The North Mackay Sinkers are offering a special 13-month membership for 2025, giving new members the opportunity to join in December and enjoy a club dedicated to helping swimmers achieve their fitness goals in a supportive and enjoyable environment.

Members will receive free entry into the club’s new and returning member raffle, which features a prize valued at over $100. Financial members will also enjoy complimentary access to Wednesday club sessions, providing significant savings. New and returning members will be welcomed with a free swim cap upon signing up.

For those looking to take their swimming to the next level, the membership includes exclusive access to state, national, and international events specifically designed for Masters swimmers. Members can also participate in unique programs like the Vorgee e1000, Million Meters, and Lane Warrior activities, which keep swimmers motivated and engaged throughout the year.

The club provides early and guaranteed entry to its major events, including the February Short Course meet, the Balnagowan Open Water Swim, and the highly anticipated signature event at Whitehaven Beach in October. In 2025, an exciting new event is also set to be introduced, adding to the club’s dynamic calendar.

In addition to swimming, the club fosters a strong sense of community with an active social program. Activities like the Saturday “Jim Session” are a particular highlight, blending pool training with opportunities for members to relax and connect. A recent session featured a Secret Santa event, bringing laughter and fun to an already vibrant morning.

The North Mackay Sinkers also cater to non-swimmers or those unable to participate in swimming activities by offering a “dry” membership for just $20. This option allows individuals to take part in non-swim activities, including volunteering, social events, and committee or executive roles, ensuring everyone can be part of the club’s inclusive and welcoming environment.

Training sessions are held three times a week, including “Millie Monday” at the Memorial Pool at 5:15 pm, “Whiteboard Wednesday” at North Mackay State High School Pool at 5:15 pm, and the popular Saturday “Jim Session” at the Memorial Pool from 8:00 to 9:00 am, followed by treats and refreshments.

With the last swim of the year scheduled for Saturday, December 21, and the first 2025 session kicking off on January 4, the club invites anyone interested to join a supportive and progressive group that’s committed to helping members reach their swimming and fitness goals in a fun and inclusive way.

For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

Contributed by Dan Stampa

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Tania was happy to select the swim googles from the presents, but 3 “Thieving” Santas made sure possession changed hands

Paul’s gift was a good book but not on waterproof paper

Pierre swims hard enough to enjoy some post swim calories

The Saturday session drew some 16 swimmers who enjoyed music by Elena later in the session as the popular Mackay Aqua Fitness drew a large crowd and kicked on. Photos supplied.

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Results for week ending Saturday 7 December 2024

Monday 2 December 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st Mary Cruickshank - Ian Cruickshank 1st Marilin Robins - Mick Robins
2nd Barbara Tait - Margaret Lane                          2nd Diane Holewa - Max Holewa
3rd Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 3rd Monica Darley - Nancy Martin  

Tuesday 3 December 2024 –  5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy  
2nd Helen Van Den Broek - Tex Sheedy        
3rd Shirley Worland - Marilin Robins  
4th Diane Morgan - Sandra Morris

Wednesday 4 December 2024 –8 Table Howell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st    Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Sandy Patterson - Joy Brunette
2nd Janet Hansen - Alan Brown 2nd Anne Lutz - Gwen Liddell
3rd Lorna Shuttlewood - Tex Sheedy 3rd Geoff Taylor - Ted Cullinan
4th Monica Darley – Kath Poole

Thursday Evening 5 December 2024 – 5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Tex Sheedy - Diane Stokes
2nd Ian Cruickshank - Adrian Westcott
3rd Jan Harris - Susan Gibson
4th Frances Brown - Ann Whitmore

Friday 6 December 2024 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st
Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia
1st
Janelle Conroy - Pamela Finger
2nd

Antonia Tarradas - Graham Smith
2rd

Eric Goodchild - Sandy Patterson  

3rd
Griffin Bancroft - Diane Stokes
3rd
David Ting - Ming Ting

Saturday 7 December 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South                                                                        East/West
                                                                             
1st     Geoff Taylor - Marilin Robins          1st  Eric Goodchild –Debra Goodchild
2nd   Ming Ting - David Ting                               2nd  Tex Sheedy - Graham Smith
3rd   Patricia Garner - Susan Wright          3rd  Diane Stokes - Annie Lynch  
4th  Alan Brown - Frances Brown             4th  Sandy Patterson - Joy Brunette

Contributed by Robert Carless

Marie, Janet and Shelly put the finishing touches to this year’s Christmas tree. Photo supplied

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On Wednesday 27 November the Marian Ladies Bowls Club brought along their Share the Dignity Bags for the year, with a total of 20 bags to be given to charity.

The Marian Ladies have been doing this for the last six years to “help those who are needing help.” 

The ladies are now crocheting and knitting squares to create small blankets, which will be donated to aged care homes for wheelchair users during chilly days.

They have officially finished bowls for the year and are not playing again until around February next year, depending on the weather in early 2025.

Contributed by Lyn Jackson

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A Singles Winner Laurel Morrow, pictured with President Thelma Johnston
A Pairs Winners Judith Miller and Lyn Jackson with President Thelma Johnston
A Triples Winners Sue Austin, Judith Miller and Lyn Jackson with President Thelma Johnston
A Fours Winners Betty Matson, Annette Hansen, Sandra Zarb and Helen Pietzner with President Thelma Johnston. Photos supplied
Marian Ladies Bowls Club with the Share the Dignity bags they will donate to charity

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures December 3, 2024:

Division 1:

Azalea (Mark Sleeman, Barry Patterson, Janice Kent) d Barra (Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake, Trent Day) 6-5. Slee d Trent -6, -6, 6, 8, 11.

Andro (Allan Edwards, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Aqua (Neil Brown, Geoff Denman, Ian McKay) 8-3. Emma d Neil -9, 6, 4, 3.

Alfa (Vince Boeske, Goncalo Serra, Tony Bowman) d Corgi (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 7-4. Vince d Will -9, 4, -3, 2, 8.

Division 2:

Cockatoos (Craig VanDeKaa, Jye Callander, Matt West) d Cheetahs (Simon Hogan, Rymer Tabulo, Val Austin) 6-5. Simon/Ryber d Jye/Craig 12, -6, 11, -8, 7.

Cats (Tiffany Camilleri, George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang) d Bulldog (Delma Knight, Peter Goodson, David Symons) 6-5. Delma/Peter d Tiffany/George 10, 7, -4, -6, 10.

Ants (Daniel Warfield, Andrea Nicholson, Mark Stam) d Canaries (Leo Gilbert, Kade Wright, Duncan Treloar) 6-5. Andrea d Duncan 6, -9, 8, -17, 9.

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Andrea Nicholson had a close battle against Duncan Treloar, with one set going to 19. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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The Cannonvale Cannons wrapped up their 2024 club night season with a series of remarkable achievements and festive fun, cementing a fantastic year for the team.
The season concluded with several notable upgrades, including Liam Filewood and Zane Clayworth advancing to the 100m Butterfly, Miller Eaves to the 200m Freestyle, Lucas Korosec to the 200m Individual Medley, Alex Trefz to the 100m Breaststroke, Eloise Chegwidden and Tyler Bennet to the 200M Backstroke. These accomplishments reflect the dedication and progress of our swimmers throughout the year.

Club records were also broken, with standout performances by Jax Clayworth (11-year boys 200m Butterfly), Eloise Chegwidden (9-year girls 50m Breaststroke and 100m Individual Medley), and a first-ever club record for Harry Chegwidden (7-year boys 25m Backstroke). Congratulations to these swimmers on their exceptional efforts!

Swimmers who participated in the "Design Our Next Club Shirt" activity were presented with Boost Juice vouchers to reward them for their creative efforts. We can’t wait to see their ideas come together for the 2025 club shirt. A huge thank you to Boost Juice for supporting this initiative.

The season ended on a festive note with a Christmas-themed club night, featuring the much-loved parent/child relays. This light-hearted event brought families together for some spirited competition and plenty of laughs. Thank you to all the parents who joined in, making it a night to remember.

The evening also saw the announcement of our Queensland State Long Course team, who were proudly presented with their team shirts. These swimmers are heading to Brisbane this week to compete at the Queensland Championships, representing the Cannons against the state’s finest. We wish them the very best of luck!
What a year it has been—congratulations to all swimmers, families, and supporters for making 2024 a season to celebrate!

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Tora Delac and Ruby Lawson took out the Christmas Fashions on the Pool Deck
Addie Sanders and Maeve Dichiera
Jasper and Lucas Korosec
Thanks you to our swimmers who contributed to our Design a Club Shirt activity.
Two new club records for Eloise Chegwidden
Harry Chegwidden with his first Cannons Club Record
Good luck to our State Team swimmers in Brisbane this weekend.

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As summer settles in and Christmas approaches, members of the Airlie Beach Bowls Club are embracing the festive spirit while keeping up with their love of the game. Despite a few interruptions, the week was filled with camaraderie, competition, and some impressive performances.

The Ladies’ bowls session on Tuesday took a break, but for good reason — the Ladies Christmas Luncheon at the Jubilee Tavern. While the games were on pause, the gathering was a highlight for the week, and many would have loved to witness the festive cheer firsthand.

Unfortunately, Wednesday afternoon’s Social Bowls was called off due to rain. However, the evening brought a strong turnout for the Business House Bowls, the last session before the Christmas break. Thanks to the impeccable organisation by Bob and Yvonne Spees, it was a fitting end to the year’s business bowls series.

As a reminder, membership fees for 2025 are now due, and newcomers are warmly invited to join. Bowls offers a chance to learn, compete, and connect with the community — a perfect way to start the new year.

Saturday morning’s Scroungers session continued to prove its worth as a platform for practicing draw bowls and refining jack length skills. Organised by John Askew, this event is a steal at just $10 and is highly recommended for members seeking to sharpen their game.

In competition, Saturday saw Mark Mawson claim victory over John Matterson in the first-round final, while Mervyn Stewart once again captured the B Division prize. Meanwhile, at the St Helens Bowls Club triples competition, the Airlie Beach Bowls Club was proudly represented. Andy McDougall, Noel Crosbie, and John Trembath secured a remarkable win, raising the club’s flag high.

Sunday brought thrilling contests at the club. John Brown and Dawn Dowell edged out Tony Kelly and Greg Fennell by a single point in a closely fought match. Elsewhere, Mark Mawson and Arthur McManus triumphed over Tony Whitehorn and Alan Pershouse, rounding off the weekend with another strong showing.

Looking ahead, the club will host the Men’s Meeting this Friday at 5:30 p.m., followed by the much-anticipated Presentation Night on Saturday. It’s a fitting way to wrap up a successful and eventful year for the Airlie Beach Bowls Club.

As the holidays approach, members are reminded to bring their best game, both on and off the green. Here’s to a summer of fun, friendship, and festive cheer!

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Mervyn Stewart second B Grade Scroungers victory. Photo supplied

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Wet weather halted last Wednesday’s bowls at Proserpine Bowls Club, but the rain hasn’t dampened spirits or stopped preparations for a busy festive season.

On Friday and Saturday, members Andrew, Dave, and Mike dedicated their time to dethatching, scarifying, and maintaining the green, ensuring it’s in top condition to make the most of the anticipated rainfall.

The club also played host to two lively Christmas parties over the weekend. On Saturday 7 December, the Council Sewerage and Water Department celebrated with barefoot bowls, and on Sunday, a personal trainer and her participants joined in the festive fun. A special thank-you goes to Bruce, Philip, Mike, and Heather for assisting with these events.

Sunday afternoon’s game saw Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown, Arthur Griffith, and Sandy Daffara secure an 18-14 victory over John Anderson, Henny Tattam, Bruce Uhe, and Mike Harrison, with an exciting four-point score on the final end.

Members are reminded that 2025 Affiliation Fees are now due. Pay $140 before December 30 or $160 after December 31. Contact Heather for updated payment details.
Social bowls will continue for another week or two, weather permitting. As the festive season approaches, the Proserpine Bowls Club wishes everyone safe travels and a joyful Christmas. Thank you to all members for their contributions throughout the year!

Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Bowls Club.

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A strong turnout of 32 players gathered for the final competition of 2024, with some competing for the prestigious Men of the Month (MOM) 2024 title. The results, along with the Monthly Medal (MM) for December, will be announced at the presentation lunch next Tuesday at the Midge Point Tavern. This competition also served as the qualifier for the MOM for 2025. The scores were tight throughout, making for an exciting finish, and congratulations go to all the winners.

This marked the final competition for the Veterans Golf Club in 2024. The next competition is slated for January 2025, weather permitting, with a likely restart date of 14 January.

Results:
Ladies' Division:
   • Winner: Tiina Randmae – 72 nett
   • Runner-up: Jenny Hounsell – 78 nett
   • Run Down:
       ◦ 80 nett: Kathryn Borer
       ◦ 82 nett: Beryl Nosworthy
       ◦ 83 nett: Rehab Hull

Men's Division:
   • Winner: Laurie Dakin – 72 nett
   • Runner-up: Vic Feldman – 73 nett
   • Run Down:
       ◦ 74 nett: John Wallace, Gary Scotford
       ◦ 75 nett: Warren Deighton, Peter Lindsay
       ◦ 76 nett: Craig McLean, John Roser, Wilf Herweg, Steve Mitchell

Pin Shots:
   • Ladies: Tiina Randmae (x2), Jenny Hounsell, Rehab Hull (x2)
   • Men: John Roser, Larry Muller, Ken Granger, Trevor Paroz (x2), John Wallace

Least Putts:
   • Tiina Randmae – 27 putts
   • Vic Feldman – 28 putts

Chip-ins:
   • Elspeth Scotford, Kathryn Borer, Gary Scotford, John Oates, Colin Hounsell

A big thank you was shared to all participants and congratulations to the winners!

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Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat.

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The year is winding down, but it’s been a busy and rewarding time for members of the local bowls club.
Tuesday’s social bowls winners were Lindy Suann, Sue Shearing, and Robyn Stitt, who defeated Gavin Charles and Margaret Wilson in a well-fought match. While the jackpot didn’t go off, players will have one final chance to claim the prize on Tuesday, December 10. If unclaimed, the tidy sum will carry over to next year.
Behind the scenes, members have been hard at work harvesting and freezing mangoes to delight winter visitors, a longstanding tradition that’s always well-received.

Sunday saw the club’s Annual General Meeting, where the board for 2025 was confirmed. Congratulations to Geoff Danvers (Chair), Laurie Land (Vice Chair), Nadine Land (Secretary), and Robyn Stitt (Treasurer), along with committee members and delegates. The club extends its gratitude for their commitment and leadership.

The final Sunday social game of 2024 ended with an exciting finish. In a closely contested match decided by just one shot on the last bowl, the jackpot was fittingly claimed. Winners Jim Quod, Penny Warren, and Mark Drummond triumphed over Merle Elphinstone, Alby Vigar, and Allan Rolfe.

As the weather heats up, members and volunteers are taking a well-earned break for Christmas. Social bowls will resume on Sunday, January 12. Until then, the club sends warm season’s greetings to all members, supporters, and the wider community. Best wishes for a fantastic 2025 — see you back on the green!

                                                                                                         
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Whitsunday Dirt Riders’ young talent, Kai Moran, captured national attention with a second-place finish in the 85cc (9-13 years) category at the Australian Junior Dirt Track Championships in Somersby, NSW. At just 13, Kai impressed with his skill and determination, narrowly missing the top spot.

Bowen’s Harrison O’Brien also stood out, receiving an encouragement award for his promising performance in his first year on the 85cc bike.

Kai’s success follows a stellar season, including fourth place at the Australian Junior Speedway Solo Championships, solidifying his status as one of the country’s rising stars in the sport.

Facing off against some of the country’s best young riders, Kai delivered a thrilling performance across the competition. At just 13 years old, he showcased exceptional grit and skill, finishing just shy of the top spot in a fiercely competitive field.

Adding to the region’s achievements, Bowen’s Harrison O'Brien was recognised with an encouragement award for his dedication and determination. Competing in his first year on the 85cc bike, Harrison’s performance signals great potential, making him a young rider to watch in the future.

Kai’s podium finish at the Australian Dirt Track Championships caps off an impressive season. In September, he also secured fourth place at the Australian Junior Under 16 125cc Speedway Solo Championships in Kingaroy, solidifying his reputation as one of Australia’s most promising young riders.

The Whitsunday Dirt Riders continue to celebrate the success and determination of their young talent, with Kai and Harrison leading the charge for the club on the national stage.

Contributed with thanks to Therese of Whitsunday Dirt Riders.

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Bowen’s Harrison O’Brien recieved an Encouragement award for his excellence.
Kai riding in the 85cc Dirt Track competition.
Kai impressing spectators at the Speedway Solo Championships.
Kai continues to wow onlookers, and make a name for himself in the sport.

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Competitors from across the region gathered for the Port Denison Gun Club’s November monthly and Christmas shoots, making for a memorable weekend filled with competition, camaraderie, and holiday cheer. Shooters from Townsville, the Burdekin, and Mackay / Sarina joined the locals for a weekend of exciting events, many of them camping out in swags, tents, and caravans, making the most of the opportunity to enjoy the club's festive spirit.

Saturday kicked off the weekend with a great turnout, as 30 participants took part in the monthly shoot. Competitors battled it out in various events, including a 25-target double barrel (DB) sweepstakes. Notable winners included J. Furini and A. Lord, both with a perfect score of 25/25 in the AA grade, and R. Zarb, who also claimed a perfect score in the A grade with 25/25. The B and C grades saw impressive performances, with D. Bartlett (24/25) and T. Bartlett (23/25) leading their respective categories.

Sunday’s Christmas shoot was a true highlight, featuring five exciting events, including the 10 Pair Deauville Doubles. The top scorers of the day were T. Coco and B. Elphinstone, who finished with a perfect score of 10/10, followed closely by A. Zarb and D. Bartlett, with 18/19.

The shoot also featured several fun handicap events, where Hams were awarded to those with the best scores, including a number of competitors who excelled in tight matches. Special thanks to Glenn, who donated three bottles of port for a novelty competition, which provided a bit of extra fun, with winners R. Ness, C. Morelli, and P. Scott taking home the prize.

The generous sponsors of the weekend, including Bow Pak, Coral’s City 2 Country, and Hall’s Firearms, provided a range of prizes. Special mention goes to Lui Populin, who donated a slab of ammo for the raffle, which was won by C. Edgerton. In addition, Colin & Cheryl generously donated six bottles of wine, which were won by lucky shooters G. Rea, A. Lord, A. Zarb, B. Bonanno, P. Le Blowitz, and C. Robertson. Hall’s Firearms also donated gift vouchers, which were claimed by R. Zarb, J. Furini, A. Gangemi, and L. Furini.

The weekend’s festivities wrapped up with the Quickie Board Hams being claimed by Lui P, Clem K, Brodie E, Leanne C, David S, Michael P, John C, Rob N, Ron C, Kinno, Michael G, Pedro LeB, and Phil S.
The Port Denison Gun Club is immensely grateful to all who helped out over the weekend—whether it was the workers, trap fillers, canteen helpers, or those who tidied up—your contributions made the weekend a success.

Don’t forget, the first monthly shoot of 2025 will be held on Sunday, 26 January 26.

Contributed with thanks to Colin Edgerton.

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Ev 4 Ham Winners: P Wade, G Clarke, W Cislowski, T Coco, C Morelli.
Ev 3 Ham Winners: J Rossato, D Stitt, P Wade, J Cerqui, C Cislowski.
Ev 2 Ham Winners: J Rossato, P Scalia, A Lord, B Gall, C Edgerton.
Ev 1 10Pr D.Doubles: P Wade, D Bartlett, T Coco, B Elphinstone.
Sat Ev 2 25TSB Bow Pak Trophy: D Bartlett, G Maltby, G Rea.
Sat Ev 3 25T PS Corals City 2 Country Trophy: B Elphinstone, M Populin, G Maltby, B Murphy.
Quickie Board Ham Winners: Brodie E, John K, Rob N, Phil S, John C, Leanne C, Lui P, Clem K, Pedro LeB, Michael P, David S, Ron C.
Raffle donated by L Populin won by C Edgerton.
Ev 5 Ham Winners: B Farry, J Kinnonmonth, W Rossato, B Micallef, G McHenry.
G McHenry presenting trophies to P Scott, C Morelli, R Ness.

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Eight exceptional junior athletes from the Whitsundays were honoured for their outstanding sporting achievements during an Ordinary Council meeting on Wednesday 27 November. The athletes, who have excelled in their respective sports at regional, state, and national levels, were recognised by Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and the Councillors for their dedication and hard work.

These athletes are part of the Junior Elite Athletes initiative, a program offered by the Whitsunday Regional Council to provide financial support to young sportspeople competing at representative competitions. The initiative aims to help ease the financial burden on athletes and their families, enabling them to participate in prestigious events that showcase their talent on larger stages. The financial grant assists with the costs associated with competing in these high-level sports programs, including travel, equipment, and entry fees.

The following athletes were celebrated for their remarkable performances:
   • Taijanah Ngamotu – Northern Region School Rugby League
   • Charlie Williams – NQ Cross Country Championships and QLD State Championships Track and Field
   • Isabelle Williams – NQ Cross Country Championships
   • Reid Martin – International Eastern Seaboard Regatta – Sailing
   • Keeleigh Muir – QLD State Championships Track and Field
   • Aliyah Palmer – Northern Region School Rugby League
   • Murphy Aitken – NQ Cricket State Championships
   • Stella Neden – NQ Softball Championships

Mayor Ry Collins expressed pride in the achievements of these athletes, highlighting how their success reflects the strength of sporting talent within the Whitsunday region.

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Eight young athletes were congratulated by Mayor Ry Collins on Wednesday.

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The Whitsunday Golf Club wrapped up its final official event of the year with a farewell lunch and presentation at the Reef Gateway Hotel on Saturday, 23 November. The event, which brought together club members and supporters, was a heartwarming celebration of the club’s journey, particularly honouring the efforts of Kerry Hall, who played a pivotal role in reviving the club in years past.

The afternoon was filled with laughter, fun, and nostalgia, as members reflected on the memorable moments shared over the years. A special thank you was extended to the club’s generous sponsors, whose support has been integral to the club’s success. These sponsors include Reef Gateway Hotel, Airlie Panel & Paint, Master Butchers Whitsunday, RADS, and Whitsunday Concrete Constructions, along with many other individuals who have contributed their time and resources to make the club a welcoming community.

The event also featured a fantastic slide show, created by Jo, that highlighted the club’s many adventures and trips. From Halliday Bay, Pioneer Valley, and Eungella to 12 trips to Magnetic Island, these outings were filled with laughter, camaraderie, and, of course, plenty of good-natured sledging. These trips and memories have become an integral part of what made the Whitsunday Golf Club such a unique and cherished group.

As the year draws to a close, the Whitsunday Golf Club expressed its gratitude to all who have been a part of its journey, with heartfelt thanks for the fun, friendship, and memories shared. Members are looking forward to another year of golf and good times, and they invite everyone to join them for the 2025 season, either out on the course or at the Reef Gateway Hotel.

Wishing all members and their families a wonderful Christmas, the Whitsunday Golf Club looks forward to continuing the fun and friendship in the year ahead!

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

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Memorial Award Winners, Mark and Nicol.
Men’s A Grade Medal of Medals recipient.
Ladies’ Medal of Medals recipient.
The 2024 NETT Champions.
The Club’s 2024 Gross Champions.
A timeless keepsake, the Kerry Hall shirt.

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Rain earlier in the day didn’t dampen the spirits at Gloucester Sport & Recreation in Hydeaway Bay, where the community gathered on Saturday afternoon to celebrate the opening of their brand-new pickleball courts. The facility now boasts two dedicated pickleball courts and a third court shared with a half-basketball setup, marking an exciting development for local sports enthusiasts.

The event was attended by Cr Amanda Camm and Cr Gary Simpson, who both showed strong support for the growing popularity of pickleball in the area. Michelle Jones, Secretary of the Pickleball Association of Queensland, highlighted the sport’s positive impact on communities.

“Pickleball is all about creating community – on and off the court,” shared Michelle.

“This new facility will allow all players the opportunity to have a laugh, get some exercise and make meaningful connections that will last a lifetime.”

After the formalities, the sun emerged, and Michelle guided newcomers eager to try the sport, while 14 local players enjoyed open play on their new courts. The event marked a significant step forward for Hydeaway Bay’s recreational offerings and reinforced the sense of connection and inclusivity that pickleball brings to communities.

Contributed with thanks to Lorraine Christiansen.

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Russell Muller - GSRA President - awarding a plaque of appreciation to Lorraine & Bob Christiansen who were instrumental in getting the pickleball courts built.
Gloucester Pickleball Members with Amanda Camm, Russell and Gary Simpson.
Lorraine Christiansen, Michelle Jones - Secretary Pickleball Association of Queensland, Amanda Camm on the pickleball courts.
Gloucester Pickleball members enjoying their new courts.

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The Cannonvale Cannons had a busy and successful weekend, with seven swimmers competing in the Hamilton Island Triathlon and Ocean Swims.

On Saturday 23 November, Matilda Nicholes, Don Algie, Penelope Shields, and River Shields showcased their endurance and enthusiasm in the triathlon events. On Sunday 24 November, Thomas Ganter, Don Algie, and River Shields tackled the 350m Ocean Swim with outstanding performances. Jacob Bell delivered an exceptional result in the 2km Ocean Swim, securing third place with a time of 24.06. Coaches Kate Thomson, Raylene Rasmussen, and Mark Erickson also joined in the fun, enjoying their ocean swims.

The week continued with celebrations back at the pool on Wednesday, where the Cannons expressed their gratitude to Bendigo Community Bank for a generous $300 donation. During the Club Night, Giselle Burton presented Jess Moon and Eloise Chegwidden with the Chocolate Awards for achieving the best personal bests (PBs). Addie Sanders and Ruby Lawson received the Coaches’ Awards for their efforts.

Standout performers included Eloise Chegwidden, who shaved an impressive 25.61 seconds off her 100m Backstroke, and Lucas Korosec, who swam an excellent 100m IM in 1:38.26. Swimmers achieving three or four PBs on the night were Eloise Chegwidden, Zane Clayworth, Gracie Laguna, Eric Mulliss, Sophie Palmero, Hazel Smith, Asher Springbett, Reid Springbett, and Alex Trefz.

Breaststroke events saw superb swims from Isla Johnston, Jasper Korosec, Nelson Malady, Pippa Laguna, Ruby Lawson, Miranda Palmero, Andie Reynolds, Jax Clayworth, Brooklyn Congoo, Bonnie Crichton, Eloise Chegwidden, and Lennox Wild. In the backstroke events, Leo Mulliss, Stella Mulliss, Penelope Shields, River Shields, and Zach Trefz impressed the coaches with fantastic times.

Special mentions go to Andie Reynolds for her massive effort in the 200m Butterfly and for achieving a 2.6-second PB in her 100m IM, and to Miller Eaves and Addie Sanders for their thrilling 100m Freestyle race, both finishing under 1:29.

The Cannons commend all swimmers who participated in Club Night and extend heartfelt thanks to the parents and volunteers who make these events possible.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

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Jacob Bell at Hamilton Island.
Thomas Ganter and Don Algie at Hamilton Island.
Jess Moon received the Chocolate Award.
Addie Sanders received the Coaches' Award.

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