunday United FC Home Fixtures
• 11:30am – U13 FQPL v Dolphins U13 FQPL
• 1:00pm – U14/15 Div 1 v Mackay Lions U14/15 Div 1
• 3:00pm – Women v Magpies FC Women
• 5:00pm – U23 Men v Dolphins FC U23 Men
• 7:00pm – Men v Dolphins FC Men

 

SUNDAY 24 MAY – 🎯 Club Masters Darts Tournament – Club Whitsunday Sportsbar
The Club Masters returns with players competing for $500 prize money and Club Masters glory.

• From 9:00am
• Open to all
• $20 entry fee
• $500 prize money
• Numbers limited

Now in its 5th edition, this event is one of the club’s major blue-ribbon darts events outside of the Premier League and Xmas Open.

 

SUNDAY 24 MAY – 🏉 Brahmans v Souths Rugby League – League is coming to Airlie Beach
Field 1 and Field 2:
• 10:00am – U20s
• 11:30am – Ladies
• 1:00pm – Reserve Grade
• 3:00pm – A Grade

 

MONDAY 25 MAY – 🏉 Whitsunday Touch Competition
• 4:30pm – Rookies
• From 6:00pm – Senior Competition

 

 

FRIDAY 29 MAY – ⚽ Whitsunday United FC Night Fixtures v Mackay Lions
• 6:00pm – Div 2 Men
• 8:00pm – Div 1 Men

 

SATURDAY 30 MAY – 🏉 AFL Sea Eagles v Saints
Five games across the day:
• 9:15am
• 10:40am
• 12:15pm
• 1:50pm
• 3:20pm

 

SATURDAY 30 MAY – ⚽ Whitsunday United FC v Mackay Lions
• 11:30am – U13 FQPL
• 11:30am – U14/15 Division 1
• 1:00pm – U14/15 FQPL
• 3:00pm – FQPL 3 Women
• 5:00pm – FQPL 3 Men U23
• 7:00pm – FQPL 3 Men

 

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Bowen Bridge Club Dazzles At Barrier Reef Congress

May 21, 2026

Twelve players from the Bowen Bridge Club took part in the 30th Barrier Reef Congress in Townsville last week.

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After five days of tough competition involving 280 players across 70 teams, the Bowen players returned home proud of their achievements.

Justine McAllister and Maureen Baxter finished second East/West in the walk-ins and claimed first place in the Novice Zone Pairs.

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Jane Seaborne, Lyn Adams, Maureen Gallichan and Thea Weekes also celebrated success, finishing first in the Restricted Zone Teams.

Congratulations to all players on their outstanding results.

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Contributed with thanks to Lydie Martin.

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Wangaratta Bowls May 22nd

May 21, 2026

B Grade Singles Ladies Final 2026 Photo supplied

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Tuesday’s winners were John Hayson and Ron Hyde who defeated Sue Shearing and Denis Madeley. In the other games Barry Donn, Lorraine Knight and Penny Warren defeated Stumpy Adams, Kevin Baxter. Gus and Lindy Suann and Laurie Land defeated Shirley Jones and Maureen Hyde. The jackpot card did come out but the recipients decided to let it ride for a bigger payout.  

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Club Competition for the week: The final of B Singles was played on Saturday. Congratulations to Linda Scells who had a great game to win against Deb Retchless. Ladies A Pairs Denise Wallace and Penny Warren defeated Celly Jeal and Deb Retchless.  

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On Sunday afternoon the winners came out on Rink 5. They were Eileen Dunn, Maureen Hyde and Allan Rolfe who defeated Bron Tolcher, John Hayson and Denis Madeley. In the other games Shirley Smith, Linda Scells and Pat Tracey narrowly defeated Teresa Willshire Shirley Jones and Stuart Jeal. Toni Bowen and Laurie Land defeated Skin Querro and Lorraine Knight. Ron Hyde, G Smith and Graeme Read defeated Bill Myers, Bouff Querro and Kevin Jewell. The jackpot didn’t go off.

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Our barefoot bowls has started on a Friday Night. Check our Facebook site for further details.


Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Pennants Off And Running (Bowls)

June 3, 2026

Our pennants season has begun. On Saturday, Division 1 played the first round at North Mackay. North Mackay defeated Proserpine 80–33. Nathan Harriott’s team was the best-performing team on the day, going down by just three shots.

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On Sunday, Division 1 played at Northern Beaches, with Proserpine coming away with the win, defeating Beaches 72–56, with all three teams taking a win. The ladder order is Souths Suburban, North Mackay, Airlie Beach, Northern Beaches, Proserpine, and then Sarina. Souths Suburban is currently the only club with two wins.

In Division 5 on Saturday, Proserpine showed North Mackay how to play on a grass green. Proserpine defeated North Mackay 77–13, taking significant wins on both rinks. On Sunday, Northern Beaches defeated Proserpine 40–29, with Mark Holmes’ team scoring a win. Proserpine is currently in second place on the ladder. City is leading the way with two wins, followed by Proserpine, St Helens, Northern Beaches, Mackay, and then North Mackay.

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There were no social bowls on Wednesday due to rain. On Sunday, Graham Thrupp, Heather Brown, and Bruce Uhe defeated Michael Floerchinger, Heather Brown, and Philip Brown 40–7; Arthur Griffith and Henny Tattam defeated Alen Sanderson and Sandy Daffara 38–11.

Next Saturday, Proserpine has both pennants divisions playing at home, and on Sunday, Division 5 will be at home while Division 1 is away. More details will be available when the teams are selected.

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Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Bowls Club

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Airlie Beach Bowls Club Weekly News May 22nd

May 21, 2026

Warren Mills and Manny Isgro, proudly showing the scoreboard following their wonderful performance against the extremely strong North Mackay Bowls Club. Photo supplied

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Another huge week for our little club, with pennants starting up again this week in a completely new format, with both men and women joining forces in all divisions.

Firstly, the social news started with Tuesday Social Bowls, which had a reasonable turnout. The winning team was skipped by Sue Walker, with Gina Passfield at lead and David Bradley at second, in a great game. Congratulations must go to them.

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Wednesday afternoon Social Bowls was expertly run by Mervyn Stewart, with 28 bowlers vying for the top prize. The biggest winners of the day were the team of John Matterson, who is showing a remarkable return from open-heart surgery, at lead; Mandy O'Brien at second, who gets better every game and will be a great asset to our little club as she reads the game so well; and skipper Russell Jackson, who has represented the club with great distinction. They won 29–15 in an awesome display of accuracy.

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Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls had a huge roll-up, with over 50 bowlers vying for the winners’ trophy, and team results will be published in next week’s issue. This is the biggest event of the week and all are welcome. Businesses are encouraged to participate, with play starting at 6.30 pm. It is certainly the place to be in Airlie Beach.

Aishmeen Sandhu and Shaniah Saremo have amazing talent but need to be more vocal and have confidence in their abilities, while Pazel Davis, Ollie Webb, and Cooper Wilde continue to impress with their application to the game.

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Saturday morning saw Division One and Division 4 travel to South Suburban, and although Division One narrowly went down in a close game, Division 4 secured a win with great performances by new bowler Alma Rose Mawson, Tony Kelly, John Askew, Stacey Hadlow, and Phil O'Brien.

Sunday morning saw Airlie’s 32 pennant players at home, and while Division 2 went down fighting against a competent Mackay City side, both Division One and Division 4 were very convincing with fantastic performances.

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Manny Isgro’s team was unstoppable, as was John Askew’s team in Division 4.

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Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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QCE Student Sets Sails For World Championships

May 25, 2026

17-year old Joshua will soon represent the Whitsunday Sailing Club and Australia at the upcoming ICLA U19 World Championships in Aarhus, Denmark. Photo supplied

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17-year-old Joshua King’s sailing journey began at birth.

“I was part of my first ever yacht race at 3 weeks old on my Dad’s trimaran and frequently spent weekends cruising on the boat as a kid,” Joshua said.  

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“I first sailed independently at 6 years old in a dinghy that my Dad bought for a few hundred bucks.”  

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In August Joshua will represent the Whitsunday Sailing Club and Australia at the upcoming International Laser Class Association (ICLA) Youth Under 19 World Championships in Aarhus, Denmark. This endeavour has been a long time in the making for Joshua.  

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“I’ve dedicated a large portion of my life in the pursuit of competitive sailing, especially in the ICLA. I have always aspired to have a competitive career.”

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ICLA is a self-administered, self-funded international organisation that provides coordination, organisation and communication for sailing worldwide. It acts as a hub where sailors from across the world can meet, communicate and compete to help foster talent and give aspiring sailors – such as Joshua – a chance at a competitive career.  

Sailors compete in a class of single-handed, one design sailing dinghies. Australia has a rich history of this type of sailing, having won every Olympic gold medal in the sailing class since the London 2012 event.

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Having competed in 3 national ICLA championships against other Australian sailors, Joshua has now qualified to compete at the U19 World Championships in Denmark. He has an intense training regime, spending 6 days of the week in preparation, through a mixture of water sessions and intense fitness work. In the lead up to the event, he will take part in training camps in Brisbane and Spain.  

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“This my is first time representing Australia on the world stage, so it feels really special. I’m proud to be representing Airlie as well.” Joshua said.

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Joshua has set up a fundraising campaign to support his great next step. To donate, scan the QR code below.  

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“My main goal is to soak in the experience and learn as much as possible. Sailing is the greatest sport in the world, and this is one of the best locations in the world for it. It is fantastic in so many ways.”

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https://asf.org.au/campaigns/joshua-king/2026-ilca-6-youth-world-championships  

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Milestone Moments With Mackay Parkrun

May 15, 2026

Priscilla Cahill

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Mackay Parkrun has recorded a series of notable personal milestones throughout May, with local participants reaching significant finish totals in recognition of their ongoing commitment to regular participation and community-based fitness.

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May milestones at Mackay Parkrun (so far):

  • 50 finishes – Tim Robb
  • 100 finishes – Priscilla Cahill
  • 50 finishes – Peter Young
  • 50 finishes – Brooke Ramsay

Tim Robb

Peter Young

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Brooke Ramsay. Photo source: Mackay Parkrun  

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Mackay Contract Bridge Results May 15th

May 15, 2026

Fifty-Six players attended the Mackay Contract Bridge Club last Saturday. Our numbers are increasing each year as our successful beginners’ lessons teach new players how to play the wonderful challenging game of bridge. Sixteen players are headed to Townsville this week for the 2006 Barrier Reef Congress. Results in next week’s addition.

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Weekly Results  

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Monday 4 May 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1st Ken Seaniger / Christine Nice

1st Terry Sheedy / Eric Goodchild

2nd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin

2nd Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek

3rd Monica Darley / Joy Block

3rd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait

Tuesday Evening 5 May 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan

1st Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner

2nd Vicki Howard / Richard Wix

2nd Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

3rd Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown

3rd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger

Wednesday 6 May 2026 –11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

1st Terry Sheedy / Andy Patterson

2nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait

3rd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

4th Diane Cox / Victor Mason

4th John Hunt / Eric Goodchild

5th Faith Hutchinson / Helen Goldston

5th Geoff Taylor / Ian Vary

Thursday Evening 7 May 2026 – 4 Table One Winner – Green Points

1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan

3rd Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor

Friday 8 May 2026 –- 10 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1st Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown

2nd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt

2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

3rd Christine Nice / Terry Sheedy

3rd Victor Mason / Josie Cowley

4th Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill

4th Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell

Saturday 9 May 2026 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

1st Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2nd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden

3rd Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris

2nd Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell

4th Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

4th Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

5th Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes

5th Jewel Schmidt / Debra Goodchild

6th Faye Wright / Susan Wright

6th Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch

Contributed by Joy Block

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Full Green For Mackay City’s May Day Fours Annual Carnival

May 15, 2026

First Place Marie Gravino Trophy Winners & Presenters, Andrew Gravino, Di Faulkner, Shirley Sturgeon, Dawn Field, Emma Pash & Katrina Gravino.

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City Ladies president, Linda Owen and her team held a fantastic weekend of bowls over the May Day weekend for their annual carnival. Each day had a full green, with Ladies Fours on Saturday and Mixed Fours on Sunday.

The Marie Gravino Shield was won by Shirley Sturgeon, Di Faulkner, Dawn Field and Emma Pash on Saturday.  

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First Place Mixed Day Winners Greg Peno, Paul Jacklin, Michelle Stockton & Merle Cameron presented by Justin Spyve, Explore Property.

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The club was pleased to have had Marie’s son, Andrew & grand-daughter, Katrina to present the Shield in her honour. Also in attendance was Dr Marti Harris of My Chiropractor presenting prizes to the lucky winners.

On Sunday, the club had a mixed team playing together for the first time as the winners. They were Greg Peno, Michelle Stockton, Merle Cameron and Paul Jacklin. First place prize on Sunday was sponsored by Explore Property with Justin Spyve being in attendance for thepresentation.  

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Dr Marti Harris of My Chiropractor presents gift card to Desley Rolfe, winner.

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A great weekend was had by all!

Contributed by Emma Pash

Guest sponsors of Explore Property with team organisers, Vicki Spyve, Desley Rolfe, Rebecca Mannix & Jusinn Spyve. Photos supplied

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North Wall Yoga By The Beach! Hosted By Fitness Cartel Mackay

May 15, 2026

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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About 70 people rolled out their mats for instructed group Yoga by the beach at North Wall, Mackay harbour, hosted by Fitness Cartel Mackay.

General Club Manager of Fitness Cartel Mackay Nikita Lysaght said the event was designed to bring people together while promoting healthy, active lifestyles in an outdoor setting.

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“This is a free community event and the bookings filled within two minutes,” she said.

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“It’s been an amazing turn out.”

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Held along Mackay’s scenic coastline, the session was led by club instructors and attracted a strong turnout from locals eager to start their day with movement and fresh air.

Ms Lysaght said events like this highlight the club’s commitment to encouraging wellbeing and strengthening community connections.

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“At Fitness Cartel we really value family, community and being present in our community.”

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Visit: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/north-wall-yoga-by-the-beach-hosted-by-fitness-cartel-mackay for more photos

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