The Whitsunday Game Fish Club's Billfish and Tuna Rally, held last Sunday, saw junior anglers taking centre stage and proving their prowess on the water, much to the surprise of their seasoned competitors. In perfect conditions, ten teams took to the seas, but it was the young guns who outshined the veterans.

Junior angler Jasmin Smith, fishing aboard her dad’s boat Lay Low, made headlines by tagging and releasing a Sailfish on an 8kg line, earning her the top-scoring Billfish of the day. Not to be outdone, her younger brother Benson also had an impressive showing, tagging and releasing a Long Tail Tuna on a 10kg line to win the Tuna section. Benson capped off the day by landing a stunning Mahi Mahi, solidifying the siblings' dominance in the competition.

Despite the challenging Sailfish conditions, all teams enjoyed a day of fishing and camaraderie. With the rally wrapped up, the club is now turning its attention to the highly anticipated Ben Doolan Light Tackle Tournament, set for October 10-13. This year's tournament is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever, thanks to a dedicated committee and the support of both long-standing and new sponsors.

The event kicks off with a compulsory briefing on Thursday, October 10 at 6 p.m followed by a fun Calcutta auction of teams at 8 p.m. All tournament nominations must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday, October 7. The action begins on Friday, October 11 with a sailpast of all competing boats at 7 a.m., and fishing will commence at 8 a.m. The tournament runs through the weekend, with the presentation dinner scheduled for Sunday evening at 6 p.m. at the Clubhouse in Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale.

One team to keep an eye on will be the group of junior anglers, with their dads stepping in as crew. These young competitors have already vowed to give the veterans a run for their money, making the Ben Doolan Light Tackle Tournament an event not to be missed!

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore

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Jasmin Smith (centre) with Sailfish for quick photo before release.
Benson Smith (left) with his Mahi Mahi.
Benson Smith with Tuna trophy.

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On Sunday, 22nd September, the Port Denison Gun Club held its monthly shoot, attracting twenty-six competitors. Shooters from Mackay/Sarina, the Burdekin, Townsville, Charters Towers, and even as far as Cressy, Tasmania, joined local members for a day filled with competitive spirit.

Event 1: 25T DB Sweepstakes
AA: B Gall, M Zabala, T Coco & A Zarb 25/25
A: J Cerqui & K Zarb 25/25, J Campbell & G Maltby 24/25
B: D Stitt 24/25, J Kinninmonth 23/25, M Simpson 21/25
C: B Bonanno & A Furini 24/25, R Ness 23/25, G Clarke 23/25

Event 2: 25T DB Trophy
AA: A Zarb 52/52
A: J Campbell 25/25
B: D Stitt 24/25
C: A Gamgemi 26/28
Junior R Zarb

Event 3: 25T Single Barrel Continental Port Denison Championship
AA: T Coco 24/26
A: J Cerqui 30/33
B: M Simpson 19/25
C: R Ness 19/25
Junior R Zarb

Event 4: 15 Pr Double Rise Sweepstakes
AA: A Zarb 25/30, M Zabala & T Coco 23/30
A: B Murphy 25/30, A Lord  & C Edgerton 24/30
B: G Maltby 24/30, J Campbell 22/30, D Stitt 21/30
C: A Bennett 22/30, R Zarb 20/30. R Ness & A Furini 19/30

Thank you to our sponsors of the day Corrsafe and Bowen Home Hardware and to everyone who helped in any way over the weekend.  Our next shoot will be Sunday 27th October, commencing at 9.00am.

Contributed with thanks to Colin Edgerton Shoot Secretary of Port Denison Gun Club Inc

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Event 2 25T DB - R Zarb, A Gangemi, D Stitt, J Campbell, A Zarb
Event 3 25T SB - R Zarb, R Ness, M Simpson, J Cerqui Overall T Coco
Photos supplied

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The Cannonvale Cannons invite new swimmers and their families to experience club swimming by attending their weekly Club Nights. Held every Wednesday from 5 p.m., these evenings allow swimmers to participate in various events, starting from 12 metres. The club prides itself on being family-friendly, fostering fun, fitness, and friendship.
Club Coaches Mark Erickson and Ken Crittenden extend their congratulations to all swimmers who maintained their fitness over the school holidays. It was also great to see such strong attendance at Club Nights during the break.
A special congratulations goes to Jax Clayworth, who set a new club record in the 50-metre Butterfly with a time of 34.58 seconds. Zane Clayworth was presented with an Upgrade Certificate, and Dylan Reynolds earned the Swim of the Night award for her 50-metre Butterfly. Well done, Jax, Zane, and Dylan!
Top performers on Wednesday night, who achieved personal bests (PBs), include Eloise Chegwidden, Harry Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Zane Clayworth, Bonnie Crichton, Isaac Pisaniello, Andie Reynolds, Ruby Lawson, Lily Maher, Stella Mulliss, Maeve Dichiera, Roxy Groom, and Erik Hinrichsen.
Special mentions go to:
   • Roxy Groom, who swam an impressive 100-metre Individual Medley (IM) in 1:29.72, improving by 23.26 seconds. She also shaved 6.6 seconds off her previous 25-metre Butterfly time.
   • Isaac Pisaniello, who delivered an excellent 100-metre Freestyle performance, finishing in 1:11.94.
   • Stella Mulliss, who swam a fantastic 12-metre Backstroke, cutting nearly 2 seconds off her previous time.
   • Erik Hinrichsen, who excelled in all his events, with one of his standout swims being his 50-metre Backstroke, which he completed in under 1 minute.
Well done to all the swimmers who participated in Club Night! The swimmers will continue to train and prepare for the Pioneer Swimming Carnival this weekend.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

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Dylan Reynolds Swim of the Night Award
Jax Clayworth with 50m Club Record for Butterfly
Zane Clayworth with Upgrade Certificate
Photos supplied

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With just one week left of competitive bowls, the club is gearing up for the final event—the Men’s Fours Competition—next weekend before closing for roof installation. The recent games have been as heated as the weather, with thrilling action across all competitions.

The week kicked off on Tuesday, 24th September, with 18 players competing in afternoon bowls. The standout team, led by the talented skipper Joan McGrath, claimed victory with the highest margin. Joan’s team, including the relentless Betty “Never Give Up” Whitehorn and newcomer Gail Simms, outplayed their opponents to emerge as the sole winners of the day.

On Wednesday, 25th September, Jackpot Bowls was masterfully organized by Rick Galea. The club welcomed special guests Ray “Red” Edwards and Garth Lees from Broadbeach, Queensland, as well as Mike Harrison from Proserpine. While the Jackpot wasn’t claimed, the day’s winners—led by Lu Rogan, with second Michael Jacometti, and skipper Rick Galea—delivered an outstanding performance, securing the prize money with precision and skill.

That same evening, the ever-popular Business House Bowls drew a large crowd, expertly managed by Bobby and Irene Spees, ensuring another successful night of fun and competition.

The weekend saw intense competition during the Senior Singles Championship Finals.

On Saturday and Sunday, the finals took place, culminating in a thrilling match on Sunday afternoon. Paul Muscat from Mackay City had earlier defeated Vince McSherry, while Alfie Lewis of South Suburban made a dramatic comeback, edging out John Fielding from ABBC. Alfie then went on to dominate Paul with an impeccable display of precision, claiming the 2024 Champion of Champions Senior Singles title.

In Sunday afternoon Social Bowls, the club welcomed guests Bruce Kingham from Millthorpe Bowls Club, along with Ali and Steve Clare from Hervey Bay, Queensland. The team led by Robin Brown, with Mark Mawson and skipper Rick Galea, played brilliantly, taking home the week’s social bowls prize. Congratulations to all participants for an exciting week of bowls!

As we look forward to the Men’s Fours Competition next weekend, we thank everyone for their involvement and support throughout the season. Stay tuned for updates on the roof installation and the club's reopening!

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Alfie Lewis Souths Suburban winner of Champion of Champions Seniors Singles with runner up Paul Muscat from West Tigers Mackay 

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It’s been a busy couple of weeks at the club, with plenty of action on the greens. In a closely contested Triples match, Robyn, Rosco, and Tiarna defeated Andy, Crowe, and Mitch.

The Social Games saw a range of impressive performances:
   • Sunday 15/9: Marion, Ray, and Daryl triumphed over Ron, Frank, and Wendy. Ian, Jane, and Rob secured a win against Sue, Lindsay, and Steve.
   • Wednesday 18/9: Ray and Kevin edged out Tracey and Wendy. Ian, P. Madon, and Steve overcame MaryEllen, Gordo, and Jason. Eddy, Jane, and Helen defeated Ron, Joe, and Gus.
   • Sunday 22/9: Keith, Ray, and Jason claimed victory against Allen, Ron, and Steve. Meanwhile, Jane and Wendy defeated L. Kruger and Gus.

In Scroungers play, Lloyd came out on top, defeating Ron and Frank.

Wednesday 25/9 wrapped up the week with more exciting games: Eddy, Jane, and Daryl overcame Ian, Lyn, and David. Robyn and Gus defeated Lou and Gordo. Dave’s team also beat Doc’s team, but the standout performance of the day came from Ron, Steve, and Ray, Joe, who took the win for the afternoon.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards

Steve and Ron, celebrating their successful week on the greens, Photo supplied

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It’s been a week of fantastic weather and exciting games at the club. Wednesday saw the arrival of two new visitors to bowls, bringing a fresh energy to the greens. In a dominant match, Ray Ihle, Arthur Griffith, Bruce Uhe, and Garry Alexander triumphed over Beth Ihle, Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown, and Heather Brown with a commanding 30-5 victory.

Sunday's social bowls also provided great entertainment. Arthur Griffith, Philip Brown, and Sandy Daffara claimed a 25-15 win against Alen Sanderson, Henny Tattum, and Peter Lawton. In another thrilling match, Mary Hedgelong and Garry Alexander edged out Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison 27-22.

Mike Harrison represented the club at the Champion of Champion Senior Singles in Airlie Beach on Saturday, but was ultimately defeated by Paul Muscat from Wests Tigers, who went on to become the runner-up. The event was won by Alf Lews from Souths Suburban.

A big thanks to Bruce Uhe, Geoff Hunter, and Heather Brown for their help in running a successful Meals on Wheels Trivia Night on Friday, providing both a warm welcome and excellent service at the bar.

Upcoming Event
Mark your calendars for Barefoot Bowls on Friday, October 4. Everyone is welcome to join, and further details can be found on the club’s Facebook page. Come along for a fun evening!

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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The weather was favourable this week with mild winds, no rain, and plenty of players taking to the course for a series of exciting events.

Tuesday/Wednesday (24-25/9/24): Golf NQ Seniors Open
The club was proud to host the Golf NQ Seniors Open, welcoming over 65 players each day. Pioneer Valley, Sarina, Rowes Bay, Bundaberg, El Arish, Dysart, and Mackay Golf Club sent strong contingents, with Mackay fielding over 20 players. Proserpine Golf Club (PGC) was well represented with 30+ competitors.

The overall champions were Lyn Muller (PGC), after a thrilling 5-hole playoff, and Calvin Buckton from Mackay Golf Club. Full details of the winners will be available soon on the Golf NQ website.

Thursday (26/9/24): PGC Single Stableford
   • A Grade:
       ◦ Winner: Andrew Albergo (37 points)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Tom O’Brien (36 points)
       ◦ 3rd: Nathan Sothmann (35 points)
   • B Grade:
       ◦ Winner: Rob Webb (37 points)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Peter Lindsay (36 points, countback)
       ◦ 3rd: Nic Apruzzese
   • Rundown:
       ◦ Brian Smith (35 points), Gavin Kerwand, Peter Elms, Chris Brett, John Dodds, and Michael Ward (all 34 points).
       ◦ Bradley Low (Tally Valley GC) and Steve Stewart also scored 34 points but missed the prizemoney.
   • Two Shot Winners:
       ◦ Andrew Albergo and Wayne Temby (2nd hole), Scott Mason (18th hole).
   • Nearest to the Pin (NTP):
       ◦ Andrew Albergo (2nd), John Roser (9th), Laurie Dakin (13th), Wayne Temby (16th).

Friday (27/9/24): Metropole Run (9 holes, back 9)
   • Winner: Kelvin Stephens (20 points)
   • Runner-Up: Brendan Spann (19 points, countback)
   • 3rd: Jared Leaman
   • Rundown:
       ◦ Ryan Wilkes (19 points), Cory O’Shea (18 points), Adam Maggs (17 points).
   • NTP:
       ◦ Ryan Wilkes on the 13th and 16th holes.

Saturday (28/9/24): PGC Hayman’s Stableford
   • Overall Winner: Michael Ward (39 points)
   • A Grade:
       ◦ Winner: Michael Ward
       ◦ Runner-Up: Chris Brett (38 points)
       ◦ 3rd: Tom O’Brien (37 points)
   • B Grade:
       ◦ Winner: Paul Joice (37 points)
       ◦ Runner-Up: Trevor Paroz (36 points)
       ◦ 3rd: Ross Meade (35 points)
   • Rundown:
       ◦ Brian Allen and Kelvin Stephens (36 points), Blake Lovelock, Paul Gray, Steve Hickey, Tony Goss, Aaron Prosser, and Kev Cooper (35 points), Lance Lloyd and James Bonomi (Carbrook GC) (34 points).
   • Two Shot Winners:
       ◦ Brian Allen (2nd hole), Craig Smith (9th), Kelvin Stephens (13th), Ross Meade (16th).
   • NTP:
       ◦ Martyn Goodey (2nd), Craig Smith (9th), Jason Whitney (13th), Di Chard (16th).

Sunday (29/9/24): PGC Stableford
   • Winner: Brian Allen (37 points)
   • Runner-Up: Brock Smith (36 points)
   • 3rd: Sherri Meade (34 points, countback)
   • Rundown:
       ◦ Ross Meade, Sean Fogarty, Jason Bourke, and Brendan Spann (all 34 points), Brent Franke (33 points).
   • Two Shots:
       ◦ Sean Fogarty, Ryan Wilkes, Scott Dwyer (2nd hole), Chris Bartlett, Sherri Meade (16th hole).
   • NTP:
       ◦ Elise Hodgson (2nd), Cory O’Shea (9th), Ryan Wilkes (13th), Sherri Meade (16th).

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Club
Photo supplied

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The final round of the Whitsunday Concrete Constructions 3 Ball Ambrose Championship took place last Sunday, with eight teams competing on a beautifully sunny day, despite an early morning fog. The event, generously sponsored by Ritchie Atkins, was a fitting end to the three-round championship.

After a great day on the course, players gathered at Proserpine Golf Club for a BBQ and presentation, with thanks to Master Butchers Whitsunday for providing delicious food. A big shout-out to Ritchie Atkins for his sponsorship of the event.

The winners were Team Atkins—Ritchie Atkins, Mark McDougal, and Lewy Tuck—who finished with an impressive three-round total nett score of 174.16.

Runners-up were Team Cook, featuring Tina Cook, Andrew Albergo, and Mata Browne, who came close with a nett 175.33.

In third place was Team Reynolds, consisting of Darren Reynolds, Wilf Herweg, and Tiina Randmae, with a nett score of 179.

Nearest to the Pin (NTP) 
Honours were shared across teams, with Team Reynolds winning on the 5th, and Team Atkins claiming the 7th and 11th.

Longest Drives 
The women’s winners were Anna Winterbourn and Robyn Whitham, while Aaron Watts and Ron Jamieson took the men’s titles.

Upcoming Events
The Whitsunday Golf Club will wrap up its competition year with the Club Championships 2024 and the Medal of Medals on November 10th. This will be followed by a final celebration lunch and annual presentation at the Reef Gateway Hotel, with a date to be announced.

A heartfelt thanks to our sponsors—Airlie Panel & Paint, Master Butchers Whitsunday, Reef Gateway Hotel, and RADS—whose support makes these events possible. Every club relies on the generosity of sponsors, and we are grateful for all they do!

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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The Whitsunday Lions Club has generously donated $2,500 to support a junior sailing camp hosted at the Whitsunday Sailing Club in Airlie Beach. This contribution will help purchase essential items such as rudders, centreboards, sails, and flags.
As a non-political service organisation, the Whitsunday Lions Club fosters leadership and networking among its members.
The club actively supports local fundraising initiatives for community projects, builds parks and venues, and provides disaster relief. Additionally, Lions Australia contributes to medical research, making a meaningful impact both locally and globally through dedicated service and compassion.
The Lions Club also run the markets down in Airlie Beach and the majority of the money from the markets is donated back into the community.
Last year the Lions Club donated around $90,000 to the community. Alongside the markets, the Lions Club also hosted a charity golf day to which they raised $12,000 that went to the hospital.
Sue Gravelle from the Whitsunday Lions Club said:
“We like to support kids and the community, we do a lot of work with all the schools in the area, we do school bursaries and we support them with Opti-Minds, anything that involves kids getting to places or needing assistance.”

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The Lions Club with the young sailors. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

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Mackay Athletics Club made a strong showing at the Athletics North Queensland (ANQ) Championships held at the Townsville Sports Precinct from Friday, September 27 to Sunday, September 29. This year’s event was the largest on record, drawing 722 athletes from across Australia, with competitors ranging from Under 5 to Masters, and participating in a full program of track and field events.
Among Mackay’s standout performances was Toby Rule, who defended his title by going back-to-back in the prestigious Queensland Mile Championships. He stormed home in a time of 4 minutes, 35 seconds. Ayla Moon broke three middle-distance records, excelling in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m events. Damon Brown impressed with a third-place finish in the Hector Hogan 100-yard race and the speedster also took out the 100m men's final, while Mikayla Webb also placed third in the John Campbell Miles Memorial 100-yard race.
Mackay's contingent also included two para-athletes, Thomas Martin and Keira Caban, who competed in multiple events, each achieving personal bests throughout the competition.
The Mackay Athletics Club committee expressed immense pride in their junior, senior, and masters athletes for their personal bests, sportsmanship, and camaraderie displayed at the event. A special thanks was extended to the volunteer officials and the ANQ committee for organising a highly competitive and well-run event.
The Championships not only provided an opportunity for Mackay’s athletes to compete at a high level but also highlighted the spirit and dedication that continues to drive their success on the athletics field.

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Mackay Athletics Club athletes compete at the 2023 Athletics North Queensland Championships in Townsville. Photo credit: ANQ

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BB Print has thrown its support behind regional sport and entertainment by signing a major sponsorship deal.
Mackay Regional Council and BB Print Pty Ltd have signed off on a four-year agreement to cement the naming rights of Mackay’s 12,000-capacity stadium.
Mayor Greg Williamson said with naming rights of the Stadium Mackay expiring on August 18 this year, council invited tenders for the rights on June 14, 2024.
“It was tremendous to see BB Print once again step up and back our regional stadium and support our community and sporting teams,” Mayor Williamson said.
“BB Print has a long history of giving back to our community, so it was fantastic to see them submit the winning tender for the naming rights,” he said.
“This sponsorship demonstrates that their commitment to the Mackay region is unwavering.”
BB Print partner Gary Bye said tendering for the naming rights for another four years was a simple decision.
He said for them it was as straightforward as a local-born business offering local support.
“For us it’s important to have Stadium Mackay supported by a local business, rather than a national company with offices in capital cities,” Mr Bye said.
“We are also mad-keen football fans here at BB Print, so it’s a great way to get behind the Cutters and Rugby League in general,” he said.
Mr Bye said he was excited to see what the future held for BB Print Stadium Mackay.
“The Mackay Stadium master plan is an exciting prospect, and I really look forward to seeing the stadium expand,” he said.
Mayor Williamson said it was tremendous to have BB Print on board at this exciting time in the stadium’s development.
He said the master plan for BB Print Stadium Mackay envisaged a premier boutique stadium and rugby league precinct.
“If council can secure funding for the eastern stand, there’s capacity for an additional 6900 seats and that would be a game changer,” he said.
The BB Print Stadium Mackay is a 12,000-capacity venue comprising an international standard rectangular field and a 1500-seat grandstand and supporting facilities.
Since its opening in August 2011, the venue has hosted NRL matches, the Professional Bull Riding Series, was the venue for the 2012 North Queensland Games Opening Ceremony, hosted more than 10,000 fans to a Kiss Concert in 2013 and an evening with Sir Elton John in 2017.

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Mayor Greg Williamson (left) and BB Print Directors Gary Bye and Anthony DeStefani celebrate BB Print’s coming on board once again as naming rights sponsor of Stadium Mackay. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Event was won by an elated Werner Van der Linde, despite the steamy and humid conditions at the Bluewater Lagoon Parklands. Nearly fifty competitors, supporters, and generous sponsors participated in the final handicap points race of the Mackay Road Runners’ 2024 formal program.

The Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Team, including Doctors George, Ryan, Matt, Alicia, and Onyx, joined members and day runners in competing for the prestigious 10km Trophy.

Participants were set off based on their official club handicap times, with the winner being the first male or female to cross the finish line. This format gave all competitors a fair chance to secure the coveted prize, with was a spectacular framed photo of local four-time Olympic legend Benita Willis, personally autographed, along with images of her wearing the Australian Athletics Team Uniform. The piece commemorates her gold medal win in the 2004 World Cross Country Championships in Brussels, Belgium.

Willis’ victory in the 8km event at the World Championships was an extraordinary accomplishment, especially given the strong competition from an unlimited contingent of world-class Ethiopian and Kenyan athletes. Though Benita has retired from competitive racing, she continues to play an active role in Australian athletics, contributing to various major event committees. As she prepares to welcome a new addition to her family later this year, she has even more precious moments to add to her collection.

Werner Van der Linde’s first-place finish was an outstanding achievement. Though he has only been with the club for a few years, he has steadily increased his running distances, training, and participation in various events, from trail running to road racing. Despite experiencing some injury setbacks, Werner has made a remarkable comeback, showing strength, competitiveness and consistency over the past year. Congratulations to Werner, a truly deserving recipient of the Mackay Spine Care Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy.
 
Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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The 2024 Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km handicap winner, Werner VanDerLinde (left) with Ryan and George (far right) from Spine Care Chiropractic
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Approximately fifty runners and supporters including Mackay Road Runners Life members celebrated the annual Mackay Spine Care Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy event
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David Isbister takes gold in the 5km handicap start event
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(left to right) Life Member Judy Zahn, Stuart Sprott and Life Member, Agnes Farmer enjoy catching up at the Mackay Road Runners Life Members Thank You Breakfast. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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Blokart enthusiasts are gearing up for a "wheelie" exciting event as the 12th and 13th of October race days at Cape Hillsborough fast approach!

Competitors from across the country are fine-tuning their wind-powered rigs, racing against time and each other to take full advantage of the stunning coastal conditions of the Mackay region next month.

This exhilarating sport takes the principles of yacht racing and applies them to three-wheeled karts, propelled by the wind across the hard, sandy stretches of Cape Hillsborough Beach. It’s a rapidly growing sport and Central Queensland Blokart Club (CQBC) President and Founder David Moore is keen to see the competition really "take off."

The race weekend promises not only high-speed action but also a welcoming, social atmosphere as competitors and supporters gather at the beach. Racers are set to travel from as far as Victoria, as well as from Yeppoon, Mackay, Townsville and beyond, making the event a celebration of both competition and connection.

Many participants arrive days in advance, not just to test the local wind conditions and ensure their karts are in top shape for the competition…but also to enjoy of one of the region’s most serene natural gems: Cape Hillsborough.

The event will feature two classes of competition. In the production class, karts remain as they are from the factory, while in the performance class, racers can make modifications, such as upgrading to ultra-carbon parts for enhanced speed. In the production class, races are divided by driver weight to ensure a level playing field, making strategy and skill key to winning.

Races will begin on Saturday, weather permitting, with action kicking off around 9:30am and running until about 5pm. Spectators can enjoy a BBQ and cold drinks, adding to the festive atmosphere. Contestants will compete for trophies in their respective weight divisions, rather than prize money.

For David Moore, who has been passionate about blokarting for over 23 years, this event is a highlight of the year. He’s thrilled to welcome both newcomers and seasoned racers to Cape Hillsborough, where the beach will serve as the track and the wind as the engine for what promises to be a thrilling weekend.

Registrations close Friday 11th October. Late entry fees start from Friday 4th of October. Contact cqblokart@gmail.com for more information.

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Blokart racers are preparing to set sail on the 11th and 12th of October at Cape Hillsborough for the sought-after trophies, with competitors travelling from as far as Victoria for this renowned event. Photos supplied

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Four members have travelled to New Zealand to play in the 2024 New Zealand Bridge Congress. They will be competing in the pairs and team events. We wish them all the very best in a tough field of approximately 600 competitors.

Weekly Results
Monday 23 September 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Debra Goodchild / Geoff Taylor
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford
4th
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
5th
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
6th
Ming Ting / Pamela Finger
Tuesday Evening 24 September 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
4th
Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
Wednesday 25 September 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
Antonia Tarradas / Richard Wix
2nd
Errol Morris / Jan Harris

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

4th
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
4th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 26 September 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Richard Wix
4th
Mick King / Patricia Garner
Friday 27 September 2024 – NWP Week 18 of 24 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

3rd
Diane Cox / Christine Nice
3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

4th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Geoff Taylor
4th
Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

Saturday 28 September 2024 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoff Taylor / Chris Meyer
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2nd
Geoff Cowan / Vicki Howard
2nd
Mick King / Jan Harris

3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

4th
Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft
4th
Errol Morris / Adrian Westcott

Sunday 29 September 2024 – Novices and Mentors – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Karen Cadwell / Geoff Cowan
1st
Joy Block / Terry Sheedy

2nd
Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden
2nd
Shelley Lewis / Susan Ross

3rd
Mick King / Pam Cassidy
3rd
Adrian Westcott / Faye Wright

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David, Debra, Eric and Ming at the bridge table. Photo supplied

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The Rumble on the Reef Wakeboard Championships brought an electrifying showcase of talent to Mackay this week, with top athletes from around the world hitting the water at Wake House Australia. The three-day competition, part of the broader Rumble on the Reef Festival, drew competitors from across Australia, ranging from grassroots participants to professional-level riders.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, who attended the event, expressed pride in the calibre of talent on display.
"This year, we’re thrilled to welcome two of the world’s top wakeboarders: River Hedrick, the number one female feature rider from Atlanta, Georgia, and Gavin Stuckey, the world’s number one male feature rider,” he said.
"It’s River’s first time in Australia, and I’m proud that she’s here in Mackay to showcase her incredible talent."
As competitors took to the course, the atmosphere was electric, with fans cheering on both local and international athletes. The event offered a platform for emerging wakeboarders to share the stage with some of the sport’s biggest names.
“It’s a fantastic event,” Mayor Williamson added, “and I’m excited to see our community host such world-class athletes.”
The action-packed weekend cemented Mackay's reputation as a key destination for wakeboarding and extreme sports, with Wake House Australia providing the perfect backdrop for this high-octane competition.

Photos supplied

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