With the largest team of 11 to attend this tough qualifying meet, Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier was already very proud of her young prodigies. The week is huge, with early mornings and late-night finals. Being present for the week in its entirety is the absolute challenge; nutrition, sleep, illness—everything can enter the domain the week of or prior, and nothing can be left for granted. How we all roll through it and prepare for each race is a process, as any athlete will vouch, and our entire team handled it all with perfection.

When coaches you have the utmost respect for come up to you and congratulate you on your swimmers, and parents pass by acknowledging your team and team culture, well, that's about as good as it gets. Then, you witness your athletes achieving their goals, mixing with visiting teams, exchanging caps, and making lifelong friends—well, that is emotional. I was absolutely so very proud of everyone's results. There is a lot of work required and many not-so-fun things that can hinder the week, as I said above, but can I please highlight our debutants, Dakota Daniel and Tamika Ness, both 12, who knocked it out of the ballpark, to say the least.

Normally, it can become a bit of a "deer in the headlights" scenario for the first-timers, but not this crew—they were switched on and ready to go! Dakota Daniel, 12, competed in nine events, kicking off her week with a bronze medal representing Swimming North Qld in the relay with other Cyclone swimmers also competing on relay day. From then on, it was just pure grit and fight in every race by this young lady as we went into individual events. Not only did Dakota smash her PBs, but she earned herself three silver medals, one bronze, two additional finals, and four more national qualifying swims to add to her debut of six individual events to compete in her very first Australian Age Championships in April this year. A massive effort and achievement, with qualifying times in the 100, 200, and 400 Freestyle, as well as the 200 and 400 Individual Medley.

Our other first-timer at this meet was Tamika Ness, also 12, who swam 11 events, smashing 10 out of 11 PBs and charging into two finals, placing 5th in QLD for the 50 Breaststroke and 7th in the 100 Breaststroke. Tamika also achieved a national QT but is still too young to attend, as her birthday falls outside of the cut-off.

Other results saw Maverick Curtis, 13, pop his head in for a first-time swim, narrowly missing out on others, with a 50 Free and a PB, along with the experience of a lifetime and a grin from ear to ear. Ava Kearns, 14, swam seven events, again achieving PBs for six and securing three national qualifying times for her 100 Fly, 50 Back, and 50 Free, taking her to four events for Nationals 2025.

Vaughn Wyatt, 16, swam a great heat, earning a spot in the final and coming 10th in QLD for his 200 Breaststroke. Ehsan Helou, also 16, made the final in his pet event, the 50 Breaststroke, earning himself 5th spot in QLD and again coming close to adding more to his national events. Ehsan has also qualified for the Australian Opens for his 50 Breaststroke.

Our 200 Breaststroke girls, Audrey Bryan, 15, and Ariah Corrigan, 13, both swam their races beautifully, with PBs and enjoying the process of how to race it. Lastly, Anisa Helou, 15, smashed out her races with some PBs and edged very close to achieving more national qualifying times for herself, along with Jarek Taylor and Zanthia Noon, 17, continuing their work in achieving their goals.

What's next? A massive four months with many carnivals, another state sprint meet, school competitions, and Australian Age and Open Championships. Then we can all have a break.

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Photos supplied

Contributed by Alisha Ness – Mackay Cyclones Club Member

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The Mackay Meteorettes have achieved the ultimate success in junior basketball, claiming the Under-18 Girls State Championship at the 2025 Basketball Queensland Club State Championship.

After five days of intense competition, the tournament concluded at Carrara Stadium on the Gold Coast, with the Meteorettes emerging as champions in a thrilling final.

A standout moment came in the opening quarter, an area the Meteorettes had traditionally struggled with. However, this time, they came out strong and set the tone early. Head Coach Ross Jensen attributed their fantastic start to a combination of “focus and good luck.”

The girls executed their game plan with precision and energy, which helped them build momentum throughout the match.

Another major highlight of the game was Cheyenne Bobongie's performance, who was named the Grand Final MVP after an outstanding 23-point effort. Bobongie’s contributions were not limited to scoring; she also excelled in rebounding and defence, playing a vital role on both ends of the floor.

Coach Jensen was full of praise for her and her efforts in the game.

“She was determined and did some big shots! She also put a lot into rebounding and defending,” he continued, emphasising how Bobongie’s all-around effort was crucial to the team's success.

While Bobongie’s individual brilliance shone through, Coach Jensen was quick to highlight the collective effort of the entire team.

“It was a team effort,” he said.

“Any given day someone stands out, we had multiple stars. Isabelle Smith was another stand-out this time around.” He further explained, “But someone always stood out to make a play or do a big play.”

The depth and balance of the team were evident throughout the game, as each player contributed in significant ways.

Looking ahead, Coach Jensen is confident that some of the girls from this talented U18 squad will make their mark in the NBL1 in the future.

“I expect that some of them will be part of the NBL1, whether that’s through being on the squad or through training,” he shared.

The Meteorettes’ final victory was an impressive 72-50 win against Logan, capping off a remarkable week of basketball. Their strong team play and determination were on full display as they secured the championship with a well-rounded, dominant performance.

Congratulations to the entire team for their exceptional effort, including Cheyenne Bobongie, Emmerson Kenny, Ally Simpson, Amelia Crouch, Isabelle Smith, Eden Catip, Lily Mapp, Maggie Thorburn, Cobi Meredith, Tahlia Jensen, and Skye Vaughan.

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A fantastic win for the Meteorettes
A team effort from the girls
Cheyenne Bobongie was named the Grand Final MVP. Photos supplied: Mackay Basketball

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Playing Bridge keeps you young! Joy Robinson and Joyce Deguara have been playing Bridge for seventy plus years between them. They played for the first time together after all this time as they have both had other partners over the years. Joy is 99 and Joyce 93. Who says Bridge is for oldies? These two are still spring chickens. Our beginners’ lessons commence Wednesday 12 February at 6.30pm. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never played cards before, everyone is welcome!

Weekly Results
Monday 6 January 2025 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th
Mary Cruickshank / Ian Cruickshank
Tuesday Evening 7 January 2025 –3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
2nd
Shirley Worland / Christopher Meyers
3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
4th
Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
Wednesday 8 January 2025 – NWP Week 1 of 25 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
1st
Janet Hansen / Janelle Conroy

2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

3rd
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
3rd
Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

4th
Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan
4th
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

Thursday Evening 9 January 2025 –5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Patricia Garner / Mick King
4th
Jan Harris / Terry Sheedy
Friday 10 January 2025 – 9 Tables Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

2nd
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
2nd
David Ting / Ming Ting

3rd
Andrew Canavan / Chris Meyers
3rd
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

4th
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
4th
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

Saturday 11 January 2025 –Section A – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Vicki Howard / Geoff Cowan
1st
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

2nd
Joyce Deguara / Griffin Bancroft
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott

3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
3rd
Andrew Canavan / Chris Meyers

Saturday 11 January 2025 Section B - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

2nd
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Geoffrey Patterson / Patricia Garner

3rd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

Contributed By Joy Block

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Opening Day 2025

President Alan Dillon’s Opening Day was a huge success, with over 60 men’s bowlers participating in the event. The big winners on the day were Vic Gaudion and Col Crocker, taking out the top prize money, while Alan Leyshon and Peter Madden picked up the runners-up prize. Meanwhile, John Fry and Joe Crocker were lucky enough to have their cards pulled for the lucky door prize.

Friday Winners:

Chris Woo and Terry Clark continue their great form, showing that their dedication to practice is paying off.

Carmel Bell and Greg McLean secured second place, with Les McDermott and Mick Walsh walking away with some beer money.

This Weekend's Competition

Open Fours - Saturday, January 18
1:00pm Start
Umpire: Ray McCarthy

David Dowden, Ross Williams, Neil Blucher, Peter Madden
vs John Chester-Master, Terry Willey, Bert Hobbs, Ron Bowers

Jim Lette, Eric Galletly, Alan Dillon, Terry Clark
vs Paul Golston, Alex Cameron, Ernie Sealy, John Kennell

Ben Crocker, Ian Beveridge, Joe Crocker, Col Crocker
vs Ian Gordon, Asko Helenius, Russell Fry, Geoff Ollett

Open Fours - Saturday, January 18
10:00am Start
Gavin Hannah, Rob Evans, Ian Morris, Ian Rowan
vs Tony Allsop, Peter Miller, Les McDermott, Chris Banney

Open Pairs
Sunday, January 19 – 9am Start
Umpire: Andrew Coates

Vic Gaudion, Ian Rohan vs Les Mcdermott, Chris Banney

Rob Evans, Mick Mackenzie vs Lance Edwards, Paul Goldston

John Chester-Master, Ron Bowers vs Bert Hobbs, Terry Clark

Steve Lane, Mick Walsh vs Doug Dungavell, Peter Madden

David Dowden, Ross Williams vs Ian Beveridge, Ian Morris

Steve Lancaster, Tony Bartholomew vs Noel Brand, Joe Crocker

Shane Trannore, Wayne Trannore vs Ben Crocker, Col Crocker

Peter Miller, Alan Cooney vs Alan Leyson, Ray Mccarthy

Gary Kennedy, Neil Blucher vs Greg Mclean, Geoff Ollett

Coming Event

The club will host a fun event on Australia Day, Monday, January 27. The dress code will be mufti/Aussie themes, and the competition will be an 18-end 3 Bowl Mixed Triples game, commencing at 1:00pm. Players are requested to arrive by 12:30pm for the box draw. Visitors are more than welcome to join the fun!

Weekly Social Competition

Monday Morning: 8:30am start – 2x4x2 Pairs (any mix)
Wednesday: Ladies Bowls
Thursday: 1:00pm start – 2x4x2 Pairs (any mix)
Friday: 1:30pm start – 3 Bowl Pairs (any mix)
Saturday: 1:00pm start – Men’s Bowls

Contributed by Doug Giddings

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Photos supplied

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The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club has been nominated for the Mackay Regional Council Australia Day awards. The club has been nominated in the community group award and is proud to be included in the 17 groups nominated in this section that are providing services to residents in the Mackay Regional Council area.
This section recognises an organisation, group or sporting association for its outstanding contribution and dedication towards improving, promoting and/or protecting the lives of residents in the Mackay Regional Council area.
More than 115 nominations were received for 102 amazing Mackay region residents and groups for the 2025 Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Awards. All award winners and nominees will be recognised at a special awards ceremony at the MECC on Saturday, January 25, 2025.

Masters Swimming Australia National Swim Series 
This series boasts a mix of Long and Short Course meets across Australia. The series comprised of nine events in 2024, including the National Championships with one nominated meet from each of the Masters Swimming Branches and an extra one from Queensland and WA. It rewards members’ participation and performance in any of the Meets, with members needing to swim a minimum two meets to be eligible for prizes.  
In 2024 Sinkers Members Daniel Stampa placed 7th and Nigel Dalton placed 13th out of over 70 swimmers Nationally - showing that persistent performance across events will most definitely pay off!

Save these Dates! (all swimmers 18+ masters and non-masters)
Saturday February 22nd - Sinkers February Short course event, open now
Saturday October 5th – The blue-ribbon Whitehaven Open Water Swim is back for the king’s birthday weekend. Entries open mid-year.
Sunday November 2nd – King & Queen of the river, 1.25, 2.5 and 5k swims
For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

Contributed by Dan Stampa

The Masters Australia Swim Series recognises performance and attendance. Dan Stampa placed 7th of 70 Australia wide. Photo supplied

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Due to heavy rain and ongoing delays in the installation of the new hard-cover roof, there was no news from the club last week. However, we're eagerly awaiting its arrival and are currently in limbo.
This week, Tuesday morning’s Ladies Bowls saw four exciting pairs games. The standout performers were Tony Whitehorn and Sue Walker, who emerged as the dominant winners of the day.
On Wednesday afternoon, 18 bowlers participated in the Jackpot Bowls. The winning team, featuring skipper John Fielding, second John Brown, and lead David Meiklejohn, claimed the winners’ prize, though the jackpot was not won.
Saturday’s Scroungers event featured a thrilling first-round win for Margo Stanley and Cath Remmerswaal. In a close final, Margo narrowly triumphed by a single point over a gallant Cath, who is still in her first season of lawn bowls. The B Grade final was claimed by Tony Whitehorn.
Sunday’s social bowls saw Rick Galea in exceptional form, partnering with Arthur McManus to secure a commanding victory.
Special mention must go to Tony and Betty Whitehorn, who have become an integral part of the club. Originally from South Australia, they moved to Airlie Beach eight years ago. Their combined achievements include multiple championships in mixed and open events, with Betty winning the 2017 Ladies B Singles, 2018 Ladies A Grade, and 2019 Mixed Triples, among many others. Together, they inspire newcomers and contribute immensely to the club’s vibrant community.
The attached photo captures one of their many victorious moments at the club.
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Contributed with thanks to Airlie Beach Bowls Club

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The Cannonvale Cannons Swim Club made an energetic return to weekly club nights this week. Congratulations to Evie Doherty, Zane Clayworth, Roxy Groom, and Asher Springbett for delivering great performances and achieving notable personal best times during the evening’s races.
A sincere thank you goes out to the dedicated swimmers who devoted their time over the weekend to sell tickets for the club’s annual mega community raffle at Whitsunday Plaza. Their efforts were rewarded with vouchers generously provided by Boost Juice.
The club also extends its gratitude to the local community for their unwavering support in purchasing tickets. Special acknowledgment goes to the many businesses that have generously contributed to creating the impressive pool of prizes—this support ensures the success of the initiative. The club eagerly anticipates announcing the winners at the upcoming Summer Carnival on January 25th and 26th.
On Saturday, 25 Cannons swimmers participated in the Mirani Long Course Transition Meet, which turned out to be a fantastic day of racing. Congratulations to Roxanne Groom, Matilda Nicholes, and Celeste Orenshaw for earning A Grade upgrades, a testament to their hard work and commitment to training over the holidays.
A highlight of the Mirani meet was the Dash for Cash events, where the top six 50m Freestyle swimmers vied for cash prizes. Congratulations to the Cannons’ qualifiers: Lucas Korosec, Miller Eaves, Jax Clayworth, Isaac Pisaniello, Andie Reynolds, Isabella Pisaniello, Tora Delac, and Charlie Doherty. Special applause goes to Tora, Charlie, Jax, and Isaac for placing in their age groups and securing cash prizes.
Standout performances of the day came from Harry Chegwidden and Lucas Korosec, who dominated their events, clinching first place in all their races with superb personal bests. Zane Clayworth dazzled in the 50m Fly, shaving an impressive 3.74 seconds off his time to earn gold, while Roxanne Groom displayed consistency by achieving personal bests in all her events.
Congratulations to all the swimmers for their hard work and achievements this week!

Contributed with thanks to Cannonvale Cannons.

Our dedicated swimmers who helped sell tickets for our annual mega community raffle at Whitsunday Plaza.
Team Cannons ready to race at Mirani Long Course Transition Meet
Our Dash for Cash qualifiers Isabella Pisaniello, Andie Reynolds, Miller Eaves, Lucas Korosec, Tora Delac, Isaac Pisaniello, Charlie Doherty and Jax Clayworth.

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Outrigger Whitsunday recently asked the question - Why Do We Paddle? on their Facebook page as a part of the Come & Try program to be held on Saturday 11th.  Organisers were excited to welcome 36 members of the community keen to see what outrigger canoeing was all about.
Club President, Kim Dodds, greeted the new paddlers giving an overview of the sport and what to expect in the morning’s program.
“What a great start to the New Year!” Kim has stated. “Our ‘Come & Try’ day was a huge success. We had an amazing turnout from our community and got to meet new people”. Paddlers took to the water in 4 OC6 canoes, followed by a get together and BBQ.
If you would like to give outrigger paddling a go, just contact the club on its Facebook page or contact Kim on 0428 173 651 or Michelle Lynes 0421 159 852

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Come and Try day at Outrigger Whitsundays

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Last Saturday was the first parkrun of 2025, and it was a memorable one, with many new faces joining for the first time. Many participated in the event, kicking off the year with energy and enthusiasm.

This event also marked the conclusion of the five park runs held over the past 15 days, which has been an exciting challenge for all involved. With each event, participants have clocked "Miles and Miles" of distance, all of which would not have been possible without the dedication of the volunteers. Their support and hard work are what make these extra events a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Milestone Thursday also brought some special achievements to celebrate. During the event, two participants reached significant milestones: Max Ramsamy achieved the 50 finishes milestone and Isabelle Hayles reached the 10 Junior finishes milestone.

For those reaching milestones, it’s important to let your Run Director know before or after the event so they can help celebrate your achievements. Here’s to many more milestones in 2025!

New PB Wall:
Pete Torrisi
Alexis Howell
Trent Rankin
Mason Fenech
Marilyn Bennett
Kadin Liles
Susan Peterson
Tracey Preston
Nicholas Kerruish
Carissa Mansfield
Rebel Bertram
Swarna Shashi Bhaskara
Allan Edwards

About: Mackay parkrun is a free, timed, 5km run / walk put on by the community for the community at 7am every Saturday morning in Mackay.

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Isabelle Hayles
Max Ramsamy. Photo source: Mackay Parkrun (Facebook)

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The Mackay Cutters are gearing up for an exciting 2025 Hostplus Cup season with a revitalised squad, fresh talent, and a new coaching and management team bringing renewed energy to their premiership aspirations. With a mix of returning favourites, high-profile signings, and promising young talent, the Cutters are ready to make their mark.
The squad boasts a range of key re-signings, including 2024 Player of the Year John Radel, who returns for his second season in the Hostplus Cup squad. Fan favourites Raydan Burns and Hiale Roycroft are also back, with Burns heading into his fifth season as a Cutter and Roycroft building on a milestone year after achieving his 50th club appearance in 2024. Playmakers Bayley Gill and Mitch Fogarty, along with powerhouse second-rower Tom McNulty, are set to provide stability and leadership to the team.
Adding to the excitement are several high-profile recruits, including Elie El-Zakhem, who joins from the UK’s Betfred Super League, and Sheldon Diaz, a front-rower from the Melbourne Storm Academy. Ethan Coco, Luke Pietzner, and Gus Rangihuna return to the Cutters after stints with other clubs, bringing valuable experience and a deep connection to the sugar city.
Off the field, the Cutters have bolstered their coaching lineup with Marco Peters taking the reins of the BMD Premiership Squad, Matt Sanders leading the Harvey Norman U19's Squad, Imogen Healy guiding the Harvey Norman U17's Squad, Andy Battaia at the helm of the Mal Meninga Cup Squad, and Brett Watton overseeing the Cyril Connell Cup Squad.
Supporting the team’s holistic development is Zach Schill in his new role as Wellbeing, Education, and Change the Game Manager, while Steve Jackson steps into the position of Hostplus Cup Team Manager, ensuring the team is primed for success on and off the field.
With a squad that combines experience, fresh talent, and a commitment to developing pathways for future stars, the Cutters are poised to make 2025 a season to remember. As Head Coach Marco Peters said, “This is a team built not just for competition but for connection—on and off the field. The 2025 Cutters are about representing Mackay with pride and chasing the ultimate prize.”
The Mackay Cutters are ready to ignite the season, backed by a passionate community and a shared determination to bring the premiership home.

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Rain or shine, the team is putting in the hard yards, climbing hills and building grit for a massive 2025 season ahead. Photo source: Mackay Cutters

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Happy New Year from the Mackay Bridge Club. We have our Mackay Regional Council and Mackay & Whitsunday Life sponsored Australia Day Sausage Sizzle on Sunday 26 January at 414 Shakespeare Street. Everyone is welcome, so come along and see how fun Bridge is…and bring a friend or two. Beginners’ lessons start at 6.30pm, 12 February 2025.

Weekly Results
Monday 30 December 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
3rd
Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
Friday 3 January 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd
Joy Robinson / Joyce Deguara
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Pamella Finger

Saturday 4 January 2025 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Christine Nice
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd
Shirley Worland / Joy Block
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill

4th
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
4th
Margaret Lane / Anne Lutz

5th
Annette Howe / Geoff Cowan
5th
Jan Harris / Monica Darley

By Joy Block

First year players Karen Caldwell and Susan Gibson
First year players Sue Meyer-Miller and Shelly Lewis

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Competition Bowls

Men’s bowlers are reminded to submit their teams for this year’s club competition. Most nomination sheets are now on the notice board, with entries for the Open Fours and Open Pairs closing tomorrow at 3pm. Bowlers without teams can simply add their names to the single-player column, and efforts will be made to accommodate everyone.

The lady bowlers will kick off their season with Opening Day and Past Presidents’ Day on Wednesday, January 22, commencing at 1pm. This will be followed by the Graded Fours and Graded Triples on January 29 and February 5.

The men’s Opening Day is scheduled for this Saturday, January 11, with competition starting the following weekend. The Open Fours and Pairs matches will take place on Saturday 18, and Sunday, 19.

Warehouse bowls will begin on Thursday night, January 30, at 6.30pm. If you’re interested in playing, contact Asko Helenius on 0401 990 622.

Weekly Results

Monday
Winners: Kees Struik, Doug Giddings, Jan Brady, Ray Harris, June Stockwell
R/up: Sue Beale, Geoff Olett, Phil French, Peter Hamlink
Thursday
Winners: Alan Dillon, Mick Mackenzie
R/up: John Mackay, Lloyd Ogilvie, Darrin Addie, Noel James
Friday
Winners: Allan Cooney, Tony Allsop
R/up: Maureen Blucher, Neil Blucher
Third Place: Mick Walsh, Mick Mackenzie

Weekly Events

Monday: 8.30am Start - 2x4x2 Pairs
Wednesday, January 22: Ladies Opening Day
Thursday: 1pm Start - 2x4x2 Pairs
Friday: 1.30 Start - 3 Bowl Pairs
Saturday: 1pm Start - Presidents Opening Day
 
Tip Of The Week
It is far better to choose a shot that will provide 2,3, or 4 chances of success in preference to choosing a shot that offers only one chance of success. Again, I say think before choosing.   

Contributed by Doug Giddings

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Harry Hayes, a local rising star in the dance world, had the incredible opportunity to work with ballet legend Rian Thompson at the Mackay FAME Talent School studio earlier this week. Rian, who was visiting family in Mackay, created a brand-new classical solo for Harry, just five days before his upcoming competition.
For Harry, the chance to work alongside such an accomplished professional was a dream come true. Rian, born in Mackay and now a First Company Artist with Queensland Ballet, has a wealth of experience and knowledge to offer. He began his own dance journey at the age of four with Theatre Arts Mackay and has since made a name for himself in the professional ballet world, performing in numerous prestigious roles.
Harry, who has been training relentlessly, was thrilled to receive personalised guidance from Rian, especially as he gets ready for his next competition. Having the chance to collaborate with a male dancer of Rian’s calibre is a rare opportunity, and it’s clear that Harry was inspired by Rian’s passion and expertise.
Rian’s advice to aspiring dancers is simple yet profound: “Be yourself.”
They are words that Harry will surely carry with him as he takes to the stage in the coming days. With a mentor like Rian, Harry is bound to soar to new heights in his dance career.

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Harry Hayes and Rian Thompson share a moment in the studio, perfecting a classical solo just days before Harry's competition. Photo source: Mackay Fame Talent School
Rian Thompson in action, showcasing his incredible skill and passion for dance. Photo source: Queensland Ballet

Mackay Cycling Club competitors Peter Ransome and David O’Connell delivered strong performances at the Queensland Masters Track Cycling Titles, held at the Anna Meares Velodrome in Brisbane. Both competed in the Masters events, while young club member Matt Schatkowski represented Mackay in the Juniors.
Peter Ransome, competing in his age category in the Masters division, achieved a career highlight with a dominant display across multiple events. Ransom claimed a gold medal in the Keirin, a fast-paced, tactical race that requires exceptional sprinting ability. He also secured three silver medals in the Scratch, Elimination, and Points Races, proving his versatility and endurance in both short and long-distance formats.
Ransome’s success comes on the heels of his recent triumph at the Townsville Cup on Wheels, where he won the B-Grade Keirin trophy and dominated the combined handicap race, claiming the main event title.
David O’Connell, another seasoned competitor for Mackay Cycling Club, also had a strong showing at the State Championships. O’Connell earned a silver medal in the Keirin and a bronze in the Points Race, showcasing his versatility and tactical acumen against a competitive Masters field.
In the Junior division, Mackay’s U15 rider Matt Schatkowski faced a steep learning curve in his first state-level competition on an indoor velodrome. Despite adapting well in early races, a crash on the second night cut his campaign short. Despite this setback, the experience gained against a highly competitive field will serve as a valuable stepping stone in his development as a rider.

Peter Ransome (left) and David O’Connell display their medals at the Anna Meares Velodrome, celebrating a successful campaign at the Queensland Masters Track Cycling Titles

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The Whitsundays is known for its gorgeous waters that encourage many sailors to visit and sail year in and year out. One such sailor who has lived in Airlie Beach his whole life is Leo Rodriguez.
Leo recently took part in the Sydney to Hobart Race, with his crew of 14 and they placed 3rd in their division and 9th overall. Having competed in the Sydney to Hobart Race six times, Leo is one of the most experienced crew members and was chosen to help man the boat along with the core team because of his experience and friendship with the owners.
The vessel Leo competed in is called, "Jay-Bird", and is locally registered at the Whitsunday Sailing Club where it is owned by husband and wife team, Ian and Anika Thomson.
At the culmination of the race, Anika won the prestigious Jane Tate Memorial trophy. This trophy is awarded to the first female skipper to finish the race and impressively Anika has now won the trophy three times in a row. There has been a large push for women’s involvement in sailing as it can be perceived as primarily a male-dominant sport, but happily there were roughly 150 female competitors and this years’ event.
Leo explained how the race was particularly challenging this year due to the relentless sea conditions.
Jay-Bird and her crew faced continuous strong winds which were between 25-40 knots and huge waves on choppy seas. The team even achieved a top speed of 30 knots battling against unfavourable southern fronts as Leo reports the weather just got wetter and colder after departing Sydney. He even remarked at one point a huge wave crashed over the boat. But, despite the disagreeable conditions, overall, it was a memorable race.
During the event. Jay-Bird was pushed to her limits by the crew and finished with satisfying results in her division. The IRC-1 Division is for 52ft, fixed keel boats and when they crossed the line with a finishing time of 2 days, 20 hours and 16 minutes fans cheered and raised cardboard cut-outs of birds to show their support.
As a racing boat and a cruiser, Jay-Bird was built to handle the tough Tasman Sea with the expertise of her fantastic crew.
When asked if he would do the race again Leo said “I never say never. I have no plans on doing another race. (But) If I'm asked, I'd certainly consider it again.”
For now, he and the other crewmembers are enjoying their good results and calm, warm waters of the cruisy Whitsundays.

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Crew of the Ocean Crusaders Jay-Bird after finishing the race. Photo Supplied: Leo Rodriguez

Ocean Crusaders Jay-Bird as she sails into port with the help of a guide boat. Photo Credit: Wendell Teodor for @sailorgirlHQ
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Anika Thomson won the prestigious Jane Tate Memorial Trophy at the Sydney to Hobart for the third year in a row for being the first woman to cross the finsh line. Photo sourced: Facebook

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