Due to recent excessive rain, the Central QLD Blokart Club has announced the postponement of the "Come and Try" days. The heavy rain has caused water to leach from the sand dunes behind the beach, creating a "sand trap" that bogs down the Blokarts. As the water can take a couple of weeks to disperse after a rain event, the decision has been made to reschedule the event.

The Central QLD Blokart Club sincerely apologises for any inconvenience, stating, "We at Central QLD Blokart Club apologise…but Mother Nature has the last say.”

Those eager to “Come and Try” can join in on the fun in March.

The club is currently preparing for the Capricornia Blokart Club’s event at Mulambin Beach from February 21st to 23rd.

Rescheduled Dates:
8th March - Cape Hillsborough Beach from 11:00am
9th March - Bucasia Beach (Starboard Circuit entrance) from 1:00pm (weather permitting)

‍

Last Saturday, Rugby Park in Rockhampton hosted a thrilling junior rugby trial featuring the Mackay Cutters junior squads competing against the CQ Capras. The event highlighted up-and-coming talent across four key teams: the Mal Meninga Cup, Cyril Connell Cup, and Harvey Norman U19s.

With teams eager to make their mark, the day provided an exciting glimpse into the future of rugby league in the region.

Before the game kicked off, enthusiasm and optimism were abundant. Marco Peters, Head of Women’s Pathways and BMD Head Coach, expressed excitement for the event, particularly regarding the progress within the women’s squads. He noted that changes in the 17s program had brought in new coaching leadership, adding to the overall excitement.

Peters highlighted the team’s progress, especially with the 17s, who had transitioned from an academy program last year to now entering a crucial preseason phase.

"They’re all just excited…to play a bit of footy," he enthused.

With nearly half of the 30-strong squad being promoted from junior ranks, the focus was on competing with and without the ball, with skills set to develop as the season progressed.

The opportunity for team bonding during the road trip was also noted as key to their growth.

Andrew Battaia, Head Coach of the Mal Meninga Cup and Head of Pathways, shared his thoughts on the preparations leading up to the trial. He expressed satisfaction with the squad's progress, having managed to train through a mix of dry weather and rain, working on team shapes and structures.

"Both sides are looking pretty good," Battaia commented, referring to the 17s and 19s squads.

With the inclusion of Cowboys-allocated players, Battaia was confident in the strength of his squad and made special mention of the hooker of the team, whom he described as a work-horse on the field.

While the weather posed challenges, with conditions shifting from overcast skies to wet and slushy field conditions, both teams adapted and played on.

"The weather definitely affected us," Battaia noted.

However, the teams did well to adjust to the wet footy conditions, something Battaia stressed as an important lesson.

"Defence has been a real focus for us."

The Junior Trial Day saw mixed results across the squads, with some strong performances despite the weather conditions. In the Mal Meninga Cup, Mackay secured a solid 24-16 win, showcasing promising individual performances.

"The 17 boys had a really good win, a lot of really good individual performances," said Battaia post-game.

In the Cyril Connell Cup, the Cutters also came out on top with a 20-8 victory, reflecting the depth of talent coming through the ranks.

In the women’s Harvey Norman U19s, the game ended in a 4-4 draw, a hard-fought battle in challenging conditions. Battaia reflected positively on the performance, remarking that while the 17 girls suffered an 18-0 loss, they had “probably blown a few of the cobwebs out,” marking it as a learning opportunity.

Looking ahead, he emphasised the importance of continued focus on defence, structures, and adjusting to the conditions, as the teams gear up for a great season ahead.

Final Results From The Junior Trial Day:
Mal Meninga Cup: 16-24 (win)
Cyril Connell Cup: 8-20 (win)
Harvey Norman U19’s: 4-4 (draw)
Harvey Norman U17’s: 18-0 (loss)

‍

Head Coach of the Mal Meninga Cup and Head of Pathways Andrew Battaia and Head of Women’s Pathways and BMD Head Coach Marco Peters praised the effort across all teams, highlighting strong individual performances, key learnings, and the importance of adapting to tough conditions.

Head Coach of the Mal Meninga Cup and Head of Pathways Andrew Battaia

Head of Women’s Pathways and BMD Head Coach Marco Peters. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

With the Sinkers Masters Swimming Club in full swing for 2025, members are swimming in numbers in preparation for upcoming events. The long weekend provided plenty of opportunities for members to engage in club activities and broader community events.

Friday 24th marked the first club night with 17 attendees, learning the finer skills of race starts, turns, and finishes. Members were offered 2 x 25m, 1 x 50m, and a single 100m event to test their skills and fitness. Many learned that to race fast, the same intensity must be applied to training sessions to build the fitness for a race environment, regardless of the level of performance.

Saturday 25th was a super Saturday, with members attending Memorial Pool to participate in the E1000 program, a series of 62 swims in a calendar year. The Saturday choice was a 30-minute freestyle swim to earn points and move into contention for the State and National E1000 trophies.

Additionally, club executives had out-of-water activities to attend at the MRC Australia Day awards, where the club was nominated in the Community Group category. The club was recognised and awarded the category based on its community involvement and initiatives. Members were honoured to be considered, and it reflected well on the club’s efforts.

On Sunday 26th, Australia Day, the Mackay Tri Club held an aquathlon at Pioneer Pool and Goose Ponds Track. Members participated in the run-swim formula, securing podium places in a number of events, and enjoyed the most Aussie of all traditions – a snag on bread with sauce and onions, of course!

For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

Friday night Club night, timing of events provides a great base to build on. The 25m event is always fast and furious.
The ever-popular Social Saturday Jim Session drew some 30 swimmers with many swimming the E1000 30-minute event.
Club executive and members with the Community Group Award from the MRC Australia Day awards.
Back row L – R: Megan Taylor, Geoff Robinson, Rachel Mundy, Alison Dravitzki, Millie Volpe and Sue Dalton
Front row L – R:  Pierre Craven, Dan Stampa and Nigel Dalton. Photos supplied‍

The Mackay Triathlon Club hosted a great Australia day event with a sponsored aquathlon. The Sinkers not known for their running prowess managed to place well!

Submitted by
Dan Stampa
Vice President
North Mackay Sinkers
Masters Swimming Club
0413 805 156
26.01.2025

‍

A strongly-contested doubles tournament hit off the 2025 year for Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning players.

Winners were George Camilleri in Division 1 with 153 points and John Hamelink in Division 2 with 152 points.

It’s an unusual competition in which players rotate partners and play first to 31 while keeping track of their total scores.

The morning finished with presentations by fixtures organiser Steve Mathieson to winning team members from the last season of 2024 along with other awards.

Division 1 went to the Nano Nets team of Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Veronica Shepherd and Peter Goodson, and Division 2 to Sydney Slammers (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller and Darryl Ross).

Don Boettcher was presented with medals from the Mackay Closed in which he was division 2 singles runner-up and division 2 doubles winner.

A new season of Tuesday morning fixtures has started. The fixtures are open to players of all standards and ages. Call Steve on 0418 700 236 for more information.

Tuesday morning fixtures doubles tournament winners George Camilleri and John Hamelink with organiser Steve Mathieson. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

‍

The Bruce Highway is no stranger to headlines, often making news for its much-needed upgrades. But this week, it’s in the spotlight for a very different reason.
While not typically known as a prime fishing destination in the Whitsundays, the highway unexpectedly became a hotspot for local angler Kent Rasmussen. Amid the recent floods, Kent saw an opportunity he couldn’t resist, making light of the situation as he cast his line.
Although the highway is prone to flooding during the wet season, Kent, who has been fishing in these waters since he was nine, is no stranger to the changes in the landscape. On this particular outing, he managed to hook a remarkable catch—a Barramundi weighing around 10kg, in floodwaters that were barely a metre deep.
Kent, along with his friends, regularly reels in Barramundi and carp in the area, but the size of this particular fish was a pleasant surprise.

“I was surprised I caught one that big!” Kent stated.
‍
Throughout the day, every cast seemed to bring in a fish around 60cm in length, making for an exceptionally productive outing. Despite the impressive catch, Kent decided to release the Barramundi back into the water, choosing conservation over keeping it.
Community members quickly took to Facebook to celebrate Kent Rasmussen's victory:
“Great Fish!” exclaimed Stuart Jenkin.
“Now that's fishing!” added Joanne Amor.
However, many others voiced concerns, with some mentioning the possibility of crocodiles lurking in the area, urging Kent to stay safe while fishing there.
Kent’s impressive fishing success is certainly a highlight, but the recent flooding raises important questions about its potential impact on the region's wildlife.
While Kent's rare catch is impressive, it also highlights how floodwaters can significantly disrupt fish populations. The altered environments can affect habitats, reduce oxygen levels, and change food availability due to increased organic matter. On the flip side, floods can also offer short-term benefits for some fish species. They may introduce new food sources or even serve as temporary nursery grounds for young fish, depending on the flood's severity and the species in question.
‍

Kent Rasmussen with the 10kg Barra he caught in the highway floods. Photo sourced: Facebook

‍

Bowen Polocrosse Club is celebrating its 36th year and is always excited to welcome new players of all ages. Whether you’re a first-time rider, an experienced equestrian, or someone returning to the sport, they’re here to help you have a great time on the field at their Fun Day on March 1st.
Polocrosse – the thrilling Aussie sport that combines the best of polo, lacrosse, and netball. Played on horseback by both men and women, this outdoor team sport is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure that brings together skill, speed, and strategy.
In polocrosse, each player uses a unique cane stick, designed with a net head to catch, carry, and pass a thick, rubber ball. The ball itself is around the size of a softball and can be bounced, picked up off the ground, and tossed towards the goal.
What makes polocrosse stand out even more is how it’s a family-oriented sport. The game’s inclusive nature means families can play together, in fact, it’s not uncommon to see players in their 60’s and 70’s out on the field versing their grandchildren, making polocrosse a lifelong passion for all ages.
Want to give it a go? Join the Bowen Polocrosse Club for Fun Day on 1st March! Whatever your horse-riding skill level, or just curious about this thrilling sport, this is your chance to come and try polocrosse. Expect fun games and prizes, sausage sizzle lunch, free camping and amenities, barrels, bending, and more – with a Polo-X Twist!
Remember to bring your own horse, helmets and appropriate riding gear. For more information, email bowenpolox@outlook.com or call Jess Russell at 0429 181 002.
‍

WHAT: Bowen Polocrosse Club Fun Day
WHEN: March 1st, from 9am
WHERE: Bowen Polocrosse Grounds, Woodlands Road

‍

Come try out polocrosse this March 1st! Photos Supplied: Ellisa Hunter

‍

Ryan Donnelly, a fourth-generation wood chopper, is carving his name into the annals of Australia's wood chopping history. As a proud representative of Queensland’s Under 21’s team at the prestigious Royal Sydney Show in 2025, Ryan's 2024 season has been nothing short of a triumph in the competitive world of wood chopping. Starting at the Biloela Callide Valley in May, Ryan's journey took him to events across Queensland, from Pioneer Valley to Mackay, and all the way up to Cairns.
The Donnelly family's deep connection to the sport goes back decades, with Ryan’s father, Graeme, reintegrating himself into the sport to pass on his knowledge and expertise to his son, who began wood chopping in 2018. Ryan’s rise within the sport is a testament to both his natural talent and the unwavering support from his father, who also serves as his coach and mentor, along with his colleagues, friends and teammates in the Queensland Axemen’s Association.
The Association, along with the newly established Mackay and District Wood Chopping Association (MAD), have been instrumental in fostering local talent like Ryan. MAD, formed in 2022, was created with the mission of giving both children and adults the chance to train locally and remain connected to the sport, especially when it comes to entering shows.
Ryan’s accomplishments in 2024 alone are nothing short of impressive. At the Mackay Show, he won the Gordon Argent Memorial 12-inch Standing Block title for the second time since 2022, adding to his B Grade Championship win in the 280mm Standing Block. He also triumphed in the 280mm Combo Relay, where his father chopped the Standing Block, and Ryan teamed up for the Underhanded chop. His third-place finish in the Parent/Child Relay Underhand Chop was yet another nod to the strong family ties that fuel his passion for the sport.
At the Proserpine Show, Ryan’s dominance continued as he scooped up the Points Trophy, which came with a Husqvarna chainsaw prize, thanks to the sponsorship from Proserpine Machinery Service. He took home first-place finishes in the Darren Johnston Memorial 250mm Standing Block, Tree Felling, and 280mm Underhand events. In a remarkable achievement for any competitor, he also came first in the 300mm Underhand competition.
Ryan’s skills weren’t just confined to his home region with great success at the Cairns Show, where he won the coveted Harry Hooper Memorial Trophy for Highest Points. A win in the 12-inch Standing Block, 12-inch Underhand, and 10-inch Standing Block events solidified his top wood-chopping reputation.
For his mum, Judi Worrall, seeing her son achieve these successes fills her with joy. “I am incredibly proud of my son’s achievements,” she says. “Ryan learns so much from other competitors on the circuit and makes long-lasting friendships.”

As Ryan heads into the 2025 season, all eyes will be on him at the Royal Sydney Show, where he will represent Queensland’s Under 21’s team. The future looks bright for this young athlete, whose love for the sport continues to drive him toward new challenges. Wood chopping has long been a sport that celebrates tradition, strength, and camaraderie, and with rising stars like Ryan Donnelly, its future is in very capable hands.

‍

Contributed with thanks by Judi Worrall
Ryan and the Queensland Axemen’s Association. Photo Supplied: Judi Worrall
Ryan competing in the Cairn’s Show. Photo Supplied: Judi Worrall
Ryan competing in the Tree Felling Competition. Photo Supplied: Judi Worrall

‍

Whilst we all yearn for the overhead cover to be completed on our bowls green, we lament on the damage done caused by firstly the heat associated with North Queensland weather and now the cyclonic conditions have saturated the carpet and no play was possible this week and with fingers crossed we are all praying that the system dissipates as soon as possible and all stay safe.

With no games to report on, the club wants to acknowledge the fantastic assistance and proof that anything is possible, no matter the to attain success. This applies to a wonderful couple, married of 27 years, Russel and Diane Jackson who are absolute superstars providing us all with inspiration.

Russell has never let his deafness be a disability and has achieved wonderful success in disability games, winning Deaf Bowler for Queensland in 1923 and 1924, as well as pairs success with Noel Crosbie. Russell has won the 2021 Men's A Division Singles, the 2019/2020 B Division Pairs, and the 2019 Open Men's Triples. From 2018 to 2024, he was part of the Men's Open 2-Bowl Triples team, a fantastic feat. He was also the 2019 to 2021 Men's Open Fours champion and the 2019 Mixed Triples champion.
Diane Jackson is the Ladies Secretary of our club, and although she suffers from hereditary Spastic Paraplegia, a very rare condition that caused her medical discharge after 27 years in the RAAF, she has excelled. She progressed from Supply Clerk to Health and Safety Chemical Projects Manager and performed admirably in the Armed Forces Olympic Games, winning 2 Gold Medals in 2024. Di has also won the 2018 Novice Ladies Singles Championship and the 2023 B Division Pairs Championship. She is truly a legend in our club.

‍

Di Jackson and her winning medals. Photo and Story Supplied by Mark Mawson

‍

Cannonvale Cannons swimmer Jacob Bell has made a memorable departure from the club, setting an astonishing 12 club records in the 18 & Over category at the recent carnival. As he prepares to leave for university, his achievements serve as a fitting farewell to over 12 years of dedication to the Cannons.

Jacob’s leadership and commitment to training have set a high standard for younger swimmers. His disciplined approach and passion for open-water swimming have been an inspiration to his teammates. As he now heads to James Cook University to study Occupational Therapy, his presence in the squad will be greatly missed and the club wish him all the best in his next chapter.
Club Night on Wednesday also saw a wave of upgrades awarded to 15 swimmers following their outstanding carnival performances. Congratulations to Jax and Miller Eaves, Gracie Crichton, Ella Chammaa, Faithlyn Trotter, Declan and Maeve Dichiera, Koa Harland, Evie Doherty, Roxy Groom, Pippa Laguna, Billie Jamieson, Miranda Palmero, Levi Smith, Ella Maddock, and Harris Delac.
A special mention goes to Harris Delac, who secured an impressive upgrade to the 800m Freestyle. This came after his phenomenal 400m swim at the carnival, clocking 5:35.10. Harris’ freestyle talents have been on full display, as he also shattered his 200m Freestyle time at last week’s Club Night with a huge 11.45-second personal best, touching the wall in 2:40.47. His performance earned him not only the Coaches Award but also the coveted Chocolate Award.
Other club members who set records at the carnival included Levi Smith, Lucas Korosec, Jax Clayworth, Harry Chegwidden, Eloise Chegwidden, and Tora Delac.

In competition news, the Townsville Tourist Carnival was cancelled due to the recent weather events. The Cannons now turn their focus to the Queensland Sprint Championships next weekend, where they aim to continue their strong performances.

Contributed with thanks by Jade Korosec.

‍
Jacob Bell receiving his 12 club records from Coach Mark Erickson who still upholds the 18yrs and over 100m Freestyle record from 2000.

‍

The weather has caused significant disruption to upcoming and scheduled fixtures, so there will be an update to the fixture calendar once the weather clears up and normal play can resume.
On Tuesday 28th, the competition was a Single Stableford event. In the men's competition, Bailey Hayward emerged as the winner with 37 points, edging out Pascal Neunreuther on a countback. Pascal, who finished as runner-up, played a solid round as well. In the ladies' competition, Pam Harrison claimed victory with a score of 27 points, while Di Chard finished as the runner-up with 26 points. Peter Lindsay earned a 2-shot win on the 9th hole, and Brock Smith was the winner of the Nearest to the Pin competition on the 9th hole.
The competition on Wednesday 29th was also a Single Stableford event, but only the front 9 holes were played due to the weather. In the ladies' competition, Jenny Hounsell took the win with 19 points, while Lyn Muller was the runner-up with 16 points, winning on a countback over third-place finisher Pauline Redpath. The Nearest to the Pin awards on Wednesday went to Di Chard and Pauline Redpath on the 2nd hole, and Jenny Hounsell and Pauline Redpath on the 6th hole.
Unfortunately, the rain persisted, and the course was closed for the rest of the week. Proserpine has been luckier than those to the north of us, but for now, everybody simply has to wait for the weather to improve and the course to dry out before resuming normal play.
‍

Contributed by Tiina Randmae

‍

On a soggy Tuesday, only 21 players braved the elements to take part in the competition. Initially, it looked like we’d be restricted to just 9 holes, but the weather held out, allowing us to complete the full 18. Despite the wet conditions, some impressive scores were posted, though with the current weather pattern, it remains uncertain when we’ll be able to tee off again.
In the Ladies Division Jenny Hounsell continued her strong form, claiming victory for the second week in a row with an excellent 32 points. Pam Harrison secured second place with 27 points, while Paula McQuat rounded out the rundown with 25 points.
For the Men's Division Pascal Neunreuther was the standout, winning with 37 points. Peter Lindsay followed closely in second with 35 points. The rundown was competitive, with Larry Muller and Gary Scotford finishing on 33 points, and Trevor Paroz coming in close with 32 points. Followed by Barry Mortimer and John Roser both with 30 points, and Laurie Dakin with 29 points.
In pin shots, the ladies, Jenny Hounsell, Beryl Nosworthy and Pam Harrison each earning 2. On the men’s side, John Roser, Peter Lindsay, Pascal Neunreuther, and Gary Scotford all claimed pin shots. On the day Pam Harrison, Vickie Wallace, Ken Granger, and Peter Lindsay (twice) made wonderful chip-ins.
Finally, to celebrate Gary Scotford won the Membership Jackpot Draw, taking home $40, and Peter Lindsay was the lucky winner of the Raffle. Everyone is looking forward to the next round, weather permitting!

‍
Contributed by Paula McQuat

‍

Get ready to dive into a world of sporting opportunities at the 2025 Mackay Sport and Recreation Expo, kicking off at the MECC on Sunday, February 9. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better, with over 100 sport and recreation options to explore. Whether you’re ready to tackle a new hobby or looking to hit the ground running with your fitness goals, this expo has something for everyone, regardless of age or ability.

The day will be packed with Active Zone activities and live demonstrations to help you get a feel for what’s on offer. From swinging into tennis or spiking your interest in volleyball to hitting the bullseye with archery, it’s an unbeatable lineup of sporting fun. Who knows? You might even find yourself flipping for gymnastics or making waves with a watersport you’ve never tried before!

For those still sitting on the bench when it comes to finding a new sport, the benefits are as good as gold. Sport and recreation are great for physical and mental health, boosting confidence, making connections, and keeping you active in a fun and social way. Whether you’re young and looking to learn the ropes or older and ready to jump back into the game, there’s no better time to give it a go.

The event runs from 9 am to 1 pm, with a Quiet Hour from 9 am to 10 am, offering a relaxed and calming environment with dimmed lights, open doors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Don’t miss your chance to try something new, win great prizes, and discover a sport you’ll love! Head to the MECC on February 9 and get ready to play.

‍

AFL Mackay is gearing up for another exciting season of Junior and Youth football, with registrations now open for all players aged U9.5 to U17.5. Whether you've kicked a thousand goals or are yet to score your first, AFL offers the perfect opportunity to get active, make new friends, and develop new skills in a fun and inclusive environment.

This season also marks the introduction of the new Youth Girls U16.5 competition, an exciting addition to the league for 2025. The all-girls competition is designed to encourage girls from across the region - whether they’ve grown up around the game or are entirely new to it - to step onto the field and discover their potential.

“This new competition for U16.5's girls is a massive pool for the region,” said Competition Manager Harry Hannaford.

“We want to get girls from all angles of the region…those who have played before and can get their friends out, as well as others who just want to have a go and socialise!”

Thinking of signing on? The Mackay Sports Expo is the ideal place to learn more about the upcoming season, meet local club representatives, and find the perfect club for your young player! With clubs across the region preparing for the season kick-off at the end of March, this is the perfect time to register and join the growing AFL community.

For those looking to sign up, registrations are open for Auskick, Junior, and Youth players—both boys and girls. To find your nearest club, visit play.afl/club-finder-map.

Any enquiries about the new Youth Girls competition or other league details can be directed to the AFL Mackay Facebook page or via email at harry.hannaford@afl.com.au.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of another thrilling AFL season in the region!

‍

For over 70 years, Marian Bowls Club has been a pillar of the local community, offering a friendly and welcoming space for players of all ages and abilities. Nestled in the quiet surroundings of Reg Smith Street, Marian, the club provides a peaceful escape where the only sounds are birdsong, the gentle hum of the Marian Sugar Mill and the occasional cheer of happy bowlers enjoying a friendly match.

The club caters to a variety of bowling interests, from social bowls to competitive pennants and inter-club matches across the district. With no poker machines on-site, Marian Bowls Club drives an authentic, family-friendly atmosphere that keeps members coming back year after year.

The Ladies’ Club even leads fundraising initiatives such as the annual Jumble Sale, which is the club’s major fundraiser, and supports important causes including the Trudy Crowley Foundation Charity Day and Share the Dignity Bags. They are currently crafting blankets for local aged care homes in an act of kindness that highlights their dedication to giving back.

The 2025 season kicks off at the end of February, and the club is actively seeking new members and visitors to join their thriving community. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or new to the sport, Marian Bowls Club welcomes everyone to enjoy the game and the friendships that come with it.

Representatives from Marian Bowls Club will be at the Mackay Sport and Rec Expo on February 9, from 9am to 1pm at the MECC. Stop by to meet the friendly team, pick up a flyer, and learn how you can become part of this vibrant club!

‍

If you’ve ever dreamed of the wind in your sails and the thrill of racing, but the sea isn’t your thing, then blokarting might just be your next adventure. Combining the exhilaration of sailing with the accessibility of land sports, blokarting delivers an adrenaline rush like no other. Imagine zooming along a sunlit beach with the breeze at your back and breathtaking scenery surrounding you—this is blokarting at its finest.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply curious about this unique sport, the Central Queensland Blokart Club is hosting two free “Come and Try” days for anyone keen to experience blokarting firsthand.

Save the Dates
   • Saturday, 8th February at Cape Hillsborough Beach (bottom of the boat ramp) from 1:00 PM.
   • Sunday, 9th February at Bucasia Beach (Starboard Circuit car park entrance) from 1:30 PM.

Dave Moore, co-founder and spokesperson for the Central Queensland Blokart Club, says blokarting offers an unbeatable combination of fun, camaraderie, and adventure.

“Blokarting has all the joy of sailing, but it’s on land, making it more accessible to everyday people. Like any sport, you can keep it affordable or spend tens of thousands on top-tier carbon gear. At the end of the day, it’s about having fun and enjoying the community,” Dave explains.

Blokarts, also known as land yachts, are wind-powered vehicles with a sail mounted on a lightweight frame that rides on three wheels. The sport is simple to pick up but endlessly thrilling as riders harness the power of the wind to glide along sandy beaches, race friends, or simply enjoy the ride.

“These ‘Come and Try’ days are all about introducing the public to our very enjoyable sport,” Dave says.

“We’ll provide tuition with experienced instructors, and all you need to bring is a pushbike helmet, enclosed shoes (crocs are acceptable), and a sense of adventure. If you don’t have a helmet, we’ll have loan ones available.”

The events are family-friendly, though teenagers under 18 will require a parent or designated carer onsite to sign a consent form, as per public liability requirements.

Blokarting is not only about the thrill of the ride—it’s also about embracing Australia’s stunning natural landscapes. Cape Hillsborough and Bucasia Beach are picturesque locations, and there’s nothing quite like feeling the wind push you down the beach with the sound of the waves nearby.

With blokarting’s growing popularity and the promise of a unique, wind-powered experience, this is the perfect opportunity to try something new. Head down to Cape Hillsborough or Bucasia Beach and prepare for a weekend of wind-fueled fun!

‍

Dave Moore, co-founder and spokesperson for the Central Queensland Blokart Club. Photo supplied

Blokarts racing at Cape Hillsborough Beach at a 2023 regatta. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

‍