Mackay Blokarters soared to victory at the Australian National Blokart Titles, held from March 21-23 at Waratah Bay, Victoria. The competition brought together the best blokart sailors from across the country, with competitors battling varying wind conditions over four intense days of racing.

Four competitors from Central Queensland and Whitsunday Blokart Clubs raced for top honours, showcasing their skills and determination on the sand. Among them were two Mackay women, including a husband-and-wife duo who took on the challenge with remarkable sportsmanship and competitive spirit.

In the lightweight production class, Bev Shultz put on an impressive performance, securing first place. As a former world champion, she demonstrated her elite sailing skills, navigating the tricky conditions with precision and strategy. Her victory reaffirmed her status as one of the top blokart competitors in the country.

Tony Francis also delivered a stellar performance, taking first place in the heavyweight performance division. His expertise and control in the demanding conditions set him apart from the competition, earning him a well-deserved national title. His wife, Katie, competed in the lightweight production class but, despite a strong effort, narrowly missed a podium finish.

Miles Wood from the Whitsunday Blokart Club showcased exceptional talent, securing first place in the medium weight performance category. His achievement contributed to an outstanding overall performance for the Central Queensland Blokarters, further establishing their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the sport.

The event saw a total of 42 competitors battling it out, with fluctuating winds adding an extra layer of difficulty to the races. Despite the challenging conditions, the skill and determination of the competitors ensured thrilling and closely contested races.

Dave Moore, spokesperson and founder of the Central Queensland Blokart Club (CQBC), expressed immense pride in the team’s achievements.

“We at the Central Queensland Blokart Club are very proud of our team,” he said, acknowledging the dedication and effort put in by the competitors.

The Queensland team consisted of members from Whitsundays, Mackay, Yeppoon, and Bundaberg/Woodgate Beach.

The trophies, handcrafted by the Men’s Shed Victoria, were awarded across eight divisions, including lightweight, middleweight, heavyweight, and super heavyweight in both the production and performance classes.

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Mackay Blokarters dominated the Australian National Blokart Titles in Victoria, with Bev Shultz and Tony Francis securing first-place wins, showcasing their skill despite challenging wind conditions. Photos supplied

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North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club

With March done and dusted, the Sinkers Swim Club is thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of their second fundraiser for 2025 in support of the ReachOut organisation. This year, their efforts raised $8,664, a significant leap from the 2024 total of $5,818. Starting with a humble goal of $2,000, the club surpassed it early in the two-month campaign, thanks to a strong early push.

This year, the club had eleven amazing members—up by four from last year—who rallied their friends, family, and colleagues to contribute.

A representative from the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club said, “A special shoutout goes to Annamarie Mill for her exceptional solo effort, raising $3,325 and securing a gold-medal performance that propelled our club to new fundraising heights.

“This total placed us 20th nationwide, with all participating teams collectively raising an awe-inspiring $3,246,038 to support youth facing tough times.”

ReachOut remains an invaluable resource, offering young Australians a safe space to express themselves, connect, and find support.

Combining February’s Starlight Super Swim and March’s Laps for Life campaigns, the Sinkers have amassed a remarkable $13,247 in 2025. That’s an impressive contribution to two essential causes close to their hearts.

Of course, no Sinkers fundraiser would be complete without some swimming! Participants set personal distance goals, ranging from modest to ambitious, and smashed them. The team achieved a combined distance of over 350km, equivalent to 7,000 laps of our beloved 50m pool at the DMR Memorial Swimming Centre. Special recognition goes to Club Captain Pierre Craven, who powered through a phenomenal 100km solo swim, significantly boosting totals.

The Sinkers’ commitment to community continues with their next fundraising event in October: the MS Super Splash on Saturday, October 18th, at the DMR Memorial Swim Centre. This exciting annual event promises a fantastic day with live music, games, and more. Start assembling your team and get ready to dive in for Multiple Sclerosis Qld.

Best of luck to the team of nine members heading to the Masters Swimming Australia National Championships in Melbourne from April 9–12. Competing among 750 swimmers in this prestigious five-day event, the Sinkers say they are ready to make waves!

Show your support by donating to www.lapsforlife.com.au/donate

Contributed by Dan Stampa

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The Sinkers 2025 Laps for Life highest Fundraiser at $3,325 Annamarie Mill (right) is pictured with another Laps for Life 2025 Sinkers Member Teresa Hackney after a Saturday Morning Social Swim

Social Saturdays are popular for more than the “Jim Session” with a gathering in the 9th Lane Hub after to enjoy a relaxed catch up (Pictured - multiple members)

Logos and Lappers! Debra Cody (L) and Lesley Thorpe (R) with some L4L swim caps after a session. Photos supplied

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Results For Week Ending Sunday 30 March 2025

Monday 24 March 2025 – 6.5 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West
1st David Ting - Eric Goodchild 1st Helen Van Den Broek - Jan Harris
2nd Ming Ting - Pamela Finger 2nd Monica Darley - Nancy Martin
3rd Karen Caldwell - Noel Saunders 3rd Vicki Howard - Susan Ross
Tuesday Evening 25 March 2025 – 4 Table Howell Green Points
1st Shirley Worland - Martin Pearce
2nd Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia
3rd Andrew Canavan - Simon Barnes
4th Patricia Garner - Adrian Westcott

Wednesday 26 March 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West
1st David Ting - Eric Goodchild 1st Diane Holewa - Max Holewa
2nd Joy Robinson - Robert Carless 2nd Jan Harris - Sandra Morris
3rd Monica Darley - Sandy Patterson 3rd Diane Stokes - Griffin Bancroft

Friday 28 March 2025 –7 Table Teams Green Points

North/South East/West
1st Tex Sheedy - Christine Nice 1st Geoff Cowan - Mick King
2nd Ming Ting - David Ting 2nd Victor Mason - Josie Crowley
3rd Debra Goodchild - Lorna Shuttlewood 3rd Jewel Schmidt - Annette Howe

Saturday 29 March 2025 – 11.5 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West
1st Alan Brown - Frances Brown 1st Eric Goodchild - Debra Goodchild
2nd Christine Nice - Jan Harris 2nd Janet Hansen - Marilin Robins
3rd Susan Ross - Janine Rodgers 3rd John Mcgee - Mick King
4th Susan Wright - Lorna Shuttlewood 4th Ann Whitmore - Sandra Morris
5th Tex Sheedy - Faye Wright 5th Helen Van Den Broek - Joy Brunette
6th Monica Darley - Nancy Martin

Sunday 30 March 2025 –5 Table Mitchell Green Points (Novices And Mentors)

North/South East/West
1st Janine Rodgers - Jewel Schmidt 1st Anne Lutz - Karen Caldwell
2nd Tex Sheedy - Sandy Patterson 2nd Debra Goodchild - Annette Howe

Contributed by Robert Carless

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President Francie Brown says farewell to former club Secretary of five years, Ted Cullinan, who has been playing bridge for just over a decade. The club wishes Mr Brown good luck in his new venture as he heads to Western Australia. Photo supplied

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures March 25, 2025:

Division 1:

Phoenix Fire (Andrew McHugh, Josh Brown, Andrea Nicholson) d Panther Prowlers (Trent Day, Vince Boeske, Jacob Whelan) 7-4. Andrew d Trent 4, 13, 12.

Venus Voyagers (Janice Kent, Graham Brake, Graham Drury) d Stellar Stars (Will Van DeKaa, Lee Brake, Barry Patterson) 6-5. Graham D d Lee -5, 9, 9, -9 15.

Cosmic Sorcerers (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Donna Abbott) d Ghost Spinners (Allan Robins, Geoff Denman, Lily Boland) 7-4. Anne d Allan -7, 10, 6, -7, 9.

Ant Warriors (Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) d Star Lords (Mark Sleeman, Vimal Chilukuri) 7-4. Ian d Robbie 6, -12, 7, -8, 6.

Division 2:

Pirate Plunge (David Symons, Geoff Cowan) d Zulu Spears (George Camilleri, Rod Hamelink) 6-5. David d Rod -4, 3, 6, 5.

Pharoah Aces (Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo, Sam) d Rebel Celts (Val Austin, Delmas Knight, Ollie Hamelink) 9-2. Sam/Jye d Ollie/Val -10, 9, 9, -18, 3.

Spartan Serve (JiLin Jiang, Mark Stam, Liz Burton) d Amazon Guards (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. YiLin d Simon 6,-7, -9, 7, 9.

Celtic Smash (Tiffany Camilleri, Seyed Zhang) d Roman Legion (Peter Goodson, Craig VanDeKaa) 4-1. Peter d Tiffany -6, 11, 6, -9, 2.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures March 25, 2025:

Division 1:

Venus Voyagers (Peter Goodson, Branko Vucurovic, Marie Taylor) d Solar Comets (Andrea Nicholson, Judy Zahn, Bryan Marshall) 9-3. Judy d Marie 7, 3, -9, -7, 10.

Saturn’s Rings (George Camilleri, Rhonda Payne, Coral Morgan) drew Luna Legends (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) 6-all. George/Rhonda d Donna/Pam -4, 6, -9, 8, 5.

Mars Pioneers (Delma Knight, Geoff Cowan, Kevin Abbott) d Rocket Stars (Allan Robins, John McGee, Veronica Shepherd) 9-3. Kev d Veronica 9, -7, 8, -7, 4.

Division 2:

Pluto Players (David Muir, Ron Johr, Gerry Synnott) d Neptune Navigators (Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) 7-5. Ron/Gerry d Gloria/Frank -9, 10, 9, 9.

Mercury Meteors (Ken Best, Helen Ware, Kim Daffy) d Jupiter Jets (Sally Muir, Kim Challender, Robyn Bushell) 9-3. Kim d Helen 8, 8, -5, -2, 7.

Division 3:

Green Lantern (Josie Davis, Laurie Bradshaw) drew Black Panther (Sharon Muller, Madge Saunders) 6-all. Madge d Josie -5, -6, 8, 11,10.

Wonder Warriors (Virginia Clayton, Allison Day) d Aqua Waves (Chris Collins, Thelma Caruana) 5-4. Thelma d Allison -5, -8, 8, 7, 6.

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Josie Davis

Madge Saunders. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Last Wednesday, 26th March, the Semi-Final of the Master Pairs took place, featuring two intense matchups. Nuggy Pratt and Michell Stockton faced off against Lois Deguara and Joyce Bloomfield, while Chris Woo and Chris Hall played against Lorna Coad and Floss Keft.

Both games were highly competitive, with impressive bowls and fierce concentration from all players. However, only one team from each match could advance. Lois and Joyce secured victory in their game, while Chris and Chris also claimed a win, setting up an all–North Mackay final.

After a well-deserved break and lunch, the players returned to the green for the final match of the session. Once again, it was a tense and skilful contest, with plenty of encouragement from spectators boosting the players' energy. In the final round, Chris and Chris emerged as the winners. Their excitement was evident, as they received many congratulations from those in attendance.

The club extended its congratulations to all participants and expressed appreciation to everyone from the various clubs who entered this year’s competition.

Social bowls were also held last Thursday, with the winners being Narell Schmidtke and Doris Dodds. The runners-up were Jan Comelli, Brenda Trannore, and Coral Francis.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine.

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Winners Chris Hall and Chris Woo

(L-R) Joyce Bloomfield, Lois Deguara, Chris Hall and Chris Woo. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Cutters faced the Central Queensland Capras in a rugby league showdown that yielded a mixed bag of results across various divisions. While the senior Hostplus Cup team endured a tough defeat, the junior squads showcased their potential with impressive performances.

Hostplus Cup

In the senior league, the Mackay Cutters fell 16-36 to the Central Queensland Capras at Rugby Park in Rockhampton. This loss marked their second consecutive defeat, leaving them at the bottom of the Hostplus Cup standings. The team will be aiming to regroup during their upcoming bye this weekend to climb up the ladder.

Harvey Norman U17

The Harvey Norman U17 Girls team faced a challenging match against the Capras, resulting in a 4-28 loss. Despite the setback, the team remains focused on improving their game in the coming fixtures.

Harvey Norman U19

In contrast, the U19 Girls secured a decisive 36-12 victory over the Capras. Their dominant performance highlighted their strong attacking capabilities and solidified their position as a team to watch this season.

Mal Meninga Cup

The Mal Meninga Cup squad also emerged victorious, defeating the Capras 24-12. Their resilience and tactical play were evident throughout the match, earning them a well-deserved win.

Cyril Connell Cup

Similarly, the Cyril Connell Cup team dominated their game with a 46-22 triumph over the Capras. Their consistent scoring and defensive strategies contributed to their impressive performance.

With three out of five teams securing victories, the Mackay Cutters' junior divisions have demonstrated promising talent and teamwork.

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Photo credit: @lfcreative_social (Instagram)

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixture results March 18, 2025:

Division 1:

Saturn’s rings (George Camilleri, Andrea Nicholson, Coral Morgan) d Venus Voyager (Peter Goodson, Branko Vucurovic, Marie Taylor) 7-5. Andrea d Branko 4, -4, 7, -3, 3.

Mars Pioneers (Delma Knight, Geoff Cowan, Kevin Abbott) d Solar Comets (Doug Dungavell, Judy Zahn, Bryan Marshall) 9-3. Delma d Doug -9, 5, 11, -9, 5.

Luna Legends (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) d Rocket Stars (Allan Robins, John McGee) 10-2. Noreen d John -9, 9, -16, 4, 7.

Division 2:

Neptune Navigators (John Hamelink, Charlie Farrow, Frank Caruana) drew Mercury Meteors (Helen Ware, Kim Daffy) 6-all. Charlie d Kim -9, 7, 5, -6, 3.

Jupiter Jets (Don Boettcher, Kim Challender, Robyn Bushell) d Pluto Players (Darryl Ross, Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott) 7-5. Don/Kim d Darryl/Iris 9, -5, 8, -11, 6.

Division 3:

Aqua Waves (Sally Miller, Chris Collins, Thelma Caruana) d Green Lantern (Josie Davis, Laurie Bradshaw, Trish Zamparutti) 8-4. Josie d Sally 9, -9, 7, -3, 13.

Black Panthers (Sharon Muller, Madge Saunders, Carmel Christaldi) d Wonder Warriors (David Miller, Allison Day, Ron Johr) 7-5. Madge d David -4, 9, -8, 7, 7.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures March 18, 2025:

Division 1:

Star Lords (Vimal Chilukuri, Robbie Richards, Mark Sleeman) d Panther Prowlers (Trent Day, Vince Boeske, Allan Edwards) 8-3. Vince d Slee -10, 12, -10, 7, 5.

Ghost Spin (Steven Whiting, Lily Boland, Allan Robins) d Stellar Storms (Will VanDeKaa, Lee Brake, Barry Patterson) 6-5. Barry d Lily 11, 7, -8, -8, 3.

Ant Warriors (Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) d Phoenix Fire (Andrea Nicholson, Andrew McHugh, Josh Brown) 6-5. Goncalo d Andrew 6, -11, 6, 2.

Cosmic Sorcerers (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Donna Abbott) d Venus Voyagers (Graham Drury, Janice Kent, Graham Brake) 6-5. Donna d Janice 8, -2, -10, 9, 13.

Division 2:

Pirate Plunge (Geoff Cowan, Saisha Palod, David Symons) d Rebel Celts (Val Austin, Delma Knight, Ollie Hamelink) 8-3. Saisha d Ollie 8, 9, -11, 5.

Pharoah Plunge (Misha Palod, Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo) d Zulu Spears (George Camilleri, Darryl Ross, Rod Hamelink) 7-4. Misha d Darryl  8, -9, 8, 4.

Celtic Smash (Tiffany Camilleri, Geoff Denman, Syed Zhang) d Amazon Guards (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen, Nehmat Dhailwal) 9-2. Syed d Simon -11, 14, 4, -10, 3.
Roman Legion (Craig VanDeKaa, Niro Premachandra, Peter Goodson) d Spartan Serve (YiLin Jiang, Mark Stam, Liz Burton) 7-4. Craig d Liz -5, 8, -7, 9, 9.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

Barry Patterson
Lily Boland. Photos supplied

The Sinkers - Mackay Masters Swimming Club  have enjoyed a great ongoing relationship with the Pioneer Swim Club “The Dolphins”. As in past years, The Dolphins provided equipment and timing operators at the recent Sinkers’ Fun in Feb event ensuring the event ran smoothly.

At the Dolphins’ Championship night on Thursday 20th March 2025, the Sinkers witnessed a great night of racing as well as providing a sausage sizzle and cold drinks for the swimmers and supporters.  Congratulations to all competitors and supporters

The Million Meters Program

Launched in the 1970’s, the Million Meters program aims to stimulate all members of Masters Swimming to strive for greater fitness and recognises a swimmer’s progressive milestones.  2025 is the 50th anniversary of the programme, challenging the swimmers to swim 50 x 50 meters  in 50 weeks. Either 2,500m or 2.5km’s per week!

Swimmers log their laps in the Million Metres app. allowing them to easily track their progress.

The programme enjoyed a resurgence for Sinkers’ members in 2024 and is off to a flying start in 2025.  Not all swimmers achieve that total, however that does not deter them from striving to achieve their own challenging goal.

Hats off to the latest 20 million meter man Don Taylor of the Toowoomba Tadpoles -QTW  Masters Swimming Club. Don started in Masters swimming in 1998 and is aiming to compete in his fifth World championship this year.  Don kicked off the Million Metres program at a minute past midnight on New Years Eve.

March Fundraising – Laps For Life

Sinkers continue to raise funds for worthy causes and this month’s focus is on Laps for Life -  preventing youth suicide, ensuring young people in Australia have the mental health support they urgently  need.

To date, the Sinkers have swum 207.57km and raised $7992.

Contributed by Gerri Kissner

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The Sinkers have been keeping busy, strengthening community ties, celebrating the Million Meters program’s 50th anniversary, honouring Don Taylor’s milestone, and raising $7,992 for youth mental health through Laps for Life. Photos supplied

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Monday 17 March 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
   North/South East/West
   1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Noel Bugeia - Geoffrey Patterson
   2nd Karen Caldwell - Noel Saunders 2nd Helen Van Den Broek - Jan Harris

Wednesday 19 March 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points (Nation Wide Pairs)
North/South East/West
1st Monica Darley - Kath Poole 1st Diane Holewa - Max Holewa
2nd Josie Crowley - Barbara Tait 2nd Tex Sheedy - Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 3rd Geoff Cowan - Sandy Patterson
4th Anne Lutz - Gwen Liddell 4th Victor Mason - John Ludkin

Thursday Evening 20 March 2025 – 3.5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Diane Stokes - Martin Pearce
2nd Adrian Westcott - Tex Sheedy
3rd Jan Harris - Andrew Canavan

Friday 21 March 2025 –10 Table Teams (Overstate/Understate) Green Points
1st Jewel Schmidt/Frances Brown/Alan Brown/Annette Howe
2nd Ted Cullinan/Diane Stokes/Susan Wright/Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd Geoff Cowan/Christine Nice/Julie O’neill/Christine Fitzpatrick
4th Noel Saunders/Kath Poole/Nancy Martin/Sue Mayer-Miller

Saturday 22 March 2025 – 8.5 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Christine Nice - Diane Stokes 1st Patricia Garner - Adrian Westcott
2nd Ming Ting - David Ting 2nd Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless
3rd Alan Brown - Frances Brown 3rd Monica Darley - Nancy Martin
4th Susan Ross - Jewel Schmidt 4th Julie O'neill - Griffin Bancroft

Contributed by Robert Careless

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Students from the 2025 beginner’s class: L/R Sharon, Patricia, Jodi and Jenny. Photo supplied

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Approximately 60 runners and supporters participated in the annual Whibley’s Wander 5km and 12km scratch start race, beginning in West Mackay from the residence of long-time hosts Julie and Andrew Whibley. The event provided a welcoming atmosphere, with a post-race sausage sizzle, fruit, and refreshments.

Club secretary Julie and her husband Andrew have hosted the race for several years, with this year’s edition featuring the added bonus of a pool for post-run recovery.

With Rohan Miles and Teresa Hackney managing the timing system, and President Paul Tilse delivering the pre-race briefing, competitors were well-prepared as race starter Brendan Bishop signalled the beginning of the event. Despite humid conditions and light rain, runners completed their respective 5km and 12km courses through West Mackay and the City Centre fringe via the Catherine Freeman Boardwalk trail. The well-marked, low-traffic course was set up by Mackay Road Runners' course expert Andrew Short.

In the 12km race, talented junior runner Toby Rule finished first among the men, ahead of strong performances from Ashley Miles, Shane Donnollan, Clinton Mackie, and John Rae. Carolyn Mapes claimed first place in the women’s division, finishing sixth overall, followed closely by Jose Short and Carmel Mahon.

Lily Leven dominated the 5km event, finishing ahead of the entire male and female field, while Grant Holmstrom secured first place among the men. Strong performances were also recorded by Steven Hayles, Phil Roche, Emma Johnson, Gail Mackie, and Judy Zahn.

New and returning runners, including Craig Joynson, Max Miles, Cade McFadzen, Aiden Donnollan, Shane Barben, and John Couldrey, also delivered impressive performances.

The upcoming Tim’s Chariots of Fire 5km and 16km event will take place this Sunday at 6:30am from 16 Ocean Avenue, featuring a challenging course with varied terrain. Hosts Tim and Sandra have invited all participants to stay post-race for refreshments and a pool recovery session.

The club extends a sincere “thank you” to all volunteers, sponsors, and club Patron Club Col Meng (zooper dooper sponsor) as they are integral to the success and longevity of the club and its weekly events.

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Teresa Hackney and Rohan Miles are the terrific timing team at the 5/12km  Whibley’s Wander

Mackay Road Runner’s Vice President, Len Howarth, had a very busy morning helping set the course, run 12km, then pack up

(Left to right) Carmel Mahon, Jo Hughes, Leanne Connor, Julie Whibley, Teresa Hackney and June Bradley

Darrin Pullen easily completes the 12km Whibley Wander in very humid conditions

Ready to run, Steven Hayles, Clinton Mackie, Gail Mackie and Amy Huston. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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The first round of the Junior Development Series at Sarina Tennis Club was filled with both fun and fierce competition. Earlier this month, a strong group of players from Rogers Tennis Academy and Mackay Tennis Association showcased their skills, creating an exciting atmosphere for all involved.

Among the standout performers were Raice Gibbons, who took home the Division 1 singles title, and Thomas Louw, who finished as the Division 2 singles runner-up. Patrick McGahan also earned recognition as the Division 5 singles runner-up.

In the green ball divisions, Ruby Phillips claimed second place in Division 1, while Rayanash Chauhan triumphed as the Division 2 singles green ball winner. Percy Gibbs secured a runner-up finish in Division 2, and in Division 4, Finn Alexander emerged victorious, with Helena Bijos taking second place.

Congratulations to all the players for their impressive performances, and special recognition to those who took home top honours in their individual divisions.

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The first round of the Junior Development Series at Sarina Tennis Club featured strong performances from local players, with Raice Gibbons, Rayanash Chauhan, and Finn Alexander taking top honors in their divisions. Photo source: Mackay Tennis Association

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The fishing around Airlie Beach certainly hasn’t been all that enjoyable with all the rain lately. But wet season is coming to an end, and we know many of you are itching to make the most of every good weather window coming up.

Dam
The dam has been fishing pretty well over the past week and we expect it to keep doing so. With the recent rains, focus on anywhere there’s still water flowing into the dam, as well as windswept points.

For lures, 4-6” paddle tail soft plastics are your best bet. We recommend the Panic Stations 4”, 5” and 6”. Small jerk baits are also a great option, and we can recommend the Samaki Redic’s.

Estuary
With the recent rains, the crabs should have been pushed out into the rivers and creeks. The focus for these should be towards the mouth of the waterway, where there’s going to be more salt water than fresh.

The size of the tides is reducing over the weekend, so focus on the tide changes to target barramundi, jew fish, and salmon.

Islands & Offshore
With strong south-easterly winds predicted, anyone brave enough to venture out to the islands should stay on the north/north-western side to get as much protection as possible.

Try fishing for coral trout around the fringing reef drop-offs. Use soft plastics in 3-5m of water. We recommend the Mikado Jaws.

As always, before heading out on the water, check your local forecasts, ensure all your safety gear is up to date, and check in with your local VMR.

Contributed with thanks to Tackle World Airlie Beach

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Unfortunately, rain forced the cancellation of play on Tuesday, and the wet weather continues to linger this week, affecting upcoming games.

On Saturday, our men’s and ladies’ teams travelled to Collinsville for a challenging day of competition in extremely hot and humid conditions. Wangaratta emerged victorious, securing two match wins. A big thank you to Collinsville for their hospitality, including the delicious lunch and afternoon tea provided for all participants.

In Sunday afternoon’s play, Irene Laird and Alby Vigar defeated Jim Quod and Gavin Charles in a hard-fought match. In the other game, Jocelyn Defranciscis and Robyn Stitt triumphed over Deb Retchless and Pat Tracey. Unfortunately, the jackpot did not go off, continuing the streak of unsuccessful draws, better luck next week!

Contributed with thanks by Penny Warren.

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Sunday's 23rd winners: Irene Laird, Alby Vigar, Jocelyn Defranciscis and Robyn Stitt.

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March means the wet season, and everyone here at our little club hoping for some respite and that the cover will arrive soon. This week saw no bowls played on Tuesday or Wednesday, including the Business House Bowls.

However, the Men's A Division Singles is now down to three competitors. A fantastic game was played between Andy McDougall and Harry Quod, which ended in a neck-and-neck finish. Harry proved too strong in the end, winning 26-19, and will now face the winner of the match between Manny Isgro and Shane Spann.

The final of the 2025 Mixed Pairs Competition was held on Sunday afternoon, where Shane and his lovely wife Vicki, faced Margo Stanley and John Fielding. At one stage, John and Margo held a commanding 16-7 lead, but Vicki and Shane rallied, and with just one end to go, it was 18-all. Margo bowled magnificently in the final end, leading her team to a 20-18 victory, making them this year's champions. This moment is captured in this week's photo.

While this match was taking place, Sunday Social Bowls was also in action. The winning team, skippered by Men’s President Peter Barrett, with Paul Osborne at lead and Mark Mawson at second, won on the last end with the final bowl against John Matterson's team, which included Phil O'Brien at lead and Duncan Smith at second. Meanwhile, Andy McDougall's team, with Sue Dakin at lead and Lu Rogan at second, triumphed over Tony Kelly’s team of Amanda O'Brien at lead and Juanita Matterson at second in a dominant victory.

The Airlie Beach Bowls Club will be hosting an ambitious fundraising day on Saturday, 10th May. The event will include a car boot sale and other exciting activities, with more details to be announced soon. Any interested parties should contact Fiona Greener at the bowls club on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, by calling her on 07 4946 7656 or 04 3919 3399. Site fees will be $10 each and the bar will be open.

Looking ahead, we hope to see the early rounds of the Men’s Division B Singles played this week, weather permitting.

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

Contributed with thanks by Mark Mawson

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The 2025 Mixed Pairs champions: Margo Stanley and John Fielding

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It’s been a huge week for the Cannonvale Cannons with plenty to celebrate across club night, carnivals, and representative events.

At our weekly club night, swimmers were recognised for their efforts with Chocolate Awards presented to Pippa Laguna, Miller Eaves, and Zane Clayworth. Coaches Awards went to Eric Mulliss for a strong 100IM and Caleb Woolston for an impressive 50m Freestyle. Upgrades were awarded to Zane Clayworth, Gracie Crichton, Miller Eaves, Eloise Chegwidden, Caleb Woolston, Matilda Nicholes, Kaitlyn Moon, Airlie Mladenovski, Asher Springbett, Levi Smith, Liam Filewood, and Gracie Laguna. Club Records were also broken by Eloise Chegwidden in the 200IM, and Harry Chegwidden in both the 25m Backstroke and 25m Breaststroke.

Over the weekend, 18 Cannons travelled to the 2025 Bowen Family Long Course Transition Meet. This relaxed and fun carnival is perfect for developing swimmers and those chasing A Grade upgrades. Congratulations to Liam Filewood, Lucas Korosec, and Addie Sanders who achieved Swimming North Queensland A Grade times! Top performers based on personal bests included Evie Doherty, Liam Filewood, Roxanne Groom, Stella Mulliss, Miranda Palmero, and Faithlyn Trotter.

Meanwhile, four of our Cannons headed south on Sunday to tackle the Mirani Triathlon — well done to Penelope and River Shields, Millie Groom, and Matilda Nicholes for representing the club in true Cannons style.

And finally, a huge congratulations to our swimmers who have been selected for the North Queensland Schools Team to compete at the State Championships in Brisbane. We wish them all the very best and look forward to cheering them on and reporting back next week, GO CANNONS!

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

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