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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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A Grade Champion Betty Whitehorn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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It was an early start for the Proserpine Veterans Golfers who travelled by bus to Home Hill for the latest round of the Whitsunday Veterans competition.

The Home Hill volunteers provided a warm welcome, with a well-prepared course and delicious morning tea and lunch. The greens, as always, proved tricky for some, but spirits remained high throughout the day.

A total of 69 players took part, including 22 ladies and 47 men. Proserpine was strongly represented with eight ladies and ten men. The Proserpine women performed particularly well, with Robyn Whitham taking out the win on 38 points—an excellent result that some attributed to her recent lesson with Nathan. Four other Proserpine women featured in the ball run-down, including Jenny Hounsell (31), Beryl Nosworthy (30), Leanne Alexander (30), and Paula McQuat (29).

In the men’s division, Les Gordon of Bowen took the win with 34 points, just ahead of Proserpine’s Barry Mortimer, who was runner-up on countback. Proserpine men also featured in the ball run-down with Peter Fox (32), Laurie Dakin (30), Ken Granger (30), John Roser (30), and Gary Scotford (28).

Pin shots were won by Robyn Whitham and Jenny Hounsell (in the hole) for the ladies, and by Neale Mahoney, Rob Byles (in the hole), Guy LeBlowitz (in the hole), and Doug Boss for the men.

Thanks to Ken, our bus driver, for a safe and smooth trip. Good luck to all heading to Wintersun next week!

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Barry Mortimer and Robyn Whitham. Photo supplied

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Close to 100 people attended the Heart Kids Charity Golf on Dent Island on Saturday 19 July.

An impressive $110,000 was raised for HeartKids, a national organisation supporting children with congenital and acquired heart conditions.

Now in its 11th year, the annual event is organised by Kerri and Troy Martin and has grown significantly since its beginnings.

“Last year we raised $80,000, and this year we have certainly surpassed that,” said Kerry.

The event has now become the biggest community event in Queensland.

“We never expected it to become the biggest community fundraiser for HeartKids in Queensland, but it’s thanks to the generosity and support of the community that it has.”

This year’s event featured a four-ball Ambrose golf tournament with 25 teams teeing off at 9.30am. The day included games on selected holes, barbecues, raffles, and both silent and live auctions.

The fun continued into the afternoon with presentations and prize announcements, recognising the winning teams and raffle draws.

Though not officially affiliated with HeartKids, the Martins began supporting the cause after a close friend’s daughter was born with a heart condition.

“Our first fundraiser years ago was for the McGrath Foundation, and then we moved to supporting HeartKids and have continued ever since,” Kerri said.

“HeartKids is the only national not-for-profit organisation solely focused on supporting and advocating for all people impacted by Congenital/Childhood Heart Disease, one of the largest causes of infant death in Australia. Every day in Australia eight babies are born with Congenital Heart Disease.

“They seek to give every child, teenager and adult in Australia with congenital or childhood acquired heart disease a fighting chance to live a long, healthy and fulfilling life.

“Their support is a commitment for life because there is no known cure. People with congenital heart disease face unique challenges for their entire life.”

With limited golf buggies available on Dent Island, expansion is tricky but the couple hopes to continue growing the event in coming years.

“It’s mind-blowing to think how far it’s come,” Kerri said.

“But we couldn’t do it without the incredible support from the community. That’s what really makes it special.”

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North Mackay Ladies Crowned Runners-Up

North Mackay ladies played in the District Final of the Championship of Championship Fours against the ladies team from Airlie Beach . The game was held at Northern Beaches Bowls Club on Saturday 2nd of August.

The Mackay Ladies played a valiant game but the Airlie ladies ran out winners in the end. Congratulations go to Donna Gordon (lead) Coral Francis(second), Deb Mackenzie (third), and Lorna Bowers (skip).

Well done and your efforts are appreciated by your club and our members.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Runners up (L) Donna Gordon,  Coral Francis , Lorna Bowers, Deb Mackenzie. photo supplied

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Mackay's finest veterans took Brisbane by storm at the Queensland Veterans Table Tennis Championships, held at the Southpine Sports Complex from the 16th to the 19th of July.

Over four fiercely competitive days, our talented team of nine players proudly flew the Mackay flag and delivered brilliant performances across a range of age divisions. Congratulations and thanks to Vince Boeske, Anne Sheridan, Allan Edwards, Janice Kent, Donna Abbott, Daniel Warfield, Andrea Nicholson, and Noreen Frederickson for representing our region with such heart and determination.

A huge round of applause goes to Anne Sheridan, who was named President's Shield Women’s Player of the Tournament. Anne stunned the field with a string of spectacular wins, including triumphs over several seeded players, and finished third in the Order of Merit – an incredible achievement on such a big stage.

Anne also teamed up with Janice Kent to claim bronze in both the Over 60 Ladies Teams and Over 60 Ladies Doubles. Janice went on to earn silver in the Over 65 Mixed Doubles, pairing with Paul Green, while Donna Abbott and Marianne Orman (Townsville) battled hard to bring home bronze in the Over 60 Ladies Doubles.

Mackay was well represented in the prestigious Order of Merit, with several of our players punching well above their weight:
• Anne Sheridan – 3rd (Over 60 Ladies)
• Andrea Nicholson – 6th (Over 40 Ladies)
• Janice Kent – 8th (Over 60 Ladies)
• Donna Abbott – 10th (Over 60 Ladies)

This year’s Queensland Veterans Championships saw Mackay’s veterans dominate the court, showcasing not only skill and teamwork, but also a true passion for the sport. Well done to all players!

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Graham Walker, Allan Edwards, Daniel Warfield, Vince Boeske, Andrea Nicholson, Noreen Frederickson, Donna Abbott, Janice Kent and Anne Sheridan. Photos Supplied
Donna Abbott, Anne Sheridan and Janice Kent

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RUNNING

A dedicated group of Mackay Road Runners took part in the weekly social Bluewater Quay run under ideal conditions — cool, breezy, and sunny — while many others travelled north to Townsville for the annual McDonald's Running Festival. Events ranged from marathon and half marathon to 10km, 5km, 2.5km, and team races.

Race Director Andrew Short missed his usual local duties to compete in the Townsville Half Marathon, finishing in a solid 2:02, while his wife Jose claimed family bragging rights with an impressive 1:48. Local standout Skye Perkins took second place in the half marathon, finishing in a blistering 1:24. Other strong performances came from Rebecca Baird (1:59), Julia Monckton (1:50), Hamish Donnollan (1:32), Luke Leven (1:35), Max Miles (1:44), and Aidan Donnollan (2:01).

In the full marathon, Mick Vivian capped off a strong season with a 3rd-place finish in 2:53. Paul MacKenzie came 12th in 3:07, followed by Chris Brodie (3:14), Shane Donnollan (3:30), and James Wortley (4:02).

Locally, the BMA CQ Rescue 5km and 10km Fun Run showcased more Mackay Road Runners talent. Lily Leven won the 5km in 22:36, and Alana Knezevic blitzed the 10km female field in 39:43 — both backing up from recent Queen of the Mountain wins. Notable 5km efforts included Jo Hughes (1st in age category), Kayla Waugh, Greg Dawes, and Carole Dawes. In the men’s 10km, Jared Mackie led the pack in 37:26 ahead of around 300 runners.

Next up is the club’s Signature and Championship event on Sunday 10 August — the North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) Open Magic Mile and Podiatry Mackay Junior U13/U18 Magic Mile, kicking off at 7am from the Breakwater entrance at Mackay Marina. Thanks to NQBP, Breakwater Road will be closed to the public for one hour during the event.

Juniors will race first, followed by the Open division. The fast, flat 1-mile course heads out 800 metres along the Breakwater before turning for a high-speed sprint to the finish. Long-time supporter Donald Orr and NQBP’s ongoing sponsorship continue to foster community and athletic spirit.

Online registrations are now open and will close at 6pm Friday 8 August. Everyone’s welcome — no membership required!

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Darrin Pullen (2nd right) leads out in the Bluewater Quay 5k and 10k social
Len Howarth ran well in the 5km Bluewater Quay social event after his 10km run at the BMA CQ Rescue Charity Fun Run in Mackay in the morning
The Joynson Family, Natasha, Craig and Alex enjoy running together
Brad Fraser ran an impressive 10km at the Bluewater Quay social run

Post run jubilation by Jo Hughes (3rd right) with fellow runners. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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The young U12 Rookieball players are showing great improvement in their pitching and catching, while their batting and fielding have reached new levels. Some are already preparing to transition into the U14s next year, with several emerging as impressive young softballers. Lucas Weinart and Nevaeh Smith were recognised for their hard work and dedication, each receiving club awards for their efforts.

The Joeyball littlies are also stepping up and starting to show off their skills, with several preparing to join the Rookieball squad next season. For now, they're still having a great time on the diamond each week.

Dragons 10 def. Dunbar Angels 9
It was a nail-biter between the young U14 teams.
Sienna Kitto picked up two walks for the Dragons, Boyd Baxter smashed a two-bagger to centrefield, and Levi Counsell slammed a home run over centrefield. Boyd also had a strong outing on the mound, finishing with three strikeouts. Dunbar, Zac Hargraves struck out two while pitching. Amanda Martyn-Jones, Mackenzie Rumpf, and Payton Roderigue each picked up walks, while Eli Neilson had a solid hit to leftfield.

Dragonflies 12 def. Pink Hawks 5
With ten catches throughout the game, the Dragonflies led the charge.
Toni Houton had a standout performance, crossing home plate three times and taking two catches. Noah Baxter also got on base three times, though was called out for leaving early, resulting in two runs. The Pink Hawks couldn’t catch a break at bat. Angela Baker and Chelsie Goodwin took a catch each, while Angela also contributed with four assisted outs.

Young Guns 13 def. Fireballs Angels 1
Hats off to Kim Elsworthy, who scored the only run for the Fireballs. The team showed patience at the plate, picking up several walks, but runners were left stranded. Kirsty Corbett managed a catch in the field. Eli Neilson slammed a home run, bringing home two runners. Boyd Baxter and Jett Parker each crossed the plate twice. Darcy Dolgner and Peyton Baker took a catch each to help secure the Young Guns' dominant win.

Results:

North jacklin choas  Angels  1  Dragons trye power 8
Dunbar Angels 9 Dragons Get the power 10
Pink Hawks 5  Dragon flies 12
Dragons Slayers 13 Storm 3
Angels fireballs 1 young guns 13
Golden oldies 3  Arch Angels 8
PM Deisel 7  Dragons BCN 8
Devils 15  Custom Angels 4
Heavy Iron Hawks 7  Augroup  0
Dr A men 7 Hells Angels 0
Dr A men 10  Allstars 0

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

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Young softballers are stepping up across all levels, with Rookieball and Joeyball players showing major improvement, and standout performances lighting up the diamond in a weekend of close games and big wins. Photos supplied

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Students Set To Sprint Alongside Cathy Freeman At Reef Arena

Mackay students will soon have the chance to lace up their runners and follow in the footsteps of one of Australia’s most beloved sporting icons — Cathy Freeman — in a landmark event celebrating the 25th anniversary of her unforgettable Olympic gold.

The Run With Cathy – Schools Challenge will take over the Great Barrier Reef Arena on Friday, October 24 at 3.30pm, honouring the moment Freeman captivated the world with her 400m victory at the Sydney 2000 Games, and celebrating the legacy she continues to build right here in North Queensland.

The community event invites primary and secondary students from across the region to take part in 400m races and 4x100m relay challenges, with one boy and one girl selected from each school for the solo sprint, and a mixed team of four for the relays. Cathy Freeman will personally present trophies to the winners, making it a memory that’s sure to stick with students for life.

The Great Barrier Reef Arena — recently upgraded and quickly becoming one of the state’s premier sporting venues — will play host to the community celebration, showcasing the incredible grassroots talent that calls Mackay home.

Freeman, a proud Kuku Yalanji woman with strong ties to North Queensland, has always carried her roots with pride, and her ongoing commitment to supporting youth, Indigenous communities, and environmental causes makes her visit even more meaningful.

Schools are encouraged to register their interest by August 29 by contacting nancy@harruppark.com.au.

From the red dirt to the reef, from Sydney 2000 to Brisbane 2032 — the next generation is getting ready to run.

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Mackay students will soon take part in the Run With Cathy – Schools Challenge, racing alongside Cathy Freeman at the Great Barrier Reef Arena to mark 25 years since her iconic Olympic gold. Photo source: Harrup Park

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The 71st Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim, and the 17th year it has been held as a cageless event, once again attracted open water swimmers from across the region. The iconic 8km swim starts at Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island and finishes on Townsville’s shoreline in front of Strand Park.

Swimmers typically complete the course with support from a kayaker who provides direction and sustenance throughout the swim. This year saw 73 solo swimmers, 10 duo teams, and 8 full teams of four take part.

Representing the Sinkers Masters Swim Club were Pierre Craven and Jenny Smith.

Pierre faced a challenging start when his support kayaker, Geoff Hamilton, was stranded on a delayed barge. Undeterred, Pierre set off solo after receiving sound advice from Jane Eggins, to “bolt out” and skip any stops for sustenance. The strategy paid off, with Pierre improving on his previous years’ time by a remarkable 30 minutes and finishing 7th in his age group. He credits the improvement to the patience and efficient freestyle coaching from Millie at the DMR Memorial Pool, home of the Sinkers.

Geoff eventually ferried back to Townsville, collected the kayak, and, with the help of Theresa Hackney, was able to rendezvous with Pierre 1.5km into the swim, providing much-needed direction and nutrition for the remainder of the journey.

It was Jenny Smith’s debut in the event, and her dedication was evident. After countless hours of training, she delivered a strong performance, finishing 8th in her age group. A local Townsville kayaker supported her on the water, while Jenny Furini and Theresa Hackney formed part of the on-ground cheer squad, with more support coming from back home in Mackay.

It’s not all swimming either, with many members not swimming but enjoying the social events and aspect of the club.

For more information, visit North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club on Facebook.

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The 71st Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim saw open water swimmers from across the region take on the iconic 8km challenge, with Sinkers Masters athletes Pierre Craven and Jenny Smith delivering standout performances in the cageless event. Photos supplied

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With Dragons Abreast Mackay

Dragons Abreast Mackay Celebrated it’s 20th Birthday on 26th July at the Mackay Harbour Marina.

Breast cancer survivors and supporters were joined by Townsville and Blue Mountains Dragons Abreast Clubs for a wonderful weekend of fun, friendship and celebration.  A fun paddle on the Marina was followed by a scrumptious morning tea in Mulherin Park.

“We all felt the groove with a Drum Circle by Rhythm Business, proving to be popular and enjoyed by all,” said club president, Janelle Moran.

“After an enjoyable Dinner at the Mackay Surf Club we sang and danced to the fantastic sounds of “Mango Junction” as we danced the night away.

“We were also treated to a wonderful performance from our paddling sisters from Townsville and Blue Mountain Clubs.”

The weekend was finished off with a BBQ on Sunday morning with a final catchup and farewell to the visiting clubs.

If you are a Breast Cancer Survivor, newly diagnosed, in treatment, or it is a distant memory – there is a seat in our boat for you. No experience needed, equipment and instruction are provided by the amazing crew.  Dragon boating gives breast cancer survivors more than a paddle in our hands, it gives us connection, confidence and community.

Are you ready to connect, move, and live?  Feel the power of paddling with a supportive team of survivors and Supporters.

If interested please contact Dragons Abreast Mackay on their Facebook Page.

Contributed by Janelle Moran

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