The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club made a splash on Saturday, May 17, kicking off the day with dedication, stamina, and community spirit. The morning began bright and early with a special endurance session at 7am.

Following that, the club’s popular 8am “Jim Session” offered a second challenge for many, all leading up to a heartfelt cause. In partnership with DMR Leisure, the Sinkers hosted a swimmer’s take on Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea at the Memorial Pool – raising vital funds for the Cancer Council.

The morning showcased not only athletic prowess but also the unity of a club swimming for both health and hope.

Upcoming Sinkers Winter Sessions, May – August (Inc):

• Mondays (Coached) – 515pm for 530-630pm swim and
• Wednesdays (Whiteboard) – 515pm for 530-630pm swim
• Saturdays (Whiteboard) – 8 am to 9am for the famous Jim Session.

All swims based at the Memorial Swim Centre.

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Swimmers gathered after the endurance swim for this photo opportunity before commencing session 2 at 8am with Jim’s 3.2k program. Photos supplied

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Not content with a morning of epic swims members welcomed the Sinkers and DMR Leisure’s swimmer version of Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea and helped to raise funds for the Cancer Council.

Event planning was in high gear, thanks to the club Secretary, who ensured plenty of action with games and a best hat competition. Stunning tea cups were available for purchase, and an impressive multi-sponsored raffle prize—valued at $550—added extra excitement to the fundraising efforts.

Of course, no morning tea is complete without delicious food, and the club delivered in style! Swimmers, family members, and guests indulged in home-baked delights, including savory croissants, egg and bacon pie, muffins, slices, and much more.

The day had begun with a serious effort in the pool, kicking off at 7am with an endurance program, followed by another 60 minutes at 8am – a 3.2k "Jim Session" that pushed some swimmers all the way to 6k in total. But any calories burned in the water were undoubtedly replaced during their morning tea from 9:30am to 11:30am.

Held under the shade of the majestic rain tree, the event welcomed attendees for a gold coin donation and offered the chance to win raffle prizes, including a wheelbarrow, vouchers, towels, and much more—prompting some generous giving in support of the Cancer Council fundraiser.

As the final raffle tickets were drawn and the tablecloths packed away, the inaugural DMR Leisure & Sinkers "Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea" proved to be a resounding success, raising over $2,000 for a worthy cause.

With almost 1 in 2 Australians diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, this fundraising event contributes to the Cancer Council of Australia’s vital research efforts—working toward a cure and making a meaningful difference for those impacted.

The Sinkers extend their thanks to Coach Millie from DMR Leisure for her exceptional community efforts, financial support, and, of course, for providing those delicious bacon and egg pies plus croissants.

A huge thank you from the club also goes to the Memorial Pool staff, pool patrons, and generous donors—including their raffle prize sponsors: Bunnings, Mt. Pleasant Tavern, Dan Murphy’s, Rebel, and the incredible club members.

You can learn more at www.biggestmorningtea.com.au.

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The delightful treats on offer were popular amongst swimmers and guests alike.

It was a family affair with a great community vibe for a relaxed morning of treats and socialising.

A great swimmer at arms, Lesley kept us on track with games and fines for the indiscretions of no hats and other tea party high jinks. The Wheelbarrow of prizes on display. Photos supplied

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The Endurance 1000 annual program consists of a number of distances and strokes, which start with 400m and progress to 1-hour swims, for the keen there are 63 swims in the program.

On Saturday, a baker’s dozen of swimmers fronted at 7am for events ranging from 400m to 60-minute swims, recording either times or distances against the event. Swimmers earn points for the club in a State and National competition during the calendar year. It was also the first time for some swimmers to challenge themselves with a 60-minute swim earning top points as they club eye’s the annual club trophy award held by a southern club for over a decade.

Points are awarded and the ultimate goal is to encourage swimmers to achieve maximum points in all events in a calendar year. Improved endurance and swimming with purpose are an added value.

The majority of swimmers than regrouped for a second session at 8am as they swum towards the Biggest Morning Tea completing over 6km individual swims in the process.

For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

Contributed By Dan Stampa

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Sally McGlashan approaches the turn in her 30 minute continuous swim completing 1500m in the allocated time.

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At The 2025 Eimeo Triathlon

The 2025 Eimeo Triathlon delivered a picture-perfect morning of racing, with calm waters and clear skies welcoming competitors to the first open water event of the year. The club’s new swim markers, funded by a Mackay Regional Council grant, added a professional touch.
A low tide added difficulty with a longer beach run to transition, but spirits remained high, and the pace was fierce.

Local favourite Jody Walker dominated the Sprint Distance once again, claiming top female honours for the third straight year and securing her name on the Laura Petiffer Perpetual Trophy. A stellar effort from a local legend.

First-timer Charlie Mabb, a new Mackay Triathlon Club member, impressed by winning the Enticer Distance on debut. His commitment to training proved key, showing that hard work pays off.

The men’s Sprint race brought fierce competition. John Thomas led out of the water, but was overtaken by Ben Croker, who surged ahead with a powerful bike leg and strong run to take first. Tim Ffrost made a welcome return to racing, finishing third.

This year’s event saw the largest Eimeo field in four years, highlighting the sport’s local growth and the club’s positive momentum. From first-timers to seasoned racers, the atmosphere was electric.

Thanks go to the Mackay Triathlon Club committee, early-morning volunteers, and the Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club for making the event a safe and successful celebration of community, competition, and the joy of triathlon.

Sprint Distance – Male Results:
1st – Ben Croker
2nd – John Thomas
3rd – Tim Ffrost

Sprint Distance – Female Results:
1st – Jody Walker
2nd – Naomi Ballard
3rd – Keltie Davies

Visit www.mackaytriclub.com.au for more information on results and upcoming events.

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The 2025 Eimeo Triathlon served up sunshine, strong performances, and record numbers in a high-energy start to the open water racing season. Photo source: Mackay Triathlon Club

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The picturesque Lake Proserpine Campground will host two distinctly different yet equally exciting events this month, drawing hundreds of locals and visitors to this incredible lakefront location.

On Thursday 12 June, the Queensland Music Festival’s Reef Sundowner will bring a relaxed evening of soulful performances to the lakeside, followed by the high-energy, Barra and Boots Music Festival, on Saturday 21 June.

Both events are family-friendly and attendees can expect a laid-back country vibe.

Reef Sundowner
The Reef Sundowner is a free ticketed event running from 5pm to 10pm. The evening features a stellar line-up of live music, including First Nations artists Harold Bowen and Adi Thomas, local favourite David Flower, and headline act Those Folk – a soulful Americana folk duo.

You’ll find a great range of food from local favourites like I’m the Pizza Guy, Bauies Smokin Meats, and Rilo Ice Cream and Fruit Smoothies, while a jumping castle will keep the kids smiling.

As the main stage winds down, the night shifts into a mellow fireside music session – the perfect way to wind down under the stars. Camping is not only encouraged, but also part of the experience so book a site for the night, pitch your tent or park your van and soak up the relaxed lakeside atmosphere at your own pace.

Barra & Boots
Barra and Boots is a ticketed country music festival, exclusive to weekend campers and Saturday day visitors. The main event runs from 12pm to 10pm on Saturday 21 June, with a huge line-up of Australian country music talent including Michael Ward, Rusty Pick Ups, Bonnie Kellett, Paul Costa, Josh Setterfield, Christie Lamb – and headliners Amber Lawrence and the Sunny Cowgirls.

Camping tickets are almost sold out, but day passes with return bus transfers are still available. There’ll be great food all day from Hernan’s Way Pizza, Bauies Smokin Meats, and Rilo Ice Cream and Fruit Smoothies so get your friends and family together and enjoy the country atmosphere.

WHAT: Reef Sundowner
WHEN: Thursday 12 June (5pm – 10pm)
WHERE: Lake Proserpine
TICKETS: Free!!!!
Register at qldmusictrails.com

WHAT: Barra & Boots Music Festival
WHEN: Saturday 21 June (12pm – 10pm)
WHERE: Lake Proserpine
TICKETS: GA ($160 + booking fee), Youth 11-17 ($49.95 + booking fee), Child 6-11 ($24.95 + booking fee), Children 0-5 (FREE)
Book your tickets and camping at regfest.com.au

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Club Medal & Level Achievements

In Part Two of our end-of-season wrap-up, we shine a light on the swimmers who reached important performance milestones throughout the season. These awards are based on official qualifying times achieved in our home pool at Club Nights, Club Championships, or Cannons-hosted Carnivals – and they represent dedication, determination, and consistent improvement.

First up, we celebrated recipients of the Club Medal, awarded to swimmers who have achieved up to four qualifying times from the Level 1 table. Congratulations to:

• Jax Eaves
• Millie Groom
• Murphy Jamieson
• Leo Mulliss
• Lennox Wild
• Dylan Reynolds

Next, we proudly acknowledged our Level 1 Trophy swimmers – those who achieved five or more qualifying times from the Level 1 table:

• Tiana Bell
• Tyler Bennett
• Charlie Doherty
• Roxy Groom
• Jasper Korosec
• Gracie Laguna
• Ruby Lawson
• Nelson Malady
• Matilda Nicholes
• Sophie Palmero
• Addie Sanders
• Indi Smith

We then celebrated a very special group of swimmers who reached the Level 2 Trophy by achieving three qualifying times from the Level 2 table:

• Ella Bounden
• Zach Trefz
• Alex Trefz
• Levi Smith
• Andie Reynolds
• Isabella Pisaniello
• Isaac Pisaniello
• Celeste Orenshaw
• Eric Mulliss
• Lucas Korosec
• Billie Jamieson
• Ruby Harland
• Koa Harland
• Thomas Ganter
• Liam Filewood
• Miller Eaves
• Evie Doherty
• Declan Dichiera
• Maeve Dichiera
• Harris Delac
• Zane Clayworth
• Jax Clayworth
• Eloise Chegwidden
• Harry Chegwidden
• Mackenzie Bennett
• Don Algie

Finally, we recognised our Level 3 Trophy recipients – those who achieved two qualifying times from the Level 3 table:

• Tora Delac
• Jacob Bell

Each of these achievements reflects the spirit of the Cannonvale Cannons – pushing limits, supporting each other, and striving for personal bests. Well done to all our swimmers!

Stay tuned for Part Three in next week’s edition as we wrap up the season with our special awards and major club trophies.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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We’re happy to report that the weather was beautiful for the Queenfish and Trevally Rally last weekend, and the winning fish was a GT.

If you’re not already a member of the Whitsunday Game Fish Club, we recommend becoming one. Not only is it fun getting involved in local fishing comps, it’s also a great way to connect with the local fishing community and make new friendships.

Dam
Based on the reports we’ve received, fishing at the dam the past week has been much better than the week prior, with several great barramundi being caught.

The weed points and shallow bays are still producing, but as was the case last week, the basin is where the majority of fish have been coming from. We recommend slow trolling using 4m+ deep diving lures.

Estuary
There have been a number of quality mangrove jacks caught this past week, especially around the Lethebrook systems.

Small barramundi (rats) are also being caught in great numbers in some of the freshwater creeks.

Islands & Offshore
Conditions offshore have continued to be pretty unfavourable, but anglers who have headed out despite the wind have certainly been rewarded with trophy-sized trout.

If tuna is what you’re after, get excited, as there are plenty around. If these are what you’re targeting, metal twisty lures are very effective.

Thankfully, the wind won’t be too bad this weekend, so get out and make the most of it!

Best of luck out there!

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

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The new pennants season is underway, with local bowlers enjoying a mix of social matches and competitive fixtures over the past week.

Social Bowls Results
On Wednesday, a lively group gathered for social bowls, with two matches played.
Trevor Parsons, Bruce Uhe and Heather Brown defeated Trevor Parsons, Mary Hedgelong and Mike Harrison in a convincing 28–10 win. In the second game, Arthur Griffith and Barry Zillmann took a solid 21–8 victory over Alen Sanderson and Philip Brown.

Sunday’s social bowls continued the friendly competition. Mary Hedgelong, Bruce Uhe and Philip Brown narrowly defeated Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith and Heather Brown, 16–14.

Pennants Action
Saturday’s pennants action saw Division 1 deliver a strong performance against North Mackay, winning all three rinks. The result earned them the maximum six points and a margin of +32.

On Sunday, Division 1 came up against Northern Beaches. Proserpine was narrowly defeated 60–67 but managed to claim one rink win point.

Division 5 faced a tough weekend. On Saturday, they played at North Mackay and went down 27–48, earning one rink win point. Sunday’s match against RSL also ended in defeat, 26–55.

With the season now in full swing, teams are looking forward to building momentum in the coming rounds.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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It has been a fantastic few weeks for the Wangaratta Bowls Club, with our talented ladies achieving outstanding results both locally and at state level.

The club’s Division One Pennant side recently competed in the North Queensland District competition held in Ayr. Wangaratta led the tournament for the first three days and, in a thrilling final-day showdown, faced off against second-placed Thuringowa. With exceptional performances from both sides, Wangaratta emerged victorious by nine shots, securing the prestigious Blue Flag for 2025.

This win entitles Wangaratta to compete against Far North Queensland later in the year, with the possibility of progressing to the State Pennant finals in November. Congratulations to all the ladies involved on a well-deserved victory.

In further success, three of our bowlers—Penny Warren, Denise Wallace, and Tiarna Rogers—represented the North Queensland District at the State District Sides competition held in Mooloolaba. North Queensland performed strongly throughout the tournament, and on the final day competed in Division Three, notching up wins against Gateway, Fraser Coast, and Central Queensland to claim the pennant. Well done to Penny, Denise, and Tiarna for their important contributions.

Meanwhile, social bowls continue to be a highlight at the club. On Tuesday, the winning team of John Hayson, Alby Vigar, and Marg Wilson defeated Andy Nailard, Robyn Stitt, and Bob Dykstra. In other results, Neale Chittenden, Sue Shearing, George Tartaglia, and Ron Hyde defeated Merle Elphinstone, Gavin Charles, and Maureen Hyde. Despite the excitement, the long-standing jackpot did not go off.

Club Competition Results
The final of the Mixed Fours was held over the weekend, with the team of Robyn Stitt, Isobel Wheeler, Margaret Wilson, and Mark Drummond defeating Laurie Land, Denise Wallace, Penny Warren, and Allan Rolfe.

In the Ladies Pairs, Denise Wallace and Penny Warren claimed victory in an extra end against Robyn Stitt and Fely Duncan. The final will be played on Sunday morning, 1 June.

In the Ladies A Singles, Denise Wallace defeated Robyn Stitt in another strong performance.

Sunday afternoon social bowls saw Neil Chittenden and Greg Prembroke defeat Andy Nailard and John Hayson. Gwenda Lydom and David Madely were winners over Maree Brunker and Pat Tracey, while Poni Bowen and Sue Shearing defeated Maureen Hyde and Robyn Stitt. Lindy Suann also featured in the match. Again, the jackpot remained unclaimed.

On the same day, the Wangaratta men’s side represented the club in the Country Pennant competition in the Burdekin. While they didn’t come away with a win, the team played excellent bowls and represented the club with pride.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Penny Warren, Denise Wallace, and Tiarna Rogers represented North Qld District and helped win State District Sides Division Three at Mooloolaba last week.

North Qld District 2025 Winners Division 1 Pennant.

Photos supplied

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Time is flying at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club, with mid-May already upon us and the club eagerly anticipating the installation of its long-awaited shade cover. It’s been a vibrant and successful period both on and off the green.

A recent car boot sale combined with a book stall and assorted items such as discs, appliances, and furniture proved to be a tremendous success, raising over $1,000 for the club. Organisers extended a heartfelt thank you to all members and supporters who contributed their time, items, and energy to the fundraiser.

Tuesday Bowls and Club Games
Tuesday’s social bowls saw two games of triples as well as two Ladies Fours club games. Congratulations to the winning teams, both displaying fine form. Skipper Joan McGrath led her team of Lyn Graham, Jill Spencer, and Ladda Purdie—affectionately known as the club’s Thai princess—to a strong win. In the other game, Betty Nicole led her side of Carol Crosbie, Betty Whitehorn, and Vicki Spann to victory. With such close and competitive matches, the upcoming final promises to be one to watch.

In social play, the team of Tony Whitehorn (skip), Keith Bates (second), and Gina Passfield (lead) secured a comfortable win. Runners-up were the team skipped by Mark Mawson, with Jen Dray impressing at lead and Sue Dakin providing a steady presence throughout.

Midweek and Weekend Action
Wednesday’s social bowls attracted 19 players, with the top team led by Bobby Spees. Bobby bowled immaculately and was a key contributor to the win, supported by Regina Aquilina at lead and Tony Kelly at second.

Wednesday night Business House Bowls is heating up, with ten teams competing this season. Names and scores will be shared in next week’s report.

Pennant Season Underway
Saturday and Sunday marked the beginning of Pennant season, with Airlie fielding sides in Divisions 1, 3, 5, and 6. While Saturday saw only Division 6 claim a win, fortunes changed on Sunday.

Division 1 secured an excellent victory over Sarina, winning three matches. Skippers Warren Mills and Manny Isgro led by example in their respective games, helping to deliver a satisfying result for the club. Division 3 teams, led by Ted Cullen and John Matterson, started strongly but were narrowly beaten in the final ends. Division 5 saw a split result, with standout performances from skipper Mervyn Stewart, Bill Gordon, and Warren Williams.

Endeavour Foundation and School Participation
Friday morning brought plenty of energy to the club as the Endeavour Foundation hosted a fun and inclusive session. Around 20 students participated, showing great enthusiasm and a positive attitude. All eyes will be on their development in the coming weeks as they work toward potentially representing their school in the Queensland Schools’ Cup.

With competition heating up and community events thriving, it’s shaping up to be an exciting winter season at Airlie Beach Bowls Club.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Jeff Tierney , Andy McDougall , Warren Mills , Andrew Butler , John Fielding , Bobby Spees ,Manny Isgro and Russell Jackson. Photo supplied

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Four Whitsunday Sea Eagles teams were back on the road last weekend, travelling to various locations as part of AFL Mackay’s Indigenous Round.

The Under 13s braved an early start in their Indigenous guernseys, facing off against the Sarina Demons in tough, muddy conditions. Despite their grit and determination, the Sea Eagles were unable to hold back the Demons in the third quarter, eventually going down 15–34.

At Rogers Oval, the Under 15s faced a tough challenge against the Eastern Swans. Undermanned from the outset, the Sea Eagles struggled to keep pace and lost ground each quarter, finishing with a 7–68 defeat. The team fought hard to the final siren and showed true resilience despite the scoreboard.

The highlight of the day came from the Senior Women, who dominated their match against the Mackay City Hawks. Playing on the Hawks' backup ground—conditions which suited the Sea Eagles' attacking style—the team put on a commanding performance, securing a 72–0 win. The Senior Women’s side continues to build momentum this season, strengthening their teamwork and refining their skills with each game.

Meanwhile, the Senior Men had a slow start against Mackay City Hawks and couldn’t recover the deficit, finishing with a 51–77 loss.

Looking ahead, this weekend 24th May is City vs Country hosted by Sea Eagles in Airlie Beach where AFLQ Mackay representatives from each Club come together to play each other under City or Country teams.

10:40am - Under 17s
12:15pm - Senior Women

Free Entry! Canteen open from 10:30am, Bar open from 12:15pm
Senior Men - Cancelled as Mackay City teams unable to field a team.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Women Photo credit: Kylie Allen

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Football – Whitsunday United FC
Friday 23rd May

Div 2 vs Sarina Saints
6:00 PM at Brewers Park

Div 1 vs Magpies FC
8:00 PM at Brewers Park

Saturday, 24 May
U13 vs Dolphins FC
9:30 AM at Whitsunday United FC

U14 vs Dolphins FC
9:30 AM at Mackay Football Park

U13 FQPL vs Mackay Wanderers
11:00 AM at Whitsunday United FC

U15/16 vs Mackay Lions
11:15 AM at Mackay Football Park

U23 Men vs Mackay Rangers
5:00 PM at Eric Homan Park

Men's Firsts vs Mackay Rangers
7:00 PM at Eric Homan Park

AFL – Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 24th May

10:40am – Under 17s CITY vs COUNTRY at Whitsunday Sports Park
12:15pm – Senior Women CITY vs COUNTRY at Whitsunday Sports Park

Rugby Union – Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
Saturday 24th May 2025
1:15pm - Womens vs Moranbah at Whitsunday Sports Park
2:00pm -  Mens Reserve Grade vs Moranbah at Whitsunday Sports Park
3:30pm -  Mens Premiers Grade vs Moranbah at Whitsunday Sports Park

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 26th May
Round 14 Fixtures

Cricket – Airlie Beach Cricket Club
Contact airliebeachcc@yahoo.com.au for information about Airlie Beach Cricket Club

Netball – Whitsunday Netball Association
Contact netballwhitsunday@gmail.com for netball information

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday Night Fixture Results May 6, 2025:

Division 1:

Delta Dashers (Niro Premachandra, Josh Brown, Barry Patterson) d Tech Titans (Neil Brown, Geoff Denman, Allan Edwards) 7-4. Barry d Geoff -6, -9, 3, 8, 2.

Pixel Players (Jacob Whelan, Lily Boland, Graham Drury) d App Attackers (Steven Whiting, Graeme Walker, Andrea Nicholson) 6-5. Lily d Steven 7, -10, -6, 7, 4.

Pixel Paddlers (Goncalo Serra, Trent Day, Robbie Richards) d Byte Bouncers (Ian McKay, Anne Sheridan, Graham Brake) 9-2. Trent d Ian 10, 5, -7, 11.

Nano Nets (Vimal Chilukuri, Vince Boeske, YiLin Jiang) d Code Crackers (Geoff Cowan, Emma Widdup, Lee Brake) 6-5. Lee d Vince 8, 6, -5, -6, 8.

Division 2:

Steam Strikers (Melanie Theodore, Delma Knight, George Camilleri) d Turbo Techs (Steve Mathieson, Jye Callander, Val Austin) 6-5. Steve d Delma -7, -9, 9, 9, 9.

Mega Movers (Duncan Treloar, Mark Stam, sub) d Cloud Chasers (Rod Hamelink, Syed Aminul Hossain, sub) 7-4. Syed d Duncan -3, 7, 10, -8, 10.

Robo Ralliers (Will VanDeKaa, Noreen Fredericksen, Tiffany Camilleri) d Giga Gamers (Liz Burton, Allan Robins, Peter Goodson) 6-5. Will d Allan -8, 11, 5, -8, 9.

Quantum Quick (Ollie Hamelink, Mark Sleeman, Rymer Tabulo) d Circuit Cyclers (Janice Kent, Simon Hogan, David Symons) 8-3. Rymer d Simon -13, -11, 7, 9, 11.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures May 6, 2025:

Division 1:

Phoenix Fire (Donna Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Noreen Fredericksen) d Cosmic Sorcerers (Delma Knight, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) 8-4. Noreen d Pam 6, -10, 9, -7, 4.

Ghost Spin (George Camilleri, Branko Vucurovic, Bryan Marshall) d Ant Warriors (Allan Robins, Judy Zahn, Don Boettcher) 8-4. George d Allan 7, 7, -5, -8, 13.

Star Lords (Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) drew Panther Prowlers (Doug Dungavell, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 6-all. John/Kevin d Peter/Veronica 14, 10, 6, 7, 10.

Division 2:

Nova Smashers (Marie Taylor, Gloria Vella, Darryl Ross) d Astro Aces (Iris Grasso, John Hamelink, Chris Collins) 10-2. Gloria d Iris 2, 9, -8, -10, 8.

Elipse Spin (Helen Ware, Ken Best, Virginia Clayton) d Orion Orbiters (Ross DeBoer, Kim Daffy, Robyn Bushell) 7-5. Ross d Virginia -10, -9, 7, 4, 6.

Division 3:

Spider Smashers (Gerry Synnott, Cherly Pearson) d Bat Serves (Kim Challender, Madge Saunders) 5-4. Kim d Gerry 7, -8, -8, 10, 8.

Captin Spins (Josie Davis, Sharon Muller, Trish Zamparutti) d Iron Rallies (David Muir, Allison Day, Laurie Bradshaw) 8-4. Laurie d Trish -8, 10, -9, 6, 10.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Steve Mathieson

Delma Knight. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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In blustery conditions under heavy skies, approximately 40 determined athletes took to the start line for the inaugural Mackay Marina Mantra 5km and 12km event. Hosted by the Mackay Road Runners Club, the unique handicap-style race made its debut with plenty of grit, camaraderie, and competition.

Club President and Life Member Paul Tilse welcomed runners with enthusiasm before detailing the demanding course—which included one ascent of Mt Bassett for the 5km competitors and two climbs for the 12km. The handicap format meant faster runners started behind the field, creating a thrilling chase to the finish.

Timekeeping duties were in the capable hands of Rohan Miles and Julie Whibley, whose accuracy and efficiency ensured a smooth race. Rohan, in particular, was hailed for his commitment—uploading results to the club website within 30 minutes of the final finisher. A truly golden performance in his own right.

In the 12km, Justin Rule claimed first place on handicap, earning gold. However, it was Toby Rule who clocked the fastest time of the day over the distance, with Justin hot on his heels as the second-fastest. Luke Leven impressed with a strong run, being the highest handicapped runner and posting the fourth fastest time, just behind Ashley Miles.

Carmel Mahon was in electric form, finishing as the fastest female by mere seconds. On handicap, she placed second among the women behind Amy Huston. Special mention goes to Andrew Short, who displayed herculean endurance. After arriving back in the country the day before from completing both the London and Prague Marathons with wife Jose, he was out early setting the course and then ran the full 12km. Andrew’s legendary volunteer spirit continues to inspire the club.

The 5km event saw Lily Leven shine, taking out both the fastest time and the top handicap spot. Carolyn Mapes surged into second on handicap with a powerful finish. Returning to form, Hayden Connor clocked the fastest male time in the 5km and placed third on handicap. His sister, Lauren Connor, also found her rhythm after a long layoff, finishing third female and fourth overall—just a whisper behind her brother.

It was also a day for dynamic duos, with Craig and Natasha Joynson, and Ross and Leanne Connor, crossing the line together in perfect harmony. There were promising performances from Kim Saron—back from injury—as well as Kayla Waugh, Fran March, and Stuart Sprott.
Looking ahead, the club gears up for its iconic annual event, The Farmer’s Gallop (5km and 17km), this Sunday.

With the Mackay Marina Run fast approaching, it’s an essential fixture for those targeting the half marathon. The race kicks off at 6.30am sharp from Life Member Agnes Farmer’s residence at 62 Evans Avenue, North Mackay. All participants are reminded to register with the timekeepers at least ten minutes before the start gun.

The countdown to Marina Run glory continues—with each stride, the anticipation builds.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Life Member and champion  runner, Judy Zahn checks in with the Timekeeper, Rohan Miles.
Toby Rule, Luke Leven and Hamish Donnellan with Belinda Rule (front) keep warm before their handicap start 12km event.
Lily Leven gets excited finishing her 5km handicap start race.
Levi Wallace is ecstatic with his 12km race.
Justin Rule clocks a very impressive first in the 12km handicap race.
Sibling duo, Lauren and Hayden Connor performed extremely well in the 5km handicap start Mackay Marina Mantra event. Photos supplied

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The Mackay Bridge Club wishes Ted Cullinan (moving to Perth) and Noel Saunders (moving to Gladstone) all the very best for their future endeavours. Both Ted and Noel will be missed very much. Ted was secretary for many years and Noel was a committee member as well as a mentor to many beginners.

Weekly Results

Monday 5 May 2025 –5 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Pamela Finger / Terry Sheedy 1st Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
2nd Edward Kliese /Diane Stokes 2nd Karen Caldwell / Sue Meyer-Miller
3rd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait 3rd Vicki Howard / Susan Ross
Tuesday Evening 6 May 2025 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 2nd Terry Sheedy / Ken Seaniger
3rd Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

Wednesday 7 May 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd Griffin Bancroft / Martin Pearce 2nd Terry Sheedy / Diane Morgan
3rd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 3rd Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th Christine Fitzpatrick / Noel Saunders 4th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz
Thursday Evening 8 May 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd Patricia Garner / Jan Harris 4th Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes

Friday 9 May 2025 – NWP Week 9 of 25 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes
2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Susan Wright
3rd Lynne O’Neill / Debra Goodchild 3rd Victor Mason / Josie Cowley
4th Sue Mayer-Miller / Noel Saunders 4th Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

Saturday 10 May 2025 –12 Table Mitchell Points

N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott 1st John McGee / Mick King
2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Patricia Garner 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting
4th Geoff Taylor / Chris Meyers 4th Faye Wright / Christine Nice
5th Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 5th Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch
6th Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft 6th Alan Brown / Jodi Menzies

Contributed by Joy Block

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