Host a holly jolly Christmas with a funding boost for local community groups!
Mackay Regional Council is encouraging not-for-profit groups to make this Christmas a “cracker”!
Council is looking to spread Christmas cheer across our region with the Christmas Grants program.
Community and not-for-profit groups and organisations can apply for up to $750 from a $10,000 funding pool.
Applications are open now and close at midnight on Friday, October 18.
Council is happy to support events like carols, concerts, fairs, parties and parades that involve local communities and are fully inclusive.
For more information, please contact Lara Russell on 1300 MACKAY or lodge an application at mackay.qld.gov.au/grants.

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The Mackay Aero Club was previously a recipient of a Christmas Grant to host a Christmas event. Photo supplied

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Noel Bugeia and Terry Sheedy have won the B4 Red Pt competition after a two-week event. The annual AGM has been held with a change of guard. Noel Bugeia stood down after three years of service as president, with Frances Brown as the new President. Many awards were given out to members at varying levels of achievement. Andrew Canavan was the best student this year, pictured with Anne Lutz. Congratulations Andrew!  

Weekly Results

Tuesday Evening 17 September 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Mick King / John McGee

Wednesday 18 September 2024 – Under & Over Team Event - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

Team

Team

1st
Cullinan
2nd
Sheedy

3rd
Mason
4th
Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 19 September 2024 – B4 Week Final - Red Points
1st
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Annie Lynch / Geoff Taylor
3rd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
4th
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
Friday 20 September 2024 – 7 Table Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Julie O’Neill / Diane Stokes
1st
Christine Nice / Diane Cox

2nd
Errol Morris / Debra Goodchild
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

3rd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

Contributed By Joy Block

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New President Frances Brown
Anne Lutz with Andrew Canavan. Photos supplied

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Papua New Guinea has claimed victory at the first-ever Pasifika Cup, held as part of Rumble on the Reef. This event marked a significant milestone in uniting Pacific Island skateboarding communities, showcasing a strong sense of connection and camaraderie among riders.

The atmosphere was electric, with a supportive crowd cheering on all participants. Taking the top spot on the podium was PNG’s Josh O'Loughlin, followed by Fiji in second place and the Solomon Islands in third.
In a remarkable show of generosity, Josh O'Loughlin donated his prize to Skate PNG, which includes complete skateboards and safety gear, supporting the development of skateboarding in the Pacific.
These riders are true pioneers in bringing skateboarding to the forefront of the Pacific Island community.

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Pasifika Cup podium. Photo source: Rumble on the Reef

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By Hannah McNamara

Ollies, kickflips, grinds and drop-ins were among the many impressive stunts and tricks displayed by our local skaters last Thursday afternoon at the Rumble Roadshow.

The event took place at Camilleri Street Skatepark in Blacks Beach, providing a safe space for some of Mackay’s youngest skaters to come together, skate, and learn. Participants had the chance to pick up top skateboarding tips and tricks, not only from experienced skaters but also from fellow enthusiasts who share a passion for the sport.

Staff member Andy from Toowoomba has travelled with Rumble On The Reef for the last five years and says that he loves coming to Mackay because the weather always puts on a good show.

He emphasised that events like Rumble bring people together.

“There’s always good vibes, good times, and the amount of people from all over Australia, such as WA, Melbourne and Adelaide etc, just shows that we all share a love for skateboards,” Andy said.

Australian Olympic Skateboarder, Haylie Powell was also on-board (figuratively and literally) at the event, mentoring and encouraging younger skaters as they experimented with new tricks and techniques.

Powell started competing in skateboarding events at just six years old, progressed to the international stage by 13, and most recently competed in the Olympics at 18.

Acquiring the travel jersey to the 2024 Paris Olympics is among her most treasured moments.

“Putting the travel jersey on when we were travelling to Paris just meant so much to me, it almost brought a tear to my eye honestly…I worked so have over the last four years, trying to get to where I am.

“I’m very honoured and grateful that I get to represent the green and gold,” she said.

Now, she encourages and coaches’ other young skaters, particularly girls, to follow in her footsteps.

“There’s a lot more girls skating now compared to when I was growing up, and especially younger girls which is really great to see.”

On the day, she taught a young skater how to pump down, carve, kick-turn and drop in.

This is Ms Powell’s fourth time in Mackay and she said that it’s good to be back here with everyone.

“Donny has done so much for the skate community here and I’m super grateful with how far skateboarding is going in Australia,” she said.

Donny Fraser is the Head of Development for Rumble On The Reef and has been a key figure in creating opportunities for young skaters in regional areas such as Mackay.

“It’s a really good way to activate these kinds of facilities in the region,” Fraser said, “And a lot of these guys weren’t booked in for the demo but they’ve come along anyway to bring that community spirit which is really cool.

“Events like the Rumble Roadshow cater for the whole audience, so not just people who can skate, but also for those who maybe just want to watch or have a go for the first time.

“Most of our skateboarders aren’t from big towns or cities, so it’s really important for us to provide this opportunity to a place like Mackay.”

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Skaters of all levels joined the Rumble on the Reef crew for an action-packed day at Blacks Beach. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Magpies Sporting Club Mackay has awarded its Time to Shine - Women in Sport Grant to local rugby union talent, Hula Day. Hula, an active member of both the Slade Point Rugby Union Women's team and the Mackay Stingers, regularly travels to Moranbah, Bowen, and Airlie Beach to compete.
In June, Hula represented the U18s CQ Bushrangers at the Queensland Country Rugby Union competition in Rockhampton, gaining valuable experience against some of the state's top athletes. Passionate about rugby union, Hula is not only a player but also a dedicated coach and umpire, regularly officiating junior games. She has completed several programs, including the Touch 7s referee smart tackle course and the Rugby 7s coaching skills program.
Her goal is to advance her refereeing skills with aspirations to officiate at games across Australia. Additionally, she coaches with Apex Athletics Academy and for Mackay Christian College.
The grant from Magpies Sporting Club will help Hula on her journey as she prepares to compete at the Global 7s competition in Auckland, where she’ll face players from around the world. The funding will assist with her travel and registration expenses.
“We are proud to support local talent like Hula, who is not only a fantastic athlete but also gives back to the community through coaching and refereeing,” said a Magpies representative.

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Hula Day accepts her Time to Shine grant from Magpies Sporting Club presented by Labor candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan. Photo supplied

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Multisporters converged on Mackay last weekend for Mackay’s Triathlon Festival. Held on the 21st and 22nd of September, it featured ocean swims, a kid’s triathlon and multiple race formats including triathlon, duathlon, aquabike and aquathlon.

More than 170 entries were recorded across two days, marking a fantastic increase from the past two years. More than 50 participants took part in the ocean swims, with a strong showing from the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club.

The Mini Kids race attracted 11 young athletes, while Sunday’s races drew in over 110 competitors. The new transition location was a hit, providing ample space for bikes, sponsor tents, and vendors.

RESULTS:

Triathlon Standard Males:
1.
25
Hamlyn, Jason
40-49
00:27:14
01:01:18
00:40:41
02:10:30
2.
35
Seymour, Christian
60+
00:27:34
01:04:12
00:39:57
02:13:13
3.
37
Harris, Samuel
30-39
00:26:09
01:07:10
00:40:58
02:15:05

Triathlon Standard Females:
1.
48
Walker, Jody
40-49
00:30:26
01:09:31
00:46:16
02:27:38
2.
8
Brond, Jane
40-49
00:33:34
01:09:01
00:47:58
02:32:17
3.
21
Ballard, Naomi
40-49
00:33:35
01:12:56
00:50:04
02:38:22

Triathlon Standard Teams:
1.
34
The Dancing Queens
TEAM
00:30:29
01:11:48
00:46:22
02:29:27
2.
31
LifeInMotion Exercise PhysTEAM
TEAM
00:28:57
01:18:02
00:47:08
02:35:01
3.
47
Walz Trend Inc
TEAM
00:30:32
01:03:33
01:08:54
02:43:5

Triathlon Sprint Male:
1.
103
Williams, Joshua
20-29
00:16:56
00:35:04
00:21:41
01:14:33
2.
127
Rule, Oliver
16-19
00:20:15
00:36:16
00:20:33
01:18:33
3.
105
Thomas, John
14-15
00:16:51
00:38:45
00:23:24
01:20:0

Triathlon Sprint Female:
1.
123
Bolton, Harper
16-19
00:18:03
00:36:59
00:25:32
01:21:42
2.
118
Spicer, Claudia
14-15
00:18:50
00:42:23
00:25:12
01:27:07
3.
133
Cahill, Isabelle
14-15
00:21:01
00:39:22
00:30:58
01:32:27

Triathlon Sprint Teams:
1.
110
Puddlejumpers
TEAM
00:18:07
00:35:15
00:20:09
01:14:17
2.
124
Pilot Run
TEAM
00:22:54
00:37:38
00:23:35
01:24:46
3.
106
Team Bagley
TEAM
00:20:19
00:40:18
00:24:20
01:25:59

For results and further information, visit Mackay Triathlon Festival on Facebook or www.mackaytriclub.com.au/mackay-multisport-festival/

Photo credit: Jess Stennett & Deanne Woods

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Twenty-six players from the Bowen Bridge Club recently competed in the prestigious Australia-wide pairs tournament, showcasing their exceptional skills on a national stage.
A standout performance came from Elaine Hadlow and Jill Spencer, who achieved an impressive percentage of 59.70%. This strong showing earned them 153rd place out of nearly 3,200 participants. Their performance highlighted their strategic play and competitive spirit, distinguishing them among a large and talented field.
Equally commendable were Jane and Graham Seaborne, who also delivered a noteworthy performance. With a percentage of 57.10%, they secured 278th place, reflecting their solid gameplay and consistent effort throughout the tournament.
These results underscore the high level of talent within the Bowen Bridge Club and their ability to compete effectively at a national level. Congratulations to Elaine, Jill, Jane, and Graham for their achievements and for representing the club with such distinction. The Bowen Bridge Club looks forward to supporting its players in future competitions and celebrating more successes.
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Contributed with thanks to Lydie Martin

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Bowen Bridge Club

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The Proserpine Cricket Club is set to kick off the new cricket season with an engaging "Junior Cricket Come & Try Afternoon" on Friday, October 11, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Proserpine Junior Cricket Grounds. This event promises to be an excellent opportunity for young cricket enthusiasts and their families to explore the sport in a fun and interactive setting.
The Come & Try Afternoon will provide a hands-on introduction to cricket, featuring activities tailored to different age groups:
   • Junior Blasters (5-8 years): For $125, participants will receive a personalized pack, including a playing shirt, hat, bat, and ball. Training sessions will be held on Fridays from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
   • Master Blasters (8-11 years): At $150, this program includes a club shirt and hat, with sessions scheduled for Fridays from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm.
   • U12 - U17: Priced at $150, this category offers a club shirt and hat for new registrations. Training sessions will occur every Friday from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
In addition to weekly training, participants will have the chance to compete in optional Saturday U11 and up Mackay competitions and Sunday morning inter-town games against Bowen teams.
Families interested in registering their children are encouraged to sign up online at www.playhq.com. For further details, they can contact Mike at 0436 370 187, visit the Proserpine Junior Cricket Association’s Facebook page at facebook.com/proserpinejca, or email proserpinejca@yahoo.com.
The "Come & Try Afternoon" is a fantastic opportunity for young players to experience cricket, meet new friends, and start their journey with the Proserpine Junior Cricket Club.
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What: Junior Cricket Come & Try Afternoon
Where: Proserpine Junior Cricket Grounds
When: Friday, October 11, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

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Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Junior Cricket Club

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At the 2024 Paul Bowman Challenge the Proserpine Whitsunday Junior Rugby League Football Club welcomed 80 teams from all over Queensland.

Over 300 games were played, and it was a great weekend filled with footy, fun and fantastic action.

The Paul Bowman Challenge kickstarted the school holidays, giving youngsters from all over the State a chance to play Rugby League in the beautiful Whitsundays for the entire weekend.

On Sunday, everyone was blessed with the presence of Zac Laybutt and Coen Hess from the North Queensland Cowboys, and they were in great spirits after their win!

Rugby League legend Paul Bowman was also in attendance on Sunday, signing shirts and spreading positivity.

Everything happened on Sunday! The Sam Faust relay took place with all 80 teams and over 1000 kids running in the race.

The Whitsunday Brahmans took out first place in the race, huge congratulations to them on this massive win.

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Brahmans and North Queensland Cowboys Zac Laybutt and Coen Hess
Diehards Gladstone and Paul Bowman
Paul Bowman
Pittsworth Danes
Brahmans in the Sam Faust relay
Reaching top speed in the Sam Faust relay
Paul Bowman Challenge 2024 Mascot Race
Whitsunday Brahmans won the Sam Faust relay!

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Whitsunday, September 15, 2024 – The Whitsunday Sea Eagles capped off their 2024 season with a vibrant Presentation Day celebration on Sunday afternoon. The event highlighted the team's achievements and individual player successes throughout the year.
The Sea Eagles’ Senior Women’s team made a significant leap this season by reaching the finals competition for the first time since their return to the league. The Under 17s also had a commendable season, making it to the Preliminary Finals. Meanwhile, both the Under 12s and Senior Men narrowly missed out on advancing further, having competed in the Elimination Finals.
Several Whitsunday players were recognized for their outstanding performances across the AFLQ Mackay League. Sterling Rogan-Hamilton earned the Runner-Up Best and Fairest award in the Under 12 category, reflecting his impressive season on the field.
In the Senior Men’s division, Billy Galpin was awarded Best & Fairest for the second consecutive year, cementing his status as a key player with his 30 goals this season. Alex Rodgers, who was the Runner-Up Best & Fairest, continued to demonstrate exceptional skill and leadership as the team’s Senior Captain.
For the Senior Women, Nikki Heffer was named Best & Fairest, showcasing her strength and skill in midfield. Mia Trinder, the Runner-Up Best & Fairest, consistently exhibited her growing talent throughout the season. Tayla Oliver received the Cody Gibbs Memorial Trophy for her exemplary qualities of resilience, courage, selflessness, and respect.
In the Under 17s, Foxx LaMonica clinched the Best & Fairest award for the second year in a row, highlighting his exceptional sportsmanship and performance. Zavier Goswell, the Runner-Up Best & Fairest, continued to prove his potential following last year’s Rising Star award. Callum Edmondson was recognized as the Leading Goalkicker with 23 goals.
The Under 14s saw Lochlan Jeffries take home the Best & Fairest award, demonstrating class both on and off the field. Jamie Henderson, the Runner-Up Best & Fairest, also had a notable season. Fletcher Shumski led the Under 14s in goal-scoring with 9 goals.
In the Under 12s, Sterling Rogan-Hamilton was named Best & Fairest, narrowly edging out his brother, Heston Rogan-Hamilton, who was awarded Runner-Up. Sterling also secured the Leading Goalkicker title for the third consecutive year, scoring 14 goals.
The 2024 Sea Eagles Volunteer of the Year accolade went to Adam “Peanut” McKelvie for his invaluable contributions to club umpiring and various other tasks. Peter “Chook” Fowler was inducted into the Volunteer Hall of Fame for his long-standing service.
The Sea Eagles express their gratitude to their sponsors and the community for their support throughout the year. Looking ahead, the club eagerly anticipates the AFL Mackay Preseason Carnival in March 2025, following summer programs and preseason training.

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Photo Credit: Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Cody Gibbs Award Recipient Tayla Oliver

Senior Women Winners

Senior Mens Winners

Under 12s Winners

Under 14s Winners

Under 17s Winners

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The Whitsunday Brahmans recently hosted a spectacular presentation night, celebrating the remarkable achievements of their players, committee members, volunteers, families, supporters, and sponsors. The event was a vibrant showcase of the club's success and camaraderie over the past season.
The evening's festivities were enhanced by the exceptional catering provided by ‘I’m the Pizza Guy’, whose delicious pizzas were a hit with all attendees. Their support added a special touch to the celebratory atmosphere.
The highlight of the night was the awards ceremony, which recognized several outstanding individuals for their contributions and performances:
   • Jimmy Hill Memorial Award: Ben Nosworthy
   • Club Person of the Year (Robert Shorten Memorial Trophy): Sarah Milne
   • Rookie of the Year (Leo Donadelli Memorial Trophy): Flynn Matheson-Hone
   • Player of the Year (Paul Bowman Shield): Isaac Richardson
In the Clipper Kingz Under 20s category:
   • Best Forward: Jye Muller
   • Best Back: Ryan Bennett
   • Players Player: Jye Muller
   • Best & Fairest: Sean Klaassen
   • Billy Lade We Bleed Green Award: Luke Handley
For the Whitsunday Mowers Reserve Grade:
   • Best Forward: Josh Sturma
   • Best Back: Luke Henry
   • Players Player: Nathan O'Hara
   • Best & Fairest: Josh Sturma
   • Billy Lade We Bleed Green Award: Sean Klaassen
In the Metropole Hotel A Grade:
   • Best Forward: Isaac Richardson
   • Best Back: Logan Iverson
   • Players Player: TJ Tabusakia
   • Billy Lade We Bleed Green Award: Liam Kay
As the club wraps up a successful season, the Whitsunday Brahmans eagerly anticipate the 2025 season. The presentation night was a testament to the strong community spirit and dedication that define the club.

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Brahmans

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The Bowls Club was bustling with activity this week. On Tuesday, the social mixed bowls featured three triples games. Dawn Dowell, Lane Telford, and Tony Whitehorn emerged victorious with a close 20-18 win over Betty Whitehorn’s team, marking the day’s lowest winning margin.
Wednesday afternoon, Rik Galea and Michael Jacometi tookJacometi take home the prize money with a 29-18 win against Ash Warland and Bill Gordon. The Jackpot was not won and will increase next week. John Fielding also secured a win in the Men’s Senior Singles final, defeating Noel Crosbie—congratulations, John!
Wednesday evening’s Business House bowls, run by Bob and Yvonne Spees, included wins for Blue Science over PRD, Rock Plumbing against Hadlow Racing, and Easylec over Diamond Shine. The Block Layers had a forfeit. Businesses interested in joining should contact Bob at 0417 115 855.
Thursday’s Working Bee saw volunteers vacuuming the green, trimming trees, and organizing the bowls shed. With the new hard cover project approaching, more help is needed.
Friday’s Endeavour kids' session was successful, and the club hosted lively birthday parties that night. On Saturday, Tony Kelly and John Matterson won the A and B games in Scroungers, respectively. Andy McDougall defeated Rick Brunell in the B Singles final. Sunday’s Social bowls had Robin Brown and Margo Stanley winning 29-15. Upcoming events include the Ladies Spring Fling Day on September 24 and coaching sessions with Margo Stanley every Monday and Thursday at 4:00 pm.

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Contributed with thanks to Margo Stanley

Andy McDougall, Winner of the Club B Singles

Sunday, September 8: The social bowls featured a vibrant mix of players. Marion, Andy, Steve, and Jane triumphed over Allen, Daryl, Ray, and Herb. Meanwhile, Vicky, John, and Spanny faced off against Ron, Steve, and Marion. In Scroungers, Rob defeated Lloyd and Ron.
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Wednesday, September 11: The competition continued with MaryEllen, Jane, and Kevin securing a win against Ray, Frank, and Wendy. Peter, Kevin, and Daryl also came out on top against Eddy, Gordo, and Gus. In another match, Ron and Steve won against Marion and Helen.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

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B Pairs Final: The B Pairs competition reached its climax on Tuesday with Nathaniel Watts and Gavin Noonan securing a hard-fought victory over Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison. The final score of 21-17 highlighted a closely contested match, showcasing the high level of skill present in this year’s competition.
Senior Singles Semi-Final: On Wednesday, Bryan Davy advanced to the Senior Singles final by defeating Dale Haack with a score of 25-13. This win sets up an exciting final showdown between Davy and Mike Harrison, scheduled for Wednesday, September 18. Both players are anticipated to bring their best to the final.
Missing Scorecard: The scorecard for Wednesday’s social game is currently missing. Should it be located, it will be included in the social participation tally to ensure all results are accurately recorded.
Pratt Cup Results: Proserpine hosted two rounds of the Pratt Cup on Saturday, featuring impressive matches in Singles, Pairs, and Fours with teams from Pioneer Valley, Seaforth, and Souths Suburban. In the initial round at St. Helens, Proserpine defeated Wests Tigers in all three rinks. However, during the semi-finals at Souths Suburban on Sunday, Proserpine experienced narrow losses in all three rinks. North Mackay emerged as the winner, defeating Souths Suburban in the final to claim the Pratt Cup title.
Sunday’s Social Bowls: In Sunday’s social bowls, eight players competed in two pairs games. Philip Brown and Mike Harrison narrowly defeated Garry Alexander and Heather Brown 18-17. Kendall Watts and Bruce Uhe won 27-9 against Ken Watts and Sandy Daffara in a game that was more competitive than the score indicates.
Upcoming Event: Best of luck to Gavin Noonan, who will compete in the Champion of Champions B Singles at Souths Suburban next weekend. The draw for this event has yet to be released.

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Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Tuesday Social Bowls: The social bowls held on Tuesday featured a tight contest in which Robyn Stitt, Gavin Charles, and Margaret Wilson narrowly defeated Barry Gazzola, Irene Laird, and Bruce Magilton. Other winners included Sue Shearing, Jocelyn DeFranciscis, Deb Retchless, and Joe Paynting, who won against Gwenda Lydom, June Paynting, Lorraine Knight, and Greg Colquhoun. Additionally, Lindy Suann, Penny Warren, and Geoff Danvers emerged victorious over Merle Elphinstone, Lyn Danvers, and Dot Slater. The jackpot, which has grown substantially, remained unclaimed.
Country Pennant Results: On Saturday, the Country Pennant competition featured teams from Wangaratta, BBC, Brandon, and Ayr. BBC emerged as the overall winner, with Brandon finishing in second place.
Sunday’s Rink Results: Despite a reduced turnout following Saturday’s events, three rinks of triples were played on Sunday. The winners on Rink 6 were Toni Bowen, Gavin Charles, and Robyn Stitt, who defeated Leon Fox, Laurie Land, and Kennedy Whitton. Other notable games included Merle Elphinstone, Deb Retchless, and Penny Warren defeating June Paynting, Lorraine Knight, and Dot Slater. The jackpot remained unclaimed.
Upcoming Events: Barefoot bowls will be held this Friday, September 20, in the evening. All are welcome, including families looking for some fun during the school holidays. Additionally, the last Bingo session of the year will take place on the same day, with jackpots expected to be won. The club extends its thanks to all supporters for their continued involvement and encourages everyone to look out for updates on their Facebook page.

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Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren
Photo caption: Sunday’s Winners

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