Sports

Cannons Earn State Honours at School Sport Championships

Cannons Earn State Honours at School Sport Championships

Cannonvale Cannons swimmers have achieved outstanding success, with 15 athletes selected to represent North Queensland at the Queensland Representative School Sport Championships in Brisbane. Selection in the North Queensland team is a significant achievement, with the region spanning from Proserpine to Ingham and west to Charters Towers. Competing outside of club swimming, this pathway brings together the very best school-aged swimmers across the region. The 13–19 years team featured Jax Clayworth, Hamilton Anflous, Tyler Bennett, Thomas Ganter, Tora Delac, Celeste Orenshaw and Roxanne Groom. Coach Kate and committee member Jane Delac also supported the team as managers, while Tora Delac was named Team Captain, an honour reflecting her leadership and commitment. Jax Clayworth delivered a standout performance, claiming silver in the 200m Butterfly and bronze in both the 400m Freestyle and 400m Individual Medley, along with two additional top ten finishes. Thomas Ganter secured a top ten placing in the 200m IM, while Roxanne Groom placed 8th in the 200m Breaststroke. In the 10–12 years division, Lucas Korosec, Miller Eaves, Mackenzie Bennett, Eloise Chegwidden, Maeve Dichiera, Zane Clayworth, Alex Trefz and Harris Delac all represented the region with pride. Eloise Chegwidden was crowned Queensland State Champion in the 50m Breaststroke, swimming a personal best 39.75. Lucas Korosec achieved personal bests in 10 of his 11 events, earning bronze in the 50m Backstroke and three top ten finishes. Miller Eaves impressed with a 15-second personal best in the 200m IM. The Cannons also celebrate recent North Queensland Age Champions: Miller Eaves (10 years), Eloise Chegwidden (10 years), Jax Clayworth (12 years) and Tora Delac (15 years). A fantastic achievement and a strong finish to the season, with only the 2026 Australia Age Championships in April remaining on the calendar. Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec Captions 1 - 15 Cannonvale Cannons swimmers have been selected to represent North Queensland. Photo supplied

Read the full story
Airlie Beach Bowls Club Weekly News

Airlie Beach Bowls Club Weekly News

The days may be getting shorter, but the standard of bowling at the club continues to improve each week. Tuesday afternoon saw 20 bowlers competing, with Lyn Graham and Sue Dakin taking out the winners’ prize. Stacey Hadlow and Sue Walker claimed second place after an entertaining and skilful session. On Wednesday (25/3), 17 bowlers took to the green in a day superbly run by Mervyn Stewart. The standout team was Warren Mills, lead Duncan Smith, and second Terry Clarke, who delivered an impressive 27–10 victory. Wednesday night Corporate Bowls continues to be dominated by “Girl Power,” with Maureen Barnard, Gail Simms, Sue Dakin, and skipper Cathy Russell remaining unbeaten after eight straight wins. Flame Tree, represented by Craig Kennedy, Brendan Rock, and Ben Dooland, sit in second place. A new competition will begin after schools return in April. The Men’s Pairs over the weekend produced outstanding performances. In a thrilling final, Manny Isgro and Luke Kinnear defeated Harry Quad and Andy McDougall 19–16 in a match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. In the Ladies Fours final, Elaine Kippen’s team—Sandra Argo, Dawn Dowell, and Kathryn Remmeswaal—played strongly, but Joan McGrath, Lyn Graham, Vicki Spann, and Ladda Purdie proved too consistent and claimed victory. Scroungers Round 5 will be held on Easter Saturday (9:30 am start), with Social Bowls on Easter Sunday at 1 pm (names in by 12:30 pm). Don’t forget: Tradies vs Non-Tradies begins in June. Captions Skipper Joan McGrath with lead Lyn Graham , Vicki Spann, Ladda Purdie who relentlessly wore down their competitors for an outstanding performance of skilful bowls Photo supplied

Read the full story
Proserpine Vets Golf Club News

Proserpine Vets Golf Club News

On Tuesday a single Stableford competition was played in difficult soggy conditions which was reflected in the low point scoring. Congratulations to the ladies winner Leanne Alexander (second week in a row) and Craig McLean (runner up last week) for the men. RESULTS LADIES Winner: Leanne Alexander 29 points R/Up: Elspeth Scotford with 26 points Rundown: Lyn Muller (26), Heather Luvis (25) and Paula McQuat (23) MEN Winner: Craig McClean 30 points R/Up: John Roser with 29 points Rundown: Mark Richards also with 29 points on a count back, Louis Neethling, John Oates and John Wallace all with 27 points PIN SHOTS Ladies: A Grade - Lyn Muller, Elspeth Scotford and Heather Luvis B Grade - Tiina Randmae and Paula McQuat Men: A Grade - John Roser and Craig McClean B Grade - Barry Mortimer and John Oates CHIP INS Trevor Peroz, Barry Mortimer and Vic Feldman (x2) NAGAs For a ball each Jenny Hounsell and Wilf Herweg DRAWS: MEMBERSHIP jackpots to $20 next week WEEKLY RAFFLE $50 to Robyn Whitham UPCOMING EVENTS: Next week 31/3/26 - MARCH 2026 Monthly Medal and count your putts DITTY There are 3 roads to ruin: gambling and golf. The most pleasant, the quickest but the surest is with golf Contributed with thanks to John Roser. 1 – Winners, Craig McLean and Leanne Alexander

Read the full story
Wangaratta Bowls Club News

Wangaratta Bowls Club News

On Tuesday afternoon the elusive jackpot that has been accumulating from last year finally went off in the game between Lindy Suann Robyn Stitt and Alby Vigar who defeated Stumpy Adams Sue Shearing and Ron Hyde. In the other game it couldn’t have been any closer with a draw between Bron Tolcher Shirley Jones and Maureen Hyde against Andy Nayland Skin Querro and Deb Retchless. Club Competition is now underway. In the Men’s A Singles A Rolfe defeated S Jeal and K Daniels defeated M Drummond. Consistency for the Ladies C Jeal defeated T Willshire and L Scells defeated M Hyde. Winners for Sunday afternoon were Gordon Querro Maureen Hyde and Kennedy Whitton defeated Toni Bowen Cliff Queero and Pat Tracey, In the other games Andy Nayland Ron Hyde Greg Colquhoun defeated Penny Warren Alby Vigar and Allan Rolfe and Teresa Willshire Gavin Charles and Kevin Daniels drew with Deb Rethchless Graeme Read and Stuart Jeal. The jackpot number did come out but players decided to build up the bank. Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren 1 - President Deb Retchless with Stumpy Adams, Sue Shearing, Ron Hyde, Alby Vigar and Lindy Suann.

Read the full story
Woolworths Happy Easter

Exciting Matches At Bowen Bowls Club

June 6, 2024

Club Pairs Results
   • Ron Gould and Steve Roome defeated Lee Welsted and Jason Wright in a tightly contested match.
Wednesday Social Bowls Results
   • Mary Ellen Pratten, G. Cornell, and Daryl Tuttle defeated Sue Fox, Lloyd White, and Helen Jacobsen.
   • Daryl O’Connell, Ray Muir, and Steve Roome defeated Eddy Neylon, Jane Gilbert, and Bob Lindsay.
   • Peter, Ron, and Gus defeated Bev, Peter, and Rob.
   • Anna Delic, Wendy Coles, and Gary Turner defeated Glenys, Ian Thatcher, and D. MacDonald.
   • Chris and Pete defeated Jim and Ken.
As the season progresses, the competition at Bowen Bowls Club continues to deliver exciting matches and showcase the skills of its members. The club looks forward to more engaging games in the coming weeks.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards
Photo supplied

Read More

Halfway Mark Of Pennants Reached At Proserpine Bowls Club

June 6, 2024

Proserpine Bowls Club's Division 5 team clashed with North Mackay last Saturday, resulting in a 41-all draw. The team's Gavin Noonan, Harry Craig, Dale Haack, and Brett Saroglia secured a 23-20 victory, with both sides taking home 2.5 points each.
On the same day, Division 1 faced a strong Souths Suburban team. Despite a win by Shane Kinnear's quartet (16-13), the team suffered overall losses in other matches, with Souths Suburban taking the day 60-47 and earning the majority of match points.
Sunday brought renewed vigour with Division 1 hosting Northern Beaches. Nathan Harriott's last-end heroics led to a 20-19 win. Although one match was lost 20-22, Wayne Handley's team achieved a 22-17 victory, tilting the overall score in Proserpine's favour, 62-58.
Division 5 enjoyed a home advantage against Mackay, with John Matterson's team winning 23-19 and Brett Saroglia's repeating Saturday's success with a 40-33 win, grabbing all match points.
A highlight was the Club Championship Fours semi-final on Sunday afternoon, where Harry Craig’s team dominated with a 25-14 win over David Ling's team.
Wednesday's social bowls saw mixed results amid rain, with noteworthy performances despite the weather. The club extends a special thanks to all volunteers who contribute tirelessly, ensuring the smooth running of events and maintenance of facilities. Their dedication keeps the community spirit alive and thriving at the club.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

Read More

Wangaratta Bowls Club Highlights Weekly Achievements

June 6, 2024

The Wangaratta Bowls Club enjoyed an eventful week, with the Tuesday social bowls seeing fierce competition and strategic plays. Notable victories included John and Denis outplaying Alan and Norm, while B. Tolcher, S. Shearing, and Domingo took down C. Bellingham, K. Armstrong, and their team. Other winners of the day were J. Hayson, B. Bellingham, and G. Colquhoun, who defeated P. Mullins, L. Knight, and M. Hyde. M. Nesbit, P. Nesbit, and J. Steele bested Tracey, Jill, and Mark Drummond. M. Mullen, P. Howie, and J. White triumphed over E. White, J. Stamp, and G. Danvers. M. Elphinstone, J. Dawson, and L. Fox were victorious against Pam Breakwell, H. Reif, and R. Hyde. Despite the excitement, the jackpot remained unclaimed.
In addition to the social games, the club celebrated the Ladies team securing 3rd place in the 1st Division Blue Pennant in Townsville last week, marking a significant achievement.
The Men’s Competition also saw some action with L. Land and G. Read defeating K. Whitton and H. Dalton. Meanwhile, the Monday self-selected triples kicked off this week, promising more bowling excitement.
Club members are reminded to register their names by 12:30 PM for a prompt 1:00 PM start, with games concluding at 4:30 PM. This schedule ensures participants enjoy a full afternoon of competition and camaraderie at the club.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Photo supplied

Read More

Bowen Golf Club Hosts Exciting 2024 Pro-Am And Monthly Medal Events

June 6, 2024

The Bowen Golf Club recently showcased exceptional golfing talent during the Abbot Point, Onsite Rental Group & Gilmour Space 2024 Pro-Am. Professionals John Lyras and Darcy Boyd both excelled, finishing their rounds 6 under par.
In the amateur rankings, Ryley Malone topped the Men's division, with Craig Newell and Kailan Batchelor trailing closely. Claire Garrod led the Ladies' division, followed by Meg Garrod and Jo Kukura. Notable performances in pin shots came from Danny Borgh, Jason Craig, Robyn Slade, and others, with Claire Garrod making an impressive chip-in.
The momentum continued with the Saturday Monthly Medal. Linda Vincent won the Ladies' competition with a score of 65, while Gregg Aplin dominated the Men's category with 66. Highlighting the day were remarkable pin shots and an eagle on Hole 14 by Michael Uerata.
Looking ahead, the club will host an 18-hole 4 ball ambrose medley this Saturday. Additionally, the community is encouraged to participate in the Joker draw this Friday night, boasting a $1,100 jackpot. Guests planning to dine at the event should book a table by calling 47851206 to ensure availability.
These events not only highlight the club’s active schedule but also its role as a cornerstone for sports and community engagement in Bowen.

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

Photos supplied

Read More

Whitsunday Golf Club Holds June MM/Putts Event Amid Damp Conditions

June 6, 2024

This past Sunday, the Whitsunday Golf Club hosted its June Monthly Medal and Least Putts competition, with 14 players braving the wet course conditions. The event, generously sponsored by Airlie Panel and Paint and Master Butchers Whitsunday, saw reduced participation due to the ideal fishing weather and some players opting to wait for drier playing conditions.
The persistent wet weather has been particularly challenging for smaller country courses, affecting player numbers. The club remains hopeful for the onset of the usual balmy winter weather to welcome back regular participants.
Competition Results:
Ladies A Grade:

   • Winner: Anna Winterbourn, nett 79
   • Runner-up: Tiina Randmae
   • Longest Drive: Tiina Randmae
Ladies B Grade:
   • Winner: Linda Wardroper, 79
   • Runner-up: Joanne Moynihan
   • Longest Drive: Linda Wardroper
Men’s A Grade:
   • Winner: Darren Reynolds, nett 69
   • Runner-up: George Meharry
   • Longest Drive: Andrew Albergo
Men’s B Grade:
   • Winner: Mark McDougal, nett 75 (countback)
   • Runner-up: David Hoy (countback from Wilf Herweg)
   • Longest Drive: Mark McDougal
Nearest to the Pin (NTPs):
   • Ladies: Anna Winterbourn and Linda Wardroper
   • Men: Darren Reynolds and David Hoy
Least Putts:
   • Tiina Randmae and Andrew Albergo
The NAGAs (Not A Golfer's Award) were humorously bestowed upon Tina Cook and Dean Kercher, with drinks provided by Aaron and Tracy Watts, owners of RADS Whitsunday.
Upcoming Events: No WGC competition will be held next Sunday due to the PGC Ladies’ and Men's 4somes championship over 27 holes. The following week, June 16th, features a single Stableford with times scheduled from 7 to 8 AM. Participants are encouraged to register early and proceed promptly to the RGH for food and presentation post-match.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

Photo supplied

Read More

On The Whitsunday Green

June 6, 2024

This week at the local golf club, the 9-hole Stableford competition saw some closely contested scores among the players. Rob Lodders emerged victorious on Wednesday, securing first place with an impressive 23 points. Hot on his heels was Edwina Pettiford with 21 points, clinching second place, while Levi Smith rounded out the top three with 20 points on a countback.
The excitement continued into Friday's 9-hole Stableford, where Brad Low triumphed in a tight finish, taking first place with 21 points on a countback. Scott Hayes-Williams also scored 21 points for a countback second place, followed by Tim Walton in third with 21 points.
Sunday brought another layer of competition with the medal of the medalist event, where Glenn Rees excelled, recording a net score of 50. The Stableford competition saw Jayden Parata lead the field with 39 points. Rob Lodders was a close second with 38 points, and David Wallace secured third place with 37 points. The nearest-the-pin honours were shared by Jack and Scott Hayes-Williams, showcasing their precise golfing skills.
This coming Sunday promises more action with a 4BBB event scheduled from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM. Participants and spectators alike are looking forward to another day of competitive play and camaraderie on the greens.
 

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross

Glenn Rees, Photo supplied

Read More

Sea Eagles Face Moranbah Bulldogs In Challenging Matches

June 6, 2024

The Whitsunday Sea Eagles hosted the Moranbah Bulldogs this week, following a successful and respectful Indigenous Round against the Swans last weekend. The matches were filled with excitement and challenges across all age groups.
Under 17s End in Thrilling Draw
The Under 17s match was a highlight, ending in a nail-biting 48-48 draw. The Sea Eagles, eager to showcase their improvement after a Grand Final defeat last year and a preseason loss, dominated the first half. However, the Bulldogs came back strong in the second half, resulting in a fiercely contested game. The Sea Eagles Under 17s are now set to face the competition-leading North Mackay Saints this week, promising another thrilling encounter.
Under 12s Triumph with Commanding Victory
In a stellar performance, the Sea Eagles Under 12s secured a resounding victory against the Bulldogs, finishing 60-0. The young team started strong and maintained their momentum throughout the game, leaving the Moranbah opposition scoreless.
Tough Battles for Senior Women and Under 14s
The Senior Women’s team faced a formidable challenge against the higher-placed Bulldogs, compounded by the absence of several key players. Despite the odds, the Sea Eagles displayed resilience, ultimately falling 20-85. Their determination and spirit were commendable throughout the match.
The Under 14s, coming off two strong wins, encountered a spirited Moranbah Bulldogs team. Despite their efforts, they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities, ending with a 6-66 loss.
Upcoming Matches
The Sea Eagles are set to take on the North Mackay Saints at home this week, with the Seniors starting at 1:50 PM and the Juniors kicking off at 9:15 AM. The Sea Eagles are calling on their supporters to come out and cheer for all the teams as they face the formidable Saints.
The community’s support is crucial as the Sea Eagles strive for victory against strong opposition.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles, Photo supplied

Read More

Dom Friend Keeps Pace with Joe Wilson at Airlie Bowls Club

June 6, 2024

This week’s matches at the Airlie Bowls Club saw fierce competition as Dom Friend and Joe Wilson continued their battle for the top spot in the premier league.
Key Results:
   • D. Friend 7-1 S. Edmonds
   • N. Mitchell 2-7 J. Lloyd
   • J. Lloyd 2-7 D. Friend
   • J. Wilson 7-3 N. Mitchell
Dom Friend impressed with two victories, defeating Scott Edmonds 7-1 and Jayden Lloyd 7-2. Joe Wilson retained his lead by beating Naomi Mitchell 7-3, thanks to a superior leg difference. Jayden Lloyd recovered from his loss to Friend by defeating Mitchell 7-2, leaving Mitchell with two losses on the day and second from the bottom with 2 points.
The Airlie Bowls Club thanks its sponsors Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing Airlie Beach, and Master Butchers Whitsundays for their support. Look forward to more exciting matches in the coming weeks.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.

Read More

Mixed Results For Whitsunday United In Mackay

June 6, 2024

Whitsunday United faced a weekend of mixed results against tough competition in Mackay.

Friday Night: Division One and Two Men’s Teams
The Division One Men continued their impressive form with a 5-2 victory over Rangers. Stef and Rale each scored twice, with Radders adding the final goal. However, the Division Two Men narrowly lost 2-1 in a close match. Alistair Sawers scored his first goal for the club.

Saturday: Youth Matches
The U13 Division One team remains at the top of the leaderboard despite a 5-4 loss to Rangers. Alex Draper stood out with two goals from the left wing, while Charlie and Tyson F. each scored once. The game showcased the team’s excellent communication and growth.

The U13 Premier team, short-handed, faced a challenging match against Lions, losing 6-1. Seven players had to step up from the earlier Division One match. Remy Smart worked tirelessly in midfield, and Shannon Matthews scored from an Austin Kelly corner.

U15 Division One side started strong against Magpies, scoring two goals in the first 20 minutes. However, the game was abandoned due to a serious injury, resulting in a 2-0 win for WUFC.

Sunday: Senior Matches
On Sunday, the Division One team faced a tough game against Dolphins Silver, resulting in a 7-1 defeat. Dwayne earned player of the match for his relentless effort, and Sam's performance as a fill-in goalkeeper was commendable.

Women’s Teams: Premier and Reserves
The Women’s Premier and Reserve teams had a challenging away day at Magpies. Despite the setbacks, the Premiers remain second in the league, and the Reserves stay on top. There are still plenty of opportunities to rebound as the season progresses.

Men’s Teams: Premier and Reserves
The Men’s Reserves displayed promise despite a 2-1 loss to Rangers. Sam Blake scored, giving the team a 1-0 lead at halftime. However, Rangers scored twice in the second half to secure the win. With an average age of 16, our young team showed significant potential.

The Men’s Premier team delivered a strong performance, with an early goal from Jake Kenna, assisted by Josh Bond. After Rangers equalized, Mike O'Brien scored the decisive goal, securing a 2-1 victory. This win propels the team to the top of the league for the first time this season.
Overall, the weekend highlighted Whitsunday United’s resilience and potential. The teams demonstrated promise and determination, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic.

Read More

Cannonvale Cannons Awards Night

June 6, 2024

The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club hosted its annual Presentation Night on Saturday, celebrating the achievements of its swimmers and the invaluable contributions of parents and volunteers. The evening was a resounding success, filled with recognition and pride.
Special Awards for 2024
   • Swim of the Year: Jy Parkinson (200m Butterfly Final at Age Nationals)
   • Sportsperson Award: Jacob Bell
   • Junior and Senior Trainer Awards: Harris Delac, Zach Trefz, Andie Reynolds, and Jacob Bell
   • Mudie Family 70’s Club Awards: Tiana Bell, Noah Maltby, Tora Delac, Charlie Doherty, Thomas Ganter, Jack Ganter, Zach Trefz, Ehsan Helou
   • Minute Club: Ehsan Helou for 100m Freestyle
   • Club Medal Awards: Maeve Dichiera, Harry Chegwidden, Jasper Korosec, Eric Mulliss, Jax Eaves, Dylan Reynolds, Stevie Lee, Murphy Jamieson, Mackenzie Bennett, Lily Maher
Club Championship Awards
Female Age Champions:

   • 7 years & Under: Indigo Harland
   • 8 years: Eloise Chegwidden
   • 9 years: Koa Harland & Evelyn Doherty
   • 10 years: Celeste Orenshaw
   • 11 years: Andie Reynolds
   • 12 years: Isabella Pisaniello
   • 13 years: Tora Delac
   • 14 years: Dylan Reynolds
   • 15 years: Tiana Bell
   • 16 years: Remy Hedges
Male Age Champions:
   • 7 years & Under: Lucas Korosec
   • 8 years: Miller Eaves
   • 9 years: Levi Smith
   • 10 years: Jax Clayworth
   • 11 years: Don Algie
   • 12 years: Thomas Ganter
   • 14 years: Charlie Doherty
   • 15 years: Ehsan Helou
   • 17 years: Jacob Bell
Record Setters at Cannonvale Cannons Swim Carnival
Congratulations to Eloise Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Ehsan Helou, Levi Smith, and Jacob Bell for setting new club records at the Cannons Carnival in April 2024.
Upgrade Certificates
Congratulations to all swimmers who achieved Upgrade Certificates: Zach Trefz, Miller Eaves, Indi Smith, Alex Trefz, Isaac Pisaniello, Celeste Orenshaw, Addie Sanders, Jax Eaves, Matilda Nicholes, Millie Groom, Don Algie, Maeve Dichiera, Sophie Palmero, Ruby Harland, and Andie Reynolds.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the committee for organizing a successful season, and to the parents and coaches for their unwavering support. The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club looks forward to another year of outstanding achievements and community spirit.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Photos supplied

Read More

Whitsunday Touch Football Grand Finals Friday, June 7!

June 6, 2024

The Whitsunday Touch Association's (WTA) Winter Season concluded on Monday night with Grand Finals in four divisions.
Holding the Grand Finals on a Friday night is a new approach by the WTA, aiming to attract a large number of supporters and enhance the evening's atmosphere.
Spectators can expect thrilling action, with the playing surface of the fields in excellent condition.
Come to the Sportspark for an enjoyable evening. You'll be well catered for with plenty of food and refreshments. The action starts at 6:00 pm.
Grand Final Games:
   • Mixed A Grade: In the Crear vs. Vipers
   • Mixed B Grade: Whitsunday Eagles vs. Raiders B
   • Mixed C Grade: Untouchables vs. Mighty Mustangs
   • Mixed Juniors: Hamo Rent vs. Raiders Blue

Preliminary Finals Results - Monday, June 3
   • Mixed A: Vipers 7 defeated Raiders A 2
   • Mixed B: Raiders B 9 defeated Ray White 5
   • Mixed C: Mighty Mustangs defeated Shed N Homes by forfeit
   • Mixed Juniors: Raiders Blue 6 defeated Raiders Purple 2

Come and join us for a fantastic night of touch football action and community spirit!

Contributed with thanks to Alita DeBrincat

Read More

Whitsunday Game Fish Club's Q & T Rally A Day of Big Catches and Bigger Smiles

June 6, 2024

The Whitsunday Game Fish Club held its Q & T rally on Saturday, drawing 14 dedicated members to a day of almost perfect weather and thrilling fishing.

New member "Frenchy" stole the spotlight, winning the best Trevally award with an impressive 107 cm GT, narrowly edging out Josh by just a couple of centimetres.

Jessy claimed victory in the Queenfish category with a 78 cm catch, beating both Josh and Steve in a close contest.

Future champion Benson Smith earned the title of best junior angler, accompanied by lots of cheers from the crowd.

In line with the club's conservation ethos, all fish caught during the event were released back into the water.

The club anticipates a busy year ahead, with numerous events planned, particularly for junior and lady members. More details on these exciting activities will be announced soon.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Game Fish Clubs

Photos supplied

Read More

Twilight Race – May 22, 2024 Full Moon Race

June 6, 2024

On Saturday evening, five yachts set sail under a nearly full moon for the annual Full Moon race, covering approximately 30 nautical miles. Reignition (Charles Wallis) and Overdrive (Rupert King) vied for the lead at the start, with Manteca (Frank Tennyson), Rossgo (Greg Hammon), and Miss Behavin’ (John Morton) close behind. Reignition finished first, followed by Overdrive and Miss Behavin’. On corrected time, Miss Behavin’ emerged victorious, with Reignition and Overdrive in second and third.

The next race is the annual 'Round the Whitsundays race on July 6.

In the Whitsunday Sailing Club's weekly twilight race on Wednesday the conditions looked promising but unpredictable wind patterns challenged competitors.

Division 1
In Division 1, G’nome, skippered by Terry Archer, took the lead from the start after equipment failure delayed Joanne Norbury's boat, Frankie. G’nome dominated, finishing the course in 58 minutes, with Frankie trailing by a few minutes. On corrected time, G’nome secured a five-minute handicap victory.

Division 2
Charles Wallis’s Reignition led the Division 2 fleet from the start, while several favourites lagged behind. Bobby’s Girl initially led, with QMS Ponyo (John Galloway) and Reignition close behind. Black Jack, captained by Richard Anthony, made a strong comeback, overtaking Bobby’s Girl on the final leg to win by 32 seconds. Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) and QMS Ponyo followed nearly five minutes later. On corrected time, Bobby’s Girl won, followed by Wide Load (Shannan Hart) and Matchless (Terry Stevens).

Division 3
Rossgo, helmed by Greg Hammon, led Division 3, closely followed by Masquerade (Tom Vujasinovic). Lighthorse (Di Forster) and Lama (Alan Campbell) vied for third place. Rossgo crossed the finish line three minutes ahead, but on corrected time, Norbert G (Nigel Williams) claimed victory, with Lighthorse and Lama taking second and third.
The Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight series continues every Wednesday at 4:30 PM. Those interested in crewing should arrive by 2:30 PM.

Contributed with thanks to Ross Chisholm.

Photos supplied

Read More

Cutters Rugby League Women Celebrate Unique Championship Double

May 30, 2024

Mackay Cutters have secured a historic rugby league championship double after capturing the 2024 BMD Womens Premiership.

In a unique feat the Cutters women showed their champion qualities to sink Norths Devils 16-6 in an absorbing Grand Final at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium to bring home the club’s second piece of silverware in the space of five weeks.

There were jubilant scenes last month when the Cutters lifted the inaugural Harvey Norman Under 19s Womens trophy with an 18-16 Grand Final triumph over Brisbane Tigers at Totally Workwear Stadium.

It was a double celebration for Mackay’s rising half back Mersades Lawson, hooker Paityne Johns and centre Miah Powell who can now boast Under 19s and BMD Premiership medals in the one season.

Gun forward Lily Peacock produced an outstanding best-on-ground performance for the Cutters – inspiring team mates with her bustling runs, clever passing and rugged defence.

Mackay notched three tries in the space of six minutes through North Queensland prop Sareka Mooka, number nine Alisha Foord and centre Jasmine Peters to jump to a handy 14-0 lead.

Norths hit back when fullback Montaya Hudson crossed for a vital four pointer that was converted by five eighth Georgia Hannaway before the interval.

Talented Cutters’ five eighth Kayla Shepherd scored the lone two points of the second half when she booted a late penalty goal.

Marco Peters’ champion Mackay squad can reflect on a memorable campaign that yielded nine victories and a draw from their eleven matches plus the minor and premiership titles.

Their only blemish was a 22-10 loss to the Burleigh Bears in a round seven preliminary fixture at UAA Park on the Gold Coast.

In winning both the Harvey Norman Under 19s and BMD Womens Premiership trophies the Cutters’ players and officials have etched their names in the Queensland Rugby League record books.

Mackay’s championship-winning BMD Womens Premiership squad for 2024 featured fullback Krystal Blackwell, wingers Libby Surha and Ebony Raftstrand-Smith, centres Shellie Long and Jasmine Peters, five eighth Kayla Shepherd and half back
Tahlulah Tillett, lock forward Lillian Yarrow, second rowers Shaniah Power and Bree Chester, prop forwards Lily Peacock and Essay Banu, hooker Alisha Foord with interchange props Lyrech Mara and Sareka Mooka, utility half Emily Bella and lock forward Pani Rupapere and Under 19s winning trio of half back Mersades Lawson, hooker Paityne Johns and centre Miah Powell.

Supplied by Chris Karas

The Mackay Cutters have achieved a significant milestone in rugby league history by clinching a double championship victory in the 2024 BMD Women's Premiership. Image Credit: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)

Read More

Rejuvenated Cutters Slam PNG In Hostplus Cup

May 30, 2024

MACKAY Cutters returned to the winners list in Hostplus Cup action last weekend with a rousing 40-26 triumph over the PNG Hunters at BB Print Stadium.

The Cutters produced a spirited second half revival to sink their opponents and chalk up a fifth win from ten games played.

PNG led 20-10 at the break but failed to contain a rampaging Mackay line up that stormed to victory in the second stanza with a five try rout.

Hunters prop Junior Rop burst over to score the opening try of the match after three minutes that was converted by half back Jamie Mavoko before Cutters centre Josh Smith responded with the first of his two tries in the 11th minute.

The powerful Rop bagged a double soon after as the Hunters edged ahead but Mackay’s gun utility half Jaxon Purdue levelled proceedings when he evaded defenders to cross for a neat four pointer.

PNG centre Alex Max stamped his mark before the half time interval – scooting over for two tries in the space of four minutes to give the visitors a handy ten-point lead.

It was all the Cutters after lemons with prop Brandon Russell, five eighth Riley Dean, emerging forward Jamal Shibasaki, fullback Raydan Burns and the capable Smith crashing over for tries to blitz the Hunters.

Dean added six conversions to complete a morale-boosting win in front of a raucous local crowd.
The victory snapped a four-match losing streak for the rejuvenated Cutters who have a bye this weekend.

Supplied By Chris Karas

The QCCS Mackay Cutters took on the PNG Hunters in last Sundays afternoon clash. Image credit: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)

Read More

Your FREE Voice In Print

SARINA -  WALKERSTON – MIRANI – MARIAN – PAGET – OORALEA – MACKAY CITY – MACKAY NORTH – SLADE POINT – ANDERGROVE – BEACONSFIELD – NORTHERN BEACHES – FARLEIGH – MT OSSA – SEAFORTH – KUTTABUL - CALEN – BLOOMSBURY – PROSERPINE – CANNONVALE – AIRLIE BEACH – BOWEN – COLLINSVILLE – NEBO – MORANBAH

Locally Owned. Community Loved.