The past weekend hosted the Prestige Fours event at the Mackay Bowling Club, where skilled bowlers from the Mackay district competed for the title.

In the final saw Wayne Handley Team of Cooper Whitestyles, Clint Vassie and Jason McMullen play against Jason Little, Trevor Kelly, Dave Maskell and Dave Pinkard with the winner going to Wayne Team.

Presige Fours Carnival Results:

Division 1 Winners Jason Mc Mullen, Cooper Whitestyles, Clint Vassie, Wayne
Handley
Division 1 Runners up:
Lason Little, Trevor Kelly, Dave Maskell, Dave Pinkard.
Division 2 Winners:
Doug Wootton, Les Rogers. Grant Edmonds, Bruce Bridger.
Division 2 Runners up:
Mitch Wrights, Ash Warland, Jason Wrights, Shane Spann.
Division 3 Winners:
BRAD Robertson, Den Croker, Joe Croker, Brian Williams.
Division 3 Runner Up:
Rob Turner, Andrew Butler, Bob Spees, Tony Whitehorn.
This weekend Club Championship Men's A Fours will be played over two days
starting 9am on Saturday 11th May
Men's Pennant starts on Saturday 18th May with three double headers in a row.
Tuesday Men's Triples results (13)
Winners of Winners:
G. Gibbs, W Herewini, M. D'Alessio
Winner of Losers:
A. Nayler, B. Jenner, P. Taffee.
Thursday Scroungers:
Joe Croker def Steve Cassidy 18-6
Ladies Ch/Ch Singles
Karina Dunn def E. Clements

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Contributed By Mike Irving

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Bowlers celebrate their victory at the Prestige Fours event, showcasing skill and camaraderie on the greens. Image supplied

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After a long-anticipated wait and numerous training sessions, the Masters Queensland State Championship was attended by 12 North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club Members.
This year’s State Championships event was delivered at the prestigious Brisbane Aquatic Centre in Chandler across four days of exhilarating swimming action, that took place from Thursday 18 April to Sunday 21 April 2024.
The Championships offered a wide range of events, spanning from 25m to 800m, with no event limits, ensuring there’s something for every swimmer. Currently no qualifying times are in place for these events allowing swimmers of various abilities to select and swim in favoured events. This was a timed final event with no heats with swimmers only common ground being a similar time, so heats are well seeded and include generally both men and women of various ages but similar capabilities and is all abilities. (Includes Multiclass)
Shorter distances were divided into male and female to provide direct competition for the first time at State Championships and proved to be very popular.
Regardless if members were seasoned swimmers or just looking to join in on the fun, all members participated in the racing, relays, and camaraderie. Chandler offers an unforgettable aquatic experience with precise AOE timing, a large electronic display that features reaction time, lap intervals and a final displayed result sorted to position that’s instantly visible in the pool for competitors.
On the medal front many Sinkers graced the podium in multiple events with a group total of 44 medals combined across individual and relay events. The club moved into 8th place on the final day of competition from over 50 clubs in what was a strong showing from Mackay. The large club award from last year was relinquished as some clubs were well represented and able to accumulate the points to take both overall and points per member categories.
The 2024 Championships were a well-run event that featured swimmers from around Australia and overseas and delivered 303 records broken at the event. These included 80 Australian, 199 Queensland, 2 Tasmanian, 6 Victorian and 16 New South Wales records tumbling as the event progressed.
The Championships had the Sinkers swimming well with many individual swimmers posting personal best times and placing well across the board. The event though was memorable for its team focus and support by members for all competitors. Swimmers’ comments include;
“My triumph was being here”
“Had a ball every swim and enjoyed the competition and friendship”
“They say swimming is an individual sport but not once did I feel like I was swimming alone over the four days. The cheering from the grandstands, pool deck support and sportsmanship makes me proud to be a part of this club.”
In addition to the swimming our team also hit some of the city highlights including the Storey Bridge Climb, Eat Street and Brisbane River tours to mention a few and thoroughly enjoyed the championships and all that Brisbane has to offer.
The Club has 4 swimmers heading to Darwin for the Masters Swimming Australia National Championships with both pool and open water swimming available 3 – 7 May 2024.
The club is now entering its “Winter” program with Mondays and Wednesdays at the Memorial Pool (5.30-6.30pm). Our regular Social Saturday swim is also at the Memorial from 8-9am. New members welcome.
For More information, email nthmkysinkers@gmail.com or phone 0413 805 156
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Contributed By Dan Stampa

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North Mackay Sinkers made a splash at the Queensland Masters State Championships
Sinkers State Group Photo
Nomi underwater
Team Sinkers. Images supplied

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Mackay Cutters’ trump card Emma Manzelmann has reached another milestone in her burgeoning rugby league career.

The crafty hooker is set to earn a slice of history after gaining selection in the Queensland Maroons Origin squad for the opening match of the interstate women's series against NSW on Thursday, May 16 at Suncorp Stadium.

Both the Blues and Maroons will contest a three-match Origin series this year for the first time and the durable number nine is determined to consolidate a spot in the star-studded Queensland lineup.

Manzelmann missed the Cutters’ dramatic 22-all draw with Brisbane Tigers in last Saturday’s Hostplus Cup-BMD Women's Premiership double header at BB Print Stadium but is ready to serve the Maroons in their quest for Origin glory.

Premiership pacesetters Mackay had to fight tooth and nail in the women's clash to salvage a point – nabbing two converted tries inside the final quarter to cap a spirited comeback.

The Tigers proved a thorn with their bustling defence and led for most of the match before Cutters’ hooker Alisha Foord and prop Lyrech Mara crashed over for second-half tries that were converted by five-eighth Kayla Shepherd.

Earlier the Tigers dominated the opening stanza and led 12-0 at the interval following tries by winger Melita Hicks and hooker Isabella Satui and two goals by five-eighth Akira Kelly.

Mackay bounced back after the break with dashing centre Jasmine Peters crossing twice in the space of three minutes before Tigers’ half-back India Seeto and the elusive Hicks scored quick four-pointers to give the visitors a 22-10 lead.

In the main game Brisbane Tigers won the field position battle to  post an impressive 24-12 triumph over the second-placed Cutters in Hostplus Cup.

Led by skilful half back Ryley Jacks, experienced NRL forward Chris McQueen and rugged prop Tristan Powell, the Tigers finished strongly with forward Jack Natapu and hooker Caleb Daunt grabbing crucial tries to seal a deserved victory.

The visitors led 8-0 at the break following an early converted try by centre Saimone Ahomana and a Jack Miers penalty goal after 26 minutes.

Mackay’s livewire fullback Rayden Burns crossed straight after the interval with half-back and skipper Riley Dean converting before Jacks extended his side’s lead to 12-6 by scoring the Tigers' second try.

Barnstorming prop Brandon Russell kept the Cutters in the hunt when he burst over to score a converted try in the 54th minute to level the scores.

A disappointed Dean was proud of Mackay’s overall defensive effort but felt his side failed to execute the game plan and didn’t nail down their opportunities.

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Mackay Cutters’ BMD Premiership Captain, Emma Manzelmann has been selected in the Queensland Maroons squad for Game 1 of State of Origin

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Over the weekend, spanning from Saturday, May 4 to Monday, May 6, the hotly contested Foley Shield tournament took place. Each day featured two games, where women’s and men’s teams from Mackay, Townsville, and Far North Queensland competed for the Foley Shield title. Selections for the Queensland Country Team were made based on performances during this weekend's matches.
Mackay Regional Mayor, Greg Williamson expressed the importance of not only having the Foley Shield in Mackay for local rugby enthusiasts, but also to show young players, both male and female, the foundation of Rugby League over the years.
“The Foley Shield is part of the trophy mechanisms that grew Rugby League in our region, so this is just absolutely outstanding to have it here in Mackay,” Mayor Williamson said.
As for the results, Townsville emerged victorious in both the men's and women's divisions of the XXXX Foley Shield, with the men's team securing a nail-biting win based on try countback. In a tense showdown at BB Print Stadium, Townsville, Cairns, and Mackay battled fiercely for the men's title.
The home side, Mackay, initially held the advantage, leading 22-8 midway through the second half. However, Townsville staged a remarkable comeback, with fullback Lennix Tovo's try offering hope before Christian Gale's crucial score secured the win in the 72nd minute. The sideline confusion turned to elation for the Matt Bowen-coached Townsville team, with prop Faron Morris describing the experience as nerve-wracking yet immensely gratifying.
Reflecting on the victory, Morris emphasised the significance of reclaiming the Foley Shield for Townsville, attributing the triumph to a collective effort and a determination to honour the shield's rich history while forging their own legacy. He also praised Townsville's women for their back-to-back titles and acknowledged their influence in motivating the men's team.
In the women's division, Townsville dominated with a 24-8 win over Mackay, showcasing resilience and teamwork to overcome a determined opponent. Hooker Mateeka Neilson highlighted the team's belief in each other and their commitment to disciplined defence as key factors in their success.
Individual accolades were also celebrated, with Ataliah Love and Marmin Barba of Mackay Sea Eagles earning women's and men's player of the carnival honours respectively. Looking ahead, the XXXX Foley Shield carnival is set to return to its traditional home in Townsville in 2025, promising continued excitement and competition in the years to come. Overall, Townsville's triumphs in both divisions underscored the region's depth of talent and the enduring spirit of rugby league in North Queensland.

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Results - XXXX Foley Shield
Men
Cairns 28 def Mackay 24
Marmin Barba wowed the home crowd with a hat-trick before Cairns mounted a spirited comeback, taking advantage of their opponent losing a man to the sin bin in the final 10 minutes. Fullback Lachlan Biondi-Odo scored the match winner in the 75th minute.
Townsville 22 def Cairns 18
Townsville dominated field position for much of the game and thwarted Cairns' last-tackle options with desperate defence to sneak away with a five-tries-to-three victory.
Mackay 22 def Townsville 18
*Townsville awarded the 2024 XXXX Foley Shield on a try countback (Townsville 9, Cairns 8, Mackay 8)
Women
Mackay 28 def Cairns 0
Melody Tass scored a hat-trick in a commanding victory.
Townsville 40 def Cairns 0
Townsville centre Gagie Mackie Namok and lock Jordii Mahendrarajah scored doubles as Cairns struggled to contain a rampact pack in the daytime heat.
Townsville 24 def Mackay 8
*Townsville wins the XXXX Foley Shield

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Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson announced the official Foley Shield event a few days prior to the highly-anticipated game. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mackay held a 22-8 lead after 42 minutes in front of their home crowd. Photo: Marty Strecker

Mackay started strongly against Townsville in the women's match on Monday. Photo: Marty Strecker

XXXX Foley Shield 2024. Townsville was awarded the men's competition on a try countback. Photo: Marty Strecker

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures April 30, 2024:

Division 1:

Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske) d Blue (Steven Whiting, Lee Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 6-5. Steven d Vince -8, -7, 4, 4, 16.

Red (Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker, George Camilleri) d Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) 10-1. Geoff d George 7, -5, -5, 3, 4.

White (Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) d Purple (Duncan Treloar, Emma Widdup, Tony Bowman) 6-5. Mark d Duncan -9, -6, 5, 4, 9.

Black (Mick Ruhl, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d Green (Leo Gilbert, Robbie Richards, Daniel Warfield) 8-3. Leo d Ishan -7, 4, -3, 6, 10.

Division 2:

Lime (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen, Anaya Reelh) d Tan (Saisha Palod, Jye Callander, Val Austin) 6-5. Simon d Jye -7, 4, 7, 8.

Teal (Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh, Craig VanDeKaa) d Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro, Mark Stam) 6-5. Niro d Peter -8, -13, 8, 8, 6.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) d Cyan (Leonie Patroni, Matt West, Trent Day) 6-5. Trent d YiLin -5, 7, 10, 11.

Grey (Doug Dungavell, Misha Palod, Kade Wright) d Gold (Ollie Hamelink, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) 6-5. Steve d Doug -5, -6, 9, 6, 10.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures April 30, 2024:

Division 1:

Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) drew Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) 6-all. Doug d Donna 8, 7, -9, -2, 7.

Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce) d Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) 6-5. George d Steve 9, -6, -10, 9, 6.

Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor) d Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Janice d Tony 17, 7, -1, -6, 9.

Division 2:

Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Robyn Bushell) d Magpies (Kim Daffy) 7-1. Kim d Judi 8, -15, -12, 9, 2.

Cockatoos (Kim Daffy, Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) d Doves (Louise Gould, Fred Saliba) 7-3. Gloria d Fred 5, -7, -6, 10, 8.

Division 3:

Squid (Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) drew Lobster (Tony Vella, Bill Hey) 5-all. Bill d Cheryl 6, -3, 7, -9, 9.

Crab (Pam Keune, Myles Dutton, Josie Davis) drew Prawn (Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes, Glenda Dutton) 6-all. Pam d Madge -11, 1, -11, 6, 8.
 

Supplied by Charlie Payne 

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Caption: Janice Kent
Caption: Tony Bowman

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Century Cricket Competitions have secured a three-year deal with the Mackay Regional Council to bring its hugely successful independent competition to North Queensland.

Century Cricket Group Chair Stuart Giles said that “Since their inception, Century Cricket’s Senior Competitions have been about showcasing talent.

“To be able to bring our competition to Great Barrier Reef Arena as a world class cricket stadium and not only continue to elevate our on-field competition, but to also showcase one of the most stunning tourist regions in Australia to our team owners, sponsors, players and supporters, is exceptionally exciting,” he added.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson announced that Mackay was the perfect location to host the Century Cricket competitions.

“We are pleased to support this event through our Invest Mackay Events and Conferences Attraction program, which is designed to bring sporting, cultural and commercial events to our region,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We expect these tournaments to draw a big crowd and we’re excited to showcase the Great Barrier Reef Arena, a first-class facility for players and spectators, as we cheer on our very own team, the Great Barrier Reef Rays,” he said.

“The weather in Mackay in August is fantastic for cricket and we look forward to welcoming some of the best national and international cricketers to our region.”

From 2024-2026, the national competition will see eight teams participate in a weekend-long senior competition as they play for a share in an $80,000 prize pool.

There will be representation in Mackay of teams from all three states that currently host Century Cricket Competitions; four teams from Queensland, three teams from South Australia and one team from Victoria.

Century Cricket Group Regional Executive Director Nick Fitzpatrick spoke on the future, with plans “to expand and invite other teams from other states and cities as the Century Cricket Competitions continue to roll out around the country in future years.”

Each franchise will pre-select six players to kick start their squad selection with the remaining six players to be picked at auction in Brisbane on Friday 7 June.

One of the teams joining the Mackay competition is the Great Barrier Reef Rays with former Australian international T20 bowler Ben Laughlin committed to playing for them after a stellar performance in last year’s senior competition in Brisbane.

The competition will run from 2 – 4 August and again follow the Century playing format, which was inspired by The Hundred in the UK; a concept that sees senior players step away from the traditional T20 format and compete in fast paced 100-ball innings featuring five-ball overs and far less changes of ends.

Senior players from anywhere in the country, and around the world, can nominate for the Mackay competition. Nominations are now open via the Century Cricket Competitions website.

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Left to right, Century Cricket Group Regional Executive Director Joel Hamilton, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park Sports Development & Facilities Manager Luke Kennedy and Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park Chair Terry Doolan. Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Congratulations to City Bowls Club on winning the prestigious Dr Williams’ Shield at the weekend. City defeated Seaforth, Souths Suburban and Pioneer Valley on their way to the final against North Mackay.
City’s last win in the Shield, which they have hosted for 68 years, was in 2008.

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Back row: Greg Peno, Joe Taylor, Ben Hall, Dave McKnight, Bruce Eaton, Gerry Bogart, Dennis Fredrickson, Jeff Neeve, Vince McSherry, Tony Connor, Sean Dolan
Front row: Warren Sturgeon, Paul McKay. Image Supplied

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Another exciting bowls event from the Ladies Section at North Mackay Bowls Club. The Annual Symons Shield was held at Northern Beaches Bowls Club with nine Clubs competing. The finalists were decided after some nail biting finishes – Souths Suburban played North Mackay.  It too came down to the last bowl and North Mackay Ladies were declared the winners by one point.  The event is held at the same Club each year on land donated by the Symons family.

The Ladies presenting the Shields are members of the Symons family, Daphne Goodson and June Critchley, who donated their land for the benefit of the Northern Beaches Bowls Club which hosts the event annually.

Contributed By Helen Fleming 

Symons Shield 2024 Winning Team-North Mackay bowls club ladies’ section.
Left to right: S Cuttriss, Marie Duck, Lois Deguara, Lidia McCarthy, Nug Pratt, Debbie Mackenzie, Lorna Bowers, Lorraine Lemke, Lorraine Silman. 

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Just over thirty runners kicked off amidst the sights and lively sounds of the Bluewater Quay before heading off onto the Forgan Smith Bridge for a very social 5k and 10km run. Runners had the option to do participate in anything between the 5km and 10km depending on where their current abilities were at, with some tackling an extra kilometre or two at Mt Bassett.
 
Ten-kilometre runner, Grant Holmstrom easily accounted for the Mt Bassett section of the event before storming home on the comparatively flat surface to be first across the line with fast-finishing Ashley Miles and Jim Ogilvie closing in for the minor placings.  Jose Short made ‘short’ work of the 10km as she skimmed over the course with big improver, Emily Hayles closing in for the silver podium position ahead of Carmel Mahon, Bernadine McKinnon, Geeta Ariani and Judy Zahn. 

Excellent efforts from 5km runners Julie Whibley, Andrew Wallace, Simon Henderson, Len Haworth, Kim Saron, Corey Gould, Dana Gould, Natasha Joynson, Kayla Waugh, Katrina Ogilvie, Neah Garciano and Sandra Henderson.  Jess and Ryan Everts did it the hard way as usual, but the kids were great, well done to them all.

Congratulations to all runners who were at out-of-town events including the Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon and Port Macquarie Ironman events.  The best of the many Mackay locals on Hamilton Island were Paul Mackenzie who scored an amazing 8th overall and 2nd in his age category, Thomas Wendt (2nd age), Sam Sticklan (1st in age), Sarah Manttan (2nd age), Dee Trannore (3rd age) and Paul Manttan (7th age).
 
This weekend’s Mackay Road Runners event will be held on Saturday morning from the Casu Jacks Café at the Mackay Marina, and the race will commence at 7am.  The Pre-Mother’s Day event is a 5km and 12km, along with Sunday, which is heralded as the most important day of the year!  

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Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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Just over thirty runners enjoyed the very social Bluewater Quay 5k and 10km
Dana Gould (right) enjoyed her first run with Mackay Road Runners newest member Corey Gould
Mackay Road Runners Life Member and champion runner, Judy Zahn made light work of the 10km. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
Race Director and Club Secretary, Julie Whibley (seated at left) had a great comeback 5km run with a huge contingent of local Mackay Road Runners members

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Mackay Brothers are proving a force to be reckoned with in the 2024 Northern Region Mackay & District Junior Rugby League A Grade competition.
The all-conquering Leprechauns have opened the season in ominous style with three consecutive victories under the coaching of Thomas Heggie and shape as the team to beat for this year’s title.
Having notched an incredible 24 tries to date, Heggie’s much vaunted charges boast a powerful forward pack and enterprising back division with attacking strike across the field.
Brothers have recorded thumping early round triumphs over Wests Tigers (54-18), Carlton Devils (44-10) and Sarina Crocodiles (36-0) and hope to extend their winning streak when the A Grade competition resumes this Saturday.
The Leprechauns travel to Shark Park to face the fourth-placed Souths Sharks, who have posted victories over Whitsunday Brahmans (56-4) and Mackay Magpies (24-18) and a 23-16 loss to Wests Tigers.
Talented Australian Universities fullback Kane Simon, centres Jayden Batchelor and Rydge Smith, elusive wingers Malachi Power and Matthew Skaife, utility Tyrese Parter and classy halves Luke Fletcher, Brad Campbell and Jedd Abbott have demonstrated their fleet-footed skills with a feast of tries.
Just as impressive are forwards Declan Laird, Josh Honan, Jack Hoffmann, Mason Simpson, Pat Vella, Ethan Sweet, lock Mason Thorpe and hooker Daniel Kelly who have laid the foundations with non-stop performances.
………………………
MEANWHILE ladder leaders Wests Tigers maintained their undefeated record in the Under 17s division after a 24-12 victory over Sarina Crocodiles last Sunday at BB Print Stadium.
Crack centre Jt Brice grabbed a try double as the Tigers chalked up their third win of the season after five rounds to stay on top of the table with nine points that includes a 12-all draw with Brothers and a bye.
Brice made an early impact by nabbing four-pointers in the opening 24 minutes with talented fullback and skipper Mason Ryan-Ellul and Canberra Raiders contracted forward Mark Morrow also among the Tigers’ try scorers.
Back-rower Lachlan Starr booted four conversions to give Wests the edge while hooker Ryan John, Wilson James and five-eighth Brody Moore crossed for the Crocodiles.
Wests skittled Brahmans 44-6 and Souths Sharks 38-14 in the earlier rounds with Ryan-Ellul, centres Morrow and Brice, halves Joshua Toby and Talan Cottom and forwards Starr, Jake Reid, hooker Slade Kretschmar, Kereama Gartner and Jack Townsend in top form.
Second-placed Wanderers Roosters edged out Brahmans 10-6 at Proserpine Junior Sporting Complex while third-placed Brothers rolled Souths Sharks 18-10 at Leprechaun Park with tries to lock Bailey Kurylko, prop Justis Costigan, hooker Cooper Deguara and centre Jack Goodale.

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Brothers are leading the U19 ladder this season while the U17s are coming third after an 18-10 win over the Sharks last weekend. Photo credit: Ashlee Meredith

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Century 21 proudly announces the launch of Century 21 Coast to Coalfields in Mackay, under the leadership of seasoned real estate professional Luke James Curtis.

With over 14 years of industry expertise, Luke aims to cater to clients' diverse goals and property needs, whether buying, selling, or investing. Having deep roots in the local community, Luke brings intimate knowledge of the market's trends and nuances.

Luke expressed the following on what he hopes to accomplish with this new office, "Our vision for the new Century 21 Coast to Coalfields office is to revolutionise the Mackay property market”.

“We're not just here to sell houses – we're here to provide a one-stop, holistic solution for all our clients' property needs,” he explained.

“Backed by the Century 21 brand and fuelled by our passion for excellence, we're excited to redefine what it means to be a real estate agency in Mackay.”

CEO of Century 21 Australasia, James Bell expresses excitement about this new venture, anticipating the positive impact it will have on the local real estate landscape.

"It's very exciting to see a new era of exceptional real estate and property management services coming to the Mackay region,” he stated.

“We're proud to have such a dynamic team become part of our network and we look forward to seeing them go from strength to strength."

Century 21 Coast to Coalfields Mackay promises unparalleled real estate services, covering everything from transaction complexities to securing financing for various assets.

Situated in the heart of Mackay within the Century 21 Plaza building, the new office will serve as a centralised hub for delivering exceptional service. Supported by a dedicated team of agents who share his vision, Luke ensures clients receive top-notch guidance and results.

With a focus on personalised attention and comprehensive solutions, the office sets a standard for excellence in the industry, where every client's needs are met with professionalism and efficiency.

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Bridge players will congregate in Mackay this long weekend to compete in the Barrier Reef Congress. Players will travel from the Atherton Tablelands & Cairns in the North and Victoria & Tasmania in the south for this annual event. Several players are even making the trip from New Zealand.  
Approximately 300 players will compete in pairs and team events over the 4 days.  Many current and former Australian & Queensland representative players will be vying for the top honours.  Also, in the running will be 3 players from the Australian u26 women’s team honing their skills before they travel to Poland later in the year to compete in the World Youth Championships.
The Mackey Bridge Club is thrilled that the current Australian Bridge Federation president and secretary will also be in attendance. Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said council was pleased to support the Barrier Reef Congress, one of the premier competition events of the Queensland Bridge community.  
“Events like the congress bring hundreds of people together in our region, and outside of the skill and strategy of gameplay, they will have the opportunity to relax, socialise and explore what our region has to offer,” Mayor Williamson said.
The Mackay Bridge Club is very thankful to their sponsors for this event – Mackay Regional Council, Daly Bay, SH Tait & Co, TBIB, Paul Lavings, North Marine, Mackay Tourism & Officeworks.

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In a thrilling NBL1 North showdown at the McDonald’s Mackay Stadium last Saturday night, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors triumphed over the Rockhampton Rockets in a spectacular high-scoring game. The Meteors displayed exceptional teamwork, securing a win with a final score of 111 to 102. Todd Blanchfield led the charge for the Meteors netting the most goals, notching up 31 points and 14 rebounds. Isaac White also continued his on-court fire with 28 points and 6 assists, while Emmett Naar and Luca Yates delivered impressive double-doubles. Naar tallied 14 points and 12 assists, while Yates added 14 points and 10 rebounds to the scoreboard. The Meteors' next home game will be against the Northside Wizards in Round 6 on Saturday, May 18.

Meanwhile, in another intense NBL1 North clash, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes faced off against the Rockhampton Cyclones. Despite putting up a valiant effort, the Meteorettes fell short against their opponents, with a final score of 73 to 93 in favour of the Cyclones. The Meteorettes displayed determination on the court, with Nikita Van Wyk leading the charge with 14 points and 6 rebounds. Chelsea Brook and Sam Haiby also made notable contributions, each adding 11 points to the scoreboard. Despite the loss, the Meteorettes remain focused and determined to bounce back stronger in their next home game against the Northside Wizards on May 18.

In addition to the thrilling on-court action, the Meteors celebrated the on-fire performance of Todd Blanchfield, who alongside Samantha Bowman from Rockhampton, were both awarded the prestigious NBL1 North ANZAC Round Medal. This recognises players who exemplify the ANZAC Spirit, embodying qualities such as endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour, and mateship. Congratulations to both Todd and Samantha for their exceptional achievements.

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McDonald's Mackay Meteors' Todd Blanchfield shines with the ANZAC Round Medal, celebrating his outstanding display of athleticism, courage, and camaraderie on the court

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Weekly Results

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Monday 22 April 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Victor Mason / Antonia Taradas
2nd
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Faye Wright
3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
3rd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Karen Caldwell / Noel Saunders
4th
Pamela Finger / Ming Ting
3rd
Ted Cullinan / Terrence Sheedy
5th
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
Tuesday Evening 23 April 2024 –6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Janet Hansen / Simon Barnes
3rd
Diane Morgan / Terrence Sheedy
4th
Israel Hall / Alan Brown
5th
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

Wednesday 24 April 2024 – NWP Week 8 of 24 - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terrence Sheedy

2nd
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan

4th
Joy Block / Toni Large
4th
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait

5th
John Ludkin / Victor Mason
5th
David Ting / Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 25 April 2024 –5 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janet Hansen / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Mick King / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
4th
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
5th
Lynne O’Neill / Susan Gibson

Friday 26 April 2024 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd
Gwen Liddell / Monica Darley
2nd
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
3rd
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Victor Mason / Josie Cowley
4th
Eddie Kliese / Nancy Wix
4th
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
Saturday 27 April 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janette Hansen / Janelle Conroy
1st
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
2nd
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
2nd
Diane Morgan / Robert Carless
3rd
Mick King / Jan Harris
3rd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
4th
Geoffrey Patterson / Patricia Garner
5th
Josie Crowley / Terrence Sheedy
5th
David Ting / Ming Ting
Sunday 28 April 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Christopher Meyers / Geoff Cowan
1st
Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell
2nd
Ann Whitmore / Griffen Brancroft
2nd
Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin
3rd
Susan Ross / Vicki Howard
3rd
Diane Stokes / Joy Block

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Ming, Debra and Noel Bugeia Anne, Geoff, Noel and Sandy

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Community spirit was in full swing as participants and sponsors gathered for a second annual Charity Golf Day organised by the inspiring 16-year-old, Taya Rush. Held at the Mackay Golf Club, the event raised a staggering $18,315.50 for RACQ CQ Rescue, a vital lifeline for our remote and rural communities.

Helicopter services like RACQ CQ Rescue play a crucial role in providing rapid response and critical care for individuals involved in rural accidents, boating mishaps, and emergencies beyond the reach of traditional medical facilities. For Taya Rush, the cause hits close to home, with her family now owning a farm and recognising the importance of having access to such rescue services in times of crisis.

Participants enjoyed a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and community spirit, all while supporting a worthy cause. Sporting navy blue and yellow attire to symbolise their support for RACQ CQ Rescue, golfers teed off, eager to make a difference.

"Charity Golf days are a great way to network with other businesses in the area while enjoying a round of golf," explained Ms Rush.

"Everyone last year had a great time on the golf course, with team bonding, meeting new people, and supporting a charity at the same time."

From humble beginnings selling chocolates and socks to organising a successful charity golf day, Taya's dedication and passion serve as an inspiration to us all. As she continues to advocate for emergency assistance in rural areas, her message rings clear: even the smallest swing can lead to significant change.

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Golfers enjoying a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and community spirit at Taya’s RACQ CQ Rescue Charity Golf Day. Photos supplied

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