Sports

Mackay Netballers Bring Home Sportsmanship Honours From NZ

Mackay Netballers Bring Home Sportsmanship Honours From NZ

Two Mackay State High School netball teams have returned from an international competition in New Zealand with both sides recognised for their outstanding sportsmanship. The teams travelled across the school holidays to compete in the International Netball Festival, where both received the Sportsmanship Award, voted on by umpires after every game. A representative from Mackay State High School said both teams finished with an impressive 23 points, reflecting the way players conducted themselves both on and off the court. The representative said the players consistently demonstrated the school's values of Respect, Resilience and Pride, with umpires approaching coaches throughout the competition to commend the girls on their conduct. “The umpires kept coming up to coaches to tell us how much of a pleasure our girls were to umpire, how polite, fair, and kind they are and we couldn’t think of a better impact or legacy for our girls to have,” the representative said. Finals day saw the two Mackay teams face each other once again, with Purple narrowly taking the win over Pink. Purple went on to secure another hard-fought victory to finish fifth overall, while Pink narrowly lost its final match to finish seventh. The school also paid tribute to its departing Year 12 players, recognising their efforts throughout the tournament and their contribution to the academy. “To our departing Year 12s — what a way to finish! You gave absolutely everything on the court and played your hearts out. We could not have asked for a better group of girls to lead our academy this year,” the representative said. The school congratulated every player on their dedication, commitment, sportsmanship and positive attitude throughout the trip, with Miss Nixon, Miss Allen and Mr O’Brien expressing their pride in the way the students conducted themselves and represented the school. Photo source: Mackay SHS

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Mackay Runner Claims Benita Willis Trophy

Mackay Runner Claims Benita Willis Trophy

Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse RUNNING The annual Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy was run and won in warm conditions from Bluewater Lagoon on Sunday morning. Runners competed for the prestigious trophy based on their official handicap times, with the first male or female runner across the finish line taking home the title. Jared Mackie claimed the 2026 championship after producing an impressive run, overtaking the field despite starting from a relatively high handicap. Mackie, who was described as a deserving winner, had overcome a serious injury earlier this year and worked hard to return to running. He was also recognised for his support of fellow runners, particularly within his Rules of Running training group, where he stepped into the coaching role while the group's main coach was seriously ill for several months. Last year's winner, Max Miles, also put in a consistent performance to finish second behind Mackie. In the 5km event, Craig Malcolm took the win ahead of Natasha Joynson and Craig Joynson, with fellow club member Jo Hughes also delivering a strong performance. Other notable performances came from junior 10km runner Harry Sleeman, Chloe Malcolm, Phoebe Short, Scott Sleeman and Gem Wender. The event was sponsored by Spine Care Chiropractic, led by George Hannaford, who has supported the annual event for several years and continues to support the club and wider community. The Benita Willis event marked the final formal event on the Mackay Road Runners' 2026 calendar, with next Sunday's mystery run to be held as a social event ahead of the club's Awards and Presentation Night on October 24th. Meanwhile, the club's informal off-season program will begin on the first Sunday afternoon in November, with the Shawn's Splash and Dash Social Summer Series starting at 4.30pm at the Aquatic and Recreation Complex (ARC). The series will include 30 minutes on the track followed by 30 minutes in the pool. Entry to the facility is $5, payable at the pool kiosk before accessing the track. A gold coin donation towards post-run and swim Zooper Doopers would also be appreciated, with the social sessions open to everyone, including non-members. 8417 – 2026 Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10k Handicap Trophy winner Jared Mackie with his parents Gail and Clinton Mackie 8419 – Over 60 competitors and supporters enjoying the event which had a post run sausage sizzle, cash & vouchers donated by Spine Care Chiropractic. 8210 – Alan Zamparutti and Tim Magoffin 8416 – Jared Mackie with last year’s winner, Max Miles (and was 2nd this year – very consistent) 8224 – Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10k Handicap Trophy & 5km runners (left to right) Chloe Malcolm, Bec Malcolm, Craig Malcolm (5k winner) and Levi Wallace 8219 – David Isbister, Ollie Gorrion and Stuart Sprott catch up prior to racing the Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10k Handicap Trophy + 5k 8413 – Timekeeper, Rohan Miles (left) with competitors, Max Miles (front) and Ashley Miles (rear) 8274 – Majella Sleeman and Lucas Sleeman cheering on family members Scott and Harry running in the 10km event. 8397 – Highest handicapped runner in the 10k, Justin Rule set a sizzling pace in the warm conditions. Photos supplied by Mackay Road Runners

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Mackay Players Make Their Mark At Australian Pickleball Championships

Mackay Players Make Their Mark At Australian Pickleball Championships

Seven Mackay pickleball players took to the courts at the Australian Pickleball Championships on the Gold Coast from September 29th to October 4th, joining more than 1,300 players from across Australia. Jess Brass, Bec Labbett, Brett Walz, Chris Barbour, Jamie Duncan, Rob Vella and Troy Debondi all competed across a range of singles and doubles divisions throughout the tournament. Brass had a standout week, claiming gold in the 19+ Women’s Singles 4.0+ division and silver in the 19+ and Open Women’s Skinny Singles 3.5 and above division. Labbett also secured a podium finish, winning bronze alongside doubles partner Carollyn Darby in the Split Age Women’s Doubles 4.5-4.99 division. Walz competed in Men’s Singles and Men’s Doubles, while Barbour contested Men’s Singles, Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles. Duncan competed in Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles, with Vella taking part in Men’s Singles and Men’s Doubles. Debondi competed across Men’s Singles, Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles. The championships attracted 1,338 registered players and, according to Pickleball Australia, were the largest pickleball tournament in the Southern Hemisphere. Pickleball Mackay President Brett Walz said it was great to see so many players from around Australia competing in the tournament. “It was a highlight to see players from Mackay winning medals at the event.” Seven Mackay pickleball players competed at the Australian Pickleball Championships on the Gold Coast, with Jess Brass and Bec Labbett bringing home three medals. Photo source: Pickleball Mackay ‍

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MACKAY TABLE TENNIS FIXTURE RESULTS

MACKAY TABLE TENNIS FIXTURE RESULTS

Welcome to Season 4 and to our new players. Our Evening Fixtures has begun and if you are interested in coming for a hit our Centre is open for Social play on Thursday (5:30pm-8pm), Friday and Sunday (8:30am-12noon), please check our website for further details. Tuesday Evening Fixtures Division 1: Master Servers (Steve Whiting, Robbie Richards, Will VanDeKaa) snuck home 6-5 against Lords of the Pings (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan), Steve came back to outlast Anne in close 5 sets (2,7,-6,-6,6). Return Ruters (Emma Widdup, Graham Brake, Syed Hossain) won 7-4 Net Gains (Barry Patterson, Janice Kent, Duncan Treloar), Janice won a marathon over Graham B (6,-9,-7,8,12). Smash Masters (Trent Day, Donna Abbott, Mark Sleeman) had a close win 6-5 over Lob Legends (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Tony Bowman), Josh came back in 5th set against Donna to win ((-4,4,8,-9,10). One Hit Wonders (Geoff Cowan, Yilin Jiang) One Hit Wonders (Geoff Cowan, Yilin Jiang) defeated King Pong (Geoff Denman, Graeme Walker) 3-2, with both teams missing there top players, it was the battle the Geoff’s but Geoff D overcome Geoff C (-2,-6,10,10,9). Division 2: Better Call Pong (Dilini Ranasinghe, Liz Burton, Lachlan Loy) got home against Lobstoppers (Rod Mahumas, Logan Brown) 7-4, Logan came back after loosing first set against Liz to win in 4 sets (-9,9,7,9). Ping It On (George Camilleri, Jeff Binnington, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Miss Hits (Delma Knight, Tiffany Camilleri, Mark Bowerman) 7-4, Delma was lucky to get home against Rachel in 5 sets (6,-10,-7,6,9). The Soft Serves (David Symons, Noreen Fredericksen, Mark Stam) defeated Spin Masters (Ricky Zhan, Ollie Hamelink) 7-4, Ollie was to strong for Noreen winning in 5 sets (-6,-4,9,6,10). Racket Scientists (Ian McKay, Peter Goodson, Collin Yuis) Racket Scientists (Ian McKay, Peter Goodson, Collin Yuis) won over Serve Squad (Simon Hogan, Daniel Warfield, Craig VanDeKaa) 9-2, with no 5 set matches Ian had a close match against Daniel (-8,8,8,13). Tuesday Morning Fixtures will be starting next week. Ollie Hamelink. Photo supplied

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Health Busters

PBR Season Wraps Up In Townsville

August 24, 2023

The season finale of the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Australia came down to the wire in the Championship Round with Singleton’s Cody Heffernan claiming both the PBR Monster Energy Tour Grand Finals event title and the 2022 PBR Australia National title.

Starting the event 72.5 points behind reigning champion Aaron Kleier of Clermont, Heffernan dominated night two covering all three of his bulls in front of a sold-out crowd at the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre.

The 33-year-old put on a bull riding masterclass that kept the entire arena on their feet and asserted his dominance on the sport’s biggest night.

The Townsville crowd were on the edge of their seats after Kleier posted a 90-point ride on Mystery.

The 2021 YETI Bull of the Year was tamed by Heffernan, garnering him 92 points, the highest score of the event.

Heffernan then earned the highest score of the night with 92, launching him into first place on the event leaderboard.

The Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre held its collective breath when finding out whether Kleier, the 24-year-old from Clermont, would claim a fifth consecutive national title or if Heffernan would earn his second golden buckle.

Ultimately just 2.5 points separated the two riders, with Heffernan reigning supreme and taking home the title and the $68,500 pay-day.

“I can’t really remember it, I was just hanging on,” Heffernan said of his ride on Cattle King Boogers Beach.

“I knew I had to ride him and do anything after Aaron rode that bull (Mystery).

“I just knew I had to ride him if I wanted to have a shot at winning it.”

In the bull pen, Bloomsbury’s Dittmann Bucking Bulls capped off a dominant year, taking home the YETI Grand Finals Bulls Team, Contractor of the Year and Roid Rage taking out the YETI Finals High Point Bull of the Event as well as Bucking Bull of the Year.

“He’s been an outstanding bull,” team owner Jason Dittmann said of Roid Rage.

“He’s become pretty special to us.

“I can’t ask any more of that bull, we love him.

“The whole team’s been good all year.

“I can’t ask any more of the bulls and even my team here, my family, everyone who helps out, I can’t ask for more.

“Everyone gives 100 percent, I’m so happy.”

Koumala’s Qynn Andersen was also crowned Rookie Rider of the Year, finishing fourth on the national standings on 645 points.

PBR Monster Energy Tour Grand Finals

Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre – Townsville, Queensland

Event Leaders (Round 1-Round 2-Round 3-Round 4-Round 5-Event Aggregate-Event Points)

1. Cody Heffernan, 0-0-86.5-87.5-92-266.00-160 Points.

2. Lachlan Richardson, 84-84.25-85.75-0-0-254.00-116 Points.

3. Aaron Kleier, 82-0-0-0-90-172.00-85 Points.

4. Jake Curr, 80.75-86-0-0-0-166.75-67 Points.

5. Brock Radford, 0-87.5-0-0-0-87.50-60 Points.

6. Qynn Andersen, 0-87-0-0-0-87.00-45 Points.

7. Lachlan Slade, 0-86-0-0-86.00-29 Points.

8. Kurt Shephard, 0-0-0-85-0-85.00-22.5 Points.

8. Nick Tetz, 85-0-0-0-0-85.00-27.5 Points.

10. Michael Smith, 0-0-83.5-0-83.50-12 Points.

11. Clint Glass, 0-0-0-83-83.00-10 Points.

12. Braith Nock, 0-0-82.75-0-0-82.75-8 Points.

13. Kelsey Pavlou, 0-0-82-0-0-82.00-6 Points.

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Image 1: Cody Heffernen andPBR Australia General Manager Glen Young

Image 2: Cody Heffernan onboard 'Cattle King Boogers Beach' for 92pts

Image 3: Aaron Kleier and'Russian Roulette' for 82pts in the first go-round

Image 4: Jason Dittmann ofDittmann Bucking Bulls and his sons. Photos supplied

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St Pat’s Sporting Reps Some Of The Best In The State

August 24, 2023

Six of Mackay’s sporting best – that aptly sums up the St Patrick’s College Queensland Honour Roll for 2022.

Tokyo Olympic Games swimming triallist Tom Henderson heads an impressive list of St Patrick’s students that left their mark in the sporting arena this year with outstanding performances at national level.

Backstroke sensation Henderson was joined by Mackay Meteorettes basketball forward Charli Bliss, State hockey aces Haiden Mellifont and Kaleb Mayfield, Queensland Schoolgirls cricket all-rounder Meghan McCartney and softball young gun James Allen.

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17-year-old HENDERSON – a product of the Mackay Swimming Academy – represented Queensland with distinction at the 2022 National Swimming Championships and Australian Age Swimming Championships in Adelaide and National Short Course Swimming titles in Sydney.

At this year’s National Schools Swimming Championships in Brisbane, Tom collected bronze medals in the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke events and was part of the crack Queensland Open relay teams that won gold and broke two Australian records.

Tom also clinched gold in the 17yrs Boys 200m backstroke at the Australian Age Championships.

Under the tutelage of legendary coach Pat Wright – who has trained Olympians including Linda Mackenzie, Justin James, Nick Ffrost and Geoff Huegill – the emerging Henderson is somewhat of a late bloomer in the sport of swimming.

He showed promise in rugby league and Surf Lifesaving before taking his swimming seriously at the age of 12.

Last season at the age of 16 the exciting backstroke prospect participated in the Tokyo Olympic trials in Adelaide, gaining valuable experience and competing against his swimming idol Mitch Larkin, one of the current Australian Olympic golden boys.

If Tom continues his rapid development in the pool then the sky’s the limit for the Mackay schoolboy who is now well on the radar for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

CHARLI BLISS is touted as one of the best basketball forward prospects in Queensland and showed her credentials at the National Under 18 Championships in Ballarat earlier this year and with Mackay Meteorettes in the NBL1 competition.

A local product, Bliss has represented the Meteorettes since the age of 12 and was also named in this year’s Queensland North State Under 18 team and the Basketball Queensland 2022/23 Under 18 State Performance Program (SPP).

The SPP is Basketball Queensland’s second tier high-performance program for players aged under 16 and under 18, which has seen identified athletes go on to represent Queensland and Australia, play in both the NBL and WNBL and secure college scholarships in the United States.

To prepare herself for elite basketball, the fast-developing Charli participated in a six-week intensive training program before returning to her club side Renegades and making an impact in the Mackay Basketball Association.

JAMES ALLEN has made every post a winner in the sport of softball this season.

The outstanding catcher was co-captain of the Queensland Under 16 representative team that finished runners up to NSW during this year’s National Softball Junior Championships staged in Blacktown, Sydney.

A powerful batter, James caught superbly and hit several home runs to help the Maroons down the Blues in three entertaining tussles throughout the tournament – only to watch his Queensland team stumble at the final hurdle for the Arthur Allsopp Shield.  

As a reward for his polished displays, young Allen was named the Most Valuable Player of the championships.  

QUEENSLAND Schoolgirls representative cricket captain Meghan McCartney is a young all-rounder in a big hurry.

The 17-year-old Brothers Cricket Club product continues to shine in both the junior and senior grade mens ranks and has just linked with the Valley Cricket Club in the Brisbane Womens Premier League first grade competition.

Meghan, a stylish top order bat and prolific pace bowler, skippered the Maroons schoolgirls in the annual interstate challenge fixtures with NSW and racked up some big scores and took a bulk of wickets during the drawn series earlier this year on the Sunshine Coast.

The Capricornia representative captain piloted St Patrick’s/Mercy College to a Queensland State Twenty20 Schools Challenge championship title last October and is freely tipped to earn selection in the Queensland Country womens team for the upcoming National Country Cricket Championships to be staged in Canberra during January.

DYNAMIC hockey duo Haiden Mellifont and Kaleb Mayfield are firmly established in the current Hockey Queensland Under 18 State squad for 2022-23.

The 16-year-old Capricornia schoolboy reps hail from the strong Mackay Hockey Association and turned in consistent displays at an elite level this season.

Young gun Haiden was named in the Queensland Representative School Sport 19yrs Hockey Merit Team and claimed the Best & Fairest trophy for his superb performances in this year’s Mackay Hockey A2 Mens competition.

Mellifont and Mayfield impressed keen judges with classy displays for Queensland Gold at the Hockey Australia Under 18 Championships in Cairns earlier this year.

By Chris Karas

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Mackay Hosts Indoor Hockey’s Best

August 24, 2023

The last two weekends saw an influx of the state’s best U13 indoor hockey players in Mackay, with the sugar city hosting the 2022 U13 Indoor State Championships Boys from November 18 to 20 and Girls from November 25-27.

The tournaments were hosted by Mackay Indoor Hockey Committee at Pioneer State High School and saw over 200 people come to Mackay each weekend.

“Both tournaments were really successful,” said indoor Hockey Mackay’s Shelley Fisher.

“It’s great to have those young kids coming through to support and encourage that generation of future indoor hockey players.”

The first weekend saw the Mackay Boys finish their pool stage in third with one win, one loss and a draw.

“They were actually pretty unlucky, they missed a chance for the final in a penalty shootout,” said Ms Fisher.

The Boys came up against Brisbane 2 in the third-place playoff, defeating the visitors 5-2 to claim third in the tournament behind Rockhampton in first place and Toowoomba in second.

Mackay’s Hunter Herrington and Aston Paganoni finished the tournament with six goals each with Hunter named Player of the Tournament.

It was the Girls’ turn the next weekend, with the hosts finishing fifth after five tough losses throughout the tournament.

Maggie Collins starred, scoring two goals over the weekend.

Toowoomba claimed first in the state in the Girls followed by Maryborough and Cairns.

“All the kids, they had a great time, it’s competitive, but they all have fun which at that age is probably what’s most important for us,” said Ms Fisher.

Ms Fisher said the tournament couldn’t go ahead without the work of the Mackay Indoor Hockey Committee.

“It’s all volunteer based, it’s a massive amount of work for both those weekends but it’s great for the town, it’s great for indoor hockey and we love hosting it,” she said.

Photo credit: BVM Visuals

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Queensland Country Rep Jumpers For Star Trio

August 24, 2023

Image: Queensland Country Under 17 squad

   

Boom St Patrick’s College Mackay rugby league colts Xavier Kerrisk, Jaxon Purdue and Kai Simon were officially recognised in 2022 by earning Queensland Country Under 17 representative jumpers.  

The talented trio – who enjoyed tremendous success at schoolboy and Junior League level this season – produced strong performances to help Country topple Queensland City 38-20 in the annual Under 17s challenge at Redcliffe’s Moreton Daily Stadium.  

It was a fine achievement by the St Patrick’s students and North Queensland Cowboys scholarship recipients who captured the imagination of senior rugby league officials with their skill and durability during a hectic sporting calendar.  

Wily hooker Kerrisk scored one of Country’s six tries and dynamic centre Simon bagged a personal tally of 14 points after potting seven goals.  

The representative honours capped a big fortnight for the dynamic Simon and Kerrisk, who had earlier captained the Wanderers club to an Under 17s premiership win over Purdue’s Norths Devils in the Mackay & District Junior League competition.  

All three were key players for the St Patrick’s College first grade team that reached both the Confraternity Shield and Aaron Payne Cup Schoolboy Grand Finals during a momentous 2022 campaign.

Emerging number nine Kerrisk and skilful half back Purdue will attend a special camp in Townsville during December as part of the Cowboys Young Bucks squad.

Other promising St Patrick’s rugby league colts invited include top forwards Liam Doherty, Matthew Watts, gun centre Kai Simon (Under 21 Young Guns) and lock forward Kayne Smith and classy utility back Will Shears (Young Bucks).

Simon is pictured back row second from right in this Queensland Country Under 17 representative team photo with Kerrisk and Purdue (seated second and far right).

The Cowboys will set up an Indentified Players Capricornia Academy to develop the skills and prepare emerging talent for the rigours of NRL football.  

Identified St Patrick’s players will receive specialised league tuition during clinics from Cowboys’ full time coaching staff at the Mackay school grounds throughout the year.  

The Cowboys would help develop these players’ core skills, game sense, techniques and physical ability to compete at a higher level.  

By Chris Karas

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On The Greens At Goosies

August 24, 2023

Last Saturday was the annual Men’s Presidents Day. A big field of 48 players including past president and past patron Barry O’Neil took part in a most enjoyable afternoon. Prizes were presented by President Eric, with first prize going to Greg McLean and Vern Mietzel. A triples team of visitor Geoff Davis with Doug Dungavell and Ray McCarthy came second. Several raffles were drawn, and a great day was had by all members.

Monday mixed pairs draw was won by Doug Dungavell and Peter Miller. Second draw winners were Eric Galletly and Peter Cowling and the third draw was won by Greg McLean and Dave Evans.

Wednesday ladies’ winners were Lurline Ford and Cheryle Corbett, with Sue Roscoe, Doris Dodds and Lois Deguara in second place.

Thursday mixed pairs first draw was taken out by Helen Goldston, and Lyn Tennant. Second draw winners were Anne Bailey and Barry Mount. Greens vouchers were won by Mick Walsh, Graeme Hawke and Shane Trannore.  The kitty toucher jackpots.

Friday mixed pairs best card winners were Lois Deguara and Isla Comelli who took home $75 each. Lucky draw winners were Debbie Mackenzie and Jean Zamparutti with Wayne Mietzel and Andrew Coates next. The kitty toucher was not won.

Contributed by Tony Allsop.

Images: President Eric Galletly mans the box on Saturday

             President Eric Galletly is backed by many players on Presidents Day last Saturday

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Dylan Wins Australian Plate

August 24, 2023

Image 1: Dylan Secher finished 8th in the country in the 11-year boys at the Auscycling BMX National Championships

Image 2: A large contingent of Mackay BMX riders travelled to Launceston for the event. Photos supplied

Mackay BMX rider Dylan Secher has finished 8th in the country in the 11-year boys at the Auscycling BMX National Championships held in Launceston last week.

Dylan competed against 44 of the best 11-year boys from all over Australia.

He placed 2nd in his first moto and then went on to win his following 2 motos, to progress to the quarter finals, which he also won convincingly.

From there he progressed to the semi-finals, also placing first.

This earned his spot in the finals, where he placed 8th.

The Mackay and District BMX Club member is fairly new to the sport and has only been competing for 2 years.

Dylan’s brother Beau also competed at the National Championships along with Mackay riders Liam Wilson, Travis Chilton, Aidan Parish, Bailey Smith, Tyler Smith, Connor Parish, Brodie Wilson and Brock de Silva.

Contributed by Michelle Tickle

Final Results For Mackay and District BMX Club Riders

Superclass

27th (quarters) Brock de Silva

Junior Superclass

12th (semis) Connor Parish

25th (quarters) Brodie Wilson  

42nd Tyler Smith

9 Boys

21st (quarters) Liam Wilson

10 Boys

40th Beau Secher

11 Boys

8A Dylan Secher

11th (semis) Travis Chilton

14 Boys

15th (semis) Bailey Smith

23rd Aiden Parish

15 Boys

24th Tyler Smith

16 Boys

13th (semis) Connor Parish

29th Brodie Wilson  

17-24 Men

15th (semis)  Brock de Silva

8 - 10 Cruiser Boys

19th (quarters) Liam Wilson

23rd Beau Secher

10- 11 Cruiser Boys

30th Dylan Secher

13-14 Cruiser Boys

14th Aiden Parish

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Airlie Beach Swim School By Danielle Celebrates 10 Years

August 24, 2023

Marking a decade of teaching the children of the Whitsundays how to swim, Airlie Beach Swim School by Danielle has carved out a reputation for quality instruction and dedication to safety while nurturing the unique personalities of each child.

Taking home three national awards over the past few years, they were awarded Best Swim Safer Swim School in Australia for their advanced system which sees them run a Swim Safer Week each term instead of once a year.

“Living so close to the ocean and with swimming part of our everyday lives here in the Whitsundays, it is so important for all children to learn how to swim safely in the water,” said owner, Danielle Shea.

The PJ Masks National Swim Safer Week took place last week and students learnt how to pull themselves out of the water wearing clothes, what to do if they accidentally fell in and the importance of not jumping in to rescue a friend, among many other safety tips.

Having also won the Swim Australia Swim Teacher of the Year in 2021, Danielle has reached the pinnacle of her career and frequently travels the country giving informational talks for Swim Australia.

Celebrating 10 years in business, Airlie Beach Swim School by Danielle is inviting everyone in the community to come down to their pool party on Saturday December 10 from 12pm – there will be the Rilo ice-cream van – bring your swimmers along for some fun in the pool.

You can also register for the school holiday five-day Intensive Week from December 12-16 and enrol for term 1, January 2023 on the day.

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Last week’s Swim Safer Week

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Christmas Festivities For Pioneer Swim Club

August 24, 2023

Image: The end of year festivities have begun for Pioneer Swim Club. Photo credit: Trevor Seedwell

The Festive Season has been welcomed with a bang by Pioneer Swim Club.  

The past week has seen our final Club Night for 2022 where our annual Christmas Party was enjoyed by all swimmers as well as our Club travelling to Bowen for the last carnival for 2022 and more Christmas fun.

The last Club Night for 2022 was held Thursday, November 24.  

All swimmers received a gift from the club and many swimmers acknowledged for results achieved at recent meets and those travelling to Queensland Championships in December.

Fun then transpired with the parents’ race (with a side of heckling), parents versus kids relays and an inflatable relay.

The Bowen Carnival holds a special status for our club – although a small meet, it is one that our club does not like to miss.

Over 40 swimmers travelled to enjoy not only a weekend full of swimming, sun, beach and exceptional results but also more Christmas festivities.  

Coach Igor took on the role of Santa handing out gifts to each of the children and a Christmas feast then followed.

The Club will now break for a few weeks, but will be back in the New Year, Club Nights recommencing on 5 January.

Pioneer Swimming Club wishes all its members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy holiday.

Contributed by Tahnie Malagueno

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Bowen’s Beau Willis Competes In PBR Finals

August 24, 2023

Bowen local Beau Willis competed in the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Grand Finals held in Townsville last Friday night.

Having spent 15 years competing professionally in the sport, the 32-year-old Willis has achieved the rank of 106th in the world.

Knowing he wanted to be a bull-rider from the age of six, Willis participated in the high school rodeo and has since travelled the world, competing professionally and going up against the best in New Zealand, Mexico, America, and Malaysia.

Ranked within the top 18 in the country, Willis recently made the APRA (Australian Professional Rodeo Association) finals in Rockhampton earlier this year.

Last weekend, however, was the main event for the Bowen-born lad at the PBR Grand Finals.

Going into the event with a hand injury, Willis tried his best but unfortunately was thrown off the bronc each time.

Despite the setback, Beau is forging onwards and looking forward to the next event.

Determined to bring bull riding back to Bowen, he is currently raising funds to bring an annual rodeo to the famed mango town.

To do this he will need to re-build the arena at the Showgrounds, turning it into a multi-sport complex.

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Beau Willis competing

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Mackay Contract Bridge Club

August 24, 2023

Weekly Results

Monday saw the playing of a B4 Red Points event. Winners Janelle Conroy & Terrence Sheedy, followed by Helen Van Den Broek & Jan Harris. Sunday was the final Novice monthly Sunday for 2022, winners Faith Hutchinson & Griffin Bancroft, followed by Geoff Cowan & Sandy Patterson.

Monday 21 November 22 – 7 Table One Winner B4 – Red Points

1st Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy

2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

3rd Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

4th Ian Cruickshank / Maria Cruickshank

5th Robert (Bob) Ellis / Noel Bugeia

6th Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait

Tuesday Evening 22 November 22 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Terrence Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

2nd Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia

3rd Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

4th Diane Morgan / Sandy Patterson

Wednesday 23 November 22 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd Richard Wix / Geoff Taylor

3rd Noel Bugeia / Doone Mitchell

4th Joy Brunette / Don Poole

E/W

1st Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait

2nd Ian Cruickshank / Antonia Tarradas

3rd Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley

Thursday Evening 24 November 2022 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Ken Seaniger / Terrence Sheedy

2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

3rd Jan Harris / Sandy Patterson

4th Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

Friday 25 November 22 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Monica Darley / Griffin Bancroft

2nd Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill

2nd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

4th Marie McGuire / Diane Stokes

5th Richard Wix / Janine Rodgers

Saturday 26 November 22 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

1st Doone Mitchell / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Broek

3rd Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris

4th Annie Lynch / Diane Stokes

1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2nd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

3rd Frances Brown / Alan Brown

4th Julie O’Neill / Richard Wix

Sunday 27 November 22 – 4 Table One Winner Novice Play

1st Faith Hutchinson / Griffin Bancroft

2nd Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

3rd Robert Carless / Diane Stokes

4th Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell

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Airlie Beach Parkrun

August 24, 2023

This week 62 motivated people ran, jogged and walked the 5km waterfront course, of whom 8 were first timers and 5 recorded new Personal Bests. Well done to Mikayla, Robert, Mark, Duanne and Lilliana. There were no new milestones to celebrate.

The event was made possible by 16 amazing volunteers: Nick, Kara, Maree (run director) Chris, Sylvie, Margaret, Greg, Nathalie (photographer), Shane, Michael, Jess, Lilliana, Laura, Ken, Lynne and Joanne.

Airlie Beach parkrun started on 5th December 2015. Since then 4,361 participants have completed 22,732 parkruns covering a total distance of 113,660 km, including 2,644 new Personal Bests. A total of 365 individuals have volunteered 3,231 times.

Every Saturday Airlie Beach parkrun meets at 6:50am for a briefing at area D, Coral Sea Marina (adjacent to the top carpark). Parking is free in the lower carpark till 9:30am if a parkrun barcode is placed on the dashboard. Post parkrun coffee and chat is held at My Rainbow Bakery, Shingley Beach.

There are no winners at parkrun and nobody comes last – the Tail walkers do. Regular participation is rewarded rather than performance, with ‘parkrun milestone shirts’ available to people to recognise their achievements in coming along.

Contributed with thanks to Airlie Beach parkrun

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Parkrun fun!

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Airlie Bowls News

August 24, 2023

This week, Manny Isgro entered the finals at Pioneer Valley and Luke Kinnear and Warren Mills performed well in Mackay.

Tuesday afternoon bowls saw Lyn Graham and Ladda Purdie running away from all other players to win on the day.

Wednesday afternoon Jackpot Bowls was also hotly contested and arranged evenly by Merve Stewart.

Skipper Tony Whitehorn, however, had other ideas and, teaming with Elaine Kippen, beat a star studded field for the prize money and Graham Cowling was delighted to win the prestigious Health Hub Award.

Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls is coming to an exciting conclusion with Airlie Splash of Colour (consisting of Brett Simpson, Matt Francis , Dan Grant and Ricky Parker) defeated for the first time by an amazing display of teamwork from skipper Glenn Frederiksen, Keith Dornoch and their team from Whitsunday Gold Coffee.

Wins to Blockheads, Hadlow Racing , Tuk Tuks and Woolies mean they can all win the coveted trophy.

Saturday morning Scroungers had its finale for the year with Graham Cowling winning the last spot for the semi-finals over Juanita Matterson and Steve Lawrie.

After the semi-finals, we were left with Andy McDougall, Nik Fernbach and Mark Mawson.

However, no one could stop Andy McDougall who ran away with the first prize.

Sunday afternoon saw Mario De Martini playing absolutely sensational bowls to run away with the prize and Lu Rogan winning the prestigious Health Hub award.

Late last week we also welcomed our new club Manager Phil Compling, owner of the Malpas Hotel in Home Hill, who will be using his years in the industry to make the club bigger and brighter so stay tuned for some amazing news to come.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Finalists of Scroungers 2022: Mark Mawson, Andy McDougall and Nik Fernbach

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Bowen Bowls Club

August 24, 2023

Wednesday Social Bowls winners at Bowen Bowls Club were Paula Welsted, Jane Gilbert, and Jeff Tierney, with the trio defeating David Moodie, Gavin Charles, and Allen Williams.

Peter Wilson, Lorraine McArthur, Peter Bruce, and Daryl Tuttle joined the winners’ circle, defeating Mary Ellen Pratten, Peter Thomson, Ross Scanlon, and Steve Roome.

Sunday Scroungers Winners were Jill Brabon, Peter Bruce, Daryl Tuttle, and Daryl O’Connell.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards

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Sunday Scroungers Winners Jill Brabon, Peter Bruce, Daryl Tuttle, and Daryl O’Connell

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Wangaratta Bowls Club

August 24, 2023

On Tuesday, Bron Tolcher, Penny Warren, and Margaret Wilson defeated Deb Retchless, Irene Laird, and Mark Drummond to begin the week at Wangaratta Bowls Club.

The final of Men’s Triples was played on Saturday, which was won by Laurie Land, Kevin Daniels, and Barry Beel after defeating Greg Colquhoun, Peter Hinschen, and Geoff Danvers. This concluded club competition for the year.

On Sunday our bowls sections’ AGMs were conducted, with thanks  to club members who took on executive positions to continue the successful running of the club for 2023.

Congratulations to new Ladies President Margaret Wilson and Men’s President Mark Drummond.

After a High Tea and presentation, members enjoyed a game of bowls. Winners for the afternoon were Irene Laird and Geoff Danvers defeated Isobel Wheeler and Sugar Brunker.

Other winners were Deb Retchless, Penny Warren, and Kennedy Whitton defeated Bill Myers, Lyn Danvers, and Pat Tracey.

Laurie Land, Margaret Wilson, and Greg Colquhoun joined the winners’ circle too, defeating Sue Shearing, Robyn Stitt, and Allan Rolfe, Bron Tolcher, Linda Scells, and Mark Drummond claimed a victory as well, beating out Russell Tolcher, Peter Warren, and Ted Evans.

The club’s social bowls will continue as normal on Tuesday and Sunday afternoons, with names needing to be in by 1pm for a 1.30pm start.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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2023 Ladies’ and Men’s Presidents Margaret Wilson and Mark Drummond

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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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