The Mackay Regional Council-sponsored Australia Day “Come and Try Bridge Day” was a great success. Members and enthusiastic community participants gathered to enjoy morning tea, a sausage lunch and a wonderful day filled with cards and friendship. President Frances Brown expressed her delight at the strong turnout and encouraged attendees, as well as anyone interested in learning Bridge, to join the beginners' lessons starting Wednesday, 12 February, at 6:30pm at the Bridge Club, 414 Shakespeare Street…But be warned! You will make new friends, have serious fun and become addicted to the world’s most popular card game.

Weekly Results
Wednesday 22 January 2025 – NWP Week 2 of 25 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Janet Hansen / Janelle Conroy

2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Diane Stokes / Joy Block

3rd
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th
Barbara Tait / Janine Rodgers
4th
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

Thursday Evening 23 January 2025 –6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Jan Harris
4th
Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott
Friday 24 January 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
1st
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

2nd
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Simon Barnes

3rd
David Ting / Andrew Canavan
3rd
Geoff Cowan / Mick King

4th
Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
4th
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

Saturday 25 January 2025 –11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Christine Nice / Faye Wright
1st
Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes

2nd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Chris Meyers

3rd
Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

4th
Karen Caldwell / Noel Saunders
4th
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

Sunday 26 January 2025 - Mackay Regional Council Australia Day - 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Griffin Bancroft / Eric Goodchild
1st
Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill

2nd
Joyce Deguara / Victor Masen
2nd
Christine Nice / Faye Wright

3rd
Joy Robinson / Annette Howe
3rd
Simon Barnes / Alan Brown

Contributed by Joy Block

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A large roll-up of 84 bowlers took part in the Monday public holiday fun-packed afternoon of mixed bowls. The day was well represented by both men’s and ladies' committee members, ensuring the day was successful, and bowlers were treated to pies, sausage rolls, lamingtons and an ice-cold beer to top the day off. Congratulations to the prize winners and those who dressed up to the Aussie theme!

Competition Results

Open Fours
Mick Walsh, Clive Wales, Greg McLean, and Andrew Coates dominated their match, defeating Vern Mietzel, Ken Rix, Tony Bartholomew, and Steve Lancaster: 25/7.

Open Pairs
John Kennell and Eric Galletly narrowly triumphed over Asko Helenius and Jim Lette, with the game decided on the final bowl.

Bob Hall and Alan Brown faced Russell Fry and Gavin Hannan in another close match, with Russell missing his final drive, leading to a victory for Bob and Alan.

Other Matches
Dave McKendry and Tony Allsop defeated Ernie Sealy and Alex Cameron: 21/16.
In the “battle of the oldies,” Alan Cooney and Peter Miller defeated Gary Kennedy and Neil Blucher: 22/10.

Games Called

Saturday Open Fours
John C/Master, Terry Willey, Bert Hobbs, and Ron Bowers will face Tony Allsop, Peter Miller, Les McDermott, and Chris Banney in what promises to be a closely contested match.

Saturday Open Pairs
Eric Galletly and John Kennell will take on Col and Ben Crocker in a game that’s sure to be a thriller.

Social Bowls Results

Monday Pairs
Winners: Ian Rowan and Vic Gaudian; John Fry and Darrell Kane.
Runners-Up: Kathy Mathew and Jill Snow; Eric Galletly and Peter Cowling.

Thursday Pairs
Winners: Bev Svenson and Tony Allsop.
Runners-Up: Chris Woo and Chris Hall.

Friday Pairs
Winners: Alan Dillon and David Pinkard.
Tied Runners-Up: Gary Kennedy and Geoff Ollett; Peter Miller and Alan Cooney.

Saturday Men’s
Winners: David Dowden and Darrell Kane.
Runners-Up: Bob Arnold and Doug Dungavell.

Contributed by Doug Giddings

84 bowlers enjoyed a fun-filled Aussie-themed bowls day with delicious food and great camaraderie. Photos supplied

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The 2024/2025 Shawn’s Summer Biathlon Splash & Dash Series concluded on Australia Day, with athletes and volunteers coming together to honour former Mackay Road Runners champion Shawn Claydon, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2018. Shawn’s legacy was celebrated with the attendance of his sister, Sharon Stewart-Harris, and her husband, Jeff, who supported the event.

Held as an off-season training opportunity, the series welcomed not only club members but also newcomers and those seeking a fun and informal swim/run experience.

The series finale was well-attended, even as many Tri-Activ8 athletes competed in the Moranbah Aquathon on the same day. Awards were presented to top performers, with Nikki Giles named the overall winner for track and pool laps, though she was unable to attend the final event. Random draw prizes, including 2025 calendars featuring series photos, added to the fun of the finale.

Looking ahead, the Mackay Road Runners formal 2025 season kicks off on Sunday, January 16, with the club set to appear at the Mackay Regional Council Sports Expo on Sunday, January 9.

As summer’s oppressive humidity continues, the club reminds everyone to stay hydrated and maintain sensible training schedules. Meanwhile, an informal social 5/10km run will be held this Sunday at 4:30pm, starting from the Bluewater Quay. Participants are welcome to join free of charge, with post-run refreshments available for purchase at the Red Dog. Bring your own hydration and energy needs, and enjoy the camaraderie of Mackay’s running community!

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

Archer Flanagan accepts the Splash & Dash Junior Achievement award from Mackay Road Runners Race Director and Club Captain, Jim Ford.
Jim Ford (left) presents The Most Consistent prize to Len Howarth (right) at the Biathlon Splash & Dash Finale presentation.
(left to right) Judy Zahn, Jo Hughes and Carolyn Mapes enjoying the final event on the Shawn’s Summer Biathlon Splash & Dash Series.
The Tri-Activ8 athletes were outstanding in the Shawn’s Summer Biathlon Splash & Dash Series for 2024/2025.
Shawn’s Summer Biathlon Splash & Dash Series Race Director, Jim Ford with the race namesake’s sister, Sharon and her husband, Jeff Stewart-Harris. Photos supplied

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South Suburban Bowls Club has kicked off social bowls for 2025 and is welcoming both new and returning players to join in the fun.

On January 16th, 30 ladies braved the heat, staying well hydrated and showing great determination as they played in the first Ladies Social Day of the year. Maryann Harrigan, President of the Ladies Section, was pleased to see so many ladies that were eager to get back on the green and called the day a success.

For 2025, South Suburban Bowls is offering four days of social bowls opportunities:
Tuesday Bowls – 1pm start, 2 games, self-selected triples.
Wednesday Bowls – 9am start, format varies depending on numbers.
Thursday Bowls – 1pm start, social bowls.
Friday Bowls – 2pm start, self-selected 3 bowls jackpot pairs.

To join a game, players can either sign up on the sheet at the club or call (07) 4957 3233.

“From all the bowlers at Souths we hope to see you for a roll soon.”

Photo source: Souths Suburban Bowls Club

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The Cannonvale Swim Centre, located at the Cannonvale State School swimming pool provides a variety of programs designed to cater to swimmers of all abilities. Whether you're looking to improve your technique, get fit, or simply have fun, there's something for everyone.
The training sessions focus on fitness for all swimming strokes, and swimmers can also enjoy meeting new people and having fun in the water. Senior swimmers particularly enjoy a game or two of water polo on Friday afternoons, this is a great way to combine fitness and socialising.
For adults, the Cannonvale Swim Centre offers tailored training sessions led by qualified coaches. These coaches design personalised programs to meet the varying needs, goals, and abilities of each swimmer, whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, train for a triathlon, or learn to swim.
In addition to regular training, the centre also offers Aqua Classes on Saturday mornings and Tuesday evenings, providing an effective and enjoyable low-impact workout.
The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club has been an integral part of the community for almost 30 years, offering a family-friendly environment where swimmers of all ages and abilities are encouraged to achieve their best.
The club promotes a healthy learning environment, where inclusion and support are key aspects of teaching and training.
The Cannonvale Swim Centre offers a variety of lessons to cater to different abilities, including private lessons and small group sessions. The staff is supportive and encouraging, adjusting programs to meet individual needs and ensuring an inclusive environment for all swimmers.
Swimming offers numerous physical, mental, and social benefits. It’s a low-impact sport, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels, while also building strength, toning muscles, improving cardiovascular fitness, and enhancing flexibility. Swimmers also experience better coordination, balance, and posture.
Beyond the physical, swimming helps improve cognitive skills, boost confidence, and promote better mental health. It’s also a wonderful way to socialise and build friendships through teamwork.
The coaching team at Cannonvale Swim Centre is highly experienced. Head coaches Mark Erickson and Ken Crittenden have been coaching at Cannonvale for nearly 30 years and have trained swimmers who’ve qualified for both the Queensland and Australian Age Swimming Championships.
While they’ve worked with competitive swimmers, they also take great pride in helping swimmers of all levels reach their goals and enjoy the sport. Giselle Burton, who coordinates the Learn to Swim program, also plays a vital role in the Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club, serving as Club Secretary.
The Cannonvale Swim Centre operates year-round, with training sessions and activities available before and after school and on weekends. The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club holds Club Nights and carnivals from August to April, and new swimmers and their families are always welcome to join in. Club Nights take place on Wednesday evenings at 5 pm, providing a fun and competitive environment for all.
The Swim Centre also works in close partnership with the school, providing lessons during the day, while also offering activities before and after school and on weekends.
For more information, you can visit the Cannonvale Swim Centre and Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club websites or check out their Facebook pages. Alternatively, you can contact Mark Erickson directly at 0420 237 759 or via email at swimboy62@hotmail.com.

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Whitsunday Touch offers a unique and inclusive sporting experience, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to get active, have fun, and join a supportive community. Touch football is a non-contact sport that’s simple to learn, safe, and enjoyable for players of all ages and fitness levels.
At Whitsunday Touch, everyone is welcome. The club prides itself on being a place where players can pursue their goals, whether they’re aiming for national competition or just looking for a casual game with friends. With games played locally on Monday nights, there’s no need to travel, and the matches are designed to fit into busy schedules. It’s also one of the most affordable sports in town.
The mixed competition at Whitsunday Touch is particularly special. It offers an environment where both men and women can compete together, ensuring that players of all genders have the opportunity to develop their skills and build confidence on the field.
One of the standout features of Whitsunday Touch is its Family Grade, which is designed to bring families together on the field. This unique offering allows parents, children, and even grandparents to play side by side. The Family Grade is a fantastic way for families to stay active together and enjoy some healthy competition.
Parents often find it rewarding to share the sport with their children, watching them develop new skills while having fun. The inclusive nature of the Family Grade means that players of all ages, from young children to older adults, can enjoy the game at their own pace.
Whitsunday Touch is committed to making touch football an affordable and accessible option for all players.  The season runs from grading games in mid-January to the grand final in late June, giving players plenty of time to enjoy the sport. Senior grades are scheduled at convenient times - 6pm, 6:50pm, and 7:40pm - ensuring that people of all ages can participate without interfering with other commitments.

Fees:
Family Grade:
   • $60 per person (Ages 7–12)
   • $90 per person (Ages 13+)
Senior Grades:
   • $60 per person (Age 12)
   • $90 per person (Ages 13–18)
   • $120 per person (Ages 19–75+)

Getting involved is easy!

   • Come to the Fields on Monday Nights:
       ◦ For Family Grade: Arrive by 5:00 pm to help us find you a team.
       ◦ For Seniors: Arrive by 5:40 pm to allow enough time to sort into teams.
   • Contact Us Online:
       ◦ Visit our website or follow us on social media for all the details and registration info.

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The Cannonvale Cannons hosted their highly anticipated Short Course Transition Meet over the weekend, attracting 195 swimmers from 18 clubs across North Queensland. The event showcased exceptional talent and sportsmanship, despite challenging weather conditions.

Day 1 tested swimmers and spectators alike with intense heat and humidity and day 2 brought storms that delayed proceedings and ultimately forced an early finish due to a second round of severe weather. Despite these obstacles, the spirit of competition remained high, with 58 Cannonvale Cannons athletes delivering outstanding performances across the two-day carnival.

Congratulations to the Cannons swimmers who secured state qualifying times for the upcoming Sprint Championships in Brisbane. Time trials were held on the morning of day 2 of competition for swimmers wanting one last effort to achieve times, with both Millie Groom and Matilda Nicholes giving exceptional performances to earn their final times. A special shoutout goes to Tyler Bennett, Ella Bounden, Zane Clayworth, Declan Dichiera, Ruby Harland, Billie Jamieson, Gracie Laguna, Pippa Laguna, Isabella Pisaniello, and Zachary Trefz for achieving personal bests in every one of their individual events.

A highlight of the meet was the electrifying SKINS events, where the top six qualifiers battle it out for cash prizes instead of medals in elimination-style races. Congratulations to the following Cannons who qualified for their SKINS events: Lucas Korosec, Miller Eaves, Zane Clayworth, Billie Jamieson, Eloise Chegwidden, Don Algie, Isaac Pisaniello, Jax Clayworth, Declan Dichiera, Nelson Malady, Ruby Harland, Andie Reynolds, Isabella Pisaniello, Tora Delac, Charlie Doherty, Jacob Bell, Zachary Trefz, Ella Bounden, Tyler Bennett, Asher Springbett, Levi Smith, and Maeve Dichiera. Enjoy your hard-earned cash!

A special note of farewell to Don Algie, who has been competing as a Cannon since the age of six. This carnival marked his final representation for the club as he now departs for boarding school. The Cannons wish him the very best of luck and thank him for the boundless energy he brought to training, club nights, and regional and state events. Good luck, Donnie!

Contributed with thanks to Cannonvale Cannons Vice President, Jade Korosec.

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Whitsunday Moto Sports Club is a dynamic and welcoming social club that thrives on the shared passion for racing and motorcycle riding. Whether you're a seasoned racer or a complete beginner, the club offers a fantastic environment to improve your skills, with a focus on making the sport safer, faster, and more enjoyable.
The club boasts exceptional facilities that cater to riders of all levels, ensuring a top-notch experience for everyone. Its family-friendly atmosphere makes it a place where riders of all ages can come together and share their love for motorsport in a supportive and inclusive community.
At Whitsunday Moto Sports Club, there's a place for everyone. From casual riders who enjoy the thrill of the open road to more competitive individuals eager to push their limits on the track, the club accommodates a wide range of interests. Newcomers are always encouraged to join and explore the sport in a relaxed, fun environment, with opportunities to develop skills, build confidence, and meet like-minded individuals.
Whether you're in it for the camaraderie, the competition, or simply the joy of riding, the Whitsunday Moto Sports Club offers a vibrant hub where people can connect, grow, and fuel their passion for motorsport.

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Despite the challenges of January’s heat and unpredictable downpours, Proserpine Golf Club members showcased their dedication to the game, hitting the course to improve their skills, compete, and enjoy some time outdoors. Whether partaking in competitions or social play, the club has had an excellent week of golf.

On Tuesday, the 21st of January, the Single Stableford competition saw John Oates take the win in the Men’s division with 42 points, narrowly edging out runner-up Gerald Lovell, who scored 41 points. In the Ladies’ division, Sherri Meade claimed victory with 35 points, while Tina Badenhorst finished as runner-up with 31 points. Notable nearest-to-pin (NTP) efforts came from Nicole Cooper on the 2nd hole, John Oates on the 9th, Laurie Dakin on the 13th, and Billy O’Connor on the 16th.

Wednesday’s Ladies Stableford event, held on 22 January, saw Tina Badenhorst triumph with 36 points, followed by runner-up Elise Hodgson with 33 points. NTP honours went to Toni Clauss and Pauline Redpath on the 1st hole.

Thursday, 23 January, featured another Single Stableford competition. Scott Mason dominated the Men’s division with 39 points, with Ryan Kenny coming second with 37 points. In the Ladies’ division, Bailey Hayward secured the win with 35 points, while Michael Stewart took the runner-up spot with 33 points. NTP highlights included shots from Sean Fogarty on the 2nd, Zachary Esden on the 9th, Wayne Temby on the 13th, and Ryan Wilkes on the 16th.

The Friday Metropole Run on 24 January, played over the front nine, ended with Jonathon Kellaris winning with 34 points, ahead of runner-up Bailey Howard and Sara Hagy, who both scored 22 points.

Saturday’s Stableford competition on 25 January saw exceptional play. The overall winner was Laurie Dakin with a remarkable 40 points. In the Men’s A Grade, Laurie Dakin claimed victory with 40 points on a countback, while Lewy Tuck took the runner-up spot. In B Grade, Tim Walton secured the win with 39 points, with Luke Nightingale close behind with 37 points. Among the Ladies, Sara Hagy claimed the top spot with 42 points, while runner-up honours went to Sherri Meade, who scored 36 points.

Sunday’s Australia Day Fun Day 2 Ball Ambrose competition on 26 January wrapped up the week on a high note. The equal winners were Patrick Camm and Cory O’Shea with 56.75 (on a countback), just ahead of Sid (daughter) and Brad Fleet. The runner-up spot went to Ireneusz Gruszczynski and Dean Barnard with 58.75.

The Proserpine Golf Club congratulates all participants for their outstanding efforts throughout the week. Full results are available on Golflink.

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Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

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Get ready for the most exhilarating weekend on the North Queensland sporting calendar as the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary on August 16-17.
With Early Bird entries closing March 29th, now is the time to nominate and bring the whole family for some winter fun in the sun and enjoy some friendly competitive racing, with a weekend of events including Kids Triathlon, Ocean Swims and the best afterparty ever!
The Triathlon’s race director Michael Kimpton said that with an amazing course on the shores of the Coral Sea and views of the Whitsunday islands, this weekend has turned into an event not to be missed.
“Our 2025 festival promises to be bigger and better than ever with fun Aquabike and Duathlon options added to encourage all the family to get active over the two days of events.” Kimpton said.
This year’s event aims to inspire the next generation of triathletes with the Happy Run on Saturday afternoon. A race for children of all ages who many not be triathlon-ready yet, it’s a short run on safe closed roads where children can earn medals win exciting prizes like new bikes and running gear vouchers, and get stuck into some tasty lolly bags.
Kimpton says this year’s festival will feature record prizemoney, which has attracted the best triathlon fans and professionals racing in Australia, including Olympians and Commonwealth Games triathletes. Returning to announce your triumphs, Pete Murray is here to call the shots of all the racers, so you had better practice your finish line poses. Olympic legend Susie O'Neill, will also be returning for the 25th anniversary to be swim ambassador for the weekend after her popular appearance last year.
Let's make the 2025 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon an event to remember and where every stride becomes a story, and every finish is a triumph. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a first-time competitor, or a supporter cheering from the sidelines, this milestone event is not to be missed! We’re aiming to become the best grassroots event in Australia, by giving the average triathlete a memorable experience on race day and value for money for their entry fee!
So spread the word and join us as we celebrate 25 years of community, competition, and camaraderie by tagging your fellow triathletes, training buddies and family who would love to cheer and witness your finish line triumphs.

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WHAT: Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival
WHEN: August 16th-17th
WHERE: Various Locations around Airlie’s beaches
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Last year’s triathlon participants having a blast. Photo Sourced: Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

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As January wraps up, school students are returning, and the Club’s Australia Day Celebrations were fantastic! The week started on Tuesday morning with a successful meeting that set the tone for the days ahead, with 18 bowlers participating and the team of John Trembath, with Dawn Dowell at second and Greg Fennell at lead the big winners of the day.

Wednesday at 2pm start of Jackpot Bowls run by Rick Galea and had 14 players. The big winners of the day were skipper Ted Cullen who is in the middle of a purple patch with his bowls accuracy teaming up with Regina Aquilina at lead with an outstanding performance, however the jackpot was not won.

Saturday morning's scroungers saw first round winners Tony Whitehorn, Warren Mills and Mervyn Stewart play the final and it was Tony Whitehorn the A division winner of the day with B division winner going to John Askew.

Sunday morning Australia Day saw 46 people arrive with 13 people just for breakfast and the rest for bowls. Although the heavy rain finished the game early the second prize went to the team of Joan McGrath, Mervyn Stewart and Sue Walker. Whilst the winners of the day winning pies and lamingtons were Andy McDougalls team of Arthur McManus and Dawn Dowell. The club must thank Margo Stanley, Carol Crosbie, Lyn Graham, Rhonda Lloyd and Elaine Kippen for the outstanding preparations. The celebrations included some memorable highlights, such as the BBQ and lawn games, which were a hit among members and their families. Everyone's participation and enthusiasm made the event truly special.

Finally, the club would like to acknowledge the outstanding contribution of turning this club into a successful organisation from Armando ‘Manny’ and Jayne Isgro who arrived in Airlie in 2010 and both joined the club in 2012. Manny and Jayne realised our club needed direction they both became joint club managers providing the structure for the club to become viable and strong in our district. Manny’s name has been on the honour board at least 50 times and responsible for making ABBC district club of the year in 2017 and 2022. He was Mens bowler of the year 2020 district and zone champion 2022/2023 and it's Manny's legacy for us to get stronger every season.  

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

Manny and Jayne Isgro at the club. Photo Supplied:

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Despite the less-than-ideal weather, 23 determined players participated in this week’s Stableford competition. The day was marked by remarkable scores, even as players contended with heavy rain and soggy conditions across the course.

In the Ladies' division, Jenny Hounsell delivered an outstanding performance to claim victory with 40 points. Runner-up honors went to Tina Badenhorst, who finished with 31 points on a countback. The rundown included Paula McQuat (31 points), Tiina Randmae (29 points), and Elspeth Scotford (28 points).

For the Men, John Oates was in fine form, securing the win with an impressive 42 points, building on his Monthly Medal triumph last week. Gerald Lovell followed closely, finishing runner-up with 41 points. The rundown featured strong performances from Vic Feldman (40 points), Colin Hounsell (38 points), Gary Scotford (36 points), Laurie Dakin (35 points), David Woods (34 points), and Ken Granger (32 points).

Pin shots were expertly claimed by Ladies players Jenny Hounsell (2), Robyn Witham (2), and Tina Badenhorst, while the Men’s pin shots went to John Oates (2), John Roser (2), Ken Granger, and Trevor Peroz.

Chip-ins were a highlight, with contributions from Jenny and Colin Hounsell, Neil Cawthorne, John Oates, Gary Scotford (2), and Peter Lindsay.

The Membership Jackpot Draw remains unclaimed and will roll over to $40 next week. John Roser, however, took home the raffle prize of a $50 MBW voucher.

Next week’s competition will be another Stableford event. Good luck to all!

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat.

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Male and Female winners, John Oates and Jenny Hounsell

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Last weekend saw eight milestone recipients celebrated at Mackay parkrun’s latest event.
Achieving 100-finish milestones were Teresa Hackney, Isabelle Cahill, and Kate Mumford.

Reaching the 50-finish milestone were Shelby Freidman, Michael Davidson, Georgie Wilson, and Traccee Ramsamy.

Trevor Hodgson was also recognised for his 25-volunteer milestone. Participants are encouraged to notify their Run Director before or after an event when they achieve a milestone.

Age Category Record Smashed

Robert Saliba set a new record in the VM70-74 age category, completing the course in an impressive 22 minutes and 44 seconds - beating the previous record by 1 minute and 5 seconds.

Earlier this month, 540 participants across the Mackay region embraced the parkrun spirit. With pacer week coming up, it’s the perfect time to get active and be part of this vibrant community initiative.

A representative from Mackay Park Run said “Get out and get active with us…Don't forget it's pacer week!

“All are welcome!”

Mackay parkrun is a free, timed 5km run/walk and is held every Saturday at 7 am at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. Alternatively, participants can join the Seaview parkrun at Bucasia Esplanade.

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Mackay parkrun celebrated eight milestone achievers, including a record-breaking performance by Robert Saliba in the VM70-74 age category, as 540 participants embraced the community spirit of the weekly 5km event. Photo source: Facebook

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With the energy of a dojo in full swing and the pride of a community backing them, Sarina’s Little Ninjas and Samurais brought their term to an electrifying close on their Graduation Day on 5 December 2024. Held in the Sarina High School hall, the event was a celebration of discipline, resilience, and the joy of learning martial arts, proving that even the youngest warriors can pack a punch when it comes to perseverance and spirit.

This transformative programme, sponsored by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal (DBCT), offers children as young as five the chance to develop discipline, resilience, patience, and respect while learning martial arts basics and staying active. The emphasis on fun ensures students remain engaged throughout. Each participant receives a free uniform consisting of white trousers, a white belt, and a black T-shirt emblazoned with the DBCT logo. Students are taught to care for their uniforms, though a few belts and trousers have occasionally gone astray!

Guided by First Dan martial artist "Ninja Nanna" (Gerri Kissner), with assistance from "Samurai Sally" (Racheal Smith, Second Dan), "Dangerous Damon" (Damon Wood, First Dan), and "Jujitsu Julie" (Julie Munro, proud grandmother of three students), the programme has a rich history. Notably, Racheal was the eldest of the original Mackay Little Ninjas at 37, while Damon was just five when he joined—now, at 15, he continues to inspire.

On graduation Day, Glen Kelly, MP for Mirani, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, and DBCT Senior Specialist PR Sharon Johnston presented Certificates of Achievement.

Daisy Munro won the Top Student trophy, which Sharon Johnston from DBCT presented. Ninja Nanna presented Billie Peta Bone with the Ninja Nanna Award, which is presented to a student who gives 100 per cent and more, assists younger students, and shows discipline and respect at all times.

Damon presented three original Ninja bandanas to Jaxson Pullen, Vienna Gyblett, and Joey Munro for their infectious enthusiasm. In a touching moment, Ninja Nanna gifted Damon the jacket she once wore while competing in New Zealand.

Parents, friends, and special guest Nicholas (Nick) Dougall, a Director of the Sarina Community Bank Bendigo Bank, applauded the students’ remarkable skills and discipline after just eight weeks.

Plans are already underway for the programme to return in Term 2 of the 2025 school year, promising more martial arts magic for Sarina’s young warriors.

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Graduation day
Julie Munro and her three grandchildren, Daisy, Isabelle and Joey Munro, with Gerri Kissner
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, DBCT Senior Specialist PR Sharon Johnston and Glen Kelly, Member for Mirani
Daisy Munro won the Top Student trophy, presented by Sharon Johnston
Sarina’s Little Ninjas and Samurais
Billie with her Ninja Nanna award presented by Gerri Kissner

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Mackay Wanderers Football Club is excited to announce that registrations for the 2025 season are officially open for the Whitsunday Coast community.

Newly elected MWFC President, Greg Kliese, said the Club was thrilled to open registrations for the 2025 season and can’t wait to see their football family grow.

“Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the sport, there’s a spot for everyone at Mackay Wanderers FC this year,” Mr Kliese said.

The Club offers playing opportunities to boys, girls, women and men of all skill levels from four years old to senior adults.

“Our teams span from under-fives through to seniors across all competitions from premiers to social leagues.”

“Wanderers are one of Mackay’s largest football clubs with around 400 players and a proud 100-year history.”

“While we strive for success on the field, we are a family-orientated club with a strong supporter base and a great sense of community.”

"Our open day and preseason training are great opportunities to meet new players and get involved in a community that values both sport and friendships."

"This year, we’re looking forward to a strong season, with new teams, more training opportunities, and plenty of action on the field.

“If you're looking to get active in sport, develop your skills, or simply have fun, Mackay Wanderers FC offers something for everyone.”

In the lead-up to the start of the season on 8 March 2025, the Club has announced the start of preseason training for juniors and seniors:
• Senior Men and Women: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6pm to 8pm.
• Juniors (U12 and up): Preseason training will start on Tuesday, 28 January and Thursday,
30 January.
• MiniRoos (U5-U11): Preseason training begins on Thursday, 6 February.

Those interested in learning more or joining the Club are invited to their Open Day on Saturday 1 February from 3 pm to 6 pm at Wanderers Sports Park on Ben Nevis Street in Beaconsfield.

For more information visit the Club website www.mackaywanderersfc.com

Mackay Wanderers FC has opened registrations for the 2025 season, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels, with pre-season training starting in late January and an open day on 1 February at Wanderers Sports Park. Photo supplied