Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse Thankyou Race Director Tim Magoffin for organising an excellent social 6k & 19km trail run at Eungella this morning with his very able assistant Andrew Short. Andrew then proceeded to notch another successful trail run under his already full belt. Eungella once again showed its spectacular weather with ALOT of early morning fog and low clouds, an excellent environment to run with some like-minded individuals and then finish off with an enjoyable post run brekky at the awesome Chalet (Thank you Tony & Tess and staff’s hospitality). Ryan Murray was scintillating over the technically difficult 19km, scorching over the course in spectacular form to claim first place. Ryan has shown exceptional talent over hilly terrain recently and today was no different. Second placed Levi Wallace was also in superb form despite the unexpected early start to collect his passengers upon leaving Mackay this morning. Craig McGahey's bronze medal performance showed what a class act he is and has been for several years. Brave efforts from Jo Skinner in the 19km displayed her toughness as a competitor after an unfortunate trip up on the track. Rhiann Massey's 6km trail run at this location was a first for her and thoroughly enjoyable experience after a successful marathon on the Sunny Coast recently. Fran March placed 2nd behind her in a super effort from the Chalet to Sky Window and return. Scott McIntosh's 6km golden performance was on show after the long trek from home to get to the start line by 7am. All runners and volunteers need to be congratulated for supporting each other including vital water aid station attendants, Paul Tilse, Jo Hughes, Alex Murray and Phoebe. See you at the final handicap run on the formal calendar next Sunday morning at the Bluewater Lagoon. The annual Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy & 5km is one of the most prestigious events on the Mackay Road Runners Calendar, honouring a four time Olympian and Mackay local girl, who was and still is a very humble and exceptional athlete. Members must start on their official handicap to be eligible for the chance to be in line for the coveted 10km perpetual trophy. All non members are always very welcome to participate for a casual day fee however, will not be eligible for the major 10km perpetual trophy prize as they have no formal club handicap. All participants and volunteers are invited to stay for a post run sausage sizzle and random draws donated by Spine Care Chiropractic. Enjoy this great event to close the 2026 running program with the major finale to be at the Presentation/Awards Night at the Southern Suburbs Bowls Club on 24th October. 8156 – Runners take to the trails from the Eungella Chalet towards Sky Window and Broken River and return. 8166 – First placed 19km competitor, Ryan Murray heading towards the hydration station at Broken River. 8191 – Runners and volunteers take in the view (left to right) Jo Hughes, Jo Skinner, Levi Wallace, Rhiann Massey, Franch March, Andrew Short and Phoebe (in front). 8199 – Craig McGahey is elated after completing the 19km Eungella social trail run. 8177 – Levi Wallace enjoys the spectacular Eungella trails on his way to 2nd place in the 19km.
Read the full story
Contributed with thanks by Joy Block The Whitsunday Zone Team members from Mackay - Noel Bugeia, Janelle Conroy, Terry Sheedy and Lorna Shuttlewood performed well in the 2026 Grand National Open Teams qualifying and will represent the Whitsunday Zone in Brisbane competing in the non-metropolitan Grand final next week. Well done! The Del Ryan Walk In’s on Friday was won by Diane Morgan and Del’s daughter Janet Hansen. Diane and Janet have played together for many years and are a prolific pair at the bridge table. Weekly Results Monday 28th September 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Joy Hold / Rob Miles 2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft 3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson 3rd Jan Harris / Louise Renton Tuesday Evening 29th September 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Diane Stokes / Marin Pearce 1st Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy 2nd Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia 2nd Ian Afflix / Terry Sheedy 3rd John McGee / Mick King 3rd Janine Rodgers / Andrew Canavan Wednesday 30th September 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points 1st Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 1st Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy 2nd Monica Darley / Francie Brown 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 3rd Jan Harris / Geoff Taylor 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy 4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 4th Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller Thursday Evening 1st October 2026 –-9 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor 3rd Ian Afflick / Terry Sheedy Friday 2nd October 2026 –- Del Ryan Walkins7 Table Mitchell Green Points 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan 3rd Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor 4th Monicia Darley / Griffin Bancroft 1 - Noel, Janelle, Terry & Lorna 2- Diane and Janet. Photos supplied
Read the full story
Contributed with thanks by Sue Hazledine Recently we held the Under and Over 73’s Finals. The under 73 Final was between Brenda Trannore and Wendy Sonter. Great bowls by both ladies at every end, with determination and great positioning around the Jack. The eventual winner was Brenda Trannore for 2026. In the Over 73’s Ann Smith was up against Sue Hazledine. This game was also played end for end for most of the game and some lovely shots were played by both ladies. With Ann Smith the winner of today’s very close encounter. Well done to our winners and to all the ladies who competed in all the games leading up to today’s final. 1- (L) Wenday Sonter and winner Brenda Trannore 2- (L) Winner Ann Smith and Sue Hazledine. Photos supplied
Read the full story
Three blokarts and a kite buggy from the Central Queensland Blokart Club made the most of ideal conditions at Bucasia Beach ffor a midweek sail. An east-southeasterly wind of around 18 knots and a suitable tide created plenty of action, with gusts strong enough to require some quick sheet rope releases. All three blokarts were running three-metre sails, reaching a top speed of 64km/h, with some exciting turns at the northern end of the beach. Sandy’s kite buggy also put on a show, manoeuvring up and down the beach while avoiding the three blokarts. Thankfully, there were no unexpected trips into the ocean to test the water temperature. The afternoon was a welcome change after the club’s previous Sunday outing was hampered by a lack of breeze, making for an enjoyable session on the sand. Photo source: Central Queensland Blokart Club
Read the full story
George Rush has enjoyed an outstanding campaign at the 2026 Queensland Short Course Championships, collecting seven top four finishes across a range of events.
George produced a standout performance in the pool, claiming gold in the 100m Backstroke to take the Queensland championship title for his age group.
He backed up his winning performance with a series of impressive results, finishing second in the 100m Individual Medley, 50m Breaststroke and 200m Freestyle. His consistency across different strokes and distances highlighted the strength and versatility of his swimming.
George also secured third place in the 50m Backstroke and 100m Freestyle, while adding a strong fourth-place finish in the 50m Freestyle.
His performances at the Queensland Short Course Championships demonstrate the hard work and dedication behind his swimming, as well as his ability to compete at a high level across multiple events.
George put together an impressive string of results across several disciplines, finding the podium six times across the meet.
Their strongest performance came in the 100m Backstroke, where they claimed first place, before adding four second-place finishes in the 100m Individual Medley, 50m Breaststroke and 200m Freestyle.
The medals continued with third-place finishes in both the 50m Backstroke and 100m Freestyle, while they narrowly missed another podium with fourth place in the 50m Freestyle.
The Whitsunday Swimming Club is extremely proud of Geroge and Coach Jenny and their achievements.
Contributed with thanks to Amanda Yuskan.
Ladies Triples champions Joan McGrath, Wendy Pomeroy and Vicki Spann following their fantastic performance at Sarina.
The Champion of Champions success continued for Airlie Beach Bowls Club, with Joan McGrath, Wendy Pomeroy and Vicki Spann adding a Ladies Triples title to the club’s recent achievements.
At Sarina Bowls Club, Joan skipped the side alongside Wendy, who was subbing for Ladda Purdie, and the in-form Vicki, with the trio reaching the final before overcoming a gallant Mackay Ladies team.
Their victory followed Manny Isgro and Luke Kinnear’s Champion of Champions triumph against West Tigers, giving Airlie Beach plenty to celebrate on the championship stage.
Back home Tuesday, Steve Heddles, Else Van Soest and Wendy Lynn took the honours.
Wednesday welcomed 37 bowlers from across Australia and New Zealand, with Te Anau’s Ken McChlery teaming with Wendy Lynn for a comfortable 34-15 victory. David Dias and Keith Bates finished second, winning 26-11.
Club coaches Mark Mawson and Betty Whitehorn also continued working with the young champions from the Christian College.
Saturday morning Scroungers saw Pip Heddles win Round 4, while Russell Jackson claimed his second win in Round 5, leaving him at minus 10. Steve Heddles and Tony Whitehorn were runners-up.
Sunday brought another 32 bowlers to the green, including visitors from Healesville, Rosebud and Moana Bowls Clubs.
With the greatest winning margin drawn as three, Mandy O’Brien, Dawn Dowell and skipper Tony “take the money” Whitehorn claimed the prize with a 30-14 victory.
Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.
U14-15 Team. Photo supplied: Joscelyn O’keefe.
Whitsunday United Football Club secured finals football and celebrated a minor premiership during an action-packed round, with teams delivering determined performances as the season approached an exciting finish.
WUFC Div 2 Men secured finals football with a hard-fought 1-0 home win over Country United. Macka Moore led a strong defensive effort before Harry Paroz broke the deadlock with a late free kick. Div 2 now await other results to determine their final ladder position.
Premier Women were narrowly defeated 2-1 away to Mackay Rangers. Alexis Finlay opened the scoring on the counterattack, giving WUFC the lead into the second half. Rangers responded with two goals, but WUFC fought hard until the final whistle.
U14/15 Premier capped off their final home game with a 5-1 victory over Magpies. Tyson Fenning, Daly Gillett and Nick Moranino controlled the midfield, while Tyrell McDowall created opportunities and goalkeeper Nick Philipson made crucial saves. They now face Mackay Rangers in a top-of-the-table clash for the minor premiership.
U14/15 Div 1 secured the minor premiership with a 7-2 home victory over Magpies FC. With just one loss all season, they sealed top spot with goals from Kobe Marjoram, Issac Pisaniello and Shadrick Thorsby.
Under 13 Div 1 battled ladder leaders Mackay Lions, going down 6-1. Deakin Craven scored from halfway and later impressed in goal, while Summah Gomes and Cody Bakker worked tirelessly in defence. WUFC now look ahead to their final home game against Wanderers.
Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O’Keefe.
Clayton Chapman King of the river cars 2025. Photo credit: Tony Hodskiss
The usually dry Don River is about to roar back to life, as hundreds of dirt bikes, buggies and trophy trucks prepare to tear through its riverbed for one of Bowen’s biggest weekends of the year.
Returning from 4th–6th September, the Don River Dash will bring thousands of competitors and spectators to Bowen for its eighth year, with 300 kilometres of high-speed off-road racing set to take over the river.
‘There's nothing else like ripping wide open through a dry riverbed with the crowd just metres away,’ said Burdekin Offroaders Inc. President Michael Marson.
‘Every year we see the standard of competition get higher, from local legends to national champions, and the support from the Bowen community is incredible. It's that combination of world-class racing and genuine country hospitality that keeps people coming back year after year.’
Motor vehicles of all kinds will come in droves, from dirt bikes and buggies to off-road trucks, as competitors take on a course known for being challenging without becoming intimidating, while the Don River Dash’s country hospitality keeps racers and their families coming back year after year.
“As it is held after our traditional grey nomad season and before the September school holidays, it attracts visitors during what was previously a much quieter period for local tourism operators,” said Bowen Tourism and Business Manager Leanne Abernethy.
“Many competitors also bring their families, turning the event into a holiday.
“They take the opportunity to discover Bowen and the greater Whitsunday region, with many extending their stay for several days after the racing has finished.”
Photo credits: Salty Dingo.
Hamilton Island Race Week has hit the Whitsunday waters in full force, with heavy winds and tight racing setting the tone across the opening days of the iconic regatta.
Now in its 41st edition, the week-long event has welcomed more than 1,200 sailors across 194 boats from Australia and overseas, blowing last year's fleet of 145 boats out of the water.
“With entries across a diverse range of classes, we're looking forward to welcoming competitors from around Australia and overseas for another outstanding Hamilton Island Race Week,” Race Director Denis Thompson said in a Hamilton Island Race Week article ahead of the event.
Racing officially got underway on Sunday 16th August, beginning six days of competition around Hamilton Island and through the Whitsunday passages.
The action began on Sunday with the Around the Islands Race, as trade winds topping 25 knots and with less than steady conditions, crews were immediately tested with what the Whitsundays could throw at them.
Skipper Steve Girdis led the field in the 22-boat Trailer Yacht fleet, while Mark Spring and his young crew aboard Highly Sprung fought back from a difficult start to claim the opening win in IRC Rating Division One. Viva La Vida took out Hamilton Island Blue, while John Whitbread’s Kerb topped Hamilton Island Pink.
“It was so much fun, and what made it especially special was having four Girdises on board, plus one honorary family member,” Girdis said.
The wind showed no signs of easing on Monday, with another demanding day on the water tightening the standings across several divisions.
Miyu took victory on both EHC and OMR handicaps to move into the Multihull Racing lead, while Wild Thing claimed line honours and a handicap win in Hamilton Island Blue, finishing just 25 seconds ahead of Caol Ila on corrected time.
“From there, we had a spinnaker run into the finish with 22 knots blowing through the passage,” Team Hollywood tactician David Chapman said.
“The finish was probably the best part of the day.”
Tuesday brought rougher conditions to waters, with fresh trade winds and passing rain squalls challenging sailors during the Nautilus Marine Insurance Classic, Race Week’s premier long and medium-distance race day.
Wild Oats X claimed its first IRC win of the week in Rating Division One, while Highly Sprung continued its strong form with a third consecutive TPR victory.
Wednesday gave crews a break from racing for the traditional lay day, with the Balter Lay Day Beach Party taking over Catseye Beach as the action shifted on shore.
It was one of several ways Race Week has stretched beyond the water, alongside a Whitehaven Beach cruise aboard superyacht Rascal, the Race Day Long Lunch overlooking Dent Passage and a sit-down with sailors Olivia Price and Cole Tapper.
With Race Week heading into its final stretch, racing continues on Friday and Saturday, with the Presentation Dinner bringing the 41st edition of the regatta to a close on Saturday night.
Photo source: Mackay Softball Association Incorporated
The Mackay Men travelled to Rockhampton for another weekend of CQ Derby softball, taking on Rocky across three games.
After a hard-fought series, Mackay secured the win in the final game to cap off a successful weekend of competition.
The derby featured quality softball and strong camaraderie between the two teams, with Mackay thanking Softball Rockhampton for hosting the event.
The Dragons Abreast Mackay Inc. team. Photos supplied
24 Paddlers from Dragons Abreast Mackay (Dragon Boat Team) are heading to Aix-le-Bains in the French Alps to participate in the upcoming International Breast Cancer Paddlers Commission Festival alongside 4500 participants from all around the world.
Members of Dragons Abreast Mackay (Dragon Boat Team) recently met with Russell King (Treasurer) of RSL Mackay Sub Branch Inc. to collect beautiful commemorative pins that RSL donated for the team to wear on their hats in France to honour the connection between the Australian and French Troops during wartime.
After the festival some members will visit French Battlefields and Memorial Sites to pay their respects. Lest We Forget.
Club representative said, “Dragons Abreast Mackay are very appreciative of our wonderful Uniform Sponsors, Joyce Mechanical Services, Rimex, The Creperie Restaurant, Blucher Family and Complete Parts and Equipment. The team are fit andready to compete thanks to Evoke Fitness.
“We are all proud to be representing the great Mackay community on the World Stage and will wear our kit with so much pride whilst promoting our beautiful part of the world.”
Contributed by Janelle Moran
Photo credit: Ken Fihelly
The club’s destination on Sunday was Red Cliff Islands, both north and south, just offshore from Seaforth. The walk started around lunch time to take advantage of the low tide needed to access the causeway from the mainland, and this, plus the shorter drive and the somewhat easier nature of the walk resulted in fifteen members setting off across the first causeway to the South Island.
After a short lunch break in the shade, during which some attractively shaped and coloured rocks were admired, the causeway to North Red Cliff Island was now well clear of the water, and the track up to the lookout was negotiated. There are spectacular coastal views from here, Cape Hillsborough to the southeast, and Newry and Rabbit Islands to the northwest. There are some signs of the old WW2 observation site here also.
Then the group moved back down to sea level, and below the cliffs to begin heading north around the base of the north island. The nice slab rocks here made for easier walking than scrambling over and around the boulders. After enjoying the views of the various rock features, and some exotic creatures exposed by the low tide, the participants, led by Ken Fihelly, arrived at the impressive arch on the southeast of the same island.
After plenty of photographs were taken, the group continued to the South Island, this time following the eastern shore, viewing further rock formations including an impressive tower and a colourful sea cave. The causeway was still above water when the participants walked back to the cars. This outing, while not long in kms was rich in the diversity of interesting features to explore.
Upcoming walks include Mt Jukes, Mt Ossa, Pioneer Valley Rail Trail and Cascade Creek. Phone 0429 363 929 for details about how to become involved.
Contributed by Carole Weekes
Some of the beautiful Mackay Road Runners ladies prior to racing the Whibley’s Wander 5 & 10km annual event.
Strong performances were recorded across the field at the annual Whibley’s Wander, with Clinton Mackie and Jose Short claiming overall gold in the 12km male and female categories.
Jo Hughes and Craig Joynson were the first male and female finishers in the 5km event, navigating the meandering and slightly undulating course from Duncan Street, West Mackay, towards the Catherine Freeman Trail via Holland Street and Bridge Road before returning to the start.
The club thanked Julie and Andrew Whibley for generously hosting the Whibley’s Wander 5km and 12km from their home, as well as providing a post-run sausage sizzle and refreshments for participants.
Thanks were also extended to Andrew Short for setting up the course and collecting the signs, markers and water-stop equipment afterwards. Rohan Miles was again on hand to manage timekeeping and ensure members’ results were accurately recorded, while merchandising specialist Jo Hughes had a wide range of club merchandise available for purchase.
The club’s next event will be the Mystery 5km and 10km social run this Sunday, starting from Farview Tavern at 4pm, with runners invited to stay for a post-run refreshment.
Members are also reminded of the following Club Championship events this month:
August 23 – North Qld Bulk Ports & Podiatry Mackay Magic Mile
August 30 – Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield and 5km, incorporating the inaugural 3km Rules of Running event for under-12s.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Ian, Errol and Mick receive their Incentive Award for July 2026. Incentive awards are for players under 50MPs with consistent results and regular attendance. Photo supplied
Monday 3rd August 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st JANELLE CONROY - TEX SHEEDY 1st NOEL BUGEIA - JOY BLOCK
2nd MAX HOLEWA - DIANE HOLEWA 2nd HELEN VAN DEN BROEK - JAN HARRIS
3rd DAVID TING - ERIC GOODCHILD 3rd GEOFF TAYLOR - NANCY MARTIN
Tuesday 4th August 2026 – 7 ½ Table Howell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st JOHN MCGEE - MICK KING 1st SANDRA MORRIS - DIANE MORGAN
2nd PATRICIA GARNER - ADRIAN WESTCOTT 2nd TEX SHEEDY - HELEN VAN DEN BROEK
3rd JANELLE CONROY - GEOFF TAYLOR 3rd MARILIN ROBINS - ROSALYN STEVENS
4th FRANCES BROWN - ANN WHITMORE
Wednesday 5th August 2026 –12 Table Mitchell - Green Points – Anne Hird Memorial Week 1 of 3
North / South East / West
1st JOHN HUNT - DAVID TING 1st JANELLE CONROY - MARTIN PEARCE
2nd PATRICK RASMUSSEN - DIANE MORGAN =2nd NOEL BUGEIA - RODNEY MILES
3rd ANDREW CANAVAN - KATH POOLE =2nd LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD - JOY HOLD
4th IAN VARY - ALAN BROWN 4th DEBRA GOODCHILD - ANNETTE HOWE
5th DEBBIE LUDKIN - GEOFF TAYLOR 5th TEX SHEEDY - JOY BLOCK
6th SUE MAYER-MILLER - JAN HARRIS
Thursday Evening 6th August 2026 –5 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st SIMON BARNES - MARTIN PEARCE 1st KEN SEANIGER - ROBERT CARLESS
2nd TEX SHEEDY - NOEL BUGEIA 2nd JANINE RODGERS - JANELLE CONROY
Friday 7th August 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st MING TING - DAVID TING 1st ANDREW CANAVAN - IAN VARY
2nd JOY ROBINSON - GEOFF TAYLOR 2nd DEBRA GOODCHILD - LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD
3rd EDWARD KLIESE - NANCY WIX 3rd NANCY MARTIN - KATH POOLE
4th SANDY PATTERSON - ERIC GOODCHILD ` 4th MARTIN PEARCE - GWEN LIDDELL
5th TEX SHEEDY – HELEN BROEK VAN DEN 5th VICTOR MASON - JOSIE CROWLEY
Saturday 8th August 2026 – Nation Wide Pairs – 10 ½ Table Mitchell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st ERIC GOODCHILD - DEBRA GOODCHILD 1st MING TING - DAVID TING
2nd JAN HARRIS - ANDREW CANAVAN 2nd JOHN MCGEE - MICK KING
3rd FAYE WRIGHT - MARILIN ROBINS 3rd TEX SHEEDY - CHRISTINE NICE
4th GWEN LIDDELL - JULIE O'NEILL 4th SANDRA MORRIS - ANNIE LYNCH
5th JOY ROBINSON - KEN SEANIGER 5th JANINE RODGERS - LAURA HOWLAND
Sunday 9th August 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell - Green Points (Beginners and Novice players only)
North / South East / West
1st PAM CASSIDY - CHRISTINE FITZPATRICK 1st JENNIFER CAMERON - GLEN COCUP
2nd DIANNE COOK - KAY JONES 2nd HELEN MCKENZIE - RAELEEN WRIGHT
Contributed by Robert Carless
Tuesday Evening Fixtures - 4th August 2026
Division 1: Cheetahs (Goncalo Serra, Neil Brown, Janice Kent) defeated Lions (Josh Brown, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 8-3, Josh won close 5 sets against Janice (3,-7,1,-5,9). Jaguar (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Syed Hossain) outlasted Leopards (Emma Widdup, Geoff Cowan, Donna Abbott) 7-4, Mick and Emma had great battle to the end, with Mick winning (-4,9,2,-10,9). Pumas (Trent Day, YiLin Jiang, Duncan Treloar) won 8-3 over Magpies (Barry Patterson, Abbas Irshad, Rod Mahumas), Abbas snuck home against Duncan (-9,9,-5,5,10). Tigers (Anne Sheridan, Remy Zahn, Ross DeBoer) won 6-5 over Hawks (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson), Remy played well to beat Robbie in 5 sets (5,-7,-8,8,9).
Division 2: Bass (Daniel Warfield, Tiffany Camilleri, Jeff Bennington) snuck home 6-5 against Cuttlefish (Ian McKay, Logan Brown, Noreen Fredericken), no 5 set matches but Noreen won close 4 sets over Jeff (7,7,-9,10). Cod (Delma Knight, Darryl Ross, Steve Mathieson) defeated Squid (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Mahmout Ahmad) 7-4, Steve outlasted Peter in close 5 setter (8,-3,-7,6,5). Trevally (Tony Bowman, Liz Burton, Amanda Lui) won 6-5 over Mackeral (Matt West, Ollie Hamelink, Craig VanDeKaa), Liz came home strong against Ollie (5,12,-7,-9,5). Dolphins (Mark Stam, Ricky Zahn, Mark Bowerman) defeated Grunter (Simon Hogan, Rachel Fiesta, Jason Lee) 6-5, Rachel came back from 2 sets down against Ricky to win in 5 sets (-9,-7,7,7,9).
Contributed by Andrea Payne
The 71st running of the iconic Magnetic Island to Townsville swim proved to be another memorable event, marking the 17th year of the race as a cageless swim.
The 8-kilometre course begins at Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island and finishes on the Townsville shoreline directly in front of Strand Park. Swimmers are usually accompanied by a support kayaker, who provides guidance, encouragement and sustenance throughout the crossing.
This year's event attracted 73 solo swimmers, 10 duo teams and eight teams of four.
The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club was represented by Pierre Craven and Jenny Smith, who both rose to the challenge.
Pierre faced an unexpected hurdle before even entering the water when the kayak belonging to his support paddler, Geoff Hamilton, was delayed on a barge experiencing mechanical issues. Undeterred, Pierre received advice from Jane Eggins to push ahead without stopping for sustenance.
The strategy paid off, with Pierre improving on last year's time by 30 minutes and finishing seventh in his age group. He credited much of that improvement to the guidance of coach Millie at the DMR Memorial Pool, home of the Sinkers Masters Swimming Club.
Meanwhile, Geoff returned to Townsville by ferry to retrieve the kayak and, with the assistance of Theresa Hackney, caught up with Pierre about 1.5 kilometres into the swim.
For Jenny Smith, the event marked her first crossing, although she says it certainly won't be her last. Following months of training, dedication and discipline, she finished eighth in her age group, supported by a Townsville-based kayaker.
Jenny Furini and Theresa Hackney formed the on-the-ground support crew, while many more supporters cheered from Mackay.
Beyond competition, the Sinkers Masters Swimming Club prides itself on being an inclusive community, welcoming swimmers of all abilities, from experienced competitors to those returning to the pool after time away or recovering from injury.
Contributed by Gerri Kissner
U14 team. Photo supplied: Joscelyn O’Keefe.
Whitsunday United Football Club enjoyed a successful weekend of football, with important wins and strong performances across several grades.
The Under 13 Division 1 side celebrated its first win since May, defeating the Dolphins 3-2 at home. Elaina Hanns starred early with two goals, while Deakin Craven created plenty of attacking opportunities with impressive runs down the wing. Harry Melville added the third, marking his first goal of the season. Charlie Monroe, Evan Stokes and Codie Bakker were outstanding in defence, shutting down numerous Dolphins attacks to secure the victory.
The Under 14/15 FQPL side returned to winning form with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mackay Lions. Kobe Marjoram opened the scoring before Daly Gillett doubled the advantage five minutes later. Lions fought back in the second half, but tireless midfield efforts from Tyson Fenning, Gillett, Shannon Matthews and Bailey Burke helped WUFC hold on and remain at the top of the ladder.
Division 1 took an important step towards the league title with a 3-2 win over Rangers. Hayden Vanderdrift scored twice, with Caleb Vanderdrift also finding the net, leaving WUFC in control of the title race with two home fixtures remaining. Division 2 Men also secured a valuable victory, overcoming an early deficit through goals from Rale Mudford and Ivan Risteski to strengthen their finals hopes.
Premier Men capped off the weekend with an emphatic 6-1 win over Wanderers FC, while the Under 23s battled to a 2-2 draw, maintaining their position at the top of the ladder.
Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O’Keefe.
Penny Warren and Denise Wallace winners of Zone 8 Champion of Champions Club Pairs.
Wangaratta Bowls Club had plenty to celebrate this week, highlighted by a special day for Ladies President Deb Retchless and success for two of the club’s own at Zone level.
Monday’s self-selected triples saw John Foskett and Greg Colquhoun defeat Ray Muir and Joe Paynting, while runners-up Bill Symmons, Bruce Knee and Sue Symmons defeated Jack Stamp, Geoff Coleman and Bob Dykstra.
Tuesday turned the attention to Deb Retchless, with a morning of bowls followed by lunch and presentations recognising the hard work of the Ladies President.
Sponsored by Tropical Beach Caravan Park, the day brought together district clubs, North Queensland Ladies District officials, Wangaratta members and southern visitors.
Carolyn Huddy, Jill Parker and N Hands took the honours with the highest winning margin, while Carole Bellingham, Sue Shearing and Shirley Jones finished runners-up on a countback.
Newly appointed Life Members Penny Warren and Maree Brunker were also presented with their Life Member badges, while Margaret Wilson was recognised for her contribution to Wangaratta despite being unable to attend.
In the Men’s Club Fours final, Stuart Jeal, Laurie Land, Kevin Daniels and Ron Hyde claimed victory over N Chittenden, Kevin Baxter, Alby Vigar and Greg Colquhoun.
Sunday’s Pat and Neil Tracey Trophy went to Eileen Dunn, Heidi Reif, Steve Roome and Bob Dykstra.
Denise Wallace and Penny Warren also flew the Wangaratta flag at Silkwood, winning the Zone 8 Champion of Champions Club Pairs and earning a place at the state finals in North Mackay this November.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren and Allan Wolfe.
Photo supplied: Raylene Rasmussen.
The Cannonvale Cannons made their mark in Brisbane over the weekend, with 10 swimmers competing at the Queensland Short Course Championships.
Coach Ken Crittenden was extremely proud of the team, with every Cannon giving their best and achieving at least one personal best (PB). Several swimmers had also battled illness leading into the championships but still stepped up to race and surprised themselves with some fantastic performances.
Eloise Chegwidden produced one of the standout swims, storming home in the 50m Breaststroke in 38.40 seconds – an impressive 2.28-second PB – to claim 3rd place in Queensland. Eloise also earned a Top 10 ribbon after placing 9th in the 100mIndividual Medley with a 2.73-second PB.
Tora Delac was in terrific form, achieving PBs in almost every event. She was thrilled to earn a Top 10 ribbon in the 100m Freestyle, clocking 58.82 seconds, and also celebrated achieving a National qualifying time in the 100m Individual Medley.
Miller Eaves had an outstanding championship, recording PBs in every event, including an incredible 11.37-second improvement in the 200m Individual Medley to finish 14th and a 7.68-second PB in the 200m Freestyle.
Hamilton Anflous achieved PBs in the 50m Butterfly and Breaststroke, while Harris Delac raced the 50m Freestyle and produced a 1.17-second PB.
Koa Harland’s best performance came in the 50m Breaststroke, while Ruby Harland achieved PBs in both the 50m Freestyle and Backstroke. Andie Reynolds also improved her 50m Backstroke time, touching in 34.73 seconds.
Alex Trefz achieved PBs in all his 50m events, highlighted by a 1.52-second improvement in the 50m Backstroke. Eleven-year-old Zavier Woolston also impressed, recording excellent PBs of 2.45 seconds in the 50m Butterfly and 2.77 seconds in the 50m Backstroke. Harris Delac swam in one event, 50m Freestyle and swam a PB of 1.17sec.
Congratulations to all 10 Cannons on representing the club with pride and producing some fantastic results on the Queensland stage!
Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
