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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Around 1,500 people gathered at Harrup Park for the opening ceremony of the North Queensland Games, launching the 2026 competition with community celebration despite challenging weather conditions. Photo source: North Queensland Games

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Despite challenging weather conditions, the opening ceremony of the North Queensland Games drew an impressive crowd of around 1,500 people to Harrup Park, marking a spirited start to the 2026 regional sporting event.

The ceremony, hosted by Tegan Philpott, brought together athletes, officials and supporters from across the region in a celebration of sport, community and participation.

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Attendees heard from Mayor Greg Williamson and Member for Mirani Glen Kelly, who addressed the crowd on behalf of both David Crisafulli and Tim Mander, acknowledging the importance of the Games in strengthening regional sport and community connections.

The event also featured the Games’ ambassadors, Olympic beach volleyball champion Natalie Cook and local sporting advocate Tori West. While Mackay boxing star Liam Paro was unable to attend due to personal reasons, he remains an ambassador for the Games.

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A strong sense of history was reflected in the presence of Bill Cummings from the 1956 Torch Bearers Club, highlighting the enduring legacy of sport across generations.

The ceremony began with a heartfelt Welcome to Country delivered by Philip Kemp of the Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC.

Athletes formally marked the start of competition as Derrick Evans led the official oath alongside athletes Lily Woods and Myarah Ahoy from Athletics North Queensland.

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One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the March of Athletes, led by the Holy Spirit Drum Corps, as more than 20 sporting clubs entered the arena in a vibrant display of unity from across North Queensland.

While wet weather prevented the traditional torch relay from taking place, the ceremony maintained its celebratory atmosphere with fireworks, live music from ViVa Acoustic, jumping castles and community stalls.

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Event activations were supported by Struddy’s, PEAK and the Queensland Academy of Sport, alongside media partners including 7NEWS Mackay, which sponsored the 100-metre sprint prize money, and Star 101.9 Mackay, which broadcast live from the Games cauldron.

The 2026 North Queensland Games is proudly supported by the Queensland Government, with organisers thanking sponsors, partners and the community for helping deliver a memorable opening celebration.

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For more photos visit: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/mackays-world-class-talent-on-display-at-north-queensland-games

After Round 1: Proserpine (PP) 281 Pioneer Valley (PV) 277 Stableford points a pleasing result albeit with a home course advantage. 

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On April 28^th, Proserpine hosted Round 1 of the annual Croker Shield in blustery but sunny weather conditions. The course condition was very good with no preferred lies. There were 39 Proserpine players and 24 from Pioneer Valley.

Proserpine contributors were: Warren Deighton (41), Ken Granger (35), Len Booroff (35), Craig McLean (35), Barry Shuwalow (35), Anna Winterbourn (34), Tiina Randmae (33) and Kath Borer (33).

A special thank you to those who contributed to the delicious morning tea and lunch.

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Congratulations to the overall winners.

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RESULTS

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LADIES

Winner: Camille Berginey (PV) with 40 points

R/Up: Anna Winterbourn (PP) with 34 points

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MEN

Winner: Warren Deighton (PP) with 41 points

R/Up: Allan Smith (PV) with 39 points

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PIN SHOTS

Ladies: Carene Vandersee (PV), Elspeth Scotford (PP) and Tina Badenhorst (PP)

Men: Ken Granger (PP), Craig McClean (PP) and Gerald Lovell (PP)

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RAFFLE

The generous meat tray was won by our very own Tiina Randmae

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Week after 12/5/26 at Collinsville Whitsunday Group 

Thursday 9/7/26 CROKER SHIELD Round 2 at Pioneer Valley

Contributed with thanks to John Roser

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It’s been a busy week for the Club with a major fundraiser for the CQ Rescue Service which is so appreciated by everyone in the community. This took place on Sunday with some amazing scores and a great time had by all.

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TUESDAY 28/4/26

VETS : Croker Shield : Stableford vs Pioneer Valley @ PGC

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LADIES :

Winner : Camille Berginey (PV) 40 points

R/Up : Anna Winterbourn (PGC) 34 points (C/B)

3^rd : Carene Vandersee (PV)  

4^th : Tiina Randmae (PGC) 33 points (C/B) followed by Kath Borer and Elspeth Sscotford

NTPs : Carene Vandersee, Elspeth Scotford, Tina Badenhorst

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MEN :

Winner : Warren Deighton (PGC) 41 points

R/Up : Allan Smith (PV) 39 points

3^rd : Ken Granger (PGC) 35 points (C/B)

From Len Booroff, Craig McLean and Barry Shuwalow

NTPs : Ken Granger, Craig McLean, Gerald Lovell

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WEDNESDAY 29/4/26

Single Stableford – 12 ladies were away playing Country Week @ Rocky and Yeppoon

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LADIES :

Winner : Paula McQuat – on a roll – 34 points

R/Up : Tina Badenhorst 33 points

3rd : Tiina Randmae 32 points

NTPs : Di Dobbins (16^th)

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THURSDAY 30/4/26

PGC - Stableford

MEN :

A Grade :

Winner : Ray Johannesen 37 points

R/Up : Gavin Kerwand 36 points (C/B)

3^rd : Jason Bourke

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B Grade :

Winner : Peter Lindsay 39 points

R/Up : Mitchell Whitton 37 points (C/B)

3^rd : Louis Neethling

NTPs : Wilf Herweg (2^nd), Paul Gray (9^th), Allen Roberts (13^th), Nathan Holohan (16^th)

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FRIDAY 1/5/26

9 hole Run sponsored by the Metropole Hotel : Front 9

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Winner : Bradley Wilkinson 23 points

R/up : Simon Wilmot 17 points

3^rd : Jason Whitney 16 points

NTPs : Brent Franke (2^nd)

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SATURDAY 2/5/26

May MM sponsored by the Metropole Hotel

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MEN :

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Overall winner : Ritchie Atkins 64 nett

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A Grade :

Winner : Jason Bourke 71 nett (C/B)

R/Up : Levi Holmes

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B Grade :

Winner : Ritchie Atkins 64 nett

R/Up : Logan Devery 68 nett

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C Grade :

Winner : Connor Devery 66 nett (C/B)

R/Up : Bradley Wilkinson

NTPs : Clay Coles (2^nd), Jason Bourke (9^th), James Kean (13^th), Andrew Volpato (16^th)

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LADIES

Winner : Joanne Moynihan 70 nett

R/Up : Noelene Spurway 73 nett (C/B)

3^rd : Sidonie Fleet

NTPs : Sara Hagy (2^nd), Sidonie Fleet (9^th)

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SUNDAY 3/5/26 :

BMA CQ RESCUE 4C AMBROSE - FUNDRAISER

An excellent day with 88 players, fabulous scoring, and the weather was kind with only a couple of spits during the day, so all was well. The amount of money raised will be advised when all figures have been collated.

Winners : Ryan Kenny, Mark Thompson, Sean Fogarty, Jared Leaman 53.125

Rs/Up :O’Connors - David, Billy and Lewis, Tim Walton 53.5

3^rd : Patrick Camm, Nick Watson, Cory O’Shea, Brent Franke 53.75

4^th : Rob and Shelley Stanley, Steve Abel, Neal Torresan 54.125

Many thanks to all those who all who participated, those who gave up their time and helped in any way at all, these big events don’t happen by chance, there is a lot of work done behind the scenes, not just by the Pro Shop but by many members as well.  We hope a good time was had by all and we look forward to doing it all again next year.

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Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Men's President Graeme Read with Winner Dennis Madeley, Cheryl Nugent and absent Skin Querro Photo supplied

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Tuesday’s winners were Skin Querro, Denis Madeley who defeated Neil Chittenden and Ron Hyde. In the other games Cheryl Nugent, John Hayson and Stuart Jeal defeated Shirley Jones and Deb Retchless. Maureen Hyde, Laurie Land and Greg Prembroke defeated Frank Sciani and Troy Nugent. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Club Competition for the week: Ladies Four final was won by Celly Jeal, Robyn Stitt, Sue Shearing, Fely Duncan defeating Lindy Suann, Deb Retchless, Shirley Jones and Maureen Hyde.

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On Sunday afternoon the club welcomed Bowen Home Hardware with everyone having an enjoyable afternoon    

Sunday’s winners were: Cheryl Nugent, Skin Querro and Denis Medeley defeated Eileen Dunn, Greg Prembroke and Graeme Read. In the games Gwenda Lydom, Isobel Wheeler and Greg Colquhoun defeated Neale Chittenden, John Hayson and Troy Nugent.Toni Bowen,Gavin Charles and Maureen Hyde defeated Bill Myers, Boof Querro and Kevin Jewell. The jackpot didn’t go off.

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Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Carol Crosbie and Joan McGrath are the winners of the Ladies’ Pairs and the A Grade champions for 2026. Photo supplied

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We are now in the middle of the Men’s, Ladies’, and Mixed club competitions, along with our weekly social games.

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Tuesday Ladies’ social bowls saw 12 bowlers vying for the winner’s prize, while the final of the Ladies’ Pairs was also played in front of many onlookers. The team of skipper David Bradley, lead Sue Dakin, and second Dawn Dowell won comfortably on the day.

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Meanwhile, the team of Joan McGrat Carol Crosbie faced Elaine Kippen and lead Kath Remmeswaal. The score was 7-all after 11 ends before Elaine and Kath succumbed to very accurate bowling, going down 25–9. This game is featured in this week’s photo.

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Wednesday afternoon social bowls saw 24 bowlers competing for the winner’s prize. Victors, with a score of 16–10, were skipper Andrew Butler, lead Lu Rogan, and second Desmond Ballance. They proved too strong in the end for the valiant team of skipper Ted Cullen, lead Rick Brunell, and second Phil O’Brien.  

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Saturday morning Scroungers had a large roll-up, with first-round winners Tony Whitehorn, Kath Remmeswaal, and Alan Pershouse fighting out the final. Alan Pershouse was the A Division winner of the day, while the B Division winner was Sharon.  

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Sunday afternoon social bowls saw 16 bowlers playing well. The winning team was skipper Alan Pershouse and David “Choc” Cleary, who won 23–20, making it a very successful weekend for Alan. The club also welcomed back John Matterson, returning from heart surgery. He showed everyone he is still a fantastic bowler, and as he regains strength, he will no doubt return to his brilliant best.

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FQPL3 Women Photo supplied

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Whitsundays delivered an impressive weekend of results across all three grades, recording convincing wins in the Premier Women, U23 Men and Premier Men competitions.

The FQPL3 Premier Women showed resilience after a slow start against Country United, conceding early to trail 1–0. Veneesha Robertson sparked the comeback with a superb long-range strike into the top corner to level the scores at 1–1 heading into the break. Bre Campbell then took control in the second half, scoring twice to secure a 3–1 victory. Sarah Chilton led the line strongly, Keely Salter anchored the defence, and the club’s younger players continued to grow in confidence at senior level.

The U23 Men entered their clash against City Brothers knowing a win would keep them on top of the table, and they delivered with a composed 2–0 performance. After a scoreless first half, where Kai Savy’s runs in behind caused constant problems, the breakthrough came via a penalty calmly converted by Aaron Kinsella. Arman Sabzgolin added a second to seal the result and ensure Whitsundays remained at the summit.

The FQPL3 Premier Men rounded out the weekend with a dominant 8–3 win over City Brothers. Ethan Rose opened the scoring shortly after seeing his early penalty saved and went on to complete back-to-back hat-tricks. Pepe Perea’s pressing created another goal before half-time, the ever-dangerous Reef Peel added two more and Max O’Keefe and Sam Frumento both also found the net in a powerful attacking display. Another good win for our Premier Men as they settle into the season.

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Last Saturday, a grand opening took place for the new Bowen Seagulls Rugby League Clubhouse. Both Federal MP for Dawson Andrew Willcox and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins were in attendance for the special event.  

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“This is a fantastic addition to the Seagulls, and I congratulate everyone for all the hard work invested to bring this to fruition,” Mr Willcox said.  

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Both MP Willcox and Mayor Collins helped to cut the ribbon alongside the enthusiastic players.  

“Along with cutting the ribbon to celebrate this achievement, the club committee has done an amazing job of putting together a trip down memory lane, showcasing photographers, football jerseys and memorabilia from years gone by.

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As a ‘Bowen boy’ who played league and run a team where his son played, Mr Willcox expressed immense pride at the occasion.  

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“It was real treat to spend time looking through our towns footy history.”

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The opening represents an exciting new chapter for the league.  

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Photo Credit - Kylie Allen - Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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What a weekend for the Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Men! After an unfortunate forfeit from the Bakers Creek Tigers women’s side, all eyes turned to the men to deliver a win for the home crowd.

It was a hard-fought battle from the first bounce to the final siren, with both teams going stride for stride in a tight contest. 

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The intensity never dropped, as each side attacked the ball with hunger and determination, refusing to give an inch.

In the end, it was the Sea Eagles who rose to the occasion, holding their nerve and finishing strong to claim the win by a solitary point in front of their home crowd.

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With the final score 69-68 the Sea Eagles way, Hudson McGregor was awarded the best on ground honours for his bag of five goals in trying conditions.

This Saturday the 9th of May the Sea Eagles head down to Rodger’s Oval in Mackay to battle it out with the Eastern Swans. Will our teams come out victorious? Be there and find out!

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Contributed by Georgia Whitton - Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Information about Council’s Junior Elite Athlete support program can be found on their website Photo credit: Facebook

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Young athletes from across the Whitsundays were recognised for their impressive achievements at a recent Ordinary Council meeting in Proserpine.

Mayor Ry Collins and Councillors acknowledged a group of junior competitors who have excelled at regional, state and national levels, supported through Council’s Junior Elite Athletes initiative.  

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The program provides financial assistance to help cover the costs of competing in representative sport, ensuring local talent can pursue opportunities without being held back by expense.

Among those recognised on the day were Kayne Higgins (cross country), Adelaide Sanders and Eli Gerrand (football and futsal), Axel Yuskan, Evelyn Doherty, Declan Dichiera, Eloise Chegwidden, Lucas Korosec, Jax Clayworth and Zane Clayworth (swimming), Reid and Rory Martin (sailing), and Ben Hope (cricket).

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Council also paid tribute to several athletes who were unable to attend but have achieved outstanding results. These included Kade Harrison and Skye Brodhurst (volleyball), Thomas O’Neill (motocross), Karlee and Byron Goodin (football), Isabella Pisaniello and Charlie Doherty (swimming), Amber Benson (rugby league), Millie Groom (cross country), Roxanne Groom and James Davies (swimming), Russell Harris (sailing), and Matilda Nichols (triathlon and aquathon).

Mayor Collins said the recognition highlights not only sporting success, but the commitment and resilience shown by these young athletes.

“These athletes are fantastic ambassadors for the Whitsundays,” he said. “Their hard work and determination is something the whole community can be proud of.”

The Junior Elite Athletes initiative continues to play an important role in supporting the region’s emerging talent, helping athletes take the next step in their sporting journeys.

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With a wide range of sports represented—from swimming pools and athletics tracks to sailing courses and football fields—the Whitsundays continues to produce a diverse and promising group of young competitors.

Council encourages families and aspiring athletes to learn more about the program and the support available, as the region continues to back its next generation of sporting stars.

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Photo supplied

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The 2026 Foley Shield was played over the weekend in Cairns, with well over 80 years worth of history in our region. The Foley Shield is the epitome of representative rugby league in North Queensland.

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With five of our local Whitsunday Brahman men selected for the Mackay Sea Eagles side, including Sam Moorhouse, Adam Butterill, Darcy Turner and Hawaiike Annandale as players, and Harley Bateup as men’s assistant coach working beside the ever-talented former NRL player Kane Linnett, the club was proudly represented. Eddy Cates was also selected as women’s assistant coach, with Shirley Luke earning selection in the women’s team.

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Our troops set to Cairns with one mission in mind — to make a statement.

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The men walked away with a win in their opening game on Saturday against a favoured Cairns side, 24–16. In an extremely close match, they played their cards right and came out on top. This was followed by the Mackay Sea Eagles women’s team, who defeated Cairns 24–4. Both teams then faced off later on Saturday against last year’s big threat, Townsville.

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The men were down at half time but refused to count themselves out. They came back hard in the second half, taking on the defence with confidence and control. Mackay turned the tables to secure an incredible 32–26 victory, claiming the 2026 Foley Shield in what was a massive upset over the reigning champions.

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Unfortunately, the women’s side were unable to overcome a strong Townsville outfit, going down 20–10. Despite the result, the team held their heads high, proud of their selections and the opportunity to represent, while enjoying a memorable weekend away in Cairns.

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The Mackay Sea Eagles men’s team celebrated their milestone win on the journey home, holding the trophy high and soaking in a well-earned victory. Mackay had not lifted the Foley Shield since 2021, making the achievement even more special.

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Coach Kane Linnett, along with his players and staff, have every reason to be proud. The shield has returned home to Mackay — and if this performance is anything to go by, it may be there to stay for some time.

Contributed with thanks to Mandy Bateup

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Photo source: Mackay Basketball  

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Mackay Basketball’s U16 Meteorettes delivered a strong performance in the state Grand Final, finishing with a well-earned 2^nd place in Queensland after going down to Logan.

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Coral Francis, Sue Hazledine, Wendy Sonter and Min Andrew. Photo supplied

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The B Pairs Final was played on Wednesday, 22 April, with all signs pointing to a closely contested match, and it certainly delivered.

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Wendy Sonter and Min Andrew took on Coral Francis and Sue Hazledine in a game that lived up to expectations, with scores going end-for-end throughout.

Played in great spirit, the match combined friendly camaraderie with a healthy dose of competitive intensity.

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In the end, Coral and Sue emerged victorious, much to their delight. Congratulations also to Wendy and Min for a hard-fought performance.

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A big thank you goes to all bowlers who took part in this year’s competition.

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Contributed with thanks to Sue Hazledine.

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Pictured is Section A Winners: Jan and Don. Photo supplied

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Twenty-eight pairs from Mackay, Yepoon, Bowen and Rockhampton competed in the Mackay X Imps Pairs Red Point event on the ANZAC Weekend.

Lest We Forget

Winners Section A Jan Randall and Don Cameron (Rockhampton), Section B Mary Rose Ramsden and Christine Nice (Mackay) and Section C Anne Lutz and Ian Vary (Mackay). Play started respectfully after 12pm. Mackay Club ladies catered for the event with a big shout out to Janelle, Vicki, Sue and all who helped. The Mackay Contract Bridge Club is a very supportive and inclusive club where everyone pitches in. Appreciation was extended to Director Ian Cruickshank.

Weekly Results  

Monday 20 April 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points  
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Sandy Ford
2nd
Joy Hold / Ian Vary
3rd
Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell
4th
Nancy Martin / Diane Morgan
4th
Geoff Cowan / Mary Cruickshank
Tuesday Evening 21 April 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points  

1st
Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Noel / Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
4th
Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner
Wednesday 22 April 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
1st
Terry Sheedy / Sandy Patterson
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
4th
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
4th
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
Thursday Evening 23 April 2026 – 5 Table One Winner – Green Points

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd
Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor
Friday 24 April 2026 – Week 8 of 26 NWP - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
3rd
Christine Nice / Diane Cox
4th
Joyce Deguara / Shirley Worland
4th
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

Saturday 25 April 2026 & Sunday 26 April 2026 – Mackay X Imps Pairs – Red Points

Section A

Section B
1st
Jan Randal / Don Cameron
1st
Mary rose Ramsden / Christine Nice
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd
Malcolm Saunders / Adrian Lohmann
3rd
Sue McInnes / Deb Breeze
4th
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
4th
Martin Pearce / Noel Saunders

Section C


1st  
Anne Lutz / Ian Vary
2nd
Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Simon Barnes / Janice Mansfield
4th
Cathy McKenzie / Michelle Rau

Contributed with thanks to Joy Block  

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