By Amanda Wright

Mackay middle-distance runner Toby Rule has officially broken the four-minute barrier in the 1500m – and he’s done it in style.

Competing at the Australian Athletics Championships in Perth last week, Toby shaved a huge four seconds off his previous best to cross the line in 3:59. It’s a golden milestone in any middle-distance runner’s career and a testament to the 18-year-old’s relentless training and passion for the sport.

His sub-four-minute effort placed him 19th overall, 16th Australian and 5th Queenslander in the U20 men’s 1500m – an event that consistently delivers high-calibre competition at the national level. The Nationals, currently underway in Perth, are Australia’s pinnacle track and field event, with athletes like sprint stars Rohan Browning, Gout Gout and Lachie Kennedy lighting up the stadium with sub-10.1 performances in the 100m.

But for those in the know, middle-distance running is where the real grind lies – and Toby is no stranger to the long road to success. With a strong base in cross country, road racing and track events, he’s built the endurance, speed and mental grit that this week finally paid off.

Toby was quick to thank the local running community, including parkRun - both Mackay and Seaview, Holy Spirit College Run Club and Mackay Athletics Club. He also thanked the Mackay Road Runners for their continued support – a club that has helped shape many regional athletes into elite competitors.

“I’m really grateful for the running community around me,” he said.

“Mackay Road Runners and the Mackay running community have been a massive part of my journey.”

Janelle Tilse from the Mackay Road Runners said that Toby is an excellent athlete who excels in all areas of running, from the track to the road and cross country.

"He’s also a great role model to the school community as well as the athletics and running clubs he’s involved in," Janelle added.

Athletics runs in Toby’s veins – his mum Belinda is a running coach, while his dad Justin still races competitively in the masters middle-distance circuit. Both parents were beaming after the result.

“We are so proud of Toby’s dedication,” Belinda said.

“This personal best is proof of just how hard he’s worked. Wahoooooo!”

She also gave a shoutout to Toby’s coaching mentors, Ryan Gregson and Gavin Heward.

Toby’s breakthrough performance ensures Mackay’s name remains firmly in the fast lane. And with youth, talent and a fierce work ethic on his side – he’s only just getting warmed up.

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Toby Rule proudly dons his Queensland colours at the Australian Athletics Championships in Perth, where he broke the four-minute barrier in the 1500m. Photo supplied

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Mackay’s cycling stalwart David O’Connell, affectionately known as “Stickman”, has once again proven he's not just spinning his wheels, taking home bronze in the Sprint at the Australian Masters Track Championships at the Anna Meares Velodrome.

Up against a stacked field of national and world age group champions, O’Connell rode tactically in the Sprint – a cat-and-mouse three-lapper that’s as much mind games as muscle – to outwit and out-wheel his way to the podium. It was a gutsy effort against serious firepower, with Stickman showing he can hold his line and his nerve when the banking gets steep.

He also reached the bronze medal ride-off in the 2,000m Individual Pursuit, a gruelling time trial that tests sheer grit and pacing precision. O’Connell not only laid down a personal best in the morning qualifier but returned in the afternoon to better it again, emptying the tank in pursuit of the podium. While he narrowly missed the medal, finishing fourth, the double PB effort shows Stickman is peaking at the right time.

He rounded out the week with two fifth-place finishes and a sixth in other events – and, true to track tradition, even took a tumble at one point but walked away unscathed.

Still riding the high (and perhaps some residual lactic acid), Stickman swapped the hardwood boards for digital watts, lining up in the AusCycling eSports Masters Championships on the MyWhoosh platform. Despite the pain cave still echoing from nationals, O’Connell powered through the 20.2km virtual version of the Wollongong Worlds course, including its brutal 1.8km climb, to snare second in his age group. No virtual jersey this time, but he’s getting closer with every click of the cassette.

Earlier in the season, Stickman struck gold for the first time at the Queensland State Masters Track Championships, bagging five podiums across seven events – a haul that hinted something big was coming.

With nationals bronze now hanging proudly, he’s already asking the important questions: “Do bronze sleeve bands exist?” Sadly, no – but if they did, Stickman would be wearing them with pride.

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David "Stickman" O'Connell celebrates a hard-fought bronze on the podium at the Australian Masters Track Championships in Brisbane, proving he's still got plenty of pace in the legs – and perhaps just enough room on the jersey for a sleeve upgrade. Photos supplied

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has today announced that an elected Dutton Liberal National Government will provide $100,000 for the Wangaratta Bowls Club.

“Wangaratta Bowls Club has been the cornerstone of the community, offering members of all skill levels the chance to stay active and play a competitive game of bowls,” Mr Willcox said.
“The popular club is in need of a new rink in the playing area for lawn bowls to ensure it can continue to serve the community into the future.

“I am pleased to commit $100,000 towards a new rink if elected. This upgrade will enhance the facilities, help attract new members and allow the club to remain a much- loved community facility.
“The LNP is committed to supporting small regional sports clubs, ensuring our communities remain active and healthy.

“Only the LNP has a plan to invest in community infrastructure, build better local facilities, and get Australia back on track.”

Wangaratta Bowls Club Chairman, Geoff Danvers, said “This funding will provide for a much-needed green replacement for our club.

"The current green is overdue for replacement and this funding will enable the club to continue to provide a quality, up to date, and popular sporting venue to the many local bowlers and visiting bowlers throughout the year who enjoy the game of bowls.”

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox announced that an elected Dutton Liberal National Government will provide $100,000 for the Wangaratta Bowls Club. Photo supplied

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Despite the challenges of a particularly wet year, there is exciting news for members and visitors alike. The long-awaited cover installation is scheduled for next month, a major step forward for the club. The Airlie Beach Bowls Club are grateful for everyone's patience during this time and look forward to sharing further details soon. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the club.

Saturday saw the Men's A Pairs tournament get underway, with six games played in the morning and four games in the afternoon. This left Manny Isgro and Luke Kinnear to play Bob McMahon and Arthur McManus on Sunday morning, while Shane Spann and Kevin John Trembath faced Russell Jackson and John Fielding. Both semi-finals were played with great skill and determination.

Shane Spann and Kevin John Trembath advanced to the Grand Final, while Bob McMahon and Arthur McManus, in a thrilling finish, defeated Manny Isgro and Luke Kinnear on the last end.

The Grand Final proved to be a true classic. Shane Spann and Kevin John Trembath surged to an early 13–0 lead, but the never-give-up attitude of Bob McMahon and Arthur McManus saw them claw their way back into contention. In a remarkable comeback, Bob and Arthur snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, winning 26–24 against all odds. Hearty congratulations to these dedicated players for their stunning 'David versus Goliath' triumph.

Tuesday’s Ladies Bowls was unfortunately cancelled due to rain. However, Wednesday’s play went ahead with two games completed. We were delighted to welcome visitors Howard Moulang from Munmurra Bowls Club in New South Wales and Morrie Pearson from North Mackay Bowls Club. Both games were tightly contested, with the standout team of Russell Jackson, Duncan Smith, and Howard Moulang taking the honours. Congratulations to the winning team!

Sunday afternoon social bowls saw three games played in a relaxed yet competitive atmosphere. The winners included Keith Bates and John Anderson, along with Andy McDougall’s team of Sue Deakin and Howard Moulang. Prize money was awarded to the combination of Duncan Smith and Mark Mawson after a great afternoon of quality bowls.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

A Pairs winners Arthur McManus and Bob McMahon. Photo supplied

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Last week, the Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club presented Tora Delac and Coach Mark with a special national shirt and jacket and wished Tora all the best at the Australian Age Swimming Championships.  Over the weekend, Tora completed some pre-race swim sessions to prepare for her races on Monday and Tuesday at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre, Chandler.  Tora will be competing against with the best swimmers in Australia in the 14 years 50m Breaststroke and 14 years 50m Freestyle.  Good Luck, Tora!

Meanwhile, back in Cannonvale, the Committee are planning the annual Club Presentation Night for the first Saturday in May.  The Cannons are looking to Presentation Night and celebrating the season’s achievements.

The coaches are very impressed with the swimmers who have kept up their swim fitness over the school holidays.  It was great to see Addie Sanders, Eloise Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Zane Clayworth, Tora Delac, Harris Delac, Andie Reynolds, Nelson Malady, Celeste Orenshaw, Zach Trefz, Koa Harland, Ruby Harland, Matilda Nicholes, Roxy Groom, Sophie Palmero, Isaac Pisaniello, Eric Mulliss and Gracie Laguna at several senior training sessions this past week.

The Cannons would also like to commend the follow juniors who have attended swim training:  Asher and Reid Springbett, Lennox Wild, Stella Mulliss, Harry Chegwidden, River and Penelope Shields, Blaire Harland, Bonnie and Gracie Crichton, Faithlyn Trotter, Lily Woolston, Jax Eaves, Caleb Woolston, Miranda Palmero and Pippa Laguna. Well done, swimmers!

The Cannons were very excited to see Don Algie, Anisa, and Ehsan Helou back at the pool during the school holidays. The Cannons would also like to wish Anisa and Ehsan all the best at Nationals.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

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Tora and Mark with national shirts and jumpers
Tora and Mark
Tora Delac at the Australian Age Championships

Photos supplied

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There was plenty of great competition played this week, with some exciting results across all events.

On Tuesday, Sue Shearing and Robyn Stitt defeated Ron and Maureen Hyde, while Neil Chittenden and Mark Drummond claimed a win over Stumpy Adams and Laurie Land. The elusive jackpot, which continues to grow, once again did not go off.

Saturday saw a thrilling semi-final of the Ladies’ Triples, with end-for-end play providing a fantastic spectacle. Teresa Willshire, Denise Wallace and Penny Warren eventually defeated Robyn Stitt, Margaret Wilson and Fely Duncan to secure their place in the final.

On Sunday, another extraordinary game unfolded in the Ladies’ Triples final. Teresa, Denise and Penny continued their great form to defeat Maureen Hyde, Isobel Wheeler and Tiarna Winter and take out the title.

In the Men’s A Pairs competition, Laurie Land and Graeme Read were too strong, defeating Alby Vigar and Ron Hyde.

Sunday afternoon featured three social triples games, with a fantastic turnout, including new players Wanda and John, as well as Neil, enjoying the green and the company.

In the matches, Alby Vigar, Jim Quod and Lindy Suann came out overall winners against John, Deb Retchless and Ron Hyde. In other results, Wanda Davis, Linda Scells and Penny Warren defeated Neil Chittenden, Irene Laird and Maureen Hyde, while Graeme Read, Gavin Charles and Allan Rolfe claimed victory over Laurie Land, Pat Tracey and Mark Drummond.

The jackpot again remained unclaimed.

Wishing everyone a very Happy Easter! If you are at a loose end on Easter Sunday, we would love to see you out on the green.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Ladies Triples Winners,  Penny Warren, Denise Wallace and Teresa Willshire
Winners from Sunday 13 April, Alby Vigar, Jim Quad and Lindy Suann

Photos supplied

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Proserpine Golf Club is proudly preparing to celebrate its Centenary over the first weekend in May. For event information and the opportunity to play in special competitions, visit the Airlie Events website. Festivities will begin on Friday, 2 May, and conclude on Sunday, 3 May, with a Gala Dinner on Saturday evening following an 18-hole competition open to players with an AGU handicap.

While the weather has remained somewhat challenging, conditions are slowly improving. Results for the week are as follows:

Tuesday 8 April – PGC Single Stableford
Men
Winner: Tim Langford (39 points)
Runner-up: Gary Scotford (36 points)

Ladies
Winner: Lyn Muller (27 points on a countback)
Runner-up: Elspeth Scotford

Two-shot winner: Andrew Albergo (2nd hole)
NTPs: John Wallace and Lyn Muller (both on the 2nd hole)

Veterans – Single Stableford
Ladies
Winner: Jenny Hounsell (32 points)
Runner-up: Lyn Muller (27 points on a countback from Elspeth Scotford and Vickie Wallace)

Men
Winner: Gary Scotford (36 points)
Runner-up: Craig McLean (30 points on a countback from John Roser)
Also on 30 points: Larry Muller, Barry Mortimer, and John Strelec

Wednesday 9 April – Ladies Single Stableford
Winner: Lyn Muller (31 points)
Runner-up: Elspeth Scotford (30 points on a countback from Elise Hodgson)
Third: Elise Hodgson
NTPs: Leanne Alexander, Allison McCarthy (2nd), Lyn Muller, and Paula McQuat (9th)

Thursday 10 April – PGC Single Stableford
Men
A Grade
Winner: Rob Webb (36 points)
Runner-up: Adam Maggs (35 points)

B Grade:
Winner: Ken Lovett (38 points)
Runner-up: Wilf Herweg (33 points)

Two-shot winners:
Nic Apruzzese (2nd), Lewy Tuck (9th), Simon Della Santa, John Grosskreutz (13th), John Clark (16th)
NTPs: Jason Bourke (2nd), Aaron Prosser (9th), Simon Della Santa (13th), Barry Mortimer (16th)

Friday 11 April – Metropole Run (Front 9 Holes)
Winner: Ray Johannesen (20 points on a countback)
Runner-up: Adam Maggs
Third: Sara Hagy (17 points)

Putt for Cash: Kobe Leisch had their name drawn for the Putt for Cash. After two close attempts that rolled just past the hole, the third attempt came even closer. A worthy effort, Kobe!

Saturday 12 April – PGC Single Stableford (sponsored by Allenbuild)
Men
A Grade:
Winner: Levi Holmes (40 points)
Runner-up: Brent Daniels (37 points)
Third: Tim Walton (36 points)

B Grade:
Winner: Barry Mortimer (34 points on a countback)
Runner-up: Marcus Heathcote (also on countback)
Third: Sam Marschke

Two-shot winners (all on the 2nd): Rob Stanley, John Clark, James Kean, Adam Nissen
NTPs: Adam Nissen (2nd), Louis Leo (9th), Rod Wecker (16th)

Ladies:
Winner: Tiina Randmae (33 points)
Runner-up: Di Chard (32 points)
Third: Lyn Muller (30 points)

Two-shot winner: Tiina Randmae (2nd hole)
NTPs: Tiina Randmae (2nd), Lyn Muller (9th), Roby Whitham (13th)

Sunday 13 April – PGC Single Stableford (Front 9 twice, sponsored by Master Butchers Whitsunday)
Winner: Danny York (31 points)
Runner-up: Mark McDougal (30 points on a countback)
Third: Harvey Mason and Levi Holmes (both 30 points)

Two-shot winners: Elise Hodgson, Levi Holmes, and Aaron Prosser (2nd hole)
NTPs: Kevin Cooper and Elise Hodgson (2nd), Levi Holmes and Sara Hagy (9th)

Upcoming Fixtures – Week Ending 21 April 2025 (Easter Weekend)

The Easter Competition will be decided by the best two rounds out of four, played from Good Friday through to Easter Monday. Players will have plenty of opportunities to post strong results. Please note, there will be no Putt for Cash competition on Friday, 18 April, and legal restrictions will apply to the service of alcohol over Easter.

Monday 14 April: Social Play
Tuesday 15 April: Stableford/Vets
Wednesday 16 April: Ladies Stableford
Thursday 17 April: Men’s Stableford
Friday 18 – Monday 21 April: Easter Stableford Competition (best 2 of 4 rounds)

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All five Sea Eagles teams hit the road to Mackay over the weekend, taking to the field in wet and testing conditions for some matches. The Juniors lined up against the North Mackay Saints, while the Seniors faced off against the Mackay Magpies.

The day kicked off with the Sea Eagles Under-13s, who battled hard but were outclassed by the Saints, going down 0-43. Next up, the Under-15s turned the tide, fighting back to snatch the lead and hold on in a thrilling finish to claim the win over the Saints.

The Under-17s found the going tough early on, unable to find their rhythm in the first half. Despite a strong second-half push, they couldn’t close the gap, eventually falling short by 24 points.

The Senior Women lit up the scoreboard with an impressive 45-2 victory over the Mackay Magpies, leading from the opening bounce. It was a standout performance, particularly from several new faces who made their mark with some exciting footy.

The Senior Men faced a tough task against a strong Magpies outfit, ultimately going down by 24 points after a hard-fought contest.

All five Sea Eagles teams will now enjoy a well-earned Easter break before gearing up for a big Anzac weekend on Saturday, April 26, when the Senior Women and Juniors hit the road again — this time to Moranbah.

Stevenson Oval, Moranbah – April 26
• 9:15am: Sea Eagles U13s vs Moranbah
• 10:40am: Sea Eagles U15s vs Moranbah
• 12:15pm: Sea Eagles U17s vs Moranbah
• 1:50pm: Sea Eagles Senior Women vs Moranbah

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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Sea Eagles Senior Women. Photo Credit Kylie Allen.

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There was a slight adjustment to the starting time for Wednesday’s social bowls to accommodate a change in the green’s drilling schedule. Players who were likely to be affected were contacted as soon as the decision was made. The club expresses apologies to the couple of people who unfortunately missed the update.

In Wednesday’s social play, Henny Tattam, Arthur Griffith, and Bruce Uhe defeated Henny Tattam, Trevor Parsons, and Mike Harrison, 29–16. Alen Sanderson and Philip Brown played out a 16-all draw with Sandy Daffara and Barry Zillmann. Meanwhile, Wayne Melrose took the opportunity for a solo practice session.

On Sunday morning, play continued in the Club Championship Singles. Grahame Kinnear withdrew from the competition due to upcoming time commitments, moving his opponent, Andrew Bell, through to the next round.

One of the highlights of the morning was a thrilling match between Nathan Harriott and Shane Kinnear, a contest worthy of a final. Sometimes matchups like these happen much earlier in the competition, and this was one of those occasions. Nathan eventually claimed victory, 25–21.

In other results, Brett Saroglia defeated Todd Leys 25–14, while Marcus Craig and Bryan Davy engaged in a battle royale that stretched to 31 ends. Marcus narrowly edged out Bryan with a 25–24 win. The standard of play so far promises an exciting continuation to the championship.

Sunday afternoon brought another challenge, with rain arriving half an hour before the scheduled start of social play. With ominous clouds circling, players who had travelled some distance were advised that social bowls was unlikely to go ahead. However, the weather soon cleared, and play went ahead with those who had arrived on the off chance.

The recent work done on improving the green’s drainage proved its worth, with the surface drying quickly despite several wet days leading up to Sunday.

In the afternoon’s games, Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe, and David Ling defeated Wayne Melrose, Arthur Griffith, and Mike Harrison, 26–14. Philip Brown, Josh Wilson, and Sandy Daffara defeated Trevor Parsons, Josh Wilson, and Kendall Watts, 28–20.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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It’s been a windy few days but that certainly didn’t stop the ‘Sweeties and Squires’ fishing competition from being a great success. We loved seeing excited women and kids in store buying their bait and tackle and are thrilled to report that some great fish were caught!

Dam
We’ve had very mixed reports from the dam this week, with some people catching multiple fish and others catching jack squat after solid efforts.
If you’re heading there this weekend, we suggest focusing on the basin in and around the rope wall. Use any deep diver lures that dive to about 6m. We can recommend the Barra Classic Doctor Evil’s.

Estuary
Other than the 4.5m croc being captured in the Proserpine River on the 10th of April, there’s not much to report for estuary fishing this week!
It’s back to neaping tides this weekend. Why not head to Midge Point or Laguna Quays to chase barra from the rock walls? Low tide is the best time to do this. Use shallow diving hard body lures or small paddle tail lures.

Islands & Offshore
A fair amount of queenfish and tuna have been caught around the islands this past week.
Unfortunately, we can’t report the weather that the weather offshore is going to be great the next few days though, as the wind is set to continue. If you do choose to head out regardless, make sure you log on with VMR.

We wish you all a very happy and safe Easter. And of course, we hope that lots of you catch some delicious seafood to enjoy over the Easter break!

Best of luck out there!

Contributed with thanks to Beth Hockley

A great Golden Trevally caught during the 'Sweeties & Squires' fishing comp. Photo supplied

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This year's Whitsunday Game Fish Club's "Sweeties and Squires" has been run and won, amid windy and showery conditions, but that did not deter 9 adult ladies, 17 Juniors and 10 small fry anglers from enjoying the great outdoors.

Competitors managed to catch 75 fish of 18 different species, most of which were released in waters very close to Airlie Beach. The Club hosted the event with the help of Game Fishing Association of Australia, the Stella Property Group, Tackle World Cannonvale, Anaconda and Oceanic Tales.

Considering the weather, it was a fantastic weekend and to see the smiles on the faces of all the kids and the mums and dads was a great reward to the W.G.F.C. Committee who put it all together.

It was a mammoth job trying to pick the winners in each category with so many good catches.

Joint Champion Ladies were Tara Dambrosio and Sara Doolan. Runner up Lady was Kristy Hoksbergen. Dual Champion Junior Males were Reid Bitcon and Tanik Wallace, with two Runners Up - Kurt Martin and Harry Best. Stand alone Champion Junior Female was Kirra Martin, closely followed by two Runners up, Jasmin Smith and Tia Galton. There were two Small Fry Male winners - Angus Doolan and Tama Tenan were just ahead of Runner up, Benson Smith.

Female Small Fry winner was tiny Naomi Rutland with a 74cm Permit caught at Cannonvale Beach which was a mighty effort. Naomi said she needed a little help from her dad. Two runners up were Imogen Doolan and Oceana Little.

In the Club's eyes, everybody was a winner, great family fishing, good fun, good food and lots of happy smiles all round. Everybody agrees it will be bigger and better next year and are looking forward to it.

The Whitsunday Club's next event is the (lure only) Queenfish and Trevally Rally to be held on 17 and 18 May.

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore

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After weeks of heavy rain and soggy conditions, golfers were finally treated to some welcome sunshine, allowing a return to the course on the weekend. With cabin fever setting in for many, there was great enthusiasm as 29 players turned out to compete in a Stableford event.

Although the back nine remained closed and the front nine was still a little boggy underfoot, players were simply happy to be back out on the fairways. Despite the challenging conditions, some very respectable scores were recorded, and hopes are high that the fine weather will continue.

RESULTS

LADIES
Winner: Jenny Hounsell with 32 points
R/Up: Lyn Muller with 27 points

Rundown: Elspeth Scotford and Vickie Wallace both with 27 points on a countback

MEN
Winner: Gary Scotford with a very decent 36 points in the conditions
R/Up: Craig McLean with 30 points

Rundown: John Roser, Larry Muller, Barry Mortimer, John Strelec all with 30 points on a countback, Vic Feldman, Peter Lindsay both with 29 points and Ken Granger, Mark Richards both with 27 points

PIN SHOTS
Ladies: A Grade - Jenny Hounsell scooped the pool claiming all 3 pin shots, B Grade - Allison McCarthy and Vickie Wallace
Men: A Grade - John Roser, Larry Muller and Ken Granger, B Grade - John Strelec, Barry Mortimer and Neil Cawthorne

CHIP INS
Paula McQuat, Ken Granger, Wilf Herweg and Barry Mortimer
Members Draw went to Robyn Whitham
Raffle Fishi Voucher was won by John Strelec

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

Gary Scotford. Photo supplied

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Just 11 days ago, WVMR were called into action to rescue a broken-down vessel near Tongue Bay. Little did we know that this would be a rescue mission Revisited as the culprit was once again, the uncooperative starter motors. Who could have predicted we'd be called out face the same issue so soon?

Our mission began at 1305hrs, with the familiar goal of reaching Tongue Bay. The crew was the same, the skipper just as dejected, and the destination unchanged. We arrived at the vessel at 1420hrs, with the rescued skipper taking our ribbing in good spirits—he’s clearly a good sport.

As it turned out, there was no need to turn the vessel, it was already facing in the right direction for towing. After securing the bridle at 1428hrs, we set off, with calm seas and a light northeast wind. A good omen, or so we thought. However, experience tells me that when things seem to go too smoothly while towing, the unforeseen is often lurking around the corner.

The tide was firmly against us and so when we arrived at the Port of Airlie laterals, we decided to anchor the vessel. We departed at 1758hrs and arrived back at Coral Sea Marina at 1810hrs. The refuelling and washdown, were completed by 1830hrs.

A big thank you to the crew: Senior Crew Mike D, Comms Dick F, Deck Nat R, Lookout/Deck Rodney S, Assisting Phil H, and Skipper Paul M. Despite the déjà vu, it was another successful mission, and once again, we’re ready for whatever comes next. If you would like to join the WVMR visit: https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/

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The crew on the VMR1 in high spirits. Photo sourced: VMR Whitsunday's Facebook page.

VMR1 towing the repeated rescuee back to Port. Photo sourced: VMR Whitsunday's Facebook page.

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Wednesday’s Social Bowls was a non-event, once again marred by the weather. With rain continuing to pour down, it seems like Mother Nature has been determined to keep us indoors. The weather has been a bit of a mixed bag lately—50/50, really—with the wet dominating and the sun making only the occasional appearance. As we head into April, there’s hope that we’ll see a shift, with a little less rain and a little more sunshine to brighten our afternoons.

On Sunday, despite the unpredictable weather, 8 players turned up for Social Bowls. Mary Hedgelong and Mike Harrison played a tight game against Arthur Griffith and Bruce Uhe, with the match ending in a draw at 24-all. Not to be outdone, John Anderson and Philip Brown also fought to a draw, finishing 23-all against Trevor Parsons and Sandy Daffara. It was one of those days where the results were as uncertain as the weather, but at least some bowls went ahead!

Contributed with thanks by the Secretary of the Proserpine Bowls Club

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Weekly Fishing Report for 11.04.25

We bet you’re all as happy as we are that the sun has finally come out to play! This is particularly great news for all the women and children participating in the ‘Sweeties and Squires’ fishing competition from 11-13 April. Check the Whitsunday Game Fish Club Facebook page for all the details.

Dam
With all the rain we’ve continued to have, there’s been a heavy surface bite at the dam. If it continues to be good, focus on the northern end under the mountain ranges. For lures, we can recommend the Z-Man Billy Goat 4.25”.

Other than that, fishing at the dam remains the same, with it being important to look for the inflow of water.

Estuary
It’s going to be big tides again over the next few days so fishing Thompson’s Creek could be a great idea. Mix things up and target Mangrove Jack using 3-5” soft plastics.

If Proserpine River is where you’re headed, there have been some great barra caught from the ramp.

Islands & Offshore
The weather isn’t looking to best in terms of wind over the next few days, so stick to the inshore islands for the most comfortable day out. There’s always somewhere protected to go!

There are plenty of fingermark and tuna currently on the chew. If fishing for fingermark, we can recommend using the 95mm Squidtrex. For tuna, we can recommend 30g metal slugs and 100mm sinking stickbaits.

Be sure to check your local forecasts before heading out, check your safety gear to make sure it’s both in date and working, and log on with the local VMR. To everyone in the fishing comp, we look forward to seeing some great photos!

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Young legend, Eli, and his mum, Hannah with their first keeper flathead

‍Ryan with a quality fingermark caught using the 95mm Squidtrex

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