Under 11 Boys
The U11 Pitties were back on home turf against Magpies White in a spirited contest. PJCA batted first after winning the toss, with a big thanks to N. Garraway for switching sides so both teams could field full squads.
W. White led the charge with 18 runs, supported by L. Neal (13), L. Stevens (12) and J. Smith (12) as the Pitties posted a steady 111, built on smart running and solid partnerships. With the ball, Z. Mead (1-17 off 3) and Neal (1-19 off 3) kept the Maggies under pressure, while White added a brilliant direct-hit run-out in the 18th over. The Magpies edged ahead with 132, but the Pitties fought hard to the end.
Player’s Player: L. Stevens

Under 11 Girls
The Pink Pitties travelled to Vigaro Fields for their first away match, taking on Walkerston White. Skipper E. Brazil won the toss and sent the girls in to bowl, and the attack fired from the start. Brazil, A. Quod and C. Green each took a wicket (1-21 off 4), while M. Neal (2-13 off 4) and G. Green (1-2 off 2) starred. A superb run-out from C. Green, assisted by E. Glindemann, capped off the Scrubbies’ innings at 93.
In reply, M. Neal (6), G. Green (13), Glindemann (3), C. Green (6) and Brazil (0) all contributed valuable runs. Top scorer A. Quod (14) struck her maiden boundary — twice — as the Pitties reached their best total yet with 80.
Player’s Player: A. Quod

Under 12s
After two losses, the U12s were fired up for their clash with Walkerston Scrubbies. Losing the toss, they bowled first and soon had the Scrubbies in chaos. The Gibbs brothers, James and Thomas, combined with skipper Nate to rip through the top order, collapsing the hosts from 23-0 to 24-6. Jobe Smith continued the carnage with two more wickets, limiting Walkerston to 78.
Openers Hector Valmadre (42) and Henry Holscher (37) powered a 48-run start, supported by Lilly Aitken (11), Thomas Gibbs (20), Smith (25), Patrick Regan (8) and Noah Camm (14). The Pitbulls finished on a commanding 4-189 — a dominant all-round win.
Player of the Match: Jobe Smith

Under 13s
The U13 Pitties lit up their home ground against Norths/Brothers, piling on 5-227. M. Hope (61*), M. Hearn (49*), M. Brazil (50) and H. Gibbs (26) led the fireworks. The bowlers then finished the job in style — C. Edgerton (3-5), R. Clark (2-0) and Z. Cale (1-3) dismantled the opposition, with run-outs from Brazil and Gibbs sealing a stunning all-out for 16 in just eight overs.

Under 14s
At Harrup Park, the U14 Pitties fell narrowly short against Norths Devils. Batting first, A. Farley (16), B. Hetherington (32), L. Appleton (23) and J. Farley (27*) guided the side to 6-130. The bowlers kept it close — Hetherington (2-11), Appleton (1-5), J. Farley (1-3) and K. Dibben (1-14) — but Norths scraped home at 6-131.
Player of the Match: B. Hetherington

Under 15s
The U15 Pitbulls dominated Brothers at Mirani, blasting 2-214. B. Hope (50*), O. Dibben (50*), C. Forrester (50*) and E. Baker (37*) all shone with the bat. W. Marshall (4-5) tore through the opposition, backed by L. Smith (2-7) and Baker (1-0), with sharp fielding from Dibben, Hope and Leo. Brothers were bowled out for 51 — a crushing Pitties victory.

Contributed with thanks to Danni Green and L. Valmadre

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U'12s vs Walkerston. Photo supplied

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Mackay Road Runners held their 2025 Annual Presentation Night, a celebration of the club’s achievements that rivalled any award ceremony. Trophies and thank-you gifts were presented throughout the evening, recognising the dedication of members, volunteers, and sponsors.

Club President Paul Tilse acknowledged the committee and volunteers for their efforts in making the 2025 season a success. He also thanked the club’s many loyal sponsors and supporters, including Life Members Merv and Wendy Shields of M-Test Mackay, who have supported the club since its inception in 1976.

Carolyn Mapes and Alan Zamparutti coordinated the event at North Mackay Bowls Club, providing a fun introduction featuring several ‘Who Am I?’ quiz questions. Tables were decorated with running-themed items, and attendees enjoyed a popular selection of chocolates and Turkish Delights.

Major awards for 2025 were presented by Life Members Wendy and Merv Shields, Jim Ford, and Judy Zahn in the absence of Club Patron Col Meng:

• Junior Female & Male Club Champions: Lily Leven & Max Miles
• Open Female & Male Club Champions: Alana Knezevic & Mick Vivian
• Overall Handicap Points Champion: Ashley Miles
• The Grove 10k Handicap Champion: Justin Rule
• Forsyth’s Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield Champions: Alana Knezevic & Toby Rule
• Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Champion: Max Miles
• M-Test Open King & Queen of the Mountain: Alana Knezevic & Jared Havemann (non-member)
• Laura Pettifer & Podiatry Mackay Junior King & Queen of the Mountain: Lily Leven & Toby Rule
• Col & Rhonda Meng Club Person of the Year: Len Howarth
• Most Supportive: Andrew Short
• Most Improved: Gail Mackie
• Encouragement Award: Bianca Miles
• MAD Fitness Lucky Door Prize: Hughie Bishop

Committee members and volunteers were also recognised for their dedication, including Life Members Agnes Farmer, Wendy and Merv Shields, Tim Magoffin, Paul and Janelle Tilse, Andrew Short, and others who hosted events from their homes.

Looking ahead, the first event in the Shawn’s Splash & Dash Summer Series is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at the Aquatic and Recreational Complex (ARC). Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford will guide participants through 30 minutes on the track followed by 30 minutes in the pool. Prizes will be awarded for the most laps completed in each age category. While the event is free to join, entry to the ARC facility covers access to the pool and track. All ages and abilities are welcome.

The Mackay Road Runners Annual General Meeting will be held Monday 12th January, 5:30 PM, North Qld Bulk Ports Meeting Rooms, Mackay Marina

Members and community supporters are encouraged to attend or share feedback with the committee if unable to make it.

For more updates and news from the Mackay Road Runners, watch this space.

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2025 Committee congratulated on a great year with beautiful roses by Wendy Shields (Life Member) left to right) standing:- Paul Tilse (President), Len Howarth (Vice-President), Jo Hughes (Merchandiser), Tim Magoffin (Treasurer), Brendan Bishop (2024 President), Andrew Short (Asset Co-ordination, course setup/packdown); kneeling in front:- Jim Ford (Club Captain), Julie Whibley (Secretary) and Janelle Tilse (Publicity Officer.) Photos supplied

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Sunset Bay had a jammed pack weekend 24/25th Oct with a fun night of Trivia for fundraising at Eimeo Surf club, followed the next day by the club AGM.

Trivia saw more of a head to head competitive side of the outrigger community and locals of Eimeo Beach were welcomed.

Thank you to the sponsors of the evening- Pin- Point Property; Magpie Sports Club, Mount Pleasant Brumby's and MAK Financial Advisors, with this support approx $1300 was raised for our paddlers heading to National Sprint Titles.

The next day Sunset Bay club members then welcomed new Committee members Justin Davies - President, Danette (Netty) Pearson - Secretary, Petina Kidd- Registrar, Colleen Halyes and Kim Alloway - general committee and with 6 committee members remaining in their roles for the upcoming 2026 season.

Outgoing President Bel Quakawoot was praised for her 'above and beyond' contribution to Sunset Bay for the past 2yrs and has left the committee in good stead.

Bel was able to present the club prestigious awards of life membership to Petina Kidd - a long standing and active member of Sunset Bay Outriggers.

Club person of the year was presented to Stephen James for his quiet achiever attitude in completing numerous tasks for the club.

Check Sunset Bay Outriggers on Facebook for upcoming 'Come & Try' days.

Contributed by Sunset Bay Outriggers

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Sunset Bay Outriggers hosted a fundraising trivia night and AGM on 24–25 October, raising $1,300 and welcoming new committee members while presenting awards to standout club members. Photos supplied

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Around forty athletes and supporters braved the heat at the Aquatic and Recreational Complex, Ooralea, for the first Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon of the 2025/2026 series.

Created by Mackay Road Runners Club Captain Jim Ford in memory of the late Shawn, a former club treasurer and champion runner who passed away from pancreatic cancer seven years ago, the series continues to celebrate his passion for fitness, community, and perseverance.

The event is open to everyone, with no club membership required. Entry to the ARC is charged by the venue, but the run itself is free, with gold coin donations welcome for post-race refreshments.

The next race will be held at 4.30pm at the ARC – participants are asked to arrive by 4.20pm for briefing.

Online registration for the 2026 Mackay Road Runners season is now open. The 2026 calendar meeting will take place on December 6 at 11am at the Seabreeze Tavern, Lamberts Beach, and the AGM will be held on January 12 at 5.30pmat the North Qld Bulk Ports meeting room, Mackay Marina. All are welcome.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Natasha, Craig and Alex Joynson enjoy the first Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series hosted by Mackay Road Runners Club Captain, Jim Ford as part of the  off season informal training program.

The Flanagan family ready to tackle the Mackay Road Runners Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.

The Hayles family supporting each other at the Mackay Road Runners off season Splash n Dash Biathlon series.

Jose Short and Phoebe Short clocking up as many laps as possible in 30 minutes before the 30 minute pool section of the Biathlon series.

Stephen Oberg and Fran March battle it out on the track section. Photos supplied

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At The 2025 Cape Hillsborough Blokarting Regatta

The Central Queensland Blokart Club held its annual three-day regatta at Cape Hillsborough Beach last weekend, attracting thirty competitors from across the region. Racing began on Friday under promising conditions, but the wind soon eased, leaving most sailors switching down to their 5.5 sails as speeds dropped to around 10–12kph. Despite the lighter breeze from the north-northeast, competitors made the most of the challenging conditions, with plenty of close racing and a few getting bogged in softer sand near the water’s edge.

Saturday brought similar winds early on before strengthening later in the day, prompting many to swap back to their 4m sails. Sixteen races were completed over the two main days, with plenty of tight finishes and friendly rivalry. The event concluded Sunday with a trophy presentation, nibbles, and drinks at the caravan park, celebrating another successful regatta filled with skill, camaraderie, and coastal adventure.

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Capricornia Blokart Club

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Mackay’s rising sprint star Ethan Hill is proving that dedication and determination can overcome any obstacle. At just 15, he’s already represented Queensland and North Queensland at the nation’s top athletics competitions, with more milestones on the horizon.

Ethan’s impressive track record includes bronze medals in the 4x100m relay at both the 2022 School Sport Nationals in Brisbane and the 2025 Australian Athletics Championships in Perth. Later this year, he’ll again don the North Queensland colours at the Australian All Schools Championships in Melbourne.

His journey began humbly in 2021 at a school athletics carnival, where a natural burst of speed first caught attention. After an early setback with a broken wrist, Ethan returned in 2022, joined the Sleak Squad under coach Dave Lester, and quickly rose to national level within months.

The following year tested his resilience when a serious leg injury required surgery and a long recovery. Despite being told his running career might be over, Ethan persevered through rehab and was back on the track by the end of 2024, and stronger than ever. He’s since clocked impressive personal bests of 11.43 seconds (100m), 22.76 (200m), and 52.53 (400m).

Most recently, he competed in the Cathy Freeman Challenge, using the event to fine-tune his form ahead of Melbourne’s national championships in December.

While he’s proud of what he’s achieved through local training, Ethan said regional athletes would greatly benefit from more opportunities to train and develop their skills closer to home.

“It’d be good to have more help with training and more opportunities for athletes to develop,” he said.

“A lot of us don’t get to move from here, but to perform better we often have to go to the bigger cities, and that’s hard on a lot of families.”

Ethan’s success highlights the growing call from parents and coaches for more pathways to ensure the next generation of athletes can rise from regional tracks to national stadiums.

With the region producing standout talents across multiple sports, parents within the sporting community are calling for upgrades and better resources to help local competitors reach their full potential close to home.

Ethan’s sights are now set on the 2025 Australian Championships in Brisbane and the Oceania Championships in Darwin, marking the next step in an already inspiring career.

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Mackay teen Ethan Hill has overcome injuries and setbacks to achieve national success in sprinting, highlighting both his talent and the need for more local sporting opportunities for regional athletes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Photos supplied

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The Life Members Trophy was played over two consecutive Wednesdays with the same partner to honour our past and present life members. Life members present were Barbara Tait and Monica Darley. Both ladies worked tirelessly over many years and contributed to make our club what it is today. Winners of the competition were Life Member Monica Darley and President Frances Brown.

Weekly Results

Monday 27 October 2025 - 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st David Ting / Ming Ting 2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
3rd Geoffrey Patterson / Robert Carless 4th Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
5th Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek 6th Shirley Worland / Joy Block

Tuesday 28 October 2025 – Australian wide Restricted Pairs (<300 MP’s) Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 1st Mick King / Ian Gaskell
2nd Jan Harris /Helen Van Den Broek 2nd Jennifer Cameron / Rosie Smith
3rd Joy Hold / Anne Lutz 3rd Susan Gibson/ Caldwell
4th Sandy Patterson / Geoff Cowan 4th Joy Block / Diane Stokes

Tuesday Evening 28 October 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris 1st Susan Gibson / Vicki Howard
2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy

Wednesday 29 October 2025 – Life Members Pairs Week 2 of 2 - 9 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Diane Morgan 1st Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
2nd Monica Darley / Frances Brown 2nd Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller
3rd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 3rd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
4th David Ting / Eric Goodchild 4th Susan Wright / Bob Ellis

Thursday Evening 30 October 2025 - 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Shirley Worland / Diane Stokes 2nd Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers

Friday 1 November 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 1st Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
2nd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 2nd Christine Nice / Gillian McCallum
3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jennifer Cameron 3rd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore

Saturday 2 November 2025 – Presidents Trophy Week 2 of 3
N/S Section A E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Julie O’Neill 1st Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan
2nd Frances Brown / Alan Brown 2nd Robert Carless / Anne Lutz
N/S Section B E/W
1st Annie Lynch / Diane Stokes 1st Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
2nd Patricia Garner / Martin Pearce 2nd Janine Rodgers / Faye Wright

Contributed by Joy Block

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Monica Darley & Barbara Tait
Barbara, Frances & Monica. Photos supplied

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LADIES BOWLS

The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club hosted its final competition for 2025 on Wednesday, October 29 — the 2 Bowls Triples event.

Club-selected teams played three games of 12 ends, with one standout trio taking top honours. The winners were Donna Gordon, Carmel Bell, and Hilary Jones Rowan, while Lorraine Silman, Pam Spencer, and Therese Russell were runners-up. Congratulations to all players who took part in the friendly and competitive day.

Best wishes also go to the Division 1 team, who travelled to Tweed Heads on Friday to compete in the District Pennant Finals on Saturday, November 1. Good luck and good bowling, ladies!

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Division 1 Pennant Team (L) Lorraine Silman, Chris Woo, Nuggy Pratt, Lorraine Lemke, Lois Deguara, Lorna Bowers, Helen Fleming, Debbie Mackenzie, Marie Duck. Photos supplied

Runners up 2 Bowl Triples Therese Russell and Lorraine Silman, Pam Spencer (absent)

Winners of the 2 Bowl Triples (L) Carmel Bell, Donna Gordon, Hilary Jones Rowan

Although a day early, the students of the Northern Beaches Karate Club brought the spirit of Halloween to their regular training night.

A red carpet parade of spooks, ghouls, skeletons, Dracula attacking his Dad, a chicken with a police officer on board along with a familiar-looking president, set the scene for a fun night.

Class continued in costume with traditional training, punching bags, breaking boards, breath training and games.   All agreed it was a perfect way to celebrate a Karate Halloween.

The Northern Beaches Karate club runs classes in school term on Tuesday and Thursday held at the Bucasia Community Hall in Wallace Avenue.   Sensei Helle also holds Self Defence courses for women and girls with the next session planned for February 2026.

For information please call 0488 146 644

Contributed by Gerri Kissner

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U11 Boys – Written by Luke Valmadre
The Pitbulls hosted Magpies Black on Saturday. Captain Logan won the toss and batted first, with N. Garroway smashing a rapid 21 to help post 66. Despite tight bowling from J. Gibbs, J. Smith, and strong fielding including four runouts, the Magpies chased down the total with 118. Player of the Match went to Nick Garroway for his batting and bowling.

U11 Girls – Written by Danni Green
The Pitties in Pink faced the Sarina Spartans. Batting first, M. Neal and G. Green set the tone, finishing on 53. With the ball, M. Neal (1-14), C. Green (1-15), and A. Baker (0-8) bowled tightly, supported by a spectacular run out from G. Green. Sarina finished on 153, with Player’s Player awarded to C. Goldspink.

U12s – Written by Danni Green
Facing Magpies White, the Pitties posted 107 thanks to T. Gibbs (27) and J. Smith (17). Bowling performances from T. Gibbs (2-6), N. Aitken (1-12), and P. Regan (1-16) kept the Magpies under pressure, who finished 5-111.

U13s – Written by Danni Green
At Pinnacle CC, the Pitties bowled tightly with Z. Cale, M. Hope, H. Gibbs, and E. Smith conceding very few runs. Batting, M. Hope (18)* and H. Gibbs (10) led a chase of 76, falling short of Pinnacle’s 126.

U14s – Written by Danni Green
At home against Souths Sharks, the Pitties posted 3-142 with A. Farley (49) and B. Hetherington (38 retired) leading the way. Bowling performances from S. Green, L. Appleton, B. Hetherington, and K. Dibben helped bowl out Souths for 88, securing a strong win.

U17s – Written by Danni Green
At Abbott Park, the Pitties scored 4-164 thanks to *J. Geisler (76), J. Valmadre (20), and *O. Seamer (17). Bowling efforts from A. Valmadre (2-18), O. Seamer (2-18), and M. Pomeroy (2-11), combined with sharp fielding from M. Gabey and J. Valmadre, restricted Walkerston Roosters to 71, giving the Pitties another commanding win.

#BatsOutForBen
It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the tragic passing of 17-year-old Victorian cricketer Ben Austin, who lost his life this week doing what he loved most — playing cricket.

In honour of Ben, and to stand alongside the wider cricket community, our junior players wore black armbands and observed a Minute’s Silence before every match on Saturday. We also joined the #BatsOutForBenny tribute — a moving show of support to celebrate Ben’s life and stand with his family, friends, and teammates during this heartbreaking time.

These gestures are our way of showing respect for a young life gone far too soon, and a reminder of the strong bond that connects the cricket family, no matter where we play.
A sincere thank-you to all players and families for showing such unity and kindness.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Ben’s loved ones, his teammates, and the entire Victorian cricket community.

Contributed with thanks to Danni Green

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The U'11 boys team. Photo supplied

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A brief shower early in the morning had players wondering whether the 4BBB Team of Two event would go ahead, but common sense prevailed and all sixteen teams took to the course.

Conditions soon cleared, and the competition produced excellent scoring, with just ten points separating first and last place. Leading the way were Tessa Aitken and Mark Richards, who claimed victory with a superb 47 points.

Runners-up were Jim Sherrington and Vic Feldman on 45 points, edging out Gary and Elspeth Scotford on countback. Other strong performers included Vickie and John Wallace (44 C/B), David Woods and Linda Wardroper (44 C/B), Nick Apruzzese and Allison McCarthy (44), Paula McQuat and Tiina Randmae (43 C/B), Gerald Lovell and Robyn Whitham (43 C/B), and Rehab Hull and John Roser (43).

In the Pin Shots, standout players included Tina Badenhorst, who took both holes 2 and 7 in the Ladies A Grade, while in B Grade, Linda Wardroper (hole 2), Rehab Hull (hole 7), and Tiina Randmae (hole 9) were on target.

For the men, Craig McLean (hole 5), Gary Scotford (hole 13), and John Roser, who impressively holed out on 16, took the A Grade honours. In B Grade, David Woods (hole 5), Steve Mitchell (hole 13), and Wilf Herweg (hole 16) claimed the prizes.

Chip-ins were recorded by John Roser, Gary Scotford, and Grossy, while the Membership Jackpot now climbs to $80 for next week. The Weekly Raffle was won by Craig McLean.

Next week’s competition will be the Melbourne Cup Stableford, starting at 8am on November 4. Players are reminded to check the flyer from Leanne, bring along their best hats for the competition, and bring nibbles and cash for the sweeps.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Tessa AItken and Mark Richards

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It’s been a week of sizzling golf at Proserpine Golf Club, with hot temperatures and plenty of run on the fairways helping players post some impressive scores. The dry conditions were welcomed by many, though golfers know it won’t last long before the next round of rain slows things down again.

Tuesday, October 28 – Single Stableford & Vets 4BBB
Gary Scotford dominated Tuesday’s Single Stableford with 45 points, ahead of Tommy Gallagher on 41. Elspeth Scotford led the ladies with 38 on countback from Tiina Randmae. In the Vets 4BBB, Tessa Aitken and Mark Richards won with 47, followed by Jim Sherrington and Vic Feldman (45), and Gary and Elspeth Scotford (45). NTP highlights included Tina Badenhorst (2nd, 7th), Gary Scotford (13th), and John Roser, who holed out on 16.

Wednesday, October 29 – Ladies 4BBB & Men’s Single Stableford
Jan Shuwalow and Brenda Cowan impressed in the Ladies 4BBB with 53 points, while Ben Harrison topped the Men’s Single Stableford with 46, ahead of Theunis Venter Jnr (42).

Thursday, October 30 – Single Stableford
Brad Fleet claimed A Grade with 40 points, and Andrew Smart took B Grade, also on 40.

Friday, October 31 – 9-Hole Run
Sponsored by the Metropole Hotel, Chris Pirlo led with 24 points, followed by Nigel Dray (22). Kobe Leisch went close in the Putt for Cash, which now jackpots to $1000 — the club’s record total.

Saturday, November 1 – Monthly Medal
Jack Paroz was the overall winner with 64 nett. A Grade went to Jacob Nightingale (67), B Grade to Ben Bullock (65 c/b), and C Grade to Paroz (64). For the ladies, Toni Clauss (64 nett) edged out Sara Hagy (65 nett, 69 gross), believed to be near a course record.

Sunday, November 2 – Monthly Medal
Harvey Mason took the men’s title with 67 nett (c/b), while Sidonie Fleet’s brilliant 59 nett earned her the ladies’ win.

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How hot has it been here in paradise! Thankfully, our wonderful cover has made things much cooler for all the bowlers — though the bowling itself has been sizzling hot.

Tuesday afternoon social bowls saw 14 bowlers vying for the prize. They should have realised that Tony “Take the Money” Whitehorn was playing, and teamed with Dawn Dowell, the pair won convincingly with 21 points.

On Wednesday afternoon, social bowls produced another brilliant performance, with skipper Arthur McManus and Alan Pershouse in startling form, easily outplaying the rest of the field.

Results from Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls will be updated next week.

Friday morning’s Endeavour Foundation group is really progressing well, with Cathy, Kiara, Michael, Jett, and Dion all showing great promise. With continued practice, they could be representing Airlie Beach at the Queensland Disability Games in 2026.

Friday afternoon saw more than 20 bowlers arrive from the Christian College for lessons. Madeline Riley, Eliana Langshore, Shannon Matthews, Ryker Boers, Pazel Davis, and Ocean Houlding all showed excellent potential and could easily represent the Whitsundays at the 2026 Queensland Schools competition with further training. Special mention must also go to Taylor Fairhall and Alannah Jackson — keep up the great work! It would be wonderful to see the Christian College representing our area.

Saturday morning’s Scroungers competition is nearing its conclusion. This week’s first-round winners were Greg Fennell, Tony Whitehorn, Merve Stewart, and Des Ballance. In the final, Tony Whitehorn defeated Greg Fennell and now sits on minus 10 points alongside Andy McDougall. Maureen Barnard won the B Grade final.

On Sunday afternoon, 24 bowlers took to the greens. We welcomed Brett Fleming, formerly from Hervey Bay Bowling Club, as a new member of our little club, and it was great to see Alma Zaldivar back from the Philippines, Tony Kelly back from illness, and Liz McManus return to the greens.

The dice was rolled by Nilo Ballance, landing on five points for a win and ends won. The day’s winners were the team of skipper Margo Stanley, lead Eric Barnard, and second Brett Fleming — well done to all!

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Saturday morning Scroungers. Photo supplied

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It’s been another exciting week for the Cannonvale Cannons, with our swimmers making waves both locally and on the national stage.

First up, a huge congratulations to Eloise Chegwidden, who proudly represented Queensland at the School Sport Australia Swimming Championships in Ballarat, Victoria. Despite the freezing temperatures, hail, and storms, Eloise powered through with incredible focus and determination.

On Day One, she placed tenth in the country in the 100m Breaststroke and helped her Queensland teammates to a sixth-place finish in the 4x50m Medley Relay, swimming the breaststroke leg and posting another PB. Then came her pet event, the 50m Breaststroke, where Eloise clocked a 1.44-second PB in her heat to qualify for the final. Showing true Cannon spirit, she went even faster in the final with another 2.20-second improvement, finishing in a time of 41.60 to earn fifth place in Australia. What an outstanding achievement — congratulations, Eloise!

Meanwhile, 29 of our Cannons travelled to Townsville to compete at the 2025 Gardens Open Long Course Transition Meet. The team delivered fantastic results, with a heap of PBs, several new long course state qualifying times, and plenty of team spirit throughout the weekend.

Saturday ended on a high, with the 8–11 Years Girls 200m Freestyle Relay claiming a silver medal to cap off an exciting day of racing.

We’re also proud to acknowledge our swimmers recognised as part of the SNQ State Squad — Jacob Bell, Zach Trefz, Tyler Bennett, Nelson Malady, Declan Dichiera, Andie Reynolds, Jax Clayworth, and Thomas Ganter — and a special congratulations to Tora Delac, selected for the National Squad for the 2025/26 season.

Go Cannons!

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Eloise Chegwidden the Finalist. Photo supplied

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It was a week to remember for Mackay’s middle-distance athletes, with members of The Rules of Running squad returning from the Queensland School Sport Track and Field Championships in Townsville with an incredible medal haul.

Held from October 13 to 19, the state championships brought together some of the best young talent from across Queensland, with Mackay’s representatives proving they are a force to be reckoned with on the track and in the field.

The Mackay-based Rules of Running squad, coached and trained locally, recorded an outstanding 17 state medals in total, including nine gold, seven silver, and one bronze. The team also achieved 12 personal bests (PBs), one season best (SB), and an impressive 40.5 seconds of combined PB improvements, along with one new state record.

In total, 11 athletes represented the squad, including two competitors in the 10–12 years division and nine in the 13–19 years division.

Among the standout performances was Shailee Mewha, who earned her first two state silver medals in the 800m (PB) and 1500m events.

Millie Groom impressed with two silver medals in the 3000m and 2000m steeplechase, clocking a huge 18-second PB in the latter. She also posted PBs in the 800m (7th place) and 1500m (9th place).

August Cole claimed his first state bronze medal in the 2000m steeplechase with a four-second PB and continued his consistent form with PBs in the 1500m (7th), 800m (7th), and a solid 12th place in the 400m.

Keira Caban showed her remarkable all-round talent, taking home two state gold medals in the long jump and 1500m, as well as three silver medals in the shot put, 800m, and 400m — earning two state championship titles along the way.

Ayla Moon delivered a dominant performance with three gold medals in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m, all accompanied by PBs. Her record-breaking run in the 800m added to her trio of state titles and confirmed her as one of the standout performers of the meet.

Meanwhile, Toby Rule capped off an extraordinary campaign by securing four gold medals and four state championship titles in the 800m, 1500m, 3000m steeplechase, and 5000m.

The results mark one of the most successful outings yet for The Rules of Running squad, whose athletes continue to make Mackay proud on the state stage.

With hard work, dedication, and outstanding coaching behind them, the future looks bright for Mackay’s next generation of track and field stars.

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