By Amanda Wright
History was made as the Mackay Cutters secured the title of the first-ever Harvey Norman Under 19 premiers. Hooker Paityne Johns emerged as the standout player of the match, steering her team to victory with sheer determination and skill.
Reflecting on the momentous win, Paityne expressed her exhaustion but overwhelming happiness at the team's triumph. She credited their success to a collective effort and a mindset focused on giving their best on the field.
"My mindset was to just play the best footy I can and the goal was to direct the girls and get us across the line," Paityne said.
Despite facing numerous challenges and injuries throughout the season, the Cutters rallied together, playing not just for themselves but for their absent teammates as well.
"With a number of injuries this season, we did it for the girls who couldn't be on the field," Paityne remarked.
The absence of their coach only fuelled their determination, as they dedicated their inaugural victory to him. Cutters U19 ladies captain Mersades Lawson beamed with pride as she praised her team's resilience and grit in clinching the Harvey Norman Under 19 grand final victory.
In the Hostplus Cup, the Mackay Cutters continued their winning streak with a commanding 52-14 triumph over the Western Clydesdales. Despite facing early challenges and a halftime deficit, the Cutters showcased their mettle, scoring an impressive eight tries to secure their highest points tally in a match.
Coach Michael Comerford commended his team's patience and composure, emphasising the importance of discipline in defence.
"Our attack in the first half was pretty good, it was just our discipline in defence costing us possession and field position," Comerford said, highlighting the team's areas for improvement.
Highlighting standout performances from halves Riley Dean and Kauri Aupouri-Puketapu, Comerford lauded their response after a disappointing showing in the previous week. "We challenged them during the week off the back of a performance we weren't happy with last week against the Blackhawks and they stood up and steered the ship," Comerford added.
The inclusion of Jaxon Purdue added to the team's success, with the 18-year-old halfback making a significant impact with his try-scoring prowess.
"We're very proud Jaxon has come through our junior pathways and had a really breakout couple of years," Comerford said.
In other games, the BMD Premiership squad ladies continued their dominance with a fifth consecutive win, overpowering the Western Clydesdales with a commanding 34-6 victory. Additionally, the U19 boys showcased their prowess in the Mal Meninga Cup, securing a convincing 34-16 win against the Western Clydesdales in Toowoomba.

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The Mackay Cutters took the Harvey Norman Under 19 Grand Final win
Hostplus Cup Round 5. Western Clydesdales v Mackay Cutters. Photo: Benny Hassum/QRL

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Nearly sixty runners enjoyed the perfect Sunday morning weather conditions as they traversed the scenic hills of Slade Point to Lamberts Beach for the five-kilometre and beyond to the Harbour North Wall for the ten-kilometre distance.
 
The Tim’s Chariots of Fire event was hosted by club treasurer, Tim Magoffin and the course was a beauty with plenty of varying terrain to keep runners alert and on their toes. The Slade Point and Lamberts Beach suburbs put on spectacular weather where it had South of the Bridge tourists wanting to crossover to take up residence...nearly!
 
Mick Vivian stole the show as he bolted from the gun and into the ten-kilometre course with no fear of rocky unsealed mountainous hills, steep tarmac roads, grassy slopes, sandy beaches and serious headwinds. Mick steamed over the course in a cracking time of 49 minutes 49 seconds ahead of first female and 2nd overall, Alana Knezevic (52:09). Alana set a serious pace from the get-go, splitting the boys with a sensationally slick race.  Second male Ashley Miles (53:32), George Hannaford (54:20), Brad Fraser (55:00), Michael Feenaghty (55:14); Shane Donnollan (55:35), Grant Holmstrom (56:05), Derek Woods (57:21), John Roe (58:17) and Oliver Rule (59:50) rounded out the top ten males with Craig McGahey (59:52) just outside by two seconds and Michael Scholer right on the hour.  Second female in the 10km Mel Esau scorched over the course finishing two minutes clear of third placed Jose Short, Rhian Massey, Tahnie Malageuno, Glynis Forse, Emily Hayles, Carmel Mahon, Jo Skinner and Judy Zahn.
 
Justin Rule made a welcome return to racing after clocking the fastest five-kilometre ahead of first female Teresa Hackney, followed by host Tim Magoffin who had to be back in time to put the kettle on. 
 
This Sunday’s President’s Run from Brendan’s Beach Road residence at Dolphin Heads will be the second annual running of the five-kilometre and ten-kilometre Bishops Beach Road Barnstormer. Many thanks to the Bishop family for their generous offer of another testing hilly run in an awesome location. Runners must be registered in with timekeeper by 6:50am at the latest for racing to start at 7am sharp. Non-members are most welcome to run for a $10 casual race day fee. 
 
Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Katrina, Glynis, Simon, Emma,  Rhiann, Judy and Geeta get set for the Tim’s Chariots of Fire event commencing from 16 Ocean Avenue, Slade Point.
Tahnie Malagueno heads a group of runners after a tricky grassy uphill section at Lamberts Beach Lookout.
Mick Vivian outclasses a talented field of 10km runners to be first male across the line.

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Mackay Cyclones Multiclass Athlete Izabella Wills launched herself into the Australian MC and made waves at the Age championships held on the Gold Coast recently, bringing home a swag of medals.

Izabella competed in six events initially, along with six in the finals, securing a medal in each one!

Izabella is now the New Australian champion for 2024 in the 50 Freestyle and 50 Butterfly. She also earnt four Silver medals in all her other events for the 100 Backstroke, 100 Freestyle, 200 Freestyle and 50 Backstroke.

Her coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier said, “working with Izabella has been one of the most rewarding experiences, not only from an athlete coach perspective but from a coach development side as well, the old adage ‘you are never too old to learn new things’ comes to mind.

“Izabella works very hard alongside all her cyclone team mates, it involves early morning starts whilst most of her friends are sleeping in, as well as good time management of schoolwork and studies,” she added.

‘Bell’, as she is fondly known, has a great support team around her and at the helm is her mum Lisa and Dad Joe.

Contributed By Alisha Ness

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Isabella Wills took home multiple medals at the Age championships held on the Gold Coast recently. Images Supplied

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Tuesday afternoon was Ladies Day where Tony Kelly and Dawn Dowel were far too strong for the rest of the field. 

Wednesday afternoon Jackpot bowls saw another strong field with a win by Andrew Butler as skipper, David Meiklejohn at lead and Mark Mawson at second.

The weekend saw the Men’s A Pairs Competition with Manny Isgro and Tim Taylor win 25-16 over Russell Jackson and John Fielding.

Sunday afternoon Social Bowls saw Henny Tattam, Lu Rogan and Robin Brown go home with the money as lowest score winners.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Club Singles: Gus Munro defeated Steve Roome.
Sunday Social: Ian Thatcher, Glen R, Lloyd White defeated Keith Kirk, Jane Gilbert, Steve Roome. Ross Scanlon, Wendy Coles, Gavin Charles defeated Daryl Tuttle, L. Kruger, Ron Gould.

Wednesday Social:  Ray Muir, Jane Gilbert, Steve Roome defeated Ian Thatcher, Gordo, Doc Fordham. Glen R., Kevin Daniels defeated MaryEllen Pratten, Daryl Tuttle. Ron Gould, Lou Fordham, Kevin defeated Tracey Roach, Gavin Charles, Lloyd White .

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

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On Wednesday we had 11 players for Social Bowls. Lee King, Philip Brown and Heather Brown defeated Alen Sanderson, Barry Zillmann and Peter Lawton 19 - 18.  Mary Hedgelong, Arthur Griffith and Sandy Daffara defeated John Anderson, Arthur Griffith and Bruce Uhe 25 - 14.

On Sunday we finished just before a sprinkling of rain. John Anderson, Arthur Griffith, Philip Brown and Sandy Daffara defeated John Anderson, Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe and Heather Brown 26 - 12.

Saturday, April 20 will be Presentation Day with a BBQ Lunch and Social Bowls in the afternoon.  For catering purposes, it would be appreciated if those intending to attend could send a message. 

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Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

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Results of the Ladies club competition: B singles Jocelyn Defranciscis defeated Pat Tracey, A singles Jocelyn Defranciscis defeated Gwenda Lydom, Fely Duncan defeated Teresa Willshire, Denise Wallace defeated Robyn Stitt.

Winners for Sunday afternoon social bowls were Denise Wallace, Greg Colquhoun defeated Robyn Stitt, Pat Tracey. Jim Quod, Mark Drummond defeated Laurie Land Graeme Read, Teresa Willshire, Merle Elphinstone  Deb Retchless, A Vigar defeated Bill Myers, Isobel Wheeler, Allan Rolfe.

Barefoot Bowls are on this Friday night.
WRC Come and Try event is on Sunday morning at 10am at Bowen Foreshore.

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Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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U13 Division 1 were keen to get their season underway, taking on Wanderers Rubies. The WUFC shifted it up a gear at the end to win 6-4.

A hat-trick of goals for Tyson, two for Charley and one for Alex rounded out the scoring.

A fantastic team effort, showing great commitment to the final whistle.

Buoyed by their round 1 result, the U13 Prem team were quietly confident of a positive result against Rangers, but the visitors had other ideas.

WUFC found themselves 2 - 0 down early and had to dig deep to stay in the game.

Goals from Nick M and Shannon got WUFC back into the game by early in the second half, only to concede again. With WUFC pushing hard and creating chances, Bayden popped up to draw level again.

With the full-time whistle approaching, the game seemed destined for a draw, but Rangers rode their luck to score a winner against the run of play. A highly entertaining and tense affair, 4-3 to Rangers.

U15 Div 1 side came up against Dolphins Blue in the first home fixture of the season. The local side had many debutantes, and it was quickly apparent that the opposition was a lot more experienced, Dolphins scored 11 goals to take the win 11-1.

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The Whitsunday Ladies clashed with Mackay Lions in what is traditionally a tough match up.

The U23 Ladies was a tight affair with both teams determined to assert their dominance.

The first half saw Whitsunday controlling possession and creating several scoring opportunities with Nicole finding the back of the net, putting Whitsunday ahead 1-0 as they headed into halftime with a well-deserved lead.

The second half Whitsunday increase their lead to 2-0.

The Lions fought back to narrow the gap. A brilliant goal by Ellyse from outside the 18 yard box sealed the game for the home side 3-2.

The Whitsunday Premier ladies took on Lions who were last years Premiership winners and the team Whitsunday defeated in the grand final.

In a game full of passion and determination with neither side willing to back down, saw a 0-0 draw at half time.

Throughout the match the defence stood strong making it difficult for either team to make a break through.

Though the second half saw Lions finding the back of the net after several remarkable saves from GK Chloe Baker. The match ended 3-0.

The Men U23s had a tough contest with several cards being handed to both sides. Jack Robertson had a brilliant performance in goals thwarting many attempts to keep Whitsunday in the game.

Zac Kelley successfully scored from a penalty kick to level scores at 1 all, the match ended 1-1.

The Premier boys went in full of confidence against second place Lions. Whitsunday dominated possession for most of the first half and created several half chances but couldn't convert.
The score ended up 3-0 to the visitors.

Considering the number of regular premier players that were missing, it showed the depth the club is beginning to have in Seniors with many younger players starting to show their form.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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Photos supplied

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On Wednesday at Bowen Golf Club, we played a single stableford for a club trophy. Ladies’ winner on a countback was Morag Parker 37pts, runner up Julie May 37pts. Men’s winner on a countback Greg Carlyon 38pts, runner up John Martin 38pts.
 
On Saturday we played a single stableford and 110 players took to the course for this popular event. 

Ladies’ winner Kim Bennion 42pts, 2nd Linda Vincent 36pts, 3rd Elona Lynch. Men’s winner on a countback Isaac Fellows 38pts, 2nd Paul Burgis 38pts, 3rd Paul Martin 37pts. Pinshots to Elona Lynch, Di Fox, Kim Bennion, Leanne Swan, Vince Hargraves, Matthe Ruff, Geoff Fellows, Greg Fairs, James Miller won the car wash with an OBP. Jeremy had an Eagle on #8. 
 
This weekend is a single stableford.
 
Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

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Levi Holmes had 40 points to beat Corey Stroud by a shot in Tuesday's stableford event. Penny Wardroper had 35 points to beat Ann Gardel by a shot in the ladies' division. Pins went to Scott Mason, Aaron Prosser, Heather Luvis and Ann Gardel.

Wednesday's four-shot winner over Lyn Muller was Diane Chard with a fine 37. Pins went to Lyn Muller, Paula McQuat, Melanie Patullo and Robyn Whitham.

Aaron Prosser had 42 points to win Thursday's A division by 3 shots from Steve Westley, while Ken Lovett had 34 points to win the B division by a shot from Vic Feldman. Pins went to Steve Westley, Adam Maggs, George Steen and Jason Bourke.

The Friday Met run winner in Nathan Sothman had a two-under-par 20 points to beat Nathan Boys by a shot. Pins went to Adam Maggs and Ryan Wilkes.

Saturday's Allenbuild stableford one-shot winner Corey Stroud, found his new clubs working well for his 40 points as he nudged out Joshua Norris. Heather Luvis Luvis had 39 points to beat Kathryn Borer by two shots in the ladies' division. Two pins went to Simon Della Santa and one each to Sam Deicke, Lyn Muller, Melanie Patullo and Heather Luvis.

Nick Watson edged out Cory O'Shea with 40 points to win Sunday's competition while the pins went to Ryan Wilkes, Pauline Redpath, Cory O'Shea and Clay Coles.

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Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.

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In a rematch of the 2023 Grand Final, the Raiders emerged victorious over the Moranbah Bulls in Round 2 of the 2024 Limitless MRU Competition, with a final score of 20-14.

As a birthday present to himself, the first Raiders try came from Connor Spence in the 15th minute, built off phases in the oppositions 22, solid teamwork around the rucks and precise passing.

The halftime score line painted a tense picture, with the Raiders trailing behind the Bulls at 5-7.

Raiders quickly turned the tide in the 2nd half with 2 quick tries as Captain Waikato Nepia-Katipa capitalised on a set-piece lineout play, receiving quick ball from Brody Elson to score out wide. This was followed by a brilliant solo effort from Luke Rae-Howard in the 45th minute, seizing loose ball to sprint down the sideline and score under the posts, converted by Landry Bezombes, who sealed the victory for the Raiders with a penalty goal in the 60th minute.

Individual performances recognised, with Brody Elson earning 3 points, Simione Nasavuilagi receiving 2 points, and Shakane Costello securing 1 point. Another solid game by Loris De Carlo. Coach Rota praised the team's defensive efforts, emphasising that their solid defence ultimately secured the win.

"We are a young new team that is still growing together as a coach and squad," said Rota. He expressed gratitude to the local crowd and supporters for their unwavering encouragement throughout the match.
 
Contributed: Karla Houston

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Luke Rae-Howard scoring
Image: Hanny Spence Photography

NEXT GAME:
Slade Point, April 20

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Round 1 fixtures for Whitsunday Brahmans against Souths Sharks in Mackay Saturday afternoon.

Not a great result overall but plenty to build on. Unfortunately, the reserve grade side were unable to field a team for the round 1 clash but are looking to put a strong side in for Round 2.

First grade should be near full strength in this weekend when they host their first home game of the year against Wests Tigers.

This also coincides with the club’s annual sponsors day where sponsors are thanked for their contribution to the club.
 
First game of the season saw U20's come in with a lot of fresh faces and old, as the team debut 9 players in their first taste of senior football.

Full time score for the U20’s was 24-6 to Souths, but as the coach, did not have a lot of time, he couldn't fault the effort and maturity that came from the experienced senior players and debutants.

In first grade errors and lack of discipline saw a saw a strong South outfit take the lead early and never look back. A 30 - 0 half time score line ended in a 54 - 4 final result.

Plenty will be taken away from the game by the young Brahmans for sure. There is enough talent in the side to turn things around quickly this week against Wests.

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Contributed with thanks to Bryce Fraser

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Whitsunday Touch Football is committed to giving our Junior Touch Members the opportunity to compete at representative levels.

Whilst we are building our own rep teams, we have supported players who have had the opportunity to join rep teams from other clubs.

At the recent Junior State Cup North held in Townsville a record number of our players were able to participate.

Lanie joined Townsville Saints U14, Charlee, Emily and Leshara played with Moranbah U14, along with Jai Townsville U16, Xavier and Tane Townsville U18.

Lanie’s team had a wonderful carnival progressing to the Grand Final. Their opponent in the final was Thuringowa who were undefeated through the rounds and Semi Final.

However, the tables were turned in the Final with Lanie’s Saints Team coming out on top.  

Round Eight Results

Mixed A
In the Crear 11 d Raiders A  6
Vipers 16 d  G.E.T. Touch  5

Mixed B
Stingers 7 d Full Boar 5
Flame Tree Flames 5 drew Ray White 5
Raiders B 8 d Whitmonday Eagles 7

Mixed C
Sheds N Homes 11 d Untouchables 9
Mighty Mustangs 8 d Bulls 4

Mixed Juniors
Raiders Green 4 d  Raiders Purple  2
Hamo Rent 6 d  Raiders Blue  4

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After a couple of week’s break, the players returned to Premier League action on Sunday morning at the Airlie Bowls Club.

Kameron Reason made it 2 wins from 2 after dispatching Jayden Lloyd in fine fashion by a 7/1 scoreline. That win places Kam nicely in 4th spot on the league table.

On the other end of the spectrum Jayden is still searching for his 1st win of the year, with tough matches against Jamie Maher and Joe Wilson next to come.

The ladder made for better reading for Jamie Maher after his two matches on Sunday morning, recording back-to-back victories over Hawkeye Rick 7/4 and Arthur McMinn 7/1. 

Those wins gave Jamie his first points of the year, leaving him in 5th place on 4 points. He also slotted home a beautiful 171 in that match against Hawkeye, who is the only other player besides Jayden yet to score league points.

Arthur McMinn bounced back from that defeat to Jamie, with a win of his own, a fine 7/4 victory over Naomi Mitchell. That win leaves Arthur beautifully positioned in 2nd place on the league table, just a point behind Joe Wilson who has played a game less than Arthur. 

The Premier League is sponsored by Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing and Master Butchers Whitsundays. 

Don’t forget to enter our Anzac Plate competition. We are now taking entries. To enter, simply find us on Facebook or message Jamie on 0405411865.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.

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Arthur McMinn with his best start to a league campaign at the Airlie Bowls Club. Photo supplied

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Mackay Indoor Pickleball club held a very successful inaugural Pickleball Competition throughout the Easter Weekend. It was held at McDonald's Multi-sports Stadium nd welcomed players from near and far. The event consisted of both local players, as well as visitors from across Townsville, Home Hill, Bowen, Whitsundays, Rockhampton, Brisbane and even California.
The competition was friendly and social but undoubtedly very intense, with a focus solely on competitions with men’s and women’s doubles which played out on Saturday, followed by mixed doubles on Sunday.  
On each day the entrants competed in one of three categories: Advanced, Intermediate or Serious Social, a category included to welcome new or inexperienced players to their first competition.
The atmosphere throughout was very positive and friendly with players supporting one another and applauding good play.  At the same time, there was intense competition and hard-fought battles, however, as a result, a good time was had by all.  
Mackay Indoor Pickleball club would like to give a special thanks to Mackay Basketball Association for the use of the stadium and for keeping the players nourished from the canteen over the weekend.  With gratitude also, to Mackay Tennis club for the loan of Pickleball nets and for all those who contributed to prizes and the raffle.
Mackay Indoor Pickleball welcomes new players at McDonalds Multi-sports Stadium on Mondays 9.30am to 11.30am. Main games take place at Mackay PCYC on Tuesdays 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm, Thursdays 12-2 pm and Sundays 9am – 11am.  
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Results:
Women’s Doubles
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Advanced:

1st Lucy Brown and Kim Presland
2nd Sue Kenniff and Rebecca Moore
3rd Heather Hayes and Karyl Young

Intermediate:

1st Joyce Morris and Hayley Mawhirt
2nd Asia Cossley and Jackie Burling
3rd Jacky Hardman and Heather Barnes

Social:

1st Kelly Edwards and Anne-Louise Stewart
2nd Tahnee Armstrong and Jamie Macklin
3rd Cherie Craig and Lesley Rowe
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Men’s Doubles
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Advanced:

1st Gerard Howard and Brett Walz
2nd Rob Vella and Jamie Duncan
3rd Damon Hardmon and Brendan Rae
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Intermediate:

1st Trevor Gregory and Peter Hughes
2nd Leo Gilbert and Craig Neilson
3rd David Selvage and Eamon McGovern

Mixed Doubles:

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Advanced:

1st Rob Vella and sue Kenniff
2nd Brendan Rae and Rebecca Moore
3rd Yoko Stimson and Frank Clayton

Intermediate:

1st Craig Nielson and Heather Barnes
2nd Graham Scott and Heather Hayes
3rd Neil McNee and Lou Battersby

Social:

1st Debbie Barbagallo and Ben Barbagallo
2nd Jamie Macklin and Peter Hutching
3rd Tahnee Armstrong and Craig Armstrong

Contributed by Monica Stewart-McLean

Advanced Women’s Doubles
Intermediate Men’s Doubles
Advanced Men’s Doubles
Intermediate Mixed Doubles
Advanced Mixed Doubles
Social Women’s Doubles
Intermediate Women’s Doubles
Images supplied

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