Over the weekend, members of the Junior Achievers Squad headed to Mackay for a special training clinic hosted by Swimming North Queensland. This clinic provided an invaluable opportunity for young swimmers to refine their skills under the guidance of top coaches and train with junior swimmers from neighbouring clubs across Mackay in a non-competitive environment.

The Junior Achievers Program is designed to recognise, reward, and inspire junior swimmers on their journey toward becoming senior athletes. Each year, Swimming North Queensland releases criteria and standards that swimmers, coaches, and parents can use as benchmarks throughout the season.

Swimmers aged 9 to 13 who meet the set times qualify for recognition at gold, silver, bronze, or blue levels.

On Wednesday we hosted Club Night 3, with the following swimmers earning upgrades in their events: Tyler Bennet in the 200M IM, Eloise Chegwidden in the 100M Butterfly, Indigo Harland in the 25M Backstroke, River Shields in the 50M Backstroke, and Eric Hinrichsen in the 50M Butterfly, Backstroke, and Freestyle.

Congratulations to Tora Delac who was presented with her Club Record certificate for 50M Breaststroke in the 13-year-old category, showcasing the exceptional talent within the squad.

The coveted Chocolate Award resulted in a tie between Jasper Korosec and Stella Mulliss for the closest, while Miller Eaves took home the award for the biggest improvement. Miller Eaves also received the Coaches Award for his impressive performance in the 100M Freestyle.

Looking ahead to this coming weekend, the squad is excited to host Shaun Crow from Nudgee College Swimming Club for a special coaching clinic. Crow’s expertise is sure to provide further inspiration and skill development for our aspiring swimmers. This clinic is open to junior swimmers in the region for a small fee. Please email secretary@cannonvalecannons.com.au to register.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec.

‍

The Marian Ladies Bowling Club's annual Master Fours event kicked off on Monday, 12 August, with less-than-ideal weather conditions. A heavy downpour greeted the 72 lady bowlers eager to start the three-day event, but despite the weather, the show went on. With true resilience, the first day’s matches were swiftly moved to South Suburban's covered facilities, allowing play to continue. A special thank you was extended to South Suburban for their generous accommodation.
Day two brought a welcome change in weather as the sun came out, allowing the competition to return to its original venue in Marian. Players hit the green with renewed energy, and the tournament progressed smoothly.
In a nail-biting finish, Northern Beaches secured the victory in the very last bowl of the final game. The match came down to the wire, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats until the final moment.
This year's event was proudly sponsored by Stephen Andrew, Member for Mirani, who was on hand to present the winners with their trophies.
The Marian Ladies Bowling Club is more than just a sports club—it's a place where friendships flourish. If you’re looking to be part of a tight-knit community where you’re more than just another number, the Marian Ladies would love to welcome you into the valley.

‍

Winners: (Marian President) Thelma Johnston, Jenny Petersen, Sue Hunter, Betty Petersen, Ann Smith, Member for Mirani Stephen Andrew (Sponsor)

Runners Up: Thelma Johnston, Maryann Harrigan, Stephen Andrew, Charmayne Sleeman, Rhonda Meng, Jo Inch.

‍

They started the Queensland Rugby League season full of promise but the Mackay Cutters have ended their 2024 Hostplus Cup campaign on a low.

In their final-round display the Cutters suffered a 46-28 loss to the third-ranked Redcliffe Dolphins last weekend at Kayo Stadium.

There’ll be no finals action for the Mackay team after finishing twelfth on the table on 22 points with eight wins and twelve losses.

Dolphins centre Steven Numambo and interchange hooker Harrison Graham both posted try doubles in a high-scoring tussle.

Numambo grabbed two quick tries in the space of three minutes as Redcliffe piled on the points in a dominant first-half display.

Mackay centre Josh Smith opened the scoring after nine minutes with a determined try before centre partner Semi Valemei added a second midway through the opening stanza.

The Dolphins responded with fine tries by centre Valynce Te Whare, winger William Dobson and crafty number nine Graham to establish a 28-12 lead at the half-time interval.

Graham and second rower Aublix Tawha extended Redcliffe’s lead with converted tries after the break as the Cutters struggled to stay in touch with the home side.

Mackay found a new lease of life during the second half when second rower Hugh Arthur and the capable Smith burst over for important tries.

But when five eighth Latrell Siegwalt strolled through the Cutters defensive line to nab the Dolphins' eighth and final try the writing was on the wall.

Siegwalt contributed a handy eighteen points for Redcliffe from a try and seven goals in a solid tune up for this year’s finals series.

The Cutters club can still reflect on a successful 2024 season in which the women brought home the BMD Premiership and inaugural Harvey Norman Under 19 championship titles.

‍

The Mackay State High School Football Academy recently stole the spotlight at the North Queensland Futsal Championships, delivering stellar performances across various age groups.
The U15 boys’ team emerged as a powerhouse, finishing the pool stage undefeated with decisive victories over Cairns SHS (7-3), Kirwan SHS (13-1), Bentley Park College (10-1), and Southern Cross Catholic College (14-3). Their winning streak continued in the grand final, where they dominated Cairns SHS with a 6-2 win. The standout team, featuring Braith Stannard, Seth Piper, Ramiro Lamadrid, Peter Schatkowski, Blake Potter, and Nayte Stannard, secured a spot in the National Championships in November.
The Open Boys team impressed everyone by finishing as runners-up, securing their place in the National Championships. Beyond their success, the diversity of Mackay State High's Football Academy was on full display. The U13 boys exhibited commendable effort and teamwork, reflecting the program's emphasis on developing young talent. The U15 girls’ team, with their remarkable improvement and determination, advanced to the semi-finals, showcasing the academy's commitment to fostering growth across all levels.
Football Academy Coordinator Michelle Radunz expressed her pride in the teams' performances.
"Competing at such a high level and achieving these results is a testament to their commitment and the strength of our academy. We have high aspirations for the future and aim to continue building on this success."
Head of Department HPE and Sporting Academies, Brett Watton, echoed these sentiments.
"The pride and excitement within our school community for the achievements of our football academy are immense,” he said.
“We are thrilled about the future and confident that our students will continue to excel both on and off the field. Mackay State High School is dedicated to fostering talent and providing opportunities for our athletes to shine."
With both the U15 and Open Boys teams qualifying for the National Championships in November, the future looks bright for these young athletes.
For anyone interested in more information on the MSHS football academy please contact Brett Watton via email at brwat1@eq.edu.au.

‍

The champion U15 boys team
The open boys team finished as runners-up
U15 girls team
U13 boys team

‍

Marian State School has been awarded a $10,000 grant in sports equipment through Decathlon’s Playgrounds to Podiums initiative, marking a significant boost for the school’s sports program.

The school earned the silver grant for Queensland after a competitive application process, which is a move that promises to diversify the sports options available to students and nurture the next generation of athletes.

Marian State School is situated in a close-knit community where many parents work away in the mining sector, thus balancing work and children’s extracurricular activities has been a challenge.

Rebecca Just, a parent of two children at the school, shared her thoughts on the impact of the grant.

“We (the P&C) have been fundraising to upgrade our sports gear, so the Decathlon Silver grant has come at the perfect time.

“With this new sporting equipment, we hope to support local clubs to use our fields and courts for training so more kids can stay active and keep playing the sports they love.”

The Playgrounds to Podiums initiative is part of Decathlon’s broader mission to tackle barriers to sports participation in Australia. Research commissioned by Decathlon revealed that cost and accessibility are the biggest obstacles preventing primary-aged children from participating in sports, despite many of them dreaming of becoming elite athletes.

Romain Gravigny, CEO of Decathlon Australia, highlighted the importance of addressing these barriers and said, “Research revealed that 85 per cent of parents believe their children would participate in more sports if equipment was more accessible, indicating a clear need for support.

“We're thrilled to be able to build on the momentum from the recent international sporting event by providing equipment to primary school kids which will encourage enthusiasm for sports and will help nurture future athletes.”

Marian State School plans to introduce a wide range of sports through this grant, including archery, table tennis, volleyball and more. This boost in resources aims to encourage students to explore new activities and stay active, ensuring that the benefits of sports reach as many children as possible in the community.

‍

Marian State School recently received $10,000 worth of equipment to introduce more sports and keep children active and engaged within the region. Photo supplied

‍

The girls were victorious in the Tuesday morning annual championships at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre.
Janice Kent (division 1), Veronica Keioskie (division 2) and Veronica’s daughter Nadine Stream (division 3) won the three singles titles, shutting out the men.
Donna Abbott won the first game of the final, but Janice took the next three for the title.
Veronica defeated Don Boettcher in division 2, and Nadine beat Sharon Muller in division 3.
Janice teamed with Bryan Marshall to win the division 1 doubles title over Tony Bowman and Marie Taylor. Division 2 went to Don Boettcher and Nadine Stream over Veronica Keioskie and Ian Dodds, and division 3 was won by Frank Caruana and Allison Day over Bill Hey and Darryl Ross.
Caption: (Left to right) Winner Janice Kent and runner-up Donna Abbott with umpire Marie Taylor after the final of the Tuesday morning championship at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre. Photo supplied

Weekly Results
Mackay Table Tennis Association Tuesday night fixtures August 13, 2024:

Division 1:

Holden (Mark Sleeman, Robbie Richards, Lee Brake) d Ferrari (Steven Whiting, Janice Kent, Andrea Nicholson) 6-5. Lee d Steven 10, -6, -3, 12, 10.

Fiat (Donna Abbott, Emma Widdup, Allan Robins) d BMW (Barry Patterson, Geoff Denman, Tony Bowman) 6-5. Allan d Geoff -8, -14, 9, 12, 10.

Audi (Andrew McHugh, Lily Boland, Ian McKay) d Hyundai (Neil Brown, Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) 6-5. Andrew d Tim 8, -9, 1, -7, 9.

Honda (Graham Drury, Vince Boeske, Graham Brake) d Alpha (Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker, Delma Knight) 6-5. Graham B d Delma 7, -7, 3, -13, 4.

Division 2:

Rolls (Ishara Liyanagamage, Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson) d Mercedes (Will VanDeKaa, Darryl Ross, Judy Zahn) 6-5. Judy d Ishara 6, 6, -10, -12, 13.

Nissan (Noreen Fredericksen, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) d Mazda (George Camilleri, Rymer Tabulo, Craig VanDeKaa) 8-3. George d Trent 9, 11, -9, -5, 6.

Lexus (Duncan Treloar, Adrian Marsh, Anaya Reelh) d Suzuki (Matt West, Simon Hogan) 6-5. Duncan d Simon -6, -7, 3, 4, 2.

Jaguar (Leo Gilbert, Mark Stam, Val Austin) d Subaru (Tiffany Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) 6-5. Tiffany d Val 5, -11, 11, 11.

Graham Brake
Delma Knight. Photos supplied

‍

Twenty-three Mackay Contract Bridge players participated in the Yeppoon Pairs and Teams Congress on the weekend. Janet Hansen and Thelma Caruana won the A Grade pairs. Sandra Morris and Annie Lynch won the B Grade Pairs. Alan and Frances Brown came third in the A Grade Pairs. Team Holewa – Max and Di Holewa, Terrence Sheedy and Noel Bugeia came second in the A Grade Teams with Team Hutchinson – Faith Hutchinson, Dot Slater, Joy Block and Geoff Cowan coming second in the C Grade Teams.

Weekly Results
Wednesday 21 August 2024 2 of 3 weeks of the Anne Hird Memorial 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Jewel Schmidt / Monica Darley
1st
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Ming Ting
2nd
Joy Block / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Janice Mansfield / Noel Bugeia
3rd
David Ting / Vicki Howard
4th
Karen Cadwell / Kath Poole
4th
Eric Goodchild / Victor Mason
Thursday Evening 22 August 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

3rd
Jan Harris / Griffin Bancroft
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

Friday 23 August 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
1st
Ming Ting / David Ting

2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

Saturday 24 August 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Anne Lutz / Margaret Lane
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Simon Barnes
3rd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Ann Whitmore / Ken Seaniger
4th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
4th
Karen Cadwell / Noel Saunders
5th
Vicki Howard / Geoff Cowan
5th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

Contributed By Joy Block

‍

Janet Hansen and Thelma Caruana Yeppoon Congress Open Pairs Winners
Geoff Cowan, Dorothy Slater, Faith Hutchinson and Joy Block Yeppoon Congress C Grade Teams Runners up
Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris Yeppoon Congress B Grade Pairs winners. Photos supplied

‍

Mackay SLSC “Guardians of Harbour Beach since 1950” is kicking off the start of its Nipper season with a Sign On Day, Sunday the 1st of September from 10am – 12noon at the surf club located at Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach.
The Surf Club is holding “come and try” days for all of September, with surf education, fitness and beach skill activities, as well as a whole lot of fun being held from 8.45am each Sunday.  The Nippers’ family will provide stinger suits, boards and all other equipment needed to get involved.  Just bring your togs, sunscreen and a towel and Mum and Dad!
Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports said, “We had a really fun season last year, it was great to see our nippers grow not only in numbers but also in their individual confidence in the surf and with learning about being a lifesaver,”
“Our parent helpers are fantastic as well, getting involved with their children and building our club culture.  It really is a family-orientated and welcoming sport.”
Josh said that Nippers is a surf development program catering for children aged from 5 – 14 years, after which they move into the junior and senior lifesaving ranks.  
“A typical Nippers morning will involve a structured warm-up and surf education such as signals, rescue techniques and reading the surf for rips or stingers (which we get very rarely), beach training such as flag / beach races and relays, then water-based activities that are age appropriate.  
“The morning finishes with a family sausage sizzle at the canteen where all nipper families catch up.
“The club has a focus on developing skills from our youngest children up to our older teenagers and starts with play-based confidence and skill activities for the young ones which progresses to surf sports competition training for more advanced lifesavers.”
If you would like any more information please contact the Junior Activity Coordinator Lexie Schiffer on juniors@mackayslsc.com.au
We hope to see you at the Beach!

Nippers brings confidence, teamwork and mateship to your children.

Mackay Nippers learning about surf safety from our dedicated volunteer patrolling members

‍

The highly anticipated 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival returns this weekend for two thrilling days on 31 August and 1 September, promising a vibrant mix of cycling, community spirit, and 2024 Paris Paralympics LIVE screen.

The festival will feature screenings of the Paralympics throughout the weekend, with a special focus on two Mackay Paralympians, Josh Nicholson and Brayden Foxley-Conolly, who are proudly representing Australia in Wheelchair Rugby. Both athletes are supported by Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay (DSRM), one of the festival’s key beneficiaries.

BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Director, Nikki Giles, expressed her excitement about the festival’s expanded format and the chance to showcase the Paralympics in such a meaningful way.

"This year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival is set to be an unforgettable weekend for the Mackay community. We are thrilled to be a Paralympics LIVE site, where we can gather to celebrate the incredible achievements of our Paralympians.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for Mackay, and we’re inviting everyone to be part of it, whether you are participating in our event or not, everybody is welcome."

In addition to the live Paralympics coverage, the festival will also feature a free screening of the classic film “Cool Runnings” at 4:30 pm on Saturday, 31 August. Families can enjoy food trucks, kids' activities, and a festive atmosphere as they take in the film and the live sports action.

Linda Murry, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s Hay Point Coal Terminal, highlighted BMA’s long-standing commitment to the Mackay community.

“This year’s event, coinciding with the 2024 Paris Paralympics, is an extraordinary opportunity to celebrate the resilience and achievements of our Paralympians with the entire community," she said.

Mayor Greg Williamson said all the stars had aligned to combine the Paralympic LIVE site with the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival.

“It’s tremendous that all the pieces have fallen into place – not only will the LIVE site provide a fantastic addition to the festival, but the Paralympic broadcast also aligns perfectly with one of the funding recipients - Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay,” Mayor Williamson said.

The Paralympics LIVE site will be open to the public between 1:00 pm and 6:00 pm on Saturday, 31 August, and from 6:30 am to 4:00 pm on Sunday, 1 September.

For the complete schedule of events, visit www.river2reefride.com.au

‍

The entire Mackay community is encouraged to join in the celebration, cheer on our Paralympians, and be part of this unique and inspiring event. Photos credit: Deanne Woods and Marty Strecker

‍

Perfect weather conditions set the stage for the annual Sladie Sand Dunes three-loop course, hosted at the picturesque Lamberts Beach Esplanade. Runners tackled the challenging course, set amidst the serene nature reserve, under the expert supervision of Mackay Road Runners Vice President and Race Director, Mick Scholer. The team behind the event included course setup expert Andrew Short and timekeeping and registration professionals Beck Scholer, Julie Whibley, and Jo Hughes. Unfortunately, club President Brendan Bishop had to bow out due to illness, but the team’s dedication ensured a smooth and enjoyable race. A special thanks to Mick and Bec for introducing some new faces, Rocky and Gino, to the event, while Ashleigh Miles and his enthusiastic son, Max, embraced the challenge with gusto.
Paul MacKenzie once again displayed his prowess, securing first place on the technical off-road course. Runners faced soft sand, steep sandy and grassy hills, and the notorious stair-climbing section, testing their endurance and precision. Despite the tricky terrain of twists, turns, and ascents, most participants finished unscathed, though the unexpectedly humid conditions added an extra layer of difficulty, particularly in the sheltered areas of the parkland reserve.
Outstanding performances were delivered by Mick Vivian, Luke Leven, Teresa Hackney, Michael Feenaghty, Jose Short, Robin Stinson, John Couldrey, Mitch Evetts, Ashleigh Miles, Craig Robinson, Lily Leven, Natasha Joynson, Alan Zamparutti, Len Haworth, David Isbister, Carmel Mahon, Andrew Short, Werner VanDerLinde, Steve Oberg, Jenny White, and Jim Perkins, all of whom showed impressive stamina and determination throughout the course.
Photos and results supplied by Janelle Tilse

Jose Short (left) is congratulated by Mackay Road Runners Merchandising Officer, Jo Hughes for her bronze medal performance at the World Triathlon Multisport Championships
Craig Robinson, Ashleigh Miles and Max Miles are thrilled with their efforts in the Sladie Sand Dunes very testing trail running event
Len Haworth followed closely by David Isbister at the highest altitude point of the race

Over thirty runners bolted from the gate at the Lamberts Beach Sladie Sand Dunes challenging trail event

‍

The North Mackay Sinkers and Masters Swimming Qld are excited to host the return of an Open Water Swim to the fabulous Whitehaven beach this October 6.

This thrilling event is back after a five-year break and swimmers from across the region are gearing up for an unforgettable experience.

With a choice of 1km or 2km races, the swim offers both a challenge and a sense of adventure as excitement of the swim is matched by the breathtaking surroundings, making this race one to remember.

The last Whitehaven Beach swim was held in 2019, and its return has sparked a wave of enthusiasm.

With limited entries available, the demand is high and spots are filling up quickly.

Entry fee includes return fast ferry from Shute Harbour to and from Whitehaven beach, transfers ashore, a light lunch and a supervised, timed swim along with a commemorative medal to mark the return of the event.

Don't miss your chance to be part of this iconic swim, register now and make your mark in the crystal-clear waters of Whitehaven Beach!

To claim your spot, visit https://authcrm2.swimming.org.au or scan the QR code.

‍

Register now for the Whitehaven Beach Swim via the QR code or byvisiting https://authcrm2.swimming.org.au. Photos supplied

‍

Mackay State High School's U15 Girls Netball team emerged victorious at the Capricornia Coast Carnival, held on the 12th and 13th of August at the Barmaryee Sports Complex. The team went undefeated over seven games, showcasing their skill and determination.
The winning team, consisting of Anna Pearson, Abbey Williams, Sabra Roberts, Keeley Ball, Darcie Malayta, Lilly Boyd, Lara Snell, Ella Matsen, Talia Steindl, Eaden Madsen, Molly Cassan, and Dana Guley, played with exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship.
Ash Barons, the Netball Academy Coordinator, praised the team's effort, saying, "Our girls demonstrated incredible perseverance and unity throughout the competition. Their undefeated run is a testament to their hard work and dedication."
The Head of Department HPE and Sporting Academies, Brett Watton, also commended the team's performance, adding, "This victory highlights the talent and commitment of our students. We are proud to see our netball academy growing and achieving such success."
Mackay State High School was represented by three teams at the carnival, reflecting the school's robust netball program and its commitment to promoting sports at all levels. The success of the U15 team is a promising indicator of the academy's future achievements.
For those interested in joining the Mackay State High School Netball Academy, please contact Brett Watton at brwat1@eq.edu.au. The academy is open to all students eager to develop their netball skills and be part of a winning team.

‍

The three-match one-day series between Australia A and India A provided thrilling cricket action at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena, with Australia A ultimately securing the series win despite a resounding victory for India A in the final game.

In the opening match, Australia A achieved a four-wicket victory, thanks to a masterful 129 from Katie Mack. Her innings was instrumental in chasing down India A’s total of 249 for 9. While Bist and Hasabnis impressed with their contributions of 82 and 53 respectively, Australia A’s bowlers, particularly Brown with 4 for 23, played a crucial role in restricting the opposition and ensuring a successful chase.

Australia A continued their strong form in the second game, winning by eight wickets. Maddy Darke’s unbeaten 106, coupled with Katie Mack’s 68, anchored the chase of 219. The opening partnership between Darke and Mack, worth 131 runs, proved too strong for India A’s bowlers. Despite fifties from Bist and Hasabnis, India A was bowled out for 218, falling short of posting a match-winning total.

The final match, however, saw India A turn the tables with a dominant performance. Set a target of 244, Australia A was dismissed for just 72 in 22.1 overs, resulting in a commanding 171-run win for India A. This victory showcased India A’s ability to bounce back and deliver a decisive performance, though it wasn’t enough to overturn Australia A’s earlier successes in the series.

‍

Dynamic play on display as Australia A and India A compete fiercely in their thrilling one-day series. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures August 6, 2024:

Division 1:

Fiat (Donna Abbott, Emma Widdup, Allan Robins) d Ferrari (Steven Whiting, Janice Kent, Andrea Nicholson) 7-4. Steven d Allan -7, 5, -9, 9, 3.

Hyuandi (Allan Edwards, Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) d BMW (Barry Patterson, Geoff Denman, Tony Bowman) 6-5. Tim d Tony 11, 7, -9, -10, 7.

Audi (Andrew McHugh, Lily Boland, Ian McKay) d Honda (Graham Drury, Vince Boeske, Graham Brake) 7-4. Graham d Lily 3, -5, -3, 4, 6.

Alpha (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Delma Knight) d Holden (Mark Sleeman, Robbie Richards, Lee Brake) 6-5. Slee d Delma 5, -10, -10, 9, 12.

Division 2:

Mercedes (Will VanDeKaa, Darryl Ross, Judy Zahn) d Nissan (Noreen Fredericksen, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) 7-4. Will d Trent 5, 8, -10, 7.

Mazda (George Camilleri, Rymer Tabulo, Craig VanDeKaa) d Suzuki (Josie Davis, Matt West, Simon Hogan) 6-5. George d Matt -11, -11, 5, 9, 8.

Lexus (Duncan Treloar, Kade Wright, Coral Morgan) d Subaru (Jye Callander, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) 7-4. Coral d Bulldog -12, 8, 12, -4, 9.

Rolls (Ishara Lilanagamage, Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson) d Juguar (Leo Gilbert, Mark Stam, Neil Brown) 8-3. Geoff d Leo 10, -5, 10, -7, 9.
‍

Mark Sleeman. Photo supplied

The Jan Meng Memorial Doubles Tournament

The Jan Meng Memorial Doubles tournament brought out some great play at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre on Tuesday morning.

The competition was fierce for the trophy, named in honour of the late Jan Meng, who was an  organiser of the Tuesday morning fixtures for many years.

Tony Bowman and Frank Caruana narrowly defeated Marie Taylor and Bryan Marshall in a hard-fought final.

Players in all divisions competed in groups before the competition moved to the knockout stage, with some great matches witnessed.

Many thanks to fixture organiser Steve Mathieson, helped by a group of supporters, for a well-run tournament.

‍

Winners Frank Caruana and Tony Bowman with the Jan Meng Memorial Trophy. Photo supplied

‍

Three Mackay-born athletes have been named in the Australian Steelers Wheelchair Rugby Team for the 2024 Paris Paralympics, marking a significant achievement for the region.
Shae Graham, Brayden Foxley-Conolly and Josh Nicholson make up a quarter of the 12-player squad and bring with them an inspiring blend of determination, skill and resilience.

Thirty-seven-year-old Shae Graham, was born in Mackay and faced life-altering challenges following a car accident at the age of 18, where she obtained a fractured spine and pelvis, as well as a raptured bladder and a brain injury. After relocating to Victoria for treatment, Shae discovered wheelchair rugby and quickly excelled in the sport. Her talent and dedication led her to become the first female to represent Australia in wheelchair rugby at an international level, including the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.

Shae’s ground-breaking achievements have paved the way for other women in what was once a male-dominated sport and she is set to compete in her second Paralympic Games in Paris.

Joshua Nicholson became a quadruple amputee at just 14 months old due to a meningococcal infection and moved to Mackay with his family in 2009. He began his athletic journey with the Mackay Machines Wheelchair Basketball Team during his high school years and represented Queensland at the U23 Nationals. In 2015, Josh transitioned to wheelchair rugby after moving to the Gold Coast to pursue a degree in Architectural Design.

His dedication and skill quickly earned him a spot on the Australian Steelers, making his international debut in 2017. Now at 29, Josh is eagerly anticipating his first Paralympic Games which is a milestone he has worked tirelessly to achieve.

Brayden Foxley-Conolly, the youngest of the trio at 19 also hails from Mackay. After contracting meningococcal at 22 months old, Brayden learned to navigate life with significant physical challenges. Despite this, he was determined to lead an active life and began playing wheelchair basketball with the Mackay Machines team at age 10. Brayden’s natural athleticism was soon noticed, leading him to represent Queensland and Australia in various international competitions.

Seeking a new challenge, he transitioned to wheelchair rugby in 2022 and quickly made a name for himself, earning a spot on the Australian Steelers. As a rising star in the sport, Brayden is thrilled to be part of the team heading to Paris, where he will celebrate his 20th birthday.

Despite the challenges they’ve faced, these three outstanding athletes have demonstrated nothing but excellence throughout their journeys.

As supporters from their hometown of Mackay, we wish them nothing but the very best as they prepare to compete in the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

Come along to Harrup Park on Thursday August 29, 7pm to watch the trios first Wheelchair Rugby Game Watch Party as they vs Great Britain in the Paris 2025 Paralympics games.

What: Paris 2025 Paralympics First Wheelchair Rugby Game Watch Party
When: 7pm for a 7:30pm game start, Thursday 29th August
Where:  Harrup Park Country Club

‍

Left to right: Joshua Nicholson, Shae Graham and Brayden Foxley-Conolly (photo supplied by Shae Graham taken at the recent Canada Cup, Vancouver, June 2024).
Joshua Nicholson
Shae Graham
Brayden Foxley-Conolly. Photos supplied

‍