The long road began for the Whitsunday’s favourite football team back in early January, as Whitsunday United men’s kicked off preseason to get back to fitness and form come the Football Queensland Premier League 3 season in late March.

A string of new players have found their way to the men’s side, bolstering the already strong squad who, in a frantic final series of games, managed to make it all the way to the semi-finals of last year’s competition.

The team, who suffered some extremely one-sided losses early in the season, won a frenetic series of final games, launching them from almost bottom place to fourth. On the way, they mounted a stellar comeback from 0-4 down to win 5-4 against Mackay Lions Soccer Club.

Those victories now in the past, the men’s team move ever onwards to the encroaching 2022 season.

They’ve welcomed new head coach, Nick Hodgen, who’s arrived with a spate of fresh ideas to turn the once quick, counter-attacking side into a metronomic, possession-based machine. With him, he brings his son Harry Hodgen, a lightning quick winger with a penchant for dribbling who is the end product to the team’s slow buildup.

A potential defensive signing of the year arrived early in preseason with the acquisition of Scott Boldy. A long-time player in the suburbs of Brisbane, Boldy joins the upper echelon of signings United have made in recent years. He sits alongside Thomas Torzsok, Sam Blake, and captain James McEvoy-Bowe as a class above the rest in terms of both technical ability and physical attributes.

Sam Blake is still out from injury and is sorely missed. Not only a defensive presence, Blake was top scorer from centre half, an achievement which led teammates to regularly sing his name at the end of matchdays, claiming “Sam Blake’s on fire, your defense is terrified.”

In recent weeks the side has taken to the pitch on the weekends, facing off in internal trials, and there’s an undoubted improvement in the quality of football. Whether that’s the new players themselves or the pressure of fresh faces vying for a spot in the first XI, that’s soon to be told.

On February 12 Whitsunday United’s men’s team will play a preseason friendly against Mackay Magpie Crusaders to test their mettle at the Whitsunday Sports Park.

Captain of Whitsunday United Football Club, James McEvoy-Bowe, is eager to get the season underway

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Last weekend saw the start of our club championships, with the first round of A grade singles and pairs being played. Results are on the notice board. Please check the board for details of further games.

Social Bowls Results Week Ending 6 February

Thursday 2x4x2 mixed pairs winners were Jan Little and Paul Goldston followed by Lyn Tennant and Helen Goldston. The kitty toucher did not go off, so jackpots next week.

Friday three bowl mixed pairs winners were Tony Allsop and Warren Corbett, who collected $200. In second place was Eric Galletly and Shirley Bartolo who picked up $100. Peter Shepherd missed the kitty toucher, so it stays at $500.

Saturday Men’s pairs field had good numbers, considering the men’s club championships were held. Winners were John Priest and Ray Walker with Darren Addie and Trevor Laurens in second spot. Darren and Trevor also won the jackpot.

Contributed by Tony Allsop

Peter Cowling is developing into a good bowler

Ian Beveridge is a picture of concentration

Clive Wales in action on Sunday

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The Cutters have had another big week at the end of January, plying their trade at the preseason training, as well as receiving some good news from the North Queensland Cowboys.

The Cowboys announced the Mackay Cutters feeder club allocations for 2022, with the Cowboys focusing on “building combinations and player familiarity for top squad players.”

The Cowboys are eager to see the allocations develop under new Head Coach Dave Elliott.

“This decision will also allow [Cowboys] to align our players outside the weekly NRL squad in positional units to build continuity and ensure players become accustomed to playing alongside each other,” said a Cowboys spokesperson.

The Cutters Allocation is as follows:

Morgan McWhirter, Daejarn Asi, Laitia Moceidreke, Tom Dearden, Jason Taumalolo, Jake Granville, Mitch Dunn, Reuben Cotter, Murray Taulagi, Scott Drinkwater, Ben Condon, Valentine Holmes, Tom Gilbert, and Brendan Elliot

The rest of the squad are ripping back into training after a rest at the end of January, with less than 8 sessions until their first trial clash with the CQ Capras on February 19.

The Cutters snatched up Harry Freebairn for their Hostplus Cup Squad as well, grabbing the Halfback from Norths Devils. The 24-year-old made three appearances for the Devils in 2021, and is a solid prospect for the Cutters to have picked up ahead of the season.

As well, Cutters secured Andre Niko’s signature, a young gun who made his debut for the Burleigh Bears as a winger last season, making 13 appearances and 7 tries.

Coach Elliott was excited with how both signings would fit into the Hostplus squads come the first trial against Central Queensland Capras.

Last time out the Cutters v Capras game ended 20-18, with a stellar half from Jack Quinn rocketing the Cutters ahead, and a Brandon Finnegan penalty proving the difference. It’ll be a tough test for both sides, with hopefully as even an outing as the last.

The game will be hosted at Browne Park in Rockhampton on February 19, and the Cutters will back it up the week after, taking on the Cowboys Young Guns at BB Print on February 26.

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When North Mackay Athletics say come one, come all, they really mean it, with their come and try day at the Pioneer High School Oval on Sunday February 20 open for everyone in town.

You’re never too old to become a decathlete, all you need are closed-in shoes, a water bottle, hat, an athletic spirit and a smile.

There’s no better time to get involved in discus, high jump, hurdles or anything athletics than now for Mackay locals with the Oceania Athletics Championships heading to Mackay mid this year.

It coincides well with the North Mackay Athletic club’s own push to get as many members as they can this year, with their season running through March to September.

The club regularly trials athletes at Russel St, Mackay, and is excited once again to invite the local community to come out and find a passion in athletics. With so much to choose from, there’s sure to be one of athletic’s many disciplines that strikes your fancy.

If you’re looking for more information about the clubs free, come and try day on February 20, ring 0449 669 695, or email northmackaylittleath@gmail.com

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A new year of table tennis competition is under way with strong fields contesting Tuesday morning and night fixtures.

Former Melbourne player Steven Whiting showed he will be a force to reckon with in division 1 night fixtures with three wins over Barry Patterson, Robbie Richards and Mark Sleeman in the opening round.

Julie Vella and Duncan Treloar played out a competitive match, Julie up 11-9 in the 5th.

Morning fixtures are being played in a new format this season of four grades, and several new and returning players have been welcomed to the competition.

Steve Mathieson got home twice in five games, beating Pam Joyce 11-8 in the 5th and pulling out probably his best-ever forehand shot to take the last game 12-10 against George Camilleri.

However, George got revenge in night fixtures, beating Steve in another five-gamer.

Branko Vucurovic and Tony Bowman played themselves into the ground, Branko getting up 13-11 in the 5th.

Fixtures were not played on Tuesday 8 January due to a planned power outage in Bridge Rd.

A group of Mackay players will compete in Townville’s International Women’s Day event on March 5-6. Anyone women interested in playing should contact Donna Abbott on 0400 769 560.

Highlights of this year’s representative season will be the Mackay Open on April 15-17 and the Queensland Veterans Championship on July 20-24, both at the Bridge Rd centre.

The veterans is the most popular event on the calendar and is expected to attract players from all over the state.

By Charlie Payne

Branko Vucurovic and Tony Bowman opened the season with a tight battle in Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures. Photos: Charlie Payne

Doug Dungavell serves to Pam Joyce in Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures

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AFL Queensland welcomed a new face last week, with the announcement of not a new player signing, but of Alex Brooks as the new Competition Manager in Mackay.

The appointment of Alex sees the replacement of current Competition Manager Josh Rhodes who has recently moved internally into the role of Competition Manager for the Queensland Football Association (QFA)

Alex’s expertise comes in his understanding of grass roots football, having been involved in the game at all levels for many years, inclusive as a player, coach and club volunteer.

Recently, he coached his club’s senior women’s team and undertook time as an umpire in the sport, and AFL Queensland believe Alex's experience at club level make him a great fit for the role.

He relocates from the AFL stronghold of Victoria, specifically Rutherglen, and arrives with his wife, Kaedi, and soon to be first child.

His commencement in the Mackay office on February 28 hopes to continue to increase the sport of AFL in the Sugar City, as well as across Queensland.

AFL has continued to grow across Queensland with a strong contingent of representatives for the game being born here in Mackay, although less popular than its rugby counterparts.

The Queensland AFL body also announced their congratulations to the U17 Mackay Male Academy Team selections, part of the Gold Coast Suns Academy, with their first game coming up against Townsville in Airlie Beach on March 5.

The group of youngsters are just under a month until their first game.

From the Sugar City, North Mackay AFC players Cohen Frith, Darby Coleman, Lachlan Nelson, Lachlan Morgan, Jake McDonald and Angus Wearmouth represent the side.

A strong contingent of Bakers Creek boys made the grade, as well as a few Eastern Swans and Mackay City Hawks youth stars.

The side play in the North Queensland Championships, which will see them take on Townsville, Cairns, and Capricornia.

Alex Brooks is the new Competition Manager for Mackay AFL

U17 Male’s squad for Mackay will head across the state to face off against Cairns and more

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Mackay has experienced its first taste of Suncorp Super Netball with the Queensland Firebirds and Collingwood Magpies playing a pre-season double-header. The second game is tonight (Friday 11 February), being played at the Mackay Basketball Stadium.

General Manager Queensland Firebirds and Elite Pathways, Demelza Fellowes, said the opportunity to take two pre-season matches to Mackay was a fantastic opportunity for all.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be in Mackay for these matches against the Magpies,” said Fellowes.

“Our Club proudly represents the entire state of Queensland, and we don’t get to play in front of the regional fans as much as we like, so to have this opportunity, thanks to Mackay Regional Council, is really fantastic.

“It will be our first major hit out for the pre-season, with the entire squad together, so the matches will be really important in setting up our season.  It would be wonderful to have the support of the region and hopefully put on a good show in front of a packed house at Mackay Basketball Stadium.”

Lyn Law, a life member and current competitions board member of Mackay Netball Association, said the announcement had Mackay buzzing with excitement.

“To be able to watch the Queensland Firebirds take the court in our hometown, on our home court, is just so special and something the Mackay netball community has waited a very long time to have come to fruition,” Law said.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said this was a fantastic opportunity for the region and especially for young netball enthusiasts.

“The Mackay region loves its sport and netball is definitely one that is embraced by our residents,” Williamson said.

“This is another example of how our world-class facilities enable us to attract and play host to the calibre of both of these teams.”

The decision to play the pre-season matches in Mackay is a further commitment of the Queensland Firebirds to continue to grow the game of netball across the state including regional areas.

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A fan favourite is heading back to the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors, with 25-year-old Viliami Foketi signing a one-year deal to remain at the club for the 2022 NBL1 North season.

The athletic wing returns to the Sugar City following a solid 2021 campaign, where he averaged 12.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1 steal per game, while shooting 50 per cent from the field and 80 per cent from the free throw line.

For his efforts, Foketi was named the Meteors Best Defensive Player in 2021. The fan favourite also took home the Mackay Pride Sponsors Award.

The NBL1 North Grand Final series provided the stage where the Tongan international really made his mark. He dropped 18 points in game one, before delivering 20 points in the game two decider, while defending the Cairns Marlins main scoring weapons.

McDonald’s Mackay Meteors NBL1 North Head Coach Joel Khalu was thrilled about Foketi’s return.

“Vili is one of those guys that every coach wants to have on their team,” Khalu said.

“He’s outstanding defensively and really enjoys the challenge of guarding the other side’s best player, night after night.

“But it’s not just that (defensive) end. Vili is dynamic offensively, shoots the ball well and can also create off the bounce or in the post. He’s also an underrated rebounder too.”

“Best of all, Vili is a great person and teammate and that’s why it was critical that we brought him back.”

When reflecting on last year’s NBL1 North season, Foketi used the word, “hectic”.

“In the true sense of the word and not how it’s used colloquially,” he said.

“A season mired by uncertainty due to COVID, a new playing group learning how to play with each other, we had to adapt quite a lot. However, we stayed the course, worked hard and were extremely fortunate to make the grand final and win it all.”

There was no doubting Foketi’s goals leading into 2022.

“As a group we naturally want to defend our title and go for a NBL1 National Championship, especially given we didn’t have that opportunity last season due to COVID.

“Personally, I think last season’s grand final series showed that I can perform at a high level.

“This season I’ll be looking to replicate that standard on a more consistent basis.”

Coach Khalu said there could also be bigger things on the horizon for Foketi.

“He has aspirations of playing in the NBL and he’s already an elite level defender, probably better than many of the wings who are currently in the league. If he can grow his offensive skillset and become a more consistent scorer, there’s no doubting that he could play in the NBL one day soon.”

#18 Viliami Foketi drives to the basket against the Brisbane Capitals last season. Picture: Kieron Place

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Over thirty Mackay Road Runners enjoyed the penultimate Shawn Summer Social Series event on the off-season calendar.

Race day Director and Club President, Tim Magoffin, set the variable option course which made way for runners to select their own turnaround point and course distance.

Tim reminded runners that the last run on the Shawn Summer Social Series calendar will be February 6 at 5:30pm with celebrations post run at the Bluewater Quay to include random draw prizes and the usual Zooper Doopers.

Mackay Road Runners Club members and non-members are more than welcome to attend for a gold coin donation.

The Club's Annual General Meeting is rescheduled for Monday February 7 at Tim's Techserve Boardroom at 5:30pm.

All executive and committee positions will become vacant for re-election, therefore, all members are invited to consider a formal or informal role whether big or small, all contributions are greatly appreciated and gladly accepted.

Mackay Road Runners enjoying the 2nd last Shawn's Summer Social Series - Jo Hughes, Kim Saron, Jeanette Farrugia, Carmel Mahon, Glynis Forse, Jose Short and Janelle Tilse

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Damper, lamingtons, a sausage sizzle and a game of bowls – what more could an Aussie bowler want?

All dressed up in Aussie day gear, 60 bowlers gathered at Sarina Bowls Club for some Australia Day fun.  There was lots of great spirit, and the half time break featured a bit of Aussie trivia which had them all guessing.

Contributed by Rita Hughes

Girls just wanna have fun on Australia Day, and Leanne McGeough, Fran Lloyd and Ros Way were having plenty at Sarina Bowls Club. Photos: Rita Hughes

Bowlers gather for some Australia Day fun at Sarina Bowls Club

BB Smith and Tracey Moss dancing to the music at Sarina Bowls Club

Andy Moss and Greg Hughes get into the Aussie Day spirit

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Who would have thought that a chance encounter over 10 years ago at the beach would have led to a lifetime of fun, friendship, fitness and career opportunities for Kate Born and Klara Close, both developing members of Mackay SLSC, Guardians of the Beach since 1950.

Kate and Klara first joined MSLSC as green caps, aged 5 years old, and both girls progressed from wee green caps, through to nippers, then cadets, and are now patrolling members at the beach, as well as hoping to be involved for many years in this iconic sport.

Taking their life saving capabilities from SLSC, the pair are now overseeing the much-loved swim centre in Mackay’s CBD, taking those humble beginnings and experiences, and their best friendship, to become a part of the highly qualified team of lifeguards at the Blue Water Lagoon at the age of 17.

“A highlight of being involved with nippers was finding lifelong and loyal friends,” Kate Born said.

“Being able to compete around QLD and learning valuable skills that could one day save a person’s life; and I’ve been able to watch Klara grow and succeed as a person, which is awesome.”

Klara said that, in Mackay, some of her and Kate’s friends were scared of the ocean because of their lack experience in the sport of surf lifesaving.

“They might have casual jobs that get in the way [of being able to surf lifesave], which shouldn’t be a barrier,” Klara said.

“The good thing for teenagers like me, is I can get my Surf Rescue Certificate, First Aid and Bronze Medallion through the club as a member and this has now led to employment opportunities in the community.

“All just by being involved in my local surf lifesaving club!

“There are so many opportunities for people my age: friendship, fitness, qualifications and employment, it’s been such an awesome journey.”

From their experiences in surf lifesaving, Kate has taken her nurturing and caring aptitude to the next level by potentially studying teaching.

Klara is no different, one finishing school she wants to pursue a career as a paramedic.  

Both the pair say they have been inspired from their commitment to their community as well as the skills they have learnt from Surf Lifesaving.

If you would like to attain lifelong friendships, fitness, qualifications and contribute to your community, please contact admin@mackayslsc.com.au for further information.  

With sponsorship from Mackay Airport, the club is able to reduce membership fees by $100 if the individual progresses to becoming a patrolling member.

Contributed with thanks by Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant.

Klara and Kate and attending one of their first Surf Lifesaving carnivals together

Kate (Left) and Klara (right) with Orlando Corrie (Centre) after completing their SRC training and getting ready in their patrol gear

Kate and Klara having some fun whilst on patrol at Harbour Beach

Klara and Kate getting ready for a morning at Nippers

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Last Wednesday, ladies combined with men for a very successful Australia Day of bowls played at Goosies. We had two games of triples on eight rinks, with a break for lunch of pies, sausage rolls and lamingtons kindly supplied by Peter Grant of Bushman’s Bread. Thank you, Peter. There were also several raffles with a bottle of scotch donated by an anonymous donor. Thank you also. There were prizes for best dressed man and lady, won by Bert Hobbs and Betty Mulhall.

Winners on the day was the team of Jenny Grech, Maryann Bartolo, and John Priest.  In second spot was the team of Bert Hobbs, Lorna Forrest, and Greg McLean. A third prize was given to Peter Crawford, Jan Little and Tony Allsop.

Social Results

Monday winners were Don Agnew and Graham Moore followed by new member, Lance Edwards, and Wayne Trannore.

Thursday winners were Barry Lehmann and Marg Fogg, followed by Carmel Bell and Greg McLean. The kitty toucher was not won, so jackpots.

Friday comp was taken out by Fred King and Rob Evans who won $200. The runners up were Donna Gordon and Coral Francis who won $100. Bert Hobbs missed the kitty toucher but was very close.

Saturday men only comp was won by Peter Cowling and Ian McDonald, playing with his new bowls after one of his well- used old set broke in two. In second place was Ian Gordon and Ken Lane.

Contributed by Tony Allsop.

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Mackay’s ‘Mavericks’ gridiron team did The Sugar City proud last weekend, when the boys in blue hosted North Queensland’s Reef Bowl grand final at BB Print Stadium. Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed the travelling sides to Mackay and got proceedings underway with the coin toss.

Mackay played in the opening match against the Port City Pirates, a team which had been plagued by shortages throughout the season, forcing them for forfeit a number of games. The Gladstone team pulled out all stops to make the final, and despite not having an many players to field the swaps, they put on a brave show against the Mavericks.

The Mackay side were too strong on the day, with runaway touchdowns putting the game beyond contention in the third quarter.

In their mission to stride for glory, the Mavericks finished third in the pack of six in the North Queensland competition.

In the Reef Bowl VIII final, Rockhampton took the lead with a touchdown early in the first quarter, however Townsville hit back late in the first quarter to take a narrow advantage, which they only increased upon as the game progressed. It was 16 – 6 to the Townsville Cyclones at the half, with both teams exchanging touchdowns in the third quarter. The Cyclones too strong in the end, claiming Reef Bowl victory 38 – 12 over the Rockhampton Wolverines.

Action from the Mackay Mavericks v Gladstone Port City Pirates gridiron game at BB Print Stadium last weekend, the pre-match for the Reef Bowl VIII grand final. Photos: Amanda Wright

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Our new look "tournament training team" that is training on Tuesday and Thursday night worked tirelessly.

Tuesday Early Evening tennis was out of practice however and worked on getting back in the swing.

Tuesday night social tennis then hit the courts with Tan and Sienna keeping the guys on their toes!

The rain may have put a dent to Thursday night social tennis but coaching lessons went ahead on court and footwork and hand eye coordination were a feature of undercover lessons.  

Keen to make it out on court after the long break was young William working on his forehand.

Contributed with thanks to Jenny Kirkman.

Australia Day special squad

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On Saturday, 30 Cannons competed in the 2022 Mirani Family LC Transition Meet. The swimmers accumulated 77 PBs which was fantastic. Coaches, Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson found it hard to standout a swimmer as all the swimmers did so well.  

Special mention to the young Cannons:  

8 years and Under: Eloise Chegwidden (6years) swam PBs in her Fly, Breaststroke and Freestyle and was placed 2nd in her age group for these events. Zane Clayworth (6 years) swam PBs in his 25m Freestyle and Butterfly. Zane’s brother, Jax took out first place in 3 of his events.  

Harris Delac (8 years) swam a 3 second PB and 2nd place in his 50m Backstroke and was 1st in his 50m Butterfly. Evie Doherty (7 years) was delighted with her 3PBs and 3rd placings in her Butterfly and Backstroke.  

Indi and Levi Smith both swam extremely well swimming PBs in 3 of their 4 events. Levi was excited with his 2nd place in his 25m Breaststroke and 3rd placings in his Backstroke and Butterfly races.  Indi achieved 2nd place in her 50m Backstroke and 50m Breaststroke.  

10 years and Under: Thomas Ganter (10 years) was in fine form, he swam 8 personal best times, achieved 2 A grade times and took out top placings in most of his events. Rory Gascoyne (9 years) was also in excellent form. Rory swam 5PBs and achieved 2 A grade times and achieved 1st place in 4 of his events.  

Isaac Pisaniello (9 years) swam extremely well. One of his best swims was his 50m Freestyle which he swam in 44.04 seconds. He also won his 50m Backstroke race. Isaac’s sister, Isabella aged 10 years swam 3 personal best times and was excited with her 2nd place in the 50m Backstroke.  

A big thank you to all the wonderful parents and volunteers for supporting the swimmers and helping with officiating.  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

Evie Dohery with Eloise Chegwidden at Mirani

Zane Clayworth at Mirani

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