MACKAY Cutters young guns Jaxon Purdue and Jamal Shibasaski have made every post a winner in the Hostplus Cup.

The 18-year-old former Queensland Schoolboys representatives realised a dream last Sunday when they marked their NRL debuts with the North Queensland Cowboys.
With the Cutters enjoying a bye, the versatile Purdue and power running forward Shibasaki were blooded in the Cowboys’ top-grade squad and made an impact in the club’s miraculous 18-16 victory over Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium.

Minus the likes of Tom Dearden, Reuben Cotter, Jeremiah Nanai, Val Holmes, Murray Taulagi and Reece Robson on Origin duty, the Cowboys produced an epic second half revival to sink the Roosters and kick-start their campaign.

Purdue, a classy utility half, was rushed in to play centre after the late withdrawal of Tom Chester and grabbed his opportunity with a slick performance.

The towering Shibasaki came off the interchange bench and matched it with the much-vaunted Roosters’ forward pack.

Since graduating from St Patrick’s College Mackay’s famous sporting nursery last year, Purdue has dreamed of pulling on a Cowboys jumper in the NRL premiership.
The classy utility half is one of a batch of former St Patrick’s students contracted to the Cowboys and on the radar of coaches Todd Payten and James Maloney.

Purdue was blooded in the North Queensland top squad during a Pre-Season Challenge fixture against the Brisbane Broncos back in February where he displayed his raw pace, tricky step and silky ball skills.

That match was staged in Jaxon’s “backyard” at BB Print Stadium with the emerging rookie giving Cowboys supporters a taste of things to come. But all eyes have been on Purdue and Shibasaki in recent weeks after their strong performances for the Mackay Cutters in the Hostplus Cup competition.

Purdue has made seven appearances for the rejuvenated Cutters this season including four successive games as the run-on number seven with the strapping Shibasaki impressing officials with his barnstorming runs and rugged defence.

Michael Comerford’s new look Cutters have enjoyed mixed results to date with five wins and five losses.

With the talented playmaker and boom forward stepping up in class, Mackay officials are hopeful the first-grade team can force its way into the Hostplus Cup finals series come September.

The clever Purdue has notched five tries and two try assists and averages just under 100 running metres a game since being rushed into the Cutters’ top-grade squad.
Keen judges believe Jaxon was destined to play in the NRL since spearheading St Patrick’s College to Cowboys Challenge and Aaron Payne Cup schoolboy premiership trophies these past three seasons.

The pathway for the rising colt is crystal clear – serving a half back ‘apprenticeship’ with his beloved Cutters before pushing his claims for a Cowboys jumper on a regular basis.

After a weekend bye, the Cutters square off with Redcliffe Dolphins this Saturday at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium at 2.35pm.

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All conquering Mackay Brothers are setting a cracking pace in the 2024 NQBE Mackay Junior League A Grade competition.

The runaway leaders demonstrated their power and class last Saturday by trouncing Wests Tigers 30-0 at Leprechaun Park to preserve their unbeaten status.

It was the Brothers’ sixth successive victory of the season and keeps them four points clear of rivals Mackay Magpies on 12 competition points.

Tom Heggie’s well drilled charges proved too strong for the Tigers with Australian Universities utility back Kane Simon posting a try double and fullback Walter Lauenstein, centre Jayden Batchelor and half back Brad Campbell nabbing four pointers and centre Rydge Smith booting five goals.

In other fixtures the Moranbah Miners slammed Carltons Devils 64-0 in a twelve try rout at the Mackay Junior League Fields.

Talented fullback Nat Hinchliffe capped a slick performance with a try double.

Moranbah wingers Dylan Womal and Hayden Bell, interchange Clint Broomham, utility ace Ethan Roberts, lock forward Remus Phineasa, second rower Cooper Hannay and centre Mark Rosendale also crossed for tries in a dominant display.
Souths Sharks ran in eight tries to outclass Whitsunday Brahmans 40-10 at Les Stagg Oval while Mackay Magpies and Sarina Crocodiles fought out an 18-all draw at Sologinkin Oval.

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Mackay Regional Council was proud to support the Whitsunday STEM Challenge over the weekend at the Mackay and District Kart Club, through their Economic Development and Tourism program.

The winning team of the Pedal Prix Human Powered Vehicle 16-hour Endurance Event completed an amazing 573 laps.

Mackay Regional Council Congratulated the teams from Mackay Northern Beaches State High School who won the senior and junior boys categories and said it was great to have Cr Alison Jones and youth councillor Nate Ralph at the Pedal Prix to present awards.

Overall, there were 9023 laps completed, which is 7002kms travelled. In total, 20 teams competed, with visiting teams coming from Emerald, Bundaberg, Charters Towers and Townsville.

Mackay Regional Council, along with BMA, have supported this event since 2017.

Whitsunday Stem Challenge expressed their heartfelt gratitude in a Facebook comment that said, “Thank you for your support with this amazing event.

“Watching our local and visiting teams in action with the Pedal Prix vehicles is inspirational.

“Without this support, events like this are not possible.”

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Through an Economic Development and Tourist program, Mackay Regional Council supported the Whitsunday STEM challenge at the Mackay and District Kart Club last weekend. Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Approximately seventy runners and supporters met at The Grove Tavern, Bedford Road, Andergrove for the racing of the annual Grove 10km Handicap Trophy on the 26th of May. Despite the onset of formal winter season only days away, the conditions were humid and sunny as runners traversed the multitude of streets in the Andergrove suburb, including the challenging Apsley Way circuit in a bid to take out the coveted 10km Grove Handicap Trophy.  

To be eligible for the trophy, all members must start off on their official handicap and whoever crosses the line first, male or female, in the 10km event is The Grove 10km Handicap Trophy champion. The trophy has been ‘running’ since 1994 with a multitude of talented athletes boasting their past glory days to all those that will listen.

The Grove 2024 Handicap champion, Craig Robinson survived a hiccup in the winners’ circle to ultimately take out the top gong. His win was even more special when he realised, he had won the top prize quoting “never won anything like this before!”  Congratulations to Craig and all the runners who made the event a great success with a lot of very memorable performances on show.

Closing in fast behind Craig were talented runners, Brad Fraser, Ashley Miles, Shane Donnollan, Cory Gould, Craigh McGahey, Carolyn Mapes, Werner VanDerLinde, Clint Mackie, Alan Zamparutti, Ollie Gorrion, John Rae, Todd Turner, Mel Esau, Theresa Hackney and previous two-time winner of The Grove Trophy, David Isbister.   Classy performances were also on show in the 5km with champion swimmer, among his many talents, Daniel Stampa breaking the tape first on handicap ahead of Julie Whibley, Rhiann Massey, Emily Dalglish, Len Haworth, Susan Petersen, Andrew Short, Natasha Joynson, Stuart Sprott and Alleny Gorrion.

Congratulations to everyone including the race major beneficiary, Mackay Leukaemia Foundation for once again being involved in the very successful BMA Mackay Marina Run 2024 last weekend.

Thank you to those who helped setup on the day and for distributing race bags for the largest regional running festival, which is the prestigious Mackay Road Runners Signature Event and Club Championship 21.1km - the very successful BMA Mackay Marina Run.

A special congratulations to the amazing Mackay Marina Run committee, it's many long-standing supportive sponsors, race ambassadors and all the very many volunteers, runners, walkers, etc, you are all hero's!


Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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Paul Tilse was a past winner of the 10km The Grove Handicap Trophy presents the 2024 champion, Craig Robinson with the coveted trophy.
Warming up prior to The Grove 10km Handicap Trophy and 5km event are Emily Dalglish, Carolyn Mapes, Todd Turner, Mel Esau, Glynis Forse and Jo Skinner.
Volunteers Mick Scholer, Andrew Short, Brendan Bishop and Hughie Bishop are always happy to lend a hand.
Highest handicapped backmarkers Paul Mackenzie, Hamish Donnollan and Jared Mackie and (Luke Leven absent) await their handicap start callup.
Susan Petersen ran handy 5km despite an injury.
Multi-talented athlete, champion swimmer, Daniel Stampa easily cruises the 5km run at The Grove Handicap 10km Trophy event.

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Congratulations to Ashton Wallin, a young BMX champion who took home the President Award last week at Mackay and District BMX Club Inc.

Ashton won the President Award for consistently giving it his all against older riders and never giving up on the race after displaying constant determination to make it across the finish line.

Well done Ashton!

Local BMX rider, Ashton Wallin won the President Award for giving it his all and displaying unwaivering resilience and dedication on the track. Photo Credit: Mackay and District BMX Club Inc (Facebook)

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Recently, Pioneer Tennis Juniors travelled out to the Emerald Open. Great country tournament part of the "Aussie Gold Natural Spring Water" Capra Series. 

8 of Pioneer's Next Gen Squad made up part of the 84-player tournament where they showcased some fantastic results. 

In the 10 & Unders, Uday Singh and Isabelle Daniel took out both the singles before teaming up with other club’s players and taking out the Doubles too. 

They both now will be receive 50% off Solar Bat Sunglasses and will receive FREE entry into the QLD Head State Age.

They will also find out where they will move to in terms of the Racquet World's Prince and Princess Races.

In the 14&16 Boys Singles, Raice Gibbons lost in the finals of the Boys Singles, with fellow stable mate, Noah Piperidis taking out 3rd position. 

In the 12& Under, Tommy Louw seeded 1, lived up to his billing as the one to beat in taking out the 12& Under Singles. In the Prince Race, he will be flying high as he is moving through onto Gladstone and then Mackay with the top position in his sights.

Lexi Tapp finished 9th in the Open Ladies winning $100 for her efforts and moving her up in the Capra's Queen's Race to No. 6. 

Lilly Shepherd also in the Open Ladies Singles seeded 4th and won $350 for her efforts which will see her move to number 2 in the Capra's Queen Race. 

Lucas Chansoonsen represented Pioneer well in the Open Men's draw and winning and losing in super tie breaks all weekend.

Lucas finished 11th from the field of Open men and sees him now No. 8 on the Capra's Kings Race. 

Next stop…Gladstone, open this weekend, June 7-9.

By Pioneer Tennis Inc

Uday Singh and Isabelle Daniel took out both the singles and received 50% off Solar Bat Sunglasses as well as a FREE entry into the QLD Head State Age. Photo Credit: Pioneer Tennis Inc (Facebook)

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Everyone is invited to join in the Whitsunday Lions Charity Golf Day for a fun active day on the Whitsunday Green.

All funds raised go towards the local Proserpine Hospital, raising money for a place that is essential for our health.

At this year’s event, whether you play, sponsor a hole or donate a prize for the raffle, your contribution to the community will not be looked over, and your support is valuable.

The Whitsunday Lions Club previous events have been fun and a great way to spend the day, and this one will be no different.

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What: Whitsunday Lions Charity Golf Day
When: Sunday 23 June
Where: Whitsunday Green Golf Club
Cost: $25 for single player, $100 for team of 4, or sponsor a hole for $350

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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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