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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Once a year Mackay Table Tennis players get to battle it out on the table at the Mackay Closed tournament.  
For the first time, this event was held over one day of intense play which tested not only the ability to play to a high standard but to endure the 12 hours of gameplay for some.  
Club president Janice Kent congratulated everyone for their participation. What other sport can you have players from the age of 9 years to 80+ years playing in the same tournament?
2024 Champions

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Womens Open Singles:
Emma Widdup
Mens Open Singles:
Michael Ruhl
O40 Womens Singles:
Emma Widdup
O50 Womens Singles:
Emma Widdup
O60 Womens Singles
Janice Kent
O70 Womens Singles
Judy Zahn
O80 Womens Singles
Pam Joyce
O30 Mens Singles
Goncalo Serra Gageiro
O40 Mens Singles
Michael Ruhl
O50 Mens Singles
Robbie Richards
O60 Mens Singles
Barry Patterson
O70 Mens Singles
Barry Patterson

Boys U15 Singles
YiLin Jiang
Boys U18 Singles
Trent Day
Girls U15 Singles
Saisha Palod
Girls U18 Singles
Lily Boland

Action from the Mackay Closed table tennis championship. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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It’s been a full week at the club, starting with the final removal of the old shade structure. Special thanks to those who assisted!

On Monday, four ladies attended the District Meeting at St Helens Bowls Club, and on Tuesday, three represented the club at West Tigers Bowls Club in Mackay for Presidents at Home Day. Social bowls saw Joan McGrath’s team win with the lowest margin, while Carol Crosbie’s team also claimed a victory.

Wednesday’s Business House Bowls went well, despite rain during the final end. Blue Science leads by one shot over Block Layers, with Rock Plumbing securing the win of the week. Friday featured Craig Kennedy's singles win over Tony Burbidge, and the Endeavour squad enjoyed their morning session. Barefoot Bowls was also a success that evening.

Saturday saw Ted Cullen win the Scroungers final, and several members competed at Seaforth Carnival, while Andy McDougall was knocked out of the Champion of Champions B Singles. Margo Stanley’s fundraising luncheon was a hit, and the Club AGM on Sunday introduced a new committee.

Sunday bowls saw Greg Fennell, Robin Brown, and Andy McDougall win the day, while Margo Stanley’s team secured a victory in the BPL Cup, advancing to the State Finals in November.

Coaching with Margo and Mark continues on Monday and Thursday afternoons at 4 p.m. Thanks for your support of the club!

Contributed with thanks to Margo Stanley

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Business House Bowls, Bob Spees (Centre) and a couple of friendly bowlers.  

Here is a photo of the ladies that attended the fundraising luncheon on Saturday.

Photos supplied

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Wednesday afternoon saw an intense battle for the Senior Singles title, with Mike Harrison emerging victorious after 38 gruelling ends, defeating Bryan Davy 25-23. The match remained on a knife-edge until the final bowl was delivered, with both players displaying exceptional skill. Mike now advances to the Champion of Champions Senior Singles at Airlie Beach this weekend.

On Saturday, Gavin Noonan competed in the Champion of Champions B Singles at Souths Suburban. In a closely contested match against Stuart Larkin from Northern Beaches, Gavin narrowly lost 23-25, with both players demonstrating top-tier performance. Stuart later went on to win the event. Well done, Gavin, on a great effort!

In social bowls, Wednesday saw John Anderson and Bruce Uhe defeat Mary Hedgelong and Philip Brown 31-16. On Sunday, Peter Lawton, Bruce Uhe, and Heather Brown triumphed over Peter Lawton, Henny Tattum (a visitor from Airlie Beach), and Philip Brown 22-19. Additionally, Mary Hedgelong and Mike Harrison defeated Arthur Griffith and Garry Alexander 21-9 in a game closer than the score suggests.

Lastly, congratulations to Wayne Handley and his team of David Peet, Les Rodgers, Paul Foot, and Mark Glew for their win in the Seaforth 5 A Side competition over the weekend!

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

Runner Up Bryan Davy and Winner Mike Harrison, Photo supplied

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The past week saw some challenging but rewarding conditions for players at the PGC competitions. While the wind made its presence felt, the rain held off, allowing for some impressive performances.’

Tuesday, 17/09/24 – PGC Single Stableford

Men
   • Winner: Scott Mason – 36 points
   • Runner-up: David Woods – 32 points

Ladies
   • Winner: Paula McQuat – 37 points
   • Runner-up: Anna Winterbourn – 31 points

Rundown:
Louis Neethling and Gary Scotford – 32 points, John Wallace and Tiina Randmae – 30, Patrick Camm – 29

NTPs:
Craig McLean, Tiina Randmae, and Gary Scotford

Wednesday, 18/09/24 – Ladies Single Stableford

Winner: Brenda Cowan – 40 points

Runner-up: Jacqui Wall – 35 points

Rundown:
Elspeth Scotford and Tiina Randmae – 32 points, Tina Badenhorst – 30, Lyn Muller – 29

NTPs:
Tina Badenhorst, Ann Gardel, Di Chard, and Jacqui Wall

Thursday, 19/09/24 – PGC Single Stableford
A day of very competitive scoring made it difficult to secure a top spot.

A Grade:
   • Winner: John Grosskeutz – 37 points
   • Runner-up: Rob Stanley – 35 points (on countback)
   • 3rd: George Steane

B Grade:
   • Winner: Conor Smith – 38 points
   • Runner-up: Nic Apruzzese – 37 points
   • 3rd: Glen Taylor (Macksville GC) – 34 points

Rundown:
Scott Milne, Lloyd Kingston, Gary Scotford, Luchie Gardel, and Di Chard – 34 points, Barry Mortimer, Wayne Temby, and Bernie Drake – 33 points
2-Shot Winners:
Mark Thompson (2nd), Scott Milne (16th)
NTPs:
Sean Fogarty, Barry Shuwalow, Matty Muller, and Scott Milne

Friday, 20/09/24 – Metropole Run (9 Holes)
Some fantastic games took place.

Winner: Peta Thomas – 23 points

Runner-up: Rhodri Clancy (Mandurah CC) – 21 points

Rundown:
Alan Marks (Sanctuary Cove CC), Fay Milne, Brendan Spann, and Troy Leisch – 20 points

NTPs:
Sean Fogarty (2nd) and Corey Stroud (9th)

Saturday, 21/09/24 – PGC Stableford
Men
A Grade:
   • Winner: Cory O'Shea – 39 points
   • Runner-up: Laurie Dakin – 37 points (on countback)
   • 3rd: Brendan Spann

B Grade:
   • Winner: David Woods – 40 points
   • Runner-up: Brian Smith – 39 points
   • 3rd: John Wallace – 38 points

Rundown:
Vic Feldman – 37 points, Benn Ryan – 36, John Clark – 35, Michael Ward, Blake Lovelock, Rob Stanley, Scott Dwyer, Mark Pedron (SGA GC), Aaron Prosser – 34, Gary Scotford – 33

2-Shot Winners:
Mick Kavanagh (2nd and 13th), Matty Goldman (13th), Chris Brett (16th), Benn Ryan (16th)

NTPs:
Mick Kavanagh (x2), Brent Franke, and Cory O'Shea

Ladies
Winner: Tina Badenhorst – 41 points

Runner-up: Jill Farinelli – 40 points

3rd: Ann Gardel – 38 points

Rundown:
Peta Thomas – 38 points, Anna Winterbourn – 34, Tiina Randmae – 33, Elspeth Scotford – 32

NTPs:
Peta Thomas (2nd), Elspeth Scotford (9th)

Sunday, 22/09/24 – PGC Stableford

Men
Winner: Brendan Spann – 39 points
Runner-up: Don Cameron – 37 points

Ladies
Winner: Elise Hodgson – 42 points

Runner-up: Robyn Whitham – 36 points

Rundown:
Jon Miller – 37 points, Karen Rix – 35, Ryan Kenny, Ross Meade, Zac Vloedmans – 33, Jason Whitney – 32

2-Shot Winners:
Brian Allen (2nd), Jason Whitney (13th), Tom O'Brien, Tiina Randmae (16th)

NTPs:
Brian Allen, Peta Thomas, Brendan Spann, Karen Rix, Ron Jamieson, Clay Coles
A big congratulations to all winners and participants!

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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This week’s competition was marked by very blustery conditions, making play particularly challenging for the 38 players who turned out for the Stableford event.

A heavy shower before the start of play added to the difficulty, and the scoring reflected the windy conditions and the tough putting on the more exposed greens.

The Proserpine Veterans were pleased welcome James House from Margaret River Golf Club, who joined once again.

Results:

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Ladies:
   • Winner: Paula McQuat – 37 points
   • Runner-up: Helen Deighton – 33 points
   • Run Down:
       ◦ Anna Winterbourn – 31 points
       ◦ Tiina Randmae and Sally Little (in her first competition with us) – 30 points
       ◦ Elspeth Scotford – 29 points
       ◦ Tina Badenhorst, Jacqui Wall, and Elaine Philpott – 27 points
       ◦ Linda Wardroper – 26 points

Men:
   • Winner: Warren Deighton – 33 points
   • Runner-up: David Woods – 32 points (on countback)
   • Run Down:
       ◦ Louis Neethling and Gary Scotford – 32 points
       ◦ Peter Fox – 31 points
       ◦ John Wallace – 30 points
       ◦ Barry Mortimer and Wilf Herweg – 28 points
       ◦ Barry Shuwalow – 27 points
       ◦ Steve Mitchell – 26 points

Pin Shots:
Ladies: Tiina Randmae (x2), Tina Badenhorst, Jacqui Wall, Jan Shuwalow, and Linda Wardroper

Men: Vic Feldman, David Woods, Gary Scotford, and John Wallace

Chip-Ins: Paula McQuat, Rehab Hull, Jacqui Wall, and John Oates

Upcoming Events:
The NQ Senior Open will be held next week over two days, with 18 holes of stroke play each day on Tuesday, September 24, and Wednesday, September 25. Players interested in participating should urgently contact the Pro Shop. Please have your date of birth, membership number, and cart requirements ready. The entry fee is $70, payable upfront to the Pro Shop.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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This week’s club night started on a high note, featuring a special visit from Deb Savy of Tropix Photography, who captured stunning team photos and action shots. Swimmers delivered their best performances, and eagerly await the results from the photo shoot.

Following the photo session, presentations were held to recognise several swimmers for their recent achievements. Nelson Malady earned an upgrade to the 800-metre freestyle event, while Indi Smith moved up to the 200-metre backstroke. Maeve Dichiera advanced to the 100-metre backstroke, and Roxy Groom made a significant leap to four events, including the 100-metre backstroke, 100-metre breaststroke, 100-metre butterfly, and 200-metre breaststroke. Andie Reynolds progressed to the 200-metre breaststroke, while Gracie Laguna earned upgrades to both the 100-metre freestyle and 100-metre butterfly.

A special congratulations goes to Maeve Dichiera, who was awarded the Coaches Award for her exceptional 50-metre backstroke. The Chocolate Awards for personal bests were also presented, with Evie Doherty earning the prize for the smallest PB and Maeve Dichiera taking the honour for the largest PB of the night.

Once the presentations wrapped up, the night’s races commenced, featuring some stellar performances. Notable PB achievers included Ruby Lawson, Zane Clayworth, Dylan Reynolds, Matilda Nicholes, and Gracie Laguna.

A big round of applause to all swimmers for their hard work and dedication, and thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the evening! Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events, as carnival season kicks off next week with the Pioneer Transition Long Course, followed by fortnightly carnivals throughout October and November.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Photos supplied

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Eastern Swans, Moranbah Bulldogs and Bakers Creek Tigers shared the premiership spoils at this year’s AFL Mackay Grand Finals at Etwell Park earlier this month.

All three clubs captured championship doubles in the junior and senior divisions to share bragging rights.
The Swans stamped themselves a powerhouse by lifting the Senior Men’s Allied Cup and Under 12 Isuzu UTE Trophy while the Tigers are celebrating Grand Final triumphs in the Men’s Reserve Grade and Senior Women's ranks.

Moranbah proved a force to be reckoned with in the junior categories by claiming both the Under 14 Isuzu UTE Shield and Under 17 Cup titles.

The all-conquering Swans maintained their undefeated record in the Under 12s age group after toppling Mackay Magpies 4.4 (28) to 1.3 (9).

Eastern led 14-1 after the opening quarter and 20-8 with top performances by Beau McPherson, Connor Stephens, Cade Mateo, Will Brond and Harry Brodie.

Peter Maczkowiack booted two goals for the Swans with skipper McPherson and Stephens also among the scorers.
Tom Raison, Fraser Hosking, Millie Argent, Eliana Ness and Will Flanagan tried hard for the Magpies.

The Swans capped a memorable 2024 season by also winning the Senior Mens Allied Cup with a thumping 8.5 (53) to 2.7 (19) victory over North Mackay Saints.

Having lost only one match during the regular season, the powerful Eastern line up dominated from the outset and led 13-3, 32-15 and 45-18 at each change.

The Swans were best served by skipper Sam McCann, Ashley Watson, Riley Bibby, Tyron Wood, Ryan Haynes, David Manning, Michael Maltby, Tyler Hird, Rocky Miller, Chris Endres, Darcy Mealy and Jordan Ewart.

Moranbah trounced Eastern Swans 8.5 (53) to 0.3 (3) to snare the Under 14 Isuzu UTE Shield.

The Bulldogs led 6-2 after the opening quarter and 15-3 at the half-time interval before adding fourteen points in the third stanza.

Beau Thompson, Tom Sutton, Henry Pilcher, Lachlan Sutton and Kian Parish turned in skilful performances for Moranbah while skipper Hugh Brond, deputy Bodhi McGill, Jack Sibley, Romeo Elworthy and Haydn Faulkner impressed for the Swans.

The Bulldogs produced a spirited display to claim the Under 17s Isuzu UTE Cup with a thrilling 10.4 (64) to 9.8 (62) victory over North Mackay Saints.

Trailing 40-33 at the halftime break, the Moranbah Colts rallied to post five goals and edge out the Saints in a cracking contest.

Emerging forward and skipper Riley King booted four goals for the Bulldogs with teammates Max Jameljanenko (2), Riley Hodgkinson, Jordan Ewart, Tom Jaques and
Andrew Dyer also grabbing six-pointers.

North Mackay got value from Zahn Bugeja (4 goals), Cohen Frith (3), Koben Kulpinski (2), Lincoln Fisher, Lachlan Morgan and Elias Goss.

Bakers Creek men's reserve grade side captured the Mackay Cup with a hard-fought 7.5 (47) to 3.5 (23) triumph over North Mackay Saints.

The Saints led 7-2 at quarter-time before the Tigers held a 15-10 advantage at the half-time interval and 23-16 lead going into the final stanza.

John Vagg (4), Lincoln Nicholas (2) and Jason O’Shannessy posted goals for the strong-finishing Tigers.

Bakers Creek senior women's team turned giant killers to lift the Triple M Cup in sensational fashion with a shock 20-16 victory over the previously undefeated North Mackay Saints.

Minor premiers North Mackay led 16-0 at the half-time break and 16-8 inside the final quarter before the courageous Tigers mounted a late revival to snatch victory.
Indiana Bough and Megan Elard booted crucial goals for Bakers Creek in the final term to help pull off a stunning upset.

The gifted Saints produced top-class performances to dominate the senior women's competition this season – only to stumble at the final hurdle.

It was the Saints first loss of the season and a heartbreaking way to let the trophy slip from their grasp.
All credit to the stout-hearted Tigers who roared home with strong games from the mercurial Bough, Tanacha Saunders, Brooke Rowlands, Britaney Adams, Ebony Rix and Rhiannon Heisrath.

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Bakers Creek Tigers won the Triple M Cup 20-16 after North Mackay’s Saints had led 16-0 at half-time. Photo credit: Daniel McLean Photography

The Swans capped a memorable 2024 season by also winning the Senior Men’s Allied Cup with a thumping 8.5 (53) to 2.7 (19) victory over North Mackay Saints

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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.

‍

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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