Crews are trading sailing gear for party shirts on Lay Day as the Battle of the Sailors lawn games competition returns to Airlie Beach Race Week.

Held at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on August 11, teams of five can register at reception for a chance to win great prizes, including VIP entry and regular race entries to ABRW 2026 and a $150 food and drink voucher.

The games kick off at 3pm sharp, but the fun continues into the evening with food trucks firing up at 5pm and live music from local performer Sam McCann.

Whether you're competing or just soaking up the festive atmosphere with a seafood platter in hand, this is the place to be on Lay Day.

Best party shirt is highly encouraged and you may just earn your bragging rights on and off the water.

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A Flavour-Filled Voyage on Race Week Lay Day

Elementa Whitsundays and 74 Islands Distillery, the proud naming rights sponsors of the 2025 Airlie Beach Race Week, are inviting guests to a one-off long lunch experience that captures the true spirit of the Whitsundays.
Taking place on Monday 11 August from 1pm to 4pm, Changing Courses offers a vibrant way to spend the official Lay Day of Race Week. Set in the stunning surrounds of the elevated Elementa distillery and rooftop gardens, the event promises panoramic Coral Sea views, live entertainment and a culinary journey unlike any other.
Guests will be greeted with a 74 Islands Summit Spritz on arrival before embarking on a three-hour food and beverage experience. A roaming selection of canapés will take diners on a voyage through local flavours, from reef-fresh seafood and tropical fruits to native botanicals and herbs harvested from Elementa’s own gardens. A signature grazing station curated by the distillery’s in-house chef will offer further opportunity to sample the best of the region.
The ticket includes a three-hour drinks package featuring 74 Islands Spirits, select wines and beers, with return transfers provided to and from the Whitsunday Sailing Club.
Designed for those who want to push the boat out a little further, Changing Courses promises a memorable afternoon of food, flavour and festivity. With limited spots available, early bookings are essential.
Tickets are $150 per person and the dress code is resort nautical. Guests are welcome to stay on and enjoy the relaxed rooftop ambience into the evening.
What: Changing Courses Lunch
When: Monday 11th August 1-4pm
Where: Elementa

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Whitsunday Sailing Club Commodore Heather Sutton plays a vital role in Airlie Beach Race Week, focusing on the volunteer crew who keep the event going.

“My role within Race Week is to organise volunteers,” Heather said.

Race Week is run by volunteers and we are very lucky that a lot of our volunteers have been coming back year after year, and they come from Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide, we also have our local volunteers.”

From race directors to mark layers and prize organisers, volunteers handle most aspects of the event.

“Our volunteers start from the top, the Race Director, he's a volunteer, and our Principal Race Officer is a volunteer, it's all done by volunteers,” she said.

“We have about 50 volunteers.”

Heather, who has sailed around the world, said sailing has been her life since age 12.

“You don't think about anything that's happening on shore, all your worries go away because you're concentrating on getting that boat going faster.”

With Airlie Beach Race Week fast approaching, Heather’s still calling for more help.

“We are still looking for volunteers and they don’t have to have a sailing boat or boat license, they can be on the water helping.”

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Get ready for an unforgettable week of high-stakes yacht racing, breathtaking coastal views and non-stop social festivities at the 2025 Airlie Beach Race Week, proudly presented by 74 Islands Distillery. Hosted by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, this much-loved event has grown into one of Australia’s most iconic sailing regattas, drawing competitors and spectators from across the country and beyond.
Held in the heart of the Whitsundays, Airlie Beach Race Week offers the perfect blend of competitive spirit and laid-back tropical charm. Against the dazzling backdrop of the Coral Sea and the 74 islands that give the distillery its name, crews will race across crystal-clear waters, navigating challenging courses framed by palm-fringed shores and rugged island peaks. Each day offers not only thrilling sailing action but also moments of natural beauty, from sun-drenched decks to golden Whitsunday sunsets.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor chasing the thrill of competition or a land-based visitor drawn in by the electric atmosphere, the week delivers something for everyone. Onshore, Airlie Beach buzzes with life as the waterfront fills with live entertainment, pop-up bars, local fare and great company. Sunset cocktails flow, laughter fills the air, and camaraderie flourishes among crews and crowds alike.
As naming rights sponsor, 74 Islands Distillery brings the true essence of the region to every element of the event. Known for crafting spirits inspired by the diverse landscapes and natural botanicals of the Whitsundays, the distillery’s involvement highlights the connection between sailing, community and place. Their presence not only lifts the bar offering but anchors the festival in the local identity and spirit of the islands.
With a packed schedule of racing and plenty of opportunities to soak up the fun, Airlie Beach Race Week is more than just a regatta. It’s a celebration of adventure, hospitality and the spectacular Whitsundays lifestyle. Whether you’re here to race, relax or revel in the festivities, this is one event you’ll want to mark on the calendar.
Come for the competition, stay for the scenery and leave with a lifetime of memories. Airlie Beach Race Week 2025 is set to be a standout, don’t miss your chance to be part of it.

Photo credit: Andrea Francolini

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As Regatta Director of Airlie Beach Race Week, Jenni Birdsall’s job spans the entire year, not just the week of racing in Airlie Beach.

“I’m basically in charge of coordinating as much as I possibly can to bring everyone together and direct whatever their role entails,” Jenni said.

Her responsibilities cover everything from official race documentation and safety management to results and coordination across teams.

She describes her role as a helicopter role, viewing all roles from above.

“I’m the overall coordinator of any safety issues that happen on or off the water within the regatta precinct,” she explained. “

I’m also managing the results, and I’m responsible for making sure everything flows the way it should.”

Airlie Beach is the only regatta where Jenni officially takes on the Regatta Director title, but she works across several major Australian events, including Hamilton Island, Magnetic Island, Geelong, and Townsville.

“I work with a good group of people and we rely on each other, we trust each other.”

With many race officials in their 60s, 70s or 80s, Jenni is helping train new recruits.

“We’re trying to bring on a younger group of people so we can pass this on to others.”

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Celebrate the spirit of sailing, connection and coastal charm in true Whitsundays style at the Airlie Beach Race Week Presentations Dinner, held from 5:30pm on Thursday 14 August. Taking place on the picturesque Festival Village lawns at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, this unforgettable evening is the ultimate way to round off a thrilling week of on-water action and shoreside festivity.
For $149 per ticket, guests will be treated to a carefully crafted three-course meal showcasing local flavours, along with a complimentary welcome drink to toast the week’s achievements. As the sun dips below the horizon and a warm tropical breeze rolls in, the setting couldn’t be more perfect for an evening of laughter, connection and celebration.
Live entertainment will fill the air throughout the night, adding to the festive energy of the event. With premium seating right on the lawns, guests will enjoy front-row views of the evening’s spectacular fireworks show, lighting up the sky over Airlie Beach in a dazzling finale. Even better, the fireworks display is free for the wider community to enjoy, ensuring a shared celebration that extends beyond just the sailors.
This is more than just a dinner, it’s a night of recognition, storytelling, and shared memories beneath the stars. Whether you're toasting a podium finish or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the Presentations Dinner promises an experience that captures the true heart of Race Week. Early bookings are recommended to avoid missing out.

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As the Whitsundays prepare to host the 37th edition of Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW), spectators are being offered a chance to view the action from the best seat on the water, aboard the stunning 100-foot mega yacht, SV Summer Jo.

From 7–14 August, more than 130 boats will take to the pristine waters of the Whitsundays for one of Australia’s most iconic sailing regattas, proudly sponsored this year by 74 Islands Distillery.

While competitors battle it out on the water, spectators can enjoy a premium Race Week experience on SV Summer Jo.

Departing from the Port of Airlie, guests will receive a welcome drink on arrival, a buffet lunch and afternoon refreshments, and are invited to BYO alcohol (no glass or red wine).

With indoor and outdoor viewing decks, shaded areas, air-conditioned lounges, full amenities, and professional commentary, it’s an unbeatable way to soak up the spectacle.

Spots aboard SV Summer Jo are limited. Book now to witness the ABRW from the best possible seat.

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As Chairman of Airlie Beach Race Week, Terry Archer plays a pivotal role in ensuring the annual sailing event runs smoothly both on and off the water. But come Thursday afternoon, he switches hats, trading the coordination clipboard for the helm of his multihull racer.

“I have a dual role,” Terry explained. “I’m effectively the connection between the club’s management, the volunteers, and ensuring the onshore and offshore events. Then, from Thursday afternoon, I became a competitor.”

From Thursday afternoon onwards, Terry rolls into Race Mode.

Terry works closely with Regatta Director Jenni Birdsall, who oversees all sailing-related logistics. Together with volunteers coordinated by Heather, and with input from world-renowned race officers Kevin and Ross Wilson, the regatta comes to life across 11 classes and numerous divisions, including the highly subscribed Performance Cruising class.

Terry will race in the Racing Multihull Division alongside a crew of three fellow club members.

After the busy lead-up, Terry is looking forward to his time on the water. Despite being the Chairman, he is treated like a competitor, and he’s looking forward to representing the Whitsunday Sailing Club in the competition.

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While the premier Whitsundays sailing season kicks into high gear, a new and exciting event is about to drop anchor in Airlie Beach. Conveniently placed right between the two major race regattas, the inaugural Whitsundays Open Boat Display arrives at Port of Airlie Marina Friday 15 August, running from 9 am to 5 pm.

This free event, brought to you by World Wide Boat Brokers, offers boating enthusiasts a unique opportunity to step aboard a range of premium vessels.

Its timing is perfectly placed between the renowned Airlie Beach Race Week and Hamilton Island Race Week in one convenient location. This offers an ideal "lay day" for seasoned sailors and aspiring owners to step off the racecourse and onto a stunning display of premium pre-owned boats.

Headlining the display is the exceptional Buizen 52 Pilothouse, on sale for $1.25 million. This stunning 2013 model represents the pinnacle of Australian craftsmanship, known for its luxurious finish, robust build, and superb pilothouse design, making it a true blue-water cruiser.

Explore six premium models including a Jeanneau 44 DS, Riviera 47, Caribbean 40, Sacs Strider 13, and a Beneteau Monte Carlo 4s.

Enjoy nibbles and a glass of champagne upon arrival as you wander through beautiful vessels, soaking in the Whitsundays atmosphere.

Providing invaluable expertise will be Dan Howcroft, local Whitsundays broker and the driving force behind World Wide Boat Brokers' regional success, alongside Brisbane broker, James Paul.

Dan, and his wife Jennie, opened the Airlie office two years ago, swiftly becoming a leading brokerage in the Whitsundays and beyond. Dan’s marine journey began here two decades ago, from dive instructor to international superyacht captain.

"Establishing an office in Airlie Beach was a passion of mine, as I felt there was demand on the ground here for premium boat sales," Dan Howcroft explains. 

"I've spent my life on these waters and understand what Australian boaties need. With four offices across the east coast, having that local presence means we can offer truly top-notch service."

Dan's extensive background provides unparalleled knowledge across everything boating.

"We're not just about sales; Jenny and I have run a superyacht service business for nearly a decade, so we also understand the importance of providing comprehensive support to our clients long after the transaction," he added.

"It’s about building lasting relationships and being a trusted and transparent resource."

World Wide Boat Brokers’ commitment to next-level service extends beyond pre-owned yachts. The company is thrilled to announce its recent appointment as Australian dealers for Southerly Yachts and Queensland dealers for Excess Catamarans.

These two leading sailing companies will change the Australian sailing game. Southerly Yachts offer innovative variable draft lifting keels for unparalleled shallow access and exceptional blue-water performance. Excess Catamarans, focusing on sailing sensation and open designs, represent the next evolution in multihull cruising.

So, whether you're a seasoned sailor, first-time buyer, or curious about premium boats and new brands, mark your calendar for Friday 15 August.

Connect with experts like Dan, inspect an array of vessels, and enjoy a great day out in Airlie Beach. The team looks forward to welcoming you aboard.

For more info and to register go to https://worldwideboatbrokers.com.au/whitsundays-open-day/ or contact Dan on 0451 846 620

What: Whitsundays Open Boat Display
When: August 15th, 9am-5pm
Where: World Wide Boat Brokers Whitsundays, The Boathouse, Shop F5/33 Port Dr, Airlie Beach

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The Whitsunday Triathlon Club President Michael and Val Kimpton were recently privileged to be welcomed to a private Dinner at Parliament House arranged by the Hon. Amanda Camm MP during House sitting days.

Guests on the night included Elizabeth Hackett, the inspirational leader behind the Whitsunday Skyway project, Hon. Tim Mander MP,  Hon. Andrew Powell MP. the Hon. Dale Last MP and former Tourism Whitsunday CEO, Rick Hamilton. The promotion of the Award-winning Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival was the major item on the Agenda.

This year the event celebrates its 25th anniversary and it will truly be an exciting weekend. The Triathlon’s Race Director Michael Kimpton said their aim is to continue to grow and expand this Event to become the most unique hallmark event in regional Australia. He wants to attract record competitors and their families to stay and play in the amazing Whitsundays, the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

“The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival has the second highest prize money for an Olympic/Standard Distance Triathlon Event in Australia,” said Michael.

“We have in excess of 20 of the best Professionals available in Australia participating, especially with Natalie Van Coevorden fresh off her Olympic debut at the Paris Olympics.

“This year we are again privileged to have the famous 'Madam Butterfly’ Susie O'Neill as Ocean Swim Ambassador, the best and most accomplished Ironman Pete Murray as our MC, Korupt vision photography, and an amazing Pro Meet n Greet on Friday night at Coral Sea Resort.”

The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival weekend will conclude at the 'Celebration Dinner' at the Coral Sea Resort Jetty. In attendance will be 60 generous local Sponsors, Professional Athletes and VIP's with a total guest list in excess of 140 people.

“Both our media partners, Whitsunday Life and Channel 7 Mackay will cover the momentous finale of the Event with an amazing fireworks display to cap off the evening,” added Michael.

“Promoters of our Event include, bishopp billboard digital advertising, Channel 7 and 7+ in Mackay and Townsville, Tourism Whitsundays, radio 4MK and Star 101 on air and Whitsunday Life promoting us in print and online.

“As a Non for Profit Community Event we are thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 Event will be staged on August 15-16-17.”

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Football - Whitsunday United FC
Friday 8 August
6:00pm – Whitsunday Dolphins U23 Women vs Lions at Dolphins
6:00pm – Whitsunday United FC Div 2 Men vs Mackay Rangers FC Div 2 Men at Whitsunday Sportspark
8:00pm – Whitsunday United FC Div 1 Men vs Mackay Rangers FC Div 1 Men at Whitsunday Sportspark

Saturday 9 August
9:30am – Whitsunday United FC U13 FQPL vs Mackay Wanderers U13 FQPL Red at Whitsunday Sportspark
9:30am – U13 Div 1 vs Mackay Wanderers U13 Div 1 Roses at Mackay Football Park
9:30am – U14 vs Dolphins FC U14 at Mackay Football Park
11:15am – U15/16 vs Dolphins FC U15/16 Silver at Mackay Football Park
5:00pm – U23 Men vs Mackay Rangers FC U23 Men at Eric Homan Park
7:00pm – Men vs Mackay Rangers FC Men at Eric Homan Park

Rugby Union - Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
Saturday 9 August
4:00pm - Premier Grade vs Mackay Brothers at Leprechaun Park

AFL - Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 9 August
9:15am – U13s vs Saints at Whitsunday Sportspark
10:40am – U15s vs Saints at Whitsunday Sportspark
12:15pm – U17s vs Saints at Whitsunday Sportspark
1:50pm – Senior Women vs Hawks at Whitsunday Sportspark
3:20pm – Senior Men vs Hawks at Whitsunday Sportspark

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 11 August
Round 3 Fixtures at Whitsunday Sportspark

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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Can you believe there are only three weeks until spring? As the weather warms up in Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales, our seasonal visitors will begin to head home. But what a week it has been for Airlie Beach Bowls Club—full of milestones, tight matches, and well-earned victories.

The week began with the Ladies A Grade Singles Final on Tuesday morning, with Betty Whitehorn and Vicki Spann going head-to-head in a thrilling contest. Despite a late comeback from Vicki, Betty held on to claim the title 25–22 in a closely fought battle. Betty has now achieved an impressive record—winning the B Grade title in 2017, the A Grade in 2018, and again in 2025. A huge congratulations to her.

In Tuesday afternoon social bowls, visiting bowler Mick Humphries from Moama Bowls Club (on the NSW/Victoria border) joined locals Tony Kelly (skip) and Pip Heddles to deliver a dominant performance against a strong field of 18 bowlers.

Also during the week, the Champion of Champions Ladies Fours was held at West Tigers and Northern Beaches Bowls Clubs. Representing ABBC, the team of Joan McGrath (skip), Ladda Purdie, Jill Spencer and Lyn Graham claimed the title. Their win was met with well-deserved pride and applause from the club.

Saturday morning’s Scroungers competition saw first-round wins to Mark Mawson, John Askew and Andy McDougall. Askew went on to take the overall win, while Andrew Butler claimed the B Grade title.

On Sunday, 26 players took part in a competitive social bowls afternoon. The winning team—Tony Kelly (skip), Cathie Harris (lead) and Mel Fennell (second)—held their nerve in a close finish.

Meanwhile, at Sarina, the Champion of Champions Men’s Fours saw our team—Manny Isgro (skip), Bob McMahon, Luke Kinnear and Russell Jackson—defeat Proserpine in the semi-final before sealing a 20–18 victory over South Suburban with a thrilling last-bowl finish by Manny.

Looking ahead, Dan Dowell will represent the club in Monday’s Ladies B Grade Champion of Champions final, and Betty Whitehorn returns Tuesday for the A Grade Champion of Champions. Best of luck to both.

Well done to all involved in a standout week for ABBC. Safe travels to our visiting bowlers—we look forward to welcoming you back soon.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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A Grade Champion Betty Whitehorn

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After an extended period on the road, Whitsunday United's senior men returned to home turf over the weekend, hosting Country in two competitive matches.

Division 2 opened strongly, converting early pressure into a 1–0 lead. However, two quickfire goals from Country just before halftime turned the momentum. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Whitsunday equalising to draw level, only for Country to find a late winner. The match ended in a narrow 3–2 loss for WUFC, despite a spirited performance.

Division 1 entered the match eager to reverse the result from their previous encounter with Country. Whitsunday took a 1–0 lead in the first half and dominated possession throughout, but Country’s defensive setup made it difficult to add to the scoreline. Despite creating numerous opportunities, WUFC couldn’t break through again, settling for a 1–0 win. While the result was positive, the team will be working on strategies to overcome deep defensive lines.

In youth fixtures, the Under 13 Prems claimed a thrilling 4–3 victory over Dolphins at Mackay Football Park. After conceding early, WUFC responded with goals to Alex D, Bailey B, and Mayson M to lead 3–1 at halftime. Sam C added a fourth before Dolphins scored twice to set up a tense finish, but Whitsunday held on for the win.

The Under 14s put on a commanding display against Lions in Mackay, winning 5–2. Austin opened the scoring with a brilliant strike from left-back, followed by goals to Shannon, Charlie, and a well-placed header from Shannon off Nick M’s corner. Despite a strong Lions start to the second half and two quick goals, Charlie’s second sealed the match for WUFC.

The Under 16s faced a tough away clash against ladder leaders Lions Green. Lions took advantage of the wind in the first half to go up 5–0. Despite the eventual 8–0 scoreline, which included a controversial penalty and an own goal, Whitsunday maintained their spirits, created chances, and found positives to take into their next match.

The Women’s Premier League side travelled to face a strong Magpies outfit, going down 0–5. Whitsunday spent long periods defending against Magpies’ dominant midfield. Defenders Claire and Loz stood strong under pressure, while Michelle and Karlee battled hard in midfield. Despite the score, the squad’s resilience remained evident, and they'll aim to bounce back against league leaders Lions next week.

Reserve Grade impressed with a commanding 6–1 win, featuring goals from Euan van den Bergh, Kobi Miller, Aaron Kinsella (2), Pepe Perea, and Cialan Dollard.

In Premier League, WUFC started confidently, with Cillian Crowe opening the scoring. Despite a promising start and several chances, Wanderers capitalised on set pieces to take a 2–1 lead into halftime. They added three more in the second half, with Sean McCarthy netting a late penalty to finish 5–2. The result marks a moment to regroup and refocus heading into the next round.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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The Whitsunday Powersports and Marine Mackerel and Reef Fish Rally was run and won over the 19-20 July weekend, despite testing conditions with persistent 20–25 knot southeasterly winds.

Club Secretary Steve Obst claimed the Champion Male title with an impressive 18.0kg Spanish mackerel caught on 10kg line. Malika Stolte took out Champion Lady Angler with a solid 9.4kg mackerel, while Jasmin Smith tagged and released two Spanish mackerel to be crowned Champion Junior Female. Kirra Martin was runner-up in the junior category, tagging and releasing one Spanish mackerel, and also secured the Reef Fish section win.

Nine-year-old Benson Smith earned a special mention for his outstanding effort battling a large sailfish for 30 minutes on 8kg line, only to lose it at the side of the boat—a mighty effort in challenging conditions.

Braxton Jacobs received the Encouragement Award for tagging a longtail tuna—his first ever game fish and surely not his last.

The presentation was held at the rear of Club Whitsunday, where staff served up delicious pizza and warm hospitality.

Next on the Whitsunday Game Fish Club calendar is the Billfish and Tuna Rally on September 13, preceded by a detailed bait and tackle rigging demo on September 4 at the club.

This rally is a great opportunity to fine-tune your skills ahead of the club’s major three-day Light Tackle Tournament, set for October 16–19. Get in early, as spots are limited.

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore

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Steve Obst with winning Mackerel.
Champion Junior Female Jasmin Smith.
All the prize winners.

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There were great numbers across the board despite some less-than-perfect weather on Friday. From stableford events to the Centenary Opens, there was something for everyone—and even a hole-in-one to cap it all off!

Tuesday 29 July
The week began with a Stableford round. Ryan Wilkes took out the Men’s comp with 39 points, just ahead of Aaron Prosser on 38. Trish McNeill was in top form to win the Ladies with 42 points, while Heather Luvis followed with 36. Notable NTPs included Ryan Wilkes (9th) and Sherri Meade (2nd).

Veterans travelled to Home Hill, where Proserpine’s Robyn Whitham won the Ladies event with 38 points, and Barry Mortimer was runner-up in the Men’s on countback.

Wednesday 30 July
Karen Oni claimed the Ladies win with 38 points, narrowly ahead of Anna Winterbourn (37), while Brad Fleet took the Men’s with 37 points from Jon Miller (36).

Thursday 31 July
A Medley Stableford saw John Grosskreutz win A Grade with 40 points. Peter Fox led B Grade with an impressive 42 points. Visiting NTPs included Homer Koster (Glenelg GC) and Anastasis Papatolis.

Friday 1 August – Ladies’ Centenary Open
Sara Hagy was crowned Open Champion with a 74 gross. Trish McNeill (66 nett) and Jacqui Wall (68 nett) took the top nett honours in A and B Grades, while Robyn Whitham won C Grade (39 points).

Saturday 2 August – Mixed Centenary Foursomes
Rhiannon and Brendan Nott claimed the gross win with 78, while Wendy Grendon and Theo Poelstra won the nett with 68.

Sunday 3 August – Men’s Centenary Open (27 Holes)
Congratulations to Boyd Vickers for a spectacular hole-in-one on the 13th!
Levi Holmes was crowned Open Champion with a 103 gross in A Grade, while Ben Harrison won the A Grade nett (107).

B Grade honours went to Brent Franke (122 gross) and Chris Brett (104 nett), both on countback. In C Grade, Kale Malone (136 gross) and Chris Pirlo (106 nett) topped the field.

A fantastic week of golf and camaraderie—well done to all involved!

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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