The new pennants season is underway, with local bowlers enjoying a mix of social matches and competitive fixtures over the past week.

Social Bowls Results
On Wednesday, a lively group gathered for social bowls, with two matches played.
Trevor Parsons, Bruce Uhe and Heather Brown defeated Trevor Parsons, Mary Hedgelong and Mike Harrison in a convincing 28–10 win. In the second game, Arthur Griffith and Barry Zillmann took a solid 21–8 victory over Alen Sanderson and Philip Brown.

Sunday’s social bowls continued the friendly competition. Mary Hedgelong, Bruce Uhe and Philip Brown narrowly defeated Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith and Heather Brown, 16–14.

Pennants Action
Saturday’s pennants action saw Division 1 deliver a strong performance against North Mackay, winning all three rinks. The result earned them the maximum six points and a margin of +32.

On Sunday, Division 1 came up against Northern Beaches. Proserpine was narrowly defeated 60–67 but managed to claim one rink win point.

Division 5 faced a tough weekend. On Saturday, they played at North Mackay and went down 27–48, earning one rink win point. Sunday’s match against RSL also ended in defeat, 26–55.

With the season now in full swing, teams are looking forward to building momentum in the coming rounds.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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It has been a fantastic few weeks for the Wangaratta Bowls Club, with our talented ladies achieving outstanding results both locally and at state level.

The club’s Division One Pennant side recently competed in the North Queensland District competition held in Ayr. Wangaratta led the tournament for the first three days and, in a thrilling final-day showdown, faced off against second-placed Thuringowa. With exceptional performances from both sides, Wangaratta emerged victorious by nine shots, securing the prestigious Blue Flag for 2025.

This win entitles Wangaratta to compete against Far North Queensland later in the year, with the possibility of progressing to the State Pennant finals in November. Congratulations to all the ladies involved on a well-deserved victory.

In further success, three of our bowlers—Penny Warren, Denise Wallace, and Tiarna Rogers—represented the North Queensland District at the State District Sides competition held in Mooloolaba. North Queensland performed strongly throughout the tournament, and on the final day competed in Division Three, notching up wins against Gateway, Fraser Coast, and Central Queensland to claim the pennant. Well done to Penny, Denise, and Tiarna for their important contributions.

Meanwhile, social bowls continue to be a highlight at the club. On Tuesday, the winning team of John Hayson, Alby Vigar, and Marg Wilson defeated Andy Nailard, Robyn Stitt, and Bob Dykstra. In other results, Neale Chittenden, Sue Shearing, George Tartaglia, and Ron Hyde defeated Merle Elphinstone, Gavin Charles, and Maureen Hyde. Despite the excitement, the long-standing jackpot did not go off.

Club Competition Results
The final of the Mixed Fours was held over the weekend, with the team of Robyn Stitt, Isobel Wheeler, Margaret Wilson, and Mark Drummond defeating Laurie Land, Denise Wallace, Penny Warren, and Allan Rolfe.

In the Ladies Pairs, Denise Wallace and Penny Warren claimed victory in an extra end against Robyn Stitt and Fely Duncan. The final will be played on Sunday morning, 1 June.

In the Ladies A Singles, Denise Wallace defeated Robyn Stitt in another strong performance.

Sunday afternoon social bowls saw Neil Chittenden and Greg Prembroke defeat Andy Nailard and John Hayson. Gwenda Lydom and David Madely were winners over Maree Brunker and Pat Tracey, while Poni Bowen and Sue Shearing defeated Maureen Hyde and Robyn Stitt. Lindy Suann also featured in the match. Again, the jackpot remained unclaimed.

On the same day, the Wangaratta men’s side represented the club in the Country Pennant competition in the Burdekin. While they didn’t come away with a win, the team played excellent bowls and represented the club with pride.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Penny Warren, Denise Wallace, and Tiarna Rogers represented North Qld District and helped win State District Sides Division Three at Mooloolaba last week.

North Qld District 2025 Winners Division 1 Pennant.

Photos supplied

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Time is flying at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club, with mid-May already upon us and the club eagerly anticipating the installation of its long-awaited shade cover. It’s been a vibrant and successful period both on and off the green.

A recent car boot sale combined with a book stall and assorted items such as discs, appliances, and furniture proved to be a tremendous success, raising over $1,000 for the club. Organisers extended a heartfelt thank you to all members and supporters who contributed their time, items, and energy to the fundraiser.

Tuesday Bowls and Club Games
Tuesday’s social bowls saw two games of triples as well as two Ladies Fours club games. Congratulations to the winning teams, both displaying fine form. Skipper Joan McGrath led her team of Lyn Graham, Jill Spencer, and Ladda Purdie—affectionately known as the club’s Thai princess—to a strong win. In the other game, Betty Nicole led her side of Carol Crosbie, Betty Whitehorn, and Vicki Spann to victory. With such close and competitive matches, the upcoming final promises to be one to watch.

In social play, the team of Tony Whitehorn (skip), Keith Bates (second), and Gina Passfield (lead) secured a comfortable win. Runners-up were the team skipped by Mark Mawson, with Jen Dray impressing at lead and Sue Dakin providing a steady presence throughout.

Midweek and Weekend Action
Wednesday’s social bowls attracted 19 players, with the top team led by Bobby Spees. Bobby bowled immaculately and was a key contributor to the win, supported by Regina Aquilina at lead and Tony Kelly at second.

Wednesday night Business House Bowls is heating up, with ten teams competing this season. Names and scores will be shared in next week’s report.

Pennant Season Underway
Saturday and Sunday marked the beginning of Pennant season, with Airlie fielding sides in Divisions 1, 3, 5, and 6. While Saturday saw only Division 6 claim a win, fortunes changed on Sunday.

Division 1 secured an excellent victory over Sarina, winning three matches. Skippers Warren Mills and Manny Isgro led by example in their respective games, helping to deliver a satisfying result for the club. Division 3 teams, led by Ted Cullen and John Matterson, started strongly but were narrowly beaten in the final ends. Division 5 saw a split result, with standout performances from skipper Mervyn Stewart, Bill Gordon, and Warren Williams.

Endeavour Foundation and School Participation
Friday morning brought plenty of energy to the club as the Endeavour Foundation hosted a fun and inclusive session. Around 20 students participated, showing great enthusiasm and a positive attitude. All eyes will be on their development in the coming weeks as they work toward potentially representing their school in the Queensland Schools’ Cup.

With competition heating up and community events thriving, it’s shaping up to be an exciting winter season at Airlie Beach Bowls Club.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Jeff Tierney , Andy McDougall , Warren Mills , Andrew Butler , John Fielding , Bobby Spees ,Manny Isgro and Russell Jackson. Photo supplied

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Four Whitsunday Sea Eagles teams were back on the road last weekend, travelling to various locations as part of AFL Mackay’s Indigenous Round.

The Under 13s braved an early start in their Indigenous guernseys, facing off against the Sarina Demons in tough, muddy conditions. Despite their grit and determination, the Sea Eagles were unable to hold back the Demons in the third quarter, eventually going down 15–34.

At Rogers Oval, the Under 15s faced a tough challenge against the Eastern Swans. Undermanned from the outset, the Sea Eagles struggled to keep pace and lost ground each quarter, finishing with a 7–68 defeat. The team fought hard to the final siren and showed true resilience despite the scoreboard.

The highlight of the day came from the Senior Women, who dominated their match against the Mackay City Hawks. Playing on the Hawks' backup ground—conditions which suited the Sea Eagles' attacking style—the team put on a commanding performance, securing a 72–0 win. The Senior Women’s side continues to build momentum this season, strengthening their teamwork and refining their skills with each game.

Meanwhile, the Senior Men had a slow start against Mackay City Hawks and couldn’t recover the deficit, finishing with a 51–77 loss.

Looking ahead, this weekend 24th May is City vs Country hosted by Sea Eagles in Airlie Beach where AFLQ Mackay representatives from each Club come together to play each other under City or Country teams.

10:40am - Under 17s
12:15pm - Senior Women

Free Entry! Canteen open from 10:30am, Bar open from 12:15pm
Senior Men - Cancelled as Mackay City teams unable to field a team.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Women Photo credit: Kylie Allen

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Football – Whitsunday United FC
Friday 23rd May

Div 2 vs Sarina Saints
6:00 PM at Brewers Park

Div 1 vs Magpies FC
8:00 PM at Brewers Park

Saturday, 24 May
U13 vs Dolphins FC
9:30 AM at Whitsunday United FC

U14 vs Dolphins FC
9:30 AM at Mackay Football Park

U13 FQPL vs Mackay Wanderers
11:00 AM at Whitsunday United FC

U15/16 vs Mackay Lions
11:15 AM at Mackay Football Park

U23 Men vs Mackay Rangers
5:00 PM at Eric Homan Park

Men's Firsts vs Mackay Rangers
7:00 PM at Eric Homan Park

AFL – Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 24th May

10:40am – Under 17s CITY vs COUNTRY at Whitsunday Sports Park
12:15pm – Senior Women CITY vs COUNTRY at Whitsunday Sports Park

Rugby Union – Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
Saturday 24th May 2025
1:15pm - Womens vs Moranbah at Whitsunday Sports Park
2:00pm -  Mens Reserve Grade vs Moranbah at Whitsunday Sports Park
3:30pm -  Mens Premiers Grade vs Moranbah at Whitsunday Sports Park

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 26th May
Round 14 Fixtures

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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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday Night Fixture Results May 6, 2025:

Division 1:

Delta Dashers (Niro Premachandra, Josh Brown, Barry Patterson) d Tech Titans (Neil Brown, Geoff Denman, Allan Edwards) 7-4. Barry d Geoff -6, -9, 3, 8, 2.

Pixel Players (Jacob Whelan, Lily Boland, Graham Drury) d App Attackers (Steven Whiting, Graeme Walker, Andrea Nicholson) 6-5. Lily d Steven 7, -10, -6, 7, 4.

Pixel Paddlers (Goncalo Serra, Trent Day, Robbie Richards) d Byte Bouncers (Ian McKay, Anne Sheridan, Graham Brake) 9-2. Trent d Ian 10, 5, -7, 11.

Nano Nets (Vimal Chilukuri, Vince Boeske, YiLin Jiang) d Code Crackers (Geoff Cowan, Emma Widdup, Lee Brake) 6-5. Lee d Vince 8, 6, -5, -6, 8.

Division 2:

Steam Strikers (Melanie Theodore, Delma Knight, George Camilleri) d Turbo Techs (Steve Mathieson, Jye Callander, Val Austin) 6-5. Steve d Delma -7, -9, 9, 9, 9.

Mega Movers (Duncan Treloar, Mark Stam, sub) d Cloud Chasers (Rod Hamelink, Syed Aminul Hossain, sub) 7-4. Syed d Duncan -3, 7, 10, -8, 10.

Robo Ralliers (Will VanDeKaa, Noreen Fredericksen, Tiffany Camilleri) d Giga Gamers (Liz Burton, Allan Robins, Peter Goodson) 6-5. Will d Allan -8, 11, 5, -8, 9.

Quantum Quick (Ollie Hamelink, Mark Sleeman, Rymer Tabulo) d Circuit Cyclers (Janice Kent, Simon Hogan, David Symons) 8-3. Rymer d Simon -13, -11, 7, 9, 11.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures May 6, 2025:

Division 1:

Phoenix Fire (Donna Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Noreen Fredericksen) d Cosmic Sorcerers (Delma Knight, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) 8-4. Noreen d Pam 6, -10, 9, -7, 4.

Ghost Spin (George Camilleri, Branko Vucurovic, Bryan Marshall) d Ant Warriors (Allan Robins, Judy Zahn, Don Boettcher) 8-4. George d Allan 7, 7, -5, -8, 13.

Star Lords (Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) drew Panther Prowlers (Doug Dungavell, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 6-all. John/Kevin d Peter/Veronica 14, 10, 6, 7, 10.

Division 2:

Nova Smashers (Marie Taylor, Gloria Vella, Darryl Ross) d Astro Aces (Iris Grasso, John Hamelink, Chris Collins) 10-2. Gloria d Iris 2, 9, -8, -10, 8.

Elipse Spin (Helen Ware, Ken Best, Virginia Clayton) d Orion Orbiters (Ross DeBoer, Kim Daffy, Robyn Bushell) 7-5. Ross d Virginia -10, -9, 7, 4, 6.

Division 3:

Spider Smashers (Gerry Synnott, Cherly Pearson) d Bat Serves (Kim Challender, Madge Saunders) 5-4. Kim d Gerry 7, -8, -8, 10, 8.

Captin Spins (Josie Davis, Sharon Muller, Trish Zamparutti) d Iron Rallies (David Muir, Allison Day, Laurie Bradshaw) 8-4. Laurie d Trish -8, 10, -9, 6, 10.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Steve Mathieson

Delma Knight. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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In blustery conditions under heavy skies, approximately 40 determined athletes took to the start line for the inaugural Mackay Marina Mantra 5km and 12km event. Hosted by the Mackay Road Runners Club, the unique handicap-style race made its debut with plenty of grit, camaraderie, and competition.

Club President and Life Member Paul Tilse welcomed runners with enthusiasm before detailing the demanding course—which included one ascent of Mt Bassett for the 5km competitors and two climbs for the 12km. The handicap format meant faster runners started behind the field, creating a thrilling chase to the finish.

Timekeeping duties were in the capable hands of Rohan Miles and Julie Whibley, whose accuracy and efficiency ensured a smooth race. Rohan, in particular, was hailed for his commitment—uploading results to the club website within 30 minutes of the final finisher. A truly golden performance in his own right.

In the 12km, Justin Rule claimed first place on handicap, earning gold. However, it was Toby Rule who clocked the fastest time of the day over the distance, with Justin hot on his heels as the second-fastest. Luke Leven impressed with a strong run, being the highest handicapped runner and posting the fourth fastest time, just behind Ashley Miles.

Carmel Mahon was in electric form, finishing as the fastest female by mere seconds. On handicap, she placed second among the women behind Amy Huston. Special mention goes to Andrew Short, who displayed herculean endurance. After arriving back in the country the day before from completing both the London and Prague Marathons with wife Jose, he was out early setting the course and then ran the full 12km. Andrew’s legendary volunteer spirit continues to inspire the club.

The 5km event saw Lily Leven shine, taking out both the fastest time and the top handicap spot. Carolyn Mapes surged into second on handicap with a powerful finish. Returning to form, Hayden Connor clocked the fastest male time in the 5km and placed third on handicap. His sister, Lauren Connor, also found her rhythm after a long layoff, finishing third female and fourth overall—just a whisper behind her brother.

It was also a day for dynamic duos, with Craig and Natasha Joynson, and Ross and Leanne Connor, crossing the line together in perfect harmony. There were promising performances from Kim Saron—back from injury—as well as Kayla Waugh, Fran March, and Stuart Sprott.
Looking ahead, the club gears up for its iconic annual event, The Farmer’s Gallop (5km and 17km), this Sunday.

With the Mackay Marina Run fast approaching, it’s an essential fixture for those targeting the half marathon. The race kicks off at 6.30am sharp from Life Member Agnes Farmer’s residence at 62 Evans Avenue, North Mackay. All participants are reminded to register with the timekeepers at least ten minutes before the start gun.

The countdown to Marina Run glory continues—with each stride, the anticipation builds.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Life Member and champion  runner, Judy Zahn checks in with the Timekeeper, Rohan Miles.
Toby Rule, Luke Leven and Hamish Donnellan with Belinda Rule (front) keep warm before their handicap start 12km event.
Lily Leven gets excited finishing her 5km handicap start race.
Levi Wallace is ecstatic with his 12km race.
Justin Rule clocks a very impressive first in the 12km handicap race.
Sibling duo, Lauren and Hayden Connor performed extremely well in the 5km handicap start Mackay Marina Mantra event. Photos supplied

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The Mackay Bridge Club wishes Ted Cullinan (moving to Perth) and Noel Saunders (moving to Gladstone) all the very best for their future endeavours. Both Ted and Noel will be missed very much. Ted was secretary for many years and Noel was a committee member as well as a mentor to many beginners.

Weekly Results

Monday 5 May 2025 –5 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Pamela Finger / Terry Sheedy 1st Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
2nd Edward Kliese /Diane Stokes 2nd Karen Caldwell / Sue Meyer-Miller
3rd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait 3rd Vicki Howard / Susan Ross
Tuesday Evening 6 May 2025 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 2nd Terry Sheedy / Ken Seaniger
3rd Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

Wednesday 7 May 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd Griffin Bancroft / Martin Pearce 2nd Terry Sheedy / Diane Morgan
3rd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 3rd Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th Christine Fitzpatrick / Noel Saunders 4th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz
Thursday Evening 8 May 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd Patricia Garner / Jan Harris 4th Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes

Friday 9 May 2025 – NWP Week 9 of 25 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes
2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Susan Wright
3rd Lynne O’Neill / Debra Goodchild 3rd Victor Mason / Josie Cowley
4th Sue Mayer-Miller / Noel Saunders 4th Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

Saturday 10 May 2025 –12 Table Mitchell Points

N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott 1st John McGee / Mick King
2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Patricia Garner 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting
4th Geoff Taylor / Chris Meyers 4th Faye Wright / Christine Nice
5th Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 5th Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch
6th Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft 6th Alan Brown / Jodi Menzies

Contributed by Joy Block

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Cricket is for everyone, and a new all-abilities program launching this May at Harrup Park is here to prove it!

Kicking off on Wednesday, 21st May, this FREE five-week cricket program is designed for boys and girls aged 11 to 17 of all abilities. The sessions will run every Wednesday from 4:00pm to 5:00pm, offering participants a chance to develop their cricket skills, grow a love for the game, and make new friends in a fun, safe, and inclusive environment.

Organisers are passionate about bringing cricket to a wider community.

“We currently run popular three-week programs each term at Mackay District Special School, and the kids absolutely love it,” said Mel from Harrup Park.

“Now, we want to broaden our reach and invite even more young people into our cricket community.”

Whether your child is picking up a bat for the first time or already loves the sport, this program welcomes everyone—no experience needed.

In addition, volunteers are needed to help deliver the sessions. If you have a Blue Card and a passion for helping young people thrive, you’re encouraged to get involved.

Registrations are now open via the QR code on the flyer or via www.playhq.com
Mackay Cricket Association. Contact Mel via at sportsadmin@harruppark.com.au for more information.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of something special—cricket for everyone, right here in Mackay!

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There was no social bowls played at Proserpine Bowls Club on Wednesday, following heavy rain on Tuesday night which gave the green another good soaking.

On Thursday, Mary Hedgelong and Lee King accompanied Heather to St Helen’s PAH for President Joan Chapman’s Day. It was a lovely event celebrating Joan’s long-standing contribution to lawn bowls at club, district, and state levels. Joan has announced her retirement at the end of the year, and those present expressed their gratitude for her continued involvement and dedication to the sport.

Saturday afternoon saw five fiercely contested games of the Club Championship Singles played in strong winds, testing players’ skill and concentration. Despite the conditions, the matches were close and highly competitive.

Philip Brown got off to a strong start against Kendall Watts. While Kendall fought back to close the gap towards the end, Philip managed to hold on for a narrow 25–23 victory.

In a thrilling family face-off, Harry Craig took an early lead over his father Marcus Craig. Marcus briefly pulled ahead in the seventh end and held a small margin before Harry regained control. As Harry sat on 23, Marcus chipped away over the final seven ends to draw level at 23-all on the 27th. Marcus then secured two shots on the 28th end to claim a 25–23 win.

Another standout match was between Brett Saroglia and Toby Craig. Toby opened strongly, with Brett closing the gap mid-game. Toby surged again, but Brett dug deep to stay in touch. The final four ends were exceptionally tight, with only single shots conceded. Brett ultimately edged out Toby 25–24 in a 30-end thriller.

Dale Haack faced Gavin Noonan, who started strongly. Dale rallied in the middle of the game and took the lead by the 18th end. He then finished strongly, scoring on the final three ends to secure a 26–16 win.

In the final singles match, Andrew Bell demonstrated impressive form, allowing Vince Olsen to win just two ends. Andrew claimed a dominant 25–2 victory in just 12 ends.

Well done to all players who performed admirably in challenging weather.

Sunday’s social bowls drew eight players, who contested 3 Bowl Pairs. Arthur Griffith and Bruce Uhe defeated Alen Sanderson and Sandy Daffara 30–22, while Trevor Parsons and Philip Brown triumphed over Wayne Melrose and Heather Brown 23–20.

Pennant season kicks off this weekend with Division 1 playing at home on Saturday and away on Sunday, while Division 5 will play away on Saturday and at home on Sunday.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Exciting news came through this week for Airlie Beach Bowls Club, with confirmation that the long-awaited roof installation is scheduled to begin in early June. Members are eagerly anticipating this major upgrade to the facility.

Despite being impacted by weather once again, the club saw good attendance and some excellent play throughout the week.

Tuesday afternoon’s social bowls went ahead with 16 players taking to the green in four games of pairs. In an unusual twist, the dice determined that the winning team would be the pair with the lowest winning score. While Joan McGrath and Trish Moffatt posted a strong 28–13 win, and John Brown teamed with Gail Simms for a 26–22 result, it was Ladda Purdie and Ian Passfield who claimed the prize with their tight 23–22 victory.

Wednesday afternoon saw a dominant performance in social bowls, with Bobby Spees and partner Bill Gordon securing a runaway 34–10 win over Noel Crosbie and Mercedes Stewart.

Business House Bowls was scheduled to kick off on Wednesday night, but due to poor weather the official start has been postponed to next week. Businesses and individuals interested in joining this fun and competitive evening are encouraged to contact Bob Spees on 0417 115 855 to book a team or register individually.

Saturday’s Scroungers competition and the B Fours were cancelled due to the weather. However, the club’s car boot and book sale was a resounding success, raising over $1,000—a fantastic result for the fundraising effort.

Sunday afternoon’s social bowls featured two games of triples, with slightly reduced numbers due to Mother's Day celebrations. In one match, the team of Tony Whitehorn (skip), Paul Osbourne (lead), and Mark Mawson (second) overcame John Matterson’s team, which included Juanita Matterson—who bowled well—and Warren Wilson.

The second match saw KJ Trembath skipping for Bill Gordon (lead) and Betty Whitehorn (second), who secured a win over Andy McDougall’s team of Dawn Dowell (lead) and Lyn Graham. It was an enjoyable afternoon of strong performances and friendly competition.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Bill Gordon who's been in scintillating form this month. Photo supplied

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It was another busy and competitive week at the Wangaratta Bowls Club, with social bowls, club competitions, and some special Mother’s Day action on the green.

Tuesday Social Bowls
Tuesday’s winning team was Merle Elphinstone, Isobel Wheeler, and Maureen Hyde, who defeated Deb Retchless, Howard Moulang, and Robyn Stitt. In another close match, Sue Shearing, Gavin Charles, and Margaret Wilson came out on top against Neale Chittenden, Laurie Land, and Ron Hyde.
The jackpot, however, did not go off.

Mother’s Day Bowls – Sunday
Sunday’s special Mother’s Day event was well attended, with the winning team coming from Rink 2: Merle Elphinstone, Neale Chittenden, and Alby Vigar defeated Toni Bowen, Sue Shearing, and Gavin Charles—and also claimed the jackpot for the day.
In another match, Deb Retchless and Robyn Stitt overcame Jim Quod and Kevin Daniels.

Club Championship – Men’s Open Singles
The Men’s Open Singles competition continued over the weekend with some hard-fought matches. Ron Hyde defeated Jason Wright, Wayne Crowhurst got the better of Graeme Dalton, and Allan Rolfe won his match against Mitch Wright.

Congratulations to all players on a great week of bowls.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Sunday Mother's Day winners , Merle Elphinstone Alby Vigar and Neale Chittenden. Photo supplied

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Just when it seemed the wet weather had passed, the rain returned—putting a damper on Proserpine Golf Club’s centenary celebrations. Thankfully, conditions eased by Tuesday, allowing the full course to reopen in time for the May Monthly Medal, which saw a strong field of 29 players take part.

Among the standout performers was Kath Borer, who was elated to claim the ladies' title after working hard to regain her form following a break from the game. In the men’s division, Nick Apruzzese impressed with a superb round of 67 nett, earning him top honours for the day.

Results:

Ladies
Winner: Kath Borer – 71 nett
Runner-up: Elspeth Scotford (on a countback)
Rundown: Heather Luvis (78), Tiina Randmae and Paula McQuat (80), Vickie Wallace (82)

Men
Winner: Nick Apruzzese – 67 nett
Runner-up: Peter Lindsay – 72 nett
Rundown: Ken Granger, Craig McLean, and Laurie Dakin (73), Gary Scotford (74), Allen Roberts (75), John Grosskreutz (77), Philip Luckett and John Wallace (78)

Pin Shots
Ladies: Elspeth Scotford (3), Elaine Philpott, Jacqui Wall, Kath Borer
Men: Craig McLean, Nick Apruzzese (with a birdie on Hole 9), Gary Scotford, John Oates, Peter Lindsay

Least Putts
Elspeth Scotford and Robyn Whitham (28), Ken Granger (26)

Chip-ins
Beryl Nosworthy, Elspeth Scotford, Gary Scotford, Barry Mortimer, Peter Lindsay, and “Grossy”

Contributed with thanks to Paul McQuat

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Kathryn Borer. Photo supplied

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The Cannonvale Cannons closed out a fantastic season with their much-anticipated end-of-season Club Presentation Night – a heartwarming evening where the achievements of all swimmers were proudly celebrated by families, coaches, and teammates.

The night kicked off with the announcement of our Age Champions – a proud moment for swimmers who have demonstrated consistency, commitment, and strong performance throughout the season:

·       7 Years & Under: Stella Mulliss and Harry Chegwidden

·       8 Years: Miranda Palmero and Lucas Korosec

·       9 Years: Eloise Chegwidden and Miller Eaves

·       10 Years: Evie Doherty and Levi Smith

·       11 Years: Celeste Orenshaw and Jax Clayworth

·       12 Years: Ruby Harland and Isaac Pisaniello

·       13 Years: Isabella Pisaniello and Zach Trefz

·       14 Years: Tora Delac and Charlie Doherty

·       15 Years: Dylan Reynolds

·       16 Years: Tiana Bell

·       18 Years: Jacob Bell

Next up was the presentation of the Tassal Seafood Encouragement Award, recognising our newest recruits who have shown enthusiasm, growth, and team spirit in their first season with the Cannons. Well done to Tanah Congoo, Brooklyn Congoo, Bonnie Crichton, Gracie Crichton, Blaire Harland, Indigo Harland, Isaac Lawson, Ella Maddock, Faithlyn Trotter, Asher Springbett, and Reid Springbett.

Next, we recognised those swimmers who showed the greatest improvement across the season, based on personal bests achieved at club nights. The BK Constructions Most Improved Awards went to:

·       7 Years & Under: Stella Mulliss and Harry Chegwidden

·       8–10 Years: Eloise Chegwidden and Eric Mulliss

·       11–13 Years: Ruby Lawson and Jax Clayworth

·       14 Years & Over: Tora Delac and Charlie Doherty

Stay tuned for next week’s article as we continue our three-part series, highlighting more special awards and moments our swimmers.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Age Champions winners
Encouragement Award winners
Most Improved Award winners

Photos supplied

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The Whitsunday Raiders have sent a strong message to the competition in Round 5, with both the men’s and women’s teams producing gutsy wins against Moranbah Bulls Rugby on Saturday, May 10.

Despite facing tough conditions and depleted squads, the Raiders showed grit, teamwork and sheer determination to come away with the double victory.

Men’s Team Powers Home Despite Numbers Game

The Raiders men’s team delivered a dominant 46–10 performance, despite travelling with just 16 players and taking the field with only 14. For over 50 minutes, they played with 13 — but the challenge only seemed to fire them up.

Every man on the park lifted, playing with heart and focus. One of the standout moments came from the youngest Raider, Tane Dennison, who fearlessly brought down Moranbah’s rampaging prop with a textbook tackle, showing maturity and courage beyond his years.

Another highlight was a classy attacking play from Rhys Ward. Surging down the left edge, Ward’s sharp footwork left defenders clutching at air before he delivered a perfectly timed pass to Toby Neil, who raced in for a slick team try.

Men's Player Points:
• 3 points: Loris De Carlo
• 2 points: Rhys Ward
• 1 point: Hone Casey-Bloomer

Opposition picks:
• Best Forward: Loris De Carlo
• Best Back: Rhys Ward

Women’s Team Grind Out Brave Win With Just Nine

Once again, the Raiders women proved that resilience is part of their DNA, overcoming the odds to defeat Moranbah 21–14 — with just nine players and no bench.

It seems nine is a lucky number when the women head west, and this round was no exception. The Raiders refused to be rattled, rising to the occasion regardless of how the game was played.

Young gun Ebony Bottrell impressed in only her second game, making some excellent runs and strong tackles, earning her top points for the match. Fan favourite Shakaya Costello made a triumphant return to the field, guiding the team and crossing for her first try since returning to the game as a mum.

Women’s Player Points:
• 3 points: Ebony Bottrell
• 2 points: Shakaya Costello
• 1 point: Chelsie Brooke (Chelsie Jury)

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