Sports

Harvest Triples Brings Friendly Competition to Marian Bowls Club

Harvest Triples Brings Friendly Competition to Marian Bowls Club

The annual Harvest Triples competition was held at the Marian Bowls Club on Monday, May 11th, welcoming sixteen teams from across the district. President Thelma Johnston greeted players as they arrived for the popular event, which saw bowlers enjoy a day of friendly rivalry despite continuous showers throughout the day. The wet weather did little to dampen spirits, with plenty of laughter and camaraderie shared across the greens. A cent sale and raffles were well supported by the attending bowlers, while Joan Vickers donated a beautiful orchid for the lucky door prize. With only three points separating the top three teams, the competition proved to be closely contested. Results were as follows: 1st Place: C. McBride, Penny Roots, Rita Hughes 2nd Place: Lyn Tungate, Pauline Turchett, Margaret Egerton 3rd Place: Doris Fry, Judith Miller, Thelma Johnston Contributed by Judith Miller 6349 T. Johnston, R. Hughes, C. McBride, P. Roots. 6348 T. Johnston, L. Tungate, M. Edgerton, P. Turchett 6346 L. Hamilton, T. Johnston, D. Fry, J. Miller. Photos supplied

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Aquila Takes Top Honours At 21st QMRS Memorial Cup In Dysart

Aquila Takes Top Honours At 21st QMRS Memorial Cup In Dysart

Queensland Mines Rescue Service (QMRS) has brought together some of the state’s most capable mines rescue teams for the 21st QMRS Memorial Cup, held at the QMRS Dysart Rescue Station on 7th May 2026. Now in its 21st year, the Memorial Cup continues to honour the legacy of those who have shaped mines rescue in Queensland, while giving teams the opportunity to demonstrate the specialist skills, discipline and teamwork that underpin strong emergency response capability across the sector. Teams representing Oaky North, Aquila, Broadmeadow, Centurion, Crinum, Ensham and Ironbark No.1 competed throughout the day in a series of real-world emergency scenarios designed to test decision-making under pressure and strengthen operational readiness across the industry. The top four teams will now progress to the State Rescue Competition in August. QMRS Chief Executive Officer Tim Jackson said the event plays a key role in maintaining preparedness. “Events like the Memorial Cup are about building capability and making sure our people are ready when it matters,” he said. “The scenarios are designed to test teams under pressure, and the standard on display reflects the strength of mines rescue across Queensland.” Aquila Mine took out top honours, followed by Oaky North Mine and Ironbark Mine. Awards for the George Carbine Perpetual Trophy for Best First Aid and the QMRS Fire Fighting Excellence Award in memory of Ramsay Wells were both awarded to Aquila. Captain of the winning team, Nicholas Doherty, said the result reflected strong preparation and teamwork. "This result reflects the standard across all teams that competed. The scenarios are built around real incidents, so every decision counts. For us, it comes down to discipline, communication and trust in each other. This win is a credit to the work the team has put in and the support behind us. More importantly, it is about making sure we are ready when it matters.” Aquila Mine General Manager Braedon Smith said the result reflected sustained effort and team development. “Winning the QMRS Memorial Cup is a proud moment for our Aquila team members and recognition of the hard work, discipline and commitment they have shown building capacity together as a relatively new team,” he said. “This result did not happen overnight. Our team has trained consistently, backed each other in every scenario, and built strong trust and teamwork along the way. Mines rescue competitions test the skills, communication and decision making that make a real difference should an emergency situation occur either on site or in the community.” QMRS acknowledged the support of its industry partners, with the Memorial Cup made possible through contributions from FRSA, 3M, Dräger, Fire Response, Performance Training, MSA, PIP, Simtars, Blackwoods and Lunar Mining, as well as the efforts of staff, district assessors, team marshals, patients, assistants and supporters who helped deliver the event. CAPTIONS: Winners - Aquila (Front Row L to R) - Mitchell Bird, Carl Schultz (vice - captain), Nick Doherty (captain), and Vincent Fitzgerald. (Back Row L to R) - John Bourke, Guillermo (will) Pedrosa, Adam Barnes, Daneil Davies, and Tyronne Sullivan. Photo supplied Second Place - Oaky North (Front Row L to R) - Leslie Healy, Robert McShane (vice - captain), Samuel Lindley (captain), and Coleman Roberts. (Back Row L to R) - Sandie McGill, Dakotah Damsma Richardson, Ben Ormsby, Hudson Jeffrey, Corey Hoskins, and Sarah Ryan (3M). Photo supplied Third Place - Ironbark No.1 (Front Row L to R) - Kenneth Aveling, Thomas McPhail (captain), Shay Livermore (vice - captain), and Dean Betts. (Back Row L to R) - Charlie Stokes, Connor Thompson, Luke Davies, Paul Hansen, Danuel Bell, and Brett Spence (FRSA). Photo supplied

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Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results and Mackay Open   12th May 2026

Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results and Mackay Open 12th May 2026

Over the weekend of 8th–10th May, Mackay Table Tennis Association was proud to host the Queensland Northern Veterans and Mackay Open Tournament, welcoming more than 100 players from across the State, who travelled from Cairns to the Gold Coast to compete in the event. The weekend featured both Aged and Rated events and showcased an incredible range of competitors, from our youngest junior player at just 7 years old to our oldest veteran player at 85 years old. For the first time in several years, we crowned new Men’s and Women’s Open Singles Champions. Alan Walsh from Townsville defeated Paul Green from Mackay to claim the Men’s Open title, while Crismi Lovera fought back strongly against Andrea McDonnell, with both players representing Townsville, to secure the Women’s Open title. Mackay Table Tennis Association would like to sincerely thank everyone who travelled, competed, umpired, and assisted throughout the weekend, along with the wonderful referees whose efforts helped make the tournament a success. A special thank you also goes to all the sponsors who generously donated prize money and raffle prizes to the Club — your continued support is greatly appreciated. Tuesday Night Fixtures Division 1: Curlews (Barry Patterson, Geoff Cowan, Anne Sheridan) just got home against Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake) 6-5. Barry won a very close battle with Graham B (-6,6,-13,10,9). What an exceptional 5 Sets! Cockatoos (Mick Ruhl, Mark Sleeman, Neil Brown) won 6-5 over Geese (Steven Whiting, Lee Brake, Janice Kent), no 5 set matches but some very close games. Canaries (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Yilin Jiang) defeated Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Allan Edwards, Syed Hossain). Division 2: Doves (Daniel Warfield, John McGee, Will VanDeKaa) defeated Owls (Rod Mahumas, Peter Goodson, Ricky Zhan) 6-5 with a good 5 set doubles match between John and Daniel coming home against Rod and Ricky to win (-3,7,-12,8,3). Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) won 9-2 against Kites (Matt West, Tiffany Camilleri, Simon Hogan), Andrea found her groove in the 5 set to win over Matt (-8,3,4,-7,6). Galahs (Donna Abbott, Remy Zhan) beat Parrots (George Camilleri, Darryl Ross) 5-3, George got his monies worth with 2 big 5 set matches, he lost to Donna but came out and snuck home against Remy (-9,7,-8,7,12) Division 3 are still playing in there groups with the leader board changing often. Tuesday Morning Fixtures Division 1: Orion Orbitors (Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd, John McGee) defeated Astro Aces (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Sally Muir), Peter overcome John in 5 sets (9,4,-9,-9,4). Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic, Kevin Abbott, Darryl Ross) won 8-4 against Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Veronica Needham, Bryan Marshall), Kevin got the better of Veronica N (-9,11,-7,5,6). Division 2: Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Gloria Vella, Helen Ware) overcome Ninja Strikes (Ken Best, Frank Caruana, Chris Collins) 10-2, Helen outlasted Chris in 5 sets (-8,-8,1,10,7). Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Josie Davis) defeated Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Coral Morgan, Robyn Bushell) 7-5, Kim overcome John in close 5 sets (16,-5,-9,11,10). Division 3: Celtic Smash (David Muir, Trish Zamparutti, Myles Dutton) won 7-5 Gladiator Grip (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Madge Saunders), Myles overcome Sharon in 5 sets (7,9,-8,-7,7). Aztec Warriors (Kim Challendar, Janelle Kuene, Pam Kuene) defeated Mongol Power (Gerry Synnott, Glenda Dutton, Thelma Caruana) 11-1, Pam outlasted Gerry in close battle (7,-8,8,-3,7). Contributed by Andrea Payne Barry Patterson. Photo supplied

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Mackay Contract Bridge Results May 22nd

Mackay Contract Bridge Results May 22nd

The 30th Barrier Reef Contract Bridge Congress was played in Townville last week. Players travelled from all over the state to compete. Five pairs of Mackay players received coveted Red points in the Walkins. Noel Saunders and Martin Pearce won the Novice Pairs (Gold points) with Team Morris – Sandra Morris, Annie Lynch, Jan Harris and Helen Van Den Broek placed second in the Restricted Team event, also Gold points. All Mackay players competed well and received a percentage of Red or Gold points. Weekly Results Monday 11 May 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell 1st Patrick Rasmussen / Mary Rose Ramsden 2nd Monica Darley / Joy Block 2nd Sandy Patterson / Karen Caldwell 3rd Faith Hutchinson / Mary Jane Marsh 3rd Diane Stokes / Edward Kliese Tuesday Evening 12 May 2026 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia 2nd Ken Seaniger / Ann Whitmore 3rd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 4th Vicki Howard / Richard Wix Wednesday 13 May 2026 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 1st Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell 2nd Bob Ellis / Susan Wright 2nd Andrew Canavan / Kath Poole 3rd Robert Carless / Joy Robinson 3rd Geoff Taylor / Ian Vary 4th Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait 4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen Thursday Evening 14 May 2026 – 4 Table One Winner – Green Points 1st Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 2nd Griffin Bancroft / Mick King 3rd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless Friday 8 May 2026 –- 6 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 1st Nancy Martin / Kath Poole 2nd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait 2nd Sue Mayer-Miller / Gwen Liddell 3rd Joyce Deguara / Shirley Worland 3rd Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson Saturday 9 May 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 1st Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden 2nd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 2nd Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 3rd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd Monica Darley / Nancy Martin 4th Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris 4th Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell 5th Gwen Liddell / Julie O’Neill 5th Anne Lutz / Ian Vary Contributed by Joy Block

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blacks rec

Mercy Netballers To Unleash Skills On Court

August 24, 2023

Netball is a way of life for the gifted young athletes at Mercy College and St Patrick’s College Mackay.

With a proud tradition and first-class Netball Excellence program, both schools have proved a thriving nursery for the region’s emerging netballers.

St Patrick’s College and Mercy College will parade their pool of talent when they co-host the upcoming CQUniversity Confraternity Shield Rugby League and Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball (QISSN) Carnivals in Mackay from June 26 to July 1.

Just like their rugby league cohorts, the Mercy and St Patrick’s College netball outfits are gearing up for strong showings on court against the best schoolgirl and schoolboy netballers in Queensland.

When it comes to on-court chemistry, they don’t come better than Mercy College’s fresh-faced Open team that will compete in the QISSN Division 5 Opens category.

Comprised of Year 9 and Year 10 students, the Mercy girls are ready to step up a class and entertain crowds with their exciting brand of netball under the coaching of experienced mentor Di Bailey.

“The girls enjoy playing together and have built an impressive record at schools’ level through their camaraderie, natural skills, versatility and sheer love of the game,” says Mrs Bailey.

“There is a real chemistry amongst the team and the quality court craft is shown in their development” she said.

Ably skippered by outstanding Capricornia representative goalkeeper Kacee Ziegeler, the Mercy squad are tipped to shine at this year’s QISSN tournament.

The inspirational Ziegeler is a player to watch in defence and shapes as a trump card with her leadership qualities, organising skills and valuable experience.

Talented goal attack and team vice-captain Camryn Zeller is currently honing her shooting skills with DAS in the Mackay Netball Premier League.

A prolific goal scorer for the Mercy team, the promising 15-year-old will play a key role in the points stakes with her unerring accuracy and cool temperament under pressure.

Testimony of Mercy College’s winning formula is the team’s versatility on the court, high fitness levels and ability to produce quality netball with a variety of combinations.

“The girls show an uncanny understanding on court and have a depth of skills that make them very competitive in tournament play,” says team manager Christine Newland.

“With our Netball Excellence Class the girls can hone those skills and build their strength and fitness during our gym visits to Athletica and Integrated Bodies” she added.

The intensive training has certainly helped reap the benefits for this outstanding young Mercy netball outfit that boasts seven Mackay representatives in leaders Ziegeler and Zeller, Pershouse, Cotter, Dinsdale, McPherson and Uriarte.

Coach Bailey proudly stated that the Mercy Netball Excellence Program had unearthed a wealth of local talent over the years.

“We also select a Year 8 Development Squad and a Year 9 Junior Vicki Wilson Shield squad that is part of the school’s Health & Physical Education (HPE) program where the students undergo intensive skills work, strength conditioning and fitness plus learn about court tactics,” she said.

Last year Mercy College captured the Mackay region’s Vicki Wilson Shield trophy for Year 7 to Year 9 players with the classy Ziegeler, Zeller, Harris, Uriarte and Dinsdale all making an impact to help the school qualify for the Vicki Wilson State Championships in Brisbane.

Mercy College will compete in the Senior Open Division 5 category at this year’s CQUniversity Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball Carnival with St Patrick’s College to show their wares in the Division One section.

Contributed by Chris Karas

St Patrick’s and Mercy College netballers will represent Mackay at this month’s QISSN Carnival

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PGA Pro-Am Series Hits Sarina

August 24, 2023

More than 30 professional and amateur golfers took to the scenic Sarina Golf Club last week as part of the CMR Recycling Sarina Pro-Am Tournament.

Recent wet weather didn’t deter players from all over Queensland and New South Wales, but it did require a change of course as five holes were taken out of play.

“All the priorities changed and got thrown around because, obviously, the rain, off and on, and how wet things have been,” said Sarina Golf Club Greenkeeper Wade Cranston.

“It’s been pretty hard work to juggle it around, but we’ve managed to pull together a composite course for the guys.”

Lismore’s Sam Brazel finished day one with a two-shot lead, however a stunning second round of nine-under 62 saw Jay Mackenzie storm home with a two-stroke victory on day two.

The 22-year-old from Lennox Head finished with a two-round total of 15-under par, two clear of playing partner Brett Rankin (64) with William Bruyeres finishing third on 66.

“It was great playing with Rankin today, he really helped push me along as he had seven-under par for his day,” Mr Mackenzie told PGA Australia.

“I didn’t make many mistakes and it just kept seeming to go in the right direction.”

PGA Tournament Coordinator Garrett Skinner says the Pro-Am Series offers a unique opportunity for locals and club members to play with more experienced players.

“It’s a great opportunity for the members and amateurs and sponsors to get on board and get a couple of tips, have a great day, learn something new, and see some fabulous golf,” he said.

Sarina Golf Club Clubhouse Manager Kylee Fowler says the tournament received a good turnout considering it was held during the week.

“A lot of them still have jobs, a lot of them are on the circuit full-time,” she said.

“This is a good event in the fact that you get the pros and you get the amateurs in together.

“Then we’ll do it all again next year on the weekend which will be much better for us, better for our amateurs, better for our members so everyone can get a chance to play.”

Next year’s Sarina Pro-Am Tournament has been locked in for May 20-21, 2023.

Sarina was the third leg of the Hidden Valley Whitsundays North Queensland Series, with other legs being held in Mackay, Pioneer Valley and Bowen.

AMATEUR RESULTS

Day one Results:

Winner: Rodney Allen 40

2nd: Daniel Allen 37 C/B

3rd: Ting Li 37

4th: Brodie Saltmarsh 37.

Pin Shots

9: Luke Lauder 270cm

6: Ting LI

16: Mark Pearl – Hole in one!

LADIES – Sue Farrell 40cm

Day Two Results:

Winner: Doug Miles 40

2nd: Ting Li 38 C/B

3rd: Trent Budby 38

4th: Ian Dunn 36

Pin Shots

6: Declan Mulherin 168cm  

9: Colin Dunn 46cm

16: Skinner

Ladies: 2nd Shot 16:  Chris Chapman 117cm

OVERALL

Over All Winner: Ting Li 75

Men’s Division 1 Winner: Trent Budby 71

Men’s Division 1 r/up: Declan Mulherin 69

Men’s Division 2 Winner: Doug Miles 68

Men’s Division 2 r/up: Brodie Saltmarsh 65

Ladies Winner: Barbara Chrzanowski 59

Ladies r/up: Sue Farrell 55

tournament. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Winner: Winner Jay Mackenzie with Tournament Coordinator Garrett Skinner

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Airlie Beach Parkrun

August 24, 2023

This week, in cool conditions, 61 motivated people ran, jogged and walked the 5km oceanfront course, of whom 9 were first timers and 8 recorded new Personal Bests.

Well done to Ryker, Aaron, Jodie, Michael, Toni, Jane, Wendy and Shane, and Laura was recognised for reaching the 25 weeks as a volunteer milestone.

Airlie Beach parkrun started on 5th December 2015. Since then 3,819 participants have completed 20,747 parkruns covering a total distance of 103,735 km, including 2,451 new Personal Bests. A total of 334 individuals have volunteered 2,848 times.

On the 28th of May Airlie Beach parkrun is cancelled as the Cruisin Whitsunday Show and Shine 2022 will be setting up vehicles on the grass area of Coral Sea Marina.

Parkrunners are encouraged to go to Bowen parkrun, Hamilton Island parkrun or Mackay parkrun instead.

On the 4th of June Airlie Beach parkrun invite the community to join them for parkrun and then a post parkrun picnic at Shingley Beach.

Food can be brought from home or purchase counter food from My Rainbow Bakery. To make it a picnic event to remember, participants are encouraged to wear their favourite event T-Shirt.

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

Contributed with thanks to Airlie Beach parkrun

Laura has volunteered for 25 weeks

Running through scenic Shingley Beach

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Airlie Bowls News

August 24, 2023

The weeks roll on at Airlie Beach Bowls Club, with Tuesday seeing 18 bowlers going hammer and tong.

Ladies A and B Grade singles contested through Stacey Hadlow’s winning team with Juanita Matterson at lead and Lyn Graham collecting the prize money.

Ladies B Grade semi-final will now be played between Bev Taylor and Jill Mazlin-Peterson.

The Ladies A Grade singles semi-final score was 23 all on the penultimate end between Betty Nicole and Ladda Purdie.

Ladda claimed the win 25-23.

In the Grand Final she faced Henny Tattam, who won comfortably in the end.

Wednesday afternoon welcomed the Little Rock Bowls Club’s Ian Boulter and 22 players contesting the prize.

Shane Spann, Col Morris, and Elaine Kippen claimed victory on the day.

Wednesday night saw Business House Bowls in full swing, with PRD beating Whitsunday Gold Coffee’s B team 11-6.

Hadlow Racing beat out Woolies Allsorts team 10-5, while Whitsunday Coffee’s Gold A team won 13-9.

Saturday Men’s Pennants teams Divisions 4, 5, and 6 all played at home. Division 4 lost to North Mackay team 4-1.

Division 5 played Mackay Northern Beaches team had games like the 55-17 win, leading them to claim the overall prize.

Division 6 played a very strong Southern Suburbs team, with the overall score favouring the suburbs teams 4 points to 1.

Sunday, three teams travelled to Mackay with Divisions 4 and 6 playing RSL.

Division 4 salvaged a draw but overall score was 4.5 to 5, and Division 6 played well in patches but ultimately lost 5 points to nil.

Division 5 played against Mackay City in two games which finished 40 all, and came home even on 2.5 points.

Division 1 had an outstanding win against Proserpine with 5.5 points to .5 win.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Hanny Tattam, winner of the A Grade Singles

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Proserpine Bowls News

August 24, 2023

Last Wednesday, there was a game of Club Championship Pairs played between Bryan Davy and Luchie Gardel defeating Martin Corr and David Ling to start off the week.

The day also hosted three games of social bowls with four bowlers from Airlie Beach getting in some practice on the grass.

Jim Bownds, Arthur Griffith, and Andrew Butler defeated Heather McKinnon, Bruce Uhe and John Fielding 22-21.

Ken Watts, John Lahney, and Peter Lawton defeated John Anderson, Pat Bownds, and Bryce McKinnon 23 – 15.

Russell Jackson and Sandy Daffara defeated Allan Pershouse and Garry Alexander 35 - 16.

Pennants was played on the weekend.

Division 1 had two home games, narrowly losing to Airlie Beach 51-57 and scoring 0.5 points for a draw on one rink.

On Sunday the team backed up for the game against Northern Beaches winning 70 - 57.

On Sunday afternoon Social bowls, John Anderson played double lead.  

John, Alen Sanderson, Kendall Watts and Sandy Daffara drew with John, Ken Watts, John Lahney and Arthur Griffith 21 all.

During the week, Scott Kinnear has been playing in the Vision Impaired competition in Brisbane and currently leads in both singles and pairs with a few more games still to be played.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

Division 1 game on Sunday with Toby Craig taking instruction from skip Gavin Milne

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Wangaratta Bowls Report

August 24, 2023

Last Tuesday saw winners for the afternoon Hugh Sutton and Penny Warren defeat John Hayson and Rose Wright, as well as Robyn Stitt, Isobel Wheeler, and Kev Baxter defeat Deb Retchless, Marg Wilson, and Mark Drummond.

Tuesday was a huge day as Chris Reddick, Irene Laird, and Wayne Reddick rounded out the day with a win over Deb Beel, Merle Elphinstone, and Larry Wright.

Sunday winners for the afternoon were George Tartaglea, Isobel Wheeler, and Chris Healey defeating Eileen Dunn, Sue Shearing, and Denis Madeley.

Others Toni Bowen, Chris Frew, and Hugh Sutton defeated Deb Beel, John Hayson, and Bob Dykstra, with Marcia Arthur, Merle Elphinstone, and Pat Tracey defeating Deb Retchless, Lorraine Knight, and Margaret Wilson.

Irene Laird, Penny Warren, and Keith Armstrong defeated Chris Reddick, Ken Coad, and Robyn Stitt, while Denise Wallace, Lyn Danvers, and Larry Wright defeated Rose Wright, Jen Healey, and Wayne Reddick.

Congratulations to the Wangaratta Men who won the Country Cup at Brandon on Sunday.

Club Competition Final of Ladies Fours was played on Saturday morning.

A close game resulted in Robyn Stitt, Tracey Roach, Margaret Wilson, and Fely Duncan defeating Denise Wallace, Sue Shearing, Val Hadley, and Penny Warren.

Good luck to the Men representing Wangaratta playing in the Red Pennant in the Burdekin at the end of this week.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Winners Club 4's 2022

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Bowen Golf News

August 24, 2023

Wednesday’s competition was an eclectic one for the ladies’ and a single stableford for the men.  

Ladies’ winner Grace Nott, 34 1/8, runner up Michelle Campbell, 34 3/8.  

Pin shots to Raewyn Glover, Lisa Raisbeck, Marg Need and Gayle Bynes, and Men’s winner Doug Power 37 points, runner up Noel Schultz 36 points.

Saturday’s competition was a single stableford sponsored by Tropix Refrigeration.

Men’s winner Malcolm Martin 40 points, runner up Toss Eisemann 39 points, with pin shots to Tim Miller, Ernie Parker, Michael Strickett, Kurt Bidgood.  

Ladies’ winner Paulette Barrett 42 points, runner up Julie Martin 39 points. Pin shots to Julie Martin, Robyn Slade, Judi Morris, Lorraine McArthur.  

Accuracy drives to Julie May and Perry Layton. Greg Fairs won the carwash voucher

This weekend begins with a single stableford on Saturday sponsored by LiveLife Pharmacy.  

On Sunday, the Bowen Golf club welcomed back professionals for the annual Pro-Am sponsored by Abbot Point Operations.  

There will be a shoot-out after the competition on Sunday, with spectators welcome all day.  

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott

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On The Whitsunday Green

August 24, 2023

Place scores for the weekly 9-hole stableford were Tyson Flavel on 22, Rob Lodders on 20 and Mick Bond on 19 points.  

Friday's 9-hole stableford was won this week by David Wallace on 19 points. Lorri Thynne and Tyson Flavel both came in with 18 points however it was Lorri that won the count back to take second.

Sundays 4 ball better ball was won by Wayne and Adam Singleton on 41 nett, followed by Dave Wallace and Alan Clinch on 44.5.

Nearest to pins were Rhys Bartholomew and Adam Singleton.

Cory Belke is the first to complete his Kids coaching clinic with Glenn Rees and the interest from ladies commencing the clinics is growing.

The final Monthly Medal for the year will be held this Sunday with the Medal of Medallist scheduled for 5 June.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross

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Pickleball Whitsunday

August 24, 2023

Sunshine and pickleball paddles made for rainbows and smiles on Thursday afternoon.

There were four courts featuring games like ladies doubles featuring Amity and Demelza against Robyn and Gay.

Lorraine and Yoko played against Gerry and Murray, as well as Michael and Kate pitting themselves against Stu and Frank.

First time players Bob and Lyn joined in for a wonderful afternoon.

On Saturday the sun let the rain take over and no Pickleball played.

Paddles Up till next week! 4pm Thursday Afternoon and 7am Saturday Morning

Contributed with thanks to Jenny Kirkman

Bob and Lyn

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Tennis Whitsunday

August 24, 2023

Saturday morning pupils arrived in wet weather and chilly conditions but this inspired brilliant footwork from the Saturday Morning Squad.

Coach Sienna brought out the ladder and it was Sophie who set the pace for the rest of the Squad to follow.

Saturday morning had a special visit from Lily, who took the opportunity to do a private lesson, then followed this up by coaching young William

Unfortunately due to the ratty conditions Saturday morning Social tennis did not make it on court, however Saturday arvo social tennis played the odds, and Marlene and Norm kept everyone on their toes.

Earlier in the week Fit, fun tennis the original and best cardio workout on a tennis court made it back, and the girls were elated to be exercising while having fun.

All squads were busily involved working on their singles play. Well done to Sienna, Karl, Tan, Lacey, Lucas and Jack.

Contributed with thanks to Jenny Kirkman

The agility ladder was the big feature in the rainy week at Whitsunday Tennis

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Festival of Football for Whitsunday United

August 24, 2023

After rain cancellations the previous weekend the weather gods were kind and a festival of football began at the Whitsunday Sports Park.

All eight Whitsunday United teams took to the field in the same location for the first time this year.

The day started with a rampant U14 Premiers continuing their great form and literally tearing apart the visiting Magpies 8-0.

Jacob Logan bagged a couple of goals, but six other players contributed to the score line showing the quality of this side. The win cements them top of the ladder.

The U16 Premiers were slow out the blocks, looking lethargic and disjointed against a much improved Magpies unit.

They came in at half time tied 4-4.

An animated half time chat from coach Luke Swift did the trick and the team fired up in the second half running in 5 unanswered goals.

Jazz Knezevic, Kobi Miller, and Tyler Jankowski all ran in two goals, with Rale Mudford and Zane Hill contributing a couple as well. The side now sits in second place on the ladder.

The U14 Div1 team also continued its winning form against Sarina with a 7-0 victory on the back of some great teamwork and spectacular football. Jacob Godden scored a hat trick with Kai Draper backing him up with 2 goals. The win will put them in a clear second place on the ladder.

The Women had a great round with the Div 1 side recording a strong win against Sarina 2-0. Highlights included Francesca Norbury Trueman and Mabel Gudes scoring their first goals of their careers.

The Premier Women's Squad faced off against top of the table and title favourites Mackay Lions in a game that flowed from one end to the other.

Coach Peter Farrell was impressed with the speed and quality of the game and felt that his side was unlucky not to at least come away with a draw.

The Whitsunday Men faced an uphill battle in the lower divisions with upwards of 10 regular players missing. Div 1 put up a strong fight against the Mackay Lions going down 5-1.

Reserves were defeated with many Div 1 players having to back up for a second game.

The Premier men played a nail biter against the strong Mackay Lions. After missing an early penalty, the home side worked hard playing into the wind to Keep Lions to 1-0 at half time, with the midfielders Scott Ferries and James McEvoy-Bowe working hard to create opportunities for Ben Seago and Harry Hodgen up front.

The second half was all Whitsunday – dominating possession and field position but despite hitting the goal posts three times, they were unable to score and against the run of play, Lions scored a second goal – winning 2-0.

A very encouraging display against the top team in the competition considering three of our top players were unavailable.

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Raiders Remain Undefeated

August 24, 2023

The Mama Africa Raiders travelled to Bowen on Saturday to take on the old rivals Bowen Mudcrabs at their home grounds.

The coaching staff were prepared for the traditional hard slog and close scoring that has played out between the sides for decades.

Raiders had to travel with a few less reserves than normal, but this has never been an excuse not to perform at their best.

With a stiff breeze behind them Bowen brought it rom the start. The first 35 minutes was a tussle between both forwards and backs and was played between the 22mtr lines of both sides. Until Bowens forwards went over the line through a strong pick and drive play.

Half time came around and the raiders were behind 5 nil.

With the penalty count climbing for the home side, Raiders crept ahead through the boot of Hone Casey-Bloomer and Connor Spence to see them lead at the 65th minute mark 12 -5.

The game wasn’t over by any means, with a large and vocal group of local supporters, Bowen was never out of it.

All until young gun Jack Briskey scooted through the defensive line, again, and scored Raiders only try of the game at the 77th minute mark, leading now 17 – 5.

Bowen managed to turn the ball over after the kick off and a couple of phases later had a 20-metre line break, only to be shut down by the hard-working Raiders defence.

The Raiders boys then advanced up field for a few more phases until the final whistle went.

Raiders win 17-5.

With the whistle blown and the crowd cheering both teams, the mighty Raiders managed to complete round one of three undefeated and currently holding the number one spot on the ladder.

This does not mean the remaining rounds are going to be easy, in fact the direct opposite; they expect tough games from all the MRU clubs.

This game was not only the completion of round 1, but it was also the first of a three-game series to see who can win the inaugural Eclipse Financial Service Cup.

This series has been proudly started by ex-Muddies player and Eclipse Financial Services managing director Justin Butler and will be played out on the Raiders home game, June 18 and finally at Bowen on the August 6.

Mama Africa Raiders players of the day went to our #10 Dylan Hoffmann 1 pt, lock and big brother Joel Hoffmann 2pts and to young gun winger Jack Briskey 3 pts.

Contributed with thanks to Craig Spence

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Sea Eagles Juniors Winning Form

August 24, 2023

Whitsunday Sea Eagles Juniors hit the road to Mackay and Sarina on Saturday in less-than-ideal conditions, with Seniors having the bye and a postponed round for the Women against the Swans due to ground suitability and safety.

Sea Eagles Under 17s took on Bakers Creek to consolidate after an amazing win against Moranbah last week in a comfortable 73 – 13 win.

Bailey Wishart and Jack Jeffries continued to excel through the middle with Wishart’s mark play of the day.

Sea Eagles forward line saw Cody Love, Huntah Miall and Max Baker working under the guidance of Jacob Dewis and Brodan Cornwall to make an impact on the scoreboard. The ever reliable midfield Aidan Allen-Fancke, Kain Zacher, Foxx LaMonica, Jordan Daniels and Jacob Dewis continue to improve and deliver the ball with precision to the forward line.

In what was always set to be an even contest Sea Eagles Under 14s faced Bakers Creek. The first half saw both teams work hard to finish with only one goal apart at half time.

Special efforts from Cody Love and Molly Bennett in the third saw Sea Eagles stretch the lead out to 9 points with Sea Eagles using the breeze in the final term to finish up 46 – 23.

Sea Eagles Under 12s had a wet match down at Brewers Park against Sarina Demons improving their now experienced wet weather skills.

Maintaining possession in the Sea Eagles forward line for the almost the entire game saw Sea Eagles take it out 46 – 0.

All Sea Eagles teams play in Mackay this coming Saturday May 28 for the final Sir Doug Nicholls Indigenous round at Harrup Park against the Mackay City Hawks and Swarks.

Juniors start from 9:35am, Senior Women 3:30pm and Senior Men at 5:00pm.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Cutters Crumble Against Seagulls

August 24, 2023

Wynnum Manly Seagulls headed to the Sugar City for Round 9’s Respect Round at BB Print Stadium against the Mackay Cutters.

The home side faced off in a wet and wild Friday night fixture, hoping to bounce back from defeat against the Bears at Pizzey Park.

The Seagulls, who were sitting pretty in 6th and hoping to make a berth for top four, had other plans for the local side, though.

Cutters were first to score through Blake Paskins, but Manly fired back with a four pointer.

The first half was a tight affair, with Cutters scoring again with seven left in the first half, with Luke Webley crossing in the dying embers – leaving Cutters in the lead.

Second half began with Tristan Hope crossing for the Seagulls before they crossed again with a four pointer. Manly were on a tear and kept scoring, capitalising on a floundering Cutters side.

Cutters were slow to it and conceded again near the end, leaving the game 10-28.

The Sugar City side are now up against the Blackhawks on June 4 in Townsville, hoping to stay in the chase for a good finish come the end of the season.

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Sharp Running Simon St Patrick’s Trump Card

August 24, 2023

Making an impact on the schoolboy rugby league scene is St Patrick’s College Mackay centre Kai Simon.

The dashing 17-year-old colt has caught the eye of sporting pundits with his dynamic performances this season at school and Junior League level.

Simon is one of the players to watch in a strong St Patrick’s Open team that will be competing for honours in this year’s CQ University Confraternity Shield Rugby League Carnival to be staged in Mackay from June 26 to July 1.

The fleet-footed centre - who is under contract to the North Queensland Cowboys – was at his elusive best as St Patrick’s College tuned up for the CONFRO Carnival with a hard-fought 16-14 trial win over reigning Aaron Payne Cup premiers St Brendan’s College Yeppoon last week at Leprechaun Park Mackay.

Simon nabbed a try and two goals and menaced the Yeppoon side with his tricky running in an impressive display in the wet conditions.

Other players to shine for St Patrick’s were clever halves Jaxon Purdue and Ethan Van Kerkwyk and rampaging forward Matthew Watts.

St Patricks jumped to a 12-4 lead following tries by talented hooker Xavier Korrisk and the quicksilver Simon before St Brendan’s bridged the gap with a converted try before the interval.

Speedy 16-year-old winger Bailey Anderson extended St Patrick’s lead with a fine try after the break before the visitors registered their third four pointer late in the match.

St Patrick’s coach Michael Comerford was pleased with his team’s overall performance in an absorbing contest.

“I was very happy with our attack in the opening 25 minutes and our defensive effort in the final twenty,” said Mr Comerford.

“We experimented with some combinations and several squad members grabbed their opportunity against some tough opposition.”

MEANWHILE Mercy College Mackay Year 10 side toppled St Brendan’s 34-28 in a high scoring trial match at Leprechaun Park.

Powerful centre Toby Woodall, lock forward Javen Ramsamy, skilful half back Adam McSherry, fullback Coby Cabassi and tireless forward Campbell Grisan-Hodges turned in strong games for Mercy under the guidance of coach Ian Schifilliti.

Mercy College will kick off their 2022 Aaron Payne Cup campaign against Mackay State High School on Friday June 1.

Contributed by Chris Karas

Talented St Patrick’s College centre Kai Simon on the attack during his side’s Year 10 trial win over St Brendan’s Yeppoon

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