As June nears its end, we’ve experienced the shortest day of the year, a reminder of the swift passage of time. The community is abuzz with excitement following the Australian Open, with attendees returning from a sensational time at the Gold Coast.
Last Tuesday afternoon's Social Bowls saw a significant turnout. The event, superbly organized by Carol Crosbie, featured a unique scoring system using dice. The day’s champions, Pip Heddles, recently back from South Island, New Zealand, teamed up with Mark Mawson to secure a victorious 21 points.
Wednesday afternoon’s Jackpot Bowls, overseen by Rick Galea, crowned Lu Rogan, Billy Gordon, and Rick Galea as the day's big winners, though the jackpot remained elusive.
Business House Bowls results are pending, and the Queensland school's competition is in its final stages. Whitsunday Christian College and St Catherine’s schools will battle to represent Whitsundays against Mackay schools' champions.
The Men’s Pennants saw mixed outcomes. Division One earned a single point from away games against South Suburban and Proserpine, needing a strong performance this week to stay in Division One. Division 3, led by Rod Howard and Ted Cullen, achieved commanding victories, securing 9 points. Division 5, despite challenging conditions at Mackay Bowls Club, performed admirably. Mervyn Stewart’s team, with standout player Craig Coleman, clinched an 11-point win against RSL, earning 5 points overall.
Last weekend’s highlight is a photo featuring the exceptional skippers of Division 3 and 5.

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Mervyn Stewart with Ted Cullen, Rod Howard and Stacey Hadlow who all managed their respective teams so well this weekend
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Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Sunday Social Bowling Results (16th June)

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In a competitive Sunday Social, E. Low and D. Tuttle teamed up with R. Gould to defeat R. Muir, R. Scanlon and Wayne Crowhurst. M. Tuttle and J. Gilbert secured a win against I. Thatcher and G. Charles. Meanwhile, A. Williams and L. White triumphed over K. Kirk and S. Roome.

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Wednesday Social Highlights
Last week’s mid-week social event featured impressive matches. Marion, Sue, and Gavin triumphed over Ian, Ray, and Gary. Marilyn, Jane, and Daryl defeated Robyn, Gordo, and Dave. Frank and Gus emerged victorious against MaryEllen and Steve.

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Purple Pennants Triumph
A hearty congratulations to the Ladies Composite team of BBC/Cutheringa for their outstanding performance, winning all 10 games in the Purple Pennants held in the Burdekin last week. The team’s exceptional bowling skills have earned them a promotion to the Red Pennants in 2025. Well done, ladies!

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Best Overall Performance
Special recognition goes to Lee Spiers, Lou Fordham, Donna Ware, and Kaos O’Sullivan for winning the Best Overall Performance in the Purple Pennants.
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Dunn Cup Aspirations
Best of luck to Jason, Mitch, Gus, and Wayne as they compete in the Dunn Cup in Townsville this weekend. We’re cheering for your success!
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Purple Pennants Winners 2024
Left to right: Tracey Roach, Eddy Neylon, Wendy Coles, Helen Jacobsen, Kaos O’Sullivan, Donna Ware, Lou Fordham, and Lee Spiers. A big thank you to Cutheringa ladies Kaos, Donna, and Lee for their invaluable contributions to the team.
Winners for The Best Overall Performance in the Purple Pennants Lee Spiers, Lou Fordham, Donna Ware, Kaos O’Sullivan.  
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Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

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Proserpine Bowls Club thank the Whitsunday Regional Council and the QLD State Government for their generous grants, which greatly supports their club and community.
Last weekend marked the penultimate round of the Men's Pennants season. Division 1 faced Sarina, resulting in a close 60-61 loss despite strong efforts from all teams. Division 5 had a narrow 40-39 win against RSL Memorial. On Sunday, Division 1 won 64-51 against Airlie Beach, and Division 5 won 42-30 against Souths Suburban, highlighted by a thrilling finish requiring an umpire’s call.
This coming weekend, Division 1 plays North Mackay at home on Saturday and Souths Suburban away on Sunday. Division 5 faces Airlie Beach away on Saturday and North Mackay at home on Sunday.
In social bowls, Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe, Carol Smith, and Heather Brown won convincingly. On Sunday, the club welcomed visitors from Germany and Adelaide, with Dominik, Kerry, and Heather Brown winning 19-13.
Heather Brown leads the standings with 72 points. The shade project for the Brian Cooke green progresses, with intermediate posts concreted on June 25.
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Brett Saroglia lined up to deliver a shot during pennants against Souths Suburban with other Division 5 and Division 1 teams in the background.
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Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

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The Wangaratta Bowls Club had a busy week with exciting matches and noteworthy performances.

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Games played 17th June to 23rd June

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On Monday, the self-selected triples winners were Kevin Daniels, Graeme Read, and Mark Drummond, who triumphed over Ken Wallace, Chris Frew, and Jim Steele. The runners-up were Marie Nesbit, David Madden, and Allan Colson, who drew with Harold Wenson, Trish Feast, and Garry Feast. The jackpot remained unclaimed. The Tropical Beach Caravan Park sponsored shirts for the winning team and will also sponsor the Wangaratta Ladies President’s Day later this year.
Tuesday’s social bowls winners were J. Langley, R. Boskma, and Peter, who defeated Stumpy, K. Aykens, and F. Wilmann. The runners-up were J. Atkinson, B. Huppatz, and G. Danvers, who defeated V. Boskma, D. Madden, and G. Colquhoun. The jackpot did not go off.

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On Fun Friday afternoon, N. Issac, J. Langley, and J. Dawson defeated G. Swanton, N. Hand, and M. Hyde.

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Sunday saw a full green for the first time this year with 64 players. The winners were Mark McKenzie, Linda Atkinson, Ron Symmons, and Chris Healey, who defeated Carol Bellingham, Sue Shearing, Steve Brown, and Peter Howie. The runners-up were Sue Symmons, Deb Retchless, L. Sutherland, and Ron Hyde, who defeated S. McSwain, N. Brown, June Walsh, and Kennedy Whitton. The jackpot again did not go off.

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Congratulations to the BBC/Cutheringa Ladies for winning the Purple Pennants in the Burdekin and to the Wangaratta Ladies for securing fourth place.
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Contributed with thanks to Allan Rolfe.
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Mondays winners Kevin Daniels Graeme Read Mark Drummond with Allan Rolfe

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Gold Coast SUNS AFLW games record holder Lauren Bella is the latest to commit her future to the club, inking a long-term contract extension.

The SUNS Academy product and one of two remaining foundation players on the club’s AFLW list will remain in the red, gold and blue until at least the end of the 2027 AFLW season.

Her extension coincides with this morning’s confirmation that the SUNS will be returning to Mackay for a fourth consecutive AFLW season, hosting Carlton at Great Barrier Reef Arena on Sunday, September 8 (1.05pm first bounce).

The match will be the fifth AFLW fixture the SUNS have hosted in Mackay since 2020.

“As one of our foundation AFLW players, who came through our Academy program and our pathways in Mackay, it’s fantastic for to see Lauren extend her contract until 2027,” GC SUNS Head of Women’s Football Sessarago said.

“We’ve seen Lauren develop as not only one of the AFLW’s finest players but a really important member of our playing group off the field as well. At just 23 years old, she’s experienced beyond her years and we’re excited to see her continue to grow here at the SUNS.

“As one of three players on our list from the Mackay region, I’m sure Lauren is as thrilled as we are to be returning to Mackay for a fourth consecutive season to play Carlton in September.”

Bella is yet to miss a single game in the SUNS’ AFLW history and is on the verge of becoming the first female player to play 50 games for the club. She currently sits on 47 SUNS matches across five seasons, in addition to three games for the Brisbane Lions.

The deal will take her tenure on the Gold Coast to nine seasons by its conclusion.

The 23-year-old is one of three players on the SUNS list hailing from the Mackay region, alongside Alana Gee and Wallis Randell, having played her junior football for the Sarina Demons.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson congratulated Bella and is thrilled to welcome the SUNS back to the region in September.

“Lauren is a home-grown hero and we couldn’t be more proud of her and her achievements,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Lauren always speaks warmly of her beginnings here as a Sarina Demons junior, and she is proof of our region’s reputation as a breeding ground for world-class athletes.

“We are pleased to welcome the SUNS back to Mackay in 2024 and, as a SUNS AFLW feeder region, cheer for them as our home team.”

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Gold Coast SUNS AFLW games record holder Lauren Bella has signed with the club until 2027. Photos supplied Gold Coast SUNS

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In a regional first, a local man of Mackay, Liam Paro, etched his name into Australian sporting history by fulfilling his childhood dream of becoming a world champion in boxing on June 16.

Raised in Mackay, Liam was known for his boundless energy and passion for boxing from an early age after he confidently declared his ambitions to his mother while perched on his kitchen bench one day at just thirteen years old.

Liam's mother, Sharon Cortez, vividly recalls the day when her teenage son proclaimed this future greatness and says, “It was a day I will never forget.”

Recently, his dream became a reality in a momentous victory in Puerto Rico, where he triumphed over Subriel Matias to claim the IBF super lightweight title after a gruelling twelve-round battle.

After twelve rounds of action against ‘the boogeyman’ of the division, Mackay’s home town hero walked away with a dominant win to be crowned Mackay’s first ever boxing world champion.

Throughout his formative years, Liam's athletic skills continued to shine earning him recognition among peers and community members alike for his versatility and commitment to striving for the best.

His latest accomplishment not only celebrates his personal success but also pin points Mackay on the international boxing stage in an event that was yet to be seen in the region's history.

As Mackay prepares to welcome home its first-ever boxing world champion, there has been an outpour of overwhelming support from community members to celebrate Liam Paro's remarkable achievement with locals rallying behind him for a grand homecoming parade. This gesture aims to honour not only his athletic prowess, but also the values of grit and tenacity that Liam embodies.

Beyond boxing, Liam's journey demonstrates the values of perseverance and fortitude, inspiring both current and aspiring local athletes to pursue their dreams with passion and commitment. Liam's ascent from a young boy with a dream to a global boxing icon serves as a powerful inspiration to current and future generations. His story is a testament to the belief that with persistence and commitment, any goal can be achieved.

Mackay stands united in pride and celebration, eagerly awaiting Liam's return to applaud his legacy.

“I made a promise to my friend that passed away and I’m a man of my word… and to all the people that said I couldn’t do it - It’s Paro time,” Liam declared.

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Local boxer, Liam Paro, took home the title of Mackay’s first ever boxing world champion. Photo credit: Liam “The Prodigy” Paro (Facebook)

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Mackay Cutters rugby league team have zoomed into the top eight after toppling cellar-dwellers Ipswich Jets 30-16 in Hostplus Cup action last weekend at BB Print Stadium.

There was no stopping the home side who laid the foundations for a sixth victory this season through their rugged forward pack and slick back division.

Early tries by skipper and lock Sean Mullany and young winger Brent Anderson helped the Cutters establish a 10-0 lead after nine minutes.

Ipswich centre Mathew Lyons responded with the visitor’s opening try shortly after that was converted by winger Brandon Roberts.

The elusive Anderson bagged a second try before fellow winger Dario Takitaki crossed to give Mackay a handy 20-6 lead at the interval.

Rookie 18-year-old hooker Xavier Kerrisk extended the Cutters' lead when he darted over to score shortly after the break.

The elusive Roberts kept the Jets in the hunt when he scooted over for the visitor’s second try before workhorse Mullany was rewarded with a second four-pointer with seven minutes left on the clock.

Ipswich second rower Arama Hau grabbed a consolation try in the dying moments - but to no avail.

The win lifted Mackay into eighth spot on the ladder on sixteen points behind competition pacesetters Norths Devils (22) and Northern Pride (22), Wynnum Manly Seagulls (21), Burleigh Bears and Redcliffe Dolphins (18), Sunshine Coast Falcons and Central Queensland Capras (16).

Mackay coach Michael Comerford has unearthed a future star in number nine Kerrisk, a former Queensland Schoolboys representative who honed his craft in the Mackay Junior League.

Kerrisk and best mate Jaxon Purdue are outstanding local products that were coached by Comerford just down the road at St Patrick’s College.

The pair were signed by the North Queensland Cowboys after dominant performances in the Aaron Payne Cup competition and have bright futures in front of them.

Mackay will travel to Rugby Park in Rockhampton this Saturday for a tilt with the seventh-placed Central Queensland Capras at 4pm.

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Photo credit: Mackay Cutters

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Mackay's very own Meg Harris is gearing up for the Olympic trials, backed by a recent sponsorship from Auswide Bank.
Born in Bundaberg, this 22-year-old swimming sensation has captured the hearts of her hometown supporters.
Meg’s journey began on the sands of Eimeo Beach in Mackay, where her passion for surf lifesaving laid the groundwork for her Olympic success. At just 13, she traded coastal life for the pool in Brisbane, determined to chase her Olympic dreams.
Like many athletes, Meg faces the challenge of balancing demanding training with planning for her future beyond competition. As she braces for this year's trials, she acknowledges the daunting task ahead but remains firm in her pursuit of her dream of representing Mackay on the world stage.
“For many swimmers, this year will be their last. After Tokyo, so many people decided to hold out for one more Olympics, so those athletes will be giving it their all before they retire,” said Meg.
Considering this pressure, Meg says she is excited to potentially open a doorway to post-Olympic career prospects.
Auswide Bank's partnership, part of the project32 Olympic sponsorship program, offers financial support and career guidance as Harris embarks on her Olympic journey and prepares for life after chasing her sporting dreams.
“The partnership with Auswide Bank alleviates the pressure of thinking about life after swimming so I can put all my focus into training and making the Olympic team in the short term, with the comfort of knowing there is something for me when I finish competing,” she said.
Project32 focuses on supporting Australian athletes as they chase their Olympic dreams, while setting them up for future employment opportunities. The program goes beyond sponsorship funding by focusing on skills development and real-life experience across a variety of workplaces and industries.
In addition to matching athletes with businesses, project32 provides sportspeople with professional and personal development and mentorship from former Olympic athletes, giving them peace of mind about life after sport, so they can concentrate on reaching peak performance.
Meg claims that this type of support is invaluable to emerging Olympians in their quest for gold.
“So many people retire still only having half a degree or no idea what they want to do because they spend so much time thinking about sport,” she said.
“With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, there is no better time to invest in the future of Aussie athletes, becoming a great corporate citizen while riding a wave of success.”
For more information about project32™ and how you can be a part of the program, visit https://au.bastionagency.com/think/project32

Meg Harris is a local Mackay Olympian with a passion for swimming and will represent her hometown of Mackay as she strives for a gold medal. Image supplied

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In a ground-breaking event, a grand total of $36,265 has been raised for the Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia and Hospitality Cart at Mackay Base Hospital all thanks to the 2024 Mackay Basketball NBL1 fundraising game and charity singlet auction held on May 31.

The Meteors wore limited edition jerseys representing Mackay’s renowned sugar cane trains and after the intense matchup, the jerseys, infused with the sweat and spirit of the game were auctioned off to eager bidders, with every dollar contributing to Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Through raffles and McDonalds Mackay Meteors annual charity singlet auction, the funds raised on the night reached an all-time high after raising an additional $4,265 since last year’s benchmark of $32,000 in 2023.

In total, over the past decade, Mackay Basketball has raised $127,936.00 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

On the 13th of June, Mackay Basketball General Manager and McDonald’s Meteors NBL1 Head Coach Joel Khalu presented a cheque to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia Community Engagement Executive Samantha Baker, at the Ronald McDonald Family Room situated at Mackay Base Hospital.

“Mackay Basketball is enormously proud to use our platform to fundraise for this valuable cause,” Khalu said.

“Year after year we’ve seen our basketball community support this event by contributing what they can to Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia, who support the Ronald McDonald Family Room and Hospitality Cart at Mackay Base Hospital.

“RMHC helps ensure that sick kids and their families in our region will get the support they need, when needed.”

RMHC North Australia Community Engagement Executive Samantha Baker expressed her gratitude to Mackay Basketball and said “We’re amazed by this record donation; it’s a remarkable effort and we are very grateful.

“We’re appreciative to everybody who attended the game, bought raffle tickets and placed bids on the singlets.

“On behalf of the Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia, we want to say a huge thank you to everybody involved with Mackay Basketball for their magnificent, ongoing support.”

Results:

In a thrilling showdown the Men’s McDonald’s Mackay Meteors dominated the Sunshine Coast Phoenix with a stellar performance by winning 117 - 77. Todd Blanchfield led the charge with a phenomenal 33 points, supported by 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Isaac White showcased his skills with 24 points, 4 assists, and 3 steals, while CJ Maran added 12 points to the scoreboard. Jerron Jamerson and Amarco Doyle contributed 10 points each, securing a decisive victory for the Meteors in NBL1 North action.

Meanwhile, the Women’s McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes also triumphed over the Sunshine Coast Phoenix, fuelled by Chelsea Brook's 24 points and 14 rebounds. Sam Haiby impressed with 22 points, 6 assists, and 6 steals, while Taylor Mole contributed 18 points and 4 rebounds. Nikita Van Wyk added 10 points to complete a memorable night at the Crater. The Meteorettes won 88 – 70.

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Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia has received over $36,000 thanks to the fundraising efforts of Mackay Basketball. Images supplied

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With a focus on empowering young aspiring athletes, Harrup Park is thrilled to announce the official launch of the Mackay Sports Foundation, a new initiative dedicated to supporting the youth of the community.
This helpful new initiative is designed to offer financial aid to young athletes by assisting them in meeting the expenses associated with participating in sports events, with an emphasis on empowering the youth to reach beyond financial boarders. The goal is to encourage upcoming athletes to achieve their full potential and spotlight their talents on regional, national and global fields.
“At Harrup Park, we believe in the power of community and the potential of our youth. The Mackay Sports Foundation is a testament to our dedication to supporting young athletes and helping them achieve their dreams,” said Adrian Young, CEO at Harrup Park.
Harrup Park’s Commitment promises ‘More than just a club, Harrup Park is a hub for nurturing talent and fostering growth within the community.’
Rooted in the principles of supporting local talent, the foundation ensures that assistance is provided by the community, for the benefit of the community.
Two grant rounds are available each year, closing on 1 March and 1 September, with successful athletes receiving $500 to attend national competitions and $700 for international competitions.
Young athletes interested in applying for a grant are encouraged to visit harruppark.com.au/mackay-sports-foundation/ to complete the application form.
‘The Mackay Sports Foundation invites the community & businesses to join us in supporting this initiative. You can contribute to the Mackay Sports Foundation by visiting our website, helping more local talents achieve their goals. Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of young athletes and contribute to the vibrant sporting culture of our region.’

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Mackay Sports Foundation has launched a new initiative aimed at helping the youth reach their full potential in their sporting paths without the extra financial burden. Image supplied

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QCCS Mackay Cutters players Jaxon Purdue, Jamal Shibasaki, and Mutua Brown were set to make their debuts in the U19 Queensland Origin squad yesterday, June 20th, at Leichhardt Oval. The time of print for this publication was prior to Thursday.

In an exciting development, Queensland Rugby League recently announced the Queensland Under 19 men's squad, featuring standout talents from the Mackay Cutters. Jaxon Purdue and Jamal Shibasaki made their National Rugby League debuts for the North Queensland Cowboys earlier this month, bringing their top-grade experience to the interstate clash against New South Wales.

Purdue and Shibasaki joined an impressive squad that has excelled in the Mal Meninga Cup and Hostplus Cup throughout the 2024 season. Head coach Ben Te’o, assisted by Darius Boyd, Jesse Maclean, and Nathan Small, has prepared the team meticulously, drawing on the expertise of a highly experienced performance staff and mentors, including FOG Matt Gillett. The squad began their camp on the Gold Coast last Friday, setting the stage for their standout performances.

The women's U19 Queensland Origin squad also saw exceptional representation from Mackay, with Ebony Raftstrand-Smith, Lily Peacock, and Paityne Johns selected to play in yesterday's match. These players were part of a formidable team that included eight members from Queensland’s victorious Under 19 team in 2023. Raftstrand-Smith, Peacock, and Johns brought forward the skills and resilience honed through their participation in the BMD Premiership and Harvey Norman Under 19 competitions.

Under the guidance of coach Deanna Turner and assistants Mitch Sargent and Maia Tua-Davidson, the women's squad entered their camp on the Gold Coast last Friday, ensuring they were well-prepared for the fierce competition. Peacock and Jorgensen, who also have NRLW experience, brought additional depth and leadership to the team.

The performances of Purdue, Shibasaki, Raftstrand-Smith, Peacock, and Johns highlight the exceptional talent emerging from Mackay and the crucial role the region plays in developing future rugby league stars.

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Jaxon Purdue was one of the Mackay Cutters players selected in the U19 State of Origin squad. Photo credit: Mackay Cutters

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures June 11, 2024

Division 1:

Blue (Geoff Coran, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) d Orange (Janice Kent, Geoff Denman, Donna Abbott) 7-4. Geoff C d Geoff D 8, 7, -9, -6, 12.

Brown (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Andrea Nicholson) d Red (George Camilleri, Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker) 8-3. Andrea d George -8, -10, 5, 7, 7.

White (Tony Bowman, Lily Boland, Leo Gilbert) d Whjte (Mark Sleeman, Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown) 8-3. Neil d Leo 9, 13, -7, 17.

Black (Allan Robins, Mick Ruhl, Graham Brake) d Purple (Emma Widdup, Robbie Richards, Duncan Treloar) 7-4. Mick/Allan d Duncan/Emma -3, 9, 9, -5, 6.

Division 2:

Rose (Niro Premachandra, Mark Stam, Adrian Marsh) d Lime (Anaya Reelh, Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. Simon d Mark 11, 8, -9, -10, 7.

Teal (Val Austin, Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh) d Tan (Jye Callander, Judy Zahn, Saisha Palod) 6-5. Aarnav d Judy -7, 15, -7, 3, 9.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang) d Gold (Steve Mathieson, Ollie Hamelink) 5-4. YiLin/Delma d Ollie/Steve -9, 7, -6, 12, 6.

Cyan (Matt West, Trent Day, Leonie Patroni) d Grey (Kade Wright, David Symonds, Misha Palod) 6-5. Matt d Bulldog -7, -8, 8, 6, 7.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures June 11, 2024:

Division 1:

Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) d Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) 8-4. Donna d Branko 9, 7, -9, 10.

Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) d Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) 9-3. Noreen d Delma -9, -21, 8, 11, 10.

Hawks (George Camilleri, Rhonda Payne, John McGee) drew Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor). Charlie d Rhonda 8, 6, -7, -5, 4.

Division 2:

Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) d Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Robyn Bushell, Ian Dodds) 9-3. John d Robyn -8, 5, 7, -6, 11.

Cockatoos (Kim Challender, Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) d Doves (Louise Gould, Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba) 8-4. Louise d Kim -11, 8, -8, 9, 12.

Division 3:

Squid (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) drew Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey, Nadine Stream) 6-all. Bill d Cheryl 8, -5, 6, -10, 9.

Crab (Pam Keune, Trish Zamparuti) d Prawn (Darryl Ross, Glenda Brookes) 6-4. Pam d Darryl 8, -5, 5, -9, 7.

Full results and individual standings are available at: https://www.revolutionise.com.au/mackaytta/fixtures-results/
Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Aarnav Reelh at the table. Photo supplied

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Cricket fans, get ready for international action here in Mackay. Watch Australia take on our competitive neighbours, New Zealand, in the CommBank T20 International Series as the teams finalise their World Cup preparations.
Tickets for the highly anticipated Australia vs. New Zealand Commbank T20I series are now on sale. This September, the Great Barrier Reef Arena will host two thrilling international cricket matches on the 19th and 22nd, bringing world-class women’s cricket action right to our community.
The Great Barrier Reef Arena is proud to be one of the chosen venues for this prestigious series. Hosting these matches not only provides an incredible opportunity for local fans to witness top-tier cricket but also highlights Mackay as a prime location for international sporting events.
“We are thrilled to bring international cricket to the Great Barrier Reef Arena. This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to experience the excitement of professional cricket right here in Mackay,” said Terry Doolan, Chairman at Harrup Park.
“It’s a significant event that puts Mackay on the map as a destination for world-class sports.
“This event is more than just a series; it’s a celebration of sport and community spirit. Bringing international cricket to Mackay enhances our region’s profile and provides a boost to local businesses and tourism.
“Harrup Park is committed to supporting sports and fostering community engagement. The Great Barrier Reef Arena stands as a testament to our dedication to providing world-class facilities and hosting top-tier sporting events in Mackay.”

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Ticket Information:
Tickets are available now and can be purchased at cricket.com.au/tickets. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of an unforgettable sporting event in Mackay. Secure your seats early to avoid disappointment!

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The cool clear morning provided perfect running conditions for Event #386. The Mackay parkrun event saw a fantastic turnout with 291 participants, including many first-timers and visitors.

Highlights of Saturday's event included celebrating several milestones for Elaine McFarlane, Russell Leeson, and Ashley Miles who achieved their 100th finish milestones. Michael Zivkovic reached his 50th finish milestone. Weslan Hawkins completed his 10th Junior finish milestone and Michael Vella accomplished an impressive 250 finishes.

Underneath a Mackay parkrun Facebook post was a heart-warming comment left from a visiting tourist that said “Thanks Mackay parkrun for such a welcoming, friendly Saturday morning run for us visiting tourists – and we did an overall PB for this year, out of over 20 different locations. Loved the course in the Gardens too.”

The event wouldn't have been possible without the dedicated efforts of volunteers, to whom the team extends their heartfelt thank you to.

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Congratulations to Michael Vella who achieved an impressive milestone with his 250th finish, while Elaine McFarlane, Russell Leeson and Ashley Miles celebrated reaching their 100th parkrun milestones. Photo credit: Mackay parkrun (Facebook)

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Wednesday saw 12 Tables (48 players) arrive for a friendly game of bridge. This is a fantastic turn up mid-week. Friday was the twelfth round of Nation-Wide Pairs and Saturday the bridge heated up for the second round of the Club Pair Championships with 24 pairs competing for red points.

Mackay pair Mary Rose Ramsden and Noel Saunders were placed 24th in the Australian Wide Novice Pairs, with more than 1,200 pairs and 90 clubs participating. This event is a national bridge event run by Australian Bridge Magazine for players with fewer than 100 mps.

Weekly Results
Monday 10 June 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
1st
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

3rd
Karen Cadwell / Anne Lutz
3rd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

Tuesday Evening 11 June 2024 6 Table One Winner
1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Marilin Wilson-Nicoll / Griff Bancroft
4th
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
Wednesday 12 June 2024 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
1st
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Kitty Ranson / Bob Ranson

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford

5th
Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
5th
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait

6th
Joy Robertson / Robert Carless
6th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 13 June 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Susan Ross / Jan Harris
3rd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
4th
Sandra Morri / Errol Morris & Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 14 June 2024 – NWP 12 of 24 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
1st
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Richard Wix / Geoffrey Patterson

3rd
Diane Cox / Christine Nice
3rd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

4th
Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix
4th
David Ting / Ming Ting

Saturday 15 June 2024 – Mackay Club Pairs Championship Week 2 of 3 - 12 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Joy Robertson / Ken Seaniger

2nd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

3rd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd
Errol Morris / Richard Wix

4th
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
4th
Jan Harris / Mick King

5th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
5th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

6th
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
6th
Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

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Contributed by Joy Block

Mary-Rose Ramsden & Noel Saunders, 24th Nation Wide Novice Pairs. Photo supplied

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