Twenty-three Mackay Contract Bridge players participated in the Yeppoon Pairs and Teams Congress on the weekend. Janet Hansen and Thelma Caruana won the A Grade pairs. Sandra Morris and Annie Lynch won the B Grade Pairs. Alan and Frances Brown came third in the A Grade Pairs. Team Holewa – Max and Di Holewa, Terrence Sheedy and Noel Bugeia came second in the A Grade Teams with Team Hutchinson – Faith Hutchinson, Dot Slater, Joy Block and Geoff Cowan coming second in the C Grade Teams.

Weekly Results
Wednesday 21 August 2024 2 of 3 weeks of the Anne Hird Memorial 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Jewel Schmidt / Monica Darley
1st
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Ming Ting
2nd
Joy Block / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Janice Mansfield / Noel Bugeia
3rd
David Ting / Vicki Howard
4th
Karen Cadwell / Kath Poole
4th
Eric Goodchild / Victor Mason
Thursday Evening 22 August 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

3rd
Jan Harris / Griffin Bancroft
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

Friday 23 August 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
1st
Ming Ting / David Ting

2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

Saturday 24 August 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Anne Lutz / Margaret Lane
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Simon Barnes
3rd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Ann Whitmore / Ken Seaniger
4th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
4th
Karen Cadwell / Noel Saunders
5th
Vicki Howard / Geoff Cowan
5th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

Contributed By Joy Block

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Janet Hansen and Thelma Caruana Yeppoon Congress Open Pairs Winners
Geoff Cowan, Dorothy Slater, Faith Hutchinson and Joy Block Yeppoon Congress C Grade Teams Runners up
Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris Yeppoon Congress B Grade Pairs winners. Photos supplied

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Mackay SLSC “Guardians of Harbour Beach since 1950” is kicking off the start of its Nipper season with a Sign On Day, Sunday the 1st of September from 10am – 12noon at the surf club located at Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach.
The Surf Club is holding “come and try” days for all of September, with surf education, fitness and beach skill activities, as well as a whole lot of fun being held from 8.45am each Sunday.  The Nippers’ family will provide stinger suits, boards and all other equipment needed to get involved.  Just bring your togs, sunscreen and a towel and Mum and Dad!
Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports said, “We had a really fun season last year, it was great to see our nippers grow not only in numbers but also in their individual confidence in the surf and with learning about being a lifesaver,”
“Our parent helpers are fantastic as well, getting involved with their children and building our club culture.  It really is a family-orientated and welcoming sport.”
Josh said that Nippers is a surf development program catering for children aged from 5 – 14 years, after which they move into the junior and senior lifesaving ranks.  
“A typical Nippers morning will involve a structured warm-up and surf education such as signals, rescue techniques and reading the surf for rips or stingers (which we get very rarely), beach training such as flag / beach races and relays, then water-based activities that are age appropriate.  
“The morning finishes with a family sausage sizzle at the canteen where all nipper families catch up.
“The club has a focus on developing skills from our youngest children up to our older teenagers and starts with play-based confidence and skill activities for the young ones which progresses to surf sports competition training for more advanced lifesavers.”
If you would like any more information please contact the Junior Activity Coordinator Lexie Schiffer on juniors@mackayslsc.com.au
We hope to see you at the Beach!

Nippers brings confidence, teamwork and mateship to your children.

Mackay Nippers learning about surf safety from our dedicated volunteer patrolling members

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The highly anticipated 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival returns this weekend for two thrilling days on 31 August and 1 September, promising a vibrant mix of cycling, community spirit, and 2024 Paris Paralympics LIVE screen.

The festival will feature screenings of the Paralympics throughout the weekend, with a special focus on two Mackay Paralympians, Josh Nicholson and Brayden Foxley-Conolly, who are proudly representing Australia in Wheelchair Rugby. Both athletes are supported by Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay (DSRM), one of the festival’s key beneficiaries.

BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Director, Nikki Giles, expressed her excitement about the festival’s expanded format and the chance to showcase the Paralympics in such a meaningful way.

"This year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival is set to be an unforgettable weekend for the Mackay community. We are thrilled to be a Paralympics LIVE site, where we can gather to celebrate the incredible achievements of our Paralympians.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for Mackay, and we’re inviting everyone to be part of it, whether you are participating in our event or not, everybody is welcome."

In addition to the live Paralympics coverage, the festival will also feature a free screening of the classic film “Cool Runnings” at 4:30 pm on Saturday, 31 August. Families can enjoy food trucks, kids' activities, and a festive atmosphere as they take in the film and the live sports action.

Linda Murry, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s Hay Point Coal Terminal, highlighted BMA’s long-standing commitment to the Mackay community.

“This year’s event, coinciding with the 2024 Paris Paralympics, is an extraordinary opportunity to celebrate the resilience and achievements of our Paralympians with the entire community," she said.

Mayor Greg Williamson said all the stars had aligned to combine the Paralympic LIVE site with the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival.

“It’s tremendous that all the pieces have fallen into place – not only will the LIVE site provide a fantastic addition to the festival, but the Paralympic broadcast also aligns perfectly with one of the funding recipients - Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay,” Mayor Williamson said.

The Paralympics LIVE site will be open to the public between 1:00 pm and 6:00 pm on Saturday, 31 August, and from 6:30 am to 4:00 pm on Sunday, 1 September.

For the complete schedule of events, visit www.river2reefride.com.au

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The entire Mackay community is encouraged to join in the celebration, cheer on our Paralympians, and be part of this unique and inspiring event. Photos credit: Deanne Woods and Marty Strecker

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Perfect weather conditions set the stage for the annual Sladie Sand Dunes three-loop course, hosted at the picturesque Lamberts Beach Esplanade. Runners tackled the challenging course, set amidst the serene nature reserve, under the expert supervision of Mackay Road Runners Vice President and Race Director, Mick Scholer. The team behind the event included course setup expert Andrew Short and timekeeping and registration professionals Beck Scholer, Julie Whibley, and Jo Hughes. Unfortunately, club President Brendan Bishop had to bow out due to illness, but the team’s dedication ensured a smooth and enjoyable race. A special thanks to Mick and Bec for introducing some new faces, Rocky and Gino, to the event, while Ashleigh Miles and his enthusiastic son, Max, embraced the challenge with gusto.
Paul MacKenzie once again displayed his prowess, securing first place on the technical off-road course. Runners faced soft sand, steep sandy and grassy hills, and the notorious stair-climbing section, testing their endurance and precision. Despite the tricky terrain of twists, turns, and ascents, most participants finished unscathed, though the unexpectedly humid conditions added an extra layer of difficulty, particularly in the sheltered areas of the parkland reserve.
Outstanding performances were delivered by Mick Vivian, Luke Leven, Teresa Hackney, Michael Feenaghty, Jose Short, Robin Stinson, John Couldrey, Mitch Evetts, Ashleigh Miles, Craig Robinson, Lily Leven, Natasha Joynson, Alan Zamparutti, Len Haworth, David Isbister, Carmel Mahon, Andrew Short, Werner VanDerLinde, Steve Oberg, Jenny White, and Jim Perkins, all of whom showed impressive stamina and determination throughout the course.
Photos and results supplied by Janelle Tilse

Jose Short (left) is congratulated by Mackay Road Runners Merchandising Officer, Jo Hughes for her bronze medal performance at the World Triathlon Multisport Championships
Craig Robinson, Ashleigh Miles and Max Miles are thrilled with their efforts in the Sladie Sand Dunes very testing trail running event
Len Haworth followed closely by David Isbister at the highest altitude point of the race

Over thirty runners bolted from the gate at the Lamberts Beach Sladie Sand Dunes challenging trail event

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The North Mackay Sinkers and Masters Swimming Qld are excited to host the return of an Open Water Swim to the fabulous Whitehaven beach this October 6.

This thrilling event is back after a five-year break and swimmers from across the region are gearing up for an unforgettable experience.

With a choice of 1km or 2km races, the swim offers both a challenge and a sense of adventure as excitement of the swim is matched by the breathtaking surroundings, making this race one to remember.

The last Whitehaven Beach swim was held in 2019, and its return has sparked a wave of enthusiasm.

With limited entries available, the demand is high and spots are filling up quickly.

Entry fee includes return fast ferry from Shute Harbour to and from Whitehaven beach, transfers ashore, a light lunch and a supervised, timed swim along with a commemorative medal to mark the return of the event.

Don't miss your chance to be part of this iconic swim, register now and make your mark in the crystal-clear waters of Whitehaven Beach!

To claim your spot, visit https://authcrm2.swimming.org.au or scan the QR code.

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Register now for the Whitehaven Beach Swim via the QR code or byvisiting https://authcrm2.swimming.org.au. Photos supplied

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Mackay State High School's U15 Girls Netball team emerged victorious at the Capricornia Coast Carnival, held on the 12th and 13th of August at the Barmaryee Sports Complex. The team went undefeated over seven games, showcasing their skill and determination.
The winning team, consisting of Anna Pearson, Abbey Williams, Sabra Roberts, Keeley Ball, Darcie Malayta, Lilly Boyd, Lara Snell, Ella Matsen, Talia Steindl, Eaden Madsen, Molly Cassan, and Dana Guley, played with exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship.
Ash Barons, the Netball Academy Coordinator, praised the team's effort, saying, "Our girls demonstrated incredible perseverance and unity throughout the competition. Their undefeated run is a testament to their hard work and dedication."
The Head of Department HPE and Sporting Academies, Brett Watton, also commended the team's performance, adding, "This victory highlights the talent and commitment of our students. We are proud to see our netball academy growing and achieving such success."
Mackay State High School was represented by three teams at the carnival, reflecting the school's robust netball program and its commitment to promoting sports at all levels. The success of the U15 team is a promising indicator of the academy's future achievements.
For those interested in joining the Mackay State High School Netball Academy, please contact Brett Watton at brwat1@eq.edu.au. The academy is open to all students eager to develop their netball skills and be part of a winning team.

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The three-match one-day series between Australia A and India A provided thrilling cricket action at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena, with Australia A ultimately securing the series win despite a resounding victory for India A in the final game.

In the opening match, Australia A achieved a four-wicket victory, thanks to a masterful 129 from Katie Mack. Her innings was instrumental in chasing down India A’s total of 249 for 9. While Bist and Hasabnis impressed with their contributions of 82 and 53 respectively, Australia A’s bowlers, particularly Brown with 4 for 23, played a crucial role in restricting the opposition and ensuring a successful chase.

Australia A continued their strong form in the second game, winning by eight wickets. Maddy Darke’s unbeaten 106, coupled with Katie Mack’s 68, anchored the chase of 219. The opening partnership between Darke and Mack, worth 131 runs, proved too strong for India A’s bowlers. Despite fifties from Bist and Hasabnis, India A was bowled out for 218, falling short of posting a match-winning total.

The final match, however, saw India A turn the tables with a dominant performance. Set a target of 244, Australia A was dismissed for just 72 in 22.1 overs, resulting in a commanding 171-run win for India A. This victory showcased India A’s ability to bounce back and deliver a decisive performance, though it wasn’t enough to overturn Australia A’s earlier successes in the series.

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Dynamic play on display as Australia A and India A compete fiercely in their thrilling one-day series. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures August 6, 2024:

Division 1:

Fiat (Donna Abbott, Emma Widdup, Allan Robins) d Ferrari (Steven Whiting, Janice Kent, Andrea Nicholson) 7-4. Steven d Allan -7, 5, -9, 9, 3.

Hyuandi (Allan Edwards, Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) d BMW (Barry Patterson, Geoff Denman, Tony Bowman) 6-5. Tim d Tony 11, 7, -9, -10, 7.

Audi (Andrew McHugh, Lily Boland, Ian McKay) d Honda (Graham Drury, Vince Boeske, Graham Brake) 7-4. Graham d Lily 3, -5, -3, 4, 6.

Alpha (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Delma Knight) d Holden (Mark Sleeman, Robbie Richards, Lee Brake) 6-5. Slee d Delma 5, -10, -10, 9, 12.

Division 2:

Mercedes (Will VanDeKaa, Darryl Ross, Judy Zahn) d Nissan (Noreen Fredericksen, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) 7-4. Will d Trent 5, 8, -10, 7.

Mazda (George Camilleri, Rymer Tabulo, Craig VanDeKaa) d Suzuki (Josie Davis, Matt West, Simon Hogan) 6-5. George d Matt -11, -11, 5, 9, 8.

Lexus (Duncan Treloar, Kade Wright, Coral Morgan) d Subaru (Jye Callander, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) 7-4. Coral d Bulldog -12, 8, 12, -4, 9.

Rolls (Ishara Lilanagamage, Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson) d Juguar (Leo Gilbert, Mark Stam, Neil Brown) 8-3. Geoff d Leo 10, -5, 10, -7, 9.
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Mark Sleeman. Photo supplied

The Jan Meng Memorial Doubles Tournament

The Jan Meng Memorial Doubles tournament brought out some great play at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre on Tuesday morning.

The competition was fierce for the trophy, named in honour of the late Jan Meng, who was an  organiser of the Tuesday morning fixtures for many years.

Tony Bowman and Frank Caruana narrowly defeated Marie Taylor and Bryan Marshall in a hard-fought final.

Players in all divisions competed in groups before the competition moved to the knockout stage, with some great matches witnessed.

Many thanks to fixture organiser Steve Mathieson, helped by a group of supporters, for a well-run tournament.

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Winners Frank Caruana and Tony Bowman with the Jan Meng Memorial Trophy. Photo supplied

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

E/W

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

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

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

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

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

E/W

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

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

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

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

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

E/W

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

E/W

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

Contributed By Joy Block

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks to Karla Houston

Photos supplied

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

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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