It’s been a massive week at Airlie Beach Bowls Club, with plenty of action both on and off the green.

First up, the final results of the Men’s Pennants are in. While the season didn’t end as hoped, considering the size and strength of the opposition clubs, our teams held their own and showed promising signs for next season.

Division 1 finished 5th with 20.5 points
Division 3 finished 5th with 12 points
Division 5 finished 6th with 10 points
Division 6 placed 5th with 16.5 points, which included a forfeit

We’re already looking ahead to next year with stronger, more balanced teams and added experience across the board.

On Tuesday, our ladies travelled to Sarina for the Johnson Shield – and for the first time ever, made it through to the finals! A proud moment for the club.
Betty Whitehorn won her singles match against West Tigers, while Betty Nicole and the ever-energetic Carol Crosbie took out the pairs. Joan McGrath skipped a team supported by Wendy Pomeroy (third), Elaine Kippen (second) and Regina Aquilina (lead) in a nail-biting final.

Back at home, 18 players contested three games of triples, with the day's prize going to the team led by Tony Whitehorn, alongside Maureen Barnard and Greg Fennell, after winning with the lowest margin.

Wednesday social bowls welcomed visitors from Victoria and New Zealand, while Tony Whitehorn’s team again came out on top with a commanding 31–11 win.

Wednesday night Business House Bowls continues to grow, with this week’s standout being CES Electrical—featured Stay tuned for full team results and Men’s 3 Bowl Triples scores next week.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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CES Electrical from the Wednesday night Business House Bowls. Photo supplied

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With Pennants now completed, attention at Proserpine Bowls Club has turned to the Club Championships, and competition is heating up.

On Saturday morning, fiercely contested Club Championship Singles matches were played. Jonathan Bye defeated Dale Haack 27–20, while Andrew Bell claimed a commanding 25–4 win over Philip Brown. Bye backed up on Sunday morning with a strong 25–11 win against Brett Saroglia.

The Singles Championship is now just a couple of games away from completion. Andrew Bell will take on Marcus Craig in the final semi-final, with the winner to face Jonathan Bye in the grand final. The Champion of Champions for Singles will be held at Souths Suburban on August 23 and 24.

In Saturday’s B Singles action, Bruce Uhe edged out Trevor Parsons 25–24 in a nail-biting match. Plenty of games remain before the B Singles Champion of Champions, to be held at St Helens on September 20 and 21.

Saturday afternoon featured Club Championship Pairs. Gavin Noonan and Brett Saroglia defeated Bryan Davy and Luchie Gardel 27–9, while David Ling and Andrew Bell overcame Barry Saroglia and Gavin Milne 28–18. That result makes Ling and Bell the first pair to secure a semi-final spot. The Champion of Champions for Pairs will be hosted at Proserpine on August 9 and 10.

In social bowls, Arthur Griffith and Trevor Parsons defeated John Anderson and Vince Olsen 31–14 on Wednesday. Alen Sanderson, Garry Alexander and Sandy Daffara also had a win, 19–11.

Sunday saw more strong performances, including wins by teams skipped by Mike Harrison and Nev Smith.

Friday night’s Barefoot Bowls was another success, with a great turnout enjoying a relaxed night on the greens. Thanks go to the volunteers who make this monthly event possible.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Mackay Table Tennis Results for Tuesday 24th June 2025

Morning Fixture Results

Division 1 Ghost Spins (George Camilleri, Branko Vucurovic, Bryan Marshall) defeated Panther Prowlers (Doug Dungavell, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 8-4.  Ant Warriors (Allan Robins, Judy Zahn, Don Boettcher) defeated Cosmic Sorcerers (Delma Knight, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) 7-5.  Phoenix Fire (Donna Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Noreen Frederickson) defeated Star Lords (Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-5.

Division 2 Nova Smashers (Marie Taylor, Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) def. Astro Aces (Iris Grasso, John Hamelink, Chris Collins) 10-2.  Eclipse Spin (Helen Ware, Ken Best, Virginia Clayton) def. Orion Orbiters (Ross DeBoer, Kim Daffy, Robyn Bushell) 10-2.

Division 3 Bat Servers (Kim Challendar, Madge Saunders, Ron Johr) def. Spider Smashes (Gerry Synnott, Cheryl Pearson, Glenda Dutton) 9-3. Captin Spins (Josie Davis, Sharon Muller, Myles Dutton) def. Iron Rallies (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Laurie Bradshaw) 8-4.

Tuesday Night Fixture Results – FINALS

Division 1 finals were between Pixal Paddles (Goncalo Serra, Robbie Richards and Trent Day) and Data Dashers (Josh Brown, Barry Patterson and Niro Premachandra) after both teams having played extremely well all season. There was a winner takes all match between Barry Patterson and Robbie Richards, with Robbie defeating Barry 3-2 (-8,6,-8,8,9) in a well fought match by both players due to all other members being absent.  Leading Player for Division 1 was Emma Widdup

Division 2 finals battle between Quantum Quick (Mark Sleeman, Rymer Tabulo and Ollie Hamelink) and Robo Rallies (Will VanDeKaa, Noreen Fredericksen and Tiffany Camilleri) had some tight 5 set matches which finished with Quantum Quicks winning 8-3.  The battle between Noreen and Ollie was tight as always with Noreen defeating Ollie 3-2 (10,-10,-13,9,7).  Leading Player for Division 2 was Syed Aminul Hossain.

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Mackay Table Tennis saw strong competition on Tuesday, June 24, with Ghost Spins, Nova Smashers, and Bat Servers among the morning winners, while Pixal Paddles and Quantum Quick claimed victory in the Division 1 and 2 night finals. Photo source: Mackay Table Tennis Association

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A Martial Arts Weekend To Remember

If energy could be bottled, the Northern Beaches would be glowing. Such was the atmosphere during the Gasshuku – an intensive karate training camp hosted by the Northern Beaches Karate Club.

The event brought together seven high-level instructors from across Australia, including two Shihans and a 7th Dan Master from Los Angeles. Their combined expertise provided valuable instruction to students of all levels, from the youngest beginners to the most senior martial artists. The weekend was led by Sensei Helle, who also runs the local club and served as Master of Ceremonies.

In martial arts, a black belt represents a Dan ranking, while those who reach 5th Dan and above are recognised as Shihans – Master Instructors or teachers of teachers. A Sensei is a teacher within their Dojo, or training hall.

Karate

The weekend's focus was on refining kata (a detailed, choreographed sequence of martial arts movements), improving fitness, sparring skills, self-defence and anti-bullying techniques. It wasn't all physical, however – participants also explored dojo etiquette, kata principles, and the philosophy of Budo (the Warrior’s Path).

To balance the intensity, the instructors incorporated games throughout the camp. The sounds of laughter and joy underscored the sense of camaraderie and enjoyment among students.

The Cultural Exchange

Beyond the physical elements, the camp offered a deep dive into Japanese culture and its connection to martial arts. Central to this cultural exploration were the values of respect, discipline, and continuous self-improvement – hallmarks of traditional Japanese philosophy.

Cultural Ambassador Martha, of Japanese and Brazilian heritage, spoke about the challenges of learning and honouring another culture within the dojo, especially in a regional centre like Mackay.

The Tea Ceremony

The weekend concluded with a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony presented by Shihan Tracy from Adelaide. Having achieved level four of the 12 formal training levels, Shihan Tracy shared insights into the practice, which has taken her years to study.

Historically, the Tea Ceremony was performed by the highest-ranking warrior before battle. Upon the army's return, the newly appointed highest-ranked warrior would serve tea to the others. The ritual involves taking the cup in the right hand, turning it to face oneself, taking three sips, and then passing it on. Before drinking, participants eat a red bean slice, followed by the bitter green tea.

In its modern form, the Tea Ceremony remains an act of peace, harmony, and respect. While the tradition once involved sharing a single cup, today's ceremonies often use individual cups and can extend over several hours.

Training

Training for the weekend began Thursday night, followed by formal grading on Friday, where several guest instructors were in attendance. After each day’s sessions, well-attended social gatherings provided an opportunity to unwind and reflect on the experience.

The Northern Beaches Karate Club holds regular classes during school terms on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Bucasia Community Hall in Wallace Avenue. Sensei Helle also runs self-defence courses for women and girls, with the next scheduled for Saturday, 13 September, from 9am to 3pm.

For more information, phone 0488 146 644.

By Gerri Kissner

Northern Beaches Karate Club hosted a vibrant weekend of karate, culture, and tradition – featuring top instructors from Australia and a 7th Dan Master from LA, plus a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony. Photos supplied

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Climbing the master rankings this month were Marilin Robins, who achieved Silver National Master status, and Adrian Westcott, now recognised as a Local Master.

Weekly Results

Monday 23 June 2025 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 3rd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt

Tuesday Evening 24 June 2025 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Ken Seaniger / Sandra Morris
3rd Griffin Bancroft / Patricia Garner 3rd John McGee / Mick King
5th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 6th Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

Wednesday 25 June 2025 – Week 12 of 25 NWP 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 2nd Griffin Bancroft / Victor Mason
3rd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris 3rd Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley

Thursday Evening 26 June 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes 4th Mick King / John McGee

Friday 27 June 2025 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 1st Victor Mason / Josie Crowley
2nd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd Joy Robinson / Barbara Tait 3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox

Saturday 28 June 2025 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden
2nd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Broek 2nd Sandy Patterson / Robert Carless
3rd Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 3rd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
4th Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill 4th Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
5th Joy Robinson / Barbara Tait 5th John McGee / Mick King

Sunday 29 June 2025 – Novice and Mentors – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Hold / Anne Lutz 1st Adrian Westcott / Rodney Miles
2nd Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes 2nd Susan Gibson / Karen Caldwell
3rd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 3rd Diane Morgan / Patricia Wong

By Joy Block

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Marilin Robins and Adrian Westcott. Photo supplied

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The Tuesday night Ladies Twilight Warehouse Bowls competition has proven a hit with new players, offering a relaxed and welcoming environment to learn the game and enjoy some friendly competition.
Designed specifically to encourage beginners, the competition has seen most participants take to the greens for the very first time. In just a few short weeks, the improvement among the ladies has been remarkable, with players showing greater confidence and skill each round.

With the current season wrapping up, excitement is already building for the next one, which will commence on Monday, 8 July and run for seven weeks.

Best wishes go to Brenda Trannore and Ann Smith, who will go head-to-head in the hotly anticipated B Grade final on Wednesday, 2 July — a match sure to draw a crowd.

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New players are thriving in the Tuesday night Ladies Twilight Warehouse Bowls competition, which blends fun, friendship and rapid skill development in a supportive setting. Photo supplied

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New coaching structure takes shape ahead of double-header weekend

There’s a new leader in the huddle for the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors, with Mackay Basketball announcing a mid-season coaching change as the team eyes a strong finish to the NBL1 North regular season.

Head Coach Matt Paps was officially released from his duties this week, with the club thanking him for his contributions and wishing him well for the future. Stepping into the role is none other than veteran guard and team leader Brad Rasmussen, who will now serve as player-coach for the remainder of the 2025 season.

“Rassy’s leadership on and off the court has already proven to be a valuable asset to the group,” said club president Tara Smyth in a statement. “We believe this collaborative coaching approach will support both individual player growth and overall team success as we head into the final rounds.”

Rasmussen won’t be alone in the transition, with assistant coaches Bayden Matheson and Brendan Healy continuing in their roles to provide consistency. For this weekend’s road trip north, Rasmussen will be supported by Merron Jamerson on the sidelines as he fulfils a prior playing commitment.

The shift comes on the back of a mixed bag of results from Round 9, with the Meteors falling 86–98 to Ipswich despite a spirited effort, while the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes stormed to a 95–73 victory in a dominant display.

This weekend, both teams face a crucial road double-header against Townsville and Cairns. The Meteors, under new guidance, will be aiming to bounce back with renewed energy, while the in-form Meteorettes will look to extend their winning momentum.

The countdown to finals is on — and all eyes are now on how the new coaching structure plays out under pressure.

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The Mackay Cutters delivered a dominant double-header at BB Print Stadium over the weekend, with both their men's and women's teams securing impressive victories over Central Queensland rivals, the Capras.

In the BMD Premiership, the Cutters women showcased their class with a commanding 30–4 triumph. The home side controlled the match from the outset, combining clinical attack with determined defence to shut down the Capras and keep their finals hopes alive.

Later that afternoon, it was the men's turn to shine in the Hostplus Cup clash — and they didn’t disappoint. In what was dubbed the “Battle of the Central,” the Cutters overpowered the Capras 32–12 in a resounding performance.

Speedster Jimmy Ngutlik proved electric out wide, crossing twice and causing headaches for the Capras defence all game. Halfback Ryan Rivett was in fine form, racking up two line breaks and a try, steering the team with precision in attack.

Up front, John Radel led the charge with a remarkable defensive effort — 52 tackles without a miss — reinforcing his reputation as one of the hardest workers in the competition.

Despite the result, Capras forward Nixon Putt was a standout for the visitors, running for more than 200 metres and scoring a gritty try in a losing effort.

The win puts the Cutters on equal competition points with the eighth-placed PNG Hunters, separated only by five points on differential as the finals race heats up.

In more good news for regional fans, Queensland Sport Minister Tim Mander announced the schedule for this year’s Country Week, with a full Hostplus Cup round set to be staged across seven rural towns on the weekend of July 26–27.

Communities including Moranbah, Charters Towers, Emerald, Yarrabah, Augathella, Gayndah and Goondiwindi will host Round 19 matches, giving locals a rare chance to see top-level footy in their own backyard.

“The economic benefits of Country Week will be substantial, but the greatest benefit for these communities will be seeing first-hand current and future NRL stars and future Maroons in the Hostplus Cup,” Minister Mander said.

“These players are more than athletes — they’re role models — and their presence in country towns can have a lasting impact, inspiring kids to pick up a ball, get active, and dream big.”

Queensland Rugby League competitions manager Dave Maiden echoed those sentiments, saying Country Week was about more than just footy.

“The 2025 season is one of the closest and most fiercely contested on record, and with so many even match-ups across this round, local footy fans are in for an absolute treat,” he said.

“Young boys and girls get to meet and watch many players with NRL experience. They get to dream, to be inspired. And the players themselves receive a big lift from the experience because they get a glimpse of the challenges that many outback teams face just to get a game. It builds perspective, gratitude and connection — and that’s what makes this week so special.”

For the Cutters, the focus now turns to the final stretch of the season — with momentum, belief and a potential finals berth within reach.

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Photo source: Mackay Cutters

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The Proserpine Golf Club enjoyed a fine week of competition to round out June, with improved weather and strong participation across multiple events. Among the highlights, juniors Levi Holmes and Blake Lovelock proudly represented PGC High School at the Queensland Northern Region School Sports Championships — gaining valuable experience on the big stage.

Tuesday saw the postponed April Monthly Medal played out in stroke format, with Scott Mason taking out the men’s event with a nett 68, ahead of David Woods on 70. For the ladies, Tina Badenhorst claimed victory with 69, narrowly edging out Heather Luvis on 70. Notable NTPs went to Brad Fleet, Corey Stroud, Elspeth Scotford, and Leanne Alexander.

The Vets also completed their Monthly Medal and putts event on Tuesday. Tina Badenhorst once again came out on top for the ladies, with David Woods winning the men’s division. A full list of NTPs included consistent efforts from Badenhorst, Luvis, Robyn Whitham, and others.

Wednesday’s Ladies’ Monthly Medal and Putts, sponsored by PD Law, saw Paula McQuat top the leaderboard with a nett 70. Tina Badenhorst followed on 72, with Lyn Muller placing third on countback.

Thursday’s stableford competition featured standout scores from Brendon Meharry (43 points in B Grade) and Lewy Tuck (39 points in A Grade). Edwina Pettiford impressed with 39 points, placing runner-up in B Grade and top of the ladies' division.

Friday’s 9-hole run, sponsored by the Metropole Hotel, saw Andrew Smart (22 points) and Owen Clarke (21) leading the charge. NTPs were awarded to Corey Stroud and Tony Chapple.

Saturday saw strong fields and tight finishes. In the men’s A Grade, Tony Goss narrowly won on countback from Jason Bourke with 36 points, while Blake Davis claimed B Grade with 38. For the ladies, Jenny Hounsell was the standout with 41 points, followed by Tiina Randmae and Heather Luvis.

Sunday’s single stableford wrapped up the week, with Aaron Prosser posting 39 points to win the men’s event, and Peta Thomas taking out the ladies’ comp with 34. NTPs went to Levi Holmes, Danny York, Tim Frew, and Sara Hagy.

Next week is Monthly Medal week, with highlights to include veterans playing in Bowen, Wednesday’s ladies’ comp sponsored by PD Law, and the men’s and Saturday Monthly Medal events sponsored by Venuesmart and the Metropole Hotel.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary in style, smashing entry records and attracting the second-largest professional field in Queensland, behind only the iconic Noosa Triathlon.

Set for Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 August, this year’s festival will see athletes from across the country descend on the wonderful Whitsundays, Heart of the Great Barrier Reef, to compete in one of Australia’s most scenic and exciting multisport events.

Race Director Michael Kimpton said the milestone event had cemented its place as a must-do on the national triathlon calendar.

“There’s a reason we call it the triathlon in paradise,” Kimpton said.

“With record-breaking numbers, a world-class course, and stunning views at every turn, the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is a perfect showcase of everything the Whitsundays has to offer - sport, scenery, and community spirit.”

This year’s standard distance event features an exciting new bike course, taking riders along a more challenging route out to the breathtaking Shute Harbour Marina, offering scenic climbs and descents against a backdrop of ocean and rainforest.

The run leg will once again wind along the picturesque Airlie Beach boardwalk, hugging the edge of the Coral Sea and immersing athletes in the region’s tropical beauty.

Adding to the family-friendly atmosphere, Saturday 16 August is dedicated to the Junior Triathlon and Enticer events, giving young athletes and first-timers the chance to shine. This year’s junior events will include amazing random draw prizes—so every participant has the chance to walk away a winner. This year’s novice Ocean Swim event will have an ‘anything goes’ caveat, with participants allowed flippers, floaties, noodles or snorkels to help them around the course.

Also returning in 2025 is the popular Corporate Triathlon Challenge on Sunday 17 August, an all-in-good-fun relay race where local businesses and organisations form teams to take on the swim, bike, and run legs together.

Open to workplaces of all sizes, it’s a great opportunity to promote health and wellbeing, build team spirit, and enjoy a laugh outside the office while vying for the title of “fittest team in town."

With a mix of fierce competition and light-hearted camaraderie, the Corporate Challenge adds another exciting dimension to the weekend, showcasing the strong community and business support behind the event.

The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is proudly supported by naming rights partner Coral Sea Marina Resort, over 50 local sponsors, and the incredible work of dedicated local volunteers.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of 25 years of triathlon in paradise — whether you’re racing, cheering, or soaking up the atmosphere, this is a weekend you won’t want to miss.

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The Junior Triathlon is on Saturday 16 August, followed by the Sprint and Olympic distance on Sunday. Photo supplied

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Nineteen members of the Whitsunday Running Club braved the rough seas to take part in the Great Whitehaven Beach Run in treacherous conditions with a 25 knott south easterly blowing.

The female members of the club took out the trifecta in the half marathon with Liv Compton finishing ahead of Aimee Sulzberger and Alison Scoles. In the 10k race Riana Wronski finished strongly in second place.

The male members of the club also achieved some great results with Roland Henderson placing second in the half marathon after leading the race until 1 km from the end. Justin Knight-Gray finished first in his age category and Ken ‘Dropbear’ Page came in third behind him.

Club Coach, Mark McConkey won his age category in the 10km with a great run home against the strong south easterly and Owen Lee finished second in his age category.
The 5km race saw Jody Mulholland finish second in her age category and Rebecca Hadley second with Karen McConkey third in their age category. In the older age category Greg Coulson was second and Tim McQuoid-Mason placed third.

The President of the Whitsunday Running Club said "Despite some very extreme conditions our members performed amazingly well and there were many happy faces once their runs were completed."

"I did however hear 'that sucked' repeated several times after the racing was completed."

Contribtued with thanks to Whitsunday Running Club

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Photo credit: Hamilton Island Photography

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The Cannonvale Cannons’ youngest swimmers are proof that swimming is not only about medals—it’s about friendship, fun, and the joy in the journey, not just the finish line.

We sat down with six of our youngest Cannons to find out what they love most about swimming and being part of the Cannons family.

For Miranda, it’s all about the fun of club nights and racing her dog Chilli in her imagination. Lennox loves practicing his dives and seeing his “swim friends” each week, he also imagines a dog poolside would make him swim faster. Pippa thinks a capybara would be the ideal animal to bring to training for their love of the water. She also loves our war cry and diving into a good breaststroke set.

Isaac’s favourite part of swimming is duck dives and Milo ice cream afterwards. Stella enjoys chasing her personal bests and a solid set of double arm backstroke, while Leo says he likes our 25m pool and that it never hurts his eyes (thanks Mark for managing those chlorine levels perfectly!).

When asked to name their favourite event of the season, Club Championships received multiple votes—a sign that our end-of-season celebration remains a highlight for junior swimmers. And it wasn’t the only favourite—with most of our Mini Cannons voting club nights as a highlight of being a Cannon, thanks to the fun, friendly atmosphere and chance to swim alongside their mates.

The Cannonvale Cannons cater to swimmers of all ages and abilities, with a focus on community, confidence, and fun. Whether your child dreams of going to Nationals or just wants to have a splash with new friends, we’d love to welcome you to the pool deck. Club nights resume Wednesday 6th August, and we welcome new families to come along and see what we’re all about.

And in case you’re wondering— it was unanimous amongst our mini cannons that they would much prefer to swim in a pool of jelly over spaghetti.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Stella and Leo Mulliss, Lennox Wild, Pippa Laguna, Isaac Lawson and Miranda Palmero. Photo supplied

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It was another busy and social week at Wangaratta Bowls Club, with action across several competitions, social events, and Friday night barefoot bowls.

Monday Triples Dominated by Irymple Crew

Monday’s self-selected triples saw the in-form Irymple crew of France Wilmann, Jenny Healey and Chris Healey claim victory over Meryl Elphinstone, Isobel Wheeler and Robyn Stitt. The Irymple side has been enjoying a strong run of form on Mondays in recent weeks.

Runners-up were Ken Rod and Mark, who overcame Neil Chittenden, Jan Dawson and John Harding. The jackpot remained unclaimed.

Tuesday Afternoon Play Produces Tight Results

On Tuesday, Toni Bowen, John Hayson and Robyn Stitt edged out John Maher, Robyn Crawford and Owen Swanton for the win.

Runners-up were S. Smith, A. Fitzgerald and Margaret Wilson, who claimed their match against Pam Breakwell, John Hallas and Maureen Hyde. Once again, the jackpot went begging.

Friday Socials Bring Energy On and Off the Green

Following Friday morning bingo, bowlers returned for the always-popular Friday afternoon social bowls. Winners were Maureen Hyde, Pam Breakwell and Bob Dykstra, who defeated Judy Christie, Peter Hopkins and Bert Madge. Carol Bellingham earned the resting toucher.

Friday night barefoot bowls continues to grow in popularity, with another enthusiastic crowd turning out for a fun evening.

Courtney, Jack and Aimee Reuben scored a win over Megan, Kate, Jamie and Ella, while Robyn, Terry and Elaine defeated Gary, John and Blake. Barefoot bowls runs weekly from 5:30pm and all are welcome to join in the fun.

Ladies A Singles Final Delivers Exciting Finish

Sunday morning saw the final of the Ladies A Singles played between Denise Wallace and Penny Warren. Penny got off to a strong start, but Denise fought back bravely, narrowly falling short in a thrilling finish.

Penny will go on to represent the club in the District Champion of Champions event, while both she and Denise will also contest the club pairs title, a title they’ve already claimed together.

Sunday Social Winners and Club Representation

Sunday’s social bowls winners were Trish, Robyn and Mark on Rink 6, who defeated John, Karon and Allan.
Runners-up were Natalia Hand, Bruce Thompson and David Madden, who beat Graham Smith, Sue Symmons and Heide Reif. The jackpot remained untouched.

Meanwhile, the club’s men’s side competed in the Dunn Cup last week, with several close games but no tournament success this time around.

Cent Sale This Saturday

A reminder to all members and supporters that the club’s annual Cent Sale is on this Saturday, 5 July. The event will be held at the clubhouse, with doors opening at 12 noon and the sale starting at 1:30pm. There’ll be plenty of great prizes up for grabs.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Ladies A Singles Final 2025. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday United teams were in action across Mackay and at home over the weekend, producing a mix of hard-fought results, strong performances, and signs of steady improvement across the club.

The Divisional Men travelled to Mackay for two top-of-the-table clashes against Lions. Division 2 played with intensity and created several chances, but a harsh handball penalty saw them trail early. They bounced back to 1-1 by halftime and took the lead shortly after the break, but Lions responded strongly to secure a 3-2 win. Division 1 were determined to get a result and started aggressively, dominating early play. However, they went down 2-0 after two scrappy Lions goals either side of the break. A spirited fightback saw Whitsunday equalise through two well-executed set pieces, earning a 2-2 draw.

In junior action, the U13 Division 1 side battled hard but fell 4-1 to Lions. Logan P headed in the equaliser from a Nick J corner to level the game before halftime. The team showed great intent and created several promising chances but couldn’t convert in the second half.

The U13 Prems delivered two outstanding performances. On Saturday, they cruised to an 18-1 win over Wanderers Red. Daly G scored four goals, with hat-tricks from Nelson M and Alex D, and additional goals from Bailey B (2), Remy S, Jackson P, Prahbpreet S, and Sam C. Wanderers also conceded two own goals. On Sunday, the team followed up with a 5-2 win over Mackay Dolphins at home. Nelson M scored twice, with Bailey B, Jackson P and Isaac P also on the scoresheet in a clinical second-half showing.

The U14s had a dramatic 4-3 win over Dolphins on Saturday. Eli W opened the scoring in the 4th minute, followed by goals from Shannon and another from Eli after a Charlie cross. Leading 4-0, Whitsunday were put under pressure when Dolphins scored three quick goals, but the defence held on for the win. The U14 FQPL team backed it up on Sunday with a 3-1 home win over Dolphins. Shannon equalised before halftime, with Noah and Kobe adding second-half goals to seal the result.

The U16s faced Country on Saturday, looking to improve on their previous match. Kai converted a penalty to give them a 1-0 halftime lead. After a Country equaliser, another penalty restored Whitsunday’s advantage, but two goals from corners saw them fall 3-2. Sunday’s match against top-placed Dolphins was another big test. A strong first half saw Reef finish off a slick team move to level at 1-1, and a penalty kept them in the game at 3-2. Dolphins eventually pulled away, but Whitsunday showed promising signs despite the 6-2 loss.

In senior women’s football, the Premier Ladies played out a 1-1 draw with Wanderers. Bre converted a penalty after Sarah was brought down, while strong defensive efforts from Sophie A and Sophie M helped keep the side in the game.

The Men’s FQPL U23s continued their winning run with a dominant 6-2 victory over Rangers. Max O’Keeffe scored twice and earned man of the match honours, with standout contributions from Cialan Dollard, Euan van Den Bergh and Tony Gracieux. In the FQPL Men’s game, Rangers took a 2-0 lead before Whitsunday surged late, with Sam Thornton and Sean McCarthy scoring to secure a 2-2 draw.

Across all age groups, Whitsunday United showed character, effort and teamwork—laying strong foundations for the season ahead.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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The Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival will be held along the foreshore over the weekend of 19/20 July 2025.

A record number of entries have already been received for the marathon and half marathon and there are not many places left. At least 600 runners are expected to line up to run over the weekend.

Entries have been received from every state and territory in Australia. There are also entries from New Zealand, Hong Kong, Canada, USA, France, England, Scotland and Sweden.
Last year’s winners of the women’s marathon (Liv Compton) and half marathon (Clare Ashworth) and men’s half marathon winner (Billy Grogan) have all signed up to defend their titles.

The festival offers several races over various distances: 42 k, 21k, 10k, 5k, 2k, 1k and 1 mile. It caters for all ages from 4 to 100 with gold medals for first place in most age categories.

The festival offers a corporate challenge for teams of 3 to 10 members. The quickest three runners’ times are used to determine the winner of the floating trophy that can be displayed over the next 12 months.

There are cash prizes for the open podium finishers in the Magic Mile on Saturday afternoon and the Primary School Challenge with the most participants on a percentage basis will also receive a cash prize and floating trophy.

One of the highlights on the Sunday is the mascots race immediately before the junior events at approximately 9:30 am. There are also a record number of mascots and Batman has called in to say he can make it this year.

The Event Director, Tim McQuoid-Mason said, “This year’s festival will be the largest ever and there will be plenty of entertainment for runners and spectators with live music on the course and at the race precinct.”

There are still places available for anyone interested in entering, so go to www.runairlie.com.au .

Contributed with thanks to Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival

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Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival is coming up soon. Are you Ready? Photo credit: Phil Copp Photography

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