The 2025 Australian Speedway Sidecar Championship, held over Easter weekend (April 19-20) at Bowen Speedway, exhilarated the Whitsundays, galvanising  Bowen as a hub of motorsport. Promoted by the NQ Speedway Riders & Supporters Club, this momentous event drew swathes of people to the granite-based track at Bowen Showgrounds, revived in 2019 after decades of history since 1927. For Bowen, hosting this national championship was a triumph, magnifying local pride and boosting tourism. The event showcased the region’s ability to stage world-class spectacles, putting Bowen on the map alongside its stunning beaches and vibrant community spirit.

The championship was a tempestuous rollercoaster of highs and lows, with fierce rivalries and heart-stopping action. Mark Plaisted and passenger Ben Pitt, from Adelaide, captured the title in a thrilling final, overcoming tricky track conditions that varied across rounds. Mark credited his team and praised Mike Zahlen’s bike for their edge in the competition. Meanwhile, Justin Plaisted, brother of Mark and also from Adelaide, battled back from an early exclusion to secure fourth place, showcasing heart and resilience. “Once you make the finals, anything can happen,” Justin noted, reflecting the event’s unpredictability. Crashes punctuated the races, with sidecars,1000cc beasts with no brakes, skidding on tight turns, spraying dirt pebbles onto the roaring crowd, amplifying the raw intensity of the sport.

The atmosphere was electric, fuelled by the speed and screaming sound of sidecar engines hitting 100+ km/h, their engines snarling and fuel fumes pervading through the air. Spectators, from toddlers to grandparents, felt the adrenaline as riders and passengers leaned into curves, mere inches from the ground. The crowd’s cheers swelled to a crescendo  with each pass, dirt flecks dusting their faces, creating a visceral connection to the action. Bowen’s supportive audience, praised by both Plaisted brothers, turned the Showgrounds into a cauldron of excitement, with families soaking in the family-friendly vibe. “The Bowen crowd was awesome, really behind us”, Mark noted, appreciating the enthusiastic turnout.

Food stalls added to the festive spirit, offering hot dogs, chips, burgers, and a range of beverages. These stalls, buzzing with activity, kept fans fueled as they mingled, swapped race predictions, and cheered for heroes like defending champions Darrin Treloar and Blake Cox, who pushed the leaders hard. The event’s inclusivity shone, with junior sidecar support races inspiring young fans and free pit access before 6pm letting kids meet their idols. Mark, a sidecar racer since age 10, had a message for aspiring juniors, “Stick with it, from junior Speedway to chasing your dreams like I did.”

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Racers doing a lap around the prior to races
Racers lining up for the finals
Racers battling out in the finals
Champion Mark Plaisted and Passenger Ben Pitt
Mark Plaisted and Ben Pitt on the podium
Photo Credit: Munir Kilic.

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Bowen’s polocrosse talent was on show in Roma over the weekend as Shannon and Adam Burns represented the region at the Roma Polocrosse Club Carnival, joining more than 30 teams for a packed schedule of fierce but friendly competition.

The Sarina-based duo joined forces with players from Emerald and Tara to form a composite side cheekily dubbed the “Rest of the World” team. Their teammates included Emerald’s Sam Parnell and Brian Wells, as well as Tara locals Wayne Doyle and Russell Stevens.

With Tara players taking charge in the front line, Shannon Burns and Sam Parnell holding steady through the centre, and Adam Burns and Brian Wells anchoring the defence, the mixed squad quickly found their rhythm.

Saturday saw the team notch up two strong wins, first against Dirranbandi and then against the host club Roma. Sunday brought a light-hearted clash with a combined Alton Downs/Toowoomba side, full of laughs and fast-paced action.

The final challenge was the Rising Stars juniors — a Queensland development squad preparing for next weekend’s Barastoc competition in Warwick. Despite the juniors coming out strong, the seasoned Rest of the World team held their ground to finish the weekend undefeated.

It was a clean sweep and a memorable showing for all involved.

Bowen Polocrosse Club praised the Roma P for their hospitality and the seamless running of the carnival. The Bowen players also extended thanks to the Tara and Emerald clubs for a weekend full of teamwork and camaraderie.

With momentum on their side, the Bowen contingent are already looking ahead to their next outing on the polocrosse circuit.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Polocrosse Club

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A field of 29 clay target shooters converged on Port Denison Gun Club on Sunday, April 27, for the club’s monthly competition — with competitors travelling from across the region to take part in the popular shoot.

Visiting marksmen and women hailed from Clermont, Dysart, Mackay/Sarina, Burdekin, Townsville and Silkwood, joining local members for a full program of events held in ideal conditions.

In Event 1: 25 Target Double Barrel, AA Grade honours went to T. Coco with a flawless 25/25. A. Lord led A Grade on 34/35, while B Grade was taken out by R. Meaney with 24/25. C Grade saw B. Elphinstone also post 24/25 for the win.

Event 2: 25 Target Single Barrel produced tight results. B. Micallef claimed AA Grade with 40/42, while J. Cerqui led A Grade on 39/40. B Grade was won by D. Stitt (23/25), and G. Lydiard topped C Grade with 22/25.

In Event 3: 25 Target Point Score, B. Micallef again impressed with 118/120 to take AA Grade. A. Lord continued his strong form with 84/87 to win A Grade. B and C Grades were both topped by 74/78 scores, with P. LeBlowitz and G. Clarke taking the respective wins.

Event 4: 25 Pair Double Rise saw R. Gough claim Overall and 1st AA with 44/50, followed by B. Micallef in 2nd on 41/50. A Grade was won by T. Meaney (42/50), with T. Coco close behind on 51/60. In B Grade, G. Maltby took the win on 42/50, with D. Stitt posting 42/54 for second. R. Meaney led C Grade with 40/50, followed by R. Warwick on 35/50.

Contributed with thanks to Colin Edgerton

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Proserpine Golf Club celebrated its centenary in style with a three-day golf festival over the weekend.

Friday kicked off with a 9-hole competition followed by sunset canapés, with ticket options including golf and gift packs or an evening of gourmet treats.

Saturday upped the ante with an 18-hole showdown and a celebration dinner, offering a three-course feast and great company.

The festivities wrapped up on Sunday with a 3-Ball Ambrose event, where teams were invited to tee off in a friendly but strategic format.

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The weather this past week has certainly been a mixed bag, but there’s been a lot of you making the best of it and catching great fish despite it. One thing’s for sure – the drop in humidity has been welcomed by all!

Dam
The dam has been producing some good barramundi over the past week, particularly in the bays and creeks in the southern part. There have also been some cracking sooty’s coming over the side as a bycatch.

The water temperature is starting to drop, which means it’s a great time to use soft plastic lures. Both 5” and 6” ones are great options for the dam at the moment.

Estuary
We’re continuing to see some good land-based barramundi being caught across the local hotspots. The VMR boat ramp has been the standout location.

Mud crabs are still being caught in the river, and the current weather presents a great opportunity for you to scope out some prime locations. Be sure to focus on gutters with fresh bait. It’s also worth a reminder to check the weather and tides, especially if you’re leaving your pots in overnight, as you may need to secure the rope to a tree.

Islands & Offshore
If the weather forecast is correct, offshore fishing certainly won’t be pleasant (again!). If you’ve got a stomach of steel though, know that the mackerel are now pushing in. Large Spanish Mackerel aren’t as frequent, but school size ones are in numbers now, and they’re the best for eating.

Now is also the time to be targeting sailfish, with some good numbers being caught during the past fortnight. Focus your efforts on trolling fresh garfish around the outer islands, looking for current lines, in particular, clean water.

Best of luck out there!

Contributed with thanks to Beth Hockley and Jason Fisher from Tackle World Airlie Beach

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A great sailfish caught this week aboard Moonshine, operated by Top Notch Game Fishing. Photo supplied

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With Easter and Anzac Day behind us, members of the Airlie Beach Bowls Club paused to reflect on the sacrifices of our service men and women. We are reminded how fortunate we are to live in such a beautiful part of the country—especially here in our own slice of paradise.

Tuesday morning saw continued action in the Ladies Singles and Pairs competitions, with only one social game played, meaning no prizes were awarded for the day.

On Wednesday, Ted Cullen and Noel Crosbie dominated the green, with Noel in superb form at lead and Ted capitalising at every opportunity. Both players are enjoying a rich vein of form. Wednesday night also marked the first week of the Business House Bowls competition, with results to be shared next week.

Rain returned on Thursday and Friday, unfortunately preventing the Christian College children from beginning their competition and bowls lessons. However, we look forward to welcoming them next Friday afternoon. In brighter news, the club was thrilled to host members of the Endeavour Foundation.

Saturday’s Scroungers competition was cancelled due to a rain-soaked green, but Sunday afternoon social bowls went ahead. In Senior Men’s Singles, Bob McMahon defeated a gallant Bill Gordon. In the B Grade Ladies Pairs, new bowler Mel Fennell teamed with Sue Dakin to defeat Liz McManus and Dawn Dowell 19–12. Meanwhile, Di Jackson and Maureen Barnard overcame Gail Simms and Kathryn Remmeswaal 21–14. All players are to be congratulated on their strong performances.

Two triples matches were also played on Sunday. Arthur McManus skipped a team alongside Des Ballance and Townsville’s John Harker to defeat John Brown’s team, which included John Anderson of Proserpine and Lyn Graham, 18–15. In the second game, Tony Whitehorn’s team of Duncan Smith and Betty Whitehorn overcame a spirited late push from Stacey Hadlow’s side, which included Greg Fennell and Mark Mawson, to win 17–12 and take home the winner’s prize.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Endeavour Foundation's wonderful group from the back Kiara, with Mitch and Karen. Front row -David Meiklejohn ABBC bowls coach with John and Julie Michael and Jett with Paola. Photo supplied

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Young athletes from across the region will take to the fields this Friday, 9 May, as the Whitsunday Touch Association hosts its highly anticipated Touch Football School Trials at Club Whitsunday.

The trials are expected to draw a strong turnout of talented students, all vying for selection and keen to showcase their skills, teamwork, and fitness on the field. Touch football, a fast-paced and strategic non-contact sport, continues to grow in popularity throughout Queensland schools, and this local trial presents an important opportunity for players to impress selectors and progress further in the sport.

The event is not only a platform for athletic achievement but also a celebration of community and participation. With multiple games scheduled throughout the day, the atmosphere is set to be energetic and full of support from friends, family, and school staff.

To keep participants and supporters well-fed and refreshed, the Whitsunday Touch Association has ensured that a range of food and drink options will be available on-site. The outside can bar will operate from 10am to 2pm, offering classic snacks such as pies, sausage rolls, lolly bags, and soft drinks.

For those seeking a more filling meal, the Club Bistro inside will open from 11.30am, serving a wide selection of favourites. A special burger and drink deal for $25 will be on offer for those looking to enjoy a satisfying lunch between games. In addition, the clubhouse coffee station will be available from 9.30am, providing a much-needed caffeine boost for early arrivals and supporters.

Organisers are looking forward to a successful day, not only in terms of player performance but also in building community spirit around touch football. Events like these are vital in fostering a love for sport at a grassroots level, encouraging healthy competition and sportsmanship among young athletes.

The Whitsunday Touch Association invites the public to come down, enjoy the day, cheer on the players, and be part of a growing local sporting tradition.

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Whitsunday Touch School Trials are on this Friday. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Football – Whitsunday United FC

Friday 9th May

• 6:00pm: Division 2 Men vs Mackay Lions
• 8:00pm: Division 1 Men vs Mackay Lions

Saturday 10th May

• 9.30am: U14 vs Magpies FC
• 11:15am: U15/16 vs Mackay Lions Green
• 5:00pm: U23 Men vs City Brothers FC
• 7:00pm: Men vs City Brothers FC

AWAY MATCH
9:30am:
 • U13 Div 1 vs Mackay Lions (at Mackay Football Park)
 • U13 FQPL vs Mackay Lions (at Mackay Football Park)

AFL - Whitsunday Sea Eagles

AWAY MATCH
•  3.20pm: Senior Men vs Magpies at Rogers Oval
•  1.50pm: Senior Women vs Magpies at Rogers Oval
•  9.15am: U15s vs Magpies at Magpies
•  8.00am: U13s vs Magpies at Magpies
•  BYE: U17s

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch

Monday 12th May
Round 12 fixtures

Cricket – Airlie Beach Cricket Club

Contact airliebeachcc@yahoo.com.au for information about Airlie Beach Cricket Club

Netball – Whitsunday Netball Association

Contact netballwhitsunday@gmail.com for netball information

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Dan Stampa, Past President and current Vice President of the North Mackay Masters Swim Club, the Sinkers, has been recognised for his commitment to the club and Masters swimming in general.  Dan has been appointed to the role of Director of Program Development for MSQ (Masters Swimming Queensland).

MSQ President Susanne Milenkevich confirmed that the formal appointment will be finalised at the next Board meeting in May. She thanked Dan for his commitment and said she looked forward to seeing his initiatives develop further.

Dan’s contributions, include his work on Lifeblood initiatives, which started with his club and have now expanded to another club in Central Queensland. He is also involved in fundraising activities and is interested in community engagement and non-competitive programs, such as Million Metres and the 50x50 celebrations, which have recently seen a revival. Dan aims to expand current initiatives within Central Queensland and develop a broader strategy over the next six months.

A team of 9 Sinkers recently returned from the National championships in Melbourne with a swag of medals.

Congratulations to all who competed and to the support team cheering them on.

The Sinkers have a complete programme planned for the year, including both competitive and social events

You don’t have to be a swimmer to enjoy being a part of this most inclusive club. Many members do their own thing and use the sessions to recover from injury or work on improving their fitness. The social session on a Saturday morning, followed by morning tea, provides the perfect opportunity to get to know members.

If you are interested in joining the Sinkers or want more information, please visit the North Mackay Sinkers page on Facebook.

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Contributed by Gerri Kissner

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Dan Stampa, Vice President of North Mackay Sinkers, has been recognised for his dedication to Masters swimming and appointed Director of Program Development for Masters Swimming Queensland. Photo supplied

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The annual doubles challenge proved to be just that at the Tuesday morning table tennis.

Doug Dungavell and George Camilleri tied with 186 points in group 1, and Ken Best and Virginia Clayton did the same in group 2 with 183 points.

The unusual challenge is a round robin, but with partners swapping after every game which is the first to 30.

In last season’s fixtures Mars Pioneers (Delma Knight, Geoff Cowan and Kevin Abbott) won division 1, while division 2 went to Pluto Players (Darryl Ross, Iris Grasso and Gerry Synnott) and division 3 went to Aqua Waves (Chris Collins, Thelma Caruana).

Geoff Cowan was leading player in division 1 with only one loss, Don Boettcher was unbeaten to take division 2 and Chris Collins lost only one match in division 3.

A new season of Tuesday morning fixtures starts on Tuesday, phone fixture coordinator Steve Mathieson on 0418 700 236 for more information.

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Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Steve Mathieson, Doug Dungavell.

Doubles 2: Steve Mathieson, Ken Best, Virginia Clayton.

Doubles 3: Delma Knight, Steve Mathieson, Kevin Abbott.

Doubles 4:  Steve Mathieson, Iris Grasso, Darryl Ross. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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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