Over the weekend, 8 Cannons travelled to Charters Towers to compete at the Charters Towers LC Transition Meet. The Cannons would like to commend Tate Harland, Ruby Harland, Indigo Harland, Blaire Harland, Andie Reynolds, Dylan Reynolds, Isaac Pisaniello, and Isabella Pisaniello.  Congratulations, Andie, and Ruby for being selected for the Skins event!  
Highlights include Andie Reynolds swimming a massive 35.61sec PB in her 400m Freestyle which earnt her a bronze medal. Tate Harland won 5 of his events and swam 3PBs. Tate’s best swim was his 100m Butterfly with 8sec PB.  
Ruby Harland won 5 events and swam 5PBs. Two of Ruby’s best swims (based on PBs) were 400m Freestyle and 200m Backstroke. Ruby’s sisters, Indigo and Blaire swam extremely well in all their races. The Cannons would like to commend Indigo for stepping up to help with the 12 year and Under 200m Free Relay.  
Despite walking around in a moon boot, Isaac Pisaniello competed very well. Two of Isaac’s s best swims include: 50m Butterfly in 35.53sec (2nd place) and his 50m Freestyle in a time of 32.26sec.  
Isaac’s sister, Isabella swam super times in her 50m Freestyle (2nd), 100m Backstroke (2nd), 100m Freestyle (4th) and 50m Backstroke (1st). Dylan Reynolds aged 14 years achieved top placings in all her events. Surprisingly, one of Dylan’s best swims was her 100m Breaststroke which she swam in 1.45.95 (2nd & 1.17sec PB).  
On Wednesday Night the Cannons hosted another successful Club Night! A special welcome to Indiana De-Lisle and Isla Johnston! Indiana and Isla swam extremely well at their first Club Night. At the start of Club Night, Miller Eaves was presented with the Coaches’ Award for swimming an awesome 50m Freestyle.  
Upgrade Certificates were presented to Addie Sanders and Leo Mulliss. Congratulations to Stella Mulliss and Jess Moon for winning the Chocolate Awards for the best PBs.  
Congratulations to all the swimmers on your amazing achievements!  
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Contributed with thanks to the Cannonvale Cannons.

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Cannons at Charters Towers
Jess Moon
Miller Eaves
Stella Mulliss

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The Whitsunday Swimming Club held its annual LC Transition meet on October 19th & 20th at Proserpine Swimming Pool.
170 swimmers travelled from afar, including Townsville, Charters Towers, Moranbah, Mackay, Mirani, Bowen, Cannonvale & of course, our own Whitsunday Swimmers.
There was two days of fast racing, friendly banter, many rubber ducks won, and great memories made.
The Whitsunday Swimming Clubs own swimmers had some spectacular PB’s, A grade upgrades and Mystery Relay Wins. The cheering and support all our swimmers gave each other was heart warming.
Well done to our newest club members, Summer, Jack and Vicky on their first carnival. Amazing swims and we think you are going to fit right in with our club.
This year’s mystery relay was won by Charlie – Cannonvale Cannons, Liam – Mirani, Sophie – Gardens & Mae – Whitsunday. All swimmers in all heats raced spectacularly and to hear the cheering from the spectators was wonderful.
Thank you to all our parents, grandparents and other volunteers who helped us set up, pack up and run the meet. Thank you to Swimming North Queensland officials for you ongoing support of our club and carnival.
Thank you to Aquatic Rush for ensuring your facility was ready to show off to the swimming world. We are very fortunate to have such a great swimming facility in our region and one that supports our club so much.

Contributed with thanks to Amanda Yuskan
Photos supplied

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Pioneer Valley young gun Ben Valmadre has opened the Mackay Junior Cricket season in style.

The talented sixteen-year-old cracked a majestic 53 in the Valley’s pulsating five-run victory over the Mackay Magpies White X1 in Under 17s action at Roy Trevaskis Oval.

Valmadre faced 54 deliveries and clouted six boundaries in Pioneer’s tally of 8-123 - adding 67 runs for the third wicket with promising number four Jacob Williams (22).

In reply the Magpies (8-118) fell agonisingly short despite top knocks from opener George Fortescue (41) and Thomas Rourke (26).

In the other fixture Walkerston (8-182) outclassed Magpies Black (8-93) at Cameron Oval.

The Roosters top order paved the way with rising number three Marcus Sammut peeling off an impressive 54 off 40 balls with eight boundaries plus a six.

Sammut was ably supported by opener Ayden Loader (37), Ricky Deguara (33 not out) and Ben Garner (25).

Soham Rana top scored for the Blacks with 24 runs off 33 balls while Cameron Johnson and Brodie Garnham each scored 20.

The Roosters attack found their rhythm with Marshall Maher (2-7), Israel Davies (2-24) and Tyler Morris (2-25) the chief destroyers.

Mackay Magpies White (7-149) downed the Blacks (6-136) in a tight contest at the Magpies Sports Ground.

Lachlan Anderson (39) and the promising Fortescue (33) led the way for the Whites with Rourke (2-1) and Fortescue (1-13 off four) applying the pressure with the ball.

All-rounder Rana turned in a fine bowling performance to finish with 4-24 off five overs with quick Zachary Pace nabbing 2-19 off 24 deliveries.

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Mackay Magpies and Walkerston Roosters remain the only undefeated teams after the early rounds of the 2024-25 Mackay Cricket Association Poole Cup first-grade series.

The Magpies top the table on 29 competition points – one clear of the Roosters (28) after both clubs posted three consecutive one day victories in a cracking start to a new campaign.

Classy knocks from opener Rhys McBride (54 not out) and Adam Zurvas (39) steered the Magpies (2-109) to a resounding eight wicket win over Norths Devils (106) in opening round action at Jack Lancaster Oval.

McBride cracked ten boundaries and a six and shared an 80-run second wicket partnership with the talented Zurvas.

The high flying Magpies followed it up with emphatic wins over Souths Sharks and Pioneer Valley to zoom into top spot.

Andrew Borg grabbed 5-10 in a stunning seven over spell to help skittle the Sharks for 121 before Jaxn Sign blasted 75 not out off 35 balls with twelve boundaries and three sixes as the Magpies (4-122) cruised to victory.

Unbeaten knocks from Conor Bryant (44 not out) and Lucas van der Merwe (40 not out) piloted the Magpies (6-145) to a four wicket victory over Pioneer Valley (144) in third round action at George Gorrie Oval.

Walkerston have proved just as impressive with dominant victories over Brothers, Pioneer Valley and Norths Devils.
Half centuries from Chris Mceldowney (82 not out), Jakob Frerichs (70) and Luke Jackson (62) lifted the Roosters (6-280) to a comprehensive win over Brothers (132) with paceman Mackenzie Ralphs snaring 3-38, Jackson (2-22) and Liam Newbery (2-37).

Young gun Etienne Pretorius smashed 144 off 103 balls as Walkerston (5-260) toppled Pioneer Valley (155) with the talented teenager thumping nine sixes and thirteen boundaries in a superb knock.

Pretorius shared a big opening stand with Joel McFarlane (46) before Adrian Young grabbed 6-30 off eight overs with the ball.

Tom Vandenberg (78 not out) and Luke Jackson (69) posted a sixth wicket union of 141 as the Roosters (6-237) defeated the Devils (9-141) with wicket doubles to Ralphs, Young and Mceldowney.

Queensland Under 16s schoolboy representative Jack Law cracked a power-laden 94 with fourteen boundaries and Cameron Tomerini (90 not out) for Brothers (4-248) in their loss to Norths (7-252).

The promising colts featured in a third wicket partnership of 130 before Chris Day (65) and Kerrod Tortora (44 not out) guided the Devils to victory.

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Mackay brothers James and Michael Mogford are making waves in the Transportable Shade Sheds SXS Championship, currently sitting in the number one spot with just one race remaining in the season. After finishing second in the 2023 Australian SXS Championship, they are determined to improve their standing at the upcoming Kalgoorlie Desert Race, taking place from October 24 to 27.
James takes the wheel while Michael navigates for the Moggy’s Racing team, which is also third overall in the Australian Offroad Championship. This position is particularly impressive, considering they’re competing against a range of sophisticated vehicles from other classes.
“It’s a huge deal for an SXS to be in third place, especially competing against Australia’s best driving cars,” James said.
The focus for the Mogfords is on their own class in the SXS Championship, even as they eye a potential outright win in the 2024 BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC).
“Our concentration is to ensure that we survive the race,” James said.
“We want to put it in a good position and get a podium finish.
James’s journey into SXS racing began with a background in off-road motorbike racing and go-karting. “They said, ‘with age comes a cage!’” he laughed. He decided to enter the sport after purchasing a vehicle and racing for the first time in 2022.
The season is made up of five races, with the Finke Desert Race recognised as the toughest.
“The logistics are challenging—it’s in Alice Springs, and you have to camp down at the finish line and race back the next day,” James explained.
“The biggest challenge with off-road racing is simply surviving the race, given the punishment the car endures.”
He knows the risks firsthand, having broken his collarbone last year due to the forces involved in rolling the car.
As they prepare for the Kalgoorlie Desert Race, James is a mix of excited and cautious.
“If we win this weekend, it means we’re Australian champions. But we want to survive the race too.”
Competing in such a harsh environment poses unique challenges, but the team is well-prepared.
Training involves utilising a test track on their property, where they spend significant time preparing their vehicle. Each race requires around 50 to 60 man-hours for preparation, a task handled by James, Michael, and their pit crew chief, Perry Hunn.
Looking to the future, James mentioned, “We’re hoping to have a new car ready for next season, similar to the one we have now but a newer model.”
Before heading into the final race of the season, James took a moment to thank their sponsors, acknowledging their critical support in pursuing the Australian title.  Platinum Sponsors: Transportable Shade Sheds Australia and Infrabuild Steel Centre Mackay – Duragal; Gold Sponsors: Metroll, Barrier Reef Pools, The Apex Group as well as silver and bronze sponsors.

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Photo credit: Terry Hill Photography

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This weekend will see Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club host more than 1,500 competitors and spectators from the Gold Coast up to Cairns, competing for the coveted title of Northern Australian Surf Lifesaving Champions for 2024.
Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said, “Our club are extremely proud to be the host of this prestigious surf lifesaving event that we have successfully hosted since 1991.  
“This is a huge drawcard for lifesavers to take on the best of the best in the North and it is absolutely awesome to see the Harbour Beach action-packed with surf sports over the whole weekend.  
“This should provide some really good entertainment for those watching from the beach, so come along and get involved in the action.”
Mr Grant added that Mackay surf club has a really competitive contingent this year with nippers, youth and masters competing in a range of beach, surf, board, ski and surf boat events.
“The whole club is really looking forward to seeing how our surf sports squad and lifesavers go after hitting the surf for the last few months in preparation.”
Club President Brendan Smith said, “We are really excited to be hosting the North Aussie Championships again and want to thank our planning committee, dedicated workforce, water safety, patrol members and officials, sponsors, volunteers, parents and most importantly our competitors from across the state for making this great weekend possible.
“This is a true testament of what surf lifesaving is about in regional Qld and we encourage members of the Mackay community to come and support the volunteers that keep your beaches safe.”
There will be a canteen running downstairs in the Beach Kiosk which will be open for anyone wanting a quick feed on the run and the Surf Club Bistro & Restaurant upstairs for a delicious meal and cold beverage overlooking the best beach view in Mackay.
“We hope to see you at North Aussies 26 – 27th October, Harbour Beach, Mackay!”
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Contributed by Josh Grant

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Competitors hitting the surf at last year’s Nth Aussie’s. Photos supplied
Mackay’s Harbour Beach comes alive with surf action for the Nth Aussie’s
Mackay competitors Zara Richardson and Molly Madden are keen to defend their board rescue title from last year

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Another big week of play at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club. This week the play has consisted of The Presidents Trophy Week 1 of 3, Novice Pairs Week 1 of 3 and Week 20 of 24 of the Nation Wide Pairs. After the first week of the Presidents Trophy Patricia Garner, Mick King, Geoff Cowan and Mary Rose Ramsden are in the lead, with Geoff Cowan, Joy Block, Carol and Ian Gaskell leading in the Novice Pairs.

Weekly Results
Monday 14 October 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Antonia Tarradas / Victor Mason
1st
Nancy Martin / Monica Darley

2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Shelley Lewis

3rd
Joy Block / Nancy Wix
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

Tuesday Evening 15 October 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
John McGee / Mick King
4th
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
Wednesday 16 October 2024 – NWP Week 20 of 24 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Nancy Martin / Monica Darley
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
2nd
Vicki Howard / Jan Harris

3rd
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting

4th
Carmel Brown / Patrick Rasmussen
4th
Barbara Tait / Josie Cowley

Thursday Evening 17 October 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Patricia Garner / Mick King
2nd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
4th
Adrian Westcott / Faye Wright
Friday 18 October 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting
4th
Victor Mason / Josie Cowley
5th
Geoff Cowan / Mick King
6th
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
Saturday 19 October 2024 – Presidents Trophy - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Patricia Garner / Jan Harris
1st
Geoff Cowan / Mary Rose Ramsden

2nd
Andrew Canavan / Alan Brown
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Laura Howland

3rd
Vicki Howard / Rihard Wix
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th
Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
4th
Terry Sheedy / Christopher Meyers

5th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Christine Nice
5th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

Sunday 20 October 2024 Week 1 of 3 Novice Pairs – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell
1st
Joy Block / Geoff Cowan

2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
2nd
Adrian Westcott / Christopher Meyers

3rd
Clare Wallace / Susan Gibson
3rd
Anne Lutz / Diane Cox

Contributed by Joy Block

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Congratulations to Alan Brown who recently became a Club Director. Photo supplied

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Mackay is set to host a thrilling showcase of international cricket as the Australia A team faces India A in a 4-Day International Match at the Great Barrier Reef Arena from October 31st to November 3rd, 2024. This free event provides a unique opportunity for locals to witness world-class cricket in their own backyard.

The Australia A squad has just been announced and features an exciting mix of experienced players and emerging talent.

Amidst the Australia A squad is: Nathan McSweeney (c), Cameron Bancroft, Scott Boland, Jordan Buckingham, Cooper Connolly, Ollie Davies, Marcus Harris, Sam Konstas, Nathan McAndrew, Michael Neser, Todd Murphy, Fergus O’Neill, Jimmy Peirson, Josh Philippe, Corey Rocchiccioli, Mark Steketee and Beau Webster.

Led by captain Nathan McSweeney, the team promises four days of top-level competition, with seasoned pros like Scott Boland and rising stars such as Ollie Davies delivering an unforgettable cricketing experience.

“We’re thrilled to be welcoming Australia A and India A to the Great Barrier Reef Arena. This match is a fantastic opportunity for Mackay,” said Terry Doolan, Chairman of Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park.

“Our venue has given us the ability to attract top-level cricket these past few months and it’s been a privilege to show what the Great Barrier Reef Arena is capable of.”

Additionally, the timing of the match coincides with Diwali and on Saturday, November 2nd, we will be hosting a Diwali Festival following the cricket. With the India A team visiting during this festive occasion, we recognised it as the perfect opportunity to engage the local community.

This inaugural Diwali event is proudly endorsed by the Mackay Indian Association and will showcase performances, delicious food stalls, lights, fireworks and a vibrant atmosphere that brings everyone together in celebration.

This event further highlights the Great Barrier Reef Arena's status as a premier venue for international sports. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy thrilling cricket action right in the heart of Mackay.

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Australia A will face India A in an international cricket match at Mackay's Great Barrier Reef Arena, October 31 - November 3. Photo supplied

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Over the weekend, local runners took on the challenge of the Blackall 100, a gruelling 100km ultra marathon held at Mapleton on the Sunshine Coast. Among them was Paul Mackenzie, who participated for the third time and achieved a personal best time of 13 hours and 35 minutes. Other local athletes included Peter Shuttlewood, who finished in 21 hours and 22 minutes, and Matt Graves, who completed the course in 14 hours and 54 minutes.

The Blackall 100 is more than just an ultra-marathon; it’s a trail running festival featuring distances of 100km, 50km, and 21km. The race starts and finishes in Mapleton, taking runners through the stunning Sunshine Coast Great Walk. With generous cut-offs, the event encouraged participation from runners and walkers of all abilities, making it an inclusive celebration of endurance and determination in the heart of Queensland's natural beauty.

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Paul MacKenzie (left) with Mackay’s Mick Vivien.
Mackay Runners at the Blackall100 – Peter Shuttlewood (21hrs 22 mins); Matt Graves (14 hrs 54 mins) and Paul MacKenzie (13 hrs 35 mins). Photos supplied

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The Beetzsee Regatta Course in Brandenburg, Germany, boasts a storied legacy as a premier venue for significant rowing events. This year, it proudly hosted the 2024 World Rowing Masters Regatta from September 11 to 15, marking an impressive 50th Golden Jubilee. The event united over 4,843 rowers from around the globe, showcasing the course's ability to bring together a diverse array of talent and passion for the sport.

Known for its stunning natural scenery and modern facilities, the Beetzsee course has been a favourable venue for international rowing competitions for decades. Its tradition dates back to the early 20th century, and it has hosted a variety of prestigious events, including the Junior World Championships, U23 World Championships and European Championships.

This year’s regatta featured a challenging 1000m race, drawing participation from a remarkable 721 clubs worldwide. The atmosphere was electric as athletes of all ages, from 27 to 90, competed fiercely for medals, with a staggering 2,430 gold medals awarded across various categories.

Proudly representing Mackay, four dedicated members, Jane Deguara, Mick Wohlfahrt, Richard McGrath and Therese Clancy from the Mackay Rowing Club travelled to Germany to compete following their successes at the Australian States and National Championships.
Unfortunately, the weather conditions weren’t ideal, leading to several boats capsizing and causing difficulties, and as a result, a number of races had to be cancelled due to the dangerous rough water and undercurrents.

Despite the weather challenges, the Mackay rowers showcased incredible talent as Therese won Gold in her single race (F1X). She also teamed up with Jacqueline de Jong from Townsville to secure Gold in the Ladies Double F 2X event and in addition, she placed 2nd in three events: F4X, G4X, and G2X. Jane Deguara achieved a similar feat, finishing 2nd in three events: F4X, G4X, and G2X. In the mixed quad competition, Jane, Mick, Richard and Therese secured 5th place in the MIX F4X event.

Reflecting on the challenges and learning experiences from the competition, Therese said, “We gained and learnt a lot of valuable experience’s and had exposure to the art of rowing while competing at that level.”

Mackay Rowing Club is on the rise, offering an engaging social sport for the community. To support their growing membership, the club is seeking sponsorship for coaching and equipment. New members of all ages are welcome to join in, with a focus on enjoying the outdoors, enhancing skills and building camaraderie.

Contact 0417074350 for more information.

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Jane Deguara, Mick Wohlfahrt, Richard McGrath and Therese Clancy mixed quad MIX F4X placed 5th in their event.
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Therese Clancy from Mackay and Jacqueline de Jong from Townsville back on the pontoon, delighted with their gold medals at the World Masters Rowing Championships 2024 in Brandenberg Germany for the Ladies Double F 2X event
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Jane Deguarra and Therese Clancy second place in their double G2X. Photos supplied

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15-year-old local Noah Conyers has been competing in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and Jiu-Jitsu since December 2020, and he is already challenging the adults at his gym, Whitsunday Martial Arts.

He has won the Central Queensland Championship for three years in a row and in December this year, he has the opportunity to go to Las Vegas, to compete in the World Championship.

Noah’s parents Ryan and Lauren are immensely proud of him for getting this opportunity to compete at this level.

“It's an amazing opportunity for him, just to even go and compete, and to have a go at it,” said Lauren.

“We are so proud, he is so committed to his training, which is amazing.”

Noah is also extremely excited to get over to Las Vegas for the competition.

To help Noah get over there and do this trip Dan Zealand and Anton Zafir from Whitsunday Martial Arts have decided they will host a 36-hour Run Challenge, with 50% of the money raised going to Noah and another participant of the gym to get to the championships.

“Noah is an absolute pleasure of a student, he assistant coaches the youths’ classes, so, he gives back to the gym and it's an absolute pleasure to be able to help him get over there and do this,” said Dan.

“It's a really good feeling knowing that we are trying to raise some money, not only for a charity, but also generate some money to help, to help Noah get over there because competing in another country, in the world championships, in your chosen sport, it is an awesome thing.”

Noah with all his medals
Getting the win
Noah on his back and fighting hard

Photos supplied

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The Cannonvale Cannons swimming team put on a dominant display at the Whitsunday Long Course Transition Meet over the weekend, bringing home an impressive haul of medals and personal bests (PBs). Competing at the Proserpine Swimming Pool, the two-day event, hosted by the Whitsunday Swimming Club, saw 50 Cannons swimmers achieving top placings, breaking PBs, and earning several Swimming North Queensland (SNQ) upgrades.

Among the standout performers, several swimmers medalled in every event they entered. Special congratulations go to Don Algie, Jacob Bell, Tyler Bennet, Harry Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Tora Delac, Charlie Doherty, and Evelyn Doherty for their consistent excellence across multiple races.

The meet also marked a significant milestone for several swimmers who earned SNQ Upgrade Medals, a recognition of their continuous improvement and dedication to the sport. The swimmers who received these upgrades included Mackenzie Bennett, Tyler Bennet, Zane Clayworth, Declan Dichiera, Evelyn Doherty, Miller Eaves, Roxanne Groom, Billie Jamieson, Gracie Laguna, Ruby Lawson, Eric Mulliss, Matilda Nicholes, Celeste Orenshaw, and Isaac Pisaniello.

In addition to the medals and upgrades, many Cannons swimmers delivered PBs in the majority of their races, showcasing the results of their hard work and training. Those achieving notable PBs included Evelyn Doherty, Miller Eaves, Blaire Harland, Erik Hinrichsen, Billie Jamieson, Eric Mulliss, Matilda Nicholes, Jasper Korosec, Pippa Laguna, Gracie Laguna, Isaac Pisaniello, Isabella Pisaniello, Dylan Reynolds, Ruby Harland, and Zach Trefz.

A special mention goes to Charlie Doherty, who swam in the winning team during the meet’s Mystery Relay event, earning a $100 prize alongside swimmers from other regional clubs.

The Cannonvale Cannons would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Whitsunday Swimming Club for hosting a fantastic meet filled with exciting races and, of course, the much-loved rubber duck prizes awarded to heat winners. A big thank you also goes to the Cannons’ dedicated coaches, Ken Crittenden and Shay Wilmot, as well as Jane Delac, for their invaluable support to the swimmers throughout the weekend.

The meet was a huge success for the Cannons, and the swimmers are already looking forward to their next challenge in the pool!

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Cannonvale Cannons swim team ready to race
Harry Chegwidden won gold (and rubber ducks) in all four of his events
Matilda Nicholes had a stellar weekend of racing with medals and SNQ upgrades, supported by her younger brother Jacob

Photos supplied

The Whitsunday Swimming Club held its annual LC Transition meet on October 19th & 20th at Proserpine Swimming Pool.
170 swimmers travelled from afar, including Townsville, Charters Towers, Moranbah, Mackay, Mirani, Bowen, Cannonvale & of course, our own Whitsunday Swimmers.
There was two days of fast racing, friendly banter, many rubber ducks won, and great memories made.
The Whitsunday Swimming Clubs own swimmers had some spectacular PB’s, A grade upgrades and Mystery Relay Wins. The cheering and support all our swimmers gave each other was heart warming.
Well done to our newest club members, Summer, Jack and Vicky on their first carnival. Amazing swims and we think you are going to fit right in with our club.
This year’s mystery relay was won by Charlie – Cannonvale Cannons, Liam – Mirani, Sophie – Gardens & Mae – Whitsunday. All swimmers in all heats raced spectacularly and to hear the cheering from the spectators was wonderful.
Thank you to all our parents, grandparents and other volunteers who helped us set up, pack up and run the meet. Thank you to Swimming North Queensland officials for you ongoing support of our club and carnival.
Thank you to Aquatic Rush for ensuring your facility was ready to show off to the swimming world. We are very fortunate to have such a great swimming facility in our region and one that supports our club so much.

Contributed with thanks to Amanda Yuskan
Photos supplied

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The 2024 Whitsunday Cup lived up to all expectations, delivering an unforgettable weekend of touch football, fun, and togetherness. Hosted in the stunning Whitsundays, the annual event drew players, families, and supporters from near and far to celebrate their love for the sport in a festival-like atmosphere. The sense of joy and community was palpable throughout the weekend, as people came together not just to compete, but to revel in the shared passion that makes touch footy so special.

From the first whistle to the final play, the Whitsunday Cup offered something for everyone, with a wide range of teams and skill levels represented. From juniors to seasoned players, the event showcased a vibrant mix of competitive action and social matches, with players of all ages and backgrounds coming together to enjoy the sport they love. The games were fast-paced and exciting, with standout moments of skill and sportsmanship on full display, much to the delight of the cheering crowds.

Beyond the footy, the Whitsunday Cup embodied the very best of community spirit. The sidelines were buzzing with laughter, conversation, and friendly banter as families and friends cheered on their teams, creating a festive, family-friendly environment. Food stalls and entertainment for younger spectators added to the fun, making the event a great day out for everyone, whether they were on the field or enjoying the festivities from the stands.
One of the highlights of this year’s event was the overwhelming enthusiasm for next year’s cup. By the end of the weekend, the buzz for the 2025 Whitsunday Cup was already building, with many players and teams vowing to return next year to keep the tradition alive. This speaks volumes about the impact of the event, which continues to grow in popularity, attracting new participants and solidifying its place as a staple in the region's sporting calendar.

The success of the Whitsunday Cup wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless efforts of the volunteers, organizers, and supporters who worked behind the scenes. Their dedication, from planning and logistics to helping on the day, ensured that everything ran smoothly. From coordinating schedules to managing the grounds, these unsung heroes helped make the Whitsunday Cup the well-organized, fun-filled event it was. A huge thank you goes out to each and every one of them for their invaluable contributions.

As we wrap up the 2024 Whitsunday Cup, the countdown has already begun for 2025, when touch football fans will once again come together to celebrate the sport in this incredible community. Until then, we encourage everyone to keep spreading the love of footy for fun and to carry the same spirit of camaraderie and joy with them throughout the year. The Whitsunday Cup continues to be a shining example of how sport can bring people together, and we can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds!

Photo supplied

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This past week saw a quiet period for work on our club’s hard cover due to a mix-up with obtaining the necessary permit to access the old Fire Station land. However, that didn’t stop our members from enjoying some social activities.

Our ladies represented the club at Sarina, while other members competed at the Proserpine Bowls Club. Back home, Friday afternoon saw the bar open for members, with Bar Manager Fiona Greener and Terry Clarke ensuring everyone was well taken care of.

The afternoon brought together many familiar faces, including Arthur and Liz McManus, John and Robin Brown, Tony Kelly, Rick Burnell, Duncan Smith, John Matterson, Merve Stewart, and Kila El Amarna, who shared the amusing tale of escaping a baby crocodile to join us. Ted Cullen, John McGregor, Bob Fenney, Bobby McMahon, and David Meiklejohn also enjoyed the sociable gathering.

Work on the hard cover is set to resume next week, and we’ll keep you posted with updates. Be sure to check out the photo of Fiona Greener and Terry Clarke welcoming our Friday regulars!

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Photo supplied

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