Mackay Celebrates Olympic Countdown In Style

With the countdown to Brisbane 2032 well underway, Mackay is stepping into the Olympic spotlight—celebrating seven years to go with a powerful tribute to our region’s growing legacy and the rising stars who could one day represent us on the world stage.

As an official Olympic cricket venue, Mackay is now part of sporting history.

Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP joined young swimmers, coaches, and community leaders to celebrate the Olympic milestone and promote the power of sport to transform lives.

“This isn’t just a countdown – it’s a call to action,” Mr Dalton said.

“Being selected as a host city puts Mackay on the global map, and today we celebrate what that means for our region’s kids – their futures, their dreams, and the opportunities ahead.”

Mr Dalton said the poolside setting was a powerful symbol of what’s possible when local sport is supported and celebrated.

“These kids represent the future of Australian sport,” he said.

“They’re already putting in the work, showing discipline and determination, and that’s exactly what the Olympic spirit is all about.”

He also acknowledged the proud legacy of elite athletes who have called Mackay home.
“Mackay has a proud history of producing Olympic and Paralympic athletes who have represented Australia with distinction,” Mr Dalton said.

“From swimmers and rowers to cyclists and sprinters, our region has already proven it can nurture world-class talent. The Brisbane 2032 Games give us an opportunity to build on that legacy and inspire even more young people to follow in their footsteps.”

Mr Dalton encourages families to take advantage of the Queensland Government’s $200 PlayOn Vouchers, which help parents cover the cost of sport registration, uniforms, and equipment.

“Whether your child dreams of gold or just wants to be part of a team, sport builds resilience, confidence and connection,” he said.

“The PlayOn program ensures cost isn’t a barrier – it’s about opening doors.”

For more information on the PlayOn Vouchers and how to apply, visit:
www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/play

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Mackay is proudly marking seven years to go until the Brisbane 2032 Games with a celebration of local talent, sporting legacy, and a call to inspire the next generation of Olympians and Paralympians.

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BRIDGE

The second round of the Founders Teams event was won by team Roland Taylor. One more week to go, with each team in with a chance. The Novice and Mentors was played on Sunday with a great turn out. June incentive awards go to Martin Pearce and Laura Howland.

Weekly Results

Monday 21 June 2025 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
2nd Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers 2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd Marilin Robins / Diane Morgan 3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
4th Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane 4th Janet Hansen / Patricia Wong

Tuesday Evening 22 July 2025 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood 2nd Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner
3rd Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 4th Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

Wednesday 23 July 2025 – Round 2 of 3 Founders Team event Green Points
Team Players
1st Roland Taylor Roland Taylor/Janine Conroy/Noel Bugeia / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Janet Hansen Janet Hansen/Diane/Morgan/Frances Brown/Alan Brown
3rd Karen Caldwell Karen Caldwell/Geoff Taylor/Joy Robinson/Robert Carless
4th Sue Meyer-Miller Sue Meyer-Miller/Mary Rose Ramsden/Martin Pearce/Victor Mason

Thursday Evening 24 July 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 2nd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
3rd Vicki Howard / Richard Wix 4th Janet Hansen / Patricia Wong

Friday 25 July 2025 – Week 14 of 25 NWP 7 Table Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 2nd Julie O’Neill / Helen Van Den Broek
3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild

Saturday 26 July 2025 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Jan Harris 1st Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott
2nd Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Broek
4th Faye Wright / Annie Lynch 4th Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

Sunday 27 July 2025 – Novice & Mentors 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Christine Morrison / Rodney Miles 1st Debra Goodchild / Annette Howe
2nd Martin Pearce / Adrian Westcott 2nd Pam Cassidy / Susan Ross
3rd Colleen Riddel / Frances Brown 3rd Joy Block / Terrence Sheedy

Contributed by Joy Block

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Conveener Anne with incentive winners Martin and Laura. Photo supplied

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Football - Whitsunday United FC
Friday 1 August
6:00pm – Div 2 Men vs Country United at Whitsunday Sportspark
8:00pm – Div 1 Men vs Country United at Whitsunday Sportspark

Saturday 2 August
U13 Div 1 – Bye
9:30am – U13 FQPL vs Dolphins FC at Whitsunday Sportspark
9:30am – U14 vs Mackay Lions at Mackay Football Park
11:15am – U15/16 vs Mackay Lions at Mackay Football Park
3:00pm – Women’s FQPL vs Magpies at Magpies
5:00pm – U23 Men vs Mackay Wanderers at Whitsunday Sportspark
7:00pm – Men vs Mackay Wanderers at Whitsunday Sportspark

AFL - Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 2 August
9:15am - U'13's vs Magpies at Whitsunday Sportspark
10:40am - U'15's vs Magpies at Whitsunday Sportspark
12:15pm - U'17's vs Magpies at Whitsunday Sportspark
1:50pm - Senior Womens vs Magpies at Whitsunday Sportspark
3:20pm - Senior Men vs Magpies at Whitsunday Sportspark

Rugby Union - Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
Saturday 2 August
3:30pm - Premier Grade vs Mackay Brothers at Leprechaun Park

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 4 August
Round 2 Fixtures

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

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

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The weeks are flying by at Airlie Beach Bowls Club as sunshine returns, the days grow longer, and interstate travellers begin to prepare for their journeys home. But before they go, there’s still plenty of friendly competition and camaraderie to enjoy.

On Tuesday, July 22, 19 bowlers took to the green, with the top honours going to a strong trio led by Eric Barnard as skip, with Gail Simms at second and Des Ballance leading. The team combined well for a convincing win.

Wednesday afternoon bowls brought together 28 players, including more visiting bowlers like Barry Kirth from near Geelong. Barry joined forces with the rapidly improving Alma Rose Zaldivar at lead and Arthur McManus at second. The disciplined team dominated the field and were captured in this week’s featured photo.

Wednesday night’s popular Business House Bowls continued to grow, with 36 bowlers across 12 teams and 10 spectators enjoying the evening. The recently installed cover came into its own as a brief shower passed over without interrupting play.

Saturday morning saw Round 5 of the Scroungers competition, where 16 players took part. Betty Whitehorn and Russell Jackson were the first-round winners, with Russell clinching A Division and Tony Whitehorn taking out B Division.

Sunday’s social bowls welcomed 23 players, including several travelling bowlers escaping the cold southern weather. Among them were Ron and Linda Gulliver from Manning Point Bowls Club (NSW), Brian Lambie from Hastings Bowls Club (VIC), and Peter Rennie from Yinnar Bowls Club (VIC). The day’s top team, guided by Andy McDougall as skip, featured Greg Fennell at second and Alan Stuart at lead, representing the RSL and District Bowls Club Mt Gambier, South Australia.

With more action on the horizon, stay tuned for next week’s update.

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Skipper Barry Hirth with second Arthur McManus and lead Alma Rose. Photo supplied

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As we head towards the pointy end of the season, most Whitsunday United teams are jockeying for positions in the top four.

On Friday night, the divisional men played City Brothers. Div2 went down 2-1 but Div1 managed a win, coming out on top 2-1. Div2 are now in fourth spot on the ladder and Div1 are top of their league.

U13 Div1 faced a strong Country United team who should arguably be in FQPL – the 8-0 loss does not reflect the effort on the park by the young Whitsunday team. The U13 FQPL Squad went down to Lions 3-2 in a tight match – they still sit on top of the ladder

WUFC U14's were ready for a big game this weekend against top of the ladder, Magpies. Always a fast paced, intense game playing this team and it didn't disappoint. The WU boys came out strong from kick off, working the ball up into our attacking half early on. A couple of attempts on goal early on were missed opportunities. The team played quick and dominated the action for the majority of the first half, unluckily conceding 2 goals in quick succession as half time loomed. Second half, WUFC kept up their intensity, keeping Magpies from scoring for the majority of second half however tiredness crept in the last 5 minutes allowing Magpies to find the back of the net. Final score WUFC 0- Magpies 3 – they still sit in third spot on the ladder.

The U16 had a good win over Lions 4-0 then had two forfeits against them on the Sunday with Mackay teams not travelling up – the results put them in a solid third on the table.

Whitsunday Women’s Premier had a strong all-round team performance that saw Whitsunday take a convincing 6–0 win at home against Country. Drew led the line with smart hold-up play early on, and the team created plenty of chances before Sarah broke through with two quick goals before the break. Bre added a third after half-time, followed by goals from Rob Dog, Sarah (completing her hat-trick), and Bre again to round off the scoreline. Bre stood out with a dynamic showing on the wing, and the whole team worked hard to keep a clean sheet. A composed, confident display and a proud coach on the sidelines! Fourth on the table with games in hand making third spot a real chance.

The U23 Men beat City Brothers in a tough top of the table tussle. The 6-4 win puts them on top of the table. In Men’s FQPL, Whitsunday had a narrow win over Brothers 1-0 – the win keeps them in third position on the table.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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Bowen Tennis Association is proud to share the success of their pickleball players who competed in the Queensland Pickleball Tour in Townsville on 16th – 18th May and the Yeppoon Pickleball Tournament on 18th – 20th July.

Eleven players – Shane, Jackie, Jason, Asia, Joyce, Jaymie, Rob, Amanda, Hayley, Madden and Chris represented Bowen in doubles and mixed events. Successful players came home with medals, collecting four gold, two silver and three bronze across the two tournaments.

It was a fantastic experience for all involved and a great reflection of the growing pickleball community in Bowen.

Pickleball is played at the courts at Queens Beach alongside tennis, with weekly sessions on Tuesday and Sunday afternoons, and Thursday nights. Coaching is available for newcomers.

If you’ve been curious about pickleball, now is the time to get involved! All ages and abilities are welcome. Go along to a session, or contact Bowen Tennis Association via:

📧 bowentennis@gmail.com
🔎 Bowen Tennis Association Facebook page

Contributed with thanks to Walter Morris

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With just two rounds remaining in the regular Premier League season, J Maher has surged to the top of the table for the first time this year, claiming a hard-fought 7–5 win over J Wilson.

Meanwhile, D Friend had a busy and successful day, playing three matches and coming away with three convincing victories. He notched up 7–2 wins against both N Mitchell and K Reason, and a 7–3 result over A McMinn. Friend also hit the only 180 of the afternoon, continuing his strong form, while J Wilson impressed with a smooth 171.

There will be no matches this coming week, but players and spectators alike can look forward to the inaugural Grand Prix social event on Sunday, August 10. The Grand Prix is the club’s only doubles competition of the year and promises to be a fun, fast-paced format.

For those interested in entering or learning more, details can be found on the club’s Facebook page.

Organisers would like to thank the generous sponsors who continue to support the competition: Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing, Master Butchers Whitsunday & MBW On the Barbie, Dyson Automotive, and ShirtFront Solutions.

As the season nears its conclusion, the competition remains fierce—and with top positions still up for grabs, the final rounds are set to be thrilling.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher

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A McMinn and D Friend in action on Sunday afternoon at the Airlie Beach Darts Club. Photo supplied

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Kate van Dalen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed wiht thanks to Paula McQuat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Lorraine Ireland

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

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

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

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 28 July
Round 1 Fixtures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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