
Community spirit was in full swing at the Whitsunday Golf Club on Sunday, with golfers of all abilities hitting the fairways and coming together for the fifth annual Lions Charity Golf Day. “What a great community we have, just fantastic,” said Lions President Greg Smith. “Thank you to everyone in the community that supports us with donations, with prizes, by turning up and taking part.” The four-person Ambrose competition saw participants take to the course in a relaxed atmosphere of shotgun rounded golf, delivering everything from booming drives to putts that had teammates laughing. Many embraced the chance to wear a funny themed outfit, from classy company themed golf tees, such as the Whitsundays Wizards, to the funny and crazy nature of the Chaotic Crayons from Whitsundays Transit, and even the unmissable bright pink Mascot from Hog’s breath, everywhere you looked on the green was something to smile at. Every dollar raised will go towards supporting the Whitsundays Suicide Prevention Network and Proserpine Hospital, helping strengthen these vital services for the community. After finishing on the course, players gathered back at the clubhouse to enjoy a drink and celebrate another successful day of fundraising, highlighting once again the generosity of the Whitsundays. See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/a-sunday-of-swings-and-smiles
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Olympians, Ironman champions and amateurs alike will line up on Airlie Beach's foreshore later this month, as the 26th Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival turns the town into one of North Queensland's premier sporting destinations. Held across July 25 and 26, the festival has events for athletes of all ages and abilities, including standard, sprint and enticer triathlons, an ocean swim and the popular McDonald's Junior Triathlon. Racing begins and finishes at the Airlie Beach Lagoon, where athletes first tackle a tropical open-water swim in the calm waters of Airlie Bay. From there, competitors head onto the bike course, following the picturesque coastal road to Mandalay before returning to town. The event concludes with a foreshore run through the heart of Airlie Beach, where supporters line the course to cheer competitors across the finish line. “When you complete a triathlon, you're not just a runner or a swimmer or a cyclist, you're a multi-sport finisher,” said Race Director and Triathlete himself, Michael Kempton. “To achieve that is remarkable.” Michael's own triathlon journey started in Airlie Beach after he moved here in 2016. Having done little running before then, he was convinced by a neighbour to give the local Parkrun a try. “Parkrun? Crikey, I can't even run across the other side of the road, you want me to do a parkrun?" he said. Six months later he crossed his first 5km finish line, before taking on his first triathlon at Hamilton Island in 2017. He was immediately hooked. Inspired by the camaraderie of the sport, Michael worked his way through sprint and standard-distance races before completing a full Ironman in Cairns in 2022. He now represents Australia in Ironman competitions around the world, a journey he hopes inspires others to take that first step themselves. "I didn't look back and I just got addicted," Michael said. This year's field will see a host of world-class competitors flying through the course, including reigning Airlie Beach Triathlon champion Josh Ferris, former Commonwealth Games silver medallist Jake Birtwhistle and recent Ironman Cairns champion Penny Slater, with all three expected to be among just some of the favourites on race day. Despite the elite talent on the start line, Michael says the event is just as welcoming for those considering their first triathlon. "Anything's possible, so give it a crack,” Michael said. “You've got nothing to lose." The young triathletes will also have their chance to shine, with the McDonald's Airlie Beach Junior Triathlon returning to the Airlie Beach Lagoon on Saturday afternoon. They will take on a swim in the lagoon before tackling a closed beachfront bike course and finishing with a run along the foreshore, with plenty of opportunities for family and friends to cheer them on from the sidelines. Presentations will follow the event on the main stage, with two brand new bicycles to be randomly awarded to participating juniors. Entries are still open, with organisers encouraging anyone considering the challenge to sign up before race weekend arrives. WHAT: Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival WHERE: Airlie Beach Lagoon, Broadwater Ave WHEN: July 25 and 26 Photo captions: Photo 1 – Kids to be cheering on the adults Sunday after there success Saturday. Photo Supplied: Cait Fleming. Photo 2- Celebrating your mate’s achievements. Photo supplied: Cait Fleming.
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What began with laps around a small go-kart track near the Whitsunday Coast Airport has led Airlie Beach teenager to an achievement no Australian has reached before, graduating from Japan's prestigious Honda Racing School Advanced Formula course. 17-year-old Jure Portelli is the first Australian and first female to graduate from the elite program, a milestone she hopes proves that talent, not background or gender, determines how far a driver can go. "I don't think about it being the first Australian and the first girl," she said. “No matter where you come from or your gender or anything like that, if you can get there, then that shows a lot." Local Formula 1 Prodigy Dominates in Japan Jure moved to Airlie beach in 2012 from Melbourne, later discovering motorsport in 2022 after her father bought a second-hand go-kart from Facebook marketplace at 14 years old. After her first ever go-kart race, she knew she was hooked. "I did the first race and I was like, 'Wow, this is heaps of fun,'" she said. “I don't remember where I placed or how I actually went in the race, but I just remember really enjoying it.” "Then we just kind of continued to enter the local go-kart meetings, and eventually I started to get competitive and started winning." She stepped into a Formula car for the first time through the Ferrari Driver Academy's Rising Stars program in 2023. “After that program is when we all kind of, like my family and I, specifically me, decided I want to make this into a career,” Jure said. She later competed in Formula V rounds in Victoria before travelling to Japan in 2025, where she secured a podium in her first Vita race at Fuji Speedway. Despite her early success, Jure was unable to secure as much track time as she wanted. Instead, she focused on what she could control, pushing herself through physical, mental and simulator training to prepare for the demands of professional formula racing. As her ambitions grew, Jure realised the next step in her career would take her beyond Australia's borders. Drawn by the opportunities and rich motorsport culture overseas, she began looking for a pathway to put her over the top. Her dedication earned her a place at Japan's prestigious Honda Racing School, where she advanced through multiple selection stages at Suzuka to become one of eight drivers chosen from 30. "Japan was something me and my team discussed because it's quite different,” Jure said. The achievement didn’t come without its challenges, as Jure had to move away from home and her family for six months. While a daunting experience, it was one she labeled as necessary. "It was a very foreign experience... not a lot of people get the opportunity to do that, especially so young," she said. "But I was more than happy to do that to be able to be a part of the Honda Racing School. During the course, Jure trained alongside professional drivers, combining intensive track sessions, physical training and data analysis while being assessed both on and off the circuit. "You never really know what they're looking out for," she said. "They're always critiquing you on everything, not just your driving, but how you behave off track, your manners, how well you can communicate with the engineers and the instructors, time management.” With one historic milestone behind her, Jure is looking forward to her next step to becoming a formula 1 driver. "I'm always just working towards the next opportunity," she said. Photo captions: Photo 1- Jure holding up her certificate from graduating Photo 2- Honda Advanced Formula 2026 class Photo supplied: Jure Portelli.
Read the full storyMembers of the club were active again last weekend after the main event had been cancelled the previous Sunday because of rainy weather. Seven keen members walked in the vicinity of the Homevale National Park, climbing the features known to the club as the Spikelets. Three of the ladies camped the night before at the old Mt Britton township site, ready for an early start on Sunday. The hike was led by Kevin Smith, and a highlight early in the day was the discovery of an inviting cave on Spikelet One. A brief visit to Spikelet Two afforded great views of Marling Spikes, Sydney Heads and Diamond Cliffs making up part of the stunning scenery available to visitors to the area. Spikelet Three remained unconquerable on this occasion as no easy way up was discovered. A cool breeze was appreciated on top of the peaks as the middle of the day was quite hot. Thick grass and plentiful ant nests were negotiated to reach the ridges which luckily were reasonably open. Next weekend Mt Dalrymple is on the calendar for club members, weather permitting. For more information about becoming part of the club, please phone 0429 363 929 or visit the website at https://mackaybwcq.org.au to learn how to conduct an online induction. Contributed by Carole Weekes Photo credit: Julie Ward
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With seven-time past King of the Mountain champion, Liam Mumford, and reigning Queen of the Mountain champion, Alana Kenzevic, in the fifty-strong field, the competition for the annual King and Queen of the Mountain event finishing in Eungella was always going to be tough.
The Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy/Podiatry Mackay Junior King and Queen of the Mountain was unfortunately a quieter affair due to many local junior runners being away at state titles and various other representative sporting competitions.
Accepting the Podiatry Mackay cash prize as the Junior King of the Mountain, the Laura Pettifer Inspirational perpetual award, and a $100 Rebel gift voucher donated by Laura Pettifer’s mum, Veronica, Ari Harris was a well-deserved gold medal champion over the 3.2 km all-uphill event, ahead of second-placed Oliver Graves. Oliver had a sensationally brave run despite his last-minute decision to enter the race.
Laura, who tragically passed away in a cycling training event in 2008, was a talented athlete in many sports including triathlon, individual running, swimming, and cycling. She was the reigning Eungella Queen of the Mountain in the year of her passing. Laura was widely known for her inspirational personality, smile, and twinkle in her eye. Her legacy to encourage and inspire will continue through this event for many more years to come.
Fourteen-year-old Max Scotton was the proud recipient of a $100 Rebel voucher donated by Veronica Pettifer for his efforts in the 6.4 km open event. This is not Max’s first attempt on this course, having first participated when he was only eight years old. Max is a great role model and an outstanding young man.
The reigning Queen of the Mountain, Alana Kenzevic, achieved a personal best time over the challenging 6.4 km one-way course, marking her second consecutive victory. The relatively flat initial two kilometres served as a steady introduction to the daunting climb ahead, with every runner peering upwards towards the winding road that led to the finish line at the Chalet precinct. Second-placed first-timer on the mountain, Jodie Elliot, finished just three minutes behind Alana, followed by Naomi Ballard (3rd) and Mel Esau (4th).
Paul MacKenzie was crowned the M-Test King of the Mountain with a personal best time of 32 minutes and 45 seconds. The 27-minute 51-second record set in 1991 by legendary thirteen-time winner of the Mountain, Charlie Martel, remains a tough one to crack. Paul added another win to his impressive tally, securing the Mackay Road Runners' prestigious Eungella event title. Second-placed Hamish Donnollan set a cracking pace to secure the silver medal position, just 14 seconds ahead of third-placed Jonathan Davies, with Liam Mumford rounding out the cash prize winners in fourth place.
Outstanding efforts were seen all around, as conquering that Mountain is not for the faint-hearted. Veteran gentlemen Len Haworth and David Isbister delivered superhuman performances, as did Corey Gould, Teresa Hackney, Tim Caddy, Nicole Ballingall, Carmel Mahon, Mick Scholer, Andrew Short, Jose Short, Shane Donnollan, Scott McIntosh, Emily Green, Andrew Wallace, Matt Graves, Grant Holmstrom, Clinton Mackie, Brenda Windsor, Robin Stinson, Soey Harris, Bradley Lenahan, and Daniel Scotton.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy/Podiatry Mackay Junior Kings’ of the Mountain – Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr, Max Scotton (6.4km), Ari Harris (1st 3.2km), Oliver Graves (2nd 3.2km) and Mackay Road Runners Vice-President, Mick Scholer
M-Test Open Queens’ of the Mountain – Jodie Elliot (2nd), Mel Esau (4th), Naomi Ballard (3rd), Alana Knezevic (1st), Vivian Knezevic (front), Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr, Mackay Road Runners Vice-President, Mick Scholer
M-Test Open Kings’ of the Mountain, Jonathan Davies (3rd), Hamish Donnollan (2nd), Paul Mackenzie (1st) with Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr and Mackay Road Runners Vic President, Mick Scholer. (absent Liam Mumford 4th)
Feeling the early morning chills at the Netherdale start line (left to right) Carmel Mahon, Andrew Wallace, Scott McIntosh
Over fifty runners including former 7-time King of the Mountain champion, Liam Mumford (#71), line up for a 7am run from Netherdale to the Eungella Chalet (6.4km) for the 2024 title
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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures May 28, 2024:
Division 1:
Green (Tim Shehan, Leo Gilbert) d Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson) 6-3. Tim d Barry 8, 5, -9, 4.
Purple (Emma Widdup, Tony Bowman, Robbie Richards) d Blue (Will VanDeKaa, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) 8-3. Robbie d Steven 9, -8, -7, 9, 9.
White (Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) d Red (Geoff Cowan, Anne Sheridan, Daniel Warfield) 10-1. Geoff d Mark -6, 10, -7, 6, 9.
Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) d Black (Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) 7-4. Ishan d Janice -11, 3, -9, 11, 7.
Division 2:
Gold (Steve Mathieson, Rohit Bansod, Ollie Hamelink) d Tan (Val Austin, Judy Zahn) 8-3. Val d Ollie 7, -6, -5, 5, 12.
Cyan (Matt West, Trent Day, Leonie Patroni) d Lime (Anaya Reelh, Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. Anaya d Leonie -9, 9, 8, -8, 7.
Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, David Symons) d Teal (Craig VanDeKaa, Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh) 9-2. Delma d Aarnav -10, 5, 10, -2, 2.
Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro Premachandra, Mark Stam) d Grey (Doug Dungavell, Adrian Marsh) Niro d Doug 7, 6, -7, 10.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures May 28, 2024:
Division 1:
Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Ross deBoer) d Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Delma d Branko 9, -9, 7, -9, 6.
Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) d Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, John McGee) 7-5. Tony d George 8, -11, -9, 7, 12.
Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor) d Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) 7-5. Charlie/Marie d Peter/Kevin 11, -3, -10, 9, 8.
Division 2:
Cockatoos (Kim Challender, Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) d Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Gerry Synnott, Ian Dodds) 8-4. Kim d Judi -11, 5, 6, -6, 5.
Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) d Doves (Pam Keune, Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba) 9-3. Kim d Iris -9, 13, 7, -11, 9.
Division 3:
Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey, Nadine) d Prawn (Madge Saunders, Trish Zamparuti, Glenda Dutton) 11-1. Cheryl d Madge -5, 4, 7, -6, 8.
Squid (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) d Crab (Pam Keune, Myles Dutton) 9-3. Pam/Myles d Sharon/Allison 8, 9, -5, 10.
Steven Whiting and Tony Bowman played one of the longest games seen in years when a new night fixture season started last week. Steven (pictured) evened the match two all after being two down, winning the fourth game 22-20 and going on to take the decider. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

The Whitsunday Game Fish Club’s Mackerel and Reef fish rally was held last weekend with 22 Adult and 5 Junior members catching a wide range of fish.
The heaviest Mackerel was won by Reece Mathews with an 18.85kg fish using 10kg line, runner up was Brendon Rock with a 12.85kg Spanish.
Longest Red fish was a 75cm Nannagi caught by Glen Upstill beating Glen Bray by 2cm.
Gavin Smith had the longest Coral Trout of the big kids with a 65cm fish.
The winning Junior was Kane Bird with an 80cm Nannagi and an 56cm Coral Trout closely followed by Dylan Towers, Benson and Jasmin Smith and Kurt Martin.
John Zerafa took out the most meritorious award with a 65cm Trevally and a 49cm Red Emperor on the same line.
The club's AGM and social night is this Friday at the club from 6pm and hope to see you there.
Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore, Life member WGFC.
Reece Mathews with winning Mackerel and prizes of rod and reel and $100 Anaconda gift card.

The 35th annual Bowen Polocrosse Carnival is set to be a weekend long family fun event where the whole community can get together.
To celebrate the 35th anniversary Bowen Polocrosse club encourage past present members to get together, chat, catch up and have a great time playing the sport they love.
The Bowen Polocrosse Carnival brings a high-class spectacle and event to Bowen.
Organiser Jessie Russell said “Polo is a sport that every member of the family can play, young or old and any gender”.
“If you can hold a racquet and ride a horse you can play the sport, you can be 18 months or 80 years old and still play the sport.”
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the annual polocrosse carnival was a great event for the region.
“This carnival brings visitors to Bowen each year and some of the participants stay and visit other parts of our region,” said Leanne.
“Events such as this provide an economic boost to Bowen and the greater Whitsundays, and we are looking forward to welcoming the visitors again this year.
“The carnival has a strong history, and we are very pleased it is being held again in 2024.”
The Bowen Polocrosse Club would also like to give the Grand View Hotel a special mention for hosting their fun night activities over the weekend.
Another win for under 13 Div 1 this weekend in Mackay against Lions. All players played well as a team with Remy scoring 2 Goals with precision and confidence. Jayce assisted a perfect through ball to Will who also scored 2 goals. Liam scored the goal he has been trying hard for and Eden rounded off the scoring with a goal. Final Score 6-1 for Whitsunday.
U13 Prem players fought hard this week to keep Rangers from scoring. The boys all played well to secure a nil all draw against a team that we had previously lost to twice.
Whitsunday U15 Div1 put in a huge effort on Saturday. Unfortunately we had some weaknesses in our defence in the first half, which Dolphins Silver capitalised on and took the lead 6-0 at half time. Whitsunday came out with a much stronger defence in the second half and made opportunities for several shots at the goals, finding themselves unlucky to get the ball to find the back of the net. Final score 9-0 to Dolphins.
U15 Prem came up against top of table Lions. After two big losses to them already this season, we were ready for what would be another tough game. 3-0 down at half time, we came out in the second half fighting but just couldn’t capitalise on our goal scoring opportunities. A penalty from Max took us to 3-1, with the final score being 4-1 to Lions.
It was a soccer filled weekend for the ladies at the Whitsunday Sports Park. Starting with the U23 Whitsunday United against Mackay Rangers FC game. Going 1-0 up after a penalty in the first half, Rangers fought hard to keep Whitsundays at bay but to no avail. Bre taking the score line to 1-1 and Imo’s goal put Whitsundays up, 2-1 at half time. Coming out strong from the half time talk, Whitsundays took the reins and slotted in 3 more goals from Keely, Mable and Francesca. Final score 5-1 Whitsundays.
The Premier ladies played two games in under 24hrs. First up on Saturday night the ladies took on Rangers in a one-sided game. Whitsundays dominated possession and created goal shooting opportunities for the full 90minutes. Despite this, the ladies lacked the finish in the box to put the ball away. In the end, patience paid off with goals to Dom, who put away a rebound from her penalty attempt, and two to Steph, giving Whitsundays a 3-0 win.
Sunday afternoon then saw the ladies take on Dolphins for the second time in as many weeks. After a strong 7-0 win the weekend prior and a few tired bodies, the ladies knew it would be a much tougher match. The midfield and front line had to work hard to maintain possession and find a way to break through Dolphins defence, and the backline were strong in ensuring Dolphins attacking opportunities were limited in the first half. Eventually Steph was able to break the deadlock after nearly 30 minutes of play to put us 1-0 up at halftime. The team spoke about the need to get another goal early in the second half to keep momentum our way and Steph again came through with her second goal 3minutes into the half. Dolphins created a few more chances in the second half and did get one goal back, however Whitsundays maintained the lead with a final score of 2-1. Outstanding defence by Willow and Claire in the back line, plus crucial saves by Keeper Chloe kept the Whitsundays ahead.
In the FQPL Men, the Reserves battled hard in their game against lions with each team having solid chances. Whitsunday scored first through Zac Kelley, but conceded 2 second half goals to lose 2-1. Premier league played 3rd place lions and were slow to start with lions dominating the first 30 minutes of play. Whitsunday wrestled back possession in the last section of the first half but went into the break 1 nil down. Tired legs, and a rampant Lions side resulted in a 4-1 loss, a nice finish from Jack Jenks was a consolation for his toil up front.
Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic.
Laura Wilson, battered and bruised but winners are grinners. Photo supplied

There are record entries for this year’s North Queensland Championship Airlie Beach Marathon and the Tassal Group Half Marathon with numbers up by 50 – 70%!
The reigning ladies champion and record holder in the marathon Liv Compton from the Whitsunday Running Club is back to defend her title. The men’s race could be won by anyone however Tom Sirett from Ellesmere Port in England looks like he may be in with a chance.
The first three ladies in last year’s Tassal Group half marathon are back to challenge the current champion and record holder Claire Ashworth from Canberra. The men’s race will be a shoot out between local runners Billy Grogan and Roland Henderson from the Whitsunday Running Club.
A feature of this year’s festival will be the Mascot Race to be held at 9:45am before the junior races over 1 and 2kms. There are five mascots this year with ‘Piggy’ (Bendigo Bank), ‘Cruiser’ (Cruise Whitsundays), Blazer (QFD), Troppo (Tassal Group) and Hoggie (Hoggs Breath Café).
There are still entries available for most of the races and for the Locus Surveys Corporate Challenge and the McDonald’s Magic Mile.
The program for the 2024 festival follows last year’s successful format and will cater for all ages from 4 years old and up. It features races over 1 mile, 1km, 2km, 5km, 10km, 21.1km and 42.2km. The course for most of the races follow the footpaths and boardwalk between the Port of Airlie and Cannonvale Beach.
The Event Manager and President of the Whitsunday Running Club, Tim McQuoid-Mason said “entries for this year are well up on previous years because of a renewed interest in fitness across the World. We have entries from overseas and nearly every state and terriorty”.
The festival will start on Saturday 20 July with the McDonald’s Magic Mile to be run at 4:00pm. There is prize money for the fastest male and female and medals awarded in the 6 to 9 and 10 to 15 year age groups.
Sunday 21 July will be the busy day with the marathon, half marathon, 10km, 5km, and kids 2 and 1km races to be run starting with the marathon at 6:00am.
The winning school with the most participation (on a percentage basis) in the 1 and 2km races will receive a donation to go towards sports equipment.
The charity of choice for this year’s festival is the Ronald McDonald House Charities, North Australia.
More information about the event can be found on the festival website at www.runairlie.com.au or you can follow it on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
WHAT: Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon Festival
WHEN: 20-21 July
WHERE: Airlie Beach

The Cannonvale Cannons and visiting clubs were treated to picture perfect Whitsunday conditions on Saturday for the 2024 Cannonvale Winter Transition Meet. Under the guidance of coaches Mark Erickson and Ken Crittenden, swimmers delivered impressive performances across various age groups and events, achieving significant personal bests and placings.
Among the youngest competitors, Lucas Korosec, Miranda Palmero and Indigo Harland secured personal best times in all of their events.
The 9-year-olds also achieved great results. Liam Filewood made a huge improvement in his 100 Fly, while Levi Smith impressed in both the 50 and 100 Breaststroke events.
The women's 9-year-old events saw Evie Doherty and Koa Harland smash their times in the 200 IM. Well done to the 11-year-old girls Ruby Harland, Celeste Orenshaw and Matilda Nicholes who also achieved personal best times in the same event.
Jax Clayworth, 11, demonstrated his butterfly prowess winning the 50, 100 and 200 Fly. His consistent performances were matched by Ruby Harland and Jasper Korosec, who both secured PB’s in all but one of their respective events.
Zachary Trefz, 12, dominated his age group, placing in the top two in every event and taking an incredible 42.65 seconds off his 200 Free. His consistency across multiple strokes and distances was a highlight of the meet. Roxy Groom made an awesome return to the Cannons with double digit PBs in all her events, whilst Tyler Bennett also improved his times in all events but one. Congratulations to Charlie Doherty, aged 13, who placed in all his events.
The meet highlighted the hard work and dedication of the Cannons, with coaches expressing pride in the team's performance and demonstration of the importance of consistent training across the cooler months.
Thank you to our sponsors and families for making this event a success.
Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec.

The Airlie Beach Bowls club has enjoyed another bustling week, starting with Tuesday afternoon Social Bowls, where skipper Betty Whitehorn and lead Lyn Graham secured an effortless victory against all comers.
Wednesday afternoon saw an outstanding display of skill during Jackpot Bowls. Skipper Bobby Spees showcased supremely accurate bowls, aided by Merve Stewart, leading to one of the most comfortable victories in recent club history. However, the jackpot remained elusive, keeping the excitement alive for future games.
Thursday morning hosted the finals to determine the district's representatives for the Queensland Schools Finals. Teams included St Catherine's Proserpine (Harry Craig, Alfie Moretto), Christian College Cannonvale (Tommy Phan, Saylor Harrison), Mackay High School (Charlotte McGuinness, Taylor Fisher), and Christian College Mackay (Cruz and Kobi). St Catherine's emerged victorious with six points, followed by Mackay Christian College with four points, Christian College Cannonvale with two points, and Mackay North High School with zero points. The event was marked by skillful play and sportsmanship, highlighting the talent and dedication of all participants.
The club wants to give special thanks to John Brown, David Meiklejohn, Arthur McManus, Terry Clarke, Heather Brown, and the Mackay teachers and officials for providing morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea. Their efforts ensured everyone enjoyed the day and could focus on the fantastic performances by the students.
Saturday Morning Scroungers saw Andy McDougall triumph in a brilliant match, setting the stage for an exciting final next Saturday morning.
Sunday Afternoon Social Bowls welcomed Mark Pinney and his wife Donna Evans from the Albury Commercial Bowls Club. In a competitive match, skipper Mark Pinney, second Mark Mawson, and new bowler Mel Fennell won 26-6. The dice roll resulted in a drawn game, with John Brown and Lu Rogan emerging victorious.
Pictured are the school students who competed on Thursday: Heather Brown, Saylor Harrison, Tommy Phan, scorer Chris, Cruz, Kobi, Mackay North Manager, Harry Craig, Alfie Moretto, Charlotte McGuinness, and Taylor Fisher.
Contributed with thanks to Mark Manson.

4’s Final:
• Ray, Ron, Herb, Gus defeated Gordo, Mark, Crowie, Kev.
Club Triples:
• Robyn, Rosco, Tiarna defeated Tracey, Lloyd, Jason.
Club Pairs:
• Ron, Steve defeated Daryl, Feley.
Social Games:
Sunday 7/7:
• Andy, Barry, Steve defeated Ian, Gavin, Wendy.
• Ray, Ron, Herb, Gus defeated Gordo, Kevin, Crowie, Mark.
Wednesday 10/7:
• Doc, G. Gordon, Ron defeated Marion, J. Foskett, Gus.
• Ian, B. Thompson, Gavin had a drawn game with MaryEllen, Lou, Jane.
Tuesday and Friday's self-selected pairs and triples continue to go great.
Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

Airlie Beach Bowls Club is immensely proud of Di Jackson, who recently returned from Florida, USA, after participating in the Warrior Games for Army, Navy, Airforce, and Marines. At 58 years old, Di competed in athletics, cycling, powerlifting, and indoor rowing.
Di joined the Airforce in 1990 and served as an integral member of the Darwin team, eventually becoming a Logistics Officer until 2008. She then became a Hazardous Chemicals Project Manager until her medical discharge in 2017. She married Russell Jackson in 1998, forming a great team.
Despite suffering from hereditary spastic paraplegia—a rare condition causing progressive neuromuscular degeneration in the lower limbs—Di remains unstoppable. She qualified for the Australian team in the Warrior Games and returned with an impressive collection of medals: two golds in rowing and bronzes in shot put and discus.
Additionally, Di was honored as the Team Australia inaugural Games Champion. This iron-willed lady is also an accomplished lawn bowler, excelling in everything she undertakes with a cheerful disposition.
Di's resilience and achievements have made her a beloved figure in the club, where everyone is incredibly proud of her accomplishments. Her story is a testament to determination and the power of a positive attitude.
Di's welcoming home party at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club, where members celebrated her remarkable success and return from the Warrior Games.
Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

As Champion of Champion events approach, Proserpine Bowls Club Competition is progressing rapidly to ensure the winners are eligible for the District Champion of Champions.
On Tuesday, Heather Brown competed in the District Club Championship Singles at Wests Tigers. It was a highly competitive match, with Chris Woo from North Mackay defeating Heather 25-19. The event was ultimately won by Leanne McGeough from Sarina, with Ladda Purdie from Airlie Beach as the runner-up.
Wednesday saw Luchie Gardel triumph over Dale Haack, 26-14, in the Club Championship Singles.
Thursday featured Harry Craig and Alfie Moretto from St Catherine's Catholic College in the District play-offs for the All-School Cup Challenge. Competing against Whitsunday Christian College, North Mackay State High School, and Mackay Christian College, Harry and Alfie won all three games. They scored 18-8 against WCC, 10-6 against North Mackay HS, and 14-2 against MCC, earning 6 match points with a margin of +26. They will represent the District at the All-School Cup Challenge State Finals at Pine Rivers on August 21-22. Mackay Christian College will also represent the Mackay District.
Saturday morning's Club Championship Singles saw Barry Saroglia narrowly defeat Luchie Gardel 25-24, and Shane Kinnear overcome Scott Hamilton 25-21. We are now up to the semi-finals on one side of the draw, with a quarter-final still to be played on the other side. The Champion of Champion Singles will take place at Mackay Club on August 24-25.
This weekend, the semi-finals of the Club Championship Pairs were played. On Saturday afternoon, Jonathan Bye and Wayne Handley defeated Marcus Craig and Toby Craig 21-17 in a thrilling game. On Sunday morning, David Ling and Andrew Bell defeated Bruce Uhe and Gavin Noonan 26-10. The final will see Wayne Handley's team face Andrew Bell's team, with the winner qualifying for the Champion of Champions at Mackay City on August 10-11.
Social Bowls had a great turnout on Wednesday. John Anderson and Nev Smith defeated Arthur Griffith and Peter Lawton 29-10. Pat Bownds, Barry Zillmann, and Carol Smith edged out Mary Hedgelong, Tom Sanders, and Philip Brown 17-16. Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe, and Sandy Daffara defeated Jim Bownds, Bruce Uhe, and Heather Brown 25-17. On Sunday, Arthur Griffith and Sandy Daffara narrowly defeated Alen Sanderson and Nev Smith 21-20, while John Anderson, Tom Sanders, and Carol Smith beat Mary Hedgelong, Philip Brown, and Heather Brown 20-14.
The club wants to thank Dale Haack, Bruce Uhe, Heather Brown, and Gavin Noonan for assisting with the 30th Birthday Barefoot Bowls held at the club on Saturday afternoon.
Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.
Alfie Moretto, Heather Brown, and Harry Craig after a successful day of bowls in the All School Cup Challenge.
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Another great week of bowls started with Monday self-selected triples. Winners were Ron Blythe, M. Blythe, and Norm Dawson, who defeated Allan Gilles, Jack Stamp, and Greg Colquhoun. Runners-up were Denis Madeley, Dave Richard, and R. Agg, who overcame Peter Howie, G. Caldon, and Kennedy Whitton. The jackpot went off in two games: K. Pedlar, L. Fox, and S. Farrell defeated A. Rolfe, J. Steele, and K. Daniels, while F. Wilmann, J. Healey, and C. Healey defeated J. Paynting, R. Symonns, and J. White.
On Tuesday, we celebrated our Patroness and Life Member Merle Elphinstone. Merle has been a member since 1992 and served as treasurer for over 25 years. With a full green of 64 players, winners were Jan Harvey, Ann Kayser, Patrick Cochrane, and Glenn Harvey, who defeated K. McKenzie, C. Parker, Heidi Reif, and Colin Mayhem. Runners-up, the lowest scoring losers, were A. Gillies, M. Nesbitt, I. Wheeler, and S. Fitzgerald, defeated by G. Hands, I. Laird, P. Nesbitt, and G. Danvers. The jackpot didn’t go off.
Fun Friday afternoon saw winners J. Langley, M. Hyde, and S. Dolbel defeat G. Howie, K. McKenzie, and J. Issaac.
Sunday, with another full green of 64 players, winners on Rink 2 were L. Suann, T. Cozier, D. Gorin, and C. Healey, who defeated M. McKenzie, A. Kayser, L. Land, and C. Mayman. Runners-up were J. Hayman, K. Atkins, R. Symmons, and B. Beel, who overcame M. Elphinstone, J. Gillies, J. Healey, and K. Whitton. The jackpot didn’t go off.
The next special event is on Saturday afternoon, July 20, featuring Wangaratta versus All States. This annual event brings out the best of our bowlers, competing for bragging rights for the year. Even if you aren’t playing, come along to view some great bowls.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

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

Proserpine Golf Club is delighted to welcome Ross Tong, a local guest, and Stephen Guy from Toronto GC (near Newcastle, not Canada). The club hopes they enjoyed their day with them.
Despite recent heavy rain making the course heavier than expected, the scores were impressive. Jenny and Colin Hounsell took home the Men’s and Ladies’ Monthly Medals.
With Wintersun approaching, the club asks you to please submit your nominations as soon as possible. The entry form is simple and available on the Mackay Vets website.
Results for Today:
Ladies:
• Winner: Jenny Hounsell with a nett 70 – well done!
• Runner-Up: Kathryn Borer with a nett 74
• Run Down: Paula McQuat and Leanne Alexander with 75, Rehab Hull and Elspeth Scotford with 79, Tina Badenhorst with 80, and Tiina Randmae with 81.
Men:
• Winner: Colin Hounsell with a stunning nett 67
• Runner-Up: Gary Scotford with a nett 69
• Run Down: Wilf Herwig with 70, Ken Granger with 71, John Oates with 73, Trevor Paroz with 75, Peter Browning with 77, Steve Mitchell, Peter Fox, and John Strelec with 79.
Pin Shots:
• Ladies: Jenny Hounsell and Kathryn Borer on the 2nd, Leanne Alexander and Paula McQuat on the 9th, Jenny and Paula on the 13th.
• Men: Gary Scotford and Trevor Paroz on the 2nd, Wilf Herwig and Colin Hounsell on the 9th, Wilf and Peter Browning on the 13th.
Least Putts:
• Ladies: Jenny Hounsell with 28
• Men: Ken Granger with 24 – outstanding!
Chip-Ins:
• Ladies: Tiina Randmae, Paula McQuat, and Pam Harrison
• Men: Ross Tong (x2), Colin Hounsell, Ken Granger, Trevor Paroz, Barry M., and Steve Mitchell
Upcoming Events:
• Tuesday 16/7: PGC Vets Closed Championship – log in as usual.
• Tuesday 23/7: Whitsunday Group at Home Hill.
The club wants to thank everyone who participated and made it a great week at the Proserpine Golf Club.
Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat
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AFLQ Mackay celebrated Pride Round Saturday providing opportunity to promote inclusivity and acceptance of gender diversity in sport. Sea Eagles Under 14s and 17s clashed with Mackay Magpies whilst the Senior Men met North Mackay Saints in Mackay.
Sea Eagles Senior Men were back on the winners list with a hard fought victory over reigning Premiers North Mackay Saints 44 – 33. In what was a close game Sea Eagles were able to hold off the fast finishing Saints to take the win. Sea Eagles had three Under 17 players including Brodan Cornwall kicking 2 goals, Reid Ogden and Mason Andrews seeing plenty of the ball through the midfield. Sea Eagles Senior Men now look forward to a home game against the Hawks on Saturday from 3:20pm.
Taking on the Magpies in Mackay after a heavy loss last weekend Sea Eagles Under 17s were eager to make amends. Sea Eagles started strong using the ball well which put Magpies under pressure when they had the ball. This carried on for the remainder of the match with Sea Eagles compiling the best four quarter effort of the season taking it out 74 – 14.
Sea Eagles Under 14s headed to Mackay with Magpies settling early being first to the ball with scores on the board. Sea Eagles struggled to find the pace of the game trying their best to get back in the contest but ended 31 – 74 down. Sea Eagles look forward to the next encounter with Magpies with a win each tallied against each other.
This week Whitsunday Sea Eagles stay at the Nest with Under 12s meeting Sarina from 10:40am, Under 17s and Seniors match up with Hawks with Senior matches from 1:50pm.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles.
Photo Credit: Cody Fowler