Can you believe that we are almost into the last month of Spring the year is almost over here in Paradise, but our bowls is only getting bigger.

Tuesday afternoon bowls saw skipper Tony Whitehorn with lead Maureen Barnard take home the prize money and to make it a family affair Betty Whitehorn won the prestigious Health Hub award.

Wednesday afternoon Jackpot Bowls was a fantastic afternoon with the lovable Bobby Spees as skipper with Betty Whitehorn, and Eric Barnard at lead prove far too strong and run out comfortable winners and Tony Whitehorn also kept the Health Hub award in the family with a lucky win.

Saturday morning Scroungers saw first round winners Rick Galea and Andy McDougall first round winners with Rick Galea back to his very best form with a great performance and comfortable victory whilst Mark Mawson was the B Division winner of the day.

Sunday afternoon Social Bowls saw Col Morris as skipper with a great performance ably assisted by Paul Osborne at lead and the lovely Betty Whitehorn at second with visitor from Mulgrave Country Club in Victoria took home the prestigious Health Hub award.

Sunday afternoon mixed pairs saw Vicki Spann with her husband Shane win for the second time in 3 years with a commanding victory.

Whilst all this was happening Manny Isgro with Harry Quod were in the finals of the state titles and just missed out on a podium finish to come in as the 4th best team in our state of Queensland, what a fantastic performance for our little club and we are just so proud of them.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Triples Competition Final: Ron Muir, Herb Dalton, and Shane Spann defeated Lee Welsted, Jeff Tierney, and Steve Roome.

Wednesday Social: Anna, Ross Scanlon, Peter Bruce defeated Eddy Neylon, Keith Kirk, and Steve Roome.

B.Barker and Gavin Charles defeated R.Muir and Peter Bruce.

Allen Williams, Lou Fordham, and Steve Roome had a drawn game with Mary Ellen Pratten, Ron Gould, and Doc Fordham.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

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The last of the Champion of Champion events for the Mackay District were held this weekend.  

Our 2 Bowl Triples team of Shane Kinnear, Scott Hamilton and Wayne Handley travelled to Pioneer Valley to compete, and compete strongly they did.  

They won their first game against Sarina 32 - 21 and were taken out of the contest by Souths Suburban going down 27 - 25 in the second game.  

North Mackay were this year's winners of the event.

On Wednesday in Social Bowls Arthur Griffith, Barry Zillmann and Heather Brown defeated Mary Hedgelong, Philip Brown, and Mike Harrison 27 - 18 in a game of triples.

In a game of Consistency Singles Bruce Uhe 113 defeated John Anderson 47 then Bruce Uhe 87 defeated Sandy Daffara 73.

On Sunday Arthur Griffith, Pat Bownds and David Ling defeated Jim Bownds, Philip Brown, and Mike Harrison 24 - 13; John Anderson, Bruce Uhe, and Sandy Daffara defeated John Anderson, John Burnett and Heather Brown 19 - 15.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

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After three weekends of Bridge, Frances Brown won the Presidents Cup followed by Janelle Conroy in second place.

Sandy Patterson and Geoff Cowan won the Novice Pairs with Joy Block and Diane Stokes as the runners up.

WEEKLY RESULTS

28th October – Presidents Cup Final Results

1st Frances Brown

2nd Janelle Conroy

3rd Max Holewa

4th Robert Carless

29th October – Novice Pairs Final Results

1st Sandy Patterson / Geoff Patterson

2nd Joy Block / Diane Stokes

3rd Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell 4th Annie Lynch / Ann Whitmore

23rd October – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

1st Monica Darley / Kath Poole

2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

3rd Pamela Finger / Ming Ting

E/W

1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

3rd Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

24th October – 4 Table One Winner Mitchell Green Points

1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

2nd Mary Cruickshank / Ian Cruickshank

3rd Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 4th Helen Van Den Broek / Terrence Sheedy

25th October – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

3rd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

E/W

1st Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley

2nd Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

26th October – 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2nd Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

3rd Patricia Garner / Mick King 4th Susan Ross / Jan Harris

27th October – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

1st Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

2nd Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole

E/W

1st Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill

2nd Diane Stokes / Marie McGuire

3rd Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

28th October – Presidents Cup Week 3 of 3 - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points

N/S

1st David Ting / Debra Goodchild

2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd Alan Brown / Diane Morgan

E/W

1st Helen Van Den Broek / Monica Darley

2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

3rd Frances Brown / Janelle Conroy

29th October – Novice Pairs Week 3 of 3 – 6 Table One Winner Red Points

1st Mary Cruickshank / Noel Saunders

2nd Joy Block / Diane Stokes

3rd Sandy Patterson / Geoff Cowan

Contributed by Joy Block

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Geoff, Ian (Director) and Sandy - Novice Pairs Winners

Some table action at Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Photos supplied

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On Tuesday, winners we had 2 games of 3 bowl pairs.

Winners were Hans Baas, and Kennedy Whitton defeated Bron Tolcher and Robyn Stitt.

Gwenda Lydom and Penny Warren defeated Deb Retchless and Linda Smith. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Sunday winners were Denise Wallace, Dot Staler and Pat Tracey defeated Merle Elphinstone, Sue Shearing, and Greg Colquhoun.

Lyn Danvers, Jim Quod, and Mark Drummond defeated Robyn Stitt, Penny Warren, and Sugar Brunker. The jackpot didn’t go off.

Club Competition results: Mixed Triples Tracey Roach, Lloyd White, and Jason Wright defeated Robyn Stitt, Isobel Wheeler, and Mark Drummond, Single Sets Mitch Wright defeated Bron Tolcher.

We would like to wish our Ladies Pennant Side representing Zone 8 good luck and good bowling as they represent Zone 8 playing in the State Pennant finals at Tweed Heads this weekend 4 and 5 November.

Bowls Queensland do livestream games so keep a lookout we may be there.

Progress results of other games are also usually posted on the screen. What an experience!

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

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Blue Pennant Winners 2023. Photo supplied

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Mackay Regional Council has awarded more than $30,000 to two local equestrian organisations.

Mackay Riding for the Disabled was awarded $6739 to upgrade its fences and boundaries and Mackay and District Hack and Pony Club received $24,300 to upgrade and extend their current cross-country course.

The grants were part of $192,564 worth of Community Grants (round one) awarded to 22 community groups.

Community Grant Committee Chair Cr Laurence Bonaventura said this round of grants had been very competitive, but some excellent projects had been supported.

“It was great to see the Mackay Riding for the Disabled awarded funds to support the amazing work they do within the community,” Cr Bonaventura said.

“They are an organisation that provides a vital therapy service to people living with disability and the difference they make in the lives of those people, and their lives of their families, is amazing,” he said.

“It was also pleasing to see the Road Accident Action Group awarded $5400 to upgrade their ‘Stock on Roads’ video campaign, which is a vital educational tool in our region.”

Cr Bonaventura said it was also good to see infrastructure projects supported for the North Mackay Saints AFC and Mackay Junior Motorcross.

“The Saints successfully applied for $30,000 to upgrade their canteen, and the motorcross club was awarded $24,000 to help replace their scoring tower,” he said.

He said a $26,000 grant also went to the Mackay and District Woodchopping Association to purchase a new purpose-built tipper trailer.

“That trailer will be a vital asset for the association and the committee was pleased to be able to support the application on the condition that the trailer was sourced from a local supplier.”

Round two of council Community Grants, which also has $193,000 available, is now open and closes on Friday, November 3. Council is encouraging not-for-profits to get their applications in as soon as possible to avoid missing out.

Also supported this round was:

• Mackay Riverside Market - $1500 for large games, dining tables and chairs.

• Marian Community War Memorial Hall - $1218 for a new fridge/freezer and microwave.

• Sarina Western Performance and Quarter Horse Club - $1103 for a printer and sound equipment.

• Sarina and District Community Kindergarten - $1439 for office equipment and furniture.

• Mackay Choral Society - $4320 for lighting, fans and electrical work.

• Mackay Swimming Academy - $2500 towards the Great Barrier Reef Swimming Carnival.

• Pioneer Catchment Landcare - $4000 towards revegetating around Crediton Hall and a Landcare day.

• Mackay Community Radio Association - $2000 towards a 30th anniversary dinner.

• Heart Kids Ltd - $531 towards the Heart Kids Two Feet and a Heartbeat Charity Walk.

• Mackay Surf Life Saving Club Inc - $4045 for re-flooring their first aid room.

• QCWA Mackay Branch - $1500 for a laptop.

• Gargett QCWA - $1900 for a laptop and fridge.

• Iona West Men’s Shed - $1739 for an industrial range dust collector.

• Seaforth Bowls Club - $8330 to upgrade a door that improves accessibility to the venue.

• Finch Hatton Primary P&C Association - $30,000 for stage two of the multi-purpose courts upgrade.

• Mirani State School P&C Association - $10,000 for a community Indigenous yarning circle and sensory garden.

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Mackay and District Hack and Pony Club was awarded $24,300 to upgrade and extend their current cross-country course

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This year, Mackay Regional Council is asking residents to be prepared for all natural disasters – not just cyclones.

On Saturday, November 4, council will hold Disaster Ready Saturday at Caneland Central from 9am to 1pm, outside Target.

Mayor Greg Williamson said more and more we were faced with the threat of bushfires, floods, storms and extreme heat, as well as cyclones.

“We’ve changed the name of this event from previous years as natural disasters can happen to anyone, anywhere,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It’s crucial that, as a community, each and every one of us takes the time to prepare our homes, properties and families,” he said.

“Disaster season is already rearing its head in our region, with active fires at Koumala and Farleigh and the first cyclone of the season forming near Vanuatu.

“Disasters, such as floods, fires and cyclones, require different methods of action and preparedness.

“People need to have a number of survival plans in place to know what they are going to do in the event of a disaster striking.”

Mayor Williamson said even though the name had changed, Disaster Ready Saturday would still feature a diverse range of emergency experts and agencies for residents to speak with.

“Council’s Emergency Management Team, State Emergency Services, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, Queensland Police Service, Mackay Hospital and Health Service, RACQ CQ Rescue, Red Cross and more, will all be available,” Mayor Williamson said.

“And just like previous years, hundreds of bags filled with vital emergency information will be handed out as part of this community event,” he said.

Anyone who attends Disaster Ready Saturday can go into the draw to win a Honda generator thanks to Mackay Outdoor Power Centre. Simply fill out a quick survey on the day, or online at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/disaster-ready from Monday (October 30), to win.

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Hundreds of emergency bags were handed out at last year’s Disaster Ready Day

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Businesses looking to leverage off the exciting Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails can learn more at workshops being held in November.

Council is hosting two Bike Ready Business Workshops, at Finch Hatton and Mackay, to assist businesses in learning about the significant opportunities the trails will offer.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the workshops would be co-hosted by award-winning destination and marketing specialists, Destination Marketing Store (DMS) and Swell Design.

“DMS and Swell have been working hard to develop an amazing brand and marketing strategy that will bring our new mountain bike trails to life, not just here in Mackay but around the world,” Mayor Williamson said.

“These free workshops will offer the opportunity for local businesses to learn firsthand how they can tap into that brand by creating ride ready products, packages and offers,” he said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses – and not just those in Finch Hatton and the Pioneer Valley, but in Mackay as well – to learn how they can extend their offerings to incorporate this major destination experience.

“Many visitors to the trails will come into Mackay first and then travel to the Valley. There are many peripheral businesses, such as bike shops, car hire and accommodation, that can leverage off the branding to connect with the trails.”

The workshops will cover:

• Key elements of the brand strategy.

• Creative elements and marketing plan.

• Practical examples of how to leverage the brand.

• Importance of collaboration and partnerships.

• Creating ride ready products, packages and offers.

The Finch Hatton workshop will be held on Monday, November 13, from 11am to 12.30pm at the Finch Hatton RSL. To register go to https://bit.ly/46ywRSL

The Mackay workshop will be held on Tuesday, November 14, from 9am to 10.30am at Harrup Park Country Club. To register go to https://bit.ly/3PUZUsB

Online registration is required by Sunday, November 5 and spots are limited.

For more information contact Mackay Regional Council Senior Economic Development Officer, Grier Williamson, on 4961 9099 or email grier.williamson@mackay.qld.gov.au.

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Turning the first sod at the Finch Hatton Trailhead for Stage 1 of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails

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The Pioneer Swimming Club travelled to Proserpine last Saturday, for the Whitsunday Swimming Club Transition Meet.  Quite the contingent of Dolphins enjoyed the small but mighty event.

This small country carnival sure packed a lot into the day.  Highlights for our swimmers included receiving a token rubber duck if a swimmer won their heat, mystery relays where swimmers from all clubs were randomly chosen to form teams in a hotly contested relay, a candy shop for the sweet tooth amongst us and the mouthwatering snow cones to enjoy and cool down with in the increasing heat.

Our swimmers did not disappoint with the medal tally and personal bests achieved.  Many left with quite the loot and massive smiles to boot!  We can’t thank Whitsunday Swimming Club enough for hosting such a great meet.

Contributed by Pioneer Swim Club

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The Pioneer Swim Club at the Whitsunday Swimming Club Transition Meet

Ella Bounden

Zahli Herring

Yasmin Seedwell

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Fans of popular American television sitcom My Three Sons that aired in the 1960s would remember notable actor Fred McMurray and the fortunes of his kids Mike, Robbie and Chip.

Wind the clock forward five decades and Mackay couple Teresa and Phil Simon are proud of the rugby league achievements of three of their off-spring Kane, Kai and Nate.

Originally hailing from the Sarina Crocodiles, the Simon trio have established themselves in the Mackay Junior League with the Walkerston Wanderers and Mackay Cutters Pathways Program.

Nineteen-year-old Kai, a talented utility back, has signed with the North Queensland Cowboys and will soon be based in Townsville while promising fullback Nate,13, shows enormous potential in the junior ranks.

All eyes are on 21-year-old Kane who has starred for the touring Australia Universities rugby league team against New Zealand across the Tasman.

The emerging fullback was named best on ground and Players’ Player after Australia’s 42-16 victory over the Kiwis in the first test match at Rotorua last week.

Kane has demonstrated his dynamic attacking skills - scoring two of his team’s eight tries and creating another to help the Aussies draw first blood in the three-match series at Puketawhero Park.

Australia clinched the series when they toppled the Kiwis 38-4 in the second test last Sunday with Simon capping another strong game by nabbing a try in the corner.

A naturally gifted sportsman who has also excelled in AFL and cricket, the fleet-footed custodian is a fierce competitor on the rugby league field and strong defender.

It is Kane’s second stint in the Australian Universities team after also shining for Queensland and the green and golds against the Australian Army, Police and Defence Force teams last season in Sydney.

The versatile Simon was identified as a bright prospect in the Cutters and Cowboys Academy squads and last year received the Mackay Colts Players’ Player Award.

A former Capricornia schoolboys centre, Kane recovered from a broken collarbone as a 16-year-old and had a stint with the Brothers Bulldogs while leaving his mark in the Cutters’ Mal Meninga Cup and Colts ranks.

He fielded an offer to join the Redcliffe Dolphins in the Queensland Cup but opted to stay in Mackay and serve his league apprenticeship.

Another highlight of the New Zealand trip was visiting Fairfield Public School in Hamilton where the Australian players conducted a coaching clinic and organised fun rugby league skill-based games.

For Kane the opportunity to travel across the Tasman with the Australian squad was made possible through the generous support of local sponsors such as the Mackay Cutters, Ryan McGovern of Independent Mining Solutions, Frank Attard from Key Solutions Group, Gardian Real Estate, Andrew Titlow of Powertrain Components Australia, Brothers Rugby League plus Paul and Roberta Morris from Morris Builders.

“I really appreciate the support of my sponsors and feel privileged to wear the green and gold,” a proud Simon told Mackay and Whitsunday Life.

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Mackay’s Kane Simon starred for the Australian Universities rugby league team in their Test series triumph over New Zealand in Rotorua last week

Australian Universities fullback and emerging Mackay Cutters colt Kane Simon crosses for one of his two tries in the first test win over the Kiwis. Simon was named best on ground and also received the Players’ Player award

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Victorian master blaster Matt Short came to Mackay and conquered last week with a blistering ton at Great Barrier Reef Arena.

The 27-year-old opener from Ballarat demonstrated his batting power in the Bushrangers’ 19-run victory over Queensland in the Marsh Cup limited overs series – peeling off a superb 134 to earn the Player of the Match award.

A swashbuckling Short showed why he has earned five international caps for Australia in white ball cricket with a cracking century against the Queensland Bulls in a gripping one-day contest.

He faced one hundred balls and smashed an impressive thirteen boundaries and six towering sixes as the Bushrangers amassed a hefty 6-349 off 50 overs.

Short combined with Tom Rogers (42 runs off 62 balls) for an opening stand of 127 before adding 61 runs for the second wicket with Marcus Harris (20) and a third wicket union of 44 with skipper Peter Handscomb (21).

Other Victorian batsmen to shine were Jon Merlo who registered an unbeaten 54 off 38 balls and Sam Harper (47 off 34).

Pick of the Queensland bowlers were Jack Wildermuth (3-72) and quick Gurinder Sandhu (2-48).

In reply the Bulls fell agonisingly short after posting 330 – thanks to dashing knocks by centurion Matt Renshaw (102 off 68), Ben McDermott (86 off 82) and the flamboyant Max Bryant (62 off 60).

At one stage the Queensland side were 1-212 and firming as winners with Renshaw and McDermott in full cry.

They shared a massive second wicket partnership of 175 with international Renshaw notching fifteen boundaries and a six and McDermott thumping two sixes and eight fours.

But the Bulls were denied victory despite a last-ditch effort from hot shot Bryant who was last man dismissed in the 49th over when caught by Todd Murphy off the bowling of Will Sutherland.

Spinner Murphy, who bagged seven wickets in his Test debut against India in Nagpur earlier this year, snared 3-45 off ten overs in a fine display.

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A handshake between captains before the final Marsh Cup game at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay. Photo credit: Queensland Cricket

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In a huge recruiting coup, Chelsea Brook has put pen to paper and will return to the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes for the 2024 NBL1 North Season.

25-year-old Brook is the first NBL1 roster signing for the Meteorettes and makes her way back to North

Queensland following a two-year stint with the Darwin Salties. In her second season in the Northern Territory,

Brook averaged 15 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists. Across 51 career NBL1 games she’s averaged an

impressive 16 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists per outing.

Mackay locals will be familiar with the star power forward following her stellar 2021 season in the red and black,

where Brook was recognised with Most Valuable Player and Players’ Player honours. The former Australian

representative becoming a fan favourite at the Crater on the back of her physical play and long-range shooting.

McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes Head Coach Jamiey Doevendans was elated with the announcement of Brook as his first player signing for 2024.

“Signing Chelsea to our McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes is extremely exciting for both the team and the

community.

“Chelsea is a natural leader and has a very high basketball I.Q.

“She can shoot the ball at a high clip which will help spread the floor and has the ability to defend multiple

positions.

“I believe she’ll make an immediate impact on our team culture and be a positive mentor for all our young athletes.”

Brook also shared her delight about her Mackay return.

“I’m excited to be back with the Meteorettes and pumped to be playing with a new group of girls and having the opportunity to reconnect with the Mackay community.

“I’m also thrilled at the opportunity to be working with Jamiey again and can’t wait for the season to start.”

Brook will relocate to Mackay in early 2024 in time for the commencement of pre-season training.

More NBL1 player announcements are expected in the coming weeks.

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Chelsea Brook in action for the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes in 2021. Photo credit: Kieron Place

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures October 17, 2023:

Division 1:

Foxtrot (Tony Bowman, Tim Sheehan, Geoff Denman) d Echo (Steven Whiting, Graham Brake, Mark Sleeman) 8-3. Geoff d Steven -8, 3, 6, -10, 8.

Charlie (Anne Sheridan, Robbie Richards, Graeme Walker) d Delta (Ian McKay, Barry Patterson, Lee Brake) Graeme d Lee 6, 7, -7, -4, 12.

Bravo (Neil Brown, Emma Widdup, Vince Boeske) d Alpha (Mick Ruhl, Janice Kent, Allan Edwards) 6-5. Neil d Janice -8, 6, 10, -14, 6.

Division 2:

November (Andrea Nicholson, Will VanDeKaa, Mark Stam) d Mike (Steve Mathieson, Matthew West, Val Austin) 7-6. Andrea d Steve -11, -10, 6, 8, 10.

Lima (Donna Abbott, Geoff Cowan, Ollie Hamelink, YiLin Jiang) d Kilo (Trent Day, Craig VanDeKaa) 11-2. Geoff d Trent -1, 9, 8, -6, 9.

India (Delma Knight, Rymer Tabulo, Amanda Wright) d Juliet (Lily Boland, Peter Goodson, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-6. Delma d Noreen -9, 8, 5, 8.

Golf (George Camilleri, David Symons, Jye Callander) d Hotel (Daniel Warfield, Simon Hogan) 8-3. Bulldog d Simon 8, -8, 10, 9.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures October 10, 2023:

Division 1:

Bream (Doug Dungavell, Pam Joyce, Iris Grasso) d Tuna (Tony Bowman, John McGee, Cheryl Pearson) 7-5. Iris d Cheryl -9, -13, 5, 7, 10.

Cod (George Camilleri, Val Austin, Kevin Abbott) drew Perch (Andrea Nicholson, Peter Goodson, Judi Hicks) 6-all. George d Andrea 7, -6, 6, -4, 8.

Trout (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Fredericksen, Bryan Marshall) drew Barra (Steve Mathieson, Delma Knight, Helen Ware) 6-all. Bryan d Helen -10, -10, 6, 7, 9.

Division 2:

Scallop (Gerry Synnott, Steve Blackshaw) d Squid (Louise Gould, Sharon Muller) 6-3. Gerry d Sharon -9, -9, 8, 4, 4.

Mussell (Kim Challender, Fred Saliba, Allison Day) d Pawn (Pam Keune, Cheryl Aprato, Marie Taylor) 8-4. Marie d Fred 8, -3, 8, -7, 6.

Lobster (Marie Taylor, Ian Dodds, Jodie Davis) d Crab (John Hamelink, Glenda Brookes, Bill Hey) 9-3. John d Ian -9, 9, -9, 6, 11.

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Mackay Table Tennis life member Coral Morgan made a return to Tuesday morning fixtures this week. Great to see a legend back in action. Photo: Charlie Payne

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The Mackay Bowls Club's Ladies Section recently hosted a thrilling 3 Bowl Triples Carnival, showcasing the skills and camaraderie that make lawn bowls a beloved sport. The event, which featured all rinks in play, was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Barry and Leanne Jenner of Sheds n Homes.

The competition was spirited, and the victory went to the team of Carol Savage, Sue Hunter, and Karina Dunn, who secured the championship title. Second place was claimed by Ros White, Rita Hughes, and Leanne McGough, with Anne Smith, Betty Petersen, and Jayne Johnstone taking third place.

Looking ahead, the club's Annual Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, November 19th, at 10:30 am. Members are encouraged to participate in discussions and contribute to the club's activities.

In other club news, the B Pairs Champion of Champion event took place, featuring Mick Coll and Steve Cassidy, who reached the semi-finals before narrowly missing out. The South Suburban team emerged as victors.

The club is now gearing up for the Champion of Champion 2 Bowl Triples event at the Pioneer Valley Club, where K Tranberg, J Wallace, and N Wilson will represent Mackay Bowls Club.

Additionally, the Tuesday Social Bowls event brought together 24 participants, with Robin Schatkowski, Whare Herewini, and Barry Paskins securing the Winner of Winners title. Albert Wicks, Brian Martin, and Brian Williams were recognized as the Winner of Losers.

Thursday Scroungers saw Kees Struik face off against Grant Edmonds in a spirited contest.

Lastly, the Mackay Bowls Club thanked Bruce and his team for their efforts in preparing the green for the Laser Level, ensuring that the club's members can enjoy top-notch facilities. The green will be closed for approximately six weeks.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Carol Savage, Sue Hunter, Karina Dunn. Photo supplied

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This weekend will see Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club host over one thousand competitors and spectators from the Gold Coast up to Cairns, competing for the coveted title of Northern Australian Surf Lifesaving Champions for 2023.

Director of Surf Sports Josh Grant stated, “Our club is extremely proud to be the host of this prestigious surf lifesaving event that we have successfully hosted since 1991.

“This is a huge drawcard for lifesavers to take on the best of the best in the North. It is absolutely awesome to see the Harbour Beach action packed with surf sports over the whole weekend.

“This should provide some really good entertainment for those watching from the beach, so come along and get involved in the action.

“Mackay Surf Club has a really competitive contingent this year with nippers, youth and masters competing in a range of beach, surf, board, ski and surf boat events. The whole club is really looking forward to seeing how our surf sports squad and lifesavers go after hitting the surf for the last few months in preparation.”

Club President Brendan Smith said, “We are really excited to be hosting the North Aussie Championships again and want to thank our planning committee, dedicated workforce, water safety, patrol members and officials, sponsors, volunteers, parents and most importantly our competitors from across the state for making this great weekend possible.

“This is a true testament of what surf lifesaving is about in regional Queensland and would encourage members of the Mackay community to come and support the volunteers that keep your beaches safe.”

There will be a canteen running downstairs in the Beach Kiosk which will be open for anyone wanting a quick feed on the run. Find the Surf Club Bistro and Restaurant upstairs for a delicious meal and cold beverage, overlooking the best beach view in Mackay.

Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club hope to see you on 28th and 29th October at Harbour Beach, Mackay.

Contributed by Josh Grant

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Competitors getting ready for events at last years' event

Lifesavers starting the 1km and 2km beach runs on Harbour Beach

Champion Club Emu Park celebrating taking out the North Aussie Championships for 2022. Photo credit: Carl Stanojevic – Mackay Seen

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