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

The season is officially underway for Proserpine Junior Cricket, with the first Club afternoon on Friday, October 10, welcoming many returning and new faces. With more than 120 registrations and counting, the club is set for another bumper season.

History was made for the youngest Pitties, with the club fielding its first all-girls team. Their debut was a friendly club clash against the Under 11s Pitties Boys. The boys won the toss and batted first, facing strong bowling from the girls (M. Neal 2-23 off 3, C. Green 1-6 off 3) but still piling on 120 runs thanks to H. Valmadre (27 with six 4s) and J. Gibbs (17). The girls replied with C. Green (9) finding the boundary, but the boys’ bowlers (Valmadre 3-5 off 3, Gibbs 3-10 off 3) held firm to restrict them to 66 — a great first effort for the all-girls side.

The Under 12s enjoyed home-ground advantage against Magpies White. Opener N. Camm (19) stood firm while R. Clark (12, three 4s) boosted the total to 108. The Pitties’ bowlers then turned up the pressure, with N. Aitken (3-20 off 3), R. Clarke (2-2 off 2.2 and two catches) and P. Regan (1-5 off 3) helping seal a close 6-108 to 7-99 win.

The Under 13s travelled to Sarina to face the Spartans, winning the toss and bowling first. M. Hope (4-15 off 2) ripped through the top order, supported by M. Hearn (1-6 off 2) as every player contributed to dismiss the Spartans for 42. The Pitties’ chase started shakily at 4-15, but K. Dibben (25 off 17) steadied the innings to guide the team to victory, 8-68.

The Under 14s met reigning premiers Souths Sharks on turf. A. Farley top-scored with 21 not out from 26 as the side posted 38. With the ball, J. Farley (2-11 off 4), B. Hetherington (1-15 off 4), L. Appleton (2-43 off 4) and K. Whitty (1-25 off 4) shared wickets, but Souths’ batting proved too strong at 6-163.

The Under 15s hosted Magpies Black for their first home game. Sent in to bat, E. Baker smashed 51 off 61 (retired not out), supported by O. Dibben (23 off 36) to set 126 by drinks. With the ball, L. Smith (3-18 off 3) and W. Marshall (2-7 off 3) tore through the Magpies, bowling them out for 80 to secure a dominant win.

The Under 17s travelled to Harrup Park to meet Brothers. O. Seamer (2-22 off 5) struck early before wicketkeeper W. Logan pulled off two stumpings for M. Pomeroy (2-3 off 2), dismissing Brothers for 49. In reply, M. Logan was unstoppable, smashing 119 off 70 (retired not out) with 20 fours and two sixes. J. Geisler (34), M. Pomeroy (35) and J. Valmadre (32) continued the charge as Proserpine cruised to 3-260 for a comprehensive victory.

Contributed with thanks to Danni Green

Both U'11 teams. Photo supplied

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The October 2025 Monthly Medal was contested today, with 14 ladies and 19 men taking part. Cooler conditions, a slight breeze, and extra run on the fairways made for tight scoring, while ‘sticky’ greens proved no problem for Leanne Alexander and John Grossy, who both recorded just 28 putts.

Leanne Alexander claimed the ladies title with 64 nett, ahead of Elspeth Scotford on 66. Rounding out the field were Jan Shuwalow and Elaine Philpott (70), Jacqui Wall and Kath Borer (71), Paula McQuat (73) and Robyn Whitham (74).

David Woods took out the men’s honours with 64 nett, with Louis Neethling runner-up on 67. Close behind were John Roser and Steve Mitchell (70), Barry Shuwalow, Gerald Lovell, Barry Mortimer, John Grossy, and John Oates (71), and Gary Scotford (72).

Pin shots went to Leanne Alexander, Heather Luvis, and Elspeth Scotford (A Grade ladies, in-the-hole), Kath Borer, Paula McQuat, and Jan Shuwalow (B Grade ladies), Laurie Dakin (x2) and Allen Roberts (A Grade men), and Wilf Herweg, David Woods, and Louis Neethling (B Grade men). Chip-ins were recorded by Kath Borer, Paula McQuat, Jacqui Wall, and Grossy.

The membership jackpot was not won and will roll over to $40. Robyn Whitham claimed the $50 Monthly Medal draw, while the weekly raffle went to Elaine Philpott.

Next Tuesday, the Whitsunday Vets Competition will be held in Bowen, followed by the AGM.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

David Woods and Leanne Alexander. Photo supplied

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It was a shorter than usual week at Proserpine Golf Club, with the course closed from late Sunday through Tuesday for greens renovations.

Despite the interruption, conditions for the remainder of the week were beautifully dry, although blustery breezes made play a little more challenging than usual. Spirits were high, however, with plenty of laughs during the 3-Ball Ambrose held on Rugby League Grand Final Sunday.

Thursday, October 2
The October Monthly Medal, sponsored by Loot Pay, saw some tight competition.

In the men’s division, Gary Scotford claimed the win with a nett 65, followed by Mal McLelland (66) and Allen Roberts (69).

Nearest-the-pins went to McLelland (2nd), Bernie Drake (9th), Jason Biurke (13th), and Michael Ward (16th).

Friday, October 3
The 9-hole Run, sponsored by The Metropole Hotel, was played on the front nine.

Brian Allen took the win with 20 points, followed by Jett Borghero (18, on countback) and Fay Milne in third.

Allen also claimed both NTPs on the 2nd and 9th.

In the popular Putt for Cash, Peta Thomas came close three times but didn’t quite sink it — meaning next Friday’s jackpot will rise to $800.

Saturday, October 4
The Monthly Medal continued, this time sponsored by The Metropole Hotel.

Overall winner was Scott Dwyer with a fine 66 nett.
In A Grade, Scott Mason (67) took top spot ahead of Jayden Lloyd (70).
B Grade
saw Lance Lloyd (69 nett, countback) edge out Craig Smith, while in C Grade it was Scott Dwyer (66 nett) over Bob Platt (68).
NTPs were claimed by Phil Batty (2nd), Brad Fleet (9th), Nathan Holmes (13th), and Chat Norna (16th).

Among the ladies, Noelene Spurway won with 69 nett, followed by Toni Clauss (73, countback from Di Chard, Jacqui Wall, and Jenny Hounsell). NTPs went to Spurway (2nd) and Wall (9th).

Sunday, October 5
A Grand Final Special 3-Ball Ambrose was played with an 8am shotgun start.

Finn O’Flynn, Cory O’Shea, and Brent Franke were the winners with 56.5 nett, ahead of Wayne Temby, Jo Moynihan, and Peter Fox (57), with Jayden Lloyd, Brett Simpson, and Bradley Wilkinson (58) in third.

It was a great week of competition and camaraderie — and with the course freshly renovated, members are looking forward to another strong week of play ahead.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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On Tuesday, we had two triples games. The winners in a close match were Bill Myers, Isobel Wheeler, and Margaret Wilson, who defeated Gordon Querro, Deb Rethcless, and Gavin Charles. In the other game, Karen Smith, S. Jones, and Ray Deal defeated Cliff Querro, Gary Smith, and Alby Vigar. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Our ladies have commenced a monster raffle to help fund their trip to Tweed Heads at the end of the month for the State Pennant Finals.

With over $1400 worth of prizes generously donated by local businesses across three draws, tickets are available at Pat Tracey’s Cassandra as well as at the club on Tuesday and Sunday afternoons.

Sunday’s social play saw Toni Bowen, Irene Laird, and Stuart Jeal defeat Gordon Querro, Cliff Querro, and Alby Vigar, while Penny Warren and Gavin Charles defeated Bill Myers and Pat Tracey. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Sunday's winners Toni Bowen, Stuart Jeal and Irene Laird. Photo supplied

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It was probably the biggest weekend of the year for the men, brilliantly arranged by Men’s President Bob McMahon. But before we get to the main event, let’s recap the week’s action.

Tuesday Afternoon (30 Sept) saw 18 bowlers play out three very close games. Third place went to Carol Crosbie’s team with 16 points, second place to Tony Whitehorn’s team on 17 points, and the overall winners on 19 points were skipper Betty Whitehorn with strong support from the most improved new bowler, Mel Fennell, at lead, and new club member Laurie Hawkins at second. Laurie will be a welcome addition to our little club.

Wednesday Afternoon (1 Oct) social bowls again drew 18 bowlers. Third place went to Scotland’s own Rick Graham, visiting and skipping his team to a narrow win by two points. Second place went to Paul Hart — visiting with wife Annie from Bargara Bowls Club in Queensland — with Mark Mawson at second, winning by four points. However, the big winners of the day, by a margin of 15 points, were Tony Whitehorn’s team of “Wild” Bill Gordon at lead and his lovely wife Betty at second. Well played!

Wednesday Night saw the final of the Business House Bowls competition, and after a countback, Blue Science were pronounced winners over Rock Plumbing. Congratulations to both teams! A new competition begins this Wednesday under the beautiful lights of our newly covered bowls club. For more information, please call Bob or Yvonne on 0417 115 855 — it’s sure to be a night full of wonderful memories.

Finally, the 2025 Exodus Transport Classic Men’s Fours was held over the weekend, with 16 teams travelling from all over Queensland and New South Wales. The club was honoured to welcome Bowls Queensland CEO Brett Wilkie, along with Australian Bowls champions Sean Ingham, Nathan Rice, Jason Constable, and Brett Tynan.

After six games, three teams were tied on equal points, and the results had to be decided on a countback of ends won over two days.

In third place, with 52 ends won, was the team skippered by Mark Glew, with third Mick Godfrey, second David Blackburn, and lead Greg Kasper — all from Northern Beaches Bowls Club, Mackay.

Second place, on 53 ends won, went to Paul Foot’s team, with third Bob Spence, second Clinton Vassie, and lead Gary Petersen from South Suburban and Northern Beaches clubs.

First place, with 57 ends won overall, was the team of Bob Menzies (skipper), Jason Little (third), our own Ash Warland (second), and Sam Lurton (lead) from South Suburban, with Bob and Jason from Northern Beaches.

It was a fantastic weekend enjoyed by all, and with the event growing in reputation each year, next year’s tournament promises to be even bigger and better.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Bob Menzies, Jason Little, Ash Warland, and Sam Lurton (lead) from South Suburban, with Bob and Jason from Northern Beaches. Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach came alive over the weekend as more than 700 young rugby players and several thousand spectators descended on the Whitsunday Sportspark for the 2025 Viking Cup 10s — a record-breaking celebration of junior rugby union.

Now recognised as North Queensland’s largest junior rugby carnival, this year’s event featured 51 teams across seven divisions, making it the biggest two days in the history of the Whitsunday Sportspark. Families travelled from across Queensland to take part, with teams representing Gold Coast, Caloundra, Maroochydore, Rockhampton, Townsville, Moranbah, and beyond.

The Viking Cup 10s, hosted by the Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union Club, showcased not only exceptional rugby talent but also the spirit of sportsmanship, inclusion, and community connection that defines grassroots sport.

Club President Tim Oberg said the atmosphere across the two days was electric.

“To see so many young players smiling, competing, and forming friendships through rugby is what the Viking Cup is all about,” Oberg said. “This event has grown into something truly special for our region, and it’s only going to get bigger.”

The carnival featured strong performances across all age groups, with several thrilling grand finals. Our local Whitsunday Raiders claimed victories in both the Mixed Under 8s and Mixed Under 10s divisions, while Mackay Blue triumphed 30–10 over Mackay Red in the Under 12s. In the girls’ competitions, Western Suburbs took out the Under 13s, and Shockwave Rugby Academy defeated the Bowen Mudcrabs 32–7 in the Under 15s. The boys’ titles went to Caloundra, who beat Maroochydore Swans 31–12 in the Under 14s, and Colts, who edged out the Whitsunday Raiders 5–0 in a tense Under 16s final.

Oberg also paid tribute to the volunteers and officials who made the event possible.

“A special mention must go to our referees — without referees, there’s no rugby. Their commitment, along with the tireless work of our volunteers, ensured a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved. I’d also like to give a nod of appreciation to our sponsors, BK Constructions, Reef Gateway Hotel and Silver Fern Sports.”

Plans are already underway for the 2026 Viking Cup 10s, which will expand into a four-day festival of rugby with camping options and a format designed to accommodate even more teams and families.

“It’s exciting to see how far we’ve come,” Oberg said. “The future of junior rugby in the Whitsundays is bright.”

Photos supplied.

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At South Suburban Bowls Club

South Suburban Bowls Club is set to host the 2025 State Mixed Pairs Championships this weekend, bringing two days of high-level bowls action to the region. The event kicks off on Saturday 11th October at 9 a.m., with competition continuing through Sunday 12th October.

The championships will feature some of Queensland’s finest bowlers, combining seasoned champions and local talent. Spectators can expect fast-paced games, strategic play, and a lively atmosphere as participants vie for state honours.

The line-up of competitors includes:

• Group 1: Vicki Grenot & Aaron Sheriff – 7x Australian Open Singles Winner, Former Australian Rep & Current State Rep
• Group 2: Julia & Calum Brownlie – a husband & wife team from West Toowoomba Downs
• Group 3: Leticia Weir & Joshua Steffens – partners repping North Dalby & Condamine
• Group 4: Brenda & David Balchin – another husband & wife duo from Kawana, Sunshine Coast
• Group 5: Nicole & Tony Williams – a sibling powerhouse, champions of this event back in 2016, from Boonooroo & Sandy Straits
• Group 6: Jennifer Dingle & Ian McMah – from Waves, Underberg
• Group 7: Florence Ruggeri & Vince McSherry – our proud local reps from Mackay City & Mackay
• Group 8: Beverly Peters & Alex Murtagh – travelling all the way from Mount Isa. Alex is also a former QLD Rep

For South Suburban Bowls Club, hosting the State Mixed Pairs Championships is a major highlight, celebrating the sport and its community following. Fans are invited to come down, enjoy a drink or a meal from the club’s facilities, and watch the competition unfold on the greens.

The event offers an opportunity for locals to see strategic skill, precision, and teamwork at its finest. Beyond the on-field action, it’s a chance to connect with fellow bowls enthusiasts, cheer for local representatives, and enjoy a weekend of sport in a welcoming community setting.

Whether a long-time supporter of lawn bowls or a first-time spectator, the 2025 State Mixed Pairs Championships promise two days of engaging competition, camaraderie, and entertainment. South Suburban Bowls Club will be the place to be this weekend for anyone looking to witness some of the state’s best mixed pairs in action.

Photo source: South Suburban Bowls Club (Facebook)

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Mackay’s young athletes are gearing up for the All Schools State Schools Track and Field Championships in Townsville this October, following strong performances at the Capricornia and North Queensland school trials in September. Twelve squad members earned spots across a range of events.

10–12 years age group; 13–15 October:

• Penny Shields - 800m and 1500m
• Harper Miles - 200m, 400m, 800m and the 1500m

13–19 years age group; 16–19 October:

• August Cole - 400m, 800m, 1500m and the 2000m Steeplechase
• Autumn Curtis - 400m and 800m
• Toby Rule - 800m, 1500m, 5000m and the 3000m Steeplechase
• Ayla Moon - 200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m
• Keira Caban - 400m, 800m, 1500m, Long Jump and Shot Put
• Chloe Waples - 200m, 400m and 800m
• Riley Baumann - 1500m and 3000m
• Shailee Mewha - 800m and 1500m
• Millie Groom - 800m, 1500m, 3000m and the 2000m Steeplechase
• Riley Simpson - 400m and 800m.

The squad recently had an impressive hit-out at the North Queensland Championships, with 19 athletes participating. Competing against the state’s best on home turf will be an exciting challenge for Mackay’s dedicated young track and field stars.

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The North Queensland Championships recently saw Mackay’s young athletes compete across a range of track and field events, showcasing their skills and preparation for upcoming state competitions. Photo source: The Rules of Running Mackay (Facebook)

BRIDGE

The Mackay Contract Bridge Club held its 2025 Congress with players from the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Townsville in attendance.

An extremely well supported weeked saw 60 players compete in three competitions. Winners of the Open pairs were Ian Afflick and Terry Sheedy, followed closely by Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan.

Section B pairs were won by Martin Pearce and Simon Barnes, with Annette Howe and Jewell Schmidt in second place. The Open Teams were won by Team Bugeia, Noel Bugeia, Val Holbrook, Terry Sheedy and Ian Afflick.

Section B Teams won by Team Patterson: Sandy Patterson, Mary Rose Ramsden, Christine Nice and Diane Cox.

Weekly Results

Monday 29 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
2nd Jennifer Cameron / Diane Morgan 2nd Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell
3rd Diane Stokes / Nancy Wix 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

Tuesday Evening 30 September 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st John McGee / Mick King 1st Karen Caldwell / Susan Gibson
2nd Patricia Garner / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

Wednesday 1 October 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Terry Sheedy / Susan Wright
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell 3rd Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley

Friday 3 October 2025 – Mackay Open Walkins 7 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 1st Di Garside / Donna Fitch
2nd Geoff Taylor / Anne Lutz 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan 3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox

Friday 3 & Saturday 4 October 2025 September 2025 – Mackay Swiss Pairs – Red Points
Section A Section B
1st Terry Sheedy / Ian Afflick 1st Simon Barnes / Martin Pearce
2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt
3rd Noel Bugeia / Val Holbrook 3rd Jill Brabon / Beverley Lowcock
4th Frances Brown / Alan Brown 4th Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch

Sunday 5 & Monday 6 October 2025 Mackay Teams Congress Red Points
Team Section A
1st Bugeia Noel Bugeia / Val Holbrook / Terry Sheedy / Ian Afflick
2nd Brown Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen
3rd Conroy Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan / Janine Rodgers / Nancy Marting
4th Breeze Deb Breeze / Renate Feige / Mick King / Ian Gaskell

**Team Section B**


1st Patterson Sandy Patterson / Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd Pearce Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes / Sue Mayer-Miller / Lynne O’Neill
3rd Brabon Jill Brabon / Beverley Lowcock / Lydie Martin / Elaine Hadlow

Contributed by Joy Block

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- Terry Sheedy, Cnv. Anne, Ian Afflick
- Janet Morgan & Diane Morgan
- Simon Barnes & Martin Pearce
- Annette Howe, Anne, Jewell Schmidt.
Photos supplied

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Queensland families have shown overwhelming support for the Government’s Play On! Sports Vouchers program, with the first round now closed.

The initiative, which provides vouchers valued at up to $200, was designed to ease cost of living pressures while encouraging more young Queenslanders to get active in sport.

The Government has committed $62.5 million each year for four years to fund the program, ensuring families across the state can access financial support for children aged between five and 17 years to join sporting clubs and activities.

The program has been warmly welcomed, with families already putting the vouchers to use. The Government said this reflects a renewed commitment to grassroots sport, after what it described as “10 years of decline under Labor.”

A second round of vouchers will open in January 2026, giving more Queensland families the chance to benefit.

Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander, said the strong take-up demonstrates the importance of sport in Queensland communities.

“The strong demand for the first-round highlights how important sport is to Queensland families,” Minister Mander said.

“It’s fantastic to know that more kids will be getting on the court or the field with the help of their Play On! Sports Voucher.

“This program has specifically targeted kids in every town, city and region of the state, and I’m particularly proud that every child with a disability who applied will receive a voucher to get involved in sport.”

For more details about the program and future application rounds, families can visit www.qld.gov.au/playon.

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Why Saunas And Contrast Therapy Boost More Than Muscles

By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach

In the fitness world, training gets all the attention. Lifting heavier, running faster, pushing harder. But here’s the truth: performance and results don’t come from training alone — they come from recovery. That’s why at Fitness Cartel Mackay, we’ve invested in a state-of-the-art Wellness Centre that puts recovery on equal footing with training.

For athletes, recovery is the difference between progress and plateau. For everyday members, it’s the secret to having more energy, better focus, and a body that feels alive instead of run down. Two of the most powerful recovery methods we’ll offer are traditional saunas and contrast therapy — and the science behind them is remarkable.

The heat advantage – traditional saunas

The use of sauna is nothing new. Ancient cultures have used heat to heal for thousands of years. But modern science has confirmed what they already knew: regular sauna use improves cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, enhances recovery, and even extends lifespan.

Heat exposure increases circulation, helping deliver nutrients and oxygen to tired muscles. It stimulates the release of growth hormone, which is critical for repair. It even boosts mental clarity by increasing endorphins and neurotransmitters like dopamine. For lifters, this means faster recovery between sessions. For anyone chasing wellness, it means stress relief, better sleep, and a calmer mind.

The power of contrast therapy

Now add cold. Contrast therapy — alternating between hot and cold immersion — is a game-changer for resilience and recovery. When you step into cold water, blood vessels constrict, inflammation reduces, and your nervous system gets a powerful reset. Step back into the heat, and blood vessels dilate, pumping fresh blood and nutrients through the body.

This push-pull effect is like interval training for your circulation. It speeds up muscle repair, reduces soreness, and builds a kind of mental toughness that carries into every area of life.

Research even suggests cold exposure boosts immune function and sharpens cognitive performance.

Not just for athletes

The best part? You don’t need to be a professional athlete to benefit. Whether you’re a parent juggling family and work, someone getting back into training after time away, or an older adult wanting to feel more energised — the Wellness Centre has something to offer you.

Contrast therapy and sauna are as much about the mind as they are the body. They provide stillness, reset stress levels, and create a sense of renewal that lasts long after the session is over.

Wellness meets performance

At Fitness Cartel Mackay, recovery isn’t an afterthought — it’s built into the foundation of what we do. The Wellness Centre will ensure that whether you train hard, train light, or are simply looking for a space to recharge, you’ll leave feeling stronger, clearer, and more alive.

This is the future of fitness: train hard, recover smart, live better. And soon, Mackay will have it right here at home. https://www.fitnesscartel.com.au/clubs/mackay/

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Northern Beaches Dojo Marks 10 Years Of Strength And Spirit

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The Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo has celebrated an impressive 10-year milestone, marking a decade of discipline, strength, and community connection.

Operating from the Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia, the dojo runs classes every Tuesday and Thursday evening during school terms, fostering a supportive environment where students of all ages can train and grow together.

Congratulations to everyone involved on reaching this significant milestone.

The Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo has celebrated 10 years of discipline, strength, and community spirit at its Bucasia training hall. Photo source: Northern Beaches Our Community (Facebook)