Miles Woods, or ‘Milo’ to friends, is the dynamic founder and president of Whitsunday Blokart Club, where his passion for performance Blokart land sailing has turned calm, breezy beaches into adrenaline pumping raceways. Since purchasing his first Blokart in April 2019, Milo has menaced his competition on a heart-thumping journey of speed, camaraderie and triumphs that have made him stick out like a sore thumb in Queensland’s and Australia’s land sailing scene.

Milo’s love of Blokarting was set alight in the flames of 2019 Mid-Winter Bash in Mulumbin, where the art of the blokart and the community surrounding it had hooked him instantaneously. Now a regular on the Queensland circuit he has accumulated an impressive number of wins. Milo carved out his territory on the international Blokarting scene, claiming his first title in the Performance Heavyweight Division at Lake Ivanpah, the Mecca of land sailing in the United States.

On the domestic front, he dominated the Southeast Queensland 2.5 hour Marathon in Woodgate, finishing 5 kilometres ahead in second place. His grandest victory however, came at the 2025 Australian National Championships in Waratah Bay, Victoria. In the face of challenging light winds and soft sand, Milo captured a one-point lead by winning all six races on the final day of competition, earning the Middleweight Title.

“Life isn’t about how many breaths we take. It’s about how many things we do that take or breath away” said Milo, capturing the essence of his love for Blokarting.

With decades of experience racing windsurfers, Hobie cats, and yachts, Milo brings a wealth of knowledge to his sport. His ‘Blokart’ grin is infectious, and he is always eager to share tips with newcomers to the sport. Blokarting was invented in New Zealand in 1999 and has swiftly gained global popularity, with over 16,000 Blokarts manufactured and shipped worldwide as of 2024. This made Milo’s achievement in the National Championships even more sweet as he cheerfully declared that he “ smoked” the New Zealand team, beating them at their own game.

As club president, Milo aims to nurture a  growing sport that welcomes families and thrill-seekers alike. Whether mentoring novices or racing at world-class events, he’s committed to making land sailing a Whitsunday staple.

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Blowkart lined up on the beach. Photo Supplied.
Miles Woods, Founder and President of Whitsunday Blokart Club, Current Australian National Champion.

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Tour de Cure’s is heading north for eight unforgettable days of cycling through Queensland. From Airlie Beach to Port Douglas, 190 riders and support crew will travel more than 1,000 kilometres across some of North Queensland’s most scenic and lesser-travelled roads.

This isn’t just a ride, it’s a powerful movement to help cure cancer. Tour de Cure is a cancer-agnostic organisation, meaning funds raised support a wide range of cancer research, support services, and prevention projects. The fundraising goal for Signature Tour 2025 is $2 million, and has $902,870 already raised!

Along the route, the team will engage with local communities, meet ambassadors from regional cancer charities, and visit schools to speak with children about healthy, happy living.

Founded in 2007, Tour de Cure began with a vision to improve health outcomes for Australians. To date, the organisation has raised over $145 million, funded 1,198 cancer projects, educated 250,000 children, and contributed to 185 cancer research breakthroughs. Recognising the challenges faced by rural Australians, the Tour makes a lasting impact in each town it visits. Every night, $10,000 is donated to local cancer support projects, with funds presented at community dinners held throughout the tour. These donations go directly to grassroots services that make a real difference in the lives of local families.

Life Publishing Group will be able to cover this amazing tour as it begins in Airlie Beach, travels to Bowen, where-in after a day it will reach the sister-paper in Hinchinbrook as it rolls through Ingham.

If you would like to cheer the cyclist along their route, see the tour information below. (These dates and meeting locations are subject to change but what's currently planned for the schedule). If you would like to donate, you can do so online:signaturetour.tourdecure.com.au/donate

Day 1 - Airlie Beach to Bowen
Friday, 30 May 2025. 146km, 594m elevation.
Riders depart Airlie Beach Foreshore from 6am- 9am. The team will stop at Dingo Bay mid-morning. Finishes at Grays Beach, Bowen between 2-3pm.

Day 2 - Bowen to Townsville
Saturday, 31 May 2025. 'Journey' 157km (bus uplift to finish) 'Classic/Challenge' 209km, 761m elevation.

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Tour de Cure departs from Airlie Beach and roles through Bowen this May. Photo supplied

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The 2025 Australian Speedway Sidecar Championship, held over Easter weekend (April 19-20) at Bowen Speedway, exhilarated the Whitsundays, galvanising  Bowen as a hub of motorsport. Promoted by the NQ Speedway Riders & Supporters Club, this momentous event drew swathes of people to the granite-based track at Bowen Showgrounds, revived in 2019 after decades of history since 1927. For Bowen, a coastal gem of the Whitsundays, hosting this national championship was a triumph, magnifying local pride and boosting tourism. The event showcased the region’s ability to stage world-class spectacles, putting Bowen on the map alongside its stunning beaches and vibrant community spirit.

The championship was a tempestuous rollercoaster of highs and lows, with fierce rivalries and heart-stopping action. Mark Plaisted and passenger Ben Pitt, from Adelaide, captured the title in a thrilling final, overcoming tricky track conditions that varied across rounds. Mark credited his team and praised Mike Zahlen’s bike for their edge in the competition. Meanwhile, Justin Plaisted, brother of Mark and also from Adelaide, battled back from an early exclusion to secure fourth place, showcasing heart and resilience. “Once you make the finals, anything can happen,” Justin noted, reflecting the event’s unpredictability. Crashes punctuated the races, with sidecars,1000cc beasts with no brakes, skidding on tight turns, spraying dirt pebbles onto the roaring crowd, amplifying the raw intensity of the sport.

The atmosphere was electric, fuelled by the speed and screaming sound of sidecar engines hitting 100+ km/h, their engines snarling and fuel fumes pervading through the air. Spectators, from toddlers to grandparents, felt the adrenaline as riders and passengers leaned into curves, mere inches from the ground. The crowd’s cheers swelled to a crescendo  with each pass, dirt flecks dusting their faces, creating a visceral connection to the action. Bowen’s supportive audience, praised by both Plaisted brothers, turned the Showgrounds into a cauldron of excitement, with families soaking in the family-friendly vibe. “The Bowen crowd was awesome, really behind us”, Mark noted, appreciating the enthusiastic turnout.

Food stalls added to the festive spirit, offering hot dogs, chips, burgers, and a range of beverages, including alcoholic for crowd members looking to spice up their night. These stalls, buzzing with activity, kept fans fueled as they mingled, swapped race predictions, and cheered for heroes like defending champions Darrin Treloar and Blake Cox, who pushed the leaders hard. The event’s inclusivity shone, with junior sidecar support races inspiring young fans and free pit access before 6 pm letting kids meet their idols. Mark, a sidecar racer since age 10, had a message for aspiring juniors, “Stick with it, from junior Speedway to chasing your dreams like I did.”

For Bowen and the Whitsundays, the championship was more than a race, it was a celebration of community, grit, and adrenaline. From Mark’s victory to Justin’s comeback, the highs and lows enchanted all, leaving families with memories of roaring engines, flying dirt, and shared joy, ensuring Bowen Speedway’s legacy burns bright.

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Racers doing a lap around the prior to races. Photo Credit: Munir Kilic.
Racers lining up for the finals . Photo Credit: Munir Kilic.
Racers battling out in the finals. Photo Credit: Munir Kilic.
Champion Mark Plaisted and Passenger Ben Pitt: Munir Kilic
Mark Plaisted and Ben Pitt on the podium. Photo Credit: Munir Kilic.

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Just a short time from entries opening for Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW) 2025, keen competitors started committing to the fun event and with 60 entries received to-date, it is a good start to what is sure to be another great week of racing and where fun doesn’t set with the sun from 7-14 August.

Entries have been received across the various classes. Looking healthy at this early stage is the Trailable Yachts & Sports Boats division and the boats are coming from far and wide.

New to Airlie Beach Race Week is a VX-One division. Terry Archer said, “This is a light and fast one-design boat and a number from Victoria have said they will be here, throwing down the gauntlet to those from other states to come and join them."

“The VX’s are gaining in status among the newer sports boat designs in the country. We feel they will be a great addition to our event and the Whitsundays offer the type of conditions they sail best in.”

A fun social program is also a magnet for ABRW. Live Music and food stalls at the Whitsunday Sailing Club nightly, a Long Late Lunch for those ashore, not to mention all the other delights on offer in the region, both on the water and shoreside. So much to see and do, why wouldn’t you want to join in?

No matter what type of boat you sail, there is a division for all at Airlie Beach Race Week, so go online now to enter and see Notice of Race: https://www.abrw.com.au/

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Photo credit: Andrea Francolini

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The Bowen Polocrosse Club kicked off its 2025 season with a strong showing at the Far Northern Zone Benefit Carnival in Townsville, where seven of its players took to the field in mixed teams with clubs from across the zone. Representing Bowen were Cody McConnell, Wade Bidgood, Rhadaya Bidgood, Jesse and Mick Foster, along with up-and-coming juniors Lachy and Ollie Foster.

The weekend was a fun and successful way to ease into the season, with plenty of game time and a chance to get both horses and riders back into the swing of things.

It was a particularly proud moment for Rhadaya Bidgood, who played her first-ever carnival and made an immediate impact, picking up the ball at the canter and slotting goals like a seasoned player. With Wade also on form, there’s bound to be some healthy sibling competition ahead.

The Bowen Polocrosse Club is also gearing up for a massive weekend of sporting action and community celebration, with the annual Carnival set to take place on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27, 2025.

Held at the Bowen Polocrosse Club, the carnival promises two full days of high-octane polocrosse, family-friendly entertainment, and social festivities. Entry is also free, making it the perfect outing  for locals and visitors alike.

Saturday’s program kicks off bright and early, with the canteen opening at 7am and games starting from 8am.

One of the highlights of the day will be the return of the popular Ladies Day. Running from noon on Saturday in the 18+ Tent. The event pairs thrilling racing with prosecco and good company, it is a must for those wanting to enjoy the social atmosphere.

Food trucks will roll in from 4pm, followed by Calcutta at 6pm and Night Chukkas at 6.30pm. Live music from 8pm will keep the party going late into the evening.

Sunday will see another early start, with the canteen opening at 7am, and games at 8am. Finals will take place throughout the day, culminating in trophy presentations to wrap up the weekend.

The Bowen Polocrosse Carnival has something for everyone, for polocrosse fans or curious newcomers, the carnival is a standout event on the region’s sporting calendar.

What: Bowen Polocrosse Carnival
When: Saturday 26 July & Sunday 27 July
Where: Bowen Polocrosse Club, Woodlands Road, Bowen

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Bowen Polocrosse Club carnival will take place in July. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Despite some challenging patches on the back nine, players were pleased to complete a full 18-hole round this week, with a solid turnout of 31 participants enjoying the competition.

Familiar names found their way to the top of the leaderboard once again, with Jenny Hounsell and Gary Scotford both claiming victories in the ladies’ and men’s competitions respectively. The pair have certainly hit their stride, with consistent performances becoming a weekly habit. Congratulations to them both.

Competition Results:

Ladies
Winner: Jenny Hounsell – 33 points
Runner-up: Elspeth Scotford – 27 points
Rundown: Robyn Whitham (25), Tiina Randmae (23 on countback)

Men
Winner: Gary Scotford – 36 points
Runner-up: John Grosskreutz – 32 points
Rundown: John Roser, Larry Muller, Barry Mortimer, and John Strelec (all 30 points); Vic Feldman, Peter Lindsay, Ken Granger, and Mark Richards (all 27 points)

Pin Shots
Ladies A Grade: Tiina Randmae, Elspeth Scotford (x2)
Ladies B Grade: Robyn Whitham, Vickie Wallace
Men’s A Grade: John Roser, Larry Muller, Gary Scotford
Men’s B Grade: Barry Mortimer (x2), Mark Richards

Chip-Ins
Jenny Hounsell, Vickie Wallace, Laurie Dakin, Peter Lindsay, and Gary Scotford all scored chip-ins on the day, adding some extra excitement to the round.

The raffle prize was claimed by Beryl Nosworthy, while the Members’ Draw jackpot remains unclaimed and will climb to $40 next week.

With improving course conditions and strong competition across the board, players will be looking forward to next week’s round with enthusiasm.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Gary Scotford and Jenny Hounsell. Photo supplied

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It’s been another busy week on the greens for the Wangaratta Bowls Club, with both social and competitive matches drawing strong participation and close contests.

Tuesday Social Bowls
Tuesday’s social matches saw Neil Chittenden, Laurie Land, and Margaret Wilson take the win over Stumpy Adams, Irene Laird, and Ron Hyde. In another match-up, Deb Retchless, Robyn Stitt, and Penny Warren came away with a solid win against Lindy Suann, Linda Scells, and Maureen Hyde. The jackpot remained elusive once again.

Club Competitions
In the Ladies A Pairs, Jocelyn Defranciscis and Tiarna Winter edged out Deb Retchless and Margaret Wilson. Meanwhile, Maureen Hyde—bowling under the name “Crooked Kitty”—secured a close win over Robyn Stitt in a gripping singles match.

On the men’s side, Ron Hyde had a strong showing, defeating Laurie Land in the A Singles before going on to take out Dave McDonald in the B Singles. Lloyd White also had a great result in the B Singles, beating Alby Vigar.

Sunday Afternoon Bowls
Sunday’s play featured a mix of pairs and triples matches. In the triples, Lindy Suann, Maureen Hyde, and Gavin Charles combined well to defeat Jim Quod, Deb Retchless, and Alby Vigar. In the pairs, Isobel Wheeler and Penny Warren scored a win over Neil Chittenden and Ron Hyde, while Sue Shearing and Fely Duncan came out on top against Linda Scells and Graeme Read. The jackpot again went unclaimed.

Looking Ahead
Wangaratta will be proudly represented in the District Division One Pennant competition in Ayr next week, with eight local ladies travelling north to compete on Anzac Day. Best wishes and good bowling to Denise Wallace, Linda Scells, Tiarna Winter, Penny Warren, Robyn Stitt, Teresa Willshire, Margaret Wilson, and Fely Duncan.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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With a welcome break in the wet weather, Proserpine Bowls Club members took to the greens on Wednesday for a fun-filled afternoon of bowls and Easter cheer.

Games were played in great spirits, with Trevor Parsons providing Easter eggs as prizes, adding a festive touch to the competition. Alen Sanderson and Sandy Daffara edged out Arthur Griffith and Mike Harrison in a tight contest, claiming victory 20–16 after winning the last four ends with single shots. In the other match, Trevor Parsons and Bruce Uhe recorded a 24–15 win over John Anderson and Philip Brown.

Pennants Season Approaching
Preparations are underway for the upcoming Pennants season, with the first two rounds scheduled for May 17 and 18. Division 1 will face North Mackay at home on Saturday before travelling to play Northern Beaches on Sunday. Meanwhile, Division 5 will play North Mackay away on Saturday and return home to face RSL on Sunday.

Players are encouraged to confirm their availability with Selectors Barry Saroglia, Wayne Handley or Todd Leys as soon as possible to ensure teams are finalised ahead of the competition.

Easter Events and Trophy Race
A number of club members participated in Easter tournaments held at Souths Suburban and Northern Beaches, with results yet to be confirmed at the time of writing.

Meanwhile, competition for the Social Participation Trophy is heating up. Arthur Griffith currently leads the tally with 31 points, closely followed by Philip Brown on 30, Sandy Daffara on 29, Bruce Uhe on 26, Heather Brown on 24, and John Anderson with 20. With plenty of games still to come, the race remains wide open.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Dam
We haven’t heard much about fishing at the dam the past week because the good weather window has had people heading offshore instead.
If the dam is where you’ll be this weekend, the topwater shallows should be the go. Frogs, unweighted soft plastics and small hard body surface lures are all great options to use.

Estuary
The crabs have been firing in the river. Plenty of people have caught lots, especially up the river towards the mussel beds.
The water temperature is dropping so barramundi will become harder to find. Many are still being caught at the moment though! Our store Manager, Jason, has landed a stack of them and if you’re ever after help on where to go and what to use, he’s your guy.

Islands & Offshore
The fishing offshore has been incredible over the past week, with a huge variety of species being caught - nannygais, red emperors, trout…just to name a few.
Mackerel are on now too and we’ve had multiple reports of great numbers being caught, with many being a decent size.
The billfish must also be moving in, as we’ve had a few people coming in wanting gear.

We wish you all a fun and safe long weekend. Whatever you do, make the most of the beautiful weather and make time to go fishing.

Best of luck out there!

Contributed with thanks to Beth Hockley

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From the first bounce to the final siren, AFL is kicking big goals across the Mackay region, and there’s never been a better time to pull on the boots and join the action. Whether you’re five or fifty, footy fever is on the rise, with more families embracing the benefits of grassroots sport.

Participation Lead Alex Brooks says the growth in 2025 has been phenomenal.

“We’ve seen a massive uptake, especially in the 12-and-under space,” Brooks said.

“That’s up 50 per cent year-to-date, with around 350 kids now interested or already playing.”

With clubs welcoming players from all walks of life, AFL in Mackay is more inclusive than ever.

“Absolutely anyone can join,” Brooks said.

“A lot of our players come from different sporting backgrounds, and they love the competition and the challenge of learning something new.”

From Auskick programs for kids as young as five to senior men’s and women’s competitions, there’s a team for everyone. With eight clubs spread across Sarina, Moranbah, Airlie Beach and Mackay suburbs, regional footy is bringing communities together.

“The commitment is huge – Being part of a club helps players build friendships, stay active and learn new skills.

“It’s so important to foster that, especially for kids in regional areas.”

The Friday night junior comp caters to beginners, while the older age groups bring a more competitive edge with mixed Under 13.5, 15.5 and 17.5 boys, plus a new Under 16.5 girls division. At senior level, Mackay now hosts a reserves men’s comp, a growing women’s league with seven teams, and a senior men’s competition.

The talent pool is also thriving nationally.

“Mackay is a hotspot for producing AFLW talent,” Brooks said.

Having played since age five, Brooks encourages anyone to give it a go.

“If you like running, staying fit and being outdoors, AFL is a great outlet.

“Come for a kick, meet some new friends and just have a go.”

He says, even those raised in NRL households are getting on board.

“AFL’s a great middle ground between rugby and soccer. It has the chase and tackle elements, but with less repetitive impact than league.

“Plus, the skills transfer well between sports.”

And it’s affordable too – Auskick costs just $90 for eight sessions, a football, and a training pack. Junior club footy ranges from $150 to $200 per year, equalling about $15 a week.

Brooks says the goal now is to grow the girls’ game.

“We’ve seen amazing women come out of this region, but we’re only just building those junior pathways and the interest is already growing.”

The feedback?

“They love it. Learning to kick a footy is a new challenge, even for kids from rugby families. They’re having a ball.”

If you or your child are interested in getting involved, contact your local club leaders: Harry Hannaford, AFL Mackay Competition Manager (harry.hannaford@afl.com.au), or Alex Brooks, Participation Lead (alex.brooks@afl.com.au) to learn more.

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Alex Brooks, Participation Lead of AFL Mackay. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Over twenty Mackay Road Runners and supporters gathered at Bluewater Quay on Sunday afternoon for a social 5km and 11km run along Harbour Road, turning at Mt Bassett before returning to the start. Participants navigated a mix of sunshine, wind, clouds and rain, but handled the unpredictable weather with ease.

With the club’s Race Director Andrew Short currently enjoying a well-earned break, the event was a relaxed affair. Andrew is taking on the internationally renowned London Marathon during his time off, followed by a holiday with his wife, Jose. He will also reunite with fellow Mackay Road Runners committee member Jo Hughes, who is travelling across the UK and Europe.

Among the standout performances of the day was new member Fran March, who is training for the BMA Mackay Marina Run 10km on 1st June. Supported by her family, Fran completed the 5km distance without stopping for the first time – a significant milestone towards her 10km goal.

Young Isabelle Hayles also impressed, easily finishing the 5km alongside her dad, Steven, in another encouraging display of junior talent.

The next club event will be the popular Zambrero’s Burrito Bolt on Easter Sunday, featuring 5km and 10km courses. The run starts at 4.30pm from Zambrero’s City Centre restaurant. Longtime club supporters, Zambrero’s have again kindly donated a range of random prizes for the post-run celebrations.

The club extends its thanks to Peter and the Zambrero’s team for their continued hospitality. Everyone is welcome – bring the family, enjoy the run, and stay for dinner!

Despite its social nature, the usual run fees apply: $2 for members and $10 for non-member casual day runners. New participants are encouraged to join online to access reduced rates at mackayroadrunners.com.

Meanwhile, the club’s weekly informal track training continues every Wednesday at 5.30pm at the ARC (Aquatic and Recreation Complex), led by Club Captain and qualified coach Jim Ford. The session is free, with only a $4 facility entry fee payable at the pool kiosk.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Isabelle Hayles and Steven Hayles lead a talented group of runners who braved the very suspect weather conditions from the Bluewater Quay for the Mackay Road Runners 5k and 11km social event.

June Bradley’s 11km efforts earned herself a rewarding refreshment or two at the post run cool down.

Over twenty runners and supporters braved the inclement conditions at the Mackay Road Runners Bluewater Quay social 5k and 11k. Photos supplied

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Results For Week Ending Sunday 13 April 025

Monday 7 April 2025 – 4.5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Janine Rodgers - Jewel Schmidt 3rd Monica Darley - Nancy Martin
2nd Gwen Liddell - Sandy Patterson 4th Diane Stokes - Edward Kliese

Tuesday Evening 8 April 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West
1st Helen Van Den Broek - Tex Sheedy 1st Marilin Robins - Faye Wright
2nd John Mcgee - Mick King 4th Ken Seaniger - Geoff Taylor

Wednesday 9 April 2025 – 8.5 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West
1st Noel Bugeia - Janelle Conroy 1st Gwen Liddell - Anne Lutz
2nd Ted Cullinan - Sandy Patterson 2nd Janet Hansen - Alan Brown
3rd Antonia Tarradas - Monica Darley 3rd David Ting - Eric Goodchild
4th Joy Robinson - Robert Carless 4th Diane Holewa - Max Holewa

Thursday Evening 10 April 2025 – 4 Table Howell Green Points

1st Jan Harris - Patricia Garner
2nd Ken Seaniger - Geoff Taylor
3rd Adrian Westcott - Faye Wright
4th Ann Whitmore - Lia Durelli

Friday 11 April 2025 –6.5 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West
1st Ming Ting - David Ting 1st Geoffrey Patterson - Susan Wright
2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix 2nd Christine Nice - Diane Cox
3rd Anne Lutz - Noel Bugeia 3rd Mick King - Geoff Cowan

Saturday 12 April And Sunday 13 April 2025 – Mackay Barometer Pairs Congress (26 Pairs) - Red Points

Category A
1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd Noel Bugeia / Tex Sheedy
3rd Alan Brown / Frances Brown

Category B
1st Richard Wix / Janine Rodgers
2nd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott

Category C
1st Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch

Contributed by Robert Carless

Mackay Barometer Pairs Congress played Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th April 2025. Winners of Category B: Francie Brown (President) with Richard Wix and Janine Rodgers. Photo supplied

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Mackay Barometer Pairs Congress played Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th April 2025. Winners of Category B: Francie Brown (President) with Richard Wix and Janine Rodgers. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

Mackay middle-distance runner Toby Rule has officially broken the four-minute barrier in the 1500m – and he’s done it in style.

Competing at the Australian Athletics Championships in Perth last week, Toby shaved a huge four seconds off his previous best to cross the line in 3:59. It’s a golden milestone in any middle-distance runner’s career and a testament to the 18-year-old’s relentless training and passion for the sport.

His sub-four-minute effort placed him 19th overall, 16th Australian and 5th Queenslander in the U20 men’s 1500m – an event that consistently delivers high-calibre competition at the national level. The Nationals, currently underway in Perth, are Australia’s pinnacle track and field event, with athletes like sprint stars Rohan Browning, Gout Gout and Lachie Kennedy lighting up the stadium with sub-10.1 performances in the 100m.

But for those in the know, middle-distance running is where the real grind lies – and Toby is no stranger to the long road to success. With a strong base in cross country, road racing and track events, he’s built the endurance, speed and mental grit that this week finally paid off.

Toby was quick to thank the local running community, including parkRun - both Mackay and Seaview, Holy Spirit College Run Club and Mackay Athletics Club. He also thanked the Mackay Road Runners for their continued support – a club that has helped shape many regional athletes into elite competitors.

“I’m really grateful for the running community around me,” he said.

“Mackay Road Runners and the Mackay running community have been a massive part of my journey.”

Janelle Tilse from the Mackay Road Runners said that Toby is an excellent athlete who excels in all areas of running, from the track to the road and cross country.

"He’s also a great role model to the school community as well as the athletics and running clubs he’s involved in," Janelle added.

Athletics runs in Toby’s veins – his mum Belinda is a running coach, while his dad Justin still races competitively in the masters middle-distance circuit. Both parents were beaming after the result.

“We are so proud of Toby’s dedication,” Belinda said.

“This personal best is proof of just how hard he’s worked. Wahoooooo!”

She also gave a shoutout to Toby’s coaching mentors, Ryan Gregson and Gavin Heward.

Toby’s breakthrough performance ensures Mackay’s name remains firmly in the fast lane. And with youth, talent and a fierce work ethic on his side – he’s only just getting warmed up.

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Toby Rule proudly dons his Queensland colours at the Australian Athletics Championships in Perth, where he broke the four-minute barrier in the 1500m. Photo supplied

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Mackay’s cycling stalwart David O’Connell, affectionately known as “Stickman”, has once again proven he's not just spinning his wheels, taking home bronze in the Sprint at the Australian Masters Track Championships at the Anna Meares Velodrome.

Up against a stacked field of national and world age group champions, O’Connell rode tactically in the Sprint – a cat-and-mouse three-lapper that’s as much mind games as muscle – to outwit and out-wheel his way to the podium. It was a gutsy effort against serious firepower, with Stickman showing he can hold his line and his nerve when the banking gets steep.

He also reached the bronze medal ride-off in the 2,000m Individual Pursuit, a gruelling time trial that tests sheer grit and pacing precision. O’Connell not only laid down a personal best in the morning qualifier but returned in the afternoon to better it again, emptying the tank in pursuit of the podium. While he narrowly missed the medal, finishing fourth, the double PB effort shows Stickman is peaking at the right time.

He rounded out the week with two fifth-place finishes and a sixth in other events – and, true to track tradition, even took a tumble at one point but walked away unscathed.

Still riding the high (and perhaps some residual lactic acid), Stickman swapped the hardwood boards for digital watts, lining up in the AusCycling eSports Masters Championships on the MyWhoosh platform. Despite the pain cave still echoing from nationals, O’Connell powered through the 20.2km virtual version of the Wollongong Worlds course, including its brutal 1.8km climb, to snare second in his age group. No virtual jersey this time, but he’s getting closer with every click of the cassette.

Earlier in the season, Stickman struck gold for the first time at the Queensland State Masters Track Championships, bagging five podiums across seven events – a haul that hinted something big was coming.

With nationals bronze now hanging proudly, he’s already asking the important questions: “Do bronze sleeve bands exist?” Sadly, no – but if they did, Stickman would be wearing them with pride.

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David "Stickman" O'Connell celebrates a hard-fought bronze on the podium at the Australian Masters Track Championships in Brisbane, proving he's still got plenty of pace in the legs – and perhaps just enough room on the jersey for a sleeve upgrade. Photos supplied

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has today announced that an elected Dutton Liberal National Government will provide $100,000 for the Wangaratta Bowls Club.

“Wangaratta Bowls Club has been the cornerstone of the community, offering members of all skill levels the chance to stay active and play a competitive game of bowls,” Mr Willcox said.
“The popular club is in need of a new rink in the playing area for lawn bowls to ensure it can continue to serve the community into the future.

“I am pleased to commit $100,000 towards a new rink if elected. This upgrade will enhance the facilities, help attract new members and allow the club to remain a much- loved community facility.
“The LNP is committed to supporting small regional sports clubs, ensuring our communities remain active and healthy.

“Only the LNP has a plan to invest in community infrastructure, build better local facilities, and get Australia back on track.”

Wangaratta Bowls Club Chairman, Geoff Danvers, said “This funding will provide for a much-needed green replacement for our club.

"The current green is overdue for replacement and this funding will enable the club to continue to provide a quality, up to date, and popular sporting venue to the many local bowlers and visiting bowlers throughout the year who enjoy the game of bowls.”

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox announced that an elected Dutton Liberal National Government will provide $100,000 for the Wangaratta Bowls Club. Photo supplied

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