Derby day was a resounding success, with the team traveling from Rockhampton to Mackay for two intense games filled with skill and great sportsmanship. Both sides displayed class on the field, making for an exciting day of softball action.

Rockhampton secured a 5-2 victory over the Angels, powered by fantastic pitching from 14-year-old Nate Benson. Nate, alongside Rory Spencer, contributed crucial runs for Rockhampton. Meanwhile, Angels’ pitcher Jaxon Maluga struck out five batters, with Heinrich Ackerman smashing a memorable home run.

The Dragons also enjoyed a narrow 4-2 win, providing valuable practice for key players Beau Nash, Andrew Baxter, and John Nash as they prepare for the Over-35 National Championship in Sydney, commencing 7th July. The Dragons look forward to returning the visit to Rockhampton for another round of competition soon.

Mackay Development Coach and Queensland Over-35 Men’s Head Coach, Murray Rivers, expressed gratitude for the new equipment provided through the Active Kids program grant.

Training resumes in early June, with fine-tuning underway for Beau Nash in the Over-35s, and state and national championship hopefuls Jaxon Maluga and Evie Grace. Murray is also excited by emerging junior talent—Boyd Baxter, Eli Neilson, Connor Doolan, and Levi Counsell—who have all been selected for the Queensland U14 squad. He praised Mackay’s first male Australian U18 pitcher, Jaxon Maluga, and U16 female Evie Grace, highlighting a growing development squad of 18 promising players.

In other action, the Dragons Slayers edged out the North Jacklin Pink Hawks 9-7 in a thrilling B-grade match. Tyler Noe smashed two home runs, supported by Latoya Latimer and Audra Pollard, each crossing home twice. Pitcher Maxine Baxter limited the Hawks to just three runs with eight assisted outs, aided by Stacey Swanton. Pink Hawks’ Katrina Whittaker made two catches and scored twice, while Angela Baker and Maddison Twyford delivered strong fielding performances, including a crucial double play.

The PM Deisel Hawks and BCN Dragons battled to a 1-1 draw after six innings. Tiffany Martin scored first for the Hawks in the fifth inning, with young Evie Grace responding in the sixth for the Dragons. Evie also excelled on the mound, recording seven strikeouts. Amy Goodwin, Alison Bekker, and Karli Davis made key catches for the Dragons, while Charlotte Whittaker, Jess Martin, and Miley Barrow contributed defensively for the Hawks. Erin Rutherford also impressed with her pitching for the Hawks.

Results:

Get the Power 10 def. Tyre Power 6
North Jacklin Chaos 13 def. Dunbar Angels 4
Slayers 9 def. North Jacklin Pink 7
Dragons Flies 17 def. Fireballs 5
Storm 14 def. Golden Oldies Angels 7
Heavy Iron Hawks 12 def. Devils 2
Custom Angels 10 def. Ausgroup 6
PM Deisel Hawks 1 drew with BCN Dragons 1

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

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Derby Day delivered exciting softball action and showcased Mackay’s rising talent ahead of upcoming championships. Photos supplied

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The Bowen Polocrosse Club made a strong impression at the Lower Burdekin Polocrosse Carnival over the weekend, with players of all ages showcasing skill, spirit, and sportsmanship at the Townsville grounds.

Bowen fielded four teams across A, B, and C grades, along with two junior players and four enthusiastic sub-juniors, cementing the club’s presence across every level of competition.

In the A Grade division, Bowen 1—comprising Adam Burns, Mick Foster and Bryce Watson—took to the field with determination, proudly representing the club in the top tier of play.

The B Grade action was a highlight, with two Bowen sides going head-to-head. Bowen 2 (Shannon Burns, Jesse Foster, and Teneale Griggs) put in a solid performance, while Bowen 3 (Wade Bidgood, John Norman, and Anna Brazil) impressed throughout the weekend and finished as runners-up. Wade Bidgood’s outstanding efforts earned him the coveted Best Number 1 award in the B Grade competition.

In C Grade, Bowen 4—made up of Cody McConnell, Matt Hunter, and Danielle Brazil—also turned heads, finishing as runners-up. The carnival marked Matt Hunter’s debut, and his impressive performance did not go unnoticed. There was plenty of sideline banter suggesting Matt may be eyeing off Adam Burns’ long-standing title of “Chief Field Checker,” especially given his stylish dismounts.

Bowen’s younger players also had their time to shine. Juniors Rhadaya Bidgood and Addison Odger proudly donned the Bowen colours, with Addison impressing at her first-ever carnival. Meanwhile, sub-juniors Lachy Foster (9), Ollie Foster (7), Paige Hunter (3), and Robbie Hunter (3) brought plenty of smiles to the paddock, embodying the future of the club.

With such strong results across the grades, Bowen Polocrosse continues to prove its commitment to fostering talent and promoting the game from grassroots to senior level.

The club now turns its attention to hosting its own annual carnival in Bowen on July 26 and 27, which will include a spectacular Night Chukka event on Saturday evening, July 26. Entry is free from 4pm, and the community is warmly invited to come along and enjoy the action.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Polocrosse Club

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Matt Hunter in Bowen Blue, marking up Townsville Player
Bowen 2 - Teneale Griggs, Jesse Foster, Shannon Burns
Shannon Burns going for goal
Juniors Rhadaya and Addison enjoying the competition
Ollie Foster carrying the ball in sub juniours
Wade Bidgood - Awarded best No 1 in B grade

Photos supplied

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Wild weather and high winds made for an unforgettable weekend at Whitsunday Outrigger’s 2025 Regatta, with competitors battling 30-knot gusts and choppy seas.

Saturday’s 20km downwind race from Shute Harbour saw the OC2 crews shine, two OC2s, one from Mission Beach in first position closely followed by Capricorn Coast from Yeppoon. Coral Sea from Townsville led the OC6 division, while fierce competition played out between Innisfail’s Coconuts crew featuring five male and one female junior and the all-female team from Mooloolaba.

All OC1 and OC2 paddlers completed the course without major incident, thanks in large part to the support crews. Local standouts included Maree Mullet, Michelle Lynes, and Stephen Lynes, each winning their respective divisions. Maree was the fastest local paddler, finishing in an impressive 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Due to extreme conditions, junior marathon events were modified into 500-meter sprint races on Saturday afternoon. On Sunday, Whitsunday juniors Cody and Dean Lassau, Jai Dennison, and Matal Felix from Coral Sea were steered by Ingrid Juchem from Port Douglas. The young crew placed third, only 11 minutes behind an elite men’s team from Shute Harbour.

Special mention goes to the Whitsunday ladies OC6 team Maree Mullet, Sarah Rogers, Helen Pisarek, Joanne Ahern, Kate Harbison, and Rose Kemp who finished third in the Senior Masters Women event.

The Whitsunday Outrigger Regatta proved a true test of endurance and teamwork, and a memorable success despite the weather, and Outrigger Whitsunday thank all the supporters and competitors.

Contributed with thanks to Paul Tobias

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Maree Mullett powering downwind to victory.
Choppy start from Shute Harbour.
The Outrigger event was a huge success

Photos supplied

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BMA CQ Rescue has already flown 294 life-saving missions this year, highlighting the vital role the service plays in the region. As of Monday 26th, in just a week the rescue helicopter was called out 17 times, with more than half of those missions focused on the Whitsundays area.

The team responded five times to Bowen, once to Hamilton Island, and once to Collinsville. Other flights included four to Dysart, two each to Clermont and Moranbah, and one to Stanage Bay. A critical patient transfer was also conducted from Mackay to Townsville.

These figures are a timely reminder of how essential the service is for isolated communities needing urgent medical care. CQR’s swift response and regional reach continue to make a life-saving difference across Central and North Queensland.

Contributed with thanks to BMA CQ Rescue

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With the Division 2 men on a bye, the Division 1 squad travelled to Mackay to face Magpies on Friday night. Bolstered by a few Div 2 call-ups, the team made a strong start, racing to a 2-0 lead. A lapse allowed Magpies to draw level, but Whitsunday quickly responded, taking a 4-2 lead into the break. The second half saw fewer chances as Magpies tightened up, but sustained pressure paid off with a fifth goal. Magpies pulled one back late, but WUFC held firm for a 5-3 win to stay in the title race. Goals came from Stef (2), Hayden (2), and Rale.

The U13 Div 1 side had their match against Dolphins postponed but used the opportunity to play a friendly against ABFC U12s in Proserpine. After trailing 3-0 at halftime, they fought back to secure a 4-4 draw and valuable match time.

The U13 Premier team hosted Wanderers Red at the Sportspark in a match that was even early. Whitsunday took 30 minutes to score but added two late first-half goals to lead 2-0. They dominated the second half, adding four more to finish 6-0. It was a strong all-round performance, particularly from the defence. Daly scored a hat-trick, with Remy, Nelson, and Bailey also on the scoresheet.

The U14s put in a commanding performance against Dolphins. Tyson F opened the scoring in the 10th minute, followed by a classy team goal finished by Nick M after great work from Shannon and Kobe. Up 2-0 at halftime, Whitsunday continued their strong form in the second half. Shannon added a third before Dolphins got a consolation. Final score: 3-1 WUFC.

In Mackay, the U16s faced Lions Gold and played sharp football from the start. Cody opened the scoring before Lions equalised on a breakaway. Cohen restored the lead with a stunning strike from Seb's cross, then Harry and Samuel added goals. Keeper Noah, playing up front, scored a rare header before Harry and Tyler C rounded off a dominant 7-1 win.

The U23 Men started slowly against Rangers, who controlled much of the early play. Aaron Kinsella’s first goal for the club helped secure a valuable 1-1 draw. In Premier League action, Rangers went ahead via a contentious penalty. Whitsunday fought back strongly in the second half, with Adrian Senzo also grabbing his first goal for the club. Despite several close calls, WUFC couldn’t find a winner, the match ending 1-1.

The Premier Women bounced back with a determined 3–1 win over Rangers under lights. Eager to avenge a recent 2–1 loss, the team played with intent. Stand-in captain Claire Larden anchored the defence while Maya provided energy up front. Goals came from well-worked corners—Megs and Michelle combining for Michelle’s finish, and Sarah scoring her first-ever header. Sarah struck again to seal the win, with a late Rangers goal unable to dent a solid team performance.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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A happy U15/16 squad after another good result in Mackay. Photo supplied

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Venue: Magnetic Island
Attendance: A record-breaking 31 spectators (including Dave the bus driver and Hodgy’s legally questionable “beer squad”)

The Whitsunday Bald Eagles may not move like they used to, but they still know how to win—and entertain—after a commanding 32-point victory over the Townsville Sharks on Magnetic Island.

Early Morning Antics
The day began with a sunrise departure, as the Bald Eagles boarded the team bus at 6:45am, fuelled by caffeine, Deep Heat, and the ceremonial crack of early morning beers. Spirits were high, though knees were less reliable.

Coach Whytey, checking in remotely via phone from somewhere near Daydream Island, kept the message short and sweet:
“Remember the structure. Remember the system.”

Whether such structure existed was debatable, but the team seemed satisfied it was at least metaphorically filed under “somewhere safe.”

First Quarter: Chaos with Purpose
Townsville, sporting black, red and white, looked sharp—if a little like pizzeria staff. The Bald Eagles, however, cut a more flamboyant figure in their blue, orange and red. The Sharks landed the first blow with an early goal, but the Baldies soon responded with a series of cleverly improvised plays, culminating in Buzz booting the team’s opening major.

Quarter-time score:
Whitsunday Bald Eagles 3.4 (22)
Townsville Sharks 1.3 (9)

Second Quarter: Stamina Tested
Townsville surged as the Bald Eagles’ energy began to fade—except for Semmler and Matty, who roamed the field with an almost supernatural presence. Dan was tireless in the midfield, even taking a face-first dive to stop a Sharks attack.

At full-back, Ash momentarily forgot which team he was on, delivering a perfect kick to a Sharks forward. Fortunately, Rosco reclaimed kicking duties and restored order. Brad, finally finding his rhythm, added a crucial goal before the break.

Half-time score:
Bald Eagles 4.5 (29)
Sharks 3.4 (22)

Third Quarter: Enter Lloydy
Needing a lift, the Bald Eagles found one in Mick Carter’s halftime speech—surprisingly heartfelt and earnest, it lit a fire. But it was Lloydy who truly ignited the scoreboard.

Ignoring pleas for handballs and ignoring logic, Lloydy went solo, slotting four consecutive goals in a dazzling solo display. It wasn’t humble, but it was effective.

Three-quarter time:
Bald Eagles 6.6 (42)
Sharks 3.4 (22)

Final Quarter: Flair and Fortitude
Lenny rolled back the years with aerial acrobatics and highlight-reel moments, earning himself a goal—and likely a cortisone shot. Deakesy, held together by tape and grit, bowed out after a calf tweak, while Dylan and Rory covered the wings with tireless energy.

The defence held firm, with few sightings of the Sharks in scoring positions. Rosco made a couple of appearances with the ball, and Seth cleaned up any remaining messes.

Final score:
Whitsunday Bald Eagles 8.7 (55)
Townsville Sharks 3.5 (23)

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Bald Eagles

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Football - Whitsunday United FC
Friday, 30 May 2025
6:00 PM – Div 2 Men vs City Brothers FC at City Brothers Field
8:00 PM – Div 1 Men vs City Brothers FC at City Brothers Field

Saturday, 31 May 2025
9:30 AM – U13 Div 1 vs Country United FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
9:30 AM – U14 vs Mackay Rangers FC at Mackay Football Park
11:00 AM – U13 FQPL vs Mackay Rangers FC at Mackay Football Park
11:15 AM – U15/16 vs Magpies FC at Mackay Football Park
5:00 PM – U23 Men vs Mackay Lions at Whitsunday Sports Park
7:00 PM – Men vs Mackay Lions at Whitsunday Sports Park

Sunday, 1 June 2025
10:00 AM – U13 Div 1 vs Magpies FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
11:00 AM – U14 vs Dolphins FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
12:00 PM – U13 FQPL vs Mackay Wanderers at Whitsunday Sports Park

AFL - Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 31st May
10:40am - Sea Eagles Under 17s vs Saints at Zeolla Park (Nth Mackay)
3:20pm - Sea Eagles Senior Men vs Saints at Zeolla Park (Nth Mackay)

Rugby Union - Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
Saturday 31st May
1:00pm - Reserve Grade vs Bowen Mudcrabs at COL Leather Complex
2:30pm - Womens vs Bowen Mudcrabs at COL Leather Complex
3:30pm - Premier Grade vs Bowen Mudcrabs at COL Leather Complex

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 2nd June
Round 15 Fixtures at Whitsunday Sports Park

Cricket – Airlie Beach Cricket Club
Contact airliebeachcc@yahoo.com.au for information about Airlie Beach Cricket Club

Netball – Whitsunday Netball Association
Contact netballwhitsunday@gmail.com for netball information

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As the final week of autumn draws to a close, the local bowls scene has been in full swing, with both men’s and women’s competitions producing great results and promising talent.

Tuesday’s social bowls offered up some fantastic matches, with Tony Whitehorn leading his team alongside Sue Dakin and Di Dobbins to a strong second-place finish. But it was newcomers Des Ballance, playing lead, and skip Gail Simms who claimed top honours. Simms’ continued improvement was on full display, leading her team to an easy victory.

A highlight of the week was the final of the Ladies Fours, where Joan McGrath’s side turned in an outstanding performance. With Lyn Graham leading, Jill Spencer at second, and the ever-energetic “Thai princess” Ladda Purdie in third, the team demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork. Congratulations to this dynamic quartet on a well-deserved win.

Wednesday’s social bowls drew a solid crowd of 20 players. Among them, Rick Galea and Bill Gordon stood out, delivering an overwhelming win. Their synergy on the green earned them hearty congratulations from all in attendance.

Friday morning welcomed the Endeavour Foundation participants, with Jett and Michael enjoying their continued development under the guidance of David Meiklejohn. Kathy is also making steady progress, while newcomer Deon took to the green for the first time with help from Betty Whitehorn.

That afternoon, 20 students from Christian College hit the greens for an introduction to lawn bowls. With several promising talents among them, all eyes now turn to the upcoming inter-school matches, where Christian College will face St Catherine’s College and Proserpine High School for a spot in the Queensland Schools Competition.

The weekend saw the club's Division One, Three, Five, and Six sides in action across the region, with mixed results reported. Full details of team positions and ladders will be available in next week’s report.

As the cooler months approach, local bowlers are heating up the greens with enthusiasm and talent—setting the stage for an exciting winter of competition ahead.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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With the arrival of visiting bowlers marking the change of season, Monday’s self-selected triples kicked off with some competitive matches and strong performances.

While the green wasn’t full, the games delivered plenty of action. Merle Elphinstone, Isobel Wheeler, and Robyn Stitt emerged victorious against Sugar Brunker, Graeme Read, and Kennedy Whitton. Other matches saw Maureen and Rob Hyde defeat Frank Farrugia, Bob Dykstra, and Neil Chittenden, while Joe Paynting and Neil Chittenden claimed a win over Alby Vigar and Dennis Maddely.

Tuesday’s winners were decided on rink four, where Jack Stamp, Gavin Charles, and Bob Dykstra overcame Maree Brunker, Steve Roome, and Dennis Maddely.
Elsewhere, John Hayson, George Tartaglia, and Maureen Hyde defeated Neil Chittenden, Graham Smith, and Jenny Lonie. Andy and Gwenda Lydom, along with Greg Pemroke and Ron Hyde, also notched a win over Merle Elphinstone, Shirley Smith, Sue Shearing, and Andrew Lonie.
The jackpot continues to roll over for another week, keeping anticipation high for the next round.

Tuesday afternoon's final of the Mixed Triples was a crowd-pleaser. Allan Rolfe’s team—joined by Laurie Land and Penny Warren—held an early lead but saw it slip away with six consecutive ends lost, levelling the match by the final end. In a nail-biting finish, bowl-for-bowl, Rolfe’s team regained the upper hand to defeat Robyn Stitt, Margaret Wilson, and Mark Drummond by two shots.

Sunday saw four triples matches and one pairs game played. Winners of the day were Maree Brunker, Jim Steele, and Kennedy Whitton, who triumphed over John Hayson, Isobel Wheeler, and Pat Tracey.

The Men’s District Purple Pennant will be played this weekend across Wangaratta and BBC. Best of luck to all our local bowlers taking part—spectators are encouraged to head down and support the teams and enjoy some top-tier competition.

The season is in full swing, and with visitors joining the greens, the competition is only getting better.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Favourable autumn weather brought out the best in Proserpine Golf Club members during the week ending May 25, with improved conditions leading to excellent scores across multiple competitions.

Tuesday’s Stableford saw Jon Miller top the leaderboard with a strong 39 points. Peter Lindsay claimed runner-up on a countback from Tim Langford, both finishing with 37. Nearest-the-pins went to Bernie Drake on the 2nd and Jon Miller on the 13th. Meanwhile, the veterans were away competing at Emu Park and Yeppoon Golf Clubs.

In Wednesday’s ladies’ stroke round, Nicole Cooper stood out with a brilliant 63 nett, comfortably ahead of Di Dobbins (72) and Pauline Redpath (76). Cooper also claimed NTPs on the 2nd and 13th, while Di Chard took the other NTP on the 2nd.

Thursday’s Stableford featured visiting player Timothy Duncan from National GC winning A Grade with 38 points. Michael Ward (36) edged out Allen Roberts on countback. B Grade honours went to Jim Sherrington (37), followed by John Dodds (36) and Joe Marschke (34). NTPs were awarded to Geoff Harrison (2nd), Tom O’Brien (9th), Ryan Wilkes (13th), and Ray Johannesen (16th).

Friday’s Metropole Hotel 9-hole run on the back nine saw Brent Franke win with 21 points. Mark McDougal took runner-up on countback from Troy Smith. Despite the win, Franke missed out on the “Putt for Cash” prize.

Saturday’s Stableford had Brian Allen take A Grade with 40 points. In B Grade, Scott Dwyer claimed the win on countback from John Dodds. Sara Hagy was the standout in the ladies' field with 37 points.

Sunday’s Monthly Medal, sponsored by KJC, went to Billy O’Connor (66 nett) and Di Chard (72 nett), both winning on countback in tight contests.

A big week of competition awaits, with more Stableford events and the June Monthly Medal set to be contested.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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The City Ladies held another fantastic weekend of bowls over the May Day weekend. Each day had a full green, with Ladies Fours on Saturday and Mixed Fours on Sunday.

The Marie Gravino Shield was won by Shirley Sturgeon, Anna Knight, Emma Pash and Dawn Field on Saturday. The shield was donated by Marie’s family in her honour. She was a long-time member of the Ladies Club, and held the position of Junior Vice for several years.

On Sunday, the Mixed Team winners were R. Harris, P. Rintoul, R. Rintoul and Jo Inch.

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Proud winners of the Marie Gravino Shield, Dawn, Emma, Shirley and Anna

The Ladies' President Judy presenting Rob’s winning Mixed Team with their prize money

Maria presenting one of the lucky prize winners, Nola, with a meat tray

Di and Mike kept a close eye on keeping the scoreboard up to date for the two days. Photos supplied

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Well Done to Mackay Club members Ian and Mary Cruickshank who were members of the Reil Team to take out third place in the restricted team event at the Barrier Reef Congress. Saturday saw the playing of the third GNOT event with members vying for coveted Gold Points. Fourteen teams competed, with team Bugeia the ultimate winners of the day.

Weekly Results
Monday 12 May 2025 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Pamela Finger / Ming Ting
3rd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait 3rd Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

Tuesday Evening 13 May 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 2nd Terry Sheedy / Ken Seaniger
3rd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 4th Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

Wednesday 14 May 2025 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Geoff Taylor / Karen Caldwell
3rd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 3rd Griffin Bancroft / Andrew Canavan
4th Christine Fitzpatrick / Noel Saunders 4th Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

Thursday Evening 15 May 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Martin Pearce / Chris Meyers 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
3rd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 4th Lynne O’Neill / Sue Mayer-Miller

Friday 16 2025 – Remembrance Day Pairs Week 1 of 3 - 13 Table Mitchell Red Points

N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Richard Wix / Janine Rodgers
3rd Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild 3rd Frances Brown / Alan Brown
4th Susan Ross / Diane Cox 4th Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
5th Barbara Tait / Janelle Conroy 5th Lorna Shuttlewood / Faye Wright
6th Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 6th Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

Saturday 17 May 2025 –GNOT - Round 3 - 14 Team Gold Points

Team Players
1st Bugeia Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
2nd Goodchild Debra Goodchild/ Ming Ting / David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd Shuttlewood Lorna Shuttlewood / Faye Wright / Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Brown Alan Brown / Frances Brown / Diane Morgan / Marlin Robins
5th Lutz Anne Lutz / Margaret Lane / Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

Contribued by Joy Block

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Mary (left) and Ian (second from the right). Photo supplied

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After two rain-soaked postponements, the sun finally smiled on the Marian Ladies Bowls Club as they hosted their much-anticipated annual Harvest Triples on Monday, 12 May 2025.

With a full green of 16 teams, players were eager to hit the turf and enjoy two spirited games of bowls. Laughter, friendly competition, and fine form were all in abundance throughout the day.

Alongside the on-green action, visitors also enjoyed a popular cent sale and browsed a delightful selection of plants and handmade crafts, ensuring no one went home empty-handed.

Congratulations to the day’s top teams:

• 1st Place: Leanne Jenner, Marie Mayfield, and Dot McNamara
• 2nd Place: Jan Flanagan, Bertha Archer, and BB Smith
• 3rd Place: Heather Jones, Robyn Large, and Penny Roots

Contributed by Lyn Jackson

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First place winners: Leanne Jenner, Marie Mayfield, and Dot McNamara

Second place winners: Jan Flanagan, Bertha Archer, and BB Smith

Third place winners: Heather Jones, Robyn Large, and Penny Roots. Photos supplied

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Last Sunday, more than 40 runners and supporters took to the streets for the annual Farmer’s Long Gallop, featuring 5km and 17km courses that started from the Evans Avenue North residence of long-time supporter, Agnes Farmer.

Agnes and her late husband Fred hosted the event from the club’s very first year, and following Fred’s passing from multiple myeloma 12 years ago, Agnes continued the tradition. A self-confessed non-morning person, she had now hosted the run an incredible 49 times, still managing to provide post-race refreshments with a warm smile and generous spirit.

Club President and Life Member Paul Tilse officially welcomed the runners and thanked Agnes before issuing directions for both courses. The 5km event followed a straightforward out-and-back route via Palmer Street to Harbour Road, while the more demanding 17km route wound through Slade Point, Andergrove and Beaconsfield, before linking to Norris Road in Mt Pleasant and concluding with the scenic Gooseponds pathways.

Andrew Short set up the course in the early hours of the morning, with support at the start line from Len Howarth. Timekeepers Julie Whibley and Rohan Miles were once again instrumental in ensuring smooth results, published online within the hour after the last runner crossed the finish line.

In the 17km event, Toby Rule led a high-quality field, with strong competition from John Rae and the much-improved Craig Robinson, closely followed by Shane Donnollan, Levi Wallace, and Clinton Mackie.

Alana Knezevic claimed first place in the women’s field and 6th overall with a determined come-from-behind finish, edging out Rhiann Massey and Carolyn Mapes. Wayne Huntley impressed, backing up from a tough Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon effort just weeks earlier, and finished only four minutes behind a fast-closing Phil Roche.

In the 5km race, Michael Feenaghty surged to the front and crossed the line first, with Roscoe McDonnell in second and Darrin Pullen rounding out the top three. Other strong performances came from Daniel Stampa, Craig Joynson, and Ross Connor.

Gail Mackie took gold in the women’s division, finishing ahead of Lauren Connor, Mel Esau, Natasha Joynson, Leanne Connor, Kayla Waugh, and Kim Saron.

Club legends Judy Zahn (17k), Jan Smith, Len Howarth, and Stuart Sprott were all praised for their gritty and determined performances, showcasing the heart and endurance that continue to inspire fellow members.

The club’s attention now turns to this Sunday’s Grove 10km Handicap Trophy, starting at 7am from The Grove Tavern precincts in Andergrove. Runners must begin on their official club handicap time to be eligible for the trophy, with the first runner across the finish line – regardless of gender – crowned the 2025 Champion.

Reigning champion Craig Robinson was in excellent form and set to contest the title once again. With only a handful of runners ever having won it twice, history could well be made.

All members were reminded to wear their official numbers and check in with timekeepers no later than 6:50am. Non-members were welcome to join for a $10 casual day fee, though only members are eligible for the coveted trophy.

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Approximately forty runners enjoyed the Farmer’s Long Gallop 5k and 17k annual historical event

Amy Houston (left) with Farmer’s Long Gallop Hostess and Life Member, Agnes Farmer

Mel Rich (left) and Emily Hayles were ready for the annual 5k and 17k Farmers Long Gallop

Clinton Mackie, Levi Wallace, Leon Sant and Craig Joynson are ready for the Farmer’s Long Gallop in perfect running conditions

Champion veteran and Life Member, Judy Zahn, with the Club’s 49-year-old logo banner hand-made by Agnes Farmer. Photos and words by Janelle Tilse

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The North Mackay Ladies Bowls club radiated with colour, laughter and plenty of flair as the club hosted its first-ever “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” Dress-Up 3 Bowl Triples Fun Day.

Club President Hilary Jones-Rowan, donning full Dolly Parton attire, warmly welcomed fellow bowlers before play commenced with one game of 18 ends, followed by a light lunch shared among the teams.

Adding to the day’s spirited atmosphere, players showcased their costumes in a lively parade before judges Dorothy Wise, Jan Borg and Club Manager Steve Lancaster. The judging panel made their decision swiftly, acknowledging the impressive creativity on display.

Best Dressed Teams:

First place went to The Busty Babes — Chris Woo, Bev Svenson and Chris Hall.

Second place was awarded to The 80’s Rockers — Boy George (Phyllis Cooper), Cindy Lauper (June Stockwell) and Dolly Parton (Hilary Jones-Rowan).

On the Green Results:

The game winners for the day were The Angelic Ladies — Helen Fleming, Kirstine Robinson and Lorraine Silman.

Runners-up were The Marilyn Monroes — Donna Gordon, Coral Francis and Deb Mackenzie.

President Hilary concluded the event by thanking everyone who participated in the day, highlighting the camaraderie and the creative effort shown by all. Her Dolly Parton persona added an extra layer of charm and humour, as she applauded each team’s spirit and style.

Feedback from the day was overwhelmingly positive, with one common remark heard among bowlers: “Let’s do this again soon — it was so much fun.”

The club now looks ahead to more community-building events, with plenty of good bowling and great laughs still to come.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine.

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80’s Rock Stars : Phyllis Cooper, June Stockwell, Hilary Jones-Rowan

Busty Babes: Chris Woo, Bev Svenson, Chris Hall

Game day winners: Helen Fleming, Kirstine Robinson, Lorraine Silman, President Hilary, Deb Mackenzie, Coral Francis and Donna Gordon. Photos supplied

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