The Rays Community Cricket Program is launching fresh opportunities for Term 2, following the outstanding success of the Girls Only Rays Blast Programs. This next chapter introduces a fun and inclusive cricket experience, featuring a modified game format tailored to help young players build confidence and develop their skills in a positive environment.

Girls aged 8–12 years can continue their cricket journey with a new format that blends learning with gameplay. Each 90-minute session kicks off with 20 minutes of skill development, followed by a dynamic match designed to put those new skills into action.

Boys aren’t missing out either – Term 2 will also feature a Boys Only Program for boys aged 8–11 years. Both programs will run simultaneously at Harrup Park, with qualified coaches leading participants through every drill and game, supporting all skill levels and encouraging participation.

Whether cartwheeling down the pitch and spinning like Ash Gardner or smashing sixes and taking screamers like Glenn Maxwell, young cricketers will find plenty of inspiration and joy in every session. The focus remains on creating a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable space where kids can grow their game, forge friendships, and fall in love with cricket.

Join an unforgettable cricket experience, where fun meets skill development, and every child has the chance to shine on the field!

Program Details:
Start Date: Monday, 12th May
Duration: 4 weeks
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Location: Harrup Park, Field 2
Cost: $35 (includes a Rays bouncy ball and water bottle)

Visit playhq.com - Mackay Cricket Association, for more information.

‍

In an amazing turn-out, over 240 competitors participated in both the ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge and MINI MACH Adventure Challenge over the ANZAC long weekend. Finch Hatton RSL was the new Head Quarters, and the choice to move to that particular location was an excellent one. The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive.

The venue was shared with the RSL’s ANZAC Day celebrations, adding a unique and respectful atmosphere to the event.

The MTB stage featured the popular Finch Hatton MTB trails, which were met with great enthusiasm. The road cycle took competitors along local roads and rolling hills, framed by the stunning Pioneer Valley mountains. The run included refreshing creek crossings, twists, and turns that challenged and delighted participants. The kayak stage was reshaped into a “Y” formation, which also received positive feedback from competitors.

The winners were as follows:

𝗦𝗢𝗟𝗢 𝗔𝘁𝗵𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲𝘀:
Completing an epic 87km of MTB, Kayak, Trail Run & Road Cycle -both winners, take the glory as second-time winners!

𝗟𝗲𝗲 𝗧𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗼𝗿: our first ever ZACH MACH champion in 2013 and now our first Male Solo winner at our new Finch Hatton HQ!

𝗝𝗼𝗱𝘆 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗲𝗿: true to form, backed up her long course Female Solo win with another first in 2025!

Sharing the podium:
2nd Female: 𝗞𝗲𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗹𝗹
2nd Male: 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝘇
3rd Female: 𝗩𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗶 𝗖𝗼𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻
3rd Male: 𝗕𝗲𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗱𝗱𝗲𝗻 (missing from the photo)

𝗣𝗔𝗜𝗥𝗦:
Pairs complete the full ZACH MACH Course together and have to stay withing 20m of each other for the entire course:

1st Place: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗚𝘂𝘆𝘀 - Evan Corry & Ashley Brownsey
2nd Place: 𝗠𝗔𝗖𝗛 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗮𝗰𝘀 - Caleb Caldwell & Archer Flanagan
3rd Place: 𝗧𝗿𝗶-𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗩𝟴 𝗧𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘀 - Linda Wetherall & Christine Webb

𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠𝗦:
Teams relayed their way through the iconic Pioneer Valley, some team members taking on more than one stage!

1st Place: May Contain Nuts
2nd Place: Send for Help
3rd Place: Blackfullas
Incredible to see a full local podium!

𝗠𝗧𝗕 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 (36km Adventure Ride)
Across private property, up the iconic Teemburra Climb (because it 𝒊𝒔 an Adventure Challenge after all!) and finishing with the Finch Hatton MTB Park:

𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Male (by a whisker): Ethan Jansen
Female: Cath Meng

𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Male: Riley Green
Female: Sacha Hoare

𝟯𝗿𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Male: Zac Schwarzrock
The female MTB podium was skipped as both our legends Cath and Sacha powered straight into the 10ish KM Trail Run! Congrats Cath!

𝗞𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗸 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 (10km)
Redesigned this year for a more 'social course' set up in beautiful Teemburra Dam!

𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲: Zara Richardson (2nd year standing)
Congrats Zara — we hope you loved the new setup!

𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗥𝘂𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 (Short & Long Course)
We may have been in Finch Hatton, however we still included the iconic Cattle Creek and had access through amazing private farms:

𝟱𝗞𝗠 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘂𝗺:

𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Female: Millie Groom
Male: Riley Walz

𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Female: Charlie Walker
Male: Tom Ballingall

𝟯𝗿𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Female: Isabelle Cahill
Male: Ollie Preston

𝟭𝟬𝗞𝗠 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘂𝗺: May have been a little longer

𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Male: Jason Burke
Female: Kylie Parkinson

𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Male: Eli Flanagan
Female: Samantha Sticklan

𝟯𝗿𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Male: Graeme Harris
Female: Abigail Preston

𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗖𝘆𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 (25km Scenic Sprint)
Rolling hills, lush mountainous views, and our biggest Road Cycle Stage to date!

𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲
Male: Riley Green
Female: Abigail Preston

𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Male: Ethan Jansen
Female: Bella Preston

𝟯𝗿𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲:
Male: Zac Schwarzrock
Female: Bella Preston

‍

Completing an epic 87km of MTB, Kayak, Trail Run and Road Cycle, both winners Lee Taylor and Jody Walker, take the glory as second-time winners

Teams podium with team 'May Contain Nuts' taking the win

Over 240 competitors took on the ZACH MACH and MINI MACH challenges in Finch Hatton over the ANZAC weekend, with epic stages and glowing feedback. Photos supplied

The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club have defended their title in style, claiming back-to-back victories at the annual Symons Shield, held this year on Tuesday 29 April and Thursday 1 May.

Hosted by the Northern Beaches Bowls Club, the event drew top competition from clubs across the region, including Airlie Beach, Marian, Mackay City, Mackay Club, North Mackay, Northern Beaches, Sarina, South Suburban, and Wests.

Day one saw early clashes, with North Mackay defeating South Suburban in the morning session, while Mackay City got the better of Wests. In the afternoon round, North Mackay maintained form with a win over Mackay City, while Airlie Beach overcame Marian and Northern Beaches edged past Mackay Club.

Semi-finals were held on Thursday morning, with North Mackay outplaying Sarina and Airlie Beach toppling Northern Beaches to set up a highly anticipated final.

The Thursday afternoon decider saw North Mackay rise to the challenge, securing a well-earned win over Airlie Beach and clinching the coveted shield for the second year running.

The winning team included Lorna Bowers, Chris Hall, Marie Duck, Debbie Mackenzie, Lorraine Lemke, Lois Deguara, Chris Woo, Nug Pratt, Val DePinto, and Lidia McCarthy.

Congratulations to the North Mackay ladies for their impressive campaign and to the Northern Beaches Club for once again hosting this beloved annual event.

‍

(left to right): Lorna Bowers, Chris Hall, Marie Duck, Debbie Mackenzie, Lorraine Lemke, Lois Deguara, Chris Woo, Nug Pratt, Val DePinto. Absent: Lidia McCarthy

‍

Months of hard training paid off for the Shito-Ryu Karate Club in Bucasia at the Traditional Japanese Karate National Championships, held recently in Adelaide.

This was the third year the club attended the national competition and the team was rewarded with an impressive haul of nine gold, one silver, and two bronze medals across both individual and team events. Congratulations to Helle, Tim, Logan, Nathanial and Aksel on their outstanding achievements.

The five-member team’s dedication to training didn’t stop once they arrived in Adelaide. They continued with early morning beach sessions throughout their stay, rewarded not only with results but also stunning sunrises, sunsets, and the occasional visit from dolphins.

The Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Club, led by Sensei Helle, meets at the Community Hall in Bucasia every Tuesday and Thursday from 5–7pm during the school term. All ages are welcome, with juniors particularly well supported by the club’s experienced senior members.

The club is also home to two of the oldest women in the world to achieve the level of Black Belt and offers additional training sessions and social activities throughout the year.

For more information, email hellekarate@yahoo.com.

‍

The Shito-Ryu Karate Club team proudly displays their medals after a successful campaign at the Traditional Japanese Karate National Championships in Adelaide, where they secured nine gold, one silver, and two bronze medals across individual and team events. Photos supplied

‍

The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club will swap laps for lamingtons on Saturday, May 17, when they host a special morning tea fundraiser in partnership with DMR Leisure.

Held under the shade tree at the Memorial Pool from 9.30am to 11.30am, the event is part of the Cancer Council’s nationwide Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea initiative. Known for their post-swim hospitality, the Sinkers are inviting the community to join them for a morning of treats, raffles, games, and good company—all while supporting a cause close to many hearts.

A minimum gold coin donation will unlock access to a generous spread of sweet and savoury delights. Swimmers will pay the usual pool entry fee, while non-swimmers can follow kiosk staff directions to the event area. Coffee and cuppas will be available from the on-site kiosk.

Nearly one in two Australians are diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, and every dollar raised goes towards research, prevention, and vital support services. Just $150, for instance, can connect two people recently diagnosed with cancer with a trained Cancer Connect volunteer for one-on-one support.

Can’t make it? Donate online by searching “DMR Leisure and Sinkers Biggest Morning Tea” via the Cancer Council’s website.

‍

Dee McMurtrie with treats for the Sinkers' regular Saturday after-swim gathering

L – R Tania Walsh, Lesley Thorpe, Kylie Tomlin and Paula Arvidson enjoy a chat and coffee. Photos supplied

‍

Mackay Road Runners traded competitive tension for community spirit in their latest club event, a relaxed 5km and 10km run departing from Bluewater Quay. But while some were enjoying a social Sunday hit-out, others were grinding up the gruelling hills of Hamilton Island in one of the most scenic and punishing races on the calendar—the annual Hilly Half Marathon.

Over 25 runners and supporters took to the Bluewater course under cool and overcast skies, with the 10km runners powering out toward Mt Bassett’s summit and back, while 5km participants turned at the old Walkerston Markets. True to its casual format, runners had the option to choose their own turnaround point for a distance that suited them, making for a flexible and friendly session.

Levi Wallace made the most of the conditions, continuing his red-hot form to cruise through the 10km course at a blistering pace. Rising star Max Miles also impressed, completing the 10km alongside his dad Ashley, while mum Bianca led the Miles family home in the 5km.

The Knezevic clan also made it a family affair, with Alana, Vivian, and Harvey taking on the 5km together as dad Adam tackled the 10km. Natasha and Craig Joynson ran side-by-side once again, proving that pacing with a partner can be just as rewarding as a PB. Len Howarth, steadily improving with each outing, also stepped up to the 10km distance with ease.

Several runners took part despite completing a longer training run the day before, all in preparation for the BMA Mackay Marina Run, now less than a month away. Nikki Giles, Carmel Mahon, Stephen Oberg, Shane Donnollan, David Isbister, Derek Woods, Aidan Donnollan, Colin Hardy, Fran March, Geeta Ariani, and Daniel Stampa all backed up with impressive efforts.

Meanwhile, Mackay runners turned heads on Hamilton Island at the iconic Hilly Half Marathon over the Labour Day long weekend. Paul Mackenzie stormed home in second place overall with a time of 2:13:17—an outstanding result on a course known for its brutal climbs, winding trails, and jaw-dropping views. George Hannaford was the sixth male and second in his age category, while Thomas Wendt crossed as the 20th male finisher. The Hamilton Island course demands everything from its competitors, winding over lookouts, unsealed roads, and sharp inclines, making these results all the more remarkable.

Next up, the club’s weekend run will shift to a Saturday morning start from Casu Jacks Café at the Mackay Marina, due to Mother’s Day on Sunday. The handicap event will feature 5km and 12km options, with a 7am gun time. Runners must register by 6.50am with their member bib clearly displayed to allow for accurate timing and briefings. Non-members are welcome to join in the fun for a $10 casual fee.

‍

Mackay Road Runners social 5km, 10km Bluewater Quay run was enjoyed by over twenty runners and supporters including (left to right) Stephen Oberg, David Isbister, Levi Wallace, Phoebe March (back), Fran March (back), Carmel Mahon, Alana Knezevic with Harvey Knezevic (front), Vivian Knezevic and Adam Knezevic. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

The very popular Bluewater Quay Mackay Road Runners social 5k and 10k was held whilst a bevy of local runners attended the Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon

Nikki Giles, Ashley Miles, Max Miles and Len Howarth ready to race

Fran, Bianca, Daniel, Derek and Geeta cool down to rest after their 5km efforts

Aidan Donnollan and Shane Donnollan are ready for some post-run hydration after their 10km event

‍

A busy week of Tuesday fixtures saw fierce rallies and tight finishes across all three divisions at Mackay Table Tennis.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures April 29, 2025:

Division 1:

Ghost Spin (George Camilleri, Branko Vucurovic, Bryan Marshall) d Cosmic Sorcerers (Delma Knight, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Delma d Branko -8, 8, -10, 12, 7.

Panther Prowlers (Doug Dungavell, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) d Phoenix Fire (Donna Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) 7-5. Kevin d Darryl 11, 4, 23.

Star Lords (Geoff Cowan, Tony Bowman, Veronica Shepherd) d Ant Warriors (Allan Robins, Judy Zahn, Don Boettcher) 8-4. Tony d Judy 8, 6, -6, -9, 4.

Division 2:

Eclipse Spin (Helen Ware, Ken Best, Virginia Clayton) d Astro Aces (Iris Grasso, John Hamelink, Chris Collins) 9-3. John d Ken -9, 7, 9, 9.

Orion Orbiters (Ross deBoor, Kim Daffy, Louise Gould) drew Nova Smashers (Marie Taylor, Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) 6-all. Kim d Marie 7, 10, -2, -5, 7.

Division 3:

Spider Smashers (Gerry Synnott, Cheryl Pearson, Glenda Dutton) d Captain Spins (Josie Davis, Sharon Muller, Myles Dutton) 7-5. Josie/Sharon d Gerry/Cheryl 8, -4, 8, -11, 9.

Iron Rallies (Trish Zamparutti, Allison Day, Laurie Bradshaw) d Bat Serves (Kim Challender, Madge Saunders, Carmel Cristaldi) 7-5. Laurie d Madge -8, 5, 6, -6, 6.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results April 22, 2025:

Division 1:

Data Dashers (Josh Brown, Barry Patterson, Niro Premachandra) d Pixel Players (Jacob Whelan, Lily Boland, Graham Drury) 8-3. Josh d Lily 8, -5, 4, -8, 8.

App Attackers (Steven Whiting, Graeme Walker, Andrea Nicholson) d Tech Titans (Ivan Perkins, Neil Brown, Jeff Denman) 6-5. Graeme d Ivan -10, 9, -11, 9, 8.

Code Crackers (Allan Edwards, Emma Widdup, Lee Brake) d Byte Bouncers (Anne Sheridan, Graham Brake, Ian McKay) 8-3. Graham d Lee 9, -4, -8, 7, 6.

Pixel Paddles (Trent Day, Mick Ruhl) d Nano Nets (Vimal Chilukuri, YiLin Jiang) 5-3. Mick/Trent d Vimal/YiLin -13, -10. 7, 11, 9.

Division 2:

Cloud Chasers (Syed Aminul Hossain, Samuel Whelan) d Stream Strikers (Delma Knight, George Camilleri) 5-4. Seyed/Samuel d Delma/George -9, 7, -9, 8, 8.

Mega Movers (Duncan Treloar, Mark Stam, Craig VanDeKaa) d Turbo Techs (Val Austin, Steve Mathieson, Jye Callander) 7-4. Jye d Mark 8, -6, 7, -5, 9.

Quantum Quick (Mark Sleeman, Rymer Tabulo, Ollie Hamelink) d Giga Gamers (Darryl Ross, Allan Robins, Peter Goodson) 7-4. Ollie d Allan 6, -9, 8, -7, 9.

Robbo Rallies (Tiffany Camilleri, Will VanDeKaa, Noreen Fredericksen) d Circuit Cyclers (Janice Kent, David Symons) 6-5. David d Noreen -6, 8, 4, 7.

‍

Kim Daffy played a key role for Orion Orbiters in their hard-fought 6-all draw in Division 2 morning fixtures

Marie Taylor fought through a five-set battle for Nova Smashers in Division 2 Tuesday morning action. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

‍

This week’s 6 v 5 fixture in Mackay Underwater Hockey delivered a thrilling display of skill, teamwork, and the strong family spirit that continues to define the club.

Newcomers the Malouf family made an impressive debut, with young Isabelle turning heads poolside thanks to her confident performance. Displaying natural talent beyond her years, Isabelle showed she’s one to watch in seasons to come.

The Bollard brothers also continued their steady rise, sharpening their game with each outing. Their energy and enthusiasm were felt across the pool, adding to both the competitiveness and camaraderie of the match.

Meanwhile, the Buschman clan once again proved formidable, with several standout moments that left spectators wondering if they had a secret training regime up their sleeves. Their consistent form and athleticism made a significant impact on the game.

With two to three more families set to return to the pool once schedules allow, the club is well positioned to maintain its strong community focus throughout the cooler months—helped in no small part by reliable pool heating and an unwavering commitment from players and families.

As the season continues, Mackay Underwater Hockey remains open to new players. Anyone interested in joining is encouraged to come down to the ARC and get involved. Whether you're in it for fitness, fun, or a future star in the making, there’s a place for everyone in this tight-knit and welcoming club.

‍

The 2025 Australian Speedway Sidecar Championship, held over Easter weekend (April 19-20) at Bowen Speedway, exhilarated the Whitsundays, galvanising  Bowen as a hub of motorsport. Promoted by the NQ Speedway Riders & Supporters Club, this momentous event drew swathes of people to the granite-based track at Bowen Showgrounds, revived in 2019 after decades of history since 1927. For Bowen, hosting this national championship was a triumph, magnifying local pride and boosting tourism. The event showcased the region’s ability to stage world-class spectacles, putting Bowen on the map alongside its stunning beaches and vibrant community spirit.

The championship was a tempestuous rollercoaster of highs and lows, with fierce rivalries and heart-stopping action. Mark Plaisted and passenger Ben Pitt, from Adelaide, captured the title in a thrilling final, overcoming tricky track conditions that varied across rounds. Mark credited his team and praised Mike Zahlen’s bike for their edge in the competition. Meanwhile, Justin Plaisted, brother of Mark and also from Adelaide, battled back from an early exclusion to secure fourth place, showcasing heart and resilience. “Once you make the finals, anything can happen,” Justin noted, reflecting the event’s unpredictability. Crashes punctuated the races, with sidecars,1000cc beasts with no brakes, skidding on tight turns, spraying dirt pebbles onto the roaring crowd, amplifying the raw intensity of the sport.

The atmosphere was electric, fuelled by the speed and screaming sound of sidecar engines hitting 100+ km/h, their engines snarling and fuel fumes pervading through the air. Spectators, from toddlers to grandparents, felt the adrenaline as riders and passengers leaned into curves, mere inches from the ground. The crowd’s cheers swelled to a crescendo  with each pass, dirt flecks dusting their faces, creating a visceral connection to the action. Bowen’s supportive audience, praised by both Plaisted brothers, turned the Showgrounds into a cauldron of excitement, with families soaking in the family-friendly vibe. “The Bowen crowd was awesome, really behind us”, Mark noted, appreciating the enthusiastic turnout.

Food stalls added to the festive spirit, offering hot dogs, chips, burgers, and a range of beverages. These stalls, buzzing with activity, kept fans fueled as they mingled, swapped race predictions, and cheered for heroes like defending champions Darrin Treloar and Blake Cox, who pushed the leaders hard. The event’s inclusivity shone, with junior sidecar support races inspiring young fans and free pit access before 6pm letting kids meet their idols. Mark, a sidecar racer since age 10, had a message for aspiring juniors, “Stick with it, from junior Speedway to chasing your dreams like I did.”

‍

Racers doing a lap around the prior to races
Racers lining up for the finals
Racers battling out in the finals
Champion Mark Plaisted and Passenger Ben Pitt
Mark Plaisted and Ben Pitt on the podium
Photo Credit: Munir Kilic.

‍

Bowen’s polocrosse talent was on show in Roma over the weekend as Shannon and Adam Burns represented the region at the Roma Polocrosse Club Carnival, joining more than 30 teams for a packed schedule of fierce but friendly competition.

The Sarina-based duo joined forces with players from Emerald and Tara to form a composite side cheekily dubbed the “Rest of the World” team. Their teammates included Emerald’s Sam Parnell and Brian Wells, as well as Tara locals Wayne Doyle and Russell Stevens.

With Tara players taking charge in the front line, Shannon Burns and Sam Parnell holding steady through the centre, and Adam Burns and Brian Wells anchoring the defence, the mixed squad quickly found their rhythm.

Saturday saw the team notch up two strong wins, first against Dirranbandi and then against the host club Roma. Sunday brought a light-hearted clash with a combined Alton Downs/Toowoomba side, full of laughs and fast-paced action.

The final challenge was the Rising Stars juniors — a Queensland development squad preparing for next weekend’s Barastoc competition in Warwick. Despite the juniors coming out strong, the seasoned Rest of the World team held their ground to finish the weekend undefeated.

It was a clean sweep and a memorable showing for all involved.

Bowen Polocrosse Club praised the Roma P for their hospitality and the seamless running of the carnival. The Bowen players also extended thanks to the Tara and Emerald clubs for a weekend full of teamwork and camaraderie.

With momentum on their side, the Bowen contingent are already looking ahead to their next outing on the polocrosse circuit.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Polocrosse Club

‍

A field of 29 clay target shooters converged on Port Denison Gun Club on Sunday, April 27, for the club’s monthly competition — with competitors travelling from across the region to take part in the popular shoot.

Visiting marksmen and women hailed from Clermont, Dysart, Mackay/Sarina, Burdekin, Townsville and Silkwood, joining local members for a full program of events held in ideal conditions.

In Event 1: 25 Target Double Barrel, AA Grade honours went to T. Coco with a flawless 25/25. A. Lord led A Grade on 34/35, while B Grade was taken out by R. Meaney with 24/25. C Grade saw B. Elphinstone also post 24/25 for the win.

Event 2: 25 Target Single Barrel produced tight results. B. Micallef claimed AA Grade with 40/42, while J. Cerqui led A Grade on 39/40. B Grade was won by D. Stitt (23/25), and G. Lydiard topped C Grade with 22/25.

In Event 3: 25 Target Point Score, B. Micallef again impressed with 118/120 to take AA Grade. A. Lord continued his strong form with 84/87 to win A Grade. B and C Grades were both topped by 74/78 scores, with P. LeBlowitz and G. Clarke taking the respective wins.

Event 4: 25 Pair Double Rise saw R. Gough claim Overall and 1st AA with 44/50, followed by B. Micallef in 2nd on 41/50. A Grade was won by T. Meaney (42/50), with T. Coco close behind on 51/60. In B Grade, G. Maltby took the win on 42/50, with D. Stitt posting 42/54 for second. R. Meaney led C Grade with 40/50, followed by R. Warwick on 35/50.

Contributed with thanks to Colin Edgerton

‍

Proserpine Golf Club celebrated its centenary in style with a three-day golf festival over the weekend.

Friday kicked off with a 9-hole competition followed by sunset canapés, with ticket options including golf and gift packs or an evening of gourmet treats.

Saturday upped the ante with an 18-hole showdown and a celebration dinner, offering a three-course feast and great company.

The festivities wrapped up on Sunday with a 3-Ball Ambrose event, where teams were invited to tee off in a friendly but strategic format.

‍

The weather this past week has certainly been a mixed bag, but there’s been a lot of you making the best of it and catching great fish despite it. One thing’s for sure – the drop in humidity has been welcomed by all!

Dam
The dam has been producing some good barramundi over the past week, particularly in the bays and creeks in the southern part. There have also been some cracking sooty’s coming over the side as a bycatch.

The water temperature is starting to drop, which means it’s a great time to use soft plastic lures. Both 5” and 6” ones are great options for the dam at the moment.

Estuary
We’re continuing to see some good land-based barramundi being caught across the local hotspots. The VMR boat ramp has been the standout location.

Mud crabs are still being caught in the river, and the current weather presents a great opportunity for you to scope out some prime locations. Be sure to focus on gutters with fresh bait. It’s also worth a reminder to check the weather and tides, especially if you’re leaving your pots in overnight, as you may need to secure the rope to a tree.

Islands & Offshore
If the weather forecast is correct, offshore fishing certainly won’t be pleasant (again!). If you’ve got a stomach of steel though, know that the mackerel are now pushing in. Large Spanish Mackerel aren’t as frequent, but school size ones are in numbers now, and they’re the best for eating.

Now is also the time to be targeting sailfish, with some good numbers being caught during the past fortnight. Focus your efforts on trolling fresh garfish around the outer islands, looking for current lines, in particular, clean water.

Best of luck out there!

Contributed with thanks to Beth Hockley and Jason Fisher from Tackle World Airlie Beach

‍

A great sailfish caught this week aboard Moonshine, operated by Top Notch Game Fishing. Photo supplied

‍

With Easter and Anzac Day behind us, members of the Airlie Beach Bowls Club paused to reflect on the sacrifices of our service men and women. We are reminded how fortunate we are to live in such a beautiful part of the country—especially here in our own slice of paradise.

Tuesday morning saw continued action in the Ladies Singles and Pairs competitions, with only one social game played, meaning no prizes were awarded for the day.

On Wednesday, Ted Cullen and Noel Crosbie dominated the green, with Noel in superb form at lead and Ted capitalising at every opportunity. Both players are enjoying a rich vein of form. Wednesday night also marked the first week of the Business House Bowls competition, with results to be shared next week.

Rain returned on Thursday and Friday, unfortunately preventing the Christian College children from beginning their competition and bowls lessons. However, we look forward to welcoming them next Friday afternoon. In brighter news, the club was thrilled to host members of the Endeavour Foundation.

Saturday’s Scroungers competition was cancelled due to a rain-soaked green, but Sunday afternoon social bowls went ahead. In Senior Men’s Singles, Bob McMahon defeated a gallant Bill Gordon. In the B Grade Ladies Pairs, new bowler Mel Fennell teamed with Sue Dakin to defeat Liz McManus and Dawn Dowell 19–12. Meanwhile, Di Jackson and Maureen Barnard overcame Gail Simms and Kathryn Remmeswaal 21–14. All players are to be congratulated on their strong performances.

Two triples matches were also played on Sunday. Arthur McManus skipped a team alongside Des Ballance and Townsville’s John Harker to defeat John Brown’s team, which included John Anderson of Proserpine and Lyn Graham, 18–15. In the second game, Tony Whitehorn’s team of Duncan Smith and Betty Whitehorn overcame a spirited late push from Stacey Hadlow’s side, which included Greg Fennell and Mark Mawson, to win 17–12 and take home the winner’s prize.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Endeavour Foundation's wonderful group from the back Kiara, with Mitch and Karen. Front row -David Meiklejohn ABBC bowls coach with John and Julie Michael and Jett with Paola. Photo supplied

‍

Young athletes from across the region will take to the fields this Friday, 9 May, as the Whitsunday Touch Association hosts its highly anticipated Touch Football School Trials at Club Whitsunday.

The trials are expected to draw a strong turnout of talented students, all vying for selection and keen to showcase their skills, teamwork, and fitness on the field. Touch football, a fast-paced and strategic non-contact sport, continues to grow in popularity throughout Queensland schools, and this local trial presents an important opportunity for players to impress selectors and progress further in the sport.

The event is not only a platform for athletic achievement but also a celebration of community and participation. With multiple games scheduled throughout the day, the atmosphere is set to be energetic and full of support from friends, family, and school staff.

To keep participants and supporters well-fed and refreshed, the Whitsunday Touch Association has ensured that a range of food and drink options will be available on-site. The outside can bar will operate from 10am to 2pm, offering classic snacks such as pies, sausage rolls, lolly bags, and soft drinks.

For those seeking a more filling meal, the Club Bistro inside will open from 11.30am, serving a wide selection of favourites. A special burger and drink deal for $25 will be on offer for those looking to enjoy a satisfying lunch between games. In addition, the clubhouse coffee station will be available from 9.30am, providing a much-needed caffeine boost for early arrivals and supporters.

Organisers are looking forward to a successful day, not only in terms of player performance but also in building community spirit around touch football. Events like these are vital in fostering a love for sport at a grassroots level, encouraging healthy competition and sportsmanship among young athletes.

The Whitsunday Touch Association invites the public to come down, enjoy the day, cheer on the players, and be part of a growing local sporting tradition.

‍

Whitsunday Touch School Trials are on this Friday. Photo sourced: Facebook

‍