Cannonvalley Pony Club hosted a memorable weekend of showjumping and history, combining its Official Showjumping and Jump Equitation event with a special visit from founding member Jo Bailey.

Riders from across the Whitsundays, Mackay, and surrounding areas took part in the two-day competition. Despite smaller numbers, the event featured strong senior participation and showcased impressive sportsmanship. Ruby Smith riding Atrani was named Champion Overall Weekend Rider, with Jillian Moffat and Fabulous Chiquita taking out Reserve Champion.

The event ran smoothly thanks to dedicated volunteers who helped judge, course build, score, pencil, and operate the canteen. The club extended thanks to sponsors including Horseland Mackay, Warren Transport, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, and Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine.

Adding a nostalgic touch to the weekend was a visit from Jo Bailey, who helped form the club in 1986. Jo’s visit marked 39 years since the club’s establishment and offered members a glimpse into its grassroots beginnings—when most riders travelled to the grounds on horseback and facilities were minimal.

Today, Cannonvalley Pony Club is a thriving hub with permanent infrastructure, a committed committee, and a full calendar of events. Jo was warmly welcomed by members past and present, many eager to hear stories from the club’s early days.

The club’s next major event is its annual Gymkhana on 23–24 August, and preparations are already underway to mark its 40th anniversary in 2026.

Cannonvalley Pony Club continues to honour its legacy while looking confidently toward the future.

Contributed with thanks to Kate van Dalen

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Founding member Jo Bailey, pictured with club chief instructor Merle Niesler. Photo supplied

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It was a weekend of milestones and medals for the Cannonvale Cannons, with swimmers making a splash across Townsville.

Our most senior Cannon, Jacob Bell, now based in Townsville, proudly represented the club in the Magnetic Island to Townsville Open Water Swim. Jacob was second overall out of the water with an impressive time of 1:46:14.80 and took out first place in his age group — an outstanding achievement in a challenging event.

Meanwhile, five Cannons travelled to Townsville to compete in the Gardens Swimming Club Short Course Meet — the final opportunity to qualify for the Queensland Short Course Championships, set for 7–10 August in Brisbane. Congratulations to Thomas Ganter, who secured three new qualifying times in the 50m Backstroke, 50m Breaststroke, and 200m Individual Medley. Ruby Harland also added another QT to her tally in the 50m Backstroke.

Ruby was joined by her younger sisters Indigo and Koa, who both delivered outstanding performances. Indigo notched up significant PBs, while Koa achieved podium finishes in all seven of her events — including an incredible seven first-place results. A special mention to Indigo for her third place in the 50m Butterfly.

New Cannon Faithlyn Trotter also made her mark, achieving personal bests in all four of her events and claiming second place in the 50m Butterfly. Well done to all our swimmers for your effort, sportsmanship, and commitment.

Club nights resumed this Wednesday and run weekly throughout the season. Whether you're chasing times or just want to enjoy some social swimming, it’s a fun, friendly way to keep active and be part of a welcoming community. To find out more, email us at secretary@cannonvalecannons.com — new families are always welcome!

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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The Proserpine Veterans Golf Club enjoyed another beautiful day on the course for its annual Closed Club Championships, with players making the most of the ideal weather conditions.

It was a particularly exciting event this year with several new names appearing on the winners' list, highlighting the growing depth of talent in the local veteran golfing community.

Organisers thanked all participants for a great day of competition and congratulated the winners and runners-up across the various grades.

In the ladies’ A Grade, Leanne Alexander claimed the gross win with a score of 89, edging out Tiina Badenhorst on countback. Heather Luvis took out the nett honours with an impressive 68, ahead of Jenny Hounsell (73). In B Grade, Jacqui Wall secured the gross title with 108, followed by Robyn Whitham (117), while Paula McQuat (74) and Beryl Nosworthy (77) led the nett results.

On the men’s side, John Grosskreutz topped A Grade gross with 81, ahead of Allen Roberts (86). Gerald Lovell posted the day’s best nett score of 67, followed by Nick Apruzzese (70). In B Grade, Trevor Peroz’s 86 won the gross title over Louis Neethling’s 99, while John Oates (76) and Wilf Herweg (77) took the nett placings.

There were plenty of highlights in the pin shot and chip-in competitions, including hole-in-ones on the ladies’ side from Elspeth Scotford (hole 13) and Beryl Nosworthy (hole 5).

Lucky draw winners included Lyn Muller, who picked up the $20 membership jackpot, and John Grosskreutz, who won the weekly raffle prize of $50.

Next Tuesday the Proserpine Vets will travel to Home Hill for the Interclub competition, followed by the Wintersun event the week after.

Contributed wiht thanks to Paula McQuat

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Jacqui Wall, Jenny Hounsell, Beryl Nosworthy, Leanne Alexander. Photo supplied

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It’s been a packed week at Proserpine Bowls Club, with club championships, social games, and community programs all in full swing.

In the Club B Singles semi-finals on Saturday morning, Harry Craig defeated Kendall Watts 25–16, while Todd Leys overcame Bruce Uhe 25–14. The final will see Craig and Leys battle it out for the title.

Wednesday’s social bowls had a strong turnout. Trevor Parsons, Carol Smith and Heather Brown edged out Geoff Orton (visiting from Eltham, Victoria), Barry Zillmann and Sandy Daffara 18–14. Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe and Nev Smith defeated John Anderson, Graham Cowling (SA visitor) and Garry Alexander 23–11. Henny Tattam and Philip Brown claimed a solid 26–12 win over Arthur Griffith and Mike Harrison.

Despite early showers, Sunday’s play went ahead. Arthur Griffith and Sandy Daffara defeated Bruce Uhe and Heather Brown 29–18, while Henny Tattam, Philip Brown and Nev Smith beat John Anderson, Carol Smith and Mike Harrison 30–17.

Draws for the B Pairs, B Triples and B Fours have been finalised. B Triples kicks off this Saturday, August 2, with Sanderson, Ken Watts and Kendall Watts to face Uhe, Harrison and David Ling.

Best of luck to the Proserpine team of Shane Kinnear, Scott Hamilton, Gavin Milne and a sub for Todd Leys in the Champion of Champion Fours at Sarina.

The club also welcomes students from St Catherine’s this week as their term of bowls begins. Thanks to all volunteers supporting the program.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Sandy Daffara, Carol Smith, Nev Smith, Philip Brown and John Anderson. Photo supplied

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Five boats and ten enthusiastic members of the Abell Point Yacht Club set sail last Friday for a weekend getaway to Cape Gloucester, braving some wind and swell along the way. While conditions kept skippers alert, spirits remained high as the fleet cruised north.

By late afternoon, the boats were safely anchored off Cape Gloucester Beach Resort. A blustery Friday night brought strong gusts and a couple of dragged anchors, but Saturday morning arrived calm and clear.

After coffee and cake at the resort, members enjoyed a relaxed day, before heading ashore in the evening to Montes Bar & Restaurant. There, they connected with fellow sailors from other ports, swapping stories over dinner in a warm, lively atmosphere.

On Sunday, the group sailed to beautiful Bona Bay, where they capped off the weekend with a beach BBQ—soaking in the sun, scenery and camaraderie that define the Whitsunday sailing lifestyle.

It was another successful APYC escape, full of great sailing, good company, and lasting memories.

Contributed with thanks to Lorraine Ireland

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Football - Whitsunday United Football Club
Friday 25 July
6:00pm: Div 2 Men vs City Brothers FC at City Brothers FC
8:00pm: Div 1 Men vs City Brothers FC at City Brothers FC

Saturday 26 July
9:30am: U14 vs Magpies FC at Whitsunday Sportspark
9:30am: U15/16 vs Mackay Lions at Whitsunday Sportspark
11:00am: U13 Div 1 vs Country United FC at Mackay Football Park
11:00am: U13 FQPL vs Mackay Lions at Mackay Football Park
5:00pm: U23 Men vs City Brothers FC at City Brothers FC
7:00pm: Men vs City Brothers FC at City Brothers FC

Rugby Union - Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
Saturday 26 July
2.00pm: Women vs Slade Point at Whitsunday Sportspark
3.30pm: Premier Grade vs Slade Point at Whitsunday Sportspark

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 28 July
Round 1 Fixtures

Cricket – Airlie Beach Cricket Club
Contact airliebeachcc@yahoo.com.au for information about Airlie Beach Cricket Club

Netball – Whitsunday Netball Association
Contact netballwhitsunday@gmail.com for netball information

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It was another fantastic week at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club, with strong numbers, plenty of visitors from down south, and an exciting new season of Business House Bowls under lights.

This time of year always draws bowlers from southern states to our friendly little club, and this week was no exception. Among the many visitors escaping the cold were Greg and Glenys Pepyat from Bright Bowls Club in Victoria, here for their fifth consecutive year; Ken McAllister from Queenscliff Bowls Club, who has been visiting the region since 1986 and playing at the club since 2000; Shane Goldsworthy from Williamstown Bowls Club making his first visit; and Alan and Joan Detry from Gulwa Bowls Club in South Australia.

Ladies Tuesday Pennants results will be published in full next week.

On Wednesday afternoon, a strong roll-up of 30 bowlers took part in social bowls. The overall winners were the team of Rick Galea (skip), Alan Pershouse (second), and 90-year-old Ken McAllister (lead), who showed he still has all the skills on the green.

Wednesday night marked the start of a new season of Business House Bowls, with eight teams competing under the club’s impressive all-weather roof and brilliant lighting. The scene was electric, with a great crowd enjoying the lively atmosphere. There’s still space for two more teams to join the fun, so any businesses keen to get involved are encouraged to contact the club. Games begin at around 6pm.

On Friday night, the club hosted playoffs to select two teams to represent ABBC in the PBL in Townsville. Progressing through with three wins were Manny Isgro, Russell Jackson, and Warren Mills, while Peter Barrett, Carol Crosbie—our energetic "pocket rocket"—and Rick Galea also earned their spot.

Saturday morning’s Round 4 of Scroungers drew a big turnout. Previous round winners included Andy McDougall, Shane Spann, and Dennis Donnadelli. First round winners this week were Steve Heddles, Kathryn Remmeswaal, and Merve Stewart, with Steve Heddles going on to become the overall winner of the day. In B Grade, Mark Mawson claimed his second straight win after a close final against Tony Kelly and Dennis Donnadelli.

Sunday afternoon’s social bowls saw 28 bowlers on the green. The competition used the lowest winning margin to determine the winner, and in a rare outcome, two teams tied, each having won 10 ends. The shared winners were: Lyn Graham (skip), Greg Fennell (second), and new bowler Alma Rose Zaldivar on debut, alongside Craig White (skip), Phil O’Brien (second), and Sandra Argo (lead).

More bowls news next week—have an awesome week in paradise!

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Alma Rose Zaldivar, Greg Fennell, Lyn Graham, Sandra Argo, and Craig White, with Phil O’Brien. Photo supplied

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Unfortunately, the Divisional Men didn’t get to play their scheduled home game as Magpies forfeited. The squad still made the most of the afternoon with a scratch match.

U13 Division 1 had a busy weekend. On Saturday, they delivered a dominant 10-0 win over Mackay Dolphins at Jubilee Sports Park. After a tight opening, Logan Prowse broke the deadlock and by halftime the side led 4-0. The second half saw WUFC add six more, with hat-tricks from Logan and Kobi M, a brace from Nick J, and goals from Oscar H and Darcy K. A great all-round team performance played in good spirit.

On Sunday, the same team faced Mackay Lions at Mackay Football Park and narrowly lost 3-2. Lions led 1-0 at halftime, but Riley H twice equalised for WUFC with well-worked team goals. With the match on a knife’s edge, a late Lions goal sealed the result. It was a tightly contested match played with excellent sportsmanship, and WUFC showed great resilience and defensive organisation.

U13 Prems had their Saturday home game forfeited by the opposition. On Sunday, they returned to form with a strong 7–2 win over Mackay Lions. A 5–1 halftime lead set the tone, with Mayson M netting a hat-trick, Daly G scoring twice, and goals to Alex D and Jackson P. Both teams played with determination and positive intent.

U14s hosted Rangers Gold and started strongly with Eli W scoring inside three minutes. WUFC kept possession well and added two more first-half goals via Eli again and Shannon to lead 3-0 at the break. Early in the second half, Kobe scored from a Shannon cross, and Eden added a fifth from a deflected Nick M header. A 5-0 win was a testament to their teamwork and control across the park.

U16s faced Wanderers for the first time this season and were keen to return to winning ways. They dominated early and went ahead through a Cooper Parry penalty — his first competitive goal in his last game for the club. In the second half, Logan Burke sealed the result with two headers, securing a 3-0 win and a clean sheet, keeping the team firmly in finals contention.

Premier Women drew 0-0 at home against a determined Rangers side. It was a solid team performance from the outset, with strong intent, composure, and attacking chances. Though goals didn’t come, the squad’s grit and commitment were clear. Special mention to goalkeeper Megs, who showed excellent reading of play and brought calm to the backline. A performance to build on heading into next week’s clash with Country.

U23 Men, who started the weekend top of the table, played a tough game against an improved Magpies side. In a tightly fought contest, Sean McCarthy scored the crucial goal to secure a 1-1 draw. While the result saw WUFC drop to second, the team remains in strong form heading into the next round.

In Men’s FQPL, WUFC faced ladder-leaders Magpies in a tough away game. Whitsunday created multiple early chances, only to be denied by the Magpies keeper. The breakthrough came in the 60th minute for Magpies under controversial circumstances after a whistle had gone. They soon added a second. Sam Thornton clawed one back late, giving WUFC hope, but the final whistle confirmed a 2-1 loss in a spirited effort.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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On Saturday 12th July, 19 swimmers swam their hearts out at Cannonvale Cannons SC Winter Meet.

With an incredible 106 individual events entered, 72 PB’s were swum, showing our swimmers and families that their hard work at training has certainly paid off.

The cheering, support, encouragement and camaraderie from all swimmers was to be commended. Everybody knew the Whitsunday Swimming Club was there. From the grand entrance to the birthday celebrations for George, our swimmers were loud and proud.

Hayden, Leyton, Jayde, Ti, Georgia, Jack, Kenzie, Savannah, George, Alex, Axel, Alissa, Emeilia and Jax returned to the pool with Whitsunday confidence. Newcomers to the club, Bella and Isaac showed they were not to be messed with. First timers Charlotte and Jesse demonstrated Whitsunday spirit and power. Then Coach Cruze showed everyone how it was done (or did he???).

With 4 Coaches on the deck (Coach Jenny, Amanda, Enrico and Cruze) to support and encourage, our swimmers reminded everyone The Whitsunday Swimming Club is a force to be reckoned with.

If you would like more information on an incredible club full of friendships, team spirit and fun, email us whitsundayfrogs@gmail.com or find us on Facebook.

Contributed with thanks to Amanda Yuskan

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A fleet of 17 boats took to the water last Sunday for the annual Warri Cup yacht race, hosted by Abell Point Yacht Club in Airlie Beach, with competitors spread across three divisions and clear winners emerging in each.

Sailors were treated to a stunning day, with sunny skies, mild conditions, and a steady breeze — just enough to keep things lively without too much drama. That is, until Malfunction unexpectedly demasted mid-race. Fortunately, no one was injured, and the crew returned safely to shore — albeit a little more well-known than they had planned.

Race organisers extended their thanks to Astro Boy and Lama for their swift and selfless assistance to Malfunction. “Their actions reflect outstanding seamanship and were greatly appreciated by all,” an organiser said.

After a spirited day on the water, the Division 1 title went to Terry Archer’s G’nome, while Iyas Shaheen’s Smooth Criminal took out Division 2. In Division 3, Alan Campbell skippered Lama to a well-earned win.

Celebrations continued at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, where the atmosphere was lively and the presentations were smooth and well-received. Crews were recognised for their efforts in a ceremony that captured the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

The Abell Point Yacht Club also thanked sponsor Andrew Williams of Maxi Apollo and British Defender for his generous support, helping to make the Warri Cup a much-loved highlight on the local sailing calendar once again.

Contributed with thanks to Lorraine Ireland

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Airlie Beach welcomed over 700 runners from around the world for the 12th Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival held over July 19–20, with ideal weather helping set new records in all races except the half marathon.

The weekend began with the McDonald’s Airlie Beach Foreshore Magic Mile, won by Kirra Hamilton (Urangan) in the women’s category and Nick Mooney (Kiamba) in the men’s.

In the North Queensland Championship Marathon, Whitsunday Running Club’s Liv Compton claimed her third consecutive women’s title in a record 3:07:50, followed by teammate Aimee Sulzberger and Hamilton Island’s Francesca Bellicini. Thomas Baker from Winmalee (NSW) won the men’s marathon in 2:54:09, with Mackay’s Mick Vivian second and South Australian Bailey Collins third.

The fiercely competitive Locus Surveys Half Marathon saw Rhyly Paton edge out Nick Mooney to win the men’s race, with Whitsunday Running Club’s William Grogan finishing third. Kirra Hamilton secured her second win of the weekend in the women’s half marathon, followed by Whitsunday Running Club’s Riana Wronski and Ballina’s Hannah Crowe.

Bowen’s Brendan Maltby won both the Whitsunday Transit 10km and Momentum High Risk Training 5km races. Hannah Terry (The Range) set a new women’s 10km record of 40:10, while Whitsunday Running Club’s Millie Groom broke the 5km women’s record with 18:25.

The Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Service (ARFFS) team won the Mantra Club Croc Corporate Challenge in a record 1:07:26.

Mascot races delighted the crowd, featuring Cruiser (Cruise Whitsundays), Blazer (Queensland Fire and Emergency Services), Piggy (Bendigo Bank), Batman (Gotham City), Sam (Wilmar), Molly Molar and Toby Toothpaste (Whitsunday Family Dental), and Troppo (Tassal). Batman claimed a narrow win over Toby Toothpaste.

Junior records were set by Xavier Watson and Willow Kenny in the Wilmar 2km Junior Dash, and Wilson and Olive Hounsell in the Macrossan and Amiet 1km Kids Run/Walk.

Mayor Ry Collins and Councillor Jan Clifford handed out the distinctive ‘Nemo’ medals to finishers.

Event Manager, Tim McQuoid-Mason said “It is very satisfying to see so many happy faces at the end of every race.

"It is also an honour to be able to hold events that encourage the development of the younger members of our community. A special thank you goes out to all the volunteers that helped on the weekend and to our community for allowing us to showcase the foreshore.”

Contributed with thanks to Tim McQuoid-Mason

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Whitsunday Life's Ruth Puddefoot got a PB in her Half Marathon

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The Bowen Polocrosse Club has once again hit the road — and the five-hour journey to Capella proved well worth it. Seven dedicated players made the trek to represent Bowen, with the Bowen 1 side comprising Bryce Watson, Michael and Jesse Foster, Wade Bidgood, Ashlea McConnell, and John Norman.
Competing fiercely in the C Grade division, Bowen 1 battled through a series of tough games and were rewarded with a well-deserved C Grade win.

While there was plenty of action on the field, some players got a little too close to the turf — with Ashlea McConnell earning unofficial honors as the “chief field checker” after a tumble that left her sporting some impressive bruises. Spirits stayed high, and the laughs were just as strong as the gameplay.

Michael Foster had a standout weekend and was named Best C Grade Player, a testament to his skill and determination.

Bowen was also proudly represented in the junior division by Rhadaya Bidgood, who joined a mixed team and impressed with her competitive riding and continued improvement this season.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Polocrosse Club

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Bowen Bridge Club was abuzz with activity as 78 players from across Queensland and interstate converged for the club’s annual Congress earlier this month.

It was a strong showing from the visiting Mackay Bridge Club, with Diane Morgan and Janet Hansen taking out the championship title. Fellow Mackay players Jan Harris and Helen Van der Broek secured the runner-up position, capping off a successful weekend for the club.

Local players also had plenty to celebrate, with four Bowen pairs earning places in their respective categories. In the C Grade, Debbie Breeze and Sue McInnes claimed second place, while Jill Brabon and Bev Lowcock finished third. In D Grade, Janice Bates and Trish Berry took out first place, and Maureen and Kevin Baxter came third.

The club extended warm congratulations to all the winners and expressed gratitude to supporters Koorelah Farms and Stackelroth Farm for generously donating fresh local fruit and vegetables for the event raffle.

The annual Congress continues to be a highlight on the Bowen Bridge Club calendar, bringing players together for a weekend of friendly competition and community spirit.

Contributed with thanks to Lydie Martin

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The Annual Congress was a huge success. Photo supplied

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It’s been another action-packed week at Proserpine Golf Club, with strong turnouts and impressive scores across the board.

Fixtures – Week Ending 27 July
Mon 21/7: Social play
Tue 22/7: Stroke / Vets' Closed Championship
Wed 23/7: Stroke
Thu 24/7: Stableford
Fri 25/7: Metropole Hotel 9-Hole Run & Putt for Cash (Draw 4pm, Play 4.30pm)
Sat 26/7: Course closed – Ladies’ Pennants
Sun 27/7: Ladies’ Pennants (AM), Course reopens 12.30pm for social play

Tuesday 15/7 – Stableford
Men: Gary Scotford 41pts (W), Tevita Mapapalangi (SGC GC) 38pts (R/U)
Ladies: Jacqui Wall 36pts (W), Heather Luvis 35pts (R/U)
NTPs: Paul Gray (9th), Andrew Smarth (13th); Jenny Fitch (9th), Elspeth Scotford (16th)

Tuesday 15/7 – Vets Stableford
Men: Gary Scotford 41pts (W), John Strelec 38pts (R/U)
Ladies: Jacqui Wall 36pts (W), Heather Luvis 35pts (R/U)
NTPs: Ken Granger, Vic Feldman, Gary Scotford, Harry Milne, Louis Neethling, Wilf Herweg; Lyn Muller (x2), Elspeth Scotford, Jacqui Wall, Anna Winterbourn

Wednesday 16/7 – Stableford
Men: Brad Fleet 40pts (W), Luke Swift 37pts (R/U)
Ladies: Elspeth Scotford 40pts (W), Trish McNeill 35pts (R/U)
NTPs: Leanne Alexander, Tiina Randmae (2nd), Trish McNeill, Sherri Meade (18th)

Thursday 17/7 – Stableford
Men A Grade: Geoff Harrison 40pts (W c/b), Jason Bourke 40pts (R/U)
Men B Grade: Wilf Herweg 43pts (W), Paul Joice 39pts (R/U)
NTPs: Brock Smith (2nd & 9th), John Oates (13th), Geoff Harrison (16th)

Friday 18/7 – Metropole Hotel 9-Hole Run
Winner: Tommy Gallagher 22pts (c/b)
R/U: Chris Pirlo
3rd: Tom O’Brien 18pts (c/b)
NTPs: Harry Russell (13th), Troy Leisch (16th)
Putt for Cash: Tina Badenhorst nailed it first go – $750 in the bank!

Saturday 19/7 – Stableford (Allenbuild)
Men A Grade: Tom O’Brien 42pts (W), Paul Gray 38pts (R/U), Kristian Mulholland 35pts (3rd)
Men B Grade: Dean Kercher 38pts (W), Trevor Paroz 36pts (R/U c/b), Geoffrey Kelly (Rich River GC) 36pts (3rd)
Ladies: Karen Johnson 39pts (W), Joanne Moynihan 38pts (R/U), Megan Becker 37pts (3rd)
NTPs: Peter Faust (2nd), Mark Schubert (9th), Michael Ward (13th); Toni Clauss (2nd), Karen Johnson (9th), Nicole Cooper (13th)

Sunday 20/7 – Stableford
Men: Kev Cooper 40pts (W), Connor Devery 37pts (R/U), Dean Barnard (SGC GC) 36pts (3rd)
Ladies: Tiina Randmae 39pts (W), Sherri Meade 37pts (R/U), Anna Winterbourn 35pts (3rd)
NTPs: Dean Barnard (2nd), Cory O’Shea (9th), Patrick Camm (13th), Mata Browne (16th); Tiina Randmae (2nd), Sherri Meade (9th).

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Mackay’s rising distance runners are stepping onto the national stage, with four outstanding athletes earning selection in the Queensland All Schools Cross Country Team after standout performances at the recent state championships.

Leading the charge is Mackay Road Runners junior club champion Toby Rule, who has enjoyed a stellar seven-day stretch of competition. Last weekend, Toby placed eighth in the 8km race at the Queensland Athletics Cross Country Championships in Toogoolawah, securing a well-earned spot in the Queensland Cross Country Team bound for Ballarat in late August.

This past weekend, he raised the bar again, claiming silver in the 18–19 Years 8km race at the All Schools State Cross Country Championships. The result earned him a place on his first All Schools Queensland Team, which will compete at the national championships in early September.

As if that weren’t enough, Toby also took out gold in the 1500m time trial, adding another accolade to an already extraordinary season. He is set to compete in the Mackay & District Secondary School trials this week and is even eyeing a start in the Eungella King of the Mountain event this Sunday.

But Toby isn’t the only local athlete chasing national success.

From The Rules of Running, a Mackay-based middle-distance training squad that calls MARC home, three additional runners have also earned state honours.

In the fiercely competitive 13 Years Girls division, Ayla Moon claimed silver, earning herself a place on the Queensland team. Her perseverance and dedication throughout the season have impressed coaches and peers alike.

Close behind was Shailee Mewha, who finished a strong fourth, also securing her spot on the Queensland team. Her result is especially commendable given the depth of talent in this age group at state level.

Millie Groom, representing the North Queensland team, delivered an excellent performance to finish third, rounding out a strong showing from Mackay athletes and booking her place at nationals.

“There were four selected for nationals,” said Belinda Rule, proud mum and Coach of four years.

“All four runners – Toby Rule, Ayla Moon, Shailee Mewha, and Millie Groom – will be heading to represent Queensland at the 2024 All Schools National Cross Country Championships in September, from the 7th to the 10th, which is pretty exciting.”

Belinda praised the disciplined preparation and commitment shown by the young athletes.

“These guys trained six days a week… since the 6th of January. That gave us 12 to 13 weeks of uninterrupted training.

“The plan was executed beautifully by them.”

In the time trial event, gold medals also went to August Cole (15 Years) and Ayla Moon (13 Years), alongside Toby’s win in the 18–19 Years division.

As results continue to roll in, Mackay’s emerging cross-country talent is proving they’re not just keeping pace with the rest of the state, they’re leading the charge toward national recognition.

“By the time 2032 rolls around, most of them will be in their 20s — which is peak time for our middle-distance runners,” Belinda said.

“That’s where our rising running stars are hoping to be – at the Olympics.”

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Mackay's rising stars have earned selection in the Queensland All Schools Cross Country Team after standout performances at the state championships, with Toby Rule, Ayla Moon, Shailee Mewha, and Millie Groom all set to represent Queensland at the 2024 national titles. Photo source: The Rules Of Running (Facebook)

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