
With Fitness Cartel Corporate Memberships Mackay businesses now have a game-changing way to invest in their employees’ health and wellbeing with Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program. Designed for organisations looking to prioritise fitness, health, and workplace wellness, these memberships give staff access to ultramodern facilities, expert-led classes, and personalised training support — all tailored to the needs of a busy workforce. Whether your team wants to lift, stretch, spin, or recover, Fitness Cartel has it covered. Members enjoy 24/7 access to all clubs, over 500 pieces of strength and cardio equipment, and dedicated zones for Reformer Pilates, functional training, and cycling. The Mackay location also features a fully equipped Wellness Centre, including hot rock saunas, hot and cold plunge pools, Normatec compression boots, red light therapy, and a range of post-workout recovery options to suit every need. Group fitness is a highlight for corporate members, with unlimited access to more than 100 classes per week across 4 different training studios inside the Mackay Club. Options range from Les Mills’ Body Combat, Body Pump, Body Balance And RPM, to yoga, Mat Pilates, Zumba, and functional training sessions. Virtual classes are also available 24/7, offering flexibility for early birds or night owls. For businesses with families on the team, Kids Cartel provides a safe, engaging crèche and playground, ensuring parents can focus on their workout while children enjoy supervised play. Employees can also enjoy the Cartel Café, offering nutritious meals and snacks to fuel their workouts, or browse the on-site nutrition and pro shop. Corporate packages at Fitness Cartel are designed to elevate workplace wellness programs. Beyond improving fitness levels, they promote team bonding, boost morale, and create a positive, healthy work culture. Monthly body scans, personal training sessions, and precision programming help staff track progress and achieve their health goals, making corporate wellness a practical and measurable benefit for businesses. “The Fitness Cartel Corporate Membership Program is all about empowering teams to reach their health and fitness goals, while giving employers an easy way to support workplace wellbeing,” said Mackay Co-Franchisee Cliff Forster. With multiple locations and more planned nationwide, employees have seamless access to premium fitness facilities no matter where they are. For Mackay businesses looking to invest in their teams, Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program offers the ultimate combination of fitness, recovery, and community, all under one roof. For more information or to arrange a corporate membership, contact Fitness Cartel Mackay at mackay@fitnesscartel.com.au or call (07) 4881 0365
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At North Mackay Bowls Club North Mackay Bowls club Presentation night was held on Saturday 29/11/2025, with many of our bowlers and significant others attending. Following a lovely dinner prepared by the super chefs at Goosies, the Ladies section held their presentation first, with many excited winners receiving certificates and renumeration. Results: Champ Pairs : Deb Mackenzie and Chris Woo Champ Triples : Nug Pratt, Val De Pinto, Marie Bragg Champ Fours : Lorna Bowers, Deb Mackenzie, Coral Francis, Donna Gordon B Pairs : Ann Smith ans Min Andrew Over 70’s : Lorna Bowers Graded 4’s Lorraine Silman, Doris Dodds, Helen Fleming, Min Andrew Graded 3 B Triples : Lois Deguara, Helen Fleming, Sue Roscoe Graded 2 B Triples : Donna Gordon, Carmel Bell, Hilary Jones-Rowan Consistency : Cheryl Corbett Division 1 Winning Pennant Team going on to play in Emerald ( Leichhardt District ) and then to Tweed Heads(Qld Division) Coming 4th in the State. Well done to all the ladies in the team. The Bowler of the Year award was presented to the player who claimed the Championship Singles, ‘B’ Singles and Under 70s Singles titles, with the honour bestowed on Brenda Trannore. Brenda graciously accepted the accolade, delivering a heartfelt speech in which she thanked those who had supported and guided her throughout her bowls journey, acknowledging the achievement as a significant milestone in both her life and her bowls career. Amazing and Well Done Brenda. The Mens Section had their 2025 Presentation next, with many of the bowlers happy with their performances on the green an in competitions, Pennant and away games. Results: Mixed Pairs : Neil Blucher and Lois Deguara Mixed Fours ; Pam Spencer, Ken Rix, Carmel Bell, Dave Mc Kendry B Singles : Eric Galletly, B Pairs : Eric Gallantly John Kennell Senior Singles : Geoff Ollett 2 B Triples : Andrew Coates, Clive Wales, Peter Blackburn. 3 B Triples : Shane Trannore, Wayne Trannore, Dave McKendry A Fours : Ben Crocker, Col Crocker, Ian Beveridge, Joe Crocker A Pairs : Mick Walsh and Steve Lane A Singles : Alan Cooney Club Person of the Year was voted in as a tie this year, and went to Wayne and Shane Trennore. It was a super evening for the Trannore name in bowls for our Club. Wayne Trannore responded on behalf of his brother Shane, also thanking those involved with the club and their fantastic award. Contributed by Sue Hazledine
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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club Results For Week Ending Saturday 13th December 2025 Monday 8th December 2025 – 6 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Jewel Schmidt - Janine Rodgers 2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 2nd Shirley Worland - Janice Mansfield 3rd Geoffrey Patterson - Noel Bugeia 3rd Jayne Johnstone - Clare Wallace Tuesday 9th December 2025 – 3 ½ Table Howell Green Points 1st Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia 2nd Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy 3rd Richard Wix - Tex Sheedy Wednesday 10th December 2025 –10 Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Martin Pearce - Sue Mayer-Miller 2nd Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 2nd Janet Hansen - Alan Brown 3rd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 3rd Gwen Liddell - Anne Lutz 4th Annette Howe - Diane Stokes 4th Mary Rose Ramsden - Patrick Rasmussen 5th Lorna Shuttlewood - Tex Sheedy 5th Sandy Patterson - Joy Hold Thursday Evening 11th December 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Joy Hold - Patricia Garner 1st Noel Bugeia - Tex Sheedy 2nd Geoff Taylor - Anne Lutz 2nd Martin Pearce - Simon Barnes Friday 12th December 2025 –7 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 1st David Ting - Ming Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix 2nd Julie O'neill - Ann Whitmore 3rd Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 3rd Christine Nice - Diane Cox 3rd Martin Pearce - Gwen Liddell Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section A (Christmas Party )– 8 Table Mitchell - Green Points North/South East/West 1st Victor Mason - Ann Whitmore 1st Marilin Robins - Mick Robins 2nd Geoff Taylor - Margaret Lane 2nd Faye Wright - Tex Sheedy 3rd Monica Darley - David Hird 3rd Diane Stokes - Annie Lynch 4th Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless 4th Noel Bugeia - Pamela Finger Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section B (Christmas Party)– 9 Table Mitchell - Green Points North/South East/West 1st Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 1st Janet Hansen - Thelma Caruana 2nd Ming Ting - David Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix 3rd Alan Brown - Frances Brown 3rd Susan Gibson - Karen Caldwell 4th Christopher Meyers - Sandy Patterson 4th Eric Goodchild - Debra Goodchild Contributed by Robert Carless
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With Mackay Road Runners With temperatures feeling closer to 35 degrees and no rain in sight, it was a very Mackay-style lead-up to Christmas at this week’s Bluewater Quay Social Run. Forget a white Christmas, runners were treated to hot, testing conditions during the afternoon’s 5km and 10km events. Race Director Andrew Short was thanked for delivering another successful run, despite the heat, with welcome relief provided by Zooper Doopers and Red Dog’s rehydration options, which were greatly appreciated by participants. The next Bluewater Quay social run, commencing at 4.30pm next Sunday, will be the final event before Christmas. Runners are encouraged to come along for a festive group photo and stay on for a Christmas drink afterwards. Some of the best photos may feature in this Mackay Life Newspaper and the Mackay Road Runners 2026 calendar, described humorously as a firefighter-style calendar, but with clothes. Congratulations were extended to all participants for their efforts in challenging conditions, with a reminder for runners to continue training and racing in such conditions to stay healthy and safe. “Thank you to Mackay & Whitsunday Life magazine for their awesome support of the Mackay Road Runners Club!”
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The Presidents Trophy is being hotly contested by forty-four players over three weeks. Each player plays with a different partner every week. After the second week it is anybody’s trophy. The Novice pairs competition after the second week is up for grabs as the leaders from last week, slipped down the ladder. This competition is still wide open.
Weekly Results
Monday 21 October 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd
Joy Block / Nancy Wix
2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
3rd
Vicki Howard / Jan Harris
Tuesday Evening 22 October 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Sandra Morris / Faye Wright
4th
Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
Thursday Evening 24 October 2024 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Jan Harris / Geoff Taylor
4th
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 25 October 2024 – 8 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
1st
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
2nd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole
3rd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
4th
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell
Saturday 26 October 2024 – Session Two Presidents Trophy - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Geoff Taylor / Robert Carless
1st
Monica Darley / Ken Seaniger
2nd
Tere Wotherspoon / Kathleen Clifford
2nd
Nancy Martin / Margaret Lane
3rd
Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill
3rd
Mick King / Patricia Garner
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
4th
Alan Brown / Janelle Conroy
5th
Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette
5th
Faye Wright / Christine Nice
Sunday 27 October 2024 Week 2 of 3 Novice Pairs – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Faith Hutchinson / Diane Stokes
2nd
Anne Lutz / Diane Cox
3rd
Ann Whitmore / Sandy Patterson
4th
Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
Contributed By Joy Block

Cricket Australia (CA) has announced the 2025 National Indigenous Cricket Championships (NICC) will be held in Mackay from April 2-7, 2025.
The decision to hold the Championships on Yuwibara Country in Mackay follows recent discussions with State and Territory Governments about the opportunity to collaborate with CA about hosting events and national tournaments over the next seven seasons.
The NICC was held on Arrernte Country in Mparntwe, Alice Springs for eight years. This move aligns with CA’s new Reconciliation Action Plan and the aim to sustainably strengthen opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to play, attend and follow cricket.
The 2025 Championships will be contested at Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park which has become a regular venue for international cricket, including two of the three CommBank Women’s T20Is between Australia and New Zealand played in September 2024 and the Men’s A-Series match between Australia and India later this month.
Queensland Cricket’s support of the NICC will further strengthen their commitment to their own Reconciliation Action Plan as well as supporting existing programs including the Eddie Gilbert Program, Western Rivers Cup (Toowoomba), Stan Albert Sheild (Rockhampton), Rainforest Cup (Tully), Phillip Minniecon Cup (Cairns) and T20 Harmony Shield.
This decision was made in close collaboration with NT Cricket, CA’s National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cricket Advisory Group and following feedback from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players who have expressed a desire to connect with country, cultures and communities in other regions.
Joel Morrison Executive General Manager, Events & Operations said, “It is exciting that the National Indigenous Cricket Championships will be contested at Great Barrier Reef Arena for the first time this season.
“We are grateful to the Queensland Government, Mackay Regional Council, Harrup Park and Queensland Cricket for their ongoing support in staging significant international and domestic cricket events such as this tournament in Mackay, which is fast becoming a regular feature on the Australian cricket calendar.
“We would also like to express our thanks and gratitude to NT Cricket, the Imparja Cup and Alice Springs cricket communities, the Northern Territory Government and Alice Springs Town Council for the significant role they have played in growing the NICC since its inception, and greatly enhancing the tournament’s cultural significance and level of on-field competition.”
Last year, the Queensland Indigenous women’s team were crowned champions of the 2023 National Indigenous Cricket Championships, going undefeated throughout the entire competition. Photos supplied

Mackay put on a show over three exhilarating days as competitors gave it their all at the 2024 North Australian Surf Life Saving Championships. From pool events and beach sprints to relays, flags and thrilling water challenges like the Board, Surf, Ski, and Iron events, athletes showcased extraordinary skill, resilience, and sportsmanship. Competitors ranged from U11s to Masters, each bringing unmatched energy and skill to every event. With sunny skies and perfect conditions, Emu Park Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) claimed their third consecutive championship win, while Tannum Sands SLSC and Cairns SLSC secured second and third.
Photo credit: The Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club

Dan Zealand and Anton Zafir from Whitsunday Martial Arts are no newbies to demanding physical challenges that test your mental stamina. In fact, during COVID-19 they completed a Run Challenge where they ran two kilometres every hour for 24 hours. Back then, they did this to raise awareness and money for Men’s mental health.
This year they are once again hosting a Run Challenge, but this time it will be for an epic 36 hours, pushing them further than they’ve ever been pushed before.
Dan jokes that the 24 hour challenge wasn’t hard enough and himself and Anton wanted to up the ante for this event!
The proceeds of this year’s event will be evenly split with 50 per cent of money raised going to ‘Veterans MMA’ charity, a non-for-profit organisation based in Sunshine Coast, that support veterans return to an active and happy lifestyle in their post military life.
The other 50 per cent will go to funding two members of the gym who are participating in the 2024 World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Las Vegas.
One of them is 15-year-old Noah Conyers and Dan said he is inspired by his dedication.
“He's a very gifted 15-year-old athlete,” said Dan.
“He has been training with us for several years now, and he gets involved with the adults’ classes, he's sort of surpassed all of the kids from youth classes and he gives a lot of the adults some troubles as well!
“Noah is an absolute pleasure of a student, he assistant coaches the youths’ classes, so, he gives back to the gym and it's an absolute pleasure to be able to help him get over there and do this.”
The Run Challenge will be extremely difficult but Dan and Anton believe that people are a lot stronger than they think they are, and they will complete the run together.
The 36-hour Run Challenge is still open for participants and they will shortly be opening hour time slots, for people that want to run but do not think they will be able to complete the full challenge.
What: 36-hour Run Challenge
Where: Whitsunday Martial Arts
When: 8-10 November (7pm Friday - 7am Sunday)

This week we had Jill Spencer, Margo Stanley and Lyn Graham head to Bowen and Alan Pershouse, David Meiklejohn and Mark Mawson head to Proserpine with some success.
Work to transform the club’s green is continuing with progress headed by Rick Brunell John and Robin Brown, Arthur and Liz, Tim Taylor, Ted Cullen and others.
We also have John Fielding, Russell Jackson, and Amando Isgro competing in the champion of champions at Marion Bowls Club.
Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

The Proserpine team of Shane Kinnear, Scott Hamilton and Wayne Handley played amazing bowls all weekend to come out on top in all highly contested Champion of Champion 2 Bowl Triples games at Marian.
Saturday afternoon they defeated Northern Beaches 25 - 15; Sunday morning was a close one against Seaforth with an extra end being required to break the deadlock, Proserpine eventually winning 22 - 21 and then in the final against home club Marian, it was another fiercely contested match.
At the time of writing, I'm not aware of what the score was, only that it was close all the way through and Proserpine ended up this year's winners.
In Social Bowls on Wednesday, John Anderson, Mary Hedgelong and Philip Brown defeated Pat Bownds, Alan Pershouse and Sandy Daffara 24 - 13; Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith, Bruce Uhe and Mark Mawson defeated Alen Sanderson, Jim Bownds, Dave Meiklejohn and Heather Brown 21 - 12.
On Sunday social bowls Philip Brown and Sandy Daffara defeated Alen Sanderson and Mike Harrison 25 - 23; Bruce Uhe and Heather Brown defeated Arthur Griffith and Peter Lawton 28 - 23.
Good Bowling and great luck to Nathaniel Watts and Gavin Noonan who will be competing in the Champion of Champion B Pairs at North Mackay this coming weekend.
Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.
Shane Kinnear, Scott Hamilton and Wayne Handley with the District Winners Shield for the Champion of Champions 2 Bowl Triples.

On Tuesday social winners were Lindy Suann, Lyn Danvers and Geoff Danvers who defeated Stumpy Adams, Merle Elphinstone, Sue Shearing and Greg Colquhoun. Robyn Stitt and Penny Warren defeated Gary Kelly Dot Slater. It was great to see Gary return to his favorite sport. The jackpot didn’t go off.
Men’s Competition: Triples Barry Beel, Kevin Daniels and Kennedy Whitton defeated Stumpy Adams, Peter Hinschen and Greg Colquhoun.
Sunday social bowls winners were Jim Quod and Kevin Jewell. You learn at bowls to never give up and these chaps were 19 shots behind going into afternoon tea and staged a miraculous come back to win the game by one shot against Shane Dykstra and Kennedy Whitton.
Other wins were Merle Elphinstone, Irene Laird and Penny Warren who defeated Bron Tolcher, Lindy Suann and Albi Vigar. Robyn Stitt and Gavin Charles defeated Dot Slater Isobel Wheeler. The jackpot did not go off.
Mixed competition nominations have closed now so look out for Graeme’s texts for games called.
Don’t forget this Saturday 2nd to come along and have some fun while trying our great sport. Be at the club around 1.15pm for a 1.30pm start.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.
Sundays winners. Photo supplied

Tuesday
PGC - Single Stableford
Winner: Finbar O’Flynn (SGA GC) with 38 points on a countback
R/Up: Mark Richards
Rundown: both wqith 35 points : Tiina Randmae and Tom O’Brien
2 shot winner: Ken Granger
NTPs: Jenny Hounsell and Ton O’Brien (2nd)
Thursday
PGC - Single Stableford
A grade:
Winner: Zachary Esden with 40 points on a countback from
R/Up: Sam Deicke
B grade:
Winner: Bernie Drake with 40 points
R/Up: James Miller (Bowen GC) with 38
C grade:
Winner: Adam Tester with 40 points
R/Up: Vic Feldman with 38
Friday
Metropole Run: 9 holes: Back 9
Winner: Chris Pirlo with 19 points
R/up: Tom O’Brien with 17
Rundown: all with 17 points:
George Steane, Finbar O”Flynn (SGA GC) and Fay Milne
NTPs:
Chris Bartlett (13th) and Elise Hodgson (16th)
Saturday
MBW Single Stableford - some amazing scores
Overall Winner: Kristian Mulholland with 44 points
MEN:
A grade: Winner: Rob Stanley with 42 points
R/Up: Peter Faust with 41
3rd: Lewy Tuck with 40
B grade: Winner: Kristian Mulholland with 44 points
R/Up: John Wallace with 42
3rd: Barry Mortimer with 39
LADIES:
Winner: Nicole Cooper with 41 points
R/Up: Penny Wardroper with 40
Sunday
PGC - Single Stableford
MEN:
Winner: John Bissell with 39 points
R/Up: Ken Granger with 38
LADIES:
Winner: Tiina Randmae with 35 points
R/Up: Peta Thomas with 34
Full result details are available on Golflink.
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WHITSUNDAY GOLF CLUB : OCTOBER MM/PUTTS
LADIES A GRADE :
Winner : Tiina Randmae with 72 nett
Runner-up : Anna Winterbourn with 76
Longest Drive : Anna Winterbourn
LADIES B GRADE :
Winner : Pam Casey with 79 nett
Runner-up : Jo Moynihan with 86
Longest Drive : Pam Casey
MEN’S A GRADE :
Winner : George Meharry with 70 nett
Runner-up : Chris Bartlett with 82
Longest Drive : Darren Reynolds
MEN’S B GRADE
Winner : Mark McDougal with 72 nett
Runner-up : Wilf Herweg with 74
Longest Drive : Mark McDougal
LAST FIXTURES FOR 2024 :
November 3: November MM and Least Putts, get your names in between 7 and 8 am.
November 10 : WGC Club Championship and MOM 2024.
Men’s A : 0-16, Men’s B : 17+
Ladies’ A : 0 -31, Ladies’ B : 32+
November 23: Festive Lunch at the RGH 12.30’sh
Contact to RSVP: joanne_moynihan@bigpond.com
Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

Over the weekend, 8 Cannons travelled to Charters Towers to compete at the Charters Towers LC Transition Meet. The Cannons would like to commend Tate Harland, Ruby Harland, Indigo Harland, Blaire Harland, Andie Reynolds, Dylan Reynolds, Isaac Pisaniello, and Isabella Pisaniello. Congratulations, Andie, and Ruby for being selected for the Skins event!
Highlights include Andie Reynolds swimming a massive 35.61sec PB in her 400m Freestyle which earnt her a bronze medal. Tate Harland won 5 of his events and swam 3PBs. Tate’s best swim was his 100m Butterfly with 8sec PB.
Ruby Harland won 5 events and swam 5PBs. Two of Ruby’s best swims (based on PBs) were 400m Freestyle and 200m Backstroke. Ruby’s sisters, Indigo and Blaire swam extremely well in all their races. The Cannons would like to commend Indigo for stepping up to help with the 12 year and Under 200m Free Relay.
Despite walking around in a moon boot, Isaac Pisaniello competed very well. Two of Isaac’s s best swims include: 50m Butterfly in 35.53sec (2nd place) and his 50m Freestyle in a time of 32.26sec.
Isaac’s sister, Isabella swam super times in her 50m Freestyle (2nd), 100m Backstroke (2nd), 100m Freestyle (4th) and 50m Backstroke (1st). Dylan Reynolds aged 14 years achieved top placings in all her events. Surprisingly, one of Dylan’s best swims was her 100m Breaststroke which she swam in 1.45.95 (2nd & 1.17sec PB).
On Wednesday Night the Cannons hosted another successful Club Night! A special welcome to Indiana De-Lisle and Isla Johnston! Indiana and Isla swam extremely well at their first Club Night. At the start of Club Night, Miller Eaves was presented with the Coaches’ Award for swimming an awesome 50m Freestyle.
Upgrade Certificates were presented to Addie Sanders and Leo Mulliss. Congratulations to Stella Mulliss and Jess Moon for winning the Chocolate Awards for the best PBs.
Congratulations to all the swimmers on your amazing achievements!
Contributed with thanks to the Cannonvale Cannons.
Cannons at Charters Towers
Jess Moon
Miller Eaves
Stella Mulliss

The Whitsunday Swimming Club held its annual LC Transition meet on October 19th & 20th at Proserpine Swimming Pool.
170 swimmers travelled from afar, including Townsville, Charters Towers, Moranbah, Mackay, Mirani, Bowen, Cannonvale & of course, our own Whitsunday Swimmers.
There was two days of fast racing, friendly banter, many rubber ducks won, and great memories made.
The Whitsunday Swimming Clubs own swimmers had some spectacular PB’s, A grade upgrades and Mystery Relay Wins. The cheering and support all our swimmers gave each other was heart warming.
Well done to our newest club members, Summer, Jack and Vicky on their first carnival. Amazing swims and we think you are going to fit right in with our club.
This year’s mystery relay was won by Charlie – Cannonvale Cannons, Liam – Mirani, Sophie – Gardens & Mae – Whitsunday. All swimmers in all heats raced spectacularly and to hear the cheering from the spectators was wonderful.
Thank you to all our parents, grandparents and other volunteers who helped us set up, pack up and run the meet. Thank you to Swimming North Queensland officials for you ongoing support of our club and carnival.
Thank you to Aquatic Rush for ensuring your facility was ready to show off to the swimming world. We are very fortunate to have such a great swimming facility in our region and one that supports our club so much.
Contributed with thanks to Amanda Yuskan
Photos supplied

Pioneer Valley young gun Ben Valmadre has opened the Mackay Junior Cricket season in style.
The talented sixteen-year-old cracked a majestic 53 in the Valley’s pulsating five-run victory over the Mackay Magpies White X1 in Under 17s action at Roy Trevaskis Oval.
Valmadre faced 54 deliveries and clouted six boundaries in Pioneer’s tally of 8-123 - adding 67 runs for the third wicket with promising number four Jacob Williams (22).
In reply the Magpies (8-118) fell agonisingly short despite top knocks from opener George Fortescue (41) and Thomas Rourke (26).
In the other fixture Walkerston (8-182) outclassed Magpies Black (8-93) at Cameron Oval.
The Roosters top order paved the way with rising number three Marcus Sammut peeling off an impressive 54 off 40 balls with eight boundaries plus a six.
Sammut was ably supported by opener Ayden Loader (37), Ricky Deguara (33 not out) and Ben Garner (25).
Soham Rana top scored for the Blacks with 24 runs off 33 balls while Cameron Johnson and Brodie Garnham each scored 20.
The Roosters attack found their rhythm with Marshall Maher (2-7), Israel Davies (2-24) and Tyler Morris (2-25) the chief destroyers.
Mackay Magpies White (7-149) downed the Blacks (6-136) in a tight contest at the Magpies Sports Ground.
Lachlan Anderson (39) and the promising Fortescue (33) led the way for the Whites with Rourke (2-1) and Fortescue (1-13 off four) applying the pressure with the ball.
All-rounder Rana turned in a fine bowling performance to finish with 4-24 off five overs with quick Zachary Pace nabbing 2-19 off 24 deliveries.

Mackay Magpies and Walkerston Roosters remain the only undefeated teams after the early rounds of the 2024-25 Mackay Cricket Association Poole Cup first-grade series.
The Magpies top the table on 29 competition points – one clear of the Roosters (28) after both clubs posted three consecutive one day victories in a cracking start to a new campaign.
Classy knocks from opener Rhys McBride (54 not out) and Adam Zurvas (39) steered the Magpies (2-109) to a resounding eight wicket win over Norths Devils (106) in opening round action at Jack Lancaster Oval.
McBride cracked ten boundaries and a six and shared an 80-run second wicket partnership with the talented Zurvas.
The high flying Magpies followed it up with emphatic wins over Souths Sharks and Pioneer Valley to zoom into top spot.
Andrew Borg grabbed 5-10 in a stunning seven over spell to help skittle the Sharks for 121 before Jaxn Sign blasted 75 not out off 35 balls with twelve boundaries and three sixes as the Magpies (4-122) cruised to victory.
Unbeaten knocks from Conor Bryant (44 not out) and Lucas van der Merwe (40 not out) piloted the Magpies (6-145) to a four wicket victory over Pioneer Valley (144) in third round action at George Gorrie Oval.
Walkerston have proved just as impressive with dominant victories over Brothers, Pioneer Valley and Norths Devils.
Half centuries from Chris Mceldowney (82 not out), Jakob Frerichs (70) and Luke Jackson (62) lifted the Roosters (6-280) to a comprehensive win over Brothers (132) with paceman Mackenzie Ralphs snaring 3-38, Jackson (2-22) and Liam Newbery (2-37).
Young gun Etienne Pretorius smashed 144 off 103 balls as Walkerston (5-260) toppled Pioneer Valley (155) with the talented teenager thumping nine sixes and thirteen boundaries in a superb knock.
Pretorius shared a big opening stand with Joel McFarlane (46) before Adrian Young grabbed 6-30 off eight overs with the ball.
Tom Vandenberg (78 not out) and Luke Jackson (69) posted a sixth wicket union of 141 as the Roosters (6-237) defeated the Devils (9-141) with wicket doubles to Ralphs, Young and Mceldowney.
Queensland Under 16s schoolboy representative Jack Law cracked a power-laden 94 with fourteen boundaries and Cameron Tomerini (90 not out) for Brothers (4-248) in their loss to Norths (7-252).
The promising colts featured in a third wicket partnership of 130 before Chris Day (65) and Kerrod Tortora (44 not out) guided the Devils to victory.

Mackay brothers James and Michael Mogford are making waves in the Transportable Shade Sheds SXS Championship, currently sitting in the number one spot with just one race remaining in the season. After finishing second in the 2023 Australian SXS Championship, they are determined to improve their standing at the upcoming Kalgoorlie Desert Race, taking place from October 24 to 27.
James takes the wheel while Michael navigates for the Moggy’s Racing team, which is also third overall in the Australian Offroad Championship. This position is particularly impressive, considering they’re competing against a range of sophisticated vehicles from other classes.
“It’s a huge deal for an SXS to be in third place, especially competing against Australia’s best driving cars,” James said.
The focus for the Mogfords is on their own class in the SXS Championship, even as they eye a potential outright win in the 2024 BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC).
“Our concentration is to ensure that we survive the race,” James said.
“We want to put it in a good position and get a podium finish.
James’s journey into SXS racing began with a background in off-road motorbike racing and go-karting. “They said, ‘with age comes a cage!’” he laughed. He decided to enter the sport after purchasing a vehicle and racing for the first time in 2022.
The season is made up of five races, with the Finke Desert Race recognised as the toughest.
“The logistics are challenging—it’s in Alice Springs, and you have to camp down at the finish line and race back the next day,” James explained.
“The biggest challenge with off-road racing is simply surviving the race, given the punishment the car endures.”
He knows the risks firsthand, having broken his collarbone last year due to the forces involved in rolling the car.
As they prepare for the Kalgoorlie Desert Race, James is a mix of excited and cautious.
“If we win this weekend, it means we’re Australian champions. But we want to survive the race too.”
Competing in such a harsh environment poses unique challenges, but the team is well-prepared.
Training involves utilising a test track on their property, where they spend significant time preparing their vehicle. Each race requires around 50 to 60 man-hours for preparation, a task handled by James, Michael, and their pit crew chief, Perry Hunn.
Looking to the future, James mentioned, “We’re hoping to have a new car ready for next season, similar to the one we have now but a newer model.”
Before heading into the final race of the season, James took a moment to thank their sponsors, acknowledging their critical support in pursuing the Australian title. Platinum Sponsors: Transportable Shade Sheds Australia and Infrabuild Steel Centre Mackay – Duragal; Gold Sponsors: Metroll, Barrier Reef Pools, The Apex Group as well as silver and bronze sponsors.
Photo credit: Terry Hill Photography

This weekend will see Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club host more than 1,500 competitors and spectators from the Gold Coast up to Cairns, competing for the coveted title of Northern Australian Surf Lifesaving Champions for 2024.
Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said, “Our club are extremely proud to be the host of this prestigious surf lifesaving event that we have successfully hosted since 1991.
“This is a huge drawcard for lifesavers to take on the best of the best in the North and it is absolutely awesome to see the Harbour Beach action-packed with surf sports over the whole weekend.
“This should provide some really good entertainment for those watching from the beach, so come along and get involved in the action.”
Mr Grant added that Mackay surf club has a really competitive contingent this year with nippers, youth and masters competing in a range of beach, surf, board, ski and surf boat events.
“The whole club is really looking forward to seeing how our surf sports squad and lifesavers go after hitting the surf for the last few months in preparation.”
Club President Brendan Smith said, “We are really excited to be hosting the North Aussie Championships again and want to thank our planning committee, dedicated workforce, water safety, patrol members and officials, sponsors, volunteers, parents and most importantly our competitors from across the state for making this great weekend possible.
“This is a true testament of what surf lifesaving is about in regional Qld and we encourage members of the Mackay community to come and support the volunteers that keep your beaches safe.”
There will be a canteen running downstairs in the Beach Kiosk which will be open for anyone wanting a quick feed on the run and the Surf Club Bistro & Restaurant upstairs for a delicious meal and cold beverage overlooking the best beach view in Mackay.
“We hope to see you at North Aussies 26 – 27th October, Harbour Beach, Mackay!”
Contributed by Josh Grant
Competitors hitting the surf at last year’s Nth Aussie’s. Photos supplied
Mackay’s Harbour Beach comes alive with surf action for the Nth Aussie’s
Mackay competitors Zara Richardson and Molly Madden are keen to defend their board rescue title from last year