Supervised play finished up for Christmas with a delicious meal organised by Susan Ross and Co. Thank you for another year of mentoring and answers - Geoff Taylor, Francie Brown, Helen VanDen Broek, David Ting, Ming Ting and Terry Sheedy. Supervised play is for players to attend after learning to play bridge. These dedicated mentors work with new players and older players to assist them to progress and become more confident. The Mackay Contract Bridge Club has the best beginners and mentors program for people to learn and enjoy the game.

Weekly Results
Monday 16 December 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

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

2nd
Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

3rd
Margaret Lane / Diane Stokes
3rd
Pamela Finger / Ming Ting

Tuesday Evening 17 December 2024 –6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Griffin Bancroft
3rd
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
4th
Annie Lynch / Adrian Westcott
Wednesday 18 December 2024 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

2nd
Karen l / Noel Saunders
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

3rd
Joy Block / Diane Stokes
3rd
Susan Wright / Bob Ellis

Thursday Evening 19 December 2024 –3 Table One WinnerGreen Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers
2nd
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
4th
Adrian Westcott / Griffin Bancroft
Friday 20 December 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd
Joy Robinson / Joyce Deguara
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Pamella Finger

Saturday 21 December 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

2nd
Margaret Lane / Anne Lutz
2nd
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill

3rd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

4th
Shirley Worland / Joy Block
4th
Diane Morgan / Lauren Morgan

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Weekly Events
Monday- Starting time 08.30am 2x4x2 pairs.
Wednesday - Starting time 09.30am ladies bowls.
Thursday - Starting time 1.00pm 2x4x2 pairs.
Friday - Starting time 1.30pm 3 bowl pairs.
Saturday - Starting time 1.00pm men’s bowls.

Social Bowls Results

Monday
Winners: Asko Helenius, John Kennell, Bev Swenson, Peter Shepperd
Runners-up: Mick Walsh, Lloyd Ogilvie, Russell King, Lance Edwards

Friday
Winners: Allan Cooney, Greg McLean
Runners-up: Tom Crocker, Ben Crocker
3rd Place: Tony Allsop, Mick Walsh

Saturday
Winners: David Dunkley, Tony Allsop
Runners-up: Lance Edwards, Terry Clark

Law 38.5
Displacement of a jack in motion, at rest in the ditch or at rest on the rink by a non-toucher rebounding from the bank, or moving the jack in the ditch; an opponent must put the jack back in its original position. If they cannot agree on the final position of the jack, the end must be declared dead and replayed.

Bowlers are advised that all types of grippo have been banned for use on bowls. This decision was made due to dust adhering to the product, making bowls harder to clean and causing marks on the green.

Thought of the week: Why do bowlers seem to concentrate more when playing singles than other competitive games.

“For everybody out there in bowls world, make sure you enjoy 2025 and I hope we draw a few more shots than last year.

“Life should be fun, let’s make it happen!”

This Week’s Tip

The Flicker

A flick of the wrist during delivery can lead to inconsistent length and cause the bowl to veer off course, similar to a pull or hook shot in golf. To fix this, return to the correct delivery process and focus on following through while staying down along the delivery line.

The Bent-Arm Player

Bending the arm at the end of the back-swing forces a pushing action instead of a smooth swing. To correct this, start by holding the bowl out in front of your body. Ensure your feet on the mat are parallel to the aiming line. Use a small back-swing and deliver the bowl along the aiming line, staying down and following through with your arm as straight as possible. Practice this and your consistency will improve.

Contributed by Doug Giddings

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Mackay Road Runners bid farewell to the final social run of 2024, attended by a small group of dedicated enthusiasts who braved the 36-degree heat on a sunny Sunday afternoon.

While the love for running in such oppressive conditions may be debatable, the runners and walkers persevered through sweltering humidity. The icy cold Zooper Dooper rewards at the finish line, courtesy of Luke and Lily, were a welcome relief.

Paul MacKenzie claimed the unofficial record for consuming the most Zooper Doopers, narrowly edging out Carmel Mahon for the top spot. Hydration was a key focus for all participants, with Jo Hughes quickly handing out treats to the grateful runners.

Special thanks go to Andrew Short for serving as Race Director during the December social schedule. Looking ahead, Shawn's Summer Series Splash and Dash is set to recommence this Sunday, 5th January, from the ARC.

The Mackay Road Runners wish everyone a Happy New Year and look forward to seeing you at the next event!

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Left to right: Andrew Short, Paul MacKenzie, Luke Leven, Simon Henderson, Carmel Mahon, Jo Hughes and Janelle Tilse. Photo supplied

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The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club is thrilled to announce its annual short course event, set for Saturday, 22nd February 2025. Open to registered Masters swimmers and guest participants aged 18 and over, this popular event welcomes swimmers from Central Queensland, beyond, and even recreational swimmers keen to test their skills.
The competition features a variety of strokes over distances ranging from 25m to 200m, as well as novelty events and relays. Events are tailored to individual performance, ensuring participants compete against swimmers with similar times. Results are sorted into Masters Swimming Queensland age groups, providing a fair and enjoyable experience for all.
As a fully sanctioned Masters Swimming Queensland event, participants can expect a professionally run competition with officials, accurate timing, and a carefully planned program. It’s the perfect opportunity for both seasoned and first-time swimmers to enjoy a supportive, friendly environment while achieving official swim times.
Non-registered Masters participants will need to pay a small registration and insurance fee, allowing them to compete in up to six events. For those seeking to prepare, the 2025 12-month membership offers access to club training sessions and activities.
Training sessions resume in January 2025, with highlights including Social Saturdays, Millie Mondays, and mid-week swims. Guests can enjoy a trial month to experience the club’s welcoming culture before deciding to join.
For more details, visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers.
Mark your calendars and get ready to make a splash in February!

Contributed by Dan Stampa

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The 2024 event proved popular with swimmers travelling from near and far. Photos supplied
2024 Swimmers prepare for events as time keepers look on

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The World Half Ironman event, held in Taupo, New Zealand on the 15th December, was an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike, with stunning weather and an electric atmosphere creating the perfect backdrop for a challenging two-day competition.

Representing the region, Rowena Sinclair-Smith, Megan Moa, Jodie Walker, and Michael Kimpton were all fortunate to qualify and compete at this prestigious event. The female athletes kicked off the weekend’s racing on Saturday, followed by the men’s race on Sunday.

The event began with a refreshing 1.9km swim in the calm waters of Lake Taupo, setting the tone for what was to be a physically demanding day. Next, participants took on a challenging 90km bike ride through the undulating terrain of Taupo’s beautiful countryside. Finally, athletes transitioned to the last discipline - a 21km half marathon run - as temperatures continued to rise, adding an extra layer of difficulty. Throughout the race, the camaraderie among athletes was inspiring, and the support from spectators and volunteers was simply phenomenal.

Looking ahead, the athletes’ focus will shift to the Coral Sea Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival on 16th and 17th August 2025. This event promises to be a game-changer and is set to be one of the best regional triathlon festivals in Australia, surpassing all expectations and bringing together athletes from across the country for a memorable competition.

Contributed with thanks to Michael Kimpton.

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Michael Kimpton
Megan Moa
Jodie Walker
Rowena Sinclair-Smith

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Saturday’s Airlie Beach parkrun was a fantastic festive success, with participants enjoying the beautiful scenery while challenging themselves in the friendly, inclusive event. Held every Saturday at 7am, the event welcomed runners of all abilities to meet at Meeting Area D, Coral Sea Marina.

Top Performers:
   1. Karl Ward – 20:18 (JM11-14)
   2. Bryan Drennan – 20:19 (VM50-54)
   3. Colin McIntosh – 20:36 (VM50-54), Thursday Morning Esplanade Running Club
   4. Rachael Landers – 20:58 (SW30-34)
   5. Deegan Elwin – 21:32 (SM20-24)

The Airlie Beach parkrun is a free, weekly 5k event that brings the community together for a fun and supportive atmosphere. Whether you're walking, jogging, running, or volunteering, it’s a great way to start the weekend and enjoy the outdoors.

Interested in volunteering or joining the event? The parkrun relies on volunteers, and they are always looking for more hands to help! Contact airliebeach@parkrun.com to get involved.

See you at the next parkrun!

What: Airlie Beach parkrun
When: Every Saturday at 7am
Where: Coral Sea Marina, Shingley Drive, Airlie Beach
More Information: email airliebeach@parkrun.com

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Just before Christmas, 11 talented swimmers from the Cannonvale Cannons Swim Club travelled to Brisbane to compete in the 2024 Queensland Long Course Championships. The event brought together the best swimmers from across the state, providing a unique opportunity for local athletes to showcase their skills.

On the first day of competition, swimmers Jacob Bell, Tiana Bell, Isaac Pisaniello, Ella Bounden, Tyler Bennett, Zach Trefz, Tora Delac, Isabella Pisaniello, Alex Trefz, and Harris Delac all participated in both club and regional relays. The experience of competing against Queensland's top swimmers was both exciting and rewarding for all the participants.

Veteran swimmer Jacob Bell excelled in his four individual events, with his best performance coming in the 200m Backstroke, where he posted a personal best time of 2:19.80 - improving by 2.01 seconds and ranking 19th in Queensland. Jacob also celebrated his 18th birthday during the competition!

Tyler Bennett, 13, also had an impressive showing, achieving personal bests in both his individual events. He swam 1:02.68 in the 100m Freestyle and 28.16 seconds in the 50m Freestyle. Twelve-year-old Nelson Malady impressed with his 50m Backstroke, swimming a time of 37.28 seconds. Isaac Pisaniello, 12, competed in three events, with his best performance being a personal best time of 36.92 seconds in the 50m Backstroke.

13-year-old Zach Trefz competed in two individual events, delivering strong performances in the 50m Freestyle and 50m Butterfly. Meanwhile, Ella Bounden and Tora Delac both competed in five individual events. Ella achieved impressive personal bests in backstroke, while Tora’s standout swims included a 36.58-second performance in the 50m Breaststroke, placing her 19th in Queensland with a 0.61-second improvement.

Isabella Pisaniello, also 13, swam in three individual events, with her best result being a personal best of 30.36 seconds in the 50m Freestyle.

Coaches Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson expressed immense pride in the team's effort and sportsmanship, congratulating the swimmers for their dedication and the positive representation of the club and region. A heartfelt thank you was also extended to the supportive parents who made the trip possible.

Congratulations to all the Cannons who competed in the Queensland State Championships! Your hard work and enthusiasm make the club proud!

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

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Queensland LC Championship Team December 2024
Cannons ready to warm up at Chandler before jumping in the pool
Cannons warming up ahead of their races
Cannons waiting to race in the relay compeition

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The Mackay Cutters are delighted to announce the signing of half-back Ryan Rivett from Toulouse Olympique on a one-year deal.

Rivett joins the Mackay Cutters after one season in the Betfred Championship with Toulouse Olympique, for whom he made 27 appearances combined.

The 22-year-old began his semi-professional career first at the Newtown Jets, then signed to the Newcastle Knights playing in the NSW Knock on Effect Cup. The half-back was called up to play one game in the NRL during season 2023 before signing for the 2024 season with Toulouse Olympique for whom he scored a total of 90 points.

Rivett is the 32nd player to sign with the Mackay Cutters for the 2025 season alongside new squad members, Elie El-Zakhem, Temple Kalepo, Jimmy Ngutlik, Brenton Baira, Luke Pietzner, Sheldon Diaz, Jed Bignell, Titan Sega, Ethan Coco, and Bray Guyan.

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Last week, Mackay Bowling Club welcomed 35 residents from Homefield Nursing Home for a Christmas lunch filled with good food and festive cheer.
Bowling club members prepared and served the meal, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for their guests. The event gave residents a chance to enjoy a delicious meal, reconnect with familiar faces, and soak up the holiday spirit.
The lunch not only celebrated the season but also highlighted the power of community connections. Residents and club members shared stories, laughter, and goodwill in what has become a cherished annual tradition.
Homefield residents expressed their appreciation for the effort and hospitality, with many saying the gathering was a highlight of the holiday season.
Events like these showcase the importance of bringing people together, especially during the festive period. Mackay Bowling Club’s commitment to supporting the local community shone through, making the day a memorable one for all involved.

Photo supplied

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Mackay Magpies rule the roost in Mackay Cricket Association after clinching the 2024-25 Poole Cup first grade championship trophy.

The Magpies were crowned one day champions after toppling rivals Pioneer Valley in a Grand Final thriller at Great Barrier Reef Arena last weekend.

Sixteen year old young gun Myles Cochrane starred with the ball and the experienced trio of Andrew Borg, Wesley Dyer and Ben Zurvas produced superb knocks as the Magpies secured their third Poole Cup premiership title in five seasons.

The talented Cochrane snared 4-37 in a lively eight over spell of pace bowling to restrict the Valley to 8-156 from their forty overs.

He was supported by seam bowler Conor Bryant who grabbed 2-39 off eight overs and skipper Isaac Borg (1-16 off eight).

Dashing opener Mitch English top scored for the Valley with an impressive 70 and all rounder Cody Filewood chipped in with a valuable 24 – with the pair adding 57 runs for the second wicket.

In reply the Magpies (7-160) recovered from a shaky 3-46 and 6-87 to reach the winning target in the 39th over.

Andrew Borg top scored for the Magpies with 45 off fifty eight balls including three boundaries while Ben Zurvas (38 off 72 balls) and the capable Dyer (41 not out off fifty seven balls with three boundaries) turned the match with a vital 60 run partnership for the seventh wicket.

Trump card Filewood (3-20 off eight overs), Lane Kohler (2-12 off five0 and skipper Tim Cridland (1-16 off three) were the pick of the Valley bowlers.

It was a case of sweet revenge for the Magpies after suffering their only loss in the competition to the Pioneer X1 in the final preliminary round at the  Magpies Sports Ground.

In that fixture the flamboyant Filewood smashed an unbeaten 94 off 107 balls including eight boundaries and two sixes and Lane Kohler (36) as the Valley (7-207) eclipsed the Magpies total of 205 – despite classy knocks from Andrew Borg (64 off seventy three balls), Jaxn Sign (50 off forty two balls) and Rhys McBride (42 off fifty one balls).

Filewood also snared 4-13 off seven overs to cap a best on ground performance.

By Chris Karas

Jubilant Magpies players celebrate their Mackay Cricket Poole Cup first grade championship victory over Pioneer Valley at Great Barrier Reef Arena last weekend

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The North Mackay Sinkers commenced the 2025 year early by forming a small dedicated team raising funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. The annual Starlight Super Swim is held each February and the Sinkers have entered the pool of participants for 2025.
This marks the second occasion of Sinkers members participating in this swimming fundraiser with 2024 seeing $2,827 raised for this worthy cause. And the 2025 campaign is off to a flying start with $2,185 in the kitty already thanks largely to the team leader and our own Captain Starlight, Lesley.
You can donate to the 2025 Sinkers Masters Starlight Super Swim Team online at https://superswim.org.au/2025-sinkers-masters-starlight-super-swim.
The Starlight Super Swim is held for the entire month of February and there's more than one way to get involved in the Super Swim Challenge and be a hero for sick kids. Dive in as an individual, smash your laps as a team, or get your swim school, sporting club or besties involved.
The 2025 event has a handy app to track your swims, donations and team progress so why not form a team or go solo for a great cause?
For over 30 years the Starlight Foundation has worked in partnership with health professionals to bring the fun, joy and laughter that helps sick kids be kids. They help kids of all ages regardless of disability, injury or illness because what happens in childhood lasts a lifetime.
This Saturday, the 21st of December at the Memorial pool (8-9am) is our final organised 2024 session before we break for the Christmas – New Year Holiday season.
2025 sessions will recommence on Saturday 4th January at the Memorial Pool (8-9am) with a “Jim Session” noted for its inspirational sets and of course treats!
Why not join a session this week to end 2024 with a splash and make your 2025 resolution more committed by considering a membership with the club.
This week's sessions as usual are:
Monday - Memorial Pool 5:15pm for 5:30-6:30pm with a Millie Monday (Coached)
Wednesday – School pool (Valley St, Nth Mackay) 5:15pm for 5:30-6:30pm with Whiteboard Wednesday.
Saturday – Memorial Pool 8:00 – 9:00am “Jim Session” followed by chit chat! (Last 2024 swim)
For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers
By Dan Stampa

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Captain Starlight, Leslie Thorpe (Red shirt), encouraging donations and displaying the Starlight Swim cap. Photos supplied

Saturday’s session drew 21 swimmers who happily stayed for the treats after, just to balance the calorie equation

An impressive 19 swimmers joined the last Millie Monday of 2024

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With the Souths Bowls Club deck filled with lots of festive spirit and plenty of fruit cake, all the jingle ladies of the South Suburban Bowls Club came together to enjoy the most wine-derful time of the year at their annual ladies' Christmas breakup.
All the ladies enjoyed an afternoon of laughter and reminiscing on their 2024 bowls season. Some shared goals for 2025, with Rhonda Meng putting winning the open ladies singles in 2025 on her wish list.
From all the bowlers at South Suburban Bowls Club, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and safe New Year.

The ladies of South Suburban Bowls Club decked the halls and the greens at their annual Christmas breakup, celebrating the season with laughter, camaraderie, and a few festive goals for 2025. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Bridge Club celebrated another twelve months of fantastic card play with its Christmas break up last Saturday. A record 18 tables of members played bridge, with lots of laughter celebrating Christmas together. Partners also shared in the wonderful Christmas fare. A big thank you to Janelle and her helpers for providing a wonderful meal. Our Christmas raffle was extra special this year. Thank you to members for your donations and Debra Goodchild for her dedication to making this successful. President Frances Brown and members look forward to another wonderful year of card play and welcoming new members to learn the game of bridge. Lessons start in February 2025. Bridge is not just for older people, but for people of all ages. We have evening and Saturday play for people who work or attend school. President Frances extends warm wishes for a Happy Christmas and a safe New Year to all.
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Karen and Susan, new bridge partners and friends
Joyce and Toni have been long-time bridge partners

Weekly Results
Monday 9 December 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

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

2nd
Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris
2nd
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

3rd
Edward Kleise / Diane Stokes
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

Tuesday Evening 10 December 2024 –4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Patricia Garner / Annie Lynch
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
4th
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
Wednesday 11 December 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd
Sandy Patterson / Joy Brunette
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinun
4th
Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

Thursday Evening 12 December 2024 –5 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Patricia Garner / Mick King
3rd
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
4th
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
Friday 13 December 2024 – 7 Tables Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild

2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

3rd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Pamella Finger

Saturday 14 December 2024 – Christmas Breakup Section A - 9 Table Mitchell
N/S

E/W

1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown

2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

3rd
Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

4th
Sandy Ford/ Thelma Caruana
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill

Saturday 14 December 2024 – Christmas Breakup Section B
N/S

E/W

1st
Annette Howe / Susan Ross
1st
Noel Bugeia / Pamela Finger

2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Monica Darley / Simon Barnes

3rd
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
3rd
Victor Mason / Josie Cowley

4th
Sandy Patterson / Ann Whitmore
4th
Jan Harris / Joy Brunette

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Sunday’s Fun Day Breakfast hosted by Club Manager Steve which included Breakfast and Bowls was a huge success with over 50 bowlers participating. The morning kicked off at 9.00am with a big breakfast and three games of bowls each having seven ends with players rotating for each game. Everybody enjoyed the morning and the club will host more in the future. The winners on the day were Neil and Maureen Blutcher and Peter Madden.
 
TODAY'S TIP

When playing short ends it’s imperative to slow yourself down, even as you are approaching the mat. Have a shorter backswing along with a slightly shorter step. Continue to slow yourself, stay down and still, follow through along the aiming line. Believe it or not, holding your breath may help during this procedure. Practice this, it will not happen automatically.

THE WOBBLER

To some degree, this is a very common fault, and depending on the pace of the green it may have a marked effect on the draw of the bowl. This is an inconsistent practice and each delivery will vary in line and length depending on the amount of wobble imparted on the bowl. The most common causes of this, is the turning of the hand on release and the placing of the hand around the side of the bowl and not underneath the bowl.
SIMPLE FIX. Grip the bowl with fingers under the bowl, have feet positioned parallel to the aiming line, deliver the bowl and follow through along the aiming line.
  
SOCIAL BOWLS RESULTS

Monday Winners: F Brown, L Howland, P Shepherd, R Legge.
Runners Up:         B Arnold, M Pierson, H Press, K Davis.
Thursday Winners: G Pembroke, A Brown.
Runners Up:        L Edwards, P Goldston
Friday Winners:    C Banney, L McDermott.
Runners Up:          K Struik, D Dungavell.
3rd Place:             J Little, G Sweeney.
Saturday Winners: G Ollett, P Cowling.
Second:                M MacKenzie, A Dillon.
Third: C Cromer, P Shepherd.
  
GOOSIES WAREHOUSE BOWLS 2024

Warehouse Bowls at North Mackay Bowls Club is played every Thursday night during the school terms making up four seasons of 10 weeks. Currently we have 16 teams competing every Thursday night during the QLD school terms.
Please contact the club if you want to nominate a team of four players or if you are a single player looking to join a team.

2024 season winners are:
Season 1 Low Rollers
Season 2 Flower Power
Season 3 Fish
Season 4 Plumbdingers

The 2024 Golden Goose award for the highest total of four season’s points goes to Low Rollers.

Goosies Warehouse Bowls’ first 10-week season starts on the 30th of January 2025 at 6.30pm till 9.00pm with a hot snack provided after each game. The cost per team is $60.00, includes three prizes totalling $160.00 and an $80.00 weekly jackpot that increases each week if not won.

Contributed by Doug Giddings
 

Sunday Fun Day Breakfast and Bowls at Goosies

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Tuesday morning table tennis players celebrated the digital age at their annual breakup lunch at Harrup Park Country Club this week.

Fixture coordinator Steve Mathieson was praised for his efforts in taking over from Iris Grasso and Pam Joyce in a presentation by players Frank Caruana and Gerry Synnott.

“Full credit goes to Steve for taking over from Iris and Pam, which were big shoes to fill,” Frank said.

“Steve decided to computerise everything in line with the era – there were a few hiccups to begin with but Steve managed to get everything down pat eventually.

“I know how frustrating things can be when they don’t turn out how they are supposed to be. Well done Steve.”

Frank said many players were facing health issues, making it hard for Steve to juggle teams.

“On behalf of all of us, we appreciate what you do Steve to make things run smoothly.”

Frank also thanked Charlie Payne for doing a great job in promoting the sport of table tennis.

Steve has sponsored a new award for Annual 100% Club Inductees, for players who played every week throughout the seasons of 2024.

Coral Morgan, Branko Vucurovic and Judy Zahn were the initial inductees – proving that you just can’t get them off the tables!
By Charlie Payne

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures December 3, 2024:
Division 1:
Byte Bouncers (Branko Vucurovic, Donna Abbott, John McGee, Marie Taylor) drew Pixel Paddles (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott) 7-all. John d Kevin -4, -6, 5, 6, 10.
Code Crackers (Doug Dungavell, Delma Knight, Coral Morgan) drew Nano Nets (Tony Bowman, Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-all. Delma d Charlie -10, -8, 2, 7, 6.
Division 2:
Sydney Slamm (Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell, Sharon Muller, Darryl Ross) d Berlin Blockers (Gloria Vella, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders, Thelma Caruana) 10-4. Gloria d Sharon 5, -7, 3, 7.
London Looper (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Nadine Stream, Glenda Brookes) d Rome Ralliers (Bill Hey, Cheryl Aprato) 9-5. Cheryl d Glenda -7, 4, -9, 6, 14.
Tokyo Turners (John Hamelink, Fred Saliba, Frank Caruana, Allison Day) d Paris Spinners (Bryan Marshall, Ian Dodds, Trish Zamparutti) 8-6. Bryan d John 6, 5, -5, -10, 15.

Bryan and John had a close battle to finish off the season in Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures, Bryan up 6, 5, -5, -10, 15.Photo credit: Charlie Payne

Gerry Synnott and Frank Caruana with Tuesday morning fixtures coordinator Steve Mathieson and player Charlie Payne at the annual breakup lunch. Photos supplied

100% club inductees Coral Morgan, Branko Vucurovic and Judy Zahn with Tuesday morning fixtures coordinator Steve Mathieson

Players Cheryl Pearson, Myles and Glenda Dutton at the annual Tuesday morning fixtures lunch

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