The Cannonvale Cannons put on a stellar performance at the 73rd Annual North Queensland Long Course Championships in Townsville over the weekend, hosted by Swimming North Queensland. This highly competitive event sees swimmers and clubs battle it out for Age Group Champions, Champion Club, and Parade Winner titles.

The Cannons are proud to announce that Jax Clayworth was named 11 Years Men Age Champion, while Jacob Bell took home the 17 Years & Over Men Age Champion title.

Adding to the club’s success, three Cannons swimmers were presented Swimming North Queensland Records. Jax Clayworth claimed the 11 Years 400IM record, Eloise Chegwidden set records in the 9 Years 25m Breaststroke and 25m Backstroke, and Lucas Korosec broke the 8 Years 25m Backstroke record.

The excitement kicked off on Friday evening with the much-loved club relays. The Cannons secured bronze in the 400m Medley (12 & Over Girls) and the Mixed 200m Medley, while the 8 to 12 Years Boys team claimed silver in both the 200m Medley Relay and the 200m Freestyle Relay.

Saturday and Sunday saw two intense days of individual racing, with all Cannonvale Cannons swimmers putting in outstanding performances. Many achieved personal bests and secured strong individual placings, showcasing their dedication and competitive spirit.

A special mention to our senior swimmers who reached the finals: Jacob Bell, Tora Delac, Zach Trefz, Tyler Bennett, Isabella Pisaniello, Isaac Pisaniello, Ella Bounden, Thomas Ganter, Mae Carter Atwood, Tiana Bell, and Ruby Lawson. Among them, Jacob, Tiana, Tora, Ella, Tyler, Zach, Isabella, and Mae all secured gold in at least one final.

Finally, a standout performance came from Zach Trefz who made the finals in 11 of his events to then take home three gold, five silver and a bronze, earning the most points for the Cannonvale Cannons.

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Contributed with thanks by Jade Korosec, Vice President of Cannonvale Cannons.
Silver for the 8 - 12 Years Boys Medley Team
Record Breakers: Eloise Chegwidden, Lucas Korosec and Jax Clayworth  
Bronze for the 11 & Over Mixed Medley Team
Bronze for the 12 & Over Girls Medley Team
11 Year Boys Age Champ Jax Clayworth

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In an exhilarating night of underwater hockey, the club welcomed an impressive turnout of 14 players, creating an atmosphere packed with energy and enthusiasm. Among the attendees were newcomers Hunter, Hudson, and Sarah, who were quickly integrated into the team dynamics. However, special guest from Townsville, Sonny, truly stole the show. Her seamless integration into the squad and demonstration of exceptional skills impressed both seasoned players and novices alike.

The evening kicked off with a game of "one breath," a classic drill that sets the tone for the session. While Boyd took the opportunity to share valuable skills with the new guests, anticipation built for the main action. As the games commenced, the Buschman family showcased their usual steadfastness, but it was Peter and Ryan who stood out in defence, skilfully coordinating with junior members to establish a strong presence on the field.

Todd and Jimmy split the opposition with their remarkable breath-holding capabilities, while Sarah showed resilience in her attempts to score, being thwarted twice by a determined defence. The camaraderie and spirit displayed throughout the session ranked it among the top three experiences in the young club's history.

As the night drew to a close, players packed up together, reflecting on the evening's highlights and enjoyed a friendly chat in the car park until the lights went out. The sense of community and shared passion for the sport is what makes the club special as they get ready for another exciting session on Monday night!

Contributed by Joel Sadleir

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Last Wednesday, the North Mackay Ladies social competition saw Cecilia Lee and Lorraine Lemke take the win in a well-fought pairs game.

In the triples match, the runners-up title went to Leslie Baumgarten, Narell Schmidtke, and Lurline Ford, who showed great teamwork on the green.

Last week, the competition heated up with four teams battling it out in the semi-finals of the Championship Fours. Only two teams secured a spot in Thursday morning’s final, and what a match it was! The tension was high, strategies were put to the test, and teamwork was on full display.

The ultimate winners were Donna Gordon, Coral Francis, Debbie Mackenzie, and Lorna Bowers, taking the victory in a fantastic showdown.

Runners-up, Isla Comelli, Maryann Bartolo, Ann Smith, and Lois Deguara, also delivered a brilliant performance, keeping the game exciting until the very end.

Member of the club, Sue Hazledine said “Thankyou for a great game showing us how it’s done. Congratulations to these lovely winners and to everyone who played in this competition.

“Next Wednesday sees the start of the championship Pairs. Best of luck to those playing!”

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Fours Runners Up : Ann Smith, Isla Comelli, Maryann Bartolo, Lois Deguara.

Fours Winners (L) Donna Gordon, Coral Francis, Lorna Bowers, Debbie Mackenzie. Photos supplied

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures, February 18, 2025:

Division 1:

Panther Prowler 8 (Vince Boeske, Allan Edwards, Trent Day) d Stellar Storm (Will VanDeKaa, Lee Brake, Barry Patterson) 8-3. Trent d Barry 11, 7, -7, -6, 6.

Phoenix Fire (Andrew McHugh, Josh Brown, Andrea Nicholson) d Venus Voyager (Graham Drury, Janice Kent, Graham Brake) 9-2. Andrea d Graham -8, 8, 11, 10.

Ant Warriors (Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) d Cosmic Sorcerers (Donna Abbott, Anne Sheridan) 7-2. Ian d Donna 6, -10, -9, 11, 6.

Star Lords (Vimal Chilukuri, Robbie Richards, Mark Sleeman) d Ghost Spin (Allan Robins, Steven Whiting, Lily Boland) 6-5. Lily d Robbie 2, -10, 6, 4, 8.

Division 2:

Zulu Spears (George Camilleri, Darryl Ross, Ricky Zhen) d Spartan Serve (Liz Burton, YiLin Jiang, Mark Stam) 6-5. Ricky d Liz -10, 8, -5, 9, 8.

Pirate Plunge (Geoff Cowan, Saisha Palod, David Symons) d Amazon Guard (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 9-2. Bulldog d Nehmat -11, -7, 5, 9, 7.

Celtic Smash (Tiffany Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, Syed Zhang) d Rebel Celts (Delma Knight, Ollie Hamelink, Val Austin) 7-4. Delma d Syed 6, -9, -9, 10, 7.

Pharoah Aces (Duncan Treloar, Rymer Tabulo, Misha Palod) d Roman Legion (Craig VenDeKaa, Niro Premachandra, Peter Goodson) 7-4. Rymer d Peter 6, 1, -8, -11, 7.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures February 18, 2025:

Division 1:

Solar Comets (Doug Dungavell, Judy Zahn, Bryan Marshall) drew Venue Voyagers (Peter Goodson, Branko Vucurovic, Marie Taylor) 6-all. Peter/Marie d Doug/Bryan -11, -10, 8, 3, 6.

Luna Legends (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) drew Saturn’s Rings (George Camilleri, Andrea Nicholson, Coral Morgan) 6-all. George d Donna 11, 5, -9, -5, 6.

Rocket Stars (Allan Robins, John McGee, Veronica Shepherd) drew Mars Pioneers (Delma Knight, Steve Mathieson, Kevin Abbott) 6-all. John d Steve -10, -7, 7, 9, 8.

Division 2:

Pluto Players (Darryl Ross, Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott) d Mercury Meteor (Ken Best, Helen Ware, Kim Daffy) 7-5. Helen d Gerry -5, -6, 6, 8, 7.

Jupiter Jets (Don Boettcher, Kim Challender, Robyn Bushell) d Neptune Navigators (John Hamelink, Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) 7-5. Gloria d Kim -8, 7, -8, 7, 9.

Division 3:

Aqua Waves (Charlie Farrow, Chris Collins, Thelma Caruana) d Black Panther (Sharon Muller, Madge Saunders, Carmel Christaldi) 10-2. Madge d Thelma 8, -10, -6, 7, 3.

Wonder Warriors (Virginia Clayton, Allison Day, Glenda Brookes) d Green Lantern (Ian Dodds, Laurie Bradshaw, Trish Zamparutti) 7-5. Ian d Virginia 9, -8, 5, -7, 7.

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Rymer Tabulo

Peter Goodson. Photos suppplied

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A special congratulations to Janelle Conroy, for being ranked second in the Gold Life Master section, in the 2024 Queensland Masterpoints awards, (which is a massive honour). Well done, Janelle! The first round of the GNOT Gold points event was played on Saturday with thirteen teams competing. Well done to teams Sheedy and Hansen finishing first and second. It was great to see so many new and up and coming players participating, well done to them also.

Weekly Results

Monday 17 February 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Thelma Caruana / Patricia Garner
3rd Karen Caldwell / Noel Saunders 3rd Sandy Ford / Diane Morgan

Tuesday Evening 18 February 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st John McGee / Mick King 1st Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
2nd Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood 2nd Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

Wednesday 19 February 2025 – 13 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger 1st Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
Thursday Evening 20 February 2025 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Geoff Taylor / Simon Barnes
3rd Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott 4th Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown

Friday 21 February 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Diane Cox / Christine Nice 1st Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
3rd Mick King / Geoff Cowan 3rd Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger
4th Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 4th Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

Saturday 22 February 2025 – GNOT 13 Table Mitchell Gold Points
Team Team Members
1st Sheedy Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia / Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
2nd Hansen Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan / Frances Brown / Alan Brown
3rd Ting Ming Ting / David Ting / Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
4th Bancroft Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes
5th Garner Patricia Garner / Thelma Caruana / Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek
6th Robins Mick Robins / Marilin Robins / Geoffrey Patterson / Robert Carless

Sunday 23 February 2025 – Novice/Mentors 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Karn Caldwell / Noel Saunders 1st Debra Goodchild / Annette Howe
2nd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Adrian Westcott / Simon Barnes

Contributed by Joy Block

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Terry Sheedy, Neiil Hawthorne and Janelle Conroy. Photo supplied

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Excitement is building for the upcoming Canoe Blessing and Celebration at Eimeo Beach on Saturday, March 1, 2025, starting from 8:15am. The event will mark the initial blessing of the new Matahina OC6 canoe, which is set to be a significant addition to the Sunset Bay Outrigger Club’s fleet.

After the blessing, participants and spectators will gather at Eimeo Pub to enjoy a celebratory breakfast.

In conjunction with the canoe blessing, the event will launch the Junior Outrigger Program, designed to inspire young paddlers. This new initiative provides a fantastic opportunity for children aged 8 and up to learn the sport of outrigger paddling, build teamwork, and gain valuable skills.

It’s an exciting step forward in encouraging the next generation to develop an appreciation for the sport and the marine environment.

The Canoe Blessing and Celebration will also offer a chance for those new to the sport to try out outrigger paddling. With support from the Gambling Community Grant, the event showcases the continued growth of outrigger paddling in the region.

Participants are encouraged to bring a water bottle, a hat, and a long sleeve rashie or nippers stinger suit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

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Join the Canoe Blessing and Junior Outrigger Program launch at Eimeo Beach on March 1, 2025, and celebrate the arrival of the new Matahina OC6 canoe.

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Mackay Surf Lifesaving competitors recently headed to Sarina Beach for the North Barrier Branch Titles - the premier surf sports event - for seven regional lifesaving clubs as North as Ingham and as South as Sarina.  The Mackay team excelled by finishing a very close 2nd place to Townsville’s Arcadia SLSC.

“We are very impressed with the results of our surf sports athletes leading into states and nationals,” said Josh Grant the Mackay Director of Surf Sports.

“After analysing our results, it was awesome to see we were the club with the most gold medals overall and had a fairly small contingent yet excelled against all odds.”

Mackay Surf Club, now has a small but strong team ready to take on the upcoming state and national surf lifesaving titles in surf sports, champion lifesaver and surf boat events.

Contributed by Josh Grant

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Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club team that took out 2nd place at the North Barrier Branch Champs in Sarina.
Mackay’s U11 team enjoying being a part of the surf lifesaving movement .
U10 competitors at the start of the surf race.  This event involves a 288m surf swim for some of our youngest lifesavers.
Mackay Surf Club’s All Age Beach Relay – involves masters competitors down to U8 competitors
U14 Board race branch champion for another year running, Jo Madden. Photos supplied

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Health professionals in the frontline of the fight against breast cancer will hit the streets of Mackay next month for the Mater Chicks in Pink International Women’s Day Fun Run, presented by Queensland X-Ray.

While 23,000 people take part in the main Brisbane CBD event on Sunday 9 March, Mackay will hold its own fund-raising 5km fun run, starting and finishing at the Bucasia Beach playground.

This year walkers and runners from Mater Private Hospital Mackay will be lining up with Queensland X-Ray Mackay staff and members of the city’s Lazy Runners Club.

The International Women’s Day Fun Run is held by Mater Foundation, which is hoping to raise more than $1.8 million this year. The funds will be used to support Mater’s breast cancer services, purchase new equipment and fund life-saving breast cancer research.

“Mater’s Mackay team is joining Queensland X-Ray staff for this event, bringing together dozens of health workers who support women – and men – with breast cancer every day,” said Hazel Douglas, Assistant Director of Clinical Services at Mater Private Hospital Mackay.

“More than 20,000 patients a year are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Australia and this is our way of showing our support for them and their families.”

Mater is one of the leading centres for breast cancer treatment in Queensland, with one in four patients state-wide being treated at a Mater hospital.

Around 300 patients underwent breast surgery at Mater Private Hospital Mackay last year.

Although registrations for the 2025 fun run have now closed, Mackay residents can still make a difference by donating at fundraise.mater.org.au/fundraisers/matermackaychicksinpink.

Supporters are also welcome to cheer on the participants at Bucasia Beach at 6.30am on 9 March.

Ms Douglas said the Mater team was hoping to raise $2000.

“Every dollar we raise helps women fighting breast cancer,” Ms Douglas said.

“It’s an amazing cause and we’re so grateful for the community support we’ve received so far.”

WHAT: Mater Chicks in Pink International Women’s Day Fun Run
WHERE: Bucasia Beach
WHEN: Sunday 9th March at 6.30am

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Mater Private Hospital Mackay fun runners (from left) Fiona Lynch (Dietitian), Belinda King (Enrolled Nurse), Elly Engstrom (St Paul’s ward Nurse Unit Manager) and Louise Mullaney (Mission Integration Manager). Photo supplied

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At the last Whitsunday Regional Council meeting the members proposed making a bid for hosting Ramped Up in Airlie Beach this year. Ramped Up and other sporting events like it are a big drive for the Whitsundays, and the motion was unanimous, with a resounding yes to try and get it to return. Hosting open sporting events like Ramped Up are not just about thrills and spills, they're also part of a larger effort by the Whitsunday Regional Council to drive the local economy.
Ramped Up, sponsored by Pacific Action Sport, is a two-day skating competition and festival featuring both professional and amateur skaters showing off their best tricks and routines. Coming to the Whitsundays, Ramped Up is focused on growing the sport of skateboarding in the community and to highlight the talent that is already present in the local scene.
The festival was a big crowd pleaser last year with thousands turning out to see the halfpipe in action. With live bands and food vendors to ensure there's something for everyone and food and entertainment all around, it was a sight shred to. For those making the trip to the Whitsundays for the event, camping options were available, so you could stay close to the action and enjoy the full experience of the festival.
The council is eager to bring major events like these to the Whitsunday area, offering an opportunity for visitors and locals alike to experience world-class skateboarding and boost the local economy. The time is ripe with the sport becoming recognized at an Olympic level, to increase participation, attract spectators, and most importantly, continue growing the sport for the community's benefit. The passion, skill, and enthusiasm are already here with the local PCYC even offering classes, the locals want it back again!
Whether you're a skateboarder, spectator, or simply someone who loves great music and good vibes, know that your local council has agreed to get the ball rolling on the bid to bring spectacular sports events like Ramped Up to one of Australia’s most iconic tourism destinations here in the Whitsundays.

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The Cannons hosted another enjoyable Club Night on Wednesday night. It was “fast and furious” as it was a Sprint Distance Club event, so swimmers could only race in 12m or 25m events.
Congratulations to all the swimmers who set new Club Records: Harry Chegwidden (7 years) 100m Breaststroke in 2:07.20, Lucas Korosec (8 years) 200m IM in 3:27.58, Eloise Chegwidden (9 years) 400m Freestyle in 6:44.23 and 200m Breaststroke in 3:51.12, Miller Eaves (9 years) 200m Breaststroke in 3:50.05, and Jax Clayworth (11 years) 50m Butterfly in 32.98 and 1500m Freestyle in 19:37.65.
The Chocolate Awards were presented to Isabella Pisaniello for her massive 104.41-second PB in the 400m IM. Thomas Ganter also received a Chocolate Award for his “closest to best” time. Coaches’ Awards were presented to Indi Smith for her Club Night swims and to Miller Eaves for his 200m Butterfly during Distance Club Night. And Upgrade Certificates were presented to Zavier Woolston, Gracie Laguna, Faithlyn Trotter, and Liam Filewood.
Wonderful to see all the young swimmers shine in the shorter distances on Wednesday. Gracie Crichton (8 years) swam a terrific 25m Backstroke with a 2-second PB. Maeve Dichiera swam fantastic times in her 25m Freestyle and 25m Butterfly. Liam Filewood and Hazel Smith were in fine form, swimming 3 PBs each.
Stella Mulliss (6 years) swam a very smooth 12m Breaststroke in a time of 26.61s. Sunny Robertson (6 years) swam an excellent 12m Freestyle in a time of 21.18s. Brothers Asher and Reid Springbett, and Zavier and Caleb Woolston, continue to get stronger and faster each week. A special mention goes to Ruby Lawson, who swam extremely well, achieving PBs in all her swims.
Well done to all the swimmers who participated on Wednesday night! A big thank you to all the wonderful parents and volunteers who assisted.
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Contributed with thanks by Raylene Rasmussen.

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Tuesday's social bowls saw Stumpy Adams and Penny Warren claim victory over Deb Retchless and Margaret Wilson in a tight contest. Despite their efforts, the elusive jackpot remains unclaimed, continuing to grow into a tidy sum.
On Sunday, the club hosted the annual Opening Day Triples, which was well attended by teams from Alligator Creek, Ayr, Airlie Beach, and Collinsville. It was a fantastic opportunity to catch up with friends and fellow bowlers. The event featured two games of fifteen ends, with the team of Sugar Brunker, Anthony Bull, and Gary Cooper emerging as the overall winners with the highest combined score.
The runners-up were Dave Hathaway, Margaret Wilson, and Greg Duncan, who put in a strong performance throughout the day. A special sportsmanship award for the lowest overall score went to the team of Kim Lucal, Gavin Charles, and Kaye Cooper, recognising their good spirits and competitive nature despite the tough competition. It was a great opening day for the sport and community.
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President Margaret Wilson (Wangaratta) with Winners Anthony Bull (Ayr) and Gary Cooper (Alligator Ck), along with President Mark Drummond.
President Margaret Wilson (Wangaratta) with Runners-Up Dave Hathaway (Collinsville) and Greg Duncan (Alligator Ck) with President Mark Drummond (Wangaratta).
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Contributed with thanks by Penny Warren.

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What a wonderful week of bowling at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club! To beat the heat, start times varied throughout the week. On Tuesday, bowls began at 9am, with Sue Dakin, Henny Tattam, and Carol Crosbie claiming victory with a close win of 16-15 over Gail Simms, Lyn Graham, and Tony Whitehorn.
Wednesday’s social bowls started at 2pm, with 18 players competing across three rinks. The winning team, with the highest margin, was Alan Pershouse, Stacey Hadlow, and Russell Jackson, who defeated Wayne Tippett, Vicki Spann, and Ted Cullen.
On Friday evening, members and friends gathered at the club, enjoying the new kitchen menu, which has sparked keen interest among all.
Unfortunately, Saturday's scroungers event was cancelled due to rain, leaving the green unplayable. Thanks to John Askew for inspecting and updating members on the green’s status.
Sunday's social bowls saw a dominant performance by Lu Rogan, Dawn Dowell, and Alan Pershouse, who defeated Mel, Greg, and Arthur 24-12. Tony Kelly and John Brown skipped close games, with John’s team narrowly defeating Tony’s team 19-18. The Mixed Triples Final for 2024 was also played, with Betty Whitehorn, Ladda Purdie, and Tony Whitehorn defeating Elaine Hadlow, Stacey Hadlow, and Warren Mills 24-16.
The club’s Men’s Open Fours competition for 2025 is set to start at 9am on Saturday, 1st March, with round two in the afternoon. The third round is scheduled for 9am on Sunday, 2nd March, followed by the Men’s Open Fours Final for 2024 at 1pm.
The Women and Girls "Come and Try Lawn Bowls" program, funded by a grant from the Queensland Government Sport and Recreation, will recommence on Thursday, 6th March, at 5pm–6pm at 2503 Shute Harbour Road, Jubilee Pocket, we hope to see all keen players there!

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Winners of the 2024 Mixed Tripples Final: Ladda Purdie, Tony Whitehorn and Betty Whitehorn. Photo Credit: Lyn Graham.
Contributed with thanks by Betty Whitehorn.

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The unpredictable weather has once again played the leading role in our recent golfing events. While competition has been significantly impacted, we managed to get in some play, albeit much less than usual. This disruption has thrown our calendar into disarray, forcing us to reschedule events for March, subject to further weather conditions. Despite the challenges, a few competitions took place last week, and we are pleased to announce the results of the games that did go ahead.
On Wednesday, February 19th, 17 players participated in the PGC Stableford competition. Adam Davies emerged as the men’s winner with a solid 40 points, followed by Gary Scotford with 34 points. In the ladies’ category, Lyn Muller took the top spot with 31 points, just ahead of Elspeth Scotford with 30.
Thursday, February 20th saw another round of the PGC Single Stableford, where Nic Apruzzese claimed victory in A Grade with 37 points, edging out Matthew Muller. In B Grade, Mitchell Whitton led with an impressive 41 points, with James Devery taking second place with 38.
Friday, February 21st featured the Metropole Run, a front 9 event, where Tom O’Brien scored 21 points to secure the win. Jared Leaman followed as runner-up with 20 points.
Sadly, the weather forced the cancellation of the competition on Saturday, February 22nd, with no play taking place and the course was also closed on Sunday.
Looking ahead, we are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming fixtures for the week ending March 2nd, with plans for social play, stroke and stableford events, and the Metropole 9-hole run on the calendar. However, all events remain dependent on weather conditions and as always, full results can be found on Golflink, and we’ll continue to keep our fingers crossed for better weather moving forward!

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The course in 2023, when similar weather hit the area like that of this year.
Contributed with thanks by Tinna Randmae

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A strong turnout of over fifty runners and supporters gathered on Sunday afternoon for the Mackay Road Runners Gooseponds social season opener. The event featured a loop course through the picturesque Gooseponds parklands, situated behind the North Mackay Bowls Club.

The newly appointed Club President for 2025, Paul Tilse, welcomed the enthusiastic crowd of runners, walkers, and families to the first official club run on the 2025 calendar. Tilse extended a heartfelt thanks to outgoing President Brendan Bishop, acknowledging his exceptional service and dedication to the club. Bishop was on hand, as helpful as ever, alongside his son Hughie, assisting with the setup for the opening run.

Before cutting the ribbon to officially open the 2025 season, Club Patron Col Meng praised Mackay Road Runners for their ongoing commitment to fostering a strong running community. He also expressed gratitude to the committee and dedicated volunteers who ensure the weekly events run smoothly. Meng’s weekly donation of icy cold Zooper Doopers was once again a hit, giving runners that extra boost to cross the finish line.

Runners are reminded that Mackay Road Runners Club Captain, Jim Ford, continues to offer free track training sessions every Wednesday at 5.30pm at the Aquatic and Recreational Complex (ARC). These sessions are open to everyone, regardless of membership or running experience. Whether an individual's sport is crossfit, swimming, cycling, cricket, squash, or golf, a track session can prove to be a valuable addition to any training regime. Participants only need to pay the $4 entry fee at the pool kiosk before heading to the track for an hour of well-planned drills aimed at enhancing endurance and athletic performance.

Looking ahead, this Sunday marks the first handicap points event of the year - the Rural View 5km/10km run. The race starts at 6.30am from the Wallman’s Road cul-de-sac in Eimeo. With parking expected to be limited, runners are advised to park across Bucasia Road at the shopping centre and cross with care. Registration closes 10 minutes before the start to allow timekeepers to prepare, so runners must check in promptly.

Members are reminded to wear their updated race bibs with timing chips attached to the front, ensuring accurate recording of race times. Casual runners are always welcome to join for a $10 race day fee.

Safety remains a top priority. Runners should adhere to all course briefings and follow instructions from the Race Director and course officials. Proper pre- and post-run nutrition is vital, especially given the region’s challenging weather conditions this time of year.

With the season off to a strong start, Mackay Road Runners are looking forward to a fantastic year on the roads, trails, and track.

_Contributed by Janelle Tilse _

Caption: Mackay Road Runners launched their 2025 season with a well-attended gooseponds opener, welcoming new leadership and setting the pace for a promising year ahead. Photo source: Mackay Road Runners (Facebook)

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It was an exciting weekend of rugby league action last weekend, as the Mackay Cutters made a strong showing in their Host Plus Cup (HPC) trial match against the CQ Capras, securing a 28-24 win in a closely contested affair at BB Print Stadium, Mackay. The match served as an important test for both teams as they prepared for the upcoming season.

The games kicked off with the first try of the day by the Harvey Norman U17's, setting the tone for a competitive outing. The Cyril Connell Cup boys had a strong first half, with their hard work paying off in a 38-12 victory. The Mal Meninga Cup boys followed suit with an impressive 38-14 win, while the Harvey Norman U19's triumphed 30-10. The Mackay Cutters girls showed determination as they fought for every minute, emerging victorious with a 16-4 win.

Before the game, both teams were eager to showcase their progress.

Andrew Battaia, Head Coach of the Mal Meninga Cup and Head of Pathways, spoke highly of the local talent, saying, “It’s very pleasing to see local players stepping up and fitting seamlessly into the senior team.”

He added, “A lot of the boys that I’ve had through the Cyril Connell and Mal Meninga Cup programs are now progressing into Host Plus Cup level and we’ve got a lot of good outside backs, and good young second-rowers, so we’re feeling pretty confident."

Meanwhile, Adam Cuthbertson, the 2025 Hostplus Cup Head Coach, also expressed confidence in his squad's physical condition.

“They’re looking very healthy, looking very athletic, which is very promising for us.

"It's been really good ... a couple of genuine opportunities for some of our players that have been training really well during the preseason to go put their best foot forward up with the NRL.

“These guys have impressed by their application on the field week-in, week-out with us."

Overall, it was a highly successful weekend for the Mackay Cutters, with dominant victories across all four matches, showcasing their depth and talent from the junior ranks through to the senior squads.

Results:

- Host Plus Cup: Cutters 28 | Capras 24

- Harvey Norman U17's (Girls): Cutters 16 | Capras 4

- Cyril Connell Cup: Cutters 38 | Capras 12

- Harvey Norman U19's: Cutters 30 | Capras 10

- Mal Meninga Cup: Cutters 38 | Capras 14

Caption: The Mackay Cutters enjoyed a successful weekend, securing dominant victories across all four matches in the Host Plus Cup (HPC) trial and Juniors Round 1, showcasing their talent and depth from juniors to seniors. Photo source: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)

Caption: Andrew Battaia, Head Coach of the Mal Meninga Cup and Head of Pathways

Caption: Adam Cuthbertson, 2025 Hostplus Cup Head Coach. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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