Last Friday, the North Mackay Ladies welcomed players from across the Mackay District to join them for the Annual Goosepond Triples event.

North Mackay Ladies President Hilary Jones-Rowan formally welcomed all attendees to a day designed for participation, camaraderie, and above all, enjoyment.

Play commenced with the first of three scheduled 16-end games, with the opening match concluding at 11:30am. Participants then returned to the club for a delicious lunch, thoughtfully prepared by the staff at Goosies Sport and Recreation Club. Following the break, players returned to the greens to complete the final two games.

At the end of play, competitors retired to the clubhouse for a refreshing drink and a beautifully arranged afternoon grazing table.

President Hilary Jones-Rowan then acknowledged and thanked the day’s sponsors — Ben Phillips from Gardian Finance, David Fisher from Gardian Real Estate, and Neil Blucher, President of the Board of Management.

Prizes were first awarded to the winners of each round:

First Round: Rita Hughes, Gail Risman, and Jenny Gardiner
Second Round: Lidia McCarthy, Jean Schmidtke, and Lorraine Lemke
Third Round: Florence Keft, D. Makelvie, and Honnie Ray

The overall winners of the day were then announced:

Fourth Place: Margaret Egerton, Flo Ruggeri, and Linda Owen (Mackay City)
Third Place: Rhonda Meng, Gail Meng, and Jo Inch (Suburban)
Second Place: Chris Hall, Bev Svenson, and Joyce Camilleri (North Mackay/City)

First Place: Betty Nicolle, Carol Crosbie, and K. Rewnerswaal (Airlie Beach)

Organisers extended their sincere thanks to all who participated in this year’s Goosepond Triples event and expressed hope to welcome everyone back again next year.

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Results For Week Ending Sunday 27 April 2025

Monday 21 April 2025 – 6 Table Howell Green Points (Nation Wide Pairs)

North/South East/West
1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Ian Cruickshank - Mary Cruickshank
2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 2nd Andrew Canavan - Jan Harris
3rd Margaret Lane - Barbara Tait 3rd Ken Seaniger - Nancy Martin

Tuesday Evening 22 April 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West
1st Christine Morrison - Glen Cocup 1st Noel Bugeia - Eric Goodchild
2nd Martin Pearce - Errol Morris 2nd Andrew Canavan - Ken Seaniger

Wednesday 23 April 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West
1st David Ting - Eric Goodchild 1st Diane Stokes - Griffin Bancroft
2nd Monica Darley - Tex Sheedy 2nd Sandra Morris - Jan Harris
3rd Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 3rd Debra Goodchild - Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 24 April 2025 – 4 Table Howell Green Points

North/South
1st Noel Bugeia - Tex Sheedy 3rd Diane Stokes - Martin Pearce
2nd Jan Harris - Patricia Garner 4th Faye Wright - Frances Brown

ANZAC Day Friday 25 April 2025 –6.5 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West
1st Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 1st Monica Darley - Gwen Liddell
2nd Margaret Lane - Ken Seaniger 2nd Mick King - John Mcgee
3rd Diane Stokes - Griffin Bancroft 3rd Eric Goodchild - Sandy Patterson

Saturday 26 April 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

North/South East/West
1st Ming Ting - David Ting   1st Margaret Lane - Anne Lutz
2nd Sandy Patterson - Ken Seaniger   2nd Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless
3rd Annie Lynch - Sandra Morris 3rd Martin Pearce - Diane Morgan
4th Alan Brown - Frances Brown 4th Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix

Sunday 27 April 2025 – 10.5 Table Howell Green Points (Novice And Beginners)

1st Susan Ross - Vicki Howard 4th Ted Cullinan - Noel Saunders
2nd  Faith Hutchinson - Geoff Cowan 5th Tex Sheedy - Karen Caldwell
3rd  Debra Goodchild - Annette Howe

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Some of the 24 Mackay club members traveling to Yeppoon for the 2025 Barrier Reef Congress being held over the long weekend 2nd to 5th May 2025. The Barrier Reef Congress is an annual event which alternates between Yeppoon, Townsville, Cairns and Mackay with Gold points being awarded. Photo supplied

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More than forty runners converged on West Mackay’s residential streets this afternoon for the annual Tilse Toddle 5km and 10km events. The Club sincerely thanked Johnson Street residents for their patience, with a special thanks to President Paul Tilse and family for hosting and setting the course. Invaluable race day support came from Len Howarth, David Isbister, Julie Whibley, and Rohan Miles.

Congratulations to all competitors, including a commanding 10km comeback by Justin Rule after his 1500m track championship race. Track specialist Steven Hayles fine-tuned his form for an upcoming 800m event. Luke and Lily Leven impressed in the 10km and 5km respectively.

Paul Mackenzie, highest handicapped runner, delivered a sensational 10km despite a recent 100km and 25km effort — and even fixed a meter box switch mid-event! Mick Vivian was fastest overall, finishing 52 seconds ahead of Mackenzie. Glynis Forse was fastest female, 14 seconds ahead of Carolyn Mapes, with newcomer Amy Huston placing third.

In the 5km, Alana Knezevic powered through injury to win, ahead of junior star Lily Leven.

Steven Hayles and Hayden Connor led the men, with Lauren Connor also making a strong return.

Next Sunday’s run is a social 5km/10km at Bluewater Quay, 4pm. Volunteers are needed Saturday 31 May to assist handing out Mackay Marina Run race bags – contact Janelle Tilse on 0400 99 74 32 for more information.

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Jim Perkins (left) and Clinton Mackie (right) await their handicap start in the 10km Tilse Toddle

Justin Rule makes a welcome return to Mackay Road Runners racing

Mackay Road Runners Life Member and champion runner, Judy Zahn easily tackles the 10km Tilse Toddle. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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Get ready for a fun-filled Term 2 with the return of the popular Kindy Cricket program, freshly crowned with a Queensland Cricket Award. Starting Tuesday, May 6th, this exciting and engaging program is designed for children aged 3 to 5 years old, offering a perfect introduction to the world of cricket through skill-based activities and fundamental movement exercises.

The Kindy Cricket program, known for fostering a love of the game, aims to develop essential motor skills while promoting physical activity in a fun and supportive environment. The best part? Parents are encouraged to join in the fun and bond with their little ones through interactive activities. After the session, parents can unwind with a complimentary coffee at HP Cafe, making it the perfect family outing.

With spots for the Kindy Cricket program limited, early registration is recommended to secure your child’s place.

For older kids, the action continues with the launch of the Boys Only and Girls Only programs, beginning Monday, May 12th. These age-appropriate sessions provide tailored coaching and development for young cricketers looking to improve their skills in a supportive, gender-specific environment.

Limited spots available, so register now!

Program Details:

Kindy Cricket (Ages 3-5): Starts Tuesday, May 6th
Program Length: 3 weeks
Cost: $35 (includes Rays water bottle, bouncy ball and coffee voucher)
Location: Harrup Park Field 2
Registration: Limited spots available. Register now at www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/register/d4f2fa

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Over the Easter long weekend, Mackay softball players headed off to the state championships, with only a few having ever previously been part of a representative team. The boys were excited and played their hearts out all weekend, finishing in fourth place and earning a spot in the play-off for the President’s Cup.

There were smiles all around as they pulled off a strong win against Rockhampton, 13-3. A huge congratulations to the young lads and officials on their victory.

Once the boys returned home, the Queensland Under-14 Thunder squad was named, with Boyd Baxter, Eli Nielsen, Connor Doolan, and Levi Counsell all selected for the squad – giving the young players even more reason to celebrate.

A smile was also on the face of Mackay’s only female representative, Mackenzie Rumpf, who joined the Rockhampton team to compete at the Under-14 Girls Championship. Mackenzie was part of the winning team, taking out the girls’ under-14 title – congratulations, Macca!

While the players were out doing their thing, Emmett Counsell was doing his – umpiring games all weekend. Congratulations to Emmett on passing his Level 2 umpiring accreditation, a great achievement.

The action doesn’t stop there, with the May Day Carnival set to hit off this long weekend, from 3rd to 5th May. Teams from across the state will be attending, with five A Men’s, five A Ladies’, and seven B Ladies’ teams competing.

Games start at 8am on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, continuing into the night each day, with the grand final scheduled for 1pm on Monday afternoon.

Entry is free to come along and watch some – or all – of the games. Grab lunch from the canteen, sit back, relax, and enjoy some great softball action. You might even catch up with some old faces!

What: May Day Softball Carnival – top teams from across Queensland battle it out.
When: 3–5 May, 2025. Games from 8am daily, grand final 1pm Monday.
Where: Mackay Softball Association fields.
Entry: Free for spectators.

Mackay’s young softballers impressed at the state championships, celebrated state squad selections, and are now gearing up to host the May Day Carnival from 3–5 May. Photos supplied

It was another busy and competitive week at Wangaratta Bowls Club, with players turning out in strong numbers for both midweek and weekend matches.

On Tuesday, Neale Chittenden, Isobel Wheeler and Margaret Wilson teamed up to defeat Sue Shearing, Irene Laird and Maureen Hyde in a closely contested match. In other results, Deb Retchless claimed victory over Laurie Land and Ron Hyde. Although the bowls were flying and the competition was fierce, the jackpot once again remained unclaimed.

Sunday afternoon saw more exciting matches on the greens. Deb Retchless and Kennedy Whitton combined brilliantly to defeat Neale Chittenden and Pat Tracey. Meanwhile, Gwenda Lydom, Maureen Hyde and G. Colquhoun enjoyed a strong win over Lindy Suann, Alby Vigar and Allan Rolfe. Despite the great play, the jackpot still stayed elusive for another week.

In representative news, the club extends its congratulations and best wishes to Penny Warren, Denise Wallace and Tiarna Winter, who are travelling to the Sunshine Coast to compete in the State District Sides Championship from 7–10 May. The trio will proudly represent North Queensland at the prestigious event, playing at Mooloolaba Bowls Club. Good luck and good bowling!

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Penny Warren, Denise Wallace, and Tiarna Winter. Photo supplied

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With the rain finally behind us and warm weather settling in, spirits were high at Airlie Beach Bowls Club this past week. Members are eagerly awaiting news on the completion date for the new cover, with fingers crossed for a favourable update soon.

Tuesday saw the opening rounds of the Ladies A Grade Singles get underway. Only one social game was played, with Mark Mawson stepping in for Joan McGrath to join Mel Fennell at lead and Sue Dakin at second. The team combined superbly, with Fennell delivering some outstanding bowls to help secure the win.

Wednesday afternoon’s social bowls drew a huge turnout, and it was Rick Galea skipping to victory. A standout performance from Liz McManus at lead stole the show, overshadowing her talented husband Arthur, as the winning team took home the day's prize. No update was available yet on the Business House Bowls, but a report is expected next week, along with news of the Endeavour Foundation members and their minders returning to the greens.

Saturday was a big day, kicking off with the opening round of Scroungers. Andy McDougall came out on top, defeating Merve Stewart and Kathryn Remmeswaal in a thrilling final.

Saturday also featured the B Pairs competition, with matches played across both morning and afternoon sessions. Ash Warland and Arthur McManus claimed a morning win and progressed through the afternoon on a forfeit, as did Rick Brunell and his skipper Terry Clarke. Mark Mawson and Bill Gordon secured a strong victory over Eric Barnard and Des Ballance but narrowly lost in a close match to Noel Crosbie and his lead, Wayne, from Midge Point.

Sunday morning saw another four-hour session as the semi-finals got underway. Terry Clarke and Rick Brunell were dominant in their match, as were Ash Warland and Arthur McManus, who overcame Duncan Smith and Dennis Donnadelli. In the final, Warland and McManus proved too strong, comfortably defeating Clarke and Brunell to take out the B Pairs title.

With the sun shining and competition heating up, it's shaping up to be an exciting month ahead at Airlie Beach Bowls Club.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Arthur and Ash put on a great display over the weekend. Photo supplied

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What a stellar weekend it was last weekend for fishing – total glass out!

Unfortunately, the weather won’t be the same this weekend, as howling winds are predicated to be here for the next few days. It’s a good reminder to make the most of every good weather window.

Dam
There’s been a few good barramundi caught in the dam this past week by anglers who have been trolling deep diving hard body lures. Shallow ones should still be proving successful as well though.

If you’re heading to the dam, don’t forget your insect repellent. The midges and mozzies have been rife.

Estuary
A stack of quality barramundi are still being caught in the estuaries. Live baiting and slow twitching soft prawn plastics have been the standouts for success.

Some great grunter catches are also starting to roll in. Using prawns for bait are definitely your best option here.

Again, don’t forget your insect repellent…

Islands & Offshore
The islands and offshore have continued to be incredible this week. Plenty of good reef species have been caught, including coral trout, nannygai and red emperor. You can’t ask for better fish for dinner!

The challenge has been getting catches past the sharks, which is proving particularly difficult at the moment. When you’re successful though, it does make the catch feel even more rewarding.

We hope you can all find somewhere a little protected to fish the next few days.

Best of luck out there!

Contributed with thanks to Beth Hockley

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The Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Women and Junior sides made the journey inland over the weekend, taking on Moranbah in Anzac Round matches played in excellent conditions.

The youngest Sea Eagles, the Under 13s, set the tone with a strong performance. In a closely contested match, it was the Sea Eagles who pulled away in the final term, applying the pressure to seal a 39–16 victory.

The Under 15s faced a tough task after Moranbah jumped out to an early lead. However, the Sea Eagles fought back hard in the second half, taking the game down to the wire. In a thrilling final term, the lead changed several times, but it was Moranbah who found a late goal to edge out Whitsunday, 39–37.

The Under 17s battled bravely against the odds. Like many clubs across the competition, the Sea Eagles have been adjusting to AFLQ Mackay’s new age group changes, but they managed to pull a team together and fought hard throughout the day, eventually going down 22–82.

In the Senior Women's clash, Whitsunday pushed Moranbah all the way in a tight, low-scoring encounter. Despite working hard across four quarters, the Sea Eagles fell just short, going down 2–7. However, the team is eager to bounce back when they meet Moranbah again this weekend on home turf.

All five Sea Eagles teams will be back in action at Whitsunday Sportspark this Saturday, May 3. The Senior Women and Juniors will face Moranbah once again, while the Senior Men gear up to take on Mackay City Hawks. The canteen will be open from 9am, with the bar opening from 12:15pm.

Whitsunday Sportspark - Saturday, May 3 Schedule:

9:15am: Sea Eagles U13s vs Moranbah
10:40am: Sea Eagles U15s vs Moranbah
12:15pm: Sea Eagles U17s vs Moranbah
1:50pm: Sea Eagles Senior Women vs Moranbah
3:20pm: Sea Eagles Senior Men vs Mackay City Hawks

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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On Monday 21st April, 10 of our swimmers & their families assisted with placing Australian Flags on the graves of fallen men & women at the Proserpine cemetery in preparation for ANZAC Day.

This experience was both humbling & moving for all involved. With over 400 flags placed, it was a big community effort & rewarding to give back to the community that supports us.

On ANZAC Day, six dedicated swimmers & their families came together to proudly march at the Proserpine ANZAC Day march. Ti & Savanah held the banner proudly throughout the main street march, with Savanah & Jack proudly laying a wreath on behalf of the swimming club at the cenotaph.

A big thank you to Savanah, Ti, Georgia, Jack, Mackenzie, Savannah, George, Ivy, Lochlan, Hayden, Leyton, Jayde and families for giving your time for this very important part of our country’s history.

The Whitsunday Swimming Club is proud to give back to our supportive community.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Swimming Club

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The Outrigger Whitsunday Regatta returns to Lagoon Beach on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 May, with a full weekend of exciting ocean and sprint races ahead.

The event opens with the VA-A Moana Hoe marathon from Shute Harbour to Airlie Beach, sponsored by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, featuring 16 OC6 canoes and 17 small craft. Local paddlers James Middleton, Charlie Preen, Bernie Mackie and Paul Tobias will join two athletes from Port Douglas for the Outrigger Whitsunday crew.

Strong local hopes in the OC1 race include Stephen and Michelle Lynes and Maree Mullet, all eyeing a downhill wind-assisted run. Promising juniors Jai Dennison, Cody and Dean Lassau will team up with paddlers from Mission Beach and Port Douglas in the Open Men’s 12km race.

Linda Davis from the Capricorn Coast, preparing for the World Ski Titles, will race in several events.

Junior races begin Saturday at 12.45pm, with early events sponsored by the Airlie Beach Lions Club. All races are now fully sponsored thanks to support from local businesses including Tassal Seafoods, Bendigo Bank, Magnums, Airlie Beach Hotel, and more.

Sunday’s program starts at 6.45am, with senior sprint races from 9.30am. The final race is at 3.30pm, followed by presentations at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

Food vans, great viewing spots, and top-level paddling make this a must-see local event. Everyone is welcome!

Contributed with thanks to  Paul Tobias

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Friday 2nd May

Football
Whitsunday United
6pm – Div 2 Men vs Sarina Saints
8pm – Div 1 Men vs Magpies

Saturday 3rd May

AFL
Whitsunday Sea Eagles
9:15am - U’13’s vs Moranbah
10:40am – U’15’s vs Moranbah
12:15pm – U’17’s vs Moranbah
1:50pm – Senior Women vs Moranbah
3:20pm – Senior Men vs Hawks

Rugby Union
Raiders – BYE

Monday 5th May
Whitsunday Touch

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A new youth basketball program in Mackay will provide over 130 young Australian South Sea Islanders with the opportunity to develop their skills and strengthen community ties, thanks to funding from the Queensland Government’s Strengthening Multicultural Queensland (SMQ) program.

The Queensland Police-Citizens Youth Welfare Association (PCYC) Mackay will receive over $46,000 as part of a broader $1.9 million investment in 26 multicultural community-led projects across the state.

The two-year program aims to break down social barriers, encourage cultural exchange, and strengthen community connections through the universal language of sport.

Minister for Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson said the grants are designed to support projects that foster inclusion and positive engagement.

“Not only have these recipients demonstrated leadership in strengthening community cohesion, but also practical ways for people from varied cultural backgrounds to be actively involved in the Queensland economy and way of life,” she said.

Building on this sentiment, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton described the initiative as a “tremendous opportunity” for local youth.

“$46,000 will be put towards facilitating a basketball training regime for young people aged 15 to 25,” Mr Dalton said.

“Sport is so important for not only youth development, but for fostering social cohesion, promoting inclusivity, and building bridges between those from diverse backgrounds, increasing positive social and health outcomes.”

He said the program would promote multiculturalism, fitness, and inclusion while building teams that could compete locally and beyond.

“The wider benefits will be that the youngsters, hopefully, will go on to form teams that can compete in competitions. Some of those competitions will be local, and some may be further afield.

“The funding will also allow them to get uniforms, any equipment they need for training, and maybe even bring in some specialist coaches.”

First Nations Coordinator at PCYC Mackay, Patrick Thaiday, said the program aligns closely with what local families have cherished for generations.

“Basketball is something they’ve connected with from an early age.

“I remember playing basketball with family—it’s a great way to unite the community,” Mr Thaiday said.

“Without something like this, there wouldn’t be many opportunities for these kids to come together.”

Mr Dalton further noted that this program would strengthen a vital community.

“The South Sea Islander community is an important part of our local area.

“The Australian Bureau of Statistics suggests there are about four to five thousand South Islanders in Queensland, and around three and a half to four thousand of those live right here in Mackay.

“About 30% of all South Islanders in Queensland are under 25 or 30 years old.

“So we’ve got a large number of young people who are really keen to get out there, show their sporting prowess, and hopefully progress into a fantastic basketball career.”

To explore the full list of projects and learn more, visit www.tatsipca.qld.gov.au/smq-program.

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A new youth basketball program in Mackay, funded by the Queensland Government’s Strengthening Multicultural Queensland (SMQ) program, will support over 130 young South Sea Islanders in developing their skills and building community ties through sport. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay’s newest entertainment hotspot has officially opened its doors — and it’s already proving to be a hole-in-one with locals.

X-Golf Mackay is a $1.5 million indoor golf and sports precinct bringing the latest in simulation technology, top-notch hospitality, and a cool, comfortable atmosphere to the city’s northern beaches. The 500sqm facility, located at the HomeCo Centre beside Bunnings on Mackay-Bucasia Road, is the first of its kind in the region.

Roy and Mary Boase, the dynamic couple behind the venture, have relocated from Rockhampton and are already enjoying life in Mackay’s northern beaches, getting to know the locals who’ve quickly embraced the space as their new go-to hangout.

“We’ve had such a great response already,” Roy said.

“Groups of mates, families, couples — they’re loving the chance to have a swing without sweating it out on the course.”

The venue employs eight local staff and features six ultra-realistic golf simulators offering everything from driving range runs to full rounds on over 50 of the world’s most famous courses, including Roy’s personal favourite — the Old Course at St Andrews in Scotland.

“The thing I love about X-Golf is it bridges the gap between traditional clubs and those looking to get started in the game,” he said.

“The golfing underdog will be warmly welcomed, which is how I got into it.”

Roy admits he first discovered just how true-to-life the simulators were when he played a round and scored just as badly as he does on an actual course.

“I realised how accurate X-Golf sims were when I first played and my results were as bad as when I’m on the course,” he laughed.

Engineered by two Australian brothers with partnerships in Korea, the simulators use a combination of high-resolution cameras, infrared lasers and impact sensors to capture detailed data from each shot, from ball speed and launch angle to spin rate and club path.

But it’s not just for the pros.

The facility’s relaxed layout and lounge-style comfort make it an easy entry point for first-timers and a great spot for anyone to have a swing, regardless of skill level. And there’s more than just golf on offer.

The venue also boasts a full bar and kitchen dishing up cold tap beers, fresh pizzas and loaded sliders. There’s a pool table, comfy couches, big-screen TVs airing all the latest sporting action, and a vibe that has Mackay talking.

Editor of Mackay Life, Amanda Wright, couldn’t resist the swing of things.

“I was super impressed by the technology — the automatic ball tee-up is genius,” she said.

“It’s so easy to use, and the food is amazing.

“I’ll definitely be back with friends — maybe even sneak in a hit on my lunch break!”

Behind the bar, Roy is quickly earning a reputation for shaking up a mean cocktail.

“I make a pretty good fruit tingle,” he said with a grin — and according to customers, the drinks have been a big hit.

“The atmosphere’s been fantastic,” Roy added.

“Music, banter, cold beers and great food — what more could you want?”

Mary, a former registered nurse, said the heart behind X-Golf Mackay is all about community.

“We’re enjoying the opportunity to bring something family-oriented to Mackay,” she said.

“There’s been such wonderful feedback from the community already and we’re hoping to build on those relationships by working with local clubs, businesses and schools.”

Competitive players can also join in X-Golf Mackay’s annual X-League – Australia’s largest indoor golf league – with plenty of room for private group bookings, team functions and celebrations.

To tee up your own X-Golf experience, visit www.xgolf.com.au/locations/mackay-qld.

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Inside Mackay’s newest entertainment hub — X-Golf Mackay — where owners Roy and Mary Boase have teed up a high-tech golfing experience with top-notch hospitality and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Photo credit: Photos by Nell

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The 2024 MSA National Championships were a splash hit for the Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club, who dove into five days of fierce competition and camaraderie at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre from April 8–12. After sending six swimmers to Darwin in 2023, the Sinkers turned up the heat this year with a team of nine, joining over 700 swimmers from across Australia and overseas for one of the biggest meets on the masters calendar.

Day One: Strong Start in the 800m and a Warm Welcome

The championships kicked off with a full day of 800m freestyle heats — a test of stamina and strategy. Six Sinkers hit the water, clocking impressive personal bests and setting the tone for a stellar week. Geoff Robinson, the club’s most seasoned swimmer, swam his way to a silver medal. The evening’s welcome event provided a relaxed and social atmosphere — the perfect launchpad for the competition ahead.

Day Two: Medal Haul and Team Triumphs

Day Two saw the Sinkers haul in an impressive string of medals. Geoff Robinson struck gold in the 100m freestyle, Nigel Dalton powered to gold in the 100m backstroke, and both Megan Taylor and Sue Dalton secured bronze in the 200m breaststroke. The team then capped off the day with a bronze in the 240+ age group mixed medley 200m relay, alongside more personal bests across individual events.

Day Three: Tough Races and Relay Power

Thursday brought on the grueling 400m individual medley — conquered bravely by Pierre, who posted a personal best and a fourth-place finish. The mixed 4x100m freestyle relay team delivered a slick swim under their nominated time, clinching bronze, while the women’s 4x50m medley relay team surged to a strong fourth. Nigel added to the medal tally with bronze in the 200m backstroke, and other members impressed with standout swims in the 50m freestyle and butterfly.

Day Four: Endurance Pays Off

Day Four began with the 400m freestyle, with several Sinkers chasing points for the Vorgee Endurance Program. Geoff Robinson bagged another silver, while Nigel added a silver in the 50m backstroke, and Sue clocked silver in the 100m breaststroke. More PBs rolled in as the club contested the mixed 400m medley relay and the women’s 200m freestyle relay with grit and grace.

Day Five: Big Finishes and Celebrations

The final day saw swimmers hit the blocks early for the ever-popular 200m freestyle, with Sinkers members turning in strong performances and more PBs. Highlights included silver in the women’s 4x100m medley relay and a solid showing in the mixed 4x50m freestyle relay. Geoff earned silver in the 200m freestyle, and Sue added to her tally with silver in the 50m breaststroke.

Final Results: A Club Effort Worth Celebrating

After five days of high-energy competition, the Sinkers secured a brilliant 18th place out of 118 clubs — a fantastic result from months of dedicated training. In total, the team racked up 2 gold, 6 silver, and 3 bronze medals in individual events, plus 1 silver and 3 bronze in relays.

The championships wrapped up with a lively presentation night and DJ-fuelled celebrations. A special shoutout goes to coach Millie from DMR Leisure at the Mackay Memorial Swimming Centre, whose poolside advice and nutritious snacks kept the team fuelled and focused.

With the GBR Masters Games in May and the NQ MSQ Championships in September on the horizon, the Sinkers are back in training — and already buzzing for the 2026 MSA Nationals, set to be hosted right here in Queensland at the Chandler pool complex.

Contributed by Dan Stampa

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Geoff Robinson in the 80-84 years 800m freestyle event claimed Silver in the first of his 4 podium placings.

Megan Taylor swam a great 200m breaststroke to claim a bronze. (Ratty the Mascot whispering his advice)

The Mixed 4 x 100m freestyle relay team of (L – R) Nigel Dalton, Sue Dalton, Megan Taylor and Dan Stampa

claimed a bronze in the 240 age group.

Helen Burgess gets ready for an individual event, the 50m backstroke.

The Sinkers Women’s 4 x 100m Medley relay team managed a great silver with (l – R) Megan Taylor, Sue Dalton, Lesley Thorpe and Dee McMurtrie. Photos supplied

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