Australia’s champion women cricketers are currently preparing for a series of T20 matches at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena (GBRA) to kick off the new summer season of cricket.
The two T20 matches at GBRA between Australia and New Zealand will be played next week, on Thursday 19 and Sunday 22 September. The season openers will be vital preparation for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup to be staged in Bangladesh in October.
The Australian women are the reigning T20 World Cup Champions, having won the last three editions of the event stretching back to 2018. Overall they have won six of the eight ICC T20 Championships staged since their establishment in 2009.
Star international Beth Mooney said the Australian women’s team was thrilled to be returning to Mackay.

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Australia’s star cricketers, including Beth Mooney (centre), return to Mackay's Great Barrier Reef Arena for an exciting T20 series against New Zealand, gearing up for the Women's T20 World Cup. Photo supplied

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Cricket Fever Hits Mackay
AUSTRALIA VS NEW ZEALAND WOMEN’S T20 SERIES

Australia’s champion women cricketers are gearing up for the highly anticipated T20 matches at Great Barrier Reef Arena (GBRA) in Mackay as they prepare to defend their title at the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh.
With two key matches against New Zealand on the 19th and 22nd of September, these season openers serve as crucial preparation for the reigning T20 World Cup champions, who have dominated the tournament with six wins out of eight since 2009.
Star international Beth Mooney expressed the team's excitement about returning to Mackay.

“Great Barrier Reef Arena has created some fantastic memories for me and the team, particularly from the one day international series victory against India just a few years back,” Mooney said.
“It’s a great venue, the crowds are brilliant and the atmosphere really helps to lift our performance.
“I can’t wait to kick off the new season with these two games against New Zealand, they will be hard fought and we are looking forward to bringing our best game to Mackay in September.
“It will be the perfect lead-in to our T20 World Cup campaign and I have no doubt that everyone will be switched on and raring to play.”
Mooney has enjoyed significant success at the venue, including a score of 125 not out to see Australia home in a last ball One Day thriller against India in 2021.
She has long since attracted a legion of admirers in Mackay through her WBBL exploits in the regional Queensland centre. In her time with the Brisbane Heat, Mooney made a feast of runs to cement her reputation as a local favourite.
Great Barrier Reef Arena was officially opened in May 2023 and made possible through the combined investment of the Federal and Queensland Governments.
Plans are currently well advanced for Stage 2 of the Arena, which comprises a major regional multisport training and event centre, including purpose-built facilities for athletes of all abilities.
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Tickets for both the Great Barrier Reef Arena games are available for purchase online now through Cricket Australia.

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Beth Mooney and Australia’s top women cricketers are back at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena, ready to face New Zealand in a thrilling T20 series ahead of the Women's T20 World Cup. Photos supplied

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Sarina Crocodiles are the newly crowned Mackay & District Junior League A Grade champions for 2024.

Lightning struck twice for the Crocodiles after toppling premiership favourites Mackay Brothers 16-14 in last Saturday’s Grand Final showdown at the Junior League Fields.

It followed Sarina’s spirited 24-18 victory over the Leprechauns in the major semi-final.

Brothers won thirteen of their fourteen matches during the regular season - losing just one match against Mackay Magpies to wrap up the minor premiership.

Sarina opened the scoring after three minutes with a Mitch Fogarty try that was converted by fullback Zane McKellar.

Elusive three quarter Jayden Batchelor returned serve with a 16th minute try before centre partner Rydge Smith booted a penalty goal to lock the scores at 6-all at the half-time break.

Australian Universities winger Kane Simon scooted over for a try after the interval to give Brothers a 10-6 lead before Sarina piled on two quick tries for a 16-10 advantage.

Brothers winger Matthew Skaife bridged the gap when he scored in the 68th minute with goal kicker Smith failing to convert.
The Leprechauns are celebrating an A Grade Womens premiership triumph after skittling the Mackay Magpies 20-0.

Dashing winger Nali Hine and talented fullback Madi Westecott nabbed try doubles with Westecott and lock Cassie Adlam landing conversions in a dominant performance.

Brothers were best served by classy halves Imogen Healy and Mersades Lawson, prop Montanah Best, back rowers Ebony Temple and Shaylee Hazledine, hooker Lara Hutchinson and the powerful Adlam and Westecott.

Moranbah Miners clinched the Reserve Grade Mens premiership after trouncing Brothers 52-20.

The Miners ran in ten tries in a high scoring encounter with second rowers Oakland Stowers and Dylan Paterson, fullback Hayden Bell, winger Cameron White, interchange players Ilai Faamita, Mitchell Chadwick, David Butler and prop Jamie Maliko all crossing for four-pointers.

Moranbah half back Shannon Rupapere booted four goals and Maliko (two) to complete the rout.

Brothers fullback Assan Munro and second rower Joshua Borg scored tries with five eighth Alex Lawton potting two conversions.

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The Sarina Crocodiles celebrate their thrilling 16-14 victory over Mackay Brothers, securing the 2024 Mackay & District Junior League A Grade Championship. Photo credit: Jessica Wilson Photography

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In its very first season in use, it hasn't taken long for the Score Assist to impact a game, with Maddy Guerin's match-winner coming in dramatic style. With the goal umpire unsure whether Daisy D'Arcy had touched it before or after the line, umpires conferred before going upstairs to the system that makes use of ball tracking technology. With no replay or communication for the players, spectators or viewers to see or hear, only once the signal for a goal was given did everyone know the result.
D'Arcy's ball use a cut above the rest
With players struggling in the hot and windy conditions to hit targets, the ball use of SUN Daisy D'Arcy was a step above. D'Arcy, playing at half-back, had 16 kicks in her 25 disposals, gaining a match-high 546m at 76 per cent efficiency. Her laser pass for Jamie Stanton's second-quarter goal was a feature.
GOLD COAST             2.0       4.5       4.6       5.8 (38)
CARLTON      2.2       4.4       4.7       5.9 (39)
GOALS
Gold Coast: Whitfort, Davies, Bohanna, Stanton, Dupuy
Carlton: Skepper, Anthony, Austin, B.Moody, Guerin
BEST 
Gold Coast: Darcy, Rowbottom, Single, Whitfort, Barwick, Bohanna
Carlton: Hill, McKay, Sherar, Finn, Cordner, Guerin
INJURIES
Gold Coast: Whitfort (knee)
Carlton: C.Moody (neck)
Reports: Nil

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A hard-fought AFLW clash at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena, where Carlton edged out the Gold Coast SUNS by a single point. Fans enjoyed mingling with players after the intense game. Photo credit: Gold Coast SUNS

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A dramatic late goal to Maddy Guerin has seen Carlton snatch its first victory of the AFLW season, hanging on by a solitary point against Gold Coast in Mackay on Sunday.
With her team trailing by four points and less than two minutes remaining, Guerin received a handball from Darcy Vescio and sent her right foot snap goalward from 25m.
SUN Daisy D'Arcy leapt high on the line to touch the ball, but following an official score review - which is being used in the AFLW for the first time this season - the Blues were awarded the go-ahead goal.
Gold Coast had a late chance to snatch victory, but Lucy Single's hurried snap sailed just wide with 15 seconds remaining to leave the score 5.9 (39) to 5.8 (38) to the Blues.
The result leaves the SUNS 0-2 following two home matches and well behind their pursuit of playing a second consecutive finals series.
The Blues hit the front deep into the final term as Madeleine Guerin’s slick effort is ticked off by new smart ball technology
In hot and blustery conditions at Great Barrier Reef Arena, the teams traded blows all day in a physical contest.
Mimi Hill was superb for the victors with her outside dash leading to 23 disposals, while Abbie Mackay played a second terrific game in succession to finish with 22.
Gold Coast trailed by a point at the final break and following Jac Dupuy's excellent set shot, looked like taking victory before Guerin's late heroics.
Charlie Rowbottom was colossal for the SUNS, finishing with 35 disposals, 10 marks and 10 tackles.
Her defensive intent and bone-rattling tackling was a feature.
Daisy D'Arcy (25) had claims as one of the best players afield with her excellent ball use, while Claudia Whitfort (20) overcame a knee scare at half-time to be a solid contributor.
With a flukey wind swirling and switching directions, the teams played out a see-sawing and entertaining first half.
The Blues, kicking with the prevailing wind early on, got on the board first with goals to Keeley Skepper and Marianna Anthony before the SUNS found a foothold in the game.
Whitfort opened their account with a clever finish from the right forward pocket and when Darcie Davies showed good skill below her knees to gather and snap, the hosts trailed by two points at the first change.
Again, it would be two goals apiece in the second term, with Jamie Stanton's goal a highlight.
Rowbottom won the ball at half-forward, swatted off her Carlton opponent like a pesky fly, then gave a handball to D'arcy who lasered a kick to Stanton for an open goal.
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By Michael Whiting – AFL Media

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From a young age, Kristen had an interest in athletics and gymnastics, but it wasn’t until around the age of 10 when she developed a passion for the sport. Since then, she has been mountain biking for just over six years but only started racing competitively around three years ago.

Kristen said it wasn’t until August last year when she ventured into the world of cross duathlon - a sport that combines trail running and mountain biking.

Now in her final year of schooling at St Patrick's College, Kristen recently represented Australia at the World Triathlon Age Group Multisport World Championships in Townsville, where she competed in the Cross Duathlon event.

She claims that she won the title of national champion “by accident.”

“In 2023 I competed at the national championships in Townsville for cross duathlon and I ended up sort of…by accident…becoming the national champion at my first ever duathlon race, and then that led to my selection into the Australian team to compete at the world championships this year,” she said.

As she wore green and gold, Kristen prevailed in the 6 km trail run and 20 km mountain bike ride before finishing with another 3 km trail run, earning her the honourable title of 2024 World Champion for the 18-19 years Cross Duathlon.

Kristen recalled the feeling of victory and said “it was a surprise but I put a lot of hard work, training and a lot of discipline into it.

“I’m really happy to come away with a win, and the race was super hard as well so it was a big achievement to just finish.”

This incredible accomplishment not only marks Kristen's success on the international stage but also secures her a spot on the Australian team, where she will have the opportunity to defend her title in 2025 at the World Championships in Pontevedra, Spain.

With success, comes challenges, which Kristen says it’s been hard trying to manage school studies with a training regimen that includes mountain biking, running and gym sessions as well as balancing a social life.

Despite this, Kristen says that her involvement with the Athlete Development Program at 21 Laps has helped significantly where Dean and his team have provided valuable support. Her riding coach from Brisbane, John Russell from JRsgymandbike, has also been instrumental in helping her balance her fitness goals

Kristen credits her training team and coach for guiding her to success, saying, "It was hard, but it really paid off."

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Kristen Rowlands, 17, celebrates her remarkable achievement as the 2024 World Champion for the 18-19 years Cross Duathlon after a gruelling event in Townsville. Photo supplied

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The Makay Barometer Pairs competition was played over two days, with 18 pairs competing for coveted Red points.
Section A Winners: Nany Martin and Monica Darley, Section B Winners: Janine Rodgers and Richard Wix, with Section C Winners: Ted Cullinan and Noel Saunders.

Weekly Results

Mackay Barometer Pairs Winners after two days – Red points

A
1st
Nancy Martin / Monica Darley
2nd
Ann Whitmore / Patricia Garner
B
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd
Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft
C
1st
Ted Cullinan / Noel Saunders
2nd
Anne Lutz / Sandy Patterson
Wednesday 4 September 2024 – NWP Week 17 of 24 - 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Alan Brown / Janet Hansen
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan
5th
Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell
6th
Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
Thursday Evening 5 September 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

2nd
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

Friday 6 September 2024 - 6 Table Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
1st
Christine Nice / Diane Cox

2nd
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

3rd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

Saturday 7 September 2024 - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd
Mick King / Jan Harris
2nd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

3rd
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Patricia Garner / Ian Gaskell

4th
Joyce Deguara / Toni Large
4th
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

Contributed by Joy Block

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Janelle Conroy with Barometer Pairs A Winners Nancy Martin and Monica Darley
Janelle Conroy with Barometer Pairs B Winners Janine Rodgers and Richard Wix
Barometer Pairs C Winners Ted Cullinan and Noel Saunders. Photos supplied

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The North Mackay Sinkers have participated in the MS Super Splash great fundraiser for nine years now, raising over $56,000 across all events. The Mackay community is encouraged to get involved by registering a team from a club or group to enjoy a great day out at the fantastic Memorial Swimming Centre and for those without a team, an adoptive team can be arranged.

The MS Super Splash is an action-packed fundraising challenge held in various locations across Queensland, supporting people living with MS. In teams of at least four people, participants take on a team swimming relay while raising vital funds to provide services and support for over 5,500 Queenslanders living with MS and other neurological conditions.

Teams decide their distance and swim style - whether swimming one lap or 100 laps, the focus is on getting involved and making a difference. Outside of the pool, the day is packed with activities, music and fun, bringing communities together to raise essential funds for Queenslanders living with MS.

Current registered teams include the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club, Muscle Garden, DMR Leisure, and the Polar Bears, who have collectively raised $5,145 with five weeks left until the event. The all-teams goal is $30,000, and generous donations are welcome to help boost efforts - all donations are tax-deductible.

Individuals and teams can register or donate online at MS Super Splash : Mackay and the Whitsundays MS Super Splash

Want to know more? Phone Cameron on 0417 409 388 or email cameron.hope@msqld.org.au
For club and Membership Enquiries, email prs.nthmkysinkers@gmail.com or phone 0413 805 156

What: MS Super Splash
When: Saturday October 12th (8am to 4pm)  
Where: Memorial Swim Centre
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Contributed by Dan Stampa

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A new season of Tuesday morning Mackay Table Tennis fixtures started this week, with a four-a-side format. The best match was in division 2 where Toyota Turners and Sydney Slam (great names!) drew 7-all. There were five five-game matches, the closest between Robyn and John, Robyn up -9, -9, 7, 6, 10.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures August 27, 2024:

Division 1:

Hyundai (Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) d Honda (Vince Boeske, Graham Brake) 7-2. Tim d Vince 6, -7, 4, -7, 11.

Fiat (Donna Abbott, Emma Widdup, Geoff Cowan) d Holden (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Mark Sleeman) 7-4. Donna d Lee -5, 12, -10, 10, 8.

BMW (Tony Bowman, Barry Patterson, Neil Brown) d Ferrari (Steven Whiting, Janice Kent, Andrea Nicholson) 7-4. Steven d Neil 13, -7, -5, 8, 8.

Alpha (Delma Knight, Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker) d Audi (Andrew McHugh, Lily Boland, Ian McKay) 7-4. Graeme d Ian 7, -7, 11, -10, 5.

Division 2:

Subaru (Tiffany Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) d Suzuki (Matt West, Josie Davis) 9-2. Steve d Matt -9, -5, 5, 7, 9.

Nissan (Noreen Fredericksen, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) d Rolls (Niro Premachandra, Peter Goodson, Lshara Liyanagamage) 6-5. Niro d YiLin -10, 3, -7, 7, 9.

Mercedes (Will VanDeKaa, Darryl Ross, Val Austin) d Mazda (Craig VanDeKaa, George Camilleri, Rymer Tabulo) 6-5. Will d Rymer -12, 10, 12, -6, 5.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures September 3, 2024:

Division 1:

Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) d Code Crackers (Janice Kent, Steve Mathieson, Noreen Fredericksen) 9-5. John/Marie d Noreen/Coral) 9, -6, 8, -8, 12.

Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson) d Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 9-2. Peter d Judy -7, -9, 6, 9, 10.

Division 2:

Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Josie Davis) d Rome Ralliers (Gerry Synnott, Louise Gould, Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 9-5. Josie d Cheryl 11, -10, -5, 9, 11.

Toyota Turners (John Hamleink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) drew Sydney Slam (Helen Ware,  Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) 7-all. Robyn d John -9, -9, 7, 6, 10.

Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Pam Keune,  Trish Zamparuti) d London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) 9-5. Ian d Kim -8, -9, 7, 12, 8.

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Neil Brown
Steven Whiting. Photos supplied

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The 2024 Mackay Triathlon Festival is fast approaching and is set to be one of the region’s biggest sporting events, drawing athletes from across Queensland and beyond. Participants from Airlie Beach, Bowen, Townsville, Cairns, Rockhampton, Brisbane, and even Victoria are expected to attend, boosting Mackay’s profile as a sports tourism destination.

Spanning two days, the festival will feature 16 events and over $11,000 in cash prizes, with an additional $5,000 in sponsored prizes from local businesses. The festival caters to everyone, from first-timers to seasoned triathletes.

The event kicks off on Saturday, September 21st, with an ocean swim starting at 2pm.

Categories include 500-metre, 1-kilometre, and 2-kilometre open water events.

The Mini Kids Triathlon follows at 3pm offering a fun introduction to the sport around the surf club parks and pathways.

The excitement continues on Sunday, September 22nd, starting at 6.30am.

Triathlons at the festival feature various distances, including the enticer distance (300-metre swim, 10-kilometre bike ride, and 2-kilometre run), sprint distance (750-metre swim, 20-kilometre bike ride, and 5-kilometre run), and Olympic distance (1,500-metre swim, 40-kilometre bike ride, and 10-kilometre run).

Duathlons combine running and cycling, with distances ranging from the enticer (2-kilometre run, 10-kilometre bike ride, 2-kilometre run) to the Olympic distance (5-kilometre run, 40-kilometre bike ride, 10-kilometre run).

Aquabike events focus on swimming and biking, offering another variation for athletes seeking a swim-bike challenge without the running component.

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The Mackay Triathlon Festival 2024 promises a weekend of excitement with over $11,000 in prizes. Photo supplied

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Mackay State High School showcased its basketball prowess, winning two titles at the recent Mackay Interschool Basketball Tournament, which brought together schools from across the region. The school's Open Boys and Junior Girls teams emerged victorious, demonstrating skill, teamwork, and determination.
The Open Boys, coached by Mr Stuart Watkins, began their campaign with a commanding win against Sarina State High School, setting the tone for the tournament. Their second game against Northern Beaches State High School proved to be a tougher challenge, with the boys having to regroup after a quick start from their opponents. However, a well-timed timeout helped them regain control, resulting in a fantastic team win.
The final round game saw the boys cruise to another victory, this time against Carlisle, securing their spot in the grand final against Northern Beaches SHS, their toughest competition. Determined to avoid a repeat of their earlier close call, the team started strong and maintained their lead from start to finish to win 62-48.
Standout performers in the grand final included Andrew Llelliot, whose offensive prowess proved too much for any defender, and Eligh Kingston, who excelled on both ends of the floor. Kingston not only neutralised the opposition's biggest threat but also directed the team’s offence from the point guard position. Youngster Brodie McBean and team captain Riley Armstrong also delivered consistently strong performances, with both players stepping up in the grand final. The future looks bright for the team, with McBean and sixth man Miles Pendleton poised to take on bigger roles next year as the team farewells its graduating seniors.
Mr Watkins praised his team's efforts, saying, "The boys showed incredible resilience and teamwork throughout the tournament. Every player stepped up when it mattered most, and it was great to see the senior boys finish their school careers on a high note."
The Junior Girls, coached by Mr Tyreeq Salleh Meadows, had an equally impressive run in the tournament. Throughout the round games, the team displayed dominance, cruising to comfortable victories. Experienced guards Lani Minster and Tannum Kingston were instrumental on both ends of the floor, showcasing their all-around skills. They were ably supported by forward Lisa Lelliot, who was a force on the boards and solid in defence, while Addison Armstrong contributed key shots that helped secure the wins.
In the grand final, the Junior Girls continued their winning form, defeating their opponents 46-28. Mr Salleh Meadows was particularly impressed with the team’s performance, stating, "Our girls played with great energy and focus. The way they moved the ball and worked together was outstanding, and it’s exciting to think about what they can achieve in the future."
Mr. Brett Watton, Head of HPE and Sporting Academies, hinted at the potential for basketball to become a more prominent feature at the school.
"These wins are a testament to the hard work of our students and coaches. With the level of talent and passion we've seen, it might be time to seriously consider basketball as one of our Sporting Academies in the future.
“It's clear that Mackay State High has what it takes to succeed on and off the court."

Mackay State High School open boys team
Mackay State High School junior girls team

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Tuesday morning Mackay Table Tennis players warmed up for another season of fixtures with a doubles tournament.
Janice Kent carried all before her to win the first division with 151 points, Don Boettcher winning division 2 with 155 points.
The tournament was first to 31, five matches with partners swapping randomly and was strongly competed by a good turnout of players, who especially enjoyed the ‘bring a plate’ spread at the end of play.
A new season of fixtures is starting, and if you haven’t nominated or would like to join, contact Steve Mathieson ASAP on 0418 700 236.
Last season’s division one was won by Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce and John McGee) with Janice Kent leading player, losing only one match all season.
Division two went to Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink and Kim Daffy) with Veronica Shepherd leading player.
Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey and Nadine Stream won division 3, Pam Keune leading player.

Janice Kent and Don Boettcher were winners of the Mackay Table Tennis doubles tournament

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures August 20, 2024.

Division 1:

Ferrari (Steven Whiting, Janice Kent, Andrea Nicholson) d Honda (Graham Dury, Vince Boeske, Graham Brake) 6-5. Vince d Andrea -9, 6, -10, 8, 5.

Holden (Mark Sleeman, Robbie Richards, Lee Brake) d BMW (Barry Patterson, Geoff Denman, Tony Bowman) 7-4. Robbie d Barry -6, 5, 8, -8, 5.

Fiat (Donna Abbott, Emma Widdup, Allan Robins) d Audi (Andrew McHugh, Lily Boland, Ian McKay) 6-5. Lily d Donna 9, -10, 7, -8, 6.

Alpha (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Geoff Cowan) d Hyuandi (Allan Edwards, Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) 7-4. Anne d Geoff 12, -5, -7, 11, 5.

Division 2:

Subaru (Tiffany Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) d Mercedes (Will VanDeKaa, Judy Zahn, Darryl Ross) 6-5. Bulldog d Judy -4, -8, 8, 6, 5.

Mazda (George Camilleri, Adrian Marsh, Craig VanDeKaa) d Rolls (Ollie Hamelink, Saisha Palod, Peter Goodson) 6-5. Saisha d Adrian -7, 13, 3, -2, 11.

Lexus (Duncan Treloar, Kade Wright, Anaya Reelh) d Nissan (Noren Fredericksen, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) 6-5. YiLin d Kade 11, -7, 8, 10.

Suzuki (Misha Palod, Matt West, Simon Hogan) d Jaguar (Leo Gilbert, Mark Stam, Nehmat Dhaliwal) 6-5. Simon/Misha d Mark/Nehmat  -10, 10, 10, 9.

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Lily Boland had a great victory over Donna Abbott winning in the fifth set, 10-6. Photos supplied

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In a thrilling display of skill and determination, the Slade Point women’s rugby union team won Mackay’s inaugural Women’s Rugby 7s Grand Final at BB Print Stadium.

Capping off a remarkable season for women’s rugby in the region, a star player for Slade Point, Hula Day, has been playing different codes of rugby for seven years, starting in 2018 before switching to rugby union in 2020.

Her versatility on the field has seen her excel in various positions, from flanker in 15s to playing as a hooker or second row in 10s and 7s. Despite the challenges, her love for the game and the sense of community it brings has kept her motivated.

“I really just like the team and the community,” she said, reflecting on her journey in the sport.

Among her many achievements, Hula was named the Best Forward for Slade Point Rugby Team. Earlier this year, she played in the junior 15s competition, earning a spot on the Central Queensland team and traveling to Rockhampton to trial for Queensland Country.

Currently, Hula is trailing for the 7s Central Queensland team. She recently competed in Rockhampton and will play again in Mackay on September 7th, and if successful, she will advance to the next level and compete in Brisbane.

Coach of the Slade Point Rugby Union Women’s team Kelvin Clulee praised the team’s hard-fought victory, noting the toughness of their final match.

“It was a scrappy game, but there was some great tackling,” he said.

“The Slade Point girls just managed to find a way through a really tough defence to win the game by one try.”

Coach Clulee emphasised the importance of camaraderie and teamwork in rugby, highlighting how these qualities helped the team succeed. He also stressed the significance of girls and women in the region getting involved in rugby, as it opens pathways to representative programs, potentially leading to playing for Queensland Country or even Australia in the future.

“We’re always looking for new players, from under 9s all the way up to women’s,” he said.

“Get involved and have some fun, it’s a really good bunch of people, and we’ll be looking for more players next year.”

Hula is also currently fundraising for her upcoming trip to Auckland, New Zealand, in mid-December, where she will compete in the Global Women’s 7s for the Rugby Skills Academy.

She has already raised a total of $600, and will be continuing her fundraising efforts through meat raffles, sausage sizzles and other events at junior rugby games. Additional support from the community is welcomed to help cover the financial costs of travelling overseas.

The Global Youth 7s is a prestigious event and four players from Mackay, including Hula, will be representing the region. Competing against teams from around the world, this tournament could be a stepping stone toward bigger opportunities, including the possibility of playing for Australia and even making it to the Olympics.

“We’re so proud of these kids that are going over there to compete,” Coach Clulee added.

“This can be a springboard into the Australian team, which could potentially lead to the Olympics, which is really cool.”

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8-year-old Charlotte Haire with Hula Day
The Slade Point Women's Rugby 7s team recently celebrated their hard-fought victory in Mackay's first Women's 7s Grand Final at BB Print Stadium. Photos supplied

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AFLW is making its exciting return to Mackay as the Gold Coast Suns take on Carlton at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. The region is thrilled to welcome back Mackay’s very own Lauren Bella, Alana Gee and Wallis Randell, who will all be showcasing their skills in front of a local crowd.
This match is a significant event for the region, bringing two traveling teams to North Queensland. Carlton, a renowned team from Victoria, will clash with the Gold Coast Suns, representing Queensland’s vibrant Gold Coast. It’s a rare and exciting opportunity for local fans to experience top-tier AFLW action right in their backyard.
In addition to the on-field excitement, this event offers a fantastic opportunity for the next generation of fans. With free entry for kids under 18, the match provides young people with access to quality sporting entertainment and the chance to be inspired by elite athletes. It’s a unique opportunity for families to engage with the sport and for young fans to witness the highest level of women’s football.
Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, expressed his enthusiasm about the event and said, "Bringing AFLW back to Mackay, especially with local stars like Lauren Bella, Alana Gee and Wallis Randell, is a special moment for our community.
“We’re looking forward to an incredible day of footy."
Terry Doolan, Chairman of Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, added, "Hosting the Suns and Carlton in Mackay underlines our commitment to delivering top-tier sport to the region.
“This event is more than just a game; it’s about community, pride and giving young people a chance to see what they can aspire to."
Harrup Park added that the Mackay Regional Council continue to be a driver for the success of major events in our region and without their ongoing support these events would not happen.

What Gold Coasts Suns v Carlton
When: September 8th, 1:05pm
Where: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Harrup Park, Mackay

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Last week was a massive week for the Mackay Bridge Club with the playing of the Australian Wide-Open Pairs, the final week of the Anne Hird Memorial, the Mackay Barometer Pairs Walk-in and the Mackay Barometer Pairs competition, which was played over two days. Winners of the Australian Wide Open Pairs N/S were Janelle Conroy and Terry Sheedy with Janine Rodgers and Richard Wix winning E/W.

After three weeks of play with three different overs, Joy Block took out this year’s Anne Hird Memorial. Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris won N/S, and Susan Wright and Geoff Patterson E/W were winners of The Mackay Barometer Pairs Walk Ins. Results for Mackay Barometer Pairs will be published next week.

Weekly Results
Monday 26 August 2024 – Australian Wide Open Pairs 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

3rd
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

4th
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
4th
Geoff Taylor / Andrew Canavan

Tuesday Evening 27 August 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
1st
Terry Sheedy / Joy Block

3rd
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th
Shelley Lewis / Sue Mayer-Miller

4th
Andrew Westcott / Patricia Garner
4th
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

Wednesday 28 August 2024 - 3 of 3 weeks of the Anne Hird Memorial 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Joy Block / Janelle Conroy
1st
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
2nd
Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Vicki Howard / Ming Ting
3rd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Susan Wright
3rd
Jan Harris / Bob Ellis
4th
Jewel Schmidt / Sandra Morris
4th
Terry Sheedy / Annette Howe
Anne Hird Memorial - Results after 3 weeks of play with 3 different overs
1st
Joy Block
2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd
Sandy Patterson
4th
Susan Ross
Thursday Evening 29 August 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers

3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott
4th
Geoff Taylor / Christopher Meyers

5th
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
6th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

Friday 30 August 2024 – Mackay Barometer Pairs Walk-ins 8 Table Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
1st
Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson

2nd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
2nd
David Ting / Ming Ting

3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
3rd
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood

4th
Anne Lutz / Karen Caldwell
4th
Geoff Cowan / Joy Block

Contributed by Joy Block

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MBPairs Walkins N/S Winners Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris
MBPairs Walkins E/W winners Geoff Patterson and Susan Wright
Anne Hird winner Joy Block, with David Hird (Anne's husband), Janelle Conroy and Terry Sheedy. Photos supplied

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Walkerston Wanderers Rugby League Club are celebrating a premiership quadrella in the Mackay & District Junior League.

The Roosters underlined their depth of junior talent by annexing the Boys Under 15 and Under 16 premiership titles and the Girls Under 16 and Under 18 trophies in Grand final action at BB Print Stadium last weekend.
It is a tremendous feat by the Wanderers club that remained undefeated in both the Under 15 and Girls Under 16 years divisions.

Trent Peno’s all-conquering Under 15s capped a memorable campaign with an emphatic 30-10 Grand Final victory over Mackay Wests Tigers.

Classy halves Darcy Cabassi and Isaac McFarlane spearheaded the win with top performances after promising forwards  Nate Faulkner, Tom Mulherin, Amos Grigg, Connor Peno, Quinn Douglas and hooker Harrison Gordon laid the foundations with strong games.
Cabassi used his swerve and deft footwork to nab two of the Roosters’ six tries with playmaker McFarlane booting three goals.

Lock forward and skipper Nate Harding, hooker Marik Srsen and centre Zac Hansen impressed for the Tigers.
Impact forward Faulkner proved an inspiration as the Roosters won all fourteen matches played during the 2024 season.

Nate and elder sister Cianna created some type of record by both captaining their respective Wanderers teams to undefeated titles.

Talented lock Cianna was best on ground in the Roosters’ 32-6 Grand Final triumph over Souths Sharks last Friday night – bagging two tries and four goals for a personal tally of sixteen points.

Sharp centre Zoe Ziegeler and power running prop Theresa Malayta also grabbed try doubles as Duncan Watt’s enterprising Roosters asserted their supremacy.
Other players to impress were halves Ruby Watt and Keeley Logan, hooker Jade Williams and forwards Kelsi Hazledine, Matilda Clark, Jaylynn Matheson-Hone, Jayda Earl and Sophie Searle.

Wanderers clinched the Under 16s Boys trophy with an 18-8 Grand Final victory over Mackay Magpies.
Rugged prop Sam Dodgson, five eighth Koby Daly and winger Aidan Marteene scored tries for the Roosters with lock Caleb O’Brien adding three conversions.

Dodgson, skipper O’Brien, number seven Bekem Van Kerkwyk and back rowers Dominic Sorbello and Sam Anderson, a former Queensland Schoolboys Under 15s rep, led the way for Wanderers.

Wanderers young gun Paige Mooney capped a stellar season by guiding her club to an Under 18 Girls premiership.

Mooney, a rising half back, demonstrated her skills and vision as the Roosters edged out Souths Sharks 10-6 in the title decider.

The Junior League premiership was the fourth piece of silverware acquired by Mooney in 2024 after earlier lifting the Confraternity Shield and Secondary Schools trophies with St Patrick’s College Mackay and the inaugural Under 19 Harvey Norman championship with the Mackay Cutters.

Wanderers’ centre Ella Webb and fullback Ava Wheeler scored tries and hooker Jaymie Clancy potted a conversion with Sharks’ half Jaccoa Keyssecker crossing for the Sharks.

It was another trophy for Roosters super coach Imogen Healy but a bitter blow for Danny Contor’s talented Souths squad that finished the preliminary rounds undefeated.
Wanderers won both finals clashes against the Sharks by narrow margins: 4-2 in the major semi-final and by four points in the trophy decider.

Mackay Magpies brought home the Under 13s Boys and Under 14s Boys premiership titles.

The Magpies edged out Souths Sharks 10-8 in the Under 13s and rolled the Sarina Crocodiles 32-22 in Under 14s for a deserved double.

Wests Tigers collected the Under 14 Girls trophy after toppling Proserpine Brahmans 14-10 before capturing
the Under 17 Boys title with an 18-8 triumph over Brothers Bulldogs.

Canberra Raiders signing Mark Morrow starred with centre partner Mason Ryan-Ellul and forwards Lachlan Starr, Jack Townsend, Jackson Aslette and hooker Slade Kretschmar.

Souths tossed Brahmans 32-14 in the Under 13 Boys Plate Final with Wests Tigers securing the Under 14 Plate with a 36-18 win over Wanderers.

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