It was a shorter than usual week at Proserpine Golf Club, with the course closed from late Sunday through Tuesday for greens renovations.

Despite the interruption, conditions for the remainder of the week were beautifully dry, although blustery breezes made play a little more challenging than usual. Spirits were high, however, with plenty of laughs during the 3-Ball Ambrose held on Rugby League Grand Final Sunday.

Thursday, October 2
The October Monthly Medal, sponsored by Loot Pay, saw some tight competition.

In the men’s division, Gary Scotford claimed the win with a nett 65, followed by Mal McLelland (66) and Allen Roberts (69).

Nearest-the-pins went to McLelland (2nd), Bernie Drake (9th), Jason Biurke (13th), and Michael Ward (16th).

Friday, October 3
The 9-hole Run, sponsored by The Metropole Hotel, was played on the front nine.

Brian Allen took the win with 20 points, followed by Jett Borghero (18, on countback) and Fay Milne in third.

Allen also claimed both NTPs on the 2nd and 9th.

In the popular Putt for Cash, Peta Thomas came close three times but didn’t quite sink it — meaning next Friday’s jackpot will rise to $800.

Saturday, October 4
The Monthly Medal continued, this time sponsored by The Metropole Hotel.

Overall winner was Scott Dwyer with a fine 66 nett.
In A Grade, Scott Mason (67) took top spot ahead of Jayden Lloyd (70).
B Grade
saw Lance Lloyd (69 nett, countback) edge out Craig Smith, while in C Grade it was Scott Dwyer (66 nett) over Bob Platt (68).
NTPs were claimed by Phil Batty (2nd), Brad Fleet (9th), Nathan Holmes (13th), and Chat Norna (16th).

Among the ladies, Noelene Spurway won with 69 nett, followed by Toni Clauss (73, countback from Di Chard, Jacqui Wall, and Jenny Hounsell). NTPs went to Spurway (2nd) and Wall (9th).

Sunday, October 5
A Grand Final Special 3-Ball Ambrose was played with an 8am shotgun start.

Finn O’Flynn, Cory O’Shea, and Brent Franke were the winners with 56.5 nett, ahead of Wayne Temby, Jo Moynihan, and Peter Fox (57), with Jayden Lloyd, Brett Simpson, and Bradley Wilkinson (58) in third.

It was a great week of competition and camaraderie — and with the course freshly renovated, members are looking forward to another strong week of play ahead.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

‍

On Tuesday, we had two triples games. The winners in a close match were Bill Myers, Isobel Wheeler, and Margaret Wilson, who defeated Gordon Querro, Deb Rethcless, and Gavin Charles. In the other game, Karen Smith, S. Jones, and Ray Deal defeated Cliff Querro, Gary Smith, and Alby Vigar. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Our ladies have commenced a monster raffle to help fund their trip to Tweed Heads at the end of the month for the State Pennant Finals.

With over $1400 worth of prizes generously donated by local businesses across three draws, tickets are available at Pat Tracey’s Cassandra as well as at the club on Tuesday and Sunday afternoons.

Sunday’s social play saw Toni Bowen, Irene Laird, and Stuart Jeal defeat Gordon Querro, Cliff Querro, and Alby Vigar, while Penny Warren and Gavin Charles defeated Bill Myers and Pat Tracey. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Sunday's winners Toni Bowen, Stuart Jeal and Irene Laird. Photo supplied

‍

It was probably the biggest weekend of the year for the men, brilliantly arranged by Men’s President Bob McMahon. But before we get to the main event, let’s recap the week’s action.

Tuesday Afternoon (30 Sept) saw 18 bowlers play out three very close games. Third place went to Carol Crosbie’s team with 16 points, second place to Tony Whitehorn’s team on 17 points, and the overall winners on 19 points were skipper Betty Whitehorn with strong support from the most improved new bowler, Mel Fennell, at lead, and new club member Laurie Hawkins at second. Laurie will be a welcome addition to our little club.

Wednesday Afternoon (1 Oct) social bowls again drew 18 bowlers. Third place went to Scotland’s own Rick Graham, visiting and skipping his team to a narrow win by two points. Second place went to Paul Hart — visiting with wife Annie from Bargara Bowls Club in Queensland — with Mark Mawson at second, winning by four points. However, the big winners of the day, by a margin of 15 points, were Tony Whitehorn’s team of “Wild” Bill Gordon at lead and his lovely wife Betty at second. Well played!

Wednesday Night saw the final of the Business House Bowls competition, and after a countback, Blue Science were pronounced winners over Rock Plumbing. Congratulations to both teams! A new competition begins this Wednesday under the beautiful lights of our newly covered bowls club. For more information, please call Bob or Yvonne on 0417 115 855 — it’s sure to be a night full of wonderful memories.

Finally, the 2025 Exodus Transport Classic Men’s Fours was held over the weekend, with 16 teams travelling from all over Queensland and New South Wales. The club was honoured to welcome Bowls Queensland CEO Brett Wilkie, along with Australian Bowls champions Sean Ingham, Nathan Rice, Jason Constable, and Brett Tynan.

After six games, three teams were tied on equal points, and the results had to be decided on a countback of ends won over two days.

In third place, with 52 ends won, was the team skippered by Mark Glew, with third Mick Godfrey, second David Blackburn, and lead Greg Kasper — all from Northern Beaches Bowls Club, Mackay.

Second place, on 53 ends won, went to Paul Foot’s team, with third Bob Spence, second Clinton Vassie, and lead Gary Petersen from South Suburban and Northern Beaches clubs.

First place, with 57 ends won overall, was the team of Bob Menzies (skipper), Jason Little (third), our own Ash Warland (second), and Sam Lurton (lead) from South Suburban, with Bob and Jason from Northern Beaches.

It was a fantastic weekend enjoyed by all, and with the event growing in reputation each year, next year’s tournament promises to be even bigger and better.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Bob Menzies, Jason Little, Ash Warland, and Sam Lurton (lead) from South Suburban, with Bob and Jason from Northern Beaches. Photo supplied

‍

Airlie Beach came alive over the weekend as more than 700 young rugby players and several thousand spectators descended on the Whitsunday Sportspark for the 2025 Viking Cup 10s — a record-breaking celebration of junior rugby union.

Now recognised as North Queensland’s largest junior rugby carnival, this year’s event featured 51 teams across seven divisions, making it the biggest two days in the history of the Whitsunday Sportspark. Families travelled from across Queensland to take part, with teams representing Gold Coast, Caloundra, Maroochydore, Rockhampton, Townsville, Moranbah, and beyond.

The Viking Cup 10s, hosted by the Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union Club, showcased not only exceptional rugby talent but also the spirit of sportsmanship, inclusion, and community connection that defines grassroots sport.

Club President Tim Oberg said the atmosphere across the two days was electric.

“To see so many young players smiling, competing, and forming friendships through rugby is what the Viking Cup is all about,” Oberg said. “This event has grown into something truly special for our region, and it’s only going to get bigger.”

The carnival featured strong performances across all age groups, with several thrilling grand finals. Our local Whitsunday Raiders claimed victories in both the Mixed Under 8s and Mixed Under 10s divisions, while Mackay Blue triumphed 30–10 over Mackay Red in the Under 12s. In the girls’ competitions, Western Suburbs took out the Under 13s, and Shockwave Rugby Academy defeated the Bowen Mudcrabs 32–7 in the Under 15s. The boys’ titles went to Caloundra, who beat Maroochydore Swans 31–12 in the Under 14s, and Colts, who edged out the Whitsunday Raiders 5–0 in a tense Under 16s final.

Oberg also paid tribute to the volunteers and officials who made the event possible.

“A special mention must go to our referees — without referees, there’s no rugby. Their commitment, along with the tireless work of our volunteers, ensured a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved. I’d also like to give a nod of appreciation to our sponsors, BK Constructions, Reef Gateway Hotel and Silver Fern Sports.”

Plans are already underway for the 2026 Viking Cup 10s, which will expand into a four-day festival of rugby with camping options and a format designed to accommodate even more teams and families.

“It’s exciting to see how far we’ve come,” Oberg said. “The future of junior rugby in the Whitsundays is bright.”

Photos supplied.

‍

At South Suburban Bowls Club

South Suburban Bowls Club is set to host the 2025 State Mixed Pairs Championships this weekend, bringing two days of high-level bowls action to the region. The event kicks off on Saturday 11th October at 9 a.m., with competition continuing through Sunday 12th October.

The championships will feature some of Queensland’s finest bowlers, combining seasoned champions and local talent. Spectators can expect fast-paced games, strategic play, and a lively atmosphere as participants vie for state honours.

The line-up of competitors includes:

• Group 1: Vicki Grenot & Aaron Sheriff – 7x Australian Open Singles Winner, Former Australian Rep & Current State Rep
• Group 2: Julia & Calum Brownlie – a husband & wife team from West Toowoomba Downs
• Group 3: Leticia Weir & Joshua Steffens – partners repping North Dalby & Condamine
• Group 4: Brenda & David Balchin – another husband & wife duo from Kawana, Sunshine Coast
• Group 5: Nicole & Tony Williams – a sibling powerhouse, champions of this event back in 2016, from Boonooroo & Sandy Straits
• Group 6: Jennifer Dingle & Ian McMah – from Waves, Underberg
• Group 7: Florence Ruggeri & Vince McSherry – our proud local reps from Mackay City & Mackay
• Group 8: Beverly Peters & Alex Murtagh – travelling all the way from Mount Isa. Alex is also a former QLD Rep

For South Suburban Bowls Club, hosting the State Mixed Pairs Championships is a major highlight, celebrating the sport and its community following. Fans are invited to come down, enjoy a drink or a meal from the club’s facilities, and watch the competition unfold on the greens.

The event offers an opportunity for locals to see strategic skill, precision, and teamwork at its finest. Beyond the on-field action, it’s a chance to connect with fellow bowls enthusiasts, cheer for local representatives, and enjoy a weekend of sport in a welcoming community setting.

Whether a long-time supporter of lawn bowls or a first-time spectator, the 2025 State Mixed Pairs Championships promise two days of engaging competition, camaraderie, and entertainment. South Suburban Bowls Club will be the place to be this weekend for anyone looking to witness some of the state’s best mixed pairs in action.

Photo source: South Suburban Bowls Club (Facebook)

‍

Mackay’s young athletes are gearing up for the All Schools State Schools Track and Field Championships in Townsville this October, following strong performances at the Capricornia and North Queensland school trials in September. Twelve squad members earned spots across a range of events.

10–12 years age group; 13–15 October:

• Penny Shields - 800m and 1500m
• Harper Miles - 200m, 400m, 800m and the 1500m

13–19 years age group; 16–19 October:

• August Cole - 400m, 800m, 1500m and the 2000m Steeplechase
• Autumn Curtis - 400m and 800m
• Toby Rule - 800m, 1500m, 5000m and the 3000m Steeplechase
• Ayla Moon - 200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m
• Keira Caban - 400m, 800m, 1500m, Long Jump and Shot Put
• Chloe Waples - 200m, 400m and 800m
• Riley Baumann - 1500m and 3000m
• Shailee Mewha - 800m and 1500m
• Millie Groom - 800m, 1500m, 3000m and the 2000m Steeplechase
• Riley Simpson - 400m and 800m.

The squad recently had an impressive hit-out at the North Queensland Championships, with 19 athletes participating. Competing against the state’s best on home turf will be an exciting challenge for Mackay’s dedicated young track and field stars.

‍
The North Queensland Championships recently saw Mackay’s young athletes compete across a range of track and field events, showcasing their skills and preparation for upcoming state competitions. Photo source: The Rules of Running Mackay (Facebook)

BRIDGE

The Mackay Contract Bridge Club held its 2025 Congress with players from the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Townsville in attendance.

An extremely well supported weeked saw 60 players compete in three competitions. Winners of the Open pairs were Ian Afflick and Terry Sheedy, followed closely by Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan.

Section B pairs were won by Martin Pearce and Simon Barnes, with Annette Howe and Jewell Schmidt in second place. The Open Teams were won by Team Bugeia, Noel Bugeia, Val Holbrook, Terry Sheedy and Ian Afflick.

Section B Teams won by Team Patterson: Sandy Patterson, Mary Rose Ramsden, Christine Nice and Diane Cox.

Weekly Results

Monday 29 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
2nd Jennifer Cameron / Diane Morgan 2nd Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell
3rd Diane Stokes / Nancy Wix 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

Tuesday Evening 30 September 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st John McGee / Mick King 1st Karen Caldwell / Susan Gibson
2nd Patricia Garner / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

Wednesday 1 October 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Terry Sheedy / Susan Wright
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell 3rd Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley

Friday 3 October 2025 – Mackay Open Walkins 7 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 1st Di Garside / Donna Fitch
2nd Geoff Taylor / Anne Lutz 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan 3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox

Friday 3 & Saturday 4 October 2025 September 2025 – Mackay Swiss Pairs – Red Points
Section A Section B
1st Terry Sheedy / Ian Afflick 1st Simon Barnes / Martin Pearce
2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt
3rd Noel Bugeia / Val Holbrook 3rd Jill Brabon / Beverley Lowcock
4th Frances Brown / Alan Brown 4th Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch

Sunday 5 & Monday 6 October 2025 Mackay Teams Congress Red Points
Team Section A
1st Bugeia Noel Bugeia / Val Holbrook / Terry Sheedy / Ian Afflick
2nd Brown Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen
3rd Conroy Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan / Janine Rodgers / Nancy Marting
4th Breeze Deb Breeze / Renate Feige / Mick King / Ian Gaskell

**Team Section B**


1st Patterson Sandy Patterson / Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd Pearce Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes / Sue Mayer-Miller / Lynne O’Neill
3rd Brabon Jill Brabon / Beverley Lowcock / Lydie Martin / Elaine Hadlow

Contributed by Joy Block

‍
- Terry Sheedy, Cnv. Anne, Ian Afflick
- Janet Morgan & Diane Morgan
- Simon Barnes & Martin Pearce
- Annette Howe, Anne, Jewell Schmidt.
Photos supplied

‍

Queensland families have shown overwhelming support for the Government’s Play On! Sports Vouchers program, with the first round now closed.

The initiative, which provides vouchers valued at up to $200, was designed to ease cost of living pressures while encouraging more young Queenslanders to get active in sport.

The Government has committed $62.5 million each year for four years to fund the program, ensuring families across the state can access financial support for children aged between five and 17 years to join sporting clubs and activities.

The program has been warmly welcomed, with families already putting the vouchers to use. The Government said this reflects a renewed commitment to grassroots sport, after what it described as “10 years of decline under Labor.”

A second round of vouchers will open in January 2026, giving more Queensland families the chance to benefit.

Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander, said the strong take-up demonstrates the importance of sport in Queensland communities.

“The strong demand for the first-round highlights how important sport is to Queensland families,” Minister Mander said.

“It’s fantastic to know that more kids will be getting on the court or the field with the help of their Play On! Sports Voucher.

“This program has specifically targeted kids in every town, city and region of the state, and I’m particularly proud that every child with a disability who applied will receive a voucher to get involved in sport.”

For more details about the program and future application rounds, families can visit www.qld.gov.au/playon.

‍

Why Saunas And Contrast Therapy Boost More Than Muscles

By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach

In the fitness world, training gets all the attention. Lifting heavier, running faster, pushing harder. But here’s the truth: performance and results don’t come from training alone — they come from recovery. That’s why at Fitness Cartel Mackay, we’ve invested in a state-of-the-art Wellness Centre that puts recovery on equal footing with training.

For athletes, recovery is the difference between progress and plateau. For everyday members, it’s the secret to having more energy, better focus, and a body that feels alive instead of run down. Two of the most powerful recovery methods we’ll offer are traditional saunas and contrast therapy — and the science behind them is remarkable.

The heat advantage – traditional saunas

The use of sauna is nothing new. Ancient cultures have used heat to heal for thousands of years. But modern science has confirmed what they already knew: regular sauna use improves cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, enhances recovery, and even extends lifespan.

Heat exposure increases circulation, helping deliver nutrients and oxygen to tired muscles. It stimulates the release of growth hormone, which is critical for repair. It even boosts mental clarity by increasing endorphins and neurotransmitters like dopamine. For lifters, this means faster recovery between sessions. For anyone chasing wellness, it means stress relief, better sleep, and a calmer mind.

The power of contrast therapy

Now add cold. Contrast therapy — alternating between hot and cold immersion — is a game-changer for resilience and recovery. When you step into cold water, blood vessels constrict, inflammation reduces, and your nervous system gets a powerful reset. Step back into the heat, and blood vessels dilate, pumping fresh blood and nutrients through the body.

This push-pull effect is like interval training for your circulation. It speeds up muscle repair, reduces soreness, and builds a kind of mental toughness that carries into every area of life.

Research even suggests cold exposure boosts immune function and sharpens cognitive performance.

Not just for athletes

The best part? You don’t need to be a professional athlete to benefit. Whether you’re a parent juggling family and work, someone getting back into training after time away, or an older adult wanting to feel more energised — the Wellness Centre has something to offer you.

Contrast therapy and sauna are as much about the mind as they are the body. They provide stillness, reset stress levels, and create a sense of renewal that lasts long after the session is over.

Wellness meets performance

At Fitness Cartel Mackay, recovery isn’t an afterthought — it’s built into the foundation of what we do. The Wellness Centre will ensure that whether you train hard, train light, or are simply looking for a space to recharge, you’ll leave feeling stronger, clearer, and more alive.

This is the future of fitness: train hard, recover smart, live better. And soon, Mackay will have it right here at home. https://www.fitnesscartel.com.au/clubs/mackay/

‍

Northern Beaches Dojo Marks 10 Years Of Strength And Spirit

‍

The Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo has celebrated an impressive 10-year milestone, marking a decade of discipline, strength, and community connection.

Operating from the Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia, the dojo runs classes every Tuesday and Thursday evening during school terms, fostering a supportive environment where students of all ages can train and grow together.

Congratulations to everyone involved on reaching this significant milestone.

The Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo has celebrated 10 years of discipline, strength, and community spirit at its Bucasia training hall. Photo source: Northern Beaches Our Community (Facebook)

Last Wednesday the finals of both the Club Under 70’s Singles and the Club Over 70’s singles finals were held at the club. The Under 70’s singles final was between Cheryle Corbett and Brenda Trannore.

This game was tense but very friendly, with both ladies concentrating on each bowl to the end game of champion bowlers. Brenda Trannore was the eventual winner and this years Unders 70’s Champion. Her other achievements now include: Club Championship Singles Winner and the B grade singles Champion for the club this year. .

The Over 70’s singles game was played between Helen Fleming and Lorna Bowers.

Each end was a lovely display of beautiful bowls, with some very close shots added . The eventual winner was Lorna Bowers. Congratulations to each lady bowler who competed in both these singles games, and indeed throughout the 2025 season.

Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine

Photos:
- Under 70’s Singles winner Brenda Trannore and Runner up Cheryl Corbett

- Over 70’s Singles Runner Up Helen Fleming and Winner Lorna Bowers. Photos supplied

‍

Fabulous results to the final of the Club Consistency Singles Comp. The game was played on Wednesday 10/9/25 with contestants Cheryle Corbett and Wendy Sonter vying for the win. Congratulations goes to Cheryle Corbett winning by the slimmest of margins. The games was a nail biter to the very last bowl with both ladies playing amazing bowls.

Representing the Mackay District, the North Mackay Ladies Division 1 Pennant team travelled to Emerald on Saturday 20/9, to compete against the Leichhardt District team.

The North Mackay Ladies played amazing bowls to come away as well-deserved winners. The team will now travel to Brisbane to compete at a later date.

Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine

Photos:
L-R Nug Pratt, Marie Duck, Chris Woo, Bev McDonald, Deb Mackenzie, Lorraine Lemke, Lorraine Silman, Lorna Bowers

Consistancy winner Cheryle Corbett

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, recently joined local families and young athletes at Harrup Park to celebrate the latest recipients of the Mackay Sports Foundation grants.

Round 3 of the program marked its biggest round yet, with 28 talented young athletes receiving financial support to help overcome barriers and chase their sporting dreams.

From Irish dancing and athletics to netball, gymnastics, and even horseball, the range of sports represented highlights the depth and diversity of talent in the Mackay region.

Mr Willcox said it was an honour to present certificates to the athletes and hear firsthand the stories behind their sporting journeys.

“It was fantastic to meet these athletes and their families and talk about the extra challenges regional kids face in accessing elite pathways,” he said.

He praised the Mackay Sports Foundation as a shining example of a "by community, for community" initiative, offering vital assistance to young people striving to represent their club, state, and even country.

Mr Willcox also extended his thanks to Harrup Park, the Great Barrier Reef Arena, and Mackay Cricket Chairman Terry Doolan for their continued commitment to grassroots sport and nurturing the next generation of champions.

‍

For Mackay And District BMX

The 2025 Qld BMX State Championships delivered an action-packed weekend of racing, showcasing the incredible talent, determination, and sportsmanship of riders from across the state.

Over 615 competitors took to the Mackay track over two thrilling days of racing which featured:
Mini Wheelers, Sprockets, Challenge, Masters and Superclass across 20” Inch, Cruiser and Para BMX categories.

Standout performances came from MAD BMX Club local riders, Adelyn Eatwell (11 Girls) Liam Willson (12 Boys) Dylan Secher (14 Boys) Brendan Knight (40-44 Men) Michael Wallin (45-49 Men) and Michael Jameljanenko (50-54 Men) making the most of their home track knowledge and bringing home Q1 Plates in 20” class.

Day two brought even more excitement with local MAD BMX riders putting on a strong show in Cruiser class with Dylan Secher (13-14 Boys) Sherridan Pogmore (40-44 Women) Michael Jameljanenko (50-54 Men) all impressing the home crowd also claiming themself a Q1 Plate. The elite Masters and Superclass categories lit up the weekend with high-speed racing with local favourite Michael Wallin proving too fast, also securing a Q1 Plate in Masters.

Superclass Men

1st Zac Hutton (Bundaberg BMX Club)
2nd Mica Moloney (Cairns BMX Club)
3rd Zac Stoppa (Ashmore BMX Club)

Superclass Women

1st Isabella Schramm (Ashmore BMX Club)
2nd Celeste Barr (Townsville BMX Club)
3rd Kyarnee Young (Pine Rivers BMX Club)

The recently upgraded track provided the perfect stage for thrilling bar to bar racing and plenty of memorable moments.  MAD BMX Club thanks all Riders, Spectators, Sponsors, Volunteers, Aus Cycling, Officials, and Mackay Regional Council Clubs whose efforts made the Championships possible.

Congratulations to every rider who hit the track across the weekend. The State Championships once again highlighted the strength of BMX and celebrates not only the sport but the passion that makes this sport so fun and unique.

‍

Adelyn Eatwell - Q1 (11 Year Girls - 20")

Liam Wilson Q1 (12 Boys - 20")

Dylan Secher Q1 (14 Boys - 20")

Brendan Knight - Q1 (40-44 Men - 20")

Michael Wallin - Q1 - 45-49 Men 20" and Masters Q1

Michael Jameljanenko - Q1 (50-54 Men - 20")  

Sherridan Pogmore Q1 (40-44 Cruiser Women)

Mini Wheelers

Sprockets and Mini Wheelers - MAD BMX Club

Left to Right:  Mathew Hey (Aus Cycling State Operations Manager) Dale Percy (Auscycling Head of Events) Greg Williamson (Mayor Mackay Regional Council) Brett Wilson (MAD BMX Club Presiden

‍

Around 30 runners, including Mackay locals and visitors from interstate and overseas, gathered at 7am Sunday for the inaugural ACE (Australian Conveyor Engineering Fenner Dunlop) Eungella 6km and 19km Trail Run. Starting from the Eungella Chalet lawns under perfect conditions, participants enjoyed a scenic and adventurous course through Eungella National Park.

Race Director Tim Magoffin set a light-hearted tone, joking about “drop bear” encounters and recommending Vegemite as protection, while reminding runners of real trail challenges like leeches and “wait-a-while” vines. His efforts in course marking and safety were widely praised.

Organisers thanked ACE Engineering for sponsoring the event and donating random cash prizes. The Mackay-based company, employing over 50 staff and apprentices, has been a local leader in sustainable engineering for more than 20 years.

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service also earned thanks for maintaining the trails, which showcased Eungella’s natural beauty. Tony and Tess from the Eungella Chalet were commended for their warm hospitality.

In the 19km race, French runner Leonard Diez claimed victory ahead of Brady Giannangelo and Henry Fernandez. Andrew Wallace was the first Mackay finisher, followed by Stephen Oberg. Trail detours brought light-hearted awards for Jose Short and Alan Zamparutti, while Maddison Dollar and Andrew Short were also standouts.

In the 6km event, Darrin Pullen, Max Miles, and Ashley Miles claimed top spots for Mackay Road Runners, with Kayla Waugh leading the women’s field.

The club’s next social run will be held from Bluewater Quay at 4pm, followed by the Annual Awards Night on 25 October at Goosies.

‍

Stephen Oberg (front left) and Darrin Pullen (front right) are off and racing in the 6km ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run.

3197 – Race Director, Tim Magoffin (centre) with some of the very vital volunteers for the ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run (left to right) Jo Hughes, Julie Whibley, Len Howarth and Paul Tilse.

Alan Zamparutti is ecstatic finishing the 19km (plus a few more kilometres) in the ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run.

Rockhampton runners, Kristina Joergensen and Angus Campbell enjoy the post run celebrations and mini presentations at the Eungella Chalet’s outdoor dining area.

Max Miles (front left) and Judy Zahn (front right) bolt off the start line in the 6km ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run. Photos supplied

‍