Cricket fans, get ready for international action here in Mackay. Watch Australia take on our competitive neighbours, New Zealand, in the CommBank T20 International Series as the teams finalise their World Cup preparations.
Tickets for the highly anticipated Australia vs. New Zealand Commbank T20I series are now on sale. This September, the Great Barrier Reef Arena will host two thrilling international cricket matches on the 19th and 22nd, bringing world-class women’s cricket action right to our community.
The Great Barrier Reef Arena is proud to be one of the chosen venues for this prestigious series. Hosting these matches not only provides an incredible opportunity for local fans to witness top-tier cricket but also highlights Mackay as a prime location for international sporting events.
“We are thrilled to bring international cricket to the Great Barrier Reef Arena. This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to experience the excitement of professional cricket right here in Mackay,” said Terry Doolan, Chairman at Harrup Park.
“It’s a significant event that puts Mackay on the map as a destination for world-class sports.
“This event is more than just a series; it’s a celebration of sport and community spirit. Bringing international cricket to Mackay enhances our region’s profile and provides a boost to local businesses and tourism.
“Harrup Park is committed to supporting sports and fostering community engagement. The Great Barrier Reef Arena stands as a testament to our dedication to providing world-class facilities and hosting top-tier sporting events in Mackay.”

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Ticket Information:
Tickets are available now and can be purchased at cricket.com.au/tickets. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of an unforgettable sporting event in Mackay. Secure your seats early to avoid disappointment!

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The cool clear morning provided perfect running conditions for Event #386. The Mackay parkrun event saw a fantastic turnout with 291 participants, including many first-timers and visitors.

Highlights of Saturday's event included celebrating several milestones for Elaine McFarlane, Russell Leeson, and Ashley Miles who achieved their 100th finish milestones. Michael Zivkovic reached his 50th finish milestone. Weslan Hawkins completed his 10th Junior finish milestone and Michael Vella accomplished an impressive 250 finishes.

Underneath a Mackay parkrun Facebook post was a heart-warming comment left from a visiting tourist that said “Thanks Mackay parkrun for such a welcoming, friendly Saturday morning run for us visiting tourists – and we did an overall PB for this year, out of over 20 different locations. Loved the course in the Gardens too.”

The event wouldn't have been possible without the dedicated efforts of volunteers, to whom the team extends their heartfelt thank you to.

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Congratulations to Michael Vella who achieved an impressive milestone with his 250th finish, while Elaine McFarlane, Russell Leeson and Ashley Miles celebrated reaching their 100th parkrun milestones. Photo credit: Mackay parkrun (Facebook)

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Wednesday saw 12 Tables (48 players) arrive for a friendly game of bridge. This is a fantastic turn up mid-week. Friday was the twelfth round of Nation-Wide Pairs and Saturday the bridge heated up for the second round of the Club Pair Championships with 24 pairs competing for red points.

Mackay pair Mary Rose Ramsden and Noel Saunders were placed 24th in the Australian Wide Novice Pairs, with more than 1,200 pairs and 90 clubs participating. This event is a national bridge event run by Australian Bridge Magazine for players with fewer than 100 mps.

Weekly Results
Monday 10 June 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
1st
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

3rd
Karen Cadwell / Anne Lutz
3rd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

Tuesday Evening 11 June 2024 6 Table One Winner
1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Marilin Wilson-Nicoll / Griff Bancroft
4th
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
Wednesday 12 June 2024 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
1st
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Kitty Ranson / Bob Ranson

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford

5th
Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
5th
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait

6th
Joy Robertson / Robert Carless
6th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 13 June 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Susan Ross / Jan Harris
3rd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
4th
Sandra Morri / Errol Morris & Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 14 June 2024 – NWP 12 of 24 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
1st
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Richard Wix / Geoffrey Patterson

3rd
Diane Cox / Christine Nice
3rd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

4th
Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix
4th
David Ting / Ming Ting

Saturday 15 June 2024 – Mackay Club Pairs Championship Week 2 of 3 - 12 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Joy Robertson / Ken Seaniger

2nd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

3rd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd
Errol Morris / Richard Wix

4th
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
4th
Jan Harris / Mick King

5th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
5th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

6th
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
6th
Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

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Contributed by Joy Block

Mary-Rose Ramsden & Noel Saunders, 24th Nation Wide Novice Pairs. Photo supplied

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Approximately forty runners tackled the 30km, 15km, and 5km distances last Sunday as they sprinted through the scenic Mackay region, from Glenella to West Mackay and then out to the Mackay Harbour and back.

Mackay Road Runners Northview Park 30km Club Championship, 15km and 5km were held in perfect running conditions from the playground carpark at Northview Park, Schapers Road, Glenella. 

Club President, Brendan Bishop was a major contributor for the streamlined success of the event alongside fellow committee members Mick and Bec Scholer, Andrew Short, Julie Whibley, Arthur Dick and Jo Hughes.

Classy performances were seen all-round from the 5km and 15km events starting at 6.15am through to the 30km event commencing at 6am.  Paul MacKenzie led the 30km field with Mick Vivian sitting in second with a multitude of changes for the bronze position throughout the 30km with Shane Donnollan snatching third place from Grant Holmstrom, Kaye Nyenuh, Clinton Mackie, Matt Bampton, Jim Perkins and David Perkins. 

The female 30km saw Teresa Hackney looking very comfortable from the start, taking an early lead and retaining it right through to the finish line ahead of Carmel Mahon, Tahnie Malagueno, Carolyn Mapes, Carole Dawes and Brenda Windsor.

The 5km and 15km competitors were very strong with female runners, Alana Knezevic, Mel Esau, Naomi Ballard, and Emily Dalglish leading the charge early alongside talented male runners, Jared Mackie, Hamish Donnolllan, Cory Gould, Michael Scholer, John Roe, Darrin Pullen, Alan Zamparutti, Andrew Short and Tim Caddy. 

Next Sunday’s popular, yet historical Farmers Long Gallop 6km and 17km run will commence from Agnes Farmers home at 62 Evans Avenue, North Mackay.  Agnes and her late husband Fred have been integral life members of the Mackay Road Runners since its inception nearly 50 years ago.  Fred was the runner in the family; however, Agnes was a wholehearted supporter of the Club and Fred’s illustrious running career. 

Although Agnes may not be a morning person, she has generously hosted this morning run for 48 years.

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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30km Podium finishers (left to right) Shane Donnollan (3rd), Mick Vivian (2nd), Paul Mackenzie (1st), Carmel Mahon (2nd) and Teresa Hackney (1st)
Tahnie Malagueno and Carolyn Mapes kept a united even pace together throughout the 30km course
Northview Park 5km and 15km runners get ready to take their mark, get set and go!
Katrina and Jim with Club President Brendan Bishop after their 15km and 30km respectively events
Brenda Windsor and Carole Dawes support each other from start to finish in the 30km. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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The Sea Eagles Juniors braved the pre-dawn chill on Saturday, traveling to Rogers Oval to take on the Eastern Swans and Bakers Creek. Meanwhile, the Seniors hit the road to clean up the Mackay Magpies on their home turf.
The Sea Eagles Senior Men celebrated Captain Alex Rodgers' 100th senior game in style with a win over the Mackay Magpies, who sit above them on the ladder. It was a tight contest all day, with the Sea Eagles finishing strong with a 72-53 victory. Fraser Carroll kicked four goals up forward, while Billy Galpin was everywhere again through the midfield, supported by Brent Downie and Aidan Allen-Fancke. The Sea Eagles look for community support at home this week as they take on ladder leaders Eastern Swans in the first of two back-to-back Swans rounds.
After a couple of losses, the Sea Eagles Senior Women were keen to secure a win against the Mackay Magpies. Going back to basics paid off with a 32-16 win. In the opening quarter, the Sea Eagles had five shots on goal. Although not kicking as many goals as they would have liked, the team worked together for a great game.
The Sea Eagles Under 17s took on Bakers Creek at Rogers Oval. With the Tigers short on numbers, the Sea Eagles lent some players for the game to go ahead. In a one-sided affair, the Sea Eagles dominated through the middle, providing plenty of forward opportunities and winning comfortably 61-1.
Having won against the Eastern Swans a few weeks ago at home, the Sea Eagles Under 14s were keen to repeat the feat in Mackay. Unfortunately, the Swans had cleaner play in the dewy conditions, leading to a 12-52 loss for the Sea Eagles.
The Under 12 Eastern Swans continued their unbeaten streak, defeating the Sea Eagles 29-3. However, the Sea Eagles achieved a minor victory by keeping the Swans to their lowest total for the season.
This weekend, the Whitsunday Sea Eagles are at home. The Seniors and Under 14s will play at the Nest, while the Under 12s and Under 17s have a bye. The Under 14s will face the Saints at 10:40 am, followed by the Seniors against the Swans at 12:15 pm.

Photo Credit: Kylie Allen

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Wednesday Social Bowls
In an exciting round of Wednesday social bowls, Mary Ellen, Helen/Bev, Gavin, and Wendy defeated Ian, Eddy, Jane, and Steve. In another match, Frank, Gordo, and Daryl defeated Anna, Peter, and Dave. The winners for the afternoon were Marion, Robyn, and Gus, who defeated Britt, Marilyn, and Ray.
Weekly Bowls Schedule
The Tuesday and Friday afternoon bowls sessions are now underway. Interested players should add their names to the sign-up sheet located outside the clubhouse.
Ladies' Purple Pennants
The ladies' team is participating in the Purple Pennants competition in the Burdekin. Bowen Bowls wishes them good bowling and the best of luck!
For more information and updates, please visit our club's notice board or contact the club secretary.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards

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Marion,Robyn and Gus, Photo supplied

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Many players from Proserpine and the Mackay District are currently at the Gold Coast competing in the Australian Open. Jonathan Bye and Gavin Milne have advanced to the second round of the knockout for the Men's Fours. Scott Kinnear has won all his sectional games in the Vision Impaired section and is set to play Jake Fehlberg in the semi-final on Tuesday.
On Wednesday, Pat Bownds and Lee King travelled to Marian Bowls Club with Heather to represent the club at Marian's PAH. In social play, Bruce Uhe, Arthur Griffith, and Nev Smith defeated Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith, and Philip Brown 21-17. Carol Smith and Mike Harrison defeated John Anderson and Barry Zillmann 31-15.
In Sunday Social Bowls, John Anderson, Bruce Uhe, and Heather Brown defeated Lee King, Mary Hedgelong, and Heather Brown 34-19. Alen Sanderson and Philip Brown defeated Arthur Griffith and Mike Harrison.
The semi-final of the B Singles was played on Saturday. David Ling defeated Harry Craig 25-17 in a thrilling game.
Many thanks to those who turned up on Saturday to assist with removing the old shades around the green. The holes have been prepared for the installation of new shades, with some progress expected during the week.
Special thanks to Kevin and Joan Thorogood for their years of service to the club. Though they are no longer able to play, we are grateful for the gift of their bowls, which will be used by new bowlers.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

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Monday Self-Selected Triples
Winners: Peter Howie, Greg Colquhoun, and Kennedy Whitton, who defeated Trish Leon, Fox G Feast.
Runners-Up: Ron Hyde, Maureen Hyde, and Norm Dawson, who defeated G Cornell, Hary Wills, and Keith Armstrong.
The jackpot did not go off.

Tuesday Social Bowls
Winners: M Bron, Tolcher J Foskett, and Bob Dykstra, defeated John Hayson, Sue Shearing, and Simon Fitzgerald.
Runners-Up: Joan Brian and Ron Hyde, defeated Allan, Dianne, and Barry.
The jackpot did not go off.

Fun Friday Afternoon
Winners: Ron Hyde, Grant Hand, and Robyn Stitt, who defeated Maureen Hyde, Gabbie, and Jill Gillies.
Resting Touches: Dom, Neville, and V Ritche.

Sunday Results
Winners: Carol Bellingham, Simon Fitzgerald, and Chris Healey drew with Anne Kayzle, John Prought, and Michael Loughhead.
Runners-Up: Eilane, June Walsh, and Kennedy Whitton, who defeated Joan, Jull, and Geoff.
The elusive jackpot did not go off.

Men’s Competition
   • A Pairs Final: M Drummond and A Rolfe defeated L Land and G Read.
   • B Singles Final: Herbie Dalton defeated Ron Hyde

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Allan Rolfe and Mark Drummond

Grant Hand, Ron Hyde, Robyn Stitt with Lorraine Knight

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Photos supplied

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The Whitsunday Equestrian Group’s 2-Day Showjumping Classic, held on June 8-9 at the Cannonvalley Pony Club, was a resounding success, providing a thrilling weekend for both participants and onlookers. Competitors from Townsville to Mackay gathered to showcase their skills, marking the start of the prestigious Frosty Mango NQ Leaderboard, a North Queensland-wide cumulative placings event.
110CM Frosty Mango Leaderboard Results:
   1. Abigail Lee on Hazardous
   2. Abigail Lee on Laced Up
   3. Abigail Lee on Snapchatter
   4. Melinda Zammit on JT Just a Dream
   5. Jessica Dibnah on Mr Manu
The annual Showjumping Classic featured classes ranging from 40cm to 110cm, offering something for everyone over the two days. The overall high-point award was hotly contested but ultimately awarded to Abigail Lee.
The Whitsunday Equestrian Group extends heartfelt thanks to all competitors, volunteers, and attendees whose support and enthusiasm made the event a success. Looking ahead, the next event on the calendar is the Whitsunday Equestrian Group's 2-Day Hack & Dressage Supreme, scheduled for July 27-28 at the Cannonvalley Pony Club. For more information, please visit our Facebook page at Whitsunday Equestrian Group.

Defibrillator Addition: 
The Cannonvalley Pony Club now has a brand-new defibrillator installed, thanks to the Whitsunday Regional Council Special Project Grant. This potentially life-saving AED was fully funded by the grant and is now ready for use at the clubhouse. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our local council for their support, to our grants writer Kate for her efforts, and to the team at AWB First Aid First for enabling us to purchase locally and donating the paediatric pads. This addition enhances the safety and well-being of everyone at the Pony Club, the home grounds of the Whitsunday Equestrian Group.

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Photo supplied

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Division 2 Men
The Division 2 men travelled to Mackay aiming to close the gap to the top-of-the-table Dolphins. Early missed opportunities proved costly, and the Dolphins secured a 5-1 victory. Goalkeeper Ross put in an excellent performance, keeping the scoreline respectable.
Division 1 Men
The Division 1 men faced a youthful Dolphins team, dominating the first half. Despite missing clear chances and an injury delay, Whitsunday held on for a 2-1 win, maintaining their top position. Chris scored his first club goal, and Ralé notched his fourth goal in three games.
Under-13 Division 1
The U13 Division 1 team had a fantastic game against Wanderers Red. Trailing 1-0 at halftime, Whitsunday came back strong in the second half with Liam Jankowski scoring three goals, leading the team to a 3-1 victory.
Under-13 Premier
The U13 Premier team had another great week. Shannon Matthews scored the first goal after a dazzling midfield run and a quick one-two. Shortly after, she curled in another from a corner. Alex Draper cleaned up a scramble in the box to make it 3-0 at halftime. City Brothers pressed harder in the second half, but Whitsunday held on for a 3-0 win.
Under-15 Division 1
The U15 Division 1 team started strong, with early goals from Dwayne and Tyler C, but trailed 5-2 at halftime. Lions Black dominated the second half, resulting in a final score of 15-2.
Under-23 Ladies
The U23 ladies faced a frustrating 1-0 loss against City. Despite dominating possession, they couldn’t find the finishing touch. City scored on a transition play, and Whitsunday couldn’t equalize. Danielle was confident in defence, and Piper showed great positioning in attack.
Premier Ladies
The Premier ladies bounced back with a strong performance against City. Up 3-0 at halftime thanks to Bre and Ellyse, they never looked back. Willow, Mathilde, and Imo added to the tally in the second half, with the final score an impressive 11-0. Willow scored four, Bre and Mathilde each scored twice, Ellyse added two, and Imo scored one with a header.
Premier Men - Under-23 Squad
The young Whitsunday U23 squad faced the top-of-the-table Magpies but couldn’t match their firepower, losing 4-1. Jack Robertson scored the lone goal for Whitsunday.
Premier Men
The Premier Men faced the Magpies with a chance to take the lead at the top of the table. A slow start saw them two goals down at halftime. Despite a strong second half with goals from Jake Kenna and Jack Jenks, they couldn’t complete the comeback, losing 3-2. It was a valiant effort by Whitsunday, despite missing four key players

U13 Div1 – happy after a good win against Wanderers

U13 Prems – a friendly David and Goliath struggle.

U13 Prems – great determination from both sides

U13 Prems – Shannon Matthews in full flight

Photos supplied

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Wednesday, 12/6: Single Stableford Competition

Ladies:
Winner: Marg Need (39 points, on a countback)
Runner-up: Tracey Cousemacker (39 points)
3rd Place: Kerry Pedlar (38 points)

Men:
Winner: Brenden Wells (39 points)
Runner-up: John Brown (38 points, on a countback)
3rd Place: Graham Seaborne (38 points)

Pin Shots: Brendan Nott, Andrew Need, Graham Seaborne, Neville Isaac, Glenn Bianco, Karo McKenzie, Claire Garrod, Tracey Cousemacker, Viv Clark.

Choccy Chip-ins: Claire Garrod, Sue Heisswolf, Leanne Swan, Susan McInnes, Chris Heinrich, Annie Mason.

Saturday, 8/6: 4 Ball Ambrose Sponsored by Bowen Golf Club

Winners: The Nott family - Brendan, Rhiannon, Grace, and Dylan.
Runners-up: Marcus Yasso, Matt Yasso, Claire Garrod, Ian Garrod.
3rd Place: Tate McGrath, Brendan Malone, Kevin Cross, Jeff Jackson.

Pin Shots: Rhiannon Nott, Jeff Jackson, Raewyn Glover, and Glenn Bianco (who also won the Car Wash token).

OBP: Judy Atkins.

Saturday, 15/6: Single Par + Event Sponsored by Whitsunday Auto Group

Men:
Winner: Frank Broucek (+7)
Runner-up: Max Mahoney (+6)
3rd Place: Lee Tiller (+5)

Ladies:
Winner: Julie Mawson (+5)
Runner-up: Tracey Cousemacker (+1, on a countback)
3rd Place: Kerry Pedlar (+1)

Pin Shots: France Wilmann, Tim Duncan, Peter May, Benny Bon, Robbie Thompson (Car Wash), Claire Garrod, Jo Goldup, Chris Heinrich, Judi Morris.
IBP on Hole 12: Brendan Nott.

Choccy Chip-ins: Kerry Pedlar, Elona Lynch, Grace Nott, Carol O'Connell.

This Saturday, the club will host an 18-hole Stableford event sponsored by P&O Meehan and the Commonwealth Bank.

Joker Draw:
The Joker draw is $1300 this Friday night. Everyone is welcome to attend. If you are dining in, please ensure you call the club to book your table to avoid missing out - 4785 1206.

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott

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Nott family: Brendan, Rhiannon, Grace and Dylan

Wednesday 12 June winner – Marg Need

Photos supplied

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Perfect golf weather prevailed as 14 players contested the single Stableford competition.
Scores continue to improve as the course dries out and run is restored.
While the greens may not be as tricky as those at Pinehurst No. 2 (for avid US Open watchers), some players were fortunate enough to make birdies and chip-ins.
Upon returning to the Reef Gateway Hotel, it was delightful to see past members and friends Ian Giles, Kym Hill, and Ian Hoy, who joined for post-game drinks and the presentation.
Ladies:
   • Winner: Tiina Randmae with 38 points
   • Runner-up: Anna Winterbourn with 35 points
   • Longest Drives: Anna Winterbourn and Linda Wardroper
Men:
   • Winner: Aaron Watts with 37 points
   • Runner-up: Dean Kercher with 34 points
   • Longest Drives: Aaron Watts and Mark McDougal
Nearest to the Pin (NTP):
   • Ladies: Joanne Moynihan and Anna Winterbourn (x2)
   • Men: Aaron Watts and Paul Nicol
NAGAs: The honours went to Joanne Moynihan and David Hoy, with a drink courtesy of Aaron and Tracy Watts, proprietors of RADS Whitsunday, who provide respite accommodation and disability support services.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club's membership year begins on 1 July and promises to be an exciting one for new and old members alike, with a variety of events on the calendar, including the Blue Ribbon "Ben Doolin Light Tackle Tournament" on 11 - 13 October.

The first competition of the year is the Mackerel and Reef Fish Rally on 13 and 14 July. (Reef Fish have been included due to the new Queensland Mackerel bag and boat limits).  All details will be explained at the Briefing and Registration on Thursday, 11 July from 6pm at the Marine Club in Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale.

Mackerel are about in good numbers at this time of the year and the Club will be holding a Workshop and Information night on Thursday, 4 July from 6pm at the Clubhouse, demonstrating several methods of rigging baits and lures to tempt mackerel and explaining the local spots where they hang out.

Also Club President and charter boat skipper, Ash Matthews will be passing on his proven tips on how to catch a variety of reef species and the best spots and stages of the tide to find them.

Everybody is welcome, so bring the family and tell your friends as this will be a very informative night for anglers of all ages.

You may even like to join this family oriented Club and membership is being offered on the night at last year's fee of $60 per Adult and $30 per Junior and become part of this great club that began in 1979.

Gail will have the Bar open from 6pm and there will be a raffle for a $100 meat tray.  Hope to see you there."

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore.

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Swimming Australia recently announced the 2023-2024 Junior Excellence (JX) recipients.
The Pho3nix JX program recognizes swimmers aged 9-13 years who have achieved gold, silver, bronze, or blue standards based on their best performances, as per the times set by Swimming Australia.
Congratulations to the following Cannonvale Cannons who achieved JX awards:
Gold: Jax Clayworth

Silver: Don Algie, Tora Delac, Thomas Ganter, Celeste Orenshaw, Isaac Pisaniello, Isabella Pisaniello, and Zach Trefz

Bronze: Eloise Chegwidden, Harris Delac, Declan Dichiera, Charlie Doherty, Nelson Malady, Matilda Nicholes, Andie Reynolds, Levi Smith, and Alex Trefz

Blue: Mackenzie Bennett, Maeve Dichiera, Evie Doherty, Liam Filewood, Millie Groom, Koa Harland, Ruby Harland, Jasper Korosec, Eric Mulliss, Addie Sanders, and Indi Smith

Additionally, the Cannonvale Cannons would like to commend all the swimmers named in the Swimming North Queensland (SNQ) State and National Development Squads.

National Squad: Tora Delac, Noah Maltby, Ehsan Helou, and Jy Parkinson

State Squad: Isabella Pisaniello, Anisa Helou, Remy Hedges, Holly Perrin, Isaac Pisaniello, Zach Trefz, Tyler Bennett, Jacob Bell, Thomas Ganter, Don Algie, and Charlie Doherty
The SNQ State and National Development Squad swimmers have been invited to attend a special Form Stroke Clinic this weekend, facilitated by top Queensland coaches Adam Eiseman, Richard Sleight, and Barry Prime.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

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Photos supplied

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For the past 18 months Airlie Beach Cricket has been setting up stumps and looking to establish the popular summer sport at the Whitsunday Sportspark, but the request has become a contentious issue following concerns that the grounds are already running at 200% capacity.

Football, Touch Football, Netball, Rugby Union and AFL form the five Foundation Club Members which all have voting rights and at the end of this month, the five codes will all cast their vote on whether to allow Airlie Beach Cricket to play at the grounds.

There are mixed views on the issue, although the general consensus is to include Cricket, despite it adding to an already over-populated ground.

And while some of the playing fields are running at 200% capacity the current AFL pitch (which could be shared by cricket during the summer months), is not.

Airlie Beach Cricket assert that there are countless grounds across Australia where AFL and Cricket harmoniously share their fields, from the GABBA to Harrup Park.

The deeper issue, however, seems to be an already straining facility which is struggling to accommodate the existing sporting activities.

A statement from the Whitsunday Sea Eagles AFL Club said they “currently use the full field from January to September with Carnivals throughout the year and development through November.”

They believe this conflicts with the Cricket season which is hoping to run from September through to March.

Other sports clubs using the facility, however, have shared their sporting field for a number of years and are working together to arrange a schedule so both sports can live symbiotically.

“We all work around each other, everyone works together,” said Allan Milostic from Airlie Beach Football Club.

“Fundamentally we are inclusive, and we do want more sports. The biggest issue is green space and ideally, we’d have plenty of land for everyone.

“Football doesn’t have an issue with cricket being there, with the caveat that it doesn’t impact existing codes.”

Whitsunday Touch have similar views.

“I’m totally about inclusivity, it’s a community sport and all are included,” said Alita De Brincat from Whitsunday Touch.

“We as a committee have made a decision to support it, but it was not a unanimous decision, we went with the majority on the basis of being inclusive and the community working together.”

Meanwhile, Tim Oberg President of Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union, said "we firmly believe that establishing a new cricket club in Airlie Beach will be a tremendous asset to our community.

The Whitsunday Sportspark Committee also believe the inclusion of Cricket would work in a practical sense.

“Whilst our facility is far too small to service the growing town and the bottom fields are running at over 200% of carrying capacity with soccer, rugby and touch using them, the top oval is not running at full capacity,” said Justin Butler, Chairman of the Whitsunday Sportspark.

Mr Butler adds that including another sport will “put further pressure on all levels of government to develop a second sporting complex for the town.”

There is 100 acres of Whitsunday Regional Council owned land located opposite Brandy Creek Road and it was purchased 12 years ago with intention that it will become a sporting complex and possibly new high school.

“Council need to push for it,” said Allan Milostic.

“We urgently need more playing spaces and steps need to be taken urgently.”

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