Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club’s U15 Nate McKinnon recently travelled to Broadbeach on the Gold Coast to compete in the Australian Championships.  The event involves elite lifesavers being assessed on their surf sports fitness, patient assessment and CPR skills and a detailed theory paper, against the best of the best in each respective state.
Nate McKinnon took 1st place for the second year in a row, a huge achievement for surf lifesaving in this region.  
“The club is extremely proud of Nate for representing Mackay and demonstrating that our lifesavers are some of the best in Australia.  He has been training for months, under experienced coaches to achieve this result,” said Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports.
“It was also very fitting that at this event Mackay’s very own Reggie Butler was recognised for his 50 years of service to officiating the champion lifesaver events.
“The club is very proud of both of their achievements and is a testament to what surf lifesaving is about at our club.
“They are both champions of the lifesaving movement,” said Mr Grant.

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Nate McKinnon receiving his Gold medal at the National Surf Recuse Championships

It was very fitting for club patron, life member and living legend, Reg Butler, to finish his 50 years’ service of officiating and witness Nate take out 1st place at Aussies

Nate getting ready for the surf rescue tube race at nationals

Nate after taking 1st place in the board race at nationals, just one event in the champion lifesaver competition

Mackay Surf Club is very fortunate to have an experienced team of volunteers that help run the national titles, including Reg Butler (official), Peter Marshall (Chief Gear Steward) and Mick Tibaldi (workforce)

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results June 4, 2024:

Division 1:

Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson, Graham Brake) d Orange (Janice Kent, Geoff Denman, Donna Abbott) 7-4. Donna d Andrea -9, 8, -4, 9, 8.

Blue (Steven Whiting, Lee Brake, Will VanDeKaa) d Red (George Camilleri, Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker) 6-5. Lee d Graeme 5, -6, -9, 8, 11.

Purple (Duncan Treloar, Emma Widdup, Robbie Richards) d Green (Tim Shehan, Lily Boland, Leo Gilbert) 8-3. Robbie d Lily 7, 12, -8, -12, 8.

White (Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) d Black (Allan Robins, Goncalo Serra, Tony Bowman) 6-5. Tony d Mark -8, 6, -8, 7, 10.

Division 2:

Rose (Niro Premachandra, Mark Stam, Nehmat Dhaliwal) d Tan (Saisha Palod, Jye Callandar, Judy Zahn) 6-3. Niro d Jye -9, 9, 8, 5.

Lime (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) d Teal (Craig VanDeKaa, Peter Goodson) 6-3. Simon d Peter 5, 3, 12.

Cyan (David Symons, Trent Day) d Gold (Steve Mathieson, Ollie Hamelink) 5-4. Ollie d David -9, 5, 9, -10, 9.

Grey (Kade Wright, Geoff Cowan, Val Austin) d Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) 7-4. Geoff d Delma 7, -7, 20, -4, 7.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures June 4, 2024:

Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) 7-5. Delma d Donna 11, -8, 6, -7, 9.

Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, John McGee) d Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) 9-3. Steve d Pam -11, 6, -6, 9, 5.

Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Rhonda Payne) d Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Rhonda d Noreen 6, 6, -7, -8, 9.

Division 2:

Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) d Cockatoos (Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) 8-4. Gloria d John 6, 7, -8, -10, 8.

Doves (Louise Gould, Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba) d Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Robyn Bushell, Ian Dodds) 7-5. Louise/Iris d Judi/Robyn 11, 8, -7, -11, 7.

Division 3:

Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) d Prawn (Madge Saunders, Trish Zamparuti) 8-3. Madge d Sharon 6, -8, -3, 9, 7.

Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey) d Crab (Pam Keune, Darryl Ross) 8-4. Pam d Nadine -9, 8, -5, 8, 3.

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Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Rhonda Payne had a close match against Noreen Fredericksen in Division 1 on Tuesday morning, winning 11-9 in the fifth set. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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The North Mackay Saints travelled up to the Nest on Saturday, and Whitsundays provided a stellar day for everyone to enjoy. Our Sea Eagles Under 12s took victory for the day, though the remaining grades faced tough matchups.
In an extremely tight contest, our Senior Men couldn't quite hold on and were beaten 31-39 in the last quarter by the North Mackay Saints. Despite the disappointing result, there were positive signs as the team looks to find form and connect better on the field this week against the top side, Mackay Magpies.
Our Senior Women started off well against the ladder-leading Saints with high intensity. Unfortunately, the Saints showed why they are the top kicking side, leading to a 6-70 loss for the Sea Eagles.
The Under 17s faced the reigning premiers Saints in a close, hard-fought contest for the first three quarters, eventually losing 28-59 in the final term.
The Under 14s were outgunned in the first three quarters by the top-of-the-table Saints, but the last quarter saw a more competitive Sea Eagles team, eventually losing 13-66.
Our Under 12s showed a great performance against the North Mackay Saints with strong defense and hard work through the center, winning 57-7. Special shoutout to Captain Noah Woo, who kicked 3 goals in his 50th game for the Sea Eagles.
This week, the Whitsunday Sea Eagles travel to different locations in Mackay. Both Senior teams will play at Magpies from 1:50 PM, U12s and U14s will face Swans at Rogers Oval, and the Under 17s will take on Bakers Creek.

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Photo supplied

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The first Annual Cane Country Pickleball Tournament took place in Home Hill this past weekend, attracting fifteen teams from Airlie Beach, Bowen, Townsville, Cardwell, and Home Hill. Participants competed fiercely in the competitive division, while social players enjoyed the beautiful northern winter setting.
The Whitsunday team, Airlie Norfoll and Chance, consisting of Peter, Trevor, Kazuko, and Robyn, emerged victorious. They were closely followed by the Legendary Lonbers from Townsville, who were only two games behind. In third place was the Airlie Auspan team, comprising Frank, David, Megumi, and Yoko, just two games behind second place.
Congratulations to the Whitsunday players for their impressive performance, building on their good results in Townsville a few weeks ago. How many of these players will plan to enter the 2024 Queensland Pickleball Championships in Morayfield, north of Brisbane, later this month? Watch this space!

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Contributed with thanks to Lorraine Christiansen

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Photos supplied

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The grand finals of Whitsunday Touch Footy took place over the weekend.

“It was a sensationally exciting night,” said Alita De Brincat from Whitsunday Touch Footy.

“With four games in total and two going to drop-offs”

“It was great to see so many people come down to support the sport by cheering on the team.”

Another highlight was seeing Club President, Justin Butler receive a Life Membership Award.

The inaugural award for Junior of the Season was given to Stella Ansell.

“She was given the award for her contribution to the sport but also because she is always the first to show up and is always wanting to help out in any way she could,” added Alita.

Results:

Vipers won A Grade
Raiders B won B Grade
Untouchables won C Grade
Raiders Burgers won Junior Grade

The next season commences in July.

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Jasper and Vince
Abby, Cathy, Sergeant Billy and Lucy
Amelia, Jordan, Ruby and Stevie with teacher Autumn Webster
Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright with some children
Ms Heffernan and Principal Shirley
Sandra, Councillor Jan Clifford, Kylie and Bec
Photo credit: Rachael Smith

For the full photo gallery head to mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

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Sunday Social
In Sunday’s social matches, Anna and Jane defeated Britt and Ron, while Tracey and Gary defeated Marilyn and Helen.
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Wednesday Social
During Wednesday’s social matches, Peter, Daryl, and Helen defeated Ian, Gordo, and Gavin. Additionally, Marilyn, Ron, and Gus defeated Carol, Jane, and Tracey. The winners for the afternoon were Robin, Britt, and A. McDonald, defeated Mary Ellen, Tiarna, and Steve.
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Wangaratta Ladies Excel in Blue Pennant
Congratulations to the Wangaratta Ladies for securing 3rd place in the Blue Pennant played in Townsville.

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Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

Photo supplied

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Pennants have been set aside for a couple of weeks as players from across the district seize the opportunity to participate in the Australian Open on the Gold Coast, testing their skills against competitors from wider afield.
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Wednesday Social Bowls
In Wednesday's Social Bowls, Ashley, Philip Brown, and Heather Brown defeated Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown, and Sandy Daffara with a score of 26-14. John Anderson, Barry Zillmann, and Nev Smith narrowly defeated Arthur Griffith, Carol, and Mike Harrison 22-20.
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Sunday Social Bowls
On Sunday, a number of bowlers experienced the game for the first time. Paolo Philip Brown, and Heather Brown defeated Nicholas, Martin Gay, and Nev Smith 22-10. In another match, Ashley, Arthur Griffith, Bruce Uhe, and Sandy Daffara drew 14-all with Luca, Arthur Griffith, Carol Smith, and Mike Harrison.

Appreciation for Barefoot Bowls Volunteers
A special thank you to all who volunteered their time on Friday night to run this month's Barefoot Bowls event.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

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The Monday self-selected triples kicked off with a full green. John Hayson, Max Ritchie, and Peter Nesbitt emerged victorious, defeating J. Harding, Graeme Read, and Allan Rolfe. Runners-up were Terrie Crozier, Michael Loughhead, and Bob Dykstra, who defeated Kerry, Heidi Reif, and G. Feast.
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Tuesday Social Bowls
Tuesday’s winners were M. Gleeson, M. Wilson, and G. Solly, who defeated J. Hayson, S. Shearing, and June Walsh. Nick Dalee, Lorraine Knight, and Joe Paynting were runners-up, defeating Carol and Brian Bellingham and France Wilmann. The jackpot remained unclaimed.
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Fun Friday Afternoon
Friday afternoon’s session saw Robyn Stitt, Maureen Hyde, and Jan Dawson defeat Mark McKenzie, Marie Nesbitt, and Gabi Howell. Resting touches went to Ron and Dianne.
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Sunday Winners
Sunday’s winners were Cheryl McBride, Alby Vigar, and Joe Paynting, who defeated Bron Tolcher, Terrie Crozier, and France Wilmann. Runners-up were Lindy Suann, Deb Retchless, Lorraine Knight, and Maureen Hyde, who defeated Toni Bowen, Lyn Madden, Sue Shearing, and Pat Tracey. The jackpot did not go off.
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Men's Competition
In the men's competition, L. Land and G. Read defeated K. Whitton and H. Dalton. In the A Singles, J. Wright defeated W. Crowhurst.
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Ladies' Achievements and Upcoming Events
Congratulations to the Ladies for securing 3rd place in the 1st Division Blue Pennant in Townsville. The Purple Pennant Ladies will travel to the Burdekin on Sunday for four days of play. Good luck to Toni Bowen, Lyn Madden, Sue Shearing, Pat Tracey, Lindy Suann, Deb Retchless, Lorraine Knight, and Maureen Hyde.
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Barefoot Bowls
Barefoot Bowls is scheduled for Friday night, June 14th. To join, contact Teresa at 0407 946 558.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Photo supplied

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Toni Clauss clinched the PDLAW Wednesday monthly medal with an impressive nett 75, finishing two shots ahead of Diane Chard. The pins were awarded to Rehab Hull, Toni Clauss, and Elspeth Scotford.
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Thursday's Venuesmart Monthly Medal
Luke Wayth emerged victorious in Thursday's Venuesmart monthly medal, achieving a fine nett 63. John Dodds followed three shots behind. Leading the A division were Andrew Albergo with a nett 67 and Adam Maggs with a nett 68. Pins went to Gary Scotford, Michael Cragg, Luke Wayth, and Jason Bourke.
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Friday's Charity Challenge
The three-person Charity Challenge on Friday was won by the team of Brad Vloedmans, Benn Ryan, and Ken Todd. Finbar O'Flynn, Tom O'Brien, and Matthew Muller finished close behind in second place.
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Saturday's Allenbuild Stableford
Michael Cragg triumphed in Saturday's Allenbuild stableford with 40 points. Joshua Norris was two points behind in the A division, while Dean Kercher led the B division with 39 points, followed by Scott Dwyer with 37 points. Jill Farinelli was the leading lady with 35 points, narrowly ahead of Elspeth Scotford. Pins were awarded to Aaron Prosser, Clay Coles, Gary Scotford, Trevor Paroz, and Paula McQuat, who claimed two pins.
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Foursome Champions
Noelene Spurway and Melanie Patullo were crowned the ladies' foursome champions, while Jon Miller and Levi Holmes took the men's title. The nett winners were Lyn Muller and Jacqueline Wall, along with Tim Walton and Billy O'Connor.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Club

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In the weekly 9-hole stableford, Billy O’Connor secured first place with 23 points. Jayden Parata followed closely with 22 points, while Nicola McKenzie took third place with 20 points on countback.
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Friday’s 9-Hole Stableford
Travis Clinch emerged victorious in Friday’s 9-hole stableford with 21 points. Jimmy Millar claimed second place with 20 points, and Elise Hodgson secured third place with 19 points.
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Sunday’s 2BBB Ambrose
Rhys Bartholomew and Tyson Flavel took first place in Sunday’s 2BBB Ambrose with a score of 46.75. Jack Hayes-Williams won nearest to the pin.
This Sunday, June 16th, will feature an 18-hole stableford with tee-off available anytime.
 
Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross

Elise Hodgson, Photo supplied

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On Sunday, two Cannons travelled to Townsville to join 117 swimmers in the Townsville Strand Ocean Swim. Jacob Bell, 17, won the 4km Magnetic Island Swim Qualifier with a time of 55 minutes 22 seconds, aiming to complete the Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim in July. Nelson Malady competed in the 2km event, finishing in 41 minutes 56 seconds, qualifying for the team swim from Magnetic Island to Townsville.
Coaches Raylene Rasmussen and Mark Erickson also participated in the 4km event, successfully completing the swim. Congratulations to Jacob, Nelson, and the coaches!

Cannonvale Cannons Award Night
The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club recently hosted its annual Presentation Night, celebrating another successful year. The night recognized the achievements of swimmers and the contributions of parents and volunteers. Congratulations to all participants throughout the season.
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Level 1, 2, and 3 Trophies
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Level 3 Trophy: Ehsan Helou
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Level 2 Trophies: Eloise Chegwidden, Tora Delac, Celeste Orenshaw, Evie Doherty, Isabella Pisaniello, Ruby Harland, Matilda Nicholes, Andie Reynolds, Addie Sanders, Indi Smith, Lucas Korosec, Isaac Pisaniello, Don Algie, Jax Clayworth, Declan Dichiera, Jacob Bell, Harris Delac, Zach Trefz, Miller Eaves, Liam Filewood, Thomas Ganter, Noah Maltby, Levi Smith, Anisa Helou, Alex Trefz.
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Level 1 Trophies: Tiana Bell, Millie Groom, Koa Harland, Remy Hedges, Jack Ganter, Holly Perrin, Charlie Doherty, Zane Clayworth, Jy Parkinson, Ashton Pook, Billie Jamieson, Nelson Malady, Tyler Bennett, Abiageal Maher.
Tassel Group Encouragement Awards: Miranda Palmero, Leo Mulliss, Ella Maddock, Sophie Palmero, Stella Mulliss.
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BK Constructions’ Most Improved by PBs: Harry Chegwidden, Indigo Harland, Millie Groom, Ruby Harland, Jack Ganter, Don Algie.
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Coaching Team
Mark Erickson, Ken Crittenden, Rylee Erickson, Jarrod Keys, Shay Wilmot, Kate Thomson.
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Volunteer Awards
Ginger White, Amy Chegwidden, Renee Clayworth, Danny Delac, Andrew Bell, Mick Pisaniello, Glen Orenshaw, Jade Korosec, Jane Delac, Jade Korosec, Theresa Manning, Giselle Burton.

A big thank you to the committee for organizing a successful season, and to all parents and coaches for their support. The Cannons will host the annual AGM on Wednesday, 12th June 2024, at 7 pm.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

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Ehsan with his Level 3 Trophy

Level 1 trophywinners

Nelson, Raylene,Mark and Jacob Bell before swimming in Townsville Strand Ocean Swim

Volunteer Awards

Photos supplied

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Riding high on an undefeated streak, the McDonalds Mackay Men’s Meteors faced off against the Darwin Salties last weekend in a game that promised to test their mettle.

The game resulted in a clash of titans, with the Salties emerging victorious with a commanding 18-point lead, sealing the fate of the Men’s Meteors with a final score of 113 to 95.

Reflecting on the game, Head Coach Joel Khalu acknowledged the harsh reality check it provided for his team. "It was a bit of a reality check for us tonight, I think," he remarked.

"Darwin obviously came in here with a purpose around taking care of business on the road."

He pointed to the pivotal second quarter as the turning point where the game slipped away from their grasp.

Player Jerron Jamerson echoed Khalu's sentiments, highlighting the Salties' relentless blitz in the second quarter.

"This is the first season that we’ve really been hit as far as not only the pace that we played, but just that physicality," he admitted, emphasising the importance of bouncing back from the defeat.

On the other hand, The McDonald's Mackay Women’s Meteorettes finished strong and secured a resounding victory over the Darwin Salties, resulting in a 10-point margin in a final score of 98 to 85.

Despite the men’s home-ground loss, the weekend held a greater significance beyond basketball. It marked the annual McDonald’s Mackay Meteors Fundraising Game & Charity Singlet Auction, a momentous occasion where community rallied behind a noble cause.

The Meteors wore limited edition jerseys for the fundraising game, symbolising their commitment to supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia and the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital.

Following the intense matchup, the jerseys, infused with the sweat and spirit of the game, were auctioned off to eager bidders, with every bid contributing to the vital funds needed for the Ronald McDonald house.

Nell Thomsett shared her testimony as a local mother who experienced the support of the Ronald McDonald Family Room during her child’s visit and emphasised the importance of continuously raising funds for the initiative.

“The house was absolutely fantastic, it is the best asset and while it’s currently closed for renovations, they do have the cart going around which is just incredible.

“To be able to sit at the table and eat together as a family and have somewhere for the kids to play together and have fun, it’s just a really great service.

“Most of the meals and poppers or tea and coffee are provided via donation so the money that’s raised at events like the Mackay Basketball on the weekends is what keeps it going.

“Mackay Basketball are great supporters and they run amazing events, so everybody should come along to the next fundraiser at Mackay Basketball, it’s such a great cause,” Nell remarked.

Overall Highlights:

Women’s
MKY 98 def DRW 85
Sam Haiby | 28 pts, 9 rebs & 5 ast
Nikita Van Wyk | 20 pts & 5 rebs
Cheyenne Bobongie | 15 pts & 3 rebs
Taylor Mole | 12 pts & 12 rebs
Chelsea Brook | 11 pts & 11 rebs

Men’s
DRW 113 def MKY 95
Jerron Jamerson | 29 pts & 5 rebs
Isaac White | 25 pts & 4 rebs
Todd Blanchfield | 13 pts & 9 rebs
Aiden Krause | 13 pts & 3 stls

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The McDonald's Mackay Women’s Meteorettes took home the win against the Darwin Salties, however the McDonald's Mackay Men’s Meteors were deemed defeated. Despite the loss, crucial funds were raised on the night to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Photo Credit: Mackay Basketball (Facebook)

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Another competitive week at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club last week. Along with normal play, twelve teams competed in the Whitsunday Zone Teams; winners to go the Queensland Festival of Bridge to compete against other teams from all over the state. The team that will be representing the Whitsunday Zone is Diane Holewa, Max Holewa, Noel Bugeia & Terry Sheedy. Twenty-four pairs competed in the Nation Wide Novice Pairs with Mary Rose Ramsden & Noel Saunders and Sandy Patterson & Geoff Cowan the winners. The winner of the Remembrance pairs after three weeks was Noel Bugeia. Congratulations to the winners and to all who participated.

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Weekly Results
Monday 27 May 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

3rd
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford

Tuesday 28 May 2024 – Nation Wide Novice Pairs 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
1st
Sandy Patterson / Geoff Cowan

2nd
Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell
2nd
Susan Ross / Vicki Howard

Tuesday Evening 28 May 2024 5 Table One Winner
1st
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
2nd
Helen Va Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Mick King / Richard Wix
4th
Shirley Casey / Faith Hutchinson
Wednesday 29 May 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait
3rd
Mick King / Joy Block

Thursday Evening 30 May 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Ian Cruickshank / Marilin Robins

2nd
Frances Brown / Adrian Westcott
2nd
Mick King / Patricia Garner

3rd
Lynne O’Neill / Susan Gibson
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 31 May 2024 – Week 3 of 3 Remembrance Pairs – 11 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Christine Nice
1st
Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy

2nd
Ming Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Simon Barnes / Geoffrey Patterson

3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Barbara Tait

Remembrance Pairs Winners 2024 after three weeks with three different partners
1st
Noel Bugeia
2nd
Janelle Conroy
3rd
Terrence Sheedy
4th
Ming Ting
5th
Nancy Martin
5th
David Ting
7th
Debra Goodchild
8th
Julie O’Neill
Saturday 1 June 2024 & Sunday 2 June 2024 – Whitsunday Zone Teams - 12 Team Red Points
Open
Team
1st
Holewa – Diane Holewa / Max Holewa / Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Brown – Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

Supplied By Joy Sleep

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Diane and Max, Noel and Terry
Geoff Cowan , Ian and Sandy Patterson

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MACKAY Cutters young guns Jaxon Purdue and Jamal Shibasaski have made every post a winner in the Hostplus Cup.

The 18-year-old former Queensland Schoolboys representatives realised a dream last Sunday when they marked their NRL debuts with the North Queensland Cowboys.
With the Cutters enjoying a bye, the versatile Purdue and power running forward Shibasaki were blooded in the Cowboys’ top-grade squad and made an impact in the club’s miraculous 18-16 victory over Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium.

Minus the likes of Tom Dearden, Reuben Cotter, Jeremiah Nanai, Val Holmes, Murray Taulagi and Reece Robson on Origin duty, the Cowboys produced an epic second half revival to sink the Roosters and kick-start their campaign.

Purdue, a classy utility half, was rushed in to play centre after the late withdrawal of Tom Chester and grabbed his opportunity with a slick performance.

The towering Shibasaki came off the interchange bench and matched it with the much-vaunted Roosters’ forward pack.

Since graduating from St Patrick’s College Mackay’s famous sporting nursery last year, Purdue has dreamed of pulling on a Cowboys jumper in the NRL premiership.
The classy utility half is one of a batch of former St Patrick’s students contracted to the Cowboys and on the radar of coaches Todd Payten and James Maloney.

Purdue was blooded in the North Queensland top squad during a Pre-Season Challenge fixture against the Brisbane Broncos back in February where he displayed his raw pace, tricky step and silky ball skills.

That match was staged in Jaxon’s “backyard” at BB Print Stadium with the emerging rookie giving Cowboys supporters a taste of things to come. But all eyes have been on Purdue and Shibasaki in recent weeks after their strong performances for the Mackay Cutters in the Hostplus Cup competition.

Purdue has made seven appearances for the rejuvenated Cutters this season including four successive games as the run-on number seven with the strapping Shibasaki impressing officials with his barnstorming runs and rugged defence.

Michael Comerford’s new look Cutters have enjoyed mixed results to date with five wins and five losses.

With the talented playmaker and boom forward stepping up in class, Mackay officials are hopeful the first-grade team can force its way into the Hostplus Cup finals series come September.

The clever Purdue has notched five tries and two try assists and averages just under 100 running metres a game since being rushed into the Cutters’ top-grade squad.
Keen judges believe Jaxon was destined to play in the NRL since spearheading St Patrick’s College to Cowboys Challenge and Aaron Payne Cup schoolboy premiership trophies these past three seasons.

The pathway for the rising colt is crystal clear – serving a half back ‘apprenticeship’ with his beloved Cutters before pushing his claims for a Cowboys jumper on a regular basis.

After a weekend bye, the Cutters square off with Redcliffe Dolphins this Saturday at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium at 2.35pm.

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