Tuesday Evening Fixtures

Division 1 – Eagles (Emma Widdup, Syed Aminul Hossain, Josh Brown) defeated Lily (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 8-3, Josh won a tight 5 Sets over Robbie 11-7.

Jaguar (Jacob Whelan, Anne Sheridan, Neil Brown) defeated Barra (Barry Patterson, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson) 7-4.  Barry made a massive come back in 5 Sets against Jacob, with Barry winning 11-9.

Gold (Goncalo Serra, Graham Brake, Geoff Denman) defeated Fish (Steven Whiting, Trent Day, Allan Allan Edwards) 6-5 with Steve winning a close 5 Sets against Graham 11-6.

Division 2 – Alpha (Allan Robins, Samuel Whelan, Peter Goodson) defeated Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Ian McKay, Rymer Tabulo) 6-5 with Allan coming back to win 11-5 in 5th Set against Mark

Drongos (Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight, Yilin Jiang) defeated Teddy (George Camilleri, David Symons, Rachel Fiesta) 10-1. George and David won a big 5 Sets over Delma and Yilin 11-4.

Division 3 – Marlin (Mark Stem, Val Austin, Melanie Theodore) defeated Nova Smashers (Craig VanDeKaa, Remy Zhan, Nate Clark) 6-5, Remy had a great win over Val 11-2 in 5 Sets.

Tibhar (Tiffany Camilleri, Liz Burton, Ollie Hamelink) defeated Sigma (Rod Hamelink, Simon Hogan, Daryl Ross) 8-3, Tiffany and Liz won a great 5 Set match against Simon and Daryl 11-8.

Tuesday Morning Fixtures

Division 1 – Rap Drive (Andrea Nicholson, Doug Dungavell, John McGee) def. Rock Rally (Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott) 9-3 with John having a great win in 5 Sets over Kevin 11-5.

Bass Bump (Donna Abbott, Judy Zahn, Peter Taber) def. Jazz Live (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-5 with Veronica having a great win over Peter T 11-6 in 5 Sets.

Drum Beat (Steve Mathieson, Allan Robins) drew with Jump Up (Delma Knight, Branko Vucurovic, Virginia Clayton) 6-6. Steve had a great match with Virginia with Steve winning 11-6 in 5 Sets.

Division 2 – Pixal Paddles (Marie Taylor, Ken Best, Frank Caruana) def. Code Crackers (Josie Davis, John Hamelink, Pam Kuene) 9-3, Marie won against Josie 11-8 in 5 Sets.

Byte Bouncers (Helen Ware, Gloria Vella, Robyn Bushell) def. Nano Nets (Coral Morgan, Kim Daffy, Ian Dodds) 7-5, Kim won in 5 Sets against Helen 11-9.

Division 3 – Bat Serves (David Muir, Janelle Kuene, Kim Challendar) def. Spider Smashers (Sharon Muller, Laurie Bradshaw, Trish Zamparutti) 7-5 with Trish having a close win over Janelle 11-9 in 5 Sets.

Iron Rallies (Gerry Synnott, Thelma Caruana, Glenda Brooks) def. Captain Spins (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Carmel Cristaldi) 9-3 with Sally having a great win over Gerry 11-9 in the 5th Set.

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Barry Patterson
Veronica Shepherd. Photos supplied

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The Cannonvale Cannons traded the pool deck for palm trees and ocean views over the weekend as 17 swimmers took on the Hamilton Island Endurance Series Triathlon and Ocean Swim. With sparkling conditions, big smiles, and plenty of team spirit, our club proudly made its presence known across all three distances.

The 2km Ocean Swim saw outstanding performances, highlighted by Jacob Bell, who claimed first place in the Open Male division, and Tiana Bell, finishing second in the 14–19 years age group. Our dedicated coaches, swim parents and grandparents also took on the challenge, with Raylene Rasmussen, Mark Erickson, Jane Delac, and Mark McConkey all diving in and crossing the finish line with pride.

In the 750m event, Roxy Groom powered home to win Open Female, while the age group categories showcased even more Cannons talent: Kate Thomson claimed victory in the 30–39 years division, Jade Korosec took out the 40–49 years category, and Michael Mulliss finished an impressive second in the 30–39 years group. Karen McConkey also swam strongly in the 750m race.

Our youngest athletes shone brightly in the 350m Junior Swim, sweeping the podium in the boys’ race — Lucas Korosec (1st), Eric Mulliss (2nd), and Jasper Korosec (3rd) — while Ella Holmes secured third place in the Junior Girls. River and Penelope Shields also gave it their all, proudly representing the Cannons.

The endurance spirit carried into the Triathlon events, where River and Penelope tackled the Long-Distance Junior Triathlon with courage and determination. Penelope claimed the win, and River’s effort earned huge praise. Lucas Korosec delivered another standout performance, winning the Medium-Distance Junior Triathlon.

From first-timers to seasoned swimmers, from cheering parents to committed coaches, the Cannons community once again showed what makes our club so special — teamwork, encouragement, and a whole lot of heart.

Congratulations to every Cannon who competed, supported, and celebrated across the weekend. You made us incredibly proud!

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Junior Triathlon Competitors Lucas Korosec, River and Penelope Shields. Photo supplied

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Not long now until we’ll be banging pots and welcoming the New Year. We’re already looking forward to the joint Men’s and Women’s Pennants, which will no doubt make our little club even stronger.
This week brought great support across our social games, Business House Bowls and school activities.

Tuesday was Remembrance Day, and we certainly showed our fallen heroes they will never be forgotten. It was skipper Arthur McManus, with lead David Meiklejohn and Gary Smith, who finished in third place. In second was the team of Shane Spann, who had a great battle against Bob McMahon, with the support of lead Barry Wainwright and Shane’s wife Vicki Spann. They won an exciting contest by seven points.

However, the day’s honours went to skip Bob Menzies, visiting from Pakuranga Bowls Club in Auckland. With Kathryn Remmeswaal, they proved far too strong, defeating the powerful Whitehorn pairing of Betty and Tony, 35–21. Congratulations to all players.

Wednesday afternoon social bowls delivered a big win to the team of “Take the Money” Tony Whitehorn, who skipped Sur Dakin at lead and Sue Walker to a convincing finish.

Friday morning saw Endeavour Foundation participants showing huge enthusiasm. Jett and Kathy continue to improve their skills, Michael had his best game of the season under difficult conditions, and Deon and Donald are also trying hard. It was great to see John back from his travels.

Friday afternoon saw the Christian College students form their own teams for a weekly round robin. Tamsyn Carus and Sophie Adams, Taylor Fairhall with Alannah Jackson, and Myia Shimmen with Annalise Kennelly played out an 8-all draw, while Ruby Atkins and Miranda Jackson deserve special recognition for their skilful performance.

Saturday Morning Scroungers opened the new season, with first-round winners Betty Whitehorn, Dennis Donnadelli and Kathryn Remmeswaal playing off in the final. Kathryn and Betty went to an extra end, with Kathryn securing her first A Division title, while Des Ballance claimed the B Grade win.

Sunday afternoon bowls attracted 21 players, and we welcomed Graeme Little, Vice President of Woodford Bowls Club. He teamed up with “Take the Money” Tony Whitehorn and Keith Bates to take home the money.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Betty Nicole with Ash Warland and John Fielding were convincing winners  in the Mixed Triples Club finals. Photo supplied

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U11s Boys
Written by Kate Gibbs
The Pitbull pups were back at home to face Walkerston, with Captain Fred winning the toss and electing to bowl. The boys backed him brilliantly, producing energetic fielding and disciplined bowling to restrict Walkerston to 64. Hector starred with 3–6, Jonty took 2–5, and Harrison claimed one, while Fred, James, Luka and William kept things tight. Run outs from William (2), Hector and Luka added to the pressure.

Chasing 64, Jonty and Will got the Pitties moving before James added 14. Hector’s commanding 30 sealed the result as the team pushed past the target, finishing on 107. A strong home performance.

U11s Girls
The Pink Pitties travelled to Vigaro Fields to meet Souths Yellow. With wides and no-balls not re-bowled, scoring chances were limited, but the girls made every run count. C. Green led the way with four singles, supported by E. Brazil (5), A. Baker, G. Green and others contributing to a total of 49.

With the ball, the Pitties lifted again. Leg-spinner G. Green took 2–16, A. Baker hit middle stump, and F. Gallagher snared a superb caught-and-bowled. Tight bowling from C. Goldspink and sharp wicketkeeping from Neal and Glindemann (just one bye) capped off the effort. Souths finished on 113, but the Pitties showed huge improvement.

U11s Mixed
The new Mixed Pitties squad played their first official match, with Brothers providing two fill-ins. Batting first, L. Sander (12), N. Garraway (17) and L. Wilkinson (10) laid a solid platform, helping the side reach 98.

With the ball, Sander led with 3–24, Garraway claimed 1–6 and Wilkinson added another breakthrough. Mead bowled tightly and delivered a run out, while the keeping combination conceded only four byes. Brothers finished on 124, but the Mixed Pitties showed excellent promise.

U12s
Written by Justin Gibbs
The Pitbull pups travelled to Bucasia to meet Norths. Captain Spencer chose to bat, and openers Henry (47*) and Thomas (40) set a strong tone. Contributions from Blake, Lilly, John and Nate pushed the total to an imposing 5–160.

With the ball, Patrick opened tightly before Blake, Thomas, Lilly and John shared the wickets. Strong fielding held Norths to 5–113, securing a two-game winning streak.

U13s
At home against Sarina, the Pitties opened well with J. Smith taking 2–26 and Z. Cale adding 1–12. M. Hope delivered the highlight—a hat-trick on his way to 4–6—while Brazil added a wicket. Sarina posted 103.

C. Edgerton top-scored with 20, but despite efforts from Hearn, Smith and Brazil, the Pitties were dismissed for 56. Plenty of positives, including a memorable hat-trick.

U14s
Against Sarina at Harrup Park, B. Hetherington (32) and K. Whitty (23) led the Pitties to 144. With ball in hand, S. Green dominated with 4–18, supported by Manley (2–24) and Dibben (1–5). Sarina reached 113, giving the Pitties a solid win.

U15s
At Mirani, the Pitties struck early with B. Hope removing a batter first ball. L. and E. Smith then combined for six wickets between them. Strong catching saw Walkerston dismissed for 128.

R. Davies produced a maiden half-century (50*), supported by Marshall (26) and Hope (19*), to guide the team to 7–141 and a confident win.

U17s
Back at home, the U17s posted 5–213 thanks to M. Logan (54), M. Gabey (37), J. Valmadre (22) and J. Geisler (33*). With the ball, M. Pomeroy shone with 4–10, supported by O. Seamer (2–17). Brothers were bowled out for 27, sealing a dominant victory.

Contributed with thanks to Danni Green

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The U'11s boys. Photo supplied

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Tuesday afternoon winners came out on Rink 5, with Frank Gordon, Querro, Sue Shearing and Alby Vigar defeating Bron Tolcher, Deb Retchless and Laurie Land. In the other game, Shirley Jones and Cliff Queero defeated Irene Laird and Gavin Charles. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Congratulations to Penny Warren, who has been named North Queensland Ladies District Bowler of the Year, and to Denise Wallace, who finished a close runner-up. Penny will receive her award in February.

The last of the men’s competitions was played this week. The Final of the Fours was won by Bill Myers, Laurie Land, Mark Drummond and Allan Rolfe, who defeated Lloyd White, Gavin Charles, Kevin Daniels and Steve Roome. The game could not have been any closer, with an extra end required to decide the result. Well done, gentlemen.

Sunday’s social play winners were Lindy Suann and Greg Colquhoun, who defeated Deb Retchless and Penny Warren. In other matches, Celly Jeal, Gavin Charles and Pat Tracey defeated Cliff Querro, Jim Quodd and Mark Drummond, and Gordon Querro, Alby Vigar and Allan Rolfe defeated Bill Myers, Graeme Read and Stuart Jeal. The jackpot didn’t go off.

This Saturday, 22 November, Wangaratta will host a Free Come & Try afternoon. Play runs from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Come along for some fun — it’s open to all ages, the shade will be out, the bar will be open, and afternoon tea will be provided.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Social bowls on Wednesday saw six players enjoying the green until rain eventually sent everyone inside. Arthur Griffith, Philip Brown and Mike Harrison defeated Des Ballance (visiting from Airlie Beach), Barry Zillmann and Sandy Daffara, 15–13.

On Sunday, we played two games of 3 Bowl Pairs. Alen Sanderson and Heather Brown defeated Trevor Parsons and Sandy Daffara, while Arthur Griffith and Philip Brown drew with Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison, 17-all.

A reminder that Social Bowls is now on summertime hours, with names in by 2.30pm for a 3pm start on the green. Afternoon tea is at 2.30pm.

Our AGM and Presentation Day will be held on Sunday, November 23, with a 10am start. We look forward to seeing everyone there.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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RUNNING

The second event in the 2025/2026 Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series got off to a great start on Sunday, with milder temperatures making for pleasant conditions on the run course before competitors hit the pool for the final leg.

Around 30 runners, swimmers, and supporters turned out to enjoy the relaxed, social atmosphere of the series, now in its second season as a biathlon. The event evolved from the long-running Shawn’s Summer Series, which was a running-only event for nearly ten years, and another decade before that under various formats.

Mackay Road Runners Club Captain and Race Director Jim Ford, who leads the off-season series, has been a driving force behind its success. Jim is known for his inclusive approach, ensuring people of all ages and abilities can take part and enjoy the challenge.

The series uses a handicap points system, based on the number of laps each participant completes on the track and in the pool within the allocated time, with bonus points awarded for older age categories.

The Splash n Dash continues every Sunday in November and again throughout January 2026, starting at 4.30pm at the Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Complex.

Everyone is welcome, no need to be part of a club, just arrive at 4.20pm for the briefing and have a go. The event is free to enter, with a $5 pool entry fee payable at the kiosk for use of the world-class, internationally accredited facilities.

Contributed by Janelle Tisle

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Len Howarth (centre) with his beautiful relatives, granddaughter, Chloe (left) and daughter, Rebecca.
Approximately thirty runners, swimmers and supporters enjoyed the ARC (Aquatic & Recreational Complex) track and pool facilities.
Andew Short enjoying the track reversal concept for half of the track 30 minute track session.
Talented junior TriActiv8 triathlete, Archer Flanagan sizzled over the track portion of the Biathlon event.
Jose Short from the TriAtiv8 stable of athletes cruises the track section.
Steve Oberg cooling off from the run ready for the pool  section starter’s whistle.
Clancy (left) and Mum Emily enjoying the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series. Photos supplied

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Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club recently hosted the 35th annual North Australian Titles, which saw over 1000+ lifesavers, water safety, carnival officials and spectators descend on Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach. The Mackay hosts did exceedingly well in the region, beating fellow clubs Eimeo and Sarina, as well as outperforming large clubs from around the state.

The club had some outstanding achievements placing 5th overall, with strong performances in marquee events such as the Lifesaver relay, All Age relay and Taplin relay’s.

Mackay SLSC Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said, “The club is very proud of our small but strong competition group, from the nippers in U11’s to our masters.

“To see our competitors take on the best of the best in regional Qld and achieve some great results, is a credit to the culture and commitment we have at our club.  The feedback I have received from visiting clubs is that they love coming here and competing at one of the best beaches in Queensland.

“ I would just like to thank all the clubs that made the effort and travelled to Mackay for the Nth Aussies, we hope to see you next year!”

“It was very pleasing to see Kody Amos (U13), Hayden Tobin (U14), Isabella Grant & Cadence McKinnon (U15), Zara Richardson and Nate McKinnon (U17) selected for the Qld Country team based on their outstanding results.” Mr Grant said.
“It’s a fantastic result to place with the best of the best of Northern Australia and regional Qld.  The club is going from strength to strength, and we are now preparing our lifesavers for Branch Titles at Eimeo in a few weeks”.

Contributed by Josh Grant

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Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography

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With North Mackay Bowls Club

The long awaited final of the Mixed Fours was played at the club on Friday Afternoon 7th Nov 2025.

What promised to be a very intense and well played out final met all expectations. The team ofDave McKendry, Carmel Bell, Ken Rix and Pam Spencer came out flying with a determined game plan, to win and  they certainly carried that throughout the entire game. A massive congratulations go to them as this years Mixed Fours winners.

Runners up Chris Banney, Les McDermott, Bev Svenson and Val dePinto were gracious in defeat, meeting a better team on the day.

Congratulations to all the teams who played in this wonderful event, better luck in 2026

Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine

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Winners of the Mixed Fours (L) Dave McKendry, Carmel Bell, Ken Rix and Pam Spencer

Winners and runners up (L) Bev Svenson, Val DePinto,Les McDermott, Chris Banney, Dave McKendry, Carmel Bell, Pam Spencer, Ken Rix. Photos supplied

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Women's Social Smash is Here!

Swing Into Summer with the new social cricket competition that’s all about fun, friends, and fitness!

Never played? No worries! This is a stress-free, soft-ball game for women of all ages and abilities where everyone gets a go and no one's out! It’s a perfect opportunity to get a workplace team together for a bit of fun, while looking after staff moral and wellbeing.

The Details:

Starts: Monday, 17th November 2025, 4 weeks only
Game Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM (Quick 60-90 min games!)
Where: Harrup Park (Mackay Cricket)
Teams: Clubs & Business Teams (8 players per side - Ages 15+)

All equipment provided!

Get ready for smiles, new skills, and great mates! Nominate your team now at https://bit.ly/WomensSocialSmashTeamNomination2025

For more information contact Matt Brown email sportsops@harruppark.com.au

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Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results - 28th October 2025

Evening Fixtures

Division 1: Eagles (Emma Widdup, Josh Brown) def Barra (Barry Patterson, Andrea Nicholson, Lee Brake) 6-5 with Emma and Josh making a awesome come back from 2 sets down to win 11-8 in 5th Set over Andrea and Graham D.

Fish (Steve Whiting, Trent Day, Graeme Walker) def Jaguar (Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan, Neil Brown) 8-3.  Graeme W and Geoff had a tough battle with the leads changing all the time with Graeme winning in the 5th Set, 11-8.

Gold (Goncalo Serra, Geoff Denman, Graham Brake) def Lily (Allan Edwards, Will VanDeKaa, Robbie Richards) 8-3 with Allan winning a tough 5 Set match 12-10 against Graham B.

Division 2: Teddy (George Camilleri, Tony Bowman) def Alpha (Allan Robins, Peter Goodson) 5-4, with no 5 Set matches Tony and George defeated Allan and Peter 11-6 in 4th Set.

Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Ian McKay) def Drongos (Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight) 4-1 with Mark and Duncan having a tight 5 Set match, Mark winning 11-8.

Division 3: Nova Smashers (Craig VanDeKaa, Noreen Frederickson, Nate Clark) def Sigma (Logan Brown, Rod Hamelink) 11-0 with the juniors battling it out Nate and Logan always have a close match, this time Nate won 11-8 in 4th Set.

Tibhar (Tiffany Camilleri, Liz Burton, Ollie Hamelink) def Marlin (Mark Stam, Val Austin, Melanie Theodore) 9-2, Liz came back against Val to win 11-4 in the 5th Set.

Morning Fixtures

Division 1: Jazz Live (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) def Rap Drive (Andrea Nicholson, Doug Dungavell, John McGee) 7-5 with Andrea defeated George 11-8 in a very close 5 Sets.

Jump Up (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton) def Bass Bump (Donna Abbott, Judy Zahn) 8-4 with no 5 Set matches Donna came out on top against Delma 11-7 in 4 Sets.

Rock Rally (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott) def Drum Beat (Allan Robins, Steve Mathieson) 8-4 with Pam winning against Steve 11-8 in 4th Set.

Division 2: Pixel Paddles (Marie Taylor, Louise Gould, Frank Caruana) def Byte Bouncers (Helen Ware, Gloria Vella, Robyn Bushell) 7-5 with Lousie and Robyn having a tough battle, Lousie won 11-9 in 5th Set.

Nano Nets (Ken Best, Kim Duffy, Ian Dodds) drew level with Code Crackers (Josie Davis, John Hamelink, Pam Keune) 6-6, Pam defeated Ken 12-10 in the 5th Set.

Division 3: Bat Serves (Kim Challendar, David Muir, Janelle Keune) def Captain Spins (Sally Muir, Allison Day) 9-3. David had close finish with Sally, coming out on top 13-11 in 5th Set.

Iron Rallies (Gerry Synnott, Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes) def Spider Smashers (Sharon Muller, Laurie Bradshaw, Trish Zamparutti) 7-5. There was a close doubles between Madge and Glenda defeated Laurie and Trish winning 11-9 in 5th Set.

Contributed by Andrea Nicholson

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Mark Sleeman
Graeme Walker. Photos supplied

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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

As the Bridge year gets closer to the end of the year, the Mackay Bridge Club gets very busy. Melbourne Cup Day saw Fifty-Eight players celebrate the “Race that Stops the Nation” with great Bridge, Sweeps, Fashions on the Field and a magnificent Lunch. Great fun was had by all.

The weekend was the third week of the Presidents Trophy, with players playing with a different partner each week to be eligible for the Trophy. Forty-Six players vied for the Presidents Trophy with Joy Robinson taking out the prize. Joy turned 100 years of age this Wednesday, so it just goes to prove you are never too old or too young to play bridge.

Joy had never played cards when she first started playing bridge. She is an amazing lady, player, and very well-deserved winner.

Weekly Results

Tuesday 4 November 2025 – Melbourne Cup Day - Green Points
N/S Section A E/W
1st Eric Goodchild / David King 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Christine Fitzpatrick / Ian Vary
N/S Section B E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Mick King 1st Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
2nd Shirley Worland / Diane Stokes 2nd Lynne O’Neill / Laura Howland

Wednesday 5 November 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Geoff Taylor / Karen Caldwell
3rd John McGee / Mick King 3rd Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th Susan Wright / Bob Ellis 4th Nancy Martin / Janine Rodgers

Thursday Evening 6 November 2025 - 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers 2nd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott

Friday 7 November 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 1st Victor Mason / Josie Cowley
2nd Joy Robinson / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Geoff Cowan / Mick King
3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

Saturday 8 November 2025 – Mitchell Green Points
N/S Section A - 6 Table E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
N/S Section B – 7 Table E/W
1st Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes 1st Geoff Cowan / Joy Block
2nd Janine Rodgers / Marilin Robins 2nd Susan Ross / Karen Caldwell

Saturday 8 November 2025 - Presidents Trophy Week 3 of 3 Red Points
1st Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
3rd Geoff Cowan / Joy Block 4th David Ting / Eric Goodchild

Saturday 8 November 2025 - Presidents Trophy Final - Red Points
1st Joy Robinson 2nd Geoff Taylor 3rd Marilin Robins 4th Ken Seaniger
5th Julie O’Neill 6th Ann Whitmore 7th Terry Seedy 8th Janine Rodgers
9th Helen V. D. Broek 10th Faye Wright 11th Annie Lynch 12th Diane Stokes

Contributed by Joy Block

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Joy Robinson, with playing partners left to right: Terry, Ken & Geoff

Presidents Trophy Winner Joy Robinson. Photos supplied

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It was a day of glamour, good humour, and great golf as players turned out for the club’s Melbourne Cup event, where the racing may have been on the screen, but the competition was fierce on the fairways.

Congratulations went to those lucky enough to win a share in the Melbourne Cup sweeps, and a big thank you was extended to everyone who helped make the day such a success — from those who donated food and prizes to the volunteers who kept things running smoothly.

The ever-popular Best Hat competition saw plenty of creativity on display, with Leanne Alexander and Barry Shuwalow taking out the honours for their standout race-day style.

On the course, conditions were hot and so were the scores. In the Stableford event, Tina Badenhorst topped the ladies’ field with 38 points, edging out Anna Winterbourn on 37. The rundown went to Robyn Whitham (34), Jenny Hounsell (33), and Leanne Alexander and Paula McQuat who both carded 32.

In the men’s division, Larry Muller led the way with 37 points, ahead of Peter Lindsay on 35. The rundown included John Grosskreutz (35), Ken Granger, Gary Scotford, Jim Sherrington, and Laurie Dakin all with 34, followed by Gerald Lovell (33) and both Nick Apruzzese and Barry Mortimer on 32.

Pin shots were claimed by:
Ladies: A Grade – Jenny Hounsell, Leanne Alexander (2); B Grade – Paula McQuat (2), Anna Winterbourn

Men: A Grade – Larry Muller, Norm Foster, Gary Scotford; B Grade – John Oates, John Strelec (2)

Chip-ins went to Gary Scotford and Mark Richards.

A terrific day all round — full of laughter, great golf, and a touch of Melbourne Cup magic.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Tina Badenhorst and Larry Muller. Photo supplied

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Just when it seemed things couldn’t get any better, both the weather and the bowls were sizzling at Airlie Beach this week.

Tuesday’s social bowls saw skipper Lyn Graham and lead Greg Fennell claim the Highest Winning Margin, dominating a strong field.

On Wednesday, 18 bowlers took to the green for another round of social triples. Tony “Take the Money” Whitehorn continued his hot streak alongside Alma Rose Zaldivar and Alan Pershouse, finishing as runaway winners.

Friday morning’s Endeavour Foundation session showed remarkable improvement from participants, with Cathy and Jett leading the way. Michael’s progress has been outstanding, and a sports wheelchair would help him reach his goal of representing the Whitsundays in next year’s Handicapped and Disabled Games.

Later that day, Christian College students showed surprising skill and enthusiasm. Teams featuring Annalise Kennelly, Myia Shimmen, Tamsyn Carus, Sophie Adams, Olive Burke, Eloise Mihailou, Charlotte Behnck, and Brooke Wilkinson all displayed natural talent and potential for future competition.

In the Club Championship, ladies singles champion Betty Whitehorn defeated men’s champion Manny Isgro in straight games to claim the 2025 Airlie Beach Bowls Club title — an impressive feat after a full day of coaching.

Saturday’s Scroungers final saw Betty continue her winning form, while Russell Jackson claimed the B Grade title. Tony Whitehorn later triumphed in the afternoon final, proving the Whitehorns are the pair to beat.

Sunday’s social bowls wrapped up the week, with Tony Kelly, Sue Dakin, and Lu Rogan finishing as standout winners.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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The newly crowned Club Champion Betty Whitehorn. Betty was given her trophy by Mae Secomb who was wonderful and in great spirits and welcomed by all attending members. Photo supplied

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It was looking very much like we might have insufficient teams for this year’s Memorial Day, with so many other events being held on the same weekend. We thank all those who chose to come and play bowls in our carnival.

Saturday morning brought more of the hot and steamy conditions we’ve been experiencing as we head into what looks to be a long, hot summer. The quality of bowls played by all twelve teams was extraordinary across all three games during the day. The clubhouse air conditioning was greatly appreciated during each of the breaks, and the water cooler certainly got a workout as players made every effort to maintain both their performance and their hydration.

Before getting to the scores, a huge vote of thanks must go to those who have worked tirelessly over the past couple of months to rectify drainage issues, remove and reinstall all new rink edging, and increase the height of the external ditches — which also involved replacing ditch rubbers, building up the surrounding edges, and raising the sprinkler heights. This, combined with laser levelling, topdressing, and aerating, has produced a green that not only looks great but runs beautifully and stands up to whatever the weather throws at it. The efforts of these individuals are deeply appreciated. Without a quality green, we can’t attract bowlers or develop the consistency, accuracy, and confidence needed to achieve high standards of play.

Thanks also go to everyone who helped in the lead-up to and on the day of the carnival to ensure everything ran so smoothly. The greens played beautifully, the food was delicious and well presented, the clubhouse was comfortable, and the music kept everyone smiling, singing along — and even dancing on the green! The bar was well stocked and efficiently run, and despite starting just ten minutes behind schedule, we managed to stay on track throughout the day.

Results:
Fourth place went to the RSL team of Martin Lee, Tim Brook, Steve Christensen, and Grant Edmonds with two wins plus 10 points.

Third place was a mixed team of Kendall Watts and Gavin Noonan (Proserpine) with Maryann Harrigan and Wayne Handley (Souths Suburban), finishing with two wins plus 27.

Second place went to the Airlie Beach team of Noel Crosbie, Carol Crosbie, Andrew Butler, and Ladda Purdie, with three wins plus 21.

This year’s winners were a mixed team of Philip Brown, Heather Brown, and Grahame Kinnear (Proserpine), joined by Charmayne Sleeman, who has been playing at Souths Suburban and will move to Northern Beaches in 2026.

We thank all the players who joined us on the green, representing clubs from Proserpine, Airlie Beach, Mackay, Northern Beaches, Souths Suburban, and Wangaratta. It’s always wonderful to catch up with familiar faces and to meet new players we might not often get the chance to play with or against.

A reminder that our AGM will be held on Sunday, November 23, starting at 10am. It would be lovely to see all our members make the effort to attend and mark it firmly in their calendars.

With the greens open again, Social Bowls has returned on Wednesdays and Sunday afternoons. This Wednesday, November 12, play will begin at 1.30pm, before we move to summertime hours from Sunday, November 16. Summertime bowls will see names in and afternoon tea at 2.30pm, with play on the green from 3pm to around 5pm — sometimes a little later if a 21-end game is close.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Winners of 2025 Memorial Day Carnival Heather Brown, Charmayne Sleeman, Grahame Kinnear and Philip Brown with Club Chairman Mike Harrison. Photo supplied

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