Sports

Wangaratta Bowls Club News

Wangaratta Bowls Club News

On Tuesday, S Jones, D Retchless and M Hyde defeated B Myers, S Querro and A Vigar. In the other game A Nailand and R Hyde defeated S Adams and B Querro. The jackpot didn’t go off. Club Competition for the week. In the Men’s A Singles A Rolfe defeated G Read. Ladies B Grade singles. T Bowen defeated C Jeal, Crooked Kitty D Wallace defeated P Warren. Ladies Fours. L Suann, S Jones, D Retchless and M Hyde defeated L Scells, P Tracey, D Wallace and P Warren. Winners for Sunday afternoon were Bill Myers, D Retchless and G Read defeating A Nailand, M Hyde and P Tracey. Other games: T Bowen, S Querro and R Hyde defeated C Jeal, A Vigar and G Charles. L Suann and P Warren defeated T Blair and S Jeal. The jackpot didn’t go off. It is not long now until our Winter Bingo starts. Get ready for Friday 1st May at the club for a 9.30 start. Check Facebook for further details. Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren 1 - Sunday's Winners Deb Retchless and Graeme Read. Proserpine Bowls Club Report On Wednesday, 8 players enjoyed games of pairs in Social bowls. Bruce Uhe and Barry Zillmann defeated Alen Sanderson and Trevor Parsons 28 - 13; Henny Tattam and Mike Harrison defeated Arthur Griffith and Philip Brown 24 - 11. As so many people had family commitments during the weekend, we didn't have any social bowls on Sunday. Looking forward to a bit drier time in the weather so that we can get on to working our way through the competition games. Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club


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Whitsunday Sea Eagles Light Up the Sportspark

Whitsunday Sea Eagles Light Up the Sportspark

It’s time to celebrate for the Whitsunday Sea Eagles as they enter an exciting new chapter, with years of hard work culminating in the installation of new lights for the AFL oval at Whitsunday Sportspark. For years the Whitsunday Sea Eagles have shown up week in, week out training and playing in semi-darkness, while continuing to build the strong and successful club we see today. “This is a huge milestone for our Club, and we couldn’t be prouder of our Committee and volunteers. The time and effort they’ve poured in behind the scenes truly shows their passion for creating something special and lasting for our community” said Whitsunday Sea Eagles President Chris Morrison said. Excited by the return of night footy to the Whitsunday Sportspark, the Sea Eagles will host a special ANZAC Day fixture against Moranbah to be played under lights for the first time. At approximately 5:30pm between the Women’s and Men’s matches the Last Post will be played - providing a moment to pause, reflect, and honour the significance of the day - before the Men’s game kicks off under lights at 6:00pm. Saturday 25 April – Whitsunday Sportspark AFL Oval 10:40am U16 Girls – Moranbah Bulldogs v Mackay Magpies 11:55am U13s – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs 1:15pm U15s – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs 2:40pm U17s – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs 4:10pm Senior Women – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs Approx 5:30pm – Last Post 6:00pm Senior Men – Whitsunday Sea Eagles v Moranbah Bulldogs Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles Captions Photo credit: Musco Lighting Australia

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Proserpine Golf Club Vets Results

Proserpine Golf Club Vets Results

The March 2026 Monthly Medal was played on Tuesday March 31st – finally! Blustery conditions and sandy greens greeted the 10 ladies and 19 men. Congratulations to ladies winner Leanne Alexander (becoming a habit) and David Woods for the men. Welcome to new members Norman Foster, Steven Stewart and Michael Stewart. RESULTS LADIES Winner: Leanne Alexander with 73 nett R/Up: Tiina Randmae also with 73 nett on a count back Rundown: Tina Badenhorst (74), Paula McQuat and Kath Borer both with 75 points MEN Winner: David Woods with a creditable 67 nett R/Up: John Oates with 68 nett Rundown: Colin Hounsell (71), Gary Scotford (72), Steven Stewart (73), Craig McLean (birthday boy), John Roser, Neil Cawthorne, Louis Neethling and Norman Foster all with 75 nett PIN SHOTS Ladies: A Grade - Tina Badenhorst (x2) and Elspeth Scotford B Grade - Tina Randmae (x2) and Paula McQuat Men: A Grade - Ken Granger, Gary Scotford and Nick Apruzzese B Grade - David Woods (x2) and Peter Lindsay LEAST PUTTS Elspeth Scotford 28 putts and Barry Mortimer 28 putts CHIP INS No chip ins NAGAs For a ball each, Jenny Hounsell and John Strelec DRAWS: MEMBERSHIP jackpots to $30 next week RAFFLE $50 to Ken Granger UPCOMING EVENTS: TUE 7/4/26 - APRIL 2026 MONTHLY MEDAL TUE 14/4/26 - HOME HILL WHITSUNDAY GROUP DITTY Our Vets President now knows that a fancy car may cost you both time and money! 1- Monthly medal winners, David Woods and Leanne Alexander

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Airlie Beach Bowls Club Weekly News

Airlie Beach Bowls Club Weekly News

Starting on Tuesday afternoon, play was run by Lyn Graham, where skipper David Bradley, with lead Gail Simms and second Dawn Dowell, were the winners of the day. Wednesday afternoon social bowls saw a fantastic performance from Bob Spees as skipper. He was absolutely unstoppable, with Rick Brunell, arguably the best lead in the club, and Ian Passfield, a new bowler who is going places fast as he improves each week. He will no doubt be a very valuable asset to our little club in the future. Their winning score was 25–14. Saturday morning saw the resumption of Scroungers, with all players vying for a place in the final. First-round winners were Tony Whitehorn, who won his way into the final in a tiebreaker, and Russell Jackson, who was the victor in the A Division. The B Division was won by Dennis Donadelli, beating Margo Stanley, which is a very difficult achievement. Congratulations to all. Sunday afternoon social bowls saw 18 bowlers competing for the prize, and it was wonderful to welcome back ex-President Peter Barrett, our Life Member Paul Osborne, and Mrs Alma Rose Mawson after three months in the Philippines. John rolled the dice, which came up number 3, meaning the prize was for the biggest winning margin. This was won by the team of skipper Peter Barrett, with the relentless “Wild Bill” Gordon at lead and Bowen’s finest, Don Hogarth, at second, who won 25–15. Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson Captions
Skipper Peter Barrett, lead Bill Gordon, and Don Hogarth at second. Photo supplied

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Woolworths Happy Easter

Whitsunday Golf Club: June Monthly Medal

July 11, 2024

Despite the very unpromising weather maps, Whitsunday Golf Club (WGC) put out a field of 18 players to compete in the Monthly Medal/Least Putts for July, generously sponsored by Airlie Panel & Paint and Master Butchers Whitsunday.
Here are the results for the day:
Ladies A Grade:
   • Winner: Elise Hodgson with 75 nett
   • Runner-up: Anna Winterbourn with 79
   • Longest Drive: Anna Winterbourn
Ladies B Grade:
   • Winner: Jo Moynihan with 75 nett
   • Runner-up: Karen Rix with 82
   • Longest Drive: Karen Rix
Men’s A Grade:
   • Winner: George Meharry with 69 nett
   • Runner-up: Andrew Albergo with 71
   • Longest Drive: Mata Browne
Men’s B Grade:
   • Winner: David Hoy with 74 nett
   • Runner-up: Dean Kercher with 76
   • Longest Drive: Dean Kercher
NTPs:
   • For the ladies: Jo Moynihan and Pam Casey
   • For the men: Mark McDougall, Don Cameron, and David Hoy
Least Putts:
   • Elise Hodgson with 31
   • George Meharry with 26 - that’s very good putting on the day.
NAGAs:
   • The honours went to Pam Casey and Leigh Jones, with a drink courtesy of Aaron and Tracy Watts, proprietors of RADS Whitsunday who provide respite accommodation and disability support services.
Upcoming Fixtures:
   • 14/7: Stableford competition
   • 21/7: Mark Nicol Memorial Trophy - a 2-ball Ambrose, his favourite format

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

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On The Whitsunday Green  Weekly 9-Hole Stableford Results

July 11, 2024

The weekly 9-hole stableford competition saw Paul Foster take the win with 20 points. In second place, with an 18-point count-back, was Glenn Rees. Third place, also with 18 points on a count-back, went to Brody Thompson..
Sunday's 4BBB Event
Sunday's 4BBB event saw Edwina and Troy Pettiford take the win with a net score of 46.25. The nearest to the pin was Rob Lodders. Great job by all participants.
Upcoming Club Championships
This Sunday, 14th July, our Club Championships will tee off between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.

Edwina Pettiford and Troy Pettiford

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Sea Eagles Hit The Road

July 11, 2024

This week Sea Eagles made the early morning trek out to take on Moranbah Bulldogs in all grades except Senior Men who headed south to Mackay City Hawks.

After leading most of the match Sea Eagles Senior Men could not hold on going down by 5 points to the Mackay City Hawks 34 – 39. Midfield bulls Billy Galpin and Billy Gardner were dominating again whilst Eden Wishart had the ball on a string at stages. Sea Eagles now look to find some form against formidable North Mackay Saints this coming week.

Sea Eagles Senior Women headed to Moranbah with minimum numbers pumped and ready to go. With Coach Tyson Seamer reminding them to have fun and play their own game Sea Eagles came out with a comfortable win 47 – 12.

Sea Eagles Under 17s although missing a number of players put in a solid effort with a 9 – 69 loss against the Moranbah Bulldogs who got a hot start and could not be headed.

Sea Eagles Under 14s watched Moranbah Bulldogs hit the scoreboard early with fast and direct play which left Sea Eagles behind 25 – 55 at the final siren.

Sea Eagles Under 12s took out a convincing win 67 – 7 (adj) against Moranbah Bulldogs in the half way point of their season to solidify second place on the ladder and the hope to give finals a crack.

This week AFLQ Mackay celebrate Pride Round providing opportunity to promote inclusivity and acceptance of gender diversity in sport and role model to make the community a safer place. Whitsunday Sea Eagles Under 14s and Under 17s take on Mackay Magpies in Mackay and Senior Men take on North Mackay Saints at Zeolla Park.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles.

Photo Credit: Cody Fowler

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Proserpine Golfing News

July 11, 2024

Steve Lucas took out Tuesday's stableford with 38 points ahead of Jason Whitney with 37 points. Pins went to Luke Nightingale Jon Miller and Brendan Spann.

Thursday's A and B division winners, Scott Mason and Luke Wayth, both had 40 points. Jacob Nightingale and Izaac Vandenburg were the runners up. Pins went to Jacob Nightingale, Finbar O'Flynn, Timothy Miller and Scott Mason.

Brendan Spann had 22 points to win Friday's Met run with Chris Pirlo two shots adrift. Ben Smith won the pin shot.

Saturday's weather was kind enough to see 136 players compete for the prized Scramble four-person ambrose. The gun Sarina team of Ian Dunn, Darren Symons,

Christopher Dunn and Gregory James along with locals Ryan Wilkes, Izaac Vandenburg, Ryan Kenny and Mark Thompson qualified for the regional final.

Blake Lovelock had 41 points on Sunday to beat Corey Stroud by four shots. The leading ladies were Anna Winterbourn on 31 points and Tiina Randmae on 29.

Pins went to Karen Rix, Corey Stroud, Daniel Davis and Andrew Albergo.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.

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A Creative Mind Jess Begun, Patron Of Whitsundays Writers Festival

July 4, 2024

by Festival Vice President, Melinda Louise Hutchings
After a seven-year hiatus, the Whitsundays Writers Festival will be making a triumphant return 6-8 September, promising an immersive celebration for writers, readers, and thinkers alike, and a stellar line-up of Australia's leading literary figures.
The Patron of the Festival, Jessica Begun, is already known to many in the community due to her ongoing and steadfast commitment to promoting and expanding the Arts in the Whitsundays region over several years.
“I feel honoured to be serving as the Patron of this year’s renewed Whitsundays Writers Festival,” Jessica said.
“The Festival has succeeded beyond my wildest imaginings in featuring leading Australian writers in stimulating and interactive events that both celebrate and create valuable opportunities for aspiring writers, and of course, avid readers.”
Jessica’s love affair with the Whitsundays began in 1991 when she arrived in Australia on her sailboat with her husband and two sons. After spending two years sailing across the Pacific from Boston to Australia, Jessica and her family spent several months exploring the east coast and fell in love with the beauty of the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef.
The following year, Jessica and her family immigrated to Australia and berthed their boat at Hamilton Island Marina. After purchasing land in 1995 and building the Cape Gloucester Eco Resort in 2001, which they sold in 2008, they lived in Maleny on the Sunshine Coast for 20 years before moving permanently to Cape Gloucester in 2015.
“I have been very fortunate to have been able to pursue a creative life starting as a potter in Norway in 1973 and culminating in my Master of Fine Arts from QUT Academy of the Arts in directing,” Jessica said. “I participated in theatre, ceramics, and painting in Massachusetts in the 80s, as well as film making and working in arts events in Maleny including the Woodford Fire Event, the Maleny Film Society, Maleny community radio, and the Real Food Festival.”
Jessica was settling into retired life at Cape Gloucester when she met Cathy Knezevic, the exhibition officer at Artspace in Mackay, in 2019. Keen to create an arts festival, Cathy suggested they combine their skills and as a result, the inaugural Whitsundays Arts Festival launched in September 2020.
Tragically, Cathy had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer when Jessica received news of their success in gaining funding for the inaugural Arts Festival. The second and third festivals in 2021 and 2022 continued to expand the event with the inaugural Songwriter Festival, Arts Prize Exhibition, a focus on multicultural performance and stories, and a film screening at the new Proserpine Entertainment Centre. Cathy continued to battle cancer and lived to enjoy the second festival with her whole family, and her legacy lives on through Jessica’s continued dedication to expanding the arts in the Whitsundays region.
“Festivals provide the best opportunities for our creative community to celebrate the arts and meet other like-minded artists in the community,” expressed Jessica. “I encourage you to come to many of the exciting events planned over the three- day writers festival as possible.”

WHAT: Whitsundays Writers Festival
WHEN: 6-8 September  
TICKETS: whitsundayswriters.com

Co-founder of Whitsunday Arts Festival, Jess Begun, announced as patron of upcoming Whitsundays Writers Festival. Photo supplied

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PROSERPINE BOWLS SEASON

July 4, 2024

A big thank you to all who contributed both on and off the green, to a good year for our club in both Pennants Divisions contested.  Division 1 finished second in the District with 8 match wins and 18.5 Rink wins and a margin of plus 82 to Souths Suburban with 8 match wins 23 Rink wins and a margin of plus 199.   Division 5 finished 3rd with 4 Match Wins, 1 Match Draw, 11 Rink wins and a margin of 0.  North Mackay won Division 5  with 8 Match wins and 1 Match draw and a  margin of 64. 

In this weekend's matches Division 1 played North Mackay at Proserpine on Saturday.  Michael Kinnear, Marcus Craig, Barry Saroglia and Nathan Harriott  won 42 - 5;  Shane Kinnear, David Ling, Andrew Bell and Wayne Handley won 19 - 16;  Toby Craig, Jonathan Bye, Scott Hamilton and Gavin Milne won 23 - 7 for Proserpine 84- North Mackay 38, scoring Proserpine all 6 points plus a Margin of 46.  On Sunday this division played Souths Suburban at Souths.  Wayne Handley's team won 25 - 9;  Gavin Milne's team went down 17 - 25 and Nathan Harriott's team went down 15- 21.  This gave Proserpine the overall win 57-55 earning 4 Points and a Margin of 2.

Also this weekend Division 5 played against Airlie Beach at the beach on Saturday.  Kendal Watts, Mike Harrison, Todd Leys and Bryan Davy went down 16 - 21;  Gavin Noonan, Bruce Uhe, Harry Craig and Brett Saroglia won 22 - 11.  This gave Proserpine an overall win 38- 32 scoring 4 of 5 points plus a margin of 6.  On Sunday Bryan Davy's team went down 17- 22; Brett Saroglia's team went down 14-15.  Final Score Proserpine 31 - North Mackay 37 earning 0 Match points and minus 6 Margin.

The following competition games have been called for Saturday  July 6.  Semi Final Men's Fours 9.30am start.  Ken Watts, Kendall Watts, Gavin Noonan and Peter Lawton v Shane Kinnear, Todd Leys, Scott Hamilton and Gavin Milne.  Final of Men's 4s approximately 1pm start.  Winner of Lawton/Milne morning game v Harry Craig, Marcus Craig, Toby Craig and Nathan Harriott.


Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

Shane Kinnear concentrating on playing good lead bowls during the pennants game at Proserpine on Saturday. Andrew Bell in background following progress. Photo supplied

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Wangaratta Weekly

July 4, 2024

Goodluck to our Men who have been away in Townsville competing in the Dunn Cup. Always a tough competition.
Fun Friday winners on rink 5 were Natalie & Grant Hands, Jim Steel defeating Peter, Greg and Keron 33 to 11.
Our Friday night Barefoot bowls seen a mixture of locals and a group of young Rock climbers from Brisbane this week. Our next night will be held on Friday 12th July. Names in via message or calling 0407946558. Sausage sizzle also available on the night.
Sunday winners on rink 5 were Allan Gillies, Isobel Wheeler, Dennis Stenfolt and Domingo Diaz defecting Carron, Lynda Maureen and Geoff 21 to 16. Jackpot of $ 382 went off and was shared between Rinks 2 and 8.
Reminder Saturday 6th July 2024 Monster Cent sale is on 1.30pm start admission $5 Afternoon tea & Lucky door prize.

Contributed with thanks to Teresa Willshire.

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Proserpine Golfing News

July 4, 2024

Steve Lucas took out Tuesday's stableford with 38 points ahead of Jason Whitney with 37 points. Pins went to Luke Nightingale  Jon Miller and Brendan Spann.

Thursday's A and B division winners, Scott Mason and Luke Wayth, both had 40 points. Jacob Nightingale and Izaac Vandenburg were the runners up. Pins went to Jacob Nightingale, Finbar O'Flynn, Timothy Miller and Scott Mason.

Brendan Spann had 22 points to win Friday's Met run with Chris Pirlo two shots adrift. Ben Smith won the pin shot.

Saturday's weather was kind enough to see 136 players compete for the prized Scramble four-person ambrose. The gun Sarina team of Ian Dunn, Darren Symons,

Christopher Dunn and Gregory James along with locals Ryan Wilkes, Izaac Vandenburg,  Ryan Kenny and Mark Thompson qualified for the regional final.

Blake Lovelock had 41 points on Sunday to beat Corey Stroud by four shots. The leading ladies were Anna Winterbourn on 31 points and Tiina Randmae on 29. Pins went to Karen Rix, Corey Stroud, Daniel Davis and Andrew Albergo.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.

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On The Whitsunday Green

July 4, 2024

The weekly 9-hole stableford Alan Clinch took first place with 21pts, followed by Glenn Rees with 20pts and third with a countback of 19pts was Justin Gibbs.
Fridays stableford saw Glenn Rees in first place with 22pts, second on a countback with 20pts was Gary Goddard and third place with 20pts was Rhys Bartholomew.
Sunday was our monthly medal for June and taking the win was Glenn Rees with a 54nett c/b, second place with a 54nett was Edwina Pettiford and third place with 57nett Michael Bond. Also on Sunday’s monthly medal Robert Lodders scored a hole in one on hole 13. Great job by all.
Nearest the pin was Edwina Pettiford and Tyson Flavel.
This Sunday 7th July will be 18-hole stableford tee off anytime.
 
Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.

Pictured: Robert Lodders

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Cannonvale Cannons Preparing for New Season

July 4, 2024

The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club is pumped for the new swim season.  The club has a new enthusiastic committee keen to engage young people to participate in swimming. The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club encourages children to keep fit and to strive for their best.   The first carnival for the season will be on home ground at the Cannonvale pool on 13th July and club nights will resume from August.  Club coaches Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson have been coaching swimmers over the school holidays and swimmers are enhancing their skills and aerobic fitness for the season ahead.  
During the first week of the school holidays, swimmers worked on aerobic and sprint fitness in the various strokes.  On Wednesday afternoon, the swimmers enjoyed the Butterfly session with Coach Kenny.  On Friday afternoon, the junior and senior swimmers enjoyed a water safety and survival stroke session with Coach Mark before they played a fun game of modified water polo.  The coaches would like to commend the following swimmers who trained consistently:  Jacob Bell, Tiana Bell, Tora Delac, Zach Trefz, Andie Reynolds, Harris Delac, Nelson Malady, Ruby Harland, Dylan Reynolds, Thomas Ganter, Evie Doherty, Charlie Doherty, Jax Clayworth, Isaac Pisaniello, Alex Trefz, Millie Groom, Roxy Groom, Matilda Nicholes, Zane Clayworth, Eloise Chegwidden, Tate Harland, Koa Harland, Indi Smith, Levi Smith, Maeve Dichiera and Declan Dichiera.  
On Sunday, Nelson Malady travelled to Townsville to compete in the TOWSA Ship to Shore 1.5km swim.  This is not an easy event, as ships jump off the back of a ship and swim 1.5km to the Townsville Strand.  Nelson swam a fantastic time of 26.41.50.  Nelson was 3rd in his age group 12 – 15 years.  Well done, Nelson!  Nelson is now planning to swim from Magnetic Island to Townsville as part of a team.  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

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Celebrating Talents At Mackay’s Thrilling All-Ages Event

July 4, 2024

Mackay is set to pulse with the beats of national and local music acts this July as The Push and Queensland Music Festival (QMF) team up to deliver an electrifying all-ages event!

Spearheaded by The Push, a leading youth music organisation and part of QMF's QLD Music Trails program, this special event promises an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages.

Scheduled for Saturday, July 6th at The Arcadia Bar, the event is a highlight of The Reef Trail, a segment of QMF's QLD Music Trails. The line-up features headline performances by acclaimed acts Great Gable and Kitschen Boy, alongside local talents Giant Palms and Tiffany Grace.

For Mackay's music scene, this gathering not only showcases exceptional musicians but also provides a platform for emerging local artists to shine.

15-year-old Eliza said “This exposure has given me so much more knowledge and boosted my love for music and encouraged my future even more.”

The collaboration offers young people from the Mackay region a unique opportunity to participate in The Push's All-Ages Events Team program. Over the past two months, eight enthusiastic participants have gained hands-on experience in event management and promotion, contributing to every aspect of the show's organisation, from selecting support acts through a local band competition to crafting promotional materials.

CEO of The Push, Kate Duncan said, “We’re stoked to be working with Queensland Music Festival and Mackay Regional Council to bring this All-Ages Events Team program and all-ages live music opportunity to Mackay as part of the Reef Trail.

“Not only does the tour provide important opportunities for young audiences to experience live music that is safe and affordable, but it gives teams of local young people the chance to develop skills, confidence and networks.”

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate music, community and talent in the
heart of Mackay.

Tickets for the event are available for $20 (plus booking fees), with an added incentive of free arcade game tokens for the first 100 attendees. It promises to be a fully supervised, drug, alcohol, smoke, and vape-free event, ensuring a safe environment for all attendees.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit: thepush.au/mackay.

Mackay gears up for an electrifying all-ages event with The Push and Queensland Music Festival, showcasing national and local talents at The Arcadia Bar on July 6th. Image supplied

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Cowboys Rookie Jaxon Purdue The Pride Of Mackay

July 4, 2024

Mackay rugby league sensation Jaxon Purdue has reached another milestone in his fledgling NRL career with the North Queensland Cowboys.

The 18-year-old rookie utility back celebrated his third appearance in the top grade by helping the depleted Cowboys upset premiers Penrith 16-6 last Sunday at Penrith Stadium.

It was a victory to savour for the Queensland Under 19s representative – just weeks after shining on debut in the club’s miraculous win over the Sydney Roosters.
Purdue won’t forget the courageous win over the Panthers in a hurry.

Playing at centre, the former St Patrick’s College Mackay student spent ten minutes in the sin bin before the half time break – then nabbed his first NRL try after a dashing run in the 61st minute to swing the match in the Cowboys favour.

Cheering Jaxon on back home in Mackay were his Cutters’ first-grade teammates, fresh from a heart-breaking 20-12 loss to premiership pacesetters Northern Pride in Hostplus Cup action at Barlow Park in Cairns.

The Cutters led 12-10 inside the final twenty minutes following back-to-back tries after the interval by five eighth Riley Dean and prop Ross Bella that were converted by half back Kauri Aupouri-Puketapu.

But elusive winger Robert Derby stole the show with a spectacular try double in the space of six minutes to seal Northern Pride’s tenth win of the season and keep the club entrenched on the top of the ladder on 24 points with Norths Devils.

Derby capped a huge game with a hat-trick of tries after opening the scoring in the eighth minute before fullback Lachlan West crossed shortly after with half Thomas Duffy adding the extras for a 10-nil lead.

Mackay remains in the finals mix in tenth spot on 16 points and is bent on returning to the winner's list when they tackle the Tweed Seagulls this Saturday at Piggabeen Sports Complex at Tweed Heads from 5pm.

Mackay Cutters action from the 20-12 loss to Northern Pride in Hostplus Cup at Barlow Park in Cairns. Photo credit: Mackay Cutters

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Izabella Wills Shines at Olympic Para Trials: A Rising Star in Mackay Cyclones

July 5, 2024

Fifteen-year-old Mackay Cyclones multiclass athlete Izabella Wills has wrapped up an impressive campaign at the Olympic para trials, showcasing her talent and determination on a national stage.
Izabella achieved 11th place overall in the 100m freestyle and 10th in the 100m backstroke, competing against some of the nation’s top athletes. Remarkably, she secured a spot in the B Final, swimming at 9:55 pm when most teenagers her age are already in bed. Her dedication paid off as she achieved personal bests in every event.
Izabella is riding high on this wave of success, along with her coach, Leigh-Anne Pokarier. The duo were selected to attend the Hancock Prospecting Para Futures Development Camp on the Sunshine Coast last weekend. Leigh-Anne joined the coaching team, while Izabella has been recognised as a future para athlete by Swimming Queensland, opening new opportunities thanks to her hard work and stellar performances over the past two years.
The dream of becoming a Paralympian is gaining momentum for Izabella, who continues to strive toward her goal, making her one to watch in the Mackay Cyclones camp.
The achievements don't stop there for the Mackay Cyclones Swim Club. An impressive 27 athletes have received Junior Excellence recognition, while six higher-level athletes have earned spots in the Silver, Bronze, and Junior Development squads based on their performances last season with Swimming Queensland.
Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier acknowledges the hard work and dedication required to achieve such success.
"It's a hard slog for everyone, and the results are well-earned and deserved," she said.
"I couldn't ask for a better team who come together and get it done."
Next on the agenda, two Cyclone members will compete at School Nationals on the Gold Coast at the end of July: Izabella Wills representing the senior school and Isabelle Daniel representing the junior school. Following that, the team will gear up for the State Short Course Championships in August.

Izabella Wills (centre) with coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier (right) at the 2024 Australian Swimming Trials

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Mackay Contract Bridge Club

July 4, 2024

Nine tables of mentors, beginners and novices played on Sunday in a very close competition. The beginners and novices are very appreciative of the time and effort given to them by the mentors to allow them to play with experienced players and improve their bridge game. Winners this month were N/S Joy Block and David Ting, E/W Diane Stokes and Griffin Bancroft.


Weekly Results
Monday 24 June 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
Faye Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood

3rd
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
4th
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

5th
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford
6th
Diane Stokes / Eddie Kleise

Tuesday Evening 25 June 2024 5 Table One Winner
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Janet Hansen
3rd
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
4th
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
Wednesday 26 June 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
1st
Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor

2nd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Monica Darley / Joy Brunette

3rd
Joy Block / Diane Stokes
3rd
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild

4th
Carmel Brown / Patrick Rasmussen
4th
Robert Carless / Joy Robinson

Thursday Evening 27 June 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

3rd
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

Friday 28 June 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
1st
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole
2nd
Joy Block / Griffin Bancroft

3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
3rd
Diane Stokes / Marie McGuire

4th
Susan Ross / Debbie Ludkin
4th
Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

Saturday 29 June 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd
Julie O’Neill / Toni Large
2nd
Monica Darley / Robert Carless

3rd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Mick King

4th
Errol Morris / Jan Harris
4th
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

Sunday 30 June 2024 – Novice, Beginners and Mentors 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Joy Block / David Ting
1st
Diane Stokes / Griffin Bancroft
2nd
Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Christopher Meyers
3rd
Annette Howe / Vicki Howard
3rd
Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin
4th
Adrian Westcott / Ed Boets
4th
Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell


Contributed By Joy Block

Left to right: David Ting and Joy Block with Griffin Bancroft and Diane Stokes. Image supplied

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Sprinting With The Sunrise At The Cape Hillsborough Club Championship

July 4, 2024

More than forty runners and supporters enjoyed the beautiful Cape Hillsborough conditions by tackling the Mackay Road Runners annual Club Championship 5km and 9km.   

Runners enjoyed the early race start overlooking the glorious eastern coastal sunrise and well-populated beach just as much as the skippies. Several local and interstate casual day runners joined up with the Club’s existing members, revelling in a great Sunday morning as they challenged the Hidden Valley course which included scenic beach vistas, tricky rainforest trails and slippery unsealed roads.   
 
Paul Mackenzie continued his sensational form by taking major club championship points, placing first overall in the 9km club championship ahead of Mick Vivian. 

John Searston, who was a member of Mackay Road Running for over 25 years in the past, displayed great stamina in third place, sprinting to cross the finish line just mere seconds behind Mick. John Rae accrued the final open club championship points ahead of Alex Couldrey, Tim Dalton, Jim Ogilvie and Robin Stinson.   

First female Jose Short was 9th overall, scoring maximum club championship open points ahead of Teresa Hackney and Lisa Burns.  Excellent running was seen by Glynis Forse and Kaylene Gardner who were just outside the podium finishers.
 
John Couldrey made light work of the 5km event, as did Andrew Short and Natasha Joynson, where it could be assumed that John’s amazing turn of speed at the finish line was due to the fragrant BBQ wafting through the air.  
 
There will be no Mackay Road Runners event this Sunday, however, there is an amazing selection of trail running courses this weekend set by ActiV8 Adventures that the Club highly recommends.   

The 5km, 11km, and 18km options are open to everyone, visit ActiV8 Adventures online to register your interest for a great morning of trail running commencing from 8am at Eungella. 
 
The next Club Championship race on the calendar will be hosted by Mackay Road Runners on Sunday 14th July, commencing from 7am at Netherdale.

The Signature event M-Test Eungella King and Queen of the Mountain, and Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy Junior King and Queen of the Mountain is a very successful event shared with the Mackay Cycling Club for their Torque Tyres and Trailer Spares King and Queen of the Mountain cycle event held in conjunction.  

Watch this space for further updates or visit mackayroadrunners.com online for more info.


Contributed By Janelle Tilse

Perfect running conditions at the start of the Cape Hillsborough Club Championship’s beautiful beach for the three front runners (left to right) – John Searston, Paul MacKenzie and Alex Couldrey
Geeta Ariani (#118) leads a contingent of female runners along the beach section of the Cape Hillsborough 9km Club Championship event
Leon Sant, Shruti Dhl, Geeta Ariani, Kaylene Gardner enjoy the Mackay Road Runners Cape Hillsborough Club Championship event
Greg Dawes, Martin Lambert and Jim Ogilvie take a well earning break after the 9km Cape Hillsborough Club Championship race
Couse Cyclist Tim Magoffin struggles to keep pace with the Club’s legendary course marker, trailer keeper volunteer Andrew Short. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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