As winter arrives, the Cannonvale Bowls Club experienced a week filled with competitive spirit and camaraderie, featuring Ladies Pennants, Social Bowls, and Men's Pennants.
Tuesday Highlights
Tuesday's Ladies Pennants and Social Bowls included 14 players, with special guests Diana Stowers and Ian Gillies from Bangaroo Bowls Club on Bribie Island. Ian, alongside new player Dana Watson and Mark Mawson, secured an easy win. However, Tony Whitehorn and "Wild" Bill Gordon took home the prize money.
In Ladies Pennants, Division 1 split their games, with Joan McGrath and Betty Nicole in top form. Rhonda Walker and Wendy Pomeroy's team also performed well, winning one game and narrowly losing to North Mackay.
Rain Affects Wednesday Bowls
Wednesday's Jackpot Bowls saw Rick Galea and Merve Stewart watching the rain from under an umbrella, while Bob and Evonne Spees were disappointed by the cancellation of Business House Bowls.
Christian College Students Prepare for Finals
Friday featured Christian College students narrowing down to 10 potential representatives for the school, with finals approaching.
Men's Pennants Weekend Action
During the weekend, Men's Pennants saw intense competition:
   • Division 1 narrowly lost to North Mackay on Saturday despite Shane Spann's team’s strong performance. They rebounded on Sunday, defeating the previously unbeaten Sarina by 30 points, with Manny Isgro and Warren Mills leading.
   • Division 3 had mixed results, with Ted Cullen’s side winning on Saturday and Rod Howard’s team winning on Sunday, but were beaten on points overall.
   • Division 5 remained competitive but fell short on both days, hopeful for wins in the remaining games.
The Cannonvale Bowls Club looks forward to finishing the season on a high note.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson
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Manny Isgro , John Fielding and Russell Jackson. Photo supplied

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Club Pairs Results
   • Ron Gould and Steve Roome defeated Lee Welsted and Jason Wright in a tightly contested match.
Wednesday Social Bowls Results
   • Mary Ellen Pratten, G. Cornell, and Daryl Tuttle defeated Sue Fox, Lloyd White, and Helen Jacobsen.
   • Daryl O’Connell, Ray Muir, and Steve Roome defeated Eddy Neylon, Jane Gilbert, and Bob Lindsay.
   • Peter, Ron, and Gus defeated Bev, Peter, and Rob.
   • Anna Delic, Wendy Coles, and Gary Turner defeated Glenys, Ian Thatcher, and D. MacDonald.
   • Chris and Pete defeated Jim and Ken.
As the season progresses, the competition at Bowen Bowls Club continues to deliver exciting matches and showcase the skills of its members. The club looks forward to more engaging games in the coming weeks.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards
Photo supplied

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Proserpine Bowls Club's Division 5 team clashed with North Mackay last Saturday, resulting in a 41-all draw. The team's Gavin Noonan, Harry Craig, Dale Haack, and Brett Saroglia secured a 23-20 victory, with both sides taking home 2.5 points each.
On the same day, Division 1 faced a strong Souths Suburban team. Despite a win by Shane Kinnear's quartet (16-13), the team suffered overall losses in other matches, with Souths Suburban taking the day 60-47 and earning the majority of match points.
Sunday brought renewed vigour with Division 1 hosting Northern Beaches. Nathan Harriott's last-end heroics led to a 20-19 win. Although one match was lost 20-22, Wayne Handley's team achieved a 22-17 victory, tilting the overall score in Proserpine's favour, 62-58.
Division 5 enjoyed a home advantage against Mackay, with John Matterson's team winning 23-19 and Brett Saroglia's repeating Saturday's success with a 40-33 win, grabbing all match points.
A highlight was the Club Championship Fours semi-final on Sunday afternoon, where Harry Craig’s team dominated with a 25-14 win over David Ling's team.
Wednesday's social bowls saw mixed results amid rain, with noteworthy performances despite the weather. The club extends a special thanks to all volunteers who contribute tirelessly, ensuring the smooth running of events and maintenance of facilities. Their dedication keeps the community spirit alive and thriving at the club.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

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The Wangaratta Bowls Club enjoyed an eventful week, with the Tuesday social bowls seeing fierce competition and strategic plays. Notable victories included John and Denis outplaying Alan and Norm, while B. Tolcher, S. Shearing, and Domingo took down C. Bellingham, K. Armstrong, and their team. Other winners of the day were J. Hayson, B. Bellingham, and G. Colquhoun, who defeated P. Mullins, L. Knight, and M. Hyde. M. Nesbit, P. Nesbit, and J. Steele bested Tracey, Jill, and Mark Drummond. M. Mullen, P. Howie, and J. White triumphed over E. White, J. Stamp, and G. Danvers. M. Elphinstone, J. Dawson, and L. Fox were victorious against Pam Breakwell, H. Reif, and R. Hyde. Despite the excitement, the jackpot remained unclaimed.
In addition to the social games, the club celebrated the Ladies team securing 3rd place in the 1st Division Blue Pennant in Townsville last week, marking a significant achievement.
The Men’s Competition also saw some action with L. Land and G. Read defeating K. Whitton and H. Dalton. Meanwhile, the Monday self-selected triples kicked off this week, promising more bowling excitement.
Club members are reminded to register their names by 12:30 PM for a prompt 1:00 PM start, with games concluding at 4:30 PM. This schedule ensures participants enjoy a full afternoon of competition and camaraderie at the club.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Photo supplied

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The Bowen Golf Club recently showcased exceptional golfing talent during the Abbot Point, Onsite Rental Group & Gilmour Space 2024 Pro-Am. Professionals John Lyras and Darcy Boyd both excelled, finishing their rounds 6 under par.
In the amateur rankings, Ryley Malone topped the Men's division, with Craig Newell and Kailan Batchelor trailing closely. Claire Garrod led the Ladies' division, followed by Meg Garrod and Jo Kukura. Notable performances in pin shots came from Danny Borgh, Jason Craig, Robyn Slade, and others, with Claire Garrod making an impressive chip-in.
The momentum continued with the Saturday Monthly Medal. Linda Vincent won the Ladies' competition with a score of 65, while Gregg Aplin dominated the Men's category with 66. Highlighting the day were remarkable pin shots and an eagle on Hole 14 by Michael Uerata.
Looking ahead, the club will host an 18-hole 4 ball ambrose medley this Saturday. Additionally, the community is encouraged to participate in the Joker draw this Friday night, boasting a $1,100 jackpot. Guests planning to dine at the event should book a table by calling 47851206 to ensure availability.
These events not only highlight the club’s active schedule but also its role as a cornerstone for sports and community engagement in Bowen.

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

Photos supplied

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This past Sunday, the Whitsunday Golf Club hosted its June Monthly Medal and Least Putts competition, with 14 players braving the wet course conditions. The event, generously sponsored by Airlie Panel and Paint and Master Butchers Whitsunday, saw reduced participation due to the ideal fishing weather and some players opting to wait for drier playing conditions.
The persistent wet weather has been particularly challenging for smaller country courses, affecting player numbers. The club remains hopeful for the onset of the usual balmy winter weather to welcome back regular participants.
Competition Results:
Ladies A Grade:
   • Winner: Anna Winterbourn, nett 79
   • Runner-up: Tiina Randmae
   • Longest Drive: Tiina Randmae
Ladies B Grade:
   • Winner: Linda Wardroper, 79
   • Runner-up: Joanne Moynihan
   • Longest Drive: Linda Wardroper
Men’s A Grade:
   • Winner: Darren Reynolds, nett 69
   • Runner-up: George Meharry
   • Longest Drive: Andrew Albergo
Men’s B Grade:
   • Winner: Mark McDougal, nett 75 (countback)
   • Runner-up: David Hoy (countback from Wilf Herweg)
   • Longest Drive: Mark McDougal
Nearest to the Pin (NTPs):
   • Ladies: Anna Winterbourn and Linda Wardroper
   • Men: Darren Reynolds and David Hoy
Least Putts:
   • Tiina Randmae and Andrew Albergo
The NAGAs (Not A Golfer's Award) were humorously bestowed upon Tina Cook and Dean Kercher, with drinks provided by Aaron and Tracy Watts, owners of RADS Whitsunday.
Upcoming Events: No WGC competition will be held next Sunday due to the PGC Ladies’ and Men's 4somes championship over 27 holes. The following week, June 16th, features a single Stableford with times scheduled from 7 to 8 AM. Participants are encouraged to register early and proceed promptly to the RGH for food and presentation post-match.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Photo supplied

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This week at the local golf club, the 9-hole Stableford competition saw some closely contested scores among the players. Rob Lodders emerged victorious on Wednesday, securing first place with an impressive 23 points. Hot on his heels was Edwina Pettiford with 21 points, clinching second place, while Levi Smith rounded out the top three with 20 points on a countback.
The excitement continued into Friday's 9-hole Stableford, where Brad Low triumphed in a tight finish, taking first place with 21 points on a countback. Scott Hayes-Williams also scored 21 points for a countback second place, followed by Tim Walton in third with 21 points.
Sunday brought another layer of competition with the medal of the medalist event, where Glenn Rees excelled, recording a net score of 50. The Stableford competition saw Jayden Parata lead the field with 39 points. Rob Lodders was a close second with 38 points, and David Wallace secured third place with 37 points. The nearest-the-pin honours were shared by Jack and Scott Hayes-Williams, showcasing their precise golfing skills.
This coming Sunday promises more action with a 4BBB event scheduled from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM. Participants and spectators alike are looking forward to another day of competitive play and camaraderie on the greens.
 

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross

Glenn Rees, Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Sea Eagles hosted the Moranbah Bulldogs this week, following a successful and respectful Indigenous Round against the Swans last weekend. The matches were filled with excitement and challenges across all age groups.
Under 17s End in Thrilling Draw
The Under 17s match was a highlight, ending in a nail-biting 48-48 draw. The Sea Eagles, eager to showcase their improvement after a Grand Final defeat last year and a preseason loss, dominated the first half. However, the Bulldogs came back strong in the second half, resulting in a fiercely contested game. The Sea Eagles Under 17s are now set to face the competition-leading North Mackay Saints this week, promising another thrilling encounter.
Under 12s Triumph with Commanding Victory
In a stellar performance, the Sea Eagles Under 12s secured a resounding victory against the Bulldogs, finishing 60-0. The young team started strong and maintained their momentum throughout the game, leaving the Moranbah opposition scoreless.
Tough Battles for Senior Women and Under 14s
The Senior Women’s team faced a formidable challenge against the higher-placed Bulldogs, compounded by the absence of several key players. Despite the odds, the Sea Eagles displayed resilience, ultimately falling 20-85. Their determination and spirit were commendable throughout the match.
The Under 14s, coming off two strong wins, encountered a spirited Moranbah Bulldogs team. Despite their efforts, they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities, ending with a 6-66 loss.
Upcoming Matches
The Sea Eagles are set to take on the North Mackay Saints at home this week, with the Seniors starting at 1:50 PM and the Juniors kicking off at 9:15 AM. The Sea Eagles are calling on their supporters to come out and cheer for all the teams as they face the formidable Saints.
The community’s support is crucial as the Sea Eagles strive for victory against strong opposition.

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles, Photo supplied

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This week’s matches at the Airlie Bowls Club saw fierce competition as Dom Friend and Joe Wilson continued their battle for the top spot in the premier league.
Key Results:
   • D. Friend 7-1 S. Edmonds
   • N. Mitchell 2-7 J. Lloyd
   • J. Lloyd 2-7 D. Friend
   • J. Wilson 7-3 N. Mitchell
Dom Friend impressed with two victories, defeating Scott Edmonds 7-1 and Jayden Lloyd 7-2. Joe Wilson retained his lead by beating Naomi Mitchell 7-3, thanks to a superior leg difference. Jayden Lloyd recovered from his loss to Friend by defeating Mitchell 7-2, leaving Mitchell with two losses on the day and second from the bottom with 2 points.
The Airlie Bowls Club thanks its sponsors Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing Airlie Beach, and Master Butchers Whitsundays for their support. Look forward to more exciting matches in the coming weeks.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.

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Whitsunday United faced a weekend of mixed results against tough competition in Mackay.

Friday Night: Division One and Two Men’s Teams
The Division One Men continued their impressive form with a 5-2 victory over Rangers. Stef and Rale each scored twice, with Radders adding the final goal. However, the Division Two Men narrowly lost 2-1 in a close match. Alistair Sawers scored his first goal for the club.

Saturday: Youth Matches
The U13 Division One team remains at the top of the leaderboard despite a 5-4 loss to Rangers. Alex Draper stood out with two goals from the left wing, while Charlie and Tyson F. each scored once. The game showcased the team’s excellent communication and growth.

The U13 Premier team, short-handed, faced a challenging match against Lions, losing 6-1. Seven players had to step up from the earlier Division One match. Remy Smart worked tirelessly in midfield, and Shannon Matthews scored from an Austin Kelly corner.

U15 Division One side started strong against Magpies, scoring two goals in the first 20 minutes. However, the game was abandoned due to a serious injury, resulting in a 2-0 win for WUFC.

Sunday: Senior Matches
On Sunday, the Division One team faced a tough game against Dolphins Silver, resulting in a 7-1 defeat. Dwayne earned player of the match for his relentless effort, and Sam's performance as a fill-in goalkeeper was commendable.

Women’s Teams: Premier and Reserves
The Women’s Premier and Reserve teams had a challenging away day at Magpies. Despite the setbacks, the Premiers remain second in the league, and the Reserves stay on top. There are still plenty of opportunities to rebound as the season progresses.

Men’s Teams: Premier and Reserves
The Men’s Reserves displayed promise despite a 2-1 loss to Rangers. Sam Blake scored, giving the team a 1-0 lead at halftime. However, Rangers scored twice in the second half to secure the win. With an average age of 16, our young team showed significant potential.

The Men’s Premier team delivered a strong performance, with an early goal from Jake Kenna, assisted by Josh Bond. After Rangers equalized, Mike O'Brien scored the decisive goal, securing a 2-1 victory. This win propels the team to the top of the league for the first time this season.
Overall, the weekend highlighted Whitsunday United’s resilience and potential. The teams demonstrated promise and determination, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.
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Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic.

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The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club hosted its annual Presentation Night on Saturday, celebrating the achievements of its swimmers and the invaluable contributions of parents and volunteers. The evening was a resounding success, filled with recognition and pride.
Special Awards for 2024
   • Swim of the Year: Jy Parkinson (200m Butterfly Final at Age Nationals)
   • Sportsperson Award: Jacob Bell
   • Junior and Senior Trainer Awards: Harris Delac, Zach Trefz, Andie Reynolds, and Jacob Bell
   • Mudie Family 70’s Club Awards: Tiana Bell, Noah Maltby, Tora Delac, Charlie Doherty, Thomas Ganter, Jack Ganter, Zach Trefz, Ehsan Helou
   • Minute Club: Ehsan Helou for 100m Freestyle
   • Club Medal Awards: Maeve Dichiera, Harry Chegwidden, Jasper Korosec, Eric Mulliss, Jax Eaves, Dylan Reynolds, Stevie Lee, Murphy Jamieson, Mackenzie Bennett, Lily Maher
Club Championship Awards
Female Age Champions:
   • 7 years & Under: Indigo Harland
   • 8 years: Eloise Chegwidden
   • 9 years: Koa Harland & Evelyn Doherty
   • 10 years: Celeste Orenshaw
   • 11 years: Andie Reynolds
   • 12 years: Isabella Pisaniello
   • 13 years: Tora Delac
   • 14 years: Dylan Reynolds
   • 15 years: Tiana Bell
   • 16 years: Remy Hedges
Male Age Champions:
   • 7 years & Under: Lucas Korosec
   • 8 years: Miller Eaves
   • 9 years: Levi Smith
   • 10 years: Jax Clayworth
   • 11 years: Don Algie
   • 12 years: Thomas Ganter
   • 14 years: Charlie Doherty
   • 15 years: Ehsan Helou
   • 17 years: Jacob Bell
Record Setters at Cannonvale Cannons Swim Carnival
Congratulations to Eloise Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Ehsan Helou, Levi Smith, and Jacob Bell for setting new club records at the Cannons Carnival in April 2024.
Upgrade Certificates
Congratulations to all swimmers who achieved Upgrade Certificates: Zach Trefz, Miller Eaves, Indi Smith, Alex Trefz, Isaac Pisaniello, Celeste Orenshaw, Addie Sanders, Jax Eaves, Matilda Nicholes, Millie Groom, Don Algie, Maeve Dichiera, Sophie Palmero, Ruby Harland, and Andie Reynolds.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the committee for organizing a successful season, and to the parents and coaches for their unwavering support. The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club looks forward to another year of outstanding achievements and community spirit.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Photos supplied

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The Whitsunday Touch Association's (WTA) Winter Season concluded on Monday night with Grand Finals in four divisions.
Holding the Grand Finals on a Friday night is a new approach by the WTA, aiming to attract a large number of supporters and enhance the evening's atmosphere.
Spectators can expect thrilling action, with the playing surface of the fields in excellent condition.
Come to the Sportspark for an enjoyable evening. You'll be well catered for with plenty of food and refreshments. The action starts at 6:00 pm.
Grand Final Games:
   • Mixed A Grade: In the Crear vs. Vipers
   • Mixed B Grade: Whitsunday Eagles vs. Raiders B
   • Mixed C Grade: Untouchables vs. Mighty Mustangs
   • Mixed Juniors: Hamo Rent vs. Raiders Blue

Preliminary Finals Results - Monday, June 3
   • Mixed A: Vipers 7 defeated Raiders A 2
   • Mixed B: Raiders B 9 defeated Ray White 5
   • Mixed C: Mighty Mustangs defeated Shed N Homes by forfeit
   • Mixed Juniors: Raiders Blue 6 defeated Raiders Purple 2

Come and join us for a fantastic night of touch football action and community spirit!
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Contributed with thanks to Alita DeBrincat

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club held its Q & T rally on Saturday, drawing 14 dedicated members to a day of almost perfect weather and thrilling fishing.

New member "Frenchy" stole the spotlight, winning the best Trevally award with an impressive 107 cm GT, narrowly edging out Josh by just a couple of centimetres.

Jessy claimed victory in the Queenfish category with a 78 cm catch, beating both Josh and Steve in a close contest.

Future champion Benson Smith earned the title of best junior angler, accompanied by lots of cheers from the crowd.

In line with the club's conservation ethos, all fish caught during the event were released back into the water.

The club anticipates a busy year ahead, with numerous events planned, particularly for junior and lady members. More details on these exciting activities will be announced soon.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Game Fish Clubs

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Photos supplied

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On Saturday evening, five yachts set sail under a nearly full moon for the annual Full Moon race, covering approximately 30 nautical miles. Reignition (Charles Wallis) and Overdrive (Rupert King) vied for the lead at the start, with Manteca (Frank Tennyson), Rossgo (Greg Hammon), and Miss Behavin’ (John Morton) close behind. Reignition finished first, followed by Overdrive and Miss Behavin’. On corrected time, Miss Behavin’ emerged victorious, with Reignition and Overdrive in second and third.

The next race is the annual 'Round the Whitsundays race on July 6.

In the Whitsunday Sailing Club's weekly twilight race on Wednesday the conditions looked promising but unpredictable wind patterns challenged competitors.

Division 1
In Division 1, G’nome, skippered by Terry Archer, took the lead from the start after equipment failure delayed Joanne Norbury's boat, Frankie. G’nome dominated, finishing the course in 58 minutes, with Frankie trailing by a few minutes. On corrected time, G’nome secured a five-minute handicap victory.

Division 2
Charles Wallis’s Reignition led the Division 2 fleet from the start, while several favourites lagged behind. Bobby’s Girl initially led, with QMS Ponyo (John Galloway) and Reignition close behind. Black Jack, captained by Richard Anthony, made a strong comeback, overtaking Bobby’s Girl on the final leg to win by 32 seconds. Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) and QMS Ponyo followed nearly five minutes later. On corrected time, Bobby’s Girl won, followed by Wide Load (Shannan Hart) and Matchless (Terry Stevens).

Division 3
Rossgo, helmed by Greg Hammon, led Division 3, closely followed by Masquerade (Tom Vujasinovic). Lighthorse (Di Forster) and Lama (Alan Campbell) vied for third place. Rossgo crossed the finish line three minutes ahead, but on corrected time, Norbert G (Nigel Williams) claimed victory, with Lighthorse and Lama taking second and third.
The Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight series continues every Wednesday at 4:30 PM. Those interested in crewing should arrive by 2:30 PM.

Contributed with thanks to Ross Chisholm.

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Photos supplied

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Mackay Cutters have secured a historic rugby league championship double after capturing the 2024 BMD Womens Premiership.

In a unique feat the Cutters women showed their champion qualities to sink Norths Devils 16-6 in an absorbing Grand Final at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium to bring home the club’s second piece of silverware in the space of five weeks.

There were jubilant scenes last month when the Cutters lifted the inaugural Harvey Norman Under 19s Womens trophy with an 18-16 Grand Final triumph over Brisbane Tigers at Totally Workwear Stadium.

It was a double celebration for Mackay’s rising half back Mersades Lawson, hooker Paityne Johns and centre Miah Powell who can now boast Under 19s and BMD Premiership medals in the one season.

Gun forward Lily Peacock produced an outstanding best-on-ground performance for the Cutters – inspiring team mates with her bustling runs, clever passing and rugged defence.

Mackay notched three tries in the space of six minutes through North Queensland prop Sareka Mooka, number nine Alisha Foord and centre Jasmine Peters to jump to a handy 14-0 lead.

Norths hit back when fullback Montaya Hudson crossed for a vital four pointer that was converted by five eighth Georgia Hannaway before the interval.

Talented Cutters’ five eighth Kayla Shepherd scored the lone two points of the second half when she booted a late penalty goal.

Marco Peters’ champion Mackay squad can reflect on a memorable campaign that yielded nine victories and a draw from their eleven matches plus the minor and premiership titles.

Their only blemish was a 22-10 loss to the Burleigh Bears in a round seven preliminary fixture at UAA Park on the Gold Coast.

In winning both the Harvey Norman Under 19s and BMD Womens Premiership trophies the Cutters’ players and officials have etched their names in the Queensland Rugby League record books.

Mackay’s championship-winning BMD Womens Premiership squad for 2024 featured fullback Krystal Blackwell, wingers Libby Surha and Ebony Raftstrand-Smith, centres Shellie Long and Jasmine Peters, five eighth Kayla Shepherd and half back
Tahlulah Tillett, lock forward Lillian Yarrow, second rowers Shaniah Power and Bree Chester, prop forwards Lily Peacock and Essay Banu, hooker Alisha Foord with interchange props Lyrech Mara and Sareka Mooka, utility half Emily Bella and lock forward Pani Rupapere and Under 19s winning trio of half back Mersades Lawson, hooker Paityne Johns and centre Miah Powell.

Supplied by Chris Karas

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The Mackay Cutters have achieved a significant milestone in rugby league history by clinching a double championship victory in the 2024 BMD Women's Premiership. Image Credit: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)

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