
Mackay Cutters have confirmed Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months, strengthening the club’s youth education, wellbeing and leadership programs across the Mackay and Isaac regions. The partnership was launched last Friday at Moranbah State School, where Cutters Wellbeing and Education Manager Jack, alongside club staff and Stanmore leadership representatives, delivered a Cutters Care session to Year 5/6 Sports Boost students. “We’re proud to welcome Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months,” the club said. The program will continue to focus on helping young people build confidence, resilience and positive connections through sport and education-based initiatives. “Together, we'll continue delivering education, wellbeing and leadership programs to young people throughout the Mackay and Isaac regions, helping them build confidence, resilience and positive connections.” The Cutters said they look forward to continuing meaningful community impact and providing opportunities for young people to learn, grow and thrive through the partnership. Photo source: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)
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The Whitsunday Sea Eagles made the trip to Bakers Creek on the weekend to take on the North Mackay Saints and the Bakers Creek Tigers, with all teams showcasing plenty of determination and competitive spirit throughout the day. The Under 13s were first into action against the Saints and produced a strong performance. After a hard-fought opening three quarters, the Sea Eagles trailed by just two points heading into the final term, keeping themselves firmly in the contest. Despite their efforts, the Saints managed to pull away late, with the match finishing 20-39. The Under 15s continued their impressive season with another dominant victory over the Saints. Controlling the game from start to finish, the Sea Eagles piled on 12 goals and 15 behinds while keeping their opponents to just two goals. Their teamwork, skill, and relentless pressure were on full display as they secured another convincing win 72-12 and further strengthened their position as one of the competition's top teams. The women's side faced a tough challenge against the Bakers Creek Tigers. The Sea Eagles fought hard and matched the Tigers aggression and determination, keeping the margin within three goals throughout the game. The players fought hard at every contest and never stopped competing. However, fatigue began to take its toll in the final quarter, allowing the Tigers to kick four late goals and extend the final margin to 0-43. The senior men's match provided plenty of excitement for supporters. The Sea Eagles burst out the gates in the opening quarter, dominating early play to establish a 15-0 lead at the first break. Carrying that momentum throughout the day, the men continued to work hard around the ground and were rewarded with a strong 52-25 victory over the Tigers. It was a complete team performance and a fitting way to finish a successful day for the club. Get down to The Nest this Saturday 27th June for Sponsor Appreciation Day and cheer on your Whitsunday Sea Eagles as they take on the Moranbah Bulldogs, Swagpies, and Magpies in a huge day of footy action. The junior fixtures kick off from 10:40am, showcasing the club's rising stars, before the senior teams take centre stage in what promises to be an exciting evening of football, with the Senior Women starting at 3:20pm and the Senior Men finishing under lights. Bring the family, wear your Sea Eagles colours, and get behind your local teams as they battle it out on home turf. We can't wait to see you at The Nest! Contributed by the Whitsunday Sea Eagles: Georgia Whitton
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The Mackay Softball Association has reflected on another competitive CQ Darby against Softball Rockhampton, with strong performances and continued rivalry highlighted across the weekend. Rockhampton arrived ready to play, producing a dominant display at the plate and taking victory in both games of the series. “The Rocky boys came ready to play, swinging the bats well and taking the win in both games,” the association said. Despite the results, Mackay praised the standard of competition and the spirit in which the games were played, with both clubs continuing to build on a long-standing regional rivalry. The association also acknowledged the contribution of Murray, thanking him “for all his help, guidance and support in coaching both teams throughout the weekend”. Off the field, community and hospitality remained a key feature of the event, with Jodie recognised for preparing meals for the visiting side. “Thank you to our own Jodie for feeding our the Rocky boys delicious pulled pork rolls,” the association said. The CQ Darby continues to be a highlight on the calendar for both regions, with Mackay Softball noting the blend of rivalry and mateship that defines the fixture. “These weekends are always a highlight on the calendar, and we love the rivalry, mateship and quality softball that comes with them.” The team is now looking ahead to the next meeting between the two clubs, with both sides eager for another competitive weekend of softball in Central Queensland. Photo source: Mackay Softball Association Incorporated (Facebook)
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Twenty-six Pairs competed in the Qualifying Championship Club Pairs on Saturday morning, with the top fourteen pairs then progressing to the Club Championship Pairs after lunch. Congratulations to Janine Rodgers and Nancy Martin who were the outright winners with 61.86 percent. Although Janine and Nancy are both very experienced players, however, this current partnership is a relatively new one. Well done ladies! Many hands of cards were played on the day and lots of delicious food eaten. Mackay Bridge Club is a very social and friendly club. Weekly Results Monday 15th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris 3rd Monica Darley / Joy Block 3rd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins Evening 15th June 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Janelle Conroy / Andrew Canavan 2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore Wednesday 17th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 1st Terry Sheedy / Mick King 2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Faith Hutchinson / John Hunt 3rd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown Thursday 18th June 2026 – Show Day - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Mick King / Griffin Bancroft Friday 19th June 2026 –- Week 12 of 26 NWP - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor 2nd Geoff Cowan / Mick King 2nd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole 3rd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait 3rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson Saturday 20th June 2026 – Club Championship Qualifying - 13 Table Mitchell Red Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 1st Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy 2nd Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 3rd Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin 3rd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok 4th Susan Ross / Geoff Cowan 4th Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 5th Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris 5th Ann Whitmore / Joy Block Saturday 20th June 2026 Club Championship Pairs Final – 7 Table Howe 1st Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin 2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 3rd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 4th Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless Contributed by Joy Block Nancy and Janine. Photo supplied
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The club saw some massive scores as the morning fixtures this week, as Season 2 began. Peter Goodson and Branko Vucurovic were set in for the morning with the first set was nearly 2 sets in 1 with the score being 23-21. Peter ended winning in a close 4 sets. The marathon matches continued as Chris Collins and Coral Morgan thought their match was never going to end with very close and long 5 sets, which ended in Chris sneaking home against Coral 18-16.
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Astro Aces (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson) defeated Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight) 5-3. Match featured above Peter won over Branko in 4 sets (21,9,-8,8). Orion Orbiters (Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd, John McGee) tied 6-6 against Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall), Andrea and John came back from 2 sets down to win a massive doubles against Doug and Bryan (-9,-8,13,8,9).
Division 2: Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Gloria Vella, Helen Ware) won 7-5 over Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Veronica Needham, Josie Davis), Josie came home from 2 sets down to win in 5 sets against Gloria (-5,11,-9,6,8). Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Robyn Bushell, Coral Morgan) won their last 5 matches to beat Ninja Strikes (Ken Best, Frank Caruana, Chris Collins), this marathon match is featured above Chris defeated Coral in 5 sets (10,-5,4,-8,16).
Division 3: Celtic Smash (Pam Kuene, Cheryl Pearson, Myles Dutton) defeated Aztec Warriors (Kim Challendar, Janelle Kuene, Glenda Brookes) 9-3, Pam won in close 5 sets against her daughter Janelle (-6,6,5,-7,7). Mongol Power (Gerry Synnott, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) tied at 6-6 against Gladiator Grip (Allison Day, Sharon Muller, Madge Saunders). Sharon won against Gerry (-9,9,-5,6,4).

Tuesday Evening Fixtures
Division 1: Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake) won 6-5 over Geese (Steve Whiting, Lee Brake, Janice Kent), Lee and Graeme battled it out in very close 5 set finish with Lee winning (-6,12,-5,8,12). Canaries (Lily Boland, Yilin Jiang, Josh Brown) defeated Curlews (Barry Patterson, Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan) 6-5, Anne came home in tight finish against Lily (9,-6,3,-2,10). Cockatoos (Goncalo Serra, Mark Sleeman, Neil Brown) snuck home against Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Allan Edwards, Robbie Richards), Trent found his form as he came back against Neil from 2 sets down to win in 5 sets (-5,-10,6,7,8).
Division 2: Kites (Syed Hossain, Matt West, Simon Hogan) defeated Parrots (Delma Knight, George Camilleri, Liz Burton) 6-5, Matt just won over Liz in close 5 sets (6,5,-11,-9,12). Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Noreen Frederickson) won 6-5 over Galahs (Remy Zhan, Donna Abbott, Mark Stem), Will beat Remy in 5 sets to win (-10,7,-3,7,8). Owls (Rod Mahumes, Peter Goodson, Ricky Zhan) just home 6-5 against Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Jeff Bennington, Rachel Fiesta), Rachel came back against Rod to win tight 5 sets (8,-8,10,-6,11).
Division 3: Craig VanDeKaa, Tiffany Camilleri, Logan Brown and Val Austin are playing very well, with some close matches and tight competition as they are all playing for a top 4 position.

Contributed by Andrea Payne

SEASON 2 – WEEK 1
Welcome back to season 2, it’s great to have a few new players.
Tuesday Night Results
Division 1: Curlews (Barry Patterson, Geoff Cowan, Anne Sheridan) defeated Cockatoos (Vince Boeske, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) 7-4, Mark came home strongly against Geoff to win (10,-6,9,-4,5). Canaries (Lily Boland, Yilin Jiang, Josh Brown) beat Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake) 6-5, Lily and Graeme battled it out with Lily winning in very close 5 sets (-8,7,6,-9,10). Geese (Steve Whiting, Syed Hossain, Janice Kent) won 7-4 over Bowerbirds (Robbie Richards, Trent Day, Allan Edwards), Robbie just got home against Janice in close 5 sets (9,-6,-8,5,8).

Division 2: Parrots (George Camilleri, Delma Knight, Liz Burton) won 7-4 over the Owls (Rod Mahumas, Peter Goodson, Ricky Zhan), Delma came back to win against Peter after losing the first set 20-18, it was a neck and neck battle to the end (-18,9,9,-9,9). Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Danial Warfield, Noreen Frederickson) 6-5, Andrea and Ollie won their first doubles together against Will and Daniel in close 5 setter (14,10,-6,-6,10). Kites (Geoff Denman, Ian McKay, Matt West) defeated Galahs (Donna Abbott, Dilini Ranasinghe, Mark Stam) 7-4 with Donna coming back against Ian in very close match (-8,-9,7,9,5).
Division 3: This is being run as a round robin draw each player is playing for themselves and aiming to be in the top 4 positions at the end of the season.
Tuesday Morning fixtures will begin next week but this week was a Double Competition. This is a random draw with each match is a different doubles partner and we also have different opponents. It is 6 matches and 1 game to 31 and at the end the points you earned are totalled up to find the winner, this is a great fun morning. Group 1 was won by Andrea Nicholson who was undefeated on 186 points and Group 2 was won by Josie Davis on 181 points.

Contributed by Andrea Payne

Mackay’s U14 boys and girls delivered strong performances at the Toowoomba softball tournament last month, highlighted by the boys claiming Presidents Cup Gold. Photo source: Mackay Softball association Incorporated
Mackay softball talent Jaxon Maluga represented Australia at the U18 Men’s Softball World Cup Qualifier in New Zealand.
His selection was a significant achievement, reflecting his hard work, passion and commitment to the sport.
Competing in the green and gold, Jaxon took to the international stage with pride, with the local softball community celebrating his efforts and wishing him and the Australian team success throughout the tournament.

Last month, Mackay’s U14 boys and girls competed in their tournament in Toowoomba, delivering strong performances across the competition.
The girls combined with Coral Coast, showing teamwork and spirit throughout their games.
The boys achieved outstanding success, winning the Presidents Cup with a 20–6 victory over Maryborough to secure gold. Both teams were praised for their effort, sportsmanship and the way they represented Mackay on and off the field.


Photo source: Mackay Airport
Mackay Airport has reaffirmed its commitment to local sport and community wellbeing, continuing its sponsorship of the Mackay Cutters for the upcoming season.
The partnership supports a club that continues to expand both on and off the field, with more than 180 athletes currently competing across six squads.
A representative from Mackay Airport said the organisation was proud to remain involved with the club as it develops opportunities for local players.
“Mackay Airport is proud to continue sponsoring the Mackay Cutters this season,” the representative said.
“With more than 180 athletes across six squads, supported by an incredible team of coaches, medical, strength and conditioning and operations staff, the Cutters continue to grow both on and off the field. Together, they are building strong pathways for local talent and striving for success across all grades.”
Beyond competition, the partnership also supports important community initiatives through the club’s Cutters Care program.
“We are also especially proud to support the club’s Change the Game Mental Health Initiative through Cutters Care,” the representative said.
“In 2025, the program reached more than 1,460 students across 53 sessions, helping promote positive mental health and wellbeing across the Mackay community.
“Partnerships like this play a vital role in strengthening our region, from developing local athletes to creating meaningful community impact.”

Around 1,500 people gathered at Harrup Park for the opening ceremony of the North Queensland Games, launching the 2026 competition with community celebration despite challenging weather conditions. Photo source: North Queensland Games
Despite challenging weather conditions, the opening ceremony of the North Queensland Games drew an impressive crowd of around 1,500 people to Harrup Park, marking a spirited start to the 2026 regional sporting event.
The ceremony, hosted by Tegan Philpott, brought together athletes, officials and supporters from across the region in a celebration of sport, community and participation.

Attendees heard from Mayor Greg Williamson and Member for Mirani Glen Kelly, who addressed the crowd on behalf of both David Crisafulli and Tim Mander, acknowledging the importance of the Games in strengthening regional sport and community connections.
The event also featured the Games’ ambassadors, Olympic beach volleyball champion Natalie Cook and local sporting advocate Tori West. While Mackay boxing star Liam Paro was unable to attend due to personal reasons, he remains an ambassador for the Games.

A strong sense of history was reflected in the presence of Bill Cummings from the 1956 Torch Bearers Club, highlighting the enduring legacy of sport across generations.
The ceremony began with a heartfelt Welcome to Country delivered by Philip Kemp of the Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC.
Athletes formally marked the start of competition as Derrick Evans led the official oath alongside athletes Lily Woods and Myarah Ahoy from Athletics North Queensland.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the March of Athletes, led by the Holy Spirit Drum Corps, as more than 20 sporting clubs entered the arena in a vibrant display of unity from across North Queensland.
While wet weather prevented the traditional torch relay from taking place, the ceremony maintained its celebratory atmosphere with fireworks, live music from ViVa Acoustic, jumping castles and community stalls.

Event activations were supported by Struddy’s, PEAK and the Queensland Academy of Sport, alongside media partners including 7NEWS Mackay, which sponsored the 100-metre sprint prize money, and Star 101.9 Mackay, which broadcast live from the Games cauldron.
The 2026 North Queensland Games is proudly supported by the Queensland Government, with organisers thanking sponsors, partners and the community for helping deliver a memorable opening celebration.


After Round 1: Proserpine (PP) 281 Pioneer Valley (PV) 277 Stableford points a pleasing result albeit with a home course advantage.
On April 28th, Proserpine hosted Round 1 of the annual Croker Shield in blustery but sunny weather conditions. The course condition was very good with no preferred lies. There were 39 Proserpine players and 24 from Pioneer Valley.
Proserpine contributors were: Warren Deighton (41), Ken Granger (35), Len Booroff (35), Craig McLean (35), Barry Shuwalow (35), Anna Winterbourn (34), Tiina Randmae (33) and Kath Borer (33).
A special thank you to those who contributed to the delicious morning tea and lunch.
Congratulations to the overall winners.
RESULTS
LADIES
Winner: Camille Berginey (PV) with 40 points
R/Up: Anna Winterbourn (PP) with 34 points
MEN
Winner: Warren Deighton (PP) with 41 points
R/Up: Allan Smith (PV) with 39 points
PIN SHOTS
Ladies: Carene Vandersee (PV), Elspeth Scotford (PP) and Tina Badenhorst (PP)
Men: Ken Granger (PP), Craig McClean (PP) and Gerald Lovell (PP)
RAFFLE
The generous meat tray was won by our very own Tiina Randmae
UPCOMING EVENTS
Week after 12/5/26 at Collinsville Whitsunday Group
Thursday 9/7/26 CROKER SHIELD Round 2 at Pioneer Valley
Contributed with thanks to John Roser

It’s been a busy week for the Club with a major fundraiser for the CQ Rescue Service which is so appreciated by everyone in the community. This took place on Sunday with some amazing scores and a great time had by all.
TUESDAY 28/4/26
VETS : Croker Shield : Stableford vs Pioneer Valley @ PGC
LADIES :
Winner : Camille Berginey (PV) 40 points
R/Up : Anna Winterbourn (PGC) 34 points (C/B)
3rd : Carene Vandersee (PV)
4th : Tiina Randmae (PGC) 33 points (C/B) followed by Kath Borer and Elspeth Sscotford
NTPs : Carene Vandersee, Elspeth Scotford, Tina Badenhorst
MEN :
Winner : Warren Deighton (PGC) 41 points
R/Up : Allan Smith (PV) 39 points
3rd : Ken Granger (PGC) 35 points (C/B)
From Len Booroff, Craig McLean and Barry Shuwalow
NTPs : Ken Granger, Craig McLean, Gerald Lovell
WEDNESDAY 29/4/26
Single Stableford – 12 ladies were away playing Country Week @ Rocky and Yeppoon
LADIES :
Winner : Paula McQuat – on a roll – 34 points
R/Up : Tina Badenhorst 33 points
3rd : Tiina Randmae 32 points
NTPs : Di Dobbins (16th)
THURSDAY 30/4/26
PGC - Stableford
MEN :
A Grade :
Winner : Ray Johannesen 37 points
R/Up : Gavin Kerwand 36 points (C/B)
3rd : Jason Bourke
B Grade :
Winner : Peter Lindsay 39 points
R/Up : Mitchell Whitton 37 points (C/B)
3rd : Louis Neethling
NTPs : Wilf Herweg (2nd), Paul Gray (9th), Allen Roberts (13th), Nathan Holohan (16th)
FRIDAY 1/5/26
9 hole Run sponsored by the Metropole Hotel : Front 9
Winner : Bradley Wilkinson 23 points
R/up : Simon Wilmot 17 points
3rd : Jason Whitney 16 points
NTPs : Brent Franke (2nd)
SATURDAY 2/5/26
May MM sponsored by the Metropole Hotel
MEN :
Overall winner : Ritchie Atkins 64 nett
A Grade :
Winner : Jason Bourke 71 nett (C/B)
R/Up : Levi Holmes
B Grade :
Winner : Ritchie Atkins 64 nett
R/Up : Logan Devery 68 nett
C Grade :
Winner : Connor Devery 66 nett (C/B)
R/Up : Bradley Wilkinson
NTPs : Clay Coles (2nd), Jason Bourke (9th), James Kean (13th), Andrew Volpato (16th)
LADIES
Winner : Joanne Moynihan 70 nett
R/Up : Noelene Spurway 73 nett (C/B)
3rd : Sidonie Fleet
NTPs : Sara Hagy (2nd), Sidonie Fleet (9th)
SUNDAY 3/5/26 :
BMA CQ RESCUE 4C AMBROSE - FUNDRAISER
An excellent day with 88 players, fabulous scoring, and the weather was kind with only a couple of spits during the day, so all was well. The amount of money raised will be advised when all figures have been collated.
Winners : Ryan Kenny, Mark Thompson, Sean Fogarty, Jared Leaman 53.125
Rs/Up :O’Connors - David, Billy and Lewis, Tim Walton 53.5
3rd : Patrick Camm, Nick Watson, Cory O’Shea, Brent Franke 53.75
4th : Rob and Shelley Stanley, Steve Abel, Neal Torresan 54.125
Many thanks to all those who all who participated, those who gave up their time and helped in any way at all, these big events don’t happen by chance, there is a lot of work done behind the scenes, not just by the Pro Shop but by many members as well. We hope a good time was had by all and we look forward to doing it all again next year.
* * *
Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

Men's President Graeme Read with Winner Dennis Madeley, Cheryl Nugent and absent Skin Querro Photo supplied
Tuesday’s winners were Skin Querro, Denis Madeley who defeated Neil Chittenden and Ron Hyde. In the other games Cheryl Nugent, John Hayson and Stuart Jeal defeated Shirley Jones and Deb Retchless. Maureen Hyde, Laurie Land and Greg Prembroke defeated Frank Sciani and Troy Nugent. The jackpot didn’t go off.
Club Competition for the week: Ladies Four final was won by Celly Jeal, Robyn Stitt, Sue Shearing, Fely Duncan defeating Lindy Suann, Deb Retchless, Shirley Jones and Maureen Hyde.
On Sunday afternoon the club welcomed Bowen Home Hardware with everyone having an enjoyable afternoon
Sunday’s winners were: Cheryl Nugent, Skin Querro and Denis Medeley defeated Eileen Dunn, Greg Prembroke and Graeme Read. In the games Gwenda Lydom, Isobel Wheeler and Greg Colquhoun defeated Neale Chittenden, John Hayson and Troy Nugent.Toni Bowen,Gavin Charles and Maureen Hyde defeated Bill Myers, Boof Querro and Kevin Jewell. The jackpot didn’t go off.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Carol Crosbie and Joan McGrath are the winners of the Ladies’ Pairs and the A Grade champions for 2026. Photo supplied
We are now in the middle of the Men’s, Ladies’, and Mixed club competitions, along with our weekly social games.
Tuesday Ladies’ social bowls saw 12 bowlers vying for the winner’s prize, while the final of the Ladies’ Pairs was also played in front of many onlookers. The team of skipper David Bradley, lead Sue Dakin, and second Dawn Dowell won comfortably on the day.
Meanwhile, the team of Joan McGrat Carol Crosbie faced Elaine Kippen and lead Kath Remmeswaal. The score was 7-all after 11 ends before Elaine and Kath succumbed to very accurate bowling, going down 25–9. This game is featured in this week’s photo.
Wednesday afternoon social bowls saw 24 bowlers competing for the winner’s prize. Victors, with a score of 16–10, were skipper Andrew Butler, lead Lu Rogan, and second Desmond Ballance. They proved too strong in the end for the valiant team of skipper Ted Cullen, lead Rick Brunell, and second Phil O’Brien.
Saturday morning Scroungers had a large roll-up, with first-round winners Tony Whitehorn, Kath Remmeswaal, and Alan Pershouse fighting out the final. Alan Pershouse was the A Division winner of the day, while the B Division winner was Sharon.
Sunday afternoon social bowls saw 16 bowlers playing well. The winning team was skipper Alan Pershouse and David “Choc” Cleary, who won 23–20, making it a very successful weekend for Alan. The club also welcomed back John Matterson, returning from heart surgery. He showed everyone he is still a fantastic bowler, and as he regains strength, he will no doubt return to his brilliant best.

FQPL3 Women Photo supplied
Whitsundays delivered an impressive weekend of results across all three grades, recording convincing wins in the Premier Women, U23 Men and Premier Men competitions.
The FQPL3 Premier Women showed resilience after a slow start against Country United, conceding early to trail 1–0. Veneesha Robertson sparked the comeback with a superb long-range strike into the top corner to level the scores at 1–1 heading into the break. Bre Campbell then took control in the second half, scoring twice to secure a 3–1 victory. Sarah Chilton led the line strongly, Keely Salter anchored the defence, and the club’s younger players continued to grow in confidence at senior level.
The U23 Men entered their clash against City Brothers knowing a win would keep them on top of the table, and they delivered with a composed 2–0 performance. After a scoreless first half, where Kai Savy’s runs in behind caused constant problems, the breakthrough came via a penalty calmly converted by Aaron Kinsella. Arman Sabzgolin added a second to seal the result and ensure Whitsundays remained at the summit.
The FQPL3 Premier Men rounded out the weekend with a dominant 8–3 win over City Brothers. Ethan Rose opened the scoring shortly after seeing his early penalty saved and went on to complete back-to-back hat-tricks. Pepe Perea’s pressing created another goal before half-time, the ever-dangerous Reef Peel added two more and Max O’Keefe and Sam Frumento both also found the net in a powerful attacking display. Another good win for our Premier Men as they settle into the season.

Last Saturday, a grand opening took place for the new Bowen Seagulls Rugby League Clubhouse. Both Federal MP for Dawson Andrew Willcox and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins were in attendance for the special event.
“This is a fantastic addition to the Seagulls, and I congratulate everyone for all the hard work invested to bring this to fruition,” Mr Willcox said.

Both MP Willcox and Mayor Collins helped to cut the ribbon alongside the enthusiastic players.
“Along with cutting the ribbon to celebrate this achievement, the club committee has done an amazing job of putting together a trip down memory lane, showcasing photographers, football jerseys and memorabilia from years gone by.
As a ‘Bowen boy’ who played league and run a team where his son played, Mr Willcox expressed immense pride at the occasion.

“It was real treat to spend time looking through our towns footy history.”
The opening represents an exciting new chapter for the league.


Photo Credit - Kylie Allen - Whitsunday Sea Eagles
What a weekend for the Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Men! After an unfortunate forfeit from the Bakers Creek Tigers women’s side, all eyes turned to the men to deliver a win for the home crowd.
It was a hard-fought battle from the first bounce to the final siren, with both teams going stride for stride in a tight contest.
The intensity never dropped, as each side attacked the ball with hunger and determination, refusing to give an inch.
In the end, it was the Sea Eagles who rose to the occasion, holding their nerve and finishing strong to claim the win by a solitary point in front of their home crowd.
With the final score 69-68 the Sea Eagles way, Hudson McGregor was awarded the best on ground honours for his bag of five goals in trying conditions.
This Saturday the 9th of May the Sea Eagles head down to Rodger’s Oval in Mackay to battle it out with the Eastern Swans. Will our teams come out victorious? Be there and find out!
Contributed by Georgia Whitton - Whitsunday Sea Eagles

Information about Council’s Junior Elite Athlete support program can be found on their website Photo credit: Facebook
Young athletes from across the Whitsundays were recognised for their impressive achievements at a recent Ordinary Council meeting in Proserpine.
Mayor Ry Collins and Councillors acknowledged a group of junior competitors who have excelled at regional, state and national levels, supported through Council’s Junior Elite Athletes initiative.
The program provides financial assistance to help cover the costs of competing in representative sport, ensuring local talent can pursue opportunities without being held back by expense.
Among those recognised on the day were Kayne Higgins (cross country), Adelaide Sanders and Eli Gerrand (football and futsal), Axel Yuskan, Evelyn Doherty, Declan Dichiera, Eloise Chegwidden, Lucas Korosec, Jax Clayworth and Zane Clayworth (swimming), Reid and Rory Martin (sailing), and Ben Hope (cricket).
Council also paid tribute to several athletes who were unable to attend but have achieved outstanding results. These included Kade Harrison and Skye Brodhurst (volleyball), Thomas O’Neill (motocross), Karlee and Byron Goodin (football), Isabella Pisaniello and Charlie Doherty (swimming), Amber Benson (rugby league), Millie Groom (cross country), Roxanne Groom and James Davies (swimming), Russell Harris (sailing), and Matilda Nichols (triathlon and aquathon).
Mayor Collins said the recognition highlights not only sporting success, but the commitment and resilience shown by these young athletes.
“These athletes are fantastic ambassadors for the Whitsundays,” he said. “Their hard work and determination is something the whole community can be proud of.”
The Junior Elite Athletes initiative continues to play an important role in supporting the region’s emerging talent, helping athletes take the next step in their sporting journeys.
With a wide range of sports represented—from swimming pools and athletics tracks to sailing courses and football fields—the Whitsundays continues to produce a diverse and promising group of young competitors.
Council encourages families and aspiring athletes to learn more about the program and the support available, as the region continues to back its next generation of sporting stars.

Photo supplied
The 2026 Foley Shield was played over the weekend in Cairns, with well over 80 years worth of history in our region. The Foley Shield is the epitome of representative rugby league in North Queensland.
With five of our local Whitsunday Brahman men selected for the Mackay Sea Eagles side, including Sam Moorhouse, Adam Butterill, Darcy Turner and Hawaiike Annandale as players, and Harley Bateup as men’s assistant coach working beside the ever-talented former NRL player Kane Linnett, the club was proudly represented. Eddy Cates was also selected as women’s assistant coach, with Shirley Luke earning selection in the women’s team.
Our troops set to Cairns with one mission in mind — to make a statement.
The men walked away with a win in their opening game on Saturday against a favoured Cairns side, 24–16. In an extremely close match, they played their cards right and came out on top. This was followed by the Mackay Sea Eagles women’s team, who defeated Cairns 24–4. Both teams then faced off later on Saturday against last year’s big threat, Townsville.

The men were down at half time but refused to count themselves out. They came back hard in the second half, taking on the defence with confidence and control. Mackay turned the tables to secure an incredible 32–26 victory, claiming the 2026 Foley Shield in what was a massive upset over the reigning champions.
Unfortunately, the women’s side were unable to overcome a strong Townsville outfit, going down 20–10. Despite the result, the team held their heads high, proud of their selections and the opportunity to represent, while enjoying a memorable weekend away in Cairns.
The Mackay Sea Eagles men’s team celebrated their milestone win on the journey home, holding the trophy high and soaking in a well-earned victory. Mackay had not lifted the Foley Shield since 2021, making the achievement even more special.
Coach Kane Linnett, along with his players and staff, have every reason to be proud. The shield has returned home to Mackay — and if this performance is anything to go by, it may be there to stay for some time.
Contributed with thanks to Mandy Bateup

Photo source: Mackay Basketball
Mackay Basketball’s U16 Meteorettes delivered a strong performance in the state Grand Final, finishing with a well-earned 2nd place in Queensland after going down to Logan.










