Cairns once again proved itself an ideal host city for the Great Barrier Reef Masters Games, held from May 29 to June 1, with over 220 swimmers taking part in three days of competitive pool events at the Tobruk Memorial Pool, followed by an open water swim at Lake Barrine.

This year’s swimming program concluded with a scenic open water event on the Atherton Tablelands, where 74 swimmers took on either a 1500 or 3000 metre course in the 24-degree waters of Lake Barrine.

Among the competitors were three representatives from the North Mackay Sinkers, a local masters swimming club known for its community spirit and dedication to personal improvement.

Geoffrey Robinson, the club’s most experienced competitor, led the way with a clean sweep of gold medals in all his events. He secured first place in the 50, 100, 200 and 400 metre freestyle events in the pool and added a fifth gold in the 1500 metre open water swim.

First-time competitor Melissa Lysaught delivered an impressive debut, winning five silver medals in the 50 and 100 metre freestyle, 50 and 100 metre backstroke, and 200 metre individual medley. She also took bronze in the butterfly and placed just outside the medals in breaststroke and the 200-metre freestyle. Lysaught rounded out her campaign with a silver in the 3-kilometre open water swim.

Club vice president Daniel Stampa added further to the medal tally, winning gold in the 50-metre breaststroke and 200 metre individual medley, and bronze in the 50-metre backstroke. He also secured multiple fourth-place finishes across freestyle and butterfly distances, and a silver in the 3-kilometre open water swim.

Club members are now preparing for the upcoming North Queensland Masters Championships, to be held in Townsville this September. Attention also turns to the club’s premier annual event, the Whitehaven Beach Open Water Swim, scheduled for Sunday, October 5 during the King’s Birthday long weekend. Members receive a discounted entry to the event.

Training continues throughout winter at the Memorial Pool in Mackay:
• Mondays and Wednesdays: 5:30–6:30pm
• Saturdays: 8:00–9:00am

New and returning swimmers are encouraged to come along and get involved.
For more information, visit the North Mackay Sinkers on social media or attend a training session.

Contributed by Dan Stampa

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Melissa Lysaught in Lane 8 at the start of the 200m mixed freestyle event

Geoff Robinson in the closest lane completes the tough 400m freestyle event and claims his first of 5 gold medal performances

The Sinkers representatives, Geoff, Mel and Dan, after the pool events concluded and looking forward to the Open water swim

After 4 days of competition, swimmers relaxed after the final events in Lake Barrine, a picture-perfect spot. Photos supplied

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It was a strong showing for Dunbar, with their players demonstrating a keen eye at the plate, drawing 11 walks to get on base. Tristan Hillier connected well with the bat, though was caught out by Dragons’ Lachlan Colless. Dragons’ powerhouses Connor Doolan and Noah Baxter made it on base three times each, both eventually crossing home. Boyd Baxter launched a centre-field home run, helping secure a 14-6 victory over Dunbar.

Heavy Iron Hawks dominated Dragons Ausgroup in a 14-6 win. Justin Locher was unstoppable, scoring four times including an automatic home run. Kane Reid wasn’t far behind, crossing home three times with a home run of his own. Sean Hudson impressed both at bat and on the mound, collecting three strikeouts, a catch, and two doubles. For the Dragons, Russell Councell and Alex Tassan scored two runs each, while Andrew Allen stood out with seven assisted outs and a catch.

Dragons A Men defeated Hells Angels 5-3, thanks to home runs by Jordan Doss and Jesse Miles, with Jesse also bringing in runners. Beau Nash fired off 10 strikeouts. Angels' Jaxon Maluga responded with 9Ks, while Jayden Love and AJ Tareeala executed a double play. Heinrich Ackerman crossed twice, including a big home run.

In a thrilling finish, Dragons Slayers edged Storm 18-17. Erin Boulding and Kym Lock led the charge with solid batting. Lock hit two doubles, while Zoe Adams and Lenine Millard crossed three times for Storm. Rhonda Hill took two catches.

Other Results:

Nth Jacklin Chaos def. Tyrepower 10-3
Get the Power def. Dunbar 14-6
Pink Hawks def. Dr Flies 10-5
Young Guns def. Fireballs 16-7
Dragons BCN def. Xtreeme 13-4
PM Diesel Hawks def. Xtreeme 11-5
Devils def. Custom Angels 8-7

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

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Dragons claimed multiple wins in a dynamic softball round, with standout performances, home runs, and close calls, including a nail-biting 18-17 victory by the Slayers over Storm. Photos supplied

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The Marian Bowls Club has once again demonstrated its generous community spirit, rallying together to support local charity Chances House with a thoughtful and timely donation.

After learning of the organisation’s needs, club members reached out directly to see how they could help.

“After a phone call direct to Chances we were advised what products/clothes were required and we then set out to provide a package for them,” said club secretary Lyn Jackson.

On Wednesday 4 June, the ladies welcomed a representative from Chances House to their afternoon tea. The visit gave members a deeper insight into the work being done in the community.

“What an eye opener,” Lyn said of the presentation.

Following the talk, the group got straight to work.

“After afternoon tea we helped pack 3 large plastic containers with warm clothing and then about 6 boxes of food,” Lyn added.

The visit was led by Ally Knowles from Chances House, pictured alongside Treasurer Judith Miller, Secretary Lyn Jackson, and President Thelma Johnston before the packing commenced.

In a time when many individuals and families are doing it tough, simple gestures like this remind us all of the power of giving. The Marian Bowls Club continues to be a shining example of how small groups can make a big difference in their local community.

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It’s been a jam-packed week at the Wangaratta Bowls Club, with local bowlers taking to the greens across multiple days of social and competition play.

Monday’s Self-Selected Triples saw Sugar Brunker, Graeme Read and Kennedy Whitton emerge as the winners after a solid win over Ron Hyde, Maureen Hyde and Alby Vigar. Runners-up for the day were Trish Webb, Bob and Leon Fox, who triumphed in their match against Eileen Dunn, Di Coleman and Geoff Coleman. The jackpot, however, remained elusive.

Tuesday’s social bowls winners were found on rink six, with Merle Elphinstone, Anne Fitzgerald, Louise Collins and Ron Hyde defeating Sue Shearing, Simon Fitzgerald, Lyn Madden and Dave Madden. Other match results included Judy Christie, Les Lee and Bob Dykstra defeating Graeme Smith, Irene Laird and Norm Dawson, while Kath Sheldon, John Hayson, Steve Bryant and Maureen Hyde secured a win over Shirley Smith, Robyn Stitt, Barry Downs and Marg Wilson. Once again, the jackpot did not go off.

In club competition, the final of the Men’s A Singles was played on Saturday and proved a thrilling contest. Ron Hyde secured a narrow victory over Wayne Crowhurst in what was described as another tightly contested final. In the Men’s Pairs, Mitch Wright and Wayne Crowhurst teamed up for a strong win against Steve Roome and Dave McDonald.

With an influx of visitors in town, Fun Friday returned in full spirit. Winners for the afternoon were Lynn and Ron, who defeated Jan and Cheryl. Runners-up Margaret Mitchell, Shirley Smith and Greg McShain enjoyed a win over Kay Hogan, Gary Wills and David Maddern.

Sunday social bowls drew a strong turnout with almost a full green in play. Judy, June Paynter, Alby Vigar and Reg Stevens took the win against Brett, Carole, Bob Lindsay and Terry Nash. Runners-up were Neale Crittenden, Lyn Madden and Pat Tracey, who defeated Louise Collins, Teresa Willshire and Bob Dykstra. The jackpot remained unclaimed.

There was also strong representation from the club at the Whitsunday 4’s Carnival in Airlie Beach, with congratulations going to France Wilmann, Dennis Donadelli, Denise Wallace and Penny Warren who finished as runners-up in the competition.

Adding to a successful week, three Wangaratta ladies – Denise Wallace, Penny Warren and Tiarna Rogers – have been selected to represent in the North Queensland District Northern Women’s Challenge, to be played in Townsville from July 15 to 17. Congratulations to all selected players.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Kennedy Whitton presenting prizes to Reg Stevens, Alby Vigar, June Paynter and Judy Christie. Photo supplied

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Football - Whitsunday United FC
Friday 13 June
6:00 PM – Div 2 Men vs Mackay Rangers FC at Eric Homan Park
8:00 PM – Div 1 Men vs Mackay Rangers FC at Eric Homan Park

Saturday 14 June
Bye – U13 Div 1
9:30 AM – U13 FQPL vs Mackay Lions at Whitsunday Sports Park
9:30 AM – U14 vs Magpies FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
11:15 AM – U15/16 vs City Brothers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
5:00 PM – U23 Men vs City Brothers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
7:00 PM – Men vs City Brothers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park

Sunday 15 June
Bye – U13 Div 1
10:00 AM – U13 FQPL vs Mackay Rangers FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
11:30 AM – U14 vs Mackay Rangers FC U14 Black at Whitsunday Sports Park

AFL - Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 14th June
9:15 AM – U13s: Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Saints at Whitsunday Sports Park
10:40 AM – U15s: Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Saints at Whitsunday Sports Park
12:15 PM – U17s: Whitsunday Sea Eagles vs Saints at Whitsunday Sports Park
1:50 PM - Senior Women vs Saints at Whitsunday Sports Park
3:20 PM - Senior Men  vs Saints at Whitsunday Sports Park

Rugby Union - Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
1:00pm - Reserve Grade vs Slade Point at Cathy Freeman Oval
2:30pm - Womens  vs Slade Point at Cathy Freeman Oval
3:30pm - Premier Grade vs Slade Point at Cathy Freeman Oval

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 16 June
Pre-lim finals fixtures at Whitsunday Sports Park

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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Young athletes from the Next Stars Sports Academy have made their mark at the Northern Region Schools Cross Country Championships held in Townsville on Tuesday 27th of May, with a string of outstanding performances. Among the standout results:

● Kayne Higgins – 1st place, Under 10 Boys
● Maeve Dichera – 1st place, Under 10 Girls
● Penelope Shields – 1st place, Under 11 Girls
● Jack Oberg – 2nd place, Under 13 Boys
● Declan Dichera – 7th place, Under 12 Boys
● Willow Kenny – 8th place, Under 11 Girls

Kayne, Maeve, Penelope and Jack have now earned selection in the Northern Region Schools Cross Country Team, and will compete in the Queensland Schools Cross Country Championships in Brisbane next month.

Next Stars Head Coach Tim Oberg praised the athletes not only for their results, but for their character:

“I am incredibly proud of all of our Next Stars athletes who competed in Townsville. Each of them gave their absolute best on the day and as a coach I can't ask for any more than that. More importantly, all of these kids embody the Next Stars ethos of hard work, positive attitude and determination.”

Next Stars Sports Academy continues to develop young athletes across the Whitsundays, focusing on inclusive coaching, confidence building and community connection through sport.

Contributed with thanks to Tim Oberg

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The sun was shining for Mental Health Round as Whitsunday Sea Eagles recognised the importance of starting conversations and being able to access appropriate support services with all players and their families. All gate takings will be donated to Headspace Whitsundays who concentrate their efforts in the youth area, whilst blue armbands started conversations around the grounds about player’s mental health and support available. New Sea Eagles guernseys were also revealed much to crowd and player delight with teams putting on some great displays of teamwork to christen the new kit.

Sea Eagles Senior Women had game of the day with a cracking come back in the last quarter against the reigning Premiers Bakers Creek Tigers to win by 4 points 32 – 28. Sea Eagles Senior Women achieved all they wanted and more with a long awaited win against Bakers Creek cementing their second place on the ladder and setting up an exciting year ahead.

Sea Eagles Senior Men took on Bakers Creek Tigers with a slow start allowing Bakers Creek to get the jump in the first quarter unable to claw it back with a 25 – 49 loss.

Sea Eagles Under 17s took the field with enthusiasm in front of the home crowd as a full team for the first time this season playing like they were there to win and smashing Bakers Creek Tigers 73 – 13(adj).

Sea Eagles Under 15s were eager to take on the Eastern Swans heading out there looking organised and team oriented. From the first bounce to the final siren Sea Eagles worked together with some tough opposition for the 53 – 32 win.

Sea Eagles Under 13s had a tough day out against the ladder leading Eastern Swans losing 20 – 55 after Swans took off in the second quarter.

Sea Eagles back up another home game this week Saturday 14th June. Juniors take on North Mackay Saints from 9:15am and Senior Men and Women against Eastern Swans from 1:50pm. Canteen open 9am, Bar open 1:50pm.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Whitsunday Sea Eagles U'13s Guernsey reveal. Photo credit: Cody Fowler

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Nine dedicated swimmers from the Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club travelled to Mackay over the weekend to compete in the Pioneer Short Course Transition Meet at the ARC. Representing the club were Ella Bounden, Jax Clayworth, Zane Clayworth, Evelyn Doherty, Thomas Ganter, Lucas Korosec, Ruby Lawson, Matilda Nicholes, and Celeste Orenshaw.

Several swimmers delivered standout performances, with Ella Bounden, Lucas Korosec, Ruby Lawson, Matilda Nicholes, and Celeste Orenshaw achieving personal bests in the majority of their events. A special mention goes to Ruby Lawson, who recorded PBs in all her events—an exceptional effort that reflects her hard work and determination.

The 100IM event also brought rewards for three of our athletes, with Jax Clayworth, Zane Clayworth, and Lucas Korosec each earning cash prizes for their impressive swims.

In other club news, coaches Mark Erickson and Raylene Rasmussen, along with swimmer Nelson Malady, travelled north to Townsville for the TOWSA Open Water Strand Swim. They were joined by former Cannonvale swimmer Jacob Bell, who now resides in Townsville where he is attending university.

Mark, Raylene, and Jacob all took on the challenging 4KM event, while Nelson competed in the 2KM swim. Congratulations to Jacob, who was the first swimmer to cross the finish line in the 4KM event—a remarkable achievement. This swim served as a pre-qualifying event for the upcoming Townsville to Magnetic Island swim, and we’re proud to report that all four Cannon representatives successfully met their qualifying times.

Well done to all our swimmers and coaches for representing the Cannonvale Cannons with pride and passion, both in the pool and out in open water.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Celeste Orenshaw at Pioneer Meet with Medals
Pioneer Swim Meet Athletes
Pioneer Swimmers
TOWSA Swimmers

Photos supplied

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It was a bumper week of bowls action at Airlie Beach as the first week of winter delivered packed greens, thrilling finishes, and a welcome return of the club’s much-loved June Carnival.

Tuesday afternoon saw over 40 players take to the green, including more than 20 social bowlers, while Ladies Pairs and Triples competitions continued to advance. One of the day’s most gripping moments came during the singles match between Betty Whitehorn and Ladda Purdie, with Whitehorn edging out the Thai favourite 25–24 in a stunning upset to book her place in the final.

Wednesday’s social bowls welcomed a strong contingent of visitors, with bowlers arriving from across the country. Players included Andrew Lloyd and Robin Smith (Club North Haven, NSW), Peter Downes (Victor Harbour, SA), Ettore Tiraboschi (Mareeba, QLD), Susan and Dermot Wilford (Picton, NSW), and Malcolm Townson (Glasshouse Mountains, Sunshine Coast). Club regulars Janet and Michael Jacometti also returned for the season. In a friendly but competitive afternoon, 24 bowlers competed in three games of triples, with the winning team comprising skipper Andrew Lloyd, lead Robyn Smith, and second Betty Whitehorn—rounding out a stellar week for Whitehorn.

Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls resumed with plenty of energy. Team results will be published in next week’s issue.

Friday welcomed participants from the Endeavour Foundation. John stepped onto the green for the first time and showed promise, while Michael and Cathy continued to make steady progress with their game.

The weekend brought the highlight of the week—the Whitsunday June Carnival. Sixteen teams travelled from across the state, with representatives from Townsville, Mackay, Wangaratta, and Noosa. Organiser Margo Stanley once again delivered an exceptional event, supported by Jill Spencer, Fiona Greener, Maureen Barnard, and a hard-working team of volunteers who kept bowlers well-fed and refreshed across the two-day competition.

After seven closely contested games, the final placings were announced. Third place went to F. Watson’s team from Townsville, while the talented Penny Warren and her team—France, Denise, and Joanne—claimed second in a remarkable showing. But it was the powerhouse team of Manny Isgro, Davey Peats (Queensland representative), Peter Knight, and Paul Foot who clinched the title yet again, marking their fourth or fifth carnival victory in what’s become a formidable streak.

To cap off the week, the club is celebrating the long-awaited commencement of the new cover over the greens, with construction set to begin Monday and expected to be completed within two weeks.

This week’s photo features the winning team alongside event organiser Margo Stanley: Manny Isgro, Peter Knight, Paul Foot, and Davey Peats—champions both on and off the green.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

The winning team and Margo Stanley organiser, Manny Isgro, Peter Knight, Paul Foot, and Davey Peats. Photo supplied

BMA CQ Rescue has responded to a high number of callouts over a busy start to June, taking to the sky 15 times between Monday 1 June and Sunday 8 June.

The rescue helicopter completed flights to a wide range of locations including Clermont, Moranbah, the Whitsundays, Hamilton Island, Dysart, Bowen, Townsville, Palm Island and throughout the Isaac region. One of the 15 flights was a training mission.

Among the week’s missions was a call to Hamilton Island, where the crew stabilised a patient and began treatment for pneumonia. The patient was then flown to Mackay for further medical care.

BMA CQ Rescue also attended two separate incidents in Bowen. One involved a patient who required urgent care and transfer to Mackay, while the second was in response to a suspected snake bite.

The service plays a crucial role in responding to emergencies across Central and North Queensland. Each flight ensures people in remote and regional areas have access to urgent medical assistance when they need it most.

Contributed with thanks to BMA CQ Rescue

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Whitsunday Sailing Club (WSC) is excited to announce 74 Islands Distillery as the Naming Rights Sponsor for the 2025 Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW), boosting anticipation as entries surpass 100. This comes shortly after Whitsundays and Townsville were named venues for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games Sailing Competition.

Terry Archer, ABRW Regatta Chairman and regular competitor, said, “A local artisan gin and vodka distillery on the Whitsunday coast, 74 Islands Distillery is one our club and competitors can relate to, so it’s a win-win situation for all concerned.”

Terry also mentioned the upcoming Olympics.

“We could not be happier. This is an amazing opportunity that will have a major impact on our region. It will have massive benefits not only for sailing, but the whole community as a whole and we are looking forward to welcoming sailors from around the world, along with their families and friends.”

WSC, recently upgraded and ideally situated, has hosted major sailing events for years, including the signature ABRW, attracting up to 200 keelboats and off-the-beach boats annually. Competitors enjoy the stunning Whitsundays location, with restaurants and accommodations just steps or a short drive away.

This year’s 37th edition of ABRW will also serve as a trial run to prepare for the Olympics, with global attention on the Whitsundays’ offerings.

No matter the boat type, there’s a division for everyone at Airlie Beach Race Week. Interested sailors can enter and view the Notice of Race at https://www.abrw.com.au/.

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Airlie Beach Race Week will be held from 7-14 August this year. Photo credit: Shirley Wodson

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Sunset Bay Outrigger Canoe Club has returned from a strong showing at the Australian National Long Distance Titles, held in Mooloolaba from May 23–25, 2025. With just nine senior paddlers attending, the team still managed to bring home a haul of medals and proud performances.

Friday brought cool conditions, but it didn’t take long for Bryan Wilkinson and Steph Lomas to find their rhythm, earning a silver medal in the 16km Senior Master OC2. New club member Peter Drew made a bold debut in a field of 102 competitors, paddling in the 10km Novice OC1 and securing a bronze medal for his efforts.

Bryan also backed up his OC2 result with a solo 10km effort in the Senior Master Men OC1, finishing 4th out of 10 contenders. Meanwhile, Oscar Grey took on the 16km V1 challenge and proudly brought home a bronze medal.

Saturday's focus shifted to the club’s OC6 crews, with excitement building as the team rigged the canoe for both the 18km long and 10km short course events.

First on the water were the Senior Master Women, who competed in the 18km race. While they didn’t medal, they delivered a spirited performance, catching bumps and overtaking canoes throughout the course. “We had a lot of fun, tried hard, and will improve for the next regatta,” said club steerer Renee Martin.

Later that day, the Master Mixed crew took on the 10km short course and earned a silver medal, finishing in just under 51 minutes and placing 11th out of a competitive field of 51 canoes.

Keeping the momentum into Sunday, Sunset Bay's Master Mixed crew added another bronze medal in the 18km long course, capping off a successful weekend.

Next up, Sunset Bay Outriggers will travel to Townsville in June for sprint and 37km regattas across two action-packed days.

Anyone interested in trying outrigger canoeing is welcome to connect with the club via the Sunset Bay Outriggers Facebook page.

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Sunset Bay Outrigger Canoe Club delivered a strong performance at the Australian National Long Distance Titles in Mooloolaba, during May 23–25, securing multiple medals across solo and team events despite a small nine-paddler squad. Photos supplied

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Local Women Pack Power At Weekend Self-Defence Workshop

Over the course of a weekend, a diverse group of women and girls, spanning various ages and physical abilities, came together to learn practical self-defence techniques aimed at increasing personal safety both at home and in the community.

The sessions were led by Helle Smith, who also runs the Northern Beaches Karate Club (Shyto-Ryu), and supported by Sergeant Steve Smith from the Crime Prevention Unit, along with Volunteer in Policing, Gerri Kissner. Together, they provided important information about community safety, legal considerations around self-protection, including the concept of reasonable force, and shared useful tips to help participants stay safe.

Held in a safe and supportive environment, the sessions gave participants the opportunity to openly discuss personal safety concerns and learn effective defensive techniques. Highlights included participants testing their strength and resolve by punching bags and breaking wooden boards – an empowering experience that left many feeling more confident and aware of their surroundings.

A special guest on the day was MP for Mackay and former Sergeant Nigel Dalton, who attended to offer his support and relay apologies from Amanda Camm, MP for Whitsunday and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.

The next self-defence session is scheduled for Saturday, 13th September, from 9am to 3pm. For more information, contact Helle on 0488 146 644.

Contributed by Gerri Kissner

Women and girls of all ages came together for a weekend of self-defence training, gaining practical safety skills, legal insights, and a boost in confidence through an empowering and supportive workshop led by local experts. Photos supplied

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The ladies at the club have been busy contesting the Championship Triples, which commenced on Tuesday, 21st May, with the final played on Thursday, 29th May.

As expected, the competition was fierce, with many closely fought ends and the head often tightly packed with both teams’ bowls. After a strong display of skill and teamwork, the eventual winners were Marie Bragg (Lead), Val DePinto (Second), and Nuggie Pratt (Skip).

The runners-up were Daphne Offield (Lead), Jean Schmidtke (Second), and Lidia McCarthy (Skip).

Well done to all competitors who took part in this exciting event.

A special thank you to the ever-supportive umpire, June Cousen, for her continued dedication to all the club’s competitions.

Looking ahead, the Championship Singles will begin on Wednesday, 4th June, with matches scheduled alongside the B Singles through until 18th June.

Also worth noting is the launch of the Ladies Warehouse Bowls Fun Night, held each Tuesday evening from 6:30pm to approximately 8:30pm. All are welcome to come along, watch, or join in by putting their name down at the club. A $15 entry covers green fees and a delightful supper. New bowlers are especially welcome – equipment is provided.

Finally, Pennant season for all district clubs kicks off on 23rd June and will run until 31st July. Best of bowls to all clubs participating!

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Championship Triples Runners Up (L) Daphne Offield, Jean Schmidtke, Lidia McCarthy. Photos supplied

Winner of the Championship Triples Competition are (L) Marie Bragg, Nuggie Pratt and Val De Pinto

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Young rookie ballers are progressing nicely, showing improved skills each week. They’re playing harder, stronger, and with growing confidence – all while keeping the fun alive. A special highlight came when Asher Rootes was ecstatic after hitting a live pitched ball from Zac Hargraves for the first time. Ollie Baxter also impressed, showing great form behind the plate with confident catching.

The Joey Ball troupers are also having a great time, with plenty of enthusiasm on the field. A big thank you goes out to all the grandparents, parents, and coaches who help out each week, making it such an enjoyable experience for the littlest players.

In Under-14 action, Dragons Get The Power defeated Angels North Jacklin choas 7–5. Get The Power took the lead from the outset, scoring five runs in the first dig. Noah Baxter and Connor Doolan were dominant, each scoring three runs. Baxter smashed the ball to centrefield for a home run in the second dig, while sisters Lily and Chloe Mackenzie picked up two walks each to get on base. Riley Taylor had a ripper hit to left field. Zoe Fry, Darcy Dolgner and Macee Dolgner each drew walks, bringing each other home to score runs for choas.

Young Guns overcame the Dragon Slayers 15–4. Although not the best day with the bat for the Slayers, they did hold the lead for the first two digs. Tyler Nolan, Latoya Latimer and Audra Pollard all took smart catches in the field. For the Young Guns, Cooper Maluga led the charge with three hits to the outfield and pitched a solid game. Eli Neilson impressed with a superb batting display, bashing a three-bagger and bringing more runners across the plate.

Connor Doolan added a highlight-reel moment with a sharp line drive catch at shortstop.
Hawks PM Diesel defeated Xtreeme Angels 11–5 in a contest that remained close until the fourth dig, when PM Diesel surged ahead. Miley Barrow and Tiffany Martin came home three times each, while Amy Goodwill, subbing in, had two key hits and added to the scoring for the Hawks. Pitcher Erin Rutherford grabbed two catches and combined with Charlotte Whittaker for a slick double play.

For the Xtreeme Angels, Bailey Sleeman, Nerida Bates and Kacee Schultz all fired big hits to the outfield, with Schultz carting the ball for a home run. In the field, Yodene Schoeman took a sharp catch and made a quick release to Latoya Latimer, resulting in a brilliant double play.

Results:

Dunbar Angels  v Dragons Tyre Power 10 -3
Get the power - nth jacklin choas  7 -5
Angels Golden oldies -   Pink Hawks  17 - 4
Young Guns -  slayers    15 - 4
Ausgroup  -  Devils  14 -12
Heavy Iron Hawks  - Custom Angels  11 - 6
PM Diesel Hawks  - Xtreeme Angels  11 - 5
Dragons men  -  Hells Angels  11 - 3

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

Rookie ballers are growing in confidence and skill, U14s delivered thrilling matchups - including a standout win for Young Guns - while thanks flowed to families and volunteers supporting the youngest players each week. Photos supplied

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