From start to finish, the North Mackay Sinkers enjoyed the best that Whitehaven Beach and the Whitsundays had to offer, with so many smiles and great achievements both for the quicks and the first timers challenged by an open water swim (OWS).

The last Whitehaven beach OWS was in 2019 and it took the North Mackay Sinkers a few years to consider hosting the event themselves. In 2023 the idea gelled into an event to be co-hosted by the club, as well as Masters Swimming Qld to ensure its viability.

The uncertainty of weather before this event eased into a perfect day with light easterly breezes, a water temperature of 26 degrees and air temperature of 28 to make for perfect conditions. The excitement on the 30m transport vessel was high and the draw of the MS raffle, lucky swimmer prize and presentation of the pre-event raffle set the tone for the day.

Their swim ambassador was none other than Chloe McCardel, known as the Queen of the English Channel having crossed it a total of 44 times! Chloe generously gave her time to be in Airlie Beach to attend this swim before her week of engagements around Mackay. Chloe was able to mix with swimmers, conduct interviews, chat with the MC, participate as an official guest in the day’s activities as well as swim the 2k event.

The Sinkers swim committee for the event assisted and supported by MSQ and loads of club volunteers transitioned a thought into reality to deliver a quality event that is set to be a fixture on the MSQ and Sinkers calendar for years to come.

Some changes on the day saw the event move forward 30 minutes as swimmers were anxious to get into the day’s events without hesitation.

Over 100 swimmers that included event and water safety lined up for the new gun time. The 1km event was the first away at 1135am with some 40 plus participants and they were followed 10 minutes later by the 2km event with over 50 swimmers and the sight of the 100 swimmers and water safety on the 500m loop course was pleasing to see. Both starts were fast and clean with a sea of caps striking for the first turn buoy. Some club members gave up a swim to accompany some first time and returning swimmers to ease the way in the open water.

The returning swimmers that began as a trickle as the faster swimmers returned to the finish line soon gained momentum as the bulk of excited and exhausted swimmers streamed in. As the last swimmers approached the out of water finish, an arch of supporting finished swimmers and guests formed to welcome them back, and what a smile they had.

The event was designed by concept to welcome all swimmers into the joy of open water swimming and each and every competitor was presented a commemorative medal for their efforts.

The event awards were based on line honours for both Male and Female in both events for 1st, 2nd and 3rd.

Fantastic trophies were the order of the day and presented on the beach to smiling recipients.

The event was well attended by swimmers from near and far with a great mix of Masters and guests supported by event officials, volunteers and non-swimming guests.

Top Results:

1KM

Place Women Time Men Time

1st Kylie Smith 16:53 Ross Beaton 16:39

2nd Christina Scolaro 17:35 Steven Burchill 21:58

3rd Eloise Houghton 21:18 Arthur Douglas 22:24

2km

Place Women Time Men Time

1st Deanne Sanderson 29:52 Martin Banks 27:44

2nd Elizabeth Denyer 31:02 Billy Grogan 29:10

3rd Jane Eggins 31:14 Adrian Darveniza 29:13

Contributed By Dan Stampa

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The North Mackay Sinkers held a hugely successful and popular event last Sunday, Oct 6th at their Inaugural Whitehaven Beach open water swim. Check out their Facebook page online to view the latest updates and results. Photos supplied

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Last week, Labor announced a substantial commitment to the Mackay Hockey Association, pledging $1.5 Million to improve the region’s indoor sporting facilities.

This announcement nearly doubles the previous promise made by the LNP and is aimed at enhancing infrastructure and supporting the development of Mackay’s grassroots athletes, with a particular focus on fostering Olympian talent.

The fund has now been fully secured and is said to be a landmark investment in the region’s sporting future.

Labor Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan, expressed her enthusiasm for the funding and its potential impact on the local sporting community.

“We're very proud to announce that $1.5 million will go to this project,” Hassan said.

“I know the importance of this facility, and it is going to be a high-performance centre and a centre of excellence for our young athletes coming up."

Reflecting on her own experience, Hassan shared, “I know myself, I played on these hockey fields when I was a kid, which was a really long time ago…but it's just fantastic to see the opportunities that are now available to youth in our region.”

Hassan also highlighted the broader context of the government’s investment in youth sport, noting, “We know that our government has provided the sporting vouchers for our youth, so $200 to allow our children to be able to play sport, and now they are going to have a fantastic facility to play their hockey games at.”

The Mackay region has already produced an impressive eight Olympians, a feat that Hassan attributes to the community’s strong sporting culture.

“We know our region bats well above its weight where sport is concerned, and this is just another demonstration of that, so I'm really, really pleased to be able to announce this.”

Coach and spokesperson from the Mackay Hockey Association, Melissa Sorensen, also welcomed the news, calling it “an amazing commitment from Labor.”

Sorensen explained the transformative impact the funding would have on the association’s facilities.

“What this allows us to do is put a second field in, so we'll have a drop-in floor with the extra money that we're going to use as our contribution, and that will be multi-sport” she said.

The investment is seen as a critical boost to the region’s junior development programs, particularly with the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on the horizon.

Sorensen emphasised the association’s ambitions to build on its impressive record of producing Olympians, adding, “Junior development is huge in our region, and heading to 2032, we want to grow on the eight Olympians that we’ve already put through.”

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Labor Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan met with Melissa Sorensen from the Mackay Hockey Association to announce the $1.5 Million project.  Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Mackay Contract Bridge Club celebrated a successful weekend during the 2024 Mackay Contract Bridge Congress.

The event showcased impressive talent, with Don and Jan securing the title for A Grade Team Winners, alongside B Grade pairs winners Helen and Jan. In the Walk-ins category, Sandra Morris and Annie Lynch emerged victorious, with Terry and Janelle taking the runner-up position. The weekend was a fantastic display of camaraderie and skill amongst players in the region.

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A team winners and A cat pairs winners (centre Don and Jan) with act. president Noel Bugeia

B grade pairs winners Helen and Jan centre with act. president Noel (left) Janine and Rick (right)

Walk-ins winners (centre Sandra Morris and Annie Lynch) with Terry and Janelle runners up. Photos supplied

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The North Mackay Bowls Club’s ladies team claimed victory in the Division 1 Pennants in the Mackay District, showcasing their skills and determination. However, in a closely contested match against the Leichardt District champions, they were narrowly defeated by just 2 points. This result means the Leichardt Ladies will advance to the State playoffs at Club Tweed next month.

Despite the loss, the North Mackay ladies can be proud of their impressive performance throughout the competition.

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North Mackay and Leichardt District Ladies Bowls Teams together after a close Division 1 Pennant match, with Leichardt securing a narrow 2-point victory to advance to the State playoffs. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Dirt Riders are gearing up to host one of the most thrilling events of the year—the JR's Motorcycle and Suspension Specialists Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships!

This high-octane event is happening this weekend, October 5th and 6th, at Drays Park, Gunyarra, just off the road to Whitsunday Coast Airport.

Over 100 riders, including competitors from as far south as Victoria, will be battling it out across five championship classes, with additional junior and veteran support categories. The weekend promises non-stop action, speed, and skill that will have motorsport fans on the edge of their seats.

Club President Ben Moran expressed the club’s excitement saying "Together with our members, dedicated committee and many generous local businesses our dream has come to life hosting this Australian Championship with what I believe to be one of the best dirt track facilities in the country ".

Racing kicks off at 9 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday, with entry at just $10 per car—so bring the family, load up your mates, and come witness the best in dirt track racing! Spectators are welcome to be part of this thrilling weekend that is sure to leave fans buzzing.

What: 2024 Australian Dirt Track Championships
Where: Drays Parl, 1 Lascelles Drive, Gunyarra, Queensland
When: Saturday 5 October from 9am & Sunday 6 October from 9am

Photos supplied

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Club
Photo supplied

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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

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

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

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

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