BUT FIRST

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Sara Hagy took out the Gross Championship at the Bowen Ladies’ Open on Sat 18/4, as well as the A grade longest drive and an NTP.  Well done Sara, you have done PGC proud- many congratulations.

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12 PGC ladies are off to Country Week to represent PGC at Rocky and Yeppoon, good luck girls, we’ll be watching (figuratively) with interest.

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AND NOW FOR THE RESULTS : WEEK ENDING 19/4/26

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TUESDAY 14/4/26

PGC - Stableford

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MEN :

Winner : Wilf Herweg 40 points (C/B)

R/Up : Allen Roberts

3^rd : Louis Neethling 36 points

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NTPs : Aaron Prosser, Penny Wardroper (2^nd), Wilf Herweg (13^th), John Grosskreutz (16^th)

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VETS : Stableford at Home Hill

19 Vets (6 ladies/13 men) made the trip to Home Hill for the first leg of the Whitsunday Group games (including a minor hold up on the 1 road in and out scenario) due to an accident on the Bruce Highway.They acquitted ourselves well on the day, those domed greens were probable the hardest part of the day.

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NOTABLE LADIES :

Paula McQuat (28 points), Tiina Randmae and Leanne Alexander (27 points), Anna Winterbourn (25 points). The winner on the day was Lynne Windt (35 points), r/up Joy Hose (34 points)

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NOTABLE MEN :

Craig McLean (33 points), Gary Scotford and Trevor Paroz (32 points), John Roser (30 points), Peter Lindsay (29 points) and John Strelec (27 points).

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The winner was Guy Leblowitz 39 points, r/up was Neil Francis 36 points  

NTPs : Well done to Elspeth Scotford, Leanne Alexander, Ken Granger and Nic Apruzzese.

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WEDNESDAY 15/4/26

PGC - Stableford

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LADIES :

Winner : Tiina Randmae 35 Points

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NTPs : Ann Gardel (2^nd), Sherri Meade (16^th)

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THURSDAY 16/4/26

MARCH MM sponsored by Loot Pay

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PGC - MEN :

A Grade :

Winner : Adam Stroud 68 nett (C/B)

R/Up : Gary Scotford

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B Grade :

Winner :Ken Granger 70 nett (C/B)

R/Up : Rob Webb

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NTPs : Mitchell Whitton (2^nd), Brian Allen (9^th), Gary Scotford (13^th), Ken Lovett (16^th)  

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FRIDAY 17/4/26

9 hole Run sponsored by the Metropole Hotel : Front 9

Winner : Kell Geard 22 points (C/B)

R/up : Wil Bernett

3^rd : Simon Wilmot 21 points  

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NTPs : Luke Wayth (2^nd), Luke Paroz (9^th)

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SATURDAY 18/4/26

Stableford sponsored by MBW

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MEN :

A Grade :

Winner : Aaron Wingrove 38 points (C/B)

R/Up : Billy O’Connor

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B Grade :

Winner : Brian Allen 41 points

R/Up : Trevor Paroz 39 points

NTPs : Russel Lakey (2^nd), Conrad Werner (9^th), John Dodds (13^th), Bradley Wilkinson (16^th)

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LADIES

Winner : Peta Thomas 39 points

R/Up : Edwina Pettiford 34 points

NTPs : Sherri Meade (2^nd), Edwina Pettiford (9^th)

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SUNDAY 19/4/26

March MM sponsored by KJC

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MEN :

Winner : Kelvin Stephens 65 nett

R/Up : Dean Barnard 68 nett

NTPs : Kelvin Stephens (2^nd), George Meharry (9^th), Jake Cremor    (13^th), Alex Schultz (16^th)

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LADIES :

Winner : Edwina Pettiford 69 nett

R/Up : Paula McQuat 71 nett

NTPs : Loretta Puttick (2^nd), Sara Hagy (9^th)

* * *

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Image from Pexels

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Friday Football ⚽

Whitsunday United Football Club take on Mackay Rangers

6pm Mens Div 2

8pm Mens Div 1

Saturday ANZAC DAY

AFL - Whitsunday Sea Eagles take on Moranbah & Mackay Magpies

10:40am  U16 Girls   Moranbah v Mackay Magpies

 11:55am U13  Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah

1:15pm  U15  Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah

2:40pm U17  Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah

4:10pm  Women –Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah

approx. 5:30pm  Last Post –

6:00pm Men   Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah

Saturday Football ⚽

Whitsunday United Football Club take on Mackay Rangers

3:00 PM  Whitsunday United FC Women v Mackay Rangers FC Women

5:00 PM  Whitsunday United FC U23 Men v Mackay Wanderers FC U23 Men

7:00 PM  Whitsunday United FC Men v Mackay Wanderers FC Men

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The winning team of Mark Mawson, Patron Alison Holmes, skipper Betty Nicole, and lead Sue Dakin. Photo supplied

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With school holidays coming to an end, our Men's and Women's competitions are in full progress. We also had a very productive week of great bowling, starting off on Tuesday afternoon with the Alison Holmes Memorial Day, an annual event sponsored by Alison, who is a life member of our club and the Patron of the Ladies division.

Before the bowling tournament started, Alison proudly presented Sandra Argo, Betty Nicole, and Maureen Barnard with their Veteran Badges. Then the 24 bowlers started the tournament, with many spectators in attendance, including Mae Secomb, looking very sprightly—another life member of our club.

The winning team, skippered by Betty Nicole, who was in brilliant form, with lead Sue Dakin and second Mark Mawson, secured a thrilling victory and is this week's photo, being presented their prize by Alison Holmes.

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Wednesday afternoon, besides having Men's and Women's club matches in progress, we still managed 22 bowlers. The highest winning score of the day went to skipper Arthur McManus, who, with lead Mervyn Stewart, achieved an outstanding 33–14 victory over skipper Ted Cullen and lead Barry Wainwright.

Friday morning saw the Endeavour Foundation staff and underprivileged children arrive for lawn bowls lessons. John is improving every visit, as is Deon, whilst Michael, Jett, and Kathy show great potential and could easily represent Airlie Beach in the disability games next year.

Saturday continued Senior Singles, with A Division and B Division singles quarter-finals in progress.

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Sunday afternoon saw nineteen bowlers participate, with two games of pairs and two games of triples. Club Manager Fiona Greener prepared a wonderful afternoon tea and refreshments. She also threw the dice to determine the winning team, with the highest score going to the team of Tony (“take the money”) Whitehorn as skipper, with Alan Pershouse as lead, winning 36–18 over Arthur and Liz McManus in a match that was close until the final ends.

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Next week we shall see the return of Business House Bowls and also prepare for the arrival of the Christian College students, who will hopefully provide a team to make Airlie Beach and its constituents proud, representing our area with distinction.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Photo source: Facebook

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The paddles are already cutting cleanly through the water, and if the opening regatta is anything to go by, 2026 is shaping up to be a standout year for outrigger canoeing in the Whitsundays.

Team Whitsunday officially launched their season at The Dam in the Atherton Tablelands, delivering an impressive performance that set the tone for the months ahead. Competing across a range of divisions, the club secured multiple podium finishes, including standout gold medal victories in the Senior Master Women OC6 1000m sprint—where they edged out reigning national champions—as well as dominant performances in OC2 events from both senior master and open women crews.

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The results reflect not just talent, but consistency and depth across the squad. Silver medals flowed across divisions, from open women OC6 races to master and platinum categories, while a hard-fought bronze in the Master Men OC6 8km rounded out a strong medal tally. For a regional club, it was a powerful statement of intent.

Beyond the medals, the achievement highlights the strength of a community-driven sport. Based at Shingley Beach, Team Whitsunday trains and competes in one of Australia’s most picturesque locations, where locals and visitors alike regularly witness the colourful canoes slicing through the turquoise waters. The club’s presence extends far beyond home, travelling to regattas across North Queensland—from Port Douglas down to Emu Park—building both competitive success and community connection.

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Now, attention turns to what promises to be a landmark season. A major highlight will be the return of the Hamilton Island Outrigger Cup on Hamilton Island, an event making a highly anticipated comeback after a decade-long hiatus. The international stage also beckons, with paddlers setting their sights on the World Sprint Titles in Singapore, where the world’s best crews will converge.

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With a packed calendar of racing, training, and community events ahead, momentum is clearly on Team Whitsunday’s side. Backed by strong local support and driven by a passionate paddling culture, the club is not only competing at a high level—it’s helping put the Whitsundays on the map in the global outrigger scene.

If the opening regatta was any indication, this season won’t just be big—it could be unforgettable.

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Photos Supplied

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9 Competitors, 29 medals!!!

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The team from the Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo consisted of a 10 and 12 year old, three teenagers and four adults who competed at the Traditional Japanese Karate National Championships in Adelaide recently.  Sensei (Teacher) Helle was a competitor and also a Judge.  

For some it was the first ever tournament and first ever medal, for others it was competition in new and more difficult divisions.  

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After months of intense training and weekends given to honing their skills, each and every team member showcased impeccable technique and unwavering commitment to their art. With a Sensei who is also a Judge, regular training is conducted at a high standard as reflectedby the results.

Training continued on arrival in Adelaide with days of beach training and as guests in a local Dojo.  

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Results were a family affair –

Brothers Nathanial and Aksel with Mum Sensei Helle.  Friend Logan: 2 Gold, 1 Silver 1 Bronze

Family of Dad Tim: 1 Gold, 1 Bronze, Mum Nicky: 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze. and 10 year old Daughter Phoenix: 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze.

Mother Martha: 1 Gold, 2 Bronze (first medal and competition ever!) and Son Kaito: 2 Gold, 1 Bronze

The team members were on a high as they celebrated their efforts by taking in the sights of Adelaide and the Barossa Valley.  As Sensei Helle says, “Growth happens in the dojo, but lifelong bonds are forged on the road”.

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The Northern Beaches Karate club runs classes in school term on Tuesday and Thursday held at the Bucasia Community Hall in Wallace Avenue.   Sensei Helle also holds Self Defence courses for women and girls with the next session planned for Saturday 13^th June, 2026.  Further sessions are planned throughout the year. For information please call 0488 146 644

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Contributed with thanks Gerri Kissner

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Whitsunday Dirt Riders will host the 2026 Queensland Dirt Track & Track Championships from May 2–4 Photo credit: Nick Bird

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The Whitsundays are set to come alive with the sound of engines this May long weekend, as Whitsunday Dirt Riders host the 2026 Queensland Dirt Track & Track Championships from May 2–4.

With more than 100 riders expected to compete across three action-packed days, the event promises high-quality racing and fierce competition, drawing some of the state’s top talent to the region. A number of past championship contenders are set to line up, creating a stacked field and ensuring spectators can expect thrilling battles on track.

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Dray’s Park, located on Lascelles Drive on the road to the Whitsunday Coast Airport, will transform into a hub of activity as riders, families, and motorsport fans gather for one of North Queensland’s premier dirt track events.

“Whitsunday Dirt Riders, known for delivering well-run and welcoming events, are excited to bring a championship of this calibre back to the region,” said club president Ben Moran.

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“The club’s dedicated volunteers have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to prepare the track and facilities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for competitors and spectators alike”  

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The event will feature both junior and senior classes, highlighting the depth of talent in the sport and providing a fantastic opportunity for local riders to compete against some of the best in Queensland.

Spectators are encouraged to come along and be part of the action, with a $10 per car entry fee covering the entire weekend.

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WHAT: 2026 Queensland Dirt Track & Track Championships

WHEN: May Long Weekend (May 2^nd - May 4^th)

WHERE: Dray’s Park, Gunyarra

Photo Supplied

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Mark the calendar. On July 25^th and 26^th the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival will return to the region, and this year the stakes are higher than ever.

For 25 years, athletes have been pushing their limits against a backdrop that most people only see on postcards: The Whitsunday Islands. Clear water, warm air and a finish line that makes the long distances worth it. This is what destination racing looks like.

After claiming runner-up status among Australia's premier triathlon events in 2025, this year Airlie Beach Triathlon will be vying for the top spot.  

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Following last year’s recognition came a milestone 25 years in the making: this year, for the first time, the event is proudly supported by the Queensland State Government, and by Tourism and Events Queensland. That backing signals what the region already knows. This event is serious, and so is its impact on the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, hire companies, local operators — the ripple effect of hundreds of athletes and their supporters showing up in the Whitsundays is significant.

The 2026 edition also carries new weight on the national stage. AusTriathlon, the governing body for triathlon in Australia, has included the Airlie Beach Triathlon as one of Australia's official World Qualifying events — meaning age group athletes competing here have a direct pathway to represent Australia on the world stage. That's a game-changer for competitors and for the event's profile.

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The professional field is shaping up to match the occasion. Australian Olympic and Commonwealth Games representatives have already entered, raising the bar for what promises to be a standout weekend of racing.

Race registration is now open. If you've been thinking about it, don't wait. Visit airliebeachtriathlon.com.au to register

Volunteers are the backbone of this event, and the team is looking for good people to be part of it. Contact Val Kimpton on 0438 717 819.

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A small number of sponsorship partnerships are still available for businesses wanting a seat at the table. Reach out to Michael Kimpton on 0417 717 818.

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Contributed with thanks to the Airlie Beach Triathlon team.

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Sunday’s winners: Penny Warren, Whitton, Billy Myers with President Graeme Read

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Tuesday’s winners were Shirley Jones Bouff and Querro Deb Retchless who defeated Lindy Suann, Alby Vigar and Maureen Hyde. In the other game L Parra, M Parra and  Ron Hyde defeated Stumpy Adams, Skin Querro and Stuart Jeal. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Club Competition for the week: Men’s A Singles Gavin Charles defeated Kevin Baxter.  Ladies Pairs Celly Jeal and Deb Retchless defeated Pat Tracey and Maureen Hyde.

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On Sunday afternoon three rinks of triples were played. Winners for the afternoon in a closely fought match were Bill Myers Penny Warren and Kennedy Whitton who defeated Gavin Charles, Graeme Read and Pat Tracey. In the other games Teresa Willshire, Maureen Hyde and Greg Colquhoun defeated Toni Bowen, Bouff Querro and Allan Rolfe. Skin Querro, Laurie Land and Kevin Daniels defeated Neil Chittende, Ron Hyde and Stuart Jeal. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Photo supplied

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Easter is over, the chocolate has been devoured, and great bowls has been played.

Tuesday afternoon social bowls saw an overwhelming victory for skipper Russell Jackson, second Rene Thommen, and lead Mandy O'Brien. Second place on the day went to skipper Warren Mills and Alan Pershouse. The standard and accuracy of our bowlers have improved immensely.

Wednesday afternoon social bowls, well organised by Mervyn Stewart, saw three games of triples. An outstanding result came from a wonderful team performance led by skipper Arthur McManus, with second Mervyn Stewart and lead Barry Wainwright, defeating the strong team of skipper Tony Whitehorn, lead Lu Rogan, and second Ian Passfield, winning 29–9.

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The second-place team was led by skipper Andrew Butler, with second Terry Clarke, a great left-handed bowler, and lead Rick Brunell, who needs no introduction.

Saturday morning Scroungers saw first-round winners Maureen Barnard and Margo Stanley, with Maureen being the A Division champion, and the B Division going to John Askew.

Saturday morning also saw the start of the Men's Open Fours. Winning teams progressed to the semi-finals, and on Sunday morning the final was played between skipper Manny Isgro, lead Bob McMahon, second Luke Kinnear, and third Russell Jackson, against skipper John Fielding, lead Arthur McManus, second Bobby Spees, and third Peter Barrett.

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In a very close match, Manny Isgro proved to be the difference, with his skills apparent in the latter ends, and his team won 26–17 in a great game watched by many. This will be this week’s photo.

Sunday afternoon saw the team of skipper Mark Mawson and lead Rene Thommen defeat skip Tony Kelly and Sue Walker, who is an outstanding new bowler in the making, in a close match, 26–17. It was a great afternoon had by all, as usual. Our club manager has her finger on the pulse—we are all so lucky to have her fabulous organisational skills.

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The finalists in the winning team (on the left) were Luke Kinnear, Bob McMahon, Russell Jackson, and Manny Isgro. Also pictured are Peter Barrett, Arthur McManus, Bobby Spees, and John Fielding, who were gallant in defeat.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.  

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Great job George!! Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Swimming Club’s rising para-swimming talent, George Rush, has delivered a breakthrough performance at the 2026 Australian MC Age Championships, recording multiple personal bests and climbing to second in Australia in his age group for the 400m freestyle.

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Competing at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre against the country’s top junior multi-class athletes, the 13-year-old showcased significant improvement across several events, underlining his rapid development on the national stage.

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George’s standout swim came in the boys’ 400m freestyle, where he slashed 10.7 seconds off his previous best time. The result not only highlighted his endurance and race strategy but also propelled him to No. 2 in Australia for 13-year-old multi-class swimmers in the event.

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George continued his strong form in the 50m freestyle, trimming 0.39 seconds from his personal best. George achieved further with a 6.08 second PB in the 200m individual medley.

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Across the three-day championship, George competed in both heats and finals for 5 of his 6 nominated events - 50m Freestyle, 100m Freestyle, 400m Freestyle, 50m Backstroke and 200IM, gaining valuable experience against elite-level competition while pushing his own limits. George also qualified for the 200m Freestyle, George Placed 14th overall in the 200m Free and recorded another massive personal best time.  

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The Australian MC Age Championships serve as a key pathway for emerging para-athletes, with many participants aiming to progress to represent Australia on the international stage. For George, the combination of personal bests and a top two national ranking signals a significant step forward in his swimming journey.

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With the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games drawing closer, performances like these are helping to shape the next generation of Australian talent—and George Rush is quickly establishing himself as one to watch.

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Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Swimming Club

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John Roser and Elspeth Scotford

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The APRIL 2026 MONTHLY MEDAL was played on Tuesday in ideal weather and course conditions.

Congratulations to ladies’ winner Elspeth Scotford and John Roser for the men.

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RESULTS

LADIES

Winner: Elspeth Scotford with 71 nett

R/Up: Paula McQuat with 73 nett

Rundown: Tiina Randmae (75), Jan Shuwalow and Tina Badenhorst both with 80 points

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MEN

Winner: John Roser with a creditable 67 nett

R/Up: Colin Hounsell with 68 nett

Rundown:  Peter Lindsay (69), Grossy (70), Craig McClean and Gary Scotford both with 72 nett, John Oates and Ken Granger both with 74 nett, Alen Roberts (75) and John Strelec (76)

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PIN SHOTS

Ladies: A Grade - Elspeth Scotford (ITH x2) and Tina Badenhorst

              B Grade - Jan Shuwalow (ITH) and Anna Winterbourn

Men: A Grade - Grossy and Gary Scotford (x2)

           B Grade - Peter Lindsay, Louis Neethling and John Rtrelec

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LEAST PUTTS

TBA

CHIP INS 

Jenny Hounsell, Gary Scotford and Grossy

NAGAs 

for a ball each Robyn Whitham and Trevor Paroz

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DRAWS:

MEMBERSHIP $30 to John Roser

RAFFLE won by Anna Winterbourn

UPCOMING EVENTS:

14/4/26 - HOME HILL WHITSUNDAY GROUP

21/4/26 - STABLEFORD

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DITTY

Previous Vets Presidents who are prone to sleeping through alarms should not leave their phone downstairs!!!

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Contributed with thanks to John Roser.

1. John Roser and Elspeth Scotford

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club and REEFIES held their “Sweeties & Squires” Fun Family Fishing Competition last weekend ensuring a fantastic time for all.  

The event kicked off on Thursday evening with an informative talk and demonstration by Tristan from MSQ, covering boating safety and the proper use and maintenance of essential safety equipment. Following a short briefing on the event’s relaxed rules, all participating kids received a free rod and reel, tackle box, cap, and a backpack full of goodies.

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Committee member Dave Cranmer then delivered an engaging and educational presentation on fish identification, sustainable fishing practices, environmental stewardship, fish handling, and teamwork. A quiz followed, with all the kids achieving excellent results and earning prizes.

10 enthusiastic teams competed over two fun-filled days. Most fish caught were carefully released after a quick photo, with only a few kept for dinner—highlighting the club’s strong commitment to responsible and sustainable fishing practices.

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The weekend wrapped up with a lively presentation on Sunday afternoon, featuring a huge array of prizes for the ladies and kids, along with a couple for the “big boys,” who took on crew-only roles this time. Delicious food was enjoyed by all, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

While the Doolan family claimed top honours in a closely contested competition, the true spirit of the weekend was about bringing families together, enjoying time on the water, and creating lasting memories.

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Events like this play an important role in the Whitsundays community, fostering a love for the outdoors, encouraging sustainable fishing practices, and strengthening connections between families, local organisations, and future generations of anglers. The involvement of generous sponsors and the dedication of the club committee helped make the event inclusive, educational, and rewarding for everyone involved.

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All the kids received great prizes, while the ladies were treated to bubbles and chocolates. There were plenty of giveaways and fun prizes for all, with support from generous sponsors and the ever-enthusiastic Reefies mascot, “SAILEE,” who promised the event will be even bigger and better next year.

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The next club event is the Queenfish and Trevally Rally, taking place on the 16th and 17th of May—don’t miss it!

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The Whitsunday Raiders Rugby Union Club is setting its sights on an exciting international opportunity, with plans underway for a junior development tour to Japan in April 2027.

The proposed tour will see a group of young Raiders players and their families travel overseas to experience a new culture, build lifelong friendships, and represent the Whitsunday region on the international stage through rugby.

Club President Tim Oberg said the tour is about much more than just sport.

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“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our young players and their families,” he said. “It’s about broadening horizons, building independence, and creating experiences that will stay with them long after their playing days are over.”

Oberg also highlighted that rugby union’s global reach makes opportunities like this uniquely possible.

“An overseas tour like this is a real point of difference for rugby union,” he said. “It’s a truly international game, and that opens the door for experiences and connections that you simply don’t get in many other sports.”

Japan has a strong and growing rugby culture, particularly following the success of the Rugby World Cup in 2019. The tour is expected to include a series of matches against local Japanese teams, as well as cultural experiences designed to immerse players in Japanese life.

“For many of these families, it will be their first time travelling overseas,” Oberg said. “To do that together, as part of a team representing their community, is incredibly powerful.”

Importantly, the tour is designed to be inclusive and open to all players, regardless of ability.

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“This is about participation, connection and personal growth,” Oberg said. “Every child deserves the chance to be part of something like this.”

While the opportunity is exciting, the cost of international travel presents a significant barrier for many families. The club is committed to making the tour as accessible as possible and is now calling on local businesses and community partners to help bring the vision to life.

“We want every player who wants to go on this tour to have the opportunity to do so, regardless of their financial situation,” Oberg said. “That’s why we’re reaching out to the Whitsunday business community for support.”

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Sponsorship opportunities are now available, with local businesses invited to play a role in supporting the next generation of athletes and ambassadors for the region. Contributions will go directly towards travel costs, accommodation, and tour logistics, helping to ease the financial burden on families.

“This is a chance for businesses to invest in our young people and be part of something really special,” Oberg said. “The Whitsundays has always been a community that gets behind its own, and we’re confident that spirit will shine through again.”

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The tour is still in the planning stages, with further details to be confirmed in the coming months. In the meantime, the Raiders will also be undertaking a range of fundraising initiatives to support the journey.

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Anyone interested in supporting the Whitsunday Raiders Japan Tour can contact the club directly to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.

“This is about creating memories, building character, and representing the Whitsundays with pride,” Oberg said. “We can’t wait to bring this opportunity to life.”

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union

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Teams from the Mackay Monarchs have returned from the Senior State Age Netball Championships in Townsville after four days of strong competition and warm conditions.

Mackay Netball Association congratulated players for their efforts on court, noting the teams played impressive netball and created lasting memories during the tournament.

Final placings for SSA 2026 were:
• 15 Maroon – Championship Division – 18th
• 15 Blue – Division 3 – 5th
• 16 Maroon – Division 3 – 7th
• 18 Maroon – Division 3 – 4^th

Sponsors Back Monarchs Campaign

Mackay Netball Association has thanked the sponsors who supported the Mackay Monarchs during their 2026 Senior State Age Netball Championships campaign.

Local businesses played an important role in helping the teams travel and compete, with support provided by:

• Fitness Cartel Mackay
• Pool Professionals Mackay
• Diggers Landscape Supplies
• FMS Group
• Focus on Flooring Xtra - Mackay
• Mackay Turf Club
• Ablecut Concrete Cutting & Coring Mackay
• Aury Australia
• Mayzier Transport
• Devcon

Photo source: Mackay Netball Association – MNA

The highly anticipated 2026 North Queensland Games are now just around the corner and are set to energise the region over the May Day long weekend.

Celebrating its 42^nd year, the event will be hosting 40+ sports, predominantly in Mackay, but also the Whitsundays and Isaac regions. Athletes of all ages are welcome to attend.

The North Queensland Sports Foundation has developed these games around mass participation and inclusivity. Athletes of all ages and abilities are encouraged to take part and build confidence and community connection. Organisers also anticipate economic benefits to be brought by the event, after previous North Queensland Games saw thousands of athletes and visitors flock to the region to participate and show their support.

A primary goal of the games this year is to sow seeds amongst young athletes ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, giving belief that their Olympic journey can start right here in Mackay.

Natalie Cook will be joining the 2026 North Queensland Games as an ambassador, having competed in the North Queensland Games early in her sporting journey before going on to win an Olympic gold medal in volleyball. Her story shows what is possible when opportunity meets hard work and community support.

Mackay’s own, former boxing world champion Liam Paro, will also be returning as an ambassador.

“The North Queensland Games were a big part of my journey when I was younger, so it’s pretty special to now come back and be part of it as an ambassador,” Liam Paro Said.

“I’m proud to be from Mackay and even prouder to be leading the torch in 2026. Regional clubs are where it all starts, and I’m passionate about shining a light on the talent we have here. If I can inspire even one young athlete to dream bigger and take that step onto the world stage, then that’s what it’s all about.”

The 2026 North Queensland Games will officially kick off with an Opening Ceremony on Friday 1 May at Harrup Park, Mackay, which the organisation claims will “bring the community together for a vibrant celebration of sport, culture and regional pride.”

“The free, family-friendly event will feature a dynamic program of entertainment and experiences, including community stalls, food trucks, amusements and interactive activities for all ages,” they shared.

“A highlight of the evening will be the traditional March of Athletes, where clubs and competitors from across North Queensland will come together in a powerful display of unity and regional spirit.

“The ceremony will also include the official lighting of the Games torch, marking the beginning of the 2026 Games, followed by a spectacular fireworks display and some live entertainment to close out the night.”

What? The NQ Games Opening Ceremony
When? Friday 1st May, 5pm Doors Open
Where? Harrup Park, Mackay

1. The NQ Games will bring together athletes of all ages across 40+ sports. Photo source: Facebook
2. Liam Paro receiving the Pride of the Region award from Mayor Greg Williamson at the Media Launch of the 2026 games. Photo supplied

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