The World Multisport World Championships were due to take place in TOWNSVILLE in 2019. Then Covid hit.

Finally, they took place this year between 15 to 25 August, 2024

There were 35 countries represented with athletes competing in an array of events over 10 days including a Parade of Nations and remarkable Opening ceremony. There were masses of Canadians, Americans, New Zealanders, Japanese, Spanish, English, Irish and others all in their Country Uniforms. But the show of Green and Gold athletes was mesmerising around the race Precinct.

The events covered a variety of different distances and all age groups, including Cross Duathlon, Aquabike, short and long distance Triathlons, Aquathlon, Para Triathletes, Juniors, Elites, Cross Triathlon races, all covering off-road cycling, swimming, running and road cycling. 

Townsville was abuzz with a phenomenal atmosphere over the festival carnival which took place along the Townsville Strand precinct, back into the city, past Jezzine Barracks and up as far as Pallarenda Park.

Athlete camaraderie was excellent with many highlights and amazing individual performances. One notable highlight was our very own 86 year old Lachlan Lewis ending on the podium in the Aquabike event. A true Aussie Icon and World champion.

The performance of our Age Group Australian Teams in all events was remarkable with many individual athletes ending on the podium.

Personally, I was a bit underdone as I developed a bit of a groin niggle preventing me from doing the 30 km Triathlon run. On this occasion I was eligible to swap to the Aquabike including a 3km ocean swim and 114km cycle, but luckily no run. The swim was a dream, yet the road cycle was very challenging. At the end of the day I finished in 5th position in the World in my age category, pretty stoked which qualified me for a spot at next year's Worlds in Pontevedra in Spain in June.

Contributed with thanks to Michael Kimpton

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The first round of finals was a mixed bag for Whitsunday United, with only the Division 1 Men’s team securing a win. They faced Wanderers in Mackay on Friday night in a semi-final match. After a scoreless first half, Whitsunday came out strong in the second half. Caleb Vanderdrift scored early on from a cross by Tate Butler, and Aaron Morgan added a second with a late header, sealing a 2-0 victory. The Division 1 Men will face either Lions or Wanderers in the final.

The Under-13 Division One team had a tough match against Rangers. Despite only one point separating them in the league, Rangers took an early lead with two goals in the first 14 minutes. Whitsunday managed to score in the 29th minute, but Rangers proved too strong, winning 4-1. The team will look to bounce back in the semi-finals next weekend, with a chance to reach the grand final.

In another intense game, the Under-13 Prem team faced Rangers in a final. Rangers led 1-0 at halftime, but Whitsunday equalized in the 60th minute through Sam. The game went into extra time and then to penalties after a 1-1 draw. Despite efforts from Shannon, Nick M, and Eli W, who all scored in the shootout, Rangers ultimately won. It was a hard-fought match that highlighted Whitsunday’s determination and teamwork.

The Under-15 Premiers played against Country, who started strongly, scoring in the 11th minute and converting a penalty in the 43rd. Whitsunday dominated the second half, and Max O’Keefe scored a penalty in the 70th minute, but they couldn’t find another goal, resulting in a 2-1 loss.

The U23 Women’s team, after securing second place last weekend, faced Lions SC in the first round of finals. Whitsunday dominated possession and created several scoring chances, but the game remained 0-0 after regular time, thanks in part to a crucial save by goalkeeper Robyn. In extra time, Lions managed to score, winning 1-0. The U23 Women will face Magpies next weekend for a spot in the grand final.

The Premier Ladies faced a strong Lions squad, losing 6-0 on Saturday night. Despite having a depleted team, Whitsunday worked hard but struggled to contain the Lions’ attack. Special mentions go to Imo, Kiki, Robyn, and Ellyse, who played through extra time in the Reserves and still performed well in the Premier match. The team aims to regroup and secure a spot in the grand final next weekend.

The U23 and FQPL Men both ended their seasons with losses to Rangers. The U23 team had an exciting game, leading 4-3 late on with a hat trick from Lincoln Fricker, but a late penalty for Rangers forced extra time, where they lost 6-4. The Men’s Premiers also faced Rangers, taking an early lead with a penalty from Alan O’Donnell, but eventually losing 2-1 after a strong comeback from Rangers.

All eyes will be on the Women’s teams this weekend as they fight for a place in the grand finals alongside the Division 1 Men. The teams are determined to bounce back and finish the season strong.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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The Cannonvale Cannons had an action-packed and exciting week filled with impressive swimming performances and valuable training opportunities. The week began with the Cannons hosting their Club Night on Wednesday, followed by a weekend swim clinic led by top swim coach Shaun Crow.
One of the standout performances of the week came from Eloise Chegwidden, who competed at the Townsville Tourist Swim Meet over the weekend. Eloise achieved outstanding results, winning gold medals in all nine of her events and setting personal bests in four of them. Her success is a testament to her hard work and dedication.
During Wednesday night's Club Night, the Cannons celebrated Jax Clayworth for setting two new club records in the 50m and 200m Butterfly events. Additionally, Giselle Burton presented Upgrade Certificates to several swimmers, including Isaac Pisaniello, Jax Clayworth, Kye Mitchell, Eric Mulliss, Leo Mulliss, and Tyler Bennett. Chocolate Awards for the best personal bests (PBs) were given to Blaire Harland and Harris Delac. Ruby Lawson was recognized for her outstanding performance, winning the Swim of the Night award for her 25m Butterfly. The top performers of Club Night, based on PBs, included Kye Mitchell, Tyler Bennett, Harry Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Lennox Wild, Isaac Pisaniello, Tora Delac, Charlie Doherty, and Liam Filewood.
The highlight of the weekend was the swim clinic facilitated by Shaun Crow. Swimmers participated in sessions designed to enhance their skills and speed, while parents attended an information session. One of Shaun’s swimmers, Harrison Turner, shared his journey with the attendees. At 20 years old, Harrison is a top Australian 200m Butterfly swimmer who trains with Shaun at Nudgee College. He also assisted Shaun with coaching throughout the clinic and enjoyed working with all the swimmers.
At the conclusion of the clinic, Shaun presented Most Improved Awards to Zach Trefz, Celeste Orenshaw, Andie Reynolds, and Zane Clayworth. The weekend was a memorable experience for everyone involved, with swimmers, parents, and coaches all thoroughly enjoying the event. Shaun’s favorite expressions, such as "Ducks in a Line," "Oi," and "Goldilocks," are sure to be remembered by the swimmers for years to come.
A big congratulations to all the swimmers who participated over the weekend! The Cannonvale Cannons had a fantastic week, filled with achievements and valuable learning experiences.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Photos supplied

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Last weekend the first Ramped Up Whitsundays event was a huge success with over 1000 people attending over the weekend.

Organiser Donny Fraser was thrilled with the turn out and is excited to make it an annual event.

“It was a good turnout for the first year too, during the first year you don't have anything to promote it with,” explained Donny.

“The focus was to get the best guys and girls (skateboarders) there to build something long term in the Whitsundays.

“We had a lot of really high-profile skaters there, and the experience and satisfaction was really high. It was probably the highest we've had for any event, especially in its first year.”

With extremely good feedback Donny expects Ramped Up Whitsundays to become one of the biggest skateboarding events in the world.

Donny thanks the Whitsunday community for making the event such a success.

“The energy was massive, and the locals were fantastic at bringing that energy and getting people hyped,” said Donny.

“These guys (skateboarders) always push harder when the crowds are excited, and they build that excitement.

“It was so fantastic to watch and experience. We just want to get back there and keep making it bigger and better.”

Local Queenslander Freddie Hazelton took home an impressive third place in the bowl competition and second in the vert skating.

Ramped Up Whitsundays drew in high profile skateboarders from across the country including Ethan Copeland, Marley Rae, Lachlan Abbott, Taniah Meyers, Josh Matwijiw and George Richards.

Donny thanked the Whitsunday Regional Council for sponsoring the event and acknowledged local businesses for their upmost support and welcoming demeanour during the weekend.

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Photo credit: Mark Fulloon Photography

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Women and girls interested in giving the sport of bowling a go are invited to come along to a special series of events hosted by the Airlie Beach Bowls Club.

Airlie Beach Bowls Club is once again running a C’mon try “learn to play bowls” program with free coaching for women and high school age girls. All coaches have blue cards.

The program starts on 31st August and will run for three consecutive Saturday mornings.

“We selected Saturday morning to give an opportunity to those ladies with weekday commitments an opportunity to attend,” said the club spokesperson.

“Participants can expect to practise bowls skills for an hour followed by a coffee break with a feedback opportunity.”

Airlie Beach Bowls Club runs regular bowls on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday afternoon.

Saturday morning there is a regular competition.

Wednesday evening there is a business house competition.

Friday afternoon there is a social members afternoon and barefoot bowls late afternoon and early evening.

With bowls skills there is an opportunity to take part in any of those activities and further coaching is available.

Airlie Beach Bowls club acknowledges the grant from Queensland Sport and Recreation that has given us the opportunity to offer this program to women and girls in our local community.

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Come and join in on the fun! Photo supplied

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As spring nears and preparations for our new hard cover ramp up, our bowlers continue to shine.
On Monday, Ladda Purdie, Jill Spencer, and Vicki Spann represented our club at the Champion of Champions triples tournament in Mackay. They defeated Mackay City, North Mackay, and West Tigers to win the 2024 Ladies Triples Champion of Champions title—an outstanding achievement for our club.
Tuesday’s social bowls winners were Joan McGrath, Dawn Dowel, and Mark Mawson.
Friday morning saw the Endeavour Foundation participants—Michael, Jett, Cathy, and Kira—receive trophies for their excellent lawn bowls performances. In the afternoon, Christian College students, including Ocean, Harmony, Juliette, and others, showed great progress in their games.
Saturday’s Scroungers saw Dennis Donnadelli win the A Grade final, while Eric Barnard took the B Grade title.
On Sunday, Tony Whitehorn, Greg Fennell, and Alan Pershouse emerged as the big winners in social bowls.
Coaching clinics, organised by Betty Whitehorn, will be held on August 31, September 7, and September 14 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. For more details, contact Margo at 0412-469-989.
Contributed by Mark Mawson.
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Champion of Champions: Ladda Purdie, Vicki Spann, and Jill Spencer.

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Sunday, August 18:
   • Allen Williams, Keith Kirk and Geoff defeated R. Gorro, Lloyd White, and Steve Roome defeated Trowse, Lee Welsted, and S.Trowse.
   • Marion, Ray, and Lloyd defeated Lindsay, Carol, and Helen to win the afternoon.
Wednesday, August 21:
   • Janine and Steve defeated Ray and Gordo.
   • Ian, Geoff, and Bird defeated Marion, Lloyd, and Daryl.
   • Maryellen, Frank, and Tiarna defeated Ron, Jane, and Gus.
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Contributed by Joan Edwards

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Despite some visitors leaving, Wangaratta Bowls kept up the action with Monday's self-selected triples. Winners were Albi Vigar, Greg Colquhoun, and Kennedy Whitton, narrowly beating Kevin Daniels, Allan Rolfe, and Mark Drummond. Ken Wallace, Peter Donoghue, and Chris Frew took runner-up honors.

Tuesday's social bowls saw Pam Breakwell, Liz Palmer, Keith Aykens, and David Madden winning on Rink 5. Runners-up were Joan Atkinson, Deb Retchless, Vic Palmer, and Pearl Aykens. The jackpot was not claimed.
On Fun Friday, Joe Paynting, Darrell Hams, and Ron Boska secured victory, while other matches included several close games, with the jackpot once again remaining unclaimed.

Sunday's games featured seven rinks of triples and a pairs match. Lindi Suann, Jim Coad, and Peter Donoghue emerged victorious, with Gwenda Lydom, Wendy Mc, and Joe Paynting as runners-up. The jackpot stayed unclaimed.

A group from Horseshoe Bay and Queens Beach enjoyed a Friday night sausage sizzle and barefoot bowls, with another event planned for this Friday at 5:30 p.m. All are welcome.

Next Tuesday is Ladies President Day, sponsored by Tropical Beach Caravan Park. Visiting clubs and NQDLBA officials are expected. Play starts at 9:30 a.m.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

Sunday winners

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It was an exciting week for Whitsunday United, with 8 out of 10 teams advancing to the finals next week.

Div 1 and Div 2 Men:
The Div 1 and Div 2 men played their final regular-season games against the Lions in Mackay on Friday night. The Div 2 team ended their season with a hard-fought 2-2 draw, showing promise for the future. The Div 1 men clinched a 2-1 victory, with a late header from Mike Downing, securing a spot in the finals against the Wanderers.

U13 Div 1:
The U13 Div 1 team had a fantastic game, defeating the Magpies 4-1. Jayce scored twice and was named Man of the Match, while Charlie, the season’s top scorer, added another goal. The team finished second and will face the Rangers in the semi-finals.

U14/15 Div 1:
The U14/15 Div 1 team ended their season with an 8-0 loss to Lions Green. Despite the defeat, the team showed resilience throughout the match.

U23 Women:
The U23 Women’s team had a strong weekend, winning 5-0 against both Rangers FC and Dolphins FC. Bre led the scoring across both matches, while the team’s solid defence secured their second-place finish for the season.

Premiers Ladies:
The Premiers Ladies finished their season with a 9-0 win over Rangers and a 3-0 victory against Dolphins. The team’s excellent performances secured them second place heading into the finals.

U23 Men and FQPL Men:
The U23 Men made a remarkable comeback, winning 4-3 against the Wanderers to secure fourth place. The FQPL Men ended their match with a draw, dropping them to third place on the ladder.

It has been a strong season for Whitsunday United, with many teams advancing to the finals. Best of luck to everyone next week!

Men’s Division 1 Premiership Winners in 2024. A huge season and well deserved. Photo supplied

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Ladies' Results:
   • 1st Place: Elspeth Scotford - 75
   • 2nd Place: Paula McQuat - 76 C/B
   • Rundown: Lyn Muller, Tiina Randmae, Linda Wardroper, Kath Borer, Jenny Hounsell, and Heather Luvis.
Men's Results:
   • 1st Place: Craig McLean - 71
   • 2nd Place: Peter Browning - 72
   • Rundown: Wilf Herweg, Vic Feldman, Gary Scotford, Nic Apruzzese, Steve Mitchell, Trevor Paroz, John Oates, and Louis Neethling.
Nearest to the Pin (NTP):
   • Hole 5:
       ◦ A Grade: Gary & Elspeth
       ◦ B Grade: John O & Kath
   • Hole 9:
       ◦ A Grade: Colin & Tiina
       ◦ B Grade: John Strelec & Jan Shuwalow
   • Hole 13:
       ◦ A Grade: Vic & Elspeth
       ◦ B Grade: John S & Linda
Least Putts:
   • Lyn: 27
   • Craig & Peter L: 30
Looking ahead, the next competition will take place next Tuesday at Collinsville for the Interclub Competition.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

Elsbeth Scotford and Craig McLean

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Club Champions 2024:
   • Ladies: Leanne Alexander
   • Men: Ryan Wilkes
Overall Results:
Ladies:
   • A Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Leanne Alexander
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Lyn Muller
       ◦ Nett Winner: Elspeth Scotford
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: Tina Badenhorst
   • B Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Toni Clauss
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Tiina Randmae
       ◦ Nett Winner: Heather Luvis
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: Anna Winterbourn
   • C Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Sherri Meade
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Rehab Hull
       ◦ Nett Winner: Pam Harrison
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: Robyn Whitham
Men:
   • A Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Ryan Wilkes
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Sean Fogarty
       ◦ Nett Winner: Lewis Tuck
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: Blake Lovelock
   • B Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Rod Wecker
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Brad Vloedmans
       ◦ Nett Winner: Billy O’Connor
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: George Meharry
   • C Grade:
       ◦ Gross Winner: Ross Hammond
       ◦ Gross Runner-up: Louis Neethling
       ◦ Nett Winner: Barry Mortimer
       ◦ Nett Runner-up: Tim Walton
Junior Champion: Blake Lovelock
Junior Runner-up: Levi Holmes
Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Sea Eagles fielded four teams in the AFLQ Mackay Elimination Finals on Sunday with Sea Eagles Under 17s making it through to take on the Saints in the coming Preliminary Final.

Remaining Sea Eagles teams fought hard but were unable to match the opposition and now round up their 2024 Season.

Sea Eagles Under 17s had some close moments throughout their match against Mackay City Hawks but were able to dig deep when it mattered to take out the win by two goals 61 – 49. With competition aggressive all year among the top three teams Coach Dean Armitage is confident the Sea Eagles team has what it takes as they prepare for the match this Saturday.

Sea Eagles Senior Men took on North Mackay Saints on their home turf in Mackay and were unfortunately unable to match the opposition throughout the game losing 29 – 79.

Sea Eagles Senior Women fought hard against Moranbah Bulldogs and saw plenty of the ball however could not come back from the early Moranbah take off. Sea Eagles outscored the Bulldogs through the second half but were unable to make up the initial first half deficit losing 16 – 27.

Young Sea Eagles Under 12s took on North Mackay Saints in an early match at Saints home ground losing 12 – 19. The game played out in the final quarter with 2 unanswered goals from the opposition providing them the slim lead they needed. Sea Eagles Under 12s have done a superb job coming together and progressing through the 2024 Season and Sea Eagles are proud of them making finals.

Sea Eagles Under 17s now take on North Mackay Saints in the Preliminary Final this Saturday at Rogers Oval in Mackay at 10:40am.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Sea Eagles.

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The Under 17s team. Photo Credit: Kaz Morrison

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Over the weekend, members of the Junior Achievers Squad headed to Mackay for a special training clinic hosted by Swimming North Queensland. This clinic provided an invaluable opportunity for young swimmers to refine their skills under the guidance of top coaches and train with junior swimmers from neighbouring clubs across Mackay in a non-competitive environment.

The Junior Achievers Program is designed to recognise, reward, and inspire junior swimmers on their journey toward becoming senior athletes. Each year, Swimming North Queensland releases criteria and standards that swimmers, coaches, and parents can use as benchmarks throughout the season.

Swimmers aged 9 to 13 who meet the set times qualify for recognition at gold, silver, bronze, or blue levels.

On Wednesday we hosted Club Night 3, with the following swimmers earning upgrades in their events: Tyler Bennet in the 200M IM, Eloise Chegwidden in the 100M Butterfly, Indigo Harland in the 25M Backstroke, River Shields in the 50M Backstroke, and Eric Hinrichsen in the 50M Butterfly, Backstroke, and Freestyle.

Congratulations to Tora Delac who was presented with her Club Record certificate for 50M Breaststroke in the 13-year-old category, showcasing the exceptional talent within the squad.

The coveted Chocolate Award resulted in a tie between Jasper Korosec and Stella Mulliss for the closest, while Miller Eaves took home the award for the biggest improvement. Miller Eaves also received the Coaches Award for his impressive performance in the 100M Freestyle.

Looking ahead to this coming weekend, the squad is excited to host Shaun Crow from Nudgee College Swimming Club for a special coaching clinic. Crow’s expertise is sure to provide further inspiration and skill development for our aspiring swimmers. This clinic is open to junior swimmers in the region for a small fee. Please email secretary@cannonvalecannons.com.au to register.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec.

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The Marian Ladies Bowling Club's annual Master Fours event kicked off on Monday, 12 August, with less-than-ideal weather conditions. A heavy downpour greeted the 72 lady bowlers eager to start the three-day event, but despite the weather, the show went on. With true resilience, the first day’s matches were swiftly moved to South Suburban's covered facilities, allowing play to continue. A special thank you was extended to South Suburban for their generous accommodation.
Day two brought a welcome change in weather as the sun came out, allowing the competition to return to its original venue in Marian. Players hit the green with renewed energy, and the tournament progressed smoothly.
In a nail-biting finish, Northern Beaches secured the victory in the very last bowl of the final game. The match came down to the wire, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats until the final moment.
This year's event was proudly sponsored by Stephen Andrew, Member for Mirani, who was on hand to present the winners with their trophies.
The Marian Ladies Bowling Club is more than just a sports club—it's a place where friendships flourish. If you’re looking to be part of a tight-knit community where you’re more than just another number, the Marian Ladies would love to welcome you into the valley.

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Winners: (Marian President) Thelma Johnston, Jenny Petersen, Sue Hunter, Betty Petersen, Ann Smith, Member for Mirani Stephen Andrew (Sponsor)

Runners Up: Thelma Johnston, Maryann Harrigan, Stephen Andrew, Charmayne Sleeman, Rhonda Meng, Jo Inch.

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They started the Queensland Rugby League season full of promise but the Mackay Cutters have ended their 2024 Hostplus Cup campaign on a low.

In their final-round display the Cutters suffered a 46-28 loss to the third-ranked Redcliffe Dolphins last weekend at Kayo Stadium.

There’ll be no finals action for the Mackay team after finishing twelfth on the table on 22 points with eight wins and twelve losses.

Dolphins centre Steven Numambo and interchange hooker Harrison Graham both posted try doubles in a high-scoring tussle.

Numambo grabbed two quick tries in the space of three minutes as Redcliffe piled on the points in a dominant first-half display.

Mackay centre Josh Smith opened the scoring after nine minutes with a determined try before centre partner Semi Valemei added a second midway through the opening stanza.

The Dolphins responded with fine tries by centre Valynce Te Whare, winger William Dobson and crafty number nine Graham to establish a 28-12 lead at the half-time interval.

Graham and second rower Aublix Tawha extended Redcliffe’s lead with converted tries after the break as the Cutters struggled to stay in touch with the home side.

Mackay found a new lease of life during the second half when second rower Hugh Arthur and the capable Smith burst over for important tries.

But when five eighth Latrell Siegwalt strolled through the Cutters defensive line to nab the Dolphins' eighth and final try the writing was on the wall.

Siegwalt contributed a handy eighteen points for Redcliffe from a try and seven goals in a solid tune up for this year’s finals series.

The Cutters club can still reflect on a successful 2024 season in which the women brought home the BMD Premiership and inaugural Harvey Norman Under 19 championship titles.

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