The Cannonvale Cannons had a busy and successful weekend, with seven swimmers competing in the Hamilton Island Triathlon and Ocean Swims.

On Saturday 23 November, Matilda Nicholes, Don Algie, Penelope Shields, and River Shields showcased their endurance and enthusiasm in the triathlon events. On Sunday 24 November, Thomas Ganter, Don Algie, and River Shields tackled the 350m Ocean Swim with outstanding performances. Jacob Bell delivered an exceptional result in the 2km Ocean Swim, securing third place with a time of 24.06. Coaches Kate Thomson, Raylene Rasmussen, and Mark Erickson also joined in the fun, enjoying their ocean swims.

The week continued with celebrations back at the pool on Wednesday, where the Cannons expressed their gratitude to Bendigo Community Bank for a generous $300 donation. During the Club Night, Giselle Burton presented Jess Moon and Eloise Chegwidden with the Chocolate Awards for achieving the best personal bests (PBs). Addie Sanders and Ruby Lawson received the Coaches’ Awards for their efforts.

Standout performers included Eloise Chegwidden, who shaved an impressive 25.61 seconds off her 100m Backstroke, and Lucas Korosec, who swam an excellent 100m IM in 1:38.26. Swimmers achieving three or four PBs on the night were Eloise Chegwidden, Zane Clayworth, Gracie Laguna, Eric Mulliss, Sophie Palmero, Hazel Smith, Asher Springbett, Reid Springbett, and Alex Trefz.

Breaststroke events saw superb swims from Isla Johnston, Jasper Korosec, Nelson Malady, Pippa Laguna, Ruby Lawson, Miranda Palmero, Andie Reynolds, Jax Clayworth, Brooklyn Congoo, Bonnie Crichton, Eloise Chegwidden, and Lennox Wild. In the backstroke events, Leo Mulliss, Stella Mulliss, Penelope Shields, River Shields, and Zach Trefz impressed the coaches with fantastic times.

Special mentions go to Andie Reynolds for her massive effort in the 200m Butterfly and for achieving a 2.6-second PB in her 100m IM, and to Miller Eaves and Addie Sanders for their thrilling 100m Freestyle race, both finishing under 1:29.

The Cannons commend all swimmers who participated in Club Night and extend heartfelt thanks to the parents and volunteers who make these events possible.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

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Jacob Bell at Hamilton Island.
Thomas Ganter and Don Algie at Hamilton Island.
Jess Moon received the Chocolate Award.
Addie Sanders received the Coaches' Award.

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On Tuesday 26 November, despite some early rain, the weather cleared just in time for the Proserpine Veterans Golf competition. A total of thirty-two players participated in a Stableford round, and the results showed some impressive scores across both the ladies' and men's divisions.

In the ladies’ division, the winner was Allison McCarthy, who achieved an outstanding 45 points – a truly remarkable performance. The runner-up was Jenny Hounsell, who also played exceptionally well, finishing with 39 points.

The rundown for the ladies included Anna Winterbourn and Tiina Randmae, both with 32 points, followed by Robyn Whitham and Jan Shuwalow, who both finished with 31 points. Elspeth Scotford rounded out the results with 30 points. It’s worth noting that Allison McCarthy’s game was particularly impressive, showing great improvement in her performance, and it was wonderful to see her achieve such a great score.

In the men’s division, Barry Shuwalow took the top spot with an excellent 41 points. Gary Scotford came in as the runner-up with 37 points.

The rundown for the men included Trevor Paroz, who scored 34 points, and John Oates with 33. Neil Cawthorne and Barry Mortimer both finished with 32 points, while David Woods had 31 points. Ken Granger, Colin Hounsell, and Vic Feldman all finished with 30 points.

The pin shots for the ladies in A Grade were awarded to Tiina Randmae (twice) and Elspeth Scotford, while in B Grade, the pin shots went to Jan Shuwalow, Kathryn Borer, and Robyn Whitham. In the men’s A Grade, the pin shots went to John Roser, Ken Granger, and Gary Scotford, while in B Grade, Barry Shuwalow (ITH) and Trevor Paroz were the winners.

Chip-ins were recorded by Anna Winterbourn, Peter Lindsay, Vic Feldman, Colin Hounsell, Barry Shuwalow, and John Roser.

Looking ahead to Tuesday 3 December, the Medal of Medals competition will be held for those who have qualified. Best of luck to all the participants!

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat.

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Outstanding Mackay junior cricketers Myles Cochrane and George Fortescue are living the dream.

Most Friday nights or Saturday mornings in the summer months you’ll find the talented 17 year olds starring for the Magpies White X1 in the Mackay Cricket Association’s Junior Under 17s competition.

You’ll also find the emerging colts stepping up a class on Saturday afternoons with the Magpies’ all conquering first grade team in the Poole Cup limited overs series.

The promising all rounders are two of the best young propects in the Mackay region and continue to produce the goods with bat and ball in both the junior and senior ranks.

Last Friday the pair guided the Whites to an impressive win over third ranked Brothers Under 17s at Great Barrier Reef Arena to keep the Magpies entrenched in second spot on the ladder.

Sharing the new ball, skipper Cochrane snared 3-18 off five overs and Fortescue (2-20 off five) including the prize wicket of top Queensland schoolboy rep Jack Law for one to restrict Brothers to 5-118 off their 25 overs.

The duo then opened the batting and piled on 48 runs before Fortescue was caught by Hayden Morrow off the bowling of Connor Muller for 27.

Cochrane showed his class with the bat – compiling a superb 60 off fifty six balls that included six boundaries before he was brilliantly run out by the sharp Morrow after earlier adding 77 runs for the second wicket with Thomas Rourke (17).

The Whites were dismissed for 155 with promising Brothers all rounder Lachlan Ipson bagging 4-25 in an impressive five over spell.

Earlier Brothers number four Wesley Homewood cracked a magnificent unbeaten 60 off sixty one balls that featured seven boundaries – sharing a 98 run partnership for the third wicket with Ipson (37).

At the same venue the following day both Cochrane and Fortescue played key roles in the Magpies’ first grade triumph over Walkerston.

The pair claimed four wickets between them to help skittle the Roosters for a meagre total of 73 with Fortescue grabbing 2-13 off four overs and Cochrane (2-14) as the undefeated  Magpies booked a spot in the Poole Cup Grand Final.

In Under 15s action, emerging all rounder Cooper Newbery hammered an unbeaten 116 for Walkerston in their one day victory over Magpies White at George Gorrie Oval.

The talented skipper faced seventy five balls and smashed twenty boundaries in a super knock as the Roosters posted 6-159.

Newbery capped a stand out performance by snaring two wickets off four balls including star opener Henry Tully for 44 to help restrict the Magpies to 8-100.

He was supported by Jude Vella, who claimed 2-27 in a lively five over spell and quick Lawson Foster (1-9 off four).

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Mackay Magpies Cricket Club are the team to beat for the 2024-25 Mackay Cricket Association DBCT Poole Cup first grade title.

The runaway minor premiers demolished the third placed Walkerston Roosters last Saturday in a one day fixture at Great Barrier Reef Arena to preserve their unbeaten status.

In a reduced 25 overs per side clash, the Magpies chalked up a ninety-seven run victory and led the competition with 79 points – a staggering twenty nine points clear of second placed Pioneer Valley (50).

Both sides will clash in the final preliminary round this Saturday at Magpies Sports Ground with the Magpies having already booked a Cup Final berth on December 14.

Pioneer Valley are assured of second spot with the Roosters (40 points) and Souths Sharks (37 points) battling for the final top three spot.

The Valley will lock horns with either Walkerston or the Sharks in a Grand Final qualifier this Sunday at Great Barrier Reef Arena.

Sent in to bat, the Magpies posted 8-170 off their 25 overs with the experienced Adam Zurvas top scoring with a stylish 44.

Zurvas faced forty three balls and clouted four boundaries and shared an opening stand of 72 with representative all rounder Andrew Borg (25).

Prolific run scorer Jaxn Sign (30 off twenty one balls) and Wes Dyer (29 off twenty one balls with five boundaries) also made strong contributions with the bat for the Magpies.

Off spinner Josh Maher (3-15 off three overs) and right arm quick Scott Randles (3-33 off five) were the pick of the Roosters bowlers.

In reply, Walkerston were bundled out for 73 with Jakob Frerichs (17), Joel Block (16) and Max Campbell (10 not out) the only batsmen to reach double figures.

Magpies’ pace ace Andrew Borg (4-17 off nineteen deliveries), seventeen year old colts George Fortescue (2-13 off four) and Myles Cochrane (2-140) and off spinner Isaac Borg (1-9 off three) were the chief destroyers with the ball.

Pioneer Valley (5-158) had too many big guns for Brothers (8-155) at George Gorrie Oval.

Darryn Dyer (38 runs off thirty balls with five boundaries and a six), Cody Filewood (35 not out off thirty seven balls with four boundaries and Lane Kohler (33 off fifteen balls with four boundaries and two sixes) led the way for Valley after Dyer and Kohler produced an opening stand of 67.

A half century from Mitch Wadsworth (58 not off forty-four balls with six boundaries and two sixes) and a dashing 42 by sixteen year old whiz kid Jack Law off thirty five balls with seven boundaries were a feature of the Brothers’ innings.

Talented quicks Bailey Camilleri (3-24 off four) and Ben Schembri (2-24) spearheaded the Pioneer attack.
Norths Devils (9-163) upset Souths (149) in their one day clash at Jack Lancaster Oval.

A superb half century from Marcus Lamperd (73 off sixty eight balls with nine boundaries and a six) proved the highlight of the Devils innings with support from Peter Shepherd (29).

All rounder Cameron Keene top scored with 28 for the Sharks and snared 3-28 off five overs in a fine display.
He was supported by Charlie Sweeten (25 not out) with Devils’ trio Kerrod Tortora (3-24 off five), Luke Bryan (2-21 off five) and Aaron Durelli (2-30) leaving their mark.

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Hundreds of Moranbah school kids put their Phins up as the Dolphins brought their wellbeing team to Central Queensland schools. 
From touch footy drills to classroom sessions aimed at boosting self-esteem, Dolphins wellbeing and education team members visited three schools in November as part of Anglo American’s partnership with the NRL team.
The partnership focuses on improving education and sporting outcomes in Central Queensland, and the sessions at Moranbah State School, Moranbah State High School and Moranbah East State School provided kids the chance to learn new skills and build teamwork opportunities.
Dolphins game development manager Shane Morris said the regional trip was an important part of how the club operated throughout Queensland.
“Central Queensland is so important to the Dolphins because a lot of great footballers, and a lot of great people, come from this area,” he said.
“We’re investing in Central Queensland to give the kids the opportunity in their own back yard, that others may have on the coast.”
It was part of a wider Anglo American-led tour across the Bowen Basin, which spanned three days, six schools and 400 students.
Anglo American training superintendent Damon McGuire said the company was proud of its partnership with the Dolphins.
“We very much align with their values and passion, especially when it comes to the development of young talent within the regions,” he said.
“We seek to employ a significant proportion of our workforce locally. We think investing in local young people through apprenticeships and other pathways is something that will return a huge benefit both to ourselves as a mine operator and to the local community.”
 

Students from Moranbah State School, Moranbah State High School, and Moranbah East State School join in touch footy drills and wellbeing sessions during the Dolphins’ visit to Moranbah. Photos supplied: Anglo American

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The annual Hamilton Island Triathlon and Ocean Swim was a great success last month, attracting a diverse field of competitors. Despite early morning wet weather impacting the triathlon on Saturday, the Ocean Swim on Sunday enjoyed more settled conditions for the 750m and 2km swims.

Fourteen Sinkers made their way to Hamilton Island to participate in one of the swim distances, enjoying the moderate conditions off Catseye Beach. Several members, who also belong to other clubs, had already competed in the triathlon on Saturday and embraced the post-race festivities. Despite this, enthusiasm remained high, and all members took to the water on Sunday.

The Ocean Swim saw 138 competitors registered for the 2km distance and 91 for the 750m swim, with a total of 229 swimmers enjoying the stunning location alongside like-minded participants.

Sinkers members performed exceptionally well, with several securing podium finishes. In the 2km swim, Pierre Craven claimed 2nd place, Fiona Cheesman finished 3rd, Rachel Bidgood secured 2nd, and Jeanette Stewart achieved 3rd place in their respective categories. In the 750m event, Geoffrey Robinson and Christine Webb both took 1st place, while Sue Willett earned a strong 2nd place.

Cross-training across various clubs and disciplines proved beneficial for the team, showcasing their strength and versatility.
Mackay was also well represented throughout the weekend, with members of the Mackay Triathlon Club, Triactiv8, other local groups, and individuals delivering impressive performances across both days of events.

The Sinkers look forward to returning for the 2025 Ocean Swim and another fantastic weekend of competition and camaraderie.

Contributed by Dan Stampa

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2km Ocean Swim – Sinkers results
Age group
Gender
Name
Place
Time
Age place
50-59
Male

Pierre Craven
2nd
30:39
2/12
60-69

Brian Keogh
6th
42:37
6/9
30-39

Female

Pepper Carroll
12th
42:16
12/15
40-49

Natasha Mallise
8th
36:59
8/17

50-59

Fiona Cheesman
3rd
37:06
3/17

Alison Friswell
8th
39:06
8/17

Jenny Smith
9th
39:07
9/17
60-69
Female
Rachel Bidgood
2nd
43:19
2/4

Jeanette Stewart
3rd
50:02
3/4
750m Ocean Swim – Sinkers Results
Age group
Gender
Name
Place
Time
Age place
80 +
Male
Geoffrey Robinson
1st
22:28
1/1
50-59

Female
Christine Webb
1st
14:21
1/15

Clare Heal
4th
16:19
4/15
60-69

Sue Willett
2nd
18:27
2/6

Wendy Keogh
4th
20:13
4/6

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Swimmers prepare for the start of the main 2km race
Some competitive spirit between two Sinkers as Jenny Smith and Alison Friswell complete a final duel to cross the line
Brian Keogh completing his 2km ocean swim. Swimmers are never happy with any amount of running during an event!

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Mackay Surf Lifesaving competitors are gearing up to take on the best of the best at Sarina Beach this weekend for the North Barrier Branch Titles - the premier surf sports event for clubs stretching as far north as Ingham and as far south as Sarina. The Mackay team aims to build on recent successes at the North Aussie Champs and regional carnivals, setting their sights on claiming the Branch Championship title.
Mackay competitors, from U8s to Masters, will compete across a wide range of events, including beach flags, sprints, relays, endurance runs, wade races, surf swims, board races, ironman/ironwoman, surf ski, and Cameron and Taplin relays.
Mackay Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant, said that “Last year the surf club had a small but strong team of 20 competitors that ended up 3rd overall, a huge achievement when taking on teams 2 or 3 times bigger than your own.
“This year we have almost doubled our surf sports competitors,” he added.
“Our nippers, youth and masters competitors have been training extremely hard and are ready to take on this challenge.”

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Team Mackay – ready to take on the best in North Barrier Branch.  The team placed 3rd out of 7 regional clubs at last year’s championships.
The U9 Wade Relay Team showing they are small but strong at last year's Branch Champs.
Last year’s U15 “Dream Team” taking out all individual and team events at the regional North Barrier Branch Titles.  (L – R) Nate McKinnon, Bodie Mau, Zara Richardson and Molly Madden
Mackays’s Will Henry at front is hoping to lead the field this weekend. Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography

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A world-ranked ex-South American table tennis player will be passing on his talents to a new generation of Mackay players next year.
After five years of regular coaching camps in Mackay, coaches Bruno and Bec are retiring and the association is planning to engage 20-year-old Neycer Robalino to conduct training next year.
Neycer, who started playing when he was six, was nine when he joined the Ecuadorian national team in which he played until he was 19.
He has a collection of 125 medals and 25 trophies from his career in which he ranked 14th in Latin America in youth and 140th ranking in the world.
He has travelled to 18 countries and competed in world circuits throughout Latin America.
Bruno named Steve Whiting as his most improved player following his last training camp on the weekend.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

Coaches Bruno Levis and Neycer Robalino with Mackay Table Tennis president Janice Kent.

Neycer Robalino demonstrates a backhand at a coaching camp in Mackay.

Mackay Closed men's singles winner Mick Ruhl with the Jack Cooney Memorial Trophy. Mick won from Goncalo Serra Gagerio. Barry Patterson is presenting the trophy.

Mackay Closed women's open singles winner Emma Widdup and runner-up, daughter Lily Boland, with Barry Patterson. Photos supplied

AT THE TABLE

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night results November 26, 2024:

Division 1:

Alfa (Vince Boeske, Steve Whiting, Tony Bowman) d Barra (Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake, Trent Day) 7-4. Tony d Anne -14, 6, -11, 8, 9.

Andro (Graham Drury, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Azalea (Barry Patterson, Allan Robins, Mark Sleeman) 9-2. Mark d Graham 9, -11, 11, -9, 9.

Aqua (Ian McKay, Neil Brown, Geoff Denman) d Corgi (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 7-4. Geoff d Robbie 7, -9, -6, 6, 7.

Division 2:

Ants (Noreen Fredericksen, Andrea Nicholson, Mark Stam) d Cats (George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) 7-4. Noreen d YiLin 7, -5, -8, 7, 9.

Canaries (Leo Gilbert, Kade Wright, Daniel) d Bulldogs (David Symons, Delma Knight, Peter Goodson) 8-3. Kade d Bulldog -6, -3, 10, 10, 7.

Tigers (Ollie Hamelink, Doug Dungavell, Steve Mathieson) d Cheetahs (Simon Hogan, Rymer Tabulo, Val Austin) 6-5. Simon d Ollie -7, 7, -7, 6, 8.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures November 26, 2024:

Division 1:

Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, Coral Morgan) d Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 9-5. Coral d Kevin -9, 8, -9, 10, 4.

Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) drew Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-all. Charlie d Marie 7, -6, 8, -9, 5.

Division 2:

Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) d Rome Ralliers (Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 9-5. Josie d Bill 8, 12, 10.

Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) d Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) 11-3. Helen d Fred 6, -6, 7, -6, 7.

London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream) d Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Glkenda Brookes, Trish Zamparutti) 6-5. Bryan/Glenda d Ken/Kim -10, 4, 6, -10, 9.

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Mackay Contract Bridge Club
Results for week ending Saturday 30  November  2024
Monday 25 November 2024 –  7 Table Howell Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy
2nd Max Holewa - Diane Holewa                  
3rd Diane Stokes - Edward Kliese
4th Eric Goodchild - David Ting
5th  Janet Hansen - Diane Morgan  

Tuesday 26 November 2024 –  5 Table Howell Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy - Geoff Taylor    
2nd Janet Hansen - Lorna Shuttlewood    
3rd Sandra Morris - Diane Morgan  
4th Helen Van Den Broek - Tex Sheedy  

Wednesday 27 November 2024 –7 Table Howell Green Points
1st    Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy
2nd David Ting - Ming Ting
3rd Tex Sheedy - Lorna Shuttlewood
4th Carmel Brown - Patrick Rasmussen
5th Jan Harris - Sandra Morris
6th Griffin Bancroft - Diane Stokes

Thursday Evening 28 November 2024 – 5 Table Howell Green Points
1st  Robert Carless - Ken Seaniger
2nd Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy
3rd Patricia Garner - Mick King

Friday 29 November 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st
Tex Sheedy - Janelle Conroy
1st
Christine Nice - Diane Cox
2nd
   
Debra Goodchild - Lorna Shuttlewood  
2rd

Monica Darley - Gwen Liddell  

3rd
Bill Pickering - Antonia Tarradas
3rd
Eric Goodchild - Sandy Patterson
4th
Ted Cullinan - Mary Rose Ramsden
4th
Lynne O'neill - Shelley Lewis

Saturday 30 November 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South                                                                                 East/West
1st     Mick King - Jan Harris                                        1st   Margaret Lane - Anne Lutz
2nd   Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless                        2nd  Ken Seaniger - Joy Robinson
2nd   Janet Hansen - Diane Morgan                      3rd  Lorna Shuttlewood - Susan  
4th  Debra Goodchild - Eric Goodchild                 4th  Faye Wright - Christine Nice
5th  Tex Sheedy - Adrian Westcott                        5th  Ted Cullinan - Mary Rose  
                                                                                                     Ramsden

Contributed by Robert Carless

Colleen and Christine ready for a Melbourne Cup Day 2024. Photo supplied

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The Mackay City Ladies recently concluded a busy bowls season with their annual presentation day, marking the end of a year full of competition and camaraderie. The day began with some friendly competition on the green, followed by a delicious roast lunch, before the presentation of awards for the 2024 season.
The prestigious Val Aslette Memorial Trophy, awarded for consistency, was presented by Val's daughter, Anita, to one of the club’s younger bowlers, Emma Pash, in recognition of her outstanding performance.
The highly sought-after Robyn Beale Memorial Trophy sparked excitement as the competition came down to the wire. Using a comprehensive points system, Shirley Sturgeon and her daughter, Emma Pash, were tied at the top, earning them the honour of sharing the award. Both ladies were thrilled to receive this prestigious recognition, presented jointly by Robyn's husband, Michael and her family.

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Maria Atkins presents Grace Ryan with her Novice Trophy
Emma Pash being presented with her Consistency Trophy by Anita Aslette
Megan, Shane and Michael Beale present Emma and Shirley with the Robyn Beale Memorial Trophy for Club Champion Bowler. Photos supplied

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The competition season has wrapped up, and bowlers were recognised for their outstanding efforts. Clive Wales was named Men’s Bowler of the Year, while Champion Singles titles went to Chris Woo and Terry Clark. In the Pairs division, Nug Pratt and Dot Wise claimed victory, alongside the Trannore brothers, Wayne and Shane.

The Triples champions were Bev Svenson, Carmel Bell, and Chris Hall, with the 2 Bowls Triples title awarded to Peter Miller, Peter Madden, and Alan Dillon, and the 3 Bowls Triples title going to Alan Dillon, Eric Gattetley, and Kevin Dwyer.

In the Fours category, Lorna Bowers, Debbie Mackenzie, Coral Francis, and Phyllis Cooper secured the women’s title, while Alan Cooney, Gordon Dyer, Clive Wales, and Mick Walsh triumphed for the men.

B Singles winners were Debbie Mackenzie and Asko Helenius, while the B Pairs titles went to Hilary Jones-Rowan and Sue Hazledine, as well as Wayne and Shane Trannore. Kees Struik and Marie Bragg took home the Mixed Singles titles, and the Mixed Fours champions were Lidia McCarthy, Ray McCarthy, Jean Schmidtke, and Allan Leyson.

Special recognition goes to Wendy Sonter, who competed in the Champion of Champions event in Airlie Beach and achieved an impressive second-place finish.

Contributed by Helen Fleming 

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Bowler of the Year-3452 - Clive Wales
Mixed Fours-- Allan Leyson, Jean Schmidtke, Lidia McCarthy, Ray Mc Carthy
Ladies Singles Runner Up Lidia McCarthy and Winner Chris Woo
Pairs Nug Pratt (absent) Dot Wise
Single Terry Clark
Pairs Wayne and Shane Trannore
Triples - Chris Hall, Carmel Bell and Bev Svenson
B Singles Debbie Mackenzie
B Singles - Asko Helenius. Photos supplied

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On Wednesday, 20 November, the Marian Ladies Bowls Club presented a generous donation of $1,000 to the Trudy Crowley Foundation, further supporting its ongoing efforts to assist individuals affected by cancer. Earl Neilson, a representative of the Foundation, attended the event to provide an update on the charity’s initiatives.

This year, the Foundation has expanded its focus to include both men and women, continuing its commitment to raising awareness and providing support for those battling cancer.

The presentation was attended by Marian Ladies Bowls Club members Judith Miller and President Thelma Johnston, who joined Neilson for a photo in blue zinc as a symbol of their support to those impacted by cancer.

The donation will assist the Trudy Crowley Foundation in its mission to provide valuable resources and support to cancer patients in the Mackay region.

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Secretary Lyn Jackson, Judith Miller and President Thelma Johnston with Earl Neilson

Earl and Marian Ladies Bowls Club Secretary Lyn Jackson. Photos supplied

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By Hannah McNamara

For 13 years, Ann Putland has led the Disability Bowls program at Souths Suburban Bowls Club, dedicating her time and heart as a volunteer to transform lives one roll at a time. Every Friday at 9am, Ann has welcomed bowlers from all walks of life to a program tailored for those living with physical and mental challenges.

For Ann, it’s never been just about the game, but rather about building confidence, gaining friendships and helping people achieve far beyond what they thought was possible.

“It’s unbelievable what they can do…it’s just amazing,” Ann said, her voice still filled with admiration for the determination she’s witnessed over the years.

While some players enjoy a bit of healthy competition, the overarching spirit of the group is camaraderie. Smiles, laughter and fellowship fill the air, creating a safe and uplifting space for all.

Among the program’s many inspiring bowlers is Mr Donald Hargreaves, a blind gentleman who joined the group just over two years ago with his wife, Barbara.

Initially, Donald doubted he could play, convinced that bowling wasn’t an option for him…but with Ann’s patient coaching and encouragement, he discovered otherwise and has become quite the skilled player.

“It’s a bit frustrating at times, but I’m enjoying it,” Donald shared.

Donald’s story is just one of many that exemplify how Ann’s dedication has helped people in the community redefine their capabilities. From a man who bowls using a specially adapted skateboard after losing an arm and a leg, to individuals overcoming personal challenges to try something new, Ann has been their personal cheerleader, quietly celebrating every achievement.

Now, as Ann prepares to step down and focus on her own journey, the future of the program is uncertain, and her departure is bittersweet.

“I’ll miss the whole lot of them,” she says, her voice tinged with emotion.

“They are a group of their own, and they amaze me each week.”

The bonds Ann has built and the personal victories she has witnessed have been the most rewarding aspects of her time with the program.

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Ann Putland (pink shirt, centre front row) is resigning from coaching Disabilty Bowls at the South Suburban Bowls Club and will greatly miss the camaraderie shared within the group.

Mr Donald Hargreaves

Mr Robert Milburn

Ken Best, father of Lincoln Best

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The Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club recently travelled to Alva Beach, Ayr, to compete in the North Barrier Branch Champion Lifesaver Carnival. This challenging event assessed participants on their surf sports fitness, patient assessment, CPR skills, and theoretical knowledge through a detailed written exam.

Josh Grant, Mackay SLSC’s Director of Surf Sports, highlighted the significance of the competition.
“This competition is extremely important in developing the skills of our lifesavers,” he said.
“These are the youth who patrol our beaches and are there for the community to make going to the beach safe and enjoyable.  
“It is a very challenging multi-disciplined event that tests competitors in a number of different scenarios that could one day save someone’s life.”
The surf club’s lifesavers had some outstanding individual results with U17’s Nate McKinnon and Zara Richardson taking out 1st in Champion Lifesaver as well as 1st in First Aid.  U14’s Cadence McKinnon finished 1st with Isabella Grant coming in 2nd in Champion lifesaver, and as a team placed 2nd in the First Aid competition.
Mr Grant said, “The club is extremely proud to see our lifesavers excel at such an important event.  
“This was all thanks to the coaching of Cathy McKinnon and Stewart Richardson who will now lead the team heading into state and national titles for this important lifesaving competition.”

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Mackay SLSC Champion Lifesaver Team at Alva Beach, Ayr (L-R) Cadence McKinnon, Nate McKinnon, Isabella Grant and Zara Richardson
Start of the U14 Tube race
Lifesavers from Mackay to Townsville completing the theory examination, which tests their knowledge on the 500-page Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual
Zara Richardson completing the patient assessment and CPR component
U14’s Cadence and Isabella undertaking a scenario as part of the first aid competition, which they placed 2nd. Photos supplied

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The final Sunday afternoon races for November wrapped up last weekend for the Mackay Road Runners, leaving just four more races scheduled for January 2025. December will provide a much-needed time for rest and recovery before the 2025 programs begin. However, for those eager to stay active, a few dedicated runners will meet at 4:30pm every Sunday throughout December at Bluewater Quay (near Red Dog).

Everyone is welcome to join - no membership required, and there’s no cost involved. A small donation for a post-run drink is appreciated.

A huge congratulations goes out to all the runners and swimmers who’ve participated in the Biathlon Splash & Dash so far. Publicity Officer Janele Tilse shared, “It’s been great to see so many athletes supporting each other and having a great time.

“There have been some exceptional performances, and the mental and physical benefits are enormous.”

Stay tuned for the announcement of the Mackay Road Runners formal 2025 program in the coming weeks. Be sure to check out their website for a wide variety of weekly events, including social runs, handicap events, and both local and out-of-town activities. The Club’s AGM will be held in January 2025, and all are welcome to attend. Offers of assistance, big or small, are greatly appreciated, as all committee positions will be up for re-election.

Contributed by Janele Tilse

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Shane Coppin (left) and Carolyn Mapes (right) set a consistent pace on the track before the pool portion of the Biathlon Splash & Dash Series

9139 – Regular participants (left to right) Natasha Joynson, Jo Hughes, Brendan Bishop and Andrew Short welcome new attendee (2nd right)

9084 – Steven Hayles (right) and Andrew Flanagan look strong as they tackle as many laps of the 400-metre track for 30 minutes. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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