Sports

Boost Your Team’s Health

Boost Your Team’s Health

With Fitness Cartel Corporate Memberships Mackay businesses now have a game-changing way to invest in their employees’ health and wellbeing with Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program. Designed for organisations looking to prioritise fitness, health, and workplace wellness, these memberships give staff access to ultramodern facilities, expert-led classes, and personalised training support — all tailored to the needs of a busy workforce. Whether your team wants to lift, stretch, spin, or recover, Fitness Cartel has it covered. Members enjoy 24/7 access to all clubs, over 500 pieces of strength and cardio equipment, and dedicated zones for Reformer Pilates, functional training, and cycling. The Mackay location also features a fully equipped Wellness Centre, including hot rock saunas, hot and cold plunge pools, Normatec compression boots, red light therapy, and a range of post-workout recovery options to suit every need. Group fitness is a highlight for corporate members, with unlimited access to more than 100 classes per week across 4 different training studios inside the Mackay Club. Options range from Les Mills’ Body Combat, Body Pump, Body Balance And RPM, to yoga, Mat Pilates, Zumba, and functional training sessions. Virtual classes are also available 24/7, offering flexibility for early birds or night owls. For businesses with families on the team, Kids Cartel provides a safe, engaging crèche and playground, ensuring parents can focus on their workout while children enjoy supervised play. Employees can also enjoy the Cartel Café, offering nutritious meals and snacks to fuel their workouts, or browse the on-site nutrition and pro shop. Corporate packages at Fitness Cartel are designed to elevate workplace wellness programs. Beyond improving fitness levels, they promote team bonding, boost morale, and create a positive, healthy work culture. Monthly body scans, personal training sessions, and precision programming help staff track progress and achieve their health goals, making corporate wellness a practical and measurable benefit for businesses. “The Fitness Cartel Corporate Membership Program is all about empowering teams to reach their health and fitness goals, while giving employers an easy way to support workplace wellbeing,” said Mackay Co-Franchisee Cliff Forster. With multiple locations and more planned nationwide, employees have seamless access to premium fitness facilities no matter where they are. For Mackay businesses looking to invest in their teams, Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program offers the ultimate combination of fitness, recovery, and community, all under one roof. For more information or to arrange a corporate membership, contact Fitness Cartel Mackay at mackay@fitnesscartel.com.au or call (07) 4881 0365

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Honours And Highlights

Honours And Highlights

At North Mackay Bowls Club North Mackay Bowls club Presentation night was held on Saturday 29/11/2025, with many of our bowlers and significant others attending. Following a lovely dinner prepared by the super chefs at Goosies, the Ladies section held their presentation first, with many excited winners receiving certificates and renumeration. Results: Champ Pairs : Deb Mackenzie and Chris Woo Champ Triples : Nug Pratt, Val De Pinto, Marie Bragg Champ Fours : Lorna Bowers, Deb Mackenzie, Coral Francis, Donna Gordon B Pairs : Ann Smith ans Min Andrew Over 70’s : Lorna Bowers Graded 4’s Lorraine Silman, Doris Dodds, Helen Fleming, Min Andrew Graded 3 B Triples : Lois Deguara, Helen Fleming, Sue Roscoe Graded 2 B Triples : Donna Gordon, Carmel Bell, Hilary Jones-Rowan Consistency : Cheryl Corbett Division 1 Winning Pennant Team going on to play in Emerald ( Leichhardt District ) and then to Tweed Heads(Qld Division) Coming 4th in the State. Well done to all the ladies in the team. The Bowler of the Year award was presented to the player who claimed the Championship Singles, ‘B’ Singles and Under 70s Singles titles, with the honour bestowed on Brenda Trannore. Brenda graciously accepted the accolade, delivering a heartfelt speech in which she thanked those who had supported and guided her throughout her bowls journey, acknowledging the achievement as a significant milestone in both her life and her bowls career. Amazing and Well Done Brenda. The Mens Section had their 2025 Presentation next, with many of the bowlers happy with their performances on the green an in competitions, Pennant and away games. Results: Mixed Pairs : Neil Blucher and Lois Deguara Mixed Fours ; Pam Spencer, Ken Rix, Carmel Bell, Dave Mc Kendry B Singles : Eric Galletly, B Pairs : Eric Gallantly John Kennell Senior Singles : Geoff Ollett 2 B Triples : Andrew Coates, Clive Wales, Peter Blackburn. 3 B Triples : Shane Trannore, Wayne Trannore, Dave McKendry A Fours : Ben Crocker, Col Crocker, Ian Beveridge, Joe Crocker A Pairs : Mick Walsh and Steve Lane A Singles : Alan Cooney Club Person of the Year was voted in as a tie this year, and went to Wayne and Shane Trennore. It was a super evening for the Trannore name in bowls for our Club. Wayne Trannore responded on behalf of his brother Shane, also thanking those involved with the club and their fantastic award. Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Cards, Community And Connection

Cards, Community And Connection

At Mackay Contract Bridge Club Results For Week Ending Saturday 13th December 2025 Monday 8th December 2025 – 6 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Jewel Schmidt - Janine Rodgers 2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 2nd Shirley Worland - Janice Mansfield 3rd Geoffrey Patterson - Noel Bugeia 3rd Jayne Johnstone - Clare Wallace Tuesday 9th December 2025 – 3 ½ Table Howell Green Points 1st Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia 2nd Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy 3rd Richard Wix - Tex Sheedy Wednesday 10th December 2025 –10 Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Martin Pearce - Sue Mayer-Miller 2nd Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 2nd Janet Hansen - Alan Brown 3rd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 3rd Gwen Liddell - Anne Lutz 4th Annette Howe - Diane Stokes 4th Mary Rose Ramsden - Patrick Rasmussen 5th Lorna Shuttlewood - Tex Sheedy 5th Sandy Patterson - Joy Hold Thursday Evening 11th December 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Joy Hold - Patricia Garner 1st Noel Bugeia - Tex Sheedy 2nd Geoff Taylor - Anne Lutz 2nd Martin Pearce - Simon Barnes Friday 12th December 2025 –7 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 1st David Ting - Ming Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix 2nd Julie O'neill - Ann Whitmore 3rd Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 3rd Christine Nice - Diane Cox 3rd Martin Pearce - Gwen Liddell Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section A (Christmas Party )– 8 Table Mitchell - Green Points North/South East/West 1st Victor Mason - Ann Whitmore 1st Marilin Robins - Mick Robins 2nd Geoff Taylor - Margaret Lane 2nd Faye Wright - Tex Sheedy 3rd Monica Darley - David Hird 3rd Diane Stokes - Annie Lynch 4th Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless 4th Noel Bugeia - Pamela Finger Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section B (Christmas Party)– 9 Table Mitchell - Green Points North/South East/West 1st Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 1st Janet Hansen - Thelma Caruana 2nd Ming Ting - David Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix 3rd Alan Brown - Frances Brown 3rd Susan Gibson - Karen Caldwell 4th Christopher Meyers - Sandy Patterson 4th Eric Goodchild - Debra Goodchild Contributed by Robert Carless

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Heat, Hustle And Holiday Spirit At Bluewater Quay

Heat, Hustle And Holiday Spirit At Bluewater Quay

With Mackay Road Runners With temperatures feeling closer to 35 degrees and no rain in sight, it was a very Mackay-style lead-up to Christmas at this week’s Bluewater Quay Social Run. Forget a white Christmas, runners were treated to hot, testing conditions during the afternoon’s 5km and 10km events. Race Director Andrew Short was thanked for delivering another successful run, despite the heat, with welcome relief provided by Zooper Doopers and Red Dog’s rehydration options, which were greatly appreciated by participants. The next Bluewater Quay social run, commencing at 4.30pm next Sunday, will be the final event before Christmas. Runners are encouraged to come along for a festive group photo and stay on for a Christmas drink afterwards. Some of the best photos may feature in this Mackay Life Newspaper and the Mackay Road Runners 2026 calendar, described humorously as a firefighter-style calendar, but with clothes. Congratulations were extended to all participants for their efforts in challenging conditions, with a reminder for runners to continue training and racing in such conditions to stay healthy and safe. “Thank you to Mackay & Whitsunday Life magazine for their awesome support of the Mackay Road Runners Club!”

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Airlie Beach Bowls News

April 24, 2024

Tuesday afternoon saw the annual Alison Holmes Day, which was a huge success .

Third place went to Wendy Pomeroy’s team of Lyn Graham and Bev Taylor, second place went to Joan McGrath with Maureen Barnard and Elaine Kippen .

The winners of the day went to Margo Stanley’s team of Lane Telford and Alison Holmes, whilst Dawn Dowel took home the lucky door prize. 

Wednesday afternoon Jackpot bowls saw Andrew Butler’s team of Lu Rogan and Christine Lawson win.

Wednesday night Corporate Bowls competition commenced with big winners Rock Plumbing beating K Build 17-4.

Other winners were PRD, Battery Warehouse, Hadlow Racing and the Burrows Girls.

Saturday and Sunday saw the men’s B Pairs being played with the final between Noel Crosbie and Andy MCDougall against Mark Mawson with Arthur MCManus. Mark and Arthur were the winners 20-16 in a close game.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Bowen Bowls Competition Games

April 24, 2024

In the Club Pairs Gus and Ray defeated Kevin and Gordo.

During the Sunday Social: A. Delic, R. Gould, G. Charles defeated B. Neal, J. Gilbert, J. Wright.

K. Kirk, W. Coles, L. White defeated A. Williams, H. Jacobsen, M. Wright.

R. Scanlon, Glen. R, A. Peebles had a drawn game with I. Thatcher, Gordo, L. Welsted.

At the Wednesday Social: D. Tuttle, R. Stitt, G. Charles defeated ME. Pratten, R. Scanlon, K. Jewell.

E. Neylon, H. Jacobsen, S. Roome had a drawn game with P. Wilson, W. Coles, J. Gilbert.


Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

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A Busy Weekend For Prossie Bowls

April 24, 2024

On Saturday morning two Club Championship Singles games were played. Andrew Bell defeated Bryan Davy 25 - 14 and Scott Hamilton defeated Wayne Handley 25 - 22. 

On Saturday afternoon two short games of Social Bowls were played. Patricia Bownds and Andrew Bell defeated Alen Sanderson and Heather Brown 11 - 9; Jim Bownds, Philip Brown and Gavin Milne defeated Arthur Griffith, Barry Zillmann and Gavin Noonan 11 - 7.

On Sunday afternoon Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe and Sandy Daffara defeated John Anderson, Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison 19 - 18; Stanley Lawton, Peter Lawton and Heather Brown defeated Lee King, Arthur Griffith and Philip Brown 21 - 9.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

Scott Hamilton and Wayne Handley following their very close Club Championship Singles game. Photo supplied

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Wangaratta Weekly Bowls

April 24, 2024

Results for social play on Tuesday: Deb Retchless, Sue Shearing, Geoff Danvers defeated Merle Elphinstone, Irene laird, Greg Colquhoun and Bron Tolcher, Gavin Charles, Lyn Danvers defeated Stumpy Adams, Robyn Stitt, Penny Warren.

Barefoot bowls: We had a few new players and also a visit from the Capricornia Tourers who were visiting Bowen for the week and took time out to visit and play at the club.  

Sunday afternoon, winners were Denise Wallace, Merle Elphinstone, Penny Warren defeated Jim Quod, Maureen Hyde, Graeme Read. Teresa Willshire, Kennedy Whitton defeated Alby Vigar, Marg Wilson. Bill Myers, Deb Retchless, Pat Tracey defeated Stumpy Adams, Laurie Land, Ron Hyde.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

The Capricornia Tourers at Barefoot Bowls on Friday Night. Photo supplied

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Premier League Darts Report

April 24, 2024

We start of this week’s Premier League action with the match between Kameron Reason and Naomi Mitchell. 

Although the 7-1 score line in favour of Kam would suggest total dominance in the tie, there were encouraging signs for Naomi who smashed her highest match average this season by almost 10 points.

That win for Kameron, in which he also scored his highest match average of the season, takes him in to second place on the premier league table.

It was a good day for Dom Friend who had back-to-back wins, a 7-2 over Art McMinn, which dropped Art down a place to third, and a 7-4 over win over Josh Fraser, which leapfrogged Dom a place above Josh on the table in alphabetical order only, both men’s stats are identical.

Arthur McMinn had the highest checkout of the day with a 94 peg, and that was closely followed by Joe Wilson’s 92 checkout in his 7 nil demolition of Hawkeye Rick. That loss leaving Rick firmly rooted at the foot of the table, but the win keeping Joe aloft at the top.

Last of all Jamie Maher defeated Jayden Lloyd by 7 legs to nil. That win is Jamie’s 3rd in a row now. 

Jayden has work to do to pick up his first win of the year.

The Anzac Plate is coming up on Sunday. We still have plenty of spots left and we’d love to see you there, contact the club via Facebook or text 0405411865 to enter.

J Wilson 10pts, 2. K Reason 7pts, 3. A McMinn 7pts, 4. J Maher 6pts, 5. D Friend 6pts, 6. J Fraser 6pts, 7. N Mitchell 2pts, 8. J Lloyd 0pts, 9. H Rick 0pts.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.

2024 Premier League players, L/R, J Fraser, J Lloyd, J Maher, J Wilson, D Friend, A McMinn, K Reason, N Mitchell and H Rick. Photo supplied

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Bowen Golf Report

April 24, 2024

On Wednesday, we played a single stableford for a club trophy. Ladies’ winner Grace Nott 38 points, runner up on a countback Carol O’Connell 35 points. Men’s winner on a countback Brendan Nott 40 points, runner up Mark Russell 40 points.
 
Saturday Results, sponsored by Glenn Merrick Constructions. Men's Winner Craig O'Meara 42 points, runner up Dylan Nott 39 points, 3rd Place on a countback Brendan Nott 38 points.  

Ladies' Winner Nell Riley 41 points, runner up Tracey Cousemacker 36 points, 3rd Place on a countback Pauline Martin 33 points.

Pin Shots to Nell Riley, Leanne Swan, Tracey Cousemacker, Julie Mawson, Nick Riley, Paul Burgis, Mark Russell, Benny Bon.

Marcus Yasso claimed the Car Wash voucher. Chocolate Chip-ins for Nell Riley and Meg Garrod. Eagle shots for Jonnie Smith, Kailan Batchelor, Ezra Miller, James Lockwood.
 
This weekend is a 2-ball aggregate Medley stableford sponsored by Jeff Day Plumbing.
 
Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

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Proserpine Gold Club Weekly Report

April 24, 2024

In Tuesday's stroke competition, Gary Scotford had a 66 nett to chase down Ryan Wilkes who had a one under par round for a 68 nett. Robyn Whitham edged out Heather Luvis, both with 68 nett. Pins went to Aaron Prosser, Gary Scotford, and two to Leanne Alexander.

Ann Gardel took out Wednesday's PDLAW monthly medal with a 77 nett, ahead of Tina Badenhorst on 78. Pins went to Tina Badenhorst and Heather Luvis.

Thursday's stableford A division winner was Scott Mason with 41 points, two ahead of Greg Walker. Ross Hammond edged out Warren Deighton for the B division; both with 39 points. Pins went to Sean Fogarty, Robert Webb, Jacob Nightingale and Ryan Wilkes.

Sam Blake edged out Mason Johnson on 23 points in Friday's Met run, with the pins going to Ben Smith and Kevin Gosney.

Saturday's Hayman Electrical stableford saw Martyn Goodey's 45 points easily beat the big field and be seven shots ahead of his men's B division runner up in Barry Mortimer.

Jacob Nightingale had 41 points to beat Ben Smith by a shot in the men's A division. Elspeth Scotford also had 41 points to win the ladies' division by three from Tiina Randmae. Pins went to Sean Fogarty, Steve Hickey, Ben Smith, Penny Wardroper, Tina Badenhorst and Elspeth Scotford.

Martyn Goodey made it two in a weekend with a great 63 nett in Sunday's stroke competition.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.

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March Monthly Medal

April 24, 2024

Twenty players competed in the postponed March MM last Sunday. Peter Fox had an outstanding game with a nett 66 and most players scored better than of recent times with the course still drying out. The cored greens on the back 9 made putting a little more erratic for some. 

LADIES A GRADE: 
Winner: Anna Winterbourn with nett 73 
Runner-up: Tiina Randmae with 77 
Longest Drive: Tiina Randmae 
 
LADIES B GRADE  
Winner: Robyn Whitham on a count back from 
Runner-up: Pam Casey 
Longest Drive: Pam Casey  
 
MEN’S A GRADE: 
Winner: Wayne Temby with nett 71 
Runner-up: Ritchie Atkins with 74 
Longest Drive: Aaron Watts 
 
MEN’S B GRADE  
Winner: Peter Fox with nett 66 - outstanding 
Runner-up: Wilf Herweg with nett 73 
Longest Drive: Don Cameron 
 
NTPs: 
For the ladies: Anna Winterbourn, Tiina Randmae and Pam Casey 
For the me : Don Cameron and Aaron Watts 
 
NAGAs: the honours went to Karen Rix and Leigh Jones
  
NEXT WEEK: 28/4/24 will be the April MM and least Putts
 
 
Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

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On The Whitsunday Green

April 24, 2024

The weekly 9-hole stableford saw Donna Henderson take first place with 27 points, second place with 22 points c/b was Josh Frederiksen and third place with 22 points was Matt Burke. 

Fridays 9-hole stableford saw Brad Low take out first place with 23 points c/b, second with 23 points was Eric Gruszczynski and third place was Craig Kennedy with 21 points.

This Sunday 28th April will be our 18-hole Monthly Medal, hope to see you all there.

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.
 

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Local Leader Plays Well

April 24, 2024

Cannonvale resident and Head Coach at the Next Stars Sports Academy, Tim Oberg, has been joined by a four-time Paralympian, the Head of AFL Queensland and the President of the Royal Life Saving Society in signing onto help Australians Play Well as part of the nation’s first co-designed Sport Participation Strategy.

They are part of a 14-person group of experts announced as the Play Well Leadership Group that will oversee the implementation of the strategy and deliver on its vision that ‘everyone has a place in sport’.

Members met in Canberra at the AIS Campus for their first meeting earlier this month.

Mr Oberg, who also founded parkrun Australia, knows better than most the power of sport and community involvement.

When parkrun Australia started in 2011, it began as one event on the Gold Coast and grew to over 450 locations and more than one million participants across the Asia Pacific region.

“I believe that all children have the right to grow up in a healthy environment that allows them to play, have fun and achieve their full potential,” Oberg said.

Similar to the Project Steering Group that led the development of the strategy, the Play Well Leadership Group is made up of members that bring knowledge, expertise and insights from within and beyond the sport sector.

The group will work closely with State/Territory partners, sporting organisations and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) to bring the strategy to life.

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Cannons Prepare For Carnival

April 24, 2024

The Cannonvale Cannons are preparing to host their own swimming carnival this weekend.  The annual carnival is normally run in January, but this year the carnival was postponed due to the threat of a cyclone. The highlight of the swimming carnival is the Skins events where swimmers have an opportunity to win cash prizes.  
On Wednesday, 30 swimmers participated in the second last Club Night for the swim season.  Congratulations to Leo Mulliss, Matilda Nicholes and Pippa Laguna for achieving Club Upgrades. The Chocolate Awards were presented to Jack Ganter, Alex Trefz and Addie Sanders for their awesome PBs.  
Highlights from Club Night include Ehsan Helou swam extremely well, swimming PBs in all his events.  Ehsan’s sister, Anisa swam PBs in her 25m Freestyle and 25m Breaststroke.
The Breaststrokers were on fire on Wednesday night.  Zach Trefz smashed out an excellent 100m Breaststroke in a time of 1.37.42 which was a 16.08 second PB. Zach also swam a fantastic 100m Freestyle in 1.09.14 which was a 4.28 second PB. Don Algie swam 100m Breaststroke in a brilliant time of 1.36.58, a 4.26 second PB. Connor Lee, Leo Mulliss, Thomas Ganter and Sophie Palmero all swam very smooth Breaststroke to swim personal best times.  
Top Butterflyers who the coaches would like to commend include, Stella Mulliss, aged 5 years, for swimming 12m Butterfly in 32.57 seconds. Indi Smith swam an excellent time in her 100m Butterfly to achieve a 6.07 second PB. Jack Ganter, Pippa Laguna, Stevie Lee, Lily Maher, and Matilda Nicholes swam super Butterfly on Wednesday night.  
Congratulations to all the other swimmers who achieved PBs: Zane Clayworth, Maeve Dichiera, Eric Mulliss, Miranda Palmero, Andie Reynolds, Addie Sanders, and Levi Smith. The coaches would like to commend all the swimmers who participated at Club Night. The Cannons would like to thank all the wonderful parents who volunteer to officiate, set up and pack up Club Night.  

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

Pippa Laguna received an Upgrade Certificate. Photo supplied
Leo Mulliss received an Upgrade Certificate. Photo supplied

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Courtside Crater Magic

April 24, 2024

With hoops aplenty and defence as tight as a well-laced sneaker, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes orchestrated a symphony of basketball brilliance last Friday night, dribbling, dunking, and dazzling their way to victories.
In a thrilling clash against the Brisbane Capitals, the Meteors showcased their prowess, emerging victorious with a final score of 92 to 73. Todd Blanchfield led the charge with an impressive performance, contributing 21 points and 7 rebounds to the team's triumph. Isaac White also delivered a stellar performance with 19 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Jerron Jamerson added 15 points and 3 rebounds to seal the win.
Meanwhile, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes soared to success against the Brisbane Capitals in the NBL1 North encounter, securing a resounding victory with a final score of 84 to 71. Taylor Mole was the standout player for the Meteorettes, delivering a sensational performance with 30 points and 8 rebounds. Sam Haiby showcased her skills with 20 points, 5 assists, and 4 steals, while Chelsea Brook contributed 14 points and 5 rebounds to clinch the win for the team.
The passionate home crowd erupted in celebration as both teams showcased their dominance on the court, delivering a memorable night of basketball action.
Looking ahead, the excitement continues as the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes and Meteors gear up for their next games on Saturday night. The action-packed evening will see the Meteorettes take on the Rockhampton Cyclones at 6:30 pm, followed by the Meteors facing off against the Rockhampton Rockets at 8:30 pm in the Crater at McDonald’s Mackay Stadium.
The matchup against the Rockhampton Rockets and Cyclones always brings an extra level of excitement to the Crater. With both teams boasting strong rosters and a history of intense competition, the games between Mackay and Rockhampton are eagerly anticipated by fans on both sides. This rivalry adds an extra spark to the season, driving both teams to bring their A-game every time they meet on the court.

Event Details:
   • Date: Saturday, April 27
   • Time:
       ◦ 6:30 pm: McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes vs. Rockhampton Cyclones
       ◦ 8:30 pm: McDonald’s Mackay Meteors vs. Rockhampton Rockets
   • Venue: McDonald’s Mackay Stadium, the Crater

Photo credit: Kieron Place Art & Photography

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Mackay Road Runners Tackle Dolphin Heads Precincts

April 24, 2024

Last Sunday, 66 participants graced the Beach Road Dolphin Heads precincts, surpassing the attendance of the previous week's Tim’s Chariots of Fire event at Slade Point, confirmed by the event organiser and the author. While some may contest this tally, it's worth noting that The Tilse’s Toddle two weeks earlier boasted numbers nearing the triple-digit mark, with Whibley’s Wander closely following suit.
One undeniable highlight was the hospitality of the Bishop’s Beach Road Barnstormer hosts, who generously opened their doors to accommodate the runners, offering a delightful morning of competition followed by a well-deserved post-run refreshment of a cuppa and sausage sizzle.
The Mackay Road Runners gratitude is extended to Julie, Brendan, Millie, Hughie, and all the neighbourhood kids and furry friends for contributing to the warmth and enjoyment of the occasion. It was said to be a beautiful morning filled with camaraderie and healthy competition!

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

Emily Hayles (left) and Mel Esau get in some quality racing at the Bishop’s Beach Road Barnstormer 10km.
Approximately sixty Mackay Road Runners’ members, casual day runners and supporters enjoyed a magnificent morning from a magnificent location at Beach Road, Dolphin Heads.
Craig Andrews (#107) completed a sensational 10km which included a spirited sprint to the finish line with his running peers.
Mackay Road Runners’ stalwart, Jan Smith (#5) and Alleny Gorrion (right) enjoyed a cruisey 5km with a pressure cooker finish.
The Bishop’s Beach Rd Barnstormer resident, Millie Bishop had no excuses to be late!
Dolphin Heads Beach Road Neighbourhood Watch had nothing on these kids as they supported runners in the two loop 5km/10km event.

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A Splash Of Success For Cyclones At Nationals

April 24, 2024

The Mackay cyclone swimmers surged into the National MC and Age Championships, held recently on the vibrant shores of the Gold Coast. Among the tide of competitors, two fresh qualifiers, Jarek Taylor and Ava Kearns, joined the seasoned attendees Max Vernon, Audrey Bryan and Vaughn Wyatt for their second year.
Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier said all the athletes swam well, and had a blast soaking up the atmosphere. Acknowledging the significant accomplishment of qualifying for such a prestigious level of competition, she said it was a particular delight to have six team members, including Izabella from the MC National age group, securing qualification, which was nothing short of fantastic.
The competition, characterised by its scale and speed, offers invaluable lessons for growth, not only for the athletes but also for the coaching staff, who seize the opportunity to collaborate with peers.
Yet, amidst the thrill of competition, it's essential to recognise the dedication it has taken for these athletes to reach this stage. Early mornings, meticulous time management balancing school, swimming, and friendships, all underscore the immense commitment required. Coach Pokarier emphasises that such dedication at a young age cultivates essential life skills, setting the foundation for success beyond the pool.
Reflecting on the broader impact of coaching, Alisha Ness from Mackay Cyclones proudly recounts witnessing former team member Ruby Boxall, now at Somerville House in Brisbane, clinching her first National gold medal in the 100 Backstroke. Witnessing such moments with their triumphant smiles as they surpass their own expectations can be described as truly ‘priceless’.

“This was a very proud moment for me,” Alisha remarked.

“Playing a part in all of my athlete’s journey, however big or small the achievement, the smile and excitement on their faces when they achieve something they believed they never could do is priceless.”

(Left to right) Audrey Bryan, Vaughn Wyatt, Jarek Taylor, Izabella Wills, Ava Kearns, Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier. Absent: Max Vernon. Image supplied

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AT THE TABLE

April 24, 2024

Coral Morgan celebrated her 83rd birthday this week – playing table tennis.

Coral’s daughter Delma Knight, who has played table tennis alongside her mum since she was a child, baked her a delicious cake which was enjoyed by the players at Tuesday morning fixtures.

Coral and Val Austin have been playing since the 70s, and they played out a huge battle on Tuesday, Coral winning -12, 7, -8, 11, 6.

Full details of fixtures including player standings are available at https://www.revolutionise.com.au/mackaytta/fixtures-results/

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures April 16, 2024:

Division 1:

Pumas (George Camilleri, Andrea Nicholson, Coral Morgan) d Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Doug Dungavell, Val Austin) 8-4. Coral d Val -12, 7, -8, 11, 6.

Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Tigers (Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, John McGee) 8-4. Branko d John 8, -7, -11, 7, 8.

Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Bryan Marshall) d Leopards (Charlie Payne, Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Pam d Steve 7, -6, -8, 8, 8.

Division 2:

Cyan (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Teal (Ken Best, Kim Daffy) 10-2. Ken d Louise -10, 4, 9, 6.

Aqua (Judi Hicks, Gloria Vella, Gerry Synnott) d Lime (Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba, John Hamelink) 8-4. Judi d John -7, 7, 7, -8, 12.

Division 3:

Sapphires (Josie Davis, Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) d Emeralds (Ian Dodds, Glenda Brookes, Trish Zamparuti) 7-5. Madge d Trish -5, -9, 7, 2, 6.

A new season of Tuesday night table tennis fixtures hit off this week. It’s always nice to see new and returning players enjoying the fixtures. It’s never too late to join, so give Donna Abbott a call 0400 769 560.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures April 16, 2024:

Division 1:

Brown (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Andrea Nicholson) d Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) 6-5. Vince d Donna -12, 6, -6, 4, 11.

Blue (Will VanDeKaa, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) d Red (Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker, George Camilleri) 8-3. Graeme d Will -9, 7, 6, -4, 8.
Purple (Tony Bowman, Duncan Treloar) d Green (Leo Gilbert) 6-2. Leo d Duncan 8, 6, -5, -9, 6.

Black (Mick Ruhl, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d White (Mark Sleeman, Andrew McHugh, Graham Brake) 6-5. Ishan d Graham 7, 7, -4, -4, 8.

Division 2:

Tan (Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo, Saisha Palod) d Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro, Mark Stam) 6-5. Jye d Mark 8, 6, -4, 1.

Lime (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) d Teal (Peter Goodson, Craig VanDeKaa) 7-2. Noreen/Simon d Craig/Peter 18, -3, -3, 5, 12.

Gold (Ollie Hamelink, Steve Mathieson, Rohit Bansod) d Cyan (Matt West, Val Austin, Leonie Patroni) 9-2. Ollie d Val 6, -8, 8, -9, 4.

Aqua (Judy Zahn, Delma Knight, Robbie Richards) d Grey (Doug Dungavell, Misha Palod, Kade Wright) 8-3. Kade d Judy 4, 7, -9, -9, 10.


Val Austin and Coral Morgan

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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.