St Patrick’s College Mackay has proven once again they are a netball force to be reckoned with, securing third place at the prestigious CQUniversity QISSN Championships in Bundaberg.

In a thrilling final day showdown, St Pat’s Open Girls took to the court against Carmel College, Thornlands, in the third-place playoff. With sheer determination and tactical discipline, the Mackay girls ground out a hard-fought 16–10 victory to seal their spot on the podium.

The match capped off an outstanding week for the squad, who competed against some of the best school teams in Queensland across five days of intense netball action.

“Our girls showed grit, determination and teamwork,” the College said in a post-tournament wrap.

“It was a well-earned victory and a fantastic way to close out the carnival.”

The team’s standout performer was Shayla P, who was named Most Valuable Player for the tournament – a deserved recognition for her consistency, skill and leadership on court throughout the competition.

Held from 29 June to 4 July across the Bundaberg Multiplex and Shalom College venues, the QISSN Championships are widely regarded as the premier secondary schools netball competition in the country, drawing 64 schools from across Queensland. With elite-level selectors such as Vicki Wilson OAM and Tracy Bruce in attendance, the carnival gives young athletes a true taste of the professional netball environment.

“Congratulations to the team for your contribution to the carnival and to the coaching staff on a fantastic tournament and a well-deserved podium finish,” the College said.

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Football - Whitsunday United Football Club
Friday 11 July
6.00 PM: Whitsunday United FC Div 2 Men vs Dolphins FC at Dolphin Park
8.00 PM: Whitsunday United FC Div 1 Men vs Dolphins FC at Dolphin Park

Saturday 12 July
9.30 AM: Whitsunday United FC U13 Div 1 vs Mackay Rangers FC at Whitsunday United FC
9.30 AM: Whitsunday United FC U14 vs Mackay Rangers FC U14 Black at Mackay Football Park
11.00 AM: Whitsunday United FC U13 FQPL vs Mackay Rangers FC at Whitsunday United FC
11.15 AM: Whitsunday United FC U15/16 vs Mackay Wanderers at Mackay Football Park
5.00 PM: Whitsunday United FC U23 Men vs Mackay Lions at Lions Field
7.00 PM: Whitsunday United FC Men vs Mackay Lions at Lions Field

AFL - Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 12 July
Senior Men vs Swans at Rogers Oval
Senior Women vs Swans at Rogers Oval

Rugby Union - Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
Friday 11 July
6.30 PM - Womens A Grade vs Bowen Mudcrabs at Whitsunday Sportspark
7.30 PM - Mens A Grade vs Bowen Mudcrabs at Whitsunday Sportspark

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

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

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Footy in paradise lived up to its reputation over the weekend as the Sea Eagles hosted the North Mackay Saints at their home ground in stunning conditions.

The day held special meaning as the club marked three years since the passing of Cody Gibbs, a beloved member of the Sea Eagles family. A new memento was unveiled in Cody’s honour, joining the perpetual award presented annually to a senior player who embodies the club spirit he represented.

In a thrilling showdown, the Sea Eagles Senior Women left everything on the field as they took on the ladder-leading North Mackay Saints. The crowd was on its feet throughout the gripping final term, with the scoreline neck and neck until the final siren. Ultimately, the Sea Eagles fell just short by three points in a nail-biting 27–30 finish. Despite the result, the performance proved the team is firmly in the premiership conversation and will take plenty of confidence into the rest of the season.

The Senior Men’s side also faced off against the Saints, who currently sit just above them on the ladder. The Sea Eagles’ defensive unit, led by Jacob Dewis, Alex Rodgers and Mason Andrews, stood tall and successfully kept the Saints scoreless in the first half. The Saints surged in the third quarter, booting five goals, but the Sea Eagles responded with three of their own to maintain their lead. Digging deep in the final term, the Sea Eagles held on for a well-earned 53–46 victory.

The Sea Eagles Senior teams now hit the road for several weeks, starting with a clash against the Eastern Swans at Rogers Oval this weekend. The next home game is scheduled for August 2 at The Nest, where the club will celebrate Sponsors Day.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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New memento to honour Cody Gibbs. Photo supplied

Whitsunday Sea Eagles players getting involved in play

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With the school holiday, there were no youth teams taking the field for Whitsunday United and as the Divisional men also got the weekend off, it was up to our Premier Men and Women to provide the entertainment. And they didn’t disappoint!

Women
The Whitsunday ladies faced a tough opponent in the Magpies squad. A few weeks ago, Magpies came out on top but it was a hard fought victory.

Determined to turn the tables, the Whitsunday team worked hard as a defensive unit, rarely allowing Magpies to get shots away from inside the box.

In attack, the midfield and strikers created opportunities that put the Magpies’ defence under pressure, and the team went into halftime locked at 0–0 with growing confidence and belief.

Unfortunately, an injury to a Magpies player in the second half saw the game called early, the ladies were proud to walk away with a hard-fought 0–0 draw against the second-placed team in the league.

Player standouts were Claire, Lauren & Keely in defence. The ladies now sit in a strong fourth on the ladder but with two games in hand, are eyeing off third place.

Men
The two premier men’s sides played Wanderers in Mackay, hoping for good results and a repeat of the previous encounter with Wanderers.

The boys surely delivered. The FQPL U23 squad played some dominant football winning 7 nil in a clinical display as they young side grows in confidence and cohesion.

Goals scorers were Euan Van Den Bergh (2) and Max O'Keeffe (2), with Aaron Kinsella, Reef Peel and James Spiers chipping in with one a piece.

In premier league the men won 3 nil, in a solid display despite Wanderers having quite a few good chances. Sean McCarthy, Reef Peel and Sam Davies all contributed to the scoreboard.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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They may still be pre-teens, but the girls of Cannonvale Cannons’ competitive squad are already swimming with the drive and discipline of seasoned athletes.

Ranging from 10 to 12 years old, this talented group trains early, races hard, and chases state and national qualifying times with impressive focus and determination.

Celeste has her sights set on a national qualifying time this season, driven by a strong belief in swimming’s core lesson: hard work makes anything possible.

Addie thrives in breaststroke, especially the 100m, where she feels strongest. She lives by her coach’s advice: “Get the stroke right and let the speed come.”

Evie loves racing more than training—especially the 200m freestyle, with its strategy and sprint finish. Known for her energy and team spirit, she keeps her pre-race routine simple: a sausage roll and a smile.

Andie, who prefers training to refine her skills, recently smashed a 7-second PB in the 100m butterfly and earned a place in the SNQ Development Squad.

Matilda recalls the high of hitting her state time after narrowly missing it by just 0.04 seconds the day before. Her next goal? Cracking the “70s club” with a sub-70 time in the 100m freestyle. Her top tip: “Show up to training even if you don’t feel like it—you’ll always be glad you did.”

Their advice to other young swimmers? Don’t give up. Keep showing up. And enjoy the journey.

To find out more, visit cannonvalecannons.com

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Matilda Nicholes, Celeste Orenshaw, Andie Reynolds, Addie Sanders, Maeve Dichiera, Gracie Laguna, Indie Smith, and Evie Doherty. Photo supplied

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There has been lots of action on the fishing front the past week, and it’s been great to see so many kids getting amongst it during the school holidays. Unfortunately, the wind isn’t predicted to be on our side for the next few days, but fingers crossed it drops off.

Dam
The dam has continued to be on the quiet side this week. A few keen anglers made the trip up a few days ago and managed to land a few out of the bays down the back, but overall, there’s not a lot to report. Cooler temperatures and minimal activity continue to keep things slow.

Estuary
There’s been some cracking mangrove jacks caught over the past week, particularly for those casting prawn-style lures rigged weedless into the deeper snags. These hard-hitting fish are in great condition at the moment and putting up serious fights. Grunter are also still around in good numbers. Anglers using fresh bait continue to see the best results, especially around the tide changes and deeper holes.

Islands & Offshore
Mackerel are still hanging around in strong numbers, with school-sized fish being the standout. They’re a great option for a quick and exciting session when conditions allow. Nannygai are also firing offshore, with plenty being caught and some absolute beasts over 7kg hitting the decks. If you’re heading out this weekend, make sure your tackle is up to the task.

As always, be sure to tag @tackleworld_airliebeach in your fishing pics so we can see what’s happening in the region.

Best of luck out there!

Contributed with thanks to Beth Hockley and Jason Fisher from Tackle World Airlie Beach

Local fisho, Brendon Chalmers, with a solid Red Emperor. Photo supplied

It was another busy week at Wangaratta Bowls Club, with strong numbers and great competition across all events.

Monday’s triples winners were G. Murray, D. Maddeley and R. Agg, who defeated J. Breakwell, J. Stamp and L. Muston. Runners-up were Gary Wills, Ken Wallace and Jim Steel, who got the better of Eileen Dunn, John Foskett and Geoff Coleman. The jackpot didn’t go off.

On Tuesday afternoon, Graeme Smith, Robyn Crawford and Maureen Hyde claimed the win over Natalie Hands, Irene Laird and Bob Dykstra. Runners-up were Bron Tolcher, John Hayson and Allen Gillies, who overcame June Paynting, Les Lee and John Hallas. The jackpot again remained unclaimed.

Fun Friday winners were Les Lek and Greg McSwain, who defeated Judy Christie and Ron Boskma. Runners-up were S. White, Neal Chittenden and Maureen Hyde, victorious against John Hayson, Natalie and Kevin Kelly. Resting touchers were awarded to Pauline Cochrane and Jan Dawson.

Friday night barefoot bowls saw Peter, Bob and Evan narrowly defeat Alison, Michele and Shirley by two shots in a light-hearted match.

Sunday social bowls saw a full green with 64 players. Rink 8’s Judy Christie, June Paynting, Col Parker and John Hallas were the afternoon winners, beating Ross Altman, Marian Sorrell, Jim Quod and Allan Gillies. Runners-up were Toni Bowen, Linda Atkinson, Rodney Barrup and France Wilmann.

The club’s annual Cent Sale on Saturday was a great success—thank you to all who supported it.

Good luck to Penny, Denise and Tiarna as they represent North Qld in Townsville next week!

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Winners from Sunday 6 July. Photo supplied

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It’s been a massive week at Airlie Beach Bowls Club, with plenty of action both on and off the green.

First up, the final results of the Men’s Pennants are in. While the season didn’t end as hoped, considering the size and strength of the opposition clubs, our teams held their own and showed promising signs for next season.

Division 1 finished 5th with 20.5 points
Division 3 finished 5th with 12 points
Division 5 finished 6th with 10 points
Division 6 placed 5th with 16.5 points, which included a forfeit

We’re already looking ahead to next year with stronger, more balanced teams and added experience across the board.

On Tuesday, our ladies travelled to Sarina for the Johnson Shield – and for the first time ever, made it through to the finals! A proud moment for the club.
Betty Whitehorn won her singles match against West Tigers, while Betty Nicole and the ever-energetic Carol Crosbie took out the pairs. Joan McGrath skipped a team supported by Wendy Pomeroy (third), Elaine Kippen (second) and Regina Aquilina (lead) in a nail-biting final.

Back at home, 18 players contested three games of triples, with the day's prize going to the team led by Tony Whitehorn, alongside Maureen Barnard and Greg Fennell, after winning with the lowest margin.

Wednesday social bowls welcomed visitors from Victoria and New Zealand, while Tony Whitehorn’s team again came out on top with a commanding 31–11 win.

Wednesday night Business House Bowls continues to grow, with this week’s standout being CES Electrical—featured Stay tuned for full team results and Men’s 3 Bowl Triples scores next week.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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CES Electrical from the Wednesday night Business House Bowls. Photo supplied

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With Pennants now completed, attention at Proserpine Bowls Club has turned to the Club Championships, and competition is heating up.

On Saturday morning, fiercely contested Club Championship Singles matches were played. Jonathan Bye defeated Dale Haack 27–20, while Andrew Bell claimed a commanding 25–4 win over Philip Brown. Bye backed up on Sunday morning with a strong 25–11 win against Brett Saroglia.

The Singles Championship is now just a couple of games away from completion. Andrew Bell will take on Marcus Craig in the final semi-final, with the winner to face Jonathan Bye in the grand final. The Champion of Champions for Singles will be held at Souths Suburban on August 23 and 24.

In Saturday’s B Singles action, Bruce Uhe edged out Trevor Parsons 25–24 in a nail-biting match. Plenty of games remain before the B Singles Champion of Champions, to be held at St Helens on September 20 and 21.

Saturday afternoon featured Club Championship Pairs. Gavin Noonan and Brett Saroglia defeated Bryan Davy and Luchie Gardel 27–9, while David Ling and Andrew Bell overcame Barry Saroglia and Gavin Milne 28–18. That result makes Ling and Bell the first pair to secure a semi-final spot. The Champion of Champions for Pairs will be hosted at Proserpine on August 9 and 10.

In social bowls, Arthur Griffith and Trevor Parsons defeated John Anderson and Vince Olsen 31–14 on Wednesday. Alen Sanderson, Garry Alexander and Sandy Daffara also had a win, 19–11.

Sunday saw more strong performances, including wins by teams skipped by Mike Harrison and Nev Smith.

Friday night’s Barefoot Bowls was another success, with a great turnout enjoying a relaxed night on the greens. Thanks go to the volunteers who make this monthly event possible.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Mackay Table Tennis Results for Tuesday 24th June 2025

Morning Fixture Results

Division 1 Ghost Spins (George Camilleri, Branko Vucurovic, Bryan Marshall) defeated Panther Prowlers (Doug Dungavell, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 8-4.  Ant Warriors (Allan Robins, Judy Zahn, Don Boettcher) defeated Cosmic Sorcerers (Delma Knight, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) 7-5.  Phoenix Fire (Donna Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Noreen Frederickson) defeated Star Lords (Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-5.

Division 2 Nova Smashers (Marie Taylor, Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) def. Astro Aces (Iris Grasso, John Hamelink, Chris Collins) 10-2.  Eclipse Spin (Helen Ware, Ken Best, Virginia Clayton) def. Orion Orbiters (Ross DeBoer, Kim Daffy, Robyn Bushell) 10-2.

Division 3 Bat Servers (Kim Challendar, Madge Saunders, Ron Johr) def. Spider Smashes (Gerry Synnott, Cheryl Pearson, Glenda Dutton) 9-3. Captin Spins (Josie Davis, Sharon Muller, Myles Dutton) def. Iron Rallies (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Laurie Bradshaw) 8-4.

Tuesday Night Fixture Results – FINALS

Division 1 finals were between Pixal Paddles (Goncalo Serra, Robbie Richards and Trent Day) and Data Dashers (Josh Brown, Barry Patterson and Niro Premachandra) after both teams having played extremely well all season. There was a winner takes all match between Barry Patterson and Robbie Richards, with Robbie defeating Barry 3-2 (-8,6,-8,8,9) in a well fought match by both players due to all other members being absent.  Leading Player for Division 1 was Emma Widdup

Division 2 finals battle between Quantum Quick (Mark Sleeman, Rymer Tabulo and Ollie Hamelink) and Robo Rallies (Will VanDeKaa, Noreen Fredericksen and Tiffany Camilleri) had some tight 5 set matches which finished with Quantum Quicks winning 8-3.  The battle between Noreen and Ollie was tight as always with Noreen defeating Ollie 3-2 (10,-10,-13,9,7).  Leading Player for Division 2 was Syed Aminul Hossain.

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Mackay Table Tennis saw strong competition on Tuesday, June 24, with Ghost Spins, Nova Smashers, and Bat Servers among the morning winners, while Pixal Paddles and Quantum Quick claimed victory in the Division 1 and 2 night finals. Photo source: Mackay Table Tennis Association

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A Martial Arts Weekend To Remember

If energy could be bottled, the Northern Beaches would be glowing. Such was the atmosphere during the Gasshuku – an intensive karate training camp hosted by the Northern Beaches Karate Club.

The event brought together seven high-level instructors from across Australia, including two Shihans and a 7th Dan Master from Los Angeles. Their combined expertise provided valuable instruction to students of all levels, from the youngest beginners to the most senior martial artists. The weekend was led by Sensei Helle, who also runs the local club and served as Master of Ceremonies.

In martial arts, a black belt represents a Dan ranking, while those who reach 5th Dan and above are recognised as Shihans – Master Instructors or teachers of teachers. A Sensei is a teacher within their Dojo, or training hall.

Karate

The weekend's focus was on refining kata (a detailed, choreographed sequence of martial arts movements), improving fitness, sparring skills, self-defence and anti-bullying techniques. It wasn't all physical, however – participants also explored dojo etiquette, kata principles, and the philosophy of Budo (the Warrior’s Path).

To balance the intensity, the instructors incorporated games throughout the camp. The sounds of laughter and joy underscored the sense of camaraderie and enjoyment among students.

The Cultural Exchange

Beyond the physical elements, the camp offered a deep dive into Japanese culture and its connection to martial arts. Central to this cultural exploration were the values of respect, discipline, and continuous self-improvement – hallmarks of traditional Japanese philosophy.

Cultural Ambassador Martha, of Japanese and Brazilian heritage, spoke about the challenges of learning and honouring another culture within the dojo, especially in a regional centre like Mackay.

The Tea Ceremony

The weekend concluded with a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony presented by Shihan Tracy from Adelaide. Having achieved level four of the 12 formal training levels, Shihan Tracy shared insights into the practice, which has taken her years to study.

Historically, the Tea Ceremony was performed by the highest-ranking warrior before battle. Upon the army's return, the newly appointed highest-ranked warrior would serve tea to the others. The ritual involves taking the cup in the right hand, turning it to face oneself, taking three sips, and then passing it on. Before drinking, participants eat a red bean slice, followed by the bitter green tea.

In its modern form, the Tea Ceremony remains an act of peace, harmony, and respect. While the tradition once involved sharing a single cup, today's ceremonies often use individual cups and can extend over several hours.

Training

Training for the weekend began Thursday night, followed by formal grading on Friday, where several guest instructors were in attendance. After each day’s sessions, well-attended social gatherings provided an opportunity to unwind and reflect on the experience.

The Northern Beaches Karate Club holds regular classes during school terms on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Bucasia Community Hall in Wallace Avenue. Sensei Helle also runs self-defence courses for women and girls, with the next scheduled for Saturday, 13 September, from 9am to 3pm.

For more information, phone 0488 146 644.

By Gerri Kissner

Northern Beaches Karate Club hosted a vibrant weekend of karate, culture, and tradition – featuring top instructors from Australia and a 7th Dan Master from LA, plus a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony. Photos supplied

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Climbing the master rankings this month were Marilin Robins, who achieved Silver National Master status, and Adrian Westcott, now recognised as a Local Master.

Weekly Results

Monday 23 June 2025 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 3rd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt

Tuesday Evening 24 June 2025 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Ken Seaniger / Sandra Morris
3rd Griffin Bancroft / Patricia Garner 3rd John McGee / Mick King
5th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 6th Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

Wednesday 25 June 2025 – Week 12 of 25 NWP 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 2nd Griffin Bancroft / Victor Mason
3rd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris 3rd Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley

Thursday Evening 26 June 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes 4th Mick King / John McGee

Friday 27 June 2025 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 1st Victor Mason / Josie Crowley
2nd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd Joy Robinson / Barbara Tait 3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox

Saturday 28 June 2025 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden
2nd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Broek 2nd Sandy Patterson / Robert Carless
3rd Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 3rd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
4th Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill 4th Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
5th Joy Robinson / Barbara Tait 5th John McGee / Mick King

Sunday 29 June 2025 – Novice and Mentors – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Hold / Anne Lutz 1st Adrian Westcott / Rodney Miles
2nd Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes 2nd Susan Gibson / Karen Caldwell
3rd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 3rd Diane Morgan / Patricia Wong

By Joy Block

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Marilin Robins and Adrian Westcott. Photo supplied

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The Tuesday night Ladies Twilight Warehouse Bowls competition has proven a hit with new players, offering a relaxed and welcoming environment to learn the game and enjoy some friendly competition.
Designed specifically to encourage beginners, the competition has seen most participants take to the greens for the very first time. In just a few short weeks, the improvement among the ladies has been remarkable, with players showing greater confidence and skill each round.

With the current season wrapping up, excitement is already building for the next one, which will commence on Monday, 8 July and run for seven weeks.

Best wishes go to Brenda Trannore and Ann Smith, who will go head-to-head in the hotly anticipated B Grade final on Wednesday, 2 July — a match sure to draw a crowd.

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New players are thriving in the Tuesday night Ladies Twilight Warehouse Bowls competition, which blends fun, friendship and rapid skill development in a supportive setting. Photo supplied

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New coaching structure takes shape ahead of double-header weekend

There’s a new leader in the huddle for the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors, with Mackay Basketball announcing a mid-season coaching change as the team eyes a strong finish to the NBL1 North regular season.

Head Coach Matt Paps was officially released from his duties this week, with the club thanking him for his contributions and wishing him well for the future. Stepping into the role is none other than veteran guard and team leader Brad Rasmussen, who will now serve as player-coach for the remainder of the 2025 season.

“Rassy’s leadership on and off the court has already proven to be a valuable asset to the group,” said club president Tara Smyth in a statement. “We believe this collaborative coaching approach will support both individual player growth and overall team success as we head into the final rounds.”

Rasmussen won’t be alone in the transition, with assistant coaches Bayden Matheson and Brendan Healy continuing in their roles to provide consistency. For this weekend’s road trip north, Rasmussen will be supported by Merron Jamerson on the sidelines as he fulfils a prior playing commitment.

The shift comes on the back of a mixed bag of results from Round 9, with the Meteors falling 86–98 to Ipswich despite a spirited effort, while the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes stormed to a 95–73 victory in a dominant display.

This weekend, both teams face a crucial road double-header against Townsville and Cairns. The Meteors, under new guidance, will be aiming to bounce back with renewed energy, while the in-form Meteorettes will look to extend their winning momentum.

The countdown to finals is on — and all eyes are now on how the new coaching structure plays out under pressure.

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The Mackay Cutters delivered a dominant double-header at BB Print Stadium over the weekend, with both their men's and women's teams securing impressive victories over Central Queensland rivals, the Capras.

In the BMD Premiership, the Cutters women showcased their class with a commanding 30–4 triumph. The home side controlled the match from the outset, combining clinical attack with determined defence to shut down the Capras and keep their finals hopes alive.

Later that afternoon, it was the men's turn to shine in the Hostplus Cup clash — and they didn’t disappoint. In what was dubbed the “Battle of the Central,” the Cutters overpowered the Capras 32–12 in a resounding performance.

Speedster Jimmy Ngutlik proved electric out wide, crossing twice and causing headaches for the Capras defence all game. Halfback Ryan Rivett was in fine form, racking up two line breaks and a try, steering the team with precision in attack.

Up front, John Radel led the charge with a remarkable defensive effort — 52 tackles without a miss — reinforcing his reputation as one of the hardest workers in the competition.

Despite the result, Capras forward Nixon Putt was a standout for the visitors, running for more than 200 metres and scoring a gritty try in a losing effort.

The win puts the Cutters on equal competition points with the eighth-placed PNG Hunters, separated only by five points on differential as the finals race heats up.

In more good news for regional fans, Queensland Sport Minister Tim Mander announced the schedule for this year’s Country Week, with a full Hostplus Cup round set to be staged across seven rural towns on the weekend of July 26–27.

Communities including Moranbah, Charters Towers, Emerald, Yarrabah, Augathella, Gayndah and Goondiwindi will host Round 19 matches, giving locals a rare chance to see top-level footy in their own backyard.

“The economic benefits of Country Week will be substantial, but the greatest benefit for these communities will be seeing first-hand current and future NRL stars and future Maroons in the Hostplus Cup,” Minister Mander said.

“These players are more than athletes — they’re role models — and their presence in country towns can have a lasting impact, inspiring kids to pick up a ball, get active, and dream big.”

Queensland Rugby League competitions manager Dave Maiden echoed those sentiments, saying Country Week was about more than just footy.

“The 2025 season is one of the closest and most fiercely contested on record, and with so many even match-ups across this round, local footy fans are in for an absolute treat,” he said.

“Young boys and girls get to meet and watch many players with NRL experience. They get to dream, to be inspired. And the players themselves receive a big lift from the experience because they get a glimpse of the challenges that many outback teams face just to get a game. It builds perspective, gratitude and connection — and that’s what makes this week so special.”

For the Cutters, the focus now turns to the final stretch of the season — with momentum, belief and a potential finals berth within reach.

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Photo source: Mackay Cutters

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