This year's Whitsunday Game Fish Club's "Sweeties and Squires" has been run and won, amid windy and showery conditions, but that did not deter 9 adult ladies, 17 Juniors and 10 small fry anglers from enjoying the great outdoors.

Competitors managed to catch 75 fish of 18 different species, most of which were released in waters very close to Airlie Beach. The Club hosted the event with the help of Game Fishing Association of Australia, the Stella Property Group, Tackle World Cannonvale, Anaconda and Oceanic Tales.

Considering the weather, it was a fantastic weekend and to see the smiles on the faces of all the kids and the mums and dads was a great reward to the W.G.F.C. Committee who put it all together.

It was a mammoth job trying to pick the winners in each category with so many good catches.

Joint Champion Ladies were Tara Dambrosio and Sara Doolan. Runner up Lady was Kristy Hoksbergen. Dual Champion Junior Males were Reid Bitcon and Tanik Wallace, with two Runners Up - Kurt Martin and Harry Best. Stand alone Champion Junior Female was Kirra Martin, closely followed by two Runners up, Jasmin Smith and Tia Galton. There were two Small Fry Male winners - Angus Doolan and Tama Tenan were just ahead of Runner up, Benson Smith.

Female Small Fry winner was tiny Naomi Rutland with a 74cm Permit caught at Cannonvale Beach which was a mighty effort. Naomi said she needed a little help from her dad. Two runners up were Imogen Doolan and Oceana Little.

In the Club's eyes, everybody was a winner, great family fishing, good fun, good food and lots of happy smiles all round. Everybody agrees it will be bigger and better next year and are looking forward to it.

The Whitsunday Club's next event is the (lure only) Queenfish and Trevally Rally to be held on 17 and 18 May.

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore

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After weeks of heavy rain and soggy conditions, golfers were finally treated to some welcome sunshine, allowing a return to the course on the weekend. With cabin fever setting in for many, there was great enthusiasm as 29 players turned out to compete in a Stableford event.

Although the back nine remained closed and the front nine was still a little boggy underfoot, players were simply happy to be back out on the fairways. Despite the challenging conditions, some very respectable scores were recorded, and hopes are high that the fine weather will continue.

RESULTS

LADIES
Winner: Jenny Hounsell with 32 points
R/Up: Lyn Muller with 27 points

Rundown: Elspeth Scotford and Vickie Wallace both with 27 points on a countback

MEN
Winner: Gary Scotford with a very decent 36 points in the conditions
R/Up: Craig McLean with 30 points

Rundown: John Roser, Larry Muller, Barry Mortimer, John Strelec all with 30 points on a countback, Vic Feldman, Peter Lindsay both with 29 points and Ken Granger, Mark Richards both with 27 points

PIN SHOTS
Ladies: A Grade - Jenny Hounsell scooped the pool claiming all 3 pin shots, B Grade - Allison McCarthy and Vickie Wallace
Men: A Grade - John Roser, Larry Muller and Ken Granger, B Grade - John Strelec, Barry Mortimer and Neil Cawthorne

CHIP INS
Paula McQuat, Ken Granger, Wilf Herweg and Barry Mortimer
Members Draw went to Robyn Whitham
Raffle Fishi Voucher was won by John Strelec

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

Gary Scotford. Photo supplied

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Just 11 days ago, WVMR were called into action to rescue a broken-down vessel near Tongue Bay. Little did we know that this would be a rescue mission Revisited as the culprit was once again, the uncooperative starter motors. Who could have predicted we'd be called out face the same issue so soon?

Our mission began at 1305hrs, with the familiar goal of reaching Tongue Bay. The crew was the same, the skipper just as dejected, and the destination unchanged. We arrived at the vessel at 1420hrs, with the rescued skipper taking our ribbing in good spirits—he’s clearly a good sport.

As it turned out, there was no need to turn the vessel, it was already facing in the right direction for towing. After securing the bridle at 1428hrs, we set off, with calm seas and a light northeast wind. A good omen, or so we thought. However, experience tells me that when things seem to go too smoothly while towing, the unforeseen is often lurking around the corner.

The tide was firmly against us and so when we arrived at the Port of Airlie laterals, we decided to anchor the vessel. We departed at 1758hrs and arrived back at Coral Sea Marina at 1810hrs. The refuelling and washdown, were completed by 1830hrs.

A big thank you to the crew: Senior Crew Mike D, Comms Dick F, Deck Nat R, Lookout/Deck Rodney S, Assisting Phil H, and Skipper Paul M. Despite the déjà vu, it was another successful mission, and once again, we’re ready for whatever comes next. If you would like to join the WVMR visit: https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/

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The crew on the VMR1 in high spirits. Photo sourced: VMR Whitsunday's Facebook page.

VMR1 towing the repeated rescuee back to Port. Photo sourced: VMR Whitsunday's Facebook page.

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Wednesday’s Social Bowls was a non-event, once again marred by the weather. With rain continuing to pour down, it seems like Mother Nature has been determined to keep us indoors. The weather has been a bit of a mixed bag lately—50/50, really—with the wet dominating and the sun making only the occasional appearance. As we head into April, there’s hope that we’ll see a shift, with a little less rain and a little more sunshine to brighten our afternoons.

On Sunday, despite the unpredictable weather, 8 players turned up for Social Bowls. Mary Hedgelong and Mike Harrison played a tight game against Arthur Griffith and Bruce Uhe, with the match ending in a draw at 24-all. Not to be outdone, John Anderson and Philip Brown also fought to a draw, finishing 23-all against Trevor Parsons and Sandy Daffara. It was one of those days where the results were as uncertain as the weather, but at least some bowls went ahead!

Contributed with thanks by the Secretary of the Proserpine Bowls Club

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Weekly Fishing Report for 11.04.25

We bet you’re all as happy as we are that the sun has finally come out to play! This is particularly great news for all the women and children participating in the ‘Sweeties and Squires’ fishing competition from 11-13 April. Check the Whitsunday Game Fish Club Facebook page for all the details.

Dam
With all the rain we’ve continued to have, there’s been a heavy surface bite at the dam. If it continues to be good, focus on the northern end under the mountain ranges. For lures, we can recommend the Z-Man Billy Goat 4.25”.

Other than that, fishing at the dam remains the same, with it being important to look for the inflow of water.

Estuary
It’s going to be big tides again over the next few days so fishing Thompson’s Creek could be a great idea. Mix things up and target Mangrove Jack using 3-5” soft plastics.

If Proserpine River is where you’re headed, there have been some great barra caught from the ramp.

Islands & Offshore
The weather isn’t looking to best in terms of wind over the next few days, so stick to the inshore islands for the most comfortable day out. There’s always somewhere protected to go!

There are plenty of fingermark and tuna currently on the chew. If fishing for fingermark, we can recommend using the 95mm Squidtrex. For tuna, we can recommend 30g metal slugs and 100mm sinking stickbaits.

Be sure to check your local forecasts before heading out, check your safety gear to make sure it’s both in date and working, and log on with the local VMR. To everyone in the fishing comp, we look forward to seeing some great photos!

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Young legend, Eli, and his mum, Hannah with their first keeper flathead

‍Ryan with a quality fingermark caught using the 95mm Squidtrex

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Wangaratta Bowls Results 11.04.25

Tuesday winners were Deb Retchless, Isobel Wheeler, and Penny Warren who defeated Lindy Suann, Irene Laird, Robyn Stitt and Marg Wilson, while The jackpot didn’t go off.

For the Men’s A grade singles Jason Wright defeated Alby Vigar, and Mitch Wright defeated Gavin Charles. The Men’s Pairs saw Mitch Wright and Wayne Crowhurst defeating Jason Wright and Lloyd White. While the Ladies Consistency, Penny Warren defeated Lindy Suann.

Sunday afternoon play resulted in Robyn Stitt and Ron Hyde defeating Kevin Baxter and Steve Roome. Lindy Suann, Isobel Wheeler, Allan Rolfe defeated Linda Scells, Maureen Hyde, Alby Vigar and Sugar Brunker. Irene Laird and Gavin Charles defeated Jim Quod, Deb Retchless and Pat Tracey and again the jackpot didn’t go off.

Contributed with thanks by Penny Warren.

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The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club recently hosted its final Club Night of the season. Despite the wet weather, the Cannons wrapped up the season with a fun and less competitive night. Swimmers and their parents enjoyed some lighthearted races, with no timekeepers involved. The Chocolate Award was received by Airlie Mladenovski, and the Coaches’ Award was presented to Stella Mulliss for her dedication and effort.

Nine Cannonvale Cannons swimmers travelled to Townsville to compete at the Townsville Tourists LC Transition Meet last weekend. The team excitedly caught up with Don Algie and Jacob Bell while in Townsville. The 10 and 11yrs girls shone throughout the competition with Addie Sanders achieving eight PBs, including an impressive 20.39-second PB in the 200m Breaststroke. Addie also achieved PBs in her 100m Butterfly, 200m Freestyle, 200m Backstroke, and 200m IM.

Indi Smith had an excellent 100m Butterfly swim, clocking in at 1.40.58, a 15.70-second improvement! She also achieved a great PB of 3.24.06 seconds in her 200m IM. Celeste Orenshaw swam exellently, including a 7.06-second improvement in her 100m Backstroke (1.35.58), and a 2.76-second PB in her 100m Freestyle (1.17.42). Evie Doherty also swam great, achieving four PBs, including two gold medals: one in the 50m Breaststroke (50.81) and one in the 200m Freestyle (3.03.36).

Charlie Doherty, aged 14, swam four PBs and won seven silver medals, while 13-year-old Thomas Ganter also swam four PBs. His standout swims included a 3.5-second PB in the 800m Freestyle (11.03.35) and a 4.53-second PB in the 200m Breaststroke (2.57.72), both earning him golds. Roxy Groom, also 13, won silver in the 50m Breaststroke (PB), 100m Breaststroke, 100m Butterfly (PB), and 200m Breaststroke (PB). Harry Chegwidden, aged 7, won both his 25m Butterfly and 25m Freestyle events. His sister Eloise also secured gold in both her 50m and 100m Breaststroke events.

Contributed with thanks by Raylene Rasmussen

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Airlie Mladenovski with the Chocolate Award

Stella Mulliss with the Coaches Award

The Cannons Team that competed at the Townsville Transition Meet

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Touch Footy - Every Monday

Juniors Skill Sessions from 4.30pm

Juniors Games from 5pm

Seniors Games from 6pm - 8pm

Mixed Competition - Call 0408 643 012

Whitsunday Seas Eagles (AFL)

Venue: Zeolla Park ( Nth Mackay Saints)

Under 13 vs Saints at 8.00am

Under 15 vs Saints at 9.15am

Under 17 vs Saints at 10:15am

Venue: Magpies Sporting Club

Senior Women vs Magpies at 1:50pm

Senior Men play the Saints at 3.20pm

Proserpine Whitsunday Raiders (Rugby Union)

Venue: Col Leather Sporting Complex

Raiders Women vs Bowen Jennies at 2.30pm

Raiders Men vs Bowen Mudcrabs at 3.30pm

Whitsunday United Football Club (Soccer)

Venue: Country United Mackay

Div 2 Whitsunday United Men vs Country United Football Club at 6.00pm

Div 1 Whitsunday United Men vs Country United at 8.00pm

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It certainly felt like it was the Wetsundays this week again but Thursday it suddenly cleared and the lessons continued at 4 to 5 as did practice for all on Friday afternoon.

Saturday saw the B singles go through the early rounds with Arthur McManus, Ash Warland, Dennis Donnadelli, and Ted Cullen surprisingly being defeated, leaving the 4 semifinalists to play Sunday Morning.

Noel Crosbie v Steve Lawrie and Mervyn Stewart v Craig Kennedy from Business House bowls whom was a giant killer on Saturday and massive congratulations goes to him for reaching the semifinals.

Mervyn Stewart proved too strong for Craig as was Noel Crosbie defeating Steve Lawrie in a close game.

The final got to 17-16 before Noel got the upper hand and defeated a gallant Mervyn Stewart.

For Noel Crosbie whom defeated a star studded line up and at over 80 years of age proved that age is no barrier in lawn bowls and the whole club is so immensely proud of him especially his lovely wife Carol who was watching every moment with pride.

Whilst this was happening we had 20 bowlers turn up for Sunday Social bowls and the big winners of the day was skipper Harry Quod with Bill Gordon whom easily accounted for the rest of the field.

This week the A pairs is starting with the weekend finals concluding the proceedings.

Also the 10th May car boot sale if filling up fast bookings made with Fiona Greener at the club on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons on 07-4946-7656 or 0439-193-399.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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B Grade Champion Noel Crosbie. Photo supplied

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This past weekend marked the start of the 2025 AFL season at the Sea Eagles' home ground, after some weather-related cancellations the week before. Three of the five teams were out on the field, showing great promise for the season ahead.

The Sea Eagles U13s kicked things off in thrilling fashion, pulling off a nail-biter against Sarina. After trailing by 5 points in the last quarter, the team made a fantastic comeback to secure a 4-point win in their first game of the season.

The Sea Eagles Senior Women faced off against the competition leaders, the Saints, and while they were defeated by 74 points, the team, with many new players this year, is looking forward to seeing the squad grow and improve throughout the season under new Coach Matt Reddaway.

In a strong showing, the Sea Eagles Senior Men led from start to finish, comfortably defeating the Saints by over 4 goals. This was a fantastic result under the leadership of Coaches Jake Turner and Alex Rodgers.

With the season now in full swing, we’re calling on volunteers to help ensure that the Sea Eagles continue to thrive both on and off the field.

As a fully volunteer-run club, your support is crucial. We need help in the following areas:

Club Treasurer (or Assistant): Help with EFTs and float setups for home games. Experience with Xero is a bonus but not required.

Website Design/Maintenance: If you have web design skills, we’d love your help keeping our website updated.

Sports Media Assistant: Assist with collating results and writing media releases each Sunday.

Canteen Set-Up Supervisor: Oversee the canteen set-up at home games and supervise new volunteers.

If you’d like to be part of the Sea Eagles’ success this season, please reach out! Message us on Facebook or email whitseaeagles@outlook.com. Together, we can make 2025 a memorable year for the club!

Photo credit: Kylie Allen
Submission credit: Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Last Thursday, Outrigger Whitsunday members spent an enjoyable day at Shingley Beach with senior students from St Catherine’s Catholic College Proserpine. The purpose of the day was to introduce students to the sport of outrigger canoeing. Despite a very wet start for the first groups on the water, the weather quickly improved and the day turned out to be both rewarding and challenging for all involved.

Four six seater ocean canoes were in constant use and each crew consisted of four students and two club members. Senior coaches Michelle Lynes and Maree Mullett were on hand to provide initial instruction and safety briefings and then it was onto the water for some technique training and ultimately some racing.

The students without exception were quick to learn and some of the female crews proved that technique and good timing can be superior to brute strength.

The African proverb that it takes a whole village to raise a child was in evidence throughout the day with great interaction between club members and students. We were fortunate to only have one huli (canoe capsizing) but club member Tim Dodds quickly had his crew working together to recover and bail the canoe.

Congratulations to the eventual winning sprint crew of Noah Baxendell, Mason Andrews, Luke Austin and Sonny Telford assisted by club members Glen Bray and Paul Tobias. More importantly congratulations to all the senior students who challenged themselves to try something different and new.

Hopefully the importance of teamwork, self -confidence, resilience and hard work were some of the day’s outcomes. Thank you to all the club members and the college staff for making the day a memorable one for the students. Club members wish the students all the best as they complete the final years of their secondary education.

Contributed with thanks to Paul Tobias.

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Outrigger Whitsunday Members and St Catherine Catholic College Students. Photos: supplied.

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A Fun, Social Way To Spend Your Tuesday Evening

Picture this: It’s a dull, nothing Tuesday evening. You’re looking for something fun, a bit of healthy activity, and a chance to hang out with a few friends. You want some laughs, a few drinks, and tasty snacks – all under the stars. Sounds perfect, right? Well, Twilight Lawn Bowls at North Mackay Bowls Club (Goosies) is exactly what you need.

Ladies President, Hilary Jones Rowan, says, “Traditionally, when many working women think about lawn bowls, it’s mature ladies in white on bowling greens during the day…but Girls on the Green at Twilight is nothing like that.

“If you’ve ever played BBQ bowls as a social event, then you’ve got the right idea.”

Lawn bowls is the perfect low-impact activity for all fitness levels. It combines walking, stretching, and lunges, all while adding a bit of extra weight from the bowling ball.

No experience? No problem.

The only thing you need is a desire to play bowls and have fun.

“Goosies is dedicated to providing a great experience for women at Twilight Bowls. We keep the costs down, so you get more bang for your buck,” Hillary enthused.

$15 per player includes snacks after the game, a lucky ticket, and lucky card draws. There’s no need to buy a uniform or special shoes. Casual, comfortable clothing is all you need – shorts or long pants, barefoot, or flat-soled thongs, sandals, or sneakers. You can get your own team together, or the club will find one for you. Single names are also welcome.

Never played before? Don’t know which side of a bowl to use? Don’t worry – Goosies has got you covered. They provide the bowls that are just right for you.

Play starts at 6:00/6:30 pm and finishes around 8:30/9:00 pm (whichever start time suits most players).

Please note: The new season kicks off after the Easter break – no school holidays involved

For more information, or to register, contact Hilary Jones Rowan on 0434 246 232 or via email: ladies@northmackaybowlsclub.com.au

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Kicking goals and hitting boundaries, City Brothers Football Club and Mackay Cricket Club are in line for a $500,000 funding boost. The pledge, announced by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox last Monday, will see an elected Liberal National Government invest in facility upgrades to create a safer and more inclusive environment for players.

“This local club is a breeding ground for the next generation of professional players and has a long list of talented competitors in its membership,” said Mr Willcox.

“Currently the majority of games are played during the day in heat, due to poor field lighting.

“I am pleased to announce an elected Dutton Liberal National Government will commit $500,000 towards the upgrade of new field lighting, which will help the club members extend their hours of playing, and a new ticket booth at the front entrance.

“This upgrade will enhance the facilities, help attract new members, and lessen the need to fundraise for capital works at a time when families are doing it tough.

“The LNP is committed to supporting small regional clubs like the Mackay City Football Club to ensure they can continue to serve the community long into the future.”

Steve Calicetto, President of the Mackay City Football Club, said, “Upgrading these lights has been a top priority for the past several years.

“It will provide a huge boost to club morale and encourage greater participation.”

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The LNP has committed $500,000 to upgrade facilities at City Brothers Football Club and Mackay Cricket Club, enhancing safety, inclusivity, and player experience. Photo supplied

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Many Mackay Road Runners took a break from official timing duties over the weekend to enjoy a relaxed 5km and 10km social run from the Bluewater Quay. With blue skies and slightly more favourable temperatures, conditions were warm but ideal for running.

Congratulations to Mick Vivian, who clocked up 11km just getting to the event, and Ashley Miles, who completed the 10km course alongside Mick. The route followed a relatively flat stretch along Harbour Road toward Mackay Harbour, before ascending the Mt Bassett turnaround and returning to the start/finish line. Mick then took a short break before tackling the 11km journey back home.

Carmel Mahon was the first female across the line in the 10km, running alongside Werner VanderLinde, with both pacing each other perfectly. There were strong performances from veteran runners David Isbister and Len Howarth, as well as from track and field specialist Stephen Hayles.

Shane Barben and Kayla Waugh were the first male and female in the 5km, with Kayla enjoying a sprint in the final straight with assistance from four legged Toby.

Special thanks go to Race Director Andrew Short for his course briefing, registration support, and for taking part in the 10km himself.

This Sunday’s social event will be held at the same location with the same distances, starting at 4:30pm. All runners and supporters are welcome to stay afterwards for a beverage or two at the Red Dog to celebrate their efforts. These social events are a designated part of the club calendar during the school holiday period.

Runners are also reminded of Jim’s popular and very social one-hour free track training sessions every Wednesday at 5:30pm at the ARC (Aquatic & Recreation Complex), Ooralea. Please note there is a $4 entry fee to the facility. All are welcome!

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Kayla and Dave with Toby at the Mackay Road Runners Bluewater Quay social event

Shane and Trudi Barben

Approximately 20 runners and supporters took part in the very social Bluewater Quay 5 and 10km events

Mick Vivian and Ashley Miles share the 10km lead as they cross the finish line

First female Carmel Mahon and Werner Van der Linde easily pace out the 10km social run. Photos supplied

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In Tuesday night fixtures, the team of Goncalo Sierra, Graeme Walker and Ian McKay took out the division 1 final ahead of Andrew McHugh, Andrea Nicholson and Ian McKay.

Geoff Cowan, Saisha Palod and David Symons won division 2.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures March 25, 2025:

Division 1:

Phoenix Fire (Andrew McHugh, Josh Brown, Andrea Nicholson) d Panther Prowlers (Trent Day, Vince Boeske, Jacob Whelan) 7-4. Andrew d Trent 4, 13, 12.

Venus Voyagers (Janice Kent, Graham Brake, Graham Drury) d Stellar Stars (Will Van DeKaa, Lee Brake, Barry Patterson) 6-5. Graham D d Lee -5, 9, 9, -9, 15.

Cosmic Sorcerers (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Donna Abbott) d Ghost Spinners (Allan Robins, Geoff Denman, Lily Boland) 7-4. Anne d Allan -7, 10, 6, -7, 9.

Ant Warriors (Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) d Star Lords (Mark Sleeman, Vimal Chilukuri) 7-4. Ian d Robbie 6, -12, 7, -8, 6.

Division 2:

Pirate Plunge (David Symons, Geoff Cowan) d Zulu Spears (George Camilleri, Rod Hamelink) 6-5. David d Rod -4, 3, 6, 5.

Pharoah Aces (Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo, Sam) d Rebel Celts (Val Austin, Delmas Knight, Ollie Hamelink) 9-2. Sam/Jye d Ollie/Val -10, 9, 9, -18, 3.

Spartan Serve (JiLin Jiang, Mark Stam, Liz Burton) d Amazon Guards (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. YiLin d Simon 6,-7, -9, 7, 9.

Celtic Smash (Tiffany Camilleri, Seyed Zhang) d Roman Legion (Peter Goodson, Craig VanDeKaa) 4-1. Peter d Tiffany -6, 11, 6, -9, 2.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures March 25, 2025:

Division 1:

Venus Voyagers (Peter Goodson, Branko Vucurovic, Marie Taylor) d Solar Comets (Andrea Nicholson, Judy Zahn, Bryan Marshall) 9-3. Judy d Marie 7, 3, -9, -7, 10.

Saturn’s Rings (George Camilleri, Rhonda Payne, Coral Morgan) drew Luna Legends (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) 6-all. George/Rhonda d Donna/Pam -4, 6, -9, 8, 5.

Mars Pioneers (Delma Knight, Geoff Cowan, Kevin Abbott) d Rocket Stars (Allan Robins, John McGee, Veronica Shepherd) 9-3. Kev d Veronica 9, -7, 8, -7, 4.

Division 2:

Pluto Players (David Muir, Ron Johr, Gerry Synnott) d Neptune Navigators (Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) 7-5. Ron/Gerry d Gloria/Frank -9, 10, 9, 9.

Mercury Meteors (Ken Best, Helen Ware, Kim Daffy) d Jupiter Jets (Sally Muir, Kim Challender, Robyn Bushell) 9-3. Kim d Helen 8, 8, -5, -2, 7.

Division 3:

Green Lantern (Josie Davis, Laurie Bradshaw) drew Black Panther (Sharon Muller, Madge Saunders) 6-all. Madge d Josie -5, -6, 8, 11,10.

Wonder Warriors (Virginia Clayton, Allison Day) d Aqua Waves (Chris Collins, Thelma Caruana) 5-4. Thelma d Allison -5, -8, 8, 7, 6.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Graham Drury

Lee Brake. Photos supplied