Sports

Mackay Bushwalkers Explore Cape Hillsborough

Mackay Bushwalkers Explore Cape Hillsborough

Recently, members of the Mackay Bushwalkers' Club were offered two very different walks on successive Sundays, both under the guidance of Ken Fihelly in the broad Cape Hillsborough area. Members were taken to places not usually frequented by visitors to the National Park, who often prefer to follow the popular walking tracks to the well-known lookouts. The first of these bushwalks traversed the western section of the park from Smalley's Beach nearly up to the plateau, passing under cliffs to a cave with a large overhang. Some steep rock scrambling was undertaken, but was rewarded with great views including that of the Native Pink Hibiscus patch, mostly still only buds. The journey back to the cars revealed gullies, dry creek beds and sections of rain forest. Towering palms, beautiful basket ferns, grass trees and lush grasslands, as well as a close encounter with a Ulysses butterfly were highlights of the day. A week later, Paradise Falls was reached after a journey offering large boulders, impressive rain forest and rugged cliffs, as well as thousands of Crow and Blue Tiger butterflies. Both walks showcased spectacular scenery to be admired whilst making the most of the outdoors in very sunny weather. The club's full program for the next month includes a variety of walks ranging from Mt Dalrymple to Homevale and Cathu, with some easier options available on the days of more challenging outings. For further information about the range of walks on offer to members over the next month and for information on how to become involved, phone 0429363929. Ian Brookes. Photo credit: Julie Ward

Read the full story
Mackay Contract Bridge Results Club Welcomes New Country Director

Mackay Contract Bridge Results Club Welcomes New Country Director

BRIDGE The club is pleased to announce that Jan Harris, is the newly appointed Country Director. In the context of the card game bridge, a Country Director is an accredited official qualified to oversee and manage small regional or "country" bridge congresses. Jan received her Queensland Bridge Association Director’s Certificate from President Frances Brown. Bridge cannot be played without directors and is commendable that Club members like Jan step forward to fill these roles. Thank you, Jan! Frances and Jan Weekly Results Monday 8 June 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Monica Darley / Joy Block 2nd Vicki Howard / Susan Ross 3rd Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers 4th Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris Evening 9 June 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger 1st Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup 2nd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 3rd Ian Stephenson / Ann Whitmore 3rd Errol Morris / Mick Robins Wednesday 10 June 2026 – NWP Week 11 of 26 - 10 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Debbie Ludkin / Mick King 3rd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 4th Monica Darley / Helen Goldston 4th Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood 5th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 5th Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell Thursday Evening 11 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner – Green Points 1st Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott 2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 3rd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore 4th Simon Barnes / Martin Pearce Friday 12 June 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 2nd Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger 2nd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Diane Cox / Christine Nice 3rd Mick King / Geoff Cowan 4th Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 4th Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 5th Ming Ting / David Ting 5th Gillian McCallum / Rodney Miles Saturday 13 June 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Faye Wright / Janine Rodgers 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 2nd Joy Robinson / Terry Sheedy 2nd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright 4th Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris 4th Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch 5th Helen Van Den Breok / Joy Brunette Frances and Jan. Photo supplied 5th John Ludkin / Max Holewa

Read the full story
Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results   9th June 2026

Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results 9th June 2026

Tuesday Night Fixtures Division 1: Canaries (Josh Brown, Lily Boland, YiLin Jiang) won 7-4 over Geese (Steve Whiting, Janice Kent, Lee Brake) with Lily come home strong against Steve (-9,7,-7,8,11). Cockatoos (Mick Ruhl, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) were to strong for Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake), Graeme won against Mark (-9,4,12,-4,3). Curlews (Barry Patterson, Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan) defeated Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Duncan Treloar, Allan Edwards), Anne and Geoff just edged out Trent and Duncan (-8,7,-10,8,8). Division 2: Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Parrots (George Camilleri, Delma Knight, Darryl Ross) 6-5, with Ollie coming back from 2 sets down to win close 5 sets against Darryl (=8,-11,8,7,7). Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Daniel Warfield, Noreen Fredericksen) won 8-3 against Kites (Ian McKay, Matt West), Ian got the better of Daniel (-4,5,7,-9,9). Galahs (Donna Abbott, Remy Zhan, Mark Stem) edged out Owls (Rod Mahumas, Ricky Zhan, Peter Goodson) 6-5, Peter snuck home over Mark (8,8,-8,-14,8). Division 3: Some great matches while the battle for the top positions in Division 3 continues. Logan, Dylan, Mark and Jeff all had great wins. Tuesday Morning Fixtures Division 1: Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) edged out (Orion Orbiters) John McGee, Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd), Doug and Andrea had a great battle with Doug winning (-3,7,-7,3,9). Astro Aces (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Sally Muir) tied 6-6 against Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Darryl Ross), Darryl got home over Sally (-7,-12,3,13,5). Division 2: Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Helen Ware, Veronica Needham) got home to win Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Marie Taylor), Veronica and Helen won close doubles match against Louise and Marie (8,-7,6,-6,9). Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) defeated Ninja Strikes (Pam Keune, Frank Caruana, Ken Best) 10-2, Coral made an epic come back to beat Frank in 5 sets (-10,-5,11,1,6). Division 3: Mongol Power (Cheryl Pearson, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) tied up 6-6 with Gladiator Grip (Allison Day, Madge Saunders, Sharon Muller), Laurie had a great win over Sharon (0,-7,-3,2,5). Aztec Warriors (Iris Grasso, Janelle Keune, Thelma Caruana) won 7-5 over Celtic Smash (David Muir, Myles Dutton, Trish Zamparutti), David and Myles had a great battle against Iris and Thelma (7,-5,-7,7,5). Contributed by Andrea Payne Photo supplied

Read the full story
A Well-Earned Win In Ladies Singles Final At The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club

A Well-Earned Win In Ladies Singles Final At The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club

The Championship Singles Final was played at the club last Wednesday 10th June to a packed crowd of well-wishing supporters of both ladies. The game was between Lois Deguara and Maryann Bartolo two very talented club members. A great game was enjoyed by all the spectators who came to watch this very enjoyable game. The eventual winner was a very happy Maryann Bartolo, with Runner up Lois Deguara. Congratulations to you both on a super game. Contributed by Sue Hazledine . (L) Maryann Bartolo and (R) Lois Deguara. Photo supplied

Read the full story
Fitness Cartel

Pennants Off And Running (Bowls)

June 3, 2026

Our pennants season has begun. On Saturday, Division 1 played the first round at North Mackay. North Mackay defeated Proserpine 80–33. Nathan Harriott’s team was the best-performing team on the day, going down by just three shots.

On Sunday, Division 1 played at Northern Beaches, with Proserpine coming away with the win, defeating Beaches 72–56, with all three teams taking a win. The ladder order is Souths Suburban, North Mackay, Airlie Beach, Northern Beaches, Proserpine, and then Sarina. Souths Suburban is currently the only club with two wins.

In Division 5 on Saturday, Proserpine showed North Mackay how to play on a grass green. Proserpine defeated North Mackay 77–13, taking significant wins on both rinks. On Sunday, Northern Beaches defeated Proserpine 40–29, with Mark Holmes’ team scoring a win. Proserpine is currently in second place on the ladder. City is leading the way with two wins, followed by Proserpine, St Helens, Northern Beaches, Mackay, and then North Mackay.

There were no social bowls on Wednesday due to rain. On Sunday, Graham Thrupp, Heather Brown, and Bruce Uhe defeated Michael Floerchinger, Heather Brown, and Philip Brown 40–7; Arthur Griffith and Henny Tattam defeated Alen Sanderson and Sandy Daffara 38–11.

Next Saturday, Proserpine has both pennants divisions playing at home, and on Sunday, Division 5 will be at home while Division 1 is away. More details will be available when the teams are selected.

Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Bowls Club

Read More

Airlie Beach Bowls Club Weekly News May 22nd

May 21, 2026

Warren Mills and Manny Isgro, proudly showing the scoreboard following their wonderful performance against the extremely strong North Mackay Bowls Club. Photo supplied

Another huge week for our little club, with pennants starting up again this week in a completely new format, with both men and women joining forces in all divisions.

Firstly, the social news started with Tuesday Social Bowls, which had a reasonable turnout. The winning team was skipped by Sue Walker, with Gina Passfield at lead and David Bradley at second, in a great game. Congratulations must go to them.

Wednesday afternoon Social Bowls was expertly run by Mervyn Stewart, with 28 bowlers vying for the top prize. The biggest winners of the day were the team of John Matterson, who is showing a remarkable return from open-heart surgery, at lead; Mandy O'Brien at second, who gets better every game and will be a great asset to our little club as she reads the game so well; and skipper Russell Jackson, who has represented the club with great distinction. They won 29–15 in an awesome display of accuracy.

Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls had a huge roll-up, with over 50 bowlers vying for the winners’ trophy, and team results will be published in next week’s issue. This is the biggest event of the week and all are welcome. Businesses are encouraged to participate, with play starting at 6.30 pm. It is certainly the place to be in Airlie Beach.

Aishmeen Sandhu and Shaniah Saremo have amazing talent but need to be more vocal and have confidence in their abilities, while Pazel Davis, Ollie Webb, and Cooper Wilde continue to impress with their application to the game.

Saturday morning saw Division One and Division 4 travel to South Suburban, and although Division One narrowly went down in a close game, Division 4 secured a win with great performances by new bowler Alma Rose Mawson, Tony Kelly, John Askew, Stacey Hadlow, and Phil O'Brien.

Sunday morning saw Airlie’s 32 pennant players at home, and while Division 2 went down fighting against a competent Mackay City side, both Division One and Division 4 were very convincing with fantastic performances.

Manny Isgro’s team was unstoppable, as was John Askew’s team in Division 4.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Read More

QCE Student Sets Sails For World Championships

May 25, 2026

17-year old Joshua will soon represent the Whitsunday Sailing Club and Australia at the upcoming ICLA U19 World Championships in Aarhus, Denmark. Photo supplied

17-year-old Joshua King’s sailing journey began at birth.

“I was part of my first ever yacht race at 3 weeks old on my Dad’s trimaran and frequently spent weekends cruising on the boat as a kid,” Joshua said.  

“I first sailed independently at 6 years old in a dinghy that my Dad bought for a few hundred bucks.”  

In August Joshua will represent the Whitsunday Sailing Club and Australia at the upcoming International Laser Class Association (ICLA) Youth Under 19 World Championships in Aarhus, Denmark. This endeavour has been a long time in the making for Joshua.  

“I’ve dedicated a large portion of my life in the pursuit of competitive sailing, especially in the ICLA. I have always aspired to have a competitive career.”

ICLA is a self-administered, self-funded international organisation that provides coordination, organisation and communication for sailing worldwide. It acts as a hub where sailors from across the world can meet, communicate and compete to help foster talent and give aspiring sailors – such as Joshua – a chance at a competitive career.  

Sailors compete in a class of single-handed, one design sailing dinghies. Australia has a rich history of this type of sailing, having won every Olympic gold medal in the sailing class since the London 2012 event.

Having competed in 3 national ICLA championships against other Australian sailors, Joshua has now qualified to compete at the U19 World Championships in Denmark. He has an intense training regime, spending 6 days of the week in preparation, through a mixture of water sessions and intense fitness work. In the lead up to the event, he will take part in training camps in Brisbane and Spain.  

“This my is first time representing Australia on the world stage, so it feels really special. I’m proud to be representing Airlie as well.” Joshua said.

Joshua has set up a fundraising campaign to support his great next step. To donate, scan the QR code below.  

“My main goal is to soak in the experience and learn as much as possible. Sailing is the greatest sport in the world, and this is one of the best locations in the world for it. It is fantastic in so many ways.”

https://asf.org.au/campaigns/joshua-king/2026-ilca-6-youth-world-championships  

Read More

Milestone Moments With Mackay Parkrun

May 15, 2026

Priscilla Cahill

Mackay Parkrun has recorded a series of notable personal milestones throughout May, with local participants reaching significant finish totals in recognition of their ongoing commitment to regular participation and community-based fitness.

May milestones at Mackay Parkrun (so far):

  • 50 finishes – Tim Robb
  • 100 finishes – Priscilla Cahill
  • 50 finishes – Peter Young
  • 50 finishes – Brooke Ramsay

Tim Robb

Peter Young

Brooke Ramsay. Photo source: Mackay Parkrun  

Read More

Mackay Contract Bridge Results May 15th

May 15, 2026

Fifty-Six players attended the Mackay Contract Bridge Club last Saturday. Our numbers are increasing each year as our successful beginners’ lessons teach new players how to play the wonderful challenging game of bridge. Sixteen players are headed to Townsville this week for the 2006 Barrier Reef Congress. Results in next week’s addition.

Weekly Results  

Monday 4 May 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1st Ken Seaniger / Christine Nice

1st Terry Sheedy / Eric Goodchild

2nd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin

2nd Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek

3rd Monica Darley / Joy Block

3rd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait

Tuesday Evening 5 May 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan

1st Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner

2nd Vicki Howard / Richard Wix

2nd Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

3rd Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown

3rd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger

Wednesday 6 May 2026 –11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

1st Terry Sheedy / Andy Patterson

2nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait

3rd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

4th Diane Cox / Victor Mason

4th John Hunt / Eric Goodchild

5th Faith Hutchinson / Helen Goldston

5th Geoff Taylor / Ian Vary

Thursday Evening 7 May 2026 – 4 Table One Winner – Green Points

1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan

3rd Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor

Friday 8 May 2026 –- 10 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1st Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown

2nd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt

2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

3rd Christine Nice / Terry Sheedy

3rd Victor Mason / Josie Cowley

4th Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill

4th Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell

Saturday 9 May 2026 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

1st Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2nd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden

3rd Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris

2nd Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell

4th Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

4th Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

5th Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes

5th Jewel Schmidt / Debra Goodchild

6th Faye Wright / Susan Wright

6th Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch

Contributed by Joy Block

Read More

Full Green For Mackay City’s May Day Fours Annual Carnival

May 15, 2026

First Place Marie Gravino Trophy Winners & Presenters, Andrew Gravino, Di Faulkner, Shirley Sturgeon, Dawn Field, Emma Pash & Katrina Gravino.

City Ladies president, Linda Owen and her team held a fantastic weekend of bowls over the May Day weekend for their annual carnival. Each day had a full green, with Ladies Fours on Saturday and Mixed Fours on Sunday.

The Marie Gravino Shield was won by Shirley Sturgeon, Di Faulkner, Dawn Field and Emma Pash on Saturday.  

First Place Mixed Day Winners Greg Peno, Paul Jacklin, Michelle Stockton & Merle Cameron presented by Justin Spyve, Explore Property.

The club was pleased to have had Marie’s son, Andrew & grand-daughter, Katrina to present the Shield in her honour. Also in attendance was Dr Marti Harris of My Chiropractor presenting prizes to the lucky winners.

On Sunday, the club had a mixed team playing together for the first time as the winners. They were Greg Peno, Michelle Stockton, Merle Cameron and Paul Jacklin. First place prize on Sunday was sponsored by Explore Property with Justin Spyve being in attendance for thepresentation.  

Dr Marti Harris of My Chiropractor presents gift card to Desley Rolfe, winner.

A great weekend was had by all!

Contributed by Emma Pash

Guest sponsors of Explore Property with team organisers, Vicki Spyve, Desley Rolfe, Rebecca Mannix & Jusinn Spyve. Photos supplied

Read More

North Wall Yoga By The Beach! Hosted By Fitness Cartel Mackay

May 15, 2026

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

About 70 people rolled out their mats for instructed group Yoga by the beach at North Wall, Mackay harbour, hosted by Fitness Cartel Mackay.

General Club Manager of Fitness Cartel Mackay Nikita Lysaght said the event was designed to bring people together while promoting healthy, active lifestyles in an outdoor setting.

“This is a free community event and the bookings filled within two minutes,” she said.

“It’s been an amazing turn out.”

Held along Mackay’s scenic coastline, the session was led by club instructors and attracted a strong turnout from locals eager to start their day with movement and fresh air.

Ms Lysaght said events like this highlight the club’s commitment to encouraging wellbeing and strengthening community connections.

“At Fitness Cartel we really value family, community and being present in our community.”

Visit: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/north-wall-yoga-by-the-beach-hosted-by-fitness-cartel-mackay for more photos

Read More

Wangaratta Bowls 15th May

May 14, 2026

Winners John Hayson and Lorraine Knight with Men's President Graeme Read Photo supplied

Tuesday’s winners were Ray Muir, Maureen Hyde and Deb Retchless defeated Neale Chittenden, Joe Cukela and Bill Price. Gus Murray, Barry Donn and Dennis Madeley defeated John Hayson, Skin Querro and Laurie Land. Stumpy Adams, Sue Shearing and Shirley Jones defeated Bron Tolcher, Isabel Wheeler and Boof Querro. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Club Competition for the week: Men’s Open Single Final was won by Allan Rolfe who defeated Ron Hyde.

Men’s Open Pairs: Mark Drummond Allan Rolfe defeated Laurie Land and Kevin Daniels.

Men’s B Singles Final: N Chittenden defeated Kevin Baxter.

Ladies B Singles Deb Retchless defeated Lindy Suann.

Sunday’s Mother Day afternoon winners were: John Hayson and Lorraine Knight who defeated Skin Querro and Laurie Land.  Boof Qurerro and Wheeler K Jewell defeated Celly Jeal, Deb Retchless and Kennedy Whitton. Eileen Dunn, Maureen Hyde and Greg Colquhoun defeated Bill Myers, Gavin Charles and Allan Rolfe. Lindy Suann, Sue Shearing and Graeme Read defeated Alex Beaumont, Shirly Jones  and Stuart Jeal who also won the Jackpot.

                                                                                                        Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Read More

Airlie Beach Bowls Club News 15th May

May 14, 2026

John Matterson receiving the trophy after his well-deserved victory. Photo supplied

The week started on Tuesday with the continuation of Women’s Pairs and social bowls, which saw skipper David Bradley with lead Regan Maher become the pairs winners of the day.

Wednesday afternoon social bowls had 28 participants, and the highest score of the day went to the team of skipper Noel Crosbie with lead Mervyn Stewart, who won 32–19 over skipper Phil O'Brien and Desmond Ballance.

Wednesday night Business House Bowls saw about 30 bowlers attend, run by Bob and Yvonne Spees, with results to be announced next week.

Friday afternoon saw the arrival of 16 bowlers from the Christian College, and what a talented group they are. Mr Richardson, Aishmeen Sandhu, and Shaniah Saremo are an awesome pairs team and could become very successful future representative bowlers if they choose to pursue the sport. Cooper Wilde is also a very talented sportsman and a fantastic asset to the school. Special mention must also go to Ryan Clark and Elliana Langshore, who could develop into excellent bowlers if they continue to apply themselves and build their skills.

This program will give all the students valuable lessons in teamwork and demonstrate what sport can do for classroom development and success in understanding subjects that may have previously seemed difficult. We look forward to continuing to work with the students.

Saturday morning Scroungers saw the last spot for the afternoon finals up for grabs, and John Matterson, who has just returned to the club after major heart surgery, proved he is still a very good bowler by winning the final spot against Andy McDougall and Tony Whitehorn.

The previous winners lined up for the final: Des Ballance, Maureen Barnard, David Cleary, Alan Pershouse, John Askew, Betty and Tony Whitehorn, Dennis Donadelli, and, to everyone’s surprise and delight, John Matterson. He continued his brilliant form, winning the coveted trophy in the final.  

Sunday afternoon’s social bowls saw two games of pairs and one game of triples. Liz and Arthur McManus teamed up with Des Ballance and won 26–15 over Stacey Hadlow’s team of Lou Rogan and Alma Rose Mawson. However, the winners of the day, with the lowest winning margin drawn out by Club Manager Fiona Greener, were the team of “Take the Money Tony” Whitehorn with Dawn Dowell, who won 21–20 over skipper Margo Stanley and Brett Simpson.

The men’s singles in A Grade, B Grade, and Seniors have now reached the semi-finals, with results to be published soon. Men’s and Women’s Pennants also commence this weekend.

Free lessons continue on Monday and Thursday afternoons from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm, and all are welcome.

John Askew presents John Matterson with his Scroungers Trophy after his well-deserved win.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Read More

Whitsunday Weightlifting Club Delivers Successful Parabench Competition at NQ Games 2026

May 14, 2026

Competitors and volunteers after a successful competition. Photo supplied

Whitsunday Weightlifting Club wrapped up a successful Parabench Development Competition last weekend as part of the 2026 North Queensland Games, with four athletes competing across the age and ability spectrum in what proved to be an inspiring day of sport at St Catherines Catholic College in Proserpine.

Held on Saturday 2 May and run in partnership with Para Powerlifting Australia, the event drew competitors from across the region — from Townsville to Mackay — ranging in age from 21 to 64 years. The standard of lifting impressed all in attendance, with athletes at very different stages of their para-sport journey each delivering standout performances.

Taking out first place in the women's division was Australian representative Trish Wallace from Townsville, who benched an impressive 64kg. Local para-athlete Di Jackson claimed second place with a 33kg lift, while first-time competitor Sigrid Eitler took third with 30kg — a remarkable debut on the competition platform. In the men's division, Mackay athlete Bryce Jackson took first place with a 62kg bench.

Club founder, president and head coach Leanne Knox said the day exceeded expectations. "Although it was a small competition, it helped raise awareness of our club's capacity to train people with all kinds of disabilities," she said. "There is a place for everyone in our club."

Knox is encouraging anyone living with movement limitations or other disabilities — as well as carers — to reach out and explore how strength training can benefit their physical, mental and social wellness.

The club also celebrated a significant equipment milestone, with a specialist bench built thanks to local business Airlie Sail and Shade (Paul Mitchell) and club member Ian Cordell, alongside a bench received through the Para Uplift Program via the Australian Institute of Sport.

With competitors eyeing national and international competition, the future looks bright for para-sport in the Whitsundays.

To find out more, contact Whitsunday Weightlifting Club on 0411 199 427.

Competition results:

Female

1st: Trish Wallace - 64kg bench

2nd - Di Jackson - 33 kg bench

3rd Sigrid Eitler - 30 kg bench 

Male

1st Bryce Jackson - 62 kg bench.  

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Weightlifting Club

Read More

Goals, Grit and Dominance: WUFC Delivers Strong Weekend Results

May 14, 2026

Goal Keeper - Josh Healey

U13 Prem pushed Magpies FC in a physical contest, with Connor Miller scoring early before a late goal flurry saw Magpies claim a 4-1 win. Meanwhile, the U13 Div 1 side celebrated its first victory of the season, defeating Country United 5-1 behind a brace from Oakley Wilson and strong team performances throughout, particular in the back line.

U14/15 Prem side dominated Mackay Lions with a clinical attacking display, highlighted by a Shannon Matthews goal and Eli Wallis double in a commanding 4-1 win. Meanwhile, U14/15 Div 1 suffered late heartbreak, with Wanderers Red snatching a 2-1 victory despite strong performances from Alex Draper and keeper Jackson Paroz.

Men’s Div 2 ground out a hard-fought 1-0 win against Country United after Jared Leaman capitalised on a late goalkeeping error, while Division 1 stayed patient to secure a physical 2-0 victory, with Sam Reynolds and Ian Wilson on target against a stubborn Country United outfit.

Whitsunday United’s Women’s Prem team battled hard against Wanderers FC, with Michelle Sothmann opening the scoring in a competitive clash before Wanderers FC secured a 3-1 win. Strong performances from Nicole Wilkinson, Keely Salter and Bre Campbell highlighted the team’s determination ahead of next week’s matchup against Country United.

WUFC’s U23s delivered a dominant 11-0 win over Magpies FC, with Aaron Kinsella scoring four goals and two apiece for Finlay Farrell, Seb Shand and Pepe Perea. An impressive clean sheet for goalkeeper Josh Healey. The Premier Men followed with a commanding 4-1 victory against Magpies FC, highlighted by Ethan Rose’s penalty and a Reef Peel hat-trick in a fast, physical clash.

Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O’Keefe

Read More

Cannonvale Cannons Celebrates Local Talent

May 14, 2026

The Cannonvale Cannons recently had their 2026 Club Celebrations in which they celebrated their local swimming talent.  

Special thanks were given to Race Secretary Theresa, In-Training Race Secretary Kelly and Upgrades & Records officer Amy. Gareth and Leanne were congratulated for supplying the most chocolate at Club Night. Tora was awarded for achieving the required time to reach Bronze Squad and Tyler was awarded for achieving the required time to reach Junior Development Squad.  

Thanks were given to Ellie, Kate and Haylee for consistently providing support with marshalling, warm-up and land work when coaches were unavailable.  

The Most Improved Awarded was given to Lily, Cooper, Eloise, Harry, Mackenzie, Zavier, Roxy & Tommy.  

A huge congratulations to everyone involved.  

The Most Improved Award, celebrating PB’s achieved in the pool. Great job everyone!!

Photo source: Facebook

Read More

Brahmans Storm Sarina in Statement Weekend

May 14, 2026

The Whitsunday Brahmans produced one of their strongest performances in recent years on Sunday, claiming three wins from four grades against the Sarina Crocs at Sarina.

Supporters travelled in numbers as footy fever took over the Crocs’ home grounds for a massive day of rugby league action.

The day began with the Under 20s side, who wasted no time making their mark. New Zealand imports Kassius Bell and Somè Wolf crossed early for back-to-back tries to set the pace of the contest. The Brahmans’ attacking strengths soon became evident in an entertaining try-for-try battle, with local brothers from the Tetley family also getting on the scoreboard.

The Under 20s side eventually ran away with a strong 38-20 victory to give the young squad a major confidence boost for the season ahead.

One of the biggest moments of the day followed, as the Brahmans women’s team returned to the field for the first time in almost a decade.

Under coach Eddy Cates, the side showed plenty of determination and heart against an experienced Sarina outfit. Jess Lewis, playing her rugby league debut, crossed for an early try to announce the Brahmans women’s arrival back into competition football. Although Sarina claimed the match 20-4, the Brahmans’ defensive effort and passion throughout the contest drew plenty of praise, with the return of women’s rugby league at the club celebrated as a major step forward for local pathways and junior development.

Reserve Grade then produced a stunning turnaround performance. After conceding the opening two tries, the Brahmans responded with seven unanswered in dominant fashion.

New recruit Robert Congoo starred with four tries as the Brahmans secured their first Reserve Grade victory since June 2025, leaving coach Matt Court proud of his side’s resilience and effort.

The feature match of the day saw A Grade renew its fierce rivalry with Sarina in a physical contest.

It took 12 minutes for the 0 all deadlock to be broken before former NRL player Adam Clydesdale dived over from dummy-half to score the opening try. The hooker led from the front in a high-intensity clash that saw both sides trade tries throughout the afternoon.

The Brahmans’ powerful middle forwards eventually proved too strong, while young local talent Jake Hinton enjoyed a memorable A Grade debut by crossing for a try before his brother Mitch Hinton added another just 18 minutes later in a special family moment. English recruit Ryan Taylor also played a key role, maintaining his impressive early season form with a perfect five-from-five goal kicking performance in difficult windy conditions.

The successful weekend saw the Brahmans claim victories in three of the four grades while also celebrating the long-awaited return of the club’s women’s side.

The Brahmans now turn their attention to another huge challenge this Saturday when they travel to face arch-rivals the Moranbah Miners, with matches beginning from midday.

Contributed with thanks to Mandy Bateup

Photo supplied

Read More

Whitsunday Sea Eagles

May 14, 2026

On Saturday the Whitsunday Sea Eagles travelled down to Mackay to take on the Eastern Swans. Despite each team going down in their matches, the Club’s spirit, determination and pride remained strong, with players continuing to fight right up until the final siren.

The Under 13s played a great first quarter, keeping the scoreboard even. Unfortunately for the next three quarters the Swans got away from them. The final score seeing the Swans get up 68-8.

A rocky start for the Under 15s side saw them let the Swans score five unanswered goals. After a quarter time address from the Coaches, the team began to put the pressure on. Their tackles, teamwork, and ability to lift their heads and keep going stood out over the next three quarters. Unfortunately, not the result the Sea Eagles were after, with a final score of 86-26.

The Under 17s fought hard but couldn’t match the Swans. Their pressure and effort did not waver, and it was obvious that their training is paying off, and they continue to improve each week. Final score 83-23.

The standout game for the day was the Senior Men’s. It was neck and neck all day, each team only one point away throughout the game. Facing a side that has been in the past three Grand Finals, the Sea Eagles were ready for the challenge. They were determined all game, putting the pressure on and showcasing their signature style of chaos footy.  After a great match the Sea Eagles fell just two points short, with a final score of 44-42.

This Saturday the 16th of May the Sea Eagles are back down to Mackay to take on the Mackay City Hawks at Harrup Park for Indigenous Round. Junior games starting from 10:40am, and our Senior Women’s team are back and starting our Senior games off at 1:50pm. Be there and support your local teams!

Contributed by Georgia Whitton - Whitsunday Sea Eagles

Photo supplied

Read More

Olympic Inspiration Makes Waves in the Whitsundays

May 13, 2026

Gold medallist Cate Campbell with junior swimmers Photo supplied

Olympic gold medallist Cate Campbell made a splash in the Whitsundays over the weekend, inspiring the region’s next generation of swimmers during a special regional swim clinic at the Proserpine Swimming Pool.

Hosted by Whitsunday Regional Council, the clinic was arranged to coincide with Campbell’s visit to the region as a guest speaker for Council’s State of the Region event. The opportunity allowed local young athletes to learn firsthand from one of Australia’s most celebrated Olympians.

Swimmers from Whitsunday Swimming Club, Cannonvale Cannons and Bowen Swimming Club took part in the day, which featured tailored coaching sessions for three age groups — 6 to 9 years, 10 to 13 years, and 14 years and over. Participants received practical guidance, training tips and encouragement from Campbell both in and out of the pool.

The event also gave young swimmers the chance to meet Campbell personally, take photographs, hold her Olympic gold medals and collect autographs, creating lasting memories for many aspiring athletes.

Whitsunday Region Mayor Ry Collins said the clinic highlighted the importance of inspiring regional youth ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, opportunities like this show young people that the pathway to the Olympics can begin right here in regional communities like the Whitsundays,” Mayor Collins said.

Council thanked the participating swimmers, families and local clubs for helping make the clinic a valuable and inspiring experience for the region’s future athletes.

Read More

Your FREE Voice In Print

SARINA -  WALKERSTON – MIRANI – MARIAN – PAGET – OORALEA – MACKAY CITY – MACKAY NORTH – SLADE POINT – ANDERGROVE – BEACONSFIELD – NORTHERN BEACHES – FARLEIGH – MT OSSA – SEAFORTH – KUTTABUL - CALEN – BLOOMSBURY – PROSERPINE – CANNONVALE – AIRLIE BEACH – BOWEN – COLLINSVILLE – NEBO – MORANBAH

Locally Owned. Community Loved.