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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The Proserpine Golf Club enjoyed a fine week of competition to round out June, with improved weather and strong participation across multiple events. Among the highlights, juniors Levi Holmes and Blake Lovelock proudly represented PGC High School at the Queensland Northern Region School Sports Championships — gaining valuable experience on the big stage.

Tuesday saw the postponed April Monthly Medal played out in stroke format, with Scott Mason taking out the men’s event with a nett 68, ahead of David Woods on 70. For the ladies, Tina Badenhorst claimed victory with 69, narrowly edging out Heather Luvis on 70. Notable NTPs went to Brad Fleet, Corey Stroud, Elspeth Scotford, and Leanne Alexander.

The Vets also completed their Monthly Medal and putts event on Tuesday. Tina Badenhorst once again came out on top for the ladies, with David Woods winning the men’s division. A full list of NTPs included consistent efforts from Badenhorst, Luvis, Robyn Whitham, and others.

Wednesday’s Ladies’ Monthly Medal and Putts, sponsored by PD Law, saw Paula McQuat top the leaderboard with a nett 70. Tina Badenhorst followed on 72, with Lyn Muller placing third on countback.

Thursday’s stableford competition featured standout scores from Brendon Meharry (43 points in B Grade) and Lewy Tuck (39 points in A Grade). Edwina Pettiford impressed with 39 points, placing runner-up in B Grade and top of the ladies' division.

Friday’s 9-hole run, sponsored by the Metropole Hotel, saw Andrew Smart (22 points) and Owen Clarke (21) leading the charge. NTPs were awarded to Corey Stroud and Tony Chapple.

Saturday saw strong fields and tight finishes. In the men’s A Grade, Tony Goss narrowly won on countback from Jason Bourke with 36 points, while Blake Davis claimed B Grade with 38. For the ladies, Jenny Hounsell was the standout with 41 points, followed by Tiina Randmae and Heather Luvis.

Sunday’s single stableford wrapped up the week, with Aaron Prosser posting 39 points to win the men’s event, and Peta Thomas taking out the ladies’ comp with 34. NTPs went to Levi Holmes, Danny York, Tim Frew, and Sara Hagy.

Next week is Monthly Medal week, with highlights to include veterans playing in Bowen, Wednesday’s ladies’ comp sponsored by PD Law, and the men’s and Saturday Monthly Medal events sponsored by Venuesmart and the Metropole Hotel.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary in style, smashing entry records and attracting the second-largest professional field in Queensland, behind only the iconic Noosa Triathlon.

Set for Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 August, this year’s festival will see athletes from across the country descend on the wonderful Whitsundays, Heart of the Great Barrier Reef, to compete in one of Australia’s most scenic and exciting multisport events.

Race Director Michael Kimpton said the milestone event had cemented its place as a must-do on the national triathlon calendar.

“There’s a reason we call it the triathlon in paradise,” Kimpton said.

“With record-breaking numbers, a world-class course, and stunning views at every turn, the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is a perfect showcase of everything the Whitsundays has to offer - sport, scenery, and community spirit.”

This year’s standard distance event features an exciting new bike course, taking riders along a more challenging route out to the breathtaking Shute Harbour Marina, offering scenic climbs and descents against a backdrop of ocean and rainforest.

The run leg will once again wind along the picturesque Airlie Beach boardwalk, hugging the edge of the Coral Sea and immersing athletes in the region’s tropical beauty.

Adding to the family-friendly atmosphere, Saturday 16 August is dedicated to the Junior Triathlon and Enticer events, giving young athletes and first-timers the chance to shine. This year’s junior events will include amazing random draw prizes—so every participant has the chance to walk away a winner. This year’s novice Ocean Swim event will have an ‘anything goes’ caveat, with participants allowed flippers, floaties, noodles or snorkels to help them around the course.

Also returning in 2025 is the popular Corporate Triathlon Challenge on Sunday 17 August, an all-in-good-fun relay race where local businesses and organisations form teams to take on the swim, bike, and run legs together.

Open to workplaces of all sizes, it’s a great opportunity to promote health and wellbeing, build team spirit, and enjoy a laugh outside the office while vying for the title of “fittest team in town."

With a mix of fierce competition and light-hearted camaraderie, the Corporate Challenge adds another exciting dimension to the weekend, showcasing the strong community and business support behind the event.

The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is proudly supported by naming rights partner Coral Sea Marina Resort, over 50 local sponsors, and the incredible work of dedicated local volunteers.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of 25 years of triathlon in paradise — whether you’re racing, cheering, or soaking up the atmosphere, this is a weekend you won’t want to miss.

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The Junior Triathlon is on Saturday 16 August, followed by the Sprint and Olympic distance on Sunday. Photo supplied

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Nineteen members of the Whitsunday Running Club braved the rough seas to take part in the Great Whitehaven Beach Run in treacherous conditions with a 25 knott south easterly blowing.

The female members of the club took out the trifecta in the half marathon with Liv Compton finishing ahead of Aimee Sulzberger and Alison Scoles. In the 10k race Riana Wronski finished strongly in second place.

The male members of the club also achieved some great results with Roland Henderson placing second in the half marathon after leading the race until 1 km from the end. Justin Knight-Gray finished first in his age category and Ken ‘Dropbear’ Page came in third behind him.

Club Coach, Mark McConkey won his age category in the 10km with a great run home against the strong south easterly and Owen Lee finished second in his age category.
The 5km race saw Jody Mulholland finish second in her age category and Rebecca Hadley second with Karen McConkey third in their age category. In the older age category Greg Coulson was second and Tim McQuoid-Mason placed third.

The President of the Whitsunday Running Club said "Despite some very extreme conditions our members performed amazingly well and there were many happy faces once their runs were completed."

"I did however hear 'that sucked' repeated several times after the racing was completed."

Contribtued with thanks to Whitsunday Running Club

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Photo credit: Hamilton Island Photography

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The Cannonvale Cannons’ youngest swimmers are proof that swimming is not only about medals—it’s about friendship, fun, and the joy in the journey, not just the finish line.

We sat down with six of our youngest Cannons to find out what they love most about swimming and being part of the Cannons family.

For Miranda, it’s all about the fun of club nights and racing her dog Chilli in her imagination. Lennox loves practicing his dives and seeing his “swim friends” each week, he also imagines a dog poolside would make him swim faster. Pippa thinks a capybara would be the ideal animal to bring to training for their love of the water. She also loves our war cry and diving into a good breaststroke set.

Isaac’s favourite part of swimming is duck dives and Milo ice cream afterwards. Stella enjoys chasing her personal bests and a solid set of double arm backstroke, while Leo says he likes our 25m pool and that it never hurts his eyes (thanks Mark for managing those chlorine levels perfectly!).

When asked to name their favourite event of the season, Club Championships received multiple votes—a sign that our end-of-season celebration remains a highlight for junior swimmers. And it wasn’t the only favourite—with most of our Mini Cannons voting club nights as a highlight of being a Cannon, thanks to the fun, friendly atmosphere and chance to swim alongside their mates.

The Cannonvale Cannons cater to swimmers of all ages and abilities, with a focus on community, confidence, and fun. Whether your child dreams of going to Nationals or just wants to have a splash with new friends, we’d love to welcome you to the pool deck. Club nights resume Wednesday 6th August, and we welcome new families to come along and see what we’re all about.

And in case you’re wondering— it was unanimous amongst our mini cannons that they would much prefer to swim in a pool of jelly over spaghetti.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Stella and Leo Mulliss, Lennox Wild, Pippa Laguna, Isaac Lawson and Miranda Palmero. Photo supplied

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It was another busy and social week at Wangaratta Bowls Club, with action across several competitions, social events, and Friday night barefoot bowls.

Monday Triples Dominated by Irymple Crew

Monday’s self-selected triples saw the in-form Irymple crew of France Wilmann, Jenny Healey and Chris Healey claim victory over Meryl Elphinstone, Isobel Wheeler and Robyn Stitt. The Irymple side has been enjoying a strong run of form on Mondays in recent weeks.

Runners-up were Ken Rod and Mark, who overcame Neil Chittenden, Jan Dawson and John Harding. The jackpot remained unclaimed.

Tuesday Afternoon Play Produces Tight Results

On Tuesday, Toni Bowen, John Hayson and Robyn Stitt edged out John Maher, Robyn Crawford and Owen Swanton for the win.

Runners-up were S. Smith, A. Fitzgerald and Margaret Wilson, who claimed their match against Pam Breakwell, John Hallas and Maureen Hyde. Once again, the jackpot went begging.

Friday Socials Bring Energy On and Off the Green

Following Friday morning bingo, bowlers returned for the always-popular Friday afternoon social bowls. Winners were Maureen Hyde, Pam Breakwell and Bob Dykstra, who defeated Judy Christie, Peter Hopkins and Bert Madge. Carol Bellingham earned the resting toucher.

Friday night barefoot bowls continues to grow in popularity, with another enthusiastic crowd turning out for a fun evening.

Courtney, Jack and Aimee Reuben scored a win over Megan, Kate, Jamie and Ella, while Robyn, Terry and Elaine defeated Gary, John and Blake. Barefoot bowls runs weekly from 5:30pm and all are welcome to join in the fun.

Ladies A Singles Final Delivers Exciting Finish

Sunday morning saw the final of the Ladies A Singles played between Denise Wallace and Penny Warren. Penny got off to a strong start, but Denise fought back bravely, narrowly falling short in a thrilling finish.

Penny will go on to represent the club in the District Champion of Champions event, while both she and Denise will also contest the club pairs title, a title they’ve already claimed together.

Sunday Social Winners and Club Representation

Sunday’s social bowls winners were Trish, Robyn and Mark on Rink 6, who defeated John, Karon and Allan.
Runners-up were Natalia Hand, Bruce Thompson and David Madden, who beat Graham Smith, Sue Symmons and Heide Reif. The jackpot remained untouched.

Meanwhile, the club’s men’s side competed in the Dunn Cup last week, with several close games but no tournament success this time around.

Cent Sale This Saturday

A reminder to all members and supporters that the club’s annual Cent Sale is on this Saturday, 5 July. The event will be held at the clubhouse, with doors opening at 12 noon and the sale starting at 1:30pm. There’ll be plenty of great prizes up for grabs.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Ladies A Singles Final 2025. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday United teams were in action across Mackay and at home over the weekend, producing a mix of hard-fought results, strong performances, and signs of steady improvement across the club.

The Divisional Men travelled to Mackay for two top-of-the-table clashes against Lions. Division 2 played with intensity and created several chances, but a harsh handball penalty saw them trail early. They bounced back to 1-1 by halftime and took the lead shortly after the break, but Lions responded strongly to secure a 3-2 win. Division 1 were determined to get a result and started aggressively, dominating early play. However, they went down 2-0 after two scrappy Lions goals either side of the break. A spirited fightback saw Whitsunday equalise through two well-executed set pieces, earning a 2-2 draw.

In junior action, the U13 Division 1 side battled hard but fell 4-1 to Lions. Logan P headed in the equaliser from a Nick J corner to level the game before halftime. The team showed great intent and created several promising chances but couldn’t convert in the second half.

The U13 Prems delivered two outstanding performances. On Saturday, they cruised to an 18-1 win over Wanderers Red. Daly G scored four goals, with hat-tricks from Nelson M and Alex D, and additional goals from Bailey B (2), Remy S, Jackson P, Prahbpreet S, and Sam C. Wanderers also conceded two own goals. On Sunday, the team followed up with a 5-2 win over Mackay Dolphins at home. Nelson M scored twice, with Bailey B, Jackson P and Isaac P also on the scoresheet in a clinical second-half showing.

The U14s had a dramatic 4-3 win over Dolphins on Saturday. Eli W opened the scoring in the 4th minute, followed by goals from Shannon and another from Eli after a Charlie cross. Leading 4-0, Whitsunday were put under pressure when Dolphins scored three quick goals, but the defence held on for the win. The U14 FQPL team backed it up on Sunday with a 3-1 home win over Dolphins. Shannon equalised before halftime, with Noah and Kobe adding second-half goals to seal the result.

The U16s faced Country on Saturday, looking to improve on their previous match. Kai converted a penalty to give them a 1-0 halftime lead. After a Country equaliser, another penalty restored Whitsunday’s advantage, but two goals from corners saw them fall 3-2. Sunday’s match against top-placed Dolphins was another big test. A strong first half saw Reef finish off a slick team move to level at 1-1, and a penalty kept them in the game at 3-2. Dolphins eventually pulled away, but Whitsunday showed promising signs despite the 6-2 loss.

In senior women’s football, the Premier Ladies played out a 1-1 draw with Wanderers. Bre converted a penalty after Sarah was brought down, while strong defensive efforts from Sophie A and Sophie M helped keep the side in the game.

The Men’s FQPL U23s continued their winning run with a dominant 6-2 victory over Rangers. Max O’Keeffe scored twice and earned man of the match honours, with standout contributions from Cialan Dollard, Euan van Den Bergh and Tony Gracieux. In the FQPL Men’s game, Rangers took a 2-0 lead before Whitsunday surged late, with Sam Thornton and Sean McCarthy scoring to secure a 2-2 draw.

Across all age groups, Whitsunday United showed character, effort and teamwork—laying strong foundations for the season ahead.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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The Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival will be held along the foreshore over the weekend of 19/20 July 2025.

A record number of entries have already been received for the marathon and half marathon and there are not many places left. At least 600 runners are expected to line up to run over the weekend.

Entries have been received from every state and territory in Australia. There are also entries from New Zealand, Hong Kong, Canada, USA, France, England, Scotland and Sweden.
Last year’s winners of the women’s marathon (Liv Compton) and half marathon (Clare Ashworth) and men’s half marathon winner (Billy Grogan) have all signed up to defend their titles.

The festival offers several races over various distances: 42 k, 21k, 10k, 5k, 2k, 1k and 1 mile. It caters for all ages from 4 to 100 with gold medals for first place in most age categories.

The festival offers a corporate challenge for teams of 3 to 10 members. The quickest three runners’ times are used to determine the winner of the floating trophy that can be displayed over the next 12 months.

There are cash prizes for the open podium finishers in the Magic Mile on Saturday afternoon and the Primary School Challenge with the most participants on a percentage basis will also receive a cash prize and floating trophy.

One of the highlights on the Sunday is the mascots race immediately before the junior events at approximately 9:30 am. There are also a record number of mascots and Batman has called in to say he can make it this year.

The Event Director, Tim McQuoid-Mason said, “This year’s festival will be the largest ever and there will be plenty of entertainment for runners and spectators with live music on the course and at the race precinct.”

There are still places available for anyone interested in entering, so go to www.runairlie.com.au .

Contributed with thanks to Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival

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Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival is coming up soon. Are you Ready? Photo credit: Phil Copp Photography

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AFL - Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 5th July

12:15pm - Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Women vs North Mackay Saints at Whitsunday Sportspark

1:50pm - Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Men vs North Mackay Saints 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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From Officer In Charge of Whitsunday Police Station Anthony Moynihan

G’day everyone and thanks for the opportunity from Whitsunday Life to provide a little article on the goings on from the perspective of Whitsunday Police.

Firstly, I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Anthony Moynihan, I am the Senior Sergeant, Officer in Charge of the Whitsunday Police Station. I have been a proud member of the Queensland Police Service for 25 years.

I started off working down south in Toowoomba and Ipswich before moving to North Queensland. I worked in Cairns and in every Police Station through Cape York. It was then that I started to work as a Plain Clothes Officer. Working in various Criminal Investigation Branch Offices in Cairns, Mossman, Mount Isa, Mareeba and the Torres Strait, investigating serious Criminal Offences including homicides, drug matters, assaults and fraud offences to name a few. I was a Detective for 17 years and now have been promoted back to uniform duties. Prior to moving to the beautiful Whitsundays, I was the Officer in Charge of the Torres Strait, based on Thursday Island.

I have provided a couple of photos of travelling to work via helicopter in the Torres Strait and visiting neighbouring Papua New Guinea villages to distribute clothing and footballs.

I love been a Police Officer and have a strong focus on been engaged with the community and providing care and aid to anyone in need. The safety of my staff and the community is my number one priority.

I have a love for Rugby League and the Brisbane Broncos. And when I’m not working, I love spending time with my wife and kids. I look forward to getting a boat and exploring this beautiful place.

Please drop in anytime to the station and have a chat about any issues we can help with.

This month we will be concentrating on personal mobility devices or E-Scooters. I have included some rules to be aware of and the fines that may be issued if you are found not doing the right thing. Please be safe at all times.

Contributed with thanks to Senior Sergeant Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Police Station Anthony Moynihan

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The Bowen Polocrosse Club’s first-ever Ladies Day is already a success, with tickets selling out weeks ahead of the July 26 event.

Set on Saturday, the afternoon will feature live acoustic music, prosecco, and a whole lot of fun. The Ladies Day event runs from 12pm to 4pm, offering a wide array of the A and B grade matches as part of a broader effort to promote the sport and attract new crowds.

Capped at 100 attendees, the event is a test run for what could become an annual highlight. Affordable tickets included drinks, souvenirs, and optional catering.

After Ladies Day wraps up, the action rolls straight into the popular Night Chukkas event followed by live music, a Calcutta, food stalls, a Kids' Corner, and a lively bar.

With polocrosse running from 8am through the day, the club is set for a full day of sport and celebration.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the first Ladies Day would be a great attraction, with many people looking forward to this addition.

“People travel long distances to attend, and all events held locally provide an economic boost for Bowen and the greater Whitsundays region.

“It is also great to see the community get involved by attending the Night Chukkas event on the Saturday night, Well done Bowen Polocrosse Club,” she said.

What: Ladies Day
Where: Bowen Polocrosse Club
When: Saturday 26 July at 12pm

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The annual BMA CQ Rescue Golf Day on Hamilton Island teed off under blue skies and brisk winds on Saturday 14, drawing 92 eager players to the island greens for a good cause.

Despite the challenging conditions, spirits remained high as teams tackled the scenic course. The charity event didn’t just stay on the fairways, a bustling raffle and auction added to the fundraising total, helping raise an incredible $64,120 for BMA CQ Rescue.

Hamilton Island Golf Club Manager Michael Frampton confirmed the impressive figure, which now pushes the event’s all-time total to over half a million dollars raised for the emergency helicopter service.

BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Martin expressed her deep appreciation.

“We are so grateful to everyone who played. It might just seem like a game of golf to some, but to us, it means we can continue our life-saving missions,” she explained.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed to the event. Especially to Michael Frampton and the team from Hamilton Island who go above and beyond every year”.

Last year alone, BMA CQ Rescue was dispatched to Hamilton Island 43 times, averaging nearly one call-out a week. Just recently, the service assisted a patient suffering from pneumonia.

With the sun shining and generosity in full swing, the event proved once again that a round of golf can go a long way in saving lives.

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The Cairns Ironman held in the heart of Tropical North Queensland is a ripper!

It is set amongst the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, the only place in the World where two World heritage areas meet.

The Event was held on 15th June. On the day there were two events, a challenging FULL Ironman consisting of a 3.8km ocean swim, 180km cycle with a 42.2km marathon run to finish. The other event is still a tough one, a half Ironman and half the above distances which is a race rather than survival.

Over 2500 competitors tackled the scenic course around Cairns. The course is built for the ultimate racing experience. The swim took place at Palm Cove in reasonable conditions following the “washing machine” conditions a day earlier. The hilly bike course took athletes up towards Port Douglas. Road Closures made for a stunning course along the Tropical Queensland coastline on a closed coastal highway, although the gusting winds caused a bit of havoc with some cyclists.  Back in Cairns, the run took athletes along the picturesque Esplanade on a flat course with amazing crowd support and an abundance of enthusiastic volunteers keeping everyone in the loop!

Four of our Whitsunday locals entered the weekend races. There were two girls in the FULL Ironman while the two boys opted for the Half Ironman.

Both Kristy Gardel and Jessie Gerard entered the Full Ironman for the first time. The volume of training prior to the event is massive and happens over a three month build period. They are both local champion triathletes and conquered the behemoth FULL Ironman distance with aplomb! The girls had a great race and achieved their goal, congratulations!

Jake Yorke and Michael Kimpton completed the Half Ironman Event in fine time, all smiles crossing that Finish Line. It was Jake’s first Half Ironman event as he is pretty new to triathlon and is now looking forward to further challenges.

Contributed with thanks to Val Kimpton

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Michael Kimpton finishing his run in the Cairns Iron Man
Kristy Gardel & Jessie Gerrard after their Iron Man
Jake Yorke celebrating his first Half Iron Man

Photos supplied

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While most were enjoying a sleep-in on Whitsunday Show Day, a group of determined Cannonvale Cannons swimmers dived into an epic early morning challenge at the Cannonvale Swim Centre. The session kicked off at 7AM giving our usual Friday morning trainers a well-earned two-hour sleep-in!

The endurance session was designed by Cannons swimmer Harris Delac, known for his boundless energy and love of long-distance swimming. Harris crafted a 6 kilometre set, which was adapted across the squads: the Guns tackled the full 6 kilometre, the Missiles completed 4.8 kilometre, the Torpedoes swam 2.6 kilometre, and our younger Minis, Lasers and Bullets rose to the challenge with sets tailored to their levels.

Coach Mark Erickson was proud of every swimmer, praising their commitment and strong completion times across the board. Congratulations to all who stepped up!

Cannons who took part included set creator Harris Delac, Tyler Bennett, Tora Delac, Liam Filewood, Mackenzie Bennett, Andie Reynolds, Matilda Nicholes, Maeve Dichiera, Ruby Harland, Koa Harland, Declan Dichiera, Ruby Lawson, Eric Mulliss, Jasper Korosec, Lucas Korosec, Addie Sanders, Penelope Shields, Zavier Woolston, Zach Trefz and Tom Ganter.

Junior swimmers joined in at 9AM and gave it their all—well done to Leo and Stella Mulliss, Caleb Woolston, River Shields and Lily Woolston.

The Cannonvale Cannons would also like to recognise Olive Hounsell, Wilson Hounsell and Bodhi Gibb—regular trainers at the Cannonvale Swim Centre who aren’t yet part of the Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club but completed impressive distances.

Finally, the cannons are thrilled to announce that the Cannonvale Cannons have been invited to run Friday night raffles at the Reef Gateway once a month. They kick off this Friday, 27th June, and would love to see our community there supporting the club.

Contribtued with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Senior Swimmers with Harris Delac

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