The wet season has arrived across Queensland, including here in paradise, which meant bowls was intermittent this week. On Monday morning, 48 ladies participated in the annual Autumn Carnival and PAH celebration, marking 38 years of women’s bowls in our community. It was a great start to the day before the rain arrived, with only one game being played in the tournament.

Many thanks to Ladies President Carol Crosbie, Vice President Wendy Pomeroy, Games Controller Lyn Graham, and invited guest Mae Secomb, who recently celebrated her 90th birthday. Chairman John Brown and Vice Chairman John Askew were also in attendance, along with bowlers from Mackay, Proserpine, Bowen, Wangaratta, and the Airlie ladies. The event was proudly sponsored by Whitsunday Vista Apartments and All Aussie Arboriculture and Tree Lopping. All players received prizes for their great sportsmanship.

There was no play on Tuesday or Wednesday; however, Wednesday night's Business House bowls, run by Bob and Yvonne Spees, was a huge success.

The Men's A Grade competition is down to the four semi-finalists: Manny Isgro defeated Russell Jackson, Shane Spann defeated Ash Warland, Harry Quod won in a nail-biter against Rick Galea, and Andy McDougall defeated Arthur McManus in another close encounter.

On Sunday afternoon, there was a draw between Betty Whitehorn with Bill Gordon and Dawn Dowell, against Tony Whitehorn, John Anderson, and Mark Mawson.

Contributed with thanks by Mark Mawson

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Three of the four Men's A Grade finalists: Manny Isgro, Andy McDougall and Harry Quod.

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Cannonvale Cannons swimmers enjoyed an exciting Club Night last week, highlighted by record-breaking achievements and strong performances in the pool. The night was particularly special as the club recognised two outstanding swimmers for their new records set during the Club Championships.

Seven-year-old Harry Chegwidden set three new club records with a time of 1:48.26 in the 100m Individual Medley, 25.90 in the 25m Breaststroke, and 43.08 in the 50m Freestyle. In the 11-year-old category, Jax Clayworth set a new benchmark in the 200m Breaststroke, finishing in 3:12.21.

Harry continued his winning streak, receiving an upgrade to the 100m Freestyle, while newcomer Airlie Mladenovski earned upgrades to the 50m Freestyle and 25m Butterfly. Harry capped off a stellar week by receiving the Coaches Award for his outstanding 100m IM performance — his third major achievement of the night. Among the standout swimmers at Club Night, Miller Eaves, Matilda Nicholes, and Liam Filewood delivered impressive personal bests, demonstrating the depth of the club’s talent.

Meanwhile, a small group of Cannons made the journey to Townsville for the Lightning Swim Club Long Course Transition Meet, with Koa Harland delivering a spectacular performance, achieving five personal bests across her events.

Looking ahead, many of our swimmers will travel to Brisbane next weekend to represent the North Queensland Schools Team, while others will head to Bowen for the two-day Bowen Annual Carnival. We wish all our competitors the best of luck as they showcase their skills and represent their club with pride.

Contributed with thanks by Jade Korosec, Vice President of the Cannonvale Cannons

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Harry Chegwidden with three new club records.

Airlie Mladenovski with two new upgrades.

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Get ready to rev your engines and don your sharpest suits because the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride is returning to Bowen on May 18, 2025 for its 4th consecutive year. This global event brings together classic and vintage-style motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world to raise vital funds and awareness for men’s mental health and prostate cancer research.

The ride, which runs from 08:00 to 11:00, is not only about stunning motorcycles and dapper fashion—it’s about making a difference. Riders including Men, Women and their Pillions will cruise through Bowen in their finest attire, all while supporting an important cause. Sue Tapp, who along with her husband Barry, have been hosting and helping organise the event since it began in Bowen in 2022; “This is an important cause for us and we are proud to support it in the community,” she shared.

In 2024, Bowen saw around 80 participants join the ride, a number that continues to grow each year as the community rallies around this important cause. The global event, which in attracted over 114,000 riders last year, raised an impressive $6,705 AUD in Bowen alone, showcasing the generosity and commitment of local riders.

The event is free, but registration is required. Participants can sign up at www.gentlemansride.com to receive local event details and re-register to be notified when registrations officially open on 24th March 2025. The Bowen ride is a chance to join fellow riders, enjoy the scenic route, and contribute to a cause that impacts so many men’s lives by fundraising for the ride.

For more information or inquiries about the Bowen ride, contact Sue Tapp at: 0439 712 475 or via email: suetapp103@outlook.com. Mark your calendars for May 18th and ride with purpose in Bowen’s most stylish motorcycle charity event: SIDE BY SIDE, WORLDWIDE, WE RIDE!

WHAT: Bowen’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride
WHEN: Fundraising & Registration Opens 24th March | Bowen Ride May 18th 8am – 11am
WHERE: Various Locations Through Bowen

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Get ready for the North Queensland Cross Country Championship on March 30, hosted by the Whitsunday Running Club at Galbraith Park in Cannon Valley. This exciting event, now in its third year, is the official Athletics North Queensland cross-country championship and welcomes athletes of all ages—ranging from 4 to 100 years old!

Runners will compete in eight races, spanning distances of 1km, 2km, 3km, 4km, 6km, 8km, and 10km, with all races taking place on the scenic loops around Galbraith Park. The event draws competitors from across Queensland, from Cairns to Brisbane and out to the west. With approximately 300 runners expected, along with their families and supporters, this will be a significant sporting event for both competitive athletes and the local spectating community.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, there’s a race for you! Entry fees range from $25 to $35, depending on the race type.

For more details or to register, contact Tim McQuoid-Mason at: 0438 460 050 or via email: president@whitsundayrunningclub.com.au and scan the QR Code to see the various races. Don’t miss out on this fantastic day of community spirit and athletic competition and get those runners on!

WHAT: North Queensland Cross Country Championship
WHEN: 30th March, 1st Race Starts 7am
WHERE: Galbraith Park, Cannon Valley

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Young racers from the Running Club at the finish line. Photo Sourced: Race Roster website

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Exciting news in the world of Bridge as there were ten Bowen Bridge Club members competing in Mackay for the Whitsunday Zone Pairs Selection. Jill Brabon and her partner, Bev Lowcock, won the Novice Division and will represent the Zone at the Festival of Bridge in Brisbane this October. Lyn Adams and Betty Andison finished third overall.

Saint Patrick's Day was a blast with everyone putting on their best green outfits for the club's meet-up. There was much joy, snacks and champagne to go around as everyone got into the spirit of the day.

Congratulations to the winners and to all the members of the club who took part and good luck for your competition in Brisbane!

Contributed with thanks by Lydie Martin of the Bowen Bridge Club.

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A great day of bridge was played on Monday, March 17th, in celebration of St. Patrick's Day.

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Championship and B Grade Pairs

Last Sunday was an exciting afternoon of bowls, with both the Championship and B Grade Pairs finals taking place.

In the Championship Pairs, Chris Woo and Debbie Mackenzie claimed victory over Marie Bragg and Lorraine Silman. Meanwhile, the B Grade Pairs saw Min Andrew and Ann Smith secure a well-earned win against Sue Hazledine and Coral Francis. Both matches were played in great spirits, with plenty of skill and laughter throughout. Congratulations to all competitors.

In Social Bowls, Brenda Trannore and Lurline Ford took the win, while runners-up were Therese Russell, Lesley Baumgarten, and Pat O’Neil.

District Master Pairs Competition

North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club will host the District Master Pairs on Wednesday and Thursday, March 19-20. The semi-finals will follow on Wednesday, March 26, with the final set for Thursday, March 27.

Spectators are encouraged to come down and watch some of the district’s top bowlers showcase their skills.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Photos supplied

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The Whitsunday Zone Pairs was played over the weekend of 15th and 16th March, with 24 pairs including Airlie Beach Bridge Club and Bowen Bridge Club coming to play in Mackay. Category A (Open) winners were Tex Sheedy and Noel Bugeia from Mackay Club. Category B (Understate) winners were Jill Brabon and Beverley Lowcock from Bowen Club. The winners will travel to Brisbane in October to play in the Queensland Open Pairs.

Results For Week Ending Sunday 16 March 2025
Monday 10 March 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st  Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st  Barbara Tait - Margaret Lane
2nd  Edward Kliese - Diane Stokes         2nd   Noel Bugeia - Geoffrey Patterson

Wednesday 12 March 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points (Nation Wide Pairs)
North/South East/West
1st    Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Frances Brown - Alan Brown
2nd Joy Robinson - Robert Carless 2nd Gwen Liddell - Jewel Schmidt
3rd Josie Crowley - Barbara Tait 3rd Tex Sheedy - Lorna Shuttlewood
4th Jan Harris - Sandra Morris 4th Diane Holewa - Max Holewa

Thursday Evening 13 March 2025  – 3.5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Jan Harris - Ann Whitmore
2nd Janine Rodgers - Janelle Conroy
3rd Tex Sheedy - Geoff Taylor

Friday 14 Mach 2025 –5.5 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st  Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 1st  Christine Nice - Diane Cox
2nd  Pamela Finger - Janelle Conroy     2nd  Diane Stokes - Griffin Bancroft
2nd    Monica Darley - Gwen Liddell

Saturday/Sunday 15 & 16 March 2025 – Whitsunday Zone Pairs  - Red Points
Category A (Open) Category B (Under State)
1st    Tex Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Martin Pearce / Diane Stokes
2nd Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Jill Brabon / Beverley Lowcock
3rd Lyn Adams / Betty Andison

Contributed by Robert Carless

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Noel, Karen, Annette and Sandy, Saturday afternoon get together. Photo supplied.

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John had a blinder in Tuesday morning Mackay table tennis fixtures last week, winning all his matches including a rare defeat of Branko, -5, -12, 9, 6, 9. And there was absolutely nothing between Ken and Iris, Ken getting up -3, 10, 12, -11, 10. What a great competition!

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures March 11, 2025:

Division 1:

Saturn’s Rings (George Camilleri, Charlie Payne, Coral Morgan) d Solar Comets (Doug Dungavell, Judy Zahn, Bryan Morgan) 7-5. Coral d Bryan 10, -4, -4, 10, 9.

Rocket Stars (Allan Robins, John McGee, Rymer Tabulo) d Venus Voyagers (Peter Goodson, Branko Vucurovic, Marie Taylor) 9-3. Branko d Allan -4, -8, 9, 4, 13.

Mars Pioneers (Delma Knight, Geoff Cowan, Kevin Abbott) d Luna Legends (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-5. Noreen d Delma 10, 10, -1, -6, 7.

Division 2:

Jupiter Jets (Don Boettcher, Kim Challender) d Neptune Navigators (John Hamelink, Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) 5-2. Gloria d Kim -5, -8, 7, 5, 9.

Pluto Players (Darryl Ross, Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott) d Mercury Meteors (Ken Best, Helen Ware, Kim Daffy) 8-4. Ken d Iris -3, 10, 12, -11, 10.

Division 3:

Green Lantern (Josie Davis, Ron Johr, Trish Zamparutti) drew Wonder Warriors (Sally Miller, Allison Day, Glenda Brookes) 6-all. Glenda d Trish -11, 3, 5, -3, 6.

Aqua Waves (David Miller, Chris Collins, Thelma Caruana) d Black Panther (Sharon Muller, Madge Saunders, Carmel Cristaldi) 9-3. Thelma d Madge 5, 10, -5, -5, 11.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures March 11, 2025:

Division 1:

Star Lords (Vimal Chilukuri, Robbie Richards, Mark Sleeman) Venus Voyagers (Geoff Denman, Janice Kent, Graham Brake) 8-3. Janice d Robbie -8, 4, 7, -9, 9.

Ant Warriors (Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) d Ghost Spin (Allan Robins, Steven Whiting, Lily Boland) 8-3. Ian d Allan -8, 12, 4, -10, 6.

Cosmic Scorchers (Donna Abbott, Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan) d Panther Prowlers (Vince Boeske, Allan Edwards, Trent Day) 8-3. Neil d Allan 14, -8, 10, 12.

Phoenix Fire (Andrew McHugh, Josh Brown, Andrea Nicholson) d Stellar Storms (Will VanDeKaa, Lee Brake, Barry Patterson) 8-3. Josh d Barry 7, -2, 5, -10, 9.

Division 2:

Pirate Plunge (Geoff Cowan, David Symons) d Roman Legion (Niro Premachandra, Peter Goodson) 3-2. Niro d Bulldog -9, 5, -9, 6, 9.

Zulu Spears (George Camilleri, Darryl Ross, Rod Hamelink) d Amazon Guards (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. George d Simon -7, 18, 4, -12, 9.

Spartan Serve (Liz Burton, YiLin Jiang, Mark Stam) d Rebel Celts (Delma Knight, Ollie Hamelink, Val Austin) 7-4. Liz d Val 7, -8, 4, -9, 8.

Celtic Smash (Tiffany Camilleri, Syed Zhang) d Pharoah Aces (Jye Callander, Branko Vucurovic) 4-3. Jye-Branko d  Tiffany-Syed 4, 13, -11, -4, 4.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Coral Morgan

Bryan Marshall. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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The first event in the 2025 “Off the Beaten Track” Trail Run Series, the Full Moon Ultra, lit up Rowallan Park on 14 March 2025 with endurance, grit, and a whole lot of mud. Athletes had long been calling for a local endurance event, and ActiV8 Adventures proudly delivered under wild and windy conditions that tested every competitor’s preparation and determination.

Friday night’s forecast didn’t disappoint. Rain, wind, and thick mud made for a rugged trail that demanded both physical toughness and mental resilience. As trail running pros know: you can’t outrun the weather, and you certainly can’t outrun poor preparation. Those who trained well smiled their way across the finish line lap after lap – powered by determination and some serious support from their crews.

The Full Moon Ultra included three distances: 1 lap (6km), 6 laps (36km), and 12 laps (72km)

Starting at 6pm, trail runners from across the region and as far away as Singapore took on a 6km lap on the hour, every hour until they completed their registered distance, withdrew early, or didn’t make it back in time.

The major event was the ultra-endurance component, where 37 ultra runners lined up to complete all 12 laps – running all night until their final hot lap at 5am, with only 12 competitors remaining. The course's ever-changing weather and slippery terrain pushed even seasoned trail runners to their limits.

Distance Winners:

Long Course - 12 laps (72km)
Male
Luke Chamley - Hungry Runners Townsville
Kyle McLennan - Moranbah
Jacob Whitcombe – Yeppoon

Female
Liv Compton - Whitsunday Running Club Cannonvale
KP Bassett - Whitsunday Running Club Cannonvale
Kelly Chappell - Tri-ActiV8 Mackay

Medium Course - 6 laps (36km)
Male
Scott Boldy - Bowen
Bradley Walz - Mackay
George Hannaford – Mackay

Female
Jose Short - Tri-ActiV8 Mackay
Erin Roughan - Moranbah
Vicki Coburn - Tri-ActiV8 Mackay

Short Course - 1 lap (6km)
Male
Eli Flanagan - Tri-ActiV8 Mackay
Jax Tomba - Moranbah
Theo Woods – Mackay

Female
Nicole Lindenberg - Mackay
Katie McLennan - Moranbah
Charlie Walker - Tri-ActiV8 Mackay

The vibe at Rowallan Park was electric and is the most populated "off the beaten track" trail run event to date. Athletes and their dedicated support crews set up gazebo sites, creating a hub of community, encouragement, and determination. The kids stole the show in the short course, nearly sweeping the podium aside from our female winner. Through the night and into dawn, support crews cheered, cooked, and comforted their athletes, right up to the final ultra-finisher who crossed just before 6am.

Competitor Nicole Ballingall said it was "Definitely the best ActiV8 Adventure trail run yet! It was crazy and I loved it! Thank you to all the team for putting the event together."

The Full Moon Ultra was a resounding success, proving once again that Mackay’s landscape is a perfect hub for trail running no matter the weather – rain, mud, wind and a whole lot of moonlit conditions are no match for a determined trail runner.

Thanks to Mad Mountain Bike Club and Scouts Queensland for the use of their facilities at Rowallan Park.

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The Full Moon Ultra, part of the 2025 "Off the Beaten Track" Trail Run Series, was a challenging success, with athletes overcoming mud, rain, and wind at Rowallan Park on 14 March. Photos supplied

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Mackay’s rising mountain biking star, Camden Brownsey, has made a name for himself on the national stage after claiming double gold at the 2025 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships in Mount Buller, Victoria.

Competing in the Under-13 category, the 11-year-old sensation secured first place in both the Cross-Country Short Track (XCC) and Cross-Country Olympic (XCO) events, leading from start to finish in both races.

Held in the stunning alpine terrain of Mount Buller, the championship brought together Australia’s top young riders to compete across challenging courses in Victoria’s High Country. Camden showcased incredible endurance, skill, and determination, dominating the competition with convincing victories.

The young Mackay cyclist took out the XCC title on March 14, before backing up his performance the following day with another commanding win in the XCO event.

As a student at Mackay Christian College, Camden’s success is no surprise to those who know his dedication to training. Rising at 5am most mornings, he puts in the hard work alongside his father, Ashley Brownsey, to refine his skills and endurance.

Camden is an active member of the Mackay and District Mountain Bike Club (MAD-MTBC), where he has honed his skills through the highly regarded "Thursday Thunder" junior training program. The program has played a crucial role in developing young cycling talent in the region, producing riders capable of competing at the highest levels.

His achievements at Mount Buller not only highlight his personal dedication but also shine a spotlight on Mackay’s growing mountain biking community.

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Mackay’s Camden Brownsey secured double gold at the 2025 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships, winning both the XCC and XCO events with remarkable performances at Mount Buller. Photos supplied

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Diving into February with purpose, the Sinkers Masters Swimming Club made a splash for a great cause, taking on the Starlight Super Swim to raise funds for sick children.

As Australia’s biggest charity swim event, the Super Swim serves as both a community fundraiser and a training motivator for Sinkers members, who are preparing for events like the Masters Swimming Championships in Melbourne (April 2025).

In 2024, Sinkers raised $2,827, and this year, they increased their total to an impressive $4,582! A team of nine swimmers collectively swam 5,228 laps – equivalent to 261.43 km – throughout February. A standout effort came from Pierre Craven, who completed 2,667 laps (133.83 km).

The Bunna-barra Masters Club also contributed, with five swimmers raising $3,529 and covering 127.66 km. Combined, both clubs raised $8,111.

March’s fundraiser is Laps for Life, supporting youth mental health.

To contribute, visit: https://www.lapsforlife.com.au/fundraisers/northmackaysinkers.

Sinkers also donate blood and plasma, with their Lifeblood tally as of February 25th showing 27 members making 21 donations, helping 63 people in the first two months of 2025.

More than just a swimming club, Sinkers is inclusive of all abilities – from non-swimmers and those regaining confidence in the water to serious competitors and individuals recovering from injuries. The club also fosters a strong social community, with a morning tea after each Saturday session at the DMR Memorial Pool.

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The Sinkers Masters Swimming Club made waves in February, raising $4,582 for sick kids through the Starlight Super Swim while training for upcoming competitions. Photos supplied

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Last Thursday, the underwater hockey club made a splash with a record-breaking turnout of 20 players! That’s right, our aquatic arena was packed to the brim, and the energy was electric. With full teams and four substitutes, our positional and support play reached new depths!

However, we might need to rethink our guest policy. If newcomers like Boyd and Kurt have breath-holding skills that rival Aquaman, we could be in for a challenge! Seriously, folks, if you think you can outlast our new “gills,” come on down and test your mettle.

And let’s not forget our rising stars, Angus and Harry. These two have taken “annoyingly good” to a whole new level, leaving us all wondering if they’ve been secretly training with dolphins. But despite their impressive skills, it was a team effort that made the night a success. A huge shoutout to everyone who helped pack up afterward—it was a true display of teamwork!

So, if you’re looking for a sport that combines fitness, laughter, and a chance to show off your underwater skills (or lack thereof), come join us on Monday and Thursday nights! You might just find your new favourite hobby lurking beneath the surface.

Contributed by Joel Sadleir

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The underwater hockey club made waves last Thursday with a record-breaking 20 players, showcasing top-tier teamwork, fierce competition, and a few newcomers who might just have gills! Photos supplied

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Championship Pairs played on 5/3/25:
M. Bragg and L. Silman  def  S. Beale and K. Mathews
C. Woo and D. Mackenzie  def  J. Schmidtke (sub P.Cooper) and C. Bell
Final will be between M.Bragg and  L.Silman  V  C. Woo and D.Mackenzie.

‘B’ Pairs  Competition Results For 5/3/25
N. Schmidtke and D. Dodds def W. Sonter and  B. Trannore
S. Roscoe and B. Woodward def W. McGee and H. Fleming

‘B’ Pairs Competition Results For 6/3/25
M. Andrew and A. Smith def S. Roscoe and B. Woodward
S. Hazledine and C. Francis def N. Schmidtke and D. Dodds
Final will be between M. Andrew and A.Smith  V   S.Hazledine and C.Francis.

Both the Championship Pairs and the ‘B’ Pairs Final games will be played on Wednesday 12/3/25 at 1 pm .  The very best of bowling to all players.

Social  Games Played On 5/3/25:
Winners : L. Lemke, K. Robinson, N. Thomsen.
Runners up : C. Corbett, L. Baumgarten, C. O’Loughlin.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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What a great start to the 2025 season with junior competition kicking off!

The action began with Dragons Tyre Power facing Dunbar Awsum Angels, resulting in a tie of 10 all.

Alanna Counsell and Lachlan Mikle each picked up two walks, while Ruben Tassan had two ripper hits to score runs for the Dragons. Ruben also did a great job on the mound with two strikeouts. Eli Neilson led the way for Dunbar, slamming a home run, while Tristian Hillier and Payton Roderique each picked up two walks. Young Zac Hargrave was on the mound for the Angels, recording two strikeouts.

Dragons powered past NTH Jacklin Chaos with a 15–3 win.

Levi Counsell was the only Dragon to cross home plate three times. Sam Colless and Sienna Kitto each picked up two walks to get on base. Great pitching from the cousin duo Noah and Boyd Baxter led the Dragons to victory. Darcy Oslanger and Frankie Corbett were the standout players for the Angels, with Darcy getting two base hits and both Frankie and Darcy crossing home to add scores. Harry Oslanger and Frankie pitched a great game.

Joey Ball was split into two groups, with Kirsty Zammit taking the baby Joeys. Parents and grandparents helped the coaches show new skills and have fun with the future little softballers.

Rookie Ball had a huge turnout for the day, learning new skills and playing great games.

Despite the heat, they battled through, and at the end of the game, they were treated with a splash in the sprinklers to cool down.

Next week, games will start at 8:45 a.m. for the U/14s.

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

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The 2025 junior softball season kicked off with a 10-all tie between Dragons Tyre Power and Dunbar Awsum Angels, and a 15-3 win for the Dragons over NTH Jacklin Chaos, plus fun skill-building for Joey and Rookie Ball players. Photos supplied.

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The Sarina Junior Rugby League Club is rebuilding after a devastating fire tore through their equipment shed at the Sarina Showgrounds earlier this year, destroying vital gear and irreplaceable memorabilia.

The fire, which occurred on January 23, 2025, was sparked when the club’s mower caught fire and exploded, severely injuring long-time volunteer Butch. Despite his efforts to contain the flames, the fire spread rapidly, leaving the shed beyond saving.

Built through the dedication of volunteers over the years, the shed was more than just a storage facility. It housed training equipment, home game essentials, and sponsor signage, as well as historical memorabilia from the club’s proud history since its formation in 1968. The loss was a heartbreaking blow to the Sarina Crocs community, who gather at the grounds not only for training and matches but also as a place where friendships are forged and young players develop their skills.

Despite the setback, the Sarina community has rallied to support the club’s recovery. Local businesses and individuals have stepped up with generous donations to help rebuild. One of the first to lend a hand was Ray White Sarina, who contributed $500 through their community cash initiative to help the Crocs get back on track for the upcoming season.

“We’re wishing you guys the best season this year - go Crocs!” Ray White Sarina shared in their message of support.

The recovery effort took a significant step forward on March 7, when the damaged shed was demolished to make way for a new build. Darren Matthews Excavations played a crucial role, donating time and equipment to clear the site. Additional contributions came from Goodies Excavations, Keating Haulage, Raw Metal Corp – Mackay, and Shipping Container Rentals Mackay, who provided a temporary storage solution until the new shed is completed. GSR Hire also assisted with the safe delivery of the container to the club’s grounds.

Grant and Haylee Nicholas from Third Ground have also stepped up to support the club, generously donating much-needed training equipment. Their contribution has been a game-changer as the club works to restock after the fire.

“Your support means the world to us,” the club shared.

“This donation ensures our young players have the tools they need to keep training and rebuilding stronger than ever.”

Sarina State School has also rallied behind the club, hosting a fantastic fundraising event that raised an impressive $1,406.75 for the Sarina Junior League Fire Appeal.

“We’re so grateful for your compassion and commitment to helping our club,” the club shared.

Even clubs from Mackay have stepped up to support Sarina Junior Rugby League in their time of need. Magpies Sporting Club Mackay has pledged to donate $2 from every new and renewed membership throughout March to the club, along with an additional $1,000 to assist in the rebuild.

"Sarina Junior League recently lost everything when a horror fire destroyed their sports shed," Magpies shared.

"We want to help them get their 350+ young players back to playing footy."

Sarina Junior Rugby League has long been a powerhouse for developing young talent, with NRL stars like North Queensland Cowboys' Reuben Cotter emerging from its ranks. In 2024, the club supported over 350 players, and the passion for the game remains as strong as ever despite this recent hardship.

The club remains determined to rebuild, with calls for further community support to help replace lost equipment and fund the new shed. While insurance will cover part of the cost, additional donations—whether financial contributions or volunteer skills—are needed to restore what was lost.

“We’re committed to continuing the proud Crocs story and ensuring our kids have the gear they need to train and compete,” the club said in a statement.

“This will be a long road to recovery, but every bit of support helps.”

Anyone able to contribute—whether through donations or volunteering—can reach out to Gary Dickson at president@sarinajrl.com or Vice President Aimee Korte at vicepresident@sarinajrl.com.

The Sarina Crocs may have lost a shed, but their spirit remains unshaken. With the community’s backing, they are determined to rebuild bigger and stronger for future generations of young players.

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Darren Matthews from DMX – Darren Matthews Excavations, who generously donated his time and excavator to help clear the site for Sarina Junior Rugby League’s rebuild

Before and After: The Sarina Junior Rugby League clubhouse, devastated by fire, has now been cleared to make way for a rebuild, thanks to incredible community support

Ray White Sarina proudly supports the Crocs! A $500 community cash donation helps Sarina Junior Rugby League get back on track after their devastating shed fire. Photos supplied

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