Congratulations to City Bowls Club on winning the prestigious Dr Williams’ Shield at the weekend. City defeated Seaforth, Souths Suburban and Pioneer Valley on their way to the final against North Mackay.
City’s last win in the Shield, which they have hosted for 68 years, was in 2008.

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Back row: Greg Peno, Joe Taylor, Ben Hall, Dave McKnight, Bruce Eaton, Gerry Bogart, Dennis Fredrickson, Jeff Neeve, Vince McSherry, Tony Connor, Sean Dolan
Front row: Warren Sturgeon, Paul McKay. Image Supplied

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Another exciting bowls event from the Ladies Section at North Mackay Bowls Club. The Annual Symons Shield was held at Northern Beaches Bowls Club with nine Clubs competing. The finalists were decided after some nail biting finishes – Souths Suburban played North Mackay.  It too came down to the last bowl and North Mackay Ladies were declared the winners by one point.  The event is held at the same Club each year on land donated by the Symons family.

The Ladies presenting the Shields are members of the Symons family, Daphne Goodson and June Critchley, who donated their land for the benefit of the Northern Beaches Bowls Club which hosts the event annually.

Contributed By Helen Fleming 

Symons Shield 2024 Winning Team-North Mackay bowls club ladies’ section.
Left to right: S Cuttriss, Marie Duck, Lois Deguara, Lidia McCarthy, Nug Pratt, Debbie Mackenzie, Lorna Bowers, Lorraine Lemke, Lorraine Silman. 

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Just over thirty runners kicked off amidst the sights and lively sounds of the Bluewater Quay before heading off onto the Forgan Smith Bridge for a very social 5k and 10km run. Runners had the option to do participate in anything between the 5km and 10km depending on where their current abilities were at, with some tackling an extra kilometre or two at Mt Bassett.
 
Ten-kilometre runner, Grant Holmstrom easily accounted for the Mt Bassett section of the event before storming home on the comparatively flat surface to be first across the line with fast-finishing Ashley Miles and Jim Ogilvie closing in for the minor placings.  Jose Short made ‘short’ work of the 10km as she skimmed over the course with big improver, Emily Hayles closing in for the silver podium position ahead of Carmel Mahon, Bernadine McKinnon, Geeta Ariani and Judy Zahn. 

Excellent efforts from 5km runners Julie Whibley, Andrew Wallace, Simon Henderson, Len Haworth, Kim Saron, Corey Gould, Dana Gould, Natasha Joynson, Kayla Waugh, Katrina Ogilvie, Neah Garciano and Sandra Henderson.  Jess and Ryan Everts did it the hard way as usual, but the kids were great, well done to them all.

Congratulations to all runners who were at out-of-town events including the Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon and Port Macquarie Ironman events.  The best of the many Mackay locals on Hamilton Island were Paul Mackenzie who scored an amazing 8th overall and 2nd in his age category, Thomas Wendt (2nd age), Sam Sticklan (1st in age), Sarah Manttan (2nd age), Dee Trannore (3rd age) and Paul Manttan (7th age).
 
This weekend’s Mackay Road Runners event will be held on Saturday morning from the Casu Jacks Café at the Mackay Marina, and the race will commence at 7am.  The Pre-Mother’s Day event is a 5km and 12km, along with Sunday, which is heralded as the most important day of the year!  

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Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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Just over thirty runners enjoyed the very social Bluewater Quay 5k and 10km
Dana Gould (right) enjoyed her first run with Mackay Road Runners newest member Corey Gould
Mackay Road Runners Life Member and champion runner, Judy Zahn made light work of the 10km. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
Race Director and Club Secretary, Julie Whibley (seated at left) had a great comeback 5km run with a huge contingent of local Mackay Road Runners members

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Mackay Brothers are proving a force to be reckoned with in the 2024 Northern Region Mackay & District Junior Rugby League A Grade competition.
The all-conquering Leprechauns have opened the season in ominous style with three consecutive victories under the coaching of Thomas Heggie and shape as the team to beat for this year’s title.
Having notched an incredible 24 tries to date, Heggie’s much vaunted charges boast a powerful forward pack and enterprising back division with attacking strike across the field.
Brothers have recorded thumping early round triumphs over Wests Tigers (54-18), Carlton Devils (44-10) and Sarina Crocodiles (36-0) and hope to extend their winning streak when the A Grade competition resumes this Saturday.
The Leprechauns travel to Shark Park to face the fourth-placed Souths Sharks, who have posted victories over Whitsunday Brahmans (56-4) and Mackay Magpies (24-18) and a 23-16 loss to Wests Tigers.
Talented Australian Universities fullback Kane Simon, centres Jayden Batchelor and Rydge Smith, elusive wingers Malachi Power and Matthew Skaife, utility Tyrese Parter and classy halves Luke Fletcher, Brad Campbell and Jedd Abbott have demonstrated their fleet-footed skills with a feast of tries.
Just as impressive are forwards Declan Laird, Josh Honan, Jack Hoffmann, Mason Simpson, Pat Vella, Ethan Sweet, lock Mason Thorpe and hooker Daniel Kelly who have laid the foundations with non-stop performances.
………………………
MEANWHILE ladder leaders Wests Tigers maintained their undefeated record in the Under 17s division after a 24-12 victory over Sarina Crocodiles last Sunday at BB Print Stadium.
Crack centre Jt Brice grabbed a try double as the Tigers chalked up their third win of the season after five rounds to stay on top of the table with nine points that includes a 12-all draw with Brothers and a bye.
Brice made an early impact by nabbing four-pointers in the opening 24 minutes with talented fullback and skipper Mason Ryan-Ellul and Canberra Raiders contracted forward Mark Morrow also among the Tigers’ try scorers.
Back-rower Lachlan Starr booted four conversions to give Wests the edge while hooker Ryan John, Wilson James and five-eighth Brody Moore crossed for the Crocodiles.
Wests skittled Brahmans 44-6 and Souths Sharks 38-14 in the earlier rounds with Ryan-Ellul, centres Morrow and Brice, halves Joshua Toby and Talan Cottom and forwards Starr, Jake Reid, hooker Slade Kretschmar, Kereama Gartner and Jack Townsend in top form.
Second-placed Wanderers Roosters edged out Brahmans 10-6 at Proserpine Junior Sporting Complex while third-placed Brothers rolled Souths Sharks 18-10 at Leprechaun Park with tries to lock Bailey Kurylko, prop Justis Costigan, hooker Cooper Deguara and centre Jack Goodale.

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Brothers are leading the U19 ladder this season while the U17s are coming third after an 18-10 win over the Sharks last weekend. Photo credit: Ashlee Meredith

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Century 21 proudly announces the launch of Century 21 Coast to Coalfields in Mackay, under the leadership of seasoned real estate professional Luke James Curtis.

With over 14 years of industry expertise, Luke aims to cater to clients' diverse goals and property needs, whether buying, selling, or investing. Having deep roots in the local community, Luke brings intimate knowledge of the market's trends and nuances.

Luke expressed the following on what he hopes to accomplish with this new office, "Our vision for the new Century 21 Coast to Coalfields office is to revolutionise the Mackay property market”.

“We're not just here to sell houses – we're here to provide a one-stop, holistic solution for all our clients' property needs,” he explained.

“Backed by the Century 21 brand and fuelled by our passion for excellence, we're excited to redefine what it means to be a real estate agency in Mackay.”

CEO of Century 21 Australasia, James Bell expresses excitement about this new venture, anticipating the positive impact it will have on the local real estate landscape.

"It's very exciting to see a new era of exceptional real estate and property management services coming to the Mackay region,” he stated.

“We're proud to have such a dynamic team become part of our network and we look forward to seeing them go from strength to strength."

Century 21 Coast to Coalfields Mackay promises unparalleled real estate services, covering everything from transaction complexities to securing financing for various assets.

Situated in the heart of Mackay within the Century 21 Plaza building, the new office will serve as a centralised hub for delivering exceptional service. Supported by a dedicated team of agents who share his vision, Luke ensures clients receive top-notch guidance and results.

With a focus on personalised attention and comprehensive solutions, the office sets a standard for excellence in the industry, where every client's needs are met with professionalism and efficiency.

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Bridge players will congregate in Mackay this long weekend to compete in the Barrier Reef Congress. Players will travel from the Atherton Tablelands & Cairns in the North and Victoria & Tasmania in the south for this annual event. Several players are even making the trip from New Zealand.  
Approximately 300 players will compete in pairs and team events over the 4 days.  Many current and former Australian & Queensland representative players will be vying for the top honours.  Also, in the running will be 3 players from the Australian u26 women’s team honing their skills before they travel to Poland later in the year to compete in the World Youth Championships.
The Mackey Bridge Club is thrilled that the current Australian Bridge Federation president and secretary will also be in attendance. Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said council was pleased to support the Barrier Reef Congress, one of the premier competition events of the Queensland Bridge community.  
“Events like the congress bring hundreds of people together in our region, and outside of the skill and strategy of gameplay, they will have the opportunity to relax, socialise and explore what our region has to offer,” Mayor Williamson said.
The Mackay Bridge Club is very thankful to their sponsors for this event – Mackay Regional Council, Daly Bay, SH Tait & Co, TBIB, Paul Lavings, North Marine, Mackay Tourism & Officeworks.

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In a thrilling NBL1 North showdown at the McDonald’s Mackay Stadium last Saturday night, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors triumphed over the Rockhampton Rockets in a spectacular high-scoring game. The Meteors displayed exceptional teamwork, securing a win with a final score of 111 to 102. Todd Blanchfield led the charge for the Meteors netting the most goals, notching up 31 points and 14 rebounds. Isaac White also continued his on-court fire with 28 points and 6 assists, while Emmett Naar and Luca Yates delivered impressive double-doubles. Naar tallied 14 points and 12 assists, while Yates added 14 points and 10 rebounds to the scoreboard. The Meteors' next home game will be against the Northside Wizards in Round 6 on Saturday, May 18.

Meanwhile, in another intense NBL1 North clash, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes faced off against the Rockhampton Cyclones. Despite putting up a valiant effort, the Meteorettes fell short against their opponents, with a final score of 73 to 93 in favour of the Cyclones. The Meteorettes displayed determination on the court, with Nikita Van Wyk leading the charge with 14 points and 6 rebounds. Chelsea Brook and Sam Haiby also made notable contributions, each adding 11 points to the scoreboard. Despite the loss, the Meteorettes remain focused and determined to bounce back stronger in their next home game against the Northside Wizards on May 18.

In addition to the thrilling on-court action, the Meteors celebrated the on-fire performance of Todd Blanchfield, who alongside Samantha Bowman from Rockhampton, were both awarded the prestigious NBL1 North ANZAC Round Medal. This recognises players who exemplify the ANZAC Spirit, embodying qualities such as endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour, and mateship. Congratulations to both Todd and Samantha for their exceptional achievements.

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McDonald's Mackay Meteors' Todd Blanchfield shines with the ANZAC Round Medal, celebrating his outstanding display of athleticism, courage, and camaraderie on the court

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Weekly Results

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Monday 22 April 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Victor Mason / Antonia Taradas
2nd
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Faye Wright
3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
3rd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Karen Caldwell / Noel Saunders
4th
Pamela Finger / Ming Ting
3rd
Ted Cullinan / Terrence Sheedy
5th
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
Tuesday Evening 23 April 2024 –6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Janet Hansen / Simon Barnes
3rd
Diane Morgan / Terrence Sheedy
4th
Israel Hall / Alan Brown
5th
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

Wednesday 24 April 2024 – NWP Week 8 of 24 - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terrence Sheedy

2nd
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan

4th
Joy Block / Toni Large
4th
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait

5th
John Ludkin / Victor Mason
5th
David Ting / Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 25 April 2024 –5 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janet Hansen / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Mick King / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
4th
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
5th
Lynne O’Neill / Susan Gibson

Friday 26 April 2024 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd
Gwen Liddell / Monica Darley
2nd
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
3rd
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Victor Mason / Josie Cowley
4th
Eddie Kliese / Nancy Wix
4th
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
Saturday 27 April 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janette Hansen / Janelle Conroy
1st
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
2nd
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
2nd
Diane Morgan / Robert Carless
3rd
Mick King / Jan Harris
3rd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
4th
Geoffrey Patterson / Patricia Garner
5th
Josie Crowley / Terrence Sheedy
5th
David Ting / Ming Ting
Sunday 28 April 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Christopher Meyers / Geoff Cowan
1st
Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell
2nd
Ann Whitmore / Griffen Brancroft
2nd
Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin
3rd
Susan Ross / Vicki Howard
3rd
Diane Stokes / Joy Block

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Ming, Debra and Noel Bugeia Anne, Geoff, Noel and Sandy

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Community spirit was in full swing as participants and sponsors gathered for a second annual Charity Golf Day organised by the inspiring 16-year-old, Taya Rush. Held at the Mackay Golf Club, the event raised a staggering $18,315.50 for RACQ CQ Rescue, a vital lifeline for our remote and rural communities.

Helicopter services like RACQ CQ Rescue play a crucial role in providing rapid response and critical care for individuals involved in rural accidents, boating mishaps, and emergencies beyond the reach of traditional medical facilities. For Taya Rush, the cause hits close to home, with her family now owning a farm and recognising the importance of having access to such rescue services in times of crisis.

Participants enjoyed a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and community spirit, all while supporting a worthy cause. Sporting navy blue and yellow attire to symbolise their support for RACQ CQ Rescue, golfers teed off, eager to make a difference.

"Charity Golf days are a great way to network with other businesses in the area while enjoying a round of golf," explained Ms Rush.

"Everyone last year had a great time on the golf course, with team bonding, meeting new people, and supporting a charity at the same time."

From humble beginnings selling chocolates and socks to organising a successful charity golf day, Taya's dedication and passion serve as an inspiration to us all. As she continues to advocate for emergency assistance in rural areas, her message rings clear: even the smallest swing can lead to significant change.

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Golfers enjoying a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and community spirit at Taya’s RACQ CQ Rescue Charity Golf Day. Photos supplied

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Tuesday night fixtures April 23, 2024

Division 1:
Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) d Blue (Steve Whiting, Lee Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 6-5. Geoff d Steven -10, 13, -8, 5, 10.

Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske) d Red (Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker, George Camilleri) 7-4. Andrea d George -7, 4, 8, -6, 6.

Green (Leo Gilbert, Robbie Richards, Neil Brown) d White (Mick Ruhl, Graham Brake, Mark Sleeman) 6-5. Robbie d Graham 3, 10, -8, -6, 7.

Black (Goncalo Serra, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d Purple (Duncan Treloar, Emma Widdup, Tony Bowman) 7-4. Allan d Duncan 6, -6, 7, 5.

Division 2:
Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro, Mark Stam) d Lime (Dave Symons, Noreen Fredericksen, Anaya Reelh) 6-5. Noreen d Mark 6, -11, 4, -9, 2.

Teal (Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh, Val Austin) d Tan (Saisha Palod, Jye Callander, Judy Zahn) 6-5. Aarnav d Saisha 1, 7, -9, -4, 12.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) d Gold (Ollie Hamelink, Steve Mathieson, Ishiaha) 7-4. Ishiara d Tiffany 6, -9, 9, -10, 17.

Grey (Doug Dungavell, Misha Palod) d Cyan (Matt West, Trent Day) 5-4. Trent d Misha -9, 6, 5, -10, 9.

Division 1 Tuesday morning fixtures results for last season

Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson and Kevin Abbott) initially tied on match-winning percentages with Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce and Bryan Marshall).  On a countback Jaguar won with slightly better player percentage wins.  Tony Bowman was leading player with 91.67 percent.

The Cyan team (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor and Louise Gould) took all before them with an unbeaten season in division 2. Marie Taylor was leading player with 90 percent.

Sapphires (Pam Keune, Madge Saunders and Darryl Ross) won division 3. Leading player was Ian Dodds with 83.33 percent.

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Winners of the Tuesday morning table tennis tournament John Hamelink and Josie Davis, at left, and Tony Bowman, right, with organizer Steve Mathieson.

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The Ladies Section hosted their President's event at home this past Friday, with President Julie extending a warm welcome to 60 members from district clubs, including Men's President John, Board Representative Brian, Life Member Ruby, and Patroness Eunice. The gathering was filled with laughter and spirited bowls matches.
The winning team, comprising B. Jenner, R. Lloyd, and R. Hughes, emerged victorious from the day's play, while the runners up lucky card from the losers were, R. O'Donnell, K. Robinson, and J. Borg. The club extends a heartfelt thanks to all attendees for their contribution to the day's tremendous success.
Looking ahead, this weekend features the Men's Division competing in the Dr. Williams Shield on Saturday, with matches taking place at the City Club and North Mackay. The finals will be held on Sunday at the City Club.

Team 1 G. Luck, R. Bell, N. Holt, R. Blanchfield
Team 2 T. Hollows, B. Paskins, E. Roberts, T. Mayfield
Team 3 A. Lovern, C. Marks, M. Coll, N. Wilson

On the 5th and 6th of May the club will be holding the Prestige Fours.
The green will be full of Bowlers chasing the prize Money.

Results:
Tuesday Social Play (22)
Winner of Winners:
G. Gibbs, W. Herewini, J. Nelson, B. Paskins
Winner of Losers:
L. Jenner, B. Jenner, P. Taaffe.

Thursday SCROUNGERS (18):
K. Struik def M. Coll   15-9

Club Competition Results:
A Singles
B. Jenner def C. Molloy 25 -17
M. Irving def A. Summerville 27-19
M. Coll def W. Herewini 26-19
B. Bridger def S. Green 25-11

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Goosepond Triples was a fun packed day with 78 bowlers vying for a share in the $2,000 prize money generously donated by our sponsors Minestaff and Gardian Mortgage Choice, for a second year. 

Three games of 16 ends determined the place-getters with the lucky winners being presented their trophies by Denis Fisher & Ben Phillips from Gardian.  Clint Zahmel from Minestaff sent his apologies. 

First place: 
Lorna Coad, Del McKelvie & Ahondy Ray

Second place:  
Kathy Mathews, Carmel Bell & Phyllis Morgan

Third place: 
Kay Underwood, Phyllis Cooper & Narell Schmidtke

Fourth place: 
Daelia Walsh, Maryann Harrigan & Bev McDonald

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Contributed with thanks to Helen Fleming 

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1: Winners: L Coad, D McKelvie, A Ray. Photos supplied
2: 2nd place getters: K Mathews, C Bell, P Morgan
3: 3rd Place: K Underwood, P Cooper, Narell Schmidtke
4: 4th place: D Walsh, Maryann Harrington, Bev McDonald 

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Premiership, with Cutters captain Tahlulah Tillett saying it was disappointing to miss out on two season points up for grabs.

Bears winger Ashleigh Werner was on fire, scoring a hat-trick in front of a big and boisterous crowd; one in the first half to help the Bears go into half-time up 14-4, and the final two in the second half to help deliver the 22-10 win.

Bears captain Zahara Temara said "oh man, it feels good to be back in the winner's circle", especially this close to State of Origin and the Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons being named.

"We haven't had the best year and we know that," Temara said.

"We've faced a lot of adversity recently... we had a lot to play for with ANZAC Day this week and a few of our staff had passings as well.

"We'll take it."

Temara said the scoreline did not reflect how hard the game was.

"They were bloody hard, the Cutters, and they deserve to be on top," Temara said.

"We take a lot of learnings from them. They bloody gave it to us... the score doesn't reflect that but it was bloody close out there, with them coming back, and they had all of the momentum, and that's where we stayed calm.”

Temara said it was hit-out for everyone in contention to play Origin.

"I got a lot of confidence out of that so if I am selected, I'll take that with me," Temara said.

Cutters captain Tahlulah Tillett said "it was a bit disappointing" to miss out on the two points, but her side would take learnings from the game into the next round.

"We let Burleigh come out to a really good start and they're a quality team so it was hard to come back... I was proud of our efforts in the second half, we fought our way back into the game, but we gave Burleigh that headstart in the first half and it was a bit too hard to come back," Tillett said.

"I think the biggest thing for us is we just need to make sure we control the ball and make sure we get to the end of our sets.

"We found ourselves in some really good positions early in the first half but we just gave away silly penalties and piggybacked them around the field. The great team that they are, they executed off the back of those. 

"I think going into next week, at the back end of the season, we just need to be more disciplined and make sure we're completing and executing our sets."

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Photo credit: Dylan Parker/QRL

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More than seventy runners and supporters supported the 6th Annual Forsyth’s Accounting Services Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield and Mackay Road Runners 10km Club Championship event held at historic Queens’s Park, where valuable funds were raised for Pancreatic Cancer Research (Pancare). 

Special invited guests in attendance were the Mackay Mayor, Cr Greg Williamson who has opened the event every year since its inception, Ms Leanne Druery and Mr Jim Ford.  Their speeches were full of compassion and sincerity, provoking emotional remembrance and thoughts of Shawn who passed away in 2018. Shawn was a treasured son, brother, brother-in-law, father, nephew, cousin, athlete, partner, friend, colleague, coach, runner and club supporter of all those lives he touched.    
One hundred per cent of all nomination fees, raffle proceeds, race day donations and sponsorship funds will be donated to Pancare thanks to the generosity of major sponsors.

We also thank our Club Patron Mr Col Meng and his family for donating the zooper doopers at this event as well as other weekly club events on the program. The Meng and Leven families are so much appreciated together with all club volunteers who make the club the successful welcoming arena that it is.
 
Mackay Mayor Cr Greg Williamson and Forsyths Accounting Director/Partner, Nicole White were integral in setting runners on their way towards their chance to be crowned first male and female winners in the 2024 Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield as well as gaining club championship points for open and age categories.  Incredibly stunning performances by the first male and female 10km winners, Paul Mackenzie and Alana Knezevic will now be inscribed on the amazing perpetual trophy featuring an image of Shawn in racing glory which resides at the Forsyth Accounting Services office. Five-kilometre winners, Jo Skinner and Craig McGahey had sensational outings, both taking home the gold medal prize in the shorter-distance event.
 
Many thanks to race day volunteers including the exceptional Andrew Short who was luckily on hand for the Vice-President when his car needed a jump start. Funds raised from the day are still to be collated and will be formally announced and presented to the Claydon Family for donation directly to Pancare.  Thank you to Shawn’s sister, Sharon and Jeff Stewart-Harris who did an amazing amount of work behind the scenes to ensure the success and continuity of the event. 
 
This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners event will be a social run from the Bluewater Quay as a lot of local runners will be travelling ‘overseas’ to Hamilton Island for the running of the famous Hilly Half Marathon event in one of the most spectacular locations in the Whitsundays. 

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Mackay Road Runners Club Vice-President, Mick Scholer, Mackay Mayor Cr Greg Williamson, Forsyths Accounting Services Director/Partner, Nicole White, Sharon Stewart-Harris, John Claydon and Bonny Claydon (seated) enjoy the 6th annual Forsyths Accounting Services Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield and Mackay Road Runners Club Championship

The Forsyths Accounting Services Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield winners, Paul Mackenzie and Alana Knezevic with Mackay Road Runners Vice-President Mick Scholer (left) and major sponsor, Forsyth’s Accounting Services Director/Partner, Nicole White (right)

6351 - The Forsyths Accounting Services Shawn Claydon Memorial Shield 5km winners, Craig McGahey & Jo Skinner with Mackay Road Runners Vice-President Mick Scholer (left) and major sponsor, Forsyth’s Accounting Services Director/Partner, Nicole White (right)

6348 – The Forsyths Accounting Services Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield very special guest speakers, Mr Jim Ford and Ms Leanne Druery delivered personally emotive and meaningful comments at the 6th Annual event

6360 – Jeff Stewart-Harris (Brother-in-law of the late Shawn Claydon) thanked the Claydon family, Mackay Road Running community, sponsors, volunteers and supporters for a very successful event for a very worthy cause
 

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On Saturday May 4th and Sunday 5th Airlie Beach will host one of the largest outrigger regattas in the North Queensland Zone. Some 300 competitors will be in town to race across a two day program.
Saturday will commence with the VA-A Moana Shute Harbour to Airlie Beach Marathon, an 18km OC6 event sponsored by Tassal Seafood.
This event is likely to challenge the fitness of all competitors. The first of the crews will leave Shute Harbour at 11am and are expected at the Lagoon Beach from 1.30pm onwards.
Sunday will be an action packed program, conducted from the Lagoon Beach, commencing at 6.45am and running all day.
A significant highlight of the day will be the junior events commencing at 8.15am, with races including sprints and longer distances.
Junior presentations will take place on the beach at approximately 2.15pm. Spectators are encouraged to come along and enjoy the fun.
Food will be available on site and the racing is always exciting and entertaining.
Senior presentations will take place at Banjo’s Bar and Bistro commencing at 7pm and will include music and entertainment.

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