The Proserpine Bowls Club enjoyed a vibrant week of activities, starting on Wednesday with a well-attended afternoon of social bowls in preparation for the Memorial Day Carnival.

Players embraced the competitive yet friendly spirit, with notable results including:

• Alen Sanderson, Barry Zillmann, and Mike Harrison defeating Arthur Griffith, Dave Meiklejohn, and Sandy Daffara 26-13.

• Janine Schuurman (a visitor from Miles), Betty Whitehorn, and Heather Brown winning 18-13 against Keith Bates, Mary Hedgelong, and Tony Whitehorn.

• John Anderson, Bruce Uhe, Philip Brown, and Peter Lawton overcoming Lou Rogan, Bruce Uhe, Alan Pershouse, and Mark Mawson 17-11.

Saturday’s Memorial Day Carnival brought further excitement, with 12 teams competing fiercely. The winners, Ladda Purdie, Betty Nicolle, Warren Mills, and Manny Isgro, secured three wins (+16), narrowly edging out the second-placed team of Greg Kasper, Betty Petersen, Peter Petersen, and Andrew Bell (three wins, +15). In third place were Philip Brown, Heather Brown, Shane Kinnear, and Wayne Handley (two wins, +5), while Harry Craig, Amy Hart, Gavin Milne, and Barry Saroglia claimed fourth place (two wins, +4).

The club sincerely thanks sponsor Wilmar Sugar, participating teams, and members who contributed to the event’s success.

Upcoming Events

Nominations for Board positions close Sunday, November 10. Vacancies will be called for from the floor at the AGM on Sunday, November 24, at 10 a.m. Members are urged to attend, with a BBQ, prize presentations, and social bowls to follow.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Winners of Memorial Day, Betty Nicolle, Manny Isgro, Warren Mills (absent Ladda Purdie) with Proserpine Club Chairman Wayne Handley. Photo supplied

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Melbourne Cup Day brought a festive atmosphere to the Wangaratta Bowls Club as social players combined their love of bowls with a few sweeps to mark the occasion. The green saw some great competition, with the afternoon's winners being Deb Retchless, Sue Shearing, and Gavin Charles, who defeated Merle Elphinstone, Lyn Danvers, Robyn Stitt, and Stumpy Adams. In another match, Geoff Danvers triumphed over Lindy Suann and Greg Colquhoun. The jackpot, however, remains unclaimed.

Mixed Competition Update

The draw for the mixed competition is now complete and available at the club. Players wishing to pre-play their games are encouraged to coordinate with Graeme Read to arrange suitable times.

Sunday Afternoon Triples

Sunday saw two triples matches played under warm conditions, with the sea breeze from Queens Beach offering some respite. In the first match, Teresa Willshire, Kevin Baxter, and Kennedy Whitton emerged victorious against Jim Quod, Gavin Charles, and Pat Tracey. The second game saw Merle Elphinstone, Albi Vigar, and Kevin Jewell defeat Nadine Land, Laurie Land, and Mark Drummond. The jackpot, once again, did not go off.

Upcoming Event: High Tea Lunch and AGM

The club’s Annual General Meeting will take place on Sunday, November 24, followed by a High Tea Lunch at 12 noon and bowls at 1:30 pm. Members are encouraged to add their names to the lunch sign-up sheet on the board outside the club.

Wangaratta Bowls Club continues to be a hub of activity, bringing members together for great competition and camaraderie.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Photo supplied

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It was a fantastic day for golf as 32 players hit the course for the Melbourne Cup Day Stableford competition, followed by a delightful spread provided by the club’s members. A big thank-you goes out to everyone who prepared, supplied, served, and cleaned up, making the event a great success. Special thanks to Barry and Jan Shuwalow for managing the sweep, which added to the day’s excitement. Congratulations to Tessa Aitken, the lucky winner of the members’ draw.

Results

Ladies

• Winner: Lyn Muller, 38 points

• Runner-up: Tiina Randmae, 34 points

Run Down:

• Fay Milne, 32 points

• Paula McQuat, 29 points

• Jacqui Wall and Rehab Hull, 26 points each

Men

• Winner: Trevor Paroz, 42 points (on countback)

• Runner-up: John Strelec, 42 points

Run Down:

• Wilf Herweg, 37 points

• Ken Granger, 36 points

• John Oates, 35 points

• Larry Muller, 33 points

• Laurie Dakin and Harry Milne, 32 points each

• Mark Richards and Craig McLean, 30 points each

Pin Shots

Ladies:

• Lyn Muller x2 (1st and nearest to the hole on the 7th)

• Jacqui Wall (1st)

• Rehab Hull (7th)

• Tiina Randmae (16th)

Men:

• John Oates and Phil Luckett (2nd)

• Barry Mortimer and Trevor Paroz (9th)

• Larry Muller and Trevor Paroz (13th)

Chip-Ins

• Ladies: Tiina Randmae

• Men: John Strelec, John Roser (x2), and Dave Woods

Best Dressed

Lyn and Larry Muller, stole the show with their fabulous Cup Day outfits. They each received a bottle of wine to enjoy at their leisure.

The Melbourne Cup Day competition proved to be an outstanding day of camaraderie, golf, and celebration, showcasing the vibrant spirit of the club and its members.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Trevor Paroz and Lyn Muller, Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Golf Club hosted an action-packed day with 20 players competing for the 2024 WGC Club Championship, the coveted Medal of Medals, and a weekly stroke competition. Under warm and breezy conditions, players showcased their determination and skill across the grades.

Stroke Competition Results

Ladies A Grade

• Winner: Tiina Randmae (net 70, on a countback)

• Runner-up: Anna Winterbourn

• Longest Drive: Anna Winterbourn

Ladies B Grade

• Winner: Linda Wardroper (net 78)

• Runner-up: Joanne Moynihan (net 79)

• Longest Drive: Robyn Whitham

Men’s A Grade

• Winner: Chris Bartlett (net 73)

• Runner-up: George Meharry (net 75)

• Longest Drive: Mata Browne

Men’s B Grade

• Winner: Leigh Jones (net 70)

• Runner-up: David Hoy (net 73)

• Longest Drive: David Hoy

Nearest to the Pin (NTP)

• Ladies: Tiina Randmae and Robyn Whitham

• Men: Chris Bartlett (x2) and David Hoy

NAGA Award

The NAGA honours went to Karen Rix and Andrew Albergo, who each received a refreshing drink courtesy of Aaron and Tracy Watts, proprietors of RADS Whitsunday. RADS provides vital respite accommodation and disability support services in the area.

Medal of Medals 2024

The prestigious Medal of Medals titles for 2024 were awarded to the following players:

• Ladies A Grade: Tiina Randmae (net 70)

• Ladies B Grade: Linda Wardroper (net 78)

• Men’s A Grade: Chris Bartlett (net 73)

• Men’s B Grade: David Hoy (net 73)

The winners of the 2024 WGC Club Championship will be revealed during the upcoming presentation. Congratulations to all participants for their efforts on the course and to the day’s winners for their outstanding achievements.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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A magnificent century by boom Mackay representative cricketer Jack Law was a feature of Under 17s action in the Mackay Junior Cricket Association last weekend.

The Brothers’ young gun peeled off a superb 106 not out off only fifty four balls to mastermind a dominant victory over the Proserpine Pitbulls in a one day fixture at Abbott Park.

Sixteen-year-old Law – already an established first grade cricketer with the Brothers club – demonstrated his power hitting by thumping nine sixes and nine boundaries during his memorable knock.

The St Patricks College schoolboy shared a second wicket union of 74 runs with fellow top grade rookie Lachlan Ipson (16) before adding another 71 runs in an unbroken third wicket stand with rising colt Zac Miles (11 not out) to help Brothers post 2-155 from their 20 overs.

Law was then seen at the Great Barrier Reef Arena as a substitute fielder for the Australian A team in the test match against India A.

Proserpine quick Kai McLoughlin snared 1-17 in a five over spell and Malaki Gabey (1-12).

In reply, the Pitbulls were reeling at 5-19 before Ky Porter (21) and McLoughlin (14) added twenty eight runs for the sixth wicket.

Jordan Lawn hit an unbeaten 11 as Brothers restricted the Pitbulls to 8-70 with Eeden Thompson (2-2), Wesley Homewood (2-2), Jamon Smith (2-30) and Connor Muller (1-11) sharing the bowling spoils.

Mackay Magpies White stayed cool under pressure to stave off a fierce challenge from Walkerston Roosters at the Magpies Sports Ground.

Inspired by a classy half century from opener Benjamin Meng and wicket doubles to George Fortescue, Noah Haebich and Rory Franklin, the Magpies (6-131) edged out the Roosters (8-122) to jump to the top of the table after four rounds.

Meng compiled an impressive 50 off 81 balls and shared an opening stand of 51 with talented skipper Myles Cochrane (23).

Marshall Maher (2-7) and Lachlan Newbery (2-26) toiled hard for the Roosters, who finished nine runs shy despite a top knock of 43 by Marcus Sammut and promising starts from Nate Jackson (16) and Tyler Morris (15).

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Jack Law had also scored 145 (113) earlier this season in September

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Twin centuries by Pioneer Valley hotshots Darren Dyer and Cody Filewood proved the highlight of one day action in Mackay Cricket Association’s Poole Cup first grade competition last weekend.

In a limited 40 overs masterclass, the dashing Dyer smashed a superb 156 and Filewood an unbeaten 102 in the Valley’s comprehensive win over Norths Devils at Mirani State High School oval.

Dyer destroyed the Devils’ attack – blasting an incredible twelve sixes and sixteen boundaries from the 76 balls he faced with number three Filewood hammering three sixes and nine boundaries to chalk up another century.

The pair added 189 runs for the second wicket and number six Mahesh Rajaratne (61) as the Valley amassed an imposing tally of 5-375.

Filewood backed up his batting heroics with a three wicket haul as Norths struggled in the run chase to be all out for 168.

Peter Shepherd (66) and opener Joshua Andrew (40) led the way for the Devils before Filewood (3-37 off nine overs) and Joel Bruun (3-24 off eight) left their mark with the ball.

Mackay Magpies consolidated their place at the top of the Poole Cup ladder with a three wicket victory over Brothers at the Magpies Sports Ground.

The undefeated Magpies (6-124) overcame a shaky run chase to sink their opponents (9-123) with number four Jaxn Sign cracking a quickfire 55 off forty nine balls that featured three sixes and five boundaries.

Pace duo Matthew Wicks (3-30 off nine) and Mitchell Wadsworth (2-28 off seven) grabbed key wickets for Brothers after David Manning (37) and Adam Vanderlinde (20) made contributions with the bat.

Magpies trio Isaac Borg (3-15 off eight), George Fortescue (2-25 off seven) and Myles Cochrane (2-27 off eight) found their bowling groove to set up the win.

Souths Sharks registered a five-wicket victory over Walkerston Roosters at Roy Trevaskis Oval to move into the top four.

A magnificent 130 not out off 108 balls by Sharks vice-captain Cameron Keene stole the show with the stylish number three in fine touch.

Keene smashed seven sixes and ten boundaries and was supported by Andrew Morris (33) and all rounder Floris Duvenhage (29 not out) as Souths (5-233) eclipsed the Roosters tally of 232.

Earlier Luke Jackson hit an unbeaten 89, Chris McEldowney (40), Sam Vassallo (37) and Etienne Pretorius (20) in Walkerston’s tally of 232.
Yash Kapoor (3-51), Rocklyn Miller (2-18 off five) and Duvenhage (2-31) were the pick of the Sharks bowlers.

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A batting masterclass from Cameron Keene led the Sharks to a 5-wicket victory over Walkerston in Round 5 of the DBCT Poole Cup

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The Mackay Cycling Club's Track Cycling Carnival  on November 2 delivered an action-packed day of racing, with competitors from across Queensland descending on the track for a night of adrenaline-pumping performances. Riders from Cairns to Rockhampton took to the velodrome, with events ranging from junior 1-lap sprints to the endurance-testing 30-lap points race and the ever-dramatic keirin.
The marquee event of the night, the Wright Family Shield wheelrace, saw Rockhampton’s Lewis Marshall execute a perfectly timed ride from the middle of the field to claim victory. Marshall held off the A-grade backmarkers with a powerful finish, crossing the line around 30 metres ahead of his nearest rival. Mackay’s own Peter Ransome, coming off a win in Townsville the previous week, fought hard to secure second place, edging out other backmarkers in a strong sprint to the line. Another local Mackay rider, Mitch Murray, completed the podium with an impressive third-place finish.
In the junior Wright Family Shield, rising star George Tucker stole the show. Starting from scratch, Tucker carved his way through the field with determination, taking the win in front of an enthusiastic crowd. Annalise Murray, also from Rockhampton, finished second and was later awarded Junior Rider of the Carnival for her standout performances.
The high-speed keirin, always a crowd favourite, lived up to its reputation. In this tactical race, riders tucked in behind the derny before launching into full throttle when the motorbike peeled off with two laps to go. Local veteran Hamish Wright made his move at 200 metres, holding off a surging Kyle Marwood to take a hard-earned victory. Cairns’ Josh Rainer rounded out the top three with a strong final lap.
As the night drew to a close, the club’s traditional lolly scramble capped off an exciting evening, much to the delight of the younger attendees.

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The a-grade riders bunch up in the elimination
Top cop from Mackay, Shane Edwards, in the wheelrace
Junior riders as young as 4 took to the track
George Tucker won the Wright Family Shield junior handicap wheelrace
Lewis Marshall from Rockhampton with the Wright Family Shield senior handicap wheelrace with Mackay taking out second and third with Pete Ransome and Mitch Murray respectively.
Hamish Wright won the invitational keirin with Kyle Marwood in second and Josh Rainer from Cairns in third

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After three weeks of play with three different partners, this year’s winner of the Presidents Trophy was Monica Darley. Monica played with Kath Poole, Joy Robinson and Ken Seaniger. The Novice Pairs competition was won by Carol and Ian Gaskell who performed consistently over the three-week competition. Special thanks to Geoff Taylor and Mick King who directed each competition.

Weekly Results
Monday 28 October 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Antonia Tarradas / Victor Mason
1st
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

3rd
Sandra Ford / Griffin Bancroft
3rd
Margaret Lane / Patricia Garner

Tuesday 29 October 2024 – Australia Restricted Pairs - 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
Joy Brunette / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
Wednesday 30 October 2024 – NWP Week 21 of 24 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
1st
Barbara Tait / Josie Cowley

2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Susan Wright / Bob Ellis

3rd
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
3rd
Frances Brown / Brown

Friday 1 November 2024 – 8 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
Mick King / Geoff Cowan

2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

3rd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

Saturday 2 November 2024 – Session Three Presidents Trophy - 12 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoff Taylor / Christine Nice
1st
Nancy Martin / Terry Sheedy

2nd
Max Holewa / Thelma Caruana
2nd
Diane Stokes / Sandra Morris

3rd
Monica Darley / Joy Robinson
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Kath Poole

Presidents Trophy Final Result – Red Points
1st
Monica Darley
2nd
Jan Harris
3rd
Patricia Garner
4th
Richard Wix
Final of Novice Pairs – Red Points
1st
Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell
2nd
Joy Block / Geoff Cowan
3rd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
4th
Anne Lutz / Diane Cox

Contributed By Joy Block

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Winners of Novice Pairs Ian and Carol Gaskell 2nd and 4th from left, with competitors
Monica Darley Presidents Trophy Winner

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Mackay will continue to see an influx of visitors on the 8th - 10th November with the hosting of the U14 Girls Indoor State Hockey Championships. The U14 Boys Championships were held in Mackay last weekend.

Pioneer State High School Hall in Andergrove has been the host venue for two weekends of indoor hockey action.

Mackay Hockey Association will be competing with two teams in each competition. 

The Championships present a great opportunity to showcase the state’s incredible hockey talent in a round robin competition, and are used as a selection opportunity for the Queensland Indoor U14 Hockey Teams. 
 
Mackay Hockey Association President Matt Murphy said, “On behalf of the Mackay Hockey Association, I would like to welcome Hockey Queensland Officials, competitors, their families and supporters to the 2024 Hockey Queensland Under 14 State Championships.
“The Mackay Hockey Association executive committee, volunteers and members hope that our hospitality will make this an enjoyable and memorable experience for all involved.
 
“Mackay has been well represented over the years at both State and National level and I am looking forward to watching the talent that will be on display, with hockey players showcasing their skills, sportsmanship and enthusiasm for the game, in the hope of winning this State Championship."
 
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay was excited to host the Indoor Hockey State Championships.

“This event serves as a platform for our budding athletes to sharpen their skills and compete against some of the best hockey players in their division in the state,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This tournament is more than a competition; it's a crucial stepping stone in the development of our young players, giving them the opportunity to hone their abilities and nurture their passion for the game,” he said.

“Good luck to all the players competing in these events, we trust this will be a fantastic tournament.

“Council is proud to support this event through our Invest Mackay Events Attraction Fund, which aims to attract visitors, generate positive economic results and foster community pride.”

U14 Boys State Championship Placings

Division 1: 
1.    Maryborough
2.    Mackay 1
3.    Brisbane 2 & Vipers
4.    Brisbane 1
5.    Toowoomba 1
6.    Rockhampton
7.    Townsville 1
Division 2:
1.    Cairns
2.    Ipswich
3.    Mackay 2
4.    Bundaberg
5.    Townsville 2
6.    Toowoomba 2

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The Mackay 1 U14 team came second in division 1 at the U14 Boys Indoor State Hockey Championships. Photo credit: Indoor Hockey Mackay

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The Mackay Road Runners express their gratitude to Club Captain and Race Director Jim Ford for expertly organising the first Shawn's Summer Social Biathlon Series for 2024.

With over thirty enthusiastic participants, the event created a “pleasurable and inclusive” atmosphere, showcasing athletes of various ages and abilities in the run/swim format, noted Publicity Officer Janelle Tilse.

“Thank you TriActiv8 members as well as the general public and Mackay Road Runners members who enjoyed the Aquatic Recreational Complex (ARC)'s amazing hospitality and internationally accredited facility,” said Tilse.

The team welcomes everyone to the biathlon series, where no membership or RSVP is needed. Participants can simply show up, pay a $4 entry fee at the pool kiosk, and register by 4:25pm.

A gold coin donation for post-event refreshments is appreciated.

Jim will brief attendees on the event format, with activities finishing by 5:45pm. The series continues through November and January, giving everyone a break in December.

For details on the 2025 season and event calendar, visit the Mackay Road Runners website. The Calendar Meeting is set for November 9, with the Annual General Meeting on January 13. Contact Janelle on 0400 99 7432 for any last-minute updates.

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Alana Knezevic and children Vivian and Harvey enjoy the first 2024 Shawn’s Summer Social Biathlon Series
8569 – Over thirty runners take on the first leg of the Biathlon Series as formatted by Jim Ford
8586 -  Adam Knezevic (left) and Stephen Hayles (right) with their very happy children after their relaxing swim. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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The 2024 volleyball season at Mackay State High School has been one of remarkable achievements, crowned by the senior boys' team securing a thrilling grand final victory. Their success has not only marked the culmination of their hard work this year but also the beginning of a new chapter, with the school announcing the launch of a dedicated Volleyball Academy in 2025.

The interschool season kicked off in Term 2 with the first junior competition in several years, where Mackay SHS fielded both boys' and girls' teams. The junior boys narrowly missed out on a finals berth, but their development throughout the season was impressive, given many were new to the sport.

By Term 3, the senior boys' and girls' teams were ready to take on the competition. These athletes, who have been training year-round, showed immense dedication, and the senior boys emerged as the team to beat, ultimately claiming the grand final title. Their victory was a result of hard work, discipline, and a growing love for volleyball.

Reflecting on the team’s stellar performance, Brett Watton, Head of HPE and Sporting Academies, said: “It’s been an incredible season for our volleyball teams.

“The senior boys showed tremendous resilience and commitment, and their grand final win is a fitting reward for all their effort. They've set the standard for future teams."

Mackay SHS is now building on this success with the exciting announcement of a Volleyball Academy, set to launch in 2025.

“Given the outstanding performance of our volleyball teams over the past few years, we’re proud to introduce the Mackay SHS Volleyball Academy next year.

“This will provide students with more specialised training, support, and opportunities to compete at a higher level," Watton added.

Head coach Téa Vella, who has been instrumental in the team’s growth, also praised the players’ progress.

“What started as a group of students eager to learn the sport has grown into a skilled and cohesive team. Their passion for volleyball and their determination to improve have been key to their success this season. I couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve accomplished," Vella said.

Mackay SHS’s volleyball program reflects the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, with many of its players coming from migrant backgrounds, enriching the team’s dynamic.

“It’s amazing to see our school’s multicultural community represented on the court. Their success shows the strength of bringing together students from all walks of life,” Vella added.

As the 2024 volleyball season wraps up with this remarkable grand final win, the future looks even brighter for Mackay State High School, with the upcoming Volleyball Academy set to elevate the program to new heights.

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An unusual result in the men’s competition this year. Wayne and Shane Trannore competed in both the A and B Grade Club Pairs and won both events. An amazing result and we wonder if this has ever been achieved before. They then competed in both C/C’s, the A Grade down to Vince McSherry and Gary Higgins from City Club who eventually went on to win the event. In the B C/C’s held on the weekend, they made it to the semi finals and lost to R Ross and Ray Walker in a close game. A great effort by these two bowlers considering they have only been bowling for a short time.

The “B” C/C’s Pairs

In the semi finals the Seaforth team of Kevin Ross and Ray Walker Def North Mackay 20/16 and Sths Suburban Def Wests Alex and Darryl Cowan 20/18. Bede Roebuck and S Lurton from Souths went on to win the championship in another close game for the weekend 23/21. Congratulations to all of the bowlers for a top weekend of bowls.

Upcoming Events

Mixed Pairs Final
Saturday 9th November 1.00pm start
N Pratt, K Struik
T Alsop, M Bragg

Friday 5th November 2.30pm start time

Goosies 3 Bowl Pairs
Followed by the L.M.R Goosies 10,000
Calcutta Draw at 6.30pm
Tickets available from the bar

Weekly Events
Monday morning 8.30am start
2x4x2 Pairs any mix

Wednesday Ladies Bowls

Thursday 2 x 4 x 2 Pairs 1.00pm start
Friday 3 Bowl Pairs 1.30pm start
Saturday Men’s Bowls normally Pairs

Social Bowls Results

Wednesday
Winners W McGee and B McDonald. J Zamparutti.
Runners up
S Roscoe, B Woodward, L McCarthy

Thursday
Winners M and D Walsh
Runners up
R Legge, C Hall
Green
Voucher D Kane, T McCrystal, R Evans
Raffle R Evans

Friday P Miller, A Cooney
Runner up R Evans, D Evans
3rd I Lomelli, L Deguara

Saturday R McCarthy, Kev Dwyer
Runner up P Madden, B Hall

Today’s Tip
Don’t turn your back on the bad bowls, watch them finish for correction. It’s the good bowl that doesn’t need watching.

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Wayne and Shane Trannore

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The annual Balnagowan river swim hosted by the North Mackay Sinkers was a resounding success, drawing in 40 enthusiastic competitors. Swimmers from Townsvile and other regions joined local swimmers for this annual event held each November on the first Sunday.
The day dawned with warm cloudy conditions as site and course set up was completed in time for the 6:15am registration. Numbers grew to over 60 participants, including swimmers, enthusiastic volunteers and supportive spectators.
Safety was a priority, with early race briefings for volunteers covering potential course issues and emergency procedures to ensure swimmer safety. This was quickly followed by a briefing for all swimmers regarding the course, delivered by all-day MC Nigel Dalton.
Race 1, the 5km event, began promptly at 7:10am, and was kicked off by the new club president, Rachel. It was a somewhat gruelling 5km tussle amongst 10 registered swimmers vying for the coveted crown of King and Queen of the river awards for 2024. Great perpetual trophies were offered for the first-time last year and swimmers were keen to add their name to the trophy base.
Following the main event, Race 2, the 2.5km swim began at 7:15am with many considering it a more reasonable distance. The shorter distance of the event saw competitors start at a great pace as individuals headed to the first turning buoy in pursuit of the 5k swimmers and line honours in this event.
Race 3, the 1.25km swim drew the largest field of 20 competitors, offering an accessible distance for those new to open water swimming, including swimmers using aids like fins. This popular event, known for its quick pace started at 7:20am, just 10 minutes behind the 5km race. Swimmers completed a single loop, setting off at a moderate pace, and while they didn’t catch up with the 2.5km and 5km leaders, they enjoyed a fantastic swim in the very popular Mackay location.
The Club thanks Tri-ActiV8 for water safety support, Nikki and her volunteer team, DMR Leisure Mackay Memorial Swimming Centre for podium medals, Millie for preparing competitors, Mackay Rowing Club and Mackay Canoe Club for facilities and assistance, and all club volunteers and officials who made the event a success.
Next year’s event is scheduled for Sunday, 2nd of November, 2025
The club is now preparing for its next swim at Cats Eye beach on Hamilton Island as the annual event approaches on Sunday, November 24.

5 km Results
Place
Male
Female
First
Ryno Bornman (01:27.04)
Jane Eggins (01:34:08)
Second
Greg Born (01:28:42)
Sam Sticklan (01:36:15)
Third
Pierre Craven (01:28:58)
Sarah Shuttlewood (01:40:07)

2.5 km Results
Place
Male
Female
First
Peter Shannon (01:24:22)
Karlee Hayden (00:50:01)
Second
No place
Katelan Reddacliff (00:53:20)
Third
No place
Jane Brond (00:56:20)

1.25 km Results
Place
Male
Female
First
Peter Benson (00:25:00)
Megan Taylor (00:23:51)
Second
Paul Arvidson (00:26:37)
Lucy Guye (00:26.56)
Third
Geoff Hamilton (00:28:41)
Rebecca Cassanovas (00:28.31)

Ryno Bornman the 2024 “King of the River” with Sinkers club President Rachel Mundy.
Jane Eggins the 2024 “Queen of the River” with Sinkers club President Rachel Mundy.
Twenty keen swimmers prepare for the 1.25km start
The Balnagowan section of the pioneer river is a favourite with locals and visitors, hosting many different activities. Photos supplied

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They say nothing in life is easy, and the recent experiences at our local bowls club certainly prove that. The much-anticipated installation of a new cover has faced a series of unexpected challenges, from mix-ups in delivery to construction mishaps.

While the cover arrived in the wrong colour scheme—multiple shades of grey—Dulux has stepped up, promising fresh paint and painters to start work this week. To add to the obstacles, the cover was mistakenly sent to a different address and, after being opened and run over by trucks, had to be repacked and sent back. A replacement cover is now on its way, though it may take a few months to arrive from overseas.

Meanwhile, the club has had to deal with a temporary power outage and a water supply replacement. Despite these setbacks, the spirit of the club remains strong. Members have adapted by playing bowls at other venues, with Alan Pershouse, David Meiklejohn, and Mark Mawson performing admirably over at Proserpine. Club events, such as Friday night gatherings led by Fiona Greener, have continued to thrive, drawing many members together.

A big thanks goes out to volunteers like Warren Mills and Bob Spees, who have taken on the challenging task of trench digging, and to Andrew Butler, whose dedication has been instrumental in keeping the project moving forward. The community effort and determination displayed by the club members highlight the resilience and teamwork that will see these projects through to completion.

Ongoing work at Airlie Beach Bowls Club, Photo supplied

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Sunday Social Games
October has been a lively month for the club's Sunday Social matches, with plenty of competitive spirit on display:
   • October 13: I. Thatcher, A. Williams, and J. Gilbert triumphed over R. Muir, R. Gould, and T. White, while D. McDonald and S. Roome defeated K. Moriaty and D. Kroll.
   • October 20: Tracey, Jill, and Tiarna emerged victorious against Gordo, Jane, and Kev. Ron and Margo secured a win over Meurisse. Dave’s team came out on top against Lyn’s team.
   • October 27: Dave, Kev D, and Steve defeated Ron, Jane, and Helen. Ian, Brett, and Lloyd played a close match, resulting in a draw with Marion, Ray, and Crowie.

Wednesday Social Games
The Wednesday Social matches have also seen great participation and competitive games:
   • October 23: Ian, Eddy, Robyn, and Jane defeated MaryEllen, Marion, Ron, and Gavin.
   • October 30: Tracey, Tiarna, and Helen bested Ian, Jane, and Mark, while Bev, Ray, and Dave took the win against Eddy, Alby, and Ron.

Several games were recorded without specific dates, showcasing more friendly but competitive matchups:
   • Ron and Jason defeated Gavin and Jane.
   • Ian, A. Vigar, and Dave secured a win against Robyn, Ray, and Helen.
   • Maryellen, Marion, and Steve triumphed over Robyn, Don, and Gav.

The social games continue to bring club members together, adding camaraderie and healthy competition to each week. Looking forward to more matches and memorable moments on the green!

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards

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