Mackay Meteors Crowned 2024 NBL1 North Champions

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The Mackay Meteors emerged as the 2024 Mitsubishi Motors NBL1 North champions, clinching the title by defeating the Brisbane Capitals 2-0 in the Grand Finals Series. Todd Blanchfield was named NBL1 North Finals MVP, with an impressive series average of 25.5 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3.5 steals. This victory marked Mackay as the first club in NBL1 history to win two titles, adding to their inaugural 2021 season win.
The team demonstrated their prowess throughout the 2024 season, finishing the regular season with 15 wins out of 17 games, earning them the top spot and a direct path to the Grand Finals.

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Meteors Blaze To NBL1 North Glory

The Capitals, who finished fourth in the regular season with an 11-6 record, had gained significant momentum by winning 10 of their last 12 games. They triumphed over the Rockhampton Rockets and Darwin Salties to reach the Grand Finals, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown.
Game 1 saw the Meteors set the tone with an 11-point opening run, eventually securing a 12-point victory. In Game 2, Brisbane attempted to counter with an early 5-point lead, but Mackay quickly regained control, ending the first quarter ahead 22-18 and maintaining their lead throughout the game.
By half-time, the Meteors were up 44-36, and their lead continued to grow in the second half, culminating in a 22-point victory margin by the final buzzer. The celebration of their championship win on home turf was a momentous occasion, marking their fifth men's championship since 2010 and their first since 2021.
This championship was particularly emotional due to the pending departure of coach Joel Khalu, who was set to join the Illawarra Hawks for NBL25. Khalu, who joined Justin Tatum for the latter part of the last NBL season, leaves the Meteors as a three-time championship-winning coach.
Todd Blanchfield's outstanding performance earned him the Grand Final MVP award, marking his triumphant return to Mackay. He scored 24 points, with five rebounds, five steals, and four assists in Game 1, followed by 27 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and two steals in Game 2.
Isaac White is now a championship-winning captain, with the Brisbane Bullets NBL guard delivering 22 points, nine rebounds and six assists while Emmett Naar put up 19 points along with being a masterful playmaker with 11 assists to go with eight rebounds.
Luca Yates had an impact once more with 10 points and three rebounds with Amarco Doyle contributing 10 points and four boards, and Aiden Krause seven points, 10 rebounds and two steals.
Despite the disappointment of losing the series, Brisbane Capitals deserved recognition for their efforts to reach the Grand Finals and their impressive second-half season performance under coach Greg Vanderjagt. MVP Sam McDaniel played valiantly despite a shoulder injury, scoring 15 points, with five rebounds, three assists, and two steals. Gabe Hadley was a standout, knocking down 7 out of 10 three-point attempts for 29 points, along with six rebounds, three assists, and two steals. Geordan Papacostas and Isaih Tueta also contributed with 11 and 10 points, respectively.
Final scores were Mackay Meteors 102 (Blanchfield 27, White 22, Naar 19) against Brisbane Capitals 80 (Hadley 29, McDaniel 15, Papacostas 11).

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Moments from Game 1 of the Grand Final series, showcasing the high-energy plays, pivotal moments, and the Mackay Meteors’ strong performance leading up to their championship win. Photo credit: Keiron Place Art & Photography
Grand Final MVP Todd Blanchfield with wife Jessica and son Billy. Photo supplied

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Three athletes from the Mackay Cyclones team achieved remarkable success at the School Sport Australia Games, competing against top talent from across Australia on the Gold Coast. For these athletes, it was their first time making the team, and they delivered exceptional results.
Isabelle Daniel, who recently turned 10, excelled in the 10-12 school age group, securing top-seven finishes nationwide and setting personal bests in her events. Daniel's impressive achievements included: 6th place in the 200 IM, 6th place in the 100 Backstroke, 7th place in the 100 Butterfly, 4th place in the Queensland Relay.
Izabella Wills (16) and Ehsan Helou (16) also showcased their talents in their individual events and the Queensland State Relays. Wills swam like a superstar, earning five silver medals, achieved personal bests, and she placed in the top five across all of her events. Helou finished 4th in the 50 Breaststroke, climbing from 10th to 4th, and secured a silver medal in the Queensland relay team.
Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier praised the athletes for hitting their goals and delivering great results.
"It is a great competition full of spirit where all schools and competitors come together, meeting and making new friends," she said.
"The big fun factor for the athletes, apart from the swimming, is trading and collecting state badges from other states, allowing the kids to meet and make new friends."
The event was a memorable experience for all involved, with the crowd enthusiastically supporting the states during the relays. The athletes created lasting childhood memories, making the competition a perfect blend of sporting achievement and camaraderie.

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Izabella Wills (16) and Ehsan Helou (16) brought home silver in the School Sport Australia Games
Isabelle Daniel raced in many finals at the School Sport Australia Games

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By Hannah McNamara

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After a life-changing event that tested his resilience and determination, Roscoe McDonnell defied the odds, proving that with a strong mindset, anything is possible.

Roscoe is known by many athletes across the globe for his incredible long-distance accolades, however, his initial path to success wasn’t so easy.

In his early 20s, a sudden motorbike accident, caused by a reckless drunk driver, robbed him of his love for running, leaving him paralysed and in a wheelchair for six years.

With a combination of relentless determination to defy the odds and an effective recovery process, he gradually built up his strength and began to walk, then jog and eventually he was miraculously able to get back to what he loves most...running.

Roscoe continued to work on his performance by consistently training until his life took a significant turn when he received a phone call from a friend in Canberra who was training for the Adelaide Harriers. His friend offered him an opportunity that he couldn’t pass up, so he took his chances, left his foster family and moved to Adelaide to further his training.

Taking his commitment one step further, Roscoe eventually found himself in Kenya where he honed in on his skills and perfected his performance. Roscoe lived with a family that accommodated eighty-three children, yet he still managed to get his training in for two hours each day. He cherished the experience, teaching the children English and sharing Australian songs with them. This period was not only about athletic training for him, but also about cultural exchange and personal growth.

As Roscoe’s running career progressed, he stayed with multiple families and tribes across various countries and immersed himself in different cultures and communities. Roscoe learned multiple different languages and formed lifelong friendships with people worldwide.

He appreciated the authenticity of connecting with the community, living in villages and adapting to local ways of life, rather than taking the usual tourist route.

“You can pay for safaris like a lot of people do, but to actually be there amidst it in a natural way, the way they see it, is much more scary…and a much more exhilarating experience,” Roscoe said.

Recently, Roscoe returned to Australia after competing in the 2024 Pan American Masters Games in Cleveland, Ohio, however, prior to the prejudice event, Roscoe sustained a significant leg injury, but you guessed it…this didn’t stop him.

Representing Australia, Roscoe won a gold medal in the 2000m Steeplechase, a bronze medal in the Half Marathon and placed 4th in the 1500m run and 5th in the 5000m run.

“Knowing that I achieved that with a hole in my leg is quite crazy,” Roscoe remarked.

In addition to his injury, Roscoe faced other challenges, including a flight delay that left him with only a day and a half to prepare for the vigorous marathon.

Although he may be known for representing Australia throughout his impressive list of accomplishments, competing both nationally and internationally, Roscoe’s focus is not solely on winning. He is passionate about improving his skills, setting personal goals and connecting with the people he meets, wherever he goes.

“What I love the most is meeting people from all different countries, not only racing but also making friends,” Roscoe said.

In his spare time, Roscoe dedicates himself to encouraging younger generations to excel in athletics. He shares his passion and drive with children, finding great joy in helping them become the best athletes they can be. After his recent trip to the Pan American Masters Games, Roscoe said the children he trains were excited for his return, eagerly waiting to hear about his achievements.

Roscoe is now 66 years of age and shows no signs of slowing down. From being bound to a wheelchair to most recently being crowned the All Pan American, Roscoe McDonnell is living proof of what can be achieved when you set yourself a dream…and run for it.

Roscoe McDonnell represented Australia and was recently crowned the All Pan American at the 2024 Pan American Masters Games in Cleveland, Ohio.
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and supplied images

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Mackay Cutters rugby league team’s woes have continued in the Queensland Rugby League Hostplus Cup series.

After a promising start to their 2024 campaign the club’s finals hopes remain in tatters after disappointing losses in recent weeks.

The lowly-placed Ipswich Jets rubbed salt in the wounds when they posted a 30-12 victory over the Cutters last weekend at North Ipswich Reserve.

It was the Cutters’ eleventh loss from eighteen matches and has resulted in the club plummeting to thirteenth spot on the ladder.

Mackay led 6-4 after rising 18-year-old hooker Xavier Kerrisk weaved his way over to score a neat try after 20 minutes with five eighth Bayley Gill adding the extras.

But the lead was shortlived.

Ipswich winger Brandon Roberts, interchange Brandon Clarke and lock forward Arama Hau nabbed first-half tries with Roberts booting two goals as the home side established a 16-8 advantage at the interval.
A Roberts penalty goal and tries by five eighth Dray Ngatuere-Wroe and half back Kyle Foxwell ensured the Jets soared high in the second half.

There was no stopping the Ipswich side as they jumped to a 30-8 lead before Cutters winger Walter Lauenstein grabbed a late consolation try with eight minutes left on the clock.

Mackay forwards Kerrisk, Jeremiah Matautia, D’Jazirhae Pua’avase, Jamal Shibasaki, Hiale Roycroft, John Radel, Sean Mullany, Mitch Fogarty, Kobe Bone, Brandon Russell and Ross Bella toiled hard but were outgunned by a revved up Jets side.

The Cutters have a bye this weekend before hosting the Western Clydesdales on Saturday August 17 at BB Print Stadium at 6pm.

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures July 30, 2024:

Division 1:

Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Don Boettcher, Coral Morgan) 9-3. Peter d Don -3, -5, 4, 7, 4.

Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) d Ibis (Andrea Nicholson, Noreen Federicksen, Judy Zahn) 9-3. Andrea d Delma -7, 6, 7, -6, 6.

Parrots (Janice Kent, Marie Taylor) d Hawks (Pam Joyce, John McGee) 5-3. John d Marie 10, -7, 6, 4.

Division 2:

Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) drew Cockatoos (Thelma Caruana, Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) 6-all. Gloria d Kim -7, 9, -8, 3, 13.

Pelicans (Gerry Synnott, Ian Dodds) d Doves (Louise Gould, Iris Grasso) 5-4. Gerry d Iris 7, -7, 11, 11.

Division 3:

Squid (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) d Prawn (Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes) 8-4. Madge d Cheryl -11, 10, 8, -8, 6.

Crab (Pam Keune, Darryl Ross, Jodie Davis) d Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey, Nadine Stream) 7-5. Pam d Nadine -6, 7, 11, -3, 9.

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Gloria Vella

Kim Daffy. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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The North Mackay Sinkers have competed in the Townsville Open Water Swimming Association (TOWSA) annual events and series for many decades. The most recent excursion was the Annual TOWSA Magnetic Island to Mainland swim which is race four in the series. Now in its 70th year and the 16th year as a cageless swim, the iconic Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim is the showcase event of the TOWSA Open Water Race Series. 
This year’s event was celebrated with extra emphasis on the events long history and incorporated an Art competition as well as an official presentation at the Drill Hall after the swim. The winner of the first race in 1954, Kauko Kaurila, was on hand to greet swimmers as they crossed the finish line.
The Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim starts from Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island and finishes on Townsville's shoreline, directly in front of Strand Park.  Guided by a paddler swimmers cover a total distance of 8km. 
The 2024 swim was well represented by Mackay Swimmers from various clubs and individuals to boost numbers above previous years. A total of 89 solo swimmers, 11 duos and a further 11 teams of four registered to boost the year to 155 swimmers in the field.
The day dawned cool and clear with little to no wind providing near perfect race conditions for all competitors. The morning starts before dawn with kayakers either paddling over or using the provided barge option before making their way to the ferry terminal with the swimmers to enjoy a quick boat trip followed by a bus transfer to Picnic Bay for pre-race numbering, briefings and a warm up swim in the 21-degree water. Solo competitors were sent off in two waves at 8:00am and 8:05am before being followed by duos and teams at 8:15am.
The hectic start is a race to the first buoy over a shallow reef and trying to meet up with the kayaker waiting for them amongst the 115 odd kayaks with the same mission. Duos and teams also reunite with their respective vessels slightly further out. After 1 or 1.5km the race steadies down as swimmers hit their stride and aim for the Aquarius tower and the far away finish line.
Leading contenders completed the swim in 1 hour 52 Minutes with all competitors needing to be ashore before the cut off time. The last solo swimmer finished in 3 hours 41 minutes; Duos ranged in finish times from 2:03:32 to 3:43:30 and teams of 4 ranged from 2:14:31 to 3:18:27.
Pierre Craven from the Sinkers managed 2:48:54 in what was his longest open water swim placing 39th of 89 competitors.

Robyn Richards and Chris Webb finished in 3:11:41 and 3:11:49 respectively to continue a friendly rivalry spanning many years. Other swimmers included Samatha Sticklan, Sarah Shuttlewood, Ashley Zerner and Linda Wetherall amongst a host of Mackay-based swimmers.
The Sinkers duo of Megan Taylor and Daniel Stampa finished in 2:48:23 placing 4th of 11 teams. With Natasha Mallise and Sandra Wood in 6th rounding out strong performances from Mackay based athletes.
The next major open water swim is the Sinkers and Masters Swimming Queensland’s very own Whitehaven Beach swim scheduled for Sunday October 6th. This is a limited entry event that is open to all swimmers 18 and over on a local iconic beach that will deliver a great day out for swimming enthusiasts from around Australia.
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Contributed by Dan Stampa

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Solo swimmers: Chris Webb & Robyn Richards        
Duo Swimmers: Natasha Mallise, Sandra Wood
Swimmers, Kayakers and vessels gather before the start.
Duo Swimmers: Dan Stampa and Megan Taylor. Photos supplied

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Last Friday, the Northern Beaches golf course became a vibrant battlefield against domestic violence as supporters of the Broken Ballerina Foundation showcased their commitment to making a difference in a lively Charity Golf Day.

A splash of colour filled the course as a total of 88 men and women wore pink tutus and attire as 21 teams competed for over $12,000 in prizes, all while raising funds to support local domestic violence victims in Mackay.

BBI Tutu wearing enforcers kept busy with handing out fines for best in bush, loudest four play, shonky slices, honky hooks and soggy balls.

Founder of Broken Ballerina Inc, Jules Thompson expressed her gratitude for AGIS’s major sponsorship and emphasised the day's significance.

"We’re having lots of fun today," she said.

“We’re so thankful that AGIS has jumped on board to be our major sponsor, so for us to have our first annual AGIS & Broken Ballerina Charity Golf Day is a huge achievement to get here and have so many teams coming along to support us.

“To be honest with you, the issue is increasing.”

“We’re getting busier and the housing crisis on top of everything is making it even harder for victims to find somewhere safe to go and so that’s why events like this are important because we reply on donations from our community to continue to operate.”

Member for Whitsunday and Shadow Minister for the prevention of domestic, family and sexual violence Amanda Camm praised the foundation’s crucial role.

“It’s great to be here today supporting the work of the Broken Ballerina foundation,” said Ms Camm.

“This foundation offers practical support for women and children and those affected by domestic and family violence, and what’s so fantastic about today, is the number of men from our male dominated industries across our region that have come out here in support of Broken Ballerina.”

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Results:
Longest Drive: Reece Schultz-AGIS
Accuracy Drive: Luke Marmion-AGIS
1st Place Team: One Hit Wonders - Ch 7 Ring ins, thanks to CMR
2nd Place Team: Let Them Cook -ECC
3rd Place Team: Broken Wings-AGIS
2nd Shot In Team: Nobody’s Monkeys
Nearest The Pins: Jason Powell - Nobody’s Monkeys, Jason Upton, Rachael Evans-SCIG, Happy Gilmore Drive
Winner: Josh H-ECC
Tutu Spooners: MTP
Most fines and winners of a $200 Red Dog Brewery Voucher: Dr.Phil & The Longshafts

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The day was filled with fun, smiles and laughs last Friday at the AGIS & Broken Ballerina Inc Charity Golf Day. Stay tuned for next year’s event! Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Broken Ballerina Inc

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Rolling into the spotlight, Inara Spierings, a Year 8 student and roller-skating superstar from Whitsunday Anglican School has set her sights on performing at an international level.

Since the age of 7, Inara has been a dedicated member of the Mackay City Rollers where she skates under the name of ‘Firefly,’ number 359.

Recently, Inara was selected alongside two other skaters from Mackay to join the Queensland Range Rascals team for a competition in New Zealand.

The Thunder Down Under Trans- Tasmin Roller Derby Clash took place in Christchurch on the 13th of July with the Queensland team Range Rascals taking out the New Zealand National team 234 - 118 and the Christchurch Junior Rollers 220 - 113.

Inara is now preparing for the Australian National team tryouts in Sydney this October, with her ultimate goal being the Junior Rollers Derby World Cup in Brisbane in 2025.

All the best Inara!

Year 8 student, Inara Spierings, has earned the spotlight as a roller-skating superstar as she prepares for her upcoming national tryouts this October. Image source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook)

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The final of the Whitsunday GNOT was played last weekend with team Bugeia – Noel Bugeia, Janelle Conroy, Terry Sheedy and Geoff Taylor taking out first place. Team Bugeia will compete with other teams in the next step of the competition towards playing in Sydney. We wish them well.

Weekly Results
Monday 29 July 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Robert Olander

2nd
Ted Cullinan / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford

3rd
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

Tuesday Evening 30 July 2024 – Unders and Overs 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Lynne O’Neill

2nd
Sue Mayer-Miller / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Patricia Garner / Sandy Patterson

3rd
Christopher Meyers / Diane Morgan
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Jewel Schmidt

4th
Diane Stokes / Terry Sheedy
4th
Joy Block / Noel Bugeia

Wednesday 31 July 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Monica Darley / Griffin Bancroft
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan

4th
Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana
4th
Joy Block / Diane Stokes

Thursday Evening 1 August 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Errol Morris / Sandra Morris

2nd
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott
3rd
Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger

Friday 2 August 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2nd
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Lorna Shuttlewood

3rd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

4th
Diane Cox / Christine Nice
4th
Jewel Schmidt / Karen Caldwell

Saturday 3 August & Sunday 4 August 2024 – Whitsunday GNOT Final – Gold Points

Team
Members
1st
Bugeia
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Shuttlewood
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright / Christine Nice / Marilin Robins
3rd
Darley
Monica Darley / Ken Seaniger / Nancy Martin / Margaret Lane
4th
Bancroft
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris / Mick King / Patricia Garner
5th
Seaborne
Jane Seaborne / Graham Seaborn / Maureen & Ken Baxter / Alan & Frances Brown
6th
Spencer
Jill Spencer / Elaine Hadlow / Jill Bradon / Beverley Lowcock
7th
Morris
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris / Noel Saunders / Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden / Anne Lutz
8th
Stokes
Diane Stokes / Ann Whitmore / Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe / Joy Block

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Noel Bugeia, Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, and Geoff Taylor won the final of the Whitsunday GNOT. Photo taken from the 2022 President’s Shield. Photo supplied

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The netball courts were brighter than ever from the 23rd to the 27th of July as players, coaches and supporters proudly wore bright pink socks and attire in support of breast cancer awareness during netball games.

DAS Netball Grants Officer Megan Chapman said that every year, the Mackay Netball Association is involved in fundraising by holding a pink week to raise funds for breast cancer awareness and research.

"Usually, we just have some gold coin donations, but this year we decided to go bigger and organised the purchase of pink socks," she said.

As always, the initiative received overwhelming support from the netball community.

"We’re really proud of all our members who got behind it.

“Most of us know someone, whether it be family or friends, affected by breast cancer, so it was a really important cause for us to support," Megan added.

The participation spanned all levels of the netball association, from seniors to juniors, including players, supporters and coaches.

“From seniors to juniors, we’ve had all players, supports and coaches decked out in pink gear and the pink socks, and they’re all looking great.

The collective effort of the netball community not only raised funds but also brought attention to the importance of breast cancer awareness and research.

At just $5 each, Megan organised and distributed an overwhelming multitude of boxes, with over 150 pairs sold for the cause.

"We have raised $570 for the Breast Cancer Association which is such an amazing effort.

"I just want to thank everyone for getting behind it and raising so much money for a great cause," Megan stated.

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Mackay Netball association held a ‘pink week’ fundraiser, raising $570 funds as they wore pink socks and attire in support of breast cancer. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Bowen Polocrosse Club hosted the Grandview Hotel Night Chukkas on Saturday, July 27th. Polocrosse, an Australian-invented game blending netball and lacrosse on horseback, is now played worldwide. The Night Chukkas, a modified version played under lights, added a thrilling atmosphere to the event.
This year, the event was sponsored by the Grandview Hotel, providing $6000 in prize money. Seven teams from across Queensland competed, with handicaps ensuring even competition. The teams included:
   • To Be Advised: Katie Landrigan (Pyramid), Wayne Landrigan (Pyramid), Richard Alley (Townsville)
   • Betts Plumbing: Travis Betts (Tansey), Jacob Betts (Tansey), Tracey Betts (Tansey)
   • Tik Tok Boom: Matt Taylor (Roma), Denis Noy (Roma), Mick Hayward (Tara)
   • Not Team Burster: Katie Taylor (Roma), Jess Taylor (Tara), Bill Taylor (Roma)
   • Elite Painting: Doug Cook (Pyramid), Dallis Cook (Pyramid), Gareth Merritt (Lower Burdekin)
   • 2 and Half Girls: Liam Taylor (Roma), Lily Bredhauer (Chinchilla), Alana Kerr (Nebo)
   • Night Hawks: Scott Carr (Townsville), Paul Mcfadzen (Townsville), Ryan Kerr (Nebo)
Betts Plumbing, defending champions, were the favorites and did not disappoint, taking home the winner’s purse of $3280. The final saw Betts Plumbing narrowly defeat Tik Tok Boom 5-3, securing back-to-back victories.
Brad Hall, a commentator for the event, praised the high-quality play and the excellent display of horsemanship and sportsmanship. The Bowen Polocrosse Club thanked their sponsors, including Grandview Hotel, and all who contributed to making the event a success.
Look forward to an even bigger and better Night Chukka event next year!
Contributed with thanks to Bowen Polocrosse Club

Umpire Terry Kerr preparing for Night Chukkas,
Betts Plumbing player making a stretch for a unbeleviable pick up,
TiK Tok Boom Mick Hayward carrying ball to his goal shooter against 2 and half girls Team,
To Be advised Player Richard Alley bringing the ball out of his defence area, 
Betts plumbing player taking a bounce in to his goal area
Betts Plumbing team celebrating the Grand View Hotel Night Chukka Win
NIght Hawks Ryan Kerr with the ball
Tik Tok Boom and Betts Plumbing celebrating together after a hard fort final

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There has been no cricket in Airlie Beach for over 10 years, but that is about to change.

In a recent meeting at the Whitsunday Sportspark it was voted that the Airlie Beach Cricket Club (ABCC) could join the Sportspark as an associate member, meaning Airlie Beach Cricket Club can officially get up and running.

ABCC committee member and spokesperson Stephen Logan said that the ABCC is thrilled with the news and is looking forward to bringing cricket to the community.

“The ABCC Committee are extremely pleased that the majority of the Whitsunday Sportspark foundation members have voted to allow us to join the Sportspark as an associate member,” he said.

“This is great news for the Airlie Beach community, and we are looking forward to working with the Sportspark to establish a high-class cricket facility at the park for the 2025-26 season.”

Before ABCC can operate at the Sportspark renovations have to be made to the upper oval and the ABCC are already looking at ways to fund the redevelopment.

‘We're aiming to straightaway look at funding for redevelopment of the upper oval in conjunction with the Sports Park,” said Stephen Logan.

ABCC are planning to bowl their first ball at the Whitsunday Sportspark in the Mackay Competition in the 2025-26 season, but the club is starting sooner.

The ABCC is joining the Proserpine Competition for this upcoming 2024-25 season but is currently looking at other pitches and grounds to play on.

President of Whitsunday Sportspark Justin Butler said he is thrilled that the Airlie Beach Cricket Club will be joining the facility.

“We’re excited to have another major national sport play at the club,” said Justin Butler.

“We have plans to redevelop the top oval into a high-end regional ground.”

“Taking the top oval from one sport in AFL to two with Cricket can only help in attracting money to enable us to redevelop it into a high end facility for the benefit of attracting more high end exhibition games to our facility which is in walking distance to the iconic Airlie Beach main street.”

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Cricket is coming to Airlie Beach for the first time in over 20 years, Stock Image

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Proserpine will come alive with the 2024 Paul Bowman Challenge when approximately 4500 players, coaches, helpers and their families will visit over the weekend of 14 and 15 September 2024.

This under 9’s Junior Rugby League event has attracted 80 teams from all over Queensland.

Don McDermid, the Game Day Manager, said he can’t wait for the sound of the whistle starting the first round of games. He also highlighted that the primary focus is participation, sportsmanship, and the kids having fun.

Bec Watts, Co-ordinator of the Organising Committee, said plans are well underway.

The Paul Bowman Challenge is a showcase event for the Whitsundays, and Bec wants to ensure that the grounds look spectacular and that everything runs smoothly.

Bec also expressed her thanks to sponsors and vendors who attend over the weekend say all the committee greatly appreciate it.

With so many families coming for this carnival, the accommodation, apartments, and caravan parks from Proserpine to Airlie Beach will be busy.

Another benefit of this event is that many families will stay a few days after the carnival to enjoy the area, which will help the local economy.

Put the date in your calendar and watch for the teams rolling into Proserpine on Friday, 13 September. Everyone is welcome to come and attend the Proserpine Junior Sporting Complex and feel the excitement with games starting early Saturday morning.

What: Paul Bowman Challenge
Where: Proserpine Whitsunday Junior Rugby League Football Club
When: Saturday 14 September & Sunday 15 September

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Local kids enjoy the Paul Bowman Challenge in 2022. Photo credit: Whitsunday Life Newspaper

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The Cannonvale Cannons have made their mark with a notable number of swimmers selected for Swimming North Queensland (SNQ) Squads, including the Achievers Squad and the State and National Performance Squads. These squads provide a regional pathway for aspiring swimmers.
Swimmers aged 9 to 13 must achieve a JX Standard to qualify for the Achievers Squad, while those 14 and over need at least one 'A' Division Time. The Cannonvale Cannons swimmers who have qualified for the Achievers Squad are:
   • Gold: Jax Clayworth
   • Silver: Celeste Orenshaw
   • Bronze: Eloise Chegwidden, Harris Delac, Declan Dichiera, Nelson Malady, Matilda Nicholes, Andie Reynolds, Levi Smith, Alexander Trefz
   • Blue: Mackenzie Bennett, Maeve Dichiera, Evelyn Doherty, Liam Filewood, Millieson Groom, Koa Harland, Ruby Harland, Jasper Korosec, Eric Mulliss, Adelaide Sanders, Indianna Smith
For the State Performance Squad, swimmers aged 12 and over must achieve at least one qualifying time from the previous Queensland Long Course Championships. The qualifying Cannonvale Cannons athletes are Jacob Bell, Charlie Doherty, Thomas Ganter, Remy Hedges, Holly Perrin, Tyler Bennett, Isaac Pisaniello, Isabella Pisaniello, Zach Trefz, and Don Algie, who notably qualified at 11 years old for meeting the 12 years qualifying times.
The National Performance Squad represents the highest SNQ achievement, requiring qualifying times from the Australian Age Championships for females aged 13 and over and males aged 14 and over. Representing Cannonvale Cannons in this elite group are Tora Delac and Noah Maltby.
Congratulations to these dedicated swimmers for their outstanding achievements. Their hard work and commitment have earned them well-deserved recognition among North Queensland's top swimmers. Squad members will attend SNQ technique and skills clinics, where expert coaches focus on personalized instruction to enhance technical proficiency, boost overall performance, and instil best practices in competitive swimming, fostering a passion for excellence in all participants.
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Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Photo supplied

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A chill was on the breeze in Airlie Beach this weekend for the 2024 Sea Eagles Sponsor and Volunteer Appreciation Day. The Sea Eagles Senior Women's team had the game of the day, with the Under 17s also out to show the sponsors who was boss on the field. A big thank you goes out to every Sea Eagles volunteer and sponsor, including major supporters Mama Africa, Chookcrete, and Shirtfront Solutions.
The Mackay Magpies proved too polished for the Sea Eagles Senior Men, who were missing several regular players and had to field seven Under 17 players. Despite the challenges, the Sea Eagles fought hard but eventually posted a loss, 52–102.
In a closely contested match, the Sea Eagles Senior Women managed to get their running game on in the final quarter, pulling away from the Mackay Magpies to secure a win, 51–28. A solid team effort saw Mia Trinder and Nikki Heffer putting multiple goals on the scoreboard.
After a previous spiteful clash against the Magpies in Mackay, the Sea Eagles Under 17s were determined to maintain discipline and let their skills dictate the match result. The Sea Eagles started well, kicking into the wind and playing an excellent brand of football. Their forwards rewarded the hard work done downfield, leading to a comfortable 70–10 victory.
The Sea Eagles Under 14s were fighting to stay alive for a finals chance. They dominated the first term, having the majority of play up forward, but were unable to sustain their intensity and find the goals, ultimately falling to the Magpies, 14–51.
The Sea Eagles Under 12s were outplayed by the Mackay Magpies, failing to find their rhythm and posting a 1–55 loss.
This week, the Whitsunday Sea Eagles Juniors hit the road south to take on the Swans at Rogers Oval in the Under 12s and Under 14s. The remaining Sea Eagles teams have a bye. The next home game, marking Sea Eagles Family Day, is set for August 17.
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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Photo Credit: Cody Fowler

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