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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo supplied

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

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As we head into the last month of winter, the bowls action is heating up. Tuesday afternoon's social bowls welcomed Steve "Wogga" Wild from Strathfieldsaye Bowls Club in Bendigo and Peter Ritchie from Bendigo. The day's winners were the team of Mark Mawson with Tess Walker as lead and Dennis Donnadelli at second.
Wednesday afternoon's Jackpot bowls saw big winners in the team of Greg Pepyat as skipper, with in-form lead David Meiklejohn and Barry Parker at second. Lou Rogan's team took home the Jackpot.
Friday morning featured the Endeavour Foundation's bowls lessons, with Kiara, Kathy Jett, and Michael showing great promise. In the afternoon, the Christian College children also displayed impressive skills, with Tommy Pham, Ashmeen Sandburg, Josh Kirkpatrick, and Cooper Wilde taking to lawn bowls enthusiastically.
Saturday morning's Scroungers had a big turnout. First-round winners were Warren Mills, Tony Whitehorn, Dennis Donnadelli, and Mark Mawson. Dennis and Mark faced off in the A Grade Final, with Mark winning 14-10. Eric Barnard won the B Final.
Sunday afternoon's social bowls saw another large turnout. Greg Pepyat, as skipper, led his team of Ken McAllister and Peter Whitlock, visiting from Moama, NSW, to victory.
This week's photo features our zone championship pairs team, Carol Crosbie and Joan McGrath, who have progressed from the Champion of Champions to the zone finals. We will keep you informed of their journey.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Photo supplied

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Congratulations to our Fours team who competed in the Champion of Champion Fours at Northern Beaches over the weekend. Shane Kinnear, Todd Leys, Scott Hamilton, and Gavin Milne won their first game against Northern Beaches 23-16 but lost their afternoon game 11-19 to Souths Suburban. Souths Suburban went on to win the event with victories over Mackay, Proserpine, Pioneer Valley, and North Mackay.
This weekend, our Champion of Champion Pairs team, Jonathan Bye and Wayne Handley, will compete at Mackay City. The draw will be released later today. Best of luck to Jonathan and Wayne—remember to bring along all three Ls: Line, Length, and Luck!
On Wednesday, a Senior Singles game saw Luchie Gardel defeat Philip Brown 25-16. Gardel will next face Sandy Daffara, with the date to be announced.
In Wednesday's social bowls, Bruce Uhe and Peter Lawton defeated Alen Sanderson and Bob Preston 30-11. Carol Smith, Mike Harrison, and Sandy Daffara edged out Arthur Griffith, Barry Zillmann, and Nev Smith 18-17.
Sunday's social bowls were nearly cancelled due to rogue showers, but the weather held up. Bruce Uhe and Sandy Daffara defeated Arthur Griffith and Mike Harrison 18-12. Mary Hedgelong, Carol Smith, and Heather Brown triumphed over Alen Sanderson, Lindsay Flood (a visitor from St Georges Basin), and Nev Smith 21-13.
Friday night featured our Monthly Barefoot Bowls. Thank you to everyone who participated and to those assisting with the three groups of Year 10 students from St Catherine's. It's wonderful to foster interest in the sport among new players.
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Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

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Congratulations to the Wangaratta Ladies Team of Robyn Stitt, Margaret Wilson, Denise Wallace, and Penny Warren, who were runners-up in the Premier Cup last week. The team won eight out of eleven matches, matching the winner's tally, but Thuringowa claimed the title with a higher aggregate score.
Last Saturday, Mark hosted his President/Greenkeepers Day with a full green and lively festivities. Sponsor Gerry from the Queens Beach Tourist Village and staff joined in the celebration.
In Monday’s self-selected triples, K. Pedlar, L. Fox, and S. Farrell defeated C. Coll, D. Madely, and R. Agg. Runners-up were P. Howie, C. Col, and K. Whitton, who beat M. Elphinstone, I. Wheeler, and G. Gordon. The jackpot was not won.
Tuesday's social bowls saw winners on Rink 2 as Mark Mc and Irene J. Gillies defeated P. Breakwell, M. Nesbitt, and P. Madden. Runners-up were A. Gillies, O. Swanton, and F. Wilmann, who bested L. Brown, M. Wright, and C. Parker. The jackpot was not won.
Fun Friday afternoon winners were Jill Owen and Al, who defeated T. Bird, Christina, and Jennie. Resting touches were achieved by Jill, Lyn Madden, John Reimann, and Anna Lye.
Saturday's Combined Shield at Bowen Bowls Club was fiercely contested. Congratulations to the Wangaratta Men, who won all three matches, securing the event for Wangaratta next year. The BBC men finished second, with the Ladies third and Collinsville fourth.
Next Sunday, Pat and Neil Tracey will sponsor Mixed Self-Selected Triples.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Photos supplied

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Tuesday, July 30th, was a testing day for the 39 Vets, including four guests, who braved a very cool and blustery wind. The challenging conditions required everyone to stay rugged up, and the wind played havoc with several shots on the fairways and raised greens. Despite the less-than-ideal playing conditions, the scoring was impressive, and the course has dried out beautifully after a prolonged rainy period.
Results:
Ladies:
   • Winner: Susan Roberts (guest) with 36 points
   • Runner-Up: Tiina Randmae with 34 points
   • Run Down: Heather Luvis, Tessa Aitken, and Kathryn Borer with 31 points; Vickie Wallace and Beryl Nosworthy with 30 points
Men:
   • Winner: Nic Apruzzese with 36 points
   • Runner-Up: Peter Fox with 35 points
   • Run Down: Graham Roberts (guest) and Trevor Paroz with 35 points; Barry Mortimer, Colin Hounsell, John Oates, and Craig McLean with 34 points; Peter Lindsay and Gary Scotford with 33 points; John Roser with 32 points; David Woods and Larry Muller with 31 points. An impressive feat for Larry, playing off 4.
Pin Shots:
Ladies:
   • Elspeth Scotford (x2)
   • Leanne Alexander
   • Allison McCarthy
   • Susan Roberts (x2)
Men:
   • Craig McLean
   • James House
   • John Wallace (ITH)
   • Graham Roberts (guest)
   • Trevor Paroz
   • Jim Sherrington
Chip-Ins:
Ladies:
   • Tessa Aitken (x2)
   • Allison McCarthy
   • Beryl Nosworthy
   • Elspeth Scotford
Men:
   • Nic Apruzzese
   • John Roser
   • Larry Muller
   • Steve Mitchell
   • John Wallace
Well done to all for persevering and performing admirably under difficult conditions.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Tim Langford scored 38 points to win Tuesday's Stableford, beating Nicola Apruzzese by two shots. Susan Roberts won the ladies' competition with 36 points, two ahead of Tiina Randmae. Pins went to Karl Kirkwood, John Roser, James House, and Heather Luvis.
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Cooper Edges Out Luvis in Wednesday's Ladies' Competition
Nicole Cooper scored 36 points to win Wednesday's ladies' competition by one point over Heather Luvis. Lyn Muller and Pauline Redpath each secured two pins.
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Elsayed Clinches Thursday's Monthly Medal
Allan Elsayed won Thursday's Venuesmart monthly medal with a nett 68, edging out Zachary Esden and Peter Lindsay. Pins went to Tom O'Brien, Brendan Spann, Finbar O'Flynn, and Paul Gray.
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Garrod Wins 2024 Proserpine Ladies' Open
Claire Garrod is the 2024 Proserpine Ladies' Open champion with a score of 81, finishing two shots ahead of Wendy Grendon. Jill Farinelli won the B Grade playoff, and ‍

Vickie Wallace took the C Grade title.
Suckling and O'Toole Win Proserpine Open Mixed
Beverly Suckling and Shaun O’Toole won the Proserpine Open Mixed, defeating Di Chard and Levi Holmes. Nett winners were Samantha Aitken and Brendan Spann.
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Tuck Wins 2024 Proserpine Open
Lewis Tuck is the 2024 Proserpine Open champion, finishing the 27-hole event with a score of 108. Ryan Wilkes was two shots behind. Todd Peters won the A Grade nett, Cory O'Shea won the B Grade nett, and Troy Gallagher and Craig Smith won the B and C Grade gross titles respectively.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Club
Photos supplied

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Glenn Rees took the win in the weekly 9-hole stableford with 20 points. Peter Bitz secured second place with 19 points, and Billy O’Connor came in third with 18 points on a countback.
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Gomez Triumphs in Friday 9-Hole Stableford
Andrew Gomez claimed first place in Friday's 9-hole stableford with 23 points. Jay Angel took second place with 21 points on a countback, followed by Alan Clinch in third with 21 points.
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Low Dominates Sunday's 18-Hole Stroke
Brad Low emerged victorious in Sunday's 18-hole stroke with a NET score of 49. Eric Gruszczynski finished second with a NET 50, and Edwina Pettiford placed third with a NET 51. Nearest the pin honors went to Brad Low and Wayne Singleton.
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Upcoming Event
This Sunday, August 11th, will feature the 4 Ball Better Ball Championships, with tee-off times from 8:30 am to 9:30 am.
 
Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross

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Eric Gruszczynski, Photo supplied

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Every Saturday morning during the school term, PCYC Whitsunday turns into a fun, skating disco hall.

With party lights, music, games it’s a great fun way to start the weekend.

This school term will be the second term the Mini Roller Disco has ran, and it is already gaining popularity and growing in numbers.

Jane Streeter started Mini Roller Disco after deciding she wanted a regular fun skating activity that families could do without feeling any pressure to attend. She wanted to provide an active sport activity that people can go to as they please.

Whether you’re an experienced skater or just there for fun and games it’s still fun, and you’re skating skills will definitely improve.

Families are encouraged to attend, even though a few parents do take some persuading to get their skates on!

What: Mini Roller Disco
When:  Saturdays 10am – 11.30am (3 August – 7 September)
Where: PCYC Whitsunday

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Bowen Showgrounds is set to host a thrilling showdown as 15 sidecars compete for the prestigious Queensland Sidecar Championships title. The event promises an adrenaline-fueled spectacle for motorsport enthusiasts and families alike.

Sponsored by Conveyer Maintenance Services and scheduled for 3 August, the Queensland Sidecar Championships, will feature some of the region's top riders vying for glory on the Bowen Speedway track. Known for its tight turns and challenging straights, Bowen
Speedway provides the perfect setting for these skilled competitors to showcase their speed, agility, and teamwork.

Sidecar racing is renowned for its dynamic nature, where a skilled rider and their passenger must work in perfect harmony to navigate the track at high speeds. With 15 teams confirmed to participate, fans can expect fierce battles and edge-of-the-seat action throughout the evening.

In addition to the main event, the championships will include several support classes, including Junior Solos, stock bikes, Outlaw Karts and Formula 250 Karts. The support classes will ensure non-stop entertainment from start to finish.

"North Queensland Speedway Riders Club is thrilled to host the Queensland Sidecar Championships here at Bowen Speedway," said Club President Matt Pilcher.

"This event showcases the very best of sidecar racing talent in Queensland, and we encourage everyone to join us for what promises to be a fantastic evening of motorsport."

The gates will open at 4:30pm, with practice sessions starting at 6pm. Racing will commence at 6:30pm, beginning with heats and culminating in what promises to be a hard-fought final. Spectators can enjoy amenities such as food vendors, merchandise stalls, and a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the event.

Tickets for the CMS Queensland Sidecar Championships are available at the gate and offer great value for a family night out. For more information, including ticket prices, please visit the club’s Facebook page – NQ Speedway Riders & Supporters Club Inc.

Contributed, with thanks to Bowen Speedway.

Brodie Cohen and passenger Josh Murray photo credit Trevor Corica

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What: CMS Queensland Sidecar Championships
When: 3 August, 4:30pm
Where: Bowen Showground

The Whitsunday Equestrian Group’s 2-Day Hack and Dressage Supreme was held on July 27-28 at the Cannonvalley Pony Club, it was a triumph, offering an exciting weekend for both riders and spectators.
Competitors from Townsville to Mackay gathered to showcase their skills over two days. The annual Dressage & Hack Supreme featured dressage classes from Prep to Medium, with the addition of Saturday morning hack/show horse classes for the first time in several years.
The overall champions for the weekend are as follows:
   • Warren Transport Supreme Hack of Show: Alexis Lydom on Piper; Reserve: Melissa Wall on Kenny
   • Taurus Heavy Industries High Point Dressage Champion: Amy Renton; Reserve: Lydia Forde
   • Highest Percentage Dressage:
       ◦ Prep: Sammi Warren on Cruise with 67.33%
       ◦ Prelim: Jillian Moffat on Russell Pocket First Edition with 69.28%
       ◦ Novice: Lydia Forde on Hugo PVS with 72.31%
       ◦ Elementary: Kate van Dalen on Palladium Silver with 65.14%
The Whitsunday Equestrian Group extends heartfelt thanks to all competitors, volunteers, sponsors, and attendees whose support and enthusiasm made the event a success.
Looking ahead, the next event on the calendar is the Whitsunday Equestrian Group's T-Shirt Weekend, scheduled for October at the Cannonvalley Pony Club. For more information, please visit our Facebook page at Whitsunday Equestrian Group.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Equestrian Group

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Warren Transport Supreme Hack of Show: Alexis Lydom on Piper and reserve: Melissa Wall on Kenny, pictured with sponsor Fiona Warren and judges Rachel Cash and Sarah Bartolo
Taurus Heavy Industries High Point Dressage champion: Amy Renton
Highest Percentage Dressage winners, pictured with judges Rachel Cash and Glenis Ford

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