Tony Ford clinched victory in Tuesday's stroke competition with an impressive nett 68, edging out Gary Scotford by a single stroke. In the ladies' division, Jenny Hounsell triumphed with a nett 70, defeating Nicole Cooper by two strokes. The pin prizes were awarded to Peter Lindsay, Kev Cooper, Aaron Prosser, and Tina Badenhorst.
Wednesday’s Airllywood stableford saw Pauline Redpath dominate with 41 points, securing a three-shot win over Leanne Alexander. The pins for the day went to Leanne Alexander, Nicole Cooper, Anna Winterbourn, and Marlene Gray.
Sean Fogarty emerged victorious in Thursday’s stableford competition, scoring 38 points. He narrowly defeated Bernie Drake in the A division and B division winner Nicola Apruzzese by one point, with Peter Fox trailing by an additional shot. Brad Fleet, David Scott-Smith, Rob Stanley, and Brian Smith won the pins.
On Friday, Luke Paroz showcased remarkable skill, shooting four under par on the back nine to secure the Met run championship with 19 stableford points, edging out Karlene Lloyd. Pins were claimed by Karlene Lloyd and Jack Pirlo.
Saturday’s Allenbuild stableford saw Blake Lovelock leading with 40 points, followed by A division runner-up Rod Wecker with 38 points. Ken Lovett won the B division with 39 points, two ahead of Scott Dwyer. In the ladies' division, Kath Borer’s 38 points surpassed Elspeth Scotford by a single shot. Pins went to Rod Wecker, Brian Allen, Shane Van Poelgeest, Jon Miller, Tina Badenhorst, and Genia Sarafian.
Matthew Muller captured Sunday’s stableford title with 40 points, two points clear of Mark McDougall. Peta Thomas took the ladies' division with 36 points, outscoring Anna Winterbourn by two points. Pins were awarded to Karl Kirkwood, Jon Miller, Trevor Wesener, Levi Holmes, Karen Rix, and Diane Chard.
In the upcoming ladies' handicap Matchplay final, Diane Chard will face Noelene Spurway. The men’s semifinals feature Gary Scotford versus Billy O’Connor, and Brad Vloedmans against Rod Wecker.
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Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Club.

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Proserpine Golf Club is delighted to welcome Ross Tong, a local guest, and Stephen Guy from Toronto GC (near Newcastle, not Canada). The club hopes they enjoyed their day with them.
Despite recent heavy rain making the course heavier than expected, the scores were impressive. Jenny and Colin Hounsell took home the Men’s and Ladies’ Monthly Medals.
With Wintersun approaching, the club asks you to please submit your nominations as soon as possible. The entry form is simple and available on the Mackay Vets website.
Results for Today:
Ladies:
   • Winner: Jenny Hounsell with a nett 70 – well done!
   • Runner-Up: Kathryn Borer with a nett 74
   • Run Down: Paula McQuat and Leanne Alexander with 75, Rehab Hull and Elspeth Scotford with 79, Tina Badenhorst with 80, and Tiina Randmae with 81.
Men:
   • Winner: Colin Hounsell with a stunning nett 67
   • Runner-Up: Gary Scotford with a nett 69
   • Run Down: Wilf Herwig with 70, Ken Granger with 71, John Oates with 73, Trevor Paroz with 75, Peter Browning with 77, Steve Mitchell, Peter Fox, and John Strelec with 79.
Pin Shots:
   • Ladies: Jenny Hounsell and Kathryn Borer on the 2nd, Leanne Alexander and Paula McQuat on the 9th, Jenny and Paula on the 13th.
   • Men: Gary Scotford and Trevor Paroz on the 2nd, Wilf Herwig and Colin Hounsell on the 9th, Wilf and Peter Browning on the 13th.
Least Putts:
   • Ladies: Jenny Hounsell with 28
   • Men: Ken Granger with 24 – outstanding!
Chip-Ins:
   • Ladies: Tiina Randmae, Paula McQuat, and Pam Harrison
   • Men: Ross Tong (x2), Colin Hounsell, Ken Granger, Trevor Paroz, Barry M., and Steve Mitchell
Upcoming Events:
   • Tuesday 16/7: PGC Vets Closed Championship – log in as usual.
   • Tuesday 23/7: Whitsunday Group at Home Hill.
The club wants to thank everyone who participated and made it a great week at the Proserpine Golf Club.
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Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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AFLQ Mackay celebrated Pride Round Saturday providing opportunity to promote inclusivity and acceptance of gender diversity in sport. Sea Eagles Under 14s and 17s clashed with Mackay Magpies whilst the Senior Men met North Mackay Saints in Mackay.

Sea Eagles Senior Men were back on the winners list with a hard fought victory over reigning Premiers North Mackay Saints 44 – 33. In what was a close game Sea Eagles were able to hold off the fast finishing Saints to take the win. Sea Eagles had three Under 17 players including Brodan Cornwall kicking 2 goals, Reid Ogden and Mason Andrews seeing plenty of the ball through the midfield. Sea Eagles Senior Men now look forward to a home game against the Hawks on Saturday from 3:20pm.

Taking on the Magpies in Mackay after a heavy loss last weekend Sea Eagles Under 17s were eager to make amends. Sea Eagles started strong using the ball well which put Magpies under pressure when they had the ball. This carried on for the remainder of the match with Sea Eagles compiling the best four quarter effort of the season taking it out 74 – 14.

Sea Eagles Under 14s headed to Mackay with Magpies settling early being first to the ball with scores on the board. Sea Eagles struggled to find the pace of the game trying their best to get back in the contest but ended 31 – 74 down. Sea Eagles look forward to the next encounter with Magpies with a win each tallied against each other.

This week Whitsunday Sea Eagles stay at the Nest with Under 12s meeting Sarina from 10:40am, Under 17s and Seniors match up with Hawks with Senior matches from 1:50pm.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles.

Photo Credit: Cody Fowler

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The Mackay Cutters secured an impressive 20-14 victory over the Tweed Seagulls in the QRL Hostplus Cup, with crucial tries from Jaxon Purdue, Josh Smith, and Riley Dean.
Playing a pivotal role in the number six jumper, Purdue, fresh from his successful NRL stint with the North Queensland Cowboys, combined seamlessly with halfback Riley Dean. This dynamic duo was instrumental in helping the Cutters notch their sixth win of the season, keeping their finals hopes alive.
Purdue, a standout Queensland Under 19s star, opened Mackay’s scoring with a try at the 28-minute mark, putting the team ahead 6-4 after an early four-pointer from Seagulls winger Brayden McGrady. A penalty goal by Tweed’s fullback and skipper Lindon McGrady levelled the score at 6-all going into halftime.
The Cutters regained the lead shortly after the break when centre Josh Smith crossed for a converted try. Dean then added a penalty goal, extending the lead to 14-6. Dean further showcased his skills by scoring and converting another try six minutes later, setting the visitors up for victory at 20-6.
Despite a converted try from Seagulls' second-rower Ioane Seiuli and a late penalty goal from Lindon McGrady, the Cutters held firm for a dramatic finish.
This win keeps the Cutters in ninth place on the ladder, tied on 16 points with the Souths Logan Magpies, who dominated the Wynnum Manly Seagulls 40-10 at Brisbane’s Kougari Oval.
Mackay coach Michael Comerford praised the contributions of Purdue, winger Semi Valemei, hooker Jai Hansen, and forward Jamal Shibasaki, all of whom delivered strong performances after being included from the Cowboys system.
The Cutters will face another crucial match this Sunday at BB Print Stadium, hosting the sixth-placed Sunshine Coast Falcons at 2pm.

Gagai Back In Maroons

Coach Billy Slater has recalled Dane Gagai to the starting lineup after he missed last year's series and was named 18th man for Game II this year.
The 33-year-old, who debuted in a decider at Suncorp Stadium in 2015 and has since played 22 games for the Maroons, earning the FOGS Dick 'Tosser' Turner Medal, expressed his excitement: "Obviously, it's a special feeling, being back in the 17."
The Newcastle Knights star recounted when Slater called him last year to let him know he wasn't in the team: "It wasn't an easy decision for him, but it was one he had to make moving forward with the Queensland side and winning the series last year. He reassured me it was not a 'that's it, you're done' type phone call."
"My goal is just to go out there and do my job, as boring as it sounds. Just to hopefully not let my teammates down and not let my state down."
Match: Maroons vs. Blues Game 3 - Wednesday, 17th July
8:05pm

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Mackay’s very own Paris Santacaterina, has carved out an impressive legacy at Dodge City Community College (DCCC), leaving a memorable mark on the basketball courts over the past two seasons.

Her journey from Australia to the heartland of America has been defined by extraordinary achievements both on and off the court.

Paris achieved a milestone that hadn't been accomplished at DCCC since 1987, earning NJCAA All-American honours. This recognition played a pivotal role in the Conquistadors' success, leading them to a remarkable 27-7 season record, a coveted spot in the NJCAA DI National Tournament and their first-ever victory at that level.

As the team's top scorer, averaging 14.9 points per game with impressive shooting percentages, she also contributed significantly with rebounds, assists and steals, showcasing her all-around skill.

Not only did she achieve a standout 56-11 overall record and 42-6 in KJCCC play across two seasons but she was also instrumental in securing the KJCCC title after a 29-win season, marking a historic milestone for the program.

This season, despite finishing second in the KJCCC, Paris led her team back to the NJCAA National Tournament, where they secured their first-ever tournament win.

Her statistical achievements further solidify her legacy at DCCC, where she ranks prominently in school history for both single-season and career performances.

Off the court, Paris’ dedication to academic excellence is equally commendable, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA over two years and earning recognition as an Academic All-American.

Looking ahead, Paris’ journey continues as she transfers to the University of San Diego, (USD), bringing her talents and leadership to their basketball program. Her new role as a Torero promises to build on her successes at DCCC where she is expected to contribute significantly both on and off the court.

Beyond her academic achievements, Paris’ early basketball years in Mackay have no doubt foreshadowed her current and future accomplishments.

Named MVP of the U18 conference championship and a four-time Queensland State representative, she has consistently demonstrated her skills and leadership from an early age.

As she prepares for her next chapter at USD, Paris remains focused on her goals of continuing to excel in basketball as well as pursuing a degree in education.

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From Mackay to Dodge City and now heading to San Diego, Paris Santacaterina's basketball journey has been nothing but a hooping success. Images supplied

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By Hannah McNamara

Two local boys, Sangwani Chinula and Lucas Haack from Mackay have captured the hearts of their community with their exceptional achievements in rugby league, earning esteemed positions in Queensland representative teams and showcasing their talent on a broader field.

Sangwani (also known as Sasa) was born in New Zealand, however, moved to Mackay at the age of two, embracing the region as his home while honing in on his rugby league dream. His hard work recently paid off when he was remarkably selected to play for the Queensland Maroons Under 15 team, following multiple standout performances. Sangwani then achieved the title of Man of the Match in the Australian Secondary Schools Rugby League (ASSRL) Championships where his impact was pivotal during a thrilling match.

Queensland secured a tight 22-16 victory and was said to have been like ‘a real State of Origin match.’ Sangwanis’ dedication to the sport extends beyond matches and his achievements are a testament to his rigorous training routine, supported by speed coach Tina from All Sports Speed and Endurance Training and the guidance of local rugby league coaches, Mick Muscat and Cookie Clarke. His journey and strong work ethic exemplifies the resilience and passion required to excel in regional sports, inspiring young athletes to pursue their goals relentlessly.

Sangwanis’ mother Kim Williams expressed that it was a great weekend in Port Macquarie despite the rain and said “the Queensland boys did really well, it’s really amazing for him to make it this far but it just goes to show that he’s worked really hard to get to where his is and I’m very proud of him.”

‘Lucas Haack, paralleling Sangwanis’ journey, has also carved a remarkable path in rugby league, now playing for Brothers Bulldogs under coach Clint Maye. Despite facing challenges along the way including a ligament tear just weeks before a crucial state carnival, Lucas persevered with determination and resilience. His efforts were rightfully recognised when he was selected for the Queensland White Team for his skill and unwavering perseverance.

Beginning his football journey at the age of five, Lucas's love for the sport has only deepened over the years, fuelled by the infinite support of his track coaches, gym trainers, sporting coaches and family. His consistent dedication reaped a captain position of the Capricornia team prior to his recent selection to play for the Queensland White team. These achievements display the rewarding outcome of consistent dedication in regional sports, encouraging others to follow in his footsteps.

Behind these two outstanding young boys lies a strong support network, including dedicated coaches and trainers who have played pivotal roles in their development through the local magpie league. Tina and Luke from ASSET have also provided immense guidance, ensuring Sangwani and Lucas receive comprehensive coaching across various aspects of their athletic development.
Nichole Haack, Lucas’ mother said “he just works really hard, he tries to perform the best he can to learn as much as possible with every avenue and we’re so proud of him.”

As Sangwani and Lucas continue to represent Mackay and Queensland on the rugby league field, their commitment is as an inspiration to young athletes, proving that with hard work and diligence, dreams can become a reality even from regional beginnings.

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Two local young heroes: Sangwani Chinula and Lucas Haack take Mackay's rugby league dreams to state level. Images supplied

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The pedals are turning for a special event commemorating the farewell of the Walkerston BMX Track on Sunday, July 14th at 2pm.

Situated at McLennan Park in Walkerston, this track has been fundamental to the Mackay BMX community since its inception in 1981 and was the first BMX Club to exist in the Mackay region.

The track was founded by Fred Vella, Jamie Stuart, Joe and Ruth Gaviglio, Doug and Loraine Johnstone and Phil and Carmel Kirwan.

All past and present members, life members, and the wider BMX community are invited to attend, offering an opportunity to gather, reminisce and celebrate the track's memorable past.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own drinks and chairs for a casual afternoon, complemented by a sausage sizzle. This event provides a chance to reconnect with old acquaintances, exchange anecdotes and pay homage to the cherished memories created at this beloved site.

MAD BMX - Mackay and District BMX Club Inc welcome you to ‘Come along, catch up with old friends and share a story whilst we say farewell to a chapter filled with memories.’

What: Walkerston BMX Track Farewell
When: Sunday 14th July - 2pm
Where: Walkerston BMX Track, McLennan Park Walkerston.
What to bring: BYO Drinks & Chairs (Sausage Sizzle)

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All are invited to attend the Walkerston BMX Track Farewell on Sunday the 14th of July to commemorate the historic BMX track loved by many. Images supplied

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 Calling all girls aged 14-17! Unleash your potential and join the thrilling world of Australian Football with AFL Mackay's Youth Girl Competition!

Build confidence, develop your skills, and grow as a player while staying active and enjoying a fun and exciting way to stay fit. Connect with girls who share your passion for the game.

To register your expression of interest, scan the QR code to fill out the registration form, and get ready to play and have fun! Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of the AFL Mackay community and experience the joy of football.

For more information, contact us at harry.hannaford@afl.com.au or follow AFL Mackay on Facebook and Instagram!

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Step into the world of Australian Football and unlock your potential with AFL Mackay's Youth Girl Competition! Image supplied

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The last two weeks have seen some travel for the Sinkers as they headed both north and south for various events.
Brisbane Southside long course meet - This was a well-attended event that drew 184 competitors representing 31 clubs (28 from Queensland, one from NSW, one from Tasmania and one from New Zealand). The program for the meet was split so that the shorter and longer events were spread throughout the day and masters’ swimmers could target their swims according to their personal preferences. Swimmers could enter up to five events earning individual and club points accordingly.
The Sinkers very own Nigel Dalton combined his VP duties with a great set of swims in the 400m, 200m, 100m, 50m back and 50m free to round out his five events. Nigel Placed second in his age group out of the 9 contenders, just a single point separated first from second.
Townsville Ship to Shore - Two intrepid Sinkers attended this event which is one of the most popular swims on the Townsville Open Water Swim Associations (TOWSA) annual calendar. The event offers two ocean swim distances of 1.5 or 3km in the calm waters off Townsville, the Strand serving as the backdrop for this one-of-a-kind open water swim. 
One of their newest members, Steph Gunton placed 5th in the F40-49 age group in a time of 26m 05.76 with Megan Taylor 6th in the same age group hot on her feet with a 26m 06.15. This is a great lead swim of the series as they head to the iconic 70th version of the Magnetic to Townsville 8km swim scheduled for July 20. A number of Sinkers as well as other Mackay representative swimmers will embark on the main event later this month.
Balnagowan Session - In preparation for the Magnetic Island to Townsville swim 4 sinkers travelled to the favourite OWS destination at Balnagowan to enjoy a longer and cooler swim. It’s a great location for a swim offering calm waters and less need for support to accompany the swimmers. Let’s not forget the Sinkers event here, that is scheduled as always for the first Sunday in November (03/11/2024) and offers 1.25, 2.5 and 5k events in this tranquil location.
For further information on upcoming events and sessions, please visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers or phone 0413 805 156.
Contributed by Dan Stampa

Megan Taylor and Steph Gunton aboard the ferry heading to the start line before the race
The Sinkers have been on the move, tackling competitive meets and open water swims with determination and camaraderie. Images supplied

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Twenty-four Mackay players attended the Bowen congress on the weekend, with Mackay scooping the pool with winners in sections A, C and D. The A section was won by Terry Sheedy and Noel Bugeia, who led the competition all weekend. Second in the A section were Diane and Max Holewa, with Frances and Alan Brown in third place. Sandy Patterson and Geoff Cowan won Section C, with Susan Ross and Laura Howland coming in first in Section D, along with Joy Block and Lynne O’Neil second and Vicki Howard and Annette Howe in third place. A great weekend was had by all, with the hospitality and friendship extended to all by the Bowen Club.

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

E/W

1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford

5th
Diane Stokes / Eddie Kleise
6th
Victor Mason / Antonia Taradas

Tuesday Evening 25 June 2024 3Table One Winner
1st
Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Susan Gibson / Frances Brown
4th
Joy Block / Helen Van Den Broek
Wednesday 26 June 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

2nd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd
Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor

3rd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting

4th
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
4th
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

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

E/W

1st
Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

3rd
Annie Lynch / Geoff Taylor
4th
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 28 June 2024 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Richard Wix / Geoffrey Patterson

3rd
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting

Saturday 29 June 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Christopher Meyers / Robert Carless
2nd
David Ting / Ming Ting

3rd
Jan Harris / Ken Seaniger
4th
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

5th
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill
6th
Patricia Garner / Ian Gaskell

Contributed By Joy Block

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Open Winners, Noel Bugeia and Terry Sheedy
Second in the Open, Max and Di Holewa

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By Chris Karas

St Patrick’s College Mackay is celebrating a historic Confraternity Shield Girls Rugby League championship.

In one of their proudest achievements, the famous sporting nursery has toppled The Cathedral College Rockhampton to bring home the school’s first-ever girl's title.

Played as a curtain-raiser to the women's State Of Origin decider at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium, the St Patrick’s whiz kids edged out their Rockhampton rivals 8-4 to snap a 21-year drought.

Strong running forward Lucy McKendry bustled her way over to score the match-winning try for St Patrick's with sixteen minutes left on the clock.

Emerging Mackay half-back and inspirational skipper Paige Mooney was judged Player of the Final for her masterclass performance in the trophy decider.

It was St Patrick’s maiden Girls Shield title after finishing runners-up to Marymount College Burleigh Waters in the inaugural girls’ final in Mackay during 2022 and to The Cathedral College in last year’s Grand Final in Brisbane.

A team from St Patrick’s hadn’t won a Confraternity Shield since Troy Rovelli’s boys’ team claimed the
title back in 2003.

Triumphant St Patrick’s coach Imogen Healy praised her charges for their commitment and wholehearted team efforts throughout the Carnival.

Promising playmaker Mooney was a revelation at half-back and sparked the attack with her vision and ball skills and was rewarded with a spot in the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Rugby League (QISSRL) Girls All Stars Merit Team.

St Patrick’s powerhouse second-rower Ebony Temple and dynamic fullback Ava Wheeler also gained selection in the Merit Team for their stand-out performances.

Wheeler showed plenty of flair in attack and was a key player in a classy backline that featured talented prospects in Mooney and five eighth Keely Pitt, centres Anthea Campbell and Ella Webb and flying wingers Scarlett Foord and Maddie Simon.

The St Patrick’s forward pack laid the foundations with non-stop displays from the likes of Temple, lock Cianna Faulkner, back-rower Sophie Searle, props Jada Cahill and Kelsi Hazledine and hooker Jaymie Clancy.

Interchange players McKendry, Ruby Watt, Tayla Camilleri, Keely Logan, Brielle Contor, Ruby Lucas, prop Charlotte Large and Tailor Meredith also showed their value in a tremendous team effort.

St Patrick’s topped Pool A with victories over Mt Maria Mitchelton (26-4), Shalom Catholic College Bundaberg (10-4) and Emmaus College Rockhampton (10-4) before eliminating a talented Marymount College 10-0 in a quality semi-final.

Hard running forward Meredith crossed under the posts in the first half and the promising Searle scored after halftime to keep a spirited Marymount College at bay.
Coach Healy turned to her three most experienced campaigners in Mooney, Webb and Wheeler to lead the way.
The outstanding trio lined up for their third successive Shield final – a rare feat – and demonstrated their value and class in the championship triumph.

Ian Schifilliti’s boys team bowed out in the semi-finals after a 6-0 loss to eventual Shield champions Ignatius Park College Townsville.

The reigning Aaron Payne Cup champions were later beaten 18-0 by Iona College Lindum in the play-off for third place.

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Jubilant St Patrick’s College Mackay players celebrate their historic Confraternity Shield Girls Rugby League championship win over The Cathedral College Rockhampton in Townsville

Outstanding St Patrick’s Mackay half-back and skipper Paige Mooney accepts the QISSRL Confraternity Shield Girls Championship trophy after steering her team to an 8-4 Grand Final victory over The Cathedral College Rockhampton in Townsville. Mooney was named Player of the Final and gained selection in the QISSRL Merit All Stars Team with second rower Ebony Temple and fullback Ava Wheeler

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Australia’s newest and largest racing yacht, as well as the smallest and oldest, have entered the 2024 GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race.

The GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race begins to intensify with the official entry of Wild Thing 100 – one that is said to be the newest 100-foot super maxi to be launched in the past decade.

Grant Wharington, winner of the 2003 Rolex Sydney Hobart bought the boat previously
known as Beau Geste with co-owner Adrian Seiffert, renaming the Botin 80 design to Stefan
Racing before its extension and relaunch as Wild Thing 100 in 2023.

“Being residents of the Gold Coast, we’re excited for the thrilling prospect of a spinnaker start with an offshore breeze, with our iconic skyline and beaches making for a fantastic spectator event,” said Mr Wharington.

In stark contrast to the ultra-modern Wild Thing 100, the stellar race line-up now also features Maritimo Katwinchar, the classic 32-foot timber former ketch built in 1904 in London’s Watney Brewery.  

Competing in the 1951 Sydney to Hobart, Katwinchar was found dilapidated by the Australian boat builders Maritimo, who lovingly and painstakingly restored her to its former glory with no expense spared, attracting quite the crowd when it competed in the 2019 Rolex Sydney Hobart.

“We look forward to being part of the inaugural race, with the attraction and challenge of
racing through the various islands up the Queensland coast presenting a fantastic experience not to be missed.  

“And the sports-mad town of Mackay really knows how to put on a party!” said Mr Michael Spies, who will be racing Katwinchar double-handed with Peter Vaiciurgis, the multiple Australian dinghy racing champion in the GCCM Gold Coast Mackay race.

With just 35 days till the start date on August 1, the GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race will be boosting the racing pedigree of yachts arriving on the Gold Coast, following the Noakes Sydney Gold Coast race in late July.

Southport Yacht Club Vice Commodore of Sail Glenn Burrell said the timing of the Gold Coast Mackay race will create a real buzz of excitement both at the start and finish line, with Race Village preparations well underway.  
 
The event will begin at 10am on August 1 with an epic offshore start line straight off the beach in front of Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise. The Race Village at Mackay Marina opens Saturday, August 3 through to Tuesday, August 6.

Entries are open until July 17 via the official race website: www.goldcoastmackay.com

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New and classic yachts stir excitement in the 2024 GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Race, featuring Australia’s newest 100-foot super maxi and a restored 1904 timber ketch. Images supplied

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Full name: Penelope Shields
Age: 9 years old
Sports: Cross country, Athletics, Swimming, Triathlon
 
Who inspired you to start playing sport?
My Mum and Dad have provided me opportunities to try so many different sports. They are my biggest supporters and number one inspiration.

Can you tell us about a memorable moment or achievement in your athletic career so far?

Making the Northern Region U10 Schools Cross Country Team to compete at the Queensland Championships in Brisbane next month. Also, Mr Jarrod (Keys) helping me achieve my 5km Parkrun personal best of 23 minutes 32 seconds. I was also proud of achieving moving from Bullets to Torpedoes in swimming.

What are some challenges you’ve faced as a young athlete and how have you overcome them?

I did a 12-minute running test and told myself to keep going and push through until I got to the finish line.

Who are your role models or favourite athletes and why?

Shailee Mewha, Jack Oberg and Coach Tim. They have fantastic attitudes and always encourage me.

What is your favourite part of being part of the Next Stars?

Having fun, learning how to run and how to stretch.

How do you stay motivated?

I like travelling to different places and racing to get a medal.

What advice would you give to other young athletes who are just starting out?

Come and practice and try your best.

What are your goals for sport?

To be age champion in school sports and my goal is to be in the top 3 in the cross country trials in Brisbane.

How has participating in sports made you a better person?

It has made me fit, strong and confident in running.

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10 girls from Bowen Netball Association travelled down to Downey Park in Brisbane last week to compete in the Junior State Age Champs.
The Under 14’s girls' team, coached by Rebecca Edgerton, achieved an incredible feat by taking first place in their division.
Rebecca Edgerton stated how it was a “big four days of netball,” and the girls “did very well.”
Rebecca also commented on how the girls had trained very hard leading up to the state championships and it was “their team spirit and hard work and determination that got them through,” especially considering the tough weather conditions over the weekend.
The girls played alongside 20 other teams, coming from areas, such as, Noosa, Brisbane, Toowoomba and even all the way up to Cairns:
“The championships covered teams all across Queensland,” Rebecca added.
The Under 14’s played in division 4 this year, which Rebecca explained was: “Quite a few steps higher than last year.”
“We played up into a harder division,” Rebecca enthused.
“The girls worked so hard. They are a really nice group of girls and the core team have been playing netball together for quite a few years, so, it was really nice to see how the girls have improved and worked well together.”
The girls were previously coached by Jess Maher, who was off on maternity during the championships. Rebecca Edgerton said she would like to thank Jess for, “all her time and effort in preparing the girls for the championship.” She also wanted to mention the Manager of the team Michelle Wright and Bus Driver and Manager Trudy Mcdonald who supported the girls over the weekend.  
While in Brisbane, the netballers also enjoyed spending time in Eat Street, shopping in Chermside and eating dinner in YOMG.
Rebecca also wanted to mention the Under 12’s team who also competed. While not placing, Rebecca said the girls “did really well, especially for their first year.”
A big Congratulations to the Bowen Netball Association Under-14's team on this outstanding success.

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Bowen Netball Association Under-14 Winners
Bowen Netball Association Under-12's

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The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival has been awarded the prestigious AusTriathlon Queensland Club Initiative of the Year Award for its invigoration of their outstanding 2023 event.

The top club award accolade recognises the festival’s exceptional contribution to the sport of triathlon and its impact on the local community.

Whitsunday Triathlon Club President and Festival race Director Mick Kimpton and wife Val attended the awards in Brisbane on Sunday and were elated their club had been recognised after several difficult years in the post covid era.

Kimpton said winning the AusTriathlon Qld Club Initiative of the Year Award was a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the Coral Sea Marina Resort Triathlon Festival.

“We are thrilled to receive this award as it highlights the club’s efforts to create a world-class event that brings together athletes, volunteers, and spectators in celebration of the sport and our stunning Whitsunday region,” he said.

“The revitalisation of our major annual event after the setbacks of Covid interruptions and losing our major sponsors has been nothing short of remarkable.

“The small but hard-working committee and club volunteers rolled their sleeves up and supported by many a new major sponsor and many smaller local sponsors the 2023 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival was an outstanding success.

“The 2023 Coral Sea Marina Resort Marina Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival attracted a record number of participants, with professional and amateur athletes from across the country competing in various categories.”

Kimpton said the AusTriathlon judges praised the event's innovative approach, community engagement, and commitment to sustainability as key factors in their decision in awarding the event as 2023 Club Initiative of the Year.

“This two-day festival not only showcases the natural beauty of the Whitsundays but also promotes a healthy and active lifestyle among our residents and visitors,” he said.

“Winning this award has inspired us to aim for new heights and the 2024 event on July 27-28 promises to be a triathlon festival like no other!

“If the attendance of Olympic swim legend Susie O’Neill, the voice of triathlon Pete Murray and the biggest professional field ever are not enough to get you excited then we are thrilled that the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is also now host of the North Queensland Club Triathlon Championships in 2024.

“So, mark your calendars and get ready for an adrenaline-pumping event on the shores of the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands with a record field already nominated for the 24th anniversary of the event,” Kimpton said.

“With the backing of Coral Sea Marina Resort and all of our amazing local sponsors the festival is on track to become a hallmark event for our region, drawing athletes and spectators to enjoy the beauty of the Whitsundays.”

The Whitsunday Triathlon Club is also currently seeking volunteers from local sporting clubs to assist at the upcoming Triathlon event on Sunday, July 28th.

The club is offering a $1000 donation to your club for providing 10 volunteers, with the potential to earn more based on the number of volunteers you can provide. In addition to the monetary compensation, the club will also provide Volunteer goodie packs to keep people energized throughout the morning.

Volunteers will be needed from 5:30am to 11am. If your club is interested in participating, please contact the Whitsunday Triathlon Club at whitsundaytriclub@gmail.com.

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Whitsunday Triathlon Club President and Festival race Director Mick Kimpton and wife Val were in Brisbane last week to accept the award. Photo supplied

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