This week marks the end of a fantastic year of bowls at Proserpine Bowls Club.

On Wednesday, we mixed things up a bit for Social Bowls. Heather Brown, Alen Sanderson, and Henny Tattam defeated Heather Brown, Philip Brown, and Arthur Griffith 23–15. Meanwhile, Sandy Daffara and Barry Zillmann had a close win over Mike Harrison and John Anderson, 15–14.

On Sunday, we enjoyed a BBQ lunch before playing just six ends of bowls. Teams were drawn randomly, and Henny Tattam, Sandy Daffara, Philip Brown, and Mike Harrison recovered from an early 6-shot deficit to defeat Bruce Uhe, Arthur Griffith, Alen Sanderson, and John Anderson.

We wish all our members a safe and very Merry Christmas!

A reminder: if you wish to take advantage of the discount on Affiliation Fees, they must be paid before December 31.

Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Bowls Club

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With summer temperatures soaring and Christmas just around the corner, Proserpine Golf Club members enjoyed another busy week of competition, with strong fields and some impressive scoring across multiple events.

Tuesday, December 9 saw a Medley Stableford played in hot conditions. Di Chard claimed victory with a standout 40 points, ahead of runner-up Aaron Prosser on 36. Nearest the pin prizes went to Aaron Prosser (2nd), Paul Gray (9th) and Luke Wayth (13th).

The Wednesday Ladies Stableford on December 10, sponsored by Airllywood, delivered excellent results, with Karen Oni leading the way on 42 points. Jenny Hounsell finished second with 37 points, followed by Kathryn Borer on 35 points after a countback, and Leanne Alexander rounding out the field. Nearest the pin honours were shared by Sherri Meade, Di Dobbins (2nd), Karen Oni and Nicole Cooper (14th).

Men took to the course on Thursday, December 11 for a Stableford event. In A Grade, Luke Paroz secured the win on 38 points after a countback, with Jett Borghero runner-up. B Grade honours went to Bradley Wilkinson, also with 38 points on a countback, ahead of Greg Walker. Nearest the pin winners were Scott Mason (2nd), Brett Simpson (9th), Craig McLean (13th) and Laurie Dakin (16th).

The Friday 9-hole Back 9 Run, sponsored by the Metropole Hotel, saw Harry Milne take the win with 21 points. Edwina Pettiford finished runner-up on 20 points after a countback, with Fay Milne third. Brent Franke (2nd) and Chris Pirlo (9th) collected NTPs. The final Putt for Cash for 2025 attracted plenty of attention, with Adam Davies sinking his second putt to claim $250 from the $1250 pool.

A highlight of the week came on Saturday, December 13, when 132 players contested the popular Turkey Day 3-Ball Ambrose. Overall honours went to Don Cameron, Karen Rix and Roger Vandenberg, with full results to be released via the club’s Facebook page. The day also included presentations for the club’s major 2025 titles and a special moment recognising Nathan’s achievement in attaining professional golfer status.

The week concluded on Sunday, December 14 with a Stableford event. Aaron Prosser topped the men’s field with 39 points, ahead of Chris Bartlett on 38. In the ladies competition, Loretta Puttick claimed victory with 38 points, followed by Peta Thomas on 36. Nearest the pin prizes went to Darren Reynolds (2nd), Sherri Meade and Dean Barnard (9th), Mark McDougal (13th) and Scott Clarke (16th).

Another successful week wrapped up what has been a strong lead-in to the festive season at Proserpine Golf Club.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Two of the Rules of Running Middle Distance Squad athletes made their way down to Melbourne to compete at the 2025 Chemist Warehouse Australian Athletics All Schools Championships from the 4th–7th of December.

Millie Groom competed in the 3000m, placing 5th in Australia and achieving a huge 26-second PB. The following day she raced the 2000m Steeplechase, placing 6th in Australia with a 12-second PB.

Ayla Moon competed in the 400m, qualifying fastest and then winning the Gold Medal the next day; her second National title this year.

Within an hour she was back on the track for the 1500m final, holding her position and remaining in contention until the last 300m, finishing 9th in Australia.

On the final day of competition, Ayla ran the 800m and won the Silver Medal.

Ayla will now take a short rest before building into cross country season, balancing workload with LAQ States in March.

Millie will also have a short rest before shifting focus toward Triathlon States in February, then building into cross country season alongside the squad.

The squad has had a huge 2025 with success across both Cross Country and Track & Field — securing multiple medals, PBs, State and National titles. Many of our senior athletes were also selected for Regional, State, National and Athletics North Queensland representative teams, highlighting the depth and maturity of the program.

Looking ahead, 2026 will see the squad expand from three to four fully supported training squads, allowing even more athletes to join while maintaining high-quality, individualised programming. Coach Belinda Rule was also proudly awarded ANQ’s Coach of the Year for 2025.

Huge things are on the horizon for 2026, especially with the squad partnering with Momentum High Risk Training through amazing sponsorship opportunities.

Contributed by Belinda Rule

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Two Mackay middle-distance athletes delivered standout performances at the Australian All Schools Championships, with Millie Groom securing major PBs and Ayla Moon claiming gold and silver among her national results. Photo credit: Kylie Nyssen.

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Results for week ending Saturday 6th December 2025

Monday 1st December 2025 – 7 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st DAVID TING - ERIC GOODCHILD 1st GEOFF TAYLOR - GEOFFREY PATTERSON
2nd JAN HARRIS - JULIE O'NEILL 2nd DIANE HOLEWA - MAX HOLEWA
3rd BARBARA TAIT - MARGARET LANE 3rd JEWEL SCHMIDT - RICHARD WIX
4th DIANE STOKES - EDWARD KLIESE

Tuesday 2nd December 2025 – 4 ½ Table Howell Green Points
1st JOHN MCGEE - MICK KING 3rd ERIC GOODCHILD - NOEL BUGEIA
2nd ERROL MORRIS - MICK ROBINS 4th PATRICIA GARNER - ADRIAN WESTCOTT

Wednesday 3rd December 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st DAVID TING - ERIC GOODCHILD 1st SANDY PATTERSON - GEOFFREY PATTERSON
2nd MAX HOLEWA - DIANE HOLEWA 2nd MING TING - DEBRA GOODCHILD
3rd JOY ROBINSON - ROBERT CARLESS 3rd GWEN LIDDELL - ANNE LUTZ
4th MONICA DARLEY - FRANCES BROWN 4th JEWEL SCHMIDT - ALAN BROWN

Thursday Evening 4th December 2025 – 4 Table Howell Green Points
1st KEN SEANIGER - ROBERT CARLESS
2nd IAN CRUICKSHANK - ADRIAN WESTCOTT
3rd GEOFF TAYLOR - ANNE LUTZ
4TH MARY CRUICKSHANK - MICK KING

Friday 5 December 2025 –6 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st JANINE RODGERS - RICHARD WIX 1st VICTOR MASON - JOSIE CROWLEY
2nd TEX SHEEDY - NOEL BUGEIA 2nd MARTIN PEARCE - GWEN LIDDELL
3rd JOY ROBINSON - GEOFF TAYLOR 3rd MICK KING - GEOFF COWAN

Saturday 6th December 2025 – 10 ½ Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st JOY ROBINSON - KEN SEANIGER 1st FRANCES BROWN - ALAN BROWN
2nd RICHARD WIX - TEX SHEEDY 2nd MING TING - DAVID TING
3rd JANELLE CONROY - ROBERT CARLESS 3rd ERROL MORRIS - IAN GASKELL
4th LAURA HOWLAND - JANINE RODGERS 4th ANNE LUTZ - RODNEY MILES
5th ANNETTE HOWE - VICKI HOWARD 5th LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD - SUSAN WRIGHT

Contributed by Robert Carless

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President Francie Brown with the Martin Pearce and Sue Mayer-Miller winners of the 2025 Mackay Bridge Club Novice Pairs Championship. Photo supplied

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The November instalment of Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series wrapped up with thanks to Race Director Jim Ford, ahead of a well-earned break throughout December. The popular series will return on the first Sunday afternoon of January 2026, keeping the same time, place and format for athletes eager to restart their routine.

For those still keen to maintain fitness over the holiday period, Mackay Road Runners will continue meeting at 4.30pm each Sunday at Bluewater Quay for a casual 5km or 10km run , or any distance in between, with post-run hydration available for purchase at The Red Dog.

Runners are reminded to stay mindful of hydration before, during and after training or racing, particularly in the extreme weather currently affecting the region, to ensure optimal performance and recovery.

Social 5km Brings Festive Cheer To Bluewater Quay

A cheerful group of Mackay Road Runners, Natasha, Craig, Alex, Carmel, Andrew, David and Len, enjoyed a festive social 5km at Bluewater Quay as the club eases into December. The relaxed run came as Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series pauses for the month, ahead of its return to the ARC on the first Sunday afternoon of January 2026.

Runners made the most of the pre-Christmas atmosphere, enjoying the option of a 5km or 10km loop, a refreshment at The Red Dog, and even a quick photo in front of the Christmas tree before heading home to tackle weekend chores.

The club says it “loves this photo of our regular runners”.

Updates on the 2026 Mackay Road Runners calendar of events will be shared soon, as preparations continue for a milestone year.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

(left to right) Andrew, Rebecca and Chloe take in the ominous sky before they hit the track for 30 minutes in the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
(left ro right) Jose, Carolyn and Alana ease into the 30 minute track session as part of the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
Race Director & Mackay Road Runners Club Captain, Jim Ford supporting Adam Knezevic (right) as he completes as many laps as possible in the 30 minute track session.
Regular participants, Vivian and Harvey Knezevic enjoy the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.
Phoebe Short having a great time now she’s finished the 30 min pool section of Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
Andrew Flanagan maintains excellent form on the track before the swim portion of the Biathlon Series. Photos supplied

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North Mackay Ladies have had another amazing year on the bowling greens. Winning the Premier shield for the 5th year in succession, which is an amazing achievement for the club.

In the district, points are awarded to each club for Winners and Runners Up in the following categories.   Master Pairs, Symons Shield, Johnstone Shield, Pennants and District Champion of Champions.

The District Presentation for the shield was held recently and presented to our President Hilary Jones-Rowan.

Photographed are some of the Members of this great club with the Perpetual Trophy.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Photo supplied

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The recently formed Whitsundays Surf Life Saving Club hosted a Family Fun Day last weekend at Bowen Pool, and the event was both educational and entertaining.

Sunday’s event drew strong community interest, with Queensland Ambulance, local fire crews and Surf Life Saving Queensland offering demonstrations on CPR, stinger treatment and how to respond in emergencies.

A pool rescue display highlighted the importance of water awareness heading into the wet season, while rescue boards and games gave children a taste of what the nippers program will offer.

President of the Whitsundays Surf Life Saving Club Bernie Mackie said the goal is simple: safety, fun and community.

The club aims to revive the service once active in Bowen, now broadened to include Airlie Beach, Collinsville and Proserpine under the new name Whitsundays Surf Life Saving Club.

Bernie said the idea emerged from growing interest among new families moving into the area, many of whom are accustomed to surf life saving culture in southern Queensland.

"We've had a lot of interest and that's why we're starting to bring it back," said Bernie.

The club will begin with a nippers program launching in May, developed alongside Surf Life Saving Queensland. While the Whitsundays lack traditional surf, Bernie said that nippers is centred on ocean awareness, teamwork and giving young people a positive community connection.

“We know we don't have waves and surf here, but that's not what it's about," said Bernie.

"It's about community, building a network of people that have got the same interest and about the youth.

"We want the youth to get involved have some meaning to community."

The long-term vision is to create a fully operational surf life saving club offering programs for youth, Indigenous participants and masters competitors, as well as CPR, first-aid and rescue training. The region’s many beaches also make it ideal for activities such as board paddling, rescues and even surf boat involvement for those who have moved north with existing experience.

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Councillor John Finlay, members of the Whitsunday Surf Life Saving Club, and Councillor and Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright at the Family Fun Day in Bowen last Sunday. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon At National Awards

The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon has been named runner-up in Australia for the Best Triathlon with under 500 competitors. This is an outstanding achievement for our region.

To finish runner-up is an extraordinary result for a smaller regional event and reflects the huge community effort behind the Triathlon Festival.

Race Directors Michael and Val Kimpton were honoured to accept the national runner-up award at the gala event held at RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast last weekend.

"The work of the Event Management Team this year has been exceptional, with their dedication and professionalism helping the event surpass all objectives," they said.

"As a not-for-profit event run by volunteers and passionate supporters, our triathlon weekend is a major boost for the Whitsundays.

"Our runner up result is an outstanding effort for our smaller regional event, a performance where the whole community made a contribution to showcase our remarkable Triathlon Festival.

"The judging panel noted that the competition was incredibly close, reflecting the high calibre of all finalists and the quality of the Airlie Beach Triathlon."

The three-day festival begins on Friday evening with a professional athlete meet-and-greet and interview panel at Coral Sea Resort, the event’s Naming Sponsor. Saturday features race registration, the Junior Triathlon and the Ocean Swim, with Susie O’Neill as Swim Ambassador. Sunday morning hosts the main event, offering distances suited to all fitness levels, including family and corporate teams.

The festival concludes on Sunday night with the closing ceremony at Coral Sea Resort with a spectacular fireworks display, it is attended by 130 invitees including more than 60 local business sponsors, the nation’s top 20 professional athletes, local politicians, VIPs and Councillors.

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Michael and Val Kimpton were proud to be runner up at the AusTriathlon Event of the Year under 500 participants. Photo supplied

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U11 Boys

The U11 Boys headed to Fitzgerald State School this weekend to take on Souths Blue, with Souths winning the toss and choosing to bat first.

With the bat, the boys cruised into their chase with confidence.

The Pitbulls wrapped up their innings on 149, outplaying Souths with both bat and ball—a dominant performance full of bite, discipline, and a few well-aimed yorkers for good measure.

U11 Girls

There was plenty of excitement at Vigaro Fields as the pink-collared Pitbulls lined up against the Walkerston Scrubbies. Captain G. Green won the toss and chose to bat, and the Pitties trotted out ready to make every ball count.

The girls shared the batting beautifully. With extras boosting the total, the Pink Pitties wrapped up their innings on 77.

Once it was time to bowl, A. Quod came charging in and struck twice, picking up 2 for 4 from her two overs.

The fielding was just as strong. C. Goldspink, E. Brazil and A. Quod all grabbed run outs.

A great morning out for the girls, and a match they should be very proud of.

Thanks Scrubbies for another fun game!
Congratulations to Arlow on his first half-century!

U11 Mixed

There was an extra spark in the air at Bucasia on Saturday as the U11 Mixed Pitbulls took on the Norths Devils.

Batting first, the Pitties put together a tidy 122, with every batter contributing. The Pitties then charged out with the ball.

In the end, the Devils edged past the total,but the Pitties played with heart, teamwork and plenty of noise—a great hit-out full of learning moments, confidence boosts and classic junior cricket chaos.

U12

The U12 Pitbulls headed into rooster territory at McLennan Park, ready to take on the Scrubbies on their home turf. The Pitties won the toss and chose to bat first.

They built their innings beautifully, finishing on 6–167 from their 25 overs. Defending 167, the Pitties bowled with purpose.

In the field, J. Hart and N. Camm held their catches, and H. Valmadre’s run-out added pressure at the right time.

Walkerston, however, steadied late and chased the target in the final stages, finishing on 5–174. A strong contest and a great learning game for the young Pitties.

U13

A blue-sky morning at Pinnacle Cricket Club set the stage for a solid hit-out, with Pinnacle winning the toss and sending the Pitties in to bat.

M. Hope was the anchor, crafting a composed 50 not out from 55 balls and finding the rope five times. It was a patient, well-timed innings that kept the scoreboard moving. E. Smith finished unbeaten on 26 from 58 deliveries.

With 117 to defend, E. Smith got things rolling with a sharp 3–24 from four overs. M. Hope backed up his batting with 1–9 from four overs.

Despite the pressure, Pinnacle nudged their way forward and finished on 5–142 by the final over. A competitive game and great signs across the squad.

U14

The U14 Pitbulls were back at home under clear blue skies and warm conditions, welcoming the Sarina Spartans for their first clash on our turf this season. Sarina won the toss and sent the Pitties in to bat—something that suited the boys just fine. The Pitbulls finished their 25 overs on 3–116.

Sarina came out confidently, but the Pitties were ready for a scrap. J. Farley bowled a tight spell of 4 overs for just 9 runs. K. Dibben struck with 1–14, S. Green delivered 1–17, and B. Hetherington produced an excellent four-wicket haul, finishing with 4–19 from 5 overs. K. Whitty added another scalp at the end with 1–1 from his single over.

The fielders backed the bowlers with sharp hands and smart movement. Sarina battled to the final overs but were restricted to 8–116 from their 25, leaving the match finishing level in a well-fought contest.

A tough, competitive outing from both sides, with the Pitbulls proving again that they never give an inch without a fight.

Contributed with thanks to Danni Green

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U11s Boys Player of Match - Will White. Photo supplied

U14s vs Sarina. Photo supplied

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It's been a busy time leading into the end of the year.

A special thanks to all who have been giving their time to help us host special events and Christmas parties with barefoot bowls at this time of year. Without members volunteering, these events become far more difficult for those who do give their time and effort. This past week we hosted barefoot bowls Christmas events for both Wilmar and JJ Richards.

On Wednesday, Arthur Griffith, Trevor Parsons and Mike Harrison drew with Dale Curtis, Alen Sanderson and Gavin Noonan, 15 all. John Anderson, Henny Tattam and Philip Brown defeated Bruce Uhe, Barry Zillmann and Sandy Daffara, 19–9.

On Sunday, Alen Sanderson, Arthur Griffith, Philip Brown and Mike Harrison defeated Trevor Parsons, Henny Tattam, Sandy Daffara and Heather Brown, 21–18.

This coming week will be the last week of bowls for the club for 2025. Our final day of play will be Sunday, December 14. We will be holding a BBQ lunch at 2pm, followed by a short game of bowls. There will be no charge for members as we celebrate another successful year.

Contributed with thanks to Secretary Proserpine Bowls Club Inc

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As we approach the end of the competition year, Medal Of Medals 2025 winners and other major Honour Board event winners will be announced and rewarded at the presentations to take place on Turkey Day.

Nick Watson was the lucky drawee for the “Putt or Cash” and whilst all of his 3 attempts were close, they were ALL closer than Roger’s 1 chance to beat him.
$1250 on offer next week, watch this space.

More Christmas jollies and fun to follow.

RESULTS : WEEK ENDING 7/12/25
TUESDAY 2/12/25
PGC - Stroke - Dec MM/MOM 2025

MEN :
Winner : Nic Apruzzese - 66 nett
R/Up : Luke Wayth - 68 nett

NTPs : Corey Stroud (2nd)

LADIES :
Winner : Elspeth Scotford - 74 nett (C/B)
R/Up : Tina Badenhorst

NTPs : Anna Winterbourn (13th), Leanne Alexander (16th)

VETS :
Aug MM

LADIES :
Winner : Allison McCarthy - 69 nett
R/Up : Elspeth Scotford - 70 nett (C/B)
3rd : Tina Badenhorst

NTPs :

MEN :
Winner : Nic Apruzzese - 66 nett
R/Up : Ken Granger - 70 nett (C/B)
3rd : Louis Neethling

NTPs :
Least Putts :

WEDNESDAY 3/12/25
DEC MM/Putts -Ladies Comp kindly sponsored by PD Law

LADIES :
Winner : Sidonie Fleet - 64 nett
R/Up : Karen Oni - 65 nett
3rd : Jenny Hounsell - 69 nett (C/B)
4th : Leanne Alexander

NTPs : Di Chard, Pauline Redpath (7th), Karen Oni, Sidonie Fleet (16th)

PGC - Mens’ Comp

Winner : Chris Gurdler - 64 nett
R/Up : Luke Swift - 73 nett

THURSDAY 4/12/25

PGC - MEN :
A Grade :
Winner : Andrew Albergo - 67 nett (C/B)
R/Up : Jason Bourke

B Grade :
Winner : John Strelec - 66 nett
R/Up : John Hoey - 68 nett

NTPs : Levi Holmes (2nd), John Clark (9th), Jason Bourke (13th), John Strelec (16th)

FRIDAY 5/12/25
9 hole Run sponsored by the Metropole Hotel : Front 9

Winner : Sherri Meade - 23 points
R/up : Sidonie Fleet - 22 points
3rd : Brent Franke - 21 points (C/B)
4th : Tim Walton

NTPs : Cory O‘Shea (2nd), Brad Fleet (9th)
Putt for Cash : $1200

SATURDAY 6/12/25
DEC MM sponsored by the Metropole Hotel and MOM 2025

MEN :
A Grade :
Winner : Lewy Tuck - 69 nett
R/Up : Larry Muller - 70 nett

B Grade :
Winner : Cooper Cremor - 70 net (C/B)
R/Up : Daniel O’Donnell

C Grade :
Winner : Blair Mure (SGA GC) - 68 nett (C/B)
R/Up : John Wallace

NTPs : Brock Smith (2nd), John Wallace (9th), Lance Lloyd (13th), Cremor Cooper (16th)

LADIES
Winner : Di Dobbins - 66 nett
R/Up : Trish McNeill - 68 nett
3rd : Anna Winterbourn - 70 nett

NTPs : Anna Winterbourn (2nd), Trish McNeill (9th)

SUNDAY 7/12/25
PGC DEC MM/MOM 2025

MEN :
Winner :  Eric Gruszczynski - 64 NETT
R/Up : Bran Allen - 66 nett

NTPs :

LADIES :
Winner : Sherri Meade - 72 nett (C/B)
R/Up : Sara Hagy

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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The Cannonvale Cannons wrapped up their final club night of 2025 with a festive Christmas celebration full of colour, community spirit, and proud swimming moments. With Christmas-themed warm-ups setting the tone, the evening kicked off with presentations.
Upgrade awards were proudly received by Oliver Mitchell, Hamilton Anflous, Isla Johnston, Harry Chegwidden and Mackenzie Bennett.

The Coaches Award was presented to Isla Johnston for her strong performance in the 25m breaststroke, while the crowd cheered on our Chocolate Award recipients — Lucas Korosec for swimming closest to his PB and Mackenzie Bennett for recording the biggest PB of the night.

Festive spirit was on full display as we recognised the most Christmas-inspired swimmers and families. Congratulations to Kaitlyn Moon for her standout holiday outfit, and a big thank you to the Chegwidden, Mulliss and Temple families for their wonderful family-wide efforts. Your joy added something special to our end-of-year celebration.

We also acknowledged the talented swimmers heading to the Queensland Long Course Championships next week. Best of luck to Celeste Orenshaw, Tyler Bennett, Jax Clayworth, Hamilton Anflous and Tora Delac, who will travel to Brisbane with Coach Mark Erickson for this highly competitive annual event. The entire club will be cheering them on.

The racing program was kept short and fun with 12m and 25m swims before we launched into the much-loved Christmas relays. The Parents and Kids relays once again showcased the competitive streak of our swimming mums and dads — thank you for getting involved and making it memorable. The night wrapped up with energetic kids relays and the famous Ice Brick Challenge, where teams raced to finish with the heaviest block of ice.

A wonderful way to end the year — well done, Cannons!

Contribtued with thanks to Jade Korosec

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Christmas Relay Fun
Ice Brick swim challenge relay

Photos supplied

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Wangaratta Bowls featured fierce competition this week. Tuesday afternoon saw a victory by Jocelyn Defranciscis, Lindy Suann and Laurie Land against Stumpy Adams, Deb Retchless and Shirley Jones. The jackpot didn’t go off.

The Ladies’ competition consistency final was won by Denise Wallace, who defeated Jocelyn Defranciscis. In the Crooked Kitty, Denise Wallace defeated Penny Warren.

On Sunday afternoon, two thrilling triples games were played. Bron Tolcher, Laurie Land and Gavin Charles defeated Cliff Queero, Debbie Retchless and Stuart Jeal. In the other game, Celly Jeal, Alby Vigar and Pat Tracey defeated Gordon Querro, Jim Quod and Allan Rolfe. The jackpot did not go off; however, a great effort to all involved.
This Sunday at 9am the club will be holding the Board AGM. All members are invited to attend.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Sunday winners Bron Talcher and Gavin Charles. Photo supplied

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Christmas will be here before we know it, but that hasn’t stopped the improvement in lawn bowls we’ve been experiencing lately.

There was no Ladies’ bowls on Tuesday as the girls held their Christmas party with great enjoyment.

Wednesday afternoon social bowls, brilliantly organised by our lovable Irishman Merve Stewart, saw 18 bowlers vying for the prize. Surprisingly, it was skipper Andrew Butler, lead David Meiklejohn and second Glen O'Brien who easily beat the rest of the field by 13 points. Well done, boys!!

Wednesday night Business House Bowls played their semifinals, and with the competition still wide open, any team can win. This week is the final round before the Christmas break, and all are invited to come along for the last games.

Friday saw the Endeavour Group return, and Michael bowled brilliantly for a well-deserved victory. Special mention must also go to Jett and Cathy, who proved they would not be out of place participating in the Queensland Disability Championship Games representing the Whitsundays.

Saturday morning Scroungers saw plenty of excitement. First-round winners were Mervyn Stewart, Betty Whitehorn, Greg Fennell and John Askew. Mervyn Stewart continued his brilliant form with a fantastic victory in the A Division, whilst Mark Mawson defeated Margo Stanley to win the B Division final.

Sunday afternoon social bowls saw 20 bowlers competing, and in a strong performance, Betty Whitehorn at lead and Glen O’Brien as skipper topped the field with 19 points.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Scroungers A and B Division winners, Mervyn Stewart and Mark Mawson. Photo supplied

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The world’s most extraordinary ocean adventure is on its way back to paradise, with the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race fleet set to return to Airlie Beach this January as part of Leg 4, the Australian Coast-to-Coast.

Coral Sea Marina will once again roll out the red carpet as the official Host Port, welcoming the fleet, race crew, family, friends and supporters after their journey from Fremantle. This will be the fifth time the marina has hosted the race, placing the Whitsundays alongside global sailing destinations such as Cape Town, Seattle and Qingdao.

“The fact that Airlie Beach continues to be selected as a Host Port is a testament to our world-class facilities and cements the Whitsundays as Australia’s premier sailing destination,” said Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing & Business Development at Coral Sea Marina.

The Clipper Race is a unique global challenge that brings together people from all walks of life, many with no previous sailing experience, who undergo extensive training before tackling a record-breaking circumnavigation from Portsmouth, UK.

Arriving mid-January, the fleet will spend more than a week in the Whitsundays, repairing and provisioning vessels while also enjoying the region’s many attractions. Crew and supporters are expected to dive into local tours, dining, experiences and accommodation, delivering a welcome economic boost.

“The Airlie Beach stopover is always a highlight for our crew and supporters,” said Georgina Best, Head of Partnerships at Clipper Ventures.

“It’s a chance to experience the beauty of the Whitsundays and the incredible hospitality of the community.”

A packed program of events will accompany the visit, including the popular Open Boat Days, where locals and visitors can step aboard the 70ft ocean racing yachts for a rare behind-the-scenes look at life at sea.

With the Whitsundays set to host sailing events for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the return of the Clipper Race further highlights the region’s capability to host world-class sailing competitions.

“The Clipper Race shines an international spotlight on the Whitsundays and showcases our region as one of the world’s premier sailing destinations,” said Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.

The countdown is on as the Whitsundays prepares to welcome the race fleet back to paradise.

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Photo supplied

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