A major new study reviewing more than 1,000 clinical trials has found exercise may be one of the most effective and accessible treatments for depression and anxiety; a finding that strongly aligns with the Whitsundays’ active lifestyle and growing running community.

The research was led by Neil Munro, a PhD candidate in the Department of Psychology at James Cook University, and analysed a vast body of global evidence examining the relationship between exercise and mental health outcomes.

“There have been more than a thousand studies on this subject, we wanted to synthesise this vast body of evidence, cut through conflicting findings and provide the clearest picture yet of exercise’s impact on mental health,” said Mr Munro.

The research team conducted a “meta-meta-analysis”, reviewing 81 separate meta-analyses that collectively included nearly 80,000 participants across more than 1,000 individual trials.

Mr Munro said the findings were particularly strong for people with diagnosed depression and anxiety disorders.

“There were particularly strong effects for people with diagnosed depression and anxiety disorders. For depression specifically, the greatest benefits were seen in two key groups: people aged 18 to 30 and postnatal women,” he said.

“This finding is especially significant given how under-served these populations often are in accessing traditional mental health care.”

The study found aerobic activities such as walking and running delivered the greatest benefits, particularly when exercise was supervised or undertaken in groups.

“Supervised and group-based programs delivered the greatest benefits. For anxiety, shorter-term programs of up to eight weeks, performed at a comfortable pace, were especially effective challenging the idea that only intense workouts yield results,” said Mr Munro.

These findings mirror the structured training opportunities offered by the Whitsunday Running Club, which provides a supportive weekly schedule including interval training, social runs, parkrun and long slow runs across Airlie Beach and Cannonvale.

• Tuesday, 5.30am: Speed and intervals — Airlie Beach Lagoon carpark
• Wednesday, 5.15pm: Slow group run (6–10km) — Cannonvale Beach
• Thursday, 5.30am: Hills — Airlie Beach Lagoon carpark
• Saturday, 7.00am: Airlie Beach parkrun — Coral Sea Marina
• Sunday, 5.30am: Long slow run — Airlie Beach Lagoon carpark to local routes

“Rather than simply advising individuals to ‘exercise more’, referrals to structured, supervised programs may be key,” Mr Munro said.

“For those facing barriers to traditional care, the message is clear: moving your body, especially with others, can be a powerful step toward better mental health.”

Residents are encouraged to lace up for their mental health with Whitsunday Running Club offering several regular group sessions. Photo source: Whitsunday Running Club

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Whitsunday FC and Brothers FC played out a thrilling seven-goal encounter, with Brothers storming back to claim a dramatic 4–3 victory after an end-to-end contest.

Brothers created numerous chances throughout the match, applying constant pressure and testing the Whitsunday defence from the outset. Whitsunday struck first when Ben Smith converted a free kick that ricocheted off the post, rebounded into a defender, and spun over the line to open the scoring. Brothers responded well and found an equaliser to level the scores at 1–1 midway through the half. Whitsunday regained the lead before the breakthrough Reef Peel, who produced a pearler from the corner of the 18-yard box, delicately chipping the keeper to send his side into half-time 2–1 ahead.

Whitsunday started the second half strongly, and their relentless pressing paid off when pressing machine Kristian Mulholland forced a turnover and finished clinically to make it 3–1. Despite the two-goal cushion, Brothers refused to fade. Continuing to create opportunities, they capitalised on defensive lapses and shifted the momentum late in the contest, scoring three unanswered goals to complete a determined comeback and secure a hard-fought 4–3 victory.

Contributed with thanks to Alita DeBrincat.

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The Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is officially eclipsing all records. What began as a local community race has firmly established itself as a flagship fixture on the national sporting calendar, recently securing a historic milestone: its first-ever round of Queensland State Government funding in its 25-year history.

Supported by Tourism and Events Queensland, the festival was one of only three sporting events to receive backing from a pool of 43 applications. This investment is set to supercharge the regional economy, driving overnight stays and showcasing the Whitsundays to a national triathlon audience.

The accolade follows a string of successes for the volunteer-run organisation. After being named the Queensland Triathlon Association's "Club Initiative of the Year" in 2024, the event placed national runner-up for "Best Triathlon (Under 500 Participants)" ai the AusTriathlon awards in December 2025 – beating out over 70 triathlons nationwide.

Race Director Michael Kimpton credits this momentum to a passionate executive committee and the support of over 60 local businesses.

The 2026 festival, held from July 24-26, promises another year of exhilarating triathlon.

Highlights include a professional meet-and-greet, the Junior triathlon, and the main event - the certified Standard Distance triathlon on Sunday. Closing out the weekend events with a bang is a fireworks-filled banquet at Coral Sea Resort on Sunday Evening.

With entries selling faster than ever, the committee is now working on the 2026 event. A refreshed Sponsorship Prospectus will launch shortly, offering local businesses elite branding opportunities and category exclusivity.

To join this award-winning legacy, contact Race Director Michael Kimpton at info@airliebeachtriathlon.com.au

Cannonvale Cannons made a powerful statement at the 2026 Queensland Sprint Championships, with 24 swimmers representing the club in a weekend defined by grit, speed and success. Leading the charge was Eloise Chegwidden, who claimed the title of Queensland Champion in the 50m Breaststroke for 10-year-old girls, an outstanding achievement and a proud moment for the Cannons community.

Eloise also placed fourth in the 50m Backstroke, capping off a remarkable debut at her first Sprint Championships after only just reaching the qualifying age this year. Fellow first-time Sprint competitor Miller Eaves also impressed, securing seventh place in the 50m Breaststroke in a confident performance on the big stage.

Another major highlight was Nelson Malady’s eighth place in the 50m Backstroke. Nelson has been swimming with the Cannons since 6 years of age, and his top-10 finish at state level is a testament to years of dedication, resilience and consistent training. It was a special result for both Nelson, our coaches and the club.

The Cannons contingent included Hamilton Anflous, Mackenzie and Tyler Bennett, Zane Clayworth, Declan and Maeve Dichiera, Liam Filewood, Roxy Groom, Koa and Ruby Harland, Gracie Laguna, Ruby Lawson, Eric Mulliss, Celeste Orenshaw, Addie Sanders, Indi and Levi Smith, Alex Trefz, Zavier Woolston and Andie Reynolds. Across the weekend, swimmers delivered exceptional personal bests and impressive swims.

A huge thank you to Coaches Mark and Kenny for guiding and supporting our athletes throughout the championships.

At the same time, Matilda Nicholes and Penelope Shields represented the region at the Queensland School Sport Triathlon and Aquathon State Championships in Hervey Bay. Matilda competed in the aquathon, triathlon and team relays in a packed schedule, while Penelope secured a top-10 finish in Queensland in the aquathon. Their results follow a strong showing earlier this year at Mackay Triathlon Club’s Australia Day Aquathlon, where Matilda and Penelope placed first and second respectively in the Enticer distance.

Another big weekend for the Cannons — and plenty to celebrate.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

1  - State Champion Eloise Chegwidden

2 – Cannonvale Cannons State Sprint Team

3 - Nelson Malady with Coaches Kenny and Mark

Get ready for big sailing action at Whitsunday Sailing Club!

Between 3rd April and 11th April, Sail Airlie will be bringing together sailors of all levels to enjoy the beauty and challenge of racing in our stunning tropical waters. This year will be extra special with the club hosting the WASZP State & National Championships, attracting top competitors from across the country.

Spectators can expect thrilling close-quarter racing, fierce competition, and a vibrant club atmosphere — it’s one of the biggest sailing events of the season and not to be missed!

Sailors can sign up by scanning the QR codes below.

1 - Register for the Sail Airlie Regatta 3-6 April

2 – Join in the WASZP States 4-6 April

3 - Sign up for the WASZP Nationals 8-11 April

On Tuesday 17^th, A small hardy group of vets golfers competed in a single Stableford event battling wet weather and soggy course conditions which reflected in the scoring. No run and free casual water drops were the order of the day.

Congratulations to the ladies winner Lyn Muller and Gerald Lovell for the men.

RESULTS

LADIES

Winner: Lyn Muller with 31 points

R/Up: Jenny Hounsell with 26 points

Rundown: Tiina Randmae (17)

MEN

Winner: Gerald Lovell with a creditable 33 points

R/Up: Larry Muller with 30 points

Rundown:  Gary Scotford (28), Peter Lindsay, John Roser and Nic Apruzzese all with 27 points

PIN SHOTS

Ladies: A Grade - Jenny Hounsell and Lyn Muller

             B Grade - Paula McQuat (x2)

Men: A Grade - Larry Muller and Gary Scotford

          B Grade - Peter Lindsay (x2)

CHIP INS

Gary Scotford and Nick Apruzzese

NAGAs

for a ball each Beryl Nosworthy and Peter Fox

DRAWS:

MEMBERSHIP JACKPOT remains at $20 next week

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Next week 24/2/26 - Stableford

DITTY

The worst day of golf (possibly today) beats the best day of work

Contributed with thanks to John Roser.

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Unsettled weather kept many players off the green this week, with only one rink played on Tuesday. The jackpot did not go off.

Two triples games were played on Sunday afternoon.

Winners were Gwenda Lydom, Laurie Land and Allan Rolfe, who defeated Bill Myers, Teresa Willshire and Gavin Charles.

In the other match, Bron Tolcher, Sue Shearing and Pat Tracey defeated Fred Skinny and Greg. The jackpot again did not go off.

The club is now looking forward to welcoming members and visiting clubs this Saturday for the annual Opening Day.

Play will begin at 10am, with two games of triples scheduled. A light lunch and afternoon tea will be provided.

Players wishing to take part are asked to add their name to the sheet on the noticeboard outside the clubhouse or contact the club by 9.15am on the day.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Sunday's winners: Allan Rolfe, Gwenda Lydom and Laurie Land.

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Master Blasters B (U10s)

On home turf, the Proserpine Pittie Pups took on the Baby Bowen Barracudas.

Captain Liam won the toss and chose to send his side out to bowl first, steaming in to throw absolute rockets, picking up a wicket. Jack kept the pressure on with tight dot balls and sharp fielding.

Debutante Eddie claimed an immediate run out. Arlo was everywhere, chasing down anything that moved and collecting two run outs, while bowling with control. Eric was backing up his teammates and serving up some peaches.

The Baby Barracudas, however, came out swinging, with 119 runs. The Pitties claimed three wickets, earning 15 bonus runs.

When the Pittie Pups headed out, Eric opened confidently, scoring 14 runs and finding the boundary twice, while producing loud and clear run calls. Arlo followed with a classy 31.

Eddie added 7 valuable runs with smart running and an eye for the gaps. Jack blasted 22 runs, finding the boundary multiple times. Skipper Liam contributed 8 runs, facing quick bowling, showing solid defence.

Prossie finished on 82 runs, bringing their total to 97. The Barracudas’ six wickets lifted their total to 149.

Player of the Match went to Jack who showed great improvement this week.


Master Blasters A (u10s)

The Proserpine Pittie Pups were raring to go against Bowen.

Bowen took first strike with the bat, but the Pitties were ready. Harry started, striking a wicket on his second delivery. Max followed, building pressure, winning a valuable wicket.

Jack delivered absolute peaches, claiming three wickets. Angus snapped up two with confident, straight-arm bowling, while Toby also took two. Fielding was exceptional, with sharp stops, quick returns and energetic chatter.

Bowen battled hard for 96 runs, but the Pittie Pups had already built a healthy 45-run headstart.

Harry and Toby opened batting with a strong partnership, compiling 32 runs.

Angus kept the momentum rolling with a fluent 20, with clean strikes and hard runs. Jack battled strongly for his 14, showing grit and great awareness. Max added 31, combining powerful shots with clever placement.

Proserpine finished their batting on 116 runs. With Bowen earning 30 bonus, final totals saw the Pittie Pups win with 161 runs.

Max was awarded Player of the Match for his strong all-round performance.

U14s

The Bowen Barracudas rolled into Prossie for a friendly but competitive hit-out. Bowen won the toss, sending the Pitbulls to bat. The Pitties came out chewing on anything loose.

Aiden F wasted no time, driving and pulling to a punchy 46 off 25 balls. Matthew H played the perfect partner, retiring not out on 26. Bradley H anchored things beautifully through the middle, finishing 28 not out.

Blair L chimed in with a handy 13, Sean G dug in for 7, and Patrick R added 6. Lily S stayed unbeaten on 4 and ran hard between the wickets. Cabe M worked hard for his single with sharp calling, while Hector V bounced back from a tough moment, encouraging teammates, ready to make an impact. The Pitbulls wrapped up a strong first innings at 5 for 172 from their 30 overs, giving the Barracudas a big target to swim after.

Then it was time for the pack to hunt.

Aiden F snapped up 4 wickets, keeping the stumps under constant threat. Murphy A, Henry H, Cabe M and Hector V each claimed a wicket. Patrick R, Matthew H, Sean G, Bradley H and Blair L all bowled tight lines and forced the Barracudas to work for every run.

In the field, Hector V held onto two sharp catches, Sean G snaffled another. The Barracudas launched bombs in the last overs but finished on 154 runs.

A great game played in good spirit. Exactly what junior cricket is all about.

Contributed with thanks to Danni Green.

1- A Team Master Blasters

2 – B Team Pitties & Barracudas  

The Airlie Beach Cricket Club enjoyed a remarkable weekend, fielding three teams and securing three impressive victories in both the Mackay 3rd Grade and Proserpine competitions.

On Sunday, 15^th February, the club’s foundation team “Valleys”, played in the Proserpine league and delivered a dominant performance to comfortably defeat their opponents. Their win has placed them firmly at the top of the Proserpine competition.

On Saturday’s 3rd Grade team playing in the Mackay Competition produce one of their most thrilling displays of the season. In a close Dixon Homes T20 match at Harrup Park, Airlie Beach secured a narrow 3-wicket victory. Norths posted a competitive total of 8/158, with standout bowling from Dan White (2/30), Fraser Simpson (1/17), and Aaron Regan, who took 3/19. Regan’s all-round performance was on show as he smashed an unbeaten 76 from 43 balls, turning the game in Airlie Beach’s favour. Jonathan Maxwell (6*) provided calm support at the finish as Airlie Beach reached 6/161 to secure victory with little margin for error.

On Sunday, Airlie Beach’s 3rd Grade backed up their Saturday performance and convincingly defeated Souths at Harrup Park 5 - Roy Trevaskis Oval. Airlie Beach posted an impressive 5/170 off 20 overs, led by Mark Haebich’s spectacular 84 off 50 balls. Jacob Williams was outstanding with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 5 runs in four overs, supported by Andrew Clark’s 4/12 off 4 overs. The team’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding, with William Logan taking three catches behind the wicket, ensured a comprehensive victory winning by 150 runs in the 9 over.

This impressive weekend has propelled Airlie Beach Cricket Club in both competitions, with Airlie Beach’s 3^rd Grade now second on the 3^rd grade table - demonstrating our growing strength, ability and team spirit across the club.

Contributed with thanks to the Airlie Beach Cricket Club

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The North Queensland Cowboys delivered a commendable performance in Mackay on Friday, 13 February, defeating Penrith 66–24 at a sold-out BB Print Stadium. The Cowboys stormed out of the gates, leading 44–0 at half-time, thrilling the crowd with fast-paced footy, precision plays, and local pride on full display.

Blue and yellow jerseys filled the Fitness Cartel Wellness Centre in Mackay last Thursday as the North Queensland Cowboys turned their focus to recovery ahead of their highly anticipated trial clash with Penrith.

Preparation was key as 24 squad members made the trip to Mackay, reflecting the club’s investment in the region and its local talent. Mackay-born Co-captains Tom Dearden and Reuben Cotter, together with fan favourite Jaxon Purdue, proudly represented their hometown throughout the match.

Head of Performance Paul Bowman reinforced Mackay’s significance within the Cowboys’ footprint.

“Mackay is a big part of our catchment and our region. We obviously have a close relationship with the Cutters being one of our feeder clubs, so it’s always great to get down here and see our fans.”

With many supporters regularly making the trip to Townsville, bringing a game to Mackay made the occasion all the more special.

“To play a game here is great,” said Mr Bowman.

And the facilities themselves drew particular praise.

“To have a facility like Fitness Cartel and what they have here for us to use is really great. For a regional town like Mackay to have a facility like this – it’s just tremendous.”

Inside the Wellness Centre, recovery was front and centre. Players rotated through compression boots, a traditional hot rock sauna and contrast therapy pools, alternating between hot and cold to support circulation and muscle repair in preparation for game night.

For fitness industry professional and facility owner Michael James, hosting the Cowboys marked a proud milestone.

“It’s awesome for Mackay and sports lovers in general to have the Cowboys here. People often travel hours to watch their games, so for the Cowboys to come to Mackay, it’s pretty special.”

He said the feedback from the squad affirmed the vision behind the Wellness Centre, along with Fitness Cartel as a whole.

“We think we’ve got a world-class facility suitable for world-class athletes, and to get that feedback from the Cowboys, to know it was everything we hoped, that’s extremely validating.”

The goal, Mr James explained, was always to raise the benchmark locally.

“At Fitness Cartel, we aim to be a place where current and emerging athletes can train hard, then step into our Wellness Centre to recover, rejuvenate, and get ready to perform at their very best.”

“Our goal was always to bring something world-class to Mackay… and to hear athletes who’ve trained in the best facilities around the world say ours is up there – it’s definitely a proud moment.”

Just over twenty-four hours later, that preparation paid off. On Friday, 13 February, at BB Print Stadium, the Cowboys delivered a commanding 66–24 victory over Penrith, thrilling the crowd and capping a week defined by preparation, teamwork, and North Queensland pride.

This week saw a lot of close matches across the morning and evening fixtures.  With a cool hall and warm rallies in our climate-controlled comfort and despite the cooler conditions the standard didn’t drop one little bit.

Tuesday Evening Fixtures saw some close matches.

Division 1: London (Barry Patterson, Trent Day, Syed Hossain) def Athens (Mick Ruhl, Vince Boeske, Geoff Denman) 7-4 with Mick and Trent battling to the end, Mick won 11-6 in 5^th Set.  Paris (Steve Whiting, Josh Brown, Anne Sheridan) def St. Louis (Emma Widdup, Lily Boland, Neil Brown) 6-5, Josh defeated Lily in a tight match  that could have gone either way,12-10 in the 5^th Set.

Division 2: Amsterdam (Janice Kent, Graham Brake, Duncan Treloar) def Antwerp (Andrea Nicholson, Danial Warfield, Yilin Jiang) 9-2. Duncan come back from 2 sets down to win against Yilin in the 5^th Set, 11-4.  Los Angeles (Mark Sleeman, Allan Edwards) def Stockholm (Donna Abbott, Will VanDeKaa) 4-1. Both teams were missing a player so they were 2 on 2.  Will beat Mark 11-9 in the 5^th Set.

Division 3: Rome (Ian McKay, Matt West, Peter Goodson) def Berlin (Simon Hogan, Noreen Frederickson, Mark Stam) 7-4 with Noreen won great 5 Set match against Peter 11-9.  Melbourne (Ollie Hamelink, Delma Knight, John McGee) def Helsinki (George Camilleri, Darryl Ross, Dilini Ranasinghe) 7-4.  Ollie won a very close 5 Set match against George 12-10.  

Division 4: Tokyo (Rachel Fiesta, Nate Clark, Kirsten Edwards) def Montreal (Melanie Theodore, Craig VanDeKaa, Jeric Engay) 6-5, Rachel won close 5 Sets against Craig 11-5.  Mexico City (Tiffany Camilleri, Dylan Ringwood, Archel Cruz) def Seoul (Ricky Zhan, David Symons, Regina Wulf) 7-4 with Tiffany winning close battle against Ricky 11-9 in the 5^th Set.  Munich (Liz Burton, Rod Hamelink, Amanda Liu) def Moscow (Logan Brown, Jeff Bennington, Mohmout Ahmed) 7-4 with no 5 set matches there were some great 4 setters.

Tuesday Morning Fixtures

Division 1: Nano Nets (Donna Abbott, John McGee, Peter Goodson) def Byte Bouncers (Andrea Nicholson, Branko Vucurovic, Veronica Needham) 8-4. Donna won over Andrea 11-6 in 5^th Set.  Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Darryl Ross, Delma Knight) def Pixal Paddles (George Camilleri, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 8-4, with George came back from 2 sets down to win 11-8 in the 5^th Set.

Division 2: Tokyo Turners (Kim Daffy, John Hamelink, Sally Muir) def Paris Spinners (Ian Dodds, Robyn Bushell, Val Austin) 8-4. Val and Kim battled to the death with Val coming out on top 12-10 in the 5^th Set.  London Loopers (Bryan Marshall, Louise Gould, Pam Keune) drew with Sydney Slammers (Josie, Davis, Frank Caruana, Ken Best) 6-6 with Josie digging deep to outlast Pam 11-7 in 5^th Set.  

Division 3: Rocket Stars (Madge Saunders, David Muir, Trish Zamparutti) drew 6-6 with Mars Pioneers (Allison Day, Thelma Caruana, Kim Challendar) with Allison completed a 5 Set comeback over Trish 11-4.  Lunar Legends (Coral Morgan, Laurie Bradshaw, Janelle Keune) drew 6-6 against Solar Comets (Sharon Muller, Gerry Synnott, Glenda Dutton) with Coral coming back from 2-1 down to win in close 5 Set match against Gerry 11-7.

Contributed with thanks to Andrea Nicholson.

Congratulations to Faye Wright, Susan Wright, Ken Seaniger and Robert Carless who started Bridge lessons together in 2006. They celebrated twenty years of bridge Saturday. Well done!

Weekly Results

Monday 9 February 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

1^st

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2^nd

Rodney Miles / Joy Hold

2^nd

Diane Morgan / Sandy Ford

3^rd

Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait

3^rd

Noel Bugeia / Geoffrey Patterson

4^th

Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

4^th

Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

5^th

Susan Ross / Vicki Howard

5^th

Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill

Tuesday Evening 10 February 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

2^nd

Adrian Westcott / Glen Coup

3^rd

Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

3^rd

Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood

Wednesday 11 February 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

1^st

Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

2^nd

Sue Mayer-Miller / Martin Pearce

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

3^rd

Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

3^rd

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

4^th

Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild

4^th

Jan Harris / Sandra Morris

Thursday Evening 12 February 2026 – 4 Tables One Winner – Green Points

1^st

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers

4^th

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 13 February 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Jan Harris

2^nd

Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

2^nd

Annette Howe / Monica Darley

3^rd

Mick King / Geoff Cowan

3^rd

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

4^th

Joy Robinson / Jewel Schmidt

4^th

Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild

Saturday 14 February 2025 – Section A - 6 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Terry Sheedy / Richard Wix

1^st

Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris

2^nd

Ming Ting / David Ting

2^nd

Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

3^rd

Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

3^rd

Julie O’Neill / Gwen Liddell

Saturday 14 February 2025 – Section B - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

1^st

Nancy Martin /Monica Darley

2^nd

Annie Lynch / Diane Stokes

2^nd

Christine Nice / Mary rose Ramsden

3^rd

Sue Mayer-Miller / Adrian Westcott

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

Contributed with thanks to Joy Block

Ken Seaniger, Susan Wright, Robert Carless & Faye Wright. Photo supplied

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Mackay Road Runners Club is celebrating a major milestone this year, marking 50 years of running, friendship and community spirit in the Mackay region.

To commemorate the occasion, the club will host a special 50th Anniversary Dinner on Saturday, 11 April, to be held at Mantra Mackay at the Marina. The evening will bring together past and present members, along with supporters and friends of the club, to share stories, achievements and memories from five decades of running.

Numbers for the celebration will be capped at 80 guests due to venue capacity, with attendees enjoying a two-course buffet dinner priced at $65 per person. A formal invitation flyer, including RSVP dates and payment details, will be released on the club’s Facebook page shortly. Those travelling from out of town — or locals wishing to stay the night — can contact Mantra Mackay directly for discounted accommodation by mentioning the Anniversary Dinner event.

While the celebrations will continue throughout the year, the club is also kicking off its 2026 running calendar this weekend. The first run will take place this Sunday at 24 Johnson Street, West Mackay, with the popular Tilse Toddle offering both 5km and 10km social runs starting at 5pm.

Existing members are asked to wear their race numbers to assist the timekeeper ahead of the first handicap run the following weekend. New members and casual runners are always welcome, and non-runners are encouraged to drop by for a chat and soak up the atmosphere.

As always, runners are invited to stay post-run for a relaxed social catch-up, complete with a barbecue, icy zooper doopers for recovery — and a special 50th Anniversary cake to officially launch this landmark year.

Members who ordered the limited-edition 50th Anniversary singlets can collect them at the Tilse Toddle. The club extended its thanks to Merchandising Officer Jo Hughes for coordinating the release, along with supplier NFE and Russell O’Hara. A small number of additional singlets will be available for purchase in various sizes.

The club also recently took part in the Mackay Regional Council Sports Expo, which was hailed as a success in showcasing local sporting and recreational opportunities. Mackay Road Runners thanked Council for hosting the event and acknowledged the volunteers who helped represent clubs across the region.

With 50 years behind them and many more kilometres ahead, Mackay Road Runners Club continues to prove that running is about more than fitness — it’s about community, connection and having fun along the way.