Hundreds of people flocked into the Whitsunday Sportspark on Saturday to enjoy the ninth annual Whitsunday Sports Expo.

Dozens of stalls were hosted by enthusiastic sports coaches, players and other volunteers who were all keen to impart their knowledge and meet potential new club members.

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Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Elise Hodgson won Tuesday's stableford with 39 points, with Lyn Muller the second lady on 33 points. Scott Mason had 35 points to edge out Phil Luckett in the men's field. Pins went to Tiina Randmae, Larry Muller, Gerard Lovell, and Craig McLean.

Joshua Norris edged out Tom O'Brien on 38 points to win Thursday's competition. John Roser and Brad Fleet had 37 points to lead the A division. Pins went to Aaron Prosser and Joshua Norris.

Brendan Spann won Friday's Met run with 21 points, with Larry Muller two shots adrift. Peter Faust won both pin shots.

Joshua Norris continued his great week by winning the RGH monthly medal with an impressive net 62; and his 80 off the stick secured the C grade gross prize.  A-grader Tony Goss turned back the clock with a winning 64 net, while Rob Stanley parred the course for the gross win. Ritchie Atkins wasn't far away with a 65 net to win the B grade medal. Steve Westley won the gross with 79. Jordyn Albergo had a fine 69 net to win the ladies' division. Runners up were Fraser Simpson, Craig Smith, John Dodds and TiinaRandmae. Pins went to Trevor Paroz, Levi Holmes and two to Elspeth Scotford.

Jon Miller shot five under par to win the KJC Diesel Sunday monthly medal by two shots from Scott Lee on 67 net. Nicole Cooper had a great 66 net, ten shots ahead of Peta Thomas in the ladies' division. Pins went to Paula McQuat, Jon Miller, Nicole Cooper, and Sean Fogarty.

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Contributed with thanks to the Pro Shop team at Proserpine Golf Club.

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Photos supplied

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Airlie Beach local Dennis Winstanley has shown the high calibre of NQ sailing talent in the Windsurfer World Championships held over the New Year at the South of Perth Yacht Club in Western Australia, winning gold in the heavy weight Course Racing and silver in the Marathon.  

The 2023 Worlds were held in Australia, following the successful reboot of Windsurfer World Competitions in Italy in 2022. Taking the opportunity to attend a rare ‘home’ Worlds, Dennis, former 2001 World Champion and multiple national champion travelled with his family to WA in the hope of using the windy west coast as a good training ground in the lead up to the event as he hadn’t competed nationally for 5 years.

The spectacular Marathon had 250 competitors start on a near kilometre-long starting line. Dennis and Australian Olympic medalist windsurfer Lars Kleppich broke away from the fleet early on and battled it out for first and second the entire two laps of the river with the lead changing multiple times. Dennis finished second place by only a few metres in an awe-inspiring race between long term friends and on water rivals.

Fellow Port Denison Sailing Club member and Bowen local Sam Belyea (aged 16 at the time) joined the medium weights and was awarded the Western Australian Junior Champion at the WA States prior to the Worlds. He also positioned 12th overall in the medium weight course racing in his very first World Competition and gained invaluable large fleet experience.

Dennis credits his time sailing over the years from Hamilton Island, Airlie Beach, and Bowen for his ability to adjust to all wind, wave, and tide conditions on the water, and looks forward to the racing season beginning on February 11th at Port Denison Sailing Club, Bowen.  

Port Denison Sailing Club will also host the Qld Windsurfer State Championships mid-year, with dates TBA, and it is hoped that interstate competitors will travel to pit themselves against the hot Qld contingent in preparation for the Worlds in September.

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Dennis Winstanley practising on the Swan River just prior to the main event. Photo credit: Windsurfer Class Association of Australia

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23 Cannonvale Cannons travelled to Townsville to compete at the Townsville Tourists LC Meet.  

The Cannons had an excellent weekend with swimmers achieving State and National qualifying times, accumulating 70 PBs, earning A Grade times, ribbons, medals, and the Skins. Jy Parkinson qualified for the Australian Age Championships for his 100m Backstroke and won all his events. Jacob Bell won the Medley Skins event and was thrilled with the prize money. Addie Sanders, Andie Reynolds, and Indi Smith were excited to achieve an extra state qualifying time over the weekend.  

Special mentions: Eloise Chegwidden won all her events. Koa Harland achieved 2 A Grade times and won her 100m Breaststroke with a 15.18sec PB. Tiana Bell, Levi Smith, and Zach Trefz swam awesome times in their 200m IM, with huge PBs. Levi and Zach swam PBs in just about all their events. Zach won his 50m Breaststroke, 50m Freestyle, 100m Butterfly and 50m Backstroke. Declan Dichiera and Nelson Malady had a fantastic carnival. One of Declan’s best swims was his 100m Butterfly which he swam in a time of 1.37.13 to earn 1st place and a 19.25sec PB. Nelson swam brilliant Backstroke, earning 1st place in his 50m and 100m races. Isabella Pisaniello won three of her events. Her best swim was her 50m Breaststroke in a time of 41.53, a 2.28sec PB. Dylan Reynolds swam 5PBs and won her 50m Backstroke and 100m Freestyle.  

Holly Perrin, Remy Hedges, Don Algie, Thomas Ganter, Alex Trefz, Ruby Harland, Maeve Dichiera, Harry Chegwidden, and Isaac Pisaniello swam extremely well, achieving top placings in the age group.

Congratulations to all the swimmers! A big thank you to the coaches and parents for all their support!  

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Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

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The Hibiscus Coast District Scouts are on the lookout for passionate leaders ready to embark on an exciting journey of guiding and inspiring our local youth - the leaders of tomorrow. With the demand for scouting groups soaring, they urgently need energetic adult volunteer leaders to join in the thrill of the adventure.

Whether you're a parent eager to contribute or an individual with a zeal for volunteering, this is your chance to play a crucial role in supporting local youth on a thrilling path of learning and growth. Exciting details about this incredible opportunity can be discovered at the Mackay Regional Council's Sports Expo.

Becoming a scout leader isn't just about outdoor escapades and scouting principles; it's a dynamic, fulfilling experience that lets you reconnect with the vibrancy of youth. Plus, you'll have the fantastic opportunity to impart essential life skills to the children in our community. Get ready to join the excitement, shape the future, and be part of an adventure that's as thrilling as it is rewarding!

Try The Five

Participants are required to wear enclosed shoes (no crocs or sandals), a hat, bring a water bottle, and wear activity-appropriate clothing. The schedule includes paddling on February 3rd (book at https://www.trybooking.com/COFXS), a rope bridge on February 11th (no booking needed at the Sports Expo), archery on February 17th (book at https://www.trybooking.com/COGNJ), abseiling on February 18th (book at https://www.trybooking.com/COGNI), and mountain biking on February 24th (book at https://www.trybooking.com/COGNK). The activities are open to individuals aged 5 years and older, both youth and adults are welcome. It's four weeks of thrilling experiences. Please note that this is a volunteer activity, and youth participants cannot be dropped off without proper supervision.

It’s time to turn off the device and get outdoors. The Adventure awaits!

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You don’t need to be a seasoned player to give netball a try. The Mackay Netball Association has teams for all players, from those who can simply just play for fun, to more competitive teams!

Ranging from children’s games to junior teams right through to senior competitions, this all-inclusive netball association gives those who are keen on joining a variety of options to make sure the players get the best out of their time on the courts.

“Last year we had 1700 members and we’re always looking for more,” said Mackay Netball’s Operations Manager, Sharon Sutherland.

Catering to those who are unsure about signing up, some Clubs offer an option to come and try to see if you like it before paying to register into a team. That way, you or your child gets the opportunity to attend a training session to see what it’s all about before making the big decision to join.

Small children’s games from 7 to 10 years are played in a modified manner, with no score and no winner or loser. This ensures the emphasis is on fun and skills development in a nurturing environment.  

There are plenty of teams looking for new players for all ages.

“We start our competition junior grading at the end of February, we’ve got 13 clubs looking for players for teams located in Moranbah and throughout the Whitsundays, including 11 clubs in Mackay,” Ms Sutherland explains.

The Mackay Netball Association is aiming to have a demonstration at Mackay Regional Council’s Sports Expo at the demo zone for those interested in seeing netball skills in action. There will be club members and players at the Expo to answer questions and hand out information about the season ahead.

For more information, email operations@mackaynetball.com or visit Mackay Netball Association’s website, mackaynetball.com.

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Mackay's biggest sport and recreation sign-on event is just over a week away.

The JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo will have more than 100 clubs on display, creating a one-stop-shop of sport and recreation opportunities.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was exciting to be back at the MECC for the second year in a row, after COVID-19 caused the event to go online-only for 2021 and 2022.

“This year’s event will be action packed, with a range of active zone demonstrations and all the usual prizes and competitions, such as nominate your favourite club and random draws,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The expo will include dozens of interactive booths, two active zone areas in the south foyer and interactive activities outside,” he said. 

“The outdoor activities will include a Scouts’ rope bridge, dragonboat paddling, woodchopping and lawn bowls. 

“In an effort to make the event more inclusive and accessible, we'll also have a relaxed session at the start of the event.

“We included the relaxed session at last year’s event, but it has been brought forward this year to an earlier time, 9am to 10am, to make it more accessible. 

“The relaxed session is for people who appreciate a quieter environment. The doors to the MECC will be opened, lights turned down and sound levels kept to a minimum.

“JET Group Mackay have really picked up the ball and run with it, taking on the naming rights sponsorship for the second year in a row.

“To celebrate they are giving away $1000 to one of the clubs on display.

“Those attending are encouraged to nominate their favourite club at the event for a chance to win.”

One person who nominates their favourite club will also win a large trolley cooler bag, valued at $99, thanks to in-kind sponsor Brand Factor.

Harrup Park Country Club and its Great Barrier Reef Arena have come onboard again this year as a bronze sponsor.

Other sponsors for the event include media partners Star 101.9, 4MK and Channel 7.

The event will be held Sunday, February 11, from 9am to 1pm, with Star 101.9 broadcasting live.

For more information, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/sportexpo

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What: JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo

When: Sunday, February 11, from 9am to 1pm

Where: The MECC

Tickets: Free entry

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IT'S COMPETITION TIME!

JET Group Mackay is the proud naming rights sponsor for the 2024 event once again, and to celebrate they are giving away $2000 to local clubs!

1. SOCIAL MEDIA VIDEO COMPETITION - sport and recreation clubs
Local sport and recreation clubs who have registered for the JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo can enter to win a $1000 cheque for their club!

> How to enter:
Create a short video to show how excited your club would be if you win, what you would spend the $1000 on and share it on social media. When sharing your video remember to include the hashtag in your social media post #mackaysportexpo. It’s recommended to email communications@mackay.qld.gov.au to let them know, so they can find your entry. Feel free to be as creative as you like and use the video to showcase your club, members and facilities.

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In an attempt to host the one-of-a-kind Australia Day Carnival at the Mackay Bowls Club, Tropical Cyclone Kirrily had other plans and caused the region to prepare for the worst, resulting in a hard decision to postpone the event. Despite the weather warning threats issued throughout the week, a group of determined players declared the weather to be fine on the Friday and continued to play a game of bowls.

A game of Scroungers played off in the afternoon with a full group of bowlers brightening up the field in their Australia Day attire. In the final, a game of 21 ends was played with Antony Shepherd def Col Marks.

The Australia Day Bowls event will now be held on Saturday the 3rd of March, starting at 1.00pm. Nomination forms will be on Noticeboard at the Club. Raffles continue on Friday night so come along and support the club.

WEEKLY RESULTS

Winners of Winners were: Col Stevens. Mick D'Alesso and Brian Williams.

Winners of Losers were: Karina Dunn, Carol Savage and Brad Robertson.

Tuesday Bowls will continue starting at 1pm, Scroungers on Thursday starting at 2pm and Friday Ladies Social begins at 1pm.

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Contributed by Mike Irving

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Tropical Cyclone Kirrily was no match for these seasoned bowlers. Photo supplied

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Thank you to the Mackay Regional Council for sponsoring Mackay Contract Bridge Club’s Australia Day session. An important part of the day was the introduction to play bridge that was held for visitors. Twelve visitors, potential new players were welcomed, which was a great turn out. We hope to see them back for the lessons starting on Tuesday morning, 6th February at 9am or Wednesday night, 7th February at 6.30pm. Any interested people are most welcome to attend. It’s an interesting game that really gets you in and challenges you. We run day, night and Saturday sessions, so it is suitable for retired people or people who work or have other commitments. It’s a great game for teens to centenarians and anyone in between.

Weekly Results

Monday 22 January 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points

1st

Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy

2nd

Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

3rd

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

4th

Marlin Robins / Mick Robins

5th

Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood

6th

Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

Tuesday Evening 23 January 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

1st

Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia

1st

Terrence Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

2nd

Mick Robins / Diane Cox

2nd

Janelle Conroy / Eric Lievesley

3rd

Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood

3rd

Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

Wednesday 24 January 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Geoff Taylor / Louise Renton

1st

Terry Sheedy / Eric Lievesley

2nd

Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

2nd

Joy Block / Richard Wix

3rd

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

3rd

Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

4th

Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

4th

Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell

Friday 26 January 2024 - 12 Table Mitchell Green Points – Australia Day

N/S

E/W

1st

Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

1st

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2nd

Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

2nd

David Ting / Ming Ting

3rd

Mary Rose Ramsden / Faye Wright

3rd

Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell

4th

Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger

4th

Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

5th

Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor

5th

Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

Saturday 27 January 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

1st

Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

2nd

Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

2nd

David Ting / Ming Ting

3rd

Roland Taylor / Jarek Taylor

3rd

Terrence Sheedy / Thelma Caruana

4th

Frances Brown / Laura Howland

4th

Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris

5th

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

5th

Jewel Schmidt / Susan Ross

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Contributed by Joy Block

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Table of potential new players

Enjoying Australia Day play

Patricia Garner in the spirit

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team kicked off at the Bluewater Lagoon for Shawn’s Summer Social Series, experiencing excruciating heat conditions which prevailed throughout the previous week and Australia Day long weekend. Club Captain and Race Director, Jim Ford switched up the course to reduce the exposure of heat by converting the event to a four-loop style. This newly structured route catered for those who were running the longer distances as well as the shorter distances and allowed for runners to monitor themselves throughout the steaming hot, tropical day.

Acknowledging the hardy efforts of Paul Mackenzie and Grant Holmstrom who showed no signs of slowing down despite their early morning hilly training session after they decided to add Jim’s afternoon session for a bit of fun!  The younger age group included; Jarrod Mackie, Luke Leven, Lily Leven, Amber Holmstrom and Jess Harris, who performed extremely well in the testing conditions. Andrew Wallace and Carmel Mahon missed their running buddy, Steve Oberg, who’s currently in New Zealand. Speaking of NZ…David Isbister will be jetting off there shortly as well, taking his wife to celebrate her 70th birthday with family and friends and surely enjoying the much cooler climate there! Among the mighty performances on display; Greame Harris, Tim Dalton, Alana Knesevic, Glynis Forse, Leanne Coulthard, Brenda Windsor, Shane Barben, Simon Henderson, Daniel Stampa and Melissa Harris absolutely smashed it out on the day.

This Sunday’s final event for the 2023/2024 Shawn’s Summer Social Series will commence at 5.15pm from the Memorial Pool carpark opposite Canelands. There will be post run refreshments as usual, Zooper Doopers donated by Club Patron Col Meng as well as random draw prizes from the weekly $2 race fee.  The remaining funds will be donated to Pancare (Pancreatic Cancer Research).  

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Among over thirty runners, Melissa Harris takes the lead in the early stages of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series Bluewater Lagoon penultimate event for the 2023/2024 series.

Paul MacKenzie leads junior talent, Jarrod Mackie in the four loop 10km Bluewater Lagoon event.

Mackay Road Runners Jo, Kim, Leanne, Lauren and Glynis welcome new runner Michelle (2nd left).

Carmel Mahon, Andrew Wallace and Leanne Coulthard missing their running buddy, Steve who is in NZ.

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Long-time Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixture organiser Iris Grasso has been honoured for her dedication to the sport.

Iris has been awarded honorary membership for 2024, which entitles her to one year’s free registration. The competition starts this Tuesday, January 30.

Iris and Pam Joyce have been the organisers for eight years since 2017, and their involvement goes back 20 years.

Steve Mathieson and Tony Bowman have taken over organisation of the fixtures, which kicked off with the traditional doubles tournament on Tuesday.

“But the base has been set high by Iris and Pam. The challenge is on,” Steve said.

Iris maintained the “Black Book” where she recorded all of the players, teams and related weekly and statistics information for each season, memories which Steve has digitised.

It took a number of days to complete due to Iris’s attention to detail when recording each season’s data. Looks like Steve was quite happy to hand the book back after such a long effort.

Andrea Nicholson (division 1) and Ken Best (division 2) took out the season-opening competition, which is held with different combinations on a rotating basis, first to 31.

If you’d like to join the fixtures, contact Steve on 0418 700 236.

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Tuesday morning Mackay table tennis fixture organiser Steve Mathieson with Iris Grasso, who is now a full-time player. Photo: Charlie Payne

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WEEKLY RESULTS

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures round 1, January 23, 2024:

Division 1:

Mercedes (Graeme Walker, Steven Whiting, Graham Brake) d Lexus (Andrew McHugh, Janice Kent, Tony Bowman) 7-4. Janice d Graeme -11, 10, -1, 9, 10.

Jaguar (Vince Boeske, Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) d Ferrari (Jason Hodda, Robbie Richards, Geoff Denman) 9-2. Robbie d Vince 6, -8, -3, 7, 8.

Audi (Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake Lily Boland) d BMW (Ian McKay, Emma Widdup, Allan Edwards) 6-5. Emma/Allan d Mick/Lily -9, 8, -6, 9, 10.

Division 2:

Kia (Matt West, Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson) d Hyundai (Donna Abbott, Delma Knight, Marie Taylor) 7-4. Geoff d Donna 13, -10, 4, 7.

Isuzu (Mark Stam, George Camilleri, Steve Mathieson) d Mazda (Mark Sleeman, David Symons) 6-5. Mark d Bulldog -5, 9, 7, 10.

Nissan (Will VanDeKaa, Duncan Treloar, Simon Hogan) d Honda (Leo Gilbert, Andrea Nicholson, Jye Callander) 9-2. Andrea d Simon -7, -4, 9, 8, 13.

Tuesday morning hit off with the annual doubles tournament, won by Andrea Nicholson (division 1) and Ken Best (division 2). The competition starts this week.

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Janice Kent in action at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre

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Mackay's fitness enthusiasts gathered last weekend to kick off the Mackay Triathlon Club's Aquathlon series, and the excitement is far from over. With two more races on the horizon, this aquatic adventure offers a refreshing way to beat the humidity while embracing a multisport challenge.

The Aquathlon series unfolds at the Pioneer Pool in North Mackay, providing participants with a unique combination of running and swimming. The course consists of a 2.5-kilometer run followed by a 300-meter swim in the pristine pool waters. For those seeking an extra dose of adventure, the sprint distance allows participants to repeat the run-and-swim sequence twice, adding an exhilarating challenge to the event.

This Sunday morning, set your alarms for 7:30 am as the Aquathlon series continues with another thrilling race. Whether you're a seasoned triathlete or a newcomer looking to dip your toes into multisport activities, this event caters to all fitness levels.

As the Mackay Triathlon Club gears up for a dynamic season, the Aquathlon series is just the beginning. On February 25th, the club is set to host a women's-only triathlon, providing a supportive and empowering environment for female athletes to shine. March brings the Teams Triathlon, fostering camaraderie and teamwork in the pursuit of fitness goals.

However, the spotlight of anticipation falls on the highly awaited Eimeo Triathlon in April. Mark your calendars for this pinnacle event, where athletes from Mackay and beyond will converge to tackle a challenging course and celebrate the spirit of triathlon.

Don't miss out on the action—dive into the Aquathlon series and embark on a journey of fitness, community, and multisport excellence with the Mackay Triathlon Club.

RESULTS

Enticer female winner: Shailee Mewha

Enticer male winner: Nathaniel Espartinez

Sprint female winner: Demi Caldwell

Sprint male winner: Christian Smith

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Mackay Triathlon Club’s Aquathlon winners. Photo supplied

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As the sun painted the sky with hues of orange and gold early on Australia Day, Moranbah buzzed with excitement for a unique celebration – the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon, an initiative proudly hosted by the Isaac Regional Council. The word had spread, and multisport enthusiasts from far and wide eagerly converged on this vibrant community to partake in the thrilling event. Thankfully, TC Kirrily had stayed far enough north to not impose a threat to competitors.

The triathlon offered a variety of distances, attracting participants of all fitness levels, from seasoned athletes to those seeking a refreshing challenge. The promise of attractive prize money served as an extra incentive, ensuring a spirited competition awaited the eager contenders.

More than just a race, the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon became a beacon of community spirit, embodying the ethos of Isaac's 'people power.' Residents lined the routes, cheering and encouraging participants as they conquered the swim, cycling, and running segments.

For those who relish the thrill of swimming, cycling, and running, this triathlon was a perfect opportunity to showcase their skills and push their limits. Moranbah’s Australia Day Triathlon emerged not just as a sporting event but as a symbol of shared goals, communal support, and the joy of living an active and healthy lifestyle.

First Place Winners

Enticer Triathlon:

1st Female: Isabelle Cahill

1st Male: Isaac Hammer

Sprint Triathlon:

1st Female: Demi Caldwell

1st Male: Christian Smith

Team Triathlon:

1st Place: Miles Frequent Flyers

Mini Kids Triathlon:

1st Female: Grace Cahill

1st Male: Ashton Zweers

Mini Kids Aquathlon:

1st Place: Marcus Strauss

Aquathon:

1st Place: Belinda Binnekamp

Duathlon:

1st Female: Janine King

1st Male: Murray Wonnocott

Aquabike:

1st Place: Benjamin Medhurst

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Being immersed in the water has always been a passion of Jacob Bell, and becoming a senior squad swimmer with the Cannonvale Cannons, he is now welcoming more opportunities to venture into the professional leagues.

For Jacob, being a part of the Cannonvale Cannons and having the opportunity to get into the water at any chance is something he thrives upon.

“I love challenging myself and conquering my goals,” Jacob explained.

“My favourite parts of the sport are competing at carnivals, being a member of a relay team, meeting people who are like minded and having opportunities to do ocean swims and water polo.”

Now 17-years-old, Jacob acts as a mentor and role model for the junior swimmers, assisting the youth swimmers in accomplishing their goals and bettering their techniques, while perfecting his own coaching skills.

As part of the Cannons, Jacob loves competing and regularly accomplishes podium finishes and accolades across North Queensland.

“I have several highlights which include qualifying and competing at the Australian Age Championships and Queensland School Swimming Championships,” he explained.

“In 2023, I was the first male to finish the Magnetic Island to Townsville swim and I have achieved top placings in the Hamilton Island Ocean Swim.”  

Head to the Whitsunday Sports Expo this weekend and find out how you can be part of this inspiring sporting club alongside Jacob.

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Quick Quiz:

Favourite sports star: Sam Short

Favourite moment in sporting history: 2023 World Swim Champs – Male 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay when Kyle Chalmers smashed the last leg of the relay to earn the team a gold medal.  

Best sporting advice anyone ever gave you? Enjoy the ride! Don’t get caught up with ups and downs.

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Taking to the court, the players of Whitsunday Netball Association are eager to kick their 2024 season off with a bang, welcoming new players and returning players to the Whitsunday Sportspark for a season set to be one of the best yet.

Since its inception in 1992, the Whitsunday Netball Association (WNA) has a rich history of teaching and developing players skills and techniques, offering competitive support and key opportunities for growth and professional avenues.

However, at the core of WNA is the values of respect, friendship, and camaraderie.

“Although small in size,” explained Marteaka Hoffmann, Secretary of WNA.

“WNA creates opportunities for lifelong friendships on and off the court.

“Many of our junior members go on to join the committee or help mentor future players. All our members get to keep up their fitness while playing a game they love.”

As one of the fastest growing team sports globally, netball fosters a sense of connection and ability.

“We have the highest participation sport for women,” Ms Hoffmann explained.

“And with the introduction of modified games, it's a sport that can be enjoyed by all. No matter their age, skill, or fitness level. Something for everyone, we offer both social and competitive avenues.”

Welcoming players from as young as five-years old all the way up to seniors, every individual is catered for and able to engage in the sport.

“We are constantly striving on improving our club and introducing more opportunities for the wider community to experience and enjoy netball,” Ms Hoffmann explained.

“Our end of year mixed competition is always a great social end to the season. We love seeing the men out on court and learning the rules in just eight weeks. We encourage all who enjoy the sport to participate in any capacity possible, whether it be playing, volunteering, officiating, or supporting. Netball is a sport that is inclusive of male and female players of any age, skill, or fitness.”

Venture to the Whitsunday Netball Association booth this Saturday, February 3, at the Sports Expo and register!

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