Five first-year players claimed top-four positions this week. Karen Cadwell secured first place on Wednesday, Annette Howe and Jewel Schmidt tied for second on Friday, with Sue Mayer-Miller taking fourth place the same day, and Christopher Meyers earning third place on Saturday. This is an amazing effort for these first-year players. Bridge is a complex, fun game and these new members have taken to the game like ducks to water. Our Australia Day Come and Try day, sponsored by Mackay Regional Council, includes morning tea and a sausage sizzle. Come and see what Bridge is all about, enjoy a meal and a friendly atmosphere for Australia Day.

Weekly Results
Monday 13 January 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janet Hansen / Terry Sheedy
1st
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

3rd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th
Ming Ting / David Ting
4th
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

Tuesday Evening 14 January 2025 –3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Janet Hansen
2nd
Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
4th
Sandra Morris / Geoff Taylor
Wednesday 15 January 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Karen Cadwell / Noel Saunders
1st
Barbara Tait / Janine Rodgers

2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

3rd
Sandra Morris / Jan Harris
3rd
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

4th
Ros Scott / Griffin Bancroft
4th
Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan

Thursday Evening 16 January 2025 –4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Patricia Garner / Mick King
3rd
Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
4th
Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger
Friday 17 January 2025 – 9 Tables Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
1st
Frances Brown / Alan Brown

2nd
Annette Howe / Jewel Scmidt
2nd
David Ting / Ming Ting

3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

4th
Sue Mayer-Miller / Noel Saunders
4th
Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill

Saturday 18 January 2025 –Section A – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2nd
Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

3rd
Geoff Taylor / Chris Meyers
3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

Saturday 11 January 2025 Section B - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

2nd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

3rd
Carmel Brown / Patrick Rasmussan
3rd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan

Contributed by Joy Block

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Karen Cadwell 
Annette Howe 
Jewel Schmidt. Photos supplied

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It sure was great to see so many men’s bowlers participate in the start of our 2025 club competition events. Over 50 players were present on Saturday, competing in the opening round of the Open Fours, with 36 vying for the right to progress to the second round of the Open Pairs on Sunday morning. A big thank you to all of the bowlers that took part and the Umpires that volunteered their time in assisting to make the weekend a smooth transition from our end of year break. Some close games with the results are listed below. A highlight of the Sunday morning bowls was Chris Banney and Les McDermott picking up the maximum 8 shots to put themselves back in the game and eventually go on to win it. 


Open Fours Results:

David Dowden, Ross Williams, Neil Blucher, and Peter Madden defeated John Chester-Master, Terry Willey, Bert Hobbs, and Ron Bowers 25/23.  

Jim Lette, Eric Galletly, Alan Dillon, and Terry Clark lost to Paul Golston, Alex Cameron, Ernie Sealy, and John Kennell 22/20.  

Ben Crocker, Ian Beveridge, Joe Crocker, and Col Crocker defeated Ian Gordon, Asko Helenius, Russell Fry, and Geoff Ollett 25/15.  

Gavin Hannah, Rob Evans, Ian Morris, and Ian Rowan lost to Tony Allsop, Peter Miller, Les McDermott, and Chris Banney 23/12.

Open Pairs Results:

Vic Gaudion and Ian Rowan narrowly lost to Les McDermott and Chris Banney 23/25.  

Rob Evans and Mick Mackenzie were defeated by Lance Edwards and Paul Golston 19/20.

John Chester-Master and Ron Bowers achieved a dominant victory over Bert Hobbs and Terry Clark 27/7.  

Steve Lane and Mick Walsh edged out Doug Dungavell and Peter Madden 21/20.  

David Dowden and Ross Williams lost to Ian Beveridge and Ian Morris 11/22.  

Steve Lancaster and Tony Bartholomew were beaten by Noel Brand and Joe Crocker 12/20.  

Shane Trannore and Wayne Trannore secured a strong win against Ben Crocker and Col Crocker 28/7.  

Peter Miller and Alan Cooney triumphed over Allan Leyson and Ray McCarthy 22/18.  

Gary Kennedy and Neil Blucher narrowly defeated Greg McLean and Geoff Ollett 19/18.

Social Bowls Results:

On Monday, John Kennell and Greg Pembroke, along with Brenda Trannore and Shane Trannore, claimed the winners' spots.  

The runners-up were Sue Hazeldine, Maryanne Bartoto, F Forsyth, and L Trott.  

Thursday’s winners were Chris Hall and C Woo, with Paul Goldston and Lance Edwards finishing as runners-up.  

On Friday, Chris Woo and Terry Clark emerged as winners, while the runners-up were M Walsh, N Blucher, and Wayne and Brenda Trannore.  

Saturday saw Peter Delaney and Mick Walsh secure the win, with Ken Martin and Tony Bartholomew finishing as runners-up.

Weekly Social Bowls Schedule:

Monday games begin at 8:30am with 2x4x2 Mixed Pairs.  
Wednesday features Ladies Bowls at 1:00pm.  
Thursday also starts at 1:00pm with 2x4x2 Mixed Pairs.  
On Friday, games commence at 1:30pm with 2x4x2 Mixed Pairs, and Saturday hosts Men’s Bowls at 1:00pm.

Club Competition - Saturday 25/01/25:

In the Open Fours competition, Steve Lancaster, Tony Bartholomew, Ken Rix, and Vern Mietzel will face Andrew Coates, Greg McLean, Clive Wales, and Mick Walsh.

In the Open Pairs, Gavin Hannah and Russell Fry will compete against Bob Hall and Alan Brown.  

Tony Allsop and Dave McKendry will play against Ernie Sealy and Alex Cameron.  

Jim Lette and Asko Helenius will take on Eric Galletly and John Kennell.

John Chester-Master will serve as umpire for the competition.

Contributed by Doug Giddings

Photos supplied

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The Mackay Road Runners’ informal off-season training series has been a resounding success. The addition of Shawn’s Summer Series Splash & Dash Biathlon has replaced the usual running-only program. This exciting new format has been a refreshing change, especially given the intense humidity at this time of year.  

Race Director, Club Captain, and Life Member Jim Ford has been the driving force behind the program for many years, alongside the regular Wednesday 5:30pm track training sessions, which he also oversees. All training sessions led by the highly experienced Jim are free, though the Aquatic & Recreational Complex charges a $4 facility entry fee.

The Shawn’s Summer Splash & Dash Biathlon wraps up next Sunday with the final event, including a presentation, random draw prizes, and the ever-popular icy Zooper Doopers. Everyone is welcome, even if you haven’t participated in previous events—no need to be a member, fast swimmer, or runner. It’s all about having fun, getting active, and enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded people.

Earlier this week, the Mackay Road Runners held their Annual General Meeting, electing Paul Tilse as the new President. A Life Member with over 35 years of involvement in the Club, Paul’s leadership will be greatly valued. A heartfelt thank you goes to outgoing 2024 President Brendan Bishop for his incredible dedication, hard work, and signature dad jokes. Brendan is stepping down due to personal commitments but will continue supporting the Club alongside former 12-year President and current Treasurer Tim Magoffin.  

The club extends another big thank you to all the volunteers and committee members who make the Club such a fantastic community.  

Road Runners Committee  
President: Paul Tilse
Vice Pres:  Len Howarth
Secretary: Julie Whibley
Treasurer: Tim Magoffin
Registrar: Tracey Dean
Handicapper/ Results: Paul Tilse
Equipment Co-ordinator: Andrew Short
Merchandise: Jo Hughes
Club Captain: Jim Ford
Publicity:   Janelle Tilse
Timekeeping/race directing duties to be confirmed.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Mackay Road Runners Life Member, Judy Zahn and Stephen Hayles ready to run the track portion of Mackay Road Runners Shawn’s Splash & Dash Biathlon
A strong contingent of TriActiv8 members enjoy the Mackay Road Runners off season Biathlon series.
Mackay Road Runners Club Captain and Race Director, Jim Ford of the Shawn’s Splash & Dash Biathlon Series gets in a few laps. Photos supplied

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In late 2022, the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club formed a Lifeblood team in partnership with the Red Cross donor centre. Community involvement is a key focus of the club, and the Lifeblood Team was seen as a perfect fit alongside other initiatives. Starting with 15 members in 2022, the team had grown to 25 participants by 2025, with a mix of long-term donors and newcomers.  
 
After refining their approach in 2024, the Sinkers achieved a personal best with 98 donations, helping to save 294 lives in need of blood products. This accomplishment placed the club among the top donor groups in Mackay. State-wide, the club ranked 2nd in Queensland out of 81 clubs in the 1–99-member category, and nationally, they secured the #6 spot out of 239 clubs in the same category.  
 
The Sinkers are proud of their members' ongoing commitment to this vital cause, as donating blood or plasma requires time and dedication.  
 
A Lifeblood Team allows friends, colleagues, teammates, and communities to unite and give blood. Nothing beats the feeling of saving lives together, whether you’re part of a large organisation, small business, university, sports club, social club, or simply a group of friends.  
 
Want to know more? Call 13 14 95 to speak with the friendly Red Cross staff.  

And, of course, the Sinkers love to swim! Their fun short course event will take place on Saturday, February 22, and is open to all swimmers 18 years and over.  

For further information, visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers  
 
Contributed by Dan Stampa

Megan Taylor (Club Secretary) has recommenced valuable donations after a long break

Rachel Mundy (Club President) has also joined the team to help out

(L-R) Megan, Mary and Rachel. Mary has been a volunteer at the red cross blood service for over 30 years and is happy to share the history of the service in Mackay. Photos supplied

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Next weekend, the 10th annual Whitsunday Sports Expo will transform the Whitsunday Sportspark, adjacent to the PCYC and new Club Whitsunday, into a vibrant activity hub, bringing together sports enthusiasts of all kinds. Attendees will have the chance to ‘come and try’ a number of activities and sign up for exciting seasons ahead.
This year's Expo is particularly special, marking its 10th anniversary and coinciding with the grand opening of the brand-new Club Whitsundays, which is set to become the premier social hub for local sports.
Unlike previous years, when the event was held inside the PCYC with static stalls, this year's Expo will take place outdoors on the fields, giving you the unique opportunity to try out your favourite sports in a dynamic, hands-on environment.
This year the Expo will be taking place from 3pm and will culminate in the grand opening of the brand-new netball courts by the Queensland Firebirds at 4:45pm.
Tim Oberg, president of the Sports Expo, explained his excitement for the changes made to the event:
“It is very different to last year, lots of changes, however, we are hopeful that the community will embrace it.
“The theme is much more around come try, it is to give everyone the opportunity to come and experience a sport, as well as discover new things they might love.”
The Expo welcomes all local sporting and activity providers, offering a diverse range of sports and activities available to try. From Ultimate Disc Frisbee and horse riding to soccer, basketball, football, and more, there will be something for everyone to discover and try.
What: Whitsunday Sports Expo
Where: Whitsunday Sportspark near PCYC and Club Whitsunday
When: 1st February 2025 from 3pm

Come try a sport at the Expo

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Sport isn’t just about staying fit; it’s also a fantastic way to meet new people and expand your social circle. By attending the Whitsunday Sports Expo, you’ll have the chance to discover a wide range of sports and connect with others who share your interests.
Whether joining a team or simply attending to explore, you’re bound to meet like-minded individuals and form new friendships. The Expo offers a perfect opportunity to find a sport or activity that suits your interests and connect with people you may not meet otherwise.
A great example of this community-building is Outrigger Whitsunday, an outrigger canoe paddling club that has created a vibrant social hub. Michelle Lynes, Secretary of Outrigger Whitsunday, shared how it has become a meeting point for individuals, particularly those aged 50 and over, looking for fitness and friendship.
"Outrigger Whitsunday continues to foster a strong sense of community through its shared passion for the ocean and sport.
“The club has created an environment where social connections thrive. Members enjoy the sport's physical benefits and build lasting relationships, making it an ideal space for personal growth and camaraderie.”
No matter your age, background, or skill level, there’s a sport for everyone. Who knows? Your next best friend might just be at the Sports Expo.

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Outrigger Whitsunday, one of the many clubs you can join on the day

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The Airlie Beach Bowls Club is currently awaiting the installation of a new roof, which has led to a decrease in participation from many of the members due to the extreme heat. As a result, the weekly schedule has been lighter than usual, and Wednesday night Business House bowls has been postponed until the students return to school.

On Tuesday morning, 10 players participated in bowls, with the team of Joan McGrath, skip, and Kath Remmeswaal, lead, emerging victorious over the team of Tony Whitehorn, skip, and Dawn Dowell, winning 20-14.

Wednesday afternoon’s Jackpot bowls saw 18 players take to the green. The team of Margo Stanley, skip, with Bruce Uhe, lead, and Arthur McManus, second, were the day’s big winners. However, the Jackpot prize was not claimed.

Saturday morning Scroungers saw first-time participants Arthur McManus, Margo Stanley, and John Askew all required to clear minus 5 points before scoring could begin. Arthur McManus claimed the A Grade win, while Tony Whitehorn took the B Grade title for the second week in a row, defeating Kath Remmeswaal, who has been impressively improving each week.

On Sunday afternoon, 10 bowlers participated in Social Bowls, with Alan Pershouse, lead, and John Trembath, skip, showing excellent form to become the day's biggest winners.

The club would also like to acknowledge the extraordinary contributions of Margo Stanley, who has been an integral part of the Airlie Beach Bowls Club since 2002. Originally from Melbourne, Margo’s extensive experience in the sport, as well as her achievements as a player, coach, and volunteer, make her irreplaceable. Notably, Margo has been the Ladies President multiple times and has won numerous club championships, including the Ladies Open Championship in 2002, 2004, 2006, 2009, and 2017. She has also represented the club in Open, Pairs, Triples, and Fours competitions.

In addition to her competitive success, Margo has served as the club’s coach and has been instrumental in teaching new bowlers from local schools, including St Catherine’s, Proserpine State High School, Christian College Cannonvale, and Cannonvale State School. Her dedication and passion for the sport have been invaluable to the club and the community.

Margo’s contributions make her a true asset to the Airlie Beach Bowls Club, and she is proudly featured in this week’s photo.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Get ready for an exciting year of track and field action across North Queensland in 2025! From February to October, athletes of all ages and abilities will have the chance to compete in a variety of exciting meets.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the upcoming events:
February:
   • North Star Summer Series Meet 1 – 1 February, Townsville (State Permit Meet)

March:
   • North Star Summer Series Meet 2 – 1 March, Townsville (State Permit Meet)

May:
   • Mackay Track & Field Carnival – 3 – 4 May, Mackay
   • Mulgrave Relay Day – 18 May, Gordonvale
   • Great Barrier Reef Masters Games – 30 May to 1 June, Cairns
   • Cairns Twilight Carnival – 30 May, Cairns

June:
   • Outback Pentathlon – 14 June, Normanton
   • Central Queensland Track & Field Carnival – 28 – 29 June, Rockhampton

July:
   • Festival of Athletics – 5 – 6 July, Townsville (National Permit Meet)
   • The Challenge Games – 23 – 24 July, Townsville
   • Coral Coast Carnival – 26 – 27 July, Cairns

August:
   • Tablelands Pentathlon – 10 August, Tolga
   • Outback Sunset Carnival – 23 – 24 August, Longreach
   • Bowen Track & Field Carnival – 30 – 31 August, Bowen

September:
   • Douglas Rainforest Rush – 7 September, Mossman
   • North Queensland Championships – 26 – 28 September, Townsville (National Permit Meet)

October:
   • QRSS Track & Field Championships – 13 – 19 October, Townsville

These events provide excellent opportunities for athletes to qualify for state and national competitions, including national permit meets such as the Festival of Athletics and North Queensland Championships. Make sure to mark your calendars and get ready to compete in 2025!

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Young NQ athletes are gearing up for the busy year ahead!

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The Queensland Kids Fishing Classic (QKFC) is back this January, running from the 11th to the 27th, and it’s the perfect opportunity for young anglers to get outdoors, enjoy some fishing, and compete for over $6,000 in prizes! The competition is open to kids across Queensland, with three age groups: 3-7 years, 8-12 years, and 13-17 years.

This is a kids-only competition where participants can fish anywhere that is legal (excluding offshore areas). With 12 species categories, there’s something for everyone - whether you're fishing in rivers, lakes, or the coast. Plus, even if you don’t catch a fish, you can still win as the major prize, a kayak, is awarded through a random draw, so everyone has a chance to win!

In addition to the fishing categories, there’s also a special prize for collecting rubbish while fishing, encouraging kids to keep our waterways clean. Over the holidays, young anglers helped remove more than 240 invasive species like carp and tilapia, showing the positive impact they can have on the environment.

The competition is easy to enter through the 2 Bent Rods app, where kids and parents can upload their catches, track progress, and view leaderboards. Stay up to date by joining the Qld Kids Fishing Classic Facebook group.

Don’t miss out - download the app today and join the fun this January!

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Jayden Brown from Bundaberg reeled in a Flathead!

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n February, the Queensland Firebirds will be hitting the road once again as part of a spectacular Regional Tour to deliver comprehensive netball clinics across five locations in the Burdekin, Laidley, Murwillumbah, Townsville and the Whitsundays!

On Saturday the 1st of February, the Queensland Firebirds will host a clinic at Jubilee Pocket’s Whitsunday Netball Association from 5pm to 6:30pm. Children aged 6 to 17 are invited to participate in the clinic with the hour-long session set to focus on improving passing, defence, agility and shooting skills. After the clinic concludes, attendees will have the opportunity to meet the players for photos and autographs.

As well as the clinic, little ones aged 3 to 4 are also allowed to come along for a free Little Nettys come and try session on the same day!

Registrations are essential and clinics are priced at $45 per person. Visit https://firebirds.net.au/regional-tours for registrations and more information.

What: Queensland Firebirds Regional Tour
When: Saturday the 1st of February 5pm to 6:30pm
Where: Whitsunday Netball Association
More Information: https://firebirds.net.au/regional-tours

The Queensland Firebirds will fly into the Whitsundays this February

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Is golf your go-to activity, and you're looking for a place to play this Australia Day? Then the Proserpine Golf Club has some great news for you! Polish off your clubs and head over to the greens with your best mate for an 18-hole scramble.

Proserpine Golf Club is hosting a 2-ball Ambrose competition this 26th. Be ready for the Shotgun Start at 9am where yours and the other teams all tee-off at the same time, and then follows the scramble as you and your partner work together taking turns to get the best score for each hole. Once you worked up an appetite, head back to the club house where a barbeque lunch will be waiting for you.

If you require a cart, please know that bookings are essential and carts are limited. Otherwise, you’ll have to be your own caddy and get those steps in. If you’re already a member of the Proserpine Golf Club, the event is discounted! Don’t be stuck in the bunker this Australia Day, it’s going to be a great day for golf, mate-ship, fun and food. Make sure to book your spot today by calling: 07 4945 1337

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WHAT: Australia Day Golf - 2 Ball Ambrose
WHEN: January 26th, 9am Tee-Off.
WHERE: Proserpine Golf Club
COST: $30 Members / $45 Non-Members

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The Cannonvale Cannons had a busy week in and out of the pool, kicking off with 23 swimmers competing in the Burdekin Sprint LC Transition Meet on the weekend. Despite the sweltering conditions, the team delivered impressive performances, with standout personal bests (PBs) achieved by Roxanne Groom, Gracie Laguna, Pippa Laguna, Ruby Lawson, and Sophie Palmero. A special congratulations went to Nelson Malady and Levi Smith, who triumphed in their Dash for Cash events, each earning a well-deserved $100 prize.

Midweek, the excitement continued with an action-packed club night attended by 50 swimmers. Upgrade certificates were awarded to Ella Haddock, Zane Clayworth, Indigo Harland, Reid Springbett, Mackenzie Bennett, Gracie Laguna, Evie Doherty, and Indiana De-Lisle. The evening also celebrated new club records achieved by Eloise Chegwidden, Harry Chegwidden, and Jacob Bell.

Jacob Bell, who set an incredible three records in the 18 years and over category, will soon be leaving the club to begin university in Townsville. Jacob has been a role model for many of our junior swimmers, and his presence will be greatly missed. He has been a proud Cannon for 12 years!

Notable PBs on the night were achieved by Zane Clayworth, Jax Eaves, Liam Filewood, Lucas Korosec, Gracie Laguna, Sophie Palmero, Isabella Pisaniello, and Lennon Wild. Congratulations to all swimmers for their hard work and dedication!

Looking ahead, the Cannonvale Cannons are gearing up to host their annual Summer Carnival this weekend, welcoming 195 swimmers from across North Queensland. We wish all competitors the best of luck - swim fast, have fun, and enjoy the spirit of competition!

The Cannonvale Cannons continue to demonstrate their strength, sportsmanship, and passion for the sport, making their community proud.

Contributed with thanks to Cannonvale Cannons Vice President, Jade Korosec.

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Cannons ready to race at the Burdekin Sprints
Coach Mark Erickson on pool deck at Burdekin Sprints for warm ups
Congratulations to Mackenzie Bennett of receiving two upgrades at Club Night
Nelson Malady and Levi Smith won their Dash for Cash events at Burdekin

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After a well-deserved break over the festive season, the Wangaratta Bowls Club returned to action on Sunday, with members eager to get back on the green. Despite the ongoing hot weather, the day was made all the more enjoyable by a refreshing sea breeze that lingered throughout the afternoon, providing some relief and a pleasant atmosphere for play.
Two triples games and one pairs match were contested on the day. On Rink 5, the pairs competition saw Jocelyn De Franciscis and Alby Vigar emerge victorious, overcoming the team of Lindy Suann and Laurie Land in a closely fought contest. In the triples games, Teresa Willshire, Graeme Read, and Allan Rolfe narrowly defeated Jim Quod, Gavin Charles, and Fely Duncan. Meanwhile, Robyn Stitt, Penny Warren, and Pat Tracey secured a win over Irene Laird, Isobel Wheeler, and Mark Drummond. Unfortunately, the jackpot prize was not won on this occasion.
The new Mixed Competition got off to a competitive start, with the first-round Mixed Pairs match seeing Penny Warren and Allan Rolfe triumph over Herb Dalton and Tiarna Winter. More games in this exciting new competition will be played throughout the week.
For those interested in social play, bowls are scheduled every Tuesday and Sunday afternoon. Players are asked to have their names in by 12:30 pm for a 1:00 pm start. All are welcome, and the club looks forward to seeing many familiar and new faces on the green!
                                                                                                                     
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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With the largest team of 11 to attend this tough qualifying meet, Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier was already very proud of her young prodigies. The week is huge, with early mornings and late-night finals. Being present for the week in its entirety is the absolute challenge; nutrition, sleep, illness—everything can enter the domain the week of or prior, and nothing can be left for granted. How we all roll through it and prepare for each race is a process, as any athlete will vouch, and our entire team handled it all with perfection.

When coaches you have the utmost respect for come up to you and congratulate you on your swimmers, and parents pass by acknowledging your team and team culture, well, that's about as good as it gets. Then, you witness your athletes achieving their goals, mixing with visiting teams, exchanging caps, and making lifelong friends—well, that is emotional. I was absolutely so very proud of everyone's results. There is a lot of work required and many not-so-fun things that can hinder the week, as I said above, but can I please highlight our debutants, Dakota Daniel and Tamika Ness, both 12, who knocked it out of the ballpark, to say the least.

Normally, it can become a bit of a "deer in the headlights" scenario for the first-timers, but not this crew—they were switched on and ready to go! Dakota Daniel, 12, competed in nine events, kicking off her week with a bronze medal representing Swimming North Qld in the relay with other Cyclone swimmers also competing on relay day. From then on, it was just pure grit and fight in every race by this young lady as we went into individual events. Not only did Dakota smash her PBs, but she earned herself three silver medals, one bronze, two additional finals, and four more national qualifying swims to add to her debut of six individual events to compete in her very first Australian Age Championships in April this year. A massive effort and achievement, with qualifying times in the 100, 200, and 400 Freestyle, as well as the 200 and 400 Individual Medley.

Our other first-timer at this meet was Tamika Ness, also 12, who swam 11 events, smashing 10 out of 11 PBs and charging into two finals, placing 5th in QLD for the 50 Breaststroke and 7th in the 100 Breaststroke. Tamika also achieved a national QT but is still too young to attend, as her birthday falls outside of the cut-off.

Other results saw Maverick Curtis, 13, pop his head in for a first-time swim, narrowly missing out on others, with a 50 Free and a PB, along with the experience of a lifetime and a grin from ear to ear. Ava Kearns, 14, swam seven events, again achieving PBs for six and securing three national qualifying times for her 100 Fly, 50 Back, and 50 Free, taking her to four events for Nationals 2025.

Vaughn Wyatt, 16, swam a great heat, earning a spot in the final and coming 10th in QLD for his 200 Breaststroke. Ehsan Helou, also 16, made the final in his pet event, the 50 Breaststroke, earning himself 5th spot in QLD and again coming close to adding more to his national events. Ehsan has also qualified for the Australian Opens for his 50 Breaststroke.

Our 200 Breaststroke girls, Audrey Bryan, 15, and Ariah Corrigan, 13, both swam their races beautifully, with PBs and enjoying the process of how to race it. Lastly, Anisa Helou, 15, smashed out her races with some PBs and edged very close to achieving more national qualifying times for herself, along with Jarek Taylor and Zanthia Noon, 17, continuing their work in achieving their goals.

What's next? A massive four months with many carnivals, another state sprint meet, school competitions, and Australian Age and Open Championships. Then we can all have a break.

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Photos supplied

Contributed by Alisha Ness – Mackay Cyclones Club Member

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The Mackay Meteorettes have achieved the ultimate success in junior basketball, claiming the Under-18 Girls State Championship at the 2025 Basketball Queensland Club State Championship.

After five days of intense competition, the tournament concluded at Carrara Stadium on the Gold Coast, with the Meteorettes emerging as champions in a thrilling final.

A standout moment came in the opening quarter, an area the Meteorettes had traditionally struggled with. However, this time, they came out strong and set the tone early. Head Coach Ross Jensen attributed their fantastic start to a combination of “focus and good luck.”

The girls executed their game plan with precision and energy, which helped them build momentum throughout the match.

Another major highlight of the game was Cheyenne Bobongie's performance, who was named the Grand Final MVP after an outstanding 23-point effort. Bobongie’s contributions were not limited to scoring; she also excelled in rebounding and defence, playing a vital role on both ends of the floor.

Coach Jensen was full of praise for her and her efforts in the game.

“She was determined and did some big shots! She also put a lot into rebounding and defending,” he continued, emphasising how Bobongie’s all-around effort was crucial to the team's success.

While Bobongie’s individual brilliance shone through, Coach Jensen was quick to highlight the collective effort of the entire team.

“It was a team effort,” he said.

“Any given day someone stands out, we had multiple stars. Isabelle Smith was another stand-out this time around.” He further explained, “But someone always stood out to make a play or do a big play.”

The depth and balance of the team were evident throughout the game, as each player contributed in significant ways.

Looking ahead, Coach Jensen is confident that some of the girls from this talented U18 squad will make their mark in the NBL1 in the future.

“I expect that some of them will be part of the NBL1, whether that’s through being on the squad or through training,” he shared.

The Meteorettes’ final victory was an impressive 72-50 win against Logan, capping off a remarkable week of basketball. Their strong team play and determination were on full display as they secured the championship with a well-rounded, dominant performance.

Congratulations to the entire team for their exceptional effort, including Cheyenne Bobongie, Emmerson Kenny, Ally Simpson, Amelia Crouch, Isabelle Smith, Eden Catip, Lily Mapp, Maggie Thorburn, Cobi Meredith, Tahlia Jensen, and Skye Vaughan.

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A fantastic win for the Meteorettes
A team effort from the girls
Cheyenne Bobongie was named the Grand Final MVP. Photos supplied: Mackay Basketball

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