Established in 1979 by a group of passionate local anglers, the Whitsunday Game Fish Club has become a cornerstone of the region’s fishing community. The club was founded with the aim of bringing together anglers of all ages and skill levels to share knowledge, uphold the ethics of game fishing, and foster a family-friendly, competitive spirit in a fun atmosphere.
Throughout the year, the club hosts a variety of fishing events, including its premier three-day Light Tackle Tournament held every October. Members also benefit from a series of workshops and information nights covering topics such as bait and lure rigging, tackle setup, boat handling, safety, and strategies for finding local fish species.
The club emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge, particularly with young and novice anglers, as they represent the future of game fishing. A portion of the membership fees is allocated to governing bodies such as the Game Fish Association of Australia (G.F.A.A) and the Queensland Game Fish Association (Q.G.F.A). These contributions support research and development, providing valuable data to State and Federal Governments to ensure sustainable fishing practices for future generations.
In addition to its educational efforts, the club supports the game fish tagging program. This initiative collects crucial data on fish migration, growth rates, spawning patterns, and overall fishery health. This research has been instrumental in eliminating destructive fishing practices like longlining, drift nets, and super trawlers from Australian waters.
The club is also committed to promoting junior and women’s participation in game fishing. Events such as the Sweeties and Squires Rally, which takes place over the Australia Day holiday, are dedicated exclusively to women and junior boys and girls, with men serving as crew members. These competitions aim to foster enthusiasm and inclusivity in the sport.
Game fishing has evolved from its early days of indiscriminate capture to a focus on sustainable practices and enjoyment of the sport. Catch-and-release techniques, such as tagging or measuring and releasing fish, are now standard practices, helping to ensure the health of the fishery for future generations.
Recently, the Whitsunday Game Fish Club held its Annual General Meeting and proudly inducted Stacey Gerhart as a Life Member. Stacey has been a vital part of the club’s success for many years, and this honour is a token of appreciation for her dedication.
For those interested in joining the club and becoming part of this vibrant community, please email whitsundaygamefishclub@gmail.com.
Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore

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Photo supplied

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The Cannonvale Cannons officially kicked off the 2024/25 season with their first Club Night on Wednesday. Despite the chilly conditions, a total of 26 swimmers took to the pool, including three new members: Erik Hinrichsen, Kate Savage, and Ruby Lawson. The club extends a warm welcome to its newest members and their families.
During the event, swimmers who set new club records at the Winter Carnival were recognized with certificates. Zach Trefz now holds the 50M Butterfly record for 12-year-olds. Jacob Bell broke the 17-year-old 200M Individual Medley record, and Levi Smith was celebrated for setting new records in both the 9-year-old 50M and 100M Breaststroke events.
Upgrades were also announced, with Andie Reynolds moving up to the 800M Freestyle, Tyler Bennett advancing to the 200M Freestyle and 200M Butterfly, and Zach Trefz upgrading to the 400M Freestyle. The youngest recipient was Evie Doherty, who upgraded to the 100M Freestyle and 100M Backstroke. Congratulations to these swimmers; the club eagerly anticipates watching them compete in their new events this season.
Over the weekend, six of the club’s talented swimmers represented the Cannonvale Cannons at the prestigious Hancock Prospecting Queensland Short Course Championships in Brisbane. The team, consisting of Tora Delac, Tyler Bennett, Zach Trefz, Thomas Ganter, Ruby Harland, and Don Algie, was accompanied by Coach Ken Krittenden. The competition was fierce, but the Cannons held their own against some of the best swimmers in the state, securing several top-ten finishes and numerous personal bests.
Special congratulations go to the swimmers who secured the following placements: Tyler Bennett finished 7th in the 50M Freestyle, Zach Trefz took 9th in the 100M Backstroke and 10th in the 50M Backstroke, and Tora Delac placed 10th in the 50M Breaststroke.
As the season progresses, the Cannonvale Cannons are eager to build on these successes and continue making waves in the pool.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Photos supplied

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Despite unseasonably cold weather, Paradise bowlers delivered exciting matches throughout the week.
Tuesday Afternoon: Mixed Triples Quarterfinals In an unexpected upset, the team of Bobby Spees (skipper), Keith Bates (lead), and Lyn Graham (second) advanced to the semifinals by defeating the champion team of Shane and Vicki Spann, and Joan McGrath with a decisive 25-12 victory. In social bowls, teams led by Ladda Purdie and Ash Warland shared the winners' prize after a strong performance.
Wednesday Afternoon: Jackpot Bowls During Wednesday's Jackpot Bowls, the club bid farewell to Greg and Glenys Pepyat and welcomed visitors from Victoria and the Gold Coast. The jackpot was not won, but the team of Rick Galea and Janet Jacometti claimed the day's honors.
Friday Highlights Friday morning saw continued improvement from the Endeavour Foundation bowlers, while the Christian College Cannonvale students also showed marked progress in the afternoon session.
Queensland Championships At the Multi-Disability Queensland Championships in Brisbane, Russell Jackson won gold in both the singles and pairs events in the Hearing Impaired section, alongside Andrew Noel Crosbie. The club is proud of their outstanding achievements.
Saturday Morning: Scroungers In Saturday’s Scroungers, Andy McDougall won the A Division final, while Maureen Barnard triumphed in the B Division.
Even in the cold, the bowlers continue to impress with their competitive spirit and skill.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Gold Medallist Russell Jackson, Photo supplied

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The local bowls scene saw some exciting matchups over the past two weeks, with players showing great skill and teamwork on the green.
Sunday, 28th July
   • Andy, Geoff, and Rob secured a win over Marion, Ray, and Gavin.
   • The trio of Alan, Lee, and Daryl defeated Gus, Keith, and Barry.
   • Anna, Jane, and Di triumphed over Ron and his team.
Wednesday, 31st July
   • Ian, Ray, and Gavin bested Peter, Jeannie, and Alan.
   • Marion, Lee, and Lloyd claimed victory against Ron, Jane, and Daryl.
   • Marilyn and Greg overcame Alan and Gus.
   • Jean and Gordo edged out MaryEllen and Skeeta.
Sunday, 4th August
   • Ian, Brit, and Gus won against Anna, L. Pas, and Steve.
   • Ray and Lloyd defeated Allen and Frank.
   • Marion and Jane emerged victorious over J. Lye and A. Lye.
Wednesday, 7th August
   • Peter B, Jane, and Daryl outplayed MaryEllen, Ray, and Ron.
   • K. Russo, F. Low, and Gus won their match against Ian, Marion, and A. Bruce.
These matches reflect the competitive spirit and camaraderie of our local bowlers, with close games and impressive performances from all teams involved.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards

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The club experienced another bustling week, with multiple events and competitions taking place. A big thank you to all the members who contributed their time and effort, especially those assisting with school groups three times a week, organizing the farewell for former member Susan Faust, preparing for the upcoming 200s, and hosting a bowls party on Saturday. All these activities were successfully completed before the much-needed rain began to fall.
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Champion of Champion Pairs
Over the weekend, Jonathan Bye and Wayne Handley represented the club in the Champion of Champion Pairs competition at Mackay City. They started strong, securing a 15-12 victory against Airlie Beach in their first match. However, they were subsequently defeated by Sarina, who then lost in the semi-final to Mackay City. Mackay City went on to win the event, defeating Marian in the final.
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Club Championship Singles Final
The final of the Club Championship Singles is set to be played on Friday, August 16, between Shane Kinnear and Michael Kinnear. Further details will be provided as the date approaches.
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Social Bowls
Wednesday's social bowls saw some exciting matches. In her final week before returning home to Swan Hill with Nev, Carol Smith played alongside Philip Brown but was defeated by Mary Hedgelong and Sandy Daffara with a score of 28-21. In another match, Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe, and Mike Harrison triumphed over Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith, and Heather Brown with a 17-13 victory.
The week was filled with camaraderie, competitive spirit, and memorable moments, setting the stage for more exciting events to come.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

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Queensland (QLD) Cricket is coming to Airlie Beach with a surprise special guest.

Brisbane Heat player Matt Renshaw will be attending the event. Matt Renshaw has played test cricket for Australia and is a current Brisbane Heat player.

The formation of the Airlie Beach Cricket Club (ABCC) comes in perfect timing as QLD Cricket want to increase their exposure via Queensland’s ‘postcard’ destination.

To promote QLD Cricket and Brisbane Heat are hosting a week of come and tries in Queenslands postcard destinations.

Cricket Manager of Mackay and Whitsundays Bo Saunders said "Every year QLD Cricket run a ‘play cricket week’. Essentially it is a week of increased promotion for the upcoming cricket season with more chances of player appearances in the regions.

“This season the theme of play cricket week is cricket in postcard destinations, and they have chosen Airlie Beach Cricket Club as one of the stops they’d like to do on the trip.

“The plan is to run a ‘come and try’ session afterschool at Cannonvale State School to try and grow some interest for the Cricket Club.”

Airlie Beach Cricket Club committee member and spokesperson Stephen Logan said “Airlie Beach Cricket Club are extremely proud and excited to help Queensland Cricket and the Brisbane Heat launch cricket in Airlie Beach as one of the postcard destinations for the 2024 – 2025 cricket season.”

ABCC have reached an agreement with Cannonvale State school to develop cricket at their school. Whilst ABCC wait for the Whitsunday Sports Park redevelopment to include cricket, ABCC will play at Cannonvale State School.

What: Launch for Cricket
Where: Cannonvale State School
When: Tuesday 20 August at 3.30pm

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Queensland Cricket is back!

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Whitsunday United’s teams delivered strong performances this weekend, with crucial matches in Mackay and at home.
Men’s Division 1 and 2 Face Off Against Brothers in Mackay
On Friday, Whitsunday United’s Men’s Division 1 and 2 teams travelled to Mackay for a key matchup against Brothers. Division 2, seeking vital points for a finals spot, struggled against Brothers’ quick midfield, ultimately losing 2-0. Despite the setback, they remain in the running for finals, needing to win their last two games.
In contrast, the Division 1 team took a major step toward the league title with a 2-1 victory. After conceding an early penalty, Whitsunday United levelled the score through Stefan Tarne before Aaron Morgan’s late header secured the win. A victory against Wanderers this Friday will clinch the title.
Under 13 Boys Battle the Wanderers Rubies
The Under 13 boys faced the Wanderers Rubies, a strong girls-only team, in an intense home match. Despite trailing 2-0 at halftime, Whitsunday United fought back to secure a 2-2 draw, with goals from Stricker Will and Jayce. This result keeps them atop the leaderboard as finals approach.
U13 Premier Team’s Mixed Results
The U13 Premier team played two matches this weekend. After a 5-0 loss to Magpies in Mackay, they bounced back with a 2-0 victory over City Brothers at home, with goals from Tyson F and Eli W, and strong defensive work by Nick P.
U14/15 Division 1 Comeback Against Dolphins Blue
The U14/15 Division 1 team staged a thrilling comeback against Dolphins Blue, turning a 2-0 halftime deficit into a 2-2 draw, with goals from Riley and Tyler G. Their resilience and teamwork were on full display.
U15 Premier Team Dominates Magpies
The U15 Premier team delivered an 8-0 rout of Magpies. Early goals from Reef Peel and Harry Squires set the tone, with Max O’Keefe adding a hat-trick and Freddie Hazleton scoring twice.
U23 Team Edges City Brothers
The U23 team secured a narrow 1-0 win over City Brothers, with Bre scoring just before halftime. Despite numerous chances, they held on for the victory, boosting their finals prospects.
Premier Ladies Crush City with 10-0 Win
The Premier Ladies dominated City with a 10-0 victory. Robyn scored twice early on, with Mathilde adding to the lead with well-placed corners. Willow finished the match with four goals in the final 15 minutes, while Hazel and Emily controlled the midfield.
Reserve Men Secure Finals Spot with Comeback Victory
The Reserve Men’s team secured a 2-1 win against City Brothers. After trailing at halftime, Sam Reynolds and Lewis Elder led a spirited comeback, with Elder scoring the winner in the final seconds.
Premier Men Win Tough Battle
The Premier Men overcame a determined City Brothers side, winning 2-1. After conceding a penalty, Whitsunday United equalized through their own penalty before Ollie Mitchell’s match-winner. Fifteen-year-old Finlay Farrell shined in midfield, earning man of the match honours.
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Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

U15 FQPL Team – Happy after a great performance cements their spot in the finals series.

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Congratulations to Larry Muller, who claimed the title of Overall Gross Men's Winner at the Vets Wintersun Competition held on Monday and Tuesday. In the Ladies Division, Wendy Grendon of Mackay triumphed in a playoff against our own Tina Badenhorst.
On Wednesday, the "Preferred Lies" were removed, and the Ladies Stableford winner was Anna Winterbourn with 34 points, narrowly edging out Vickie Wallace on a count-back.
Thursday's Stableford competition saw John Oates emerge victorious with 37 points, earning him the overall prize and the B Grade title. Dean Hegarty of Bowen took second place in B Grade with 36 points. In A Grade, Nathan Holohan also scored 37 points but secured the top spot, with Scott Mason close behind with 36 points.
In Friday's Metropole Competition, Tony Chapple excelled with a strong 23 points over nine holes, taking home the win.
Saturday featured the Reef Gateway Hotel Monthly Medal. Noelene Spurway was the Overall Winner with an impressive 65 nett, showcasing a fantastic back nine. Kath Borer was the Ladies' Runner-Up with a 67 nett. In A Grade, Ryan Wilkes won with a 70 nett, while Nathan Holohan continued his solid performance with a 71 nett, securing A Grade Runner-Up. Brendan Spann topped B Grade with an excellent 65 nett, followed by Rob Smith with a 68 nett. Mason Johnson emerged as the C Grade winner with a 69 nett, with Vic Feldman as the Runner-Up on 70 nett.
Saturday also marked our Annual General Meeting (AGM), where we welcomed our new board, led by President Don Cameron. We wish them the best for the upcoming year and extend our gratitude to the outgoing board for their accomplishments.
As rain set in on Sunday, the course is currently closed. We look forward to seeing everyone once conditions improve.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Club

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In this week’s 9-hole Stableford competition, Alan Clinch emerged victorious with a score of 24 points. Luke Andrews secured second place with 23 points, while Frank Tewnyson took third with 20 points, decided on a count-back.
In Friday’s 9-hole Stableford event, Michael Bond claimed first place with 24 points. Jared Leaman followed in second place with 22 points, and Glenn Rees finished third with 21 points, also decided on a count-back.
Sunday’s 4BBB Club Championships saw Scott Hayes-Williams and Jack Hayes-Williams come out on top with a net score of 44.5. Sean Fogarty and Ryan Kenny took second place with a 45.5 net, and Sacha Walton and Tim Walton finished in third with a 47 net. The Nearest the Pin awards went to Michael Pettiford and Jakob Norman. Congratulations to all participants for their impressive performances.
Looking ahead, the Skins 18-hole competition is scheduled for this Sunday, August 18, with tee times from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.

Jack Hayes Williams and Scott Hayes Williams. Photo supplied

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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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