Whitsunday Dirt Riders will host the 2026 Queensland Dirt Track & Track Championships from May 2–4 Photo credit: Nick Bird

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The Whitsundays are set to come alive with the sound of engines this May long weekend, as Whitsunday Dirt Riders host the 2026 Queensland Dirt Track & Track Championships from May 2–4.

With more than 100 riders expected to compete across three action-packed days, the event promises high-quality racing and fierce competition, drawing some of the state’s top talent to the region. A number of past championship contenders are set to line up, creating a stacked field and ensuring spectators can expect thrilling battles on track.

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Dray’s Park, located on Lascelles Drive on the road to the Whitsunday Coast Airport, will transform into a hub of activity as riders, families, and motorsport fans gather for one of North Queensland’s premier dirt track events.

“Whitsunday Dirt Riders, known for delivering well-run and welcoming events, are excited to bring a championship of this calibre back to the region,” said club president Ben Moran.

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“The club’s dedicated volunteers have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to prepare the track and facilities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for competitors and spectators alike”  

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The event will feature both junior and senior classes, highlighting the depth of talent in the sport and providing a fantastic opportunity for local riders to compete against some of the best in Queensland.

Spectators are encouraged to come along and be part of the action, with a $10 per car entry fee covering the entire weekend.

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WHAT: 2026 Queensland Dirt Track & Track Championships

WHEN: May Long Weekend (May 2^nd - May 4^th)

WHERE: Dray’s Park, Gunyarra

Photo Supplied

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Mark the calendar. On July 25^th and 26^th the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival will return to the region, and this year the stakes are higher than ever.

For 25 years, athletes have been pushing their limits against a backdrop that most people only see on postcards: The Whitsunday Islands. Clear water, warm air and a finish line that makes the long distances worth it. This is what destination racing looks like.

After claiming runner-up status among Australia's premier triathlon events in 2025, this year Airlie Beach Triathlon will be vying for the top spot.  

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Following last year’s recognition came a milestone 25 years in the making: this year, for the first time, the event is proudly supported by the Queensland State Government, and by Tourism and Events Queensland. That backing signals what the region already knows. This event is serious, and so is its impact on the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, hire companies, local operators — the ripple effect of hundreds of athletes and their supporters showing up in the Whitsundays is significant.

The 2026 edition also carries new weight on the national stage. AusTriathlon, the governing body for triathlon in Australia, has included the Airlie Beach Triathlon as one of Australia's official World Qualifying events — meaning age group athletes competing here have a direct pathway to represent Australia on the world stage. That's a game-changer for competitors and for the event's profile.

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The professional field is shaping up to match the occasion. Australian Olympic and Commonwealth Games representatives have already entered, raising the bar for what promises to be a standout weekend of racing.

Race registration is now open. If you've been thinking about it, don't wait. Visit airliebeachtriathlon.com.au to register

Volunteers are the backbone of this event, and the team is looking for good people to be part of it. Contact Val Kimpton on 0438 717 819.

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A small number of sponsorship partnerships are still available for businesses wanting a seat at the table. Reach out to Michael Kimpton on 0417 717 818.

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Contributed with thanks to the Airlie Beach Triathlon team.

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Sunday’s winners: Penny Warren, Whitton, Billy Myers with President Graeme Read

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Tuesday’s winners were Shirley Jones Bouff and Querro Deb Retchless who defeated Lindy Suann, Alby Vigar and Maureen Hyde. In the other game L Parra, M Parra and  Ron Hyde defeated Stumpy Adams, Skin Querro and Stuart Jeal. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Club Competition for the week: Men’s A Singles Gavin Charles defeated Kevin Baxter.  Ladies Pairs Celly Jeal and Deb Retchless defeated Pat Tracey and Maureen Hyde.

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On Sunday afternoon three rinks of triples were played. Winners for the afternoon in a closely fought match were Bill Myers Penny Warren and Kennedy Whitton who defeated Gavin Charles, Graeme Read and Pat Tracey. In the other games Teresa Willshire, Maureen Hyde and Greg Colquhoun defeated Toni Bowen, Bouff Querro and Allan Rolfe. Skin Querro, Laurie Land and Kevin Daniels defeated Neil Chittende, Ron Hyde and Stuart Jeal. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Photo supplied

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Easter is over, the chocolate has been devoured, and great bowls has been played.

Tuesday afternoon social bowls saw an overwhelming victory for skipper Russell Jackson, second Rene Thommen, and lead Mandy O'Brien. Second place on the day went to skipper Warren Mills and Alan Pershouse. The standard and accuracy of our bowlers have improved immensely.

Wednesday afternoon social bowls, well organised by Mervyn Stewart, saw three games of triples. An outstanding result came from a wonderful team performance led by skipper Arthur McManus, with second Mervyn Stewart and lead Barry Wainwright, defeating the strong team of skipper Tony Whitehorn, lead Lu Rogan, and second Ian Passfield, winning 29–9.

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The second-place team was led by skipper Andrew Butler, with second Terry Clarke, a great left-handed bowler, and lead Rick Brunell, who needs no introduction.

Saturday morning Scroungers saw first-round winners Maureen Barnard and Margo Stanley, with Maureen being the A Division champion, and the B Division going to John Askew.

Saturday morning also saw the start of the Men's Open Fours. Winning teams progressed to the semi-finals, and on Sunday morning the final was played between skipper Manny Isgro, lead Bob McMahon, second Luke Kinnear, and third Russell Jackson, against skipper John Fielding, lead Arthur McManus, second Bobby Spees, and third Peter Barrett.

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In a very close match, Manny Isgro proved to be the difference, with his skills apparent in the latter ends, and his team won 26–17 in a great game watched by many. This will be this week’s photo.

Sunday afternoon saw the team of skipper Mark Mawson and lead Rene Thommen defeat skip Tony Kelly and Sue Walker, who is an outstanding new bowler in the making, in a close match, 26–17. It was a great afternoon had by all, as usual. Our club manager has her finger on the pulse—we are all so lucky to have her fabulous organisational skills.

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The finalists in the winning team (on the left) were Luke Kinnear, Bob McMahon, Russell Jackson, and Manny Isgro. Also pictured are Peter Barrett, Arthur McManus, Bobby Spees, and John Fielding, who were gallant in defeat.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.  

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Great job George!! Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Swimming Club’s rising para-swimming talent, George Rush, has delivered a breakthrough performance at the 2026 Australian MC Age Championships, recording multiple personal bests and climbing to second in Australia in his age group for the 400m freestyle.

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Competing at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre against the country’s top junior multi-class athletes, the 13-year-old showcased significant improvement across several events, underlining his rapid development on the national stage.

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George’s standout swim came in the boys’ 400m freestyle, where he slashed 10.7 seconds off his previous best time. The result not only highlighted his endurance and race strategy but also propelled him to No. 2 in Australia for 13-year-old multi-class swimmers in the event.

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George continued his strong form in the 50m freestyle, trimming 0.39 seconds from his personal best. George achieved further with a 6.08 second PB in the 200m individual medley.

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Across the three-day championship, George competed in both heats and finals for 5 of his 6 nominated events - 50m Freestyle, 100m Freestyle, 400m Freestyle, 50m Backstroke and 200IM, gaining valuable experience against elite-level competition while pushing his own limits. George also qualified for the 200m Freestyle, George Placed 14th overall in the 200m Free and recorded another massive personal best time.  

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The Australian MC Age Championships serve as a key pathway for emerging para-athletes, with many participants aiming to progress to represent Australia on the international stage. For George, the combination of personal bests and a top two national ranking signals a significant step forward in his swimming journey.

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With the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games drawing closer, performances like these are helping to shape the next generation of Australian talent—and George Rush is quickly establishing himself as one to watch.

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Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Swimming Club

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John Roser and Elspeth Scotford

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The APRIL 2026 MONTHLY MEDAL was played on Tuesday in ideal weather and course conditions.

Congratulations to ladies’ winner Elspeth Scotford and John Roser for the men.

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RESULTS

LADIES

Winner: Elspeth Scotford with 71 nett

R/Up: Paula McQuat with 73 nett

Rundown: Tiina Randmae (75), Jan Shuwalow and Tina Badenhorst both with 80 points

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MEN

Winner: John Roser with a creditable 67 nett

R/Up: Colin Hounsell with 68 nett

Rundown:  Peter Lindsay (69), Grossy (70), Craig McClean and Gary Scotford both with 72 nett, John Oates and Ken Granger both with 74 nett, Alen Roberts (75) and John Strelec (76)

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PIN SHOTS

Ladies: A Grade - Elspeth Scotford (ITH x2) and Tina Badenhorst

              B Grade - Jan Shuwalow (ITH) and Anna Winterbourn

Men: A Grade - Grossy and Gary Scotford (x2)

           B Grade - Peter Lindsay, Louis Neethling and John Rtrelec

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LEAST PUTTS

TBA

CHIP INS 

Jenny Hounsell, Gary Scotford and Grossy

NAGAs 

for a ball each Robyn Whitham and Trevor Paroz

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DRAWS:

MEMBERSHIP $30 to John Roser

RAFFLE won by Anna Winterbourn

UPCOMING EVENTS:

14/4/26 - HOME HILL WHITSUNDAY GROUP

21/4/26 - STABLEFORD

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DITTY

Previous Vets Presidents who are prone to sleeping through alarms should not leave their phone downstairs!!!

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Contributed with thanks to John Roser.

1. John Roser and Elspeth Scotford

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club and REEFIES held their “Sweeties & Squires” Fun Family Fishing Competition last weekend ensuring a fantastic time for all.  

The event kicked off on Thursday evening with an informative talk and demonstration by Tristan from MSQ, covering boating safety and the proper use and maintenance of essential safety equipment. Following a short briefing on the event’s relaxed rules, all participating kids received a free rod and reel, tackle box, cap, and a backpack full of goodies.

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Committee member Dave Cranmer then delivered an engaging and educational presentation on fish identification, sustainable fishing practices, environmental stewardship, fish handling, and teamwork. A quiz followed, with all the kids achieving excellent results and earning prizes.

10 enthusiastic teams competed over two fun-filled days. Most fish caught were carefully released after a quick photo, with only a few kept for dinner—highlighting the club’s strong commitment to responsible and sustainable fishing practices.

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The weekend wrapped up with a lively presentation on Sunday afternoon, featuring a huge array of prizes for the ladies and kids, along with a couple for the “big boys,” who took on crew-only roles this time. Delicious food was enjoyed by all, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

While the Doolan family claimed top honours in a closely contested competition, the true spirit of the weekend was about bringing families together, enjoying time on the water, and creating lasting memories.

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Events like this play an important role in the Whitsundays community, fostering a love for the outdoors, encouraging sustainable fishing practices, and strengthening connections between families, local organisations, and future generations of anglers. The involvement of generous sponsors and the dedication of the club committee helped make the event inclusive, educational, and rewarding for everyone involved.

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All the kids received great prizes, while the ladies were treated to bubbles and chocolates. There were plenty of giveaways and fun prizes for all, with support from generous sponsors and the ever-enthusiastic Reefies mascot, “SAILEE,” who promised the event will be even bigger and better next year.

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The next club event is the Queenfish and Trevally Rally, taking place on the 16th and 17th of May—don’t miss it!

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The Whitsunday Raiders Rugby Union Club is setting its sights on an exciting international opportunity, with plans underway for a junior development tour to Japan in April 2027.

The proposed tour will see a group of young Raiders players and their families travel overseas to experience a new culture, build lifelong friendships, and represent the Whitsunday region on the international stage through rugby.

Club President Tim Oberg said the tour is about much more than just sport.

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“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our young players and their families,” he said. “It’s about broadening horizons, building independence, and creating experiences that will stay with them long after their playing days are over.”

Oberg also highlighted that rugby union’s global reach makes opportunities like this uniquely possible.

“An overseas tour like this is a real point of difference for rugby union,” he said. “It’s a truly international game, and that opens the door for experiences and connections that you simply don’t get in many other sports.”

Japan has a strong and growing rugby culture, particularly following the success of the Rugby World Cup in 2019. The tour is expected to include a series of matches against local Japanese teams, as well as cultural experiences designed to immerse players in Japanese life.

“For many of these families, it will be their first time travelling overseas,” Oberg said. “To do that together, as part of a team representing their community, is incredibly powerful.”

Importantly, the tour is designed to be inclusive and open to all players, regardless of ability.

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“This is about participation, connection and personal growth,” Oberg said. “Every child deserves the chance to be part of something like this.”

While the opportunity is exciting, the cost of international travel presents a significant barrier for many families. The club is committed to making the tour as accessible as possible and is now calling on local businesses and community partners to help bring the vision to life.

“We want every player who wants to go on this tour to have the opportunity to do so, regardless of their financial situation,” Oberg said. “That’s why we’re reaching out to the Whitsunday business community for support.”

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Sponsorship opportunities are now available, with local businesses invited to play a role in supporting the next generation of athletes and ambassadors for the region. Contributions will go directly towards travel costs, accommodation, and tour logistics, helping to ease the financial burden on families.

“This is a chance for businesses to invest in our young people and be part of something really special,” Oberg said. “The Whitsundays has always been a community that gets behind its own, and we’re confident that spirit will shine through again.”

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The tour is still in the planning stages, with further details to be confirmed in the coming months. In the meantime, the Raiders will also be undertaking a range of fundraising initiatives to support the journey.

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Anyone interested in supporting the Whitsunday Raiders Japan Tour can contact the club directly to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.

“This is about creating memories, building character, and representing the Whitsundays with pride,” Oberg said. “We can’t wait to bring this opportunity to life.”

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union

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Teams from the Mackay Monarchs have returned from the Senior State Age Netball Championships in Townsville after four days of strong competition and warm conditions.

Mackay Netball Association congratulated players for their efforts on court, noting the teams played impressive netball and created lasting memories during the tournament.

Final placings for SSA 2026 were:
• 15 Maroon – Championship Division – 18th
• 15 Blue – Division 3 – 5th
• 16 Maroon – Division 3 – 7th
• 18 Maroon – Division 3 – 4^th

Sponsors Back Monarchs Campaign

Mackay Netball Association has thanked the sponsors who supported the Mackay Monarchs during their 2026 Senior State Age Netball Championships campaign.

Local businesses played an important role in helping the teams travel and compete, with support provided by:

• Fitness Cartel Mackay
• Pool Professionals Mackay
• Diggers Landscape Supplies
• FMS Group
• Focus on Flooring Xtra - Mackay
• Mackay Turf Club
• Ablecut Concrete Cutting & Coring Mackay
• Aury Australia
• Mayzier Transport
• Devcon

Photo source: Mackay Netball Association – MNA

The highly anticipated 2026 North Queensland Games are now just around the corner and are set to energise the region over the May Day long weekend.

Celebrating its 42^nd year, the event will be hosting 40+ sports, predominantly in Mackay, but also the Whitsundays and Isaac regions. Athletes of all ages are welcome to attend.

The North Queensland Sports Foundation has developed these games around mass participation and inclusivity. Athletes of all ages and abilities are encouraged to take part and build confidence and community connection. Organisers also anticipate economic benefits to be brought by the event, after previous North Queensland Games saw thousands of athletes and visitors flock to the region to participate and show their support.

A primary goal of the games this year is to sow seeds amongst young athletes ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, giving belief that their Olympic journey can start right here in Mackay.

Natalie Cook will be joining the 2026 North Queensland Games as an ambassador, having competed in the North Queensland Games early in her sporting journey before going on to win an Olympic gold medal in volleyball. Her story shows what is possible when opportunity meets hard work and community support.

Mackay’s own, former boxing world champion Liam Paro, will also be returning as an ambassador.

“The North Queensland Games were a big part of my journey when I was younger, so it’s pretty special to now come back and be part of it as an ambassador,” Liam Paro Said.

“I’m proud to be from Mackay and even prouder to be leading the torch in 2026. Regional clubs are where it all starts, and I’m passionate about shining a light on the talent we have here. If I can inspire even one young athlete to dream bigger and take that step onto the world stage, then that’s what it’s all about.”

The 2026 North Queensland Games will officially kick off with an Opening Ceremony on Friday 1 May at Harrup Park, Mackay, which the organisation claims will “bring the community together for a vibrant celebration of sport, culture and regional pride.”

“The free, family-friendly event will feature a dynamic program of entertainment and experiences, including community stalls, food trucks, amusements and interactive activities for all ages,” they shared.

“A highlight of the evening will be the traditional March of Athletes, where clubs and competitors from across North Queensland will come together in a powerful display of unity and regional spirit.

“The ceremony will also include the official lighting of the Games torch, marking the beginning of the 2026 Games, followed by a spectacular fireworks display and some live entertainment to close out the night.”

What? The NQ Games Opening Ceremony
When? Friday 1st May, 5pm Doors Open
Where? Harrup Park, Mackay

1. The NQ Games will bring together athletes of all ages across 40+ sports. Photo source: Facebook
2. Liam Paro receiving the Pride of the Region award from Mayor Greg Williamson at the Media Launch of the 2026 games. Photo supplied

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Students at Mackay State High School recently took part in a practical learning session as Year 8 AEA students began preparing for upcoming reef-based STEM projects.

Held at the school’s memorial pool, the session introduced students to essential snorkelling skills, helping build confidence and capability ahead of their fieldwork on the reef, where they will collect real-world data. The activity encouraged teamwork, enthusiasm and a willingness to step outside comfort zones while developing skills that connect directly to classroom learning.

Photo source: Mackay State High School

Monday 6 April 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Ming Ting / David Ting

1^st

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd

Annie Lynch / Faye Wright

3^rd

Janine Rodgers / Jennifer Cameron

4^th

Thelma Caruana / Joy Block

4^th

Joy Hold / Rod Miles

5^th

Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice

5^th

Diane Morgan / Madonna Graham

Tuesday Evening 7 April 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

1^st

Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Lorna Shuttlewood / Janet Hansen

2^nd

Adrian Westcott / Sandy Patterson

3^rd

Vicki Howard / Richard Wix

3^rd

Mary Cruickshank / Ian Cruickshank

Wednesday 8 April 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

1^st

Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Ming Ting / David Ting

2^nd

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

3^rd

Alan Brown / Janet Hansen

4^th

Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

4^th

Geoff Taylor / Ian Vary

Thursday Evening 9 April 2026 – 5 Table One Winner – Green Points

1^st

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Mick King / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers

Friday 10 April 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

1^st

Ming Ting / David Ting

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

3^rd

Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson

3^rd

Diane Cox / Christine Nice

4^th

Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor

4^th

Geoff Cowan / Mary Cruickshank

Saturday 11 April 2026 –Section A - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Monica Darley / Shirley Worland

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

2^nd

Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris

2^nd

Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

3^rd

Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

3^rd

Mary Cruickshank / Ian Cruickshank

Saturday 11 April 2026 – Section B - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Marilyn Robins / Faye Wright

1^st

Adrian Westcott / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2^nd

Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice

3^rd

Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson

3^rd

Janine Rodgers / Karen Caldwell

Contributed with thanks to Joy Block

Photo supplied

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Participants from Mackay Parkrun celebrated several milestone achievements late last month, recognising both volunteers and runners for their dedication.

Len Howarth marked an impressive 50 volunteer milestone, while Trent Rankin, Olivia Broadley and Jacob Attiwill each celebrated their 50th finish milestones.

Mackay parkrun is a free, timed 5km run or walk held at 7am every Saturday morning, organised by the community, for the community.

Photo source: Mackay Parkrun

The Club Championship Mixed Pairs Final was played on Saturday, April 11 at North Mackay Bowls Club.

Players in the final were Daphne Offield and Dave McKendry, who faced Donna Gordon and Chris Banney.

It was another great final for the club, featuring some special shots, several congested heads around the jack, and precision bowling that made it a superb match.

Daphne and Dave were the eventual winners and were thrilled with the result, while Donna and Chris were valiant in defeat.

Congratulations to everyone who competed in this great event, and of course to the very happy winners.

Contributed with thank to Sue Hazledine

(L) Chris Banney, Donna Gordon, Dave McKendry and Daphne Offield. Photo credit: Donna Gordon

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The sun shone bright over the greens as the Mackay Ladies Bowling Club celebrated its 33rd birthday. President Marie welcomed 52 members and district bowlers to the club. The atmosphere was bursting with laughter, color, and a touch of friendly competition.

Newer members joined in the fun, eager to make their own memories. The friendly birthday tournament saw playful rivalries reignited, with cheers and good-natured teasing echoing across the rinks. After the game bowlers enjoyed the lunch provided by the Mackay club ladies

As the cake was cut by  President Marie and MDLBA President Lorraine  The guests joined in singing “Happy Birthday.”

The Mackay Ladies Bowling Club’s 33rd birthday was a tribute to the spirit of camaraderie, community, and love for the game that keeps the club’s heart beating strong.

During the festivities the MACKAY Bowling Club Board committee presented a $7000 cheque to the St Helens bowling Club to help them with their flood repairs. The money was raised by having bowls, raffles and a few large donations from members and patrons of the club.  Many thanks to all.

Contributed with thanks to Robyn Schatkowski

President Lorraine and President Marie cutting cake

M Mayfield J Jorgensen(Makay Club) Rose Condon and Helen Strachan (st Helen’s Club) Photos supplied

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