Sports

Local Runners Conquer Mt Pleasant Hills Ahead Of King And Queen Of The Mountain

Local Runners Conquer Mt Pleasant Hills Ahead Of King And Queen Of The Mountain

Runners get ready for the start of Jo’s 61 steps in very cool but sunny conditions. Photo supplied ‍Local runners took on the Mackay Road Runners Jo's 61 Steps event on Sunday morning, tackling challenging 5km and 10km courses through the steep streets of Mt Pleasant. ‍Despite the event's name, organisers joked it had since been confirmed there were actually 70 steps, with good-natured blame placed on the absent club president for the earlier miscount. ‍The course wound through Annie Wood Avenue, Pollock and High streets, and Norris Road, starting from Gordon White Library. ‍Fresh from the Gold Coast Marathon, Alana Knezevic was the first runner across the finish line after opting for the 5km course as she prepares for the Sydney Marathon in five weeks' time. Congratulations were also extended to local athletes who competed in the Airlie Running Festival, where ideal conditions greeted runners in the Whitsundays. ‍Sunday 26th July Make this your must-do event next weekend, with all participants welcome—there's no need to be a member of the Mackay Road Runners or Mackay Cycling Club. ‍Events include the M-Test Open King & Queen of the Mountain (6.4km), the Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Under 18 Junior King & Queen of the Mountain (3km), and the Torque Tyres & Trailers Cycle Race(6.4km). All events begin at 7am, following a one-minute silence in memory of talented triathlete Laura Pettifer, who tragically passed away in 2008 following a downhill cycling training ride. ‍The course starts at Netherdale and finishes at the Eungella Chalet. Runners must register online by 6pm on Saturday 25th July, while cyclists should refer to the registration link for contact details. ‍Organisers look forward to welcoming participants to the challenging but rewarding annual event, with post-race celebrations at the Eungella Chalet, where breakfast will be available for purchase. A special thank you was also extended to Tess and the team for their hospitality. ‍Contributed by Janelle Tilse ‍

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A WELL-DESERVED WIN At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

A WELL-DESERVED WIN At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

The all-day Novice X Imp Pairs Competition was played last Saturday with players attending from Townsville, Bowen and Airlie Beach, with 16 pairs competing. Outright winners were local partnership and lifelong friends Susan Ross and Vicki Howard. Susan and Vicki have known each other for over 40 years and began their Bridge life together six years ago. This was a popular win, which was celebrated by President Frances Brown, Convener Anne Lutz and all in attendance. Susan and Vicki are great contributors to the club and also bring laughter and joy along with their wonderful culinary skills. Congratulations Susan and Vicki, Well Done! Weekly Results Monday 13th July 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points NWP N/S E/W 1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen 2nd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 2nd Joy Hold / Rodney Miles 3rd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris 3rd Karen Caldwell / Sue Mayer-Miller Tuesday Evening 14th July 2026 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup 2nd Mick King / John McGee 3rd Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown 4th Susan Gibson / Karen Caldwell Wednesday 15th July 2026 – Founders Teams Week 1 of 3 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points Team Players 1st Sheedy Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood 2nd Poole Kath Poole, Josie Crowley, Monica Darley, Barbara Taite 3rd Rasmussen Patrick Rasmussen, Mary Rose Ramsden, Diane Holewa, Max Holewa 4th Ting Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild Thursday Evening 16th July 2026 –- 3 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 2nd Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris 3rd Martin Pearce / Adrian Westcott Friday 17th July 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points 1st Helen Van Den Breok / Christine Nice 1st Richard Wix / Geoff Taylor 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd John McGee / Mick King 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole 4th Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 4th Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell Saturday 18th July 2026 – Novice X Imps Pairs 8 Tables 16 Pairs Red Points 1st Vicki Howard / Susan Ross 2nd Glen Cocup / Ian Vary 3rd Rod Miles / Joy Hold 4th Toni Barrel / Mary Overall 5th Linda Priday / Jill Brabon 6th Christine Fitzpatrick / Colleen Riddel Saturday 18th July 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Patrick Rasmussen 3rd Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor 3rd Ken Seaniger / Diane Morgan 4th Barbara Tait / Patricia Garner 4th Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood Contributed by Joy Block Anne with Winners Vicki, Susan and President Frances. Photo supplied

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Play On Vouchers To Help Mackay Children Saddle Up For Sport

Play On Vouchers To Help Mackay Children Saddle Up For Sport

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton visited Mackay Pony Club on Monday 20th July, to highlight the upcoming second round of the Queensland Government’s Play On vouchers, which provide financial support to help children aged five to 17 participate in sport and recreational activities. The $200 vouchers can help families cover costs such as registration and membership fees, uniforms, equipment and personal sporting gear. According to Mr Dalton, more than 9,300 children across the Mackay and Whitsunday region have already benefited from the program, with the next round opening on Monday, 27th July. The initiative aims to make sport more accessible for families facing rising costs, while encouraging children to step away from screens, get active, socialise and build friendships. “It’s a really great opportunity,” Mr Dalton said, encouraging parents to get involved in the next round as soon as possible. He said the program could help children access a wide range of activities, from pony club and golf to cadets and football. “We want to be able to give every child as much support as possible – especially in sport - because we know how beneficial it can be,” he said. Play On! Sports Vouchers have also made an impact across Queensland, with more than 293,800 children supported through the program in its first year. More than 3,750 sporting clubs across the state now accept the vouchers, with almost 2,500 also offering disability programs. Soccer, rugby league and netball were the most popular sports among participating children, while 13,917 vouchers were provided to children and young people with a disability, representing a 33 per cent increase compared with the previous voucher program. Girls also accounted for 129,050 vouchers, which has seen an increase of 30 per cent. For Mackay Pony Club Chief Instructor Tracey Camilleri, the vouchers can make a significant difference, particularly for families with more than one child involved in sport. “Sometimes it can be the difference between kids participating or not,” she said. Ms Camilleri said equestrian sport provides children with lessons in responsibility, as caring for a horse requires daily commitment and care. “There’s a deeper level of responsibility when kids are looking after an animal, and from what we’ve seen – that connection to the horse – can be really great for them,” she said. She said the benefits extended beyond competition, with children able to enjoy the outdoors, develop partnerships with their horses and find an outlet from the pressures of school and everyday life. Ms Camilleri, who has been passionate about horse-riding since she was a young girl, said: “Just being out in the fresh air, and dealing with an animal and getting a great response to learning how to build a partnership is something quite special.” The vouchers can also help young riders progress further, allowing families to put funding towards coaching, equipment and competition opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach. “Without these vouchers, some parents are sort of limited to how much they can do for their child in a sport, especially amongst the cost-of-living pressures,” Ms Camilleri said. For families interested in taking advantage of the next round, Play On vouchers offer an opportunity to help children get involved, stay active and discover a sport they can enjoy and grow with. Play On! Sports Vouchers are helping Mackay and Whitsunday children overcome cost barriers, get active and discover the benefits of sport, with the next round opening July 27th. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay Bushwalkers Climb To Castle Rock

Mackay Bushwalkers Climb To Castle Rock

Last Sunday saw six bushwalkers driving about 80 km north of Mackay to access the Cathu State Forest, and then to climb to the prominent feature known as Castle Rock. The leader of the group was Ken Fihelly, who spends half of each year participating in the Mackay Bushwalkers’ Club activities before escaping south to avoid the summer heat. The walk started steadily, but soon large rocks and thick vegetation on a moderately steep slope made progress difficult. Once the ridge was reached the climb became less steep and the vegetation changed to open forest. Attractive cycads were plentiful, and the morning tea spot afforded great views looking westwards towards the top of the range. On this walk, lunch is usually enjoyed on an impressive sloping slab close to the big ‘thumb’, and this tradition was continued, with great views across the valley being presented. The descent chosen offered some steep rocky terrain, but was easier than the alternative, and after emerging from the bush the hikers had a short easy walk back to the cars. Phone 0429 363 929 for information about how to join the organisation, and upcoming walks which include Sydney Heads, Red Cliff Island and St Helen’s Creek. Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes

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Key Solutions Group

On The Green At Goosies

August 24, 2023

The Past Presidents Day, ladies vs men, held at Goosies last Monday was a huge success, with all 16 rinks filled. Once again men won the day, and all present voted to continue this event annually. Play was followed by nibblies.

There is a “Come and Try” day being held at Goosies club on Tuesday, 11th October commencing at 6pm. Please register at the club at 5.30pm. This will be a free fun evening, giving any prospective bowlers a chance to try the sport. Bowls will be supplied, and all ages are welcome.

Our annual prizegiving dinner for both ladies and men will be held on Monday, October 24. Tickets will be available shortly from reception.

Social Bowls

Monday mixed pairs winners were Graham Moore and Don Agnew, followed by Gloria Sam and Helen Rose. Lucky draws were won by Phyllis Morgan and Terry Willey.

Wednesday ladies’ day was won by Lois Deguara, Sandra Sommerfeld and Ann Bailey, with Daphne Offield, Jean Comelli and Margaret Armitage in second place. Great to see Margaret back playing after a long layoff due to ill health.

Friday mixed pairs winners were Asko Helenius and president, Eric Galletly. Lucky draw winners were Lydia McCarthy and Jean Schmidtke, followed by visitors, R and D. McClay. Tony Allsop missed the $500 kitty toucher by about 25cm.

Saturday men’s day was taken out by John Priest and Ray McCarthy with Alan Cooney and Darren Addie filling second place. Andrew Coates and Ernie Sealy won the jackpot.

Contributed by Tony Allsop.

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Huge Squad Heads North For BMX State Championships

August 24, 2023

46 BMX riders from Mackay and District BMX Club are travelling to Cairns this week to compete in the Auscycling Queensland State Championships.

The Championships will be held on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 September at Cairns BMX Club.

The Mackay riders are hoping to bring home a prestigious Q plate, to celebrate their state ranking.

Mini Wheeler Mia Moy, 4, is the club’s youngest member competing, with Club President Brett Wilson, Chris Bolger, Adam Mustapha and Brendan Knights, showing the younger riders how it’s done.

Riders competing for the prestigious Superclass title include Brock de Silva and Tristyn Kronk.

Chasing the Junior Superclass Men’s title are Tyler Morgan, Connor Parish, Tyler Smith and Brodie Wilson.

Sarah Tickle will compete for the Junior Superclass Women’s title.

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Mighty Magpies Outclass Brahmans to capture U/13s league premiership

August 24, 2023

Belief and will power have propelled the Magpies Under 13 rugby league

team to a stunning premiership triumph in the Mackay and District Junior

League competition.

The Magpies capped a memorable season after turning ‘giant killers’

by toppling the previously undefeated Proserpine Brahmans 28-0 in the

recent Grand Final at the Mackay Junior League Fields.

All conquering Proserpine – who dominated their age division all

season – saved their worst performance until last.

They were rattled from the outset by a determined Magpies side that

tackled like trojans and bustled the minor premiers into error with

swarming defence and an excellent match plan.

Promising Magpies second rower Tyran Attard was the best player on

ground – ripping the Brahmans’ defence to shreds with his powerful

running and clever off loads and nabbing three tries to earn the

official Player of the Match award.

Attard stamped his mark by crashing over for two first half tries in

the 8th and 25th minutes with five eighth Nate Frost converting and

booting a penalty goal to give the Magpies a handy 14-0 lead at the

break.

When back rower Luke Clarke, Attard and fullback Marik Srsen posted

three second half tries in the space of 14 minutes there was no stopping

the marauding Magpies outfit.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the boys”, beamed winning Magpies

coach Michael Muscat post-match.

“The team was busted for much of the season with injuries to key

players but found a way to get the job done.

“Our match plan was to slow down the ruck and apply constant pressure

to their go-to players which they did with tremendous effect.

“The boys have had some great tussles with Proserpine over the years

and really believed they could go all the way and win the competition.”

In a superb team effort the Magpies’ tough-tackling forward pack laid

the foundations for victory with classy halves Frost and half back Isaac

McFarlane and the inspirational Srsen spearheading the attack.

Star utility Darcy Cabassi – deputising for injured hooker and

skipper Mason Muscat – created havoc with his darting runs and snappy

service on the fringes.

It was a bitter pill to swallow for the Proserpine colts who recorded

three wins over the Magpies (26-14, 12-10 and 30-14 in the major semi

final) before the Grand Final showdown.

The Brahmans finished undefeated minor premiers on 26 points ahead of

the Wanderers (20 points) and Magpies (19 points) and during the season

scored a massive 510 points while conceding only 108.

Turning point for the Magpies was the 12-10 loss to Brahmans in the

final preliminary round at Proserpine Junior Sporting Complex – a

match that could have gone either way.

“It was after that game that the boys started to believe they could

hold their own against the Brahmans and gained plenty of confidence in

the lead into the finals,” said coach Muscat.

The nucleus of the Magpies team has played together since forming back

in Under 7s with Michael at the helm.

During the past seven seasons both the Brahmans and Magpies have

dominated the Mackay and District Junior League age divisions through to

Under 12s and have built a keen rivalry.

“As coach I’ve watched the team develop over the years and there is

a strong bond amongst them which is evident when they play,” said

Michael.

“The Grand Final victory is something they’ll cherish forever.”

Four of the Magpies’ top prospects – Srsen, Frost, McFarlane and

hooker Mason Muscat were selected to participate in the Brisbane Broncos

Junior Academy train-on squad where they have undergone extra fitness

and skills work under an elite coaching panel.

The Magpies’ premiership-winning Under 13 squad was: Marik Srsen

(captain), Charlie Cochrane, Johnny Ziegeler, Austin Armitage, Griffin

Borg, Nate Frost, Isaac McFarlane, Sangwani Chinula, Luke Clarke, Tyran

Attard, Joshua Kunst, Mason Muscat (captain – injured); Darcy Cabassi,

Cooper Elliott; Braithe Williams, Zac Robinson, Hunter Wood, David

Phineasa, Ngatimakea Tuiravakai, Jazon Chammen; Coach: Michael Muscat;

Manager Kylie Muscat; Trainers: Denis Clarke, Russell Ziegeler.

Contributed with thanks to Chris Karas

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Rugby Final Wraps Up Inaugural Women’s Season

August 24, 2023

The growing popularity of women’s rugby union was on display last Saturday as the Women’s Opens Grand Final was played between Kuttabul Bokettes and Proserpine Whitsunday Raiders.

A round-robin tournament was played between the Bokettes, Raiders and Slade Point Slashers earlier in the day with the Kuttabul and Proserpine Whitsunday clubs finishing on top to face off in the grand final.

The ultimate match was a one-sided affair, with the Bokettes scoring two tries in each half to win 26-0.

The grand final wrapped up the first ever season of women’s rugby in the Mackay region.

Bokettes captain Miranda Davidson said she couldn’t be prouder of her team.

“We’ve got girls from all different backgrounds … so for those girls to come out and have a crack and to see them develop over the season has been pretty impressive,” she said.

“We also have some girls that are juniors, 17-year-olds stepping up and playing in the senior division, too, which is pretty exceptional stuff.”

Miranda hopes to see the competition grow over the coming seasons.

“I really want to shout out to all the clubs that have had a crack at women’s union this season and all the coaches because the coaches have been by far the driving force,” she said.

It was Sharne Adams’ first season with the Bokettes after playing rugby league for Magpies and being invited to play by friends.

“Two of my mates from there (Magpies) are union girls, they have a union background,” she said.

With union on Saturdays and league on Sundays, Sharne’s weekends were all about footy and she says both are getting more popular.

“The growth’s been really good,” said Sharne.

“It’s just onwards and upwards from here.”

Sharne’s daughter Adelle has been playing league for three years and started come-and-try union sessions this year.

“I’ve learnt what you do when you get tackled,” she said.

She also learnt the difference between league and union tackles.

“You try and get the ball, but you can’t go passed the ball,” she said.

“If you go passed the ball it doesn’t count.”

Adelle says she looks forward to following in Sharne’s footsteps and playing club rugby.

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Suns Shine In The Sunshine

August 24, 2023

Mackay turned out in force to watch the stars of the AFLW take to Great Barrier Reef Arena last Saturday.

It was the Gold Coast Suns facing off against St Kilda, with both sides looking to bounce back from big defeats in round four of the 2022 competition.

With the sun shining above, fans of all ages took to the arena for the match, with mums, dads, boys and girls all donning their favourite guernseys.

Great Barrier Reef had previously hosted three elite women’s matches since the partnership between the Suns and Mackay Regional Council began in 2019; a partnership that was extended for four years in July.

“The Suns have made Mackay our second home for our AFLW team and we’ve had great support from the region every time we visit,” said Gold Coast Suns Chief Executive Mark Evans.

“We’re committed to bringing marquee AFLW matches to Great Barrier Reef Arena and continuing to grow women’s football in the region, which has seen a 50 per cent participation increase since 2018.”

AFLW Returns To Mackay

The Gold Coast Suns eclipsed St Kilda in Mackay on the weekend, regaining their confidence after a 73-point thrashing at the hands of the Brisbane Lions the week before.

While the first major went the way of the Saints in the 7th minute, it was to be their only goal until the last quarter, with the Suns dominating the majority of the game.

The Suns had the match all but won in the third, keeping the Saints scoreless and slotting three goals of their own.

While St Kilda finished with a strong last quarter, the Suns were able to hang on, winning 5.12 (42) to 4.4 (28), claiming their second win of the season.

The Suns’ Charlie Rowbottom proved why she was picked first in the 2021 draft, collecting a game-high 30 touches, six clearances and laid nine tackles.

Kalinda Howarth also turned it on, booting Gold Coast's first goal to finish with two majors and 22 possessions.

Howarth, who is of Indigenous descent, celebrated her first goal with a special dance as the Suns wore their First Nations jumper.

Local stars Lauren Bella and Wallis Randell both performed well in front of their home crowds, with six and 11 disposals respectively.

Bianca Jakobsson was the Saints' leading ball-winner with 19 possessions, while key forward Caitlin Greiser slotted two goals to be St Kilda's only multiple goalkicker.

Gold Coast coach Cameron Joyce said he was impressed with his team’s performance.

"We knew the Saints had come in with some decent form and held Melbourne for the last three quarters as well, which I think can get underestimated,” he said.

“Just the way our girls went around the contest and were able to then get the ball forward for us and give us a chance to score, it was really pleasing."

The AFLW fixture is the first of many elite games coming to Great Barrier Reef Arena this spring, with the ground to host nine WBBL matches over a week in October.

Image: The Gold Coast Suns took on St Kilda at Great Barrier Reef Arena on Saturday to claim their second win of the season. Photos supplied: Gold Coast Suns

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Cannons SNQ Development

August 24, 2023

The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club congratulated Jy Parkinson, Jacob Bell, Holly Perrin, Remy Hedges, Austin Edwards-Bland, Ehsan Helou, and Anisa Helou for being selected for the SNQ State and National Development squad.  

The youngsters were invited to participate in a special swim clinic on Sunday led by Queensland Coach Barry Prime.  

Cannons’ Coach, Mark Erickson was also involved with coaching on the day and said that it was great to see all the top swimmers in NQ having an opportunity to meet up and to fine tune their skills.

Swimmers participated an athletic development session, kick and pull test sets, race specific training and recovery practice.  

Also this week, the Cannons hosted another successful Club Night.

Congratulations to Don Algie for setting a new 25-metre Butterfly record.  Congratulations to Addie Sanders and Celeste Orenshaw on their Upgrades.  

The club also presented Levi Smith with the Swim Star Award for swimming extremely well at last Club Night.  The Chocolate Awards went to Jack Ganter and Matilda Nicholes for the best personal bests.  

The Cannons also presented JX Caps and awards to: Anisa Helou (Gold), Ehsan Helou (Bronze), Isabella Pisaniello (Blue), Nathan Saunders (Blue), Daniel Saunders (Blue), Lukas Trevaskis (Bronze), Don Algie (Bronze), Tora Delac (Silver), and Jai Dennison (Blue).

As well, Austin Edwards-Bland (Gold), Rohan Gascoyne (Blue), Rory Gascoyne (Blue), Scarlett Gascoyne (Blue), Thomas Ganter (Blue), Matilda Nicholes  (Blue), and Isaac Pisaniello  (Blue), received their JX Caps.

Alongside them were Oliver Bond (Silver), Charlie Doherty (Blue), Nelson Malady (Silver), Remy Hedges (Silver), Lochlan Jamieson (Bronze), Taj Murray (Blue), Blake Hanks (Silver), Abi Maher (Blue), Tiana Bell (Blue), and Ruby Harland (Blue).

The Cannons are kickstarting the new season and would like to invite new swimmers and their families to “Come and Try” Club Night and to learn more about club swimming.  Club Nights are on every Wednesday from 5pm.  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Addie S and Celeste O with Upgrades

Don Algie with record certificate Sept 2022

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Airlie Beach Darts

August 24, 2023

2022 finals got underway on Sunday, with some great darts on show.

Dom Friend was the first to make it to a preliminary final by defeating Jamie Woods 9/5. Dom’s finishing was the key to this one, with the match ultimately decided on the outer ring.

Although Woodsy hit a lovely 113 checkout in the match, Dom ultimately deserved the win as he performed well throughout.

Jamie Maher was the second player to make it to the prelims, narrowly beating Joe Wilson 9/8 in a battle of attrition that neither player deserved to lose.

Joe had a 4/1 lead early in the match, but Jamie fought tooth and nail to get back into it at six all. It was leg for leg all the way to the end, with Jamie clinching it on a double 10 in the last leg of the match.

The winners of both those games earn the weekend off next week, with the preliminary finals taking place in two weeks’ time.

Andy Peel hit a nice 101 checkout on his way to victory over Aaron Paull in the first of two Elimination Finals by 9 legs to 3. Andy will now meet Jamie Woods in next week’s semi-finals thanks to that win over Aaron.

Seumas Rose beat Alan Green 9/3 in the other Elimination Final to earn his place in next weeks semis where he will meet Joe Wilson. Both of those men are currently in fine form and playing well, so that’s shaping up to be a cracker.

In the consolation finals series, Ross Gallichan defeated Nathan O’Hara 7/5 to reach this years Hetlock Cup final. Ross hit a sweet 171 in that match, and he now awaits the winner of the other semi final of that series between Kameron Reason and Gary Robbie which will be played next week at Mika.

The Premier League is sponsored by Mika Airlie Live BBQ & Bar and Whitsunday Tattooing Airlie Beach.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher

Joe Wilson in action, narrowly losing but with a second chance next week

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Raiders Onto The Finals

August 24, 2023

Saturday saw the Mama Africa Raiders play a knockout semi-final against the Kuttabul Camelboks on their home turf at Whitsunday Sportspark.

It was a chance for Raiders to bounce back after their loss against Bowen in the preliminary final round. Even though the Whitsunday side were very disappointed in that previous loss, 11-14, they turned up for training and got on with the job at hand.

This semi-final was always going to be a battle, not only mentally, but also physically. Up against one of the bigger pack of forwards in the competition, the Raiders were ready to go to battle and the local rugby community turned up in numbers to support the men in green and black.

The Kuttabul forward pack were the first to score, crossing the line out wide, but were unable to convert, taking the lead 5-0, not for long though, as the raiders stood up and put on the pressure to come away with their own converted try taking back the lead 7-5.

Both teams were intent on pushing as hard as they could, and at the half time break, the Mama Africa Raiders were in the lead 17-13. Coach Andre Houston echoed one of his favourite sentiments: “The game is not won in the first three quarters; it is won in the last.”

Fifteen minutes into the second half the game was in the balance with Kuttabul ahead 32-27, and the crowd on the edge of their seats. As they have shown throughout the year, the Raiders were not about to let this game get away from them and stepped up a notch, taking control of the ball and with some straight runs, line breaks and quick ball through the hands managed to put a further 21 points on the board and take out the game 48-32.

Well done to all the Mama Africa Raiders players, coaches, and staff, second year running, into the grand final.

This will be played out between the Mama Africa Raiders and the Bowen Mudcrabs on Saturday, September 17 at BB Print stadium, Mackay. Check out the Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club Inc. Facebook page for kick off times and any other information on the game.

Players of the day Joel Hoffmann three points, Brodie Elson two points, and Jack Briskey one point.

Contributed with thanks to Craig Spence

Tackler Kainoa Close-Houston, assisting Brodie Elson background Jack Briskey, side Kumya Gabey

Try scorer Connor Spence, 15, Aden Spence, and Rhys Ward

Niall Clancy, Joel Hoffmann (ball carrier) and Jye Hawkins

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Proserpine Veteran’s Golf

August 24, 2023

There were 32 players yesterday for Proserpine Veteran’s Golf Monthly Medal round where the temperature was nice but a tad windy leaving for a low scoring outing.  

The ladies’ winner was Tiina Randmae, with a nett 73, followed by Jenny Hounsell, 74, and in the rundown were Jacqui Wall, 75, Paula McQuat, 76, Marieta Smith, 77, and Di Chard, 77.  

The men’s winner was Frank Moloney with a great score of 68 nett, second was Nick Apruzzese, 69, and in the rundown were Geoff Harrison, 71, Wilf Herweg, 74, John Oates, 75, and Ken Granger, 76.  

Nearest the pin winners for the ladies’ were Di Chard, Vickie Wallace, Mandy Patterson, and Tiina Randmae. The men's winners were Geoff Harrison, Albert Pini, Frank Moloney and Barry Mortimer.

Our chip in winners were Tiina Randmae, Marieta Smith, Elspeth Scotford, Patrick Patterson, Albert Pini, and Peter Fox.  Least putts went to Jacqui Wall, 27, and Peter Fox, 27.  

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

Frank Maloney and Tiina Randmae

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Proserpine Golf Report

August 24, 2023

Over the weekend the Ladies’ Scramble was played on Saturday and the Open Scramble on the Sunday.

Saturday’s results saw the team of Trish McNeill, Noelene Spurway, Renae Maxwell and Laura Anderson, 60.75 nett, sneak home by one shot over Carene Vandersea, Kim McPherson, Carol McAuley and Karen Robertson.

The men’s scramble was won by the Mackay team of James Copping, Maurice Van Wyk, Matt Dwyer and Greg James. They had a score of 59 gross (nett 52), 11 under par, their front nine consisting of two pars, six birdies and an eagle.

The ladies’ regional final will be held at Palmer Coolum on October 3, while the Open will be played at Yeppoon on October 16, where the Club Professional will join the teams. Only the winning team from each will travel.

Tuesday’s stableford was won by Brian Smith with 36 points from Paul Grey 35 and Anna Winterbourn 34.

On Wednesday Heather Luvis took out the Ladies Monthly Medal with nett 69, from Penny Wardroper, 71, Elspeth Scotford 72 and Jenny Hounsell 73.

Thursday’s Division one winner of the single stableford was Sam Deicke with 40 points from Michael ward, 38.

The Division two winner was Barry Shuwalow with 37 points from Rees May 36 on a count back.

On Saturday, 15 ladies and 45 men ventured out in front of the ladies Scramble for a single stableford.

Men’s winners were Sean Tyrrell with 38 points, from Ken Granger, 37 on a count back from Warren Deighton.

The ladies’ winners were Pauline Redpath 40 points from Diane Chard 34, and Tiina Randmae and Paula McQuat with 33 points.

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Bowen Golf News

August 24, 2023

Wednesday’s Bowen Golf Club competition was a single stroke event for the midweek Monthly Medals.  

Ladies’ winner was Jane Seaborne, 67 nett, runner up Carol O’Connell, 68 nett.  Men’s winner John Martin, 66 nett, while runner up was Graeme Baker, 67 nett.  

Saturday, the club played a single stableford event for Bowen Sportspower trophies.  

Ladies’ winner was Wendy Tracey, 40 points, runner up Morag Parker, 38.  Two pin shots to Deb Breeze, with single pinshots to Lisa Raisbeck and Bev Lowcock.  

Men’s winner Graham Seaborne 42 points, runner up on a countback Mitchell Greenbank, 41.  Pin shots to Greg Daniel, David Madden, David Carus, Paul Martin, and Graham Seaborne who also won the Car Wash voucher.

This weekend’s competition is a single stableford event sponsored by Margaret Whyte. Purple is the colour theme for the day.  

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott

Ladies’ winner Wendy Tracey, Men’s winner Graham Seaborne, Margaret Need, and Ladies ‘runner up Morag Parker

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Wangaratta Bowls

August 24, 2023

Monday triples result: Winners for the afternoon R Stitt, M Wilson, and F Duncan defeated N McNamara, W McNamara, and P Wilson.

Tuesday results: Winners for the afternoon were Debbie Beel, Keith Aykens, and Joe Paynting defeating Judy Christie, Brian Bellingham, and Pearl Aykens.

Last of Fun Fridays: Mark, Tim Noar, and Joe Paynting defeated Pieta Pawlow, Virginia Noar, and Judy Christie. Brian Bellingham, David Madden, and Jim Steele defeated June Paynting, Lyn Madden, and Carole Bellingham.

Friday Night Barefoot Bowls: Winners for the night were Les, Glen, and Peter, as well as Dave, Barry, and Dennis.

Sunday, Aug 28: Winners for the afternoon Judy Christie, Brian Bellingham, and Pat Tracey defeating Bill Myers, June Paynting, and Pearl Aykens. Others: Deb Beel and David Madden beating Toni Bowen and Linda Scells.

Lyn Madden, Laurie Land, and Mark Drummond also defeated Robyn Stitt, Carole Bellingham, and Barry Beel, while Sue Shearing, Penny Warren, and Alan Rolfe won against Denise Wallace, Keith Aykens, and Joe Paynting.

Competition Mixed Pairs saw Fely Duncan and Jason Wright defeat Denise Wallace and Ted Evans.

Best of luck to Wangarrata’s ladies playing in the Premier Cup this week in South Townsviile.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Tuesday winners Keith Aykens Deb Beel Joe Paynting with President Margaret Wilson

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Proserpine Bowls Club News

August 24, 2023

Throughout term three, Proserpine Bowls Club has had the opportunity to host the Year 10 Students of St Catherine's Catholic College for PE lessons.

With one class on Monday mornings and the other class on Thursdays, the pupils showed a great deal of interest in the game and all learnt that there is a great deal of skill involved in making the bowls go where you intend.

The club extends its thanks for this opportunity in this annual event.  

On Wednesday in social bowls Proserpine Bowls Club welcomed Bruce Uhe back from a long holiday and farewelled Tom Jessop who enjoyed a wonderful holiday in Proserpine.  

Jim Bownds, Mike Harrison, and Heather Brown defeated Tom Jessop, Mary Hedgelong, and Peter Lawton 27-17.  Bruce Uhe played double lead.

Bruce, Arthur Griffith, Philip Brown, and Barry Zillmann defeated Bruce, Pat Bownds, Sandy Daffara, and Jim Quod 18-17 when they played an extra end to decide the drawn game.

Sunday Social Bowls: John Anderson, Heather Brown, and Peter Lawton finished well to defeat Mike Harrison, Heather Brown, and Sandy Daffara, 27- 24 after scoring 12 shots in the last four ends.  

Mary Hedgelong, Bruce Uhe, and Jim Quod defeated Arthur Griffith, Philip Brown, and Garry Alexander, 27-23.

The club’s Triples team of Scott Hamilton, Grahame Kinnear (subbing for Nathan Dodds), and Todd Leys were defeated by Wests Tigers in the Champion of Champion Triples.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

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Bowen Bowls Club News

August 24, 2023

Wednesday Social: One card only for Wednesday this week at Bowen Bowls Club. Attendees can please hand cards in after their games. There was a drawn game between Paula Welsted, Bev Smith, and Tiarna Rogers against David Moodie, Joan Edwards and Eddie Neylon, and Peter Thomson.

Sunday Scroungers Winners: Wayne Crowhurst, Steve Roome, Paula Welsted, and Lee Welsted.

Scroungers is still on Sundays.

Tuesday and Friday bowls are finished for this year.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards

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Airlie Beach Bowls Club

August 24, 2023

Spring has sprung at Airlie Beach Bowls Club

Tuesday: Skipper and top district bowler Betty Nicole spurred her team of Robin Brown at lead, and Michael Jacometti at second, to an outstanding win on the day.

Wednesday Afternoon Social Bowls: The skilful Merve Stewart organised an 18 player competition won by Noel Crosbie’s team.

Wednesday Night Business House Bowls: The competition went down to the wire with Woolies Allsorts showing true grit ably led by Eric Barnard. Woolies Allsorts won the trophy by a single point.

Second place was claimed by club sponsors PRD, with their team of John Harris and Darrel Brewer showing amazing improvement with 19 points. Third place went to Hadlow Racing team.

The last season of the year will commence on Wednesday, October 5.

Whitsunday Gold Coffee, Tuk Tuks, Health Hub, Airlie Splash of Colour, Blockheads and Battery Warehouse are some of the teams already signed up.

Saturday Scroungers: The last round of the competition, organised by John Askew, was host to hot competition as the final spots for the finals were up for grabs.

It was Andy McDougall who claimed the final round win. The final will be played by Weekly winners Ladda Purdie, Peter Barratt, John Askew, Tony Whitehorn, and Russell Jackson – as well as Andy McDougall.

Sunday B Grade Singles: Harry Quod beat a dogged Andy McDougall, whom had been waiting for the contest for over two months.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Woolies Allsorts team receive their trophies from last season’s winners PRD

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