It was another challenging week for golf, with more rain and only one competition day. Unfortunately, the back 9 holes were still under water on Saturday, which made for a spectacular but unplayable sight. The end of March couldn’t come soon enough, and hopefully, we'll see a return to regular play soon.

It also seems likely that the first week of April may be lost to weather, but we’ll keep you updated on any changes to the April schedule. The Easter competition will also be a busy time, and we may need to reschedule all of the April Monthly Medals.

Tuesday, 25th March 2025 – PGC Single Stableford
In the Men's Competition, Craig McLean emerged as the winner with 37 points, while Brent Franke claimed the runner-up spot with 36 points. In the Ladies' Competition, Robyn Whitham took the win with 31 points, and Rehab Hull finished as the runner-up with 28 points. For the 2-shot winners, Scott Mason was recognised on the 2nd hole, and Gerald Lovell on the 9th hole. The NTP winners were Rehab Hull and Scott Mason, both achieving on the 2nd hole.

In the Vets' Single Stableford, Robyn Whitham won the Ladies' competition with 31 points, and Tiina Randmae took 3rd place with 29 points. For the NTPs in the Ladies' category, Tiina Randmae won three times, while Vickie Wallace, Robyn Whitham, and Rehab Hull each claimed a win. In the Men's competition, Craig McLean was the winner with 37 points, and John Roser finished as the runner-up with 36 points. For the Men's NTP winners, Craig McLean claimed three, John Oates got two, and the winners group on the 2nd hole included Barry Mortimer, Steve Mitchell, Phil Luckett, and Trevor Paroz.

Wednesday 26th - Sunday 30th March 2025 - No Competition, Course Closed

Fixtures for the week ending 6th April 2025 (weather dependent!):
Mon 31st March: Social Play
Tue 1st April: April Monthly Medal / Vets April Monthly Medal / Putts
Wed 2nd April: April Monthly Medal / Ladies Monthly Medal / Putts – sponsored by PD Law
Thu 3rd April: April Monthly Medal – sponsored by Venuesmart
Fri 4th April: Metropole 9-Hole Run / Putt for Cash ($600)
Sat 5th April: April Monthly Medal – sponsored by the Metropole Hotel
Sun 6th April: April Monthly Medal – sponsored by KJC

Contributed with thanks by Tiina Randmae

‍

New Event Date Announced!

The Whitsunday Game Fish Club's "Sweeties and Squires Fun Family Fishing Weekend" was postponed due to wet weather and is now rescheduled for the 11th-13th of April.

This relaxed weekend is a chance for ladies and kids to enjoy Australia's most popular sport, fishing! The rules are simple, fish anywhere using a rod and reel with Dads and boyfriends to act as crew.

Entry is free to all current W.G.F.C. members and new members are welcome to participate by joining the Club at the Briefing on night, Friday 11th April at 6:00pm at the Marine Club in Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale. Membership fees are $35 per Junior (under 16yo) and $70 per Adult, with all details explained at the Briefing.

All Juniors nominated for the Sweeties and Squires will receive a new Shimano Rod and Reel and a backpack full of goodies, and all the lady participants will receive a bottle of bubbles.

Fishing can start at your leisure anytime after the Briefing. Whether released or kept for dinner, the judges need a photo snapped of your caught fish, showing its length.

All competitors need to be at the Marine Club at 12noon on Sunday, 13th of April for the great prize presentation and to enjoy some delicious food. Prizes will be awarded in 3 categories; Ladies, Junior Male and Female (11yo to 16yo), and Small Fry Male and Female (5yo to 11yo). These will be decided on merit, not necessarily the biggest fish, so everyone has a chance to win!

The Whitsunday Game Fish Club invites everyone to join in on this fun family weekend. Whether you’re an experienced angler or new to fishing, this event offers something for all ages. Be sure to attend the Briefing and Registration on Friday, 11th of April at 6:00pm and get fishing!

WHAT: Sweeties and Squires Fun Family Fishing Weekend.
WHEN: Briefing at 6:00pm, 11th April | Prize Ceremony at 12:00pm, 13th April.
WHERE: Whitsunday Marine Club, Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale.

‍

Have you ever considered volunteering for VMR Whitsundays but felt like you didn’t have enough time or weren’t really a “boat person”? We’ve got the solution — become a Radio Room Operator!

As a Radio Room Operator, you will be an essential part of the VMR team, providing valuable communication support for boats in distress and assisting other emergency services. This role is ideal for individuals who want to help but may not have the time or experience to be on the water. It’s an important job, and it could be a perfect fit if you're looking for a way to contribute in a less time-intensive manner.

VMR Whitsundays Radio Base operates on weekends and public holidays, with Radio Operators only required to work one 5-hour shift per month. This is a flexible and manageable commitment, making it a great opportunity for anyone with a busy schedule. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the stunning views of the Whitsundays while you work!

To become a Radio Room Operator, you must hold a Marine Radio Certificate. Don’t worry if you don’t have this qualification yet as new volunteers can complete the training through VMR Whitsundays, fully preparing you for the role.

Even if you're not an operator, it's strongly encourage that everyone on a seafaring vessel has and knows how to work a VHF radio. Especially when boating around the islands and further afield in conditions where a mobile phone signal wont connect. VHF radio coverage is far superior to phone signals, and it can be a lifesaver in an emergency. It’s essential to understand how to properly use the VHF, including correct squelch control settings, so you don’t miss any critical transmissions. The emergency channels are 16 and 67, with repeaters on Whitsunday Island (81) and Hayman (82), which are monitored by bareboat companies during the day.

If you’re ready to be part of a dedicated team, learn new skills, and make a meaningful contribution to the community, VMR Whitsundays would love to have you onboard. Visit https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/ to get started on your volunteer journey today!

Contributed with thanks by Shane Newell, VMRW President.

‍

Benny operating the radio with a spectacular view of the Whitsunday waters. Photo sourced: VMR Whitsundays Facebook Page.

‍

Cannonvale Cannons celebrated the final official club night of the season last week, with swimmers enjoying a night of friendly competition and recognition. Zavier Woolston was awarded the Coaches Award for his impressive 50m Backstroke. Club Records fell to Eloise Chegwidden in the 50m Butterfly, while Liam Filewood and Brooklyn Congoo earned well-deserved upgrades and Asher Springbett took home the popular Chocolate Award.

Meanwhile, a strong team of Cannons swimmers proudly represented North Queensland at the Queensland School Sport Swimming Championships in Brisbane this week. Competing in the 10–12 years division were Mackenzie Bennett, Eloise Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Zane Clayworth, Harris Delac, Declan Dichiera, Miller Eaves, Celeste Orenshaw, Indianna Smith, Levi Smith, and Alexander Trefz. In the 13–19 years division, Tyler Bennett, Tora Delac, Isabella Pisaniello, and Zachary Trefz showcased their skills.

The team delivered impressive results, with many personal bests and standout performances and a huge special congratulations go to Eloise Chegwidden, who excelled in her first state representative competition. Eloise claimed silver in the 10 Years Girls 50m Breaststroke, bronze in the 100m Breaststroke, and top ten placings in three other events. Her outstanding effort earned her selection to represent Queensland at the National Schools Championships in Victoria later this year.

Jax Clayworth also had an exceptional meet, securing silver in both the 400m Freestyle and 400m Individual Medley, bronze in the 200m Butterfly, and top ten finishes in two other events. In a proud moment for the club, Jax was also named Northern Team Captain.

Well done to all our swimmers for their hard work and dedication — what a way to start wrapping up the season!

Contributed with thanks by Jade Korosec, Vice President of the Cannonvale Cannons

‍

Eloise Chegwidden selected to represent Queensland at the National Schools Competition later this year.

Jax Clayworth was selected as Northern Region Captain with an outstanding Brisbane performance.

‍

This past weekend saw the beginnings of this year's Men's Club Championship Singles but, unfortunately some of the games scheduled were not able to be played due to difficulties presented by the weather and road conditions.

Saturday morning, Harry Craig and Barry Saroglia played an epic game of singles to start off this year's competition. After 30 ends of intense strategic draw bowls and concentrated effort by both players, Harry Craig defeated Barry Saroglia 25-23 and Nathan Harriott won his game via forfeit against Michael Kinnear. Saturday afternoon was another long game with another two good singles players being drawn to play each other as Jonathan Bye defeated David Ling 25-17.

Sunday morning Toby Craig played Scott Hamilton and this time Toby defeated Scott by 25-12. On Sunday afternoon Shane Kinnear played Mike Harrison and unfortunately for Mike, who would get his bowls close to the jack only to find that Shane would shift the jack late in the end to score the prize with a crushing score of 25-1.

No Social bowls were played on Wednesday afternoon due to the wet weather conditions, but on Sunday afternoon there were 14 players all ready for a game of bowls. Seeing Alen Sanderson, Josh Wilson, Arthur Griffith and Gavin Noonan defeat Alfred (a visitor from Sweden enjoying his first game of bowls), Trevor Parsons, Philip Brown and Heather Brown 28-13. John Anderson, Bruce Uhe and Kendall Watts defeated Ken Watts, Barry Zillmann and Sandy Daffara 33-15.

‍

Contributed with thanks by the Secretary of the Proserpine Bowls Club

‍

When you live in an ultimate fishing destination, it’s hard not to become precious about the conditions. The continued rain we’ve had certainly hasn’t been a big motivator. Thank goodness dry season is just around the corner - fingers crossed!

Dam
There’s been some great catches at the dam lately, both during the day and night. With all the rain we’ve had, it will continue to produce. Be sure to look for the inflow of water, especially at the old Proserpine River end.

For lures, we can recommend Zerek’s 5.5” Live Mullet. As always, small jerk baits such as the Samaki Redic’s are a great option here.

Estuary
Thanks to neaping tides, Proserpine River should be fishing well for barramundi this weekend and if you’re wanting to target salmon, get into the deep holes where there will still be a fair amount of salt.

Prawn lures and soft vibes are consistently a great choice in the river.

Islands & Offshore
With neaping tides, there’s less current which means there’s not going to be as much pelagic action offshore. However, this does bring a great opportunity to mix things up and do some jigging and bottom-bashing in deeper water. For this, we can recommend the Berserker Meathead jigs.

Be sure to check your local forecasts before heading out, check your safety gear to make sure it’s both in date and working, and log on with the local VMR.

Brought to you by Tackle World Airlie Beach

‍

Ben Barker with a huge barramundi.

Andrew Trigg with a barramundi showing how iridescent they can be.

Jaxson with a barracuda at Shute Harbour Jetty.

‍

Tuesday's winners were Jocelyn Defranciscis, Deb Retchless and Gavin Charles who defeated Lindy Suann Irene Laird and Margaret Wilson, Sugar Brunker, Sue Shearing and Tiarna Winter defeated Stumpy Adams, Robyn Stitt Penny Warren and sadly the jackpot didn’t go off.

Competition is continuing with Saturday seeing the final of Ladies Fours won by Tracey White, Robyn Stitt, Isobel Wheeler and Margaret Wilson who defeated Teresa Willshire, Linda Scells, Denise Wallace and Penny Warren. In the Men’s A Singles Mitch Wright defeated Mark Drummond, and Jason Wright defeated Lloyd White. On Sunday the final of Mixed Pairs was won by Denise Wallace with Mark Drummond, defeating Robyn Stitt and Gavin Charles.

Sunday afternoon play resulted in Linda Scells, Deb Retchless and Laurie Land defeating Lindy Suann, Alby Vigar and Pat Tracey. Sue Shearing and Kennedy Whitton defeated Sugar Brunker and Mark Drummond, with Teresa Willshire and Penny Warren defeating Jim Quod and Graeme Read with the jackpot not going off again.

Contributed with thanks by Penny Warren.

‍

This week, our little part of paradise experienced typical wet season weather, leaving the bowls green saturated and no play from Tuesday onwards. We're lamenting the lost game days and lack of cover, but our thoughts are with local farmers affected by the floods. We also hope the Proserpine Bowls Green rebuild continues and is completed soon. While we've faced setbacks, we remain resilient and learn valuable lessons from these challenges.

In A Grade Singles, it's down to Harry Quod, who will play the winner of Shane Spann vs Manny Isgro. In B Grade, Merve Stewart is in hot form, comfortably defeating Mark Mawson, while Steve Lawrie triumphed over Ash Warland, who had beaten Duncan Smith. Arthur McManus progressed to the next round by forfeit.

After a week of wet weather, Sunday cleared, and 16 members turned up for a game. The winning team was Bobby Spees, with lead Duncan Smith and second Lu Rogan, who edged out Tony Whitehorn’s team of lead Bill Gordon who was in fine form and second Mark Mawson in the final few ends. Runners-up were John Askew and Alan Pershouse, who triumphed over Liz and Arthur McManus on the last end. In a tight contest Stacey Hadlow’s team of lead Des Ballance and second Dawn Dowell drew with Tony Kelly’s team of lead Sue Dakin and Lyn Graham at second.

We look forward to welcoming back the Christian College students for bowls lessons starting Friday, 9 May, for a seven-week program with more details to come soon. Regular bowls lessons continue Mondays and Thursdays from 4:00pm to 5:00pm, with all welcome.

Our car boot sale is gaining momentum, set for Saturday, 10 May. With the bar open and a sausage sizzle alongside the many planned activities, guarantee a boot spot for just $10, by contacting Fiona Greener at the club on Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday afternoons at 07 4946 7656 or 04 3919 3399.

WHAT: Car Boot Sale & Activity Day
WHEN: Saturday, 10th May 9am-3pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Bowls Club

Contributed with thanks by Mark Mawson

‍

This week Sunday social winners Bob Spees, Duncan Smith and Lu Rogan

‍

Bogged Down But Not Out

Despite the grim weather predictions, the day on the course turned out to be surprisingly pleasant, though a bit boggy underfoot. The conditions didn’t stop some players from posting impressive scores, with 13 men and 7 women participating in the front nine twice stableford. With fingers crossed for better weather in future outings, the results were as follows:

Ladies’ Results:
Robyn Whitham emerged as the winner with a solid 31 points, while Tiina Randmae finished as runner-up with 29 points. Rehab Hull had a commendable 28 points, securing the rundown spot.

Men’s Results:
Craig McClean topped the men's leaderboard with an impressive 37 points, edging out John Roser, who took runner-up with 36 points. Steve Mitchell and Gerald Lovell both earned 35 points, claiming the shared rundown with Louis Neethling who scored 33 points.

Pin Shots:
In the Ladies', Tiina Randmae dominated A Grade, claiming all three pin shots, while in B Grade, Vickie Wallace, Robyn Whitham, and Rehab Hull each earned a pin shot.
For the men, Craig McClean mirrored Tiina's performance, sweeping all three pin shots in A Grade. In B Grade, John Oates took two pin shots, with Barry Mortimer, Steve Mitchell, Phil Luckett, and Trevor Peroz also scored in the hole. It’s safe to say the task was anything but difficult for these golfers!

Chip Ins:
Unfortunately, there were no chip-ins today. However, Beryl kept everyone entertained by sharing how close she came to making one.

Draws:
The Membership Jackpot Draw has increased to $40, while the raffle prize was won by John Wallace.

Contributed with thanks by Paula McQuat

‍

Ladies Winner Robyn Whitham and Men's Winner Craig McLean.

‍

$800k Funding Announced For Club Whitsundays

Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has pledged a game-changing $800,000 for Club Whitsundays if re-elected in the upcoming Federal election, due to be held in May.

This significant investment will fund dedicated women’s changing facilities, replacing the current shared spaces, a permanent shelter over the greens stand to keep spectators comfortable in any weather, and powerful field lighting to extend playing hours and enhance the club’s sporting experience.

Andrew Willcox, MP emphasised the importance of these upgrades for both Club Whitsundays and the wider sporting community, particularly in supporting the growing number of female athletes.

“We’re seeing a record number of women getting involved in sport, and we want to encourage that. They deserve their own facilities, it’s simply not right that they don’t have them,” he said.

“We also want to ensure our facilities can accommodate both home and away teams, helping to attract more visitors and strengthen our sporting community.”

Andrew Willcox also highlighted the increasing importance of getting children involved in sports and emphasised how the new spectator shelter will support this by creating a more comfortable and inviting environment for families to watch and encourage young athletes.

“I'm really keen to make sure that kids get out and enjoy themselves in the fresh air and the sunshine, which we're famous for, rather than being home on their devices.”

“Of course, it's important for them to learn how to use technology, but it’s just as important to get outside, be active, and have fun.”

By improving the facilities at Club Whitsundays, Andrew Willcox is hoping that it creates a more inviting space for families to come and watch the games.

“When kids are playing, their parents and grandparents love to be there to support them, and having proper shelter means they can do so comfortably.”

“We also need to think about sun safety, whether it’s protecting against heat or reducing the risk of melanomas, providing shaded areas is a crucial step in keeping our community safe while they enjoy local sport."

“I am really looking forward to making this happen, and encourage everyone to come down and see the facilities.

“I would like to provide public infrastructure for the whole community to enjoy.”

“You can come down, watch the sport, and enjoy the atmosphere, all for free, which is especially important during the cost-of-living crisis.

President of Club Whitsundays, Justin Butler, expressed his excitement for the impending funding.

“The club has come a long way in the precinct in the last five years, but there's always things you don't think about.

“This will help finish it off and it complements everything, including shade protection, dedicated female change rooms to support the huge growth in female sport, and obviously lighting and infrastructure.

“It's massive for us.”

Justin echoed the importance of dedicated female changing facilities, calling them a game-changer for Club Whitsundays and a key step in encouraging female athletes to spend more time at the club.

“We’ve seen massive growth in female participation, but they just don’t use the change rooms,” he said.

“They play their game and then go straight home, whereas the guys will stop, have a shower, relax at the club, and enjoy a meal together.

“The ladies don't do this because they're shared change rooms.

“Having dedicated facilities won’t just benefit our current female players, it will also attract many more to the club.”

With the Whitsundays set to host the Olympic and Paralympic sailing events, Andrew Willcox and Justin Butler, hope Club Whitsundays can evolve into a premier destination for elite athletes.

“A lot of people don’t realise that, even though the Olympics will feature sailing, sailors need large open areas to lay out their sails, check their equipment, and prepare,” Justin explained.

“We’re in the perfect location for that, just a kilometre or two from the sailing club.

“And with the Olympic buildup, overseas teams will be looking to acclimatise. It’s not just sailors, it could be a rugby sevens team, a football team, or any sporting team wanting to train in Queensland’s conditions for a month or two before the Games.”

With this potential funding, Club Whitsundays could become a world-class training ground, not just for local athletes, but for future champions and Olympians.

‍

President of Club Whitsundays, Justin Butler and Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox shake hands after funding announcement. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.

The Club Whitsundays sporting community excited about the announcement. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.

‍

Touch Footy - Every Monday
Juniors Skill Sessions from 4.30pm
Juniors Games from 5pm
Seniors Games 6pm-8pm
Mixed competition - call 0408 643 012

Whitsunday Sea Eagles (AFL)
Under 13 play Sarina at 10.40am
Under 17 play Bakers at 12.15pm
Senior Women play the Magpies at 1.50pm
Senior Men play the Saints at 3.20pm

Radiers (Rugby Union)
Raiders Women at 2.30pm
Raiders Men at 3.30pm
Juniors to start later in season

‍

A “Game-Changer” For The Community

A major upgrade is on the way for one of Mackay’s most beloved sporting clubs, thanks to a $1.9 million commitment from the LNP. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, joined local sporting stars and Magpies representatives to announce the exciting expansion of the Magpies Sporting Club.

“This investment will go towards four dressing rooms – two for females, two for males, a referee room, some secure lockers, and a first aid room,” Mr Willcox said.

“It’s only fair that the ladies have decent change rooms.

“A lot of these change rooms were designed for men, and so we really need to fix that.”

Highlighting the significance of the investment, Mr Willcox said, “We understand rural and regional clubs like this are where grassroots talent and our next future world champions are born.”

The Leader of The Nationals, David Littleproud, expressed his enthusiasm for the project and said, “We believe in making sure that these young people across regional Australia have the facilities that those in capital cities just take for granted.

“It's about making sure there’s some dignity and respect, and particularly for women who want to increase their participation.

“We want them to know that they don't have to get changed between car doors; they can actually have a dressing room where they can come in and have the confidence of knowing that this court respects them, this community respects them, and this club respects them.”

The $1.9 million pledge is set to transform the Magpies Sporting Club into an upgraded, state-of-the-art sports venue, catering to the growing demands of local athletes and the community.

“Magpies Sporting Club Mackay will be given an overhaul and transformed into a sports environment that local players and families deserve," added Mr Littleproud.

The upgrade will include the construction of new changerooms, more sports and catering areas, as well as an improved kitchen and canteen to support match day operations and community events. With these improvements, the club will be able to better accommodate the increasing number of AFL and cricket players in the region.

Magpies Sporting Club Mackay Director Jason Egan expressed gratitude for the funding, and said that Female AFL and cricket players would majorly benefit from the new changerooms.

“I would like to thank the Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, and the LNP for supporting our club,” said Mr Egan.

The club also proudly supports nine affiliated sporting clubs, fostering community engagement and promoting active and healthy lifestyles.

‍

Photo supplied

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, joined Magpies Sporting representatives last Tuesday to announce a $1.9 million investment in facility upgrades at Magpies Sporting Club Mackay. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

With $3 Million Election Commitment

Walkerston residents will be pleased to learn that the Western Suburbs Leagues Club will undergo a significant transformation, thanks to a $3 million election commitment announced by Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry. This investment will expand the club’s function area, ensuring the venue is well-equipped to host large-scale events for community groups, local businesses, and sporting clubs. The funding will also support vital clubhouse refurbishments, enhancing amenities and accessibility for all.

Last Monday, Kingsley Thieber, General Manager of Western Suburbs Leagues Club, expressed his gratitude for the upgrade, emphasising the substantial impact it will have on the Walkerston community.

“This funding will go a long way in expanding the club’s facilities, creating larger function rooms, and even providing additional space to serve as an evacuation centre in case of a natural disaster,” he said.

The expansion will significantly enhance the club’s versatility, enabling it to accommodate important gatherings such as school graduations, workplace meetings, and community events.

“This will be fantastic for hosting functions, especially events like school graduations," Mr Thieber added.

Currently, the club’s facilities are not large enough to meet the growing demand for event space.

“We have several larger businesses and schools in the area that would like to hold their functions here,” he said.

“At present, the facility isn’t big enough. This expansion will create much-needed extra space for events such as school graduations and functions for local businesses.

“It’s fantastic to see that we’ve received this funding for our community.”

Mr Thieber emphasised the vital role an expanded facility will play in supporting the Walkerston community.

“A larger facility like this is vital for our local rural community,” he added.

As a key sporting and social hub for the Pioneer Valley, the Western Suburbs Leagues Club plays an essential role in bringing people together.

“This club is fundamental to supporting the community, both socially and through sporting activities," Mr Thieber explained.

“While we have yet to make an official announcement, we have plans in place, and it is exciting to share this news with the community today.”

Ms Landry reaffirmed her commitment to the project, stating that the investment will strengthen a club that has long been a cornerstone of the Walkerston community.

“The Western Suburbs Leagues Club isn’t just about sport; it’s about fostering community spirit. From grassroots football to local events, this club is at the heart of the Pioneer Valley.”

She further noted the significance of the investment, stating that “An elected Coalition Government will deliver the $3 million needed to expand and upgrade this facility, ensuring it remains a first-class venue for years to come.”

The Western Suburbs Leagues Club is dedicated to expanding its facilities, ensuring it remains a vibrant space for the community to come together and celebrate all milestones – big or small.

‍

Kingsley Thieber, General Manager of Western Suburbs Leagues Club. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The Western Suburbs Leagues Club in Walkerston will undergo a $3 million expansion, improving its function area and facilities to better serve the community, host large events, and enhance accessibility, as announced by Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry. Photo supplied

‍

‍

A major sporting announcement just hit home for Mackay cricket fans as Cricket Australia confirmed that Mackay will host its first-ever men’s international one-day matches. The Australian men's team will take on South Africa in two one-day internationals at the Great Barrier Reef Arena (GBRA) on August 22 and 24, 2025.

The announcement follows months of collaboration between Mackay Regional Council, Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, who jointly submitted a successful bid for hosting rights in early 2024. Mayor Greg Williamson expressed his excitement about the event, calling it “a dream come true” for local cricket fanatics.

He further highlighted the significance of the match for Mackay’s future in the international sporting arena, with the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and potential cricket events slated to be held primarily at GBRA.

“What a great pleasure to be here today to hear Brett announce that the players and the Australian team will be playing here in Mackay in August,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This is stacking up to put a stake in the ground which actually proves to the cricketing world that the Great Barrier Reef Arena is a fantastic facility.”

This announcement is not just a win for cricket fans but also for the local economy. The influx of thousands of visitors to Mackay for the matches is expected to generate significant economic benefits, particularly for tourism, hospitality, and local businesses.

Cricket Australia’s CEO, Todd Greenberg, emphasised the broader impact, stating that he’s extremely grateful for the support of Queensland and local government partners who have made this possible.

“These matches will create brilliant experiences for residents and travelling cricket fans, and fantastic benefits for local businesses and economies.”

The event will also provide a platform to promote Mackay as a standout destination for international sporting events, particularly in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

Noting the region’s charm, Australian cricketer Matt Kuhnemann referred to the region as a “beautiful part of the world,” and praised its passionate local fanbase, particularly highlighting the exceptional quality of the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

“From the get-go, I think Great Barrier is one of – if not the best – cricket grounds in Queensland.

“I think the wicket is second to none, and what they've done with building the stadium and having the club there... it's definitely first-class.”

Adrian Young, CEO of the Great Barrier Reef Arena said this announcement was a big step forward for the region with the facility now ready to become a key player in Australia’s sporting landscape.

The announcement is also part of a broader initiative to bring more international sports to Queensland, with matches scheduled in several cities, including Cairns, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast.

The upcoming one-day internationals will undoubtedly mark a new chapter for Mackay, offering not only an unforgettable sporting experience but also a chance to show the world what this vibrant region has to offer.

2025-26 QUEENSLAND INTERNATONAL CRICKET FIXTURES
Men’s T20I Series v South Africa
August 16: Cazalys Stadium, Cairns
Men’s ODI Series v South Africa
August 19: Cazalys Stadium, Cairns
August 22: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay
August 24: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay
Men’s T20I Series v India
November 6: Carrara Stadium, Gold Coast
November 8: The Gabba, Brisbane
NRMA Insurance Men’s Ashes
4-8 December: Day-Night Test, The Gabba, Brisbane
Women’s ODI Series v India
February 24: Allan Border Field, Brisbane

‍

Mackay will host its first-ever men’s international one-day matches, with Australia facing South Africa at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in August 2025. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

A Hot Race Through Slade Point

Over fifty runners and supporters participated in the annual Tim’s Chariots of Fire 5km and 16km events, hosted at the Magoffin residence on Ocean Avenue, Slade Point. The club extends its thanks to Sandra, Tim, and Ruby for once again opening their home for the challenging event.

Despite the humid conditions and occasional rain, runners tackled the course, which featured undulations towards Andergrove Tavern for the 16km. The route then ascended through Lamberts Beach, including steep hills leading to the Lamberts Beach Lookout and Water Tower, a key feature for both distances.

A big thank you goes to Tim and Andrew Short for setting up and packing down the course, supported by Len Howarth, David Isbister, and Alan Zamparutti. The well-marked course included a variety of surfaces—sand, bitumen, rocky paths, and exposed roots—and challenging ascents and descents, testing runners' endurance and navigational skills. Tim’s efforts in clearing the track and setting up signage helped runners navigate the tricky route.

Top finishers in the 5km event included Lily Leven and Stephen Oberg, with Teresa Hackney finishing second overall. Stephen Hayles took silver, only five seconds behind the first male. Veteran runners Judy Zahn, David Isbister, and Len Howarth, who have a combined 230 years of experience, proved their remarkable endurance in the 5km race.

In the 16km event, Mick Vivian claimed gold, finishing two minutes ahead of Hamish Donnollan, with Joe Grech securing third. Carolyn Mapes claimed the top spot for females, finishing one minute ahead of Jose Short, with Rhiann Massey taking bronze. Junior runner Max Miles performed well, finishing just outside the top ten males.

The club also acknowledged the volunteers, including timekeeper Rohan Miles, whose presence was a welcome sight for runners in the sweltering conditions. Other volunteers, including Paul Tilse, Julie Whibley, Helen Leven, and Ruby Magoffin, were also praised for their support.

Looking ahead, the next two Sunday events will be informal social races at Bluewater Quay, with the popular Zambrero’s Burrito Bolt on Easter Sunday. All are welcome to join.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

‍

Ready to race…..Craig Joynson, Natasha Joynson, Alan Zamparutti, Grant Holmstrom and Rhian Massey!

Stephen Oberg and Lily Leven lead at the final hilly ascent in the 5km event.

First placed in the 16km Mick Vivian with Race Director and Host, Tim Magoffin.

Carolyn Mapes takes gold for the girls in the 16km Tim’s Chariots of Fire. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

‍