In years gone by, the Mackay Seniors Tournament has been a smashing success! Photo source: Mackay Tennis Association

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Tennis players across the region are being invited to dust off their racquets, with entries now officially open for the Mackay Seniors Tournament in May.

Hosted by the Mackay Tennis Association, the two-day event will take place on 23 and 24 May at the club’s South Mackay courts.

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The tournament is open to players aged 30 and over, with a range of divisions catering to different age groups and skill levels. Competitors will have the opportunity to take part in singles, doubles and mixed doubles events across the weekend.

Set to be played on hardcourts at the association’s Kippen Street venue, the competition forms part of the 2026 Masters Queensland circuit, attracting both local players and visiting competitors.

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Entries are open until 17 May, with players encouraged to register online through Tennis Australia via tournaments.tennis.com.au/tournament/F27EA788-3947-4B74-9928-EB94A64D82E4.

Organisers say the tournament is a great chance for players to enjoy competitive tennis in a social and welcoming environment, while also showcasing the strength of the sport in the Mackay region.

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What: Mackay Seniors Tournament

When: 23 and 24 May

Where: Mackay Tennis Association

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A long-standing member of the Mackay golfing community has been recognised for more than three decades of commitment, with William “Bill” Eccles awarded Life Membership at the Mackay Golf Club.

Bill has been part of the club for an impressive 34 years, earning a reputation as a dedicated and passionate member whose contributions have extended well beyond the fairways.

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The Mackay Golf Club acknowledged Bill’s unwavering support over the years, noting his impact both on and off the course in helping shape the club into what it is today.

The Life Membership honour is one of the club’s highest recognitions, awarded to individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the organisation and its community.

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Fellow members have been encouraged to join in congratulating Bill on the milestone, celebrating not only his years of service but the role he has played in fostering a strong and welcoming club culture.

As he takes on this new honour, the club looks forward to many more rounds and shared moments with one of its most valued members.

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Mackay Contract Bridge Results

Recognition is extended to members who have attained a higher level of Masterpoints earned and to the Novice recipients of our March Incentive Awards.

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Mackay Road Runners Club Championship 3km Construct Health Physio’s Emerson, Nick and Sarah were on hand to run and present the winners’ prizes.

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The Mackay Road Runners’ 3km Club Championship delivered an exciting display of speed and endurance at Queens Park, with strong performances across both senior and junior divisions.

The club extended its thanks to Construct Health Physio for once again sponsoring the annual event. The clinic generously donated vouchers for the first two male and female finishers, as well as an additional random draw voucher for a gap-free in-clinic appointment. The draw prize was won by Graeme Harris.

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Nick Rewald claimed first place in an impressive time of 10 minutes and 36 seconds, backing up his performance after recording a personal best in the 5km Parkrun the previous day. Demonstrating strong sportsmanship, Rewald passed on his prize to the next male placegetter.

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Damian Rutland secured second place, sprinting home in a fast 10 minutes and 50 seconds. He finished just six seconds ahead of former Mackay Road Runners Club Champion Liam Mumford, who took third place.

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In the women’s division, Alana Knezevic continued her strong form, finishing first female and fourth overall. Lily Leven followed in second place after a fast-finishing effort, while Gail Mackie rounded out the podium shortly after achieving a personal best at the Hobart Half Marathon two weeks earlier.

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Several junior runners also impressed, with Ollie Dalglish, Isabelle Hayles, Oscar Hayles and Harry Sleeman performing strongly against experienced senior competitors.

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Other runners taking part in the event included Phoebe Short, Gail McKee, Craig Joynson, Emily Green, Jose Short, Roscoe McDonnell, Ashley Miles, Merv Shields, Bianca Miles, David Isbister, Stuart Sprott, Jan Smith, Ross Connor, Andrew Short, Leanne Connor, Lauren Connor, Natasha Joynson, Carmel Mahon and Andrew Wallace.

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The club’s next social run will take place this Sunday from the Mackay Surf Club, starting at 4.30pm. Participants can choose distances ranging from 5km to 10km, or anything in between. All runners are reminded to register with race directors before the run and check back in upon completion. A $2 race day fee applies to both members and non-members, including juniors and seniors.

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Wednesday track training, usually held at the Mackay Aquatic & Recreation Complex at 5.30pm, may be affected this week due to track maintenance. Participants are encouraged to check directly with the complex for confirmation.

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There are fundraising events that raise money, and then there are those rare efforts that raise something deeper—awareness, connection, and a sense of shared humanity. Naomi McGilvray’s Oh Dam! 24hour swim sits firmly in the latter category.

What began as a personal tribute has grown into a powerful act of advocacy. Swimming in honour of her Grandma and Aunty Patty, and in ongoing support of Aunty Ollie and her motherinlaw, Joanne, Naomi’s effort is rooted in love, memory, and the hope for a future where dementia no longer steals moments, relationships, and independence. Her message is simple but resonant: “I’m raising funds for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s… but I need your help.”  

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The response from the community has been nothing short of extraordinary. Donations have poured in from friends, family, colleagues, and complete strangers—each contribution a small testament to the impact Naomi has made. From heartfelt messages of encouragement to playful puns (“What a dam good swim!”), the support reflects the warmth and admiration she inspires. Her fundraising total has soared well beyond her initial goal, a clear sign that her cause has struck a chord far wider than she ever expected.  

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But beyond the numbers lies the true heart of this challenge. A 24hour swim is not simply a physical test—it is a mental and emotional marathon. It demands resilience, discipline, and a willingness to confront fatigue in all its forms. Naomi’s willingness to take on such a demanding challenge speaks to her character: determined, compassionate, and quietly courageous.

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Her effort also shines a light on the essential work of Dementia Australia, whose services—counselling, support groups, education, and training—provide lifelines for families navigating the complexities of dementia. Every dollar Naomi raises helps ensure these supports remain available to those who need them most.  

In a world often overwhelmed by noise, Naomi’s swim is a reminder that meaningful change often begins with one person deciding to act. One swimmer. One dam. One day. And yet, the ripple effect is unmistakable.

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Her journey is a testament to what community looks like when it rallies behind a cause that touches so many lives. It is a reminder that while dementia can take much, it cannot diminish the power of love, memory, or collective action.

Naomi’s Oh Dam! challenge is more than a fundraiser—it is a story of heart, hope, and the extraordinary things ordinary people can achieve when they choose to make a difference.

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Contributed with thanks to Dan Stampa

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Happy winners Val DePinto, Donna Gordon and Deb Mackenzie.

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The Club Championship Triples Final was played last Thursday morning, delivering a thrilling contest that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

Both teams began cautiously, with careful play and strategic shot selection. Several excellent deliveries and well-placed bowls created tight heads around the jack, highlighting the skill and precision of the competitors.

As the match progressed, neither side could gain a decisive advantage. After 21 ends the teams were locked together at 24 points each, forcing a dramatic decider that could have gone either way.

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In the end, victory went to the delighted team of Val DePinto, Donna Gordon and Deb Mackenzie.

Finishing gallantly as runners-up were Marie Bragg, Jean Schmidtke and Lidia McCarthy, who fought hard throughout the closely contested match.

It was a game full of momentum swings and impressive play, making it a wonderful contest for those in attendance. Congratulations to all the ladies who competed in this terrific club event.

Contributed with thanks to Sue Hazledine 

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In a workforce landscape increasingly defined by pressure, performance and retention, Mackay businesses are being asked to look beyond traditional incentives and reconsider a more fundamental driver of success: the health of their people.

Fitness Cartel Health Clubs Mackay is positioning itself as a practical, modern response to that challenge, offering corporate membership packages designed to strengthen staff wellbeing while directly supporting workplace performance.

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Fundamentally, organisations that prioritise staff wellbeing are strengthening their long-term performance and stability. When energy levels lift, stress is managed better, and recovery is supported, the flow-on effect is felt in productivity, decision-making and attendance, with fewer sick days and a clearer headspace on the job.

Corporate memberships may also be tax deductible as a business expense, delivering an added level of practicality for employers looking to align wellbeing with operational value.

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Providing staff with access to a structured, premium wellness environment is increasingly being recognised not as an optional extra, but as a workforce strategy. The benefits extend across mental health, stress management, workplace culture, morale, focus and overall staff retention.

The Mackay facility reflects this shift with a 24/7 training environment built for real-world schedules. Members have access to more than 500 pieces of strength and cardio equipment, alongside dedicated training zones designed for functional movement, recovery and performance-based training.

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Group fitness remains a key driver of engagement, with classes running across multiple studios each week. From high-intensity sessions, to yoga, pilates, cycling and functional training, staff can move between disciplines that match both workload and lifestyle demands.

Beyond the gym floor, the facility introduces a greater layer of recovery that surpasses all other traditional fitness offerings. The integrated wellness centre includes hyperbaric therapy, red light therapy, compression boots, massage chairs, cold plunge pools, a 38-degree magnesium bath, sauna access and so much more. These tools are increasingly used to support physical recovery, reduce fatigue and improve mental clarity.

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Additional features such as Kids Cartel childcare facilities, an on-site café and lounge area also offer support for working parents, making health and fitness more accessible in the rhythm of everyday life.

Fitness Cartel Mackay Co-Franchisee Clifford Forster said, “The Fitness Cartel Corporate Membership Program is all about empowering teams to reach their health and fitness goals, while giving employers an easy way to support workplace wellbeing.”

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As businesses, both big and small, across the region continue to navigate workforce challenges, corporate wellness is increasingly being viewed as a long-term investment in stability and performance.

The opportunity now sits clearly in front of Mackay employers to build stronger teams, not just through skills and systems, but through health, energy and recovery.

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For more information or to arrange a tailored corporate membership package that best suits you, contact Clifford Forster on 0422 486 277 or email cliff@fitnesscartel.com.au.

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NOW is the time to invest in your team, invest in their health, and invest in your business!

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Sunday’s winners Greg Colquhoun and Ron Hyde Photo supplied

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Tuesday’s winners were Neil Chittenden and Allan Rolfe who defeated Stumpy Adams and Ron Hyde. In the other game Skin Querro and Robyn Stitt defeated Sue Shearing and Laurie Land. The jackpot didn’t go off.

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Club Competition for the week: Ladies Triples, Sue Shearing, Robyn Stitt  and Fely Duncan defeated Lindy Suann, Shirley Jones and Maureen Hyde.

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On Sunday afternoon two pairs and one triples were played. Winners for the afternoon were Greg Colquhoun and Ron Hyde who defeated Maureen Hyde and Kevin Jewell. Other games Toni Bowen and Penny Warren defeated Skin Querro and Pat Tracey. Shirley Jones Teresa Willshire and Kennedy Whitton defeated Bill Myers Deb Retchless and Stuart Jeal. The jackpot didn’t go off.

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Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Last Sunday's Social Bowls presented exciting compeition.  Arthur Griffith, Henny Tattam and Heather Brown defeated Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown and Mike Harrison 28 - 19.  

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On Tuesday afternoon a game of Club Championship Singles was played.  Thanks to the players and marker for making their time to play this so as to progress the competition.  David Ling defeated Nathan Harriott 25 - 19.

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There were no Social bowls on Wednesday due to rain.

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On Sunday, in Social bowls Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith, Philip Brown and Heather Brown defeated Mary Hedgelong, Henny Tattam, Trevor Parsons and Mike Harrison 22 - 16.

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It had been arranged that Trevor Parsons was to play a Club Championship Singles game on Sunday but due to player unavailability, Marcus forfeited this year to allow the competition to progress.

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Reminder to all, it is really appreciated if all names of players coming to Social Bowls are in by 1pm.  When players arrive at the last minute without notice, it means that the draw for play has to be redone.

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Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Bowls Club

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Photo Credit: Cody Fowler – Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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On Saturday the 18th of April, the Whitsunday Sea Eagles took on the North Mackay Saints at Zeolla Park.

The U13s put up a strong fight, applying great pressure with impressive ball movement and leading around the ground. They came out hard early and lifted again in the third quarter. Despite creating opportunities, they couldn’t quite convert, finishing 24-45.

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The U15s had a great day out, not only beating the heat but also the reigning premiers on their home deck! Locking the ball in their forward fifty for the first half, the Sea Eagles managed a 50 to nil lead by halftime. In the second half the Sea Eagles came out better than ever with hard tackles, strong centre clearances, and great teamwork. Ending the game with 83-24 on the scoreboard the boys sent a strong message to the rest of the competition to start their season on a high.

The U17s showed great teamwork, sportsmanship, and heart in their first game for the year. Despite the 16–85 loss, the boys never gave up and kept their heads high until the final siren.

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The Senior Women showed grit and determination, playing with low numbers and no players on the bench in the sweltering heat. Although going down 0-124, their effort never dropped and they now look forward to next week’s challenge at home.

The Senior Men had a slow start against an experienced Saints outfit but lifted after halftime following an inspired address from playing coach Jake Turner. Kicking four early goals in the third they built momentum and matched the Saints for the half, but couldn’tclose the gap and finished 39-90.

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Get down to The Nest this Saturday the 25th of April for the first home games of the 2026 season. With ANZAC Day celebrations, memorial guernseys, and a nighttime fixture under the brand-new lights, it is not one to miss. Come down, get loud and support the Sea Eagles from 11:55am, with the final game kicking off at 6pm under lights.

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Contributed with thanks to Georgia Whitton - Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Photos supplied

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The fourth running of the Whitsunday Regional Council North Queensland Cross Country Championships was held in Galbraith Park, Cannon Valley on Sunday 12 April.

The Whitsunday Regional Council came on board as the major sponsor of the event through a grant that will help secure its future on the running calendar in Australia.

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The Whitsunday Running Club hosted this event on behalf of Athletics North Queensland who are Queensland Athletics’ representatives in the north.

The event attracted athletes between Cairns and Brisbane and out west to Moranbah and Emerald with 150 athletes lining up for this year’s races.

There were eight races that catered for all age groups from 4 to 70+ with the final race of the day being a shoot-out relay with teams of three.

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The first race was over 10km and won by local Whitsunday Running Club member Roland Henderson in a very impressive time of 39m 55s. Roland was followed home by Alex Shears-Jones of the Townsville North Star Athletics Club and the first woman in third place overall Liv Compton of the Whitsunday Running Club.

The 8km race was won in record time (34m 21s) by Justin Rule of Mackay Athletics with Jarrod Keys from the Whitsunday Running Club second and local Matt O’Dwyer in third.

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The 6km race was contested by several different age groups and won by Riley Rogers (18 and under) representing Rules of Running from Mackay with his teammate Nate McKinnon (18 and under) coming second. The third male to finish resulted in a dead heat between the two youngest competitors, Calvin Murphy and Theo Connell. Liv Compton finished in third place overall and won the masters women’s age category for 40- to 49-year-olds in a record time of 26m 28s.

The Masters Men 70+ category in the 6km was won in record time (31m 33s) by Bruce Manly from Rockhampton who was followed home by Michael Davidson of Mackay and local Whitsunday Running Club member Tim McQuoid-Mason in third.

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Local runner Millie Groom was in outstanding form and set a record for Girls 16 and under over 4km in a time of 15m 16s. Katie Noonan of Kuttabul was second with local Annalise Kennelley finishing in third.

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In one of the bigger fields another record (12m 10s) was set in the 3km Girls 12 and under category by Harper Christison from Emerald with Ivy Chalmers from Moranbah second and her teammate Sharity Noble of Rules of Running Mackay third. The first three in Boys 12 and under were Theo Woods (Rules of Running), Elijah Freedman (Townsville North Stars) and Beau Ralph (ASSET Mackay).

On a beautiful day for running on a well-prepared surface the records kept tumbling when local Kayne Higgins won the Boys 11 and under category followed by Bodhi Fatnowna and Hector Valmadre over 2km. Esther Noble won the girls category ahead of Rose Murphy and Paris Kliese.

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Thirty-nine runners aged between 4 and 10 lined up for the 1km which was won by Theo Connell and Julie Smith in the 10 and under category. The 8 and under category was won by Ethan Ralph and Catherine Farrell. It was a new experience for several of the younger competitors and there were outstanding runs by Corbin Barr and Bailee Boulton who won the 6 and under category.

The day’s races concluded with a relay shootout over 6km with each member running a 2km leg. The shootout was won by Rule’s Running from Mackay.

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“The going was good on a well-prepared track that resulted in some amazing times. It was great to welcome runners from all around our State and to see the younger athletes getting an opportunity to experience cross country running in its truest form. Our thanks go out to the Whitsunday Regional Council for their financial support and allowing us to use their awesome park,” said event manager and Whitsunday Running Club President Tim McQuiod-Mason.  

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Running Club

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It has been a big couple of weeks as senior men unfortunately had to withdraw from the 2026 season. The women however still presented a strong showing. The Whitsunday Raiders women’s team were Mackay Rugby Union 2025 Champions and are ambitious to be in the running again for the grand final this year.  

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The 16^th May will mark a Super Saturday for the women as the Whitsunday Sports Park will host all 4 women’s teams, putting on 2 games. The event will also host the P.W.R.U Ladies Day Function – showing appreciation for the wives, girlfriends and players with their contributions to the club.  

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Games will include P.W.R.U v Bowen at 3pm, Slade Point v Moranbah at 4pm, as well as potential for some 7-a-side games by the men during the day aswell.  

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There will be further games on June 6^th against Slade Point, 20^th June against Bowen and 4^th July against Moranbah.  

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The women’s team are also playing an ANZAC Day Round in Mackay at Lepreachaun Park against Moranbah.  

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Photo Supplied

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Whitsunday United endured a mixed weekend on the road, with dominant attacking displays tempered by hard-fought defeats.

The Division 2 men battled bravely against a strong Sarina outfit but fell to a narrow 1–0 loss. After a slow start with several new faces finding their feet, United steadied to head into the break level. The second half proved an even contest, though Sarina’s lone goal midway through was enough to separate the sides in a scrappy encounter. Caleb Grenci and Sam Dowd were standout inclusions, both making their senior debuts.

In contrast, Division 1 produced a commanding performance, dismantling Magpies 14–0. Jake Flaherty set the tone early with a stunning long-range strike, sparking a dominant display. United exploited space behind the defence to lead 5–0 before the break, then capitalised on tiring opponents in the second half. Hayden Vanderdrift and Cy Taylor each netted hat-tricks, while Flaherty and Nathan Sothmann bagged doubles.

The women’s side faced a tough opener against top-of-the-league Lions in Mackay, with several players making their 11-a-side debuts. A fast-paced first half tested the squad, but they regrouped well after the break, showing determination to contain the scoreline. Nicole Wilkinson impressed in defence with her reading of the play, while Alexis Ripps provided relentless effort in midfield, highlighting strong team spirit and promising signs ahead.

U23s edged Rangers 1–0 in a tight contest, with Luke Nightingale saving a penalty before Sebastian Shand netted the winner. The Premiers were unable to follow suit, falling short after conceding early and struggling to recover despite flashes of promise. With a home fixture next weekend, the Premiers will be looking to respond and show the quality within the squad.

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Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O’Keefe

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Tora Delac with younger brother Harris and Coach Mark Erickson Photo supplied

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Cannonvale Cannons swimmer Tora Delac has delivered another impressive performance on the national stage, competing at the 2026 Australian Age Championships on the Gold Coast.

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Qualifying for the event is an achievement in itself, with demanding time standards required to secure a place. Tora earned her spot in five events; 50m Freestyle, 50m Breaststroke, 50m Backstroke, and 100m Freestyle, marking a significant milestone in her swimming journey.

Racing across a full week at this level requires not only physical endurance but also strong mental focus, with athletes needing to consistently perform against some of the country’s best. Tora rose to the challenge, maintaining her composure throughout the meet and delivering solid, consistent swims across all events.

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She recorded times on par with her personal bests throughout the week and achieved top 50 percentile finishes in both the 50m Breaststroke and 100m Freestyle. At a national level, where fields often include more than 70 competitors and results can be separated by mere seconds, these results reflect a highly competitive performance.

This marks Tora’s third consecutive year competing at the Australian Age Championships, highlighting her dedication and continued progression in the sport.

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Head Coach Mark Erickson praised her efforts, saying, “Tora continues to show great maturity in her racing. To qualify for five events and hold her form across an entire championship week is a fantastic achievement. She’s building valuable experience at this level, and it’s exciting to see her development year on year.”

The Cannonvale Cannons congratulate Tora on representing the club with pride and determination.

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Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Round 1 of the Mackay Rugby League competition kicked off over the weekend, with the Whitsunday Brahmans travelling to face long-time rivals, the Mackay Magpies.

A strong brigade of players and supporters made the trip, with the Magpies’ home ground awash in purple and green. The crowd reflected the excitement around the Brahmans following a huge pre season and the addition of several key imports across all grades.

The Under 20s, led by captain Darcy Milne and vice-captain Kassius Bell, took to the field in the heat of the day. Bell, one of the club’s young imports from NZ, added spark to the side. Despite a 64 to 0 result, the scoreline did not reflect the effort shown, with the group determined to bounce back.

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Reserve Grade followed, with coach Matt Court’s side showing clear signs of a strong pre-season. With the return of Xanthe Power and Sam Keys, alongside Captain Fletcher Turner and fullback Lochie Wake, the side remained competitive throughout. New signing Jarrod McDonald added strength through the middle, but the Magpies edged ahead to win 30 to 16.

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In A Grade, the Brahmans started strongly. New Zealand import Caleb Thompson impressed on debut with massive hits and strong runs, while UK recruit Sam Moorhouse also dominated through the middle. The contest remained tight early before the Magpies pulled away in the second half to secure a 40 to 12 win.

Despite the results, the Brahmans showed resilience across all grades, with a strong mix of local talent and imports setting the tone for the season ahead.

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The Brahmans return home this Saturday for special ANZAC Round against Mackay Brothers at Les Stagg Park, with gates open from 2pm.

• Mandy Bateup 

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Brahmans RLFC

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