Last Saturday, a grand opening took place for the new Bowen Seagulls Rugby League Clubhouse. Both Federal MP for Dawson Andrew Willcox and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins were in attendance for the special event.  

‍

“This is a fantastic addition to the Seagulls, and I congratulate everyone for all the hard work invested to bring this to fruition,” Mr Willcox said.  

‍

‍

Both MP Willcox and Mayor Collins helped to cut the ribbon alongside the enthusiastic players.  

“Along with cutting the ribbon to celebrate this achievement, the club committee has done an amazing job of putting together a trip down memory lane, showcasing photographers, football jerseys and memorabilia from years gone by.

‍

As a ‘Bowen boy’ who played league and run a team where his son played, Mr Willcox expressed immense pride at the occasion.  

‍

‍

“It was real treat to spend time looking through our towns footy history.”

‍

The opening represents an exciting new chapter for the league.  

‍

‍

Photo Credit - Kylie Allen - Whitsunday Sea Eagles

‍

‍

What a weekend for the Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Men! After an unfortunate forfeit from the Bakers Creek Tigers women’s side, all eyes turned to the men to deliver a win for the home crowd.

It was a hard-fought battle from the first bounce to the final siren, with both teams going stride for stride in a tight contest. 

‍

The intensity never dropped, as each side attacked the ball with hunger and determination, refusing to give an inch.

In the end, it was the Sea Eagles who rose to the occasion, holding their nerve and finishing strong to claim the win by a solitary point in front of their home crowd.

‍

With the final score 69-68 the Sea Eagles way, Hudson McGregor was awarded the best on ground honours for his bag of five goals in trying conditions.

This Saturday the 9th of May the Sea Eagles head down to Rodger’s Oval in Mackay to battle it out with the Eastern Swans. Will our teams come out victorious? Be there and find out!

‍

Contributed by Georgia Whitton - Whitsunday Sea Eagles

‍

Information about Council’s Junior Elite Athlete support program can be found on their website Photo credit: Facebook

‍

‍

Young athletes from across the Whitsundays were recognised for their impressive achievements at a recent Ordinary Council meeting in Proserpine.

Mayor Ry Collins and Councillors acknowledged a group of junior competitors who have excelled at regional, state and national levels, supported through Council’s Junior Elite Athletes initiative.  

‍

The program provides financial assistance to help cover the costs of competing in representative sport, ensuring local talent can pursue opportunities without being held back by expense.

Among those recognised on the day were Kayne Higgins (cross country), Adelaide Sanders and Eli Gerrand (football and futsal), Axel Yuskan, Evelyn Doherty, Declan Dichiera, Eloise Chegwidden, Lucas Korosec, Jax Clayworth and Zane Clayworth (swimming), Reid and Rory Martin (sailing), and Ben Hope (cricket).

‍

Council also paid tribute to several athletes who were unable to attend but have achieved outstanding results. These included Kade Harrison and Skye Brodhurst (volleyball), Thomas O’Neill (motocross), Karlee and Byron Goodin (football), Isabella Pisaniello and Charlie Doherty (swimming), Amber Benson (rugby league), Millie Groom (cross country), Roxanne Groom and James Davies (swimming), Russell Harris (sailing), and Matilda Nichols (triathlon and aquathon).

Mayor Collins said the recognition highlights not only sporting success, but the commitment and resilience shown by these young athletes.

“These athletes are fantastic ambassadors for the Whitsundays,” he said. “Their hard work and determination is something the whole community can be proud of.”

The Junior Elite Athletes initiative continues to play an important role in supporting the region’s emerging talent, helping athletes take the next step in their sporting journeys.

‍

With a wide range of sports represented—from swimming pools and athletics tracks to sailing courses and football fields—the Whitsundays continues to produce a diverse and promising group of young competitors.

Council encourages families and aspiring athletes to learn more about the program and the support available, as the region continues to back its next generation of sporting stars.

‍

Photo supplied

‍

‍

The 2026 Foley Shield was played over the weekend in Cairns, with well over 80 years worth of history in our region. The Foley Shield is the epitome of representative rugby league in North Queensland.

‍

With five of our local Whitsunday Brahman men selected for the Mackay Sea Eagles side, including Sam Moorhouse, Adam Butterill, Darcy Turner and Hawaiike Annandale as players, and Harley Bateup as men’s assistant coach working beside the ever-talented former NRL player Kane Linnett, the club was proudly represented. Eddy Cates was also selected as women’s assistant coach, with Shirley Luke earning selection in the women’s team.

‍

Our troops set to Cairns with one mission in mind — to make a statement.

‍

The men walked away with a win in their opening game on Saturday against a favoured Cairns side, 24–16. In an extremely close match, they played their cards right and came out on top. This was followed by the Mackay Sea Eagles women’s team, who defeated Cairns 24–4. Both teams then faced off later on Saturday against last year’s big threat, Townsville.

‍

The men were down at half time but refused to count themselves out. They came back hard in the second half, taking on the defence with confidence and control. Mackay turned the tables to secure an incredible 32–26 victory, claiming the 2026 Foley Shield in what was a massive upset over the reigning champions.

‍

Unfortunately, the women’s side were unable to overcome a strong Townsville outfit, going down 20–10. Despite the result, the team held their heads high, proud of their selections and the opportunity to represent, while enjoying a memorable weekend away in Cairns.

‍

The Mackay Sea Eagles men’s team celebrated their milestone win on the journey home, holding the trophy high and soaking in a well-earned victory. Mackay had not lifted the Foley Shield since 2021, making the achievement even more special.

‍

Coach Kane Linnett, along with his players and staff, have every reason to be proud. The shield has returned home to Mackay — and if this performance is anything to go by, it may be there to stay for some time.

Contributed with thanks to Mandy Bateup

‍

Photo source: Mackay Basketball  

‍

‍

Mackay Basketball’s U16 Meteorettes delivered a strong performance in the state Grand Final, finishing with a well-earned 2^nd place in Queensland after going down to Logan.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

Coral Francis, Sue Hazledine, Wendy Sonter and Min Andrew. Photo supplied

‍

‍

‍

The B Pairs Final was played on Wednesday, 22 April, with all signs pointing to a closely contested match, and it certainly delivered.

‍

Wendy Sonter and Min Andrew took on Coral Francis and Sue Hazledine in a game that lived up to expectations, with scores going end-for-end throughout.

Played in great spirit, the match combined friendly camaraderie with a healthy dose of competitive intensity.

‍

In the end, Coral and Sue emerged victorious, much to their delight. Congratulations also to Wendy and Min for a hard-fought performance.

‍

A big thank you goes to all bowlers who took part in this year’s competition.

‍

Contributed with thanks to Sue Hazledine.

‍

Pictured is Section A Winners: Jan and Don. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Twenty-eight pairs from Mackay, Yepoon, Bowen and Rockhampton competed in the Mackay X Imps Pairs Red Point event on the ANZAC Weekend.

Lest We Forget

Winners Section A Jan Randall and Don Cameron (Rockhampton), Section B Mary Rose Ramsden and Christine Nice (Mackay) and Section C Anne Lutz and Ian Vary (Mackay). Play started respectfully after 12pm. Mackay Club ladies catered for the event with a big shout out to Janelle, Vicki, Sue and all who helped. The Mackay Contract Bridge Club is a very supportive and inclusive club where everyone pitches in. Appreciation was extended to Director Ian Cruickshank.

Weekly Results  

Monday 20 April 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points  
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Sandy Ford
2nd
Joy Hold / Ian Vary
3rd
Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell
4th
Nancy Martin / Diane Morgan
4th
Geoff Cowan / Mary Cruickshank
Tuesday Evening 21 April 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points  

1st
Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Noel / Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
4th
Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner
Wednesday 22 April 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
1st
Terry Sheedy / Sandy Patterson
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
4th
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
4th
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
Thursday Evening 23 April 2026 – 5 Table One Winner – Green Points

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd
Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor
Friday 24 April 2026 – Week 8 of 26 NWP - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
3rd
Christine Nice / Diane Cox
4th
Joyce Deguara / Shirley Worland
4th
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

Saturday 25 April 2026 & Sunday 26 April 2026 – Mackay X Imps Pairs – Red Points

Section A

Section B
1st
Jan Randal / Don Cameron
1st
Mary rose Ramsden / Christine Nice
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd
Malcolm Saunders / Adrian Lohmann
3rd
Sue McInnes / Deb Breeze
4th
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
4th
Martin Pearce / Noel Saunders

Section C


1st  
Anne Lutz / Ian Vary
2nd
Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Simon Barnes / Janice Mansfield
4th
Cathy McKenzie / Michelle Rau

Contributed with thanks to Joy Block  

‍

Figure 1 - Michael Wallin – 1A - 45-49 Men

‍

‍

The 2026 GWM BMX Racing National Championships were held at Shepparton BMX Club on the 16^th-18th April.  Mackay and District BMX Club had an impressive 33 entries making the journey down to compete for National Titles with riders showcasing talent, determination and strength across multiple classes.

Mackay Riders delivered on track with impressive performances across the board with Podium finishes as well as bringing A Plates home.  Local Rider and MAD BMX Coach Michael Wallin said, “After a 40year racing career, he was really proud his hard work had paid off” describing bringing home a 1A Plate as a true bucket list achievement.

‍

MAD Riders securing A Plates (Placing Top 8th in Australia (ie: 1A Plate – 1^ST Australia).

‍

• 1A - Michael Wallin  

• 3A - Adelyn Eatwell  

• 4A - Lilly Bolger  

• 5A - Connor Parish  

• 8A - Sherridan Pogmore  

• 8A - Tristyn Kronk

Club President Brett Wilson said “We are extremely proud of all our riders’ efforts at the Aus Cycling BMX National Championships.  

‍

“Your achievements on the track earned MAD BMX Club 13^th Place out of 112 Clubs across Australia.    

‍

“Thanks to all the Mums, Dads and support crew that were there helping our riders”.  

‍

• 10 Boys - Aston Wallin, Cody Beresford-Manning

• 11Girls - Chloe Knight

• 12 Boys - Oliver Ransome, Jack Hancroft

• 12 Girls - Adelyn Eatwell, Lilly Bolger, Farrah Pogmore

• 13 Boys - Liam Wilson

• 13 Girls - Ruby Soke

• 14 Boys - Max Ransome, Beau Secher, Cooper Knight

• 14 Girls - Sarah Keidge, Paige Knights

• 15 Boys - Dylan Secher

• 15 Girls - Willow Pogmore

• 16 Boys - Ollie Philp

• 16 Girls - Chelsea Evans

• 17-24 Men - Connor Parish, Tyler Smith, Jaxon Philp

• 17-24 Women - Sarah Tickle

• 25-29 Men - Ashton Johns, Cooper Commerford

• 40-44 Men - Brendan Knights

• 40-44 Cruiser Women - Sherridan Pogmore

• 45-49 Men - Michael Wallin

• Masters Men - Tristyn Kronk

‍

Riders, alongside their families travelled down to compete for a National Title as well as the chance to secure qualification for the 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships – set to be held on home soil in Brisbane July 17-25^th.   Congratulations to all MAD riders who’ve locked in their spot and qualified for Worlds – A huge effort all round.    

‍

A representative from the club said, “We can’t wait to see you line up on the Gate and represent Australia.”

‍

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Bolger

‍

Clinton Mackie (front left) and Levi Wallace (front right) take the early lead in the Mackay Road Runners 10km Mackay Surf club social run. Photo supplied  

‍

‍

Around 30 runners took on a challenging 5km and 10km course from the Mackay Surf Club, set by Race Director Andrew Short. Strong winds across the Breakwater and soft sand sections added to the difficulty, though the social atmosphere encouraged runners to adapt and enjoy the event.

‍

Standout performances came from Gail Mackie, Bev Ferris, Kayla Waugh, Natasha Joynson, Phoebe Short, Jess Evetts, Rebecca Malcolm, Rob Miller, Levi Wallace, Clinton Mackie, Craig Joynson, David Isbister, Stuart Sprott, Ashley Miles, Max Miles, Aidan Donnollan and Shane Donnollan. Several are now preparing for the Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon next weekend, a popular event on the local road and trail running calendar for more than 20 years.

‍

With many runners heading to Hamilton Island, the Mackay Road Runners will host a social run from Quota Park on Binnington Esplanade at 4.30pm. Members and non-members are welcome, with a $2 entry. Participants are asked to arrive 15 minutes early for notices and registration.

‍

Contributed with thanks to Janelle Tilse

‍

‍

Nine competitors from the Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo brought home an impressive 29 medals after competing at the Traditional Japanese Karate National Championships in Adelaide. Photos supplied

‍

‍

Nine competitors from the Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo returned home with an impressive 29 medals after competing at the Traditional Japanese Karate National Championships in Adelaide recently.

The team featured a diverse mix of athletes, including a 10- and 12-year-old, three teenagers and four adults. Sensei Helle competed while also serving as a judge at the national event.

For some competitors it was their first ever tournament and first medal, while others stepped up into new and far more challenging divisions.

‍

After months of intense training and weekends dedicated to refining their skills, each team member demonstrated strong technique and commitment to their martial art. With Sensei Helle also working as a judge, the dojo maintains a high training standard that was clearly reflected in the team’s results.

Preparation continued even after arriving in Adelaide, with athletes taking part in beach training sessions and visiting a local dojo as guests.

‍

The results proved to be a family affair.

Brothers Nathanial and Aksel competed alongside their mum, Sensei Helle, while friend Logan secured two gold, one silver and one bronze medal.

‍

Tim claimed one gold and one bronze medal, while Nicky earned one gold, one silver and two bronze. 10-year-old Phoenix collected two gold, one silver and one bronze.

Martha celebrated her first ever competition and medal haul with one gold and two bronze, while her son Kaito secured two gold and one bronze.

‍

Following the championships, the team celebrated their achievements by exploring Adelaide and the Barossa Valley.

Sensei Helle reflected on the experience, saying growth happens in the dojo but lifelong bonds are forged on the road.

‍

The Northern Beaches Karate club runs classes during the school term on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Bucasia Community Hall in Wallace Avenue. For more information contact 0488 146 644.

‍

Contributed by Gerri Kissner

‍

 Sunday Winners:  John Hayson, Shirley Jones, Penny Warren and President Graeme Read. Photo supplied.

‍

‍

Tuesday’s winners were Neil Chittenden, Deb Retchless and Ron Hyde who defeated Ray Muir, Maureen Hyde and Denis Madeley. In the other game Shirley Jones, Sue Shearing and Boof Querro defeated Stumpy Adamsm Skin Querro and Gavin Charles. The jackpot didn’tgo off.

‍

Club Competition for the week: Ladies A Singles Teresa Willshire defeated Maureen Hyde. Men’s A Singles Ron Hyde defeated Kevin Daniels. B Singles Kevin Baxter defeated Stuart Jeal.  

‍

On Sunday afternoon four triples were played. Winners for the afternoon were John Hayson, Shirley Jones and Penny Warren who defeated Bron Tolcher, Boof Querro and Graeme Read. In the other games Celly Jeal, Deb Retchless and Allan Rolfe defeated Lindy Suann,Gavin Charles and Stuart Jeal, Eileen Dunn, Maureen Hyde Kevin Jewell defeated Toni Bowen, Laurie Land and  Denis Madelay, and Denise Wallace, Sue Shearing drew with Neil Chittenden, Skin Querro and Mark Drummond.  The jackpot didn’t go off.

‍

Congratulations and best wishes to Denise Wallace and Penny Warren who are representing North Qld in the State District Sides this week at Mermaid Beach, Gold Coast.  

‍

Our first game of Bingo starts today Friday 1 May. To enjoy the morning be at the clubhouse by 9am for a 9.30am start.  

‍

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

‍

The U13 Team  Photo supplied

‍

‍

It wasn’t all smooth sailing, but across the grades there was plenty to celebrate in a spirited weekend of football.

Friday night saw both Divisional Men’s sides impress against Mackay Rangers. Div 2 showed great grit to secure a 3–2 victory, with Kadon Howell opening his account, Chen Quach adding another, and Rale Mudford netting the winner. Div 1 delivered a clinical 5–2 result, highlighted by Hayden Vanderdrift’s second consecutive hat-trick, supported by goals from Jake Flaherty and Nathan Sothmann.

Our women set the tone on Saturday with a determined 3–2 comeback win over Rangers. After falling 2–0 behind, Michelle Sothman’s driving finish ignited belief before Sarah Chilton scored twice to cap a resilient performance.

The FQPL Men enjoyed a dominant home round against Wanderers. The U23s ran rampant in an 8–2 win, with Kai Savy bagging a hat-trick alongside goals from Pepe Perea, Sebastian Shand, Sam Frumento (2) and Ben Seago. The Premiers followed with an equally emphatic 8–1 victory, Ethan Rose leading the charge with a hat-trick. Further goals from Thomas Farnsworth, Reef Peel, Max O’Keefe and Mikey Nash sealed a commanding result.

Our U14/15 squads showed strong character on Sunday. U14/15 Div 1 fought back to claim a 6–2 win over Dolphins, while the U14/15 FQPL side battled hard but went down 2–1 despite a late penalty from Nick Moranino.

The U13s also impressed, with a solid defensive display from the back line the U13 FQPL team securing a composed 2–0 win against Country United, with goals from Jace Hickey and Connor Miller. The U13 Div 1 put in a strong effort but conceded a 5–3 loss against Magpies Black. 

A weekend showcasing resilience, growth and exciting football across every age group.

Contributed with thanks to Joscelyn O’Keefe.  

‍

Photo source: Facebook

‍

‍

What began as a picture-perfect Whitsunday morning turned into a test of patience for sailors competing in the Abell Point Yacht Club’s annual Warri Cup yacht race on Sunday 12 April.

‍

With bright blue skies overhead and calm seas across Pioneer Bay, the fleet gathered for the scheduled 11am start off Airlie Beach.  While the weather looked ideal for spectators, competitors quickly realised the day would be a challenging one as the wind refused to play.

‍

Instead of the usual lively charge across the course, yachts found themselves drifting slowly in glassy conditions.  Some boats barely moved at all and at times the gentle current made it appear as though they were sailing backwards.

‍

Race organisers and competitors remained hopeful that a breeze might fill in and allow the race to continue, but the Whitsundays had other plans.  As the hours passed with little change in conditions, several yachts began to retire from the race.

By around 1.30pm, with still no meaningful wind and concern that boats could be out on the course well into the evening, the difficult decision was made to abandon the race. While some sailors were keen to persevere, others were relieved to turn for home.

‍

“You can’t keep everyone happy in a yacht race,” organisers said afterwards. “But sometimes the weather simply doesn’t cooperate.”

‍

Despite the lack of racing, the Warri Cup remains one of the Abell Point Yacht Club’s most anticipated events and a highlight on the local sailing calendar.

‍

The race is now rescheduled for a re-run on Sunday 24 May 2026 and hopefully the wind decides to join the party this time.

‍

Contributed with thanks to Abell Point Yacht Club

‍

On Tuesday a big field of 34 players (11 ladies and 23 men) competed in a single Stableford event. Weather and course conditions were ideal as reflected in some good scoring.

‍

Congratulations to the lady’s winner Penny Wardroper and Barry Mortimer for the men. 

‍

We celebrated Jan and Barry's 80^th with song and delicious cake.

‍

RESULTS

‍

LADIES

Winner: Penny Wardroper 36 points

R/Up: Linda Wardroper also with 36 points on a count back

Rundown: Elspeth Scotford (35), Sally Little and Tina Badenhorst both with 33 points and Jan Shuwalow (32)

‍

MEN

Winner: Barry Mortimer 42 points

R/Up:  John Strelec also with 42 points on a count back

Rundown: Grossy and John Roser both with 37 points, Trevor Peroz (36), Gary Scotford, Craig McLean and Peter Lindsay all with 35 points, Norman Foster (34) and Allen Roberts (33)

‍

PIN SHOTS

Ladies: A Grade - Elspeth Scotford scooped the pool with all 3 pin shots!!!

              B Grade - Linda Wardroper (x2) and Sally Little

Men: A Grade - Grossy (x2) and Les Randles

           B Grade - Trevor Paroz, Barry Shuwalow and Barry Mortimer

‍

CHIP INS 

Elspeth Scotford, Jan Shuwalow, Barry Mortimer and Trevor Paroz

‍

NAGAs 

for a ball each Robyn Whitham and Vic Feldman

‍

DRAWS:

MEMBERSHIP draw to Norm Foster

WEEKLY RAFFLE reluctantly to Roger Vandenberg

‍

UPCOMING EVENTS:

28/4/26 - CROKER SHIELD at Proserpine 9.00 am start

5/5/26 - MAY 2026 Monthly Medal and count your putts

‍

DITTY

Golf is the closest game to the game we call life. You get bad brakes from good shots, good brakes from bad shots but you have to play the ball where it lies.

Contributed with thanks to John Roser

‍

Wednesday the Proserpine Bowls Club had thirteen people for bowls and Graham Thrupp decided that it  was the ideal time to give his new bowls a practice so that he could start to work out exactly what they do without the pressures of playing in a game.  This always a great way to reacquaint ourselves with just what can be done with our bowls.

‍

In Social Bowls John Anderson, Henny Tattam and Trevor Parsons defeated Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith and Mike Harrison 18 - 12, coming from behind by scoring a 6 in the 16th end to edge ahead leading into the last end with a 2 shotmargin.  We all know that in the last end if you are behind, it's no good playing safe, you must go for shots.

‍

In the other game of Social Bowls on Wednesday, Nolwenn and Thomas visitors from France were introduced to bowls for the first time.  Nolwenn, Barry Zillmann and Heather Brown defeated Thomas, Mary Hedgelong and Philip Brown 30 - 6.

‍

In Social Bowls on Sunday, Thomas, Arthur Griffith and Heather Brown defeated Nolwenn, Philip Brown and Trevor Parsons 24 - 14.  This was a much closer game than the scores indicate.

‍

In the other game of Social Bowls on Sunday, Alen Sanderson, Henny Tattam and Mark Holmes defeated Graham Thrupp, Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison 24 - 18.

‍

Competition games for this weekend.  Saturday May 2.  Club Championship Singles to commence at 10am --  Michael Kinnear v Luchie Gardel, Marker Philip Brown.  Shane Kinnear v Andrew Bell, Marker Mark Holmes.  Gavin Milne v Kendall Watts, Marker Gavin Noonan.  Scott Hamilton v Harry Craig, Marker Jonathan Bye.

‍

Club Championship Pairs commencing at 1pm -- Harry Craig and Scott Hamilton v David Ling and Andrew Bell.  Toby Craig and Marcus Craig v Shane Kinnear and Michael Kinnear.

‍

B Grade Pairs commencing at 1pm --  Alen Sanderson and Mike Harrison v Vince Olsen and Todd Leys.

‍

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

‍