Whitsunday Anglican School is celebrating a thrilling sporting triumph after both its Year 12 Boys and Girls Volleyball Teams claimed grand final victories against Mackay State High School (MSHS).

After six weeks of preliminary games against schools across Mackay, the two teams faced off against MSHS in front of a strong home crowd. MSHS took the first set in both matches with some excellent volleyball, setting the stage for an intense contest.

A representative from Whitsunday Anglican School said, “Our Whitsunday teams showed real determination, digging deep to claim the second set and take the finals to a thrilling decider.”

In what became a nail-biting finish, both teams demonstrated “outstanding teamwork, skill, and composure to emerge victorious!”

The representative added, “Congratulations to all players for showing true Whitsunday spirit in your encouragement and support of each other. A huge thank you to our amazing coaches, Mr Shamus Stayt and Ms Val Allen, for their calm leadership, and to Mr Wheaton for his support courtside.”

The double victory marks a proud moment for the school community, reflecting not only the players’ athletic ability but also their unity, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Both teams’ success has underscored Whitsunday Anglican School’s commitment to fostering teamwork and excellence, on and off the court.

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Whitsunday Anglican School celebrated a proud double victory as both Year 12 Boys and Girls Volleyball Teams triumphed in their grand finals against Mackay State High School.

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BOWLS

The Annual Dames versus Dandies Fun Day was held at the club on Tuesday, October 7, and proved to be another great success. With the support of many enthusiastic district bowlers and members from the North Mackay Club, the day was filled with fun, laughter, and friendly competition.

After a few shandies and plenty of good spirits, the Dandies claimed victory, with the ladies graciously admitting they were outplayed this year — but vowing to come back stronger in 2026!

A special thank you goes to the Goosies Club for providing a delicious afternoon tea platter, enjoyed by all. Congratulations also to the runners-up from Northern Beaches Bowls Club and the winning team from North Mackay Club.

The club is already looking forward to another memorable showdown at next year’s event.

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Winning Team - B. Ingram, G. McLean, W. McCurry, Ladies President Hilary Jones Rowan, E. Galletly.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine. Photos supplied

Runners up were : W. Wright, A. Burrows, M. Godfrey, G. Kasper

This season is proving to have some fantastic matches, Allan Robins has always had a lot of marathon matches but last Tuesday night, Duncan gave Allan a run for his money and they didn’t disappoint.

They took turns with every set was super close with Allan won in the end 11-8, 9-11, 11-9, 9-11, 16-14.

Evening Fixtures

Division 1 – Gold (Goncalo Serra, Geoff Denman, Graham Brake) beat Barra (Barry Patterson, Lee Brake, Graham Drury) 8-3, with Lee beat Graham 11-6.

Eagles (Emma Widdup, Syed Aminul Hossain, Josh Brown) beat Jaguar (Jacob Whelan, Geoff Cowan, Rymer Tabulo) 7-4, with Jacob made a comeback against Emma to win 11-6 in 5 Sets.

Fish (Steven Whiting, Trent Day, Graeme Walker) won against Lily (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDaKaa) 7-4, with Steven winning in 5 Sets over Will 11-3.

Division 2 – Teddy (George Camilleri, Vincent Neuhauf, Ross DeBoer) beat Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Peter Taber, Ian McKay) 7-4, George and Mark had a massive match with George coming out on top 11-9 in 5th Set.

Drongos (Yilin Jiang, Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight) won against Alpha (Allan Robins, Samuel Whelan, Peter Goodson) 7-4, Allan won in a close finish against Duncan 16-14 in 5 Sets.

Division 3 – Nova Smashers (Noreen Frederickson, Craig VanDaKaa, Nate Clark) beat Tibhar (Ollie Hamelink, Tiffany Camilleri) 6-5, with Tiffany won against Craig 11-5.

Marlin (Val Austin, Melanie Theodore, Mark Stam) won 6-5 against Sigma (Simon Hogan, Logan Brown, Rod Hamelink), Melanie came out on top against Rod 11-7 in tight 5 Sets.

Morning Fixtures

Division 1 – Rap Drive (Andrea Nicholson, Doug Dungavell, John McGee) drew level with Jump Up (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton) 6-6, there was a lot of close matches Doug and Delma having a wonderful match with Doug winning 11-6 in tight 5 sets.

Jazz Live (George Camilleri, Veronica Shepherd, Peter Goodson) won 7-5 over Rock Rally (Geoff Cowan, Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott), with Geoff coming back from 2 sets to 1 down to win against George 11-7 in 5th set.

Bass Bump (Donna Abbott, Judy Zahn, Peter Taber) beat Drum Beat (Allan Robins, Steve Mathieson, Bryan Marshall) 7-5, Judy won a close finishing match 11-9 in 5 sets over Bryan.

Division 2 – Byte Bouncers (Gloria Vella, Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell) won against Code Crackers (Pam Keune, Josie Davis, Thelma Caruana) 7-5, Josie won a tight 5 set match against Robyn 12-10.

Pixal Paddles (Marie Taylor, Louise Gould, Frank Caruana) beat Nano Nets (Kim Daffy, Ian Dodds, Coral Morgan) winning 7-5, with Marie coming out on top 12-10 in 5th Set against Kim.

Division 3 – Captin Spins (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Carmel Cristaldi) drew level with Spider Smashers (Sharon Muller, Trish Zamparutti, Laurie Bradshaw) 6-6, Sally won a close match against Sharon 11-9.

Bat Serves (Kim Challendar, David Muir, Janelle Keune) won 8-4 against Iron Rallies (Gerry Synnott, Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes), Madge beat David 11-8 in 5th Set.

Contributed by Andrea Nicholson

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Allan Robins

Duncan Treloar. Photos supplied

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The Central Queensland Blokart Club is gearing up for its 17th annual Blokart Regatta at Cape Hillsborough Beach, set to hit the sand on November 1–2. Drawing competitors from across Queensland and as far afield as Victoria, the regatta promises fast-paced, thrilling racing on the shore.

Spectators are invited to soak up the excitement and cheer on the landyachts as they race along the stunning beachfront. The club will have gazebos set up for shade, though beachgoers are encouraged to bring their own chairs to enjoy the best views of the action. A sausage sizzle and cold soft drinks will be available, with proceeds supporting the ongoing operations of the Central Queensland Blokart Club.

This family-friendly event is perfect for both dedicated motorsport fans and casual visitors looking for a day out on the beach. Previous regattas have showcased close finishes, high-speed manoeuvres, and plenty of fun for participants and spectators alike, making it a highlight on the Mackay sporting calendar.

Co-Founder and President Dave Moore said, “We welcome the public to come along, watch the racing, and enjoy the beach atmosphere. Our regatta is all about thrilling competition, community spirit, and sharing our love of Blokarting with everyone.”

Don’t miss this chance to see landyachts in action on one of Mackay’s most picturesque beaches!

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Last year’s regatta was a spectacular display of speed and skill along Cape Hillsborough Beach, and spectators are encouraged to join us this year for another thrilling weekend of Blokart racing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Five first year players came in top four positions this week. Karen Cadwell finished in top place on Wednesday, Annette Howe and Jewel Schmidt second on Friday with Sue Mayer-Miller bagging fourth position also on Friday and Christopher Meyers third 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 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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It was a batter’s paradise on the weekend, with more than 1000 combined runs scored across the Canecutters vs Warriors and Valleys vs Colts match-ups.

On Field 1, the Canecutters batted first, with Liam Davies (28) and Michael Pettiford putting on a 61-run opening partnership before Brendan Russell (3/56) snuck one through Liam’s defence. He was supported by fellow opening bowler Regan Knight (1/67) and the crafty off-spin of Bryce Fraser (1/26), reducing the Canecutters to 4/80 after 12 overs.

Jed Farley (45) and Michael Pettiford then went to work, combining for a commanding 166-run stand. Pettiford produced one of the most dominant batting displays in Proserpine Cricket history, smashing his way to 193 before falling in the final over while attempting to reach his double century. The Canecutters posted a formidable 6/323 from their 40 overs.

With such a large total on the board, most would have thought the result was a foregone conclusion — but the Warriors had other ideas. Brendan Russell (89) teamed up with Regan Knight (78) to put on 170 for the opening wicket before the ever-reliable Scott Milne (3/44) made the breakthrough. He was supported by Shilbin Kurian (2/90) and Will Marshall (2/76). A late-innings flurry from Craig Valmadre (51 not out) and Josh Sturma (29 not out) saw the near-impossible achieved, with the Warriors pulling off victory by two wickets with 1.5 overs to spare.

On Field 2, Valleys won the toss and elected to bat. They struggled early as Ben Hope (1/17) and Malachi Gabey (3/27) made life difficult for the batters. Only Will Flynn (16) and Jacob Williams (24) offered some resistance before Corbyn Leo (2/27) and Jack Valmadre (2/13) continued to make steady inroads.

Teetering at 81 runs with the final wicket in hand, Aaron Regan (95 not out) and Dale Mengel (10) combined for a brilliant 120-run partnership. Aaron dispatched any slightly loose delivery, while Dale’s role was to hold up an end and turn the strike over. Valleys were eventually bowled out for 201.

Unfortunately for Valleys, only Aaron Regan (2/23) provided any real impact with the ball as Corbyn Leo (20 not out, retired), Jack Valmadre (69 not out) and the ever-chirpy Josh Geisler (73 not out) made light work of the chase, powering the Colts to an eight-wicket victory in just the 24th over.

A special mention goes to 10-year-old Patrick Regan, who was outstanding in the field for Valleys and bowled an impressive maiden over (0–0) when the game was all but decided.
This Sunday will see Valleys taking on Warriors and Colts facing Canecutters, with both games to commence at 10:00am.

Contributed with thanks to Dale Mengel

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Warriors Players

Colts and Valleys Players

Photos supplied

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On Saturday, October 11, nearly 200 swimmers and their families came together at the wonderful Prossie Pool. Families travelled from Charters Towers, Townsville, Bowen, Mackay, Mirani, Moranbah, Cannonvale, and Proserpine for a day filled with fun, laughter, fast racing, medals, ribbons, and ducks.

The Whitsunday Swimming Club had 27 swimmers compete, with many first-timers taking to the water. It was fantastic to see the team spirit and support from all our swimmers and parents. Every single swimmer achieved incredible swims and personal bests.

The popular Mystery Relays returned this year, with Charlie, Finn, Tatum, and Skye taking the top spot. A huge thank you to Aquatic RUSH for sponsoring this event with $400 in prize money.

The PB Challenge saw two winners this year — Ivy, with a 2.69-second PB, and Freyja, who matched her exact PB. Well done, girls!

The raffle was a great success, with plenty of happy winners:
Charlotte – SeaLink Whitsundays voucher
Hayley – BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort voucher
Michael – Tassal box of prawns
Patrice – Biltong package from Tastes from Africa
The framed photo and cap prizes went to Ollie (Meg Harris) and Theresa (Jade Edmistone).

Thank you again to Aquatic RUSH for these amazing prizes.
Money board winners were Maria, Kathryn, and Georgia.

A huge thank you to all the businesses who sponsored and donated, including WILMAR for once again supporting this event.

A big shout-out to Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine for their generous donations to our carnival and the use of the BBQ trailer, which helped everything run so smoothly.
Thank you to Coaches Jenny, Amanda, Cruze, and Enrico for their training, support, and motivation for our swimmers.

And finally, a massive thank you to all our volunteers — timekeepers, check starters, medal issuers, BBQ mums and dads, raffle helpers, and officials (Theresa, Melissa, Simon, Helen, Dianne, and Kylie). You are all amazing! Your dedication and support for our swimmers and clubs are second to none, and we appreciate you all.

Contribtued with thanks to Amanda Yuskan

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Final Competition For Veterans Golf

The Whitsunday Veterans Golf held its final competition for the year at the Bowen Golf Club.

Numbers were slightly down this time, with 18 women and 23 men taking part.

Proserpine Vets claimed the title of Club of the Year, while Whitsunday’s own Robyn Whitham and Barry Mortimer were named Golfers of the Year. Congratulations to all concerned.

Results:
Ladies:
Vickie Wallace (Proserpine) won the day with an impressive 39 points, followed by Anne McGowan (Bowen) with 38 and Sue Heisswolf (Bowen) with 35. Leanne Alexander (Proserpine) was runner-up with 34.

Men:
Peter Muguira (Ayr) topped the men’s field with a fine score of 40 points, ahead of Gerald Lovell (Proserpine) with 38 and Peter Lindsay (Proserpine) with 36.

Pin shots went to Larry Muller (Proserpine) and Leanne Alexander (Proserpine) on holes 7/16. Leanne also claimed the Golden Pin, sharing the honour with Barry Mortimer on holes 9/18.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Barry Mortimer and Robyn Whitham. Photo supplied

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The Cannonvale Cannons excelled at their first Distance Night, with swimmers pushing their limits and reaping the rewards. The night saw an incredible five club records broken and newly set as swimmers rose to the challenge of longer events.

Congratulations to Tiana Bell (17 years), who set a new record in the 200 m Breaststroke (3:19.19), Jax Clayworth (12 years), who broke Jy Parkinson’s long-standing 1500 m Freestyle record with 19:20.59, and Eloise Chegwidden (10 years), who set a new record in the 800 m Freestyle (12:18.95). Lucas Korosec (9 years) had a phenomenal night, breaking Don Algie’s 400 m Freestyle record (6:04.86) and Miller Eaves’ 200 m Breaststroke record (3:44.51).

The Coaches Award was shared between Liam Filewood, for a powerful finish in his 400 m Freestyle, and Eric Mulliss, for an impressive effort in his 400 m Individual Medley. Lucas Korosec was also recognised with a Coaches Award for his exceptional 200 m Backstroke performance the previous week.

The momentum continued as 42 Cannons competed at the Whitsunday Swimming Club meet, delivering outstanding swims and numerous personal bests. Standout performers included Harry Chegwidden, Bonnie and Gracie Crichton, Jax and Miller Eaves, Liam Filewood, Koa Harland, Gracie and Pippa Laguna, Ruby Lawson, Eric and Stella Mulliss, Matilda Nicholes, Miranda Palmero, River Shields, Indianna and Levi Smith, Alex and Zachary Trefz, Caleb, Zavier and Lily Woolston.

A special mention goes to Zachary Trefz, who achieved PBs in all nine of his events!

A crowd favourite was the Mystery Relay, where mixed teams competed for cash prizes. Congratulations to Finn Temple, whose team won the final and shared the $400 prize. Thank you to Aquatic Rush for sponsoring the event.

Also thank you to the Whitsunday Swimming Club for hosting such a fun, family-friendly carnival. We look forward to the next one!

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Spring has arrived, and the action at our little club in paradise is heating up on the greens.

Tuesday afternoon social bowls saw Tony Whitehorn and Sue Walker take the win with an impressive 16-point margin. Tony continued his good form on Wednesday, teaming up with Lou Rogan and Greg Fennell to win by 12 points — earning him the nickname “Take the Money Tony.”

Wednesday night bowls attracted more than 30 players, kicking off the new season in great style.

On Friday morning, the Endeavour Foundation celebrated its 2025 trophy presentation. Amy and Alison received Encouragement Awards, Most Improved went to Dion and John, while Michael and Jett were named Men’s Champions and Kiara and Kathy Ladies Champions.

Friday afternoon brought the Christian College students back for lessons, with Ocean and Harmony showing promising form ahead of next year’s Queensland Schools competition.

Saturday morning Scroungers saw Warren Mills, Dennis Donnadelli, Kathryn Remmeswaal, and Kevin John Trembath win their first rounds. Warren took out the A Grade final and Mervyn Stewart the B Grade.

At the Champion of Champions at Pioneer Valley, Arthur McManus and Ashley Warland won both games before being narrowly beaten in the final by North Mackay.

Sunday social bowls drew 23 players, with Barry Wise, John Brown, Mark Mawson, and Glen O’Brien taking the win over Don Hogarth’s team.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Recipients of their trophies from the Endeavour Foundation: Alison, Michael, Kathy, Jett and Kiara with their respective awards. Photo supplied

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SOFTBALL

Two Mackay softballers, Jaxon Maluga and Peyton Barrow, headed off to the Club Classic tournament two weeks ago, each showcasing outstanding performances.

Jaxon played for the Brisbane-based team Scorpions, coming away with an impressive list of achievements such as Best Pitcher, Team Pitcher, and selection in the All-Star Team. His team finished runner-up, narrowly missing victory by just one run.

This weekend, October 17th–19th, Jaxon will play with the Open Mackay Men’s Team for the first time at a tournament in Toowoomba. Mackay will be represented by both an Open Men’s and a B Men’s side, competing in the State Championships.

Meanwhile, Peyton Barrow played her last tournament in Australia for a while, representing the Cougars. She was awarded Designated Player, Rookie Player, and Best Batter, rounding off her Australian season on a high note.

Peyton is completing her Year 12 studies at Northern Beaches and will spend Christmas with her family before heading to Oklahoma, USA. She has received a four-year scholarship to Oklahoma City University, where she’ll live on campus, studying Pre-Vet and Biology Pre-Medicine.

While it won’t be all study, she’ll continue training and playing softball, mostly as a catcher for the Oklahoma City University team.

In local softball news, Social 7s kicked off on Sunday night with four teams taking part. Players, both new and returning, enjoyed learning fresh skills and having fun in this social version of modified slow pitch. Games continue every Sunday at 5pm and 6:15pm until the end of November.

James Allen and Emmett Counsell also competed in the U21 tournament two weeks ago, where James was awarded Best Fielder.

At the recent Club Classic, James’s team, TE AROHANUI, went through undefeated to win the tournament. James was further recognised as Fielder of the Tournament and selected as All-Stars Team Catcher. Both James and Emmett will now head to Toowoomba this weekend, representing Mackay A Men.

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

1) Mackay softballers Peyton Barrow and Jaxon Maluga impressed at the Club Classic, earning top honours as they step into exciting new chapters in Toowoomba and Oklahoma, USA. Photos supplied

2) James Allen was awarded best fielder at the tournament

3) Emmett Counsell will be heading to Toowoomba on the weekend, playing for mackay A men alongside James and Jaxon.

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Mackay Table Tennis Association Fixture Results
7th October 2025

Division 1 – Eagles (Emma Widdup, Josh Brown, Syed Aminul Hossain) defeated Lily (Robbie Richards, Will VanDaKaa, Lily Boland) 7-4 with Josh winning a massive 5 set match over Lily 15-13
Barra (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson) defeated Jaguar (Anne Sheridan, Jacob Whelan) 3-2. Andrea had a big win over Jacob 11-9 in 5th set.
Fish (Steven Whiting, Trent Day, Graeme Walker) defeated Gold (Vince Boeske, Geoff Denman) 10-1 unfortunately no 5 set matches but some great 4 setters.

Division 2 – Drongos (Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight, Yilin Jiang) defeated Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Ian McKay, Peter Taber) 9-2 with Duncan had a great match against Ian, Duncan won 11-7 in 5th set.
Teddy (George Camilleri, Tony Bowman, Vincent Neuhauf) defeated Alpha (Allan Robins, Peter Goodson, Rymer Tabulo) 7-4, with no 5 set matches there was a lot of 4 set matches Peter defeated Vincent 11-9 in 4th set.

Division 3 – Tibhar (Rachel S, Ollie Hamelink, Liz Burton) defeated Marlin (Mark Stam, Val Austin, Melanie Theodore) 6-5, Ollie made a great come back in the 5th set with a win over Val 11-9.
Nova Smashers (Remy Zhan, Craig VanDaKaa) defeated Sigma (Rod Hamelink, Logan Brown) 5-0 with Craig won 4 set match over Rod.

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1. George Camilleri
2. Duncan Treloar

After last week’s fantastic carnival action, it’s back to business as usual — though preparations are already underway for next year’s event. A big thank you to the hundreds who helped make it so memorable.

On Tuesday, 26 bowlers took part in three games of triples and two games of pairs. The dice decided the winner by the smallest margin, with Carol Crosbie leading Mel Fennell and Alan Pershouse to a thrilling 21–19 victory. Mel’s final bowl stopped inches before the ditch after sending the jack in, sealing the win.

Wednesday’s Social Bowls, organised by Mervyn Stewart, drew 20 players for two games each of triples and pairs. The standout performance came from Alan Leach (skip), Barry Wainwright (lead) and Phil O’Brien (second), who won by 12 shots. Gary Smith also returned from six months sailing the Mediterranean and teamed up with Arthur McManus and Duncan Smith for a 21–11 win.

Saturday’s Scroungers saw first-round wins to Greg Fennell, Kathryn Remmeswaal, and visitors Brett Williams and Michelle Moss from Coolum Bowls Club. Brett went on to take the A-grade final, while John Askew claimed B-grade honours. A warm welcome also to new member Tony Chatwin from Jubilee Pocket.

Sunday’s 26 bowlers saw Tom Allen, Greg Fennell and Robin Brown win 24–21 over Des Ballance, Mandy O’Brien and Gail Simms. Thanks to Fiona Greener for keeping everyone refreshed.

Don’t miss our Come and Try Day with BBQ on Friday, October 24 — all welcome!

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

It was an exercise in military precision by the Sinkers Masters Swimming Club to move 150 people plus equipment from Shute Harbour to Whitehaven Beach for the annual Open Water Swim. Strong winds added to the challenge of transferring from the large boat to the tender and then to shore!

Once on Whitehaven, everyone pitched in to erect marquees, sort equipment and prepare for the event. The Water Safety crew provided first aid supplies and ensured all equipment was up to standard and ready for use. Sunscreen was lathered on, water consumed — and it was still early morning!

More than 20 volunteers in high-vis pink shirts looked after registration, timing chips, first aid, data entry, snacks and drinks, raffle ticket sales, kayak setup, and buoy inflation — among many other tasks that made for a safe and successful event.

The Sinkers’ mascot, Ratty, made himself known to all on the trip over and was equally useful on the beach.

A total of 108 competitors swam either 500m, 1km or 2km. It proved a tough swim for some of the less experienced open-water swimmers, as strong currents pushed many off course.

Mackay State MP Nigel Dalton volunteered his voice for the day as MC, keeping everyone informed and cheering on the competitors.

Three medical doctors attended the event, and apart from one precautionary check by the emergency doctor, they were able to enjoy the day’s activities. Their presence added an extra layer of safety and comfort for all participants.
Such a day demanded celebration, and the after-party at Northerlies didn’t disappoint. The nautical-themed night was awash with pirates, sailors, mermaids — and even a SpongeBob SquarePants!

Next year’s event will be scheduled around the tides and held close to the King’s Birthday weekend in 2026. Numbers will be capped, so be sure to register early.

A big thank you to the sponsors of the 2025 Whitehaven Open Water Swim:
Reefstar Cruises – Family-owned and operated, with a passionate crew who call the Whitsundays home. Their tours highlight the natural beauty of the region while promoting sustainability and respect for the reef.

DMR Leisure – Mackay Memorial Swimming Centre – Known as the “Memorial Pool,” the team shares a genuine passion for the water and everything it brings: health, joy, connection and community spirit. Sinkers proudly call it their home base, community hub, morning coffee spot and the heart of their swim family.

Masters Swimming Queensland – A driving force behind the growth of open-water swimming in the masters’ community.

Queensland Country Bank – Supporting Queenslanders with personalised banking and a strong commitment to community.

Contributed with thanks to North Mackay Sinkers

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Brother and sister Benson and Jasmin Smith are rewriting the Queensland and Australian game fishing record books.

Last week, nine-year-old Benson Smith, fishing on the family boat Lay-Low, landed a 27.95kg Sailfish on 15kg line after a 30-minute battle — a catch now submitted for both Queensland and Australian Small Fry records.

Benson also has another record claim awaiting verification for a large Barracuda he caught on 10kg line while fishing with his dad off Cairns recently.

Not to be outdone, last Saturday his 13-year-old sister Jasmin caught a 6.85kg Shark Mackerel on 6kg line and later that day landed a 29.65kg Sailfish on 10kg line. Both catches are pending Queensland and Australian Junior Female records. She was also fishing aboard her dad’s boat.

“Jazz” has also tagged and released several other Sailfish recently in Whitsunday waters while building up her club points.

Benson’s Sailfish was filleted and cooked on the barbecue at the Game Fish Club’s rigging night last Friday, much to the delight of those who attended, with many impressed by the flavour and texture. Jasmin’s Sailfish is being sent to NSW Fisheries for research purposes.

Both young anglers are members of the Whitsunday Game Fish Club and are competing in this week’s Airlie Beach Tackle World/Daiwa Light Tackle Tournament. They’re looking forward to some strong competition from other junior and small fry anglers — and we wish them well.

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore