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

Young Hoopers Impress At Queensland Champion Basketball School Carnival

August 24, 2023

Image: L-R: Rachel McKenzie (coach), Treyce Ciantar, Matthew Romal, Lincoln Grisan-Hodges, Cooper Currie, Joanne Ciantar (Team Manager); seated Usai Bickey, Braithen Vickers, Jack Hall, Archie Howell and Arthur Bandalan

Fielding one of its youngest-ever male line ups, Mercy College Mackay has risen to the challenge at the Champion Basketball School of Queensland tournament staged recently on the Gold Coast.  

Spearheaded by boom 13-year-olds Treyce Ciantar, Cooper Currie and Usai Bickey, the Mercy hoopers turned in courageous and skillful performances against opponents three years their senior to finish a creditable seventh in the Junior Secondary Boys Division 3 championship.

Under the expert coaching of Rachel McKenzie, the College rookies chalked up impressive victories in the preliminary rounds to qualify for the finals phase.

It was a meritorious achievement by the fresh-faced hoopers who held their own against some of the finest 16-year-old basketball talent in the State to earn a top eight finish.

On the final day the Mercy colts defeated Redlands College to clinch the play-off for seventh spot.  

Power forward Ciantar, point guard Currie and shooting guard Bickey helped the Mackay Meteors capture the North Queensland Under 14 championship title earlier this year and will represent the Emerging Queensland Under 15s at the 2023 National Under 16 Junior Basketball Championships in Melbourne next January.

By Chris Karas

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Ian Schifilliti Takes Over St Patrick’s College Rugby League Coaching Reins

August 24, 2023

Image: St Patrick’s College has a new rugby league coach, Ian Schifilliti. Image supplied

St Patrick’s College Mackay have appointed former international centre Ian Schifilliti as coach of its Open boys rugby league team for 2023.

The Ingham native – who joined the St Patrick’s teaching staff at the beginning of this year – was a popular choice to replace departing mentor Michael Comerford, who has taken on a new role as Head Coach of the Mackay Cutters in the Queensland Hostplus Cup.

Ian, the kid brother of former Illawarra and Parramatta star hooker Dean Schifilliti, guided the Mercy College senior boys rugby league team to the Cowboys Challenge Shield Grand Final this season.

Chasing back to back titles, the Mackay youngsters were left shattered after Kirwan State High snatched the trophy with a try after the full time bell.

Highly regarded during his playing career as a skilful and industrious forward and centre with a strong work ethic, the respected journeyman is an effective communicator and teacher who brings a wealth of experience to the role.

Schifilliti is a legendary figure in the Townsville region where he carved a niche with the Herbert River Crushers club.

He pulled on his first boots at the age of eight and helped the Crushers win Under 11, Under 12, Under 13, Under 14 and Under 16s premierships in the Townsville District Junior League while playing alongside the likes of Canberra flyer Royston Lightning and former Cowboys and Warriors hooker Paul Dezolt.

Although small in frame, what Ian lacked in size he more than made up for with his tenacity, courage, ball play and copybook defence as he entered the senior ranks.

By the age of 18, Schifilliti was an established Townsville representative forward in the Foley Shield competition and later trialled with Super League club Adelaide Rams and Parramatta after he was spotted by Eels’ talent scout Noel Cleal.

He took up an offer to play in the English Super League with the London Broncos under former Eels premiership-winning coach John Monie and enjoyed stints with the Rochdale Hornets and Keighley Cougars in the United Kingdom before returning to Ingham to complete his teaching degree.

A highlight for Ian was playing three Test matches for Italy at the 2000 Rugby League Emerging Nations Tournament in England which was held alongside the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.  

Ian teamed up in the centres with Canberra ace Jason Bulgarelli and helped Italy qualify for the 2008 World Cup event with victories over Canada and the United States.

Schifilliti scored two tries in Italy’s 66-6 thumping of Canada and 40-16 win over the USA and featured in the 20-18 loss to the British Amateur Rugby League Association (BARLA) in the final at Dewsbury.

On his return, Ian lined up for the Crushers in the Townsville A Grade competition before retiring as a player in 2008.

He began teaching at Heatley Secondary College Townsville and his old school Gilroy Santa Maria College Ingham while serving his coaching apprenticeship with the Crushers A Grade team.

Schifilliti piloted Herbert River to three Grand Finals and a 2016 premiership and the Northern Open Schoolboys to success before assisting Michael Comerford with the Northern Queensland Marlins representative team.

Ian took over the Marlins’ coaching reins from Comerford in 2018 and continued to prepare Gilroy Santa Maria in the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools competition before moving to Mackay.

When asked about his new coaching role, Schifilleti said he was “honoured and excited” with the opportunity to coach a St Patrick’s squad brimming with talent.

“It is a privilege to step into the shoes of Michael Comerford who has shaped the St Patrick’s Rugby League Academy into a real force,” said Ian.

“We have the nucleus of the champion 2022 squad returning in hooker Xavier Kerrisk, half back Jaxon Purdue, fullback Will Shears, sharp backs Bailey Anderson, Tenzin Contor, Bailey Caruana and others.

“Throw in promising Mercy colts like Saxon Crofts, Hunter Harris, Reuben Saron, Javen Ramsamy, Hudson Smith, Kooper Shears, Cohen Jackson, Toby Woodall and Lachlan Whippy and you have the ingredients for a competitive outfit in 2023.”

By Chris Karas

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Trump card Treyce A Whiz On Basketball Court And Touch Football Arena

August 24, 2023

Image: Treyce Ciantar is a champion on the basketball court and the touch football field. Images supplied

When he’s not rebounding, playing in the post or setting screens as a power forward on the basketball court you’ll find top schoolboy athlete Treyce Ciantar weaving his magic on a touch football field.

The Mercy College Mackay Year 8 student shows plenty of promise in both sports and impressed keen judges at two of Queensland’s biggest school events recently on the Gold Coast – the Titans All Schools Touch Football Championships and the annual Champions of Secondary Schools Basketball tournament.

Versatile Treyce steered the Mercy/St Patrick’s 13yrs Boys touch football team to the last 16 of the finals series where he showcased his skills as a middle player.

Four days later he was mixing it with the best basketball talent in the State and players two years his senior at the Champions Schools carnival – helping the Mercy/St Patrick’s Under 15 Boys claim seventh ranking.

Competing against the big guns at the Champion Schools Basketball event was perfect preparation for the upcoming Australian Under 16 Championships to be staged in Melbourne during the New Year.

Treyce will join fellow 13-year-old Mercy College students Cooper Currie and Usai Bickey in the Emerging Queensland Under 15 squad that should benefit from their participation at the national titles.

The talented trio are three of Mackay’s best young basketball prospects and key players in the Meteors’ Junior Development Program.

All three will attend a special State camp in Brisbane next January 17 in preparation for the National Carnival.

Hand-eye coordination is an important skill in Treyce’s make up and has kept him in good stead – ever since he first competed on a basketball court at the age of six.

A product of the South's club in the Mackay Basketball Association, Treyce has blossomed under the tutelage of leading coaches Renee Currie, Chris Breckell and Tony Hutchinson – three local figures who have proved a major influence on his career to date.  

The strapping power or small forward shows a maturity that far belies his years and helped Souths achieve championship success in the Under 8s, Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s and Opens (Under 18s) competitions.

Ciantar, a Capricornia schoolboys representative, has served the Mackay Meteors since the age of eight and earlier this year led the club to a North Queensland Under 14 Championship title.

To hone his basketball skills, Treyce also lines up against adults and seasoned campaigners in a Sunday Mens competition where he plays as a point guard alongside his dad Trent.

While basketball may be his preferred sport, Treyce also shares a passion for touch football.  

He began his career as a 5-year-old with the Marani club and was soon representing Mackay from Under 9s and leading the region to North Queensland Cup and Red Rooster Cup triumphs.  

The sky's the limit for this talented young hoop who is destined for bigger things.

By Chris Karas

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Road Runners Celebrate Annual Awards

August 24, 2023

The fierce and fast were recognised last month at the Mackay Road Runners Annual Awards for 2022.

Major award recipients

Junior Female  & Male Club Champions Lily Leven and Damian Rutland

Open Female & Male Club Champions Glynis Forse and Joe Grech

Junior Female & Male Eungella Queen and King of the Mountain Lily Leven & Damian Rutland

Open Female & Male Eungella Queen and King of the Mountain Demi Caldwell & Cristian Smith

Junior Monthly Medals Luke Leven, Alex Couldrey; Toby Rule, Oliver Rule

Open Monthly Medals Mick Vivian, Paul Mackenzie, Shane Donnollan, Andrew Short, Alan Zamparutti, Michael Feenaghty

Lost Bunyips Open Female and Male Trail Series Champions Carmel Mahon & Joe Grech

Andergrove 10km Handicap Champion Heli Talinurm

Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield Tahnie Malagueno & Angus Jacobs

Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy Martin Lambert

Most Improved Andrew Wallace

Encouragement Award Luke Leven

Most Supportive Alan Zamparutti

Most Consistent Carmel Mahon

Col & Rhonda Meng Club Person of the Year Jo Hughes

Overall Handicap Points Champion Joe Grech

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Get It Done Training

August 24, 2023

Pioneer Valley Charity Fun Run

The date was March 27, 2020.

Kay Nyenuh’s two Muscle Garden gyms in Mackay and Marian were about to be shut down due to COVID restrictions.

He was at his newly opened Marian gym for a lengthy telecommunications appointment when he took his daughter, Rosa, for a walk.

It was then, he came up with an idea to host a charity fun run along the Pioneer River in Marian.

Thought is one thing, but action is another. However, when Kay has his mind set, there’s no turning back. In the face of adversity and great personal sacrifice through lost income during COVID restrictions, Kay has triumphantly hosted the fun run for the past three years, successfully raising more than $70,000 for the Mackay Hospital Foundation. The third event was held last weekend.

The 2.5km loop course provided the perfect supportive atmosphere for friends and family to cheer on competitors, and the event appeals to all fitness levels, with 1km, 5km, 7.5km and 10km options.

Now with a third gym opened in Andergrove, Kay is optimistic about the future and thanked the support he received to make the fun run a reality.

“Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this event the past three years,” Kay said.

“All the businesses, the participants, my team, I can’t thank you enough.

“In the three years we’ve held this event it’s only gotten bigger and bigger and I can’t wait for next year already!”

This week Kay is flying to New York to fulfill a personal goal, to run the New York Marathon.

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RADfest ’22 Rolling This Weekend

August 24, 2023

Mackay City Rollers will play host to the first ever RADfest. A bootcamp and scrimmage weekend for junior roller derby players from Regional Queensland.

RADfest takes its name from Regional Alliance Derby and sees skaters between the ages of 8 and 18 from Rockhampton and Townsville converge on Mackay.

Mackay City Rollers has secured a lineup of experienced coaches from Southeast Queensland including Squeals on Wheels, Rumpofsteelskin, and Vaxter.

Squeals on Wheels is a returning Mackay skater who is a two-time silver medalist for Australia playing for Skate Australia Women’s Roller Derby Team at the World Roller Games in China and Spain and Queensland representative in the Australia National Roller Derby Championships; a tournament which Queensland won. Most recently this year, Squeals earned a position on the Skate Australia Women’s Roller Derby Team for the third time and was also successfully appointed as the Coach for the Skate Australia Men’s Roller Derby Team.

Mackay City Rollers President Splitz says, “We are really excited to have such an array of experienced coaches attending this weekend to impart their many years of skating and roller derby knowledge to our juniors.

“Regional events like this are so critical in rebuilding regional roller derby after memberships took a big hit during covid.

“We are trying to breathe life back into derby across the region while building strong connections with our neighbouring leagues in both Junior and Senior derby.

“Roller Derby in regional areas isn’t like other sports where kids compete in a regular weekly competition or season. Our skaters have to travel for opportunities to play competitively or bring skaters here to Mackay.”

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Mackay Contract Bridge Club

August 24, 2023

What a week!

Terrence Sheedy won the Presidents Shield Trophy after three weeks of play with three different partners. Terrence’s consistency had him in the lead over all three weeks, ultimately leading to his win.

After three weeks of hotly contested play and three different winners over the three weeks of play, Ian and Carol Gaskell won the Mackay Novice Pairs.

Meanwhile, Jan Harris and Richard Wix took out the Australian Wide (Mackay) Restricted Pairs <300pts.

RESULTS

Mackay Presidents Shield

1st Terrence Sheedy – Partners -Noel Bugeia, Janelle Conroy, Geoff Taylor

2nd Monica Darley – Partners – Richard Wix, Nancy Martin, Tere Wotherspoon

3rd Janelle Conroy – Partners – Robert Carless, Terrence Sheedy, Alan Brown

Saturday 29 October  – Presidents Shield Week 3 of 3 Green Points

N/S

1st Doone Mitchell / Marilin Robins

2nd Diane Stokes / Joy Brunette

3rd Jan Harris / Geoffrey Patterson

4th Nancy Wix / Griffin Bancroft

E/W

1st Monica Darley / Tere Wotherspoon

2nd Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

3rd Ian Cruickshank / Noel Saunders

4th Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Sunday 30 October – Novice Pairs Week 3 of 3

1st Mary Cruickshank / Noel Saunders

2nd Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell

3rd Anne Lutz / Diane Stokes

Mackay Novice Championship Pairs Winners

1st Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell

2nd Anne Lutz / Diane Stokes

3rd Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris

Tuesday 24 October – Australian Wide Pairs <300 Pts - Mackay

1st Jan Harris / Richard Wix

2nd Mary Cruickshank / Ian Cruickshank

3rd Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell

4th Sandra Morris / Patricia Garner

5th Griffin Bancroft / Marilyn Wilson-Nicholl

6th Susan Ross / Vicki Howard

Weekly Social Results

Monday 24 October – 6 Table One Winner

1st Joy Robinson / Thelma Caruana

2nd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes

3rd Jan Harris / Richard Wix

Tuesday Evening 25 October – 4 Table One Winner

1st Richard Wix / Eric Goodchild

2nd Eric Leivesley / Diane Stokes

3rd Janine Rodgers / Nancy Wix

Wednesday 26 October – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

1st Robert Carless / Joy Robinson

2nd Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan

3rd Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell

1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2nd Ian Cruickshank / Antonia Tarradas

3rd Frances Brown / Janet Hansen

Thursday Evening 27 October – 4 Table One Winner

1st Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

3rd Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

Friday 28 October – 7 Table One Winner

1st Tere Wotherspoon / Monica Darley

2nd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor

3rd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

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Proserpine Pitbulls Cricket Report

August 24, 2023

After a bye last week, the Proserpine Pitbulls’ Under 11 side hosted their first ever home game against the Sarina Spartans.

Captain Laura’s bat flip went to the Spartans, and the Pitbull pups were sent in to bat.

Bradley (4) and Sean (3) led the way with some great shots, unfortunately picking out the fielders before Aiden (9) followed up with some quick running between the wickets.

Aiden’s brother Jaxson (9) came in and they kept the scoreboard ticking over nicely. Laura (7) was hitting the ball as clean as can be and teamed up well with Ellen (5), who played some excellent shots.

Tyrone (5) came out swinging and Zahra (5) was excellent with her calling and running between the wickets. Kobi (5) came in last to face the remaining deliveries and played a couple of great pull shots, with 8/72 the scenario at the end of the first innings.

A quick slushy break and the pups were back out to defend their total.

Bradley (1/8 off 3) was very accurate and got a spectacular direct hit for a runout. Sean 0/12 off 1) found the middle of the batter’s bat, and decided to give wicket keeping a go, to which he did some great stops and got a caught behind.

Aiden (1/12 off 2) got a beauty on line to take out middle stump. Jaxson (0/9 off 2) came close a couple of times, but missed out on a wicket. Zahra (0/8 off 2) bowled excellently. Laura (2/6 off 3) bamboozled the batters with her 2 step run up taking out the stumps twice.

Kobi (1/8 off 3) was accurate, with some great change of pace. Ellen (1/8 off 2) bowled an unplayable delivery! Tyrone (2/6 off 2) bowled a couple of beauties to take out the stumps.

Despite having an excellent bowling and fielding effort the Pitbull pups were unable to restrict the Spartans ending up with 11/77 pipping the Proserpine side by five runs, with the team closing in on their first ever wind.

Player of the day went to Captain Laura.

Contributed with thanks to Michael Hope

Proserpine’s junior cricketers played in an exceptionally close match against the Sarina Spartans on the weekend

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A Very Merry Airlie Beach Darts

August 24, 2023

With the Premier League not too far back in the rear view mirror, the 2022 Xmas Open for Airlie Beach Darts club got underway at Mika on Sunday morning with groups A and B.

Group A featured the runner up of this year’s Premier League: Jamie Maher. Joining him was Jayden Lloyd, Lorraine Woods, and Adrian Wickham.

Jamie advances to the quarterfinals after topping group A unbeaten, with both Jayden and Lorraine going through to the qualifiers after finishing in second and third place, respectively.

Group B had a Premier League champion in the group: Andy Peel. He was joined by the father son combo of Dick and Nathan O’Hara, as well as Seumas Rose.

Seumas topped the group unbeaten on nine points, with the remaining three players all finishing level on three apiece.

Nathan was the unlucky player to miss out on advancing to the next stage of the comp with Andy claiming second and Dick claiming third place in group B, courtesy of better leg difference.

Both Jamie and Seumas hit 180s during their victories on Sunday.

Thank you to Master Butchers Whitsunday for donating a meat tray for us to raffle off. And thank you to our sponsor Dyson Automotive, your support is greatly appreciated.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher

Jamie Maher in action in the Xmas Open at Mika Airlie Beach

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Cannonvale Cannons at Charters Towers

August 24, 2023

Unfortunately, the Cannonvale Cannons’ Club Night was cancelled on Wednesday last week due to stormy weather but were back in the pool this week.

Over the weekend, Indigo, Ruby, and Koa Harland travelled to Charters Towers to compete at the Charters Towers Swimming Carnival, with the girls very excited to catch up with their brothers Tate and Mason, and sister, Ella.  

Indigo, “Indi” Harland aged six, swam very well in her 25-metre Backstroke and Freestyle races.  Her best swim was her Backstroke in a time of 48.01 (a 1.21 second personal best).

Koa Harland, aged eight years had a very successful carnival.  She swam three personal bests and came second place in her 50-metre Breaststroke in a time of 1.05.18. She swam a super 50-metre Butterfly in 1.11.98, a 1.83 second personal best and was fourth in her age group.  

Ruby Harland, aged 10, swam in four events, coming first in her 100-metre Backstroke and second in her 100-metre Freestyle.  

Mason and Tate Harland swim for Charters Towers Swimming Club, with Mason, aged 12, swam extremely well in all his Backstroke races. Tate, aged 14, swam a fantastic 200-metre Breaststroke in a time of 3.50.74 which was a 21.34 second personal best.  

The Cannons would like to thank all the wonderful families who assisted with the Bunnings barbecue fundraiser on Saturday.

Swimmers continue to train for upcoming carnivals: Gardens (Townsville), Whitsunday (Proserpine), and Bowen.  Some Cannons have also nominated for the Hamilton Island Ocean Swim.  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Ben and Nelson Malady

Celeste and Don helping at the Bunnings Sausage Sizzle

Ruby Indi and Koa Harland at Charters Towers

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Airlie Beach Bowls

August 24, 2023

Airlie Beach Bowls Club players did their club, the district, and zone seven proud at the State Champion of Club Champions at South Suburban in Mackay.

The pair of Betty Nicole and Carol Crosbie played outstanding bowls during the sectional rounds and were undefeated in their three games, beating Kawana Bowls Club 18-8, Suburban Townsville 19-16, and Boonooroo Bowls Club 20-16 to progress to the State Final.

They came up against the pair of 419 Australian-capped veteran Lynsey Clarke and Claire Turley, who has 66 caps for the country.

Betty and Carol started nervously, tied at seven all against their more fancied opponents throughout the early ends of the game.

Lynsey and Claire found their form and pushed ahead to a comfortable lead until Betty and Carol staged a late comeback but unfortunately ran out of ends and went down 27-20 in front of a very large crowd, becoming the states silver medallist’s.

Carol, who is undergoing intensive Chemotherapy, was drained substantially during the game, but, lived by our club’s motto: “Never Give Up, Never Give In, and Never Say Die.”

Also competing were our Mens Pairs whom finished 4th overall, missing out on the finals by one point only.

Armando Isgro also was selected as skipper for North Queensland versus South Queensland in Townsville played on the weekend.

Tuesday and Wednesday bowls and Business House Bowls were cancelled this week due to inclement weather.

Saturday morning Scroungers saw first round winners Merve Stewart, Maureen Barnard, Rick Galea, Gary Kiff, and Mark Mawson play off.

The final was played between Maureen Barnard and Mark Mawson, who overcame his tenacious opponent for the victory.

John Brown was the Group B winner of the day beating a star-studded field.

Sunday afternoon Social bowls had Tony Whitehorn with Mario De Martini at lead, Lu Rogan at second, and Rex Muller beat John Trembath’s team in a nail-biter.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Airlie Beach Bowls Club members Carol Crosbie and Betty Nicole claimed silver at this year’s Queensland state finals

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Proserpine Bowls Club

August 24, 2023

On Wednesday, there were no Social Bowls played at Proserpine Bowls Club when a thunderstorm cruised over Airlie Beach.

The weekend’s Mackay District Champion of Champion 2 Bowl Triples still went ahead, however, with the first match on Saturday morning seeing Wests Tigers defeat Souths Suburban.

Following on, Northern Beaches defeated RSL, Airlie Beach defeated Seaforth, Mackay defeated North Mackay, and in the afternoon, Proserpine defeated Sarina.

Through all games you could see the quality of shot delivery and decision making with so many of them being edge of your seat matches.

Sunday morning were the two Semi Finals, one where Proserpine defeated Northern Beaches and Marian defeated Mackay.

The Final between Proserpine and Marian started off being neck and neck with neither team getting to control the action.  It is at this halfway point that things started to shift with Proserpine taking the upper hand.

Congratulations to Shane Kinnear (subbing for Nathan Dodds), Scott Hamilton, and Wayne Handley for taking out the MMDBA Champion of Champions 2 Bowl Triples for 2022.

Acknowledgment must be made those who worked behind the scene in green preparation, providing of lunches, serving behind the bar, doing the welcomes and green introductions and umpiring.

Spectators support was exceptional, and thanks must also be extended to Vince McSherry from Mackay Men’s District Bowls Association who drove up on Sunday with the Livestreaming equipment.

On Sunday afternoon the club had six for social bowls, with Sandy Daffara, Warren Wilson, and Peter Lawton defeating John Anderson, Bruce Uhe, and Mike Harrison, 23-16.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

Champion of Champion Two Bowl Triples winners Proserpine with MMDBA Match Chair: Wayne Handley, Scott Hamilton, Vince McSherry, and Shane Kinnear

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Wangaratta Bowls

August 24, 2023

There were only a few players on Tuesday afternoon, however it did not lessen the quality of the bowls, with the winner’s circle comprised of Bron Tolcher, Irene Laird, and Penny Warren.

Their reward: a bottle of Mark Drummond’s homemade Tomato relish.

On Sunday, although a warm afternoon, bowlers still came out to play in the much-needed shade, with winners for the afternoon Bill Myers, Penny Warren, and Pat Tracey, defeating Deb Beel, Sue Shearing, Linda Scells, and Sugar Brunker.

Other winners were Irene Laird, Isobel Wheeler, and Kennedy Whitton who defeated Bron Tolcher, Graeme Read, and Geoff Danvers. Robyn Stitt, Marg Wilson, and Allan Rolfe also won, defeating Mark Drummond, Greg Colquhoun, and Barry Beel.

Competition games results: The final of the B Grade singles was played this week with congratulations to Laurie Land in her win, defeating Kevin Baxter.

Competition is almost finished for the year, with the final of the Mixed Pairs between Lyn and Geoff Danvers, and Penny Warren and Allan Rolfe to be played at 9am on Thursday, November 10.

It is almost time again for the club’s AGM which will be on Sunday, November 27.

All positions will be declared vacant, with nomination forms available for positions on the board. High Tea and presentation of trophies will be on the same day. Attendees for the lunch, please put your name on the board for catering purposes.  

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

The Sunday winners at Wangaratta Bowls Club, alongside club President Mark Drummond: Bill Myers, Penny Warren, and Pat Tracey

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Bowen Golf News

August 24, 2023

Wednesday’s competition at Bowen Golf Club was a single stableford for the men and single Bogie for the ladies sponsored by the club.

Ladies’ winner was Claire Garrod, plus 1, runner up Janice Bates, 0, while Men’s winner was Perry Layton, 41 points, with runner up on a countback Mark Tilbrook.

Saturday’s competition was a single stableford sponsored by Bowen Home Hardware, with thanks to the local business for their continued support, which has been a constant for the past 25 years.  

Men's Winner was Brian Martin, 39 points, runner up Brenden Wells, 38, with pin shots to Akeam Power, Daryl O'Connell, James Miller, and Rod Wells.  

Ladies' Winner Meg Garrod, 35 points, and runner up Janice Bates, 34. Pin Shots to Julie May - who had her first official Hole in One - Janice Bates, Elona Lynch, and Julie Mawson.  

Janice Bates also won the Car Wash Voucher.

This weekend’s competition at Bowen Golf Club is a single stroke event for the November Monthly Medals sponsored by Bowen Meat Supply and the club.  Don’t forget to check the club’s Facebook page for this week’s dinner menu.  

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott

The Home Hardware Single Stableford ladies’ second place getter, Janice Bates, alongside men’s winner Brian Martin and  sponsor John McEniery from Home Hardware

Julie May sunk a hole in one during Saturday’s competition

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Proserpine Golf Report

August 24, 2023

Rain affected numbers this week at Proserpine Golf Club, but all comps were completed even though some competitors pulled out because of the rain.

The men’s winner of Saturday’s MBW stableford was Aaron Watts, on a count back from Brett Norris on 39. They were followed by Ross McNeill on 38.

The ladies’ winner was Heather Luvis on a count back from Ann Gardel and Tiina Randmae all on 32 points.

The men’s run down went to 15th place, while the ladies place getters were Diane Chard, 30, Elspeth Scotford, Peta Thomas and Rehab Hull on 29.

The pin shots went to Andrew Mau, Luchie Gardel, Levi Holmes, Trish McNeill and Penny Wardroper.

Only forty ventured out on Thursday, with Michael Leo winning the shirt with 41 points from Andrew Albergo 38, in division one.

Division two winner was Fraser Simpson 47 points, from Vic Feldman on 37.

The place getters were Steve Kelly 38, Chris Brett, Peter Fox, Elliot Woo and Aaron Watts 37, and Michael Cragg bring up the rear on 35.

Allen Roberts and Aaron Watts on 13 and 16 took out the pin shots.

Tuesday’s stableford winner was Karl Kirkwood, from Michael Cragg and John Grosskreutz.

On Wednesday the ladies played a four-ball multiplier. The winners were Brenda Cowan and Jenny Hounsell with 71 points.

They were followed by Pam Casey and Dianne Chard, 69 and Lyn Muller and Rehab Hull with 61.

The pin shots went to Pam Casey, Brenda Cowan, Elspeth Scotford and Paula McQuat.

Sunday’s stroke winners were Nathan Sothmann, 69 on a count back from Brian Allen, and Jason Whitney 70 in third place for the men.

The ladies’ winners were Jacqui Wall, 68, from Penny Wardroper and Peta Thomas both on 70 nett.

Contributed with thanks to Peter Lewis

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