Three Mackay-born athletes have been named in the Australian Steelers Wheelchair Rugby Team for the 2024 Paris Paralympics, marking a significant achievement for the region.
Shae Graham, Brayden Foxley-Conolly and Josh Nicholson make up a quarter of the 12-player squad and bring with them an inspiring blend of determination, skill and resilience.

Thirty-seven-year-old Shae Graham, was born in Mackay and faced life-altering challenges following a car accident at the age of 18, where she obtained a fractured spine and pelvis, as well as a raptured bladder and a brain injury. After relocating to Victoria for treatment, Shae discovered wheelchair rugby and quickly excelled in the sport. Her talent and dedication led her to become the first female to represent Australia in wheelchair rugby at an international level, including the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.

Shae’s ground-breaking achievements have paved the way for other women in what was once a male-dominated sport and she is set to compete in her second Paralympic Games in Paris.

Joshua Nicholson became a quadruple amputee at just 14 months old due to a meningococcal infection and moved to Mackay with his family in 2009. He began his athletic journey with the Mackay Machines Wheelchair Basketball Team during his high school years and represented Queensland at the U23 Nationals. In 2015, Josh transitioned to wheelchair rugby after moving to the Gold Coast to pursue a degree in Architectural Design.

His dedication and skill quickly earned him a spot on the Australian Steelers, making his international debut in 2017. Now at 29, Josh is eagerly anticipating his first Paralympic Games which is a milestone he has worked tirelessly to achieve.

Brayden Foxley-Conolly, the youngest of the trio at 19 also hails from Mackay. After contracting meningococcal at 22 months old, Brayden learned to navigate life with significant physical challenges. Despite this, he was determined to lead an active life and began playing wheelchair basketball with the Mackay Machines team at age 10. Brayden’s natural athleticism was soon noticed, leading him to represent Queensland and Australia in various international competitions.

Seeking a new challenge, he transitioned to wheelchair rugby in 2022 and quickly made a name for himself, earning a spot on the Australian Steelers. As a rising star in the sport, Brayden is thrilled to be part of the team heading to Paris, where he will celebrate his 20th birthday.

Despite the challenges they’ve faced, these three outstanding athletes have demonstrated nothing but excellence throughout their journeys.

As supporters from their hometown of Mackay, we wish them nothing but the very best as they prepare to compete in the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

Come along to Harrup Park on Thursday August 29, 7pm to watch the trios first Wheelchair Rugby Game Watch Party as they vs Great Britain in the Paris 2025 Paralympics games.

What: Paris 2025 Paralympics First Wheelchair Rugby Game Watch Party
When: 7pm for a 7:30pm game start, Thursday 29th August
Where:  Harrup Park Country Club

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Left to right: Joshua Nicholson, Shae Graham and Brayden Foxley-Conolly (photo supplied by Shae Graham taken at the recent Canada Cup, Vancouver, June 2024).
Joshua Nicholson
Shae Graham
Brayden Foxley-Conolly. Photos supplied

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Twenty-three players are heading to Yeppoon this weekend to play in the annual Yeppoon Congress. Good luck to them all! The first week of the Anne Hird Memorial Trophy was played on Wednesday for novices (under 100 mps) playing with three different experienced players over three weeks. The trophy is in memory of Anne Hird and Beanies for Brain Cancer. Anne was a supporter of encouraging new players. Sandy Patterson is leading after the first week of play.

Weekly Results
Monday 12 August 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
1st
Frances Brown / Robert Carless

2nd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Pamela Finger / Ming Ting

3rd
Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

4th
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
4th
Jan Harris / Robert Orlander

Tuesday Evening 13 August 2024 –3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
3rd
Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris
3rd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
Wednesday 14 August 2024 1 of 3 weeks of the Anne Hird Memorial 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Sue Mayer-Miller / Lorna Shuttlewood
1st
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
2nd
Joy Block / Griffin Bancroft
2nd
David Ting / Susan Ross
3rd
Colleen Riddel / Sandra Morris
3rd
Robert Carless / Mary Rose Ramsden
4th
Victor Mason / Noel Bugeia
4th
Jan Harris / Susan Gibson
5th
Ellrae Trueman / Janelle Conroy
4th
Geoff Taylor / Noel Saunders
Thursday Evening 15 August 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
4th
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 16 August 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Ming Ting / David Ting
1st
Anne Lutz / Karen Cadwell

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson

3rd
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
3rd
Debra Goodchild / Lorna Shuttlewood

4th
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
4th
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

Saturday 17 August 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Anne Lutz / Margaret Lane
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Simon Barnes
3rd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Ann Whitmore / Ken Seaniger
4th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
4th
Karen Cadwell / Noel Saunders
5th
Vicki Howard / Geoff Cowan
5th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
Sunday 18 August 2024 – Novices and Mentors 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Vicki Howard / David Ting
1st
Ming Ting / Shelley Lewis
2nd
Jewel Schmidt / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Robert Carless / Anne Lutz
3rd
Ellrae Trueman / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Simon Barnes / Faith Hutchinson

Contributed By Joy Block

Pictured left to right: Susan Ross, Ellrae Trueman, Leader of Anne Hird Sandy Patterson & Vicki Howard. Photo supplied.

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They don’t come more committed than Mackay Cutters rugby league playmaker Bayley Gill in the Queensland Rugby League Hostplus Cup.

In his third season with the club, the talented number six has become a top-grade regular and permanent backline fixture and the Mackay team’s on-field general.

A determined Gill showed his credentials last weekend to spearhead the Cutters to a resounding 54-18 victory over the Western Clydesdales at BB Print Stadium.

In one of his finest performances, the clever five eighth scored a try and had a role in several others as the Mackay team produced a dazzling second half showing to secure their eighth win of the season.

Gill also compiled his biggest points haul for the club – nabbing a try and booting nine goals for a personal tally of 22 points.

The Clydesdales opened the scoring after six minutes when centre Esom Ioaka crossed for a try after a jinking run that was converted by winger Corey Fenning.

Mackay hit back when powerful prop D’Jazirhae Pua’avase crashed through tackles to level things up at 6-all before Fenning grabbed the first of his two tries in the 17th minute.

Dashing centres Semi Valemei and Josh Smith then posted tries in the space of five minutes to give the Cutters an 18-12 advantage.

But the lead was short-lived when Fenning registered a try double to lock the scores at 18-all during the half time break.

There was no stopping the Cutters after the interval as their giant forward pack paved the way for a 36 point spree.

Skipper and lock Sean Mullany, back rowers Hiale Roycroft and Jamal Shibasaki, props Pua’avase and John Radel and teenage hooker Xavier Kerrisk combined effectively to bury the Clydesdales – providing the spadework for another six tries.

The crafty Gill played a role as Smith and winger Brent Anderson collected doubles with hooker Mitch Fogarty and second rower Roycroft also crossing for four-pointers in a slick display.

Gill capped a top game when he strolled over for the Cutters’ final try and converted with four minutes left on the clock.

The victory places Mackay in the eleventh spot on the Hostplus Cup ladder with 22 competition points.

Coming off a bye, the third-ranked Redcliffe Dolphins host the Cutters this Saturday at Kayo Stadium in the final preliminary round.

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Mackay Road Runners’ annual Bonson’s Scrub Road 6km and 12km event proved to be a thrilling challenge for all Club members, with non-members also warmly invited to join in. This year’s event, part of the Tri-ActiV8 series, celebrated fitness, competition, and community spirit.
Tri-ActiV8 aims to enhance fitness and performance through training with like-minded individuals while ensuring a fun and enjoyable triathlon experience. Adventure Racing, a rapidly growing sport, was highlighted through Tri-ActiV8’s annual adventure camps in the Greater Mackay Region, focusing on skills like orienteering, kayaking, trail running, MTB, abseiling, nutrition, and general wellbeing.
The top prize, a cutting-edge Garmin Forerunner 955, was generously donated by Nikki Giles of Tri-ActiV8. Her dedication to organising local events has greatly contributed to the health and well-being of many athletes under her FITTER | FASTER | STRONGER banner.
Emily Hayles, a rising talent, won the $999 Garmin Forerunner 955 by outpacing over thirty competitors. Additionally, two lucky participants won white chocolate protein bars in a random draw, providing a tasty protein boost.
A special thanks went to Nikki Giles and race day volunteers Andrew Short, Mick Scholer, Brendan Bishop, and Julie Whibley, whose efforts were instrumental in making the event a tremendous success. Mackay Road Runners is proud to be associated with the Tri-ActiV8 family.
This Sunday, the Sladie Sand Dunes Trails kick off at 7am from Pacific Esplanade, Lamberts Beach (Tavern end). The loop course offers three distance options: 4.3km, 8.6km, and 12.9km, featuring challenging terrains of sand, hills and stunning sea views.

Post-race, enjoy icy cold Zooper Doopers and Father’s Day-themed random draw prizes.

Mackay Road Runners will join the West Mackay Parkrun on Saturday, August 31st, volunteering and running alongside 200 other parkrunners and their dedicated volunteer team.

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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Mackay Road Runners Club President, Brendan Bishop with Bonson’s Scrub Road sponsor,  tri-actiV8 sponsor, Nikki Giles.
Natasha Joynson easily completed the 6km challenging Bonson’s Scrub, Ian Reddacliff Road loop.
The ecstatic deserved winner of the Tri-ActiV8 Garmin watch,  Emily Hayles presented by Tri-ActiV8’s Nikki Giles.
McKenna and Tahnie Malagueno enjoy a Sunday morning Mackay Road Runners event. Photos supplied.

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The Sea Eagles Family Day in Airlie Beach was a hit, with perfect weather and plenty of family fun. Activities like face painting, bounce castles, and giveaways kept everyone entertained, while the newly opened Sea Eagles Family Playground was a highlight. As the finals approach, the Sea Eagles are ready to take on their opponents.
Senior Men’s Close Call
In a nail-biting match, the Sea Eagles Senior Men narrowly lost to Bakers Creek Tigers, 42–48. Despite a slow start, strong performances from Callum Edmondson, Flynn Armitage, Brent Downie, and Captain Alex Rodgers give the team hope as they prepare for the Elimination Final against North Mackay Saints.
Senior Women’s Gritty Performance
The Senior Women faced a tough battle against the Bakers Creek Tigers, missing out by just two points, 19–21. They now focus on their Elimination Final against Moranbah Bulldogs.
Under 17s Show Promise
The Under 17s ended their season with a hard-fought game against the top team, Moranbah Bulldogs, but fell short with a 51–68 loss. They are determined to bounce back in their Elimination Final against Mackay City Hawks.
Under 14s Season Ends
The Under 14s wrapped up their season with a 1–56 loss to Moranbah Bulldogs, despite solid efforts on the field.
Under 12s Dominate
The Under 12s made a strong statement, defeating Sarina Demons 72–12. They carry momentum into their Elimination Final against North Mackay Saints.
The Whitsunday Sea Eagles have four teams in the Elimination Finals at Zeolla Park on Sunday, August 25. Fans are encouraged to head to Mackay to support the teams as they fight to advance in the finals series.
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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Alexis
Clio and Belle
Sea Eagles playground opening
Under 12’s
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Photo Credit: Cody Fowler

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Moranbah was alive with excitement on Saturday, August 10, as the Proserpine-Whitsunday Raiders charged into the 2024 Limitless Mackay Rugby Union Semi-Finals. The day began early, with three Raiders teams ready for action, all safely transported by sponsors Whitsunday Transit. The Raiders' quest for victory was marked by a full day of thrilling rugby.
Men’s Reserves: Dominant Display
The Raiders Men's Reserves kicked off the day against Slade Point Reserves. Although they secured a commanding 52-19 victory on the field, a technicality led to the game being recorded as a forfeit. Despite this, the team’s performance was impressive. James Burrell led with a hat-trick, while Hone Casey-Bloomer and Shakane Costello each scored twice. Jackson Green added to the tally, and Jacob Rota was flawless with the boot, converting seven tries and adding a penalty.
The official outcome may have been disappointing, but the Raiders Men's Reserves demonstrated their strength and depth, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.
Women’s Team: Gutsy Win
The Raiders Women's team faced the Bowen RUC Jennies in a highly anticipated match. Down a player and with no reserves, the Raiders Women showed remarkable determination, securing a 19-5 victory. Shirley Luke was pivotal, scoring two tries, while Kyahne Smail added another. Conversions by Lily Sainsbury and Deakoda Costello sealed the win, earning the Raiders Women a spot in the 2024 Limitless MRU Grand Final.
This victory was a testament to the Raiders Women's resilience and teamwork. After an incredible season, they now look ahead to a Grand Final showdown against Slade Point RUC Women at BB Print Stadium in Mackay on Saturday, August 24.
Men’s A-Grade: Nail-Biting Finish
The Raiders Men's A-Grade team faced a tough challenge against Minor Premiers Moranbah Bulls. The Raiders took an early lead with a penalty by Connor Spence and a try by Captain Waikato Nepia-Katipa, converted by Landry Bezombes. At halftime, the Raiders were ahead 10-0.
In the second half, hooker Simone Nasavuilagi extended the lead to 15-0, but the game took a dramatic turn when a Bulls player was injured, causing a lengthy delay. After the restart, the Bulls mounted a fierce comeback, scoring two quick tries and converting both. The Raiders' defense was tested as the clock ticked down, but they held firm, securing a nail-biting one-point victory and a place in the 2024 Grand Final.
The Road to Glory
With both the Raiders Women and Men's squads securing their spots in the 2024 Limitless Mackay Rugby Union Grand Finals, all eyes now turn to the big showdown at Mackay’s BB Print Stadium on Saturday, August 24. The Raiders are poised to make history with a shot at double premierships.
Raiders Finals Schedule:
   • Raiders Women vs Slade Point RUC Women – Kick-off at 2:30 p.m.
   • Raiders Men vs Mackay Brothers – Kick-off at 3:30 p.m.
Finals Fever is here, and the Raiders are charging full steam ahead. Fans, get ready to support your local heroes as they fight for glory!

Contributed with thanks to Karla Houston

Photos supplied

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As winter bids farewell in paradise and the arrival of spring approaches, Airlie Beach Bowls Club is gearing up for the erection of its new hard cover. This week was packed with exciting events and impressive performances on the greens.
Wednesday afternoon featured the Jackpot Bowls, organized by Merve Stewart. Skipper Rick Galea and his lead, Alan Pershouse, demonstrated a strong return to form with a commanding victory. Despite their outstanding performance, the Jackpot prize remained unclaimed.
Simultaneously, the Men's A Grade singles final saw Shane Spann triumph over John Fielding. After some early pressure from Fielding, Spann pulled away to secure a decisive win. Congratulations to Shane for his impressive display, which was well observed by marker Bob Fenney.
Friday morning brought a special visit from the Endeavour Foundation group, who have shown remarkable progress in adapting to lawn bowls. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Betty Whitehorn, Helen Ward, and David Meiklejohn, the group’s skills continue to improve impressively.
In the afternoon, the Christian College students demonstrated notable advancement in their bowling abilities. Standout performers included Riley Jacobson, a naturally gifted sportsman, along with Kyla Gomes and Josh Kirkpatrick. Special mentions go to Harmony Carus and Juliette Scells, with sports master Codey Vogel surely proud of their achievements.
Saturday morning’s Scroungers competition saw Eric Barnard, Merve Stewart, and Denis Donnadelli as the first-round winners, with Merve Stewart ultimately emerging as the victor. Maureen Barnard claimed victory in the B Division final.
Sunday afternoon’s Social Bowls saw Dawn Dowel at lead, Helen Ward at second, and Mark Mawson as the winners of the day. The Ladies Triples final also took place, showcasing a superb performance by skipper Ladda Purdie, with Vicki Spann at lead and Jill Spencer contributing to a great team effort.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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This week at Proserpine Bowls Club was eventful. On Wednesday, Social Bowls featured Rob Burglun and Philip Brown beating Bruce Uhe and Bob Preston 23-15, while Alen Sanderson and Peter Lawton narrowly edged out Mary Hedgelong and Sandy Daffara 15-14. Arthur Griffith and Bruce Magilton won 27-7 against Chris Behncky and Heather Brown.
Friday's Club Championship Singles saw Michael Kinnear defeat Shane Kinnear 25-14. Michael will represent the club at the Champion of Champion Singles in Mackay on August 24-25.
Saturday's Metropole Under 200s Carnival, supported by the Metropole Hotel, Cane Country Tyres, NQAS, and Sleep Rescue, showcased impressive bowls. Winners included:
   • First: Steve Ridolfi, Gavin Milne, Andrew Bell, and Wayne Handley.
   • Second: Harry Craig, Marcus Craig, Mick Walsh, and Wade Cranston.
   • Third: Greg Kasper, Peter Petersen, Paul Foot, and Manny Isgro.
   • Fourth: George MacDonald, Wally Kleidon, Barry Jackson, and Peter Koloczy.
Wayne Handley won the Major Raffle for a $750 Bowlers Paradise voucher. Other raffle winners included Ted Cullen, Jason McMullen, Bryan Davy, Jonathan Bye, Chips McCaffrey, and Michael Porta.
Thanks to Brett Saroglia for the fish and prawns, and to all who participated and volunteered.
Good luck to Harry Craig and Alfie Moretto at the Secondary Schools Cup Challenge in Pine Rivers.
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Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

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Andrew Bell, Wayne Handley, Steve Ridolfi, Gavin Milne and Club President Scott Hamilton.  Photo supplied

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This week at the Bowls Club was bustling with activity across various events.
On Monday, the self-selected triples saw Robin Stitt, David Madden, and Chris Frew clinch victory against Viv Boskma, June Paynting, and Chris Healey. The jackpot, unfortunately, was not won.
Tuesday’s social bowls featured a thrilling match on Rink 1, where Mary Jackson, Col Parker, and John Tainsu triumphed over Bruce Thompson, Ann Kayser, Brian Bellingham, and Greg Colquhoun. The runners-up were Karon McKenzie, Therese Bird, and Paul Madden, who defeated Natalie Hams, Mary Lydom, and David Madden. The jackpot remained elusive.
Friday's fun afternoon bowls saw a series of exciting games. Maureen Hyde, Alan Gillies, and Christina B. won against Jack Stamp, Darrel Terresa Bird, and Pat Wilson. Lyn Madden and Burnie triumphed over Viv Boskma, Jim Chandler, and Lorraine Knight. In another match, K. Armstrong, M. McKenzie, and R. Hyde defeated P. Madden, N. Madden, and N. McNamara. Again, the jackpot was not claimed.
On Sunday, Gwenda Lydom, Irene Laird, and Joe Paynting emerged victorious against Anne Kayser, Terri Crozier, and Paul Madden. The runners-up were Pam Breakwell, Brian Bellingham, and Noel McNamara, who defeated Karon McKenzie, Maureen Hyde, and Keith Armstrong.
In the Men’s Competition, congratulations go to Kevin Jewell for winning the A Grade Singles final against Allan Rolfe.
As many of our southern visitors begin their journey home, we wish them safe travels and look forward to their return next year.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Photo supplied

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The weekly 9-hole Stableford competition saw Peter Bitz emerge as the winner, securing first place with 22 points. Rhys Bartholomew claimed second place with 19 points, while Jay Steele finished in third place with 18 points, determined by count-back.
On Friday's 9-hole Stableford, Donnovan Pettiford took top honors with 20 points. Peter Bitz followed in second place with 19 points, and Andrew Gomez secured third place with 18 points, also determined by count-back.
Sunday's 18-hole Stableford was highlighted by Melinda Macleod’s impressive performance, earning first place with a stellar 40 points. Jayden Parata finished in second place with 37 points, and Brock Brindle rounded out the top three with 35 points. Jayden Parata also took home the Nearest the Pin award.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross

 
Andrew Gomez

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Sunday brought a beautiful, sunny day to the Whitsunday Golf Club after players navigated dense fog from both directions on their way to the WGC August Monthly Medal and Least Putts competition. Despite the fog, 17 golfers participated, and everyone enjoyed the fine weather, with no complaints about the conditions.
Whitsunday Golf Club Results:
Ladies A Grade:
   • Winner: Tiina Randmae with a nett score of 74
   • Runner-up: Anna Winterbourn with a nett 75
   • Longest Drive: Karen Rix
Ladies B Grade:
   • Winner: Linda Wardroper
   • Runner-up: Sally Little
   • Longest Drive: Robyn Whitham
Men’s A Grade:
   • Winner: Chris Bartlett with a nett score of 71
   • Runner-up: George Meharry with a nett 72
   • Longest Drive: Andrew Albergo
Men’s B Grade:
   • Winner: David Hoy with a nett score of 72 on a countback
   • Runner-up: Paul Nicol
   • Longest Drive: Don Cameron
Nearest the Pin (NTP):
   • Ladies: Anna Winterbourn on the 16th hole
   • Men: George Meharry on the 13th hole
NAGAs (Never Any Good Award):
   • Honourees: Elise Hodgson and Leigh Jones, with drinks provided by Aaron and Tracy Watts, owners of RADS Whitsunday, who offer respite accommodation and disability support services.
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Next Week: There will be no WGC competition next week due to the PGC Club Championships taking place on Saturday and Sunday. The next event, the September Monthly Medal and Least Putts, will be held on Sunday, September 1. Players are encouraged to sign up between 7 and 8 a.m. to ensure they can participate in a block.
 

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The Cannons Swim Club gathered for a night of celebration during their recent Club Night, where achievements and milestones were recognized with great enthusiasm. Coach Ken Crittenden led the evening by acknowledging the exceptional performances of the club’s returning state swimmers. The club takes immense pride in these athletes, who competed against Queensland's top swimmers, and the anticipation is already building for the next State event in December.
The evening continued with the announcement of several significant upgrades. Ruby Lawson was promoted to compete in the 50m in all strokes, while Eloise Chegwidden made an impressive leap to the 200IM. Tyler Bennett earned his upgrade to the 50m Breaststroke, and both Lucas Korosec and Jasper Korosec advanced to the 100m Butterfly, with Lucas also upgrading to the 100m Freestyle. Andie Reynolds not only secured her upgrade to the 200IM but was also honoured with the Coaches Award for her outstanding performance, which included a remarkable 14-second improvement in the 100IM the previous week, earning her the coveted Chocolate Award.
The mild weather contributed to a productive evening of swimming, with many athletes achieving personal bests. Miller Eaves delivered an incredible 32-second improvement in his 100m Backstroke, while Tyler Bennett shaved 12 seconds off his 100IM time. Special recognition goes to Jasper Korosec and Ruby Lawson, who achieved personal bests in all four of their races.
The Cannons family also celebrated the addition of its newest member, five-year-old Blaire Harland, who participated in her first club events, proudly following in the footsteps of her older siblings.
Over the weekend, the club’s dedicated coaching team travelled to Mackay to attend the Swimming North Queensland Coaches Conference. The conference featured sessions focused on athletic development and technical stroke models for junior and age group swimmers, delivered by keynote speakers including Matt Brown, Triple Olympic Gold Medal Swimming Coach, and Michaela Pattinson, 5-time 2023 World Junior Champion Coach. The knowledge gained at the conference promises to further elevate the performance of the Cannons swimmers in the upcoming season.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

Photos supplied

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By Amanda Wright

The 9th Annual M&P Services-Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day was a swingin’ success, teeing off with a record 166 players on Friday. Mayor Greg Williamson officially kicked off the event, where local businesses took to the greens, aiming for glory and a good cause. Despite no one claiming the $25,000 hole-in-one prize, the day was a hit with novelty holes like "Hit & Hope," where a lucky participant won a large LED TV from Harvey Norman Electrical. The event, now a premier fixture in Mackay, has raised over $250,000 for local charities, with this year’s total eagerly awaited.

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Major sponsors Penske Australia and Key Solutions Group teams enjoying fun on the fairway, combining friendly competition with hilarity for a good cause. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Mackay Swings Big For Charity Golf Day

The 9th Annual M&P Services and Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day swung into action last Friday, August 9, with a record-breaking 166 players hitting the greens for a day of fun, fundraising, and friendly competition. Officially teed off by Mayor Greg Williamson at 11am, the event proved once again why it’s one of Mackay’s premier charity golf days.

While no one managed to claim the elusive $25,000 hole-in-one prize sponsored by Penske Australia, the day was anything but a washout. The introduction of novelty holes added an extra layer of excitement, keeping the players engaged and the atmosphere light-hearted. The Harvey Norman Electrical "Hit & Hope" challenge stole the show, with one lucky golfer walking away with a large LED TV—a big win on and off the course!

Other crowd-pleasing holes included the "Island Drive" sponsored by BTP, where players navigated the tricky "Jay & Dave Island," and McDonald's Mackay's "Big Red Flag Hole," which saw many swinging for glory. The quirky challenges didn't stop there; Bondor's "3 Blind Mice," Ancorloc's "Dry Village," and Amare Safety's "Just Let It Go" kept everyone on their toes and provided plenty of laughs.

Beyond the games and gimmicks, the true winners of the day were the local charities, with expectations high for the final fundraising tally to be released in the coming weeks. Over the years, this event has raised more than $250,000, and 2024 is shaping up to be another record-setter. Read next week’s edition for the final fundraising figure.

The day’s highlight was the auction of a life-sized, personally signed corflute of the current Core Life Magazine’s front cover, featuring Max Lamb Jr. from M&P Services, which will soon take pride of place in the GB Industries Boardroom.

As the sun set on another successful charity golf day, participants left the course with smiles on their faces, sun-kissed from a bit of sun, knowing they had driven change for the better in their community.

Anticipation is building for the 2025 event, which promises to be another hole-in-one for local charities.

Photos supplied

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If there’s one thing that the Mackay community is most passionate about, it’s supporting young regional talent in the world of sports.

The Mackay region prides itself on the driving development of world-class talent, and Arisa Trew’s recent success at the Paris Olympics is a shining example of this.

At just 14 years old, Arisa, who was born and raised in Cairns, made history as Australia’s youngest-ever Olympic gold medallist in the Women’s Park skateboarding event. While her victory is a major personal achievement, this also stands as a monument reminder of the role Mackay has played in her journey at Mackay’s state-of-the-art Sugar Bowl.

This community-driven infrastructure, coupled with Mackay’s commitment to hosting events like the Rumble on the Reef has created a fertile ground for athletes to thrive.

The Rumble on the Reef began in 2018 which quickly became a ground-breaking event in Australia and it provided a crucial platform for emerging skateboarders like Arisa to showcase their skills and gain exposure.

Donny Fraser, Head of Development for Rumble On The Reef, emphasises the event's significant economic impact on regional towns like Mackay.

“We really aim to be able to support regional towns.

“We want to put Mackay on the map and we want to break that record and have the biggest skateboard attendance in Australian for a domestic event.”

Rumble on the Reef commented on the success of Arisa, stating that “historically, no event like this existed in Australia and the goodwill of the Mackay community and Sponsors is what has created these events and opportunities for people in Australia.”

Arisa’s desire to win an Olympic gold medal began when she was just eight years old, discovering skateboarding as an alternative to surfing during the cooler months. Her passion for skateboarding quickly grew, leading her to focus on perfecting her skills while studying at LVLUP, where she dedicated herself to pursuing skateboarding at a professional level.

Last week, five skateboarders who honed their skills at the Rumble on the Reef took their talents to the Paris Olympics. Among them was Arisa, who brought home a gold medal.

Arisa said “I’m so stoked still and it was just such an exciting moment and day.”

When asked about her future plans, Arisa confidently affirmed, “I’m just going to keep skating and having fun and pushing myself to get better.”

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By Amanda Wright

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Mackay’s own basketball stars played a pivotal role in the Australian Opals’ triumphant return to the Olympic podium, clinching a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Games. The win marks the Opals’ first Olympic medal in 12 years, with a dramatic 85-81 victory over Belgium in the final match.
Sandy Brondello, head coach of the Opals, led the team with a mix of tactical brilliance and emotional leadership. Brondello, a four-time Olympian and seasoned triple Olympic medallist as a player, guided the Opals to their sixth Olympic medal. This was her second stint as head coach, and the success was a testament to her strategic acumen and experience.
Adding to Mackay's pride, Marianna Tolo, another local connection, delivered an impressive performance throughout the tournament. This was her third Olympic appearance, having previously competed in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. Her performance in Paris was especially poignant as it marked her first Olympic medal. Tolo’s contribution to the team’s success was substantial, with her scoring and defensive abilities proving invaluable.
Former McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes star Cayla George also played a crucial role in the Opals' success. George, who has been a vital part of the Australian national team for years, made a pivotal impact during the games.
Brondello called on the Meteorette stars during a critical game against Canada, where her decisions proved crucial.
In the clash against Canada, the Opals were facing a tough battle. With the team trailing and key player Ezi Magbegor in foul trouble, Brondello made a decisive call to bring Marianna Tolo and Cayla George into the game. Tolo’s entry helped stabilise the team’s defensive efforts, while George’s immediate impact was felt when she scored a vital three-pointer shortly after entering. This move was instrumental in the Opals’ turnaround, leading them to a hard-fought victory that set up their eventual bronze medal win.
The trio’s Mackay roots were a highlight of the Games, with their performances shining a spotlight on the town’s basketball talent. Brondello’s leadership, Tolo’s seasoned experience, and George’s game-changing moments were central to the Opals’ success, making this bronze medal win not just a personal achievement for the players but a source of immense local pride.

Australian Opals celebrate their bronze medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Photos supplied
Cayla George and Marianna Tolo celebrate a pivotal play during their Paris Olympics campaign

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