The weather was less than ideal on Sunday, 14 September 2025, for the second round of the Mackay Whitsunday Junior Cricket competition.

The blustery conditions didn’t rattle the Under 12 Pitbulls as they faced North Mackay Devils. Skipper L. Aitken won the bat flip and sent the Devils in. The Pitbulls’ bowlers were on target, with R. Clarke shattering the stumps for the first breakthrough. F. Holscher grabbed two (including a sharp caught-and-bowled), while L. Aitken and N. Aitken took four between them. N. Aitken was on fire with two in two, thanks to a slick catch from H. Valmadre. Norths were held to 7-85.

In reply, Proserpine lost N. Aitken early to a run out, but that was the Devils’ only joy. From there the runs flowed, with B. Whitty smashing his maiden half-century (67* off 40) and R. Clarke steady on 35*. With contributions from H. Valmadre (19), P. Regan (12*) and the Holscher brothers, the Pitbulls cruised to 2-202. Whitty was named player of the match for the second week running, as the Pitties went top of the table after two rounds.

The Under 14s faced Sarina Spartans in their first turf-pitch game of the season at Harrup Park. Sent in to bat, the Pitties delivered through M. Aitken with his maiden half-century (60 off 53, retired) and K. Whitty’s patient 26* (off 49).

Defending 142, the bowlers struck early. A. Farley was sharp behind the stumps (one catch and a run out), while L. Appleton added 1-7 off 3 overs and a catch. S. Green chipped in with 2-33. Spartans reached 6-99 before rain ended play, with the Duckworth–Lewis method confirming the Pitbulls as winners.

Conditions improved for the Under 15s clash with Walkerston Roosters. Electing to bowl, the Pitties struck quickly, led by A. Valmadre (3-3 off 3 and a run out) and L. Smith (2-16). Walkerston were dismissed for 63.

In reply, E. Baker (17 off 21) and W. Marshall (32 off 54) put on a steady start, while M. Aitken (20 off 16) and B. Hope (19 off 14) kept the scoreboard ticking. The Pitbulls passed the total comfortably with 135 runs, silencing the Roosters’ crow.

The Under 17s enjoyed home-ground advantage against Magpies White. Choosing to bat, J. Valmadre cleared the boundary regularly on his way to 55 (off 51), while O. Seamer added a composed 30* (off 37).

Set 148 to win, the Magpies faltered against sharp bowling and fielding. K. McLoughlin starred with 2-7 off 4 and three catches, while J. Lawn claimed 1-3 off 2 and a run out. Only one Magpies batter reached double figures as they were bowled out for 71, giving the Pitbulls their first win of the season.

Contributed with thanks to L Valmadre & D Green

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Mission Beach, QLD — Twelve determined paddlers from Outrigger Whitsunday put their strength and skills to the test last weekend, competing in the Mission Beach Outrigger Canoe Regatta under challenging conditions.

Saturday saw crews racing in sprint and mid-distance events, with teams well-prepared for the demanding 9.5 km courses. However, Sunday’s 24 km iron event proved the ultimate test, as strong winds and a heavy surf break pushed crews to their limits.

Outrigger Whitsunday fielded two crews across the weekend. In the opening race, the Platinum Mixed crew—led by veteran steerer Peter Chamberlain—took to the water. The only team in their division, their final time was a clear reflection of just how punishing the sea state was.

The Master Mixed crew also delivered a solid performance in a competitive field, crossing the line in sixth place. Among the paddlers was first-time competitor Tama Dennison, making a strong debut under extremely tough conditions.

Weather conditions for Sunday had worsened, seeing only 1 of the 2 crews compete in the Vaka Tua Motu 24km event. The very experienced crew were forced to return to shore prior to race start to re-rig their canoe due to the pounding surf, before heading back out to officially start the race—a true testament to the team’s resilience and determination.

Junior paddler Jai Dennison had a standout weekend, competing in Sundays' 14 km Vaka Tua Potu OC1 event. He placed 9th overall out of 15 paddlers and claimed first place in his age division—an extraordinary achievement for the rising talent.

The weekend highlighted the spirit, strength, and perseverance of all paddlers involved, with Outrigger Whitsunday showing exceptional determination and teamwork in one of the most challenging regattas of the season.

Contributed by Michelle Lynes.

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The Cannonvale Cannons kicked off their long course season over the weekend, with 18 swimmers competing at the 2025 Townsville Tourist Benchmark Transition Meet at the Tobruk Pool. This event marked the start of the long course season for our senior swimmers, who are now focused on achieving their goals at the Queensland Long Course Championships in Brisbane from December 13–19.

Special congratulations go to the five senior swimmers who achieved qualifying times over the weekend, putting them on track for Brisbane. Top performers based on personal bests included Tyler and Mackenzie Bennett, Zane Clayworth, Harris Delac, Roxanne Groom, Ruby Harland, Lucas Korosec, Eric and Leo Mulliss, Celeste Orenshaw, and Andie Reynolds.

Outstanding efforts came from Thomas Ganter, Koa Harland, and Faithlyn Trotter, who achieved personal bests in every event they entered – an impressive feat so early in the season. Lucas Korosec was a standout, securing gold in all nine of his events, setting a strong tone for the months ahead.

Back on home ground, swimmer upgrades were celebrated for River Shields, Eric Mulliss, Jax Eaves, and Eloise Chegwidden. The Coaches Award this week went to Ruby Harland for her exceptional 100m Freestyle, finishing in 1:08.81 and securing her place in the highly regarded “70s Club.”

Another highlight came from Jax Clayworth, who set his first club record as a 12-year-old in the 50m Butterfly with a time of 31.59 seconds, surpassing Zach Trefz’s previous record. With such a strong start, Jax is set to make a mark in the months ahead.

It was a weekend of determination, teamwork, and milestones for the Cannons, both in Townsville and at home.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Leo abnd Eric Mulliss with their medals
Team Cannons at Tobruk Pool Townsville

Photos supplied

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With only two weeks remaining in this season’s Premier League Championship campaign, all eyes turned to the four remaining players contesting the preliminary finals.

In the first matchup, Kam Reason had the chance to book his place in next week’s grand final, but to do so he needed to overcome this season’s league winner, Jamie Maher.

It was a tense affair, with Jamie holding a narrow 3–2 lead at the first break. He extended that margin to 6–2 after the interval, but Kam fought back strongly to cut the deficit to 6–4 by the second break. Kam then claimed the opening leg of the third and final session to trail just 6–5, but Jamie wrestled back control to seal the match 9–5 in a hard-fought contest.

The second preliminary final saw current and defending Premier League Champion Joe Wilson face rising star Reef Peel. Joe battled bravely, but Reef proved too strong, taking command early and wrapping up the match within the first two intervals for a commanding 9–2 victory.
Next week marks the conclusion of our sixth season, and with these results confirmed, there will once again be a new name engraved on the Premier League trophy.

Will it be league winner Jamie Maher, contesting his second grand final next Sunday at Mulligans Sports Bar, or will Reef follow in his father’s footsteps—who won the inaugural championship in 2019—and become the second Peel to have his name etched on the cup?

A big thank you to our valued sponsors: Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing Airlie Beach, Master Butchers Whitsunday, Dyson Automotive and Shirtfront Solutions.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher

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J Maher, J Wilson, R Peel and K Reason at the Airlie Bowls Club. Photo supplied

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With most of our visitors gone, it was a quieter week on the green.

On Tuesday afternoon, the winners on Rink 3 were Merle Ephinstone, Shirley Jones, and Joe Paynting, who defeated Jenny Anderson, Shirley Smith, and Gavin Charles.

Other results saw Tom, Deb, and Laurie defeating Grant, Irene, and Russell, while Lindy, Nick, and Graham overcame Cliff, Gordon, and Natalie. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Sunday’s social play was won by Lindy, Suann, Isobel Wheeler, and Penny Warren, who defeated June Paynting, Shirley Smith, and Joe Paynting. Other matches included Bill Myers, Graeme Read, and Mark Drummond defeating Cliff Querro, Gavin Charles, and Pat Tracey, and Teresa Willshire and Alby Vigar overcoming Graham Smith and Robyn Stitt. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Sunday winners; Isobel Wheeler Lindy Suann and Penny Warren. Photo supplied

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The days are getting longer and warmer—and so is the standard of bowls at our club.

On Tuesday, 27 players took to the greens. Despite battling pain while awaiting surgery, Elaine Kippen gave it her best before being replaced by organiser Regina Aquilina. The day’s top team was skippered by Gary Scott from Hideaway Bay, with left-hander Greg Fennell and Peter Jordan from Hallshead Bowling and Recreation Club, Mandurah WA.

Wednesday afternoon’s social bowls ended in a tie, but on countback the winners were Merve Stewart’s team with Denise at second and promising newcomer Glen O’Brien leading strongly.

That night, 60 bowlers enjoyed Business House Bowls under the lights, expertly run by Bob and Yvonne Spees. A new competition begins after the school holidays—teams, singles or pairs are welcome to join.

In Mackay, the Pratt Cup saw John Trembath, Arthur McManus, John Askew, John Fielding, Denis Donnadelli and Peter Barrett beat St Helens and collect points against Mackay, though Souths Suburban proved too strong.

At Newcastle’s Deaf Games, Andrew (Noel) Crosbie and Russell Jackson represented the club superbly, with Russell earning Australian team selection for the 2027 Deaf World Games—a proud moment for all.

Sunday Social Bowls drew 18 players, with Fiona Greener rolling the dice for the prize. A first-time skip, supported by Eric and Maureen Barnard, produced the day’s best result with a 13-shot win.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Airlie Beach Bowls Club Australian representative Russell Jackson. Photo supplied

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A strong field of 42 players—16 ladies and 26 men—turned out for Tuesday’s stableford competition, enjoying much kinder conditions after the gusty weather of the weekend had eased.

The day saw a standout performance from Allison McCarthy, who claimed top spot on the ladies’ leaderboard for the very first time with a score of 39 points. It was a terrific achievement and one that many hope will be the first of many.

In the men’s competition, David Woods edged out Laurie Daiken and John Oates on a countback after all three finished on 38 points.

Other highlights included pin shots, which went to Chris Bailey and Peter Lindsay on 7, Laurie Daiken and Steve Mitchell on 13, and Grossy and Peter Fox on 16. For the ladies, Leanne Alexander and Linda Wardroper took the honours on 7, Leanne backed up with Jan Shuwalsow on 13, and Anna Winterbourn and Heather Luvis on 16.

Wilf Herweg and David Woods managed the only chip-ins of the day. Meanwhile, Ken Granger claimed the raffle prize and Laurie Daiken rounded out a strong week by winning the members’ draw.

Next Tuesday, the club will be hosting the Whitsunday Vets, promising another enjoyable day of competition.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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A record field of more than two hundred runners will be heading for the hills this weekend for the Whitsunday Running Club’s annual trail event.

The Anaconda Whitsunday Trail Festival takes place on Sunday, 14 September, with entries coming from across Australia and the United States. The race precinct will be based on the Airlie Beach Foreshore near the movie screen.

Fifty runners have signed up for the WTF58 Accom Whitsunday Ultra (58km), which starts on the foreshore, travels over the ranges to Brandy Creek Road, and returns to finish at the race precinct. Defending champions Demi Caldwell (Andergrove) and Cristian Smith (Mackay) are back to chase another title.

The leading runner is expected to cross the line in about 5 hours 15 minutes at 10:15am, with the final competitors finishing close to 2:30pm.
One hundred competitors will take on the one-way WTF28 Anaconda Whitsunday Trail (28km) from Brandy Creek Road to the foreshore.

Last year’s winners, Liv Compton (Whitsunday Running Club) and veteran Tony Liron (Trinity Beach), will line up again. The winner is expected to finish around 9:45am.

The Honeyeater Shokz Challenge (11km) has drawn over fifty runners who will ascend to the famous lookout before returning. Winners are tipped to finish just before 10:00am.

The two Bendigo Community Bank Kids Beach Bash events for ages four and up will kick off at 10:30am, following the Mascot Race. The Kids Beach Run (approx. 1,400m) is open to children aged 8 and over, while the Junior Kids Beach Run (approx. 700m) caters for those aged 4 and over.

This year’s Mascot Race has attracted its biggest field yet, with Bungaroo (Cannonvale State School), Cruiser (Cruise Whitsunday), Blazer (Queensland Fire Department), Piggy (Bendigo Community Bank), Hogster (Hog’s Breath Café) and Frog (BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort) all set to battle it out at 10:20am.

Event Manager Andrea Farley said “It will be a great day of racing, and for those wanting to enjoy the festive atmosphere at the race precinct, the best time to be there is from 9:30am until presentations at 12 noon. There are still a few spots left, so head to our website and register at www.runwhitsundays.com.au.”

Contributed with thanks to Tim McQuoid-Mason

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Photo credit: Phil Copp Photography

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Nine out of 10 Whitsunday United Football Club teams were in action in finals football last weekend, with seven sides still in contention for a grand final spot.

The divisional men kicked off proceedings on Friday night against Lions. Div 2 needed victory to stay alive but fell 2–0 behind early in the second half. A spirited fightback saw them score twice to level, but neither side could find a winner in regular time. With players struggling through cramps, the game went to penalties, where Ross pulled off two crucial saves to send his side through to the next round against Country.

Div 1 faced a Lions outfit they have struggled to overcome all season. An early mistake gifted Lions the lead before WUFC equalised through a high press. Despite dominating possession, they couldn’t find another breakthrough and the game ended 1–1. Extra time produced no change, and the match went to penalties. An early WUFC save wasn’t enough as two misses proved costly, sending Lions through 4–3 on spot kicks. WUFC now face Rangers in their bid to reach the grand final.
The U13 Prems fought hard against Mackay Rangers in a defensive semi-final. After 70 scoreless minutes, extra time saw Rangers break the deadlock, scoring in both periods to claim a 2–0 win. WUFC’s resilience keeps them alive, with a sudden-death semi-final against Lions now awaiting them.

The U14s produced a dominant display against Rangers Black, running out 13–2 winners. Shannon bagged a hat trick, Nick M and Nick P scored doubles, and Oisin netted his first goal of the season. Kobe, Tyson F, Eden and Harley also found the target. They now meet Magpies in the preliminary final.

The U16s clashed with top-of-the-table Magpies in a tense semi-final. After a goalless 80 minutes, the match went to extra time where Magpies struck twice, winning 2–0. WUFC will get another chance to reach the grand final this weekend against Country United.

The Whitsunday Women bowed out of finals contention after a thrilling 4–3 extra-time loss to Rangers. Michelle opened the scoring from Loz’s clever chip, before Sarah struck twice, giving United a 3–1 lead. Rangers fought back to level, then grabbed the winner in extra time. Despite the defeat, the team showed immense spirit and look forward to building on a promising season, with hopes of fielding two sides in 2026.

The Men’s U23s progressed straight to the grand final with a commanding 3–0 win over City Brothers. A heated first half saw Brothers collect five yellow cards as WUFC took control. Goals came via a tap-in from Kai Savy, a thunderous 20-yard half-volley from Max O’Keefe, and a stunning long-range free kick from Oisin Sherlock.

In the FQPL Men’s elimination final, WUFC edged out City Brothers 1–0. Sean McCarthy’s first-half penalty proved decisive, booking their place in this weekend’s clash with Magpies for a grand final berth.

With so many teams still in the hunt, another thrilling weekend of football awaits.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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FQPL Men U23 – Premiership Champions and straight to the Grand Final after a convincing win on the weekend. Photo supplied

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Harrison Turner Inspires Cannons

The Cannonvale Cannons swimming community enjoyed an extraordinary weekend when Australian record holder Harrison Turner spent three days delivering a coaching clinic for swimmers of all ages.

Turner, who claimed bronze in the 200-metre butterfly at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships, is the current national record holder in the event. He had been scheduled to attend alongside coach Sam Sharpe, but when Sam was unable to travel due to a family illness, Harrison stepped into the role of head coach — a challenge he embraced with enthusiasm.

“I was very nervous, but also really excited,” Harrison admitted. “It was an opportunity I’d never had before — to take on a full coaching role while also getting in the pool myself. I thought I gave it a red-hot crack, and it was good to bring my own approach to the sessions.”

Across the three days, Cannonvale swimmers from juniors through to seniors took part in multiple sessions designed to sharpen their skills and inspire their training. On Friday, Harrison began by sharing his medals with the younger swimmers before diving into a butterfly set — the stroke that earned him national selection — and finishing with a talk for seniors and parents about his journey from a pre-teen club swimmer to an international representative.

Saturday morning featured a demanding aerobic session in which Harrison swam alongside the kids, demonstrating technique and endurance first-hand. The afternoon turned the focus to starts and turns, vital components of competitive racing. On Sunday, Harrison led the squad through his full race-day preparation, beginning with dryland exercises crafted for him by leading physiotherapists and moving into his personalised in-water warm-up. Swimmers were able to shadow his routines and gain insights into how an elite athlete prepares to perform at the highest level.

“What surprised me most was how engaged everyone is, not just the swimmers but the families too,” Harrison said. “The eagerness to get in the pool, to listen and learn — I haven’t seen that kind of energy before. Whether it was teenagers or the little ones, they all did a fantastic job, and in such a short time they improved so much.”

The experience also left Harrison reflecting on his own future:
“It’s very rewarding when you show a kid your way of doing something and see them improve straight away. Watching them swim faster and enjoy themselves makes you feel really good. Coaching is definitely something I’ll be considering more in the future.”

For the Cannons, the clinic provided not just technical training, but also the rare opportunity to connect with an elite athlete who is as humble as he is talented. Turner now turns his focus to the 2026 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in the USA and the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, with the Cannonvale Cannons proudly cheering him on.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Harrison Turner shares medals with Brooklyn and Tannah Congoo
Harrison Turner preparing swimmers for his pre race warm up
Harrrison Turner showing Cannons his dives
Harrison Turner with Cannons and his Australia cap
Harrison Turner dives with Coach Mark Erickson
Harrison at the World Champs
Harrison Turner at the World Champs in Singapore

Photos supplied

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Tiina Randmae continued her fine form after last week’s magnificent hole-in-one, taking out the September Monthly Medal. It was great to see so many members on the course enjoying the day, with Tessa Aitken also shining with an excellent score of 69.

Geoff Harrison won the Monthly Medal for the men with 70 on countback from Louis Neethling.

In the rundown: Allen Roberts 71, Ken Granger 71, Nic Apruzzese 72, Gary Scotford 72, Peter Lindsay 72, John Grosskreutz 73 and Colin Hounsell 73 – very close scoring.
For the ladies: Tiina Randmae 63, Tessa Aitken 69, Kath Borer 74, Paula McQuat 74, Vickie Wallace 74 and Leanne Alexander 76.

Nearest the pins: Colin Hounsell and Peter Fox on 2, Craig McLean and Trevor Paroz on 5, Barry Mortimer and Louis Neethling on 9. For the ladies, Elspeth Scotford took the A Grade on 7, while the B Grade went to Vickie Wallace. Tiina Randmae, Linda Wardroper and Paula McQuat all shared the honours on 4 – clearly too easy!

Tiina also had the least putts with 29 – it was certainly her day.

Last Thursday, players travelled to Pioneer Valley for the first round of the Croker Shield. Unfortunately, Prossie was beaten by 28 points. The return leg will be played on home ground on 30 September, giving us a chance to redeem ourselves.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Geoff Harrison and Tiina Randmae. Photo supplied

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Proserpine Golf Club wrapped up its final week under the current Board, with the new 2025/26 Board elected at the AGM on 30 August. Members now turn their focus to the upcoming Club Championships on 13–14 September, which will test players over 27 holes each day. Saturday will follow a timesheet format, with a seeded draw for Sunday.

Tuesday (September Monthly Medal): Tommy Gallagher claimed the men’s title with 70 nett on countback from Geoff Harrison. NTPs went to Scott Mason (9th), Brad Fleet (13th) and Ken Granger (16th). In the ladies’ division, Tiina Randmae continued her excellent form, winning with 63 nett from Nicole Cooper (74). Vickie Wallace claimed the NTP on the 2nd. In the Veterans’ section, Randmae again topped the ladies’ field (63 nett), runner-up Tessa Aitken 69, while Geoff Harrison took the men’s prize on 70 nett from Louis Neethling.

Wednesday (Ladies Monthly Medal & Putts, PD Law): Di Chard 69 nett, Pauline Redpath 70, Heather Luvis 72. NTPs: Randmae, Redpath (9th), Toni Clauss, Anna Winterbourn (16th).
Thursday (Monthly Medal, Venuesmart): A Grade: Michael Ward 70 nett, runner-up Nathan Holohan 71. B Grade: Rob Webb 70 nett, runner-up Kerr Claxton 71. NTPs: Adam Hosie (2nd), Glen Taylor (Macksville GC, 9th), Scott Mason (13th), Lewy Tuck (16th).

Friday (9-Hole Run, Metropole Hotel): Toni Clauss 24 points, Kieran Anderson 22. NTPs: Tommy Gallagher (2nd), Brett Norris (9th). Putt for Cash: Adam Tester missed; jackpot climbs to $600 next week.

Saturday (Monthly Medal, Metropole Hotel): Best gross: Steve Stewart (A, 73), Cooper Cremor (B, 80), Dave Telford (C, 91). Overall winner: Izaac Vandenberg 66 nett. Grade winners: Stewart 68 nett, Cremor 67 nett, Vandenberg 66 nett. Runners-up: Holmes 74, O’Donnell 71, Dodds 73. NTPs: Tony Goss (2nd), Ryan Kenny (9th), Holmes (16th). Ladies: Jo Moynihan 71 nett c/b from Sara Hagy; NTPs Hagy (2nd, 9th), Chard (13th).

Sunday (Monthly Medal, KJC): Vandenberg 68 nett, from Wilf Herweg 71. NTPs: Scott Dwyer (2nd), Patrick Camm (9th), Brent Franke (13th). Ladies: Anna Winterbourn 73 nett, runner-up Sara Hagy 79. NTPs: Hagy (2nd), Penny Wardroper (9th, 16th).

Full results are available on Golflink.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Another excellent week of precision bowling began on Tuesday with 33 bowlers, excellently run by Regina Aquilina and Carol Crosbie. The dice rolled the smallest winning margin, which saw Connie Reimers with Pip Heddles just edge out Carol Crosbie and Greg Fennell 22–16. A great day was had by all.

Wednesday afternoon social bowls attracted 26 bowlers, with three games of triples and two of pairs. The standout win of the day came from skipper Andy McDougall, with “Wild” Bill Gordon at lead and Keith Bates at second, who soundly defeated in-form skipper Tony Kelly, supported by Janet Jacometti at lead and Glen O’Brien at second, 30–5. Well done, boys.
Business House Bowls continued on Wednesday night and remains highly entertaining, with team results to be shared next week.

Free lessons on Monday and Thursday afternoons are proving very successful — anyone interested in learning lawn bowls is welcome to join in.

Saturday morning Scroungers is also popular, with 19 bowlers taking part. In the A Grade final, Dennis Donnadelli defeated new bowler Des Ballance. The B Grade final came down to John Askew, Pip Heddles, Betty Whitehorn and Andrew Butler, with John Askew emerging the winner.

The Endeavour Foundation continues to attend on Friday mornings, and it’s wonderful to see the progress of Kiara, Cathy, Michael and Jett. We are hopeful Michael can obtain funding for a specialised lawn bowls wheelchair and bowling arm so he can compete in the Queensland Disabled Games — as could Jett, Cathy and Kiara. The plan is to have them all attend next year.

On the weekend, John Matterson, Alan Pershouse and Kevin John Trembath were narrowly beaten by Souths Suburban in the semifinals. Well done, boys — we are proud of your achievements.

Sunday afternoon saw 15 bowlers, with the highlight being a “Scotland v Ireland” pairs clash. Arthur and Liz McManus triumphed over Mandy and Phil O’Brien.

Finally, we send our best wishes to our deaf bowlers competing at the Australian Titles in NSW — Russell Jackson and Noel Crosbie — as they chase the pairs Australian Championship. Good luck, boys!

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Russell Jackson and Noel Crosbie. Photo supplied

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Sarina’s shoreline was filled with energy and community spirit last month as the 2025 Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim drew strong crowds and picture-perfect conditions.

Hosted by Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club, the annual event featured five different runs – from the 1km dash through to the testing half marathon – as well as two new ocean swim distances of 1km and 2km. Proceeds from the day go directly to supporting the vital work of the volunteer Surf Lifesaving Club.

Returning as naming rights sponsor, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank joined participants and supporters on the day, reflecting the important role local organisations play in bringing the event to life.

“You could not have asked for a better day for it! Well done to Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club for yesterday's Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim. We had a wonderful time and it was such a pleasure to see so many from our community out together – enjoying the beautiful sunshine and views on Sarina Beach. Thank you to our Branch Team, Board and scholarship recipients who were able to make it and join in on the fun!” Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank said.

Major sponsors Wilmar Sugar and Renewables and North Queensland Bulk Ports also backed the event, along with support from Ray White Rural Sarina, The Clubhouse Sarina Beach, Permanent Way Solutions, Mackay Regional Council and Rebel Nation.

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Locals and visitors took part in runs and ocean swims under sunny skies at the 2025 Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim. Photo source: Rebel Nation and Community Bank Sarina

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Junior cricket is officially back, with players from U12 to U17 taking to the fields across Mackay, Sarina, and Proserpine for their eagerly anticipated season openers. With no senior fixtures scheduled this past weekend, it paved the way for a thrilling “Super Sunday” of junior cricket.

In Sarina, the U13 sides of Sarina and Souths were first to hit the field. Sarina picked up right where they left off last season, delivering a dominant run chase led by strong performances from Mackenna Jeffs and Beau Wallace. The home side bowled out Souths in just 17 overs to secure a comfortable victory.

Following the U13 clash, the U14s took centre stage. Souths, sent in to bat by Sarina, started strongly with Beau McPherson anchoring the innings with a well-crafted 63 off 70 balls. Souths posted a solid total of 6/134. Their bowlers then put on a disciplined display, keeping extras to a minimum and maintaining tight lines. Spencer, Jack, and Hunter each claimed two wickets as Souths held off a determined Sarina batting effort to claim the win — reinforcing their status as title contenders once again this season.

Over in Proserpine, all three fields were in full swing with matches being played on all three fields. Walkerston and Pinnacle made the trip up the highway to enjoy some classic Proserpine hospitality. In the U17 match, Walkerston claimed victory thanks to an explosive batting performance from Ayden Loader, who smashed an unbeaten 88 from just 67 deliveries. The home teams found success in the U12 and U13 matches, with young gun Matthew Hope celebrating his first half-century in the Mackay competition during the U13 game.

Mackay was not left out, hosted a full day of action, with Norths putting on a Hawaiian-themed Super Sunday fundraiser at Beaconsfield. Meanwhile, Harrup Park played host to the U15 matches.

Looking ahead, Round 2 of the junior competition will take place this Sunday before a short break for the school holidays. Term 4 promises even more action with the launch of the U11 competition, Wednesday night Master Blaster comp, and the return of the Friday afternoon Girls Heat League.

It’s not too late to get involved! Head to play.cricket.com.au to find your local club and register today.

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Junior cricket returned in style across Mackay, Sarina, and Proserpine, with U12 to U17 players lighting up “Super Sunday” in a thrilling season opener. Photos supplied

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