
Recently, members of the Mackay Bushwalkers' Club were offered two very different walks on successive Sundays, both under the guidance of Ken Fihelly in the broad Cape Hillsborough area. Members were taken to places not usually frequented by visitors to the National Park, who often prefer to follow the popular walking tracks to the well-known lookouts. The first of these bushwalks traversed the western section of the park from Smalley's Beach nearly up to the plateau, passing under cliffs to a cave with a large overhang. Some steep rock scrambling was undertaken, but was rewarded with great views including that of the Native Pink Hibiscus patch, mostly still only buds. The journey back to the cars revealed gullies, dry creek beds and sections of rain forest. Towering palms, beautiful basket ferns, grass trees and lush grasslands, as well as a close encounter with a Ulysses butterfly were highlights of the day. A week later, Paradise Falls was reached after a journey offering large boulders, impressive rain forest and rugged cliffs, as well as thousands of Crow and Blue Tiger butterflies. Both walks showcased spectacular scenery to be admired whilst making the most of the outdoors in very sunny weather. The club's full program for the next month includes a variety of walks ranging from Mt Dalrymple to Homevale and Cathu, with some easier options available on the days of more challenging outings. For further information about the range of walks on offer to members over the next month and for information on how to become involved, phone 0429363929. Ian Brookes. Photo credit: Julie Ward
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BRIDGE The club is pleased to announce that Jan Harris, is the newly appointed Country Director. In the context of the card game bridge, a Country Director is an accredited official qualified to oversee and manage small regional or "country" bridge congresses. Jan received her Queensland Bridge Association Director’s Certificate from President Frances Brown. Bridge cannot be played without directors and is commendable that Club members like Jan step forward to fill these roles. Thank you, Jan! Frances and Jan Weekly Results Monday 8 June 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Monica Darley / Joy Block 2nd Vicki Howard / Susan Ross 3rd Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers 4th Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris Evening 9 June 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger 1st Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup 2nd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 3rd Ian Stephenson / Ann Whitmore 3rd Errol Morris / Mick Robins Wednesday 10 June 2026 – NWP Week 11 of 26 - 10 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Debbie Ludkin / Mick King 3rd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 4th Monica Darley / Helen Goldston 4th Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood 5th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 5th Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell Thursday Evening 11 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner – Green Points 1st Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott 2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 3rd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore 4th Simon Barnes / Martin Pearce Friday 12 June 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 2nd Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger 2nd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Diane Cox / Christine Nice 3rd Mick King / Geoff Cowan 4th Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 4th Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 5th Ming Ting / David Ting 5th Gillian McCallum / Rodney Miles Saturday 13 June 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Faye Wright / Janine Rodgers 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 2nd Joy Robinson / Terry Sheedy 2nd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright 4th Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris 4th Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch 5th Helen Van Den Breok / Joy Brunette Frances and Jan. Photo supplied 5th John Ludkin / Max Holewa
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Tuesday Night Fixtures Division 1: Canaries (Josh Brown, Lily Boland, YiLin Jiang) won 7-4 over Geese (Steve Whiting, Janice Kent, Lee Brake) with Lily come home strong against Steve (-9,7,-7,8,11). Cockatoos (Mick Ruhl, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) were to strong for Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake), Graeme won against Mark (-9,4,12,-4,3). Curlews (Barry Patterson, Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan) defeated Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Duncan Treloar, Allan Edwards), Anne and Geoff just edged out Trent and Duncan (-8,7,-10,8,8). Division 2: Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Parrots (George Camilleri, Delma Knight, Darryl Ross) 6-5, with Ollie coming back from 2 sets down to win close 5 sets against Darryl (=8,-11,8,7,7). Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Daniel Warfield, Noreen Fredericksen) won 8-3 against Kites (Ian McKay, Matt West), Ian got the better of Daniel (-4,5,7,-9,9). Galahs (Donna Abbott, Remy Zhan, Mark Stem) edged out Owls (Rod Mahumas, Ricky Zhan, Peter Goodson) 6-5, Peter snuck home over Mark (8,8,-8,-14,8). Division 3: Some great matches while the battle for the top positions in Division 3 continues. Logan, Dylan, Mark and Jeff all had great wins. Tuesday Morning Fixtures Division 1: Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) edged out (Orion Orbiters) John McGee, Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd), Doug and Andrea had a great battle with Doug winning (-3,7,-7,3,9). Astro Aces (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Sally Muir) tied 6-6 against Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Darryl Ross), Darryl got home over Sally (-7,-12,3,13,5). Division 2: Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Helen Ware, Veronica Needham) got home to win Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Marie Taylor), Veronica and Helen won close doubles match against Louise and Marie (8,-7,6,-6,9). Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) defeated Ninja Strikes (Pam Keune, Frank Caruana, Ken Best) 10-2, Coral made an epic come back to beat Frank in 5 sets (-10,-5,11,1,6). Division 3: Mongol Power (Cheryl Pearson, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) tied up 6-6 with Gladiator Grip (Allison Day, Madge Saunders, Sharon Muller), Laurie had a great win over Sharon (0,-7,-3,2,5). Aztec Warriors (Iris Grasso, Janelle Keune, Thelma Caruana) won 7-5 over Celtic Smash (David Muir, Myles Dutton, Trish Zamparutti), David and Myles had a great battle against Iris and Thelma (7,-5,-7,7,5). Contributed by Andrea Payne Photo supplied
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The Championship Singles Final was played at the club last Wednesday 10th June to a packed crowd of well-wishing supporters of both ladies. The game was between Lois Deguara and Maryann Bartolo two very talented club members. A great game was enjoyed by all the spectators who came to watch this very enjoyable game. The eventual winner was a very happy Maryann Bartolo, with Runner up Lois Deguara. Congratulations to you both on a super game. Contributed by Sue Hazledine . (L) Maryann Bartolo and (R) Lois Deguara. Photo supplied
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Under clear skies and easing winds, the Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club hosted the 2024 Winter Short Course Transition Meet on Saturday at the Cannonvale Swim Centre. The meet welcomed 104 swimmers from 13 clubs across Queensland and provided one of the final chances for athletes to secure qualifying times for the upcoming 2025 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Short Course Championships.
Many swimmers rose to the occasion, posting impressive results, smashing personal bests and taking home a haul of ribbons. A special mention goes to Celeste Orenshaw and Evie Doherty, who took on time trials at the end of a full day of racing and successfully met their goal times. Celeste nailed her 50m Butterfly, while Evie powered home in the 50m Breaststroke — a remarkable feat after a big day of competition.
Top PB performers on the day included Tiana Bell, Eloise Chegwidden, Harris and Tora Delac, Charlie Doherty, Liam Filewood, Roxanne Groom, Ruby Harland, Eric and Leo Mulliss, Dylan Reynolds, Indi Smith, Zach Trefz, and Caleb, Lily, and Zavier Woolston.
We would also like to celebrate Harry Chegwidden, Miller Eaves, Blaire Harland, Indigo Harland, and Faithlyn Trotter who achieved personal best times in every single one of their events — an incredible effort!
It was also a debut carnival for Lennox Wild and Faithlyn Trotter, and we commend them both on representing the Cannons with confidence and enthusiasm.
Finally, a heartfelt thank you goes out to all the families, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to the success of this event. Your time, effort, and enthusiasm are what make meets like this possible.
Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec
Cannonvale Cannons Swim Team. Photo supplied

It’s been a vibrant and busy week at Wangaratta Bowls Club, with full greens and strong competition across all events.
Monday Triples saw a full field with Jan Harvey, Rodney Barter, and Glenn Harvey claiming victory over S. Farrel, H. Beech-Jones, and K. Pedlar. Runners-up were Glen, Nick, and John, who defeated Neal, Bruce, and Robyn. The jackpot once again went unclaimed.
Tuesday afternoon was a special occasion as the club honoured its Patroness, Merle Elphinstone—our oldest Life Member whose contributions to the club are deeply appreciated. The green was full in her honour. The afternoon’s winners were Allan Gillies, June Paynting, Jan Dawson, and Dave Madden, who overcame Keith S./Collins, Mary Whitebread, Christine Bratz, and Bob Dykstra. The Sportsman’s Prize went to Shirley Smith, Lyn Madden, and Maureen Hyde, despite their defeat by John Hastings, Heidi Reif, and Greg Kelly. The jackpot continues to grow.
In Club Competition Men’s Triples, Ron Hyde, Alby Vigar, and Gavin Charles triumphed over Dave McDonald, Graeme Read, and Neal Chittenden in a solid match.
Fun Friday finished in a tie, with the win awarded on a countback of ends to Neal Chittenden, Al Deterey, and Maureen Hyde, who drew with Ron Hyde, Greg Kelly, and Christina.
Finally, Thursday night was a hit with a full house enjoying entertainment from the Festival of Small Halls Winter Tour, helping bring music and community spirit to our club.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren
Winners from, Patroness Day: Dave Madden, June Paynting, Patroness Merle, Jan Harvey & Allan Gillies. Photo supplied

The Lions Club of Whitsunday’s fourth annual Charity Golf Day teed off on Sunday at Whitsunday Green, raising more than $10,000 for local causes.
Proserpine Hospital will once again be the major beneficiary, with additional recipients to be confirmed at later dates.
Golf Committee Chairman Alan Gravelle said the day was a huge success, thanks to generous community support. “It's a long day, but at the end of the day, when you see everyone happy and all the support and positive comments it sort of makes it all worthwhile."
The event was strongly backed by local businesses and regular sponsors, with many returning year after year. Although Amanda Camm MP remained a key supporter of the event.
The Lions Club also runs the weekly Airlie Beach foreshore markets and cruise ship markets, helping raise over $100,000 annually for community and national projects.
Full results from the day to be included in next weeks paper.
Shooter McGavin, Happy Gilmore, Happy Caddy, and Grandma
Wayne Singleton and Mark Strobel
Brett Ruffin, Darren Lloyd, Gary Smith, and Anthony Whyte
Greg Smith and Ken Chilcott
Whitsunday Transit: David, Ben, Ian, and Belinda
Susan McAllister, and Annie Norris
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

With a feast of events on offer over the weekend, many Mackay Road Runners turned their focus to the prestigious Asics Gold Coast Running Festival, featuring a full marathon (42.2km), half marathon (21.1km), 10km, 5km, and 2km kids’ races across two days of competition.
The Gold Coast was bustling with thousands of runners of all ages and experience levels, many chasing personal bests while others proudly completed their first races.
Several Mackay athletes tackled extraordinary challenges, with Paul MacKenzie, Corey Gould, Chris Brodie, and Brenda Windsor taking on the gruelling “double marathon” – a half marathon on Saturday, followed by the full marathon on Sunday – totalling an impressive 63.3 kilometres.
Mel Esau and Alana Knezevic both conquered their debut marathons in superb fashion, finishing in 4 hours 4 minutes and 3 hours 27 minutes respectively. Meanwhile, MacKenzie, Gould, and Brodie also added the 10km and 5km events to their schedules, with Gould even jumping into the 2km kids’ race for a light-hearted finish.
Paul MacKenzie posted outstanding results across all events, completing the double marathon in a combined time of 4:37:43 (half marathon: 1:25:57, full marathon: 3:11:45), along with a 42:48 in the 10km and a 20:34 in the 5km. MacKenzie said he enjoyed the challenge and was “feeling good, not too tired – just a little fatigued by the final event, the marathon... understandably!”
Also among the standout performers was Mick Vivian, continuing his fine form with an exceptional marathon time of 2:47:47. Other strong marathon performances came from Kay Nyenuh (3:24:39), Russell O’Hara (3:40:58), and local stalwarts Tim Magoffin and Matt Stevens.
In the junior ranks, Malachi Nyenuh impressed in the under-10s category, clocking a swift 20:57 in the 5km to secure sixth place in his age group. Adam Knezevic also ran a consistent 10km, finishing in 50:52 at a steady five-minute-per-kilometre pace.
Locally, the club’s Bluewater Quay Social Run drew a strong turnout despite humid and overcast conditions. Ross McDonnell led the field in the 5km event, with Judy Zahn the first female across the line. In the 10km, Ashley Miles and Andrew Short ran together and tackled the demanding Mt Bassett climb before finishing in sync.
A special thanks went to long-time club supporter and timekeeping expert Rohan Miles and his family, who once again provided invaluable assistance despite facing technical challenges on the day.
The club's next event, a 4pm Mystery Run, will take place this Sunday, with the location and details to be confirmed via Facebook and email during the week.
Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford continues to offer weekly track sessions each Wednesday at 5.30pm at the Aquatic & Recreation Complex (ARC) in Ooralea. The sessions are free, with a $4 facility entry fee, and are open to runners of all abilities looking to improve speed, endurance, and recovery in a supportive, structured environment.
Gold Coast Marathoners who competed in all events over the weekend inc 42.2km, 21.2km, 10k, 5km with their silverware (left to right) Corey Gould (who also did the 2km); Chris Brodie and Paul MacKenzie (Below image by On The Run) Photos supplied
Kay Nyenuh (centre) on his way to a 3hr 24 min marathon. (image by Steven Hayles)
Congratulations to Mel Esau completing her first Marathon in 4hrs 4 min at the prestigious Gold Coast Running Festival. (image by Steven Hayles)
Steven Hayles at the Gold Coast Kirra parkrun (image by Emily Hayles).
Mackay Road Runners legendary veteran runners (left to right) - Col Hardy, Judy Zahn and Stuart Sprott.
Approximately thirty runners and supporters had a great time at the Mackay Bluewater Quay social 5k, 10k run whilst a bevy of local runners were tackling the Asics Gold Coast Running Festival 42k, 21k, 10k, 5k and kids events.
The Miles family in support Ashley Miles whilst he’s out on the 10km course.
Jo Hughes joined past Mackay Road Runner, Karen Baker for a steady 5km before Karen leaves town next weekend.
Jeff Pearce and Kayla Waugh with timekeeper Rohan Miles (seated) whilst he arranges a test run on the results systems.

The club watched another amazing game of competition bowls between two of its best players, Ann Smith and Brenda Trannore, both competing in the Club B Grade Singles Final.
The game had everything going for it: skill, patience, and great nerves to say the least. Both ladies had the same score going into the last couple of ends. Brenda took the honours and once again was very gracious in her win.
This win made her one of the club’s most decorated bowlers for 2025, for her wins in both the Club Championship Singles played two weeks ago, and now the Club B Singles.
Congratulations also went to Ann for the patience and skill she brought to the game that day.
This event had not occurred in the club since 1969, when Agnes Orr won both these competitions and went on to win the Club Championship Singles another 19 times.
Congratulations were extended to Brenda from all her friends and members of the North Mackay Bowls Club. A super achievement, and now on to the District Championship in Airlie Beach at a later date.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine
B Singles winner: Brenda Trannore
Ann Smith and Brenda Trannore - B Singles Finalists. Photos supplied

OUTRIGGING
Sunset Bay paddlers made the journey to Townsville over the weekend of June 19–20 to compete in Round 3 of the North Queensland Zone Grand Prix, tackling events ranging from 500m sprints and 8km marathons to a gruelling 41km changeover marathon.
To say the club returned on cloud nine is an understatement — they came home with a carload of medals and even bigger smiles.
Coaches Scotty Macgroaty and Justin Davies made the most of the weekend’s event line-up, giving all 24+ paddlers the opportunity to compete across multiple divisions.
It’s hard to single out just one race or crew, as the standouts were many. But few could miss the beaming faces of the Senior Master Men’s crew, who hadn’t fielded a competitive team in more than five years. From Race number 1, they made their mark — taking gold in both the 500m sprint and the 8km marathon.
As conditions worsened throughout the day with rising winds and swell, Sunset Bay paddlers dug deep. The OC1 and OC2 events saw the club collect a further swag of medals across multiple age divisions.
Sunday’s feature was the iconic 41km Magnetic Island changeover marathon. Sunset Bay fielded two full crews of 10 paddlers. Unfortunately, one crew suffered a major setback after a support boat damaged their canoe during the first changeover on Magnetic Island. The vessel had to be patched up with duct tape just to return to the mainland.
The mishap fuelled the second crew’s determination, and they powered ahead to claim gold in the Golden Master Mixed division with an impressive time of 4 hours and 21 minutes, finishing 17th overall out of 30 teams.
Come and Try Days will be available soon — stay up to date with Sunset Bay on Facebook for further details.
Sunset Bay paddlers returned from the North Queensland Grand Prix in Townsville with a swag of medals, standout performances, and golden memories. Photos supplied

This week’s underwater hockey session at the ARC was a bittersweet one, highlighted by the return of Cameron Kerr from a well-deserved holiday. While his comeback was welcomed by all, the spotlight was stolen by rising star Molly, who netted three goals—edging out her father, who managed just one.
The game unfolded in an exciting 6 v 5 format, delivering high-level play despite the absence of around 80% of the club’s regular stalwarts due to work and family commitments. The strong showing from newer players reflected the steady growth of the club, with fresh talent stepping in to maintain the match’s intensity and competitiveness.
The evening featured spirited wall contests, clever corner plays, and fast-paced advantage puck restarts. With every player bringing their best, the hour-long session raced by in a display of energy, skill, and shared enjoyment in the pool.
While no single standout could be named, the session was defined by exceptional teamwork and resilience. The camaraderie among players shone through, making for a memorable night despite the brisk winter air.
As anticipation builds for the next session, the club looks forward to continuing its momentum, with even more growth, teamwork, and spirited competition on the horizon.
The Mackerels lit up the ARC pool with a spirited underwater hockey session, showcasing rising talent, teamwork, and club growth. Photos supplied
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BRIDGE
Thirteen pairs from Mackay Contract Bridge Club competed in the Bowen Congress last weekend. Mackay Pair Diane Morgan and Janet Hansen took out the A Section and overall winners of the congress, with Helen Van Den Broek and Jan Harris runners up and Terry Sheedy and Noel Bugeia in third place. Martin Pearce and Sandra Morris came third in B Section, with Joy Block and Christine Fitzpatrick runners up in D Section. Janelle Conroy and Val Holbrook, along with Sandra Morris and Martin Pearce were runners up in the walk-ins.
Weekly Results
Monday 30 June 2025 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 1st Diane Morgan / Bob Ranson
2nd David Ting / Ming Ting 2nd Helen Goldston / Laura Howland
3rd Eddie Kleise / Diane Stokes 3rd Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane
Tuesday Evening 1 July 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy 1st Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner
Wednesday 2 July 2025 – Week 1 of 3 Founders Teams Event - Green Points
Team Members
1st Sheedy Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia / Rolland Taylor
2nd Hansen Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan / Alan Brown / Frances Brown
3rd S. Patterson Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Ting Ming Ting / David Ting / John McGee / Janine Rodgers
Thursday Evening 3 July 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd Adrian Westcott / Ian Cruickshank 4th Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown
Friday 4 July 2025 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
2nd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 2nd Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger
3rd Victor Mason / Josie Crowley 3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
Saturday 5 July 2025 – 4 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 1st Sandy Patterson / Robert Carless
2nd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Margaret Lane
Contributed by Joy Block
Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan - Bowen Congress Winners
Jan Harris and Helen Van Den Breok - Runners up

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.

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

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
New memento to honour Cody Gibbs. Photo supplied
Whitsunday Sea Eagles players getting involved in play

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

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

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
Winners from Sunday 6 July. Photo supplied