Sports

Record Turnout for Mackay Basketball Holiday Hoops Camp

Record Turnout for Mackay Basketball Holiday Hoops Camp

Mackay Basketball’s Holiday Hoops Camp has recorded its biggest turnout yet, with more than 140 young participants taking part across two days of basketball during the school holidays. The program, the second Holiday Hoops Camp held this year, proved a standout success and set a new participation record for the organisation’s holiday camp series. It was said that across the two days, the courts were filled with activity, with plenty of smiles, new friendships forming and a strong sense of enjoyment evident among participants. Mackay Basketball also acknowledged its coaching group, who volunteered their time to run the sessions. Coaches were recognised for their efforts in teaching, encouraging and supporting players throughout the camp, helping deliver a positive experience for all involved. The Holiday Hoops Camp continues to be a popular feature on Mackay Basketball’s calendar, providing young players with the opportunity to spend time on court during the school holidays in a structured and supportive environment. This latest edition has now set a new benchmark for participation, with organisers describing the two-day event as an “unbelievable couple of days of hoops.” With record numbers achieved, the program has again highlighted the strong level of engagement with basketball across the Mackay region, as local families continue to support opportunities for young players to get involved in the sport. The camp concluded after two full days of activity, marking another successful instalment of Mackay Basketball’s ongoing holiday program. Photo source: Mackay basketball (Facebook)

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Sinkers Shine At State And National Meets

Sinkers Shine At State And National Meets

Mackay's Sinkers have continued to make waves in the pool, celebrating strong performances at both the Australian Pool Rescue Championships in Perth and the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler. Peter T delivered an outstanding result at the Australian Pool Rescue Championships, returning to competition for the first time in 12 months to finish second overall in the 45–60 years age group. Competing across the three-day championships, Peter claimed an impressive medal tally of one gold and four silver medals, marking a successful return after an extended break from competition. Fellow Sinkers Nigel Dalton and Dan Stampa also impressed at the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler, producing a series of strong swims against a competitive field of 194 registered athletes. Nigel finished third in his age group, while Dan also secured third place in his respective age group. The pair briefly celebrated holding the Small Club Trophy before competition rules required the award to be presented to another club, with a minimum of three swimmers needed to qualify. With only two Sinkers competing, the trophy was officially handed to the Belgravia team during the Face-to-Face branch meeting. Both Nigel and Dan enjoyed some extra success away from the pool, each winning prizes in the event's multi-draw. The club congratulated all swimmers on their performances and thanked Brisbane Southside Meet organisers for hosting another successful competition. Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club

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Mackay Contract Bridge Results

Mackay Contract Bridge Results

Seven days of Bridge were played at the Mackay Bridge Club last week. This included two evenings, Saturday, and Sunday for Novice (beginners) and Mentors. Mackay Bridge club ensures that there are plenty of opportunities for working people who want to learn bridge to participate after their bridge lessons. Four members played in the Townsville Congress, with Terry Sheedy and Janelle Conroy winning the A Section pairs. Diane and Max Holewa joined Terry and Janelle to win the Teams event. Members of the club are travelling to Bowen to participate in the Bowen Pairs Congress this weekend. Bridge is a social game, which encourages friendship, partnerships, fun and sometimes travel. Don’t wait until you retire, join next year when lessons begin. For more information, watch this space or contact the club. Weekly Results Monday 22 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Nancy Martin / Susan Ross 2nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris 2nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins 3rd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 3rd Janice Mansfield / Debra Goodchild 4th Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft 4th Sue Mayer-Miller / Karen Caldwell Tuesday Evening 23 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Frances Brown / Rodney Miles 3rd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger 4th Helen Van Den Breok / Terry Sheedy Wednesday 24 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Joy Block / Diane Stokes 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 3rd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt 3rd Terry Sheedy / Mick King 4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 4th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz Thursday 25 June 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Mick King / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 3rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 4th Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott Friday 26 June 2026 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Geoff Cowan / Mick King 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 2nd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting 3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole Saturday 27 June 2026 –- 13 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson 2nd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden 3rd Nancy Wix / Richard Wix 3rd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner 4th Gwen Liddell / Julie O’Neill 4th Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell 5th Monica Darley / Nancy Martin 5th Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok Sunday 28 June 2026 – 7 Tables Green Points Novices and Mentors N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Rodney Miles 1st Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor 2nd Susan Ross / Joy Hold 2nd Colleen Riddel / Sue Mayer-Miller 3rd Christine Fitzpatrick / Griffin Bancroft 3rd Gillian McCallum / Ming Ting 4th Neila Quintero / Martin Pearce 4th Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin Contributed by Joy Block

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Runners Brave Wild Weather At Eimeo

Runners Brave Wild Weather At Eimeo

More than 20 runners turned out in challenging conditions at Eimeo Surf Club on the weekend, including the dedicated Mackay Tri Club members who, after completing their run, took to the ocean for a "little" 2km swim. The 5km and 10km courses featured plenty of challenging hills through the Blacks Beach, Dolphin Heads and Eimeo suburbs, providing an ideal hit-out for athletes preparing to taper ahead of the upcoming Gold Coast Running Festival and various Ironman events. Those who took shelter from the rain beneath the Surf Life Saving Control Watch Tower also enjoyed learning a few tricks of the trade about the delicate nature of the tummy, including checking that the milk is lactose free. A big thank you goes to Andrew Short for once again setting up a spectacular course. A legendary stalwart of the club, his ongoing contribution continues to be greatly appreciated. With a significant number of athletes away competing at out-of-town events, including the Gold Coast, Mackay Road Runners will instead host a social 5km and 10km run from Casu Jacks at Mackay Harbour this Sunday, starting at 7am. Participants are encouraged to bring along card or cash for breakfast, a cuppa and a chat, while celebrating the first run of the new financial year following 30 June 2026. All members and non-members are welcome to attend for a $2 race day fee. Please arrive by 6.50am for registration, the course briefing and club notices. Contributed by Janelle Tilse 6939 – John, Mon and Stef enjoy the early morning training session from the Eimeo Surf Club. 6942 – Bharick, Brij and Jo were ecstatic with their efforts in the 5k/10km Eimeo Surf Club social run. 6943 – Clinton, Gail and Jose enjoy a taper run before their Gold Coast Marathon events next weekend. 6944 – Kate loved the wet running conditions at the Eimeo Surf Club event. 6936 – Ella made light work of the 10km Eimeo Surf Club social run. 6931 – Damp unforgiving rains did not take the fun out of a social Mackay Road Runners event from Eimeo Surf Club. 6921 – Big smiles from all runners at the Eimeo Surf Club 5k/10km social Mackay Road Runners event. Photos supplied

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MCC rec

Wangaratta Bowls

August 24, 2023

Sunday: E Dunn, George, W Reddec played B Beel, I Wheeler, P Warren. D Retchless, C Reddit, K Armstrong played P Breakwell, K Coad, L Knight.

T Blair, J Haysony, B Beel, played S Shearing, R Stitt, F Duncan. T Bowen, P Nesbett played B Myers, D Medelry.

Double lead B Russo, M Nesbit, M Wilson played J Breakwell, K Russo, J Stamp.

Monday: B Sims, P McAlpine, D Madeleine played R Payton, K Armstrong, B Dykstra.

S Brunker, G Colquhoun, K Whitton played P Breakwell, J Breakwell, J Stamp. L Warner, G Wills, I Warner played L Danvers, L Knight, G Danvers. K Wallace, S Snow, C Frew played E Dunn, J Hearly, C Hearly. H Delaree, F Richards, P Richards played P Warren, I Wheeler, B Beel.

R Stitt, M Wilson, H Nation played J Haysom, M Drummond, A Rolfe. Double lead L White, T Roach, played Peter Wayne.

Tuesday: B Sims, J Hayston, M Wilson played M Coad, I Laird, M Drummond. R McAlpine, C Rettick, N Reddick, played D Retchless, H Reah, B Dykstra.

M Nesbett, P Warren played M Dridson, P Nesbitt. Double lead D Beel, B Parkey played D Madde.

P Robinson, J Haysom, R Brunker played B Russo, H Reid, L Smith.

Contributed with thanks to Pat Tracey

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Bowen Golf News

August 24, 2023

Wednesday’s competition was a single stroke event for the June midweek monthly medals.

Ladies’ winner Judi Morris 67 nett, runner up Janice Bates 68 nett, while men’s winner on a countback Gregg Aplin 68 nett, runner up Peter Coad 68 nett.

Saturday’s competition was the ladies June Monthly medal.  

Winner Grace Nott 69 nett, runner up Leanne Swan 70 nett, with pin shots to Claire Garrod, Ruth Dunn, Viv Clark, and Paulette Barrett.  

Sunday was the men’s Monthly medal.

Winner on a countback Perry Layton 64 nett, runner up Brendan Wells 64 nett.

This weekend’s event is a single stableford event sponsored by Rekenen Accountants.  

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott

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Veteran’s Golf Report

August 24, 2023

Proserpine Vets really turned on the weather to host Pioneer Valley Veterans for the first round of the Croker Shield for 2022.

A good field of 52 players competed, with the men's winner on the day Captain Ken Granger on 37 followed by PV's Dale Hoffman 36, with John Oates 34, Richard Treloar 32,  and John Roser 31.

The ladies’ winner was our own Lyn Muller 36 from Jenny Hounsell 35, Jacqui Wall 35, Tessa Aitken 32.

Nearest the pins went to Ken Granger on 2, Phil Luckett on 13 and Jim Bartolo on 16, Rehab Hull in the hole on 2 and Lyn Muller on 16 and 13.  

The overall points for the day went to Proserpine 272 and Pioneer Valley 238.  

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

Lyn Muller and Ken Granger

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Brahmans Dig Deep Against Miners

August 24, 2023

Whitsunday Brahman’s were at home last weekend, facing off against the Moranbah Miners at Les Stagg Oval.

The Townsville Pirates kicked off the afternoon of rugby, having travelled from down the coast to take on the Whitsunday Brahmans Old Bulls.

The Over 35s master’s game was played in great spirits as excellent entertainment with player’s turning back the clock to show some skills from yesteryear, and men trying to do things they haven’t done in many years.

Reserve Grade were the first competitive fixture, and had a very strong side bolstered, believe it or not, by a heavy presence of the Brahman’s U20s team.

Halves pair of Ben Nosworthy and Lachie Wake steered the team around the park.

Brahmans found their groove and were in control after 12 minutes for the rest of the game.

Reserve Grade Coach Matt Court was happy with the whole team and especially to come away with the first win of the year.

“All we needed was a win to get the confidence up and we got that,” Court said.

“We finally played as a team for the full game and looked like a football side; we finally realised we can win and play football, so a big thanks to the 20s which stood up and made the win possible.

Reserve Grade Men’s win 38-18 against Miners.

The A Grade Brahmans took to the field for the final game, again with a few absentees from their full-strength side.

It was a bit of an ill-disciplined thirty minutes in the middle of the fixture that cost the Brahmans though.

A sin bin for Brahmans saw Miners capitalise, scoring a couple of tries either side of half time and giving them a six-point lead going into the final ten.

The home side managed to score a great try in the corner with a few minutes remaining, with a conversion nailed from the sideline to even it up.

But it wasn’t to be as Brahmans turned the ball over at kick-off and a few poor decisions led to Miners kicking a field goal after the buzzer.

A grade coach Ricky Bourke said there were a lot of positives to come out of the game.

“A lot of hard lessons learnt about winning tight games though. With only two games between us and first there is still plenty to play for this year in such a tight comp,” Bourke said.

A Grade game finished 26-27.

Brenton Waterhouse in the reserves up against the Miners

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Make New Friends At F45

August 24, 2023

Welcome to a fitness community with heart and soul located at a venue where you can reach your health goals at your own pace while training with others in a team environment.

Welcome to the new F45 Training Centre in Airlie Beach.

Owner Sonny Ivanovic said that making friends is easy at F45 because the foundation of this unique fitness club is centred around bringing people together.

“It’s all about the team – you start together, and you finish together – it’s as simple as that,” he said.

“No-one can fall behind and no-one gets rewarded if they lift more than the other person – it’s impossible to beat someone or be better than anyone else at F45.”

Members leave their mobile phones and headphones at the door so that they can be completely present and focus on the workout.

There are no mirrors, so everyone participates without concern for what they look like.

These two factors alone breed a new form of fitness which is all about community yet, behind the scenes, F45 is still completely backed by science.

Members can attend any one of seven 45-minute week-day sessions, or one of three on a Saturday, and experience a different work out each day.

A maximum of 36 people will take the class which is supervised by multiple trainers and supported by a pre-programmed screen-based work out to the backdrop of pumping music.

Each session has been specifically designed and programmed by the F45’s central athletics department to be fully balanced for the body, including building core strength.

The trainers then work with participants to ensure they move correctly and maximise the potential of every work out.

“Nowadays there is such a lack of accomplishment for people,” said Sonny.

“With F45 it is impossible to not feel proud of yourself – if you can get those little wins in your week then that’s a real positive for you – I just don’t think there’s enough of that”

Sonny has operated several F45 training studios and says he is looking forward to creating a new community in Airlie Beach having seen the benefits this type of fitness club can bring to a town.

“You have your home, you have your work - we want to be that third comfortable place in your life,” he said.

“I want people to feel at home, we know them, they know us – yes we do exercise but the ‘why’ is so much more than that.”

F45 Training Airlie Beach is hosting a soft launch this week to members, if you sign-up today you are welcome to join this exclusive event.

The official launch party with DJ and giveaways will take place on Saturday, June 25 and everyone is welcome to attend.

No-one can fall behind and no-one gets rewarded if they lift more than the other person at F45

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Airlie Beach Parkrun

August 24, 2023

On a stunning Saturday morning, 80 people ran, jogged and walked the 5km oceanfront course. 17 were first timers in Airlie Beach and 10 recorded new Personal Bests. Well done to Kadon, Carly, Jodie, Aaron, Laura, Dean, Susanne, Libby, Braxton and Barbara. Byviana travelled from Sydney to complete her 25th parkrun in Airlie Beach.

After parkrun a large group caught up at Shingley Beach for a picnic to celebrate our community. Chris Harvey arranged a sausage sizzle and Ron McCall brought along delish baking.

The event was made possible by 17 wonderful volunteers: Nick Beecroft, Kara Olver (run director), Sylvie Martin, Margaret Coote, Aimee Sulzberger, Guy Thrupp, Greg Olver, Nathalie Blomme, Kirsty Daniels, Christopher Harvey, Calvin Murphy, Ronald McCall, Ashley Gerrard, Laura Oates, Ken Johnson, Lynne Oates, Amber (photographer).

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. Post parkrun coffee and chat is held at My Rainbow Bakery, Shingley Beach.

There are no winners at parkrun and nobody comes last – the Tail walkers do. Regular participation is rewarded rather than performance, with ‘parkrun milestone shirts’ available to people to recognise their achievements in coming along.

Contributed with thanks to Airlie Beach parkrun

Dogs are welcome on a short lead

The team of wonderful volunteers

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Hard grind for United in Mackay!

August 24, 2023

Whitsunday United travelled to Mackay on Saturday to face tough opposition across all age groups.

With an early start, the U14 Div 1 side struggled to get into gear against Country United, with passes going astray and uncharacteristic mistakes making it hard to build momentum.

Goalkeeper Noah Farrow was a standout on the day reading the play well, coming off his line and making some crucial saves. The team remains undefeated with a nil all draw the result.

The U14 Premier side continued their steamrolling of the opposition with a hard fought 4-1 win against Wanderers at Wanderers Park. The home side wasn’t giving anything away but once the scoring opened, the Whitsunday side took control and ensured a comfortable victory – Jacob Logan and Byron Goodin playing exceptional games.

The U16 Premier side faced a big, strong Wanderers side determined to exert their dominance as top of the table contenders. It nail biting tussle with Whitsunday on top for most of the game leading 1-0, however. Mid way through the second half Wanderers took advantage of a mix up in defence to equalise. An inspirational effort from Tate Butler although every player put in a massive effort to take a draw.

The Women Div team played Country at Mackay Football Park with the young Whitsunday team full of enthusiasm. In a tough tussle, Country snuck away with a 1-0 win, although coach Peter Farrell was pleased with the effort and improvement week to week.

The Reserve Men were understrength and relying on youth players to make up numbers, so always faced a tough task.

They put on a great performance on the field making the Wanderers side work for everything. Final result of a 5-0 loss.

They will get a second chance at Wanderers next weekend at home.

The Premier Men ran riot once they got their nose in front on the scoreboard, dominating a physical match up against Wanderers. Harry Hodgen was in fine goal scoring form, with an assist and scoring 4 goals in the 5-2 victory.

Next round is at Whitsunday Sports Park with the action starting from 11:30 with U14 Div 1 then continuing all afternoon and into the evening.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

Men’s Reserves Carlos Barrera in a tussle for the ball

Men’s Reserves Whitsunday defend a set piece

U16 Prem Jimmy Patullo

Penny Grossic

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Bowen Golf News

August 24, 2023

Wednesday’s competition was a single stableford at Bowen Golf Course, with Ladies’ winner Leanne Swan 40 points, runner up on a countback Julie May 35.  

Men’s winner Hayden Williams 43 points, Daniel Windridge 41.

Saturday’s competition was a 4BBB Medley stableford with winners Mitchell Greenbank and Gary Hulett 46 points, runners-up Don Williams and Gregg Aplin 44, with third place Matthew Yasso and Brenden Wells 43.  

Pin shots to Garrett Skinner, Ray Campbell, Nick Riley, Tim Miller, Sarnie Eisemann, Kim Bennion, Paulette Barrett, Julie Martin. Penny Stewart and John Martin had OBP’s.

On Sunday, the Golf club hosted the Abbot Point Operations Pro-am where 25 professional golfers and 73 amateurs took to the course.  

In the professional ranks, Anthony Choat, Tim Hart and Brett Rankin all had 5 under par 65, to claim first place.  

Congratulations to Brett Rankin who was also the winner of the 2022 Hidden Valley Whitsundays Nth Qld series.  

Brett totalled 34 under par in the four events that featured in the series – Mackay, Pioneer Valley, Sarina and lastly Bowen.  

Congratulations to Shae Wools-Cobb for winning the shoot-out competition.

In the amateur ranks, Men’s winner Barny Robinson 41 points, runner up Mitchell Greenbank 38.  

Pin shots to Barny Robinson, Matthew Yasso, Gregg Aplin, while Mitchell Greenbank and Paul Burgis had an OBP.  

Ladies’ winner Chris Heinrich 35 points, runner up on a countback Meg Garrod 34.  Pin shots to Jo Kukura, Meg Garrod, June Kirk and Carol O’Connell who also had an OBP.

This weekend is another split round with the June Monthly Medals sponsored by Bowen Meat Supply and Bowen Golf Club.  Ladies play on Saturday and Men on Sunday.

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott

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Whitsunday Social Golf Report

August 24, 2023

After a wet few months, the weather turned it on yesterday for 24 players of Whitsunday Social Golf to challenge their golf skills for the May Monthly Medal.

Men’s A grade winner was Dean Barnard with runner up Wayne Temby, while Men’s B Grade winner was Paul Nicol followed by Mark McDougal runner up on a countback.

Ladies’ A Grade winner this month was Tiina Randmae and runner up went to Anna Winterbourn, with Ladies’ B grade medal winner Pam Casey and runner up Joanne Moynihan.

Nearest the pins went to Don Cameron, Penny Wardroper, Clay Coles and Paul Nicol.

Longest drives were claimed by Aaron Watts, Brendon Meharry, Penny Wardroper and Karen Rix.

Contributed with thanks to Joanne Moynihan

Pam Casey, Paul Nicol, and Tiina Randmae

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Veteran’s Golf Report

August 24, 2023

Golf veterans were out in force last week for the May Monthly Medal, even after all the bad weather.

The men's winner on the day was Gary Scotford on 75 on a countback from Larry Muller with Colin Hounsell third.  

The ladies’ winner was Leanne Alexander on 78 on a countback from Lyn Muller and Mandy Patterson.

Nearest the Pins went to A Grade Larry Muller 2, Chris Brett 9, B Grade Neil Cawthorne 9.

A Grade Mandy Patterson 2, B Grade Tiina Randmae 2 (in the hole) and Beryl Nosworthy 9.  Chip Ins. Larry Muller 6, Jenny Hounselll 6 and Warren Deighton 7 and 14.  

Next week we will be hosting Pioneer Valley for the Croker Shield.  

Monthly Medal winners: Leanne Alexander and Gary Scotford

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

Gary Scotford and Leanne Alexander

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On The Whitsunday Green

August 24, 2023

The weekly 9-hole stableford was won this week by Terry Kimpton with 21 points, while Glenn Rees was a close second with 19 points, and Tyson Flavel in third with 17 points.

On Friday it was Bob Nikolich with 20 points followed by Lorri Thynne and Kendal Nash both on 19 with Lorri taking the count back win.

Sunday was a fantastic day to be on the Greens, the weather was perfect for the members to compete for the final Monthly Medal prior to the Medal of Medallist on June 3.

The Winner on the day taking both gross and the nett win was Club Captain Glenn Rees, as an existing medal holder the Monthly Medal went to second place recipient young Adam Singleton with a great 55 nett score.

His dad, Wayne Singleton, came in third with 57 nett.

Glenn and Adam also took the nearest the pin prizes for the day.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross

Tyson Flavel and Glenn Rees

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Whitsunday Basketball

August 24, 2023

A resurgent Proserpine Pirates were the only undefeated team on the night in round 3 of the all-new Friday Nights Under Lights basketball competition.

In the first match of the evening, the previously undefeated Airlie Beach Ballers faced off against the Pirates.

The Pirates team had been boosted by several new recruits and they were too strong for the Ballers prevailing 25-12.

The Ballers then took on the Cannonvale Crocs for the second match of the evening.

This was quite a tight game however the Crocs were too good in the end, inflicting the second defeat of the evening on the Ballers, 22-14.

The final game of the evening saw the Pirates really assert their dominance with a 42-20 victory over the Crocs. This has been a real turnaround in form for the Pirates who didn’t win game in round 1.

“It’s been a thrill to watch these kids improve over the last 3 weeks,” Team Manager of the Proserpine Pirates, Natasha Daniels, said

“Even when we weren’t winning, they kept their chins up and never stopped trying. I’m so happy that they had two good wins tonight!"

This is the inaugural term of the Friday Nights Under Lights concept, brought to the community by Whitsunday Basketball. Games are held at Cannonvale State School on Friday evenings from 5pm and are for children aged 8 to 16 years.

The goal is to create a basketball competition for children in the Whitsundays which doesn't require parents to have to take them to Mackay every second weekend.

It is hoped that the Bowen Breakers will join the competition in the coming weeks.

Contributed with thanks to Tim Oberg

Friday night lights basketball is proving extremely popular each week

The young players are enjoying back and forth, free scoring games in the first season

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Cannonvale Swimmer Prepping for Open Water

August 24, 2023

Cannonvale Cannons have been keeping up their swim training despite the cooler weather and the end of the club season.  

Some swimmers have amped up their training in preparation for the Pioneer carnival this coming weekend.  

One swimmer, Jacob Bell is keen to compete in the Townsville Open Water events.  Jacob had a very successful swim season in 2020-21, achieving State and National qualifying times and raced at his first Australian Age Championships.  

He found it challenging heading into a new season after having such a successful 2021.  

This year he made some Queensland qualifying times, but he couldn’t crack the national qualifying times. But this hasn’t stopped him from wanting to test his skills in the open water.    

He is keen to complete in the Magnetic Island to Townsville 8km swim.  Jacob swam a terrific time last year of 1 hour and 48 minutes and this year he is keen to improve.

This is not an easy feat as Jacob may need to battle the wind, current, water temperature and sea lice.  

To prepare for the event, Jacob is training in the pool for five sessions a week and then swimming in the ocean for 1 session.  

Each session, he completes about 4 to 6 kilometres.  

This weekend, Jacob will be competing in the Townsville Open Water ‘Club to Club’ 2km swim with his coaches and fellow teammates wishing him all the best.  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Jacob Bell is looking to take on the open water in Townsville soon

Jacob Bell training with coach Mark Erickson

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Tennis Whitsunday

August 24, 2023

Tuesday and Thursday night social tennis were a buzz with visitors to the region joining in for a game.

A big thank you to Louise and John, word has it they might be back this week for another game.

Congratulations to Juniors who played in the Proserpine JDS; Lacey, Lucas, Lachlan, and Sophie especially, as it was their first time playing a tournament.  

Congratulations to Hayden Bradley who played this weekend and who was champion in his division at the Bowen JDS last weekend.

A special footwork tip: keep your feet moving and adjusting until your spacing is perfect to swing at the ball - footwork is key.

Contributed with thanks to Jenny Kirkman

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Whitsunday United FC Premier Teams Dominate Home Round

August 24, 2023

Another perfect weekend for football as the Whitsunday United Premier team’s turned up the heat on the opposition.

The U14 Premier side started the day in usual fashion, looking solid and untroubled against the visiting Dolphins side. Notching up another win by 4 goals keeps Whitsunday boys in a solid second place – equal on points but down on goal difference to the current leaders.

The U16 were similarly strong even after an early goal was disallowed. They continued to improve during the course of the game and although Dolphin's stayed in touch on the scoreboard, a late flurry of goals had the Whitsunday side ahead by 5-2 at full time – another double for striker Jazz Knezevic, who added to his tally, whilst Tate Butler and Beau Bonnyman worked tirelessly all game.

The Women's sides are starting to build real momentum with both recording wins this week. The Women's Div1 side continues to impress as the younger girls improve under the leadership of more established players. This week they recording their third win from four matches, claiming a 3-1 victory against Country with Maribel Gude, Karli Elder, and Abi Worby scoring goals.

The Prem women are also going from strength to strength with a dominant display against arch rivals Magpies. Sari Goodall was on fire scoring three goals, and Stephanie Mills contributed her share to the 4-3 win. Kiki Taylor was outstanding, but it was the team work that impressed Coach Peter Farrell the most.

The Division 1 Men put on a much better performance against Rangers. Although not reflected on the scoreboard, they match the opposition on the field with several junior players stepping up after their U16 game to aid the senior team. Huge Improvement.

Same can be said for the reserves. After some lacklustre performances due to players missing, last Saturday saw them give second placed Magpies a genuine run for their money. Finishing with 1-3 loss showed the potential the side has who are starting to look like finals contenders in 2022.

The Whitsunday Premier Men saved the best for last. Although missing their entire regular starting back four, the midfield of Scott Ferries and Tommy Torzsok dominated an understrength Magpies with the home side running in a 6-1 demolition in front of their home crowd.

A huge performance against last year's premiers and further proof that this year's Whitsunday Prems are the real deal. Highlights included Josh Healey scoring his first goal in the senior premier competition, Harry Hodgen slotting a couple away, whilst newcomer Jose Puentes added some Argentinian magic to score his first goal in his first game for Whitsunday.

Exciting times ahead.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Millostic

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