Sports

New Partnership Strengthens Cutters Care Initiative

New Partnership Strengthens Cutters Care Initiative

Mackay Cutters have confirmed Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months, strengthening the club’s youth education, wellbeing and leadership programs across the Mackay and Isaac regions. The partnership was launched last Friday at Moranbah State School, where Cutters Wellbeing and Education Manager Jack, alongside club staff and Stanmore leadership representatives, delivered a Cutters Care session to Year 5/6 Sports Boost students. “We’re proud to welcome Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months,” the club said. The program will continue to focus on helping young people build confidence, resilience and positive connections through sport and education-based initiatives. “Together, we'll continue delivering education, wellbeing and leadership programs to young people throughout the Mackay and Isaac regions, helping them build confidence, resilience and positive connections.” The Cutters said they look forward to continuing meaningful community impact and providing opportunities for young people to learn, grow and thrive through the partnership. Photo source: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)

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Sea Eagles Tame The Tigers

Sea Eagles Tame The Tigers

The Whitsunday Sea Eagles made the trip to Bakers Creek on the weekend to take on the North Mackay Saints and the Bakers Creek Tigers, with all teams showcasing plenty of determination and competitive spirit throughout the day. The Under 13s were first into action against the Saints and produced a strong performance. After a hard-fought opening three quarters, the Sea Eagles trailed by just two points heading into the final term, keeping themselves firmly in the contest. Despite their efforts, the Saints managed to pull away late, with the match finishing 20-39. The Under 15s continued their impressive season with another dominant victory over the Saints. Controlling the game from start to finish, the Sea Eagles piled on 12 goals and 15 behinds while keeping their opponents to just two goals. Their teamwork, skill, and relentless pressure were on full display as they secured another convincing win 72-12 and further strengthened their position as one of the competition's top teams. The women's side faced a tough challenge against the Bakers Creek Tigers. The Sea Eagles fought hard and matched the Tigers aggression and determination, keeping the margin within three goals throughout the game. The players fought hard at every contest and never stopped competing. However, fatigue began to take its toll in the final quarter, allowing the Tigers to kick four late goals and extend the final margin to 0-43. The senior men's match provided plenty of excitement for supporters. The Sea Eagles burst out the gates in the opening quarter, dominating early play to establish a 15-0 lead at the first break. Carrying that momentum throughout the day, the men continued to work hard around the ground and were rewarded with a strong 52-25 victory over the Tigers. It was a complete team performance and a fitting way to finish a successful day for the club. Get down to The Nest this Saturday 27th June for Sponsor Appreciation Day and cheer on your Whitsunday Sea Eagles as they take on the Moranbah Bulldogs, Swagpies, and Magpies in a huge day of footy action. The junior fixtures kick off from 10:40am, showcasing the club's rising stars, before the senior teams take centre stage in what promises to be an exciting evening of football, with the Senior Women starting at 3:20pm and the Senior Men finishing under lights. Bring the family, wear your Sea Eagles colours, and get behind your local teams as they battle it out on home turf. We can't wait to see you at The Nest! Contributed by the Whitsunday Sea Eagles: Georgia Whitton

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Mateship and Rivalry Shine In CQ Darby Clash

Mateship and Rivalry Shine In CQ Darby Clash

The Mackay Softball Association has reflected on another competitive CQ Darby against Softball Rockhampton, with strong performances and continued rivalry highlighted across the weekend. Rockhampton arrived ready to play, producing a dominant display at the plate and taking victory in both games of the series. “The Rocky boys came ready to play, swinging the bats well and taking the win in both games,” the association said. Despite the results, Mackay praised the standard of competition and the spirit in which the games were played, with both clubs continuing to build on a long-standing regional rivalry. The association also acknowledged the contribution of Murray, thanking him “for all his help, guidance and support in coaching both teams throughout the weekend”. Off the field, community and hospitality remained a key feature of the event, with Jodie recognised for preparing meals for the visiting side. “Thank you to our own Jodie for feeding our the Rocky boys delicious pulled pork rolls,” the association said. The CQ Darby continues to be a highlight on the calendar for both regions, with Mackay Softball noting the blend of rivalry and mateship that defines the fixture. “These weekends are always a highlight on the calendar, and we love the rivalry, mateship and quality softball that comes with them.” The team is now looking ahead to the next meeting between the two clubs, with both sides eager for another competitive weekend of softball in Central Queensland. Photo source: Mackay Softball Association Incorporated (Facebook)

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Club Championship Pairs Results - At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Club Championship Pairs Results - At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Twenty-six Pairs competed in the Qualifying Championship Club Pairs on Saturday morning, with the top fourteen pairs then progressing to the Club Championship Pairs after lunch. Congratulations to Janine Rodgers and Nancy Martin who were the outright winners with 61.86 percent. Although Janine and Nancy are both very experienced players, however, this current partnership is a relatively new one. Well done ladies! Many hands of cards were played on the day and lots of delicious food eaten. Mackay Bridge Club is a very social and friendly club. Weekly Results Monday 15th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris 3rd Monica Darley / Joy Block 3rd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins Evening 15th June 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Janelle Conroy / Andrew Canavan 2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore Wednesday 17th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 1st Terry Sheedy / Mick King 2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Faith Hutchinson / John Hunt 3rd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown Thursday 18th June 2026 – Show Day - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Mick King / Griffin Bancroft Friday 19th June 2026 –- Week 12 of 26 NWP - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor 2nd Geoff Cowan / Mick King 2nd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole 3rd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait 3rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson Saturday 20th June 2026 – Club Championship Qualifying - 13 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 1st Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy 2nd Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 3rd Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin 3rd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok 4th Susan Ross / Geoff Cowan 4th Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 5th Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris 5th Ann Whitmore / Joy Block Saturday 20th June 2026 Club Championship Pairs Final – 7 Table Howe 1st Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin 2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 3rd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 4th Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless Contributed by Joy Block Nancy and Janine. Photo supplied

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Hogs Breath

Bowen Golf News

August 24, 2023

Wednesday’s competition at Bowen Golf Club was a single stableford sponsored by the club.  

Ladies’ winner, Jo Goldup, finished with 38 points, followed by runner up Leanne Swan with 37. In the men’s it was a similar score: winner Kevin Cross topped the charts with 38, too, and runner up on a countback was Colin Stewart, 37.

Saturday’s competition was a single stableford event sponsored by Bowen Golf Club.

Men's Winner was Chris Matheson, 41 points, with runner up Peter Randle on 39.  Meanwhile the Ladies' winner was Julie Martin with 36 points, followed by runner up on a countback, Leanne Swan, 35 points.

This weekend’s competition at Bowen Golf Club is a single stroke event for the men’s and ladies December Monthly Medals sponsored by Bowen Meat Supply and Bowen Golf club.

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott

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Proserpine Golf Club Report

August 24, 2023

Tuesday Competition

The Club’s Tuesday Stableford with 15 players was won by Chris Brett on 37 points ahead of Peter Lewis on 36 points, Brian Smith 35 points, Michael Ward 34 points and Paul Gray 34 points taking the rundown positions. NTP’s were won by Albert Pini and Paul Gray.

Wednesday Competition

A Versus Par competition for the ladies on Wednesday saw 15 players competing with Trish McNeill winning top spot with a +3 score, closely followed by Brenda Cowan on +2 and Heather Luvis on +1, Leanne Alexander and Mandy Patterson completed the run down with –1.

Mandy also featured in the Division 1 NTP’s on 1 and 5, with Ann Gardel winning 1 and 5 also in Division 2.

Thursday Competition

A nice 41 points by Josh Norris on Thursday helped him into 7th and 9th position in the 4BBB competition played by 56 golfers. Nathan Sothmann and Trish McNeill were the winners on 46 points narrowly beating Jalen Jarvis and Elliot Woo on 45 points. Wayne Temby and Ron Jamieson were in 3rd place with 43 points. NTP’s went to Nathan x 2, John Grosskreutz and Brendon Meharry.

Saturday Competition

74 players competed in the MBW Stableford this week. Jayden Lloyd shot a very nice 3 over par round for 42 points to take out the men’s competition. Closely followed by Sam Deicke on 41 points, and Jason Bourke and Ken Granger in the run down with 38 points each. Jayden also took home the only 2 shot of the day, nice little pick up! NTP’s went to Steve Kelly, Ryan Wilkes, Rod Wecker and Matthew Goldman. For the Ladies NTP Trish McNeill and Jill Farinelli were the closest. Trish McNeill also won the ladies competition with 36 points, just edging out Jill Farinelli and Sherri Meade, both on 35 points. Penny Wardroper was in the rundown with 32 points.

Sunday Competition

Aaron Prosser continues on his handicap destroying run handing in a great score of 42 points on Sunday. A single figure handicap is within reach, keep up the good work! Ken Granger claimed 2nd with 37 points, and Ryan Wilkes, now on a +1 shot an even par round to take out 3rd with 35 points. Renae Maxwell shone in the ladies, winning the Sunday comp with 30 points, closely followed by Tessa Aitken and Paula McQuat, 29 and 28 points respectively. NTP’s were won by Ken Granger, Paula x 2 and Michael Jarvis.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Club.

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Whitsunday Social Golf

August 24, 2023

The Men’s and Ladies’ foursomes championships were held with 26 players competing.

Ron Jamieson and Don Cameron were the winning team for the men’s division followed by Danny York and Lew Tuck as runners up.

Penny Wardroper and Joanne Moynihan claimed the Ladies’ winning team with Pam Casey and Vicki Tuck taking the runners up.

Pin shots went to Danny York and Lew Tuck, Jason Bourke and Clay Coles, Geoff Harrison and Wayne Temby, Dean Kercher and Darren Reynolds.

Next Sunday will be Monthly Medal.

Contributed with thanks to Joanne Moynihan.

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Veteran’s Golf

August 24, 2023

Another great day of golf at Proserpine Veteran’s Golf on Sunday with 27 players out on the course.

It was President's team taking on the captain’s team, with the former taking the win the day with 402 points to the captain’s 387.  

All the President's men and ladies received a free ball and now have bragging rights until next year when we will do the same again.

The major Stableford winners on the day for the ladies were Rehab Hull with 37 points, followed in second by Leanne Alexander with 35.

For the men, Billy Jesser topped the charts with 39 points and second was John Roser with 38.  

Nearest the pins for the ladies went to Leanne Alexander, Mandy Patterson, in the hole, Jacqui Wall, Rehab Hull, and Paula McQuat on 9th, also in the hole. As well, Lyn Muller and Paula McQuat came nearest on 2nd and Mandy Patterson and Rehab Hull on 16th.

The men nearest the pin winners were Ken Granger and John Strelec on 9th, Trevor Paroz and John Strelec on 2nd, and John Oates and John Roser on 13th. Peter Browning and Leanne Alexander had chip-ins.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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On The Whitsunday Green

August 24, 2023

This week’s 9-hole competition at Whitsunday Green Golf Club was won by Joel McBride with 20 points, second on 18 was Justyn Durbin, and third was Andrew Gomez on 17.

The Friday stableford 9-hole was won by Chris Bartlett with a win of 20 points, second place was Glenn Rees with a nice 19, and third place went to Cameron Mutch with 18.

Sunday’s Monthly Medal competition was won by Asher Ventham with nett points of 45, followed by second-placed Tyson Flavel with a nett 54, and third went to Scotty Hayes Williams on nett 55.

We held two match plays on the Sunday’s Monthly Medal first team was between Glenn Rees and Tyson Flavel with Tyson taking the win.

The second between Marc Belke and Tim Walton saw Marc take the win.

Nearest to the pin on Sunday’s monthly medal was Tyson Flavel and James Millar. This Sunday will be 18-hole stableford, play anytime.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green Golf Club

Winner of Sunday’s Monthly Medal first team at Whitsunday Green Golf Club was Tyson Flavel

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Top Class Speedway Motor Cycle Action Returns Bowen Showgrounds

August 24, 2023

Friday December 2 sees riders contest the Under-21 Queensland 500cc State Title while on the following night the Open Championship will be decided.

Current Under-21 Champion, Flynn Nicol will be out to defend his title against the likes of up-and-coming-young guns Tate Zischke and Bradley Page.

Queenslander, Zischke has just become the NSW Under-21 Champion and will want desperately to add another title to his name.

Zischke won the NSW event at Kurri Kurri from local favourite, James Pearson and is in the line-up for the 2022 Aussie Title to be held at Adelaide’s Gillman Speedway on December 10.

The following night, 16 of the nation’s best riders will contest the Open Championship.

Current champ, Nick Morris is still overseas and won’t be on hand to defend his Title, however, Ryan Douglas, Jacob Hook, Jake Allan, Zaine and Declan Kennedy and Zane Keleher have all just returned from racing the European season and are all in red-hot form.

Declan took the honours in the recent meeting at Pioneer Park and again at North Brisbane, winning the Kennedy Cup.

Local and former International rider, Kozza Smith joins the line-up and after his performance at Pioneer Park, he is bound to give the young guns a shake-up.

The format for the Title will consist of five rounds of four heats. The top three points scorers will move straight into the Championship Final. The next four placegetters will contest a B-Final from which the winner will join the others in the Final.

A huge crowd is expected to attend what will undoubtedly be the biggest Speedway meeting in North Queensland this year.

Contributed with thanks to Sue Tapp.

Kennedy Douglas

Kozza Smith. Photo credit: Taylor Photographics

Zaine Kennedy. Photo credit: Taylor Photographics

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Proserpine Junior Cricket Results

August 24, 2023

The under 11s Proserpine Pitbulls had their second away game for the season, this time against the Mackay Magpies White on Saturday.

Captain Matthew tossed the bat which went to Magpies, who had no hesitation to pad up and set the total of 10/86.

With nine players, the Pitbulls would only have 13 balls each to play with. It was just enough, however, and the side finished with a respectable 8/92; their first win in the competition.

Under 13s Proserpine Pitbulls versus Pioneer Valley: The Proserpine side won the toss and elected to bat, with the team goal of batting all 25 overs to ensure that, with only seven players, they had a high enough score to defend.

Although the team did not bat for their 25 overs, they ended their innings with a solid total of 136 runs.

With a drying outfield and bowling into a moderate sea breeze, the Pitbulls set about defending their score, and put in the hard yards to bowl out all eight Pioneer Valley batsman for 85 in the 15th over.

The side remains undefeated.

Under 12s Proserpine Pitbulls versus Mackay Brothers: The Pitbulls arrived at Vigaro keen to make amends for an earlier round loss to Brothers.

Captain Lily Smith won the toss and elected to bowl. Her side knocked off all the Brothers’ batsmen with a score of 63.

Prossie’s turn with the bat, the game plan simple: 20 balls, 25 overs. And that’s just what they did.

Pitbulls finished at 3-107. A great team effort, following the game plan to a tee.

Under 15 Proserpine versus Pioneer Valley: This weekend’s round seven clash saw the first placed U15 Pitbulls face the second place Pioneer Valley.

The Proserpine boys took up the bat first, racking up an excellent total of 135.

Pioneer Valley were then sent out to bat with 136 required for victory. Despite Proserpine’s efforts, the home team won the game comfortably at 3-136 after 21 overs and ended the Pitbulls undefeated start to the season.

Contributed with thanks to Mike Hope, Mark Porter, Jack Valmadre, and Stephen Logan

Proserpine Cricket Association Under 11 first-time winners! Sean Green, Jaxson Farley, Matthew Hope, Jeandre Joubert, Bradley Hetherington, Kobi Whitty, Zahra Cale, Laura Bailey, and Ellen Smith

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A Very Merry Airlie Beach Darts Semi Finals

August 24, 2023

The final two players have been decided for this year’s edition of the Xmas Open.

Earlier in the week we had the first semi-final between the two-time champion and current defending champion, Jamie Woods taking on Andy Peel who was coming off a fine win over Jason Rockstroh in the quarter finals.

Jamie jumped out to a two-set lead hitting a lovely 130 check out along the way. Andy responded well by taking a set, but he never looked likely against Jamie who looked comfortable throughout winning the match by 4 sets to 1.

Playing in the other semi was Dom Friend who is the only other player to win this competition, taking on the challenge from Seumas Rose who has been playing very well all year to date.

The match looked dead and buried at 3 sets to nil in favour of Dom only for Seumas to rally in the fourth and fifth sets to claw it back to 3/2.

In the sixth set, both payers leg averages were high, well into the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, but with both players on checkouts in each of those legs in the set, it was Dom who was able to hit his doubles. Dom getting across the line in the end winning the match by 4 sets to 2 - 3/0 3/1 3/0 1/3 1/3 3/0.

That means there won’t be a new name on the trophy this year. All that’s left to decide is whether or not Jamie goes back-to-back to makes it 3 Open titles, or if Dom levels it up to make it 2 titles apiece, and round off a nice season after earlier claiming his 1st Premier League title.

The Xmas Open is proudly sponsored by Dyson Automotive, thanks for your support.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.

Seumas Rose

Dom Friend wins the 2nd semi-final at Mika on Sunday. Photo contributed

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Cannons Have A Blast In Bowen

August 24, 2023

The 19 Cannonvale Cannons who competed at the Bowen Family LC Transition Meet over the weekend had a fantastic time. Coaches, Mark Erickson and Ken Crittenden said the Cannons started a bit slow on Saturday, but really improved on Sunday. The swimmers achieved a total of 32 Personal Bests (PBs) which was great.  

Top performer was Ehsan Helou, aged 14 years. He swam extremely well achieving 7 PBs and bringing home 6 gold and 2 silver medals. Ehsan also achieved 4 state qualifying times.

Ruby Harland, aged 10 years also had a successful weekend, achieving 3 PBs and 2 state qualifying times. She was very proud of all her blue ribbons. Ruby’s sister, Koa aged 8 years performed very well, achieving 3 PBs and a 3rd place ribbon for her 50 metre Butterfly.  

Celeste Orenshaw and Isabella Pisaniello both swam 4 PBs. Both girls were very excited with their bronze medals for their 50 metre Breaststroke. Eloise Chegwidden, aged 7 years swam an excellent 25 metre Butterfly and 25 metre Backstroke, achieving PBs and 1st place. Eloise’s brother, Harry aged 5 years swam a super 25 metre Breaststroke in 48.51 seconds. One of James Davies’ best swims was his 50 metre Breaststroke which he swam in a fabulous time of 1.06.05, a 8 second PB.  

Don Algie, Jax Clayworth and Thomas Ganter were very competitive swimming 2 personal best times and bringing home a swag of medals. Zane Clayworth’s best swim was his 25 metre Freestyle which he swam in 28.25 seconds.

Jack Ganter and Remy Hedges had a great weekend winning most of their events. Harris Delac, aged 8 years, was very happy with his bronze medal for the 50 metre Backstroke. Jacob and Tiana Bell swam extremely well in all their events, surprisingly both of them won their Backstroke races.  

Congratulations to all the Cannons on their outstanding achievements.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

Cannonvale Cannons compete at the Bowen Family LC Transition Meet

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Surf’s Up! The Beach Boys Are In Town

August 24, 2023

Are you ready for Good Vibrations flowing from the speakers at ‘The Pub’? Because audiences are getting “the excitations” as Australia’s biggest and best Beach Boys experience is set to surf into Airlie Beach in a weeks’ time.

‘Do You Wanna Dance?’ Because your chance is coming up for an afternoon in the North Queensland sun with ‘Your Summer Dream’, cruising down Airlie Esplanade to The Airlie Beach Hotel where The Australian Beach Boys Show will rock the Bar-top Stage in early December.

The California pop group were just kids when they formed in 1962 and now, 60 years down the road, their legendary music is still the iconic sound of sun-drenched days. And there’s nowhere more attuned to what it means to be a Beach Boy than Airlie where one of the country’s best tribute shows is headed on December 3.

The Australian Beach Boys Show boasts an amazing stage production that not only features Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys’ songs, but also recreates the magical “wall of sound” experience that Wilson so famously and successfully crafted.

God Only Knows what we’d be without the Beach Boys, and this two-hour live show delivers as close to the real experience as audiences can get six decades on.

From the striped blue and white shirts to Hawaiian flowers and replica instruments, this Beach Boys tribute will put a Smiley Smile on your dial. And what a perfect time for it with ‘Little Saint Nick’ less than a month away!

It’ll be a Surfin’ Safari when this tribute tribe run the Beach Boys’ gamut of tunes: Songs like ‘Surfin USA’, ‘Little Deuce Coupe’, ‘Barbara-Ann’, and ‘Help Me Rhonda’.

Oh ‘Wouldn’t It Be Nice’ to hear ‘Kokomo’, ‘Then I Kissed Her’, and ‘California Girls’ while watching the twinkling sun on the Airlie Beach foreshore? In this fully costumed show featuring stage props, a huge video display, costume changes, and more – you can heart it. In fact, one better: You can live it.

For ‘Auld Lang Syne’, head down to The Airlie Beach Hotel to see one of the very best tribute performances the country has to offer. There’s no better year than the 60th anniversary of one of pop and rocks best groups ever to relive the glory days. Grab a meal, ‘Darlin’’, ‘Let The Wind Blow’.

And hey, it’s entirely free. ‘Aren’t You Glad’?

WHAT: The Australian Beach Boys Show

WHEN: 2.00pm to 5.30pm on Saturday, December 3

WHERE: The Airlie Beach Hotel

The Australian Beach Boys Show is coming to Airlie Beach next week to keep the good times rolling

The band has been to The Airlie Beach Hotel before, but never coinciding with such a momentous occasion: The Beach Boys 60th anniversary

The group is bringing their very best ‘Vibrations’ to locals’ favourite local on December 3

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A Very Merry Airlie Beach Darts Quarter Finals

August 24, 2023

The final four in this year’s Airlie Beach Darts’ Xmas Open earned their places on Sunday morning at Mika Airlie Beach, with the draw for the semi-final pairings to be carried out later in the week.

The matches were now best of five sets, and began with the 2020 Xmas Open Champion, Dom Friend, taking on Kameron Reason.

True to form, Dom took the lead, winning the first set, but a spirited fight from Kameron in the second saw him level the match at one set all.

Dom narrowly claimed the third to go one away from the match, and in the fourth Kameron had no answers; Dom winning the match by three sets to one.

The only other Open Champion to date, Jamie Woods had it all his own way in his match over Lorraine Woods, with Jamie taking three sets to nil.

Seumas Rose took his place amongst the Semi Finalists thanks to an impressive win over this year’s Premier League runner up, Jamie Maher by three sets to one.

The final game of the day between Jason Rockstroh and Andy Peel had it all, going down to the last double, of the last leg, of the last set, in a highly entertaining duel.

In the last set at two all and both players on a finish, Andy managed to clinch it on a double tops to take the match by three set to two.

The Xmas Open is sponsored by Dyson Automotive.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher

Jason Rockstroh, Seamus Rose, Kameron Reason, Dom Friend, Andy Peel, and Jamie Maher

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Swim Carnival Success!

August 24, 2023

Families who attend Airlie Swim School by Danielle went along to the third annual Swim Carnival last Sunday with over 60 children between the ages of four and 10 competing in a range of categories.

Held at Cannonvale Swim School, students demonstrated their skills in a range of styles including free-style, backstroke and breaststroke, swimming within their age-range and ability level to test their mettle against their peers.

For many this was the first opportunity to compete, and for others, this was a chance to return and exhibit what they had learnt all year.

“It was great to showcase what the kids have learnt over the last 12 months,” said swim school owner Danielle Shea.

“It was nice for them and their parents to see their progression and what they’ve been learning.”

Danielle said that competing in swimming races is an excellent way to build confidence and get experience swimming in a bigger pool.

First, second and third places received trophies, as well as the Most Improved, Encouragement and of course Swimmer of the Meet.

Swimmer of the Meet, Aria Crawford, age 6

Swimmer of the Meet Matilda Friend, age 5

Images: supplied

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Proserpine Pitbulls Cricket Report

August 24, 2023

First up was the Under 11 Proserpine Pitbulls vs South’s Sharks: It was set to be a tough match against the unbeaten South’s Sharks team on a balmy Saturday morning.

Captain Zahra lost the toss and the Sharks opted to field first, knowing the day was only going to get hotter. The Proserpine side posted a 9/62 total at the end of 20 overs.

With the temperature rising, it was time for the Pitbulls to take the field.

It was a valiant effort by the Pitbulls, but the Sharks showed why they are on top of the table, putting on 7/144.

Player of the day went to Matthew.

Next was the Under 12s against Walkerston: After a tough round one encounter against the club, the young Pitbulls arrived at the ground knowing they were in for a battle.

Walkerston elected to bowl, and the local Pitbulls soon had a competitive 6-110 after their allotted 25-overs.

Under immense pressure, the Pitbulls restricted the Scrubby batters in the final over to see them finish at 6-106 after their 25 and claim the win.

Another great performance by this exceptional group of young legends.

Players Player: Aiden Farley (2-5, 2 runs, 1 catch)

Under 13s take on the Magpies Black in Mackay: With rain threatening, the Pitbulls lost the toss and were sent into bat. The Magpies opening bowlers started very well, maintaining a good line and length. Despite fierce opposition, the Pitbulls score posted at 6-137 after 25 overs.

The Magpies innings had a shaky start, and it continued to be shaky - ending with the U13s continuing their unbeaten run this season with their toughest match so far, winning by 49 runs.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Porter, Stephen Logan, and Mike Hope

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Cannons’ Massive Week

August 24, 2023

The Cannonvale Cannons had a fantastic weekend of swimming with over 30 young swimmers competing at the Whitsunday Swim Carnival in Proserpine last Saturday.

Also, six Cannons participated at the Hamilton Island Ocean Swim on Sunday and a couple of Cannons attended the swim clinic facilitated by Graeme Carroll.  

Hamilton Island Ocean Swim: Tora Delac, Don Algie, Thomas Ganter, and Harris Delac all swam very well in their 350-metre event.

Tora Delac was first female and Thomas Ganter the second male out of the water on the day before Jacob Bell and Jy Parkinson swam the two-kilometre event.  

Jy was the second male and Jacob the third out of the water.

Highlights from Whitsunday Swim Carnival: Eloise Chegwidden, Lucas Korosec, and Jax Clayworth each had very successful carnivals, winning all their events.  

Zane Clayworth, Harris Delac, Tora Delac, Jacob Dewis, Declan Dichiera, Charlie Doherty, Liam Filewood, Thomas Ganter, Remy Hedges, Anisa Helou, Ehsan Helou, Celeste Orenshaw, and Holly Perrin all swam extremely well and took out top placings in their events.  

Harry Chegwidden, James Davies, Evie Doherty, Jack Ganter, Indigo Harland, Koa Harland, Billie Jamieson, Jasper Korosec, Gracie Laguna, Pippa Laguna, Matilda Nicholes, Charlotte Trevaskis, and Lukas Trevaskis put in a mighty effort, tried their best, and swam some fantastic personal times.  

Millah Walker, aged five, swam a massive 44.02 second personal best in her 25-metre Freestyle and a 31.91 second personal best in her Backstroke.

Millah’s sister, Piper, also swam a big personal best of 13.16 seconds in her 25-metre Freestyle. Levi Smith was very excited with his first place in the 50-metre Breaststroke in a time of 58.18 seconds.  

One of Addie Sanders’ best swims was her 200-metre IM which she swam in 4.51.54.  

Isabella Pisaniello’s best swim which won her first place was her 100-metre backstroke in 1.37.46.

Her brother, Isaac swam a super 200-metre IM in 3.57.04 which earned him second place.  

Congratulations to all the swimmers and a big thank you to all the coaches and parents for their wonderful support.  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Coach Mark Erickson with Tora Harris Don and Thomas at Hamilton Island

Jacob Bell and Jy Parkinson with winner Jett Clayton

Cannonvale Cannons at Whitsunday Swim Carnival

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Airlie Beach Bowls Report

August 24, 2023

Tuesday afternoon at Airlie Beach Bowls Club saw Betty Whitehorn as skipper with Robin Brown at lead and Rhonda Lloyd take home the winners prizes to start the week.

Wednesday afternoon Social bowls also saw an amazing win over a big field with John Askew and Regina Aquilina completely overwhelming the rest of the bowlers to take home the winners cheque.

Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls was the conclusion of Round Six. New team Airlie Splash of Colour maintain their undefeated record, sitting on 18 points.

PRD skipper Matt Francis was delighted with his team second on 16 points, having returned to the winner’s circle.

Hadlow Racing, Tuk Tuks, and Whitsunday Gold Coffee team are tied in third place with the final rounds looking to go down to the wire.

Saturday morning Scroungers saw first round winners John Askew, Andy McDougall, Maureen Barnard, Eric Barnard, Russell Jackson, and Nik Fernbach all competing for the final.

John Askew managed to beat Russell Jackson by two points to become the Round Eight winner with Steve Lawrie winning the B Grade prize.

Sunday afternoon saw the completion of the B Grade Fours, and it was the brilliance of skipper John Fielding that proved to be the difference. Alongside Nik Fernbach at lead, Neil Moore, and Col Morris, the side won the trophy with two wins in very warm conditions.

Sunday afternoon Social bowls saw Betty Whitehorn and Lyn Graham with Margo Stanley at skipper, Alan Pershouse at second, and new bowler Dawn Dowel at lead the big winners on the day.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Col Morris, Neil Moore, and Nik Fernbach with skipper John Fielding after their B Fours victory

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