John Matterson receiving the trophy after his well-deserved victory. Photo supplied

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The week started on Tuesday with the continuation of Women’s Pairs and social bowls, which saw skipper David Bradley with lead Regan Maher become the pairs winners of the day.

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Wednesday afternoon social bowls had 28 participants, and the highest score of the day went to the team of skipper Noel Crosbie with lead Mervyn Stewart, who won 32–19 over skipper Phil O'Brien and Desmond Ballance.

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Wednesday night Business House Bowls saw about 30 bowlers attend, run by Bob and Yvonne Spees, with results to be announced next week.

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Friday afternoon saw the arrival of 16 bowlers from the Christian College, and what a talented group they are. Mr Richardson, Aishmeen Sandhu, and Shaniah Saremo are an awesome pairs team and could become very successful future representative bowlers if they choose to pursue the sport. Cooper Wilde is also a very talented sportsman and a fantastic asset to the school. Special mention must also go to Ryan Clark and Elliana Langshore, who could develop into excellent bowlers if they continue to apply themselves and build their skills.

This program will give all the students valuable lessons in teamwork and demonstrate what sport can do for classroom development and success in understanding subjects that may have previously seemed difficult. We look forward to continuing to work with the students.

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Saturday morning Scroungers saw the last spot for the afternoon finals up for grabs, and John Matterson, who has just returned to the club after major heart surgery, proved he is still a very good bowler by winning the final spot against Andy McDougall and Tony Whitehorn.

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The previous winners lined up for the final: Des Ballance, Maureen Barnard, David Cleary, Alan Pershouse, John Askew, Betty and Tony Whitehorn, Dennis Donadelli, and, to everyone’s surprise and delight, John Matterson. He continued his brilliant form, winning the coveted trophy in the final.  

Sunday afternoon’s social bowls saw two games of pairs and one game of triples. Liz and Arthur McManus teamed up with Des Ballance and won 26–15 over Stacey Hadlow’s team of Lou Rogan and Alma Rose Mawson. However, the winners of the day, with the lowest winning margin drawn out by Club Manager Fiona Greener, were the team of “Take the Money Tony” Whitehorn with Dawn Dowell, who won 21–20 over skipper Margo Stanley and Brett Simpson.

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The men’s singles in A Grade, B Grade, and Seniors have now reached the semi-finals, with results to be published soon. Men’s and Women’s Pennants also commence this weekend.

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Free lessons continue on Monday and Thursday afternoons from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm, and all are welcome.

John Askew presents John Matterson with his Scroungers Trophy after his well-deserved win.

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Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Competitors and volunteers after a successful competition. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Weightlifting Club wrapped up a successful Parabench Development Competition last weekend as part of the 2026 North Queensland Games, with four athletes competing across the age and ability spectrum in what proved to be an inspiring day of sport at St Catherines Catholic College in Proserpine.

Held on Saturday 2 May and run in partnership with Para Powerlifting Australia, the event drew competitors from across the region — from Townsville to Mackay — ranging in age from 21 to 64 years. The standard of lifting impressed all in attendance, with athletes at very different stages of their para-sport journey each delivering standout performances.

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Taking out first place in the women's division was Australian representative Trish Wallace from Townsville, who benched an impressive 64kg. Local para-athlete Di Jackson claimed second place with a 33kg lift, while first-time competitor Sigrid Eitler took third with 30kg — a remarkable debut on the competition platform. In the men's division, Mackay athlete Bryce Jackson took first place with a 62kg bench.

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Club founder, president and head coach Leanne Knox said the day exceeded expectations. "Although it was a small competition, it helped raise awareness of our club's capacity to train people with all kinds of disabilities," she said. "There is a place for everyone in our club."

Knox is encouraging anyone living with movement limitations or other disabilities — as well as carers — to reach out and explore how strength training can benefit their physical, mental and social wellness.

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The club also celebrated a significant equipment milestone, with a specialist bench built thanks to local business Airlie Sail and Shade (Paul Mitchell) and club member Ian Cordell, alongside a bench received through the Para Uplift Program via the Australian Institute of Sport.

With competitors eyeing national and international competition, the future looks bright for para-sport in the Whitsundays.

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To find out more, contact Whitsunday Weightlifting Club on 0411 199 427.

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Competition results:

Female

1st: Trish Wallace - 64kg bench

2nd - Di Jackson - 33 kg bench

3rd Sigrid Eitler - 30 kg bench 

Male

1st Bryce Jackson - 62 kg bench.  

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Weightlifting Club

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Goal Keeper - Josh Healey

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U13 Prem pushed Magpies FC in a physical contest, with Connor Miller scoring early before a late goal flurry saw Magpies claim a 4-1 win. Meanwhile, the U13 Div 1 side celebrated its first victory of the season, defeating Country United 5-1 behind a brace from Oakley Wilson and strong team performances throughout, particular in the back line.

U14/15 Prem side dominated Mackay Lions with a clinical attacking display, highlighted by a Shannon Matthews goal and Eli Wallis double in a commanding 4-1 win. Meanwhile, U14/15 Div 1 suffered late heartbreak, with Wanderers Red snatching a 2-1 victory despite strong performances from Alex Draper and keeper Jackson Paroz.

Men’s Div 2 ground out a hard-fought 1-0 win against Country United after Jared Leaman capitalised on a late goalkeeping error, while Division 1 stayed patient to secure a physical 2-0 victory, with Sam Reynolds and Ian Wilson on target against a stubborn Country United outfit.

Whitsunday United’s Women’s Prem team battled hard against Wanderers FC, with Michelle Sothmann opening the scoring in a competitive clash before Wanderers FC secured a 3-1 win. Strong performances from Nicole Wilkinson, Keely Salter and Bre Campbell highlighted the team’s determination ahead of next week’s matchup against Country United.

WUFC’s U23s delivered a dominant 11-0 win over Magpies FC, with Aaron Kinsella scoring four goals and two apiece for Finlay Farrell, Seb Shand and Pepe Perea. An impressive clean sheet for goalkeeper Josh Healey. The Premier Men followed with a commanding 4-1 victory against Magpies FC, highlighted by Ethan Rose’s penalty and a Reef Peel hat-trick in a fast, physical clash.

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Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O’Keefe

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The Cannonvale Cannons recently had their 2026 Club Celebrations in which they celebrated their local swimming talent.  

Special thanks were given to Race Secretary Theresa, In-Training Race Secretary Kelly and Upgrades & Records officer Amy. Gareth and Leanne were congratulated for supplying the most chocolate at Club Night. Tora was awarded for achieving the required time to reach Bronze Squad and Tyler was awarded for achieving the required time to reach Junior Development Squad.  

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Thanks were given to Ellie, Kate and Haylee for consistently providing support with marshalling, warm-up and land work when coaches were unavailable.  

The Most Improved Awarded was given to Lily, Cooper, Eloise, Harry, Mackenzie, Zavier, Roxy & Tommy.  

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A huge congratulations to everyone involved.  

The Most Improved Award, celebrating PB’s achieved in the pool. Great job everyone!!

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Photo source: Facebook

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The Whitsunday Brahmans produced one of their strongest performances in recent years on Sunday, claiming three wins from four grades against the Sarina Crocs at Sarina.

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Supporters travelled in numbers as footy fever took over the Crocs’ home grounds for a massive day of rugby league action.

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The day began with the Under 20s side, who wasted no time making their mark. New Zealand imports Kassius Bell and Somè Wolf crossed early for back-to-back tries to set the pace of the contest. The Brahmans’ attacking strengths soon became evident in an entertaining try-for-try battle, with local brothers from the Tetley family also getting on the scoreboard.

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The Under 20s side eventually ran away with a strong 38-20 victory to give the young squad a major confidence boost for the season ahead.

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One of the biggest moments of the day followed, as the Brahmans women’s team returned to the field for the first time in almost a decade.

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Under coach Eddy Cates, the side showed plenty of determination and heart against an experienced Sarina outfit. Jess Lewis, playing her rugby league debut, crossed for an early try to announce the Brahmans women’s arrival back into competition football. Although Sarina claimed the match 20-4, the Brahmans’ defensive effort and passion throughout the contest drew plenty of praise, with the return of women’s rugby league at the club celebrated as a major step forward for local pathways and junior development.

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Reserve Grade then produced a stunning turnaround performance. After conceding the opening two tries, the Brahmans responded with seven unanswered in dominant fashion.

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New recruit Robert Congoo starred with four tries as the Brahmans secured their first Reserve Grade victory since June 2025, leaving coach Matt Court proud of his side’s resilience and effort.

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The feature match of the day saw A Grade renew its fierce rivalry with Sarina in a physical contest.

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It took 12 minutes for the 0 all deadlock to be broken before former NRL player Adam Clydesdale dived over from dummy-half to score the opening try. The hooker led from the front in a high-intensity clash that saw both sides trade tries throughout the afternoon.

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The Brahmans’ powerful middle forwards eventually proved too strong, while young local talent Jake Hinton enjoyed a memorable A Grade debut by crossing for a try before his brother Mitch Hinton added another just 18 minutes later in a special family moment. English recruit Ryan Taylor also played a key role, maintaining his impressive early season form with a perfect five-from-five goal kicking performance in difficult windy conditions.

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The successful weekend saw the Brahmans claim victories in three of the four grades while also celebrating the long-awaited return of the club’s women’s side.

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The Brahmans now turn their attention to another huge challenge this Saturday when they travel to face arch-rivals the Moranbah Miners, with matches beginning from midday.

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Contributed with thanks to Mandy Bateup

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Photo supplied

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On Saturday the Whitsunday Sea Eagles travelled down to Mackay to take on the Eastern Swans. Despite each team going down in their matches, the Club’s spirit, determination and pride remained strong, with players continuing to fight right up until the final siren.

The Under 13s played a great first quarter, keeping the scoreboard even. Unfortunately for the next three quarters the Swans got away from them. The final score seeing the Swans get up 68-8.

A rocky start for the Under 15s side saw them let the Swans score five unanswered goals. After a quarter time address from the Coaches, the team began to put the pressure on. Their tackles, teamwork, and ability to lift their heads and keep going stood out over the next three quarters. Unfortunately, not the result the Sea Eagles were after, with a final score of 86-26.

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The Under 17s fought hard but couldn’t match the Swans. Their pressure and effort did not waver, and it was obvious that their training is paying off, and they continue to improve each week. Final score 83-23.

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The standout game for the day was the Senior Men’s. It was neck and neck all day, each team only one point away throughout the game. Facing a side that has been in the past three Grand Finals, the Sea Eagles were ready for the challenge. They were determined all game, putting the pressure on and showcasing their signature style of chaos footy.  After a great match the Sea Eagles fell just two points short, with a final score of 44-42.

This Saturday the 16th of May the Sea Eagles are back down to Mackay to take on the Mackay City Hawks at Harrup Park for Indigenous Round. Junior games starting from 10:40am, and our Senior Women’s team are back and starting our Senior games off at 1:50pm. Be there and support your local teams!

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Contributed by Georgia Whitton - Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Photo supplied

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Gold medallist Cate Campbell with junior swimmers Photo supplied

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Olympic gold medallist Cate Campbell made a splash in the Whitsundays over the weekend, inspiring the region’s next generation of swimmers during a special regional swim clinic at the Proserpine Swimming Pool.

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Hosted by Whitsunday Regional Council, the clinic was arranged to coincide with Campbell’s visit to the region as a guest speaker for Council’s State of the Region event. The opportunity allowed local young athletes to learn firsthand from one of Australia’s most celebrated Olympians.

Swimmers from Whitsunday Swimming Club, Cannonvale Cannons and Bowen Swimming Club took part in the day, which featured tailored coaching sessions for three age groups — 6 to 9 years, 10 to 13 years, and 14 years and over. Participants received practical guidance, training tips and encouragement from Campbell both in and out of the pool.

The event also gave young swimmers the chance to meet Campbell personally, take photographs, hold her Olympic gold medals and collect autographs, creating lasting memories for many aspiring athletes.

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Whitsunday Region Mayor Ry Collins said the clinic highlighted the importance of inspiring regional youth ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

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“With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, opportunities like this show young people that the pathway to the Olympics can begin right here in regional communities like the Whitsundays,” Mayor Collins said.

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Council thanked the participating swimmers, families and local clubs for helping make the clinic a valuable and inspiring experience for the region’s future athletes.

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Support for Scouts Queensland at Rowallan Park was strengthened through a recent marquee donation acknowledged by Amanda Camm, while also recognising the 70-year contribution of local volunteer Bob Hodda in preserving the site’s rich community and Scouting heritage. Photos supplied

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Amanda Camm has acknowledged the ongoing work of volunteers supporting Scouts Queensland at Rowallan Park, with a recent donation of marquees to assist with activities at the site.

The park’s history has been carefully preserved by long-time locals like Bob Hodda, who has spent precisely 70 years working on and supporting the grounds. His knowledge provides a unique connection to Rowallan Park’s past and its role in generations of local Scouting.

Among the stories connected to the site is the history of a bridge located on the property, which was brought in many years ago with the support of Ron Camm - Ms Camm’s great uncle. Originally costing £300, the structure has stood the test of time and remains a lasting feature of the park today.

Rowallan Park continues to be an important base for Scouts activities in the Mackay region, while also holding a number of historically significant features, including the former location of the Munbura railway station, the Mervyn Johnstone Memorial Building, and South Sea Islander burial mounds.

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Ms Camm said supporting local Scouts groups is an important investment in young people and the wider community.

“Scouts plays a valuable role in helping young people build confidence, resilience and practical life skills,” she said.

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“Rowallan Park provides a unique environment for those experiences, supported by volunteers who are deeply committed to both the site and the community.”

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Ms Camm also recognised the contribution of long-serving locals like Mr Hodda.

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“Locals like Bob have dedicated decades to this place, and that commitment is something the whole community can appreciate,” she said.

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Rowallan Park continues to support youth development, outdoor education, and community connection through its long-standing role in Scouting across the Mackay region

Contributed with thanks to the office of Amanda Camm, Member for Whitsunday

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Geoff Robinson, swam into medals at the pool and open water swim

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The 2026 MSA National Short Course Championships celebrated 50 years of Masters excellence at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre from 28 April to 2 May, followed by the National Open Water Swim at Raby Bay on 3 May. More than 800 swimmers from across Australia and overseas came together for six days of racing, camaraderie, and celebrations.

The North Mackay Sinkers fielded a team of six swimmers and one volunteer, contesting full programs of individual events, relays, and the concluding open water swim. Championship functions, a welcome event, and special 50‑year activities added to an already memorable week.

All six pool swimmers performed above expectations, with numerous PBs challenged or broken — a testament to the quality coaching from Millie at DMR Leisure Memorial Pool.

Championship Highlight – Cam McEvoy’s Lightning Swim

A standout moment of the meet was Cam McEvoy’s blistering 25 m freestyle, stopping the clock at 9.32 seconds — a new Masters short‑course record and an electric moment that had the entire venue buzzing. His swim added an extra layer of excitement to an already historic championship.

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Pool Highlights – Medal Winners & Standout Performances

Geoff Robinson: Gold – 200 Free, 800 Free. Silver – 400 Free, 100 Free

Nigel Dalton: Silver – 400 Back, Bronze – 25 Back, 50 & 100 Back – 4th

Pierre Craven: 400 IM – 4th

Sue Dalton: 25 Breast – 4th

Relays: The Sinkers Men’s 240+ relay team delivered four strong swims, finishing under nominated times in every event and proving once again how popular and competitive Masters relays can be.

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National Open Water Swim – Raby Bay

The inclusion of an OWS at Nationals — often missing from the program — was a welcome addition, attracting over 140 swimmers across the 1.5 km and 3 km distances.

1.5Km: Gold – Nigel Dalton and Geoff Robinson

3km: Bronze – Dan Stampa, 4th – Pierre Craven

A Championship Effort – In and Out of the Pool

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The 2026 Championships, delivered solely by Masters Swimming Queensland, were widely praised as a high‑calibre, exceptionally organised national event.

A special shout‑out goes to our own super‑volunteer, Gerri Kissner, who was a “Gold‑medal performer” in her own right — contributing across timekeeping, medal table duties, and countless behind‑the‑scenes roles throughout the five days of pool competition.

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Looking Ahead

With Nationals complete, the Sinkers now turn their focus to:

MSQ State Championships in July, where a large and enthusiastic team is already preparing.

Regional meets across North Queensland.

Our own blue‑ribbon event, the Whitehaven Beach Open Water Swim in October

A huge congratulations to all Sinkers who represented the club with pride, spirit, and sportsmanship at this milestone national event.

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Contributed by Dan Stampa

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Christine, looking like she won that hand, and Martin, in thought. Photos supplied

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The Mackay Contract Bridge Club keeps growing with new members joining each year. Bridge is a game of dedication, which requires continuous play to keep learning. Experienced players tell Novice players, (beginners), it takes at least 5-8 yrs to feel like you know what your doing.  

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The Mackay Contract Bridge Club holds many events for Novices. Friday was the Unders and Overs Pairs green point event, which allowed Novices to play with an experienced player. The turn out was excellent. Some beginners are hesitant at first to play with more experienced players, but the more experience you get the quicker you learn the game.  

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A big thank you was extended to all the experienced players who played with the novices in the competition and gave them the opportunity to experience a competition with support from the club.

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Weekly Results  

Monday 27 April 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin

1^st David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2^nd Diane Morgan / Sandy Ford

2^nd Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek

3^rd Karen Caldwell / Sue Mayer-Miller

3^rd Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers

4^th Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes

3^rd Louise Renton / Joy Block

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Tuesday Evening 28 April 2026 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

2^nd Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown

Wednesday 29 April 2026 – Unders and Overs Pairs 13 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st John Hunt / Eric Goodchild

1^st Alan Brown / Martin Pearce

2^nd Jewel Schmidt / Patricia Garner

2^nd Patrick Rasmussen / Mary Rose Ramsden

3^rd Michelle Hall / Diane Morgan

3^rd Geoff Taylor / Diane Cox

4^th Vicki Howard / Janine Rodgers

4^th Monica Darley / Christine Fitzpatrick

5^th Sue Mayer-Miller / Kath Poole

5^th Mick King / Susan Ross

6^th Shirley Worland / Diane Stokes

6^th Sandra Morris / Helen Goldston

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Thursday Evening 30 April 2026 – 4 Table One Winner – Green Points

1^st Janine Rodgers / Frances Brown

2^nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

3^rd Griffin Bancroft / Mick King  

Friday 1 May 2026 –- 8 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor

1^st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2^nd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait

2^nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

3^rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox

3^rd Lynne O’Neill / Terry Sheedy

Saturday 2 May 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

1^st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild

2^nd Josie Cowley / Terry Sheedy

2^nd Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris

3^rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

3^rd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden

5^th Alan Brown / Frances Brown

5^th Robert Carless / Anne Lutz

Contributed by Joy Block

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Approximately twenty runners enjoyed lower temperatures and sunshine before a mild spattering of rain in the closing stages of the Iluka Park 5/10km event. Photos supplied

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Young runner Lachy Binstead delivered an impressive performance at the Mackay Road Runners social run at Iluka Park on the weekend, completing his first 5km event despite already taking part in a demanding 3km school cross country race earlier in the week. His determined effort drew praise from fellow runners and supporters.

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Club members also acknowledged volunteer Andrew Short for setting up the Iluka course and continuing his valued support behind the scenes.

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Congratulations were extended to all athletes who competed in events across the weekend, including the North Queensland Games and the Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon.

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The Mackay Road Runners will host their next event, the Pre Mother’s Day 5km and 12km handicap run, this Saturday from 7am starting at the Mantra Mackay Harbour gardens near the front carpark, followed by a $30 buffet breakfast and prize draws. Members and non-members are welcome.

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

The club saw some massive scores as the morning fixtures this week, as Season 2 began.  Peter Goodson and Branko Vucurovic were set in for the morning with the first set was nearly 2 sets in 1 with the score being 23-21. Peter ended winning in a close 4 sets. The marathon matches continued as Chris Collins and Coral Morgan thought their match was never going to end with very close and long 5 sets, which ended in Chris sneaking home against Coral 18-16.  

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Tuesday Morning Fixtures  

Division 1: Astro Aces (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson) defeated Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic,  Delma Knight) 5-3. Match featured above Peter won over Branko in 4 sets (21,9,-8,8). Orion Orbiters (Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd, John McGee) tied 6-6 against Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall), Andrea and John came back from 2 sets down to win a massive doubles against Doug and Bryan (-9,-8,13,8,9).

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Division 2: Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Gloria Vella, Helen Ware) won 7-5 over Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Veronica Needham, Josie Davis), Josie came home from 2 sets down to win in 5 sets against Gloria (-5,11,-9,6,8).  Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Robyn Bushell, Coral Morgan) won their last 5 matches to beat Ninja Strikes (Ken Best, Frank Caruana, Chris Collins), this marathon match is featured above Chris defeated Coral in 5 sets (10,-5,4,-8,16).

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Division 3: Celtic Smash (Pam Kuene, Cheryl Pearson, Myles Dutton) defeated Aztec Warriors (Kim Challendar, Janelle Kuene, Glenda Brookes) 9-3, Pam won in close 5 sets against her daughter Janelle (-6,6,5,-7,7). Mongol Power (Gerry Synnott, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) tied at 6-6 against Gladiator Grip (Allison Day, Sharon Muller, Madge Saunders). Sharon won against Gerry (-9,9,-5,6,4).  

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Tuesday Evening Fixtures

Division 1: Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake) won 6-5 over Geese (Steve Whiting, Lee Brake, Janice Kent), Lee and Graeme battled it out in very close 5 set finish with Lee winning (-6,12,-5,8,12).  Canaries (Lily Boland, Yilin Jiang, Josh Brown) defeated Curlews (Barry Patterson, Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan) 6-5, Anne came home in tight finish against Lily (9,-6,3,-2,10).  Cockatoos (Goncalo Serra, Mark Sleeman, Neil Brown) snuck home against Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Allan Edwards, Robbie Richards), Trent found his form as he came back against Neil from 2 sets down to win in 5 sets (-5,-10,6,7,8).

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Division 2: Kites (Syed Hossain, Matt West, Simon Hogan) defeated Parrots (Delma Knight, George Camilleri, Liz Burton) 6-5, Matt just won over Liz in close 5 sets (6,5,-11,-9,12).  Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Noreen Frederickson) won 6-5 over Galahs (Remy Zhan, Donna Abbott, Mark Stem), Will beat Remy in 5 sets to win (-10,7,-3,7,8).  Owls (Rod Mahumes, Peter Goodson, Ricky Zhan) just home 6-5 against Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Jeff Bennington, Rachel Fiesta), Rachel came back against Rod to win tight 5 sets (8,-8,10,-6,11).

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Division 3: Craig VanDeKaa, Tiffany Camilleri, Logan Brown and Val Austin are playing very well, with some close matches and tight competition as they are all playing for a top 4 position.  

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Contributed by Andrea Payne

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SEASON 2 – WEEK 1  

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Welcome back to season 2, it’s great to have a few new players.  

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Tuesday Night Results  

Division 1: Curlews (Barry Patterson, Geoff Cowan, Anne Sheridan) defeated Cockatoos (Vince Boeske, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) 7-4, Mark came home strongly against Geoff to win (10,-6,9,-4,5).  Canaries (Lily Boland, Yilin Jiang, Josh Brown) beat Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake)    6-5, Lily and Graeme battled it out with Lily winning in very close 5 sets (-8,7,6,-9,10).  Geese (Steve Whiting, Syed Hossain, Janice Kent) won 7-4 over Bowerbirds (Robbie Richards, Trent Day, Allan Edwards), Robbie just got home against Janice in close 5 sets (9,-6,-8,5,8).

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Division 2: Parrots (George Camilleri, Delma Knight, Liz Burton) won 7-4 over the Owls (Rod Mahumas, Peter Goodson, Ricky Zhan), Delma came back to win against Peter after losing the first set 20-18, it was a neck and neck battle to the end (-18,9,9,-9,9).  Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Danial Warfield, Noreen Frederickson) 6-5, Andrea and Ollie won their first doubles together against Will and Daniel in close 5 setter (14,10,-6,-6,10).  Kites (Geoff Denman, Ian McKay, Matt West) defeated Galahs (Donna Abbott, Dilini Ranasinghe, Mark Stam) 7-4 with Donna coming back against Ian in very close match (-8,-9,7,9,5).

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Division 3: This is being run as a round robin draw each player is playing for themselves and aiming to be in the top 4 positions at the end of the season.  

Tuesday Morning fixtures will begin next week but this week was a Double Competition. This is a random draw with each match is a different doubles partner and we also have different opponents. It is 6 matches and 1 game to 31 and at the end the points you earned are totalled up to find the winner, this is a great fun morning. Group 1 was won by Andrea Nicholson who was undefeated on 186 points and Group 2 was won by Josie Davis on 181 points.  

Contributed by Andrea Payne

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Mackay’s U14 boys and girls delivered strong performances at the Toowoomba softball tournament last month, highlighted by the boys claiming Presidents Cup Gold. Photo source: Mackay Softball association Incorporated  

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Mackay softball talent Jaxon Maluga represented Australia at the U18 Men’s Softball World Cup Qualifier in New Zealand.  

His selection was a significant achievement, reflecting his hard work, passion and commitment to the sport.  

Competing in the green and gold, Jaxon took to the international stage with pride, with the local softball community celebrating his efforts and wishing him and the Australian team success throughout the tournament.

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Mackay Juniors Shine In Toowoomba Softball Tournament

Last month, Mackay’s U14 boys and girls competed in their tournament in Toowoomba, delivering strong performances across the competition.  

The girls combined with Coral Coast, showing teamwork and spirit throughout their games.  

The boys achieved outstanding success, winning the Presidents Cup with a 20–6 victory over Maryborough to secure gold. Both teams were praised for their effort, sportsmanship and the way they represented Mackay on and off the field.

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Photo source: Mackay Airport

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Mackay Airport has reaffirmed its commitment to local sport and community wellbeing, continuing its sponsorship of the Mackay Cutters for the upcoming season.

The partnership supports a club that continues to expand both on and off the field, with more than 180 athletes currently competing across six squads.

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A representative from Mackay Airport said the organisation was proud to remain involved with the club as it develops opportunities for local players.

“Mackay Airport is proud to continue sponsoring the Mackay Cutters this season,” the representative said.

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“With more than 180 athletes across six squads, supported by an incredible team of coaches, medical, strength and conditioning and operations staff, the Cutters continue to grow both on and off the field. Together, they are building strong pathways for local talent and striving for success across all grades.”

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Beyond competition, the partnership also supports important community initiatives through the club’s Cutters Care program.

“We are also especially proud to support the club’s Change the Game Mental Health Initiative through Cutters Care,” the representative said.

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“In 2025, the program reached more than 1,460 students across 53 sessions, helping promote positive mental health and wellbeing across the Mackay community.

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“Partnerships like this play a vital role in strengthening our region, from developing local athletes to creating meaningful community impact.”

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